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Top up your e-wallet for your Japan travels

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 3 April 2024: As merchants in Japan gear up to receive cherry blossom tourists from around the world, Ant International says its cross-border mobile payment solution Alipay+ has connected 2 million merchants across the country, enabling them to better serve global visitors through a seamless payment experience with their home country e-wallets.

There are 16 e-wallets and bank apps accepted in Japan via Alipay+, a suite of cross-border digital payment and digitalisation technology solutions, namely Alipay (Chinese mainland), AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR China), MPay (Macao SAR China), South Korea’s Kakao Pay, Naver Pay and Toss, Singapore’s OCBC Digital, Changi Pay and EZ-Link, Malaysia’s Touch ‘n Go eWallet and MyPB by Public Bank Berhad, the Philippines’ GCash and HelloMoney, TrueMoney (Thailand), Hipay (Mongolia), and Tinaba (Italy).

Second from left are Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International and Monsinee Nakapanant, Co-President of Ascend Money (centre).

Powered by Alipay+, transaction volume made by e-wallets and bank apps in Japan jumped over 200% in the first three weeks of March compared with the same period in 2023. Alipay, AlipayHK, Kakao Pay, Touch ‘n Go eWallet, GCash and TrueMoney are among the most popular e-wallets used by travellers to Japan, while MPay, Naver Pay and Toss are seeing rapid growth. Transaction value is estimated to account for about 10% of users’ total spending during their stay in the country.

Ant International President Douglas Feagin reported during a press conference in Tokyo: “By working with these partners, Alipay+ provides global tourists with a seamless digital payment experience that is the same as in their markets. Without extra effort, tourists can make purchases by scanning the QR code at merchants of all sizes, without worrying about foreign currency exchange or language barriers.”

For example, in Asakusa, a Tokyo district famous for having the oldest underground shopping street, small souvenir shops and snack stalls are leveraging the simplicity of QR codes to do business. The monthly cross-border mobile transaction volume is more than five times higher on average, reflecting the growing trend of cashless payments when visiting Japan.

Singapore: Best for meetings that matter

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 3 April 2024: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) launched a new global marketing campaign this week to position the destination as the “World’s Best MICE City”.

The campaign invites Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) event organisers and planners to gain a fresh perspective on Singapore’s value proposition as a leading MICE destination that can influence purposeful outcomes amid a competitive landscape. 

Photo credit: STB.

This marks the first of six global campaigns[1] that STB is rolling out in the coming years to sharpen the way it tells the Singapore story after it announced its refreshed marketing strategy in 2023.

The Singapore proposition

As a major trade hub with cutting-edge innovation, technology, and research capabilities, Singapore has a robust business ecosystem where thought leaders, investors and businesses meet. 

Beyond exceptional capabilities, infrastructure and events, Singapore has set clear targets, standards, certification programmes and incentives to build a greener future for the MICE industry. 

Singapore Tourism Board Deputy Chief Executive Yap Chin Siang said: “Positioning Singapore as the World’s Best MICE City is integral to our ambition to maintain a competitive edge and to reinforce Singapore’s strengths. This is especially critical as MICE event organisers and delegates seek destinations that deliver value and drive positive impact. We remain committed to investing in new MICE products and experiences, and we invite event organisers and planners to co-create business events with us that yield meaningful outcomes.”

To empower businesses to co-create their legacy journey with Singapore, STB is developing a comprehensive Legacy toolkit containing a framework for planning, executing and measuring legacy outcomes or the impact of an event. For example, business partnerships forged during meetings could drive industry development, and increased community awareness of health issues could help improve the health quality among a population. It will also include case studies and information on STB’s support. This is on track to be completed and launched by June 2024.

The campaign assets can be downloaded here

[1] The six global campaigns are World’s Best MICE City, City that Connects, Family Playground, Twice the Fun, Culinary Capital, and Travel Well.

TransNusa links Bali and Manado

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TTR WEEKLY
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JAKARTA, 3 April 2024: Jakarta-based TransNusa is introducing five new domestic routes effective 1 to 19 April, starting with direct flights launched this week from Bali to the popular diving destination Manado.

TransNusa, will be the first airline to fly direct flights between Bali and Manado. 

Photo credit: TransNusa. View of Raja Ampat, Sorong.

The TransNusa flight will depart Bali from Denpasar International Airport at 0140 and arrive at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Manado, at 0405. The return flight will depart Manado at 0545 and arrive in Bali at 0825. The direct flights commenced on Tuesday, 2 April. Flights are scheduled three times weekly on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

TransNusa’s flights from Manado to Sorong will depart from Sam Ratulangi International Airport and arrive at the Domine Eduard Osok Airport, Sorong. It is scheduling 11 weekly flights, including a daily flight and additional flights on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. 
The daily flight will depart Manado at 0900 and arrive at Sorong at 1120. The additional four weekly flights (Mon, Wed, Fri and Sun) will depart Manado at 1610 and arrive at Sorong at 1820.

On 5 April, TransNusa will start daily flights from Manado to Ambon, departing from Sam Ratulangi International Airport at 1240 and arriving at the Pattimura International Airport at 1450. 

TransNusa’s flight from Sorong to Ambon will depart from the Domine Eduard Osok Airport at 0900 and arrive at the Pattimura International Airport, Ambon, at 1000. The daily roundtrip flight will begin on Thursday, 18 April.

TransNusa’s flight from Sorong to Timika will depart Sorong from Domine Eduard Osok Airport at 1210 and arrive at the Mozes Kilangin International Airport at 1330. Daily flights on this route will start on Thursday, 18 April.

Since the injection of new shareholders and a management team in 2022, TransNusa became Indonesia’s second airline to introduce flights to China from Jakarta last year. The airline currently flies to Singapore, Guangzhou, China, Kuala Lumpur, and Johor, Malaysia.

PATA Malaysia takes students under its wing

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 3 April 2024: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Malaysia Chapter launched its  PATA Malaysia Chapter Student Wing this week, uniting students, educators, and travel industry leaders to strive towards the common goal of nurturing the next generation of tourism leaders. 

The launch of the Student Wing symbolises a substantial leap forward for the PATA Malaysia Chapter’s commitment to the industry’s future. 

“The PATA Malaysia Chapter Student Wing is set to be the cornerstone for aspiring tourism professionals,” stated PATA Malaysia Chapter Hon Secretary Datuk Ali. “It’s more than a membership; it’s an opportunity to shape the fabric of the industry.”

PATA Malaysia Chapter confirms students will soon be able to apply for membership through its website, as online registration is expected to be launched shortly. This online platform will facilitate easy access for students across Malaysia to join the PATA community and benefit from its extensive network and resources.

For further information or to express interest in future events and initiatives, contact the PATA Malaysia Chapter at [email protected] or visit the website at www.patamalaysia.org.

About PATA Malaysia Chapter
The PATA Malaysia Chapter is part of the Pacific Asia Travel Association, which serves as the leading voice for travel and tourism in the Asia Pacific region.

Westin brand slated for Penang

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TTR WEEKLY
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PENANG, 3 April 2024: Marriott International confirmed Monday it has signed a hotel management agreement with Westfield Global to bring The Westin brand to the popular island of Penang. 

Located along the sea-facing promenade of Gurney Drive, The Westin Hotel, Penang, is slated to open in 2026 and will have 217 rooms and suites. 

The signing ceremony was graced by His Royal Highness, Tuanku Raja Muda of Perlis and Chairman of Westfield Global Sdn Bhd (centre) joined by Dato’ Yeoh Yih Sean, Director of Westfield Global Sdn Bhd (on his left), Mr. Kevin Chen, Senior Vice President Hotel Development, Asia Pacific Marriott International (on his right) and witnessed by Directors from Westfield Global Sdn Bhd and representatives from Marriott International.

The hotel will offer guests sweeping views of greenery and the Andaman Sea beyond. Overlooking newly opened Gurney Bay Park, a seafront public recreational space including a skate park and retail areas, the hotel will be just a short walk from Gurney Drive’s popular local street food stalls, the Gurney Drive Hawker Centre and popular shopping malls of Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon.

The Westin Hotel, Penang, will form part of a larger development known as the Westin Hotel & Residences. It will feature all-day dining and speciality restaurants, a lobby lounge and a pool bar, an outdoor swimming pool and the branded Fitness Studio, Heavenly Spa by Westin. 

The hotel will be Marriott International’s fourth Westin in Malaysia, joining The Westin Kuala Lumpur, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, and The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa.

Thai airports hike PSC to fund auto check-in

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 3 April 2024: Travellers started paying higher passenger service charges at six of Thailand’s airports on 1 April to cover the Airports of Thailand’s investment in a Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS). 

CUPPS powers automated check-in, self-service kiosks, and automated bag drop-off, and the Airports of Thailand is passing on the investment costs by raising the passenger service charge from THB100 to THB130 for domestic passengers and from THB700 to THB730 for international passengers.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced his Aviation Hub objectives just weeks before passenger service charges at six airports increased.

Having automated or digital check-in systems and automated bag drop-off is seen as a major development to speed up check-in procedures. It benefits airlines and passengers. It also reduces long queues in already overcrowded airport terminals.

Approval for the PSC increases was concluded in November 2023, six months before they became effective on 1 April at the six airports managed by the Airports of Thailand.

The six international airports under AOT management are Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok, Chiang Mai International Airport, Mae-Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport, Phuket International Airport and Hat Yai International Airport. 

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) approved an aviation policy some years back to upgrade the airport experience by adopting the latest technology embodied in CUPPS to raise airport check-in to international standards.

At present, the CUPPS system consists of three components:
Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE) which helps to enhance services at check-in counters and provides passengers with international standards.

Common Use Self Service (CUSS) which reduces passengers’ waiting time at the check-in area and enables them to check in six to 12 hours in advance before departure. 

Common Use Bag Drop (CUBD) which helps passengers load baggage without supervision from airline staff. 

AOT gained the green light to pass on the CUPPS investment costs to passengers by increasing the PSC by THB30 for both domestic and international departures. The PSC is added to the cost of tickets at the point of sale. International passengers pay THB730, up from THB700, and domestic passengers pay THB130, up from THB100.

More choices on Mekong cruise dates

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 2 April 2024: Pandaw has released additional dates for its popular Laos Mekong River adventure to meet travel demand for the 2024/2025 sailing season. 

Pandaw’s 10-night expedition on the Upper Mekong sails from Chiang Khong on the Thai-Laos border through Laos, stopping in the World Heritage town of Luang Prabang before sailing towards Vientiane.

In an update posted online over the Easter holiday, the Southeast Asian and Indian river cruise specialist said it was applying a no-single-supplement policy and introducing discovery discounts for early bookers on the new sailing dates. 

Pandaw’s unique itinerary takes travellers to the very heart of life on the Upper Mekong, exploring charming villages of the various hill tribes that inhabit the region. It also includes a sustainable elephant experience at the Mekong Elephant Park and a three-night stay in the UNESCO Heritage city of Luang Prabang, which gives travellers ample time to explore the historical town and nearby attractions.  

Must-see attractions in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are must-see attractions you can explore during the Pandaw Cruise’s three-night stop-off in this riverside town.  

Temples: Luang Prabang is brimming with beautiful temples with unique architectural styles and history.

Wat Xieng Thong: Arguably the most significant temple in Luang Prabang, Wat Xieng Thong was built in the 16th century and features stunning gilded roofs and intricate mosaics.

Wat Mai Suwannapumaram: Also known as the Silver Temple, Wat Mai Suwannapumaram is famed for its gleaming silver exterior.

Wat Visoun: This 16th-century temple is known for its unusual octagonal shape and its collection of ancient Buddha statues.

Mount Phousi: Climb the 328 steps to the top of Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. At the summit, you’ll also find a Buddhist temple and a giant Buddha footprint. 

Pak Ou Caves: Take a boat trip up the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha images of all shapes and sizes. 

Kuang Si Waterfalls: Escape the city heat and cool off at the turquoise pools beneath the cascading Kuang Si Waterfalls. You can also hike to the top of the falls for stunning views. 

Royal Palace Museum: Learn about Laotian history and culture at the Royal Palace Museum, which was once the home of the Laotian kings. 

Alms-giving Ceremony: Witness the daily alms-giving ceremony, a unique and spiritual experience where hundreds of saffron-robed monks collect offerings from the local people.

Night Market: Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Luang Prabang Night Market, where you can find everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to delicious local food. 

These are just a few of the many must-see attractions in Luang Prabang. Luang Prabang is an unforgettable destination with its rich history, beautiful temples, stunning natural scenery, and friendly people.

To book an Upper Mekong expedition with Pandaw for 2024/25, visit pandaw.com or email us at [email protected].

The Laos Mekong
VIENTIANE TO CHIANG KHONG
10 nights
FROM USD4,316 per person.

For more information on the Laos Mekong expedition.

To download Pandaw brochures, visit:
https://www.pandaw.com/brochures?utm_source=pandaw&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=new-laos-mekong-dates-and-offers

Exhibitors back ITB Asia for business boost

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE 2 April 2024: As preparations for ITB Asia 2024 are well underway, Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, the show organiser, welcomes top exhibitors and The Ascott Limited as the  Official Partner Hotel. 

The three-day event, scheduled from 23 to 25 October 2024, is a powerful platform for professionals in the travel industry, covering key verticals such as Leisure, Corporate Travel, MICE, and Travel Technology. Attendees can expect to connect with destination experts, industry suppliers, top-tier buyers, and thought leaders, all sharing insights and forging valuable connections.

“After a strong year, tourism is on track to return to pre-pandemic levels. The comeback of outbound travel in Asia was the growth driver in 2023. We are thrilled with the momentum building towards our 17th edition. The calibre of exhibitors, the depth of insights shared, and the opportunities for collaboration make ITB Asia the premier event for the travel industry in the APAC region. We’re confident that ITB Asia 2024 will surpass expectations and continue to be the pinnacle of business, networking and innovation”, stated Joyce Wang, Executive Director of Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, organiser of ITB Asia, MICE Show Asia, and Travel Tech Asia.

The optimistic sentiment in the industry is also reflected at ITB Asia’s show floor. Confirmed exhibitors at ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia include global companies showcasing their latest tourism products and innovations, such as Banyan Tree, Brand USA, Business Events Perth, BWH Hotels, Czech Tourism Authority, Eva Airways, Explorer Kenya Tours and Travel, Far East Hospitality, Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg (BER), Frasers Hospitality, Gyeonggi Tourism Organization, Lufthansa City Center, Malta Tourism Authority, Mandai Wildlife Group, Marina Bay Sands Pte Ltd, Meliá Hotels International, ONYX Hospitality Group, Pan Pacific Hotels Group, Pattaya Variety, Penang Global Tourism, Premium Travel Mongolia, Sarawak Tourism Board, Sentosa Development Corporation, Seoul Tourism Organization, Singapore Tourism Board, Skyscanner, The Ascott Limited, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, Trip.com, Visit Berlin, Visit Finland, Worldwide Hotels Pte Ltd and Wyndham Hotel Asia Pacific.

In partnership with The Ascott Limited as the Official Partner Hotel, attendees can look forward to an insightful Opening Keynote to kickstart the three-day conference programme. Attendees can also expect an evening of networking with fellow industry players at their Official Evening Function.

Travel Tech Asia is the most important travel technology marketplace. Taking place parallel with the 3-in-1 show, the event will feature leading brands and startups, including Korea Tourism Organization, SiteMinder, Smartryde, STAAH, SUNRATE, and TBO Holidays, among others, unveiling the latest technologies and emerging trends shaping the future of travel.

ITB Asia’s Buyer Elite Programme, in partnership with esteemed organisations such as American Express, Association of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Agencies (ASITA), ASTINDO, EVINTRA, Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), United Federation of Travel Agents Association (UFTAA), and Vietnam Society of Travel Agents (VISTA), facilitates meaningful collaborations between service providers and global buyers, ensuring mutually beneficial partnerships.

For exhibitors, the Early Bird Rate for booth space registration ends in just two days. Exhibitors may register before 31 March 2024 at www.itb-asia.com/exhibiting to secure a space.
Trade visitors are invited to join the event with an all-access pass, granting entry to all three shows—ITB Asia, MICE Show Asia, and Travel Tech Asia. They can take advantage of the Early Bird rate available until 22 September 2024 by registering at www.itb-asia.com/visit-register.

Vistara boosts Dreamliner fleet

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 2 April 2024: Vistara took delivery last week of its last Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, making it the 70th aircraft in the India-based fleet. 

It marked the culmination of the order signed in 2018, which included 56 aircraft from Airbus and Boeing.

Photo credit: Vistara. Dreamliner delivery.

It included Airbus A321s, the first in Asia to be fitted with lie-flat seats. Vistara aircraft offer Live TV onboard and now complimentary Wi-Fi for Club Vistara members. As aircraft joined the fleet, the airline expanded services from Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore hubs to international destinations across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.  

“All this was also possible because of the efforts and continuous support from all of our customers, partners, and staff,” said Vistara Chief Executive Officer Vinod Kannan. “As we go into the next phase of our journey, we continue to take our customers on a journey that will be even more exciting in the coming days.”

About Vistara (TATA SIA Airlines Limited) 
TATA SIA Airlines Limited, known by the brand name Vistara, is a 51:49 joint venture between Tata Sons Private Limited and Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA). Vistara brings together Tata’s and SIA’s legendary hospitality and renowned service excellence to offer India’s finest full-service flying experience. Vistara commenced its commercial operations on 9 January 2015, and today, it connects destinations across India and worldwide. The airline currently has a fleet of 70 aircraft, including 53 Airbus A320neo, 10 Airbus A321, and 7 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.

AITEX and Tourism Investment Asia share podium

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 2 April 2024: Tourism Investment Asia (TIA) confirmed this week it is collaborating with the Asia Islamic Tourism & Trade Expo (AITEX 2024) to host a one-day event on 25 August 2024 at the Sunway Resort Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.  

AITEX 2024, now in its second edition, will take place at the Sunway Resort Hotel’s convention facilities from 23 to 25 August, with exhibitors from 30 countries attending. The show is organised by the Malaysia Tourism Agency Association, which also established Tourism Investment Asia (TIA). 

Photo credit: AITEX 2024. World Islamic Tourism & Trade Awards are a highlight of the show.

AITEX also hosts the World Islamic Tourism & Trade Awards to honour organisations and individuals who have made significant contributions to the development and promotion of Islamic tourism.

This strategic partnership between Tourism Investment Asia and Asia Islamic Tourism & Trade Expo will highlight the vast potential for halal tourism investment across Asia, providing industry leaders, investors, and stakeholders a platform to explore lucrative opportunities in this rapidly growing sector.

AITEX 2024 Chairman Dato Dr Mohd Khalid Harun emphasised the significance of the event, saying it was an invaluable opportunity for Asia investors, underscoring the immense potential and importance of halal tourism as a key driver of economic growth.

AITEX 2024 is a one-day event that opens opportunities for Islamic Tourism Investment opportunities in the tourism sector, from hospitality and travel services to halal food and lifestyle products.

Participants will network with Industry Leaders and engage with prominent figures in the halal tourism industry, including policymakers, entrepreneurs, and investors, to forge valuable connections and partnerships that can fuel business growth.

AITEX 2024 will be hosted from 23 to 25 August at the Sunway Resort Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. For more information and registration details, visit www.aitex.my. 

About Tourism Investment Asia (TIA)
Tourism Investment Asia (TIA), established by the Malaysia Tourism Agency Association, is a platform dedicated to facilitating investment initiatives, promoting sustainable practices, and driving innovation within the tourism sector across Asia.

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