Terry Ward
Updated on: October 10, 2024 10:58 pm GMT
TUI Group, a leader in the travel and tourism sector, is making significant strides in its hotel expansion strategy, particularly across Asia. The company has announced its plans to increase its global portfolio to 600 properties under its various brands, with a notable focus on the fast-growing markets in China and Southeast Asia.
New Properties in China and Southeast Asia
TUI Blue, the company’s hotel brand, recently inaugurated its first properties in China and Malaysia, marking a pivotal moment in its expansion efforts. In China, the brand launched three hotels: TUI Blue Wusongkou Cruise Port, TUI Blue Taicang, and TUI Blue Yangshuo Xiangheli.
The TUI Blue Wusongkou Cruise Port features 83 rooms and is strategically located near Shanghai, offering guests easy access to Asia’s largest cruise port. The TUI Blue Taicang, boasting 129 rooms, is situated in a historic river town known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to Tianjing Lake. TUI Blue Yangshuo Xiangheli is nestled in Guilin, a region renowned for its stunning karst landscapes and the picturesque Li River, drawing tourists with its natural beauty.
In Malaysia, TUI Blue The Haven Ipoh is set to welcome its first guests this month, further enhancing TUI’s footprint in the region. The company is also pushing forward with plans for additional hotels in Southeast Asia, with upcoming openings in Bangkok and Bali.
Strengthening the Brand’s Presence
TUI Blue Hotels & Resorts managing director Artur Gerber expressed optimism about the brand’s expansion in these markets, noting the strong demand for TUI Blue’s unique approach to hospitality. Gerber stated, “Our rapid expansion in China and Southeast Asia underscores the strong demand for the TUI Blue brand in these fast-growing travel markets.
The company aims to deliver a distinctive blend of leisure accommodations and locally-inspired experiences, which is expected to resonate with travelers in these regions. TUI Blue currently operates hotels in various countries, including Austria, Croatia, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Tanzania, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Established Properties in the Region
Before entering China and Malaysia, TUI Blue already had a presence in Southeast Asia with two hotels: TUI Blue The Passage in Thailand and TUI Blue Nam Hoi An in Vietnam. TUI Blue The Passage is renowned for its location on Laem Yai Beach in Koh Samui, offering luxury villas and rooms with scenic views of a national marine park. Meanwhile, TUI Blue Nam Hoi An is well-equipped with multiple swimming pools, a range of dining options, and a luxurious spa, catering to travelers looking to explore the coastal town of Hoi An and nearby Da Nang.
Ambitious Future Plans
TUI Group’s broader ambition to reach 600 properties globally reflects a strategic response to growing travel demand outside Europe. Earlier this year, CEO Sebastian Ebel highlighted potential growth opportunities in various regions, including Africa, signaling the company’s readiness to diversify its portfolio and cater to evolving consumer preferences.
The launch of TUI Blue hotels in China and Malaysia is a testament to the company’s commitment to expand its footprint in significant travel markets. As TUI continues to broaden its offerings, it aims to enhance guests’ experiences through locally-inspired resort options, attracting both leisure and business travelers. TUI’s strategic positioning within the hospitality sector places it in a favorable spot to capitalize on the growing trend of experiential travel, which has gained traction among travelers around the globe.
Conclusion
TUI Group is on a mission to grow and make a mark in the Asian tourism scene. They have exciting plans and have recently opened new hotels. With TUI Blue, they want to offer travelers a mix of luxury and local culture, which is becoming more popular. As they work to become a strong presence in Asia, TUI is dedicated to providing amazing hospitality that meets the needs of all kinds of travelers. This smart strategy not only aims to make TUI’s brand more well-known but also shows how important it is to adapt in the changing world of travel.
