MONDAY 6 NOVEMBER 2023

12:30 – 21:00 | POTATO HEAD BEACH CLUB

Welcome to Open House by Further East, where many worlds meet. It’s where free spirits meet free thinkers. Big ideas meet small moments of magic. A festival of creativity, curiosity and celebration, designed to unlock your potential and prepare you for days of inspired connection on the shores of the Indian Ocean at Potato Head Beach Club.

As the eyes of the world return to Asia Pacific, this year’s Open House will explore how to seize this moment and channel it towards a more vibrant, sustainable future. You’ll journey into the visions of high-end APAC travel’s most inspiring minds through impactful talks and intimate masterclasses. Share your challenges, secrets and successes with your fellow innovators. And leave strengthened, energised and ready to rock Further East and beyond.

Join us as the sun sets, the beat builds, and your time arrives. This wave is rising, and we’ll surf it together. Right Here. Right Now.

WHAT’S THE FORMAT?

BE INSPIRED

Learn directly from the most insightful figures in high-end APAC travel on trending topics in technology, wellness, sustainability, design and beyond. You’ll leave not only with creative conversation starters for the following days and nights, but also practical ideas to refresh how you do business forever.

BE CONNECTED

The Further East community is a spirited gathering of people dedicated to celebrating the region’s heritage, while encouraging evolution and promising to make a positive impact. Whether it’s meeting your match in a curated discussion or vibing to a live performance over sunset drinks, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spark conversations and connections.

BE SURPRISED

This isn’t traditional thought leadership. Immerse yourself in an eclectic range of experiences, designed to provoke new perspectives, or get involved in one of our interactive workshops.

GET INSPIRED BY OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AT

OPEN HOUSE 2023

This year Open House is centred on three stages: Inspire, Spark and Progress

INSPIRE

Big ideas from the inspired and inspiring. Get a window into the worlds of those who have been quietly moving our industry forward and creating new paradigms for high-end APAC travel.

Elora Hardy

Founder and Creative Director, IBUKU

Elora Hardy

Founder and Creative Director, IBUKU

Elora is the Founder and Creative Director of IBUKU. Born and raised in Bali, Elora then spent 14 years in the United States, where she designed prints for Donna Karan that walked the world’s runways. In 2010, Elora left her successful fashion career to carry on the incredible work of the design-build team that created the world-renowned Green School in Bali, founded by her father John Hardy. She reconnected with the culture and landscape that she loves – and today continues to work with Balinese artisans alongside innovative designers and architects, with the goal of making Bali a global centre for sustainable design.

The New Luxury: Harmony In Nature-Led Design

16:00 - 16:40

When architecture is imagined in harmony with the potential of nature, enchanting spaces that resonate on a different frequency arise. IBUKU is a sustainable design and architecture firm that offers travellers access to this harmony, creating a new luxury grounded in nature. With a portfolio that includes The Four Seasons and COMO Hotels, Elora rejoins us at Further East to explore the transformative power of IBUKU’s nature-infused design and its profound impact on our quest for authenticity in travel. Elora’s TED talk on the topic has over 5 million views and she’s shared her insights with emerging leaders at institutions including MIT, the World Government Summit, the US Green Building Council, and London Design Week. Now, learn about how to merge architecture, artisanal craftsmanship and human-made and natural spaces for yourself.

Sarah Doyle

Global Brand Leader, Design Hotels

Sarah Doyle

Global Brand Leader, Design Hotels

As VP, Global Brand Leader at Design Hotels, Sarah Doyle has enhanced and advanced some of the world’s most well-known travel and lifestyle brands for more than 20 years.

With previous experience in sponsorships and global partnerships at Momentum Worldwide, American Express, and Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Sarah then spent four years as Global Brand Director of W Hotels, giving rise to some iconic collaborations particularly in the world of luxury fashion. After working as as VP of Marketing for BACARDÍ rum portfolio Europe, Sarah now manages the Design Hotels brand between London and Berlin, where she can be found with her beloved dog and office mascot, Lulu, in tow.

Further Thoughts: Creating Space For Physical & Spiritual Healing

15:00

In the latest Design Hotels community survey, 60% of respondents said they were actively increasing their daily wellness rituals. This signals a wider trend towards the human need for more connection with oneself, the pursuit of meaning, and an ongoing battle with permacrisis. As a result, addressing mental health and emotional hygiene is becoming increasingly important within the hotel experience. In this panel, we’ll explore how hotels are going beyond wellness to explore healing, hospitality’s response to shifts in the legalisation of psychedelics, and how to guide guests through their own spiritual quests.

Antonio Saponara

General Manager, Patina Maldives

Antonio Saponara

General Manager, Patina Maldives

Antonio Saponara is the General Manager of Patina Maldives, the new award-winning lifestyle brand of Capella Hotel Group. Antonio’s career in hospitality spans almost 30 years including senior management roles in the Middle East and Asia also with Jumeirah, GHM, Aman, Ritz-Carlton and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts.
His career highlights include serving as Hotel Manager at Aman flagship property Amanpuri in Phuket when the resort attained Virtuoso Best Hotel of the Year in 2008. He was then appointed General Manager The Surin, Phuket where paired with renowned architect Ed Tuttle he has overseen a successful renovation, rebranding and re-positioning of the resort.
During his tenure as Hotel Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong the hotel was awarded Travel+Leisure Best Hotel in Asia and Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star rating. Antonio joined Bulgari Hotel Beijing as General Manager in 2015 with the hotel being awarded Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star rating and a Michelin Star for the Hotel’s Ristorante Niko Romito.
Antonio joined Patina Maldives in 2021 and during his tenure the resort attained a Forbes Five Star rating in 2023.

Further Thoughts: Creating Space For Physical & Spiritual Healing

15:00

In the latest Design Hotels community survey, 60% of respondents said they were actively increasing their daily wellness rituals. This signals a wider trend towards the human need for more connection with oneself, the pursuit of meaning, and an ongoing battle with permacrisis. As a result, addressing mental health and emotional hygiene is becoming increasingly important within the hotel experience. In this panel, we’ll explore how hotels are going beyond wellness to explore healing, hospitality’s response to shifts in the legalisation of psychedelics, and how to guide guests through their own spiritual quests.

Krystal Prakaikaew

Co-founder and owner, The Slate

Krystal Prakaikaew

Co-founder and owner, The Slate

Krystal Prakaikaew Na-Ranong, or “Khun Moo” as she is known to her friends, is the co-founder and owner of The Slate, the multi-award-winning beachfront resort in northwest Phuket that was designed by Bill Bensley and inspired by Phuket’s tin mining heritage.

A Thai national who was raised in Phuket, Khun Moo’s personal story is woven into the fabric of the island. Following four generations of tin mining heritage, her father moved into the hotel business and her family is credited with putting Phuket on the world tourism map.

A graduate of the University of Buckingham in the UK and the highly-acclaimed École Hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland, Khun Moo has gained extensive international hospitality experience. Her career has spanned the globe, covering three continents – Europe, North America and Asia – and allowing Khun Moo to hone her skills in all aspects of hotel and resort operations, from the heat of the kitchen to the pressure of the executive office.

She has worked with some of the industry’s biggest brands, starting at InterContinental Place Vendôme in Paris, one of the French capital’s top hotels, before moving to Switzerland to perfect her food & beverage skills with Mövenpick, and spreading her wings to Hawaii where she learned the art of sales & marketing with Outrigger. Khun Moo then moved back to Thailand, working with Hilton and Four Seasons in Bangkok before returning to her cherished home island to take over the reins of The Slate, a member of the prestigious Design Hotels collection.

Khun Moo is not only focused on creating outstanding guest experiences; she also strives to show the world how the “Pearl of the Andaman” became a vibrant industrial centre and later evolved into one of Asia’s most desirable destinations. She empowers visitors from all countries to explore her homeland’s rich heritage through authentic art-inspired experiences, immersive activities and community-orientated initiatives.

Further Thoughts: Creating Space For Physical & Spiritual Healing

15:00

In the latest Design Hotels community survey, 60% of respondents said they were actively increasing their daily wellness rituals. This signals a wider trend towards the human need for more connection with oneself, the pursuit of meaning, and an ongoing battle with permacrisis. As a result, addressing mental health and emotional hygiene is becoming increasingly important within the hotel experience. In this panel, we’ll explore how hotels are going beyond wellness to explore healing, hospitality’s response to shifts in the legalisation of psychedelics, and how to guide guests through their own spiritual quests.

Betty Meyda

Director of Sales and Marketing, Cap Karoso

Betty Meyda

Director of Sales and Marketing, Cap Karoso

Being sold on the diverse and dynamic work environment of hotels, Betty, who earned her Bachelor degree in English Language and Literature, pursued a career in the hospitality industry by moving to Bali and cherishing her tropical island life for nearly 15 years and counting.Having hospitality experiences in International Hotel chains such as Accor, Starwood and Marriott including hotel task forces in between regions, has helped her to grow in different roles from front-of-the house operation until back-of-the house. Betty then decided to join a forward-thinking Indonesian sustainable lifestyle hospitality brand called Potato Head to gain more experiences in the Independent Hotel. Keen to take on a new challenge, early this year, she joined Cap Karoso Sumba - a member of Design Hotels , a pioneering eco-conscious retreat on the west cape of the remote island of Sumba, Indonesia. Sumba's stunning natural views and unique culture have captivated her and as the true hotelier as well as explorer, she would like to be a part of the growing process of the destination mindfully as well as protecting Sumba’s natural treasures respectfully. Betty loves to travel to discover different cultures and styles of living. When she isn’t glued to a computer screen, Betty spends time by going to the beach, reading books, watching horror movies, listening to music and playing with her three rescued Bali dogs. Her personal dream is to have a sanctuary for stray dogs, cats or any animals she can ever think of. 

The Business Of Influencing

17:00

Social media impacts every decision consumers make before and while travelling, and at the centre of it all are influencers. As newer platforms like TikTok change the influencing game, in this panel we’ll talk to influencers, buyers and hoteliers about how best to collaborate to enhance their business. You’ll learn about how influencers operate in the high-end market, how they drive revenue for their partners, and how they see their profession developing within the travel industry in 2023 and beyond. You’ll leave feeling empowered about the business of influencing, and how you can collaborate with influencers to amplify both your bookings and your brand.

Carly Van Sickle

Senior Director, Global Brand Marketing, W Hotels Worldwide Marriott International

Carly Van Sickle

Senior Director, Global Brand Marketing, W Hotels Worldwide Marriott International

Carly Van Sickle is the Senior Director of Global Brand Marketing for W Hotels Worldwide at Marriott International. In this role, Carly is responsible for setting the W Global Marketing vision and driving innovation in marketing platforms, campaigns and partnerships. She oversees the creation of strategic and integrated marketing programs for the brand worldwide, driving commercial performance and increased brand awareness. She spearheaded the brand evolution and re-positioning project for W Hotels, impacting all 68 hotels around the globe.
Prior to her role as Senior Director, Carly was a key member of The Luxury Collection brand team where she served many roles, most recently as Director, Global Brand Marketing. Carly oversaw the development and implementation of The Luxury Collection’s global marketing, strategic partnerships, visual identity and digital strategies to ensure consistent messaging across the portfolio of more than 115 independent hotels worldwide.
Carly brings more than 15 years of experience in luxury lifestyle and hospitality to her role at Marriott International. Prior to joining the organization in 2015, Carly held multiple roles at New York-based PR agency, HL Group, where she oversaw brand strategy and communications for brands such as Baccarat Hotels and Resorts, Rizzoli Publishing, and Hilton Luxury Worldwide Brands including Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts and Conrad Hotels & Resorts brands, among others.

Carly received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from Michigan State University and resides in New York City.

The Business Of Influencing

17:00

Social media impacts every decision consumers make before and while travelling, and at the centre of it all are influencers. As newer platforms like TikTok change the influencing game, in this panel we’ll talk to influencers, buyers and hoteliers about how best to collaborate to enhance their business. You’ll learn about how influencers operate in the high-end market, how they drive revenue for their partners, and how they see their profession developing within the travel industry in 2023 and beyond. You’ll leave feeling empowered about the business of influencing, and how you can collaborate with influencers to amplify both your bookings and your brand.

Colin Nagy

Columnist, Skift

Colin Nagy

Columnist, Skift

Colin Nagy leads global brand strategy and management for Instagram. He writes the long running Skift column on luxury, customer experience and innovation and contributes to Courier and  Monocle. Nagy holds a degree in Politics and History from New York University.

Good Times, Do Good: The Future Of Regenerative Hospitality

14:00

Ronald Akili, CEO & Founder, Potato Head, in conversation with Colin Nagy, Director & Columnist, Skift. Ronald Akili is an entrepreneur, innovator and changemaker who thrives on challenging the status quo in every industry he touches. In this conversation he’ll reveal his journey from promoting sustainable Indonesian architecture to the creation and evolution of Potato Head, today the first carbon-neutral company in the region. Ronald’s “Good Times, Do Good” motto encapsulates his belief that we can balance incredible experiences with actions that make the world a better place – and that we can not only serve guests, but also inspire them. From the launch of Katamama to the creative village of Desa Potato Head and partnerships with Green School Bali and the United Nations, hear how Ronaldi is investing in real change – and share your own action for a regenerative future.

Christina Tan

Influencer

Christina Tan

Influencer

One of the top luxury travel influencers on the international circuit, Indonesia-based Christina Tan has been featured at some of the most prestigious publications such as Forbes, Forbes Travel Guide,  Travel+Leisure, Condé Nast Traveller and high-end hotels across the globe. Whether you’re planning a glamorous getaway or just admiring the view from her Instagram feed, Christina’s content is a window to the world of five-star luxury and jaw-dropping destinations. Formerly in the fashion industry, her stylish background shines through her images. Christina is currently a Leica Ambassador and had been awarded by Luxury Lifestyle Awards as one of Top 100 Best Luxury Influencers in the World. Christina is also the only influencer in the world who was invited to attend the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Summit in 2020 and 2023

The Business Of Influencing

17:00

Panel featuring Betty Meyda, Director of Sales & Marketing, Cap Karoso, Christina Tan, Influencer. Moderated by Carly Van Sickle, Senior Director, Global Brand Marketing, W Hotels Social media impacts every decision consumers make before and while travelling, and at the centre of it all are influencers. As newer platforms like TikTok change the influencing game, in this panel we’ll talk to influencers, buyers and hoteliers about how best to collaborate to enhance their business. You’ll learn about how influencers operate in the high-end market, how they drive revenue for their partners, and how they see their profession developing within the travel industry in 2023 and beyond. You’ll leave feeling empowered about the business of influencing, and how you can collaborate with influencers to amplify both your bookings and your brand.

Tom McMenemie

General Manager - Accommodation, Luxury Escapes

Tom McMenemie

General Manager - Accommodation, Luxury Escapes

Tom is an accomplished professional serving as the General Manager at Luxury Escapes. With a wealth of experience in the travel and hospitality industry, Tom brings a strong leadership and strategic vision to the renowned luxury travel company.
Having lived and worked in Manchester and Newcastle in the UK, as well as the vibrant cities of the Gold Coast and Melbourne in Australia, Tom brings a rich and diverse perspective to his role. Additionally, he has also expanded his professional horizons in the bustling city-state of Singapore.
Known for his exceptional management skills and passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences, Tom plays a pivotal role in driving the growth and success of Luxury Escapes. His expertise extends to areas such as sales strategy, team management, and fostering key partnerships within the industry.
With a deep understanding of the luxury travel market, Tom ensures that Luxury Escapes continues to offer unparalleled holiday experiences and exclusive deals to its 7+ million members.
With his global perspective and industry expertise, Tom continues to lead Luxury Escapes with a commitment to excellence, ensuring that travellers receive the highest level of service and unforgettable experiences.

The Business Of Influencing

17:00

Social media impacts every decision consumers make before and while travelling, and at the centre of it all are influencers. As newer platforms like TikTok change the influencing game, in this panel we’ll talk to influencers, buyers and hoteliers about how best to collaborate to enhance their business. You’ll learn about how influencers operate in the high-end market, how they drive revenue for their partners, and how they see their profession developing within the travel industry in 2023 and beyond. You’ll leave feeling empowered about the business of influencing, and how you can collaborate with influencers to amplify both your bookings and your brand.

Ronald Akili

CEO, Potato Head Family

Ronald Akili

CEO, Potato Head Family

Serial entrepreneur and founder of Seminyak Beach’s uber-cool Potato Head Beach Club, who has a reputation as an artistic visionary, industry disruptor and cult hero.

Good Times, Do Good: The Future Of Regenerative Hospitality

14:00

Ronald Akili, CEO & Founder, Potato Head, in conversation with Colin Nagy, Director & Columnist, Skift. Ronald Akili is an entrepreneur, innovator and change-maker who thrives on challenging the status quo in every industry he touches. In this conversation, he’ll reveal his journey from promoting sustainable Indonesian architecture to the creation and evolution of Potato Head, the first carbon-neutral company in the region. Ronald’s “Good Times, Do Good” motto encapsulates his belief that we can balance incredible experiences with actions that make the world a better place – and that we can not only serve guests but also inspire them. Learn more about how Ronald is investing in real change towards a regenerative future.

SPARK

Interactive sessions led by leaders in your community. Ask your burning questions, witness debates take shape, and leave with practical takeaways for your business.

Melita Koulmandas

Co-founder & CEO, Song Saa Private Island & Foundation

Melita Koulmandas

Co-founder & CEO, Song Saa Private Island & Foundation

Melita Koulmandas is a regenerative designer and living systems thinker working in the travel sector. She co-founded Song Saa Private Island & Foundation more than 10 years ago, where she now serves as CEO.  
In 2005, Melita arrived at the Song Saa islands, witnessing a landscape overwhelmed by ocean waste, its resources depleted, and its habitability fading. Applying the principles of regenerative design, she orchestrated a remarkable transformation. Today, the area boasts Cambodia’s largest Marine Park and community-driven initiatives spanning education, waste management, fisheries, and more.
Amidst global challenges, Melita remains resolute in her mission to advance regeneration in travel, fostering a new era of thoughtful and purposeful exploration.

Regenerative Ripples: Change Beyond Your Brand

14:00

Prepare to be inspired and to gain the knowledge needed to begin your own transformative journey by adopting a regenerative mindset. This session is designed for those who are driven to create meaningful change and are intrigued by truly innovative systems of change-making. Melita will delve into how Song Saa Private Island & Foundation has continually generated a ripple effect of generational positive impact in its surroundings since adopting regenerative principles. She’ll discuss the learning curve in co-evolving and designing in harmony with nature, place, and people, and the shift from linear to integrated, holistic thinking. You’ll discover why embracing regenerative principles represents a crucial mindset shift for the travel industry, how working with “wholes” in business rather than parts can revolutionise your business strategies and create enduring change far beyond your brand, and the limitations of mechanical systems compared to a living systems perspective that fosters collaborative environments that regenerate nature. Overall, you’ll find out how regenerative design enables you to navigate complexity, creating more resilient and adaptable businesses in our rapidly changing world.

Alex Liu

Founder, Tech + Ops, Hotel Advisory

Alex Liu

Founder, Tech + Ops, Hotel Advisory

Alex Liu, resident data scientist with an entrepreneurial spirit, brings a wealth of experience to the luxury hospitality sector. With a background in quantitative trading and an appreciation for outdoor adventures and innovative technologies like blockchain and AI, Alex contributes valuable insights and a unique perspective.

AI: The Uninvited Guest

16:00

AI is poised to tear through hospitality marketing – first as a critical advantage, then as table stakes, and eventually perhaps as a liability. Here’s what you need to do to prepare for this rollercoaster, direct from three innovators in the high-end hospitality sector. Sangjay Choegyal has successfully opened some of the world’s leading hotels for brands like Six Senses, Aman and Shinta Mani Wild; Matthew Lo is a former management consultant who scaled Porter & Sail and built products for Design Hotels, EDITION Hotels and Soho House; and Alex Liu is a data scientist with valuable insights into innovative technologies like blockchain and AI.

Sangjay Choegyal

Principal, Advant Labs

Sangjay Choegyal

Principal, Advant Labs

With over 15 years in the hospitality industry spanning iconic brands and stand alone hotels from six Senses to Aman and the critically acclaimed Shinta Mani Wild, Sangjay has successfully opened some of the worlds leading hotels continually striving to push the boundaries of guest experiences and what a hotel is.

AI: The Uninvited Guest

16:00

AI is poised to tear through hospitality marketing – first as a critical advantage, then as table stakes, and eventually perhaps as a liability. Here’s what you need to do to prepare for this rollercoaster, direct from three innovators in the high-end hospitality sector. Sangjay Choegyal has successfully opened some of the world’s leading hotels for brands like Six Senses, Aman and Shinta Mani Wild; Matthew Lo is a former management consultant who scaled Porter & Sail and built products for Design Hotels, EDITION Hotels and Soho House; and Alex Liu is a data scientist with valuable insights into innovative technologies like blockchain and AI.

Gary Bencheghib

Co-Founder, Sungai Watch

Gary Bencheghib

Co-Founder, Sungai Watch

Gary Bencheghib is a filmmaker and environmental activist. He founded Sungai Watch in 2020 to combat environmental pollution in Indonesia. His initiatives include garbage-floating barriers and cleanups, alongside innovative recycling projects through Sungai Design. In 2022, he earned the Ramon Magsaysay Award, Asia's Nobel Prize, for his efforts against plastic pollution in Indonesia.

The Power Of Collective Action

17:00

Sungai Watch is an environmental organisation on a mission to stop plastic going into the ocean. Founded in 2020 by Gary, Kelly and Sam Bencheghib in Bali, Sungai Watch is now a team of 90 passionate river warriors, and is working with the government on a master plan to make all rivers in the Tabanan and Denpasar regions plastic-free. Gary will share challenges and learnings from his humble journey of environmental activism, including the power of social media to drive change, Sungai Watch’s creative techniques in documenting and analysing waste data, and its upcycling initiatives that transform trash into products that generate funds. Above all, he’ll emphasise the need for unified global efforts and the role of both individuals and communities in this collective responsibility.

Leanne Reddie

Commercial Leader, AZERAI

Leanne Reddie

Commercial Leader, AZERAI

Leanne Reddie has over two decades of experience in the luxury resort, hotel, and airline industries. A serial expat, and world traveler who started her career in tourism piloting an aircraft has thrived in diverse locations across Australia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and various parts of Asia, driving the performance of renowned luxury brands including AZOTELS, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Emirates Airline, Jumeirah, The Siam, Trisara Phuket, and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Leanne holds a Master’s in Business from Murdoch University, Asset Management from Cornell University and Chief Strategy from National University of Singapore.

AI: The Uninvited Guest

16:00

AI is poised to tear through hospitality marketing – first as a critical advantage, then as table stakes, and eventually perhaps as a liability. Here’s what you need to do to prepare for this rollercoaster, direct from three innovators in the high-end hospitality sector. Sangjay Choegyal has successfully opened some of the world’s leading hotels for brands like Six Senses, Aman and Shinta Mani Wild; Matthew Lo is a former management consultant who scaled Porter & Sail and built products for Design Hotels, EDITION Hotels and Soho House; and Alex Liu is a data scientist with valuable insights into innovative technologies like blockchain and AI.

Adam Schwab

CEO, Luxury Escapes

Adam Schwab

CEO, Luxury Escapes

Adam Schwab is an award-winning entrepreneur, and has built Luxury Escapes into one of Australia’s most successful and loved businesses. Luxury Escapes is expected to turn over $1 billion this year and has more than 550 team members across four continents.

Adam started life as a corporate lawyer specialising in mergers & acquisitions at one of Australia’s largest legal firms before becoming a founding what would become Luxury Escapes with school friend, Jeremy Same in 2010.
Luxury Escapes: Luxury Escapes was named the fastest growing company in Australia by BRW in 2013 and by the Australian Financial Review in 2017. It was also ranked #1 in Deloitte’s Technology Fast 50 while Adam was the Young CEO of the Year in 2015 and was nominated for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2014 (Southern Region). Adam was named a Young Business Leader 2015 by CPA.

Since 2004, Adam has been a financial journalist and business commentator specialising in corporate governance, economics and start-ups for The Australian Financial Review, Sydney Morning Herald and BRW.

Decoding Future Trends in Asia Pacific Travel

15:00

We’ve seen a remarkable bounce back for travel to Asia Pacific since the pandemic – but this revival remains uneven. Who in the region is seeing the most growth? And who is lagging behind – and why? By looking at the latest in hospitality trends including foodie travel, online booking, digital nomads, AI, and more, you’ll learn how to differentiate your product, become one of the winners in the region’s resurgence, and ultimately thrive in tomorrow’s travel landscape.

Tai Nirundonpruk

Director, Sales & Partnerships, Soneva

Tai Nirundonpruk

Director, Sales & Partnerships, Soneva

My journey in the hospitality industry spans an impressive 14-year tenure. I began at the renowned Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, where I honed my skills in Food and Beverage, gaining invaluable insights into the core of guest satisfaction. Venturing into the tech realm, I embraced the challenges of a startup environment at Groupon Thailand.

Returning to the Le Grand Dame, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, I transitioned into Corporate Sales, leveraging my comprehensive understanding of both the operational and strategic facets of the industry. This pivotal role marked the convergence of my diverse expertise. In 2017, I embarked on a new chapter with Soneva, assuming the role of Partnerships Manager. Here, I managed key partnerships, orchestrating captivating campaigns that amplified the brand's presence. I transitioned to the Sales team in 2020, where I undertook the task of overseeing the European and American markets.

My strategic acumen and leadership soon propelled me to the position of Director of Sales, where I now spearhead Soneva's global market endeavors, based at the Soneva's Bangkok headquarters.

Decoding Future Trends in Asia Pacific Travel

15:00

We’ve seen a remarkable bounce back for travel to Asia Pacific since the pandemic – but this revival remains uneven. Who in the region is seeing the most growth? And who is lagging behind – and why? By looking at the latest in hospitality trends including foodie travel, online booking, digital nomads, AI, and more, you’ll learn how to differentiate your product, become one of the winners in the region’s resurgence, and ultimately thrive in tomorrow’s travel landscape.

Constance Chang

Director of Sales & Marketing, W Maldives,

Constance Chang

Director of Sales & Marketing, W Maldives,

Constance has an impressive track record in the luxury hospitality sector. Before joining W Maldives, she was the Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing at IHG Hotels & Resorts Bali, where she successfully launched various marketing campaigns and events, resulting in increased brand awareness and revenue growth. Some of the roles she’s held throughout her career include Director of Sales & Marketing at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach; Account Director, Luxury & Lifestyle at IHG Hotels & Resorts, Singapore; and Business Development Manager, Luxury Leisure Sales & Events at Pan Pacific Hotels Group, Singapore among others.

Decoding Future Trends in Asia Pacific Travel

15:00

We’ve seen a remarkable bounce back for travel to Asia Pacific since the pandemic – but this revival remains uneven. Who in the region is seeing the most growth? And who is lagging behind – and why? By looking at the latest in hospitality trends including foodie travel, online booking, digital nomads, AI, and more, you’ll learn how to differentiate your product, become one of the winners in the region’s resurgence, and ultimately thrive in tomorrow’s travel landscape.

Jeremy Tran

Founder, Sainha & Co-founder, Asia Sustainable Travel Briefing

Jeremy Tran

Founder, Sainha & Co-founder, Asia Sustainable Travel Briefing

Impact entrepreneur Jeremy Tran is an award-winning marketing and communications expert.
With over a decade of experience in global branding and marketing, he has advised over 50+ luxury brands on Asia market entry strategy, outbound Chinese travel, Chinese social media, and sustainability integration.
In 2022, he founded Sainha with a mission to normalize sustainable travel practices. A member of Positive Luxury Impact Network, the agency provides sustainability consulting and marketing solutions to next-gen travel and hospitality brands and organizations seeking to scale positive impacts while generating returns.
He also co-founded Asia Sustainable Travel Briefing, a digital media network that serves up agenda-setting analysis and advice for professionals involved in building and growing a sustainable tourism brand in Asia.
He was a speaker at Arab Travel Market, and has been featured in Skift and Travel Tomorrow.
A fluent speaker of 5 languages, Jeremy holds an Executive Education certificate from Cambridge Judge Business School on Sustainability Strategies and Circularity and a master’s degree from University College London’s Bartlett Faculty of Built Environment.
He is a member of Clean Creatives, a movement of advertisers, PR professionals, and their clients cutting ties from fossil fuels.

Decoding Future Trends in Asia Pacific Travel

15:00

We’ve seen a remarkable bounce back for travel to Asia Pacific since the pandemic – but this revival remains uneven. Who in the region is seeing the most growth? And who is lagging behind – and why? By looking at the latest in hospitality trends including foodie travel, online booking, digital nomads, AI, and more, you’ll learn how to differentiate your product, become one of the winners in the region’s resurgence, and ultimately thrive in tomorrow’s travel landscape.

PROGRESS

Off-the-record conversations to share your challenges, reveal your secrets, and celebrate your successes. A safe space for hands-on group discussions about the topics that matter most. 

Matt Brazier

Director of Sales & Marketing, Viceroy Bali

Matt Brazier

Director of Sales & Marketing, Viceroy Bali

A seasoned voyager turned connoisseur of hospitality. In the autumn of 2022, he gracefully transitioned from London based tour operators (13 years) to the tranquil ambience of Ubud, assuming a pivotal role at Viceroy Bali as Director of Sales and Marketing. Possessing over a decade of adeptness within the travel domain, he has traversed Asian shores on an impressive tally of nearly 60 occasions.
 
Matt thrives in environments where tradition seamlessly melds with innovation, flourishing notably within family-operated businesses. His unwavering credo hinges on the consistent delivery of unparalleled experiences. Yet, beyond the corporate realm, he an intrepid pursuer of remote experiences. The notable conquest of Bhutan's Snowman Trek in 2018 is one of his highlights.

The Collaborative Advantage

17:00

As an industry, we’re facing big questions about the future of high-end APAC travel. How do we collectively tackle overtourism, without individually losing out? How do we manage the evolving way that guests book? And why does everything in travel always come down to price? It might feel like we’re alone in taking these challenges on, or that if we work together we stand to lose our competitive advantage. But when we leverage our partnerships and come together as a community, we can provide the ultimate guest experience. Discover the key challenges and pain points when working with your counterparts – and how we can overcome them to build solutions that we can all benefit from.

Andreas Grosskinsky

Director of Asia Concierge

Andreas Grosskinsky

Director of Asia Concierge

Andreas initially began his a travel career in the hotel industry as an apprentice in a small town in South Germany, from where, after a training time in New Orleans, USA, he developed a deep interest in Asia. 
In 2002 he dived head first into his first opportunity in inbound management in Myanmar, just when the country was beginning to open up. Since then he has assumed posts in Oman, Malaysia and finally Indonesia, where he has since settled on the island of Bali for ten years. 
Working in senior management positions in Indonesia, Andreas, saw an opportunity for a more refined and specialised travel venture that could add a high degree of value to the industry and where he could play a part in repositioning Asia away from the reliance on large scale tourism.
His passion is to share the knowledge he has gained and to build further expertise in location.

The Collaborative Advantage

17:00

As an industry, we’re facing big questions about the future of high-end APAC travel. How do we collectively tackle overtourism, without individually losing out? How do we manage the evolving way that guests book? And why does everything in travel always come down to price? It might feel like we’re alone in taking these challenges on, or that if we work together we stand to lose our competitive advantage. But when we leverage our partnerships and come together as a community, we can provide the ultimate guest experience. Discover the key challenges and pain points when working with your counterparts – and how we can overcome them to build solutions that we can all benefit from.

Jeninne Lee-St. John

Editor in Chief, Travel+Leisure Southeast

Jeninne Lee-St. John

Editor in Chief, Travel+Leisure Southeast

Jeninne Lee-St. John, Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia’s editor-in-chief, loves living in Bangkok, though she wishes it were also on a beach. She’s especially interested in food with a good backstory, new ways to define luxury, regenerative travel, wellness from ancient to cutting-edge, and weird wine. Jeninne worked at Time in New York and London, has a masters from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, and a bachelors from Williams College. Born in Washington, D.C., she’s lived in Southeast Asia since 2009, and is known among friends as the queen of bubbles.

The Reverse Press Conference

15:00

Panel moderated by Paul Hicks A press conference where you call the shots and can delve deep into precisely what travel's top-tier media want to write about, right now. We've assembled contemporary travel's top storytellers to field all your burning questions on what is story-worthy today, how to best work with media, and whatever else you’d love to hear from the journalist’s mouth. If you’ve ever wanted to start a direct dialogue with the travel media shaping the desires of tomorrow’s consumers, this is your opportunity to get a clearer understanding of exactly what they’re looking for.

Kee Foong

Freelance Journalist

Kee Foong

Freelance Journalist

Kee is a freelance writer who has set foot on all seven continents yet remains in awe of how much of the world is left to explore. He is an academy chair for the World’s 50 Best Hotels awards and was previously editor of the LUXE City Guides and Cathay magazine. His work appears in publications such as Travel+Leisure Asia, SCMP, International Traveller, Tatler and Design Anthology. He believes that there’s no place like home, except where there is a fabulous hotel involved.

The Reverse Press Conference

15:00

Panel moderated by Paul Hicks A press conference where you call the shots and can delve deep into precisely what travel's top-tier media want to write about, right now. We've assembled contemporary travel's top storytellers to field all your burning questions on what is story-worthy today, how to best work with media, and whatever else you’d love to hear from the journalist’s mouth. If you’ve ever wanted to start a direct dialogue with the travel media shaping the desires of tomorrow’s consumers, this is your opportunity to get a clearer understanding of exactly what they’re looking for.

Rene Roseburg

Managing Director & Founder, The Passionist Travel Design

Rene Roseburg

Managing Director & Founder, The Passionist Travel Design

I believe that everyone has a deep-seated purpose, cause or belief.
It’s about creating the space and resilience to discover the individual and collective purpose of everyone. Through unscripted coaching and development, I inspire unique stories that sensitize awareness, empower people, encourage growth and drive insight, to emotionally connect and resonate with guests & colleagues. Through meaningful mentorship and coaching, there is an enormous chance to build happy & courageous people and a uniquely compelling & consistent experience that guests and staff will bond with. To bring your values to life through recognition, refinement, awareness, meaningfulness and mindfulness. Create space, and empower your discoveries.

Inside-Out Hiring: Tackling The Talent Crisis From Within

16:00

René is an expert in coaching and mentoring who believes that everyone has a deep-seated purpose, cause or belief – it’s just about creating the space and resilience to discover it. He’ll help you tackle the current talent crisis whether you’re a supplier or buyer, introducing new practices to champion talent from within and outlining the concepts of “conscious competence” versus “unconscious competence”, individualising identity versus SOP, and embracing greater flexibility at work. You’ll also learn how to stimulate curiosity, tap into cross-departmental experience, and foster a wider range of skills.

Daniella Ponter

Founder and Director of Sikeleli Travel & Expeditions

Daniella Ponter

Founder and Director of Sikeleli Travel & Expeditions

Daniella ‘Danni’ Ponter is the Founder and Director of Sikeleli Travel & Expeditions.
Danni is a 4th Generation Zimbabwean, having lived in the UK, South Africa, Zambia, Botswana Thailand and Singapore, she has a family foothold in both Africa and Asia and she elegantly and with a personal passion, manages the sales and planning with Sikeleli’s dedicated Expert Travel and Trip Curators. Sikeleli has in-depth knowledge of many significant countries, destinations, experiences and activities in the places from East to West and invest heavily in team travel so that sales are with conviction and first-hand experience. Most of Danni’s guests are repeat and referral only, and from the USA, Canada, Singapore and the UK.

The Collaborative Advantage

17:00

As an industry, we’re facing big questions about the future of high-end APAC travel. How do we collectively tackle overtourism, without individually losing out? How do we manage the evolving way that guests book? And why does everything in travel always come down to price? It might feel like we’re alone in taking these challenges on, or that if we work together we stand to lose our competitive advantage. But when we leverage our partnerships and come together as a community, we can provide the ultimate guest experience. Discover the key challenges and pain points when working with your counterparts – and how we can overcome them to build solutions that we can all benefit from.

Cathy Wagstaff

CEO and Group Editor of Signature Media

Cathy Wagstaff

CEO and Group Editor of Signature Media

Cathy works as the Editor of Signature Luxury Travel & Style, Australia’s leading luxury travel title in circulation and readership. Cathy is the Group Editor across all Signature Media titles including LATTE, the only trade title dedicated to the luxury market.
Cathy has her finger on the pulse of this market sector attending key luxury travel trade events globally and keeping abreast of developing trends.
Cathy is passionate about sustainable travel and ensures Signature Media highlights tourism operators who have a strong focus on responsible tourism, sustainability and conservation.

The Reverse Press Conference

15:00

A press conference where you call the shots and can delve deep into precisely what travel's top-tier media want to write about, right now. We've assembled contemporary travel's top storytellers to field all your burning questions on what is story-worthy today, how to best work with media, and whatever else you’d love to hear from the journalist’s mouth. If you’ve ever wanted to start a direct dialogue with the travel media shaping the desires of tomorrow’s consumers, this is your opportunity to get a clearer understanding of exactly what they’re looking for.

Paul Hicks

Travel PR Specialist and Founder & CEO, GHC Asia

Paul Hicks

Travel PR Specialist and Founder & CEO, GHC Asia

Max Your Media: How To Capitalise Your Time With Visiting Journalists, Media and PR

In this session you will:
-Take away tips on how to help better manage travel writers and hotel reviewers
-Discuss the difference between hosting media and influencers, and how to select the right person for your company’s objectives
-Learn how to work with different media budgets to suit your PR needs

Paul is founder and CEO of one of Asia’s leading and best established travel and hospitality PR agencies, GHCAsia. With over 30 years’ experience in PR and media in the region, he has worked with many of the top names in the hospitality industry and helped build countless brands’ reputations over the years. His company is also the PR agency for Further East.

The Reverse Press Conference

15:00

Panel moderated by Paul Hicks A press conference where you call the shots and can delve deep into precisely what travel's top-tier media want to write about, right now. We've assembled contemporary travel's top storytellers to field all your burning questions on what is story-worthy today, how to best work with media, and whatever else you’d love to hear from the journalist’s mouth. If you’ve ever wanted to start a direct dialogue with the travel media shaping the desires of tomorrow’s consumers, this is your opportunity to get a clearer understanding of exactly what they’re looking for.

WHO’S AT OPEN HOUSE

The whole Further East community. Open House is the first official day of Further East – the perfect opportunity to get to know everyone you’ll be spending the next few days with.

WHERE IS IT?

Further East Open House will take place from 12:30 – 21:00pm on
Monday 6 November at Potato Head Beach Club.

 

WHY HEAD TO OPEN HOUSE?

01/ PLAN YOUR NEXT MOVE

We know that in business there’s no place for abstract ideas. Open House is your opportunity to come together to learn, feel inspired and define tangible goals – for your business and our industry, too.

 

02/ REDISCOVER YOUR COMMUNITY

Missing your Further East friends? Open House will give you the chance to reconnect with last year’s connections and meet new members of the community in a chilled-out poolside setting.

03/ DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Here, things are breezy. This is the place for informal networking and reminding yourselves that, although you’re in Bali for business, fun is very much on the agenda at Open House.