Viewpoints with bite

Every hotel owner in Asia Pacific has, by now, sat through a pitch that promised artificial intelligence would transform their property or their asset portfolio. The pitch is often well-produced, the demo is often impressive, and the price tag is almost always substantial. What is rarely clear, however, is what problem the technology solves for this asset – at this stage, under this ownership — and what it will take to realize that promise.

Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape is a 16-key open-air luxury retreat in the highland valley north of Ubud, Bali in Indonesia. Built around a “No Walls, No Doors” architectural philosophy, it is the first fully open-air property in the Banyan Group portfolio — and one of the most formally recognised sustainable luxury properties in the world.

Historically, spas and gyms were considered an “amenity” or a nice-to-have perk intended to elevate the brand perception or to fulfil the “star rating” requirement. Today, the growing global emphasis in the post-COVID era on healthy lifestyles, work-life balance, mental wellbeing, and mindful living is driving increased spending on wellness services and retreat experiences.

Across the hospitality industry, the role of the Hotel General Manager (GM) has continued to expand in both scope and complexity over the years. Nowhere is this more visible than during regional or global GM conferences organised by international hotel groups, where General Managers gather to align on corporate direction and priorities.