Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company of Marriott International is riding on the revitalization of the hotel industry in Asia Pacific, which is seen to welcome more tourists amid the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, especially in China.
Global consumer data provider Statista forecasts inbound travel to grow 383 percent in the ASEAN region based on 2021 data, with most tourists flocking to Southeast Asia to see its scenic attractions. A separate Google report supports this growth. It found high search volumes for travel in Southeast Asia from March 2019 to March 2022, indicating a solid rebound for inbound and outbound demand for the sub-region.
“We are seeing an even greater shift toward guests seeking experiences that inspire them and help bring balance into their lives through the discovery of fresh perspectives, new ideas, and local connections,” said Jennie Toh, Marriott International’s vice president of Brand Marketing and Management for Asia Pacific.
The Philippines received the most inbound demand (104 percent), followed by Indonesia (94 percent) and Singapore (64 percent). Outbound demand was also highest for the first two countries at 70 percent of the pre-pandemic level. In particular, Google saw searches for luxury resorts and beach resorts from travelers in the Philippines growing 60 percent year-on-year.
Luxury brand Ritz Carlton continues to attract more visitors to these resorts with exquisite products and services from the newly launched Ritz-Carlton Club. They include culinary amenities and itineraries that allow visitors to experience authentic culture and relaxation in their Asia Pacific destination.
Ritz-Carlton is present in nine countries in the Asia Pacific: China, Thailand, Singapore, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Maldives, and Australia.
As China slowly reopens to re-energize its economy, the hotel industry can gain much. In 2021 alone, China contributed the most tourism income at over $800 billion in Asia Pacific, according to Statista. It adds looser visa requirements in certain Asia Pacific countries, expands middle-class with higher income opportunities in the region, and signals customer growth for luxury hotels.
The Marriott group promises “elevated experiences” through its Ritz Carlton Club with a curated menu and eating activities. Ritz Carlton in Perth boasts premium wines from vineyards in Western Australia. Meanwhile, its hotel in Jakarta offers guests afternoon tea and shows them an ancient ritual as part of Javanese culture. For family guests, Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong relaxes them with movies in a room decorated with a bonfire.
Ritz-Carlton Club also provides guests with a list of attractions near their hotel location and arranges services for their arrival and departure for a complete vacation experience. Other services are complimentary pressing, laundry, and selected amenities for evening and bedtime relaxation.