Tag: Club Med

Club Med appoints Olivier Monceau as its new General Manager of Singapore and Malaysia

Club Med, the leader in premium all-inclusive holidays, has announced the appointment of Olivier Monceau as the new General Manager of Singapore and Malaysia effective from October 2022.

With his strong business acumen and deep brand knowledge, Olivier is poised to deliver success while demonstrating an inspiring, creative and fresh approach to leadership. Under his leadership, Olivier’s priorities will be to guide the team through the next phase of strategic brand growth within the region, drive a purposeful brand building through exceptional travel destinations, and to solidify the brand as the leader for all-inclusive ski and mountain holidays. Olivier will also lead his team to deliver effective and targeted end-to-end omni-channel experience to clients that synchronises consideration and conversion to grow top line and client acquisition. Club Med will continue its journey to being the #1 brand choice for vacations and business trips preferred by families, active couples and business-leisure clients.

“Olivier brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his new role and I am delighted to have him on the team as he leads the execution of our aggressive plans to grow the Club Med brand within the region,” says Rachael Harding, Chief Executive Officer of East, South Asia and Pacific (ESAP). “Moreover, Olivier has produced exceptional results in his previous appointment within Club Med, and I am confident that he will accelerate the strategic growth in both Singapore and Malaysia markets. His appointment is also perfectly timed to succeed our new capacity in Kiroro, Hokkaido in 2023 and Borneo, Kota Kinabalu in 2024.”

Originally from Paris, France, Olivier embarked on his Club Med journey in 2016, where he was appointed General Manager of Russia. Olivier was responsible for building brand awareness and positioning Club Med as a premium holiday brand in the market. Together with his team, Olivier turned unprecedented challenges into opportunities during the global pandemic as he tapped on an unrealised potential for long-haul and upscale travel within the region and delivered an effective marketing campaign that led to +400% market growth in 2021 compared to 2019 in an exceedingly challenging time, through the successful recruitment of a new Premium clientele and achieved more than 45% of the total sales for the Exclusive Collection resorts. The market has also been a key contributor to the reopening of Club Med in Seychelles and Maldives, both of which became crucial resorts in the group’s rebound once travel bans were lifted.

“I am excited to be joining such a dynamic team and even happier to lead the brand through its next phase of growth,” shares Olivier. “I look forward to cementing Club Med as the preferred holiday brand for families while building on our shared vision to further enhance the value of our brand towards achieving a long-term strategic growth within the region.”

Now in the heart of a city pulsating with boundless energy, Olivier together with his wife and lovely daughters are embracing their new home in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with open arms and heart. Since his arrival, Olivier can be found busy exploring the city’s neighbourhoods, discovering new cultures and the vibrant street hawker culinary scene.

About Club Med

Club Med, founded in 1950 by Gerard Blitz, invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept, adding in activities especially for children with the creation of the Mini Club in 1967. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med seeks out exceptional destinations and sites. Today, Club Med is the world’s leading provider of upscale, all-inclusive holiday packages with a French touch for families and working couples. Club Med operates nearly 70 resorts, of which 85% are rated Premium & Exclusive Collection. Present in 30 countries around the world, the Group employs more than 23,000 Gentils Organisateurs (GOs) and Gentils Employes (GEs), representing 110 nationalities. http://www.clubmed.asia/

Press Contacts for Club Med
PRecious Communications for Club Med
clubmed@preciouscomms.com
+65 6303 0567

Club Med Celebrates 11.11 with Amazing Family Travel Deals

  • Time to embark on all-inclusive family adventures as children under eight years old can stay for free at selected international resorts

Make it a year to remember as Club Med, the leader of all-inclusive holidays, is offering its limited time 11.11 holiday packages, where children below 8 years old can stay for free at sought-after destinations – from Snow resorts such as Club Med Sahoro and Club Med Tomamu in Hokkaido, Japan; to Sun resorts in Club Med La Plantation d’Albion and Club Med The Albion Villas in Mauritius; in Club Med Bali and Club Med Bintan in Indonesia; or Club Med Phuket in Thailand.

Happening from 7th November 2022 until 11th November 2022, the promotion applies for bookings with a minimum stay of 4-Days 3-Nights for any accommodation type (Superior, Deluxe or Suites) at Club Med La Plantation d’Albion, The Albion Villas, Phuket, Bintan or Bali, and for those booking a minimum stay of 5-Days 4-Nights in Deluxe rooms or Suites at Club Med Tomamu or Sahoro. The promotion will be valid for stays until 30th April 2023 – allowing the chance for families to not only plan for the upcoming year-end holidays, but also for future holidays too.

Being a pioneer of Kids & Family experiences since 1967 with its initial introduction of Mini Club Med +, a space for children 4-10 year olds to learn and grow while on vacation, the promotion aligns with Club Med’s long-standing commitment to deliver unparalleled and meaningful holiday experiences for families. Especially with children’s time being ever more occupied by anonymous screens, Club Med is the ideal destination for them to reconnect with families in the real world as the array of outdoor adventures, family-friendly offerings, lifestyle ambience and shows available at their resorts provides the opportunity for children to rediscover the joys of doing things together.

Parents will also be delighted as programmes and activities at Club Med are created to keep the children entertained throughout their stay. Recently, Club Med introduced Mini Club Med + [1] the evolution of its highly acclaimed Kids Club formerly known as Mini Club Med +, featuring a brand-new science-based framework inspired by Positive Education.

Developed in partnership with Professor Ilona Boniwell, an Expert in Positive Psychology & Positive Education and a world leader in the field of Positive Psychology, the new framework helps boosts a child’s well-being and self-development by enhancing essential soft skills such as emotional intelligence and adaptability, which will help them grow and flourish in any environment. Through Mini Club Med +, children can discover their unique character strengths while on vacation, revolving around the six Cs: creativity, co-operation, courage, connection, cheerfulness and confidence.

Beyond the new Mini Club Med + enhancement, Club Med resorts also feature Kids’ Clubs for children 4 months to 17 years, the award-winning Amazing Family! program that encourages family bonding in a unique way, services and facilities such as a baby corner with pureed food for infants, interconnecting rooms which make vacationing as a family a breeze and sports and activities for all ages, making it the perfect holiday spot for families.

Families looking for an exhilarating ski escape with the family can look forward to a variety of unique experiences at a Club Med ski resort – where everything is taken care of in the all-inclusive package, including ski lift passes, group snow lessons and even apres ski activities. Guests seeking winter excitement to share with friends and family will find it at Club Med Tomamu, where one can expect action-packed snow adventures such as skiing, snowboarding, snow trekking, and even riding Japan’s largest indoor wave pool at the nearby Mina Mina Beach. Meanwhile, those seeking a true immersion into authentic Japanese culture and heritage can look forward to reconnecting with loved ones at Club Med Sahoro. Aside from the wide range of winter activities offered at the exclusive snow domain, guests can also look forward to exciting discoveries – from exploring the native Ainu culture and the local culinary delights, to soaking in the natural wonders of the surrounding mountains – the possibilities for unforgettable experiences are endless.

Those looking to experience fun under the sun will also be delighted with the destinations Club Med has to offer. Discover an authentic Mauritian experience with carefully curated explorative family experiences in our Exclusive Collection resorts, Club Med La Plantation d’Albion and The Albion Villas. Fall in love with a resort where abundant tropical nature meets supreme refinement and exceptional service as you uncover renewed passions at La Plantation d’Albion. If you are looking for an extra special getaway in ultimate luxury, the Albion Villas are perfect for you as you will enjoy the best of both worlds in your own private space yet have access to all the activities available in the resort – fun for whole family is guaranteed. Families seeking the cultural wonders that Thailand has to offer can look to Club Med Phuket, Thailand, and be immersed in a sensorial feast – from traditional Thai performances and culinary adventures to vibrant local sights and Tropical Nomad Lifestyle concept parties – there is something for everyone to enjoy. At Club Med Bali, which features an all-new repertoire of activities, programmes, and entertainment line-up, families can explore the resort together through a digital treasure hunt with Club Med Play app or celebrate the rich Balinese culture with a full-day Balinese themed workshops and experiences. Meanwhile, a holiday at Club Med Bintan Island is perfect for families seeking a holistic wellness experience, offering a variety of fitness activities, outdoor pursuits and healthy cuisines.

With more than 70 years of experience perfecting the all-inclusive concept in 70 destinations located around the world, each Club Med property has its own personality and offers unique immersive experiences reflecting on the culture and customs of its host country. Coupled with the convivial spirit brought by Club Med’s G.Os (Gentils Organisateurs), the destinations offered are bound to excite families who have been yearning for hassle-free international holidays since travel restrictions were lifted.

Those looking to book their holiday during the 11.11 promotion can do so by visiting https://bit.ly/3SzvRWq.

About Club Med
Club Med, founded in 1950 by Gerard Blitz, invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept, adding in activities especially for children with the creation of the Mini Club in 1967. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med seeks out exceptional destinations and sites. Today, Club Med is the world’s leading provider of upscale, all-inclusive holiday packages with a French touch for families and working couples. Club Med operates nearly 70 resorts, of which 85% are rated Premium & Exclusive Collection. Present in 30 countries around the world, the Group employs more than 23,000 Gentils Organisateurs (GOs) and Gentils Employes (GEs), representing 110 nationalities.

Media Contact
PRecious Communications for Club Med
clubmed@preciouscomms.com
+65 96303 0567

[1] Mini Club Med+ programme is currently available in Club Med Bali, Club Med Bintan, Club Med Phuket, and Club Med Tomamu only.

Ohayo Japan: Club Med Resorts in Japan welcome back travellers in time for the winter season

Club Med, the pioneer of Premium All-Inclusive holidays, is ready to welcome travellers back to Japan, following the further relaxation of travel restrictions for overseas travellers into the country. This much-anticipated move by the Japanese government is the final lid to allowing overseas travellers easier access into the country after more than two years following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Japan has been on the wish-list of many of our guests and travellers alike, listing the country as the top place to visit amongst Asian travellers post-pandemic, according to a survey by the Development Bank of Japan and Japan Travel Bureau Foundation and is the number one choice for 49% of Singaporeans according to a recent study by market research firm, YouGov. Our resorts in Japan have been preparing to welcome back our guests with the needs of post-pandemic travellers in mind,” said Rachael Harding, Chief Executive Officer, East and South Asia & Pacific Markets, Club Med. “We are very excited to introduce another property in Japan to meet this pent-up travel demand and to also showcase both enhanced and new programmes plus activities aimed at multi-generational families. Our guests can look forward to meaningful and distinctive travel experiences that are unique to the destination. This comes of course with our all-inclusive package and flexible booking policy.”

The Brand New Club Med Kiroro Peak, Renovated Club Med Sahoro and New Experiences in Club Med Tomamu

Travellers who have been eyeing Japan as a go-to destination post-pandemic can choose from three Club Med resorts in Japan, each offering unique locations and experiences, just in time for the winter season from some of the best powder snow in the world found on the ski slopes of Hokkaido. Listed below are the unique attractions, experiences and programmes that are available in each of the resorts:

Club Med Kiroro Peak, Hokkaido – For Savvy Travellers Looking For Unconventional Snow Vacations

Opening in December 2022, experience an unconventional snow vacation at Club Med Kiroro Peak, where mountain meets ocean. The ski-in-ski-out resort offers snow enthusiasts direct access to an untouched ski domain with 23 courses for all levels and pristine off-piste ski slopes. With the highest annual snowfall in Japan (averagely 21m of snowfall a year) and one of the best powder snow in the world, guests can enjoy abundant snow coverage and long ski seasons that start as early as November and last till May, the only mountain resort in Asia to offer spring skiing with this seasonality.

Aprés-ski the Hokkaido way as Club Med Kiroro Peak offers a wealth of experiences, featuring Club Med’s first traditional Japanese onsen, Rotenburo outdoor open-air hot bathtub, saunas and a dedicated wellness hub. Guests can also expect a multitude of facilities at Club Med Kiroro Peak, including cultural workshops and activities, nature centres and an indoor resort pool. Not forgetting about Club Med Kiroro Grand is set to open in 2023 and welcomes guests of all ages with a wide host of family-oriented activities and facilities suitable for 2 years old and above.

Club Med SahoroHokkaido – For the Discerning Travellers Looking to Unlock Hokkaido’s Mountain Charm

Surrounded by the magnificent Hidaka mountain range that is known for their fresh and snowy slopes, experience the exclusivity of a private mountain at Club Med Sahoro. Begin new traditions and experience a true immersion into authentic Japanese culture and heritage. Having completed its renovation in December 2019, the fresh new look is reflected in Club Med Sahoro’s rooms, reception, theatre, dining and outdoor spaces, blending a level of nuanced modernity with traditional Japanese aesthetics while preserving the beauty and splendour of the Ainu culture.

Discover the best of Hokkaido from indulging in a traditional nabemono dining experience in the specialty restaurant and interactive Hokkaido cooking lessons to trying out ski in Club Med’s first ever Ski Simulator (digital climbing wall) and unwinding in an open-air hot Canadian bath amidst a picturesque mountain landscape, Club Med Sahoro offers a unique selection of magical experiences and moments to share with family and friends.

Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido – For the Trend Seekers Looking to Ride a Different Wave

Situated amidst Tomamu mountain, the 145-hectare ski-in and ski-out resort is a paradise for ski lovers and adventure seekers with 29 ski runs for all levels. The perfect natural playground in this winter wonderland, be the first on the mountain and strap on your skis or snowboards to ride a new wave on the freshly prepared white powdery slopes all day long. The fun doesn’t end after the sun sets as the expert Gentils Organisateurs (G.O.) pave the way for a memorable night skiing session under a star-filled sky.

Be in for a treat with a host of wonderful and spectacular winter experiences that ignite the senses at Club Med Tomamu. Immerse yourself in Hokkaido culture and mountain lifestyle with a weekly “Feel Hokkaido” Festival and Cosy Winter Lifestyle concept over special themed activities and entertainment. Not forgetting that food aficionados will have a great time savouring a farm-to-table authentic yakiniku barbecue and indulging in the best local brews with a guided tasting of three premium Japanese whiskies and sakes at The Nest.

A Snow Holiday Like No Other

With over 25 ski resorts spanned across Canada, France, Italy, China and Japan, Club Med offers a world of incomparable snow experiences. Guests can expect an all-inclusive, hassle-free holiday experience Club Med is renowned for, which includes accommodation with refined comfort and contemporary interior design, gourmet cuisine and open bar located in exceptional destinations. This is completed with a myriad of activities and entertainment throughout the day including ski and snowboarding classes with ski passes, as well as kids’ clubs from 4 to 17 years of age which are made possible by an attentive and dedicated G.O. team.

Travel with a Peace of Mind

Club Med has developed Safe Together, a guest assurance program with the support of Ecolab, a global leader in water, hygiene and energy technologies and services, to ensure optimal health and safety of the travellers through a series of heightened hygiene and safety protocols implemented across all of Club Med’s resorts and aligned with recommendations from the worldwide health authorities and local regulations.

Aside from heightened safety measures, Club Med also understands the need for increased flexibility and security with travel planning and has introduced the Peace of Mind policy at the start of the pandemic, giving travellers the freedom of a complementary change of travel date, a book-now-pay-later option, and free cancellation of up to 30 days before the travel date. Complimentary COVID-19 coverage is also included in its all-inclusive holiday package for international destinations, more details available here.

Offering a unique blend of sports, cultural experiences, family activities and peace of mind, Club Med aims to make travel happen again to the land of the rising sun, with a renewed purpose of providing their guests with a Premium All-Inclusive worry-free experience. The same all-inclusive signature formula of great people, transformative experiences and idyllic destinations await guests at Club Med.

About Club Med

Club Med, founded in 1950 by Gérard Blitz, invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept, adding activities especially for children with the creation of the Mini Club in 1967. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med seeks out exceptional destinations and sites. Today, Club Med is the world’s leading provider of upscale, all-inclusive holiday packages with a French touch for families and working couples. Club Med operates nearly 70 resorts, of which 85% are rated Premium & Exclusive Collection. Present in 30 countries around the world, the Group employs more than 23,000 Gentils Organisateurs (GOs) and Gentils Employés (GEs), representing 110 nationalities.

Media Contact
PRecious Communications for Club Med
clubmed@preciouscomms.com
+65 6303 0567

Club Med Redefines Vacation for Kids with a new framework inspired by Positive Education, Mini Club Med +

The launch of a science-based approach with pedagogical principles that promotes children’s sense of well-being and resilience, seamlessly integrated into brand new fun-packed activities and the best of the original Mini Club in Club Med resorts across Asia.

Club Med, the pioneer of Premium All-Inclusive holidays and the number one vacation brand for families, launched the evolution of its highly-acclaimed Kids Club (previously known as Mini Club Med(R)) to Mini Club Med + in Bali. This brand-new science-based framework inspired by Positive Education offers a fun-filled experience where play, cooperation and kindness are celebrated to help develop their soft skills while on vacation.

This much anticipated roll-out across Asia follows the successful test case in Club Med La Palmyre Atlantique, that has been specially formulated to address the changing needs of children and the rising expectations of parents, and directly responds to one of the major concerns, which is how to raise happy children? Holidays are very special moments in children’s development, where we believe creativity, courage, appreciation, teamwork or self-expression can be kindled and fostered.

Mini Club Med + is a Game Changer
Club Med has been a pioneer of Kids & Family experiences since 1967, with its initial introduction of Mini Club Med(R), a space for children 4-10 year olds to learn and grow while on vacation. Parents can leave their little ones under the watchful eyes of the Gentils Organisateurs (GOs(R)) in our Resorts, with the assurance that their kids will enjoy the most enriching experiences, while they enjoy their much needed me-time and we-time. With this enhancement to the program, it gives even more value to the time children spend at Mini Club Med + and the experiences that will empower them to be happy & confident.

At Mini Club Med +, kids are being prepared for the future. They will discover and develop unique character strengths around Creativity, Confidence, Connection, Cheerfulness, Courage and Cooperation (the 6 Cs of Mini Club Med +); vital soft skills to being happy, staying connected and growing with confidence.

One of such activities that the little ones can look forward at Mini Club Med + is the Ninja Bootcamp, where it requires them to design their own obstacle course and conquering it. The goal is to reveal a child’s unique character strengths and to develop his or her ability to effectively engage those strengths leading to increased self-esteem, energy and happiness. This approach echoes Club Med’s raison d’etre, perfectly matching the vision of Club Med’s founder, Gerard Blitz: “The purpose of life is to be happy. The place to be happy is here. The time to be happy is now.”

The program was developed in partnership with Professor Ilona BONIWELL, an Expert in Positive Psychology & Positive Education and a world leader in the field of Positive Psychology, with over 20 years of experience. A wealth of exciting new activities was designed to help children discover and develop their strengths. All of the original Mini Club Med activities such as sports and the Mini Club Med Show have also been re-engineered and passed through the same framework, to help nurture children’s soft skills, making them more than just fun activities, but truly enriching learning experiences.

“Families are at the core of our offering at Club Med and this new enhancement of Mini Club Med + truly redefines the enriching holiday experiences children will have at our resorts. Over 70% of our guests from Asia visiting Club Med are families, we see the value and opportunity to empower the next generation with the character strengths they need to thrive in this fast-changing world.” said Rachael Harding, Chief Executive Officer, East and South Asia & Pacific markets, Club Med. “We are thrilled to be able to launch this enhancement across Asia (excluding China) and highlight our commitment to delivering unparalleled and meaningful experiences for families.”

The Media Launch at Club Med Bali, the #1 resort for families
The sneak peek into the Mini Club Med + program, held at Club Med Bali, presented the perfect space for family vacations. The Premium All-Inclusive Resort which recently reopened last month, features the ideal hassle-free infrastructure for families. Beyond the new Mini Club Med + enhancement, the Resort also has Kids’ Clubs for children 4 months to 17 years, the award-winning Amazing Family! program that encourages family bonding in a unique way, services and facilities such as a baby corner with pureed food for infants, interconnecting rooms which make vacationing as a family a breeze and over 60 sports and activities for all ages, making it the resort with the largest number of in-resort sports and activities in Bali.

Club Med’s First Ever Immersive Art Installation
Making waves during the event launch at Club Med Bali is the debut of Club Med’s first ever immersive art installation in partnership with Art Wonderland Singapore. This exclusive art installation brings another dimension of creative play, allowing families to bond over imaginative play and expose them to the artful storytelling in an outdoor setting. It hopes to encourage the spirit of pretend play and wild imaginations in families and to allow children to hone their strengths and develop soft skills through this limited-time feature.

About the artwork installation:
Of Dreams and Adventures is an experience-based, immersive installation that aims to encourage family visitors to play in the spirit of adventure. On a journey across a monstrous ocean to an illuminating forest and musical cave, family visitors are invited to take part in imaginative play and adopt the role of brave explorers on a quest for the glowing crown. Filled with interactive elements and playful activities, Of Dreams and Adventures aims to allow families to practice teamwork and embrace their wildest imagination for the greatest adventure of all time.

New Discoveries Await Families
In addition to the art installation, Club Med Bali will feature brand-new robust entertainment for the whole family. When evening comes around, grab the kids and head to the theatre for energizing beats in the new digital shows ‘Colours’ & ‘Magic Tribe’ by our talented GOs in dazzling costumes are sure to mesmerize and are definitely Instagram-worthy.

Connecting you to the soul of Bali, the resort also introduced a dedicated Balinese Day each week, where families can join in local cooking classes with striking flavours and relish in the rich, cultural performances. Another note-worthy event is the Nomad Festival themed day, where colourful bohemian-chic happenings and curated workshops such as eco-friendly glitter make-up, dreamcatcher-making and boho-chic festival party with a live DJ await. Watch as families of all ages doll up, bringing vibrancy of the island to life and with it, precious memories and maybe some new phone wallpapers.

Competitive families may find picking up a new sport while on vacation a massive draw and the best chance to level out the playing field between parents and kids. With the newest addition, Padel Tennis to Club Med Bali’s extensive list of all-inclusive activities in the Resort, families can seek to develop a new skill together.

For more details on What’s New at Club Med Bali, check out our press release on Bali Reignited.

About Club Med
Club Med, founded in 1950 by Gerard Blitz, invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept, adding in activities especially for children with the creation of the Mini Club in 1967. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med seeks out exceptional destinations and sites. Today, Club Med is the world’s leading provider of upscale, all-inclusive holiday packages with a French touch for families and working couples. Club Med operates nearly 70 resorts, of which 85% are rated Premium & Exclusive Collection. Present in 30 countries around the world, the Group employs more than 23,000 Gentils Organisateurs (GOs) and Gentils Employes (GEs), representing 110 nationalities.

About Art Wonderland:\
Based in Singapore, Art Wonderland is an art collective that consists of lead artists – Lena Lok, Jesse Chong and Stacy Huang – and their team of creatives. Grounded in education, the collective designs spaces and encounters that stimulate curiosity and enables discovery of the worlds around us. Through exploration of mediums and creative dialogue, Art Wonderland aims to empower children to be independent artists that can tell their own stories.

About Ilona Boniwell
Ilona Boniwell is a professor of positive psychology at the University of East London and the original founder of the UEL’s MSc in Applied Positive Psychology, the first ever degree of this type in Europe. She is one of the world leaders in positive psychology, working in the field for over 20 years, originally mentored by Martin Seligman. Professor Boniwell wrote or edited twelve books, delivered over 200 keynotes and a TEDx, founded the European Network of Positive Psychology, organised the first European Congress of Positive Psychology and was the first vice-chair of the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA). She is also a passionate practitioner of positive psychology. As a CEO of Positran she consulted the Governments of UAE and Bhutan and many major international companies, including Club Med, L’Oreal, Unilever, Nestle, EY, Microsoft and BNP Paribas.

Club Med to expand in Asia Pacific within the next five years on expected travel rebound; Targets greenfield opportunities in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Philippines

  • Club Med continues global expansion across four continents, including Club Med La Rosiere, France unveiled in December 2020, Club Med Seychelles in March 2021, Club Med Lijiang, China in September 2021 and Club Med Quebec Charlevoix in December 2021
  • Anticipates opening of greenfield beach resort in Borneo Kota Kinabalu with Golden Sands Beach Resort City in 2023
  • Club Med seeks investors and partners in the next five years, with Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia as key opportunities

Club Med, the pioneer of premium all-inclusive holidays, is gearing up for an aggressive travel rebound in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. Following the announcement of the brand’s upcoming greenfield beach resort in Borneo Kota Kinabalu, Club Med continues looking for opportunities in the Southeast Asian (SEA) region, specifically in Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.

The first large-scale sustainably built BREEAM-certified beach resort in APAC

Positive expansion signal amidst economy’s recovery
While Asia has taken a more cautious approach to the resumption of travel as compared to the rest of the world, this presented an opportunity for travel and hospitality brands in the region to refine operations and enhance safety measures in preparation for a stronger rebound. The pandemic demonstrated the resilience of Club Med, evident from the successful reopening of resorts in China and Maldives, followed by Northern America, the Caribbean and Europe.

Domestic travel to Club Med resorts in China soared by more than 2.5 times in 2021 and is already on track to surpass pre-pandemic demand. Similar success was evidenced in Club Med’s resort in Malaysia, with an increase in business volume of over 60 percent in the weeks following the relaxation of interstate restrictions, before the recent MCO. Beyond the success of its current resorts, Club Med is also readying itself with an aggressive expansion pipeline.

“We entered the pandemic with a strong economic position and are well-placed for a swift, decisive and impactful rebound. Club Med has a demonstrated track record spanning more than 70 years as the pioneer of new destinations and untouched locations, with Club Med Seychelles and Club Med Lijiang as successful case studies of our recent greenfield projects around the globe, as well as the upcoming Club Med Borneo Kota Kinabalu, said Jean-Charles Fortoul, CEO APAC Resorts, Club Med. “Following these successes, we have also identified Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia as markets that are well-positioned to leverage this rebound and we are on the lookout for investors and partners to tap into the potential of these destinations.”

The first large-scale sustainably built BREEAM-certified beach resort in APAC
Come 2023, Club Med will be opening its first SEA greenfield beach resort in Borneo, Kota Kinabalu, in close collaboration with owners Golden Sands Beach Resort City Sdn Bhd (GSBRC). The 41-acre Club Med Borneo Kota Kinabalu resort will reveal a brand-new destination, encapsulating the beauty and potential of Sabah. In addition, with growing accessibility of the resort just 6 hours from key Asian markets, Club Med is confident to capture the vast untapped potential of this pristine location.

Club Med envisions exciting growth from this upcoming project. As one of our most upscale resorts in South East Asia, it is expected to attract tourists from all over the world, destined to deliver consistently high occupancy rates.

“Club Med has been an outstanding partner in our collaboration for the Club Med Borneo Kota Kinabalu resort. They bring expertise in crafting unique experiences at resorts, and they have the right savoir faire to bring them to life and elevate stays in the resort,” said Peter Wong, Managing Director of Golden Sands Beach Resort City. “We have utmost confidence in Club Med’s capabilities of creating a sense of destination at the Borneo Kota Kinabalu resort with upmarket designs that evoke emotional connections for guests with the destination, offering them the iconic Club Med experience in a site that is simply paradise.”

Unique business model poised to yield strong demand
Club Med’s success can be attributed to its capacity to market and distribute its resorts directly, evident from a consistent five percent year-on-year growth and a steady 1.4 million guests pre-pandemic, bringing them a total of 1.7 billion Euros in business volume in 2019. Occupancy rates across the globe reflected this success as well, with pre-pandemic averages of 75 percent in the East, South Asia and Pacific region, as well as 76 percent and 78 percent in the Europe-Africa and North America regions respectively.

Primed to bring the all-inclusive travel model to pioneering heights
As the pioneer provider of premium all-inclusive holidays, Club Med offers a plethora of activities from adventure sports, to culturally immersive programmes and family-focused offerings. Creating a sense of destination by seamlessly blending the resort facilities into the natural surroundings of idyllic locations, the unique Club Med experience is complemented by the resorts’ smooth flow between social, F&B and entertainment venues, to the various tranquil zones as well as the kids’ club and spaces for families to converge. Club Med is the world leader for all-inclusive holidays, having crafted more than 70 years’ worth of experiences in over 70 resorts around the world, bringing across a unique energy that guests feed off of.

ABOUT CLUB MED
Club Med, founded in 1950 by Gerard Blitz, invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept, adding in activities especially for children with the creation of the Mini Club in 1967. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med seeks out exceptional destinations and sites. Today, Club Med is the world’s leading provider of upscale, all-inclusive holiday packages with a French touch for families and working couples. Club Med operates nearly 70 resorts, of which 85% are rated Premium & Exclusive Collection. Present in 30 countries around the world, the Group employs more than 23,000 Gentils Organisateurs (GOs) and Gentils Employes (GEs), representing 110 nationalities.