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Greater Bay Area on campaign trail

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 9 October 2024: Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province, and the Macao Government Tourism Office organized a promotional event in Jakarta, Indonesia, last week, to introduce the Greater Bay Area (GBA) tourism brand “Greater Bay Area” — Connecting Great Experiences” to Indonesia’s travel trade.

The event showcased the rich tourism resources of China’s Greater Bay Area to the Indonesian travel trade market. The HKTB also reached a strategic agreement to launch tourism products and promotions exclusive to Indonesian travellers, encouraging them to visit Hong Kong and explore the broader GBA through multi-destination journeys.

HKTB Deputy Executive Director Becky Ip said: “Southeast Asian markets, particularly Indonesia, which is one of ASEAN’s largest economies, present significant tourism potential. 

“The Hong Kong Tourism Board is partnering with Guangdong Province and Macao tourism departments to promote the Greater Bay Area tourism brand in Indonesia. We’re collaborating with trade partners in the market to introduce new tourism products. At the same time, we continue to promote Hong Kong’s increasingly Muslim-friendly facilities and services with a view to attracting more inbound visitors from Indonesia, especially the Millennials and the Gen Z, and encouraging them to explore Hong Kong and embark on multi-destination journeys across the GBA.”

A delegation of about 30 tourism representatives from the HKTB and various cities in Guangdong Province, including Macao, visited the Indonesian capital of Jakarta for the “Greater Bay Area – Connecting Great Experiences” event. The delegation introduced the rich and diverse tourism resources and the latest tourism developments in the GBA to about 130 local trade and media representatives. The HKTB also reached a strategic agreement with the Southeast Asian travel trade to launch various offers and promotions of GBA tourism in the market to deepen Indonesian travellers’ understanding and interests towards the GBA, to inspire them to visit in person.

Expanding GBA tourism products

The HKTB has secured a collaboration with Indonesia’s leading association of travel agents, ASTINDO. ASTINDO will lead in encouraging and facilitating travel agents in the market to roll out tailored GBA tourism products and packages. It will also assist trade partners with requests for flight reservations, hotel accommodation, admission tickets to attractions in the GBA, or intercity transportation. ASTINDO has also launched a quick access link to the HKTB’s one-stop GBA tourism website on the homepage of its official website for the convenience of trade partners.

GBA offers exclusively for Indonesian travellers 

To motivate Indonesian travellers to visit the GBA through Hong Kong, the HKTB and Southeast Asia’s premier travel platform, Traveloka, jointly present a promotional activity, offering discounts to Indonesian travellers who book air tickets, hotel accommodations or tourism activities through the platform.

Traveloka will also assist in planning itineraries in the GBA for Indonesian influencers to allow them to better enjoy the excitement of GBA tourism. Itineraries include city walks in Central and Sheung Wan, theme park experiences, and nightlife culture. The influencers will upload clips of their travel experiences to their own social media platforms to encourage interest in visiting the GBA among their fans and create positive media exposure.

New-generation stars introduced GBA attractions in a travel show

Targeting the young consumer segment, the HKTB previously invited Gen-Z Indonesian stars Bastian Steel and Sitha Marino to visit cultural heritage and trending attractions in Hong Kong, Macao, Guangzhou and Shenzhen to produce a new travel show titled Celebrity on Vacation. The show aired on Indonesian broadcasters, YouTube and online media platforms.

Eastar Jet flies to Chiang Mai

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 9 October 2024: South Korea’s low-cost airline Eastar Jet has confirmed in advance timetables it will resume daily flights to Chiang Mai, Thailand.

The airline confirmed it intends to resume flights to Chiang Mai, which stopped in 2020 due to the Covid pandemic. It will start flying the Busan- Chiang Mai route daily, effective 19 December, using a Boeing 737-800 with 189 seats.

Flights will connect Busan, a popular events city in South Korea, with Thailand’s second-largest city located in North Thailand. Both cities rely heavily on tourism, incentive travel and hosting conventions.

Flight ZE947 will depart Busan (PUS) at 1800 and arrive in Chiang Mai (CNX) at 2100.
Flight ZE948 will depart Chiang Mai at 2220 and arrive in Busan at 0605 (plus a day).

Eastar Jet is a South Korean low-cost airline headquartered in Banghwa-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul. On 7 January 2009, Eastar Jet flew its maiden flight from Gimpo International Airport to Jeju International Airport. Now, the airline operates a scheduled passenger network to 14 destinations in eight countries.

(SOURCE: Wikipedia)

HK Express flies to Hualien Taiwan

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 9 October 2024: HK Express Airways will launch direct flights between Hong Kong and Hualien (HUN) Taiwan from 12 December 2024, with four weekly flights. 

Hualien is HK Express’ fourth destination in Taiwan, China, followed by Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. There are 144 weekly flights between Hong Kong and Taiwan, China. 

Flight time is just two hours to a city famed for its natural beauty and culture.

To celebrate the launch, HK Express offers a limited-time offer as low as HKD38* (“Ultra Lite” fares – including one small personal item with a maximum weight of 7kg), for round trips scheduled anytime from 12 December 2024 to 29 March 2025. 

The promotion opened at 1130 on 8 October 2024 and closes at 2359 on 9 October 2024.

Hualien, nestled between the vast Pacific Ocean and towering Central Mountain Range, boasts stunning natural beauty along with a rich tapestry of indigenous culture, traditions, and history. Taroko Gorge, renowned for its grand marble gorges and striking coastal cliffs, is a must-visit destination. Tucked away among the cliffs, the Changchun Shrine (Eternal Spring Shrine), a traditional Chinese architecture, morphs into an ethereal landscape as it stands next to a year-round flowing spring.

Travellers can also cycle along Qixingtan beach, one of Hualien’s most stunning seashores, where people can enjoy the pristine waters and fine sands. Moreover, a trip to Dongdamen Night Market brings visitors to a feast of local delicacies, such as the famous scallion pancake, spicy stinky tofu, and refreshing fruit ice, offering a delightful culinary experience. Hualien is also home to several well-known hot spring areas, including the Ruisui Hot Springs, renowned for its high-quality iron sulfide springwater. It provides travellers a perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate.

*Limited availability, terms and conditions apply. Fares exclude taxes and surcharges. The final settlement amount may be subject to exchange rate fluctuations; please refer to the system display

** Subject to regulatory approval; final flight details are subjected to the official ticketing page on the website

Phuket’s Centara Karon Resort reopens

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 8 October 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, announces the reopening of Centara Karon Resort Phuket following a stunning transformation. 

To mark the occasion, guests are invited to experience this newly renovated resort with an exclusive offer, available for stays from 1 December 2024 to 30 April 2025.

Travellers who book before 30 November 2024 will be treated to an array of curated privileges, including complimentary accommodation, meals and activities for up to two children, and THB500 daily resort credit to enjoy at the resort’s exceptional restaurants and bars or rejuvenating spa. Early check-in and late check-out, plus a complimentary minibar refresh each day, ensure every detail is tailored to enhance every guest’s experience.

To further elevate the offer, CentaraThe1 members will receive an additional 15% discount on room rates and earn triple points for stays during the promotional period. To make the most of these perks, members can sign in to their online accounts before booking, while non-members are encouraged to sign up for free via centara1card.com

The redesigned Centara Karon Resort Phuket presents a perfect blend of contemporary comfort and island charm, inviting guests to explore its revitalised spaces and well-appointed accommodation catering to every need, from The Terrace’s sea-view rooms and The Lagoon’s family-friendly options to the spacious layouts of Tropical and the romantic Private Pool Villas. With an eclectic mix of dining experiences, vibrant activities, and splash-worthy swimming pools, this tropical oasis ensures an unforgettable escape for all ages.

For more details on the ‘A Star Is Reborn’ offer and to make reservations, visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/ckr/reborn

BWH enters Travel Hall of Fame

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 8 October 2024: BWH℠ Hotels, the global network comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, has been honoured with a ‘Travel Hall of Fame’ award in the TTG Travel Awards 2024, which celebrates the best of the best in the Asia Pacific travel industry.

This year’s success marks the latest in a series of victories for BWH Hotels. TTG’s Travel Hall of Fame awards are only given to tourism and hospitality operators who won their individual category 10 consecutive times. The iconic Best Western brand has been voted the “Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand” in Asia for over a decade and has been a Travel Hall of Fame luminary since 2019.

The TTG Travel Awards winners are voted for by the readers of TTG Asia, the region’s leading travel trade magazine, and its six sister publications: TTGmice, TTG China, TTG India, TTG-BTmice China, TTG Associations, and TTG Asia Luxury. This means that BWH Hotels has been given another resounding vote of confidence by the region’s most respected travel industry personnel.

The Travel Hall of Fame title was presented to BWH Hotels, in late September at a glittering gala ceremony in Bangkok. This year marked the 33rd edition of the TTG Travel Awards, which was first launched in 1989.

“It is a great honour for BWH Hotels to be awarded in TTG Asia’s prestigious Travel Hall of Fame 2024. With over 75 years of history in the industry, BWH Hotels remains committed to being recognised in this competitive landscape. I would like to extend my gratitude to our esteemed travel trade partners for their continued support and to our passionate and dedicated team for upholding our standards of excellence,” said BWH Hotels Vice President – APAC Olivier Berrivin.

“With 18 brands and innovative new concepts ranging from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels is delighting guests and developers in every market segment.”

To book a stay with BWH Hotels in Asia visit bestwesternasia.com and worldhotels.com.  

IATA: Governments must protect civil aviation

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 8 October 2024: The International Air Transport Association released a statement earlier this week to remind governments of the importance of protecting civil aviation, including airport and air navigation infrastructure, during times of conflict.

“Civil aviation fulfils a purpose that transcends politics to ‘create and preserve friendship and understanding among the nations and peoples of the world’, said IATA Director General Willie Walsh. “The Chicago Convention, signed 80 years ago, is a timeless reminder of civil aviation’s essential role in connecting people and delivering goods over vast distances. In the turbulent world of 2024, the truth of the Chicago Convention’s preamble rings loudly.”

Walsh said: We all want to live in a world at peace. Sadly, today, that is far from reality for many people. That is why it is necessary to remind all involved in the conflict to ensure that flights are safe and that critical airport and air navigation infrastructure is not targeted in any hostilities.” 

He emphasised that civil aviation does not take sides in political conflicts. As an industry that requires the effective implementation of global standards to operate, aviation upholds global standards and the international rules-based order on which they rely. 

“As the name implies, civil aviation serves the civilian population. All actors in a conflict must keep it out of harm’s way. This is the firm belief of IATA. More importantly, it is the unquestionable obligation of governments under international law.” 

Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights protects the freedom of movement domestically and internationally. 
Article 48 of the Fourth Geneva Convention holds that combatants in conflict must not target civilian objects.

Basic norms of customary international law require that all parties to a conflict allow and facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need and ensure the freedom of movement of authorised humanitarian relief personnel.

These international legal obligations will be unfulfillable should the line between military and civil aviation blur, even in the slightest. That would bring deeply troubling consequences for innocent populations trying to survive through conflict, especially those needing humanitarian aid. 

Moreover, the Chicago Convention explicitly obliges states to protect civil aircraft and passengers in flight, refrain from using force against civil aircraft, and, by corollary, coordinate and communicate any activities potentially hazardous to civil aviation. 

“These are essential to keeping flying safe. Aviation will support the effort by connecting people and goods as the world works towards more peaceful days. In the meantime, combatants must know and abide by the rules of conflict and humanitarian assistance as stated in international law, Walsh stated.

“To simplify: Do no harm to civilian aircraft, airports or air navigation services. This is non-negotiable and must be respected, even at the height of hostility,” Walsh concluded.

Airbnb boosts its Thailand bookings

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK 8 October 2024: As Thailand’s tourism sees a resurgence and the industry prepares for the upcoming high season in Q4, Airbnb releases Thailand travel data for the first half of this year.

Airbnb data shows an increasing interest among Airbnb guests in travel to Thailand, with combined domestic and international bookings surging over 30% in H1 2024 compared to H1 2023.

Airbnb data shows growth across all travel group sizes, with the most significant growth being in group travel. Airbnb guests travelling as groups to Thailand increased by almost 40% in H1 2024 compared to H1 2023.

“Thailand’s appeal as a world-class tourism destination remains strong amongst Airbnb travellers worldwide. It’s particularly encouraging to see the significant growth in those travelling together as small groups in the first half of the year, as well as more guests staying longer in the country,” said Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan Amanpreet Bajaj.

“This continued growth reflects Airbnb guests’ eagerness to explore and experience Thailand – both the established destinations as well as seeking out new experiences in lesser-known destinations. Airbnb will continue to work with industry stakeholders and support the Thai government in driving interest in travel to Thailand amongst Airbnb guests globally and supporting sustainable travel dispersal.”

The top countries of origin of international Airbnb guests travelling to Thailand in H1 2024:

  • USA
  • China
  • Germany
  • Russian Federation
  • UK
  • Korea
  • France
  • Australia
  • Singapore

Notably, Airbnb has strong appeal with legacy markets such as the US and European countries while regional markets such as China, Korea, Australia and Singapore also remain strong.

More people are staying longer

Thailand’s appeal as a destination for long-term visitors isn’t something new — the climate, diversity of places from beaches to mountains to cosmopolitan visitors, delicious cuisine and Thai hospitality all contribute to the steady growth trend.

However, the recent Destination Thailand Visa has been introduced specifically to increase long-term stays amongst remote workers, digital nomads, and freelancers. Recognising the appeal of Thailand for digital nomads, Airbnb previously collaborated with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to create the ‘Live and Work in Thailand’ digital information guide. In Airbnb’s latest data, there’s a clear trend of more people staying longer in Thailand – in H1 2024, long-term stays by Airbnb guests in Thailand grew over 20% compared to H1 2023.

Top Thai destinations amongst Airbnb guests

Travel habits among international and domestic travellers are similar. In H1 2024, Bangkok was the most booked destination in Thailand by Airbnb guests. For international Airbnb guests, Phuket was the second most booked destination, followed by Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Surat Thani. Thai travellers preferred Pattaya over Phuket.

While the most booked are established destinations, many global travellers seek to explore lesser-known destinations in Thailand. Airbnb search data revealed that the top emerging Thai destinations trending on Airbnb are Mae Hong Son, Trang and Satun.

Traveloka 10.10 Travel Fest

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 8 October 2024: There’s just a week left to book a deal on Traveloka 10.10 Travel Fest for a holiday in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam) and Australia.

The campaign, which offers 50% discounts on a wide range of travel products under the banner of the 10.10 Travel Fest, closes on 13 October. 

The 50% off is valid on flights, hotels, and attractions to popular destinations such as  Phuket or Chiang Mai, as well as international favorites such as Hong Kong, along with Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea and Australia.

Angeles City wins food award

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TTR WEEKLY
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MANILA, 8 October 2024: The City of Angeles in Pampanga, Philippines, was named Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination at the World Culinary Awards Gala Ceremony 2024, the Philippines News Agency reported earlier this week.

The award was conferred in a ceremony in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates on 3 October solidifying the city’s status as a rising star in global food tourism.

(Photo courtesy of DOT)

“This prestigious recognition of Angeles City as Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination underscores the exceptional talent, creativity, and dedication of its local chefs and food artisans,” the news agency quoted Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco’s statement.

“The city’s rich culinary heritage, led by its iconic dishes like sisig, continues to captivate food enthusiasts not only in the Philippines but worldwide, showcasing the power of Filipino cuisine on the global stage.”

Angeles City competed against other renowned food destinations in Asia, including Hanoi, Vietnam; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Taipei, Taiwan; and Kyoto, Japan.

The World Culinary Awards, a sister event to the World Travel Awards, recognises and rewards excellence in the culinary industry after a year-long search for the world’s leading culinary brands. 

(Source: PNA)

IndiGo expands domestic network

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

DELHI, India, 8 October 2024: IndiGo unveils a new route connecting Pune and Bhopal to promote tourism and foster business interactions between the destinations. 

Starting 27 October, the routes will operate daily, enhancing connectivity and offering greater convenience to travellers across these regions.

Additionally, IndiGo is set to increase flights on the Pune-Indore, Pune-Chennai, and PuneRaipur routes starting 27 October  2024, just in time for the festive season. 

These flights will make it convenient for passengers to travel to and from Pune and create exciting opportunities to explore new destinations across India.

Pune-Bhopal timetable

IndiGo Head of Global Sales Vinay Malhotra said: “We are pleased to announce the launch of daily direct flights between Bhopal and Pune starting 27 October. This new route shall offer convenient timings

and enhance seamless regional connectivity. As a leader in India’s aviation, we remain committed to addressing growing demand, especially during the festive season, by introducing new routes to cater to business as well as leisure traffic.”

Pune: Education and IT city

Pune, is a vibrant city in Maharashtra renowned for its educational institutions and rich cultural heritage. With a blend of modernity and tradition, Pune offers beautiful parks, historical sites, and a thriving culinary scene. 

The city is also a hub for IT and business, attracting professionals nationwide. Pune is known as a major hub for the automotive industry in India.

It is home to several leading automobile manufacturers and a vast network of ancillary industries. The city’s strong industrial base, skilled workforce, and proximity to key markets make it a vital centre for automotive production and innovation.

Bhopal: History and natural beauty

Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is famed for its unique combination of history and natural beauty.

Known as the “City of Lakes,” it boasts picturesque water bodies and lush gardens. Bhopal is rich in cultural diversity, featuring stunning architecture like the Taj-ul-Masajid and the Bharat Bhavan, making it a fascinating destination for history and art enthusiasts.

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