Shows
Luxury VoicesRevealing a new national identity with Dorji Dhradhul, Director General, Department of Tourism of BhutanIn this episode of Luxury Voices, we introduce Dorji Dhradhul, the Director General of the Department of Tourism for the Royal Government of Bhutan. Passionate about his country's distinctive tourism policy and the development philosophy of Gross National Happiness, he was closely involved in the development of the new national brand "Bhutan Believe”. Dorji has been closely involved in taking forward Bhutan’s tourism during the challenging times of COVID 19. He was awarded the Best Professional Destination Marketing in 2020 by Pacific Asia Travel Writer Association (PATWA) for his role in successfully advocating Bhutan's unique tourism policy...
2023-12-2039 minLuxury VoicesRedefining Luxury Hospitality with Arnaud Zannier, Founder and CEO, Zannier HotelsIn today's episode of Luxury Voices, we have the privilege to welcome Arnaud Zannier, the founder of Zannier hotels. From the outset, Zannier Hotels has been an extension of Arnaud's profound passions and personal values. With a vision to infuse hotel experiences with a more understated luxury, Arnaud introduced his unique style of "mastered simplicity" to the industry, debuting with the opening of Le Chalet in Megève in 2011, then a resort in Cambodia, two in Namibia, followed by Vietnam. Arnaud's unparalleled eye for craftsmanship and dedication to preserving cultural heritage has...
2023-11-2949 minLuxury VoicesThe terroir of luxury hospitality with Alice Tourbier-Cathiard, Founder, Les Sources de Caudalie & Les Sources de ChevernyIn this episode of Luxury Voices, we welcome Alice Tourbier-Cathiard. Alice was raised amid the vineyards of Bordeaux's Château Smith Haut Lafitte. In 1999, Alice, accompanied by her husband Jérôme, founded Les Sources de Caudalie in Martillac near Bordeaux, and in 2020, Les Sources de Cheverny in the Loire Valley was opened. These are not mere hotels, they have achieved the highest classification of “Palace” and they are an ode to the 'Art de Vivre', a quintessential French lifestyle. At Les Sources, you enter a world where understated luxury intertwines seamlessly with the art of wine.
2023-11-0841 minLuxury VoicesTech-enhanced personalized travel with Kevin Wu, Founder, Charm Deer & HoteluxCharm Deer, founded in Shanghai in 2012, provides exclusive customized travel services to Chinese high-net-worth private clients who travel in China and overseas. In 2018 Charm Deer launched its Charm Deer travel APP where Chinese clients can book luxury hotels around the world and in 2020 Charm Deer created APP Hotelux to service the Asian travellers. Fast forward to 2023, Charm Deer has nearly 1,000,000 clients and members and its APP became China's leading high-end travel booking platform. Besides having the choice of over 5,000 luxury hotels and 300 luxury bed and breakfast properties across 66 countries, travellers can also include luxury limousine tr...
2023-10-1838 minLuxury VoicesInside the journey to market France in China with Catherine Oden, Director, Atout France China - Hong Kong – TaiwanIn this episode of Luxury Voices, we are honored to welcome Catherine Oden, a dedicated ambassador for France's tourism industry for nearly four decades. Catherine's illustrious career at Atout France has been a remarkable journey marked by passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment. Throughout her tenure, she has ventured across the globe, serving in various pivotal roles, from the United States to Japan, Singapore to India, and now Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Her extensive 30-year experience in Asia has endowed her with a profound understanding of diverse markets, an open-minded approach, and a versatile marketing strategy. Currently stationed...
2023-09-2756 minLuxury VoicesA hotel clockwork by Audemars Piguet with André Cheminade, General Manager Hôtel des HorlogersOur Luxury Voice today is André Cheminade, General Manager of Hôtel des Horlogers in Brassus, located in the Valley de Joux in Switzerland’s renowned region of luxury watchmaking. André is Franco-Argentinian, a real polyglot who has held positions in far flung places like Argentinian Patagonia, multiple locations in Spain, Russia and he has now settled in Switzerland a few years. Now at the helm of the newly opened Hôtel des Horlogers, a project by Luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet. Hôtel des Horlogers was designed by BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group who also signed the Musée Atelier Audemars P...
2022-07-1343 minLuxury VoicesInnovation at the forefront of Spain’s China strategy with María Llinares, Tourism Councilor, TourspainOur LUXURY VOICE today is María Llinares, Tourism Councilor for Tourspain. Maria developed almost her entire professional career in the public and institutional communication sector. After working in the organization of the international news coverage of the President of the Spanish Government in the Secretary of State for Communication, she worked for five years in China and five in Russia, as head of communication for the Embassy of Spain. In September 2020 Maria returned to Beijing as Tourism Councilor, joining the Turespaña team. In this episode, Joanne and María discuss the current tourism situation in Spain, how to...
2022-05-1141 minLuxury VoicesThe spirit of the mountains in Hokkaido with Patrick Ohtani - Board Director & Acme Wu – Marketing Director, Niseko TourismIn this episode, we welcome two LUXURY VOICES, Patrick Ohtani and Acme Wu, respectively Board Director and Marketing Director of Niseko Tourism. Formed in 2007 The Niseko Promotion Board is responsible for promoting the destination as an international, four-season destination with the goal of increasing overnight visitation. In our winter destinations series and following the recent Beijing Winter Olympics, we discuss with key skiing destinations in the four corners of the globe to understand their current situation and the future potential of Asian winter tourists for them. Joanne, Patrick and Acme will speak about Niseko, one of Japan, and the...
2022-03-2327 minLuxury VoicesGearing up to Olympics 2026 at the Queen of the Dolomites with Francesco Corte Colò, Representative, Tourism Board Cortina d’AmpezzoOur LUXURY VOICE today is Francesco Corte Colò. Francesco is a Representative of the Tourism Board of Cortina d’Ampezzo, he is in charge for new markets including Greater China. The tourism promotion office defines Cortina’s tourism strategy and enhances its visibility to specific target audiences by cooperating with both media and trade partner. It’s an exciting time for Cortina D’Ampezzo as they will be hosting the next Winter Olympics in 2026. Francesco was raised in Cortina and learned to love all that Cortina’s picturesque mountain town has to offer. Joanne and Francesco will discuss Cortina’s great asset...
2022-03-0942 minLuxury Voices[REPLAY] Ep.1 - In the luxury fast lane, with Alain Li, Regional Chief Executive, Asia Pacific of RichemontAs Regional Chief Executive, Asia Pacific of Richemont, Alain is responsible for overseeing and cultivating the presence and development of some of the world's most coveted luxury brands. Alain has a wealth of experience in business development and international finance, gained through a series of top positions at various multinational corporations across Europe, Africa and the Far East. More significantly, his specialty throughout his career has been in distributing lifestyle products to mature as well as emerging markets. Alain’s experience with the Asia Pacific region only made him a stronger match for the highly specialised requirements of the Eu...
2022-02-0940 minLuxury VoicesAn island nation beyond a beach destination with Arvind Bundhun, Director, Mauritius Tourism PromotionOur LUXURY VOICE today is Arvind Bundhun. Director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) since June 2018, Arvind Bundhun has been actively engaged in promoting Mauritius as a tourist destination in all key markets worldwide. An active believer in partnership working, his focus is to improve the visibility of the destination’s brand through extensive marketing and promotional campaigns. Holder of a Masters’ Degree in Hotel Management and having an international exposure, Arvind Bundhun has held various management positions in the industry. Arvind believes that Mauritius is a melting cauldron of cultures, traditions, gastronomy, and this rich heritage helps to d...
2022-01-2637 minLuxury VoicesA positive outlook on sustainable tourism from the birthplace of safari, with Honorable Najib Balala, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Government of KenyaOur LUXURY VOICE today is Minister Najib Balala, EGH. Minister Balala was re-appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Tourism & Wildlife by the President of the Republic of Kenya in 2017, having served as a Cabinet Secretary for various Ministries. Minister Balala is also the Chairman of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Commission for Africa, a position he served earlier in 2011. He was also voted Best Tourism Minister in Africa in 2009 by Africa Investor (AI). Minister Balala is credited with steering Kenya’s tourism sector to recover various crises and he played a significant role in boosting tourism growth and stab...
2022-01-1934 minLuxury VoicesThe land of smiles brings its tourism into the future, with Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Deputy Governor for Marketing & Communications, Tourism Authority of ThailandToday’s Luxury Voice is Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). TAT promotes its country’s tourism with a clear vision for world-class excellence in the promotion of modern tourism marketing. Siripakorn has been with TAT for over 30 years and has been based at TAT offices in Thailand, Hong Kong and London.As Thailand borders reopen to international travel after over 18 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, TAT is committed to bringing travellers back to Thailand’s top tourist destination and transform the industry that is so important to the country’s economy...
2022-01-1247 minLuxury VoicesThe evolution of a paradise island destination with Raffaele Solferino, General Manager, Grand Park Kodhipparu, MaldivesToday’s LUXURY VOICE is Raffaele Solferino. General Manager, Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives. Raffaele is an accomplished and highly effective hotel General Manager with a wealth of experience in luxury hotels and resorts around the world. Raffaele is from Italy and his passion to explore has led him to work in multiples countries spanning Europe, the Middle East and Asia. He now calls the Maldives home.Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives is a luxurious one-island-one-resort destination featuring a collection of 120 idyllic beach-front pool villas, breathtaking overwater villas and spacious two-bedroom villas. Grand Park is located on the isl...
2021-12-0130 minLuxury VoicesThe edible and drinkable country focuses on sustainability with Susanne Andersson, CEO, Visit SwedenOur LUXURY VOICE today is Susanne Andersson, the CEO of Visit Sweden. She has worked all her life in the hospitality business and is a much-appreciated entrepreneur. For several years she has also been involved in various national businesses in hospitality and employer organisations in Sweden. Visit Sweden is Sweden’s National Tourism Organisation governmentally owned and official marketing company of the tourist destination Sweden. Susanne has been stirring the organisation through the challenges of the pandemic and operated a shift with her team to support all the regions of Sweden to attract domestic market at first and then reg...
2021-11-2432 minLuxury VoicesBecoming the leader in lifestyle hospitality worldwide with Gary Rosen, Chief Executive Officer, Accor Greater ChinaOur LUXURY VOICE today is Gary Rosen, Chief Executive Officer, Accor Greater China. He has been responsible for Greater China for more than fifteen years and is known for his expertise in strategy formulation and creative revenue generation, combined with a passion for innovation and transformation. Prior to joining Accor as Chairman and Chief Operating Officer for Accor Greater China in September 2018, Gary was Chief Operating Officer of The Bicestor Village Shopping Collection, a chain of the world’s most unique and preferred luxury retail shopping destinations in China and Europe. Accor is a world leading hospitality group consisting of...
2021-11-1743 minLuxury VoicesKeeping tourism alive during a country lockdown, with Phillipa Harrison, Managing Director, Tourism AustraliaAs the Managing Director of the nation’s global tourism marketing agency since 2019, and the first female leader of the organization, Phillipa Harrison is responsible for driving Tourism Australia’s strategies to create a sustainable demand for Australia’s tourism experiences internationally; and working with the tourism industry to achieve its tourism strategy goals. At her start with Tourism Australia, Phillipa has overseen Tourism Australia’s network of international offices spanning 12 countries as well as managing airline relationships and distribution channels, that are vital for attracting international visitors to Australia. When Australian borders came to a strict lockdown...
2021-11-0340 minLuxury VoicesHow Britain nurtures China future outbound travellers, with Travis Qian, Head of China & Northeast Asia, VisitBritainOur Luxury Voice today is Travis Qian. Travis is based in Shanghai today, he started his career with VisitBritain in 2003 becoming its Country Manager of China in 2008. Now, as Head of China and Northeast Asia, he leads a regional team across a wide range of B2B and B2C activities designed to promote Britain as the No.1 destination in Europe. In 2019, China became the 2nd most valuable inbound market for the UK. Travis and I discuss his almost two decades in China, how important it is to not stay still during this low travelling time to promote the...
2021-10-2746 minLuxury VoicesDestination marketing in China - Italy prepares the future, with Cristiano Varotti, Chief Representative - Shanghai, ENIT Italian National Tourism BoardOur Luxury Voice in this episode is Cristiano Varotti, Chief Representative of ENIT – Italian National Tourist Board in China. He heads ENIT’s newly established Shanghai Office. Cristiano has been living in China for almost a decade, in Changsha first and now Shanghai. He was previously the Representative of Italy's Marche Regional Government, a consultant for both Italian and Chinese enterprises and correspondent for Hunan Province for the General Consulate of Italy in Guangzhou and the Representative for International Exchanges by the Foreign and Overseas Affairs Office of Hunan Province. In this episode Cristiano and I discuss setting up his...
2021-10-2042 minLuxury VoicesReopening Fiji for tourism, the road to recovery with Brent Hill, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism FijiOur Luxury Voice in this episode is Brent Hill, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Fiji. Brent was most recently the Executive Director of Marketing for the South Australian Tourism Commission. He brings over 16 years of experience in tourism and digital marketing, advertising, branding, communications, campaign, and executive strategy to Fiji’s National Tourism Office. Tourism Fiji is the destination marketing organizational arm of the Fijian Government agency responsible for marketing Fiji as the ideal destination for leisure travel globally. Tourism Fiji has established a presence in nine key markets around the globe, and its activities include advertising, public relations, me...
2021-10-1332 minLuxury VoicesSingular hotels with unparalleled focus on guest experience with Ori Kafri, Co-founder & CEO, J.K. PlaceOur Luxury Voice on this episode is Ori Kafri. Founded by Ori Kafri and his father Jonathan Kafri, J.K. Place, is famous for its unparalleled focus on guest experience. This unique collection of Italian luxury boutique hotels has three locations in Capri, Rome and Paris. Launched in 2008, J.K. Place made its grand debut in a historic structure just off Florence’s Piazza Santa Maria Novella in 2003 with just 20 stylish rooms and a residential vibe that is rare to come by in the standardized world of hospitality. The name is an homage to his father (Jonathan Kafri, aka “J.K...
2021-08-0454 minLuxury VoicesStealing guests’ hearts in the Great Rift Valley, with Nicky Fitzgerald, Owner, AngamaOur guest today is Nicky Fitzgerald. Nicky is regarded as somewhat of a maverick in the industry. Renowned for creating some of the world’s finest safari lodges, Nicky and her late husband Steve saved their best for last. After delighting travellers for over 30 years, building and operating over 50 luxury lodges across Africa and India for &Beyond, the beauty of Angama Mara’s location drew them out of retirement. Angama, meaning “suspended in mid-air” in Swahili, is a remarkable owner-run safari lodge, located high above the floor of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, overlooking Kenya’s Maasai Mara. It is considere...
2021-07-281h 28Luxury VoicesA new kind of hospitality, hotels designed as private homes with Guy Bertaud, Group Managing Director, Maisons ParienteOur Luxury Voice today, is Guy Bertaud. With nearly thirty years dedicated to luxury hotels, Guy Bertaud has an international experience and an undeniable sense of service. Guy has held positions at Hotel Plaza Athénée, The Vendome in Lebanon, Hotel de Paris in Monte Carlo and also Intercontinental Hotel Group, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts before joining Maisons Pariente as Group Managing Director based in Paris. Guy has forged a reputation for exigency, he has coordinated numerous projects, from development, renovations, repositioning, and partnerships. Born from the “desire to explore a bold new design of the hotel...
2021-07-2157 minLuxury VoicesLuxury will be leading the way in all kinds of facets of life, with Mary Gostelow, Globe-trotting luxury-travel guru, Gostelow ReportToday we have a very special guest on LUXURY VOICES, Mary Gostelow, the GRANDE DAME of luxury travel and lifestyle worldwide. Mary is continuously travelling the world, — when there isn't a pandemic happening — she is on the road 300 days a year to find and share fascinating lifestyle features. Mary is owner-editor of the unique and universally revered bible of the hotel industry, the monthly Gostelow Report market intelligence. She also runs Girlahead.com, an online travelogue. She hosts Mary Gostelow Girlahead Podcast, where she chats with friends of hers who are leaders of their sector. If it was not enou...
2021-07-1434 minLuxury VoicesCreating the extraordinary in haute-horlogerie since 1874, with Mathieu Delmas, Managing Director, Piaget ChinaWith an extensive knowledge of managing international businesses, Mathieu joined the Piaget team in April 2011 as the Area Manager for Japan, Asia Pacific, India, Middle East and Africa. After four years of excellent work at Piaget, he was entrusted the role as Managing Director in Japan. In February 2018 he became the new Managing Director for Piaget China. Since 1874, Piaget has been crafting luxury watches and luxury jewelry treasures by blending a jeweler’s refinement with its watchmaking sophistication. Within this unique savoir-faire resides the Piaget secret to fine jewelry making. Nearly a hundred crafts performed side by side at th...
2021-07-0737 minLuxury VoicesHow 150 years of Swiss hospitality tradition meets modernity, with Peter Kampfer, General Manager, Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & SpaVictoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is located amid the Swiss mountains of the Bernese Highlands, overlooking the Jungfrau. Whether guests come for a healthy weekend, family holiday or to explore the region, they will be entranced by the peerless ambience of this Grand Hotel. Peter, originally from Lucerne, is a well-established luxury hotelier and comes from a family of hoteliers. During his illustrious career Peter has served several years as a board member of Luzern Tourismus, he was the president of Relais & Châteaux Switzerland and a board member at Swiss Deluxe Hotels, it an understatement that he...
2021-06-3034 minLuxury VoicesCurating a portfolio of masterpiece hotels in the most desirable places, with Simon Neggers, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Communications, Oetker CollectionSimon Neggers, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Communications oversees the global strategy for Oetker Collection, an exclusive portfolio of Masterpiece Hotels and Estates. Simon has over 15 years of experience in luxury hotel communications and brand marketing, previously serving as Global Vice President of Communications and Portfolio Marketing for the Luxury Brands Group at Marriott International. Oetker Collection comprises one of the most exclusive portfolios of luxury hotels in the world. All true masterpieces, these properties are located in the most desirable destinations around the globe. The hotels are icons of elegance, combining legendary hospitality with genuine family...
2021-06-2342 minLuxury VoicesBringing creativity to life with Tom Marchant, Co-founder of The Black Tomato GroupTom Marchant is an entrepreneur known for launching some of the fastest growing, award-winning brands in the luxury travel and lifestyle sector. He is owner and co-founder of The Black Tomato Group. Known for handcrafting inspiring, immersive, and deeply personal itineraries for clients, since launching in 2005, Black Tomato has grown to become one of the world’s most celebrated luxury travel and lifestyle brands, with accolades including being named ‘The World’s Hottest Luxury Travel Company’. Ultimately, each trip Black Tomato creates has an experiential edge that promises to cultivate a deeper connection with the destination visitedAbout th...
2021-06-1658 minLuxury VoicesTransforming private jets into masterpieces with Thomas Chatfield, CEO, Camber Aviation ManagementOur LUXURY VOICE joining us today is Thomas Chatfield, CEO of Camber Aviation Management. Tom may be known in the corporate aviation industry as a steadfast expert in aircraft completions and refurbishment management, but his true calling is a professional traveler. He is on a continuous journey for the past 35 years, which gives him immense authority and experience that he incorporates into his day-to-day work. From his early age, Tom wanted to explore aviation. From avionics engineering to aircraft airworthiness, Tom has accumulated vast knowledge on design, engineering, fabrication and certification specializing in the ultimate traveler’s vehicle, corporate je...
2021-03-2445 minLuxury VoicesAn unconventional opening year for Marrakech latest luxury palace, with Fabien Gastinel, General Manager, The Oberoi MarrakechFabien Gastinel started his career with Accor Hotels in the United States and since then, he has worked with luxury hotels such as Waldorf Astoria Cairo and Beijing, The Ritz-Carlton Singapore and The Oberoi Dubai. Fabien has a strong food & beverage background and a great experience in Michelin starred restaurants openings in Singapore, China and France. Expert of the hospitality industry for over twenty years, Fabien opened The Oberoi, Marrakech last year and the hotel has been receiving various high acclaimed awards. Fabien and I will speak about the Oberoi brand which is renowned for its service excellence, his ex...
2021-03-1725 minLuxury VoicesDelivering the finest concierge services for China's wealthiest, with Tim Li, Founder FCT Concierge Inc.FCT Concierge Inc. is a leading luxury lifestyle specialist based in China who offers the affluent Chinese luxury travel experiences, lifestyle management and concierge service worldwide. Its services and experiences include private jet travel, dream vacations at the most luxurious hotels, luxury car services, entertainment experiences, private real estate, education, medical and wellness. Its services are so tailored that finding a rare art piece, high jewelry or the perfect haute couture dress is never too much to ask. Tim Li the founder of FCT Concierge Inc and I will be speaking about how forward thinking and creative he has...
2021-03-1048 minLuxury VoicesA deep dive inside the world first vertical destination, with Deepak Ohri, CEO, lebua Hotels & ResortsAbout this episode:Company Name lebua Hotels & ResortsCompany Website https://lebua.com/ About Infinite Luxury:LUXURY VOICES is a podcast curated by Infinite Luxury Group, a luxury Sales, Marketing, Communications specialist based in Asia. www.infiniteluxurygroup.com Deepak Ohri is a leader in the creation of innovative luxury experience with extensive experience in hospitality, food and beverage and known for delivering record profits in a challenging market condition. Since joining lebua Hotels and Resorts as its first employee in 2003, Deepak Ohri has been pivotal to its exponen...
2021-03-0342 minLuxury VoicesHarnessing the potential of China’s endemic social media, with Ashley Galina Dudarenok, Founder of Alarice & ChoZanOur LUXURY VOICE joining us today is Ashley Dudarenok. the founder of Alarice & ChoZan. Ashley is a China marketing expert, entrepreneur, bestselling author and vlogger. She was recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Marketing and chosen as an Asia-Pacific Top 25 Innovator by the Holmes Report. She is the founder of a China-focused social media agency Alarice and China insights and digital training company ChoZan. Ashley runs the world’s #1 YouTube business vlog about the China market, consumers and social media at Ashley Talks. She is an author of 3 Amazon bestsellers about digital China. Ashley is an active supporter of...
2021-02-2455 minLuxury VoicesUnveiling the essence of Asia with a collection of hospitality experiences, with Stéphane Junca, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Secret RetreatsOur Luxury Voice today is Stéphane Junca, the Co-Founder & Managing Director of Secret Retreats. He has spent the past 24 years living and working in Asia. Before founding Secret Retreats, Stephane was the Regional Director Asia Pacific for Relais & Châteaux. Passionate about locating innovative and intimate sanctuaries, he spends more than half his time in search of new hidden treasures across Asia. Secret Retreats is a curated community of independent boutique hotels, villas, yachts and river boats keen to share their Asian Homes with travelers. Conservation of the environment, culture and traditions of Asia is of paramount imp...
2021-02-1047 minLuxury VoicesHow a global luxury travel agency finds solution to navigate the crisis? with Simon Cameron, Founder and Managing Director, Lightfoot TravelOur Luxury Voice today is Simon Cameron, the Founder and Managing Director of Lightfoot Travel. Since the day Simon’s family moved to Sri Lanka when he was eleven, he has been hooked on travel. After a few years working in London, Simon decided to embark on a more unusual career working in risk management consultancy in post conflict zones and emerging markets. He spent a fascinating decade working throughout Asia. His aim was always to start something unique. Lightfoot Travel was founded in 2009 as Simon and the founding directors wanted to share a way of travelling that did no...
2021-02-0331 minLuxury VoicesHow does a Chinese travel media strategize during the pandemic? with Jun Dong, Chief Editor, Voyage ChinaOur LUXURY VOICE joining us today is Jun Dong, the Chief Editor of Voyage China, one of the well-recognized travel publications in China. Voyage was established in 2004 and now reaches passionate travelers and readers all over the country. Jun has been the heading the editorial team at Voyage for nine years and prior to Voyage she was with various lifestyle and travel publications. Jun and I will speak about adapting strategies at Voyage during the pandemic and how to keep their loyal readers excited about travel, the different digital channels and social media platforms in China and the importance of editorial conten...
2021-01-2731 minLuxury VoicesInnovating to capture the luxury domestic market in China’s capital city, with Brian Tong, General Manager, Waldorf Astoria, BeijingOur Luxury Voice joining us today is Brian Tong, General Manager, Waldorf Astoria Beijing. Brian brings over 20 years of experience before joining Waldorf Astoria Beijing. His previous tenures were with the Marriott and Starwood brands throughout Asia and he has held different roles and positions in New York, Hong Kong, Taipei, Xiamen and Macau where he has gained a significant amount of important and vital experience. Opened in 2014, Waldorf Astoria Beijing marks the second Waldorf Astoria hotel in China and the brand’s continued international expansion. Standing as a dramatic bronze building, the hotel is a landmark in the he...
2021-01-1322 minLuxury VoicesThe growing influence of Asian luxury travellers, with Kathy Gallagher, CEO Asia Pacific, QuintessentiallyOur LUXURY VOICE today is Kathy Gallagher, CEO, Asia Pacific at Quintessentially. Based out of Hong Kong, Kathy leads the regional business and is responsible for driving growth for the company, by working closely with Quintessentially members and corporate clients to help them tackle some of their most complex business challenges. She is part of Quintessentially’s Global Executive Committee and provides input and direction on the region’s fastest growing trends. With over 60 offices across the globe, staffed 24/7/365 by a diverse team of 1500+ specialists who speak 35 languages, Quintessentially is the global authority on luxury lifestyle, offering priva...
2021-01-0639 minLuxury VoicesCurating travel stories to keep inspiring luxury Chinese explorers, with Shawn Ong, Chief Editor of Conde Nast Traveler ChinaOur LUXURY VOICE today is Shawn Ong, the Chief Editor of Conde Nast Traveler China, one of the most recognized international travel publications, reaching passionate travelers and readers all over the country. Shawn brings a wealth of knowledge in public relations, marketing and branding. He moved from Malaysia to China in 2012 and is based in Beijing. Shawn was involved with the launch of Conde Nast Traveler China’s edition and is now responsible for the editorial team. In our conversation, I will speak to Shawn about his early days at Conde Nast Traveler China, challenges and opportunities during the pa...
2020-12-2329 minLuxury VoicesFast forward to 2030 to act on the present challenges, with Christian Malcher, Design Hotels, Senior Vice President CommercialOur LUXURY VOICE joining us today is Christian Malcher, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations, Design Hotels. Since 1993, Design Hotels have been crafting a portfolio which today includes 300+ privately owned and operated hotels that reflect the vision of independent hoteliers—or “Originals”—with a passion for culturally-rooted hospitality and cutting-edge design and architecture. From the pioneering boutique hotels of New York, Paris, and London, to the rising stars of Shanghai, Mexico City, and Nairobi, to remote mountaintops, hidden beaches, and off-the-beaten-path escapes. Christian Malcher has been with Design Hotels since 2007. As Senior Vice President Commercial Operations, he oversees Global Sales & Reservat...
2020-12-1651 min
Luxury VoicesWhat will luxury mean for the luxury traveller in post COVID-19 world? Moderated by Joanne Tang, Founder & CEO, Infinite Luxury GroupThis episode is part 4 (of 4) of a series of forums held during our ultra-luxury virtual travel show, Infinite Luxury Virtual Market, ILVM. Thought leaders were invited to debate about the luxury Asian travel market, share market insights and upcoming trends to look out for. This forum is moderated by Joanne Tang, Founder & CEO, Infinite Luxury Group PANELISTS: . Caesars Bluewaters Dubai, Paula Tannous, Commercial Director . Travel + Leisure South East Asia, Jeninne Lee-St. John, Editor . Ovolo Hotels, Joanne Sproule, Group Director of Sales – Asia . Journeys by Chance, Chance Xie, Founder In this episode, Joanne is surrounded by a panel of guest co...
2020-12-1447 min
Luxury VoicesAre remote travel destinations the future of luxury travel? Moderated by Joanne Tang, Founder & CEO, Infinite Luxury GroupThis episode is part 3 of a series of forums held during our ultra-luxury virtual travel show, Infinite Luxury Virtual Market, ILVM. Thought leaders were invited to debate about the luxury Asian travel market, share market insights and upcoming trends to look out for. This forum is moderated by Joanne Tang, Founder & CEO, Infinite Luxury Group PANELISTS: . A Travel Duet, Pritish Shah, Founder & CEO . Quark Expeditions, Jarrod Zurvas, Regional Sales Director, Asia Pacific . Zhixing Lux, Lucy Liang, Co-Founder . Gangtey Lodge Bhutan, Khin Omar Win, Co-Founder In this episode, Joanne is joined with a very diverse panel of guest, each focused...
2020-12-1437 min
Luxury VoicesWhat are the changes in the luxury consumer post COVID-19 and future trends to watch out for? Moderated by Jacqueline Tsang, Chief Editor, South China Morning Post STYLEThis episode is part 2 of a series of forums held during our ultra-luxury virtual travel show, Infinite Luxury Virtual Market, ILVM. Thought leaders were invited to debate about the luxury Asian travel market, share market insights and upcoming trends to look out for. This forum is moderated by Jacqueline Tsang, Chief Editor, South China Morning Post STYLE PANELISTS: . Agility Research & Strategy, Luca Deplano, Director . Connexus Travel, Gloria Slethaug, CEO . Swire Hotels, Chrissie Lincoln, Director of International Sales STYLE magazine, part of Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post, is a multimedia online portal for luxury lifestyle, fashion, watches and je...
2020-12-1432 min
Luxury VoicesExplore wellness hospitality in Asia and changes in the wake of this pandemic, moderated by Ingo R. Schweder Founder & CEO, GOCO Hospitality - An ILVM forum seriesThis episode is part 1 of a series of forums held during our ultra-luxury virtual travel show, Infinite Luxury Virtual Market, ILVM. Thought leaders were invited to debate about the luxury Asian travel market, share market insights and upcoming trends to look out for. This forum is moderated by Ingo R. Schweder, Founder & CEO GOCO Hospitality. PANELISTS: . Vivienne Tang, Founder & CEO, Destination Deluxe . Fifi Kao, Chief Editor, SpaChina Magazine . Tracy Lord, Director of Spa Operations, Sands Resorts Cotai Strip Macao GOCO Hospitality is a Consultancy, development and management for tomorrow’s wellness concepts. Traveling for a distinct purpose, wellness tourists ar...
2020-12-1435 minLuxury VoicesFrom a local hotel guidebook to curating the world's best hotel collection, with Tamara Lohan Founder & CEO, Mr & Mrs SmithTamara is the founder and CEO of Mr & Mrs Smith, the boutique hotel booking specialists. An entrepreneur with a background in marketing and technology, she co-founded Mr & Mrs Smith with her husband James and has been responsible for evolving the company’s digital infrastructure ever since. As CTO she oversaw the pivot from publishing house to online travel agent, developing Mr & Mrs Smith’s in-house booking engine, proprietary availability-management systems and responsive global website. Today, Mr & Mrs Smith has more than 1.5 million members worldwide and Tamara and James have received MBEs for their services to the British travel industry. In 2...
2020-12-0942 minLuxury VoicesRethinking luxury hospitality, with Nathaniel Most, Global Director of Sales & Marketing, Michel Reybier Hospitality, La Réserve HotelsOur Luxury Voice today is Nathaniel Most, Global Director of Sales & Marketing at Michel Reybier Hospitality, La Réserve Hotels. A Parisian, he started to travel and showing interest in the luxury hotel world from his early years, thanks to his family living abroad. After several years being based in Florida, New York and London, Paris became his home. Nathaniel has been with La Réserve since 2016, and prior to that, he assumed various positions at Le Bristol Paris and Dorchester in London. Michel Reybier Hospitality was established by Michel Reybier, a French businessman turned hotelier and vineyard owner. The...
2020-12-0243 minLuxury VoicesInspiring a new generation of China’s affluent travellers with Bo Liang, Zhixing Lux Travel, Founder & Managing DirectorIn this episode, I am conversing with Bo Liang, Zhixing Lux Travel, Founder & Managing Director. As one of the most luxurious travel companies in China and a Virtuoso travel agency, Zhixing Lux Travel has always been committed to create unique travel itineraries since it was established. Equipped with decades of experience, Zhixing Lux carefully selects local partners, the world's top luxury hotel brands and world class-level expert guides to ensure that every journey has the best service and experience, making every minute of their traveller’s journey enjoyable. Their destinations include Antartica, Egypt, Turkey, Morocco and experiences like river cr...
2020-11-2543 minLuxury VoicesFrom tea fields to a trail of luxury resorts with Malik J. Fernando, Managing Director of Resplendent CeylonMalik Fernando is a Director of MJF Holdings & Dilmah Tea, established by Merrill J Fernando, his father. Dilmah Tea, named after Merrill’s two sons Dilhan and Malik, was the first producer owned tea brand, offering tea ‘picked, perfected and packed’ at origin. Malik is also the Managing Director of Resplendent Ceylon, the first Sri Lankan luxury resort brand. Resplendent Ceylon is developing a collection of small, luxury resorts offering travellers a remarkable circuit across Sri Lanka, with a range of authentic experiences, while contributing towards local communities and the environment through the MJF Foundation & Dilmah Conservation. The iconic Ceylon...
2020-11-1145 minLuxury VoicesFrom tea fields to a trail of luxury resorts with Malik J. Fernando, Managing Director of Resplendent CeylonAbout this episode:Company Name Resplendent Ceylon & Dilmah TeaCompany Website https://www.resplendentceylon.com/ https://www.dilmahtea.com/About Infinite Luxury:LUXURY VOICES is a podcast curated by Infinite Luxury Group, a luxury Sales, Marketing, Communications specialist based in Asia. www.infiniteluxurygroup.com Follow us: LinkedIN www.linkedin.com/in/infinite-luxury-a132271bInstagram @infiniteluxurymanifestoWeChat InfiniteLuxury Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify, online or wherever you listen to your episodes
2020-11-1101 minLuxury VoicesTravel impact in Asia’s world city, with Lily Agonoy, Managing Director, Jebsen HolidaysOur Luxury Voice today is Lily Agonoy. Lily is the Managing Director of Jebsen Holidays. Jebsen Holidays is a well-established agency with passionate and knowledgeable travel advisors, specialized in luxury travel experiences. Jebsen Travel traces its history back to its former parent company Jebsen & Co., Ltd. The firm was founded in Hong Kong in 1895.Lily has assumed various senior roles in the travel industry in Hong Kong such as BCD Travel, Farrington American Express Travel Services, Qantas and British Airways.Lily and I have known each other for over 15 years, we met during her time...
2020-11-0427 minLuxury VoicesRiding the crisis storm with a sense of peace, with Greg Ward, Head of Global Sales & Distribution, AMANOur LUXURY VOICE joining us today is Greg Ward, Head of Global Sales and Distribution at AMAN. Residing in Switzerland Greg Ward regards himself as a global nomad, having spent time during his career with multiple luxury brands across sales, marketing and operations in the Americas, Europe, Middle East and Asia. He is absolutely passionate about the luxury sector and in particular the world of experiential luxury travel. Aman’s meaning “place of peace” has a magnificent collection of 32 luxury resorts, hotels, villas and private residences across 20 countries, and since 1988 Aman has welcomed guests as if to the home of a c...
2020-10-2835 minLuxury VoicesStyle through an Asian lens with Jacqueline Tsang, Chief Editor, STYLE, South China Morning PostOur Luxury VOICE joining us today, is Jacqueline Tsang, the Chief Editor of STYLE at the South China Morning Post, and the Content Director of the company's Specialist Publications team. She is an award-winning editor with over a decade of demonstrated experience working in the luxury and media industry. As a strong media and communication professional, she is experienced with managing writers, commissioning editors, digital content managers and designers. Skilled in editorial strategy and journalism across print and digital platforms, Jacqueline offers an extraordinary breadth of industry know-how. Industry coverage includes luxury, fashion, watch, jewellery, food & beverage, beauty, hospitality...
2020-10-2133 minLuxury VoicesA close look into a global tech-enabled travel and lifestyle concierge with Andrew Long, Co-Founder of Ten Lifestyle GroupOur Luxury Voice joining us today is Andrew Long. Andrew, Group COO, CEO APAC, co-founded Ten Lifestyle Group in 1998. Ten is a global travel and lifestyle concierge. The company is headquartered in London with 22 global offices in major cities including New York, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo. Andrew is responsible for key client and account strategy, legal and compliance, programme management, global offers and events, global real estate and the development of the operational and technology infrastructure. Prior to founding Ten, he ran a UK market-leading event production and management business. Andrew has been based in Singapore since 2012...
2020-10-141h 02Luxury VoicesEstablishing a global travel brand in China, with Irene Lee, General Manager, China, VirtuosoIrene Lee is the General Manager China at Virtuoso, she oversees the Asian markets while being based in Shanghai. Virtuoso is a leading global network of agencies specializing in luxury and experiential travel, with more than 20,000 advisors. Virtuoso partners with over 1,800 of the world’s best companies such as hotels, cruise lines, tour operators, and more. Its advisors use their connections and first-hand expertise to craft bespoke trips for clients.Irene is originally from Taipei and has 18 years of experience in business consulting. She has spent the past ten years helping international brands build their go-to-market strategies in...
2020-10-0732 minLuxury VoicesUnearthing opportunities in challenging timesOur LUXURY VOICE joining us today, is Dean Winter. Dean is a hotelier and restaurateur, with over 30 years of experience in London, Hong Kong and Singapore. Previously the Group Director of Operations, Dean is now the Managing Director of Swire Hotels, expanding his scope of responsibilities to take on the day to day leadership of the Swire Hotels portfolio under the two brands, EAST and The House Collective. Prior to joining Swire Hotels, Dean developed his management career over 14 years with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and also served as General Manager for Terrence Conran’s restaurant group in London. We...
2020-09-3036 minLuxury VoicesHow a travel specialist stays ahead todayOur LUXURY VOICE joining us today is Gloria Slethaug. Gloria is the CEO of Connexus Travel Ltd. (formerly known as Swire Travel Ltd.), a Hong Kong-based Greater China regional TMC (travel management company), which was established in 1948. It is currently employing a staff of 420 in 5 key offices in the Greater China region and is awarded with the Most Favourite Business Travel agency in Hong Kong. Gloria has over 20 years of experience in aviation and travel management. Her experience and achievements have spanned business acquisition strategies, key accounts management, partnership marketing, and leadership innovation. Gloria and I have k...
2020-09-2324 minLuxury VoicesThe ebb and flow of wellness trends with Ingo R. Schweder, Chief Executive Officer, GOCO HospitalityInjecting fresh ideas and professionalism into the rapidly expanding wellness hospitality sector, Ingo Schweder brings together more than 30 years’ experience in the spa and hospitality industry. Founder and CEO of GOCO Hospitality and Managing Director of Horwath HTL Health and Wellness, Ingo has led the design, development and operation of some of the most iconic wellness hospitality ventures around the world. GOCO Hospitality has completed over US$3.5 billion of luxury health and wellness projects on five continents, owns the Glen Ivy Hot Springs in Southern California and manages GOCO-branded spas and retreats in strategic spots around the world. Ingo is...
2020-09-1633 minLuxury VoicesInsights into an auction house journey in Asia, with Jonathan Crockett, Chairman Asia and Head of 20th Century & Contemporary Art at PhillipsOur Luxury Voice today is Jonathan Crockett, Chairman Asia and Head of 20th Century & Contemporary Art, Phillips. In this episode, we will discuss the auction house’s journey in Asia with Jonathan. Jonathan is an experienced art world professional with a keen appreciation for the contemporary cultural scene in Asia and has over 20 years of experience in his field. An auctioneer since 2009, Jonathan regularly supports non-profit art programmes and other charities through auctioneering and other fundraising activities. He joined Phillips as deputy chairman of Asia in May 2016 and helped establish the auction house’s regional headquarters in Hong Kong to spear...
2020-09-0941 minLuxury VoicesUnderstanding the Chinese traveller with Tian Gu, 田谷, Publisher, Travel + Leisure China (English)Tian Gu, (known as) Diggle is the Publisher of Travel + Leisure China, one of the internationally recognized travel publications with a monthly circulation of 630,000, reaching passionate travellers and readers all over the country.Diggle is Shanghainese and is based in her home town of Shanghai. She has been with the magazine for 14 years and has built a name for herself in the media industry through various senior roles in different publications, dailies and news media companies. For work or her own leisure, she has travelled extensively around the globe and her favourite journeys are always related to...
2020-09-0220 minLuxury Voicesb. Understanding the Chinese traveller with Tian Gu, 田谷, Publisher, Travel + Leisure China (Original Chinese/English)Tian Gu, (known as Diggle) is the Publisher of Travel + Leisure China, one of the internationally recognized travel publications with a monthly circulation of 630,000, reaching passionate travellers and readers all over the country.Diggle is Shanghainese and is based in her home town of Shanghai. She has been with the magazine for 14 years and has built a name for herself in the media industry through various senior roles in different publications, dailies and news media companies. For work or her own leisure, she has travelled extensively around the globe and her favourite journeys are always related to...
2020-08-3134 minLuxury VoicesResilience in China Luxury Travel with Bamboo Zhou, Founder & CEO, 8 Continents TravelBamboo is the Founder and CEO of 8 Continents Travel, one of the well-recognized Luxury B to C travel agencies in China and Founder of Dong Luxury Travel Collection, a B to B platform for the travel trade.Bamboo is originally from Chengdu, a popular city in West China and has been based in Shanghai since 2000. He has been in the travel industry for 17 years and established 8 Continents Travel in 2011 followed by Dong Luxury Travel Collection in 2015. The company collaborates with some of the best hotels and resorts worldwide which have welcomed his travel agency’s best clients an...
2020-08-2635 minLuxury VoicesThe rising influence of Asian outbound travellers with Benjamin Banh, Vice President, Field Sales & Marketing at Rosewood Hotel GroupThe rising influence of Asian outbound travellers with Benjamin Banh, Vice President, Field Sales & Marketing at Rosewood Hotel Group Our LUXURY VOICE in this episode is Benjamin Banh, Vice President, Field Sales & Marketing at Rosewood Hotel Group based in Hong Kong. He is an accomplished sales and marketing executive with extensive global market customer relationships particularly in luxury hotels. Benjamin has a strong track record and experience in hotel pre-opening, brand building, revenue management, and profit maximization. He assumed various senior sales and marketing roles in global luxury hotel groups such as Preferred Hotel Group, Sw...
2020-07-3141 minLuxury VoicesFrom gems to media with Lionel Lee, Comfort Magazine Executive Editor-in-ChiefOur LUXURY VOICE in this episode is Lionel Li. Lionel is the Executive Editor-in-Chief of Comfort, one of the well-established and prestigious luxury lifestyle publications in China with a monthly circulation of 180,000 reaching High Net Worth Individuals and elite readers all over the country.Lionel is originally from Harbin in the north part of China. He is now based in Beijing and has been with the magazine since 2014. Lionel traveled to many places around the globe and his favorite cities are Paris and London, he interviewed various iconic persons from most successful business owners, socialites t...
2020-07-3039 minLuxury VoicesIn the luxury fast lane, with Alain Li, Regional Chief Executive, Asia Pacific of RichemontAs Regional Chief Executive, Asia Pacific of Richemont, Alain is responsible for overseeing and cultivating the presence and development of some of the world's most coveted luxury brands. Alain has a wealth of experience in business development and international finance, gained through a series of top positions at various multinational corporations across Europe, Africa and the Far East. More significantly, his specialty throughout his career has been in distributing lifestyle products to mature as well as emerging markets. Alain’s experience with the Asia Pacific region only made him a stronger match for the highly spec...
2020-07-2840 min