Travel Asia Now

Travel that transforms your mind, body, and soul. Gone are the days of vacations that leave you more exhausted than when you started. Wellness tourism is redefining what it means to unwind, and 2025 promises a shift toward travel that restores, heals, and inspires lasting change. From evidence-based detox programs to cultural wellness that connects you with local traditions, destinations like The Farm at San Benito offer holistic approaches that nurture your well-being. Go beyond just relaxing. Come back with clarity, energy, and balance. 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗲𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲. Link in comments. 𝘗.𝘚. 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦? 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘸! Jennifer Sanvictores Rhea Vitto Tabora

What if we could inspire sustainability leaders 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 they step into the industry? That’s exactly what we did at our first 𝐀𝐒𝐓 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐮𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭-𝐆𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬—a milestone moment where tourism and hospitality students got to be part of the sustainability conversation. At Asia Sustainable Travel (AST), we believe leadership begins early. Start them now—instill sustainability into their young minds—and they’ll be ready to lead with purpose when their time comes. For those unfamiliar, 𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺𝘀 started as a platform for hospitality and travel professionals to come together and explore ways to make travel more sustainable. While these conversations with professionals have been inspiring, we realized something important. 𝙄𝙛 𝙬𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚, 𝙬𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙧. That’s why this time, we dedicated an entire forum to students—the future hoteliers, planners, innovators, and sustainability champions who will one day lead this industry. Yesterday's forum, co-hosted by Far Eastern University-𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁, marked a special milestone for us. The theme, "𝘋𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘚𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘛𝘦𝘤𝘩, 𝘚𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘊𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘌𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘚𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘏𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺," reflected the direction we need to take as an industry. We discussed how travel tech, urban tourism, and transportation can enhance travelers’ experiences while minimizing our environmental impact and improving local communities. And I have so many people to thank for making this event happen. 💚 Our brilliant speakers who shared real-world insights and innovative ideas: - Rolly Sison | Schneider Electric - Belle Cruz | BB8 Business Consultancy - Eden Decano | Megaworld Hotels & Resorts - Roberto Belda | Xpress Super App 💚 The amazing FEU-ITHM faculty, especially Dean Harold Bernardo Bueno, whose vision for a student forum inspired us, Chrisdie Flores-Tongol, Wincel Ong 💚 The student leaders who ran the show behind the scenes 💚 And all the students who showed up with so much energy, eagerness, and passion The attendees walked away with ideas they can put into action today, like practical ways to reduce single-use plastics. Others are the kind of big, innovative ideas that will guide them when it's their turn to lead. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜. We’re planning more forums with other universities, and we couldn’t be more excited. P.S. Is your university excited to co-host a forum like this for your hospitality and tourism students? Let’s make it happen! Send me a message, or email people@asiasustainabletravel.com. We'd love to collaborate. #Sustainability #NextGenLeaders #ASTForum #HospitalityForum

What does the future of travel and hospitality look like? On February 4, 2025, we will explore this question in depth at the 𝐀𝐬𝐢𝐚 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐮𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭-𝐆𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 at Far Eastern University - 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 in Manila. In 2023, we launched the Asia Sustainable Travel (AST) 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐬 as a platform for 𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘀 to come together and explore ways to make tourism more sustainable. The discussions that followed have been impactful, showing just how much this industry can do to drive real, positive change for the local communities and the planet. And now, we’re bringing that same drive and purpose to 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀—the future hoteliers, tourism planners, travel tech innovators, and sustainability champions who will one day lead this industry. Our mission: To equip the students with the insights and inspiration to shape a better, greener industry Our theme: 𝘋𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘚𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘛𝘦𝘤𝘩, 𝘚𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘊𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘌𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘚𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘏𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 We’ll be breaking down some of the most exciting and challenging topics shaping the future of travel, featuring industry experts you WON’T want to miss: ✅ How technology is reshaping sustainable tourism, presented by Rolly Sison of Schneider Electric ✅ The rise of smart hotel rooms with insights from the region, led by Belle Cruz of BB8 Business Consultancy ✅ Creating vibrant and sustainable urban tourism, with insights from 𝗘𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗼 of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts ✅ And revolutionizing transportation for responsible travel, guided by Roberto Belda of Xpress Super App This isn’t just a forum. It’s a launchpad - for bold ideas - for practical solutions - and for the next-gen leaders to rise P.S. To my fellow journalists and storytellers in the Philippines, if you’re interested in covering this meaningful event, feel free to reach out. I’d love to connect! See you on February 4th. Harold Bernardo Bueno | Far Eastern University Nico Ivan Velasquez | Karlo Angelo Evangelista, FSCO Jeremy Tran 🌏 | Sainha | a purpose-led marketing agency for next-gen brands | Travel Asia Now #AsiaSustainableTravelForum #NextGenLeaders #SustainableTourism #FutureOfTravel #ResponsibleHospitality #SustainableTransportation

What if your dream vacation could also save a reef? The Great Barrier Reef—it’s not just a pretty picture on a postcard. It’s a sprawling underwater wonder, teeming with coral and marine life. But here's the truth that stings more than a jellyfish sting: this global treasure is hurting. Coral bleaching. Dying marine ecosystems. An underwater world gasping for survival. That's the reality we face. And it's heartbreaking, isn't it? Especially for travelers chasing not just picture-perfect destinations but true, life-changing experiences. But here's a glimmer of hope. Red Cat Adventures in the Whitsundays is rewriting the rules of travel. More than just showing you the breathtaking beauty of the reef, they're on a mission to save it. Through their Boats 4 Coral Project and Coral Nurture Program, they're working to revive fragile coral ecosystems, one fragment and one nursery at a time. You won't just see the reef with Red Cat Adventures—𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺. Imagine transplanting coral spawns or observing coral nurseries while learning how your actions can create real, lasting change. Tourism with a purpose? This is exactly that. Now, travelers like you can do more than take memories; you can leave hope. P.S. Curious to know how you can be a protector, not just a visitor? 👉🏼 Read the full story, and discover your way to travel with meaning. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gTTWW-Wu Rhea Vitto Tabora #EcoTourism #SaveTheReef #TravelWithPurpose #SustainableTravel #WhitsundaysAdventure

This Christmas and New Year, let's celebrate more than just the festive season; let's honor the impact of meaningful, responsible travel. Cheers to a New Year filled with conscious adventures! ✨ P.S. For those not celebrating Christmas, I wish you a joyful time with your loved ones and a restful holiday. Asia Sustainable Travel (AST) | Travel Asia Now

Forget plastic ornaments and mass-produced trinkets. This Christmas, how about something meaningful? At Meliá Chiang Mai, the holiday décor is handmade by Northern Thailand’s talented hill tribe artisans. Each piece tells a story—of tradition, resilience, and creativity. From vibrant textiles to eco-conscious ornaments, these crafts are a window into a rich culture. Even better? Your support makes a difference. By purchasing these handcrafted treasures, you’re helping families sustain their livelihoods and ensuring their traditions live on. Want to celebrate the holidays with purpose this year? Read more about this beautiful initiative. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gNUFdFZH Marc Selinger | Meliá Hotels International Jade Bilowol | Balcony Media Group Rhea Vitto Tabora #TravelWithPurpose #CulturalConnection #NorthernThailand #MeliaChiangMai #MindfulTravel #SupportLocal #CulturalHeritage #SustainableTravel

🌴 Escape to a sanctuary where luxury meets purpose. At NAY PALAD Hideaway in Siargao, every moment is crafted for adventure, tranquility, cultural connection, and eco-conscious living. ✨ Immerse yourself in barefoot luxury while exploring mangroves, joining coral reef restoration, or learning to cook traditional Filipino dishes like puso. Indulge in intimate dining beneath the stars or unwind with a treehouse massage rooted in local healing traditions. 🌊 Whether you're seeking waves at Cloud 9 or soulful island living, here’s where travel transforms into something unforgettable. 🌟 Curious? Discover how this paradise champions sustainability, community, and the beauty of Filipino culture. 🖱️ Read the full article and fall in love with the soul of Nay Palad Hideaway. https://lnkd.in/gezyt6Yg Vince Lampert, SSGB | Carolin Dekeyser | Irene Grace Tan-Meca | Carla Bravante-David | Mart Trinidad | Rhea Vitto Tabora   #NayPaladHideaway #BarefootLuxury #SiargaoAdventures  #SiargaoGetaway #SustainableTravel

Imagine waking up in a place where every detail of your surroundings tells the stories of the land, its people, and their traditions. If you're seeking a deeper connection with your destinations, you'll find a haven in these accommodations, which embrace vernacular architecture and local design. This approach offers guests a unique experience that reflects the local culture and environment. “We are proud to highlight this group of Beyond Green members who foster meaningful connections between travelers and their destinations through thoughtful and intentional design choices,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Beyond Green. “These properties demonstrate that travel is more than just a journey—it is about connecting with the essence of a place.” Read the full story here: 👉 https://lnkd.in/g2sU9FZ8 Walter Navarro | Preferred Hotels & Resorts Rhea Vitto Tabora #StayBeyondGreen #BeyondGreen #MindfulTravel #EcoTravel #EcoConsciousStays #TravelWithPurpose

Amidst the bustling city life, sometimes all we need is a tranquil escape to recharge and reconnect with nature. In our latest travel feature, we invite you to discover the hidden charms of 𝗘𝗹 𝗝𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻 𝗱𝗲 𝗭𝗮𝗶𝗱𝗮, a picturesque resort in San Juan, Batangas, Philippines. Located just three hours away from Manila, this charming oasis boasts 11 hectares of lush greenery that provide a peaceful respite for guests. But beyond its serene surroundings, El Jardin de Zaida offers so much more—from charming Filipino architecture and cultural touches to culinary delights and warm hospitality. Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/gJTZa2bT Marga Aprieto | Salvador "Jing" V. Castalla Jr. | Hospitality Innovators, Inc. Rhea Vitto Tabora #ElJardinDeZaida #NatureRetreat #HiddenCharms #Batangas #Philippines

Amidst the bustling city life, sometimes all we need is a tranquil escape to recharge and reconnect with nature. In our latest travel feature, we invite you to discover the hidden charms of 𝗘𝗹 𝗝𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻 𝗱𝗲 𝗭𝗮𝗶𝗱𝗮, a picturesque resort in San Juan, Batangas, Philippines. Located just three hours away from Manila, this charming oasis boasts 11 hectares of lush greenery that provide a peaceful respite for guests. But beyond its serene surroundings, El Jardin de Zaida offers so much more—from charming Filipino architecture and cultural touches to culinary delights and warm hospitality. Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/gJTZa2bT Marga Aprieto | Salvador "Jing" V. Castalla Jr. | Hospitality Innovators, Inc. Rhea Vitto Tabora #ElJardinDeZaida #NatureRetreat #HiddenCharms #Batangas #Philippines