GMs across Asia are increasingly weaving the region’s rich heritage into their hospitality offerings. They understand that modern travellers yearn for experiences that not only provide comfort but also offer a profound connection to the destination’s cultural legacy. By embracing traditional architecture, preserving local craftsmanship, and curating experiences, GMs are ensuring that every stay becomes a voyage into the heart of Asian heritage. This harmonious approach fosters not just a sense of luxury, but also a deep appreciation for the stories and customs that make each destination truly unique.

Jirarat Ninpradub

General Manager of Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

At Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort, we bring local heritage to life through cultural immersion. Guests enjoy traditional Thai cooking classes, free access to Peranakan Museum, and local performances. Our design celebrates local craftsmanship with Phuket clay glassware for welcome drink, coconut shell art, and a lobby sculpture made from ocean plastic collected by the Mai Khao community. Every detail reflects the rich culture and history of the destination.

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional values?

We blend tradition and innovation by embracing modern tech like mobile check-in, keyless entry, and in-room casting while staying rooted in Thai warmth and hospitality. Our resort reflects local culture through sustainable architecture and experiences, from spa rituals using local ingredients to community partnerships. This harmony ensures guests enjoy seamless convenience without losing touch with authentic Phuket charm.

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted?

We work closely with local artisans, performers, and farmers to bring their skills and stories into our resort. By sourcing ingredients locally and hosting community events, we ensure economic and cultural sustainability. We also provide platforms for local artists to exhibit and sell their crafts. One of our key initiatives is our composting program — food waste from the resort is processed and turned into compost that we use in our resort garden and share with nearby local farms, reinforcing our connection and contribution to the local agricultural community.

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region?

We see heritage tourism evolving into more immersive and sustainable experiences. Travellers are increasingly seeking meaningful connections, and Phuket’s cultural depth offers endless opportunities. We aim to be a part of that journey — not only preserving traditions but making them accessible and engaging for the next generation of travellers. Our commitment to sustainability and community engagement ensures that heritage tourism will thrive in a way that benefits both visitors and locals.

Pitak Norathepkitti

General Manager of Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

At Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, we weave local heritage into every aspect of the guest journey. Our centrepiece, the historic 1921 House—once the British Consulate—serves as both a physical connection to Chiang Mai’s past and a refined dining venue. We celebrate Lanna culture through authentic experiences like our Inthakin Bucha welcome drink, traditional Khantoke dinners, and seasonal offerings such as Khao Chae. Our colleagues share local stories and traditions, while our design elements reflect northern Thai artistry. Even our wellness treatments incorporate ancient healing practices, creating immersive experiences that honour Chiang Mai’s rich cultural tapestry.

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional heritage elements?

We view heritage and modernity not as competing forces, but as complementary elements that enhance each other. The key is thoughtful integration—maintaining authenticity while embracing innovation. Our century-old colonial building houses contemporary dining experiences that honour traditional flavours. We incorporate modern sustainability practices into ancient cultural rituals. Digital conveniences enhance rather than replace human connections. By respecting the essence of heritage while adapting to evolving guest expectations, we create experiences that feel both timeless and relevant. This careful balance allows us to preserve cultural significance while delivering the seamless comfort and personalization today’s travellers seek.

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted?

Community collaboration forms the heart of our approach. We partner directly with local artisans and cultural practitioners—from traditional craftspeople making Tung flags and floral art to ethical producers like Dao Gifts and Monsoon Tea. Our culinary team, including locally-raised talents like Chef Golf, explores village markets and farms to incorporate authentic ingredients and techniques. We celebrate significant cultural events like Loy Krathong with traditional rituals at our riverside property, inviting both guests and community members to participate. Our daily cultural workshops taught by local masters’ showcase Lanna traditions from soap carving to herbal compress making. By creating economic opportunities for community producers and providing platforms for cultural expression, we ensure traditions remain vibrant while creating meaningful connections between our guests and Chiang Mai’s heritage.

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region?

I envision heritage tourism evolving toward deeper, more authentic engagement with our rich Lanna history and traditions. At its core, heritage tourism will remain a high-touch business where genuine human connections deliver the exceptional hospitality our region is known for. While we’ll embrace technology selectively—using data to better understand guest preferences and enhance personalization—the true luxury will continue to be the warm, personal service delivered by our people. Our future lies in creating meaningful connections between travellers and local culture through immersive experiences that honour our deep historical roots. As global travellers increasingly seek transformative experiences over mere transactions, our region’s rich heritage offers profound opportunities for growth, provided we balance preservation with thoughtful innovation and genuine community benefit.

Juthamas Sakulpisut

Cluster General Manager of Staybridge Suites Bangkok Thonglor & Sukhumvit 

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

At Staybridge Suites Bangkok Thonglor and Sukhumvit, we celebrate Thai culture through special themed social nights. For Songkran Night, guests enjoy pouring water on a Buddha statue, tasting local snacks, and seeing our team in traditional Thai clothing. For Loy Krathong Night, we guide guests in making and floating krathongs to give thanks to the water and make wishes. These cultural nights are relaxed, welcoming, and full of local charm. We also offer elephant souvenirs made by local OTOP communities, perfect for taking a piece of Thailand home 

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional heritage elements? 

We invite guests to join in our themed activities, keeping everything light, fun, and enjoyable. We mix modern comfort with traditional Thai elements, incorporating stylish design alongside cultural touches, such as traditional decorations. This allows guests to feel connected to Thailand’s heritage in a relaxed way. 

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted? 

We actively involve the local community by inviting them to join in our events and activities. Through fun, themed nights like our Songkran celebration, we offer both guests and locals the chance to share and celebrate Thailand’s traditions together in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. 

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region? 

As more travellers seek authentic cultural experiences, we anticipate that heritage tourism will continue to grow in popularity. At Staybridge Suites Bangkok, we will continue offering guests the chance to enjoy modern comforts while connecting with Thai culture, always creating a sense of community. 

Myla A. Caceres

General Manager of TUI BLUE Tuy Hoa

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

At TUI BLUE Tuy Hoa, we proudly connect guests with the rich cultural heritage of Phu Yen. Through our curated BLUE® Experiences, guests enjoy hands-on activities like cooking classes, rice paper making, and local craft workshops. Our BLUE® Guides lead personalized excursions to landmarks such as Ganh Da Dia and Mang Lang Church, sharing stories and traditions. Dining highlights farm-to-table cuisine with locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes. The resort’s design blends Vietnamese elegance with modern comfort. Every detail reflects our commitment to offering authentic experiences while preserving and promoting the cultural soul of Tuy Hoa.

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional heritage elements?

We believe the future of hospitality lies in blending contemporary comfort with authentic local culture. At TUI BLUE Tuy Hoa, we embrace modern trends like personalized service, wellness, digital convenience, and sustainability, while remaining rooted in Phu Yen’s rich heritage. Powered by the BLUE® App, guests enjoy seamless service alongside immersive local experiences—from Vietnamese-inspired design and traditional cuisine to cultural workshops and curated excursions. Our interiors feature local craftsmanship, and we proudly support nearby communities through partnerships and sourcing. This thoughtful balance offers a stay that’s modern, enriching, and deeply connected to place.

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted?

At TUI BLUE Tuy Hoa, we believe true hospitality reaches into the heart of the community. We collaborate with local artisans, cultural groups, and farmers to ensure Phu Yen’s heritage is celebrated through immersive guest experiences. From traditional fishing and weaving workshops to our “Farm to Table” dining initiative, we promote sustainable, inclusive tourism that benefits all. Through our BLUE® Experiences program and partnerships with community leaders, we offer authentic cultural connections while creating meaningful economic opportunities—helping guests gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultural landscape of Phu Yen.

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region?

I envision a future where heritage tourism in Phu Yen is immersive, sustainable, and community-driven. It’s about uplifting local livelihoods, protecting cultural assets, and offering authentic experiences to travellers seeking deeper meaning. We aim to position the region not just as a scenic escape, but as a living cultural journey. This requires investment in education, preservation, and empowering locals as cultural ambassadors. By promoting responsible tourism, embracing digital innovation, and fostering strong partnerships, we can preserve Phu Yen’s cultural essence while embracing thoughtful tourism development.

Adrian Pulido

General Manager of Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

Our resort’s location offers immediate access to Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, being just a short distance from three UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Hoi An Ancient Town, the Imperial City of Hue, and My Son Sanctuary. We bring this heritage closer to our guests through curated cultural excursions, locally inspired culinary experiences, and family-friendly activities such as traditional Vietnamese games. Elements of local design, cuisine, and storytelling are also thoughtfully woven throughout the resort to create an authentic and memorable stay.

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional heritage elements?

We believe tradition and innovation can go hand in hand. While embracing global trends such as wellness travel and immersive dining, we embed local heritage into each offering—like hosting Danang Retreat, our wellness package at VIE Spa. Our modern facilities, such as Vive Océane, serve a French Mediterranean menu alongside Vietnamese dishes presented in a modern way. This thoughtful blend allows guests to enjoy the comforts of luxury while discovering the authenticity of Vietnam.

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted?

We actively collaborate with local artists, farmers, and cultural partners to celebrate the heritage of Central Vietnam. One highlight is our collaboration with renowned photographer Réhahn, whose gallery within the resort showcases powerful portraits and stories of Vietnam’s ethnic communities. Through locally sourced ingredients, traditional crafts, and heritage-inspired activities for families, we create authentic guest experiences while supporting the local community. These initiatives help preserve cultural practices and ensure they are shared with care and respect.

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region?

Heritage tourism in Central Vietnam holds immense potential, especially with Da Nang’s position between three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As travellers seek more meaningful and responsible experiences, the region’s blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty is becoming increasingly attractive. I envision a future where luxury hospitality plays a key role in preserving local culture by providing access to heritage experiences in thoughtful, sustainable ways that benefit both guests and the community.

Gottfried Bogensperger

General Manager of Grand Hyatt Bali

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

At Grand Hyatt Bali, heritage is at the heart of every experience. Guests are welcomed by Balinese architecture, tropical gardens, and cultural details throughout the resort. Dining at Pasar Senggol features Indonesian flavours and nightly cultural performances. Two sacred temples invite guests to join local rituals and offerings, deepening their connection to Balinese traditions. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests enjoy a seamless blend of tropical beauty and modern comfort. At Kriya Spa, locally sourced ingredients and ancient healing practices offer a holistic wellness experience inspired by Bali’s rich natural and spiritual heritage.

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional heritage elements?

At our resort, modern luxury and cultural authenticity blend in harmony. While guests enjoy advanced amenities and wellness experiences, the warmth and spirit of Balinese hospitality remain at our core. This balance is reflected in thoughtful design, cultural programs, and collaboration with local artisans. Each week, we dedicate a day for our community to wear traditional national costumes or uniforms, inviting guests to experience the rich, living traditions of the archipelago.

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted?

At Grand Hyatt Bali, our bond with the local community is deep and lasting. We proudly work with local performers, artisans, farmers, and wellness experts to create experiences that reflect the true spirit of Bali. Many of our team members come from nearby villages and share their culture with warmth and pride. We also support local festivals and traditions, helping preserve Bali’s rich heritage. At Pasar Senggol, guests enjoy Indonesian cuisine, live performances, and handcrafted goods from local artisans—offering an authentic, meaningful connection to Balinese culture while supporting the community and its future.

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region?

The future of heritage tourism in Bali lies in authenticity, sustainability, and deeper storytelling. As travellers seek more meaningful and responsible experiences, we see an opportunity to celebrate Bali’s living heritage, not just as a backdrop but as a narrative to be lived and shared. At Grand Hyatt Bali, we aim to be at the forefront of this evolution, offering not just a stay, but a soulful journey that honours the past while embracing the future.

Patrick Farrell

General Manager of Viceroy Bali

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

At Viceroy Bali, we embrace Balinese culture from the moment guests arrive. We greet them with a traditional palm hand gesture, symbolising respect, gratitude, and warmth. Guests also have the opportunity to engage in a Balinese offering-making activity, providing a deeper understanding of the island’s spiritual practices. Our architecture and daily ceremonies reflect the cultural heritage of Bali, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich traditions that make this island unique.

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional heritage elements?

At Viceroy Bali, we blend modern luxury with Balinese traditions to offer an immersive experience. Our contemporary spa treatments, such as the Balinese massage at Akoya Spa, complement the island’s healing practices. Guests can also book a water purification ritual, where our team will guide them to a designated temple. In addition, we offer authentic culinary experiences, such as a Balinese rijsttafel or a cooking class at CasCades Restaurant, where guests can learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients. This fusion of culture and modern comfort ensures a well-rounded stay.

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted?

We maintain a strong connection with the local community, particularly through regular temple ceremonies held every six months, which involve the local community “banjar”. This strengthens our relationship with those around us as we’ve been part of the community for 20 years. Additionally, we work with local artisans to showcase their crafts and support community-based initiatives. This engagement not only enriches our guests’ experiences but also ensures that the local culture remains vibrant and respected, helping sustain the traditions that make Bali so special.

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region?

The future of heritage tourism in Bali will focus on authenticity, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. We are committed to preserving the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while offering guests a unique experience. By leasing additional land across the valley of the resort, we ensure long-term protection for the environment, preserving unobstructed jungle views and providing a safe haven for wildlife, such as monkeys and rare birds. This guarantees no human development will intrude on the land, offering privacy and tranquillity to our guests. Our efforts to nurture the land, like planting native palm trees after a landslide, demonstrate our dedication to the environment.

Rai Artawan

General Manager of Karma Kandara

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

At Karma Kandara, we integrate Balinese heritage into every stage of the guest journey. From the architecture that reflects traditional Balinese design, to cultural experiences such as Balinese theme dinners, temple visits, and local dance performances, guests are immersed in the richness of the island’s traditions with bespoke & immersive Karma Curated experiences. Our in-room amenities also feature locally made artisanal products.

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional heritage elements?

We embrace innovation in service, technology, and sustainability, while maintaining a deep respect for local culture. For example, modern wellness trends are offered through holistic spa treatments that incorporate traditional Balinese healing techniques. Our dining experiences blend international cuisine with local ingredients and traditional flavours. We strive to provide luxury and comfort without compromising cultural authenticity.

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted?

We actively collaborate with local communities by employing local talent, sourcing produce and products from nearby farmers and artisans, and supporting cultural festivals and ceremonies. Our team regularly undergoes cultural sensitivity training, and we consult with local elders and cultural leaders to ensure any guest-facing heritage experiences are delivered respectfully and accurately.

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region?

We believe heritage tourism in Bali will continue to grow, particularly among travellers seeking authentic and meaningful experiences. The key will be preserving cultural integrity while adapting to evolving guest expectations. We see a future where tourism plays a role in sustaining local traditions not just showcasing them through education, respectful engagement, and community-led experiences.

Lucienne Anhar

Co-Founder & Co-Managing Director of Tugu Hotels & Restaurants

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

Entering all Tugu properties is like being transported to the lands of exotic kingdoms and romantic eras of Indonesia’s history. We bring Indonesia’s forgotten history and cultural soul to life. Every property is a living museum—filled with authentic antiques, artworks, and architecture. Our storytelling menus, traditional spa rituals, cultural performances, and immersive experiences like jamu-making, theatrical culinary discovery in dramatic venues, as well as how every guest suite is inspired by a romantic story of the local heritage, allow guests to truly live, taste, and feel the beauty of our heritage in every moment of their stay. 

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional heritage elements?

While we treat heritage as the soul of our guest experience and our public spaces are filled with beautiful arts and antiques, the guest suites are luxuriously quirky, blending Indonesian artistic touches with modern luxuries, supported by discreet technology like in-room tablets, modern lighting technology, plush luxury beddings with sleep science behind them as well as wellness-focused amenities.

We offer elevated Indonesian gastronomy through immersive storytelling menus, reinterpreting historical recipes with modern techniques, presentations, and using premium produce from our own plantation. We put a big focus on sustainability practices as well as engaging with the local communities to keep traditions alive. 

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted?

We collaborate closely with local artisans, performers, chefs, and historians to co-create authentic experiences. Many of our team members are from surrounding villages, preserving and sharing their own traditions—from music to crafts to cuisine. We also host cultural events and give platforms to local foundations, ensuring heritage is celebrated inclusively and sustainably.

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region?

We truly believe there is nothing in the world as rich and diverse as Indonesia’s history, with so many kingdoms, tribes and world influences playing a role in our history. Travellers nowadays seek deeper, more meaningful connections. Our authenticity is more in danger now with the influences of social media etc, and we must bring culture alive in ways that are experiential and emotionally rich. With growing awareness of sustainability, heritage tourism can empower local communities while preserving what makes each place unique. Our role is to keep the spirit of the land visible, respected, and inspiring for generations to come.

Thomas Weber

General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives

Q: How does your business incorporate local heritage into the guest experience?

I believe integrating authentic local heritage into the guest experience is essential to creating a memorable stay with a true sense of place. Our approach is rooted in the area’s rich history and culture, showcased through our Alila Moments hospitality. Guests are welcomed by the rhythmic beats of bodu beru, offering a vibrant connection to Maldivian heritage. Culinary experiences highlight dishes made by local chefs using traditional recipes with locally sourced ingredients and offering authentic flavours. By weaving local heritage into every element, we foster a deeper connection between guests and the community, enriching their stay with cultural appreciation.

Q: How do you balance modern hospitality trends with traditional heritage elements?

I often reflect on balancing modern hospitality trends with the rich heritage of our surroundings. Today’s travellers seek experiences blending contemporary comforts with authentic tradition. At Alila Kothaifaru, we create spaces where guests immerse in local culture while enjoying luxury. Traditional Maldivian design is woven into our eco-minimalist architecture, ensuring every corner tells a story. We honour the Maldives through mindful service, cuisine, and activities. Guest feedback guides us in offering valued modern amenities while respecting cultural nuances. As I often say, “Hospitality is not just about providing a service; it’s about creating a connection with the surrounding culture and environment.”

Q: In what ways do you engage the local community to ensure their traditions and cultural practices are respected and promoted?

I believe engaging with the local community is essential to preserving the rich cultural heritage of our surroundings. Our approach is rooted in respect and collaboration, celebrating local traditions through specially crafted guest experiences. We involve our team and community in showcasing talents via Alila Moments and Play Alila—offering traditional crafts, games, storytelling, and “A Day in the Life of a Maldivian.” These activities deepen guests’ appreciation of Maldivian culture. Beyond engagement, we give back through initiatives on neighbouring islands. Our commitment to the community is a privilege, ensuring our presence supports both cultural preservation and shared growth.

Q: How do you envision the future of heritage tourism in your region?

My journey in the Maldives began in 2016, offering a unique view of where luxury travel meets cultural heritage. Heritage tourism is more than visiting sites—it’s about immersing in local culture and stories. The Maldives holds a rich tapestry of traditions that define its identity. I envision a future where heritage tourism flourishes, engaging travellers and supporting cultural preservation. At Alila Kothaifaru, we offer authentic experiences—from Maldivian cooking classes and traditional crafts to our cultural ambassadors, Safeeru. I believe sustainable practices and community involvement are key to preserving our cultural treasures for future generations.