The Art of Travel Sets Sail: CT Partners Unveils Groundbreaking 2026 Luxury Conference at Sea

Luminara

The Australian travel industry is preparing for one of its most ambitious and innovative gatherings ever staged, as CT Partners confirms details of its highly anticipated 2026 Annual Conference — an event designed to redefine how business, luxury travel and creative inspiration intersect.

With just six months remaining until departure, the network has revealed a conference concept unlike anything previously seen in Australia’s travel sector. For the first time, a major travel industry conference will take place aboard a luxury superyacht, blending premium hospitality, immersive networking and cultural sophistication under the inspiring theme: The Art of Travel.

Running from 15 to 20 November 2026, the multi-destination experience will begin in Shanghai before continuing aboard one of the world’s newest ultra-luxury yachts on a spectacular voyage to Hong Kong.

Shanghai Launches A New Era Of Luxury Travel Conferences

The 2026 CT Partners Annual Conference will commence in vibrant Shanghai, where delegates will gather at the stylish W Shanghai The Bund for the network’s AGM and opening conference sessions.

Setting the tone for the week ahead, accommodation partner Marriott will host the opening night celebrations, introducing guests to an atmosphere where luxury, creativity and connection take centre stage.

The Shanghai program has been carefully designed to immerse delegates in the destination’s cultural richness. Highlights include an elegant evening of live jazz at the legendary Peace Hotel alongside opportunities to experience some of the city’s finest Chinese cuisine.

Rather than following the traditional conference formula, CT Partners is creating an event that celebrates travel as an experience, an artform and a catalyst for meaningful business relationships.

Luxury Superyacht Luminara Becomes The Ultimate Conference Venue

Following the Shanghai program, delegates will embark aboard The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s newest luxury superyacht, Luminara, for an extraordinary three-night sailing experience concluding in Hong Kong.

Luminara is far more than a vessel — it is a floating masterpiece. Featuring an impressive collection of 731 curated artworks displayed throughout its interiors, the yacht serves as the inspiration behind the conference’s fitting theme, The Art of Travel.

The yacht’s artistic identity, refined design and elevated guest experience provide an extraordinary backdrop for what promises to be CT Partners’ most memorable annual conference to date.

Days at sea will blend business strategy with immersive experiences, featuring supplier and member meetings, insightful business discussions and sessions exploring the evolving art of service, connection and meaningful conversation within the modern travel industry.

Networking Meets Glamour At Sea

Luminara

Adding another layer of sophistication, the conference itinerary culminates with a glamorous Met Gala themed dinner and awards ceremony on 19 November.

The celebration is expected to be one of the standout moments of the event, combining recognition, entertainment and luxury hospitality in a setting rarely available to travel professionals.

The conference also reflects a pivotal moment for CT Partners, which reported an impressive Total Transaction Value of $2.5 billion in 2025 while continuing to strengthen its position within premium leisure travel and the fast-growing MICE sector.

CT Partners Chief Executive Officer Matt Masson describes the conference theme as an authentic expression of the network’s identity and future ambitions.

According to Masson, The Art of Travel is more than a conference concept — it reflects the values, partnerships and elevated standards shaping the network’s ongoing growth.

A Defining Moment For The Australian Travel Industry

The partnership between CT Partners and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection signals an exciting evolution in how travel industry events can be imagined.

Seb Seward, Vice President Asia Pacific for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, describes the collaboration as a natural alignment between two organisations committed to exceptional experiences, world-class service and innovation.

With Luminara specifically designed to showcase the intersection of art, luxury hospitality and ocean travel, the superyacht provides an ideal stage for a conference centred on creativity, connection and elevated travel experiences.

As anticipation builds toward November 2026, the industry will be watching closely. More event details and program announcements are expected in the coming months, but one thing is already clear — CT Partners’ The Art of Travel conference is poised to become a landmark event in Australian travel history.

Web Contact Details:

CT Partners Website: https://ctpartners.com.au/

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Website: https://www.ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com

W Shanghai The Bund Website: https://www.marriott.com

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

A Villa Retreat Experience at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali

The Ritz-Carlton Bali

Redefining the traditional retreat into a transcendent tropical journey, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali allows guests to embrace all of the local touches and luxuries the resort offers with newly launch package, Villa Retreat. With a welcome steeped in beautiful, ancient traditions, discerning travelers will feel at ease when they arrive on the island. A butler service on call will attend to every guest's needs. Locally inspired amenities will welcome guests and kids' amenities for families.

A personal Ritz Kids Counselor is available to assist with planning activities for young travelers, including a Ritz Kids Night Safari – a unique in-villa camping experience. Additional amenities include an impressive floating breakfast, a reserved beach cabana, and a VIP departure gift reflecting the local community as a fond memory of their time at the resort.

To enliven the senses further, villa guests will receive a resort credit of IDR 2,000,000 (or approximately USD 125) per day that can be redeemed as a dining experience, relaxing spa treatments, or signature cultural experience to add to their journey. The experiences include a private session for Soul Purification Ritual on the beach at sunrise, and a cooking class on making local delicacies, guests will be able to experience the culture like the locals.

“At The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, we are committed to creating everlasting memories for our guests. Whether you want to unwind in the magnificent villas, indulge in gourmet dining, or explore the vibrant local culture, our newly launched offer ensures every unforgettable moment.” Says Go Kondo, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali.

Featuring a variety of sixteen remarkable villas, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali utilizes every aspect of the resort to offer an unparalleled experience at any vantage point. Guests wishing to be perched on the cliff with uninhibited views of the Indian Ocean or secluded amongst the gardens can choose from different cliff-top villas including The Garden Villa, The Cliff Villa, and The Ritz-Carlton Cliff Villa. Guests longing to be on the gorgeously manicured beach level can choose from The Sky Villa and The Ritz-Carlton Oceanfront Villa, which is the most expansive villa at the resort at nearly 7,300 square feet. Combining thoughtful design and décor with the beauty of its natural surroundings, all one- to three-bedroom villas exude a contemporary and residential aesthetic – giving discerning travelers a sanctuary to escape everyday life and feel at home. For more information, visit www.ritzcarltonbali.com and join the conversation on social media with #RCMemories.

*Tags: beachfront villas, Beachfront Villa, Luxury Bali Resort, beachfront resort in bali, luxury beachfront resort, five star villa in bali best villa in Bali luxury private pool villas bali, luxury villas, ocean view villa bali, luxury villa

Phu Quoc adds two more luxury American hotel brands

Perspective illustration of Ritz Carlton Reserve Hon Thom

Recently, Sun Group signed a management agreement with Marriott International, bringing two brands Ritz Carlton Reserve and The Luxury Collection to Hon Thom Island, Phu Quoc Island City, Kien Giang Province. The signing ceremony took place in Phu Quoc, on 26th October 2023.

According to the agreement, Marriott International, a brand that operates more than 8,600 luxury hotels and resorts globally, will take over the management and operation of the Ritz Carlton Reserve and The Luxury Collection in the South of Hon Thom Island.

Mr. Dang Minh Truong, Chairman of Sun Group, said that the appearance of Marriott International's top luxury brands in the South of Phu Quoc Island has shown global recognition of the island as a attractive and luxurious tourist destination, thereby raising international awareness of the luxury tourism and hospitality industry in Vietnam.

This is the first Ritz Carlton Reserve and The Luxury Collection brand in Vietnam.

Perspective illustration of Luxury Collection Hon Thom

Ritz Carlton Reserve Hon Thom is the next high-end project of architect Bill Bensley and Sun Group. The 40 villas here have an area ranging from 200 to 2,000 square meters, designed in the style of typical Polynesian high-roofed houses in the northern part of Oahu Island, Hawaii. The resort has a two-story activity center with a garden dedicated to young guests learning about nature conservation through Jean-Michel Cousteau's Environmental Ambassador program.

Luxury Collection Hon Thom is located close to Bai Trao, the most beautiful beach in Hon Thom, with 305 rooms from 50 to 250 sqm. Designed by the architect team of 10 Design, this hotel has the image of a giant wind-filled sail stretching out to the sea.

The Luxury Collection Hon Thom will include many amenities such as a wave pool, children's play area, gym & treatment spa, sauna, restaurant, rooftop bar and large conference room up to 900 sqm.
* Tourism Information Technology Center
* Tags: #Kien Giang, #Hon Thom, #Phu Quoc, #Marriott, #Ritz Carlton Reserve, #Luxury Collection,
* Vietnam National Authority of Tourism https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/en/

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong - tranquility and beauty

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Rising 118 floors above the city in Kowloon's International Commerce Centre The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong transports hotel guests to a place of tranquility and beauty. 

From here, the skyline and Victoria Harbour reach into the horizon, a view admired from the hotel's five-star accommodations, rooftop lounge, Michelin-starred restaurants and event spaces. 

Here, guests have both high-energy city life and sought-after serenity at their disposal.

• Highest hotel in the world / Highest rooftop bar in the world
• Six exquisite dining venues including 2 Michelin-starred restaurants
• Excellent location : Atop of Elements Shopping Mall and Airport Express Station
• Best connectivity with China : 10 minutes away from High Speed Train station
• Business hub: Atop of ICC office tower
• Immerse in art and cultural experiences with West Kowloon Cultural District nearby

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES IN THE WEST KOWLOON CULTURAL DISTRICT

• Take a leisure stroll from The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong to the West Kowloon Cultural District.
• Explore the dynamics and vibrancy among Hong Kong Palace Museum, Arts Pavilion, Xiqu Centre, Free Space, Art Park and M+.

Hong Kong Attractions

• Devour dim sum and other local delicacies
• Get artsy at galleries and museums
• Explore Hong Kong’s great outdoors
• Drink in the city’s never-ending nightlife
• Take in the Hong Kong skyline from all angles
• Get a thrill at theme parks

REFINED CUISINE AWAITS AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, HONG KONG

• TOSCA DI ANGELO - Inspired by the beloved opera, this Michelin-starred restaurant features innovative Italian cuisine, an open kitchen and views of Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour.
• Tin Lung Heen - Try authentic Chinese cuisine from the Cantonese region with a focus on dim sum at this two-star Michelin restaurant.
• OZONE - Ozone is the world's highest rooftop bar. It offers a sleek setting with live music, DJs, creative cocktails, sushi and a Sunday brunch.
• THE LOUNGE & BAR - All-day dining restaurant offers spectacular views of Hong Kong both morning and night. Join us to enjoy the à la carte menu, organic salad bar, afternoon tea or evening cocktails.
• CAFÉ 103 - Located on the hotel's 103rd floor, Café 103 features an elegant setting for the signature afternoon tea. Lunch and dinner buffets feature international delicacies.
• ALMAS CAVIAR BAR - We present the world’s finest caviars and the famous Balik salmon fillet, paired with fine champagnes and vodkas. This Hong Kong bar provides an ideal setting for pre- or post-dinner outings.

LUXURY SPA IS ELEVATED TO NEW HEIGHTS

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Located on the hotel’s 116th floor and overlooking Victoria Harbour. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Hong Kong offers luxury and indulgence in a truly serene setting. Featuring 11 lavish treatment rooms, including two couple’s suites, this idyllic spa provides a getaway from the busy world below, one where pampering is highly crafted and the senses are calmed by a seemingly horizonless view.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa fitness centre, located on the 118th floor, provides a luxurious wellness environment and five star standard of service with an extensive range of Technogym equipment, including Kinesis One and the latest cardiovascular equipments.

MEETING SERVICES

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong is a business hotel featuring luxurious conference spaces and exceptional service. From exclusive board meetings and attention grabbing product launches, to corporate-wide celebrations and trade show lodging, our distinctive hotel is ideal for all of your Hong Kong business travel needs. An experienced events and culinary team is on hand to assist in organizing tailor-made, themed events to create a unique and memorable experience for every Ritz-Carlton guest.

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

International Commerce Centre (ICC),1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong

www.ritzcarlton.com/hongkong

* Mice enquiries: Kay.Poon@Ritzcarlton.com

Higashiyama Niseko village, a Ritz-Carlton reserve opens in Japan's legendary winter wonderland

Higashiyama Niseko Village, the newest resort in the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, welcomes guests to Japan's top winter sports destination of Niseko. Located in the country’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, Higashiyama Niseko Village offers an exceptional escape for guests seeking personal and physical exploration. The resort, owned by YTL Hotels, is a stunning ski-in/ski-out property that interweaves the highest level of personalised service and care with the charm of Japan’s local history, culture and cuisine. Higashiyama Niseko Village is only the fifth Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the world, and the very first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Japan.

Dato’ Mark Yeoh, Executive Director of YTL Hotels said, “YTL Hotels’ illustrious portfolio continues to expand in Japan and globally, and it is a pleasure to work with Marriott International on this exceptional property. We have immense commitment and dedication to making an even greater mark on the world with Japan’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Niseko Village. Higashiyama Niseko Village offers a world-class gateway to Niseko’s adventurous mountains, renowned gastronomy, culture and traditions. With every privilege and convenience afforded, our guests can look forward to being pampered and cared for in every way conceivable through its evolving seasons. YTL will continue to build on the area’s natural attractions to strengthen Niseko Village’s reputation as the most sought-after and snowiest award-winning ski resort in Asia over the next ten years.”

Higashiyama Niseko Village, positioned at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri in the heart of Niseko Village, is an integrated all-season alpine resort hailed as one of the world’s premier powder snow destinations. The resort is set within the Niseko United ski area that offers 2,191 acres of skiable terrain and access to extensive backcountry skiing. The area also has an international ski school, chairlifts and gondolas, a dining and retail venue, an outdoor activity park and two world-class golf courses.

Unfolding over a vast landscape with panoramic views of Mount Yotei and Mount Niseko Annupuri, the inspiration behind the ultra-luxury resort lies in the Japanese proverb “Kachou Fuugetsu” (Flower, Bird, Wind, Moon) that encourages reverence for the transient beauty of nature and wellbeing through self-discoveries. Expressions of heartfelt emotional connections, indigenous aesthetics, unique cuisine and sensory-rich journeys characterise every element of the guest experience.

Higashiyama Niseko Village features 50 elegant guest rooms and suites appointed with refined amenities. A sense of cultivated beauty infuses all the spaces in the resort, with natural polished marble, fragrant cedarwood and flame brushed finished granite. Every space is designed to frame nature, showcasing the transitions of light and the seasons on the nearby mountains.

"Marriott International's luxury brand footprint continues to expand in Japan, and we are very excited to be opening the very first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the country, the latest property in our long-standing partnership with YTL Hotels," said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific (excluding China), Marriott International. "Despite the challenges of the past year, we have seen a strong growth in demand from the luxury travel sector. With the opening of Higashiyama Niseko Village, we look forward to providing our guests a warm and familiar welcome, a luxurious home away from home when they travel to Niseko, Japan's amazing winter wonderland."

Its culinary ethos focuses on the philosophy of “shun”, the celebration of seasonal produce harvested at its peak. Guests can expect delectable cuisine that mirrors the seasons with the finest locally sourced vegetables, prized cuts and seafood served at Yukibana, or quintessential dining experiences at Sushi Nagi that observes the omakase tradition of entrusting the “Itamae”, or head chef, with his delicate creations. Customised cocktails, single malts and local brews may be savoured by the fireplace at Ume Lounge, with an eclectic array of Izakaya-style dishes.

Bringing to life the Reserve brand’s commitment to intuitive and heartfelt service, a trusted personal host or “Do San” (a person of Hokkaido) will assist guests in a highly personalised stay through a single touchpoint to access every service, amenity and offerings. Their sense of genuine care and responsibility, known as “omotenashi”, is the gold standard of Japanese hospitality, driven from the purity of heart and mutual respect with no pretence or expectation, that has evolved over the centuries as a subtle art form.

With a holistic focus on wellness, the bespoke spa offers tailored treatments to provide respite for the body and soul. The resort also features a traditional Japanese onsen for guests to luxuriate in the rejuvenating mineral-rich waters of Niseko's natural underground hot springs. For guests who wish to maintain their workout routines during their stay, the resort offers a fitness centre complete with high-end Technogym equipment.

Leveraging Niseko’s heritage and varied recreation, Higashiyama Reservists, the resort’s creative curators are familiar with the locale, terrain and natural wonders, and offer a crafted collection of unforgettable excursions and self-discovery experiences. Reservists are always on hand to provide guests with the best insider tips, exclusive access and priority privileges that span nature, adventure, culture and gastronomy.

"There are presently five Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties in the world, each one a rare destination in itself, set aside for those who appreciate a sanctuary of bespoke luxury in some of the most beautiful places on earth," said Jennie Toh, Vice President, Brand Marketing and Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Marriott International. "The exceptional Higashiyama Niseko Village is one such place, where our guests are able to enjoy the beautiful alpine surroundings, and then come home to be pampered by the impeccable luxury, amenities and service that only the Ritz-Carlton Reserve can offer."

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an Debuts in One of China's Most Historic Cities, Blending Luxury With Cultural Heritage

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C today announced the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an in one of China's most historic cities, and the home of the country's legendary 2,000-year-old Terracotta Warriors. Owned by Zhongda. Zhongfangxin Proprietary Company Ltd., the hotel elevates luxury by connecting guests to the destination's rich way of life through a contemporary take on local culture, history and cuisine. Known as 'the cradle of Chinese civilization', Xi'an is the ancient provincial capital of Shaanxi located in the central-northwestern region of China. With a history that spans thousands of years, Xi'an is one of China's four ancient capitals and the former home to thirteen imperial Chinese dynasties. The city marks the eastern end of the ancient Silk Road and today is a key crossroad to one of the country's most important trading corridors.

“We are delighted to bring the legendary service of The Ritz-Carlton to Xi'an, a city that blends the majesty of the past with the pulse of the present, and the promise of the future,” said Lisa Holladay, Global Brand Leader for The Ritz-Carlton. “By creating a unique sense of place while also celebrating the vibrant cultural legacy of the destination, The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an will offer guests and visitors from around the world a truly authentic experience.”

Ideally located in the business center of the Gao Xin District, The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an boasts unique access to a variety of historical and cultural sites, including the legendary Terracotta Warriors, Great Wild Goose Pagoda and old City Walls. Designed by Remedios Studio, the hotel is imbued with a spirit of timeless luxury that reveals the distinctive soul of the city. Interiors pay homage to the architecture, history and culture of Xi'an through patterned motifs created by local artisans that offer a thoughtful path towards discovering the hidden parts of the destination. To further unveil the ancient capital, at the transition from day to night, guests will be treated to traditional pipa music and locally inspired drinks and snacks.

The hotel's 283 elegantly appointed guestrooms include 31 contemporary suites, designed as refined and relaxing sanctuaries. Guests staying on the Club Floor will enjoy access to The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, located on the 23rd floor, where they will be immersed in downtown skyline views, experience dedicated service and enjoy remarkable culinary presentations throughout the day.

Celebrating Xi'an's culinary scene, The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an captures the essence of the destination with five signature dining experiences. All-day dining at Xian Kitchen welcomes guests with its clean lines, rustic accents and both local and western cuisine. The sophisticated Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, Tasuro, with its six live cooking stations features the freshest seasonal produce and ingredients as well as an expansive selection of sake. Jing Xuan produces the finest and most authentic Cantonese cuisine in a graceful, elegant setting, while the Lobby Loungeprovides an elegant and refined space with outdoor terrace, ideal for a business meeting or leisurely afternoon partaking in the time-honored custom of afternoon tea. The fashionable Flair captivates with 180-degree views of the city, and drinks created by expert mixologists.

The Fitness Center will allow guests to maintain their wellness routines even while traveling, while a Yoga Studio will ensure physical and mental balance. The Ritz-Carlton Spa combines bespoke services and unique treatments inviting guests to indulge in relaxation while they immerse themselves in discovery of the local culture. Treatments are steeped in Chinese traditions, using local ingredients to create a selection of Chinese rituals that hark back to ancient beauty rituals and natural methods. One of the many spa menu highlights includes Silk Reviver, which features a series of age-old traditions including rescue release massage, back exfoliation, a facial and signature scalp treatment with a silk wrap that nourishes the body while easing the mind.

The rooms, and state of the art banquet facilities can host a range of events from business meetings to larger social affairs, while the Junior Ballroom, with its access to a beautiful outdoor garden area, is the perfect venue for intimate gatherings and romantic weddings.

“We are extremely pleased to debut The Ritz-Carlton in historic Xi'an, and expand our portfolio in major cultural destinations in China,” said Henry Lee, Chief Operations Officer & Managing Director, Greater China, Marriott International. “Affluent Chinese and international tourists traveling to Western China are increasingly seeking enriching experiences, and this opening reflects our continued commitment to provide those travelers with opportunities to explore destinations like Xi'an.”

Website: www.marriott.com