PPS 1885/02/2017(025627)

No. 1747/June 2017

Towards View from the top Growing an established brand like ITB should be easy, but Messe Berlin’s SVP & a tipping logistics, Martin Buck, never takes anything for granted. He tells Raini Hamdi why during ITB China’s successful debut point? + Booming worldwide has sparked The best hidden a debate if its undoubted benefits are beaches in Asia outweighed by less quantifiable downsides. Xinyi Liang-Pholsena takes stock of the Rising talents in dilemma and sees what needs to be done ASEAN tourism Cambodia’s staffing challenge June 2017 TTG Asia 2 Contents & editorial Want to read us on the go?

Analysis 04

View from the top 08

On the radar 10

Shop 12

Connect 28 13 16 21 24 Report: Beach Destination: Destination: Destination: destinations Hong Kong Cambodia When too much love can hurt

ourism is such a wonderful industry. As a reporter afternoon in Georgetown, we were dismayed by the snak- Tworking in and writing about this industry, I have ing queue outside a particular stall. My uncle assured me had many first-hand opportunities to see how this in- the stall next door was just as good but saw fewer tourists dustry has shaped the lives of many around the world, because it wasn’t propelled to social media fame by blog- whether it’s improving livelihoods, preserving traditions gers and foreign websites. (True enough, he was back in or opening borders and minds alike. the car with eight packs of cendol minutes later.) What can we But if there’s one nagging thought, it’s that I’m one of While overcrowding is not yet a dire issue for Penang’s the 1.8 billion travelling masses who are complicit in en- tourism, the fear that visitors who once kept the local do to travel joying the spoils of tourism and stretching infrastructure traditions and livelihoods alive are also now slowly de- sustainably? to breaking point. stroying them is becoming a valid one. And when that McKinsey & Company’s senior partner Alex Dichter, happens, the soul of a destination will be lost. I’ll adopt my at the recent WTTC Global Summit in Bangkok, drove The challenge – and hard work – thus lies in finding uncle’s home the point when he pointed out that the fault doesn’t the balance. City officials or tourism authorities must not lie in the number of tourists around the world. Rather, blindly chase the economic benefits of tourism without cendol it’s that “tourists come from everywhere but they don’t go proper management plans or guidelines drawn up to mantra – everywhere” (see page 4). manage visitor numbers. Sustainability and responsible When tourism to a destination booms, crowds soar stewardship must be at the forefront of any tourism man- don’t follow and often the crush of visitors disrupts local residents’ agement policy to deliver smart and strategic growth. the crowds. lives – including wildlife. Famous cases in point: Venice What can we do to travel sustainably? I’ll adopt my un- and Machu Picchu. Nearer home, there’s Koh Phi Phi, Be- cle’s cendol mantra – don’t follow the crowds. Also, why ijing’s Forbidden Palace, Angkor Wat and the list goes on. not give popular destinations a break during their high- The downside of tourism boom became more appar- season months and visit during their off-peak periods to ent to me during a recent trip to Penang to visit my ma- disperse visitation more evenly over the year? Share the ternal uncle and his family. In the two decades that I’ve love, spread the money and spare the footfalls. been visiting him, the latest trip was the first time I heard him grousing about tourists in his hometown. Xinyi Liang-Pholsena When we were stuck in traffic behind tourist buses at Gurney Drive, he lamented that the famed seaside prom- Editor, TTG Asia enade had become a tourist trap offering street food at in- [email protected] flated prices. When we craved for cendol on a sweltering www.linkedin.com/in/liangxinyi

COMING UP

TRAVEL INSURANCE What can be done to CRUISES Cruise lines are making more stops protect travel agencies, consumers and the in Asia and are pulling out all the stops to entice industry against rising bankruptcies and scams? potential customers in an emerging market. NEXT ISSUE: Ferrari go-kart racing anyone? JULY AUSTRALIA With China the top source market for Down Under, regional suppliers are getting SOUTH KOREA Not just a port town, Busan 2017 their act together to attract repeat Chinese wants to make its name as a city bursting with visitors to lesser-known parts of the country mountains, beaches, hot springs and seafood Australian outback H_OSALES2733_TTG_Jun2017_FPFC_CT_4.pdf 1 11/5/17 4:04 pm June 2017 TTG Asia 4 Analysis

Silver lining A silver lining in recent years is that more countries are giving recognition to the in- dustry by structuring tourism as a stand- At tipping point alone ministry or appointing cabinet ministers to lead development and tackle related issues, he noted. At the same time, Booming tourism worldwide has sparked a debate if its undoubted benefits guidelines, EIAs (Environment Impact Assessments) and legislation have to be are now outweighed by less quantifiable downsides. Xinyi Liang-Pholsena developed and put in place, he elaborated. takes stock of the dilemma and sees what needs to be done The onus also lies with governments and corporate companies alike to take responsibility for growth and industry de- velopment, said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, citing public- private “partnerships” as an example of a positive tourism driver in areas like new cruise terminal development. While cruise lines have often been por- trayed as villains in the tourism landscape with their ever-growing portfolio of big- ger ships, Duffy insisted that Carnival has been a responsible corporate player by voluntarily bringing a stop to ships ex- ceeding 96,000 tonnes to Venice as it seeks measures to limit tourist numbers. Cruise lines have also played a part in shifting visitor footfalls to diverse as well as lesser-known spots, such as Bari in southern Italy, which are often included together with marquee destinations like Venice on cruise itineraries, she added. This view is also supported by Dichter, who agrees that cruise tourism takes pressure off existing ports and introduce travellers to new destinations. As well, the growing quest for “experiences” among

hkhtt hj/shutterstock travellers, say, through walking food tours organised by small entrepreneurs, will help to spread tourism and wealth from beyond key sites, he added. ’s , also known as the Temple of Sea, encounters a daily surfeit of tourists Beyond talk, more actions an tourism be too much of a What’s heartening for Maria Damanaki, good thing? The answer is yes global managing director, oceans, The Na- if its stakeholders aren’t careful. ture Conservancy, is the greater dialogue A whole session was devoted and emphasis given to sustainable tour- Cto this question at the 17th WTTC Global ism. “Sustainability was not (considered) a Summit in Bangkok in April, which had a challenge in tourism sector events like this strong focus on sustainability. UNWTO (WTTC Global Summit) 10 years ago. It’s has designated 2017 as International Year easy to put the blame on politicians and of for Development. say governments are not doing their job.

In support, WTTC has launched a cam- of WTTC Courtesy of WTTC Courtesy “We – and I mean the private sector and paign, ‘Is it too much to ask?’, urging in- citizens – can do our own part and bring dustry players to think about how they the value of nature inside our thoughts. could transform their business and make I’d challenge the tourism sector to be the a difference. leader and incorporate the value of nature Balancing unprecedented tourism We just wanted ships into your investment plans,” she urged. growth and protecting vulnerable desti- The issue is that tour- Damanki suggests that beachfront ho- nations and valuable tourism goods is an ists come from every- to come in, planes to tels, for example, could do more to protect old debate that has become more pressing. the coral reefs fronting their properties Just look at anti-tourism sentiments in where but they don’t arrive and to be not just for attracting guests with diving Barcelona, or question marks over cruises’ activities but also an avenue to maintain impact on sinking cities like Venice, or go everywhere. built, but we didn’t pay biodiversity and protect the shoreline. countless examples of how arrival increas- Alex Dichter “Climate change is the biggest chal- es have outpaced infrastructure growth. Senior partner, McKinsey & Company much attention to car- lenge to Venice, not tourism. If sea levels The consensus among panelists and go up by two cm, there’s no Venice!” she speakers during the session was that a rying capacity and key exclaimed, pointing to the bigger elephant greater emphasis must be placed on the the infrastructure and public , in the room. management of tourist destinations to creating resentment among the locals. sustainable issues that Borrowing a line from Charles Dickens’ prevent them from becoming a victim of The “tragedy of commons” is hence will make tourism last. A Tale of Two Cities, the outgoing secretary- their own success. an issue the tourism sector has to worry general of UNTWO, Taleb Rifai, said that Alex Dichter, senior partner at McKin- about, added Dichter, underscoring the Edmund Bartlett although “we live the worst of times and the sey & Company and who’s currently work- importance of destinations to manage Minister of tourism, Jamaica best of times”, tourism can be transforma- ing on a report assessing tourism’s impacts their carrying capacities as only 96 of 229 tive and make the world a better place. on destinations, remarked: “First of all, the natural UNESCO sites in the world have “We all need to ensure that, as our sec- 1.8 billion tourists are not going to be a tourism management plans. governments’ vision as they pursued the tor grows, it contributes to the wellbeing problem per se if the everyone just agrees In South-east Asia, huge inbound tour- economic benefits of tourism without ex- of the world and not to its peril. Tourism to swap cities when they travel – we’ll be ist numbers have clearly outpaced the de- ercising proper judgement and manage- must fulfil its responsibility to contribute fine. The issue is that tourists come from velopment of eco-friendly infrastructure ment. to all 17 universal Sustainable Develop- everywhere but they don’t go everywhere.” in many places. Halong Bay is a prime “We just wanted ships to come in, ment Goals,” he said at the opening cer- The effects of over-tourism, whether it’s example, observed TP Singh, deputy re- planes to arrive and hotels to be built, emony of ITB Berlin this year. at historic sites like Angkor Wat and Ma- gional director, Asia, International Union but we didn’t pay much attention to car- “Unlike many problems where we are chu Picchu or popular destinations such for Conservation. rying capacity and key sustainable issues observers, people in this room have the as Barcelona and Venice, are all too ap- Jamaica’s minister of tourism Edmund that will make tourism last,” he said, com- power to effect change,” surmised Dichter, parent, he pointed out, causing enormous Bartlett thinks that “greediness and ig- menting on the earlier days of Jamaica’s urging travel industry members to be- strain on the attractions themselves and norance” had in the past clouded many tourism development. come positive forces of change.

June 2017 TTG Asia 6 Analysis

BUDGET AND GO BECAUSE... THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW TO DISCOVER

GET YOURSELF A SWEETER DRIVE WITH BUDGET (From left) Moderator Linda Yueh, Thai tourism & sports minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, ICAO’s Arun Mishra, Philippine tourism secretary Wanda Corazon Teo and Indonesia’s Arief Yahya, at WTTC Global Summit 2017 -driving isn’t just about getting from one destination to another – it should be relaxing, stress-free, a chance to create memories and experiences, and most of all, have fun!

Life should be full of surprises and super value car hire from Budget Car Rental couldn’t be easier and more convenient - there are around 3,500 locations in more than 120 countries worldwide. It’s complicated Wherever needed, there is sure to be a Budget location not too far away – on arrival at airports, at railway stations or downtown – the choice is for the taking. ASEAN wants more tourism growth, even though its infrastruc- ture is bursting at the seams. Raini Hamdi listens to the issues

hile nationalism with Singapore (155 countries), ventures with the local partners. and protection- Malaysia (163) and Thailand “For ultimate connectivity, ism have crept (57). “(Our figure) was so low ASEAN must allow the seventh up in the West, then. We increased visa-free (en- freedom, then airlines can be- it’sW just the opposite in ASEAN try) in three stages, from 15 to 45, come regional, ticket prices will where the vision of a single mar- then 90 and now 169,” he said. come down and they can com- ket by 2025 remains a deep-seat- “This is a very effective policy pete better with airlines from Eu- ed desire of the 10 countries that (to attract international tourists). ropem, China and India.” make up the bloc. The growth of visitors from new But infrastructure investment Some progress has been seen visa-free countries is on average is where progress is most needed in areas such as visas and travel 20 per cent, the lowest being 12 in ASEAN, an instant poll of the connectivity that benefit travel & per cent and the highest 50 per audience showed (51 per cent). tourism, a huge income earner cent. And for those countries Combined with regulations (22 for ASEAN, but much remains that record the lowest increases, per cent), which investment de- Where to go? A city-based to be done. less than 100 arrivals, we are pro- pends on, it’s by far the biggest adventure to a new destination? A session entitled ‘Freedom issue. Or an escape to the countryside and back to basics? For the more to travel – can ASEAN lead the Mishra believes aviation infra- energetic and extreme – perhaps way?’ during the recent WTTC structure should come first. “Al- a climb up (or an abseil down) a Global Summit in Bangkok had though ASEAN develops mari- mountain... the public sector showing why time and tourism infrastructure, What about Europe? From the it’s complicated. aviation is the mainstay to move iconic landmarks of London Firstly, a friendly reminder. people. Look at the congestion and Paris, to the chichi charm of Although ASEAN is 50 years old ASEAN single at Soekarno-Hatta, or at (Ninoy Barcelona and winding canals of this year, ASEAN tourism feels Aquino) – new terminals and Amsterdam – Europe has both skies is not as sin- beauty and brains. Why wait? more like 15 years old, said Thai runways were needed yesterday. Jump in, get out there and explore tourism & sports minister Kob- gle as in the EU. “While we’ve had ASEAN free jaw-dropping scenery, mind- karn Wattanavrangkul, alluding skies, airlines are not able to take blowing architecture and age-old Arun Mishra art, history and culture. Explore to a relatively young industry advantage of it because there Regional director, are no slots. Another concern is with style. Zip through France that has seen faster growth than ICAO Asia & Pacific in a hot hatchback, cruise Italy’s it can cope with. the air navigation system, mod- roads in a cool convertible or ride It takes time and patience to posing for the government to ern equipment and technology. Germany’s autobahns in a classy automatic car. Whatever the fancy iron out the ruffles. Take visas change them from visa-free to (ASEAN) states need to act fast.” in Europe, Budget has a car to suit! for example. A single visa to visit visa-on-arrival,” he added. He also added more training ASEAN is “not easy” to achieve, Another area where the region facilities to the long list. “While Budget can even provide all the she admitted. In Thailand, that still lags is a real single ASEAN we chase growth, suddenly we extras to get the most from the – from satellite navigation would involve many ministries skies, pointed out Arun Mishra, don’t have the people to manage (GPS) and super-speedy mobile including foreign affairs, the in- regional director, International this growth,” he said. “Mobility Wi-Fi, to industry-safe child and terior/immigration bureau, Na- Civil Aviation Organization of qualified personal is restricted baby seats… and it is not a must to (ICAO) Asia & Pacific Office. in ASEAN.” finish where the journey started as tional Security Council, to name at many Budget locations, one-way a few. ASEAN is taking a bold step Indonesia’s Arief said foreign car hire is available – pick up a car And while Thailand may grant towards a single aviation market, direct investment is needed for from one place and drop it o– at a visa, others in the bloc may not, comparable to the EU. As seen, infrastructure development; another. and fees for visas vary. the EU’s move has resulted in his government could fill only Driving with Budget brings out the “How to manage?” she said. improved connectivity and in- a third of the funding require- best of travelling. You can’t put a Arief Yahya, Indonesia’s tour- creased competition in its skies. ment. But even before the fund- price on adventure, so pack the ism minister, however, demon- “However, ASEAN single skies ing issue, regulations have to be tent and go camping, stop for a picnic somewhere scenic, party at strated why visa easing is impor- is not as single as in the EU,” said improved, he pointed out. a festival, go fishing, fly a kite and tant for tourism growth, using Mishra. “This is because they “The ease of doing business above all, enjoy the ride! his country as an example. (ASEAN countries) are still not is low in development countries, Indonesia grants visa-free en- decided on the seventh freedom especially in getting permits. In try to 169 countries, the largest – the ability of airlines to go from this case, we need to improve number in the world, he said. It one foreign hub to another. This the regulations first before infra- wasn’t always this liberal. In 2014, is why many airlines, such as structure development can hap- www.budget.com Indonesia gave visa-free entry AirAsia, have to go to the indi- pen.” only to 15 countries, compared vidual countries and form joint It’s complicated.

13846 Budget_356x88mm_print_AW_v2.indd 1 11/05/2017 08:56 TAT_2 - Revised.indd 1 17/5/17 11:24 pm June 2017 TTG Asia 8 View from the top

I’m a little hesitant (to predict how large ITB China can be one day). Our industry is a vulnerable business. We have to be op- timistic, but we’re also living in times that are more insecure than they were three, five or 10 years ago. Driving ITB’s I remember when we did our first in- terviews, we talked about stuff like the tsunami, or an isolated assault in Tunisia or Spain. But it was always isolated and an incident would happen over a period of 12 months. Now we have such a dramatic brand strategy increase in frequency of incidents. We now talk about the geopolitical landscape, how certain destinations can easily fall out Easy to grow an established brand like ITB that has 51 years of history behind it? of the picture, etc. The world is changing. We have to stay flexible; we have to be cau- Trust the Germans to be prudent and never taking anything for granted. Messe tious with capacity and space. Berlin’s senior vice president travel & logistics, Martin Buck, tells Raini Hamdi about Secondly, many sectors of the industry, especially hospitality, have seen consoli- ITB’s brand strategy following the successful staging of the first ITB China recently dation. So even if you have two or three exhibitors who have registered to come to our show, if they are being bought, it Were you surprised that ITB China sold The right buyers are the ingredients you have, and the partnerships you man- is not likely they will take three stands just out ahead of the event? to make a show work. There are many age to develop. Certainly what contribut- to make us happy; rather, we may end up Actually no, because that was reason we shows that have the suppliers, but a sig- ed to our success (in getting the right buy- with only one. started the project at all. We saw that the nificant lack of the demand side. And ers) is our partnership with Travel Daily Chinese market had incredible potential since launching (ITB Asia) in Singapore China, because they are extremely well What lessons did you take from the first on the one hand, but on the other hand we have developed a certain proficiency connected in this market. ITB China? the shows that were already available in in bringing the two (buyers and sellers) The Chinese market works differently China left some room for improvement. together, so we said, why not go to China Would this mean then that there would from the market in Europe. China is a So based on the analysis of the competi- and try it there as well, since China is such not be Chinese buyers at ITB Asia in Sin- world in its own right. It is also extremely tion, we decided to bring the ITB brand a big market and there is demand, espe- gapore? innovative, especially with communica- to China and, from the response, it was cially for outbound travel products. As Not at all. You see a growing number of tions. Look at the degree of penetration obviously a success. you know, the outbound market has been Chinese buyers due to the rapid develop- WeChat has. (The three-day show occupied rising and will continue to rise. ment of whole industry. Some of them Here, there’s no Google, Amazon, Fa- 12,000m2 of space in the Shanghai World can easily go to Singapore; others just cebook. Will we end up in a world where Expo Exhibition and Centre. How easy was it for you to get the cannot, due to reasons such as time and there’s Google on the one hand and Baidu Some 600 exhibiting companies from right Chinese buyers? budget. Another important factor is what on the other? Will we see one ‘winner’, a nearly 70 countries participated. Not easy at all, and that’s they want to buy. fusion or a co-existence (of players)? No There were around 600 Chinese probably the reason We are a marketplace. You sell your one knows yet. buyers, almost all hosted, and why the others don’t tomatoes at the place where there are We had Ctrip’s CEO (Jane Jie Sun) an additional 100 interna- have so many buy- people who want to eat those tomatoes. speaking at the conference (http://bit. tional buyers who joined on ers. This again has There are different exhibitors (i.e. differ- ly/2qiQWIl). In the Western world, you their own accord. Source: ITB to do with hav- ent tomatoes). And our mission certainly have Expedia, Booking.com, etc. In some China) ing the expertise is to cater to the different needs of our ways, they are both trying to be active in in drilling a hole customers. You could say ITB Asia is one the market of the other. We also had TUI’s In that analysis of the com- into the market, so option, ITB Berlin is another and now we CEO Fritz Joussen as a speaker (http://bit. petition, what major gaps to speak, to under- finally have managed to create the third ly/2qmDB1f). TUI and Ctrip are two dif- did you see? stand how it actually option. ferent galaxies in the way they define and Particularly the availability of works. It also has to There are two directions we take. One distribute products! Not that one is right professional buyers. do with the network is to improve the existing shows by con- or the other is wrong. tinuing to deliver the right services, etc, So it’s all fascinating and exciting and and the other is to establish a new show if we manage to continue this way of pre- the moment we see there is a big part of senting current developments, if we are demand that isn’t covered yet. ITB China the platform where these developments is one further step in our brand strategy become visible, then we can be happy. to add or establish a new marketplace Content is important, which is a success where one is needed, according to our factor for ITB, but it works only if we view and judgement. We are happy it manage to bring in the right people who wasn’t just our imagination, that indeed can speak in front of an audience. we’ve filled a gap. How can ITB China strengthen ITB Asia This first show spanned some 12,000m2. and ITB Berlin? What do you foresee for next year? The basic idea for us is a brand-based We have early feedback from several ex- strategy. It’s a nice surprise to see the ITB hibitors who want to expand their par- name has actually grown in reputation ticipation, but it remains to be seen how and it helps us to become credible to play- much additional space we will put into ers here. ITB China is like a window to the the game. It also depends what the venue other ITBs for the Chinese. It might be the provider can offer. This is a good venue first step for many of them to be aware of (Shanghai Expo). We are happy with ITB and, bearing how fast their industry is them, we hope they are happy with us. growing, they can also participate in Sin- But if you just walk up to upper floor, you gapore and Berlin. can see the jewellery fair… they obviously have high demand from other shows, Will you be launching ITB India next? which also makes it kind of difficult to say No. It’s difficult to find the right part- at the moment what space will be available ner, that’s the most important reason. I for us. We will define this more precisely believe India, like China, bears huge po- in the months to come, but based on early tential, it should never be underrated. feedback we can be hopeful to grow ITB We’ve been trying for some time. For China significantly. us we have to safeguard certain quality standards. We haven’t found the place in How huge can ITB China get to, given India yet where this can be come true. We that China is such a huge market? would be one of the first to take the op- It’s a continent and there is an incredible portunity if it were available, but it’s still number of dramatically growing cities but not available. June 2017 TTG Asia 9 ViewPictorial from the top Firm debut for ITB China The inaugural ITB China, which took place at Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre from May 10-12, was a hive of activity, with meetings, networking and conferences going at full steam. Richard Caleb Lai captures the buzz at the three-day event

Finnair China’s Robert Ohrnberg and Visit Finland’s Paavo NuanYou’s Siounex Zhao at ITB China Virkkunen Startup Award

Booking.com’s Jeffrey Wu, Zhujing Dai and Neil Kong

Messe Berlin’s Martin Buck (leftmost), together with Abu Dhabi Tourism & Poseidon Expeditions’ Kate Statsenko and Alexandra Prokopyeva Culture Authority’s Mohamed Sultan Alzaabi (second from left) and team Messe Berlin’s David Axiotis, Jin Jiang Interna- tional Holdings China’s Chen Liming and Zhang Xiaoqiang

Ctrip’s Jane Jie Sun

Below: Furama Hotels International Management Singapore’s Shirlena Tan (left) takes the lead Blacklane’s Wong Soon-Hwa

Pan Pacific Hotels Group Singapore’s Royston Lim (centre) flanked by his team

Above: (from left) Genting Cruise Lines’ Christine Li, European Travel Commission’s Frantisek Reismuller, Finpro’s Paavo Virkkunen, Finnair’s Robert Öhrnberg and Maritim Hotels’ Huilian Duan speaking at ITB China Conference On the radar Rising stars of ASEAN

Shu Tan Kimhean Pich Mona Abdul Min Than Htut Jasmine Tan Founder, Sapa O’chau, Founder, Discover the Founder, Pro Niti Travel, Managing director, Vietnam Mekong, Cambodia Manap Myanmar Haranah Tours, Philippines Founder and managing director, Place Borneo, Born in the remote village of Kimhean Pich traded in life Min Than Htut is one of Myan- Jasmine Tan’s introduction to Malaysia Lao Chai in Sapa, Shu Tan as a fisherman to tap into mar’s millennials to ride the the travel trade came early endured a tough childhood, Cambodia’s fledgling tourism Only 32, Mona is nothing short new tourism wave sweeping in her life, having grown up selling handicrafts on the industry. of a smart business woman across the country. around her family-owned Hara- streets at age 13. The oldest of eight siblings, with the acumen to identify The 27-year-old grew up nah Tours and accompanied With poverty high and edu- the 35-year-old was born into opportunities and the grit to in Yangon and it was while her father on business trips cation low in the isolated area, a fishing family in a floating act on them. Case in point, she he was studying for a degree during her high school years. Shu dreamt that she would village in Kampong Khleang in founded Place Borneo in 2016 in chemistry at the University After graduating from one day be able to improve the Siem Reap Province. when she noticed that there of East Yangon that he was university at 20, she became lives of her fellow villagers and When Kimhean was 13, was no PCO in Sarawak. first introduced to the tourism deputy managing director of neighbouring communities. his father decided a good Driven by a vision to organ- industry, which was starting to Haranah Tours. A year later, Hailing from the Black education was vital for the ise highly personalised events open up in his homeland. after passing the board exam Hmong hill tribe – an ethnic family’s future and they moved for her clients, her company He first worked as a bellboy for certified public accoun- minority group that is prevalent to Takhmao, 12km from the proved to be a successful ven- at a in the city, but soon tants, she was promoted to in Vietnam’s mountainous capital of Phnom Penh. ture with three major events found himself employed at managing director with a focus north-west – in 2009, Shu Kimhean went on to secure held last year. a , where he on product development. opened the first ethnic minority a scholarship in management This year, the company stepped into the shoes of When Haranah was formed owned in her village at the National Institute of expanded its offices to Kuala and operator, piqu- in 1998, it was doing mainly with the help of some Austra- Management, specialising in Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu. ing his interest in tourism. with a fleet lian friends. tourism. Mona said: “Many of our He went on to become a of buses. Under Tan’s helm, As Sapa’s popularity with After graduating in 2003, clients – associations and freelance tourist guide and it has expanded into inbound visitors grew, she seized the Kimhean’s career in tourism universities – are in Kuala operator, enjoying the work and outbound sectors. opportunity and expanded her was launched when he started Lumpur, so it makes sense to so much that he decided to She is also in charge of social enterprise, Sapa O’Chau, working with a Japanese travel open an office (there). launch his own company in marketing the family’s newly to include a café, handicraft company in Siem Reap. He “We also see business 2012, Pro Niti Travel. opened 16ha Haranah Eco store and more homestays. spent almost four years as op- events potential in Sabah, The same year, he enrolled Park, a venue in Tanay, Rizal, In 2013, she launched the erations assistant before being which has no local PCO and in a one-year course, gained a for business events and FITs country’s first ethnic minor- recruited by another interna- will have two convention cen- diploma in tourism studies and seeking quiet and relaxation. ity-owned international tour tional in 2006. tres opening next year.” management, and received his These developments keep operator, Sapa O’Chau Travel, In 2011, using his self- Mona also has her sights tourist license. Tan on her toes in marketing providing customised treks and taught IT skills, he started set on further expansion in He started building up his the products and meeting tours in the area – all led by lo- creating a bespoke tourism South-east Asia. reputation by offering advice buyers, and she is an active cals. It secured its international B2B customer relationship The young boss firmly about the country on travel member of the Philippine Tour tour license in September management system to believes in treating her staff as website forums, which led to Operators Association. 2013. provide clients with a tool to equals and avoids microman- him securing his first clients. She said people have grown Fulfilling her ambition, the easily manage data, such as aging. She explained: “I believe He now offers a range of more accepting of the idea that 29-year-old uses funds from itineraries, quotes and cam- in giving them a voice in the tours, as well as customised the younger generation can Sapa O’Chau to pay for a paign management, with the decision-making process. This options, across Myanmar. make bigger decisions. But school to provide education to aim of launching his own tour creates a sense of ownership – Marissa Carruthers she remarked: “There’s still a the area’s most impoverished company. and enhances dedication to lot that I don’t know. It’s still children, and she trains and Two years later, he used their projects.” a learning process.” – Rosa employs locals to be tour his industry knowledge and She often gets together with Ocampo guides, as well as work in experience to open DMC, her team for and other tourism-related roles, Discover the Mekong, of which dinners to foster a stronger providing sustainable employ- he remains CEO today. Future team spirit. It’s no surprise that ment for the community. plans include expanding into Mona’s original team is still In 2016, she became the neighbouring countries. with her, as the staff strength first woman to feature in – Marissa Carruthers expands from six to 10. Forbes Vietnam’s “30 under – S Puvaneswary 30” list. – Marissa Carruthers June 2017 TTG Asia 11

TTG Travel Trade Publishing Trade Media Partner

They are young, ambitious and share a common passion to improve the ASEAN travel industry with their forward-thinking ideas and leadership. We round up Rising stars of ASEAN the region’s 10 promising talents to watch out for

Pauline Suharno Wee Teng Wen Noor M Ismail Billy Dahlan Torpong Commissioner and director, Co-founder, The Lo & Head of sales & marketing President director, Dafam, Elok Tour, Indonesia Behold Group, Singapore (inbound), Asian Overland Indonesia Wongsathienchai Managing director, Love Services Tours & Travel, Island, Thailand At 40, Pauline Suharno heads As co-founder of hospitality Malaysia Billy Dahlan changed the the company built by her company, The Lo & Behold Dafam story when he realised With his social media parents as commissioner and Group, Wee Teng Wen has Noor M Ismail has come a long his vision of transforming what savvy, ambition and a director, and has gone above adroitly contributed to Singa- way in the inbound tourism was initially a hotel division in ‘can-do’ attitude, Torpong and beyond to better Indone- pore’s lifestyle landscape with business since starting his the Dahlan-family business Wongsathienchai has blazed sia’s travel business through cutting-edge concepts. career in 2001, driven by his into a holding company. a trail of firsts for Love Island her involvement in various The group is behind trendy astute thinking, diligence and He became Dafam’s since founding it seven years travel-related associations. establishments including Loof, willingness to go against the president director when the ago. Working her way up from Singapore’s first stand-alone grain while serving in one of company was established in The 34 year-old chief made operational roles (tour and tick- rooftop bar; OverEasy, an Malaysia’s oldest and biggest 2010. Today, the 35-year-old social networks the core eting) not only gave her valu- American-style diner; The tour operators. continues to spearhead the communication strategy for able professional experience, White Rabbit, a fine dining res- As head of sales and company, which has grown to his tour company, branded but also first-hand understand- taurant in a converted chapel; marketing today, the 34-year- comprise real estate, hotel op- Love Andaman. Its Facebook ing of the needs of industry and Tanjong Beach Club, a old oversees all the company’s erator, lifestyle and entertain- follower count is currently at a members, which set her up to beach and bar. leisure segments from around ment business. whopping 1.1 million people, be an exemplary leader in local For The Lo & Behold the world. His achievements Dafamland owns five hotels, said to be the highest among associations. Group’s contribution to include winning a number of three residential estates, four its competition in the country. Her organisational career Singapore’s F&B and tourism key European accounts for the commercial building and 48 The secret, Torpong said, started in 2008 when she landscape in the past decade, company. family assets; while Dafam is consistency of updates, became the coordinator of the Wee, together with co-founder He attributes his success to Hotel Management manages a friendly personal touch in National Board of the Indonesia Daniel He, received the Out- understanding what the market 38 hotels across Indonesia. its communications, and en- Air Ticketing Company As- standing Tourism Entrepreneur is looking for, being quick with Through Varuna Enter- couraging customers to share sociation (ASTINDO), and of the award from the Singapore follow-ups, and his ability to tainment, Dahlan owns and photos and content. Association of the Indonesian Tourism Board this year. propose new and exciting manages 17 outlets including On top of being the first to Tours and Travel Agencies And it is not stopping just programmes. , bars, KTVs and own aluminium speedboats Jakarta Chapter. yet. Making its first foray into He said: “I am never afraid health clubs. among its fleet of 22 vessels, She demonstrated her the hotel space, the group to break traditional practices Billy has been an ac- Love Andaman also success- capability and dedication to the opened The Warehouse Hotel, and create fresh ideas. Some tive board member of the fully pioneered trade when she co-founded a 37-room luxury boutique may not work, but I am happy Indonesian Young Entrepreneur to Koh Tachai (part of Mu Ko the Indonesia Tour Leaders’ property at Singapore’s Robert- that I have tried. I have learnt Association, Central Similan National Park), and Association and took part in a son Quay, in January 2017. a lot from the seniors and Chapter, since 2015 and now was nominated the model of trainer programme, even get- The 36-year-old Wee hopes my boss especially, they are also holds the position of head Eco Tourism by Thailand’s Na- ting accredited as an assessor to fill a niche “somewhere like vitamins that keep you of small and medium size busi- tional Park, Wildlife and Plant of the Indonesian Professional between big brands and small healthy!” nesses and cooperatives. Conservation Department. Certification Authority. She boutiques”. He added: “The Managing director of Asian He is also a member of the Torpong is an active is now head of the Profes- market was missing a portal Overland Services Tours & Indonesia Chamber of Com- contributor in the industry, hav- sional Certification Body of Air to local culture with depth and Travel, Yap Sook Ling, had this merce, Central Java Chapter, ing been a guest speaker at Transport Distribution Services soul that would still over deliver to add about Noor: “Noor was sitting in the permanent com- universities, as well as Phuket & Agencies. on comfort and the basics.” not born with a silver spoon in mittee for tourism develop- and Phang Nga’s tourism as- Pauline took on a more his mouth; in fact, it was the ment. – Paige Lee Pei Qi – Mimi Hudoyo sociations. active role at the regional contrary. But he refused to be With sights on getting the level after becoming a board beaten down in the ‘school company listed on Thailand’s member of the Federation of hard knocks’ and came stock market in the next few of ASEAN Travel Association out better, outshining many years, he plans to develop (FATA) representing ASTINDO of his peers. He is definitely a more new destinations, im- in 2011. Currently, she also millennial who smashes the prove the company’s back holds the position of secretary stereotypes of his generation.” office and IT systems, as well general of ASTINDO National – S Puvaneswary as train employees. – Siriarpa Board. – Mimi Hudoyo Kamjan June 2017 TTG Asia 12 Need ideas on what to buy? Take your pick Shop and load your cart with the array of new products showcased on this page ACTIVITY QATAR OFFERS TRANSIT PASSENGERS FREE HOTEL STAYS IN DOHA Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism sengers a free one-night stay at a their flight confirmation. Authority have jointly launched a four- or five-star hotel in Doha, with a The online transit visa application is stopover package in Doha that offers second night costing just US$50. also free and will be eligible for those transit passengers free luxury hotel To be eligible, passengers have to in transit between five and 96 hours. stays and complimentary transit visas. book their flights on www.qata- This offer, part of the airline’s broader The package – available through rairways.com, select ‘multi-city’ and +Qatar campaign, is available to pas- summer – gives Qatar Airways pas- choose their hotel once they receive sengers across all classes of travel. HOTELS

PARK HYATT BANGKOK The first Park Hyatt hotel in Thailand has opened in the capital. Offering 222 guestrooms, hotel amenities comprise four F&B options, a 40m-long infinity saltwater pool, 24-hour fitness centre, spa with eight treatment rooms, and 12 event spaces which include a pillarless ballroom.

AMARI JOHOR BAHRU The 242-room Amari Johor Bahru is Onyx Hospitality Group’s first property in Malaysia. Facilities include an executive lounge, a library, spa, gym and swimming pool, as well as three F&B options – the market-style, all- day restaurant Amaya Food Gallery, Amaya Café and the poolside Dip Bar.

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON HAKODATE The first Four Points hotel in Japan boasts 199 rooms that come complete with the brand’s plush signature bed, flatscreen TV and free Wi-Fi. Facilities on the property include an all-day dining restaurant, bar and spa, along with 1,200m2 of versatile meeting facilities such as a grand banquet hall.

HOTEL JEN BEIJING The 450-room hotel takes up the 22 floors of China World’s Tower B. Recreational facilities abound, ranging from the 3,500m2 gym and 25m-long heated indoor pool, to a boxing ring and Mixed Martial Arts area. There are also two F&B options: the Beersmith gastropub and farm-to-table San Wu Tang. June 2017 TTG Asia 13 Report Beach destinations Golf Photographer/shutterstock

Clockwise from left: Koh Lipe, in southern Thailand; Els Club Desaru Coast, Malaysia; Scarborough Beach, Australia

Asia’s hidden beaches With their laid-back vibe, tropical charm and lesser crowds, these are the rising beach stars of tomorrow. Here are TTG Asia‘s picks of the region’s best under-the-radar spots Golf Photographer/shutterstock Golf Scarborough Beach, into a premium integrated destination , is expected to widen its appeal Australia beyond the domestic and Singaporean A favourite swim and surf spot among markets. locals, Perth’s Scarborough Beach will Phase 1 has seen the opening of The soon become a tourist gem thanks to a Els Club Desaru Coast – comprising the A$100 million (US$74.3 million) rede- Ocean Course (opened September 2016) velopment plan. and Valley Course (opened May 2017) – Located on Western Australia’s Sun- plus waterfront F&B and entertainment set Coast, 15 minutes north of Perth, outlets, and a conference centre. the centrepiece of the redevelopment In addition, the Els Club Desaru will be a A$26 million heated pool com- Coast comprises two championship prising eight 50m lanes, four 25m lanes golf courses with 45 holes in total. The and a separate leisure pool. Slated to 27-hole Ocean Course was designed by open in early 2018, the pool will also four-time major champion Ernie Els, be equipped with “extensive lights” for while the 18-hole Valley Course was co- night-time swimming. designed by Vijay Singh and Ernie Els. There will also be beachfront board- Raaj Navaratnaa, of walks, lookouts, picnic shelters, cafes, Johor-based New Asia Holiday Tours & bars, retail outlets, and a Town Square for Travel, said: “Currently, Desaru Coast markets, food trucks and special events. attracts Indian and Asian FITs who are A range of accommodation options, keen on soft adventure and nature activ- from to the high-rise 4.5 star- ities. Its close proximity to Singapore is rated Rendezvous Hotel, are available. another attraction as tourists can com- “We’re very excited about this rede- bine a beach stay in Desaru with a day velopment,” said Sylvia Mills, founder of trip, or overnight, in Singapore.” Luxury Outback Tours in Perth. “Scar- borough has always been an iconic place Watch out for Launching by end-2017 with its white beach and crystal clear is the 365-room Hard Rock Hotel De- water.” saru Coast, located adjacent to Desaru Coast Adventure Water Park (currently Watch out for Pinky’s Eco Retreat and under construction). Also coming up Beach Club on Rottnest Island, 18km off are the Anantara Desaru Coast Perth’s coastline. The property will offer & Villas, Aman Resorts & Villas and The island “glamping” in summer 2017/18, Westin Desaru Coast Resort. – S Pu- in the form of 29 beachfront luxury vaneswary tents, 10 two-bedroom family tents and 35 budget-friendly tents. The retreat is part of other develop- Phu Quoc, Vietnam ments on the car-free island, including a While resorts are quickly rising on the new resort, spa, golf course and function 20km stretch of Long Beach and the centre for up to 400 people. – Adelaine west side of Phu Quoc, simple island life Ng can still be found on its east coast, with its reefs perfect for diving, calm bays for Desaru Coast, Malaysia kayaking, and quaint fishing villages and At this classic Malaysian beach town beach shacks serving up fresh seafood. in south-eastern Johor, Themed At- There, Star Beach, known locally as tractions Resorts & Hotels’ (TAR&H) Bai Sao, is the island’s prized beach, said plan to transform 1,580ha of the land Shane Ngu, general manager of Vietnam Report Beach destinations

Designer Tours. Watch out for The new ferry service con- “We are seeing a lot of cou- ing and business development at Sahid “Phu Quoc is fast becoming developed, necting Sattahip and Koh Chang was re- ples, meetings and incentive groups, and International Hotel, which took over the which can put some people off. But it still cently launched in May, providing an alter- upmarket leisure tourists mainly from management of the midscale Wakatobi has a lot of charm and you can find seclu- native means for tourists staying in Pattaya China, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Patuno Resort in September 2016. sion and tropical beaches, which make it or those landing in U-tapao Airport to get Middle East and Indonesia.” Accessibility to the island is improving, the perfect getaway,” he added. to the island. – Siriarpa Kamjan with Wings Air launching a daily service Watch out for Malaysian prime min- between Makassar and Wakatobi since Watch out for The debut of the JW Mar- Belitung, Indonesia ister Najib Abdul Razak announced in October 2016. riott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & May the creation of Malaysia Vision Val- Spa in March 2017 has significantly raised An island on the east coast of , Belitung has caught travellers’ attention ley (MVV) – a world-class metropolis in Watch out for The government is ex- the destination’s luxury credentials. De- the Negeri Sembilan State (which includes panding Matahora Airport’s runway on signed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, since Laskar Pelangi – a film based on a book of the same title – was shown in Port Dickson). MVV is expected to attract Wangi-Wangi Island, from 2,000m to it has 244 guestrooms, five F&B outlets, a more than RM290 billion (US$67 billion) 2,500m in length. As well, Garuda Indo- 2 2008. gym, spa and 1,100m of meeting space. – in investments, and will be developed over nesia plans to fly between Denpasar and Marissa Carruthers Known for its unique granite rock for- mations scattered on land and in the sea, 153,000ha and in phases until 2045. – S Wakatobi this year. – Mimi Hudoyo Belitung’s most popular destination is Puvaneswary Mergui Archipelago, Tanjung Kelayang, a 4km-long stretch of Koh Lipe, Thailand Myanmar white-sand beach in the north. The south- Con Dao, Vietnam As one of the biggest islands in Tarutao Lying off Myanmar’s southern coast is the ern part is home to mangrove forests, The southern archipelago of Con Dao National Marine Park in southern Thai- Mergui (or Myeik) Archipelago, compris- while the small islands south of Belitung comprises 16 islands, the largest of which land, Koh Lipe in Satun province has been ing more than 800 pristine islands that offer shipwrecks for divers to explore. is Con Son. steadily rising on the international tourist have remained untouched until recently In addition, Belitung is part of the tour- Despite its stunning natural beauty, radar. despite its proximity to the Thai border. ism ministry’s 10 “New Bali” destinations, it holds a dark history as this was where Last year, 1.2 million tourists visited the Boasting white beaches, vibrant marine with a Special Economic Zone set up to political prisoners were sent during the island, up from 800,000 in 2005. life and home to the Moken people – or include the development of a 90-room French rule. Today, former prison build- Sumet Marnhet, secretary of the tour- sea gypsies – the archipelago is touted as hotel and 30 villas, set to open in 2018. As ings have been turned into a museum and ism council of the Satun Provincial Ad- South-east Asia’s best kept secret. well, an 18-hole golf course broke ground are open to the public. ministrative Organization, attributes Koh Janis Vougioukas, general manager of in September 2016 and is expected to While the island remains off-the-beat- Lipe’s growing popularity to the island’s Burma Boating, said: “The Mergui Archi- open this year. en path, its remote vibe and untouched clear waters and powdery sand, which pelago is just opening up to tourism and Bambang Sugiono, director of Gajah paradise offerings make it attractive to made it attractive for snorkelling. people come to explore remote islands.” Bali Tour, said: “Belitung has the potential both developers and tourists. Furthermore, Koh Lipe is located near The archipelago is now flagging up on as it has beautiful beaches, and Chinese Florencia Allo Moreno, general man- other tranquil islands such as Koh Hin visitors’ radars, with a string of sailing travellers like water sports and activities.” ager of Khiri Travel Vietnam, said Con Ngam, well-known for its rock beach. trips touring the islands, as well as more Dao has become a top beach destination land accommodation springing up, such Watch out for H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin with her clientele since it was introduced Watch out for The ambassador of China as on Nyaung Oo Phee Island. – Marissa International Airport, 40km from Tan- to itineraries. to Thailand in March visited Koh Lipe Carruthers jung Kelayang, extending its runway from She added: “The island is quite small with Chinese tour operators to strengthen 2,200 to 2,500m as it gears up to receive with few accommodation choices, but this trade cooperation on Koh Lipe and in Sa- Watch out for Burma Boating, which has international flights in the near future. – is changing as demand is increasing.” tun province. It is expected that China will been operating in the area since the late Mimi Hudoyo soon be a source market of Koh Lipe in 1990s, recently added four yachts, includ- Watch out for Dream Hotel Group is ven- the near future. – Siriarpa Kamjan ing the luxurious new flagship Clan VI turing into Vietnam, with its first property Port Dickson, Malaysia slated to open in Ba Ria province’s Long to their fleet. The company also added a Already popular among locals due to its Koh Rong Samloem, Hai in the next few months, followed by seven-day itinerary that takes in more of proximity to Kuala Lumpur, a new crop four more upmarket properties over the Cambodia the archipelago’s islands. – Marissa Car- of mid to upscale hotels targeted at the next two years, including one in Con Dao. As Cambodia’s largest and most de- ruthers international market is now raising Port – Marissa Carruthers veloped island Koh Rong continues to Dickson’s profile among a wider clientile. grow, more visitors are seeking solace in Koh Chang, Thailand New hotels include Avillion Port Dick- neighbouring islands like Koh Rong Sam- Mu Koh Chang National Park, located son, featuring 258 rooms, chalets and vil- Wakatobi, Indonesia loem. in eastern Thailand near the Cambodian las; Avillion Admiral Cove, a waterfront Located in in south-east , Waka- Measuring nine kilometres long and borders, comprises 52 islands including 316-room hotel with meeting facilities tobi is part of the Coral Triangle – a tri- five kilometres at its widest point, Koh Koh Chang – the second-largest island in and a marina; the 200-key Corus Paradise angular area of tropical marine waters Rong Samloem remains relatively un- the country after Phuket. Resort Port Dickson; Lexis Hibiscus Port between Indonesia, Malaysia and the Phil- developed, with a smattering of guest- Panika Kongprasert, owner and sales Dickson, offering 639 rooms and overwa- ippines – and has been listed as a tentative houses lining its white sandy shores, rare manager of Changtour explains that Koh ter villas; and the 317-villa Grand Lexis World Heritage Site since 2005. wildlife, and crystal waters perfect for Chang is fast gaining popularity among Port Dickson. With its rich underwater biodiversity snorkelling. Thai and foreign tourists alike as it is just “The quality of these hotels have made that spans 750 species of coral reefs, it is Kimhean Pich, CEO and founder of 300km from Bangkok, and cheaper than it possible to sell the destination to foreign also one of the 10 new destinations the Discover the Mekong, said: “Koh Rong the many famous beaches and islands in markets. In the past it was mainly budget Indonesian government is focused on de- Samloem is close to the mainland coastal the country’s south. and three-star properties catering mainly veloping. town of Sihanoukville, which has easy “Koh Chang is so attractive because to locals,” said Arokia Das, senior man- “The destination is promising. Howev- land and air access. It is also a relatively there is a wide range of activities available, ager, Luxury Tours Malaysia. er, there is a need for international-stand- new destination and there are fewer peo- such as elephant riding, snorkelling and Said Steve Woon, senior vice president ard and more affordable accommodation,” ple, which makes it appealing to some.” firefly watching,” Panika said. – sales marketing of Lexis Hotel Group: Vivi Herlambang, director – sales market- With speedboats now transporting

From left: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort and Spa, Vietnam; Burma Boating organises sailing holidays in Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago June 2017 TTG Asia 15

visitors from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Siquijor, Philippines Samloem and more upmarket boutique Located in the Central Visayas, Siquijor is accommodation being introduced, the a laid-back island characterised by pris- Cambodian trade is keeping a watch on tine white sand and great snorkelling op- on the island. portunities. Its tranquility and lack of tourist Watch out for Earlier this year, Buva Sea crowds are what make it unique, accord- Cambodia launched new fast boats con- ing to Renalie Locsin, Annset Holidays’ necting Sihanoukville and Koh Rong account manager for Europe. Visitors Samloem. The thrice-daily boats now take can ride a motorbike from one end of about 30 minutes, and increased compe- Belitung, Indonesia

the island to the other, dip in the multi- TJUKTJUK/shutterstock tition has also driven down the cost of tiered Cambugahay Falls and mix with the one-way tickets to about US$6. – Marissa friendly locals. Chamber of Tourism & Industry, said: with the state representing actively in ITB Carruthers Siquijor has no airport, so access is via “We want to promote this destination (to Berlin and Arabian Travel Market. Even ferry rides of about two hours from Cebu be) as good as southern Sri Lanka.” local trade bodies like Confederation of Caramoan, Philippines to Dumaguete, then another hour to the Indian Industry have actively engaged With its powdery white sand and lime- island. Watch out for Batticaloa Airport, 30km with tourism stakeholders, and organ- stone caves, Caramoan, in the Bicol Re- away from Pasikuda, will soon open for ised a meeting with top DMCs from New gion, is often compared to Boracay and Watch out for The 30-room, three-star commercial operations, cutting travel Delhi and Mumbai to showcase the desti- Palawan. Casa Coco Hotel will be built in San Juan, time from Colombo to just 30 minutes, nation,” said Aditya Shamsher Malla, gen- Vilma De Claro Mendoza, president Siquijor, to augment the current accom- compared to a six-hour drive. Private do- eral manager, Four Points by Sheraton, of Mart Evers Travel and Tours, said that modation shortage. – Rosa Ocampo mestic carrier, Cinnamon Air, currently Visakhapatnam. Caramoan is ideal for travellers seeking operates daily flights to Batticaloa with an “Essential attractions in Vizag already peace and unspoilt nature. Travellers can Pasikuda, Sri Lanka eight-seater amphibious Cessna plane. – exist but the capacity utilisation is grossly also take in the culture, cuisine, and herit- Sri Lanka’s eastern fishing village of Pasi- Feizal Samath low,” said Col Minhas, general manager, age of the Bicol Region. kuda is fast becoming a magnet for for- Baypark – a Pema Wellness Resort. The resort destination can be reached eign visitors seeking long sandy beaches Visakhapatnam, India from Manila via an hour-long domestic and unspoilt terrain. Also known as Vizag, this beach destina- Watch out for The Network of Indian flight to Camarines Sur, followed by a The once, war-battered locality is now tion in the state of Andhra Pradesh has MICE Agents (NIMA) recently organised three-hour overland drive. dubbed the ‘crown jewel of the east’ and been growing in popularity in the domes- its annual meeting in Vizag, providing an has over 1,000 hotel rooms. It is also tic market. opportunity for member MICE operators Watch out for More Bicol Region tour part of a five-year plan to increase the It has the potential to become an interna- to know the destination. operators, as well as the Philippine Tour number of rooms in Sri Lanka’s east to tional resort destination like Goa, as char- “NIMA is now planning to organise Operators Association (Philtoa), have 7,000 from 2,000 now, according to East- ter tourists from Russia are starting to visit a B2B table session for some 200 travel added Caramoan to their tour packages, ern Province chief minister Ahmed Na- the destination this year. agents and hoteliers in Vizag,” said Gajesh creating stronger marketing mileage for zeer. “In recent months, efforts have been Girdhar, national coordinator, NIMA. – the destination. – Rosa Ocampo Mohamed Jaufer, president of the directed towards international markets, Rohit Kaul

12-13 July 2017 - Male’,Maldives www.traveltrademaldives.com Destination Hong Kong

The century-old Yuk Yip Desserts store in Viewpoints Old Town Central neighbourhood

What should Hong Kong do to develop neighbourhood tourism?

Paul Chan, co- founder and CEO, Walk in Hong Kong There are many difficulties, such as human resources, when developing such products. It needs more creative and innovative people to join the ranks so that they can look around and pick up as many unique facts and stories as possible, and from there transform them into refined tourism products.

Shaun Camp- bell, managing director, The Hong Kong Tourism Board Langham, Hong Kong As the Kowloon area is also rich in authentic and interesting local experiences, hoteliers there are collaborating to lure travellers and locals to visit to listen to the unique stories and characters in Kowloon City, Sham Shui Po and Mongkok. Old ‘hoods, new buzz Social media is the perfect platform for hosts and visitors alike to share the user-generated content of these special Hong Kong’s traditional enclaves are now a breeding ground for new tour ideas Hong Kong journeys and experiences centring on its heritage and culture. Prudence Lui finds out how viable the idea is around the world.

hat was once perceived as middle, these self-guided walks are target- accommodate big groups so growth is Hong Kong’s historic en- ed to help travellers discover the heritage, organic, not explosive. It needs someone claves are now seeing new cuisine and art in the area’s streets and al- with social pride and passion to run it. life as tourism hotspots, as leys by spotlighting colonial monuments, The lack of quality tour guides is the big- theW Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) temples, hole-in-the-wall local eateries gest crunch,” Chan lamented. NEWS IN A MINUTE becomes the latest to jump onto the and restaurants. When asked if Airbnb Trips, which has neighbourhood tourism bandwagon with A spokesman elaborated: “HTKB will been launched in several cities in Asia-Pa- its five themed Old Town Central walking also work with trade partners to promote cific to focus on local experiences, poses 1 routes. guided tours that focus on the richness a threat to the future prospects of tour Covering Central and the adjacent of Central, and its locals and expats, (to outfits specialising in neighbourhood Sheung Wan neighbourhood, outlined by publicise) the district’s charms and hidden tourism, Chan said: “We don’t treat it as Wyndham Street, Caine Road, Possession gems through PR campaigns and on digi- competition, but a large platform to drive Street and Queen’s Road Central, with tal platforms.” more inbound traffic for such a niche ex- Hollywood Road running through the The spokesman added that HKTB “will perience. Frankly, the pie is small and it continue to explore similar tours in other would be great we can learn how other historic areas such as Wanchai”. players run such operations.” The Hong Kong trade sees HKTB’s lat- To stay sustainable, Walk in Hong Kong Destination in numbers est initiative as a good effort to create more has trained its sights on high-value seg- opportunities in Hong ments like FITs as well as working with Kong. luxury hotel concierges to provide special 14.2 million Walk in Hong Kong’s co-founder and experiences for their VIPs and business The number of arrivals for 1Q2017, a CEO, Paul Chan, remarked: “HKTB real- travellers, Chan added. rise of 3.7 per cent year-on-year ised that it can’t compete with other des- As well, more support from HKTB is 1 Dorsett Wanchai sports new tinations in theme parks; but city culture, required to grow and develop neighbour- themed suites living history and heritage are something hood tourism, trade players pointed out. The Dorsett Wanchai launched its 56.7 million we have and shouldn’t waste.” Via Vai Travel’s director, Sef Lam, said: collection of themed suites in April The total number of visitor arrivals The walking tours operator has more “I believe most visitors come (to Hong after a three-year renovation. There for 2016, a decrease of 4.5 per cent than 20 routes in its portfolio, ranging Kong) for business while others come is the Ocean Park Family Suite, Osim from the previous year from market food tours in Kowloon to old to shop, eat and sightsee. Not many may Massage Suite, Sony 4K 3D Experi- trades and artisan tours in Sheung Wan. want to spend their time exploring local ence Suite and Jockey Suite. The However, walking tours of Hong Kong’s neighbourhoods, but if these tours are of- 48m2 horse-themed Jockey Suite for cultural neighbourhoods require special fered free, it might be a good start.” instance, is located on the 11th floor, 3.3 nights expertise and cater to just a niche seg- She added: “Recently, I joined a Lei Yue and sports an unobstructed race- The average length of stay of ment, explained Chan. “Neighbourhood Mun walk organised by the Maritime Mu- course view. overnight visitors in 2016, same as tourism is still in its infancy as it’s not a seum with resources from the Society of 2015. The per capita spending of mainstream product like bus tours. It re- Hong Kong History. HKTB can certainly 2 these overnight visitors decreased by HKTB releases coupon booklet quires experts, R&D as well as a strong lo- do more by liaising with the different mu- To commemorate the 20th anni- 8.7 per cent to HK$6,602 (US$847) cal network. seums and hotels and offering these as free versary of the establishment of the “What’s more, this type of tour can’t tours.” Hong Kong Special Administrative June 2017 TTG Asia 17

Issue of the day MY WAY ary wages, forcing many SME travel The battle for survival agencies – which accounts for over 95 per cent of the 1,700+ licensed travel Succession challenges, OTAs’ growing influence are just agents – out of business. some of the issues facing HK agencies. By Prudence Lui With the projected annual visitor arrivals at 50 million, it is extremely he lack of successors and grow- hang in there, but we’re better off than op- crucial for the tourism industry to find ing threat of OTAs are some of erators that just focus on single products.” ways to bring in new blood. the biggest threats facing travel Differing generational expectations agencies in Hong Kong today, also pose a challenge to the industry’s If I have my way to improve things, forcingT a number of them to be bought quest for new blood, observed Gray Line I would... educate the industry to em- out by larger companies or risk closure. Tours’ managing director, Michael Wu. brace technology in the workplace. Most recently, Swire Travel, a member “The industry faces an ageing problem Many SME travel agency owners of the Swire Group for almost seven dec- and the younger generation feels that (an and hotel management I spoke to fear Ronald Wu technology and consider it a threat to ades, was taken over by agent’s job) involves too Director of sales, Gray Line Tours the KWG Group, a Hong much hands-on man- their business. In fact, repetitive work Kong-listed, Guangzhou- agement and very long can be replaced with modern technol- based property develop- hours. Only a handful of ogy, which in turn can enable compa- ment giant. brands like us have seen What are the current challenges nies to better utilise resources. Other established op- the second generation Hong Kong faces as a destination? I will also conduct a study on the erators such as Concorde take up management There is a lack of skilled workers enter- behaviour of millennials, and share Travel and Associated roles,” he said. ing the industry. With an ageing work- the findings with the industry, as this Tours were acquired late “To keep the business force and low unemployment rate, it is segment will be the dominating work- last year by Jebsen Travel sustainable, I want to buy getting more difficult for the tourism force going forward. and Gray Line Tours re- time by acquiring expert industry to recruit talents. I believe that in order to recruit and spectively. agents like Associated At the same time, visitor arrivals retain talent, it is very important to un- Concorde Travel’s managing director, Tours rather than spend time on training. have doubled in the past decade. As derstand what millennials want. This Graham Elsom, explained why he sold his We kept Associated’s six full-time staff a result, service standards have been way, companies can better adapt to 39-year-old operation: “The present-day while venturing into new business areas,” compromised. Both the unbalanced the changing needs of the workforce, business environment is very tough due to he added. supply and manpower shortage have and design programmes or modify the Internet. However, there will always be Managing director of Blue Sky Travel, also led to a dramatic increase in op- employment terms that will be able to room for good travel consultants, hence Angela Ng, blames the closures and sell- erating expenses, in particular sal- attract them. the entire team has moved to Jebsen. The offs on online travel trends as the Internet name Concorde Travel will unfortunately jeopardises agency businesses. disappear.” She pointed out: “Big agents survive by Other family-run businesses are unable diversifying services and products, while to find successors, as is the case for Uni small operators are easy to sustain. It’s the Asia Tours and Associated Tours. medium-size operators sandwiched in be- Uni Asia Tours’ managing director, tween that suffer. David Luk, said: “My company started “Clients nowadays are no longer will- to diversify years ago and now caters for ing to pay for service if they can handle Muslims from South-east Asia and incen- it online. I honestly don’t know what our tive traffic. I don’t know how long I will future holds,” Ng lamented.

NEWS IN A MINUTE

represents Xiao’s life, in the southern part of Hong Kong’s island.

4 Upgrading of Plaza Premium Lounge at HKIA underway The Plaza Premium Lounge (East Hall) at Hong Kong International Airport is currently being upgraded. The makeover will transform it into a 16,000m2 space comprising the 202-seater Plaza Premium Lounge Attained an array of international and local hotel and dining awards  8 (opening 3Q) and 208-seater Plaza  Premium First Lounge (opening Degrees visual stimulation 704 Tastefully designed guestrooms and 4Q). suites  Family room available  Free Wi-Fi access and free use of handy smart phone with unlimited mobile Internet data  Alfresco bar 5 Florentia Village now open & dining  Over 6,300 sq. ft. multi-function space  Nearby Kai Tak Region, the HKTB has published The Italian luxury designer has de- Cruise Terminal and Mongkok shopping area  Perfect for business, over 800,000 coupon booklets. Made scended in Hong Kong with a shop-  available at visitor centres, hotels and ping space of more than 5,550m2 and MICE and leisure travellers Outdoor swimming pool and travel agents, it offers discounts on offers discounts of up to 80 per cent well-equipped Fitness Centre  Minutes from Tsimshatsui entertainment attractions, tours, dining and trans- for more than 20 designer brands. & shopping area (12 mins), MTR Hunghom Station (8 mins), MTR Prince portation from over 20 operators. Edward Station (12 mins) and Kowloon Bay (10 mins), conveniently 3 reachable by hotel complimentary shuttle bus 3 Walk the Southern District Literary Trail Retrace the footsteps of five con- Special Offers please visit temporary Chinese literary figures www.harbour-plaza.com/8degrees G China d – Eileen Chang, Hu Shih, Cai Yuan- TT Travel Awar Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees pei, Xiao Hong and Xu Dishan – by 199 Kowloon City Road, Tokwawan, Kowloon, Hong Kong taking a stroll along the Southern Tel : +852 3900 3000 Fax : +852 3900 3008 Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees Limited District’s Literary Trail. The South- Email : [email protected] A Member of Harbour Plaza Hotels & Resorts ern District Council has built land- marks, such as Stray Birds 31 which

TTG Asia-QP_May-June 2017 Size: 114mm(W) x 180mm(H) / Bleed: no need bleed / Color: 4C / Page: QP File Format: 300dpi-CMYK-PDF / Material Deadline: 22 May, 2017 Destination Hong Kong

the hotel’s themed gardens is a treasure trove of 170,000 plants comprising 700 TRIED AND TESTED species. I was delighted to stroll the area and admire the unique plants such as the flat top acacia from Africa. In addition, the hotel also features more Disney Explorers Lodge than 1,000 artefacts spanning antique toys to textiles from countries like Mali, Costa Rica, Bolivia and the Ivory Coast. Hong Kong Disneyland’s third hotel has opened after a long wait. Prudence Lui The 14 check-in counters at the lobby spends a night, exploring its verdant gardens and revelling in the magic that is Disney ensured swift and efficient check-in and check-out. There are hidden Mickeys on the world map behind the reception desk LOCATION The seven-storey hotel strad- I stayed in the spacious Sea View Room from the sink, as this meant two people and a cartoon TV corner next to it – a sure dles a block of land along Magic Road be- in Kevin’s Garden; named after the curi- could wash up at the same time. hit with kids. tween Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and ous bird in the animation Up. From my What was interesting was the touch- Also keep an eye out for the expedition Disney’s Hollywood Hotel. room I could see the South China Sea, screen telephone, which had a storytell- team comprising Mickey, Minnie, Don- and part of Discovery Bay. There were two ing function and could play Toy Story 2, ald and Goofy who sometimes make un- ROOMS This 750-room hotel is divided queen-size beds, making it possible to ac- Monsters Inc and The Little Mermaid in scheduled appearances in the lobby. into four wings, each overlooking a lush commodate a family of four. (For larger Mandarin, Cantonese and English. Meanwhile, the public transport service themed garden named after a Disney families, 70 per cent of the rooms in the There were only two USB plugs avail- makes it easy for guests to visit the theme character, and celebrates different areas hotel are inter-connected.) I liked that the able in the room, which caused a minor park or the other hotels. around the world. toilet and the shower area was separate inconvenience as I had quite a few gadgets to recharge. SERVICE The staff were patient and F&B There are three dining outlets, all attentive. Service was also efficient – I located on the ground floor. The 248-seat phoned the operator to borrow an iron Dragon Wind serves breakfast, lunch buf- and board, which were quickly delivered fet and an à la carte dinner menu featuring to my room. Chinese fare. It’s the only outlet with two private dining rooms. VERDICT The Disney magic is real. The 164-seat World of Colour Restau- rant offers international à la carte din- No of rooms 750 ing, while the 138-seat Chart Room Café Rate From HK$2,200 (US$282) serves light refreshments and coffee. Contact details Telephone: (852) 3510 2000 FACILITIES Apart from the usual facili- Website: www.hongkongdisneyland.com/ ties like a swimming pool and retail store, hotels/disney-explorers-lodge

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TRIED AND TESTED Nobu Hong Kong You have to be good to last in a competitive market like Hong Kong. Raini Hamdi finds out how Nobu does it

LOCATION InterContinental Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui.

AMBIENCE There’s a saying – If the harbour is the theatre, InterContinental Hong Kong is the royal box. This, and its service staff, is why I love this hotel. I’m there annually for the Hotel Investment Conference Asia-Pacific but was never able to dine at Nobu or Alain Ducasse’s Spoon (now Rech seafood) due to busy days. Recently I visited the city for leisure. My table at Nobu was a ‘royal box’ al- right, with killer views of the harbour. I was surprised that even after 10 years in Hong Kong, the place was full, and on a Sunday evening too. A bustling open kitchen, plus lots of chatter and laughter from the other tables created good vibes. I also liked that it wasn’t one of those designy, uber-cool restaurants that kept popping up these days. For me, an empha- sis on design could be a cover up for less talent. Rather, Nobu kept to simple Japa- nese tones with bamboo-embedded walls, black river stones frames and a ceiling that mimics the undulations of a sea urchin.

MENU Ten years ago, if you recall, the fo- cus was on innovative chefs, no straying to distractions such as fanciful designs. Nobu Matsuhisa was in that elite league, rising to fame with a new-style Japanese that’s as irresistible as his winning smile. The menu combined his experiences as a sushi chef in Tokyo, his life in Peru and Argentina, and his around the world. The choices were all tempting; in the end I settled for lobster with wasabi pepper sauce, half-portion of rock shrimp tempura with ponzu/creamy spicy sauce, US beef with wasabi salsa, half-portion of asparagus with shaved truffle and king crab with tamari pepper sauce. My taste buds came alive with new sensations, all great, except they thought wasabi and pepper combined tasted a little strange. The bill, at HK$2,606 (US$335), which included a bottle of Chardonnay and a bottle of San Pellegrino, was reasonable. We were only two; on hindsight, the por- tions were generous and would have kept even three people fulfilled.

SERVICE The staff lived up to the ser- vice standards of the hotel I’m used to.

VERDICT Delicious food, superb views excellent service and reasonable pricing remain the hallmarks of F&B success, 10 years ago or 10 years from now. Nobu, which is expanding rapidly and now in- cludes hotels, is not a flash in the pan be- cause it has all these ingredients.

Location 18 Salisbury Road Opening hours Lunch 12.00 to 14.30; Dinner 18.00 to 23.00 (to 00.00 at Nobu Bar Lounge); Weekends T-Set 14.30 to 17.00 Contact details Telephone: (852) 2313 2323 Email: [email protected] Website: www.noburestaurants.com/hong- kong/experience LAST CHANCE TO SECURE ASEAN YOUR SPACE CRUISES SUPPORTING PARTNER

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SINGAPORE +65 6395 7575 TRADE MEDIA PARTNER OF HONG KONG +852 2237 7272 [email protected] June 2017 TTG Asia 21 Destination Indonesia A market for the rustic The capital of South looks to its traditional life sources and riverine culture to enhance its tourism appeal for visitors, both domestic and international, discovers Mimi Hudoyo Viewpoints

What else is needed to make Banjarmasin and South Kalimantan more attractive for foreign visitors?

Renato Domini, CEO, Panorama Destination Better aware- ness and air links. The issue with South Kalimantan is the lack of awareness of the destination and the lack of accessibility from other popular tourist destinations in Indonesia by Garuda Indonesia and Citilink – the airlines we use – to allow us to create attractive and competitive packages.

Ng Sebastian, managing director, Incito While South Kalimantan has unique attrac- tions, they are not strong enough to be sold as part of a mono destination package for

Lok Baintan Mimi Hudoyo international tourists. There are better op- floating market tions, such as the Tanjung Putting National Park in Central Kalimantan and in East Kalimantan. anjarmasin, the capital city of Pandang Banjarmasin (viewing tower) for sible to tourists. Sugiharto, general man- What we can do is include South South Kalimantan Province, is this purpose. ager of Mercure Banjarmasin, said: “Most Kalimantan in the Borneo tour to enrich the putting into motion a tourism While lauding the intention behind hotels here create seasonal packages (in whole Kalimantan experience. plan centred on highlighting this, managing director of Borneo Indo conjunction with) events such as Floating However, I think the destination is more itsB cultural icons, activities and festivals Tours Aloysius Purwadi thinks the recre- Market Festival and Jukung Parade Festi- ready for the domestic travellers. The and making them more accessible to visi- ated market experience compromises on val.” Sasirangan cloth, culinary delights like tors. authenticity. While the tourism office targets the Soto Banjar and Lontong Orari interest the Known as the City of a Thousand Riv- Referencing an abandoned govern- domestic market, citing good connectiv- Indonesians. ers, Banjarmasin is home to floating mar- ment plan from years back, he said a bet- ity from Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung and kets such as Kuin Astuary on Barito River ter solution was to build canals in the Japri Jogjakarta, Purwadi said the destination and Lok Baintan (outside the city in Ban- Zamzam area in the city to open it up to is now ready to attract longhaul travel- Destination in numbers jar Regency) on Martapura River. Barito River, the largest and longest river lers. Describing the significance of its riv- in Kalimantan. “The European and US travellers ers, Ikhsan El Haque, head of Banjar- “This way, acil-acil from the Barito look for natural and authentic travel pro- masin Culture and Tourism Office said: river can get to the city and travellers can grammes, which South Kalimantan has. 9.2% “Although the city is well connected with shop from their klotok without having to Cruising the rivers on bamboo rafts, visit- The year-on-year increase of visitor roads, the rivers continue to play an im- wake up very early,” he said. ing areas where buffalows can be spotted arrivals to Indonesia in 1Q2017 to portant role in the people’s daily life. Aside from river attractions, the city are unique and interest these tourists.” three million Cruising the rivers on a a klotok (tradi- also offers regular festivals and perfor- Domestic travellers, on the other hand, tional motor boats), travellers will be able mances in Menara Pandang, which attract seek star-rated hotels, shopping and culi- to see the locals’ daily routines, including thousands of visitors on the weekends. nary attractions, areas where the destina- 65.5% kids navigating their own jukung (tradi- “We organised a Sasirangan (tie-and- tion faces strong competition from Jog- The percentage of midscale hotel tional boats) to go to school.” dye cloth with traditional Banjar tribe jakarta, Bandung and other big cities in rooms in the pipeline compared to At dawn, women vendors called acil- motifs) festival and in September will Indonesia, he said. Indonesia’s existing supply as of acil row their jukung to the market to sell organise Kemilau Banjarmasin Bungas Purwadi added that the destination March 2017, according to STR vegetables, fruits and local snacks, before (Beautiful Banjarmasin) Festival near the could benefit from direct links with Singa- moving to the riverside to sell their pro- Menara Pandang to celebrate the city’s an- pore by stepping up overseas promotions. duce door to door at mid-morning. niversary,” Ikhsan shared. Others, like Winny Tendean, general 19.5 million “The floating market is a unique attrac- Other activities include tracing the his- manager of Novotel Banjarbaru Airport, The international airline seat capacity tion, but travellers need to wake up very tory of the Banjar Kingdom and how Is- urge a stronger focus on tourism. He re- into Indonesia in 2016. This year, the early (to visit during the opening hours). lam was introduced to the Banjar society, marked: “Like elsewhere in the country, government is expecting an increase Therefore, we took the initiative to bring or visiting the Sasirangan village to learn the government and all stakeholders need of two million seats to support the the (concept) to town for visitors to en- about the different traditional motifs. to be committed and consistent with the target of 15 million arrivals joy,” said Ikhsan. The city government has Hotels in the city also play a role in products and activities to lure leisure trav- created a market space near the Menara making these cultural events more acces- ellers and follow with promotions.” Destination Indonesia

Seminyak area struggles as competition is Pantai Dreamland Beach, fierce.” South , Bali Although arrivals, especially from Chi- na, continue to grow, it is not enough to fill rooms in the Kuta-Legian area, driving MY WAY prices down, she added. In Bandung, room surplus is also an issue. “The hotels there used to have gov- ernment meetings (to fill the working days) but when the government stopped public offices from organising meetings outside their premises (in 2015), they lost a big chunk of the market,” Christy said. While the government has since loos- Cocos.Bounty/shutterstock ened the restriction, the market has not bounced back to pre-2015 levels. “The city is now (primarily) dependent on weekend travellers, and with a large room Issue of the day supply, visitors are (scattered) everywhere (pressing) growth in occupancy,” she said. Samudra Hendra, owner of Milestone A matter of location Pacific Hotel Group, an Indonesia hotel management company, said many Indo- Mimi Hudoyo examines why having more hotels is nesian investors want to build a hotel in their hometowns to give back to society. not the answer for some destinations in Indonesia “We need to convince them, however, to build the right model in the right place. he Indonesia Ministry of Tour- Tangerang-Bekasi, the cities surrounding If the destination needs a three-star prop- ism is focusing on developing Jakarta), Bali, Surabaya and Bandung. erty but you build a four-star, you will end homestays to anticipate the in- In 1Q2017, supply in Bali rose 3.9 per up selling at three-star rates,” he remarked. flux of travellers, but sentiments cent while demand grew 11.6 per cent, the What Milestone Pacific Hotel Group atT the recent Hospitality Investment Con- latter in part driven by the visit of Saudi has been doing, according to Samudra, is ference Indonesia in Jakarta suggested Arabian King Salman and his huge entou- investing where there is infrastructure de- that some areas are facing a room over- rage in March. velopment, including tertiary cities. supply and price wars. A closer look at the island’s perfor- While this is a sensible approach, he ac- A STR report placed Indonesia in sec- mance reveals varying supply and demand knowledged that when a hotel investment ond place after China in Asia-Pacific in across Bali, said Christy Megawati, busi- is successful, more would follow. terms of hotel rooms in the pipeline. By ness development manager of STR. “In “The thing is that the local govern- Yento Chen March 2017, there were around 60,000 areas like and Tanjung Benoa, ments do not know when to stop issuing CEO of Destination Travel, rooms in the pipeline in the five main ar- where some luxury properties are, perfor- licences, so price competition will ensue,” eas of Jakarta, Bodetabek (Bogor-Depok- mance is more stable. The Kuta-Legian- he said. Jakarta

NEWS IN A MINUTE What are the biggest challenges you face in the business? Price competition. It does not only 3 4 hit the airlines or hotel business, but also travel companies like us. As we turn one year old, we have set some goals – to spread our wings and be on top of the marketing game, drive corporate networking and customer loyalty. The second challenge is the grow- ing Internet penetration, as more holiday bargains online decrease customer loyalty. Therefore, we al- ways try to offer something new to inspire travellers. 1 Plataran hotel opens near At press time, Muhammad petit fauna such as the exotic leopard Temple Awaluddin, president director of whip ray, giant pacific octopus and If I had my way to change things, I Borobudur – Hotel & Convention the Angkasa Pura II airport author- black-tip reef shark. would... make the government, air- Center has soft-opened just three ity, has announced tentative plans to The aquarium also features a pen- lines and private sector promote des- kilometres from Borobudur Temple extend the Bandung airport’s oper- guin-themed restaurant as well as an tinations beyond Bali, Lombok and and close to its sister property, Plata- ating hours from 21.00 to midnight. underwater performance inspired by Jogjakart. As a huge country with ran Borobudur Resort & Spa. Indonesian folklore. thousands of islands and tourism at- Facilities at the 75-room, five-star 3 New luxury hotel in Surabaya The Jakarta Aquarium is a prod- tractions to offer, we need accessibil- property include Menoreh Restau- Indonesia’s Tanly Hospitality has uct of Taman Group Indone- ity to new destinations. It is also im- rant , Padma spa, The Heritage Con- soft-launched the 384-room Vasa sia, owner of in Cisarua, West portant to educate locals to be ready vention Center with capacity for 500 Hotel Surabaya. Java, in Prigen, East Java and in Bali. to welcome visitors. plus several meeting rooms. The luxury hotel features eight Overseas promotional drives The hotel also offers programmes F&B venues, a swimming pool, a spa, 5 High tea for little ones should be made more attractive with such as horse riding, yoga, cycling eight function and meeting facilities Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Col- more participants from the private and tour of the village nearby. to accommodate up to 2,000 people. lection Hotel in Jakarta, has intro- sector, themed with various new des- Other unique amenities are a VIP duced a high tea menu for its young tinations. 2 Bandung airport extends holding room and a helipad. guests in collaboration with former The branding of Wonderful Indo- hours Junior MasterChef Indonesia contest- nesia is the responsibility of all Indo- In line with government efforts to 4 The Jakarta Aquarium ant chef Revo. nesians and we should also engage increase air capacity into the coun- The Jakarta Aquarium, located in the The menu includes dishes such our embassies in the promotion of try, Bandung’s Husein Sastranegara new Agung Podomoro Land leisure as raspberry mousse with whipped the country. Airport – which launched a new district, Neo Soho, in West Jakarta, is cream and meringue; smoked salm- To avoid price wars, products terminal in January – has plans to the latest attraction in the city. on sandwich and beef sliders. could be classified in a tiered pricing extend its opening hours to attract It showcases the wealth of Indo- The Kids High Tea is available all structure, similar to hotel categories. more flights. nesia’s underwater world including day until December 30, 2017. June 2017 TTG Asia 23

are available for hotel and non-hotel and was grateful that my bag was delivered guests to meet or hang out. quickly to my room and allowed me time TRIED AND TESTED A couple of computers with large to change and freshen up. screens and Wi-Fi are available in this area. If there is an improvement I could sug- Also on this level is a meeting room gest, it’s for the housekeeper to have hair POP! Hotel Banjarmasin that can accommodate 200 seats.. dryers, irons and ironing boards for rental – especially for a city hotel which targets SERVICES The hotel staff were all young business travellers. Mimi Hudoyo tries out Tauzia Hotel Management’s and helpful, and the check-in and check- first POP! hotel in Kalimantan, the third property out process was speedy. VERDICT A hotel suitable for those seek- under the budget brand to boast improvedTTG Asia Jun 2017concepts 280mm(H)x173mm_Hires2.pdfI was in 1a hurry11/5/17 for 11:08the day’s AM activity ing a comfortable rest on a budget.

LOCATION POP! Hotel Banjarmasin is located within walking distance from Banjarmasin’s city centre. It is about 10-15 minutes from places of interest such as the Menara Pandang Banjarmasin, Duta Mall and Wasaka Museum. It also sits near the main boat piers of Trisakti, Basirih, Alalak, Banjar Raya and Tamban. The Syamsudin Noor Interna- HOLIDAY, tional Airport is 29 km away. ONE ENDLESS ADVENTURES ROOMS The hotel has only one room type with a city view. Although the room Mariner of the Seas® measures just 16m2 in size, the layout, col- ours and large windows made it feel spa- cious. With a king-sized bed and sofa bed, it can comfortably accommodate three guests. The room also comes with a TV, free Wi-Fi and safety deposit box. The shower pressure is strong and hot water flows immediately after the shower is turned on. GOLD AWARD FOR 4 CRUISES CATEGORY F&B The PitStop, located on the lobby YEARS Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands RUNNING 2014 – 2017 Yento Chen level, is a new cafe-cum-convenience store concept by POP! Hotel. BEST CRUISE 9 OPERATOR, ASIA CEO of Destination Travel, It opens 24 hours, offering hot and cold YEARS TTG Travel Awards RUNNING 2008 – 2016 Jakarta drinks, sandwiches, instant cup noodles, and popular Indonesian dishes like fried BEST CRUISE LINE 14 TRAVEL WEEKLY rice and fried noodles. Local culinary de- YEARS Reader’s Choice Awards lights such as Soto Banjar soup are set to RUNNING 2003 – 2016

make its apperance soon. C The hotel does not offer breakfast. M

FACILITIES Compared to the otherY POP! Hotels I have been to, the Banjarma- CM sin property has a wider lobby and living spaces on the lobby level. MY

It embodies yet another new featureCY that POP! Hotel is introducing: a social hub for young professionals and millenniCMY - als, the hotel’s target segments. K PUT US ON YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY CHECKLIST The hub stretches from the lobby lounge with sofas near the reception desk to the back where more seats and tables 3-NIGHT MALAYSIA 4-NIGHT ISLES OF 5/7^-NIGHT SPICE OF EXPLORER CRUISE SOUTHEAST ASIA CRUISE SOUTHEAST ASIA CRUISE Singapore Departures: Singapore Departures: Singapore Departures: 2017 Sep 15, 22, 29, Oct 6, 13, 20, 27, 2017 Sep 18, 25, Oct 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2017 Sep 10, Dec 11, 23, 28 Nov 3, 10, 17, 24, Dec 1, 8, 20 Nov 6, 13, 20, 27, Dec 4, 16 2018 Jan 5^, Feb 8^, 19, 24, Mar 22^ 2018 Jan 2, 12, 19, 26, Feb 2, 5, 2018 Jan 15, 22, 29, Feb 15, Ports-of-call: Mar 9, 16, 19, Apr 6 Mar 1, 5, 12, 29, Apr 2 Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Ports-of-call: Ports-of-call: Langkawi, Penang, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Penang Langkawi, Penang, Phuket Bangkok (Laem Chabang, Overnight)

*All of the above information is correct at time of print, subject to availability and change without prior notice. Other terms apply. Shrek and Donkey and all related characters and properties © 2017 DreamWorks Animation LLC.

For more information or reservations, please contact Royal Caribbean International and representatives at • Brunei (673) 223 4874 • Singapore (65) 6305 0033 • Japan (813) 5404 8813 • South Korea (822) 737 0003 • India (9111) 4906 1000 (New Delhi)/ • Sri Lanka (94) 114 704542 (9122) 4311 2000 (Mumbai) • Thailand (662) 634 2882 / 634 8080 • Indonesia (6221) 3199 1312/38/39 • Taiwan (886) 2 2504 6402 OYAL ARIBBEAN.COM • Malaysia (603) 7727 4835 / 6286 6292 • Vietnam (848) 39 201 201 / 6291 2277 R C Location Jalan H Djok Mentaya No 50, Kertak • Philippines (632) 894 3957 / 892 2701 to 03 Baru Ilir, Banjarmasin Rate 328,000 rupiah (US$24.70) No.of rooms: 120 Contact details: With over 100 airlines serving more than 300 cities worldwide, Tel: (62) 511 672 3888 Singapore is easily accessible via Changi Airport, a well-connected air hub. Email: [email protected] Website: www.pophotels.com Destination Cambodia

Destination in numbers 5.1 million Taking staff seriously The number of foreign visitors Cambodia welcomed in 2016, a five per cent increase from the previous Upcoming vocational facilities are much year needed for the country to 1.3% supply sufficient trained The percentage of GDP that the tourism industry accounted for in professionals and support Cambodia’s economy in 2016 – the growing tourism US$3 billion, a fall from US$3.5 billion in 2015 industry. By Marissa Carruthers 80,407 The number of Chinese visitors in January, up 20.4 per cent year-on- year

Viewpoints

What do Cambodia’s training centres need to make a priority?

Pierre-Andre Romano, general manager, Exo enphoto/shutterstock Cambodia “We already Cambodian hospitality staff at a Phnom Penh hotel have training schools focusing on hospitality and F&B. We lack training he Cambodian government is taurant owner and CEO of Cambodian guides each year. for tour operators and agencies, although now taking serious steps to ad- Experiences, finds existing training efforts Pierre-Andre Romano, Exo Cambo- some universities do have a dedicated dress the country’s dearth of inadequate. dia’s general manager, said: “Education is curriculum. We need to work closer with skilled tourism workers, raising “The industry is growing by the day,” he a major value with Exo culture, so we have the Ministry of Tourism and Cambodia As- hopesT that manpower and service stand- said. “Specialised schools that are profes- to compensate internally for what we can- sociation of Travel Agents on... areas that ards gaps that long afflicted the industry sional and deliver high-quality training in not find in schools and universities here.” need to be developed for these staff.” could finally be plugged. all areas are essential.” Meanwhile, Cambodia’s largely un- The country currently suffers a shortfall Furthermore, training centres are nec- regulated service standards system is ex- of about 200,000 trained tourism employ- essary in producing high-quality employ- pected to get a leg up when the MOT in- ees, with only 2,000 certified professionals ees – including at all levels of management troduces a rating scheme for recreational Prum Veasna, general venues targeting tourists. graduating each year. If Cambodia is to hit – to make Cambodia self-sufficient and manager, Golden its target of attracting seven million tour- bolster the local workforce, said Chin. Developed to boost the quality of ists annually by 2020, officials estimate it “A big problem is finding qualified lo- tourism goods and services, the coming Tours “We have many will need almost 10 million hospitality cal staff to fill senior positions, like hotel months will see inspectors visit sights workers. manager at a five-star property or res- across the country, awarding restaurants luxury resorts The Ministry of Tourism (MOT) has taurant,” he said. “If we can’t find them that pass up to five stars; venues such as and hotels enter- unveiled plans to build two vocational locally, then we have to look abroad and nightclubs, bars and karaoke joints of ing the market training facilities – one in Phnom Penh this is not good for growing Cambodia’s up to three orchids; while event venues, in the next few catering for 1,000 students, and the sec- human resources. These training centres including conference halls, will receive a years. We need the ond training 300 students in the coastal are urgently needed.” certification of recognition from the min- human resources to town of Sihanoukville. While there are several hospitality train- istry. fill (hotel positions), including top manage- Both are slated for completion by end- ing centres led by NGOs operating across According to the latest MOT figures, as ment. There is less problem finding staff for 2018, with enrolment starting in 2019. The Cambodia – e.g. Friends International’s of end-2016 there were 647 hotels, 1,996 the (lower hotel tiers) in Cambodia, but as centres will focus on training students to Mith Samlanh in Phnom Penh, and Sala guesthouses, 1,844 restaurants, 588 tourist more luxury options come, the country will work at travel agencies and as tour guides Baï Hotel and Restaurant School in Siem agencies and 5,088 guides registered with struggle unless this is looked into.” and hotel service specialists – areas where Reap – these tend to focus on service staff the Ministry of Commerce and Cambodia the country falls behind regional rivals. such as waiters, chefs and hotel workers, Hotel Association. Luu Meng, restaurateur, hotelier and rather than tour guides and operators. However, Prum Veasna, general man- co-chairman of the Government-Private Many hotels and restaurants also run ager of Golden Tours, claims there are “There are several major issues that Sector Working Group on Tourism, be- their own in-house training programmes many more operating outside the realms need addressing,” said Romano, citing lieves training centres are essential to drive to plug the professional gap. Late last year, of the law. “Those which do not pay taxes agents working without a Cambodian the industry forward. Cambodian hotel group, Sokha, launched (or) comply with laws can bring down the tourism license and foreign agents oper- He said: “Cambodia lacks a lot of the its Sokha Culinary Graduates Programme industry for the rest of the hard workers. ating directly within the country, bringing skills needed to meet tourists’ demands. for its staff. We need proper regulations and stand- their own operations staff, guides and bus We need more investment in proper train- The current lack of training facilities ards, and for them to be enforced.” groups, as common examples. ing, and there are a lot of job opportuni- across the country means Exo Travel has While the industry welcomes the move Last year, the MOT introduced mini- ties in the tourism market that need fill- to source its own employees and organise for its potential to eradicate “rogue opera- mum standards to the MICE industry and ing.” annual training. This includes Exo man- tors” and elevate tourism standards coun- rolled out plans for capacity building. And with tourism still growing at a agement training for department man- trywide, it is felt that tighter regulations “This is a good starting point,” said Ro- rapid rate and new hotels mushrooming agers and supervisors, and Exo Academy need to be implemented across the board mano. “But we need more for leisure. That across the country, Chin Meanking, res- for all staff. It also trains 150 independent to create a level playing field. is an important market.” June 2017 TTG Asia 25

Issue of the day Hang Dinh/shutterstock

Long Beach on Koh Rong Coast is clear for more change island, Sihanoukville

Agents say a cleaned-up Sihanoukville still doesn’t provide enough draw to keep visitors in Cambodia. By Marissa Carruthers

mprovements to Cambodia’s main coastal resort of Sihanoukville are helping to increase visitors’ length of stay, but more efforts are needed Ifor it to become a standalone destination, agents opined. Recent years have seen huge resources ploughed into cleaning up Sihanoukville, in a bid to entice international visitors to choose the destination for a relaxing beach stay after a trip to the temples, rather than jetting off to neighbouring Thailand or Vietnam. The progress is palpable: infrastruc- ture in the town has improved, clean-up campaigns conducted, beaches cleared of the hordes of touters, and more upmar- ket products introduced. While this has helped transform the town from backpacker haven to family- friendly paradise – latest figures show 80,589 people visited the coast in Feb- ruary, an 18.3 per cent year-on-year in- crease – agents say the destination’s po- tential is still unfulfilled. Sinan Thourn, chairman of B2B Cam- bodia and of PATA Cambodia Chapter, said: “The first thing people talk about is Angkor Wat. There are now many new things coming up and one of our best as- sets is the coastal area.” Kimhean Pich, CEO, Discover the Me- kong, said the beautification of the beach has increased the length of international visitors’ stay in Cambodia, with many adding three days to relax there or, in- creasingly, explore the islands. Still, it is not enough to keep people in the country, with many still seeing Cambodia as an add-on to Thailand or Vietnam. Thourn acknowledged that more four- and five-star hotels are needed in Sihanoukville, but the main focus needs to be shifted to the sprawling outlying areas with their untouched beaches and landscapes. Chin Chantha, manager of Sun Tours in Sihanoukville, sees the need for more international air links, as is improving access from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville. “If we can provide (easy access) and more products, then visitors have no reason to leave Cambodia.” The latest connection is AirAsia’s four- times weekly flights from Kuala Lumpur to Sihanoukville commencing August 9. Hopeful that Sihanoukville and the coastal region can help Cambodia be- come a standalone destination, Thourn remarked: “Sihanoukville will be the real rising star of Asia’s countries. The town, the province and the coast can be as- tounding for tourists.” June 2017 TTG Asia 26 Destination Cambodia NEWS IN A MINUTE MY WAY 1

Dy Somborath Operations manager, CRD Tours

If I had my way to protect Cambodia’s nat- ural beauty and environment, I would... designate specific sites for the proper devel- opment of ecotourism. As tourism increases, protecting the environment and Cambodia’s natural beauty and resources is a massive challenge. We have protected forests and jun- 1 A private island in the making 5 Get locked up at Escape60 gles that are home to many different species, Six Senses will make its Cambodian debut in July The capital’s first escape room, Escape60, has rivers and indigenous tribes. The government with Six Senses Krabey Island. Set on a 12.1ha pri- been catering to the corporate crowd as well as wants to develop many of these remote for- vate island off the coast of Sihanoukville, the 40-villa the public since its opening this year. Participants ests for ecotourism, although this has to be resort offers outdoor showers, private plunge pools, are trapped in a room for 60 minutes with a set done (in a way that) preserves the environ- and a spa with a meditation cave and outdoor yoga of clues that can get them out. There are currently ment... and benefits communities rather than sala. two themes to choose from, with more in the pipe- destroy them. line. 2 Courtyard by Marriott comes to Cambodia If I had my way to overcome littering and Marriott will mark its foray into Cambodia with the 6 Mexican dining at Agave Cocina waste disposal in Cambodia, I would... Courtyard by Marriott Phnom Penh. When open As the capital’s Toul Tom Poung area gains trac- raise public awareness of the environmental in 3Q2017, the upper midscale hotel will have 189 tion, Agave Cocina is taking dining to a new level. issues caused by littering and make available rooms with all-day dining, a dynamic lobby cafe and Launched in April, the Mexican restaurant is set in more bins. While Sihanoukville, for example, a sky bar in a central location close to the capital’s a sprawling villa, with spacious indoor seating that (has been cleaned up), it still has a long way CBD. overlooks a terraced area dotted with tropical plants. to go. Many innovative entrepreneurs here The 200-seat venue is available for private hire. now create products like biodegradable food 3 Koh Russey gets eco resort boxes, carrier bags and bottles. There should The five-star eco resort is scheduled to open in mid- be incentives for hotels, restaurants and other 2017 on unspoilt Koh Russey island in the Gulf of 2 attractions to (take these up). Thailand, less than 5km south of Cambodia. It will feature a kids’ club and villas that offer the privacy of If I had my way to improve tourism innova- their own terrace, pool and garden. tion, I would... provide more support to start- ups and entrepreneurs, especially among the 4 New boutique stay in Phnom Penh younger generation. Entrepreneurs are key to In March, the 16-storey Lumiere Hotel opened in the industry growth, but they need more help the heart of Phnom Penh as a boutique accommo- in terms of finances and guidance. There could dation targeting business travellers. The 88-room be more engagement between the universities, property boasts a business centre and meeting private and public sectors on how they can rooms, a gym, rooftop bar and Jacuzzi, restaurant work together to foster entrepreneurship. and coffee shop. Shanghai, China 10 May 2017

Over 200 ITB China delegates wound down ITB China Day 1 at e BREW with gourmet food, hand-craed signature beers and live music entertainment. General Manager of Kerry Hotel Pudong Gregor Wateler together with his team and TTG Travel Trade Publishing warmly welcomed all DRINK, delegates to this contemporary bar with award winning beers - the perfect ambience for all to drink, network and be merry.

NETWORK TTG is proud to be the only ocial show daily for ITB China 2017. Catch the & hightlights of the show online at ttgasia.com. BE MERRY CO-HOSTED BY: An Official ITB China Pre-Dinner Cocktail

The party’s co-hosts: Grace Yang, Gigi Chen and Gregor Wateler (third from the right) from Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai together with Shirley Tan (third from the le ), Michael Chow (second from the right) and Pierre Quek (right) from TTG Asia Media

Lucie Bihellerova from iitours and Noemi Benesova-Guerrero from Czech Tourism

Lidya Wang, Sandra Calvo from Restel Hotels and Marc Armengol from Restel Hotels Reservation Center

Irmgard Huber from Lech Zurs and Marcus Lee from International China Investment Forum

Cyan Chen from Avis China, Angeline Tang from Avis Budget Group and Ding Peng from Aviation International Travel Service Ltd.

Delegates seamlessly blending together work and play June 2017 TTG Asia 28 ICYMI: Tune in to what’s been going on at Connect ttgasia.com and the social media space

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CHRIS BAILEY REPLACES JUDY LUM AT TOUR EAST gateways in the country, struck a chord with Philippine tour operator Chris Bailey is now senior vice president of sales Larry Uytiepo. He wrote: “Just our luck last year. For the mere three EDITORIAL & marketing - longhaul of Tour East Holdings, kilometers from the Manila airport to the hotel at the Mall of Asia, Karen Yue Group Editor [email protected] effective June 1, after more than 12 years with it took three hours for our group of 30 Japanese tourists crawled Xinyi Liang-Pholsena Editor, TTG Asia Centara Hotels & Resorts where he eventually through traffic. Back in Japan, the 'event' was featured on local TV's [email protected] S Puvaneswary Editor, Malaysia/Brunei rose to COO in August 2015. Believe it or Not episode. (They’re) never visiting again.” [email protected] The move comes as a surprise as Bailey had Mimi Hudoyo Editor, Indonesia [email protected] assumed the role of CEO of Royal Phuket Marina THOMAS COOK'S PURCHASE OF KUONI'S DMC Pamela Chow Reporter, Singapore only in January, but he told TTG Asia that he NETWORK: LONGTERM MARRIAGE OR BRIEF AFFAIR? [email protected] Rachel AJ Lee, Yixin Ng Sub Editors decided not to confirm the position due to significant delays in the Andrew Wood, director of Worldwide Destinations Asia Travel and pub- [email protected], [email protected] project. He instead accepted the offer to join Tour East – which came lic relations director of Skal International Bangkok, dubs Thomas Cook Rebecca Elliott, Adelaine Ng Correspondents, Australia [email protected], [email protected] a few weeks later – “given it was Tour East that first brought me to India’s recent acquisition of Kuoni’s DMC network, including Asian Marissa Carruthers Correspondent, Cambodia Asia, it really feels like I am going home!”. Trails, a “surprising move”, especially as Thomas Cook closes more [email protected] Caroline Boey Senior Correspondent, China & Special Projects In the earlier days of his career, Bailey was managing director of retail outlets globally at a time when more customers are making their [email protected] Tour East Hong Kong and Thailand, and also held senior management own travel bookings online. Prudence Lui Correspondent, Hong Kong [email protected] positions at Saga Holidays, Tradewinds and Colours of Asia. Although the business model in India may differ from the UK, the Rohit Kaul Correspondent, India One of Bailey’s challenges will be to rebuild Tour East’s relation- subcontinent also has “a huge travel market that is capable of directly [email protected] Julian Ryall Correspondent, Japan ships with international tour operators the DMC’s former senior vice booking travel products via airlines’ own websites and OTAs”, he [email protected] president sales & marketing, international Judy Lum and general wrote. For a market like Thailand, for which India is a strong feeder Rosa Ocampo Correspondent, The Philippines [email protected] manager Yvonne Lim – both of whom joined Diethelm Travel Singa- market, Wood thinks Asian Trails is set to benefit from its new parent Feizal Samath Correspondent, Sri Lanka/Maldives pore in February – had secured over the last 30 years. Thomas Cook India. “But for how long?” he questioned. [email protected] Chadamas Chinmaneevong Correspondent, Thailand He added: “It looks like a short-term marriage to me. As India [email protected] follows the path of the UK with more and more tech-savvy customers Paige Lee Pei Qi Assistant Editor, Special Projects TRAFFIC GRIDLOCK HURTS A CITY'S IMAGE [email protected] Our story ‘Manila: a city bypassed’ (May 2017), which looks at how moving to DIY (travel), I see a potential divorce sale down the road of Redmond Sia, Goh Meng Yong Creative Designers the capital city is losing out as a tourist destination to secondary all of Thomas Cook India's recent DMC acquisitions.” Lina Tan Editorial Assistant SALES & MARKETING Michael Chow Group Publisher [email protected] Pierre Quek Publisher, Online Section WHO’S SAYING WHAT [email protected] Shirley Tan Senior Business Manager [email protected] Ingrid Chung Business Manager Instagram [email protected] Cheryl Tan Corporate Marketing Manager [email protected] Kwek Wan Ling Marketing Executive [email protected] Cheryl Lim Advertisement Administration Manager [email protected] Carol Cheng Assistant Manager Administration and Marketing [email protected]

PUBLISHING SERVICES Tony Yeo Division Manager Kun Swee Qi Publishing Services Executive Lynn Lim Web Executive Katherine Leong Circulation Executive

TTG ASIA MEDIA Darren Ng Managing Director Greetings from TTG from #Maldives! Yes TTG's Mimi Hudoyo (left) met with Hello from Penang, said #wtmconnectasia [email protected] Raini Hamdi Senior Editor you heard us right, we've landed on this #AtoutFrance's regional director SE Asia delegates at the evening networking and [email protected] beautiful island for our teambuilding this year! Morad Tayebi (right) to get an update on how cocktail event held at The Tree Top Walk, The

#ttginmaldives France is boosting arrivals from #Indonesia, Habitat. This is the second year the tradeshow OFFICES its biggest source market in the region is organised in #Penang. SINGAPORE 1 Science Park Road #04-07 The Capricorn, Singapore Science Park II, Singapore 117528 Tel: (65) 6395-7575 Fax: (65) 6536-0896 [email protected]; www.ttgasia.com FACEBOOK.COM/TTGASIA TWITTER.COM/TTG_ASIA INSTAGRAM.COM/TTGASIA HONG KONG 8/F, E168, 166-168 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2237-7288 Fax: (852) 2237-7227

TTG Asia is a product by TTG Travel Trade Publishing, WE LIKE Snippets of happenings good and bad surrounding the travel trade a business group of TTG Asia Media. It is mailed free on written request to readers who meet predetermined criteria. Paid subscriptions are available to those who do not meet the criteria. Annual airmail subscriptions are US$180 to Asia and US$199 STAFF MOTIVATION, SWISS STYLE ILLUSTRATED MAP OF elsewhere. Cover price US$5. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts recently treated 37 YANGON’S HIDDEN SIGHTS MCI (P) 098/09/2014 • PPS 619/02/2013(022926) Printed by Times Printers Pte Ltd Employee of the Year awardees from across Yangon-based online travel specialist 16 Tuas Avenue 5, Singapore 639340 its hotels worldwide to a trip to Switzerland, Thahara has teamed up with local cre- the global hospitality brand’s home country. ative digital agency Nex to create the The group visited attractions including the Swiss Alternative Yangon Map, an illustrated mountains, the famous ‘Cailler’ chocolate factory, the map spotlighting Yangon’s alternative Travel Hall of Fame side and lesser-known sights, includ- Since 2002, TTG Asia Media has honoured cities of Luzern and Zurich as well as the Mövenpick headquarters in luminaries that have won the prestigious Baar, followed by a gala dinner at Mövenpick Hotel Regensdorf. ing restaurants, hangout spots and TTG Travel Award for at least 10 consecutive galleries. The easy-to-use English- times for the same award title in the Travel The group’s Employee of the Year initiative was established in Hall of Fame. 2005 to recognise the excellent work demonstrated by non-executive language map is available for free at At present, these exceptional staff. Each year, every hotel across the group’s global portfolio selects selected locations around Yangon, and organisations and their years of induction are: • Singapore Airlines (2002) its top employee to attend a five-day reward trip to Switzerland, as a PDF version is available from the • Singapore Changi Airport (2002) a way to incentivise its staff around the world and immerse them in Thahara website (www.thahara.com). • Hertz Asia Pacific (2005) Mövenpick’s company culture. • Royal Cliff Hotels Group (2006) • Star Cruises (2008) PHISHING SCAM HITS SIA • Sabre Travel Network Asia-Pacific (2009) Scammers pretending to be Singapore Airlines • SilkAir (2010) • Lotte Tour (2011) (SIA) employees have been calling and email- • Hong Kong International Airport (2013) ing members of the public to phish for personal • Raffles Hotel Singapore (2013) information. The victims were told they had won • Regal Airport Hotel (2015) • Banyan Tree Spa (2015) air tickets and needed to provide personal data. • Qatar Airways (2016) In a Facebook post, the airline advises customers to • Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (2016) be cautious of social media posts and phishing websites that appear • Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (2016) TTG Asia Media is pleased to announce that it has set up a similar to the official SIA website. Customers should also exercise virtual TTG Travel Hall of Fame (www.ttgtravelhof.com), which will enable us to showcase the accolades, artefacts and memorabilia caution when revealing personal data to unverified sources, and of the region’s most exceptional travel organisations in a far should verify the websites, emails and calls when in doubt. more effective way and to a global audience. Cast Your Vote Now! You Determine Who Clinches The Top Honour In The Industry

TTG Travel Awards, Asia-Pacific travel trade’s most celebrated event, is back for its 28th year to honor the industry’s crème de la crème. Tell us which company has made exemplary achievements and contributions that have raised the bar of excellence and taken the industry to greater heights.

Vote now and help your favorite travel suppliers and agencies bring home the title of being the best in the travel industry.

www.ttgasia.com/ttg-awards Closing Date: 7 July 2017

An event by: Organised by: Supported by:

TTG Travel Trade Publishing is a business group of TTG Asia Media Award Categories 1. Travel Agency Awards VOTING INSTRUCTIONS AND GUIDELINES Winners in this category are decided by votes from industry suppliers.

• Best Travel Agency – Australia • Best Travel Agency – China For Travel Agency and Travel Supplier Awards • Best Travel Agency – Chinese Taipei • Best Travel Agency – Hong Kong 1. Please use the correct voting form. iv. No responsibility will be accepted by the organisers for voting forms • Best Travel Agency – India lost, delayed or damaged in the post. • Best Travel Agency – Indochina (Cambodia, Laos) Voting Form A: Travel Agency Awards v. There are no pre-nominated contenders for any voting awards. • Best Travel Agency – Indonesia For voting by hoteliers, airline staff, car rental companies, cruise operators, vi. The results for TTG Travel Awards 2017 are final and no correspondence • Best Travel Agency – Japan will be entertained. • Best Travel Agency – Malaysia national tourism organisations, GDS companies and all other travel professionals (except travel consultants, tour operators and destination vii. Voting forms will be tabulated and evaluated by an independent auditor • Best Travel Agency – Singapore in Singapore. • Best Travel Agency – South Korea management companies). • Best Travel Agency – Thailand viii. Voting Closes 7 July 2017. • Best Travel Agency – The Philippines Voting Form B: Travel Supplier Awards • Best Travel Agency – Vietnam For voting by travel consultants, tour operators and destination management 4. Voting Form Submission • Best Corporate Travel Agency companies only. Completed voting forms are to be returned to: • Best Online Travel Agency 2. Travel Supplier Awards Online Voting Forms SINGAPORE Winners in this category are decided by votes from You can also opt to vote using our online form www.ttgasia.com/ttg-awards Ms WanLing Kwek (TTG Travel Awards 2017) travel consultants and experts. TTG Asia Media 1 Science Park Road #04-07 The Capricorn Airline Awards 2. Voting Criteria • Best North American Airline Please refer to the voting criteria for each category and title to ensure that all Singapore Science Park II • Best European Airline judging is done on an equal basis. Singapore 117528 • Best Middle Eastern Airline Tel: (65) 6395-7575 Fax: (65) 6536-0896 • Best South-east Asian Airline 3. Voting Rules • Best North Asian Airline i. Only one voting entry per person is allowed – using the voting form or HONG KONG • Best China Airline online voting. Ms Carol Cheng (TTG Travel Awards 2017) • Best Pacific Airline ii. All votes are confidential. TTG Asia Media • Best Regional Airline 8/F, E168, 166-168 Des Voeux Road Central, • Best Asian Low-Cost Carrier iii. Voting forms are published in selected TTG Travel Trade Publishing print titles and issues and are also available online at Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Hotels, Resorts, Serviced Residences & Spa Awards www.ttgasia.com/ttg-awards Tel: (852) 2237-7272 Fax: (852) 2237 7227 HOTEL Chains • Best Global Hotel Chain • Best Regional Hotel Chain • Best Local Hotel Chain • Best Hotel Representation Company • Best Luxury Hotel Brand • Best Mid-range Hotel Brand • Best Budget Hotel Brand VOTING FORM A: TRAVEL AGENCY AWARDS HOTELS – Individual Property • Best Luxury Hotel • Best Mid-range Hotel • Best Budget Hotel • Best Independent Hotel For voting by • Hoteliers • Airlines • Car rental companies • Cruise • Best operators • National Tourism Organisations • GDS companies • All • Best City Hotel – Bangkok VOTE ONLINE AT • Best City Hotel – Delhi other travel professionals (except travel consultants, tour operators • Best City Hotel – Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City and destination management companies) www.ttgasia.com/ttg-awards • Best City Hotel – Jakarta • Best City Hotel – Hong Kong • Best City Hotel – Kuala Lumpur Criteria • Best City Hotel – Macau • Best City Hotel – Manila Best Travel Agency in its respective category in terms of: • Best City Hotel – Seoul • Professionalism and excellence in staff. • Best City Hotel – Singapore • Best value-added services to client. • Best City Hotel – Taipei • Best use of computer technology applications to help improve efficiency and effectiveness in services provided to client. • Best City Hotel – Tokyo • Best New City Hotel • Best Airport Hotel 1. Best Travel Agency – Australia RESORTS – Individual Property 2. Best Travel Agency – China • Best Beach Resort • Best (Non-Beach) 3. Best Travel Agency – Chinese Taipei • Best New Beach Resort • Best Integrated Resort 4. Best Travel Agency – Hong Kong SERVICED RESIDENCES 5. Best Travel Agency – India • Best Serviced Residence Operator 6. Best Travel Agency – Indochina (Cambodia, Laos) SPAS • Best Spa Operator 7. Best Travel Agency – Indonesia BT-MICE Awards 8. Best Travel Agency – Japan • Best Airline – Business Class • Best Business Hotel 9. Best Travel Agency – Malaysia • Best Meetings & Conventions Hotel • Best BT-MICE City 10. Best Travel Agency – Singapore • Best Convention & Exhibition Centre 11. Best Travel Agency – South Korea • Best Convention & Exhibition Bureau Travel Services Awards 12. Best Travel Agency – Thailand • Best Airport 13. Best Travel Agency – The Philippines • Best GDS • Best Cruise Operator 14. Best Travel Agency – Vietnam • Best NTO • Best Theme Attraction 15. Best Corporate Travel Agency Best travel agency specialising in serving the needs of corporate travellers. 3. Outstanding Achievement Awards The winners in this category are decided by the TTG editorial team. • Travel Personality of the Year 16. Best Online Travel Agency • Destination of the Year Best online-based travel agency offering the most user-friendly and effective interface to meet client needs. This online travel agency must also boast the best • Travel Entrepreneur of the Year sales and marketing network in terms of service innovation. • Best Travel Marketing Effort • Most Sustainable Travel Company • Best Trade Supporter 4. Travel Hall of Fame Honoring organisations that have won at least 10 Name: no.: consecutive years at the awards. Job title: Company: These special award winners will be recognised at every TTG annual awards presentation ceremony. Address: Votes for them will not be counted. Inducted Travel Hall of Fame honoraries are: Country: • Singapore Changi Airport (2002) Telephone no.: Fax no.: • Singapore Airlines (2002) • Hertz Asia-Pacific (2005) Email: Signature: • Royal Cliff Hotels Group (2006) VOTER INFORMATION • Star Cruises (2008) • Abacus International (2009) • Silkair (2010) • Lotte Tour (2011) • Hong Kong International Airport (2013) • Raffles Hotel Singapore (2013) Please refer to the next page for • Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts (2015) VOTING CLOSES • Regal Airport Hotel (2015) • Qatar Airways (2016) VOTING FORM B: • Thai Airways (2016) • Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (2016) TRAVEL SUPPLIER AWARDS 7 JULY 2017 VOTING FORM B: TRAVEL SUPPLIER AWARDS VOTE ONLINE AT www.ttgasia.com/ttg-awards For voting by • Travel Consultants • Tour Operators • Destination Management Companies Airline Awards BT-MICE Awards Criteria HOTELS – Individual Property Criteria Best airline in its respective category in terms of: 33. Best Luxury Hotel • Best services and facilities catering specifically to the BT-MICE • Providing the best service, network and schedules. Best hotel catering to the upmarket traveller. This hotel must also market. • Most agent-friendly in terms of reservations, confirmations and boast the best visual appeal and ambience reflecting upmarket status. • Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of innovative commission payments. ideas and servicing the BT-MICE market. • Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of innovative • Most desirable and attractive incentives and value added services to ideas, incentive programmes and servicing. 34. Best Mid-range Hotel business travellers and MICE planners. Best mid-range hotel catering to the traveller who seeks three- to 17. Best North American Airline four-star quality and comfort. 58. Best Airline – Business Class Best airline based in North America operating Asia-Pacific routes. Best business class airline across the board.

Refer to Airline Criteria. 35. Best Budget Hotel 18. Best European Airline Best hotel catering to the budget traveller. Best airline based in Europe operating Asia-Pacific routes.

59. Best Business Hotel 36. Best Independent Hotel Best hotel catering to the business traveller. 19. Best Middle Eastern Airline Best non-chain (ie not part of a network of properties) hotel. Best airline based in Middle East operating Asia-Pacific routes. Refer to Hotel Criteria.

37. Best Boutique Hotel 20. Best South-east Asian Airline Best small, fashionable and unique hotel. Best airline based in Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, 60. Best Meetings & Conventions Hotel Myanmar, The Philippines, Singapore, Thailand or Vietnam operating Best hotel catering to meeting and convention needs. Asia-Pacific routes. 38. Best City Hotel – Bangkok Refer to Hotel Criteria.

21. Best North Asian Airline 39. Best City Hotel – Delhi Best airline based in South Korea, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Macau or 61. Best BT-MICE City Hong Kong operating Asia-Pacific routes. The city most friendly and desirable to business travellers and for 40. Best City Hotel – Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City MICE planners to host their events.

22. Best China Airline Best airline based in China operating Asia-Pacific routes. 41. Best City Hotel – Hong Kong 62. Best Convention & Exhibition Centre • Best facilities. 23. Best Pacific Airline 42. Best City Hotel – Jakarta • Best value for money. Best airline based in the Pacific operating Asia-Pacific routes. • Most flexible in catering to MICE planners. • Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of innovative 43. Best City Hotel – Kuala Lumpur ideas and servicing. 24. Best Regional Airline

Best airline based regionally operating Asia-Pacific routes. 44. Best City Hotel – Macau

63. Best Convention & Exhibition Bureau 25. Best Asian Low-cost Carrier • Most efficient, flexible and friendly in terms of response to enquiries Best airline based in Asia-Pacific that operates on a low-cost strategy. 45. Best City Hotel – Manila and information. • Most effective in raising awareness of MICE at government and

46. Best City Hotel – Seoul community levels. • Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of innovative Hotels, Resorts, Serviced Residences & ideas and servicing. 47. Best City Hotel – Singapore Spa Awards Criteria Best Hotel Chain in its respective category in terms of: 48. Best City Hotel – Taipei • Most consistent in products and services. Travel Services Awards

• Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of innovative Criteria ideas, incentive programmes and servicing. 49. Best City Hotel – Tokyo • Best product, services and facilities • Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of Best Hotel/Resort/Serviced Residence/Spa in its respective category in innovative ideas and servicing. terms of: 50. Best New City Hotel Best city hotel that opened in 2016/2017 • Best services and facilities. 64. Best Airport • Best range of value-added benefits. • Best facilities. • Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of innovative • Most user-friendly, efficient and hassle-free immigration. ideas and servicing. 51. Best Airport Hotel Best hotel – located within the vicinity of an airport – that caters to • Most organised baggage claim. • Best planned floor layout, with easy ground access. HOTEL CHAINS travellers in transit. 26. Best Global Hotel Chain Best hotel chain operating a network of properties globally. RESORTS – Individual Property 65. Best GDS (Global Distribution System) 27. Best Regional Hotel Chain 52. Best Beach Resort • Most comprehensive network offering ease of operation and user Best hotel chain operating a network of properties in the region. Best resort located by a beach. This resort must also boast the best friendliness. visual appeal and ambience reflecting local flavour. • Most efficient and reliable system.

28. Best Local Hotel Chain Best hotel chain operating a network of properties within any one 53. Best Resort Hotel (Non-Beach) Asia-Pacific country. Best resort not located by a beach. This resort must also boast the 66. Best Cruise Operator best visual appeal and ambience reflecting local flavour. • Best product in terms of service, routes and schedules. • Best onboard programme and facilities.

29. Best Hotel Representation Company • Most agent-friendly in terms of reservations, confirmations and Best company providing the most agent-friendly products and services 54. Best New Beach Resort commission payments. and showing the best marketing effort in generating sales for member Best beach resort that opened in 2016/2017 • Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of innovative ideas, incentive programmes and servicing. hotels via agents. 55. Best Integrated Resort 30. Best Luxury Hotel Brand Best hotel offering comprehensive accommodation, shopping, dining, Best hotel chain operating a network of luxurious properties within any entertainment and sports. 67. Best NTO (National Tourism Organisation) one Asia-Pacific country. • Most efficient, flexible and friendly in terms of response to enquiries and information. • Most effective in raising awareness of tourism at government and 31. Best Mid-range Hotel Brand SERVICED RESIDENCES community levels. Best hotel chain operating a network of mid-range properties within 56. Best Serviced Residence Operator • Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of innovative any one Asia-Pacific country. Best serviced property catering to mid- and long-term staying guests. ideas and servicing.

32. Best Budget Hotel Brand SPAS Best hotel chain operating a network of economical properties within 68. Best Theme Attraction any one Asia-Pacific country. 57. Best Spa Operator Best managed and operated spa or network of spas in the region. • Best ambience. • Best facilities and services.

• Most professional sales and marketing team in terms of innovative ideas and servicing.

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VOTER INFORMATION 7 JULY 2017

Meliá Yangon | Myanmar

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Meliá Hotels International is one For decades the Group has been For more information or to discuss of the largest hotel companies at the forefront of entering new a development opportunity, in the world. With over 360 hotels territories, having launched its rst please contact us at 86 (21) 3382 0800 or [email protected]. and resorts in more than 35 hotel in Cuba 25 years ago, countries, the passion and vision and is set to open Iran’s rst of the founding family continues ve-star hotel in 2017. With 25 to drive the company forward. properties already due to launch in 2016, MHI has a strength and spirit like no other hotel company.