ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT 2019 GUIDE 2020

A publication of:

MCI(P)039/10/2019 • PPS1887/02/2017 (025621) TOTAL LIFESTYLE ENVIRONMENT IN SINGAPORE Fully equipped for every occasion with state-of-the-art conference facilities, One Farrer Grand Ballroom and Meeting Rooms offer an ideal venue for conferences, functions and special occasions, while the Garden Pavilion is perfect for hosting outdoor events in Singapore. At One Farrer, we specialize in creating memorable events; whether it's for a private setting of 30 persons or a gala dinner setting for 400.

BE IMMERSED IN A UNIQUE AND WELCOMING DESTINATION

For booking enquiries, please email [email protected]

1 Farrer Park Station Road, Singapore 217562 T (+65) 6363 0101 E [email protected] W onefarrer.com ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020 Contents 02 Foreword 04 Australia 07 Hong Kong 09 India 10 Indonesia 13 Japan 15 Malaysia 18 Maldives 20 Philippines 23 Singapore 26 South Korea 27 Sri Lanka 28 Thailand

1 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020 Foreword

Dear Travel Trade Partners,

The year 2019 has flown right by in a blink of an eye, with many developments in the economic and political space leaving indelible marks on the travel and tourism industry’s performance report.

While an increasingly VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) environment makes it difficult to have a clear business projection, travel and tourism professionals must bear in mind that Asia’s economic prospects remain bright on the back of growing affluence of its people and a young demographic that is hungry for knowledge, global experience, new technology and the latest products and services. And with all that, travel and tourism can continue to grow.

To see the future, one must understand the past. And so, our team of editors and reporters have once again produced this Asian Tourism Expert Guide, now in its 12th edition, to provide a snapshot of 2019 travel and tourism performance as well as developments that are worth watching in the new year.

This annual guide has, for the past decade, helped our travel trade readers in their programming and business plans, and we hope it will be the same for you.

Happy reading!

Warmest regards

Darren Ng Managing Director TTG Asia Media

EDITORIAL SALES & MARKETING PUBLISHING SERVICES ADVERTISEMENT Taiwan Virginia Lee/Kitty Luh Karen Yue Pierre Quek Jonathan Wan REPRESENTATIVES Spacemark Media Services Group Editor Publisher and Head Head, Operational Italy Remo Vangelista Tel: (886-2) 2751 6007 ([email protected]) Integrated Solutions Support Services Tel: (39-02) 806892 Fax: (886-2) 2751 6105 S Puvaneswary ([email protected]) Kun Swee Qi Email: [email protected]; Email: [email protected]; Editor, Malaysia/Brunei Chimmy Tsui Publishing Services Executive Japan Michiko Kawano Thailand Anchana Nararidh ([email protected]) Publisher and Head Integrated Nur Hazirah Web Executive Pacific Business Inc. Absolute Communications Co., Ltd. Mimi Hudoyo Solutions (China) Katherine Leong Tel: (81-3) 3661 6138 Tel: (66-2) 258 4423-25 Editor, Indonesia ([email protected]) Circulation Executive Fax: (81-3) 3661 6139 Mobile: (66-89) 111 2334 ([email protected]) Ar-lene Lee Email: Fax: (66-2) 258 4426 Kenneth Goh Senior Business Manager TTG ASIA MEDIA michiko.kawano@pacific- Email: [email protected]; Assistant Editor, TTG Content Lab ([email protected]) Darren Ng business.com United Kingdom Matt ([email protected]) Jonathan Yap Managing Director South Korea SS Song Roclawski,TTG Media Pamela Chow Senior Business Manager ([email protected]) First Media Services Corp. Tel: (44-20) 3714 4102 Reporter, Singapore ([email protected]) Tel: (82-2) 363 3591 Email: [email protected] ([email protected]) Shirley Tan OFFICES Mobile: (82) 10 5234 3590 Rachel AJ Lee Senior Business Manager SINGAPORE Fax: (82-2) 738 7970 Sub Editor ([email protected]) 1 Science Park Road #04-07 Email: [email protected]; ([email protected]) Jade Ye The Capricorn Spain Luis Andrade/ Asian Tourism Expert Guide 2019/2020 is published by Cheryl Ong Marketing Executive Singapore Science Park II, Lucia Andrade TTG Travel Trade Publishing, Sub Editor ([email protected]) Singapore 117528 Luis Andrade International Media a business group of TTG Asia ([email protected]) Delia Ng Tel: (65) 6395 7575 Mobile: (34-659) 181252 Media Pte Ltd. It is mailed free Redmond Sia, Goh Meng Yong Digital Marketing Strategist Fax: (65) 6536 0896 Mobile: (34-650) 360726 on written request to readers Creative Designers ([email protected]) Email: [email protected]; Email: who meet predetermined criteria. Lina Tan Editorial Assistant Cheryl Lim www.ttgasia.com [email protected] Paid subscriptions are available Advertisement [email protected]; to those who do not meet the criteria. CONTRIBUTORS Administration Manager HONG KONG Sri Lanka Vijitha Yapa Adelaine Ng, Marissa ([email protected]) 8/F, E168, 166-168 Des Voeux Vijitha Yapa Associates MCI(P)039/10/2019 Carruthers, Rosa Ocampo, Carol Cheng Road Central, Sheung Wan, Tel: (94-11) 255 6600 PPS1887/02/2017 (025621) Prudence Lui, Rohit Kaul, Manager Administration Hong Kong Mobile: (94) 777 317400 Printed by Times Printers Pte Ltd. Anne Somanas and and Marketing Tel: (852) 2237 7288, Fax: (94-11) 259 4717 All images courtesy of TTG Asia Feizal Samath ([email protected]) Fax: (852) 2237 7227 Email: [email protected]; Media unless otherwise credited.

2 YOUR INDONESIAN HOME

MOUNT MERAPI - CENTRAL JAVA

DOWNLOAD NOW ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Australia by Adelaine Ng

nternational visitor arrivals to India saw the strongest growth Australia reached a record 9.3 over the past three years with visi- Imillion for the year ending June tor numbers increasing 53 per cent Take a drive through Francois 2019, up three per cent compared to 350,000, and spend 68 per cent Peron National Park, a national to the previous year. to A$1.8 billion over this period. park in Western Australia Tourist spending also reached India has been the strongest a record A$44.6 billion (US$30.6 performing market over the last 10 billion). But while growth continues years, growing by 13 per cent on to be led by education and holiday average each year and more than travel, the average length of trips tripling in size. fell by six nights over the last six Business events remains a years to 32 nights, although spend strong performing sector with one per night increased by 26 per cent. million arrivals spending A$5 billion There were mixed results for for the year to June 2019. But the Australia’s top markets from Asia- rate of growth is moderating nota- Pacific over the year. Growth was bly from China and the UK, which impressive for the Japanese mar- have seen declines in the past year. ket, with visitors up nine per cent to On October 31, 2019, Tourism 445,000, and spend up 16 per cent, Australia unveiled a new three-year reaching A$2 billion. Led by those global campaign entitled Come visiting for education, spend for Live Our Philausophy. This latest the China market grew six per cent global strategy is part of an A$38 to A$11.9 billion. However, visitor million investment that will be numbers were up just one per cent rolled out in 15 key tourism mar- to 1.3 million. kets over the next three years.

4 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

FOUR KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 NSW’s budget slashed 4 Perth rises up The tourism budget for the state of Perth is expected to see a significant New South Wales was cut by about boost in visitors continuing into 2020 20 per cent to A$141.1 million next with ongoing new hotel development financial year. It disadvantages the des- and direct air services. Hotel projects tination in an increasingly competitive worth A$1.5 billion have been approved market for both domestic and interna- in Western Australia, plus A$3.7 billion for tional tourists. Critics say the decision aviation infrastructure and arts, recreation will impact business events attraction and business. Latest results show Perth at a time when several hotels, stadiums grew 7.9 per cent in spend and 12.3 per and facilities are being built. cent in visitation to the year ending June 2019. 2 More Chinese groups wanted In February, the Australian government announced A$11 million in funding to attract more Chinese tour group tourists as part of China’s Approved Destination Scheme. The scheme facili- tates some 2.5 million Chinese tourists travelling to Australia in approved guided groups with a special ADS visa. The move boosts Tourism Australia’s efforts to market directly to Chinese consumers.

3 Vital tourism improvements In April, the government announced A$50 million in funding over three years for a National Tourism Icons Program. The programme supports new tourism infrastructure and upgrades to drive tourism growth, particularly in regional areas. New attractions are considered critical to winning new and repeat visi- From top: Elephant Rocks in Denmark, Western Australia; Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of tors to Australia. Australia’s most easily recognisable landmarks

OUTLOOK

Phillipa Harrison Matt Cameron-Smith Margy Osmond Managing director, Managing director, CEO, Tourism Australia AAT Kings Tourism and Transport Forum Australia “After a number of years of strong “Lonely Planet named Margaret River growth, we are starting to see a & Southern Western Australia as the “The future for Australian inbound slowdown in the pace of growth number one place to visit in Asia- tourism is bright. If global economic despite another year of record visita- Pacific. These rankings certainly get conditions remain favourable and tion and spend (June 2019 year-end). the attention of consumers and put sensible policy settings are imple- While tourism globally is facing some Australia on the global map. We’re mented here at home, growth should headwinds, we are confident that seeing great growth out of the US, continue beyond the latest figures travel for leisure and business events UK, and domestic markets. (We also) which were up three per cent to 9.3 will remain a key driver of economic expect travellers to go beyond the million visitor arrivals taking spending growth for Australia in 2020.” major cities and see more of the hid- to A$44.6 billion. This is a wonderful den beauty of Australia’s outback and result for 2019 so far and our sector national parks.” aims to build on this success in 2020 and beyond.”

5 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

WHAT’S NEW

Reefsuites Reefsuites is Australia’s first underwater accommodation, launching in summer on the Great Barrier Reef. It features panoramic in-room, floor-to-ceiling views of tropical marine life including tropical fish, turtles and manta rays. Just two underwater rooms are available for overnight stays, with the full experience including a return cruise out to the reef, all meals and beverages, and some marine activities. Reefsuites is located on the A$8-million Reefworld pontoon at the Whitsundays’ Hardy Reef, 39 nautical miles from Airlie Beach. From above: Change Overnight Hotel; and Kilsby Sinkhole Kilsby Sinkhole Independent visitors can now experience a two-hour snorkelling tour in the 60m ognised internationally as a masterpiece limestone cavity that is Kilsby Sinkhole in and the pinnacle in operatic staging that Mount Gambier, South Australia. Primar- attracts devotees from around the world, ily used for open water diving and diver immersing themselves in an extraordi- training programmes, the sinkhole is the nary musical event over four nights. The only site of its kind in Australia. Located Queensland production features the latest on private farm property, Kilsby Sinkhole is technology resulting in the world’s first fully also home to the Sinkhole Gin, produced digital Ring Cycle. from crystal clear limestone-filtered water and local native botanicals. Scout Bar Sydney London’s best bar, helmed by Europe’s best Peninsula Hot Springs’ new pools mixologist 2019 Matt Whiley, has opened a Victoria’s first geothermal mineral springs new sister location in Sydney’s trendy Surry and day spa’s A$10 million expansion Hills neighbourhood. Scout bar from Hack- Photo by Jessie Cripps offers seven new hot springs pools; an ney’s Sydney locale is in the basement of amphitheatre; a 1.2-hectare food bowl The Dolphin Hotel, offering a drink menu that grows organic produce for onsite that features 10 original cocktails that dining; two new saunas; an ice cave; and incorporate a range of Australian native a cold room with falling snow. Located 90 ingredients and bespoke Whiley beverages. minutes from Melbourne on the Morning- These are offered alongside more familiar ton Peninsula. drinks like espresso martinis or vodka and Choose one of eight causes, such as the soda, all offered with a Scout twist. Good Shepherd Agricultural Mission in Ring Cycle Opera India, where one night’s stay contributes Opera Australia will stage an ambitious Change Overnight Hotel to nutritious breakfasts for the children world-first, fully digital production of Guests can support a cause and stay the of the orphanage. For guests passionate Wagner’s epic Ring Cycle at the Queens- night simultaneously at this accommo- about the environment, a one night’s stay land Performing Arts Centre in November dation. Change Overnight is an 18-room can protect approximately 10m2 of land 2020. Known simply as the Ring, Richard apartment-style modern hotel built upon a in Tasmania through the Tasmanian Land Wagner’s Der Ring des Nibelungen is rec- social enterprise concept in Launceston. Conservancy.

THE EXPERT RECOMMENDS INSPIRATION: BUSH ROMANCE

Where: Australia Whether it is a proposal, honeymoon, babymoon or special anniversary, Australia specialises in combining Must eat: Matilda in Melbourne for all manner of luxury with going bush for a romantic holiday. titillating smoky tastes for your buds, and Mary’s You can stay in a luxe tent atop rust-red sand dunes Underground in the Sydney CBD because it is all with views of Uluru, for example, cosy up in frosty the rage. conditions surrounded by snow-capped peaks in Tasmania, or go paddling in a canoe with a thermos of Must See: Orcas in their natural habitat at Bremer hot chocolate. Bay in Western Australia, and Bruny Island in Tas- Otherwise, go completely off grid and sleep under Catherine Cardinet mania to eat and trek to your heart’s content. Melbourne-based the stars on an isolated beach in Ningaloo Reef, with executive tour guide Must Stay: QT Melbourne to experience Melbourne options to explore sand dunes; snorkel the coral reef; at its best, and Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge in or head out by private boat to dive with resident whale Western Australia to get away from it all. sharks and passing humpback whales. 6 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Hong Kong by Prudence Lui

ong Kong’s visitorship in the forward bookings from September first eight months of 2019 24 until December 30 are 58.2 Hrecorded a year-on-year per cent behind the same period Ongoing turmoil in Hong Kong has growth of four per cent, reaching last year, according to a study by sent the city’s once thriving tourism 43.7 million tourists, according to ForwardKeys. industry into a tailspin the Hong Kong Tourism Board. The political storm also put As a popular port-of-call for off some event organisers. The leisure cruises in Asia, Hong Kong Global Wellness Summit moved to welcomed 450,000 cruise pas- Singapore, while the HSMAI Hotel senger between January and June Revenue Optimization Conference 2019, up 1.3 per cent year-on-year. 2019 chose to skip its gathering in Hong Kong also saw growth in November. Hong Kong Cyclothon business event arrivals in 1H2019 and Wine & Dine Festival were also – 4.2 per cent year-on-year to a cancelled. Waning confidence in million visitors. the marketplace prompted local However, as Hong Kong’s anti- industry players, such as the Hong government protests extended be- Kong Exhibition & Convention In- yond June and witnessed violence dustry Association, to issue state- between protestors and the police, ments to reassure organisers that tourism numbers started to plunge. most exhibitions have remained. The number of mainland Chi- Growth recorded in the first half nese visitors bound for Hong Kong of 2019 may be offset if political by air nosedived 53.3 per cent from unrest continues until the end of July 1 until September 23, and this year.

7 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

THREE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 More promotion muscle 2 Warmer welcome for more 3 Cathay Pacific gets stronger The Hong Kong government has allocated A visa exemption pilot scheme for Cathay Pacific’s acquisition of low-cost an additional sum of around HK$353 million Myanmar nationals was extended for carrier Hong Kong Express Airways has (US$45 million) to help the Hong Kong another year until September 30, 2020, given it control over three out of four Hong Tourism Board enhance its destination while citizens of Panama and Armenia Kong-based airlines. Its other wholly- promotion. Various initiatives will be rolled now enjoy visa-free stay in Hong Kong owned subsidiary is Cathay Dragon. Indus- out, such as a funding boost for the Travel for up to 30 days. The move is expected try players expressed concerns over pos- Industry Council of Hong Kong to develop to open up new markets for Hong sible fare increment due to the company’s more thematic tourism products. Kong’s tourism industry. monopoly of air services in the region.

WHAT’S NEW

Avenue of Stars Regarded as one of Hong Kong’s hottest tourist spots, the Avenue of Stars (AoS) reopened in January 2019 after a three- year renovation. It connects Tsim Sha Tsui East, Victoria Dockside and the arts and culture cluster in the western water- front. With the return of the AoS, the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade is now vibrant again.

Xiqu Centre Xiqu Centre is the first performing arts venue by the West Kowloon Cultural From left: Xiqu Centre; K11 MUSEA District Authority. The building houses a Grand Theatre with 1,073 seats, a Tea expands the Iron Man Experience, which and facilitate a broader discussion on the House Theatre with 200 seats, eight pro- has been consistently rated as HKDL’s interconnectedness of creativity, culture fessional studios, and a seminar hall. most popular attraction since its opening and innovation’. in 2017. Ant-Man and The Wasp: Sai Kung jet boat tour Nano Battle! K11 MUSEA Led by Geopark guides who are certified Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL)’s Created to bring cultural, arts and retail by EcoGuide Board, the three-hour jet boat newest Marvel attraction opened in March together under one roof, the new K11 tour takes visitors into Hong Kong’s nature 2019, and is the world’s first to feature MUSEA on the Victoria Dockside in Tsim in Sai Kung. Departures on the 16-seat Ant-Man and The Wasp, as well as a Sha Tsui claims to be the ‘silicon valley of Ecojet boat are at 09.30 and 13.30 every female superhero as the lead character. It culture that will inspire global millennials, Tuesday and Thursday.

OUTLOOK

Wing Wong Michael Wu Charles Ng Managing director, Managing director, Managing director, W Travel Gray Line Tours Sincere International Travel Service “The recent implementation of an “I am not optimistic. Hopefully, there “It will be a hard year to rebuild and anti-mask law (during protests) may will be no more social unrest after the maintain business in 2020.” deter protesters and violence. Once District Council election. From there, protests stop, Hong Kong will rebuild (the tourism industry can) start rebuild- herself. I am sure the trade will be co- ing through promotion. We lost 50 per operative and not ask for outrageous cent of visitors, so we’d be grateful to pricing (from suppliers).” recover 25 per cent of it in 1H2020.”

8 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

India by Rohit Kaul

espite an economic slowdown, the tourism Dindustry is one of the fastest growing sectors in India. Major factors driving tourist traffic include various government initiatives, such as liberalisation of e-visa rules, which has made India a preferred destination. International tourist arrivals in India during 2018 stood at 10.6 million as compared to 10 million in 2017, registering a growth of 5.2 per cent. From January to July 2019, a total of 1.5 million visitors arrived on e-tourist visa as compared to 1.3 million from the same period last year. India also hosted a number of international conferences and exhibitions in 2019 including India International Footwear Fair, 22nd India International Security Expo 2019 and India International Trade Fair.

Taj Mahal is a UNESCO-listed site in Agra

FOUR KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 E-visa for private conferences bringing much needed respite to industry drop from the previous e-visa fee of about The Indian government has expanded stakeholders. Likewise, the tax on room US$80 to US$100. the ambit of its e-conference visa to tariffs of less than Rs7,500 was slashed allow the facility to be used for attending from 18 per cent to 12 per cent. 4 Iconic sites private conferences too. Before, e-visa MOT has earmarked 17 sites in for conferences only covered events 3 Flexible e-tourist visa regime 12 clusters across the country for organised by the government or public India’s Ministry of Tourism (MOT) has development as iconic tourism sites, sector undertakings. Indian MICE players introduced a new e-visa fee structure including Taj Mahal & Fatehpur Sikri (Uttar had demanded this for a long time. for over 160 countries based on peak Pradesh), Ajanta & Ellora (Maharashtra), and lean tourist seasons. Under the new Humayun’s Tomb, Red Fort & Qutub 2 GST rate cut on hotel tariffs regime, the e-visa fee with a validity of 30 Minar (Delhi), Colva (Goa), Amer Fort India’s GST Council has cut tax on days is US$25 during the peak season of (Rajasthan), Somnath & Dholavira room tariffs of Rs7,500 (US$105) and July to March, and US$10 during the lean (Gujarat), Hampi (Karnataka), and above from 28 per cent to 18 per cent, period of April to June. This is a steep Kumarakom (Kerala), among others.

WHAT’S NEW Panambi Resort & Spa Tadoba forest, which is home to the F&B outlets, a spa, fitness studio and yoga Nestled inside the Rajaji National Park, highest number of tigers and cubs in deck, and a 3,251m² event space with the 35-key Panambi Resort & Spa offers central India, making it an ideal getaway access to an outdoor foyer and deck area. a slice of serenity to guests. The property for nature and wildlife lovers. The 36-key has a swimming pool with a small kid- resort features two restaurants, a bar, friendly pool, kids’ play area, a 24-hour swimming pool and a 212m² conference restaurant, and a spa. River Ganges is a hall that can house up to 300 people. short stroll from the resort. Guests can also indulge in nature walks or take yoga The Ritz-Carlton, Pune classes amid lush greenery. Situated in the heart of downtown Pune and right across the Poona Club WelcomHeritage Tadoba Vanya Golf Course, this luxury hotel is ideal Villas Resort & Spa for travellers seeking to soak in the Spread across 65 acres, this property sights and unique experiences of this sits on its own private lake. Notably, it dynamic metropolis. The hotel offers is located within a 1.5km radius of the 198 guestrooms and 35 suites, five The Ritz-Carlton, Pune 9 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Indonesia by Tiara Maharani

series of natural disasters Travel trade members wel- that pummelled Indonesia in comed the move and expressed A 2018 had forced the govern- renewed optimism that Indonesian Jakarta is the centre of economics, ment to revise its international tourism can be further developed culture and politics of Indonesia arrivals target in 2019 from 20 and its quality improved. million to 18 million. Meanwhile, overall business As the destination went on confidence rebounded in the sec- recovery mode, its people readied ond half of 2019. for the national and presidential Latest data from Statistics In- election in April. As with most elec- donesia showed that the number of tions, corporate activities slowed in international arrivals to Indonesia the preceding months, as business in the January-August 2019 period people held their breath as they reached 10.9 million. Malaysia waited to see how the next new leads as the biggest contributor of government would impact their footfalls, with 2.1 million visitors business plans. That resulted in (up 19.4 per cent). reduced business meetings and China came in second with 1.4 events. million (up 13.2 per cent), followed The elections presented In- by Singapore with 11.2 million vis- donesian tourism with new hope. its (up 11.5 per cent), and Australia Acknowledging the growing sig- with 876,800 visits (up eight per nificance of the creative economy cent). in tourism, president Joko Widodo Although arrivals showed renamed the Ministry of Tourism to positive growth in the last three the Ministry of Tourism and Crea- months, Indonesian tourism tive Economy, and placed Wish- stakeholders say they need to nutama Kusubandio at its helm, work much harder to achieve their replacing Arief Yahya. targets for the year.

10 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

FIVE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 More business events to seaports and airports. region; West Java for the central region; For the next five years, the Indonesian The relocation is expected to cost a hefty West Nusa Tenggara for the eastern government will be focusing on achiev- 466 trillion rupiah (US$33 billion), but the region. ing revenue targets rather than visitor tourism industry is excited over the pros- The MKK has four phases, namely the numbers. To achieve this, inbound pect of new star-rated hotels and meeting Preparedness and Mitigation Phase, the business events will be at the core of facilities emerging across East Kalimantan. Emergency Response Phase, the Recovery Indonesia’s tourism development plans. They believe these facilities will boost the Phase, and the Normalisation Phase. Its The development of business events will destination’s tourism standing. application aims to prevent and overcome fall under the coordination of the Ministry Meanwhile, president Joko Widodo tourism crisis that could hurt the country’s of Tourism. As part of the strategy, the has reassured his people that Jakarta will image as a tourism destination and lead to ministry will be working with associations remain the country’s centre of business. a fall in arrival numbers. to bid for events. Horwath HTL recently projected that based on the city’s 2018 performance and the 2 Yogyakarta gets a new airport fact that government events are an impor- Yogyakarta International Airport, which tant market for Jakarta hotels, the hotel has been partially opened since May 2019, industry in the current capital city faces a is due for full completion in mid-2020. By potential loss of 1.4 trillion rupiah (US$100 then, it will accommodate 20 million pas- million) annually. sengers each year and be equipped with a 3,250m long by 45m wide runway capable 4 New tourism destinations to serving wide-bodied commercial air- The Indonesian government is accelerat- craft. The new facility is expected to solve ing the development of the tourism sector Yogyakarta’s accessibility issue. in five priority destinations – Mandalika, The destination’s current Adi Sutjipto Labuan Bajo, Borobudur, Lake Toba and Li- International Airport has capacity for 1.8 kupang. These destinations, part of the ‘10 million passengers a year but had to serve New Bali’ project, are expected to develop 8.8 million passengers in 2018. their infrastructure by 2020. The govern- ment has budgeted 9.4 trillion rupiah for 3 A new capital them. Private sector projects are expected Indonesia’s plan to move her capital city to start developing from next year. to East Kalimantan by 2024 is just the beginning of one of the most ambitious 5 Better crisis management infrastructure ventures in the country’s The Ministry of Tourism has designated history. The new capital will be on a three regions to pilot the Tourism Crisis 180,000-hectare plot of land, and will drive Management (MKK) project. They are Riau From top: Lake Toba; Yogyakarta International urban development and improved access Islands, which represents the western Airport

OUTLOOK

I Ketut Ardana Jongki Adiyasa Budianto Ardiansyah Managing director, Executive director, Managing director, Bali Sunshine Tours Ina Leisure Indonesia Duta Leisure Indonesia Specialist Tours & Travel “Indonesia’s tourism prospects for “In 2019, it was widely discussed 2020 are still good. President Joko “If political issues in the country are not that the focus of the government in Widodo has stated a commitment addressed, I’m afraid the dark clouds 2020-2024 will no longer be about the to make tourism the leading sector will still overshadow Indonesian tour- (number) of visits but tourist qual- for foreign exchange earners. With ism, made worse by the weakening ity instead. As such, I have positive government commitment, tourism global economic situation. hopes for 2020.” infrastructure and facilities can be On the bright side, we can expect improved. Moreover, the Ministry more arrivals from South-east Asia and of Tourism is actively working to im- cruise ships. The quality of tourists prove the quality of human resources from China will improve with the in several destinations. I believe removal of zero-dollar tours.” these will further stimulate tourism.”

11 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

WHAT’S NEW

Café del Mar Bali Ibiza’s iconic lifestyle brand Café del Mar made its South-east Asia debut by opening its latest beach club in Canggu, Bali. This two-storey club by the beach features several bars, a 1,000m2 infinity pool, private VIP cabanas, a premium res- taurant and world-class staging for large, outdoor music events. Café del Mar Bali has also fused touches of Mediterranean architecture from the original Café del Mar in Ibiza with modern Balinese nuances. Deluxe, Duplex, Beach Front and Hillside, each with its own pool and sundeck. Hakkasan Jakarta Situated on the island’s main tourist Hakkasan Group, which runs several strip Jalan Senggigi, the all-villa resort Michelin-starred restaurants, opened its boasts stunning views of the Lombok first South-east Asia outlet in Jakarta’s Strait, Mount Agung and the three Gilis. Sudirman Central Business District The resort is mere minutes away by (SCBD). Located on the 25th and 26th floor boat from popular snorkelling spots. of the Alila SCBD hotel, Hakkasan Jakarta offers a panoramic view of the city skyline. The Apurva Kempinski Bali From top: The Apurva Kempinski Bali; Serving signature Cantonese dishes, Hak- The Apurva Kempinski Bali opened Hakkasan Jakarta kasan Jakarta is open for both lunch and in Bali with 475 rooms. Set amid the dinner, with the bar opening at lunchtime cliffs and beaches of southern Bali, InterContinental Jakarta Pondok Indah and remain so till late. Menu highlights this five-star resort has six signature InterContinental Jakarta Pondok Indah include black swan puff with musang king restaurants, a cigar and shisha Lounge, opens with 311 guestrooms and suites. durian and steamed grouper with kaffir an ocean-facing spa and fitness centre, Nestled in the buzzing intersection of sambal sauce. a 60-metre swimming pool, kids pool, Pondok Indah, the property offers unrivaled and a family club. For business events amenities, including an all-day restaurant The Kayana Beach Lombok and weddings, The Apurva Kempinski Sugar & Spice, swimming pool and kids play- A boutique villa under Santika Indonesia Bali offers a 1,076m2 pillar-free and ground area, fitness and movement Studio Hotels & Resorts’ The Royal Collection ocean-view grand ballroom, meeting and the Aqua Lounge for those looking to category, The Kayana Beach Lombok rooms, The Apurva beachfront wedding indulge in cocktails by the pool. For special opened its doors in August. The property chapels, and 2,200m2 ocean-front lawn events and other functions, the hotel offers comprises 32 one-bedroom private villas. for exceptional outdoor gatherings and The Grand Ballroom – a venue that accom- Guests can choose from four villa types – events. modates up to 3,500 people.

THE EXPERT RECOMMENDS INSPIRATION: FAMILY FUN Where: Banyuwangi Join the locals and hop on Jakarta’s new MRT, rapid transit system. Must eat: Rujak Soto, one of Banyu- First stop, Karinda Garden, which is near Lebak Bulus station. There, wangi’s unique culinary creations, is a learn how locals turn waste into compost. combination of cingur (cow lips) salad Next, head north towards Bundaran HI and get off at Fatmawati and yellow gravy soup with a savoury, station for the Basoeki Abdullah Museum, where sculptures, masks, fresh, sweet and spicy taste. puppets, weapons and paintings are exhibited. At Senayan station, stroll through Bung Karno City Forest or check Must see: Mount Ijen, East Java’s active out ongoing exhibitions at the Jakarta Convention Centre. Game for Adjie Wahjono volcano that radiates a natural phenom- spicy Indonesian food? Make a beeline for Beautika. Operations manager, enon known as the electric blue flames. End the day with some retail therapy. At Bundaran HI, there are up- Aneka Kartika Tours The beautiful turquoise sulphur lake market shopping malls where many local and international branded and Travel Services that resides in the heart of the volcano labels are sold. Alun-Alun at Grand Indonesia Mall is a great place is the largest acidic lake in the world to snag some upmarket traditional cloths, such as batik and tenun and is formed by a volcanic crater. (handwoven fabrics; pictured). For good bargains, try Thamrin City. Must stay: Dialoog Hotel Banyuwangi is a stylish, modern retreat for relaxation, romance and adventure in East Java. The tropical oasis has beautiful archi- tecture that overlooks the ocean. Catch the sunrise from the infinity swimming pool.

12 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Japan by Pamela Chow

apan is well on its way to- funding currently undecided. wards meeting its 2020 goal The country’s MICE sector has Jof 40 million international seen a leap in visitorship from India Himeji Castle during the spring visitors, with 2019 expected to and Vietnam at 153 per cent and season is one of Japan’s premier surpass 35 million arrivals. 493 per cent respectively, owing to cherry blossom viewing spots Of these, Asia continues to JNTO’s new offices in these mar- dominate Japan’s inbound traffic, kets. In 2018, China claimed the with 85 per cent coming from top spot, while Singapore climbed China, South Korea and Taiwan. from being unranked to being the Repeat travellers comprise 60 per fourth largest MICE market. cent of all incoming traffic, and 80 Smaller destinations outside of per cent of these come from Asian Japan’s main cities have also taken countries. promotions into their own hands Earlier in July this year, Japan to attract corporate traffic. Kobe National Tourism Organization City, for instance, launched its After (JNTO) and Singapore Airlines MICE programme in August, which (SIA) signed a Memorandum of encourages groups to experience Cooperation (MOC) to further pro- the city through 20 shortlisted mote travel and tourism to Japan activities in a guidebook. from five key markets of Singapore, Recently in September, Japan Australia, India, Indonesia and Convention Bureau, part ofJNTO, Malaysia. launched a #LetsMeetInJapan As part of the partnership, social media campaign to bring JNTO and SIA has jointly fam trips attention to the variety of business and marketing activities. The two- events that can be held through- year agreement has been pegged out the country through the lens at ¥48 million (US$445,536) for the of event planners, attendees and first year, with the second year of trade media.

13 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

FIVE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 First cruise terminal underway The port of Sasebo in Nagasaki Prefec- ture will be the site of Japan’s first cruise terminal. To be operated by Carnival Corporation, the terminal is expected to open in summer 2020, and is expected to support the country’s growing popularity as a cruise destination.

2 Tourism scores thanks to mega sporting event The Rugby World Cup has fuelled a The New National Stadium (pictured) is currently under construction in Kasumigaoka. It will serve tourism boom for Japan. According as the main stadium for the opening and closing ceremonies to ForwardKeys, competing nations registered a YOY 38.1 per cent jump in Comfort hotels are set to open over the is supporting barrier-free mindset educa- flight bookings to Japan during the period next three years in large cities such as tion to aid staff in the tourism sector. from September 12 to November 6, Kyoto, Matsuyama and Nagoya. which covers the dates of and around the 5 Spreading the tourism load tournament. 4 Japan removes barriers While the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralym- Japan is ramping up its accessibil- pic Games may spike international arrivals 3 Choice makes Japan its choice ity efforts to better cater to a growing for Japan next May, it may also create a US-based Choice Hotels International number of overseas and domestic visitors crowding-out effect deterring tourists from expects to open more than 30 new with mobility issues. To date, 93 per cent visiting during the month and beyond. Comfort hotels in the market by 2033, of Tokyo’s subway stations and 1,000 JNTO will roll out a number of measures to potentially raising the profile of Japan in taxis are wheelchair accessible. In soft combat this, including promoting outlying the US market. The first seven of the new infrastructure, the Japan Tourism Agency regions around the country.

WHAT’S NEW OUTLOOK

Michinori Yamasaki Executive vice president, Japan National Tourism The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, is the brand’s first Japanese resort in a UNESCO World Heritage site Organisation

An illustrative journey residence for the past 50 years, and group “With major events happening in Half an hour from downtown Osaka is bookings can now be made on Airbnb for Japan such as the Rugby World Cup the artsy town of Izumi, which recently all seven rooms in the building. 2019, the Olympic and Paralympic unveiled its self-guided walking tour, Art Games next year and the World Gush. The route winds through the nu- Ritz-Carlton goes to Nikko Expo 2025, JNTO is utilising these merous murals and sculptures in the city. The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, will be located opportunities to further spread the along the East end of Lake Chuzenji and charms of Japan overseas. JNTO A kabuki makeover experience South of Mount Nantai Plans. Plans for is now expanding our worldwide New Japan Travel Planner has launched the hotel include 94 guestrooms and offices, and we have begun to estab- a Kabuki makeover experience under suites, each providing a view of either lish new offices in Guangzhou, Dubai its Tajima offerings. It is Japan’s only Lake Chuzenji or Mount Nantai. Dining and Mexico City. We are planning to such experience, and the tour brings options are expected to include an all-day further expand to other destinations participants to Kansai’s oldest play house dining restaurant, a lobby lounge and bar, in the near future.” located in Izushi, where guests will be as well as a Western restaurant. The hotel dressed by professionals into kabuki will also feature facilities such as a spa actors. This is an experience that even with treatment rooms, and an onsen. Japanese people cannot easily access. do’s largest Ainu settlement. Created by Spotlight on Japan’s indigenous Canada-based multimedia entertainment Kagawa opens castle for stays Akan Adventure Tourism has opened company Moment Factory, the show uses This year, private castle Anabuki Tei has Kamuy Lumina, an outdoor multimedia technology to transform the woodland opened its doors to visitors as a guest- night experience inspired by an Ainu landscape by displaying nature and Ainu house. The castle had served as a private legend in Akan, an area home to Hokkai- culture in light and sound. 14 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Malaysia by S Puvaneswary

alaysia’s tourism per- To this end, the Malaysia formance in 2019 is an Convention & Exhibition Bureau Mimprovement over 2018. (MyCEB) has targeted new incen- Georgetown peeks out in the The destination recorded RM41.7 tive travel markets such as Viet- background; view from Penang Hill billion (US$1 billion) in tourist nam, Taiwan and Indonesia, while at dawn receipts for 1H2019, a 6.8 per cent retaining marketing commitments growth over the corresponding in traditional source markets of period in 2018. China, India and South Korea. The country also welcomed On September 1, the Malaysian some 13.35 million international government introduced an air tourists from January to June this departure tax ranging from RM8 to year, up 4.9 per cent over the first RM150, with the amount varying half of 2018. Shorthaul, medium- according to the destination and haul and longhaul markets all flight class. Local tourism trade registered growth at 4.7 per cent, players argued that the tax would 7.2 per cent and 1.8 per cent re- affect the competitiveness of spectively year-on-year. Malaysia. On the business events front, On October 1, the government destination promotion efforts moved to reduce passenger ser- have intensified to attract more vice charge for international flights Asian gatherings that are aligned from RM73 to RM50 at all airports with the strategic direction of in Malaysia, except the main air the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and hub Kuala Lumpur International Culture Malaysia. Airport.

15 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

FIVE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 Friendlier skies with an estimated total revenue of RM120 To attract more airlines to fly to Malaysia, million to the country. particularly from medium- and long- haul markets, and to encourage existing 3 Improved Middle Eastern capacity airlines to increase their frequency and Air Arabia commenced daily direct flights routes to Malaysia, Tourism Malaysia and between Sharjah and Kuala Lumpur from Malaysia Airports have set up a RM20 July 1 while Qatar Airways launched million (US$4.9 million) fund in January a new route to Langkawi via Penang for new and existing airlines to use for from October 15. These services bring their marketing and promotions of Malay- welcome relief to the local travel trade, as sia. Known as Joint International Tourism seat capacity is often stretched thin, es- Development Programme (JITDP), it is pecially during the super-peak Middle East expected to continue into 2020. Airlines summer season. Qatar Airways had also that have benefited from this programme increased its frequency from four to five include AirAsia, Malindo Air, Air Arabia, Air times weekly to Penang and Langkawi on Busan, Condor Airlines, China Airlines and October 27, bringing even more tourists to Royal Brunei Airlines. the Peninsular’s north.

2 European exposure 4 Funding support As the Official Country Partner of ITB In July, Malaysia’s Ministry of Finance Berlin 2019, Malaysia put on an energetic dished out a RM5 million tourism fund for cultural performance to an audience of the private sector to use in their destina- about 3,000 international trade visitors tion promotions aimed at the domestic and media attending the event’s official and international sectors. The fund is a opening ceremony in March. Becoming matching grant, and seeks to enhance the Official Country Partner was part promotion and marketing efforts by of Tourism Malaysia’s efforts to rebuild the private sector. It is seen as a timely From top: Malaysia tourism community at ITB promotions in Europe while generating support, as the country gears up for Visit Berlin 2019; AirAsia benefits from JITDP further tourist interest from the region. Malaysia 2020, which aims to attract 30 Media exposure alone, as a result of million tourist arrivals. interviews by international media at ITB to promote inbound travel to Malaysia Berlin, is expected to generate an invest- 5 Expedia boost from Australia, Japan and the US. These ment return of RM175 million. In addition, In August, Tourism Malaysia and Expedia markets are the three biggest points Tourism Malaysia also received numer- Group announced a major collaboration of sales for Expedia Group while for ous partnership proposals from German, whereby both parties will work together Malaysia all three markets attracted long- Austrian and Swiss industry partners, on global campaigns in 2019 and 2020 staying and high-spending tourists.

OUTLOOK

KL Tan Patrick Theseira RoseMawaty Adil Embun President, Director, Senior manager, Malaysian Association of Tour & Platinum Charters Myne Travel Travel Agents “Next year will be a good year for “Arrivals to Malaysia is rising and “The tourism industry is expected Malaysia’s inbound tourism because I believe we will see a larger than to perform better in 2020 which Tourism Malaysia and industry players normal increase on the back of Visit coincides with the Visit Malaysia 2020 have ramped up their promotions in Malaysia 2020. The international campaign. The industry can expect conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2020. promotions led by our government attractive air fares, value-adds and This will create more awareness have helped us to stand out from new packages in line with current and excitement around Malaysia, other destinations as we promote our trends, new strategies in promotions which will in turn boost arrivals. Air diverse cultures, heritage and eco- and marketing, and improved air connectivity from the Middle East has tourism products.” connectivity. All these will entice more also improved, which will bring us tourists to visit Malaysia.” more longhaul travellers in 2020.”

16 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

WHAT’S NEW

The Grill skyline, optical illusions in a ‘distorted Le Petit Chef, the world’s smallest chef room’, and a special meal comprising at only 58mm tall, takes centre stage local dishes and drinks. The guided walk at The Grill at TREC Kuala Lumpur starts at 16.00 from The Federal Hotel where he prepares a Tropical Colada Kuala Lumpur and covers a distance of with help from an active volcano and a 2.5km. tropical jungle. A product of advanced 3D projection mapping technology, Le Penampang Village Experience Petit Chef promises a memorable dining Borneo Trails in Sabah offers a half-day experience. The Grill sits up to 60 diners, cultural experience at the Penampang and is open daily from 17.00 to 02.00. Village, hub of the Kadazandusun community in Sabah. Participants will Monopoly Mansion by Sirocco visit the tamu, or local market, where The 290-key Monopoly Mansion by they can purchase local food products Sirocco in Kuala Lumpur will soft open and handicraft, as well as try local this December as the world’s first delicacies such as sago worms and rice Monopoly-themed hotel. Inspired by wine. After a trip to the market with the the popular board game by Hasbro Inc., help of a guide, participants will proceed the property will comprise 14 floors, to Madam Nurhanidah’s Kitchen for a each featuring traits of a particular hands-on cooking class to create typical country that Mr Monopoly, a fictional Borneo dishes such as hivana (pickeled character from the game, has visited. fish salad), lihing chicken (chicken with Event planners rejoice, as the unique local rice wine), and rice cooked with yam From top: IMAGINATRICKS; Monopoly hotel will offer function rooms including and wrapped in a leaf. The Penampang Mansion by Sirocco a junior ballroom for up to 174 people in Village Experience is good for 20 people theatre seating and a grand ballroom for each time. up to 322 people. There are three other IMAGINATRICKS meeting rooms to support breakout The Prestige Hotel Penang A new highlight at Resorts World Genting’s events. This Victorian-inspired hotel stands in Genting International Showroom, Penang’s UNESCO Heritage area, and is IMAGINATRICKS fuses acrobatics, dance Bukit Bintang walking tour within walking distance to the Malaysian and comedy into a loud and thrilling A tour of lively Bukit Bintang road in city’s myriad cultural attractions and performance for all ages. Running from Kuala Lumpur is conducted every gourmet hotspots, making it an attractive now until May 2020, the audience can evening, during which a guide regals location for bleisure travellers. It offers expect an hour-long action-packed treat participants with tales of the city’s 162 guestrooms, an all-day dining outlet, presented by a stellar cast of stuntmen, history and heritage. Highlights include a retail arcade, a gym, event spaces and world champion ice skaters and talented a bird’s-eye view of the Kuala Lumpur a rooftop infinity pool. dancers.

THE EXPERT RECOMMENDS INSPIRATION: ADVENTURE Where: Kuala Lumpur Glamping – a form of luxury camping where guests enjoy direct access to the outdoors without compromising on comfort and Must eat: Nasi lemak – coconut convenience – has taken off in Malaysia. flavoured rice enjoyed with a mix of Canopy Tribes in Nusajaya, Johor, charms glamping fans simple dishes such as small fried with cosy cotton bell tents that bring to mind images of Arabian anchovies and sambal hot sauce – is Nights under moonlit skies. loved by all Malaysians. Different ethnic Tiarasa Escapes Glamping Resorts (pictured) in Janda Baik, groups prepare it differently. Have a Pahang – where the rainforest is literally at one’s doorstep – taste of it at a PappaRich restaurant, features 20 safari-style tented villas and treetop villas. Attached Sasha Aru which is present in major cities, or at a bathrooms, hot showers, deep-soaking bathtubs, air-conditioning Director, Fratres local coffeeshop. Events & Tours and free Wi-Fi will keep modern travellers happy. It is also easily Must see: The Petronas Twin Towers accessible, being just 30 minutes by car from Kuala Lumpur. which is the pride of Malaysia. The buildings are linked at the 41st and 42nd floors by a skybridge which is open to the public at selected hours. It gives visitors an amazing bird’s-eye view of the city and surroundings. Must stay: The RuMa Hotel and Residences is a new luxury hotel that blends the city’s tin mining and colonial past with modern comforts and Malaysian hospitality. 17 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Maldives by Feizal Samath

n aggressive US$7 million Meanwhile, there are delays in destination marketing cam- the expansion of the destination’s Apaign in 2019, up from US$2 Velana International Airport to ac- The Maldives is still a relatively million in previous years, has been commodate 7.5 million passengers popular holiday destination instrumental in a spike in tourism annually by 2022. arrivals to the Maldives. The airport expansion, a Tourism data for 1H2019 US$800 million project, will see the revealed the highest-ever growth in construction of a brand-new run- tourist arrivals – by 19 per cent – way, a new passenger terminal, a over the past five years. In particu- seaplane terminal, as well as other lar, arrivals from India showed the support facilities. most significant increase – almost While the new runway was 100 per cent in the January to July completed in September 2018, period. it cannot be used as the old sea- The destination expects to plane terminal, near the same land, welcome 1.6 million tourists by the has to be moved first. Hence, the end of 2019, up from 1.4 million in new passenger terminal will not be 2018. ready until 2022. A flurry of new resort openings The country is aiming to wel- in the Maldives reflects contin- come 2.5 million arrivals in 2022- ued industry confidence but also 2023, largely dependent on the heralds a price war. The destina- completion of the airport expan- tion’s room inventory has bulged sion. The current airport can only to 47,250 by July 2019, up from handle two to three million pas- 42,960 by end-December 2018. sengers annually, and its runways Heavy discounts on rooms are are congested. Planes have had to seen being offered to the main- circle the airport until the runway is stream segment. clear for landing.

18 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

THREE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 First integrated resort opens The Maldives welcomed her first integrat- ed resort when phase one of Crossroads Maldives was completed in September 2019. Owned by Thai developer Singha Estate, Crossroads encompasses nine islands fringing the Emboodhoo Lagoon in the South Male Atoll. Three of the islands form phase one of the project, which contains SAii Lagoon Maldives, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and The Marina @ Crossroads, a lifestyle area and beach walk with retail, entertainment and dining outlets. Crossroads Maldives

2 Greater tourist safety measures incident-prone islands. The first phase of fires at three resorts has prompted the A tourist scout programme has been the project will introduce 50 lifeguards in government in mid-2019 to review safety initiated to ensure the safety of holiday- 19 islands. Tourist scouts will eventually standards and inspect resorts, hotels and makers in the Maldives, with enlistment of be deployed across the destination. guesthouse across the Maldives. Several tourist scouts to begin in January 2020. overseas tour operators, such as TUI and Under the programme, water safety- 3 Eyes on resort safety standards Kuoni, have also started to conduct their trained lifeguards will be dispatched to A spate of tourist drowning incidents and own health and safety audits of resorts.

WHAT’S NEW

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives Nautilus Maldives Hotels of the World, welcomed its first Hard Rock Hotel Maldives opened in The Nautilus Maldives is an exclusive resort guests in August 2019. Surrounded by September 2019, as part of the Cross- of 26 beach and ocean houses on a private 1.5km of soft white sand and enjoying roads Maldives integrated resort. The island in the heart of the Baa Atoll UNESCO complete privacy on a 20-hectare private 178-key tropical hotel infuses Maldivian Biosphere Reserve. A modern bohemian island, guests are accommodated in an culture into its design, and shows off au- vibe prevails at the resort, where guests environment constructed out of natural thentic music memorabilia belonging to are not restricted by rules, dress codes, set materials such as bamboo, stones and international superstars like Shakira and restaurant hours and fixed menus. Langhi Langhi leaves. Justin Timberlake, alongside regional sensations like Asanee Chotikul. The Standard Huruvalhi Maldives Baglioni Resort Maldives The former Carpe Diem Beach Resort and Touted as the first Italian luxury resort in InterContinental Maldives Spa has been renamed The Standard Hu- the heart of the Indian Ocean, the new Maamunagau ruvalhi Maldives following its takeover by Baglioni Resort Maldives offers 96 exqui- The luxury resort, located 35 minutes US-based Standard Hotels. Located in Raa site villas surrounded by tropical nature, from Velana International Airport via Atoll Huruvalhi, the property has 115 rooms turquoise waters and velvet-smooth seaplane, boasts 81 villas with their with private pools. Facilities include a spa white sands. A pool bar and three superb own private pool and terrace. Facilities with nine treatment rooms and a commu- restaurants – Gusto Italian restaurant, include six gastronomic concepts nal hammam; an overwater nightclub; and Umami Japanese restaurant, and Taste including The Retreat, an adults-only six F&B offerings. for international cuisine – serve gourmet enclave with a private bar and infinity dishes as well as a kids’ menu. Baglioni pool; a signature AVI Spa with six Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa Resort Maldives sits on the island of overwater treatment villas; and a Planet The all-inclusive Emerald Maldives Resort Maagau in Dhaalu atoll, a 40-minute flight Trekkers Kids Club. & Spa resort, a member of The Leading from Velana International Airport.

From left: InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau; Hard Rock Hotel Maldives

19 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Philippines by Rosa Ocampo

n February 2019, the Philippine rivals, but business event arrivals – Department of Tourism (DoT) re- comprising between 10 and 20 per Ivived its It’s More Fun in the Phil- cent of the total – are catching up. Women of the Ifugao Ethnic ippines campaign and anchored it The healthy arrivals are attrib- Minority going about their day in a on tourism sustainability. uted to the reopening of Boracay rice terrace in Banaue Sporting a new logo that island which was closed for six weaves the unique colours and months for a thorough clean-up, culture of the Philippines as well as influx of mainland Chinese tour- a new font, the refreshed campaign ists, growing awareness about the is 100 per cent crowd-sourced destination, and in the case of busi- using photos and videos shared ness events, greater commitment by tourists. With every photo or to bidding for international events. video shared through the hashtag About 70 per cent of the arriv- #itsmorefuninthePhilippines, als are still Asians, hence the effort US$10 will be donated to the World to diversify source markets through Wildlife Fund. intensified marketing and promo- The DoT is hopeful that the tions in the west while tapping new refreshed campaign will help grow Asian and niche markets. its foreign arrivals by nearly 14 per Along with the refreshed cent to meet its goal of 8.2 million campaign, the Philippine Tour- this year. ism Promotions Board intends to Indications at press time are highlight more tourism assets that that the country will likely meet appeal to niche interest, and part this target. In the first eight months of that will involve opening up new of 2019, the Philippines already destinations. Surfing, diving and welcomed 5.5 million visitors. bird-watching are among the pos- Most of them were leisure ar- sible niches that will be developed.

20 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

FIVE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 Cleaning out overtourism next step is how to earn more foreign tourism; local culture and traditions; Sustainability is the new operative word exchange from this mass market. colonial heritage under Spain, Japan and in Philippine tourism, using Boracay as the US; culinary; wellness; eco-tourism; model. It remains to be seen if nascent 3 Connectivity boom and a lot more. efforts to clean and ward off overtour- Infrastructure facilities are being built ism in other beach destinations like and improved on, an integral part of 5 Lo and behold Iloilo City Bohol, Palawan and Siargao are going making the Philippines’ 7,641 islands Iloilo City in the Visayas is being primed to be successful. become more accessible and connect- as a leisure and MICE destination. An ed to tourists. airport deemed one of the best in the 2 Warm Chinese welcome Philippines, a convention centre, new The Philippines’ open-door policy for 4 Diversified draws hotels, a clean-up drive of the river and mainland Chinese travellers, which Known primarily as a beach destina- the city, strict preservation of heritage has become its second biggest source tion, the Philippines is reinventing itself buildings, and new-builds that help market within just several years, is lifting by diversifying its showcase to include retain old-world charms are among the up foreign arrivals to new highs. The underrated attractions: farm and agro- destination’s strengths.

From left: Virgin Mary Statue in Boracay; Cebu’s Fort San Pedro, a military defense structure built by the Spanish

OUTLOOK

Bernadette de Leon Jojo Clemente JP Cabalza General manager, Amiable Intertours President, Rajah Tours Inbound manager, Corporate International Travel and Tours “The Philippines is beautiful and of- “The Asian source market has slack- fers vast tourism opportunities. Pros- ened a little but interest remains. We “Inbound looks rosy and promising in pects in 2020 depends on how the have been seeing interest from coun- 2020. We should be able to keep the Department of Tourism will market tries like Vietnam and Myanmar. It’s a growth momentum as the destina- the Philippines. We should look into matter of getting them to eventually tion creates more awareness in other lesser-known islands like San come over. I’m sure we will be able to existing and new source markets. We Joaquin off Bicol, and San Vicente in make headway in tapping other mar- are improving the tourism infrastruc- Palawan, etc. to prevent overtourism kets that we haven’t been into before, ture and new ones are forthcoming. and overpricing in the more estab- like Latin America. The Philippines is We have more attractions and new lished beach destinations in Boracay, primarily a beach destination but play- destinations on offer.” Bohol and Palawan.” ing up other attractions and a little bit of product differentiation will help.”

21 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

WHAT’S NEW

Lio Tourism Estate the number in other Sedas. There are This eco-friendly destination in El Nido, two restaurants, a roof deck bar, a 700m2 Palawan has attractions for varied travel- pillar-less grand ballroom, five function lers. A number of resorts are offered, rooms, separate swimming pools for each catering to a specific segment, adults and children, a fitness centre, a such as couples, youthful and carefree spa and an lounge with iMac stations for travellers, and corporate groups. Besides guests to use. having its own airport terminal and jetty lounge, Lio Tourism Estate also boasts National Museum of Natural History artisanal shops and sustainable activities The new National Museum of Natural that are a first in the Philippines. History is proving to be an exciting venue for business events. The renovated coloni- Ascent al building has a soaring ceiling spanning Ride-sharing helicopter service Ascent is several storeys that offer a natural acous- offering travellers an alternative trans- tic for musical and other performances, portation mode to beat metro Manila’s while the atrium wrapped around the Tree notorious traffic jam. Helicopter rides of Life sculpture adds an extra dash of can be booked online for flights between novelty to meetings and conferences. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) museum’s spacious grounds are ideal for and Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Makati, al fresco cocktails. Tagaytay and Clark. It reduces travel time from NAIA to Manila to just 10 minutes Anthony Bourdain’s Food Trail for only 8,900 pesos (US$171) per pax. A product of Blue Horizons Travel and Also available are airport transfers via Tours, this tour takes corporate groups helicopter, shuttle service to specific on the famed food critic’s culinary journey heliports, and corporate packages. to Pampanga, the country’s culinary capital. The tour tackles the syncretistic Seda Vertis North, Manila food culture from past colonisers and Seda Vertis North is the only hotel in other influences that were adapted to Vertis North shopping mall in Quezon local ingredients and palate. A side trip to City, a burgeoning business district with the province’s main tourist attractions is varied entertainment, dining and retail thrown in for a bit of culture. options. Departing from the boutique scale of the six older Seda hotels, Seda From top: Seda Vertis North, Manila; National Vertis North’s 438 keys is nearly double Museum of Natural History

THE EXPERT RECOMMENDS INSPIRATION: SPORTS TOURISM Where: Palawan While the Philippines is best known for its fine beaches, it is also Must eat: Tagbanua indigenous becoming known for sports tourism. people’s cuisine based on seafood Marine sports tourism abound, with the country hosting sev- and seaweed. Add to that is the eral annual international sports festivals like dragon boat festival national delicacy called turon, and beach volleyball tournament in Boracay, sailing regatta in banana with a dash of ripe jackfruit Puerto Galera, surfing in Siargao, diving, parasailing, wakeboard- wrapped in rice wafer and fried in ing in various parts of the islands. honey or sugar. The Ironman triathlon is now a yearly event in various parts of Greg Hutchinson the country. Several topnotch golf courses in Manila are becom- Founder, Tribal Must see: Sea cow or dugong ing known to foreign golfers. For adrenaline junkies, go mountain Adventures in their natural habitat in north- climbing in Mount Pulag (pictured), Mount Apo and other moun- ern Busuanga’s Dugong Bay. It’s tains and volcanoes; off-road motorcycling in Rizal and Subic; home to more than 30 dugons, the spelunking in Rizal, Cagayan and Sagada. largest family of sea cows in the Philippines. Snorkel or paddle a sea kayak for a closer look of these sea mammals. Must stay: Camping in a deserted white beach with a chef to prepare your meal and amenities for daily ablutions. The heavenly stars and awed silence at night as well as the spectacular morning view are as close to nature as one gets in this once-in-a lifetime experience. 22 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Singapore by Pamela Chow

nbound tourism continues to numbers up, Singapore Tourism climb for Singapore, when in Board (STB) has signed a number I1H2019, International Visitor Ar- of partnerships. Singapore’s Changi Airport is an rivals (IVA) increased 1.3 per cent For instance, Singapore- and instantly recognisable icon over the same period last year to Dubai-headquartered search reach 9.3 million visitors. engine Wego – which is the largest China (1.8 million), Indonesia online travel marketplace in the (1.5 million), India (0.7 million), Middle East and North Africa – has Malaysia (0.6 million) and Australia teamed up with STB Middle East to (0.5 million) were Singapore’s top drive more GCC travellers to visit five international visitor-generating Singapore during the winter season markets in 2019. These markets STB and Traveloka, South-east accounted for 56 per cent of total Asia’s largest technology company IVA in January to June 2019. in the travel and lifestyle industry, And although tourism receipts have also signed a Memorandum reached S$13.1 billion (US$9.6 of Cooperation (MOC) to promote billion) for 1H2019, it is a decline Singapore as a preferred destina- of three per cent compared to the tion for visitors from five major same period last year. Tourism Southeast Asian markets: Indo- receipts for 2Q2019 was estimated nesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, at S$6.5 billion, a 1.3 per cent Thailand and Vietnam. decline over the same period last Trip.com, an independent year. This was due to lower expen- OTA part of the Ctrip Group, and ditures across some components STB have agreed to deepen their including accommodation, F&B cooperation through multi-pronged and sightseeing, even though shop- efforts which include technology ping and other components grew. and data, exploring product R&D To continue driving tourism and brand marketing.

23 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

FIVE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 Hotel investment sales hit a high a wider market segment, particularly plans, Resorts World Sentosa will expand Singapore has seen a record high in hotel families and visitors with mid-tier its existing hotels in the Central Zone transaction volumes of S$2.5 billion budgets. and introduce a new waterfront lifestyle (US$1.8 billion) for 2019, according complex helmed by two new destination to JLL Hotels & Hospitality. The 3 Marina Bay Sands to get fourth hotels, adding a total of up to 1,100 more research foretells an incoming wave of tower rooms to the integrated resort. refurbishments and reopenings, as well as Marina Bay Sands is pumping S$4.5 a possible rise in average occupancy. billion into plans that include a fourth 5 E-arrival card trial service tower, to be constructed on roughly eight expanded 2 Upcoming infrastructure acres of land beside the current resort. More visitors to Singapore can now In April, it was announced that the Jurong It will feature a suites-only luxury hotel submit electronic arrival cards online up Lake District (JLD) in west Singapore is with some 1,000 keys, a sky roof with a to 14 days before their arrival, as part of set for a major transformation and will swimming pool and a “signature restau- an Immigration and Checkpoints Author- soon welcome an integrated tourism rant”, ballrooms, exhibition halls and F&B ity trial. This service applies to visitors development with attractions, hotels, offerings. arriving via transport operators AirAsia, retail and F&B offerings. On the south Jetstar Asia, Cathay Pacific, Singapore side, Sentosa island will soon welcome a 4 Two more hotels for Resorts Airlines, Transtar Travel, BatamFast host of developments that are expected World Sentosa Ferries, Bintan Resort Ferries, Horizon increase the destination’s appeal to As part of its S$4.5 billion redevelopment Fast Ferry, and Majestic Fast Ferry.

From left: Marina Bay Sands; artist’s impression featuring a bird’s-eye view of the developments on Sentosa and Pulau Brani, under the Sentosa- Brani Master Plan

OUTLOOK

Cyril Constantino Guy Allison Aloysius Arlando Asia-Pacific supplier management Director of procurement, CEO, SingEx Holdings lead, CWT Meetings & Events Tour East Holdings “We believe that Singapore’s outlook “The additional capacity being added “Sentosa’s becoming quite a fam- of business events in 2020 will remain by Far East Hospitality (to Sentosa) ily destination. It’s starting to attract positive and resilient against the wider will be welcomed by meeting and people to stay in Singapore for not just landscape of economic concerns. event planners, as rates have been one or two nights, but three or four With the deceleration of India’s and rising significantly on the island due – maybe even a week. With the new China’s economies, South-east Asia is to limited availability. We expect developments, it might even become a increasingly becoming a destination Village Hotel to generate consider- destination in itself.” for investment by corporates, and able interest, as it will provide a more that bodes well for business events in cost-effective option compared with Singapore. This is as organisers look most of the alternatives (which are) to the country as an attractive MICE high-end luxury properties.” destination with stable economic and geopolitical factors.”

24 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

WHAT’S NEW

Raffles Hotel Singapore After 2.5 years of restoration work, the iconic property has fully reopened with an all-suite concept. There are 115 keys across nine suite categories, from the lead-in State Room Suites to the Presiden- tial Suites. Recreational facilities include the Raffles Spa, 24-hour gym and a rooftop swimming pool. There are 10 F&B concepts, ranging from the well-known Long Bar and its most famous cocktail, the Singapore Sling; to French restaurant La Dame de Pic by Anne-Sophie Pic of three-Michelin-star Maison Pic in Valence. From left: NERF Action Xperience; lyf Funan Singapore Siloso Green Sentosa has welcomed a new waterfront airport. The Canopy Park is a 14,000m2 children aged six and under; while Create lifestyle quarter featuring eateries, shops, space comprising right F&B outlets; allows visitors to use Super Soakers to concert and event spaces, as well as wa- events space Cloud9 Piazza; seven play tie-dye T-shirts and tote bags. terfront accommodation. The 24,500m2 attractions and creative gardens, such Siloso Green comprises bars, food trucks, as the Mirror Maze and Hedge Maze, lyf Funan Singapore innovative business concepts and live Manulife Sky Nets, Discovery Slides, and The Ascott Limited has debuted its music boasting a shipping container the glass-floored Canopy Bridge. millennial-focused brand with lyf Funan theme. Along with a pilot trial of driverless Singapore, housing 412 rooms ranging shuttle buses, the new space is an effort NERF Action Xperience from twin-sharing studios to six-bedroom to extend visitor stay in Sentosa at night. Kingsmen Creatives has launched the apartments for short- and long-term stay. world’s first NERF Action Xperience in These include two unique configurations New attractions at Jewel Changi Marina Square. The arena spans more centred on the coliving concept, featuring Airport than 1,600m2 encompassing four different individual bedrooms and shared living, Jewel Changi Airport has opened the play zones themed after extreme natural kitchen and bathroom spaces. Other Changi Experience Studio and Canopy environments to challenge players of all coliving aspects of the property include Park, elevating the air hub’s transit of- ages. The Compete zone features worlds an expansive lobby of community spaces ferings. The 3,000m2 Changi Experience Zombie City and Camp Dune requiring and meeting rooms, an open gym and a Studio features 10 zones of interactive teamwork and strategy; Conquer offers social kitchen. Guests will also be able to games, projection storytelling, immersive obstacles like rope courses; Challenge has participate in workshops, movie screen- shows and gallery exhibits about the mini zip lines and a NERF dart ball pool for ings and tours.

THE EXPERT RECOMMENDS INSPIRATION: A TECHNICOLOUR CITY Where: Singapore Singapore has its share of strict regulations against graffiti, but Must eat: Fratini La Trattoria is a restau- strikingly beautiful street art can still be found in many corners of rant with an interesting concept: it has the city. Participate in a different kind of art gallery tour with local no menu. Instead, head chef Gabriel has operator Monster Day Tours, which conducts free walking tours a chat with guests on their preferences through the painted alleys of Kampong Glam and Little India. and dietary restrictions, before he whips Free-and-easy visitors can also check out the newly refreshed up an eight-course menu guranteed to Kampong Glam’s Gelam Outdoor Gallery (pictured), or go mural- hunting among the shophouses of Tiong Bahru. Vincent Tan surprise. Founder & manag- Must see: The Marina Bay area – not ing director, Citrus just Gardens By the Bay, but also Marina Events & Commu- Barrage. Using the network of park con- nications nectors, one can cycle or ride a scooter from the Marina Barrage to the National Stadium, and even East Coast Park, within two hours. Must stay: Naumi Hotel along Seah Street is a boutique hotel in the heart of the city. The hotel’s rooms are clean and modern, and it also boasts a rooftop infinity pool with sweeping views of the city skyline.

25 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

South Korea by Karen Yue

outh Korea has enjoyed a year-to-date growth of 16.3 Sper cent in international arrivals between January and Au- gust 2019, based on latest data published by the Korea Tourism Organisation. Double-digit growth in interna- tional arrivals has been reported every month since the start of the year, with April – the country’s popular cherry blossom season – welcoming the highest number of footfalls for the eight-month period and seeing the biggest percentage growth at 1.6 million and 22.8 per cent respectively. East Asia and the Pacific domi- nate arrivals. China, the leading source market for South Korea in August 2019, contributed 578,112 tourists or 36.4 per cent of total arrivals for the month.

Dosanseowon Confucian Academy

THREE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 Busan’s makeover 2 Suwon joins the MICE stage 3 Seoul gets a bigger MICE heart Busan is in the midst of three city The new Suwon Convention Centre (SCC) A 720,000m2 plot of land between Coex developments: the East Busan Tourism is expected to help the city of Suwon – Seoul’s prominent convention and Complex, a luxurious enclave; the North – about 30km south of Seoul – rise to exhibition centre – and Jamsil Sports Port Redevelopment Project which will compete on the global business events Complex is being developed into a single, take in a future waterfront park, pas- stage. SCC houses 28 meeting rooms. massive Coex Center Jamsil which will senger port facilities and commercial Plans are afoot to turn part of the conven- house a new convention centre, hotels, buildings; and a project in the west that tion centre into a complex, which will and shopping and entertainment facilities. has been earmarked to support the city’s eventually have a five-star hotel, entertain- The project is undertaken by the Korea bid for World Expo 2030. ment facilities, and more. International Trade Association (KITA).

WHAT’S NEW

Andaz Seoul Gangnam The new 241-key Andaz Seoul Gangnam fuses traditional local culture and creative modern living to present a chic venue for stays and events. Art is featured promi- nently across the property, will all artworks being creations of artists either from Seoul or with a strong connection to the city. Photo by Museum Dah by Photo Museum DAH From left: Museum DAH in Busan; Andaz Seoul Gangnam This digital art museum in Busan – founded by digital artist col.l.age+ and art Seowon UNESCO World Heritage Site seowon, and Donamseowon. They are an production company Kunst1– opened in Nine seowons, or Neo-Confucian excellent preservation of South Korea’s August 2019 in Busan’s upmarket Centum Academy of the Joseon dynasty, have Neo-Confucianism tradition and illus- City. It utilises LEDs and LCDs to present been designated as cultural heritage sites trate how Neo-Confucianism developed eye-popping high-resolution visual displays by UNESCO in August. They are: Sosu- and was adapted in the country. Diverse across all its surfaces. Artworks draw in- seowon, Namgyeseowon, Oksanseowon, tour programmes and events are being spiration from the art nouveau movement Dosanseowon, Piramseowon, Dodong- planned to attract travellers to these and are given a modern spin. seowon, Byeongsanseowon, Museong- ancient academies. 26 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Sri Lanka by Feizal Samath

ourism in Sri Lanka was shattered in April 2019 when Tsuspected Muslim extrem- ists triggered suicide bombs in three luxury hotels and three churches on Easter Sunday, killing over 250 people including 50 tour- ists. The carnage saw dozens of tourists making a beeline for the first flight home while the former war-wrecked country was hit with hundreds of cancellations in new bookings. Bookings nosedived by 70 per cent in May but since August has seen an uptick with winter arrivals estimated to drop by 30 per cent year-on-year. The long-delayed destination promotion campaign hasn’t been greenlit, adding to the country’s woes. In its absence, a marketing campaign in 12 mar- kets got underway in October.

Nine Arches Bridge in Ella

THREE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 Sri Lanka ends emergency rule like Russia have not fully removed their flights to airports within the country. In August, Sri Lanka lifted a state of travel advisories against Sri Lanka. Three domestic airports at Ratmalana, emergency, which was imposed fol- Batticaloa and Jaffna have also been lowing the Easter Sunday massacres. 2 Open skies for foreign airlines designated as international airports. Tour operators and hoteliers welcomed Sri Lanka will be opening its skies for the move, saying that it would result in foreign carriers to operate domestic 3 Expansion of VoA facility countries lifting their travel ban on Sri flights in the country, to boost Sri Lanka has expanded its visa-on-arriv- Lanka and bring about recovery for the accessibility to tourism hotspots. al scheme to benefit citizens of 45 coun- floundering tourism sector. However, According to the government’s decision tries, including India and China, from tourism officials said that even though on October 1, 2019, cabotage rights August 1, 2019, to woo visitors back as several countries had relaxed travel will be granted to foreign carriers which the country’s tourism industry recovers advisories, they remain as level two and have bilateral air services agreements from the aftermath of the Easter Sunday three travel warnings. Some countries with Sri Lanka to operate domestic bombings.

WHAT’S NEW

Cinnamon’s Bring A Friend Home ment serves up a selection of creative campaign cocktails, sharing dishes and a roster of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts launched its entertainment. This iconic heritage hotel Bring A Friend Home campaign encour- has been touted as one of the best spots aging Sri Lankans to nominate foreign in Colombo to soak in the sunset. The friends to visit the island through an array space also features a large BBQ area for of attractive packages. The campaign is live cooking. aimed at aiding the recovery of the coun- try’s tourism industry in the wake of the Le Grand Galle Easter Sunday bombings. The five-star hotel has opened in the southern, historic coastal city of Galle. King of the Mambo The property offers 50 rooms and seven Latino lounge-restaurant King of the suites; alongside facilities such as a Mambo has opened at the oceanfront gym, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, spa, Galle Face Hotel in Colombo. Decked an all-day dining venue and a speciality King of the Mambo out in 1950-style decor, the establish- seafood restaurant. 27 ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2019/2020

Thailand by Anne Somanas

uoyant predictions of 10 per cent year-on-year growth for B2019’s inbound tourism were scaled back to 9.5 per cent in July, and again in August due to the US-China trade spat and the Thai baht strengthening against other currencies. In total, the first nine months of 2019 saw international tourist arrivals to Thailand rise 3.5 per cent, from 28.5 million last year to 29.5 million this year. This led to a concerted effort by the local government and pri- vate sector to boost tourism in the second half of the year with ame- liorating measures such as the extension of 2,000 baht (US$66) visa-on-arrival fee waivers for nationals of 20 countries, includ- ing China and India — Thailand’s fastest-growing group of visitors.

Wat Benchamabophit, or the Marble Temple, is a major attraction in Bangkok

THREE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1 Eye on sustainable towards marine conservation and marine the tourism and export sectors. Should development debris resolution. the baht break 30 to the dollar in 2020, The Tourism Authority of Thailand experts predict the tourism sector will (TAT), Expedia Group and UNESCO 2 Baht strengthening see fewer inbound tourists and more have come together to pledge Due to the strengthening baht, the Thais travelling abroad. collaborative efforts in sustainable Tourism Council of Thailand has tourism development. The Expedia downgraded the year’s tourism revenue 3 Gearing up for medical tourists Group will support TAT’s strategic projection to 1.9 trillion baht (US$62.9 Hoping to place in the world’s top ten for goals in attracting high-value billion) from 2.1 trillion baht. Although medical tourism and establish the country travellers, promoting emerging the country has no control over external as a wellness hotspot, Thailand may destinations to first-time visitors and factors like the US-China trade spat, it update its visa offerings with a 12-month generating more demand during low remains to be seen if the government Medical Visa which would allow holders season. The agreement also supports and the Bank of Thailand will lower to stay in the country for up to a year for the Thai government’s commitment interest rates to help operators in both the purpose of medical treatment.

WHAT’S NEW

Iconsiam, Bangkok themed art creative space Chang Chui Iconsiam, a mixed-use development on which made Time Magazine’s 2018 list the banks of the Chao Phraya River, has of World’s Greatest Places to Visit, takes become a huge draw for tourists in the the sustainable luxury concept to the next Charoen Nakhon area. Featured within is level with the opening of Na-Oh Bangkok, the River Park riverside community space; a fine-dining experience and unique venue SookSiam, an indoor floating market set inside a refitted decommissioned spotlighting Thai products; a 400m-long Lockheed L-1011 Trista airliner. water, light and sound feature which is said to be the country’s first and longest; New train stations and True Icon Hall, a two-level auditorium Four culturally atmospheric subway sta- that seats up to 2,700 people. tions (Sanam Chai, Wat Mangkon, Sam Yot and Itsaraphap) have opened near Na-Oh Bangkok Bangkok’s Chinatown. They are designed Renowned fashion designer Somchai to be destinations themselves due to Iconsiam Songwatthana, founder of upcycle- beautiful cultural displays. 28 TTG ASIA November 2019

for buyers of premium travel and luxury meetings

The Resource For Buyers Of Premium Travel And inLuxury Asia-Pacific Meetings TTG ASIA November 2019

CALL OF FURTHER AND DEEPER Further East returns for a second edition, bringing with it new luxury travel ideas and THE WILD for buyers of premium travel and luxury meetings hot issues to pay rapt attention to

READY FOR MARRIAGE Thailand is beckoning LGBT+ travellers to get hitched on her shores TWO A CHANGE DRIVER TWO Hiro Miyatake wants to unite Japan’s top-end travel specialists Issues A Year TWICETWICE The Insights DOUBLEDOUBLE The Sensory Experience

ttgasialuxury.com DIGITAL CALL OF FURTHER AND DEEPER Further East returns for a second edition, bringing with it new luxury travel ideas and THE WILD hot issues to pay rapt attention to

READY FOR MARRIAGE Thailand is beckoning LGBT+ travellers to get To advertise, contact [email protected] or +65 6395 7575 hitched on her shores A CHANGE DRIVER Hiro Miyatake wants to unite Japan’s top-end travel specialists Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort

Live Limitless

ACCOR.COM

ACCOR BRAND FRIEZE

BLANC JOB : 19J3103E MASTER : Date : 19/02/19 Scale 1/1 Size : Fabrication :