Cruise News Hong Kong and Philippines Making Waves See Page 3

PPS 619/02/2013(022926) Cruise news Hong Kong and Philippines making waves See page 3

No. 1656/April 6 – 12, 2012

Business Travel Vietnam China Watching costs of travel Seen in a new light Hangzhou heads up PAGE 8 PAGE 11 PAGE 15

www.ttgasia.com

Silver lining in www.ttgasia.com India’s airspace S’pore aims for more Most popular (as of April 3, 2012) By Shekhar Niyogi Local DMCs voice concerns over aspects of tourism roadmap KOLKATA The shutdown of Mainland Chinese firm Kingfisher Airlines’ internation- By Linda Haden and Karen Yue cruise tourism, arts and enter- 1 sues IHG over hotel al flight operations will have a SINGAPORE The Singapore Software upgrade tainment, and the travel consult- management spat dampening effect on both in- Tourism Board’s (STB) vision ant industry. A THIRD of STB’s S$905 million The NTO is keen to help es- bound and outbound traffic, al- to seal the country’s position as for industry development over the Google think tank: Travel tablished outbound businesses beit briefly. a quality, world-class destina- next five years will go into build- 2 innovation in Asia needs a All overseas flights will stop tion received the thumbs up ing up manpower capabilities. grow inbound volumes, as well push by April 10, potentially leaving from travel consultants. How- According to S Iswaran, as attract global companies to set some global routes with only one ever, some were unhinged by Singapore’s second minister for up inbound operations here. Air India’s monopoly on airline operator, for example, the NTO’s plan to attract more trade and industry, STB will build Surprised by the latter, Darren 3 international routes slashed Emirates on Bangalore-Dubai. foreign inbound companies, a on basic tourism-related courses Tan, managing director, World Airfares are also on the rise due move seen as threatening to local Express, said STB should put Firefly adds Hat Yai, and ramp up advanced special- Kelantan-Johor connections to the reduced seat inventory. enterprises. ist training in key areas such as local firms first. He explained: 4 “They should be forging closer The past five months saw the Unveiled at the recent Tour- conference management and at- Centara unveils interna- partnerships with Singapore- carrier plummet from operating ism Industry Conference, Tour- tractions operation. tional expansions plans 64 aircraft on 409 international ism Compass 2020 will see a new Training programmes would based companies, not foreign 5 and domestic flights to only 18 strategy based on sustaining a cut across the spectrum of the operators. We are already fac- Philippines’ AirAsia takes planes and 100 flights presently. pipeline of original tourism ex- industry. Tourism-related scholar- ing immense competition from 6 off However, several factors could periences; renewing and rejuve- ships will also be rolled out. other destinations in the region.” soften the impact of Kingfisher’s nating the tourism landscape; Tan-Collis added that while Marketing Villas hunts for rapid decline. harnessing the collective energies announced a S$905 million STB engaged local players, it 7 Asian partners The Centre for Asia Pacific of Asia; and strengthening in- (US$716 million) industry de- seemed to be focused on reach- Aviation predicts that although dustry competitiveness through velopment war chest for the next ing out to bigger organisations. Thailand’s first Park Hyatt India’s inbound and outbound capabilities upgrading. five years. Two-thirds of the fund “Smaller firms like mine have 8 to open in Bangkok traffic will suffer temporar- Janet Tan-Collis, CEO of East injection will be pumped into been sidelined to a degree.” ily from the shortfall in London, West Executive Travellers, said: seeding new tourism ventures As for competition from pos- Swissotel gets inaugural Hong Kong, Bangkok and Dubai “This is exactly what Singapore and projects, while the rest will sible newcomers, Star Holiday 9 Asian resort property in services in particular, King- needs at this time of economic be channelled towards tourism- Mart managing director, Den- Phuket fisher’s market share on inter- uncertainty, and particularly related education and skill-up- nis Law, said: “Local companies Mandala makes a national routes – which ranges since other destinations in our grading initiatives. are so deeply entrenched that comeback backyard are ramping up efforts.” Key segments earmarked by it would be difficult for foreign 10 Continued on page 2 In the shorter term, STB has STB for advancement include players to crack the market.” To read these news, go to www.ttgasia.com

ttgAsia Apr6 p01-02 News_BH-GC.indd 1 4/3/12 4:05 PM NEWS APRIL 6 – 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 2

Continued from page 1 Lacking connections Capacity boost expected Indonesia’s inbound tourism hampered by insufficient airlift from five to 19 per cent – will be Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines replaced by other carriers. and Jet Airways continue to fly By Mimi Hudoyo and Bali, and Indonesia’s Ministry of Trans- Virgin Atlantic has already the major share of the same in- JAKARTA Indonesian tourism this is the portation director general of Civ- kicked off the first round of re- ternational routes.” stakeholders have called on the maximum air il Aviation, Herry Bakti Gumay, placement flights with a Mum- However, a potential stum- country’s Ministry of Transpor- rights Sin- said: “Singapore has used up all bai-London service starting Oc- bling block for international car- tation to be more flexible with its gapore has, its traffic rights, while Indonesia tober 28. riers looking to pick up the slack air rights agreements, especially according to has utilised some 95 per cent of Another welcome news is a in longhaul services is the re- the one with neighbouring inter- the bilateral its air rights. We have been work- recent announcement striction of bringing in national hub, Singapore. agreement ing on a new agreement with by the Ministry of Civil larger Airbus A380 air- Several industry members Sapta: capacity between the Singapore to increase up to 50 Aviation to free up 11 craft into India. There identified the lack of seat capac- bottleneck Singapore per cent of the air rights.” international routes are also high airport ity as a key factor inhibiting the and Indone- He added that there were a that Air India had a charges. progress of inbound tourism, a sia governments.” few kinks to iron out before an monopoly on but did In spite of these, key issue raised during the re- The air rights issue was also upgraded air rights agreement not utilise, opening up optimism still runs high cent Association of the Indone- brought up by ASITA West Nusa could be established, for exam- the possibility of new in India. sian Tours and Travel Agencies Tenggara chapter chairman and ple, the inclusion of LCCs. flights from New Delhi Rajesh Khanna, exec- Khanna: others (ASITA) Jakarta Chapter general Lombok Sumbawa Tourism Pro- Last month, the issue of ex- to popular destinations utive director – sales & will fill the gap assembly. motion Board chairman, Awan pansion of air services was also such as Sydney, Mel- marketing, Abercombie Indonesia’s deputy minister Aswinabawa, who was in talks discussed by Singapore’s prime bourne, Macau, Hanoi and Ho & Kent India, continues to hold for tourism and creative econo- with SilkAir to increase its Sin- minister and Indonesia’s presi- Chi Minh City. The ministry has high hopes for inbound tour- my, Sapta Nirwandar, was among gapore-Lombok services from dent, who both urged the rel- also increased the allocation of ism. “We are seeing growth in those who believed a bottleneck three to five weekly, as part of evant working group to come to traffic rights for this year’s sum- Indian inbound. As long as there exists, especially in the light of efforts to promote the newly-es- a win-win outcome. mer and winter schedules. These is demand for our destinations strong demand for the destina- tablished Lombok International Industry veteran and Indone- are available to airlines such as and products, more airlines will tion as reflected in recent trans- Airport. sia’s former minister of tourism, Jet Airways, SpiceJet and IndiGo. come in and increase the carry- actions made during tradeshows. “(SilkAir) has agreed (to boost post and telecommunications, Manoj Saraf, managing direc- ing capacity,” he said. He said: “Singapore has 11 services) but it has no more air Joop Ave, said Singapore exten- tor, Gainwell Travel & Leisure Further, with outbound num- million arrivals a year, and many rights. The only way is to get a sive’s air connections must be Kolkata, said: “The stoppage of bers on an upward trajectory, the visitors are looking for destina- recommendation from Garuda leveraged. “Imagine the thou- Kingfisher’s international flights absence of Kingfisher’s services is tions beyond the country. Bali is Indonesia (to allow SilkAir to sands of seats available...We are will not have any profound long- unlikely to affect growth, added a favourite. use its remaining allocation). We a nation in a hurry. We need to term effect, as British Airways, Vineet Gopal, joint secretary, “However, there are only four need the government’s help for think big and not just about the Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, Luf- Outbound Tour Operators As- flights a day between Singapore this to materialise,” he said. small things.” thansa, Cathay Pacific, Air India, sociation of India.

TTG Intelligence Analysis by Murray Bailey

PUTRA WORLD TRADE CENTRE China vs Germany Asia-Pacific’s travel markets & SERI PACIFIC HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR . MALAYSIA China is set to surpass Germany as an Among Asia-Pacific destinations that re- outbound market this year. Based on 2011 ceived at least one million visitors, Thai-

Organized By: In Collaboration With: growth rates, China (up 22 per cent last land experienced the highest growth (20 year) will blaze ahead of Germany (up 1 per cent) in 2011 – a surprise after wide- per cent) in 2012, resulting in 86 million spread floods caused an 18 per cent drop travellers from China, compared to 74 in visitor numbers in November. The des- million from Germany. tination which saw the least growth, was Official figures indicate outbound unsurprisingly, Japan (-28 per cent). travellers from China totalled 70 million in 2011. IPK, a Germany-based research % Growth in 2011 WITM 2012 is a ground breaking event for MATTA and the Malaysian tourism body, counts 73 million outbound travel- industry whereby for the first time an event is organized that will provide the Destination/market Inbound Outbound opportunity for the tourism industry players to meet, network, sell directly to lers from Germany over the same period. Australia -0.2 9.6 Not all is clear-cut, however. The out- consumers and to share their knowledge and learn from experience China 1.2 22.4 people in the tourism industry. bound figure from China includes travel to Hong Kong and Macau, which are Hong Kong 16.4 0.4 technically domestic destinations. There India 8.9 NA are also no precise counts for German Indonesia 9.2 NA outbound – travel to most destinations Japan -27.8 2.1 in Europe, for instance, is not recorded. IPK’s data is based on surveys. Korea 11.3 1.6 Macau 12.2 16.5* Malaysia 0.6 NA Maldives 17.6 NA Myanmar 25.9 13.0 22% 86m 74m Philippines 11.3 NA Growth rate Expected Expected Singapore 13.2 5.6 BUSINESS-TO BUSINESS BUSINESS-TO-CONSUMER WITM INCOMTHU in outbound outbound outbound (B2B) TRAVEX EXHIBITION OR FAIR (B2C) CONFERENCE Sri Lanka 30.8 NA (B2B) TRAVEX EXHIBITION OR FAIR (B2C) CONFERENCE travel from traffic from traffic from Taiwan 9.3 1.8 China in China in Germany 2011 2012 (in in 2012 (in Thailand 19.8 NA million) million) Vietnam 18.6 NA Source: IPK, PATA *Travel Business Analyst (TBA) estimate. Source: PATA , Malaysia. , Malaysia. Air traffic between Asia and key European countries The number of air passengers between Asia-Pacific and France, Germany and the UK

facebook.com/witm.malaysia twitter.com/witmmalaysia my.linkedin.com/in/witmmalaysia experienced overall increases last year. Routes between France and Asia-Pacific saw a

Organized By: In Collaboration With: Official Airline: Gold Sponsor: Silver Sponsor: jump of 7.5 per cent; Germany and Asia-Pacific, 6 per cent; and UK and Asia-Pacific, 1.4 per cent. The top three routes are to/from India, China and Japan. Supported By: The surprise is that despite Thailand’s 20 per cent growth in overall inbound num- , Malaysia. Official Media Partners Official Travel Magazines: bers last year (see table above), air traffic between Thailand and France, Germany and (809065-X) the UK fell by 0.4 per cent on the whole in 2011. Sponsor: Technology Partner: Source: Aeroports de Paris (France), Statistisches Bundesamt (Germany), Civil Aviation Authority (UK), TBA

ttgAsia Apr6 p01-02 News_BH-GC.indd 2 4/5/12 9:59 AM CRUISE NEWS APRIL 6 – 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 3 Setting sail on growing demand Asia’s cruising scene heats up as more international ships arrive, helping to also cultivate outbound markets

Travel consultants in 2, Seabourn Pride, Celebrity Millennium The Philippines Depart- teams. The NTO is participating in major Hong Kong are gearing up and Azamara Journey, according to a ment of Tourism (DoT) cruise shows, as well as collaborating with to sell more cruises as they Tourism Commission spokesman. is eyeing a greater slice ASEAN counterparts in Singapore, Ma- anticipate an even bigger To tap the Asian market, UK-based of the lucrative cruise laysia and Thailand to invite more ships market with the open- Cunard Lines appointed Cruise Vaca- travel industry as more into South-east Asia. HO G PH S NG KON ing of the country’s new tions – led by cruise expert Nancy Chung ILIPPINE international liners call Cruise tourism has been identified as Kai Tak terminal next year. Last month, – as its GSA in Hong Kong and Macau in at the destination. one of the priorities within the National Worldwide Cruise Terminals Consortium 2010. Earlier this year, Chung set up an The 694-guest Azamara Quest, part of Tourism Development Plan, with plans was finally announced as the terminal’s office in Seoul “to manage and build rap- the Royal Caribbean International (RCI) underway to move cargo business away operator and manager. port for Cunard” due to the significant fleet, made its maiden call at Manila on from Manila’s South Harbor to pave the Crystal Cruises, regional sales size of the South Korean market. March 28. (Although at press way for better cruise liner-ready manager, Asia-Pacific, Marnie Last year, she appointed a GSA time, the ship had to cut short facilities. The deepwater port of Whipple, said: “(The new termi- in Jakarta to oversee the grow- its 17-day itinerary due to a fire.) Subic is also being positioned as nal) shows the commitment of ing Indonesian market. RCI’s 2,074-guest Legend of a cruise destination. Hong Kong to provide superior Memory Holidays, a subsidi- the Seas will also visit Manila Business is getting notice- berthing (facilities) for cruise ary of Lotus Travel Group, also before making its inaugural call ably better, said Carla Mariano, ships. Increased cruise visits recently launched the GeoTrav- in Boracay this October, a rare groups manager, Blue Horizons – and simply greater visibility eller Cruise Center, a brand that win for the Philippines which Travel & Tours. “Last year, we of ships in the harbour – help Whipple: longer aims to lead the cruise vacation hardly receives ships of this size. Mariano: jump handled three ships; this year, to build awareness and lead to trips in pipeline industry through product in- And ships like Classic Interna- in cruise sales we’ve already handled seven more queries.” novation. tional Cruises’ Princess Danae ships in the first quarter.” The refurbished Crystal Serenity re- Meanwhile, travel trade members said are visiting new ports like Davao, where Most ships coming to the Philippines cently called at Hong Kong, while Crystal they preferred to keep the existing cruise it called at this week. The majority of its bring about 300-400 pax, and some call at Symphony will visit the city for three days terminal in operation, even when Kai 371 passengers opted to take a city tour, as many as four ports in the country, such in 2013. “In 2014, both ships will call on Tak opens in mid-2013. Kai Tak’s second said DoT regional director Art Boncato. as the Spirit of Adventure which visited Hong Kong on expanded 10-, 12-, 14- berth is set to be completed in 2014. Despite underdeveloped port facilities Palawan, Cebu, Manila and Subic. and 16-day itineraries, plus longer com- Wharf Holdings, which has been compared to Hong Kong and Singapore, Orion II, which sails in July, will also bination cruise options,” said Whipple. managing the popular Ocean Terminal the country is keen to pursue the cruise make stops in Puerto Galera in Mindoro The number of ships calling at Hong since 1966, is still negotiating with the segment as it is “a resilient market”, said and Coron in Palawan, and Fuji Maru is Kong in 2013 is not yet available, but con- government to renew the lease expiring Maria Corazon Jorda-Apo, who heads expected to visit in May and November. – firmed cruise liners includeQueen Mary on June 15. – Prudence Lui DoT’s North America and Asia-Pacific Marianne Carandang

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ttgAsia Apr6 p03 CRUISE_LXgc.indd 3 4/3/12 4:09 PM OPINION APRIL 6 - 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 4

Haven’t Letters been to Don’t dismiss tours yet our new Focusing on China TIFLING, superficial and staid – that was how I described es- is myopic home? Scorted tours, until a recent trip to Italy. Like many of my contemporaries (Gen Y) who would not think UK specialist Chic Locations Here’s what you’ve missed twice about self-packaging a holiday on the Internet, I believed that has urged Asian resorts to exer- my travel savviness and bargain-hunting skills were all I needed. cise caution about accepting too Many industry experts predicted the demise of guided tours when many Chinese clients, arguing LCCs and hotel portals jumped into the fray years ago. Well, they are that any property dominated by Adam Tan wrong. What has happened instead is the explosion of choices has one market will lose its appeal. made it frustrating to sit in front of a laptop for hours combing for the Partner David Kevan said: best rate. Also, as consumers become increasingly time-pressed, hav- “The real upscale clients want ing someone navigate the sea of choices and pick the best one for you recognition within the resort, seems like an attractive solution for a hassle-free vacation. but also want to observe other In recent months, some tour operators have woken up to the po- nationalities. The desire for

Courtesy of Destination Asia Courtesy of Destination tential of this once-maligned segment, which continues to offer a short-term occupancy needs to relatively decent yield even as competition for FIT clients intensifies. be balanced with long-term ap- Join our mystery man as he exam- Late last year, Trafalgar announced it was setting up its regional peal, and to differing markets.” ines how Ctrip, ezTravel Taiwan and HQ in Singapore and adopting an insider positioning “to breathe new Kevan’s call comes with an Wing On Travel Hong Kong band life into the stagnating motor coach industry”. And in February, G2 admission that “arrivals from together to create a new hyper-lux- Travel launched in Hong Kong, Bangkok and Jakarta, an attempt by Europe (will) probably drop” ury travel brand targeted at Chinese former GTA staff to tap the Asian group outbound market. and at a time when European with disposable assets of more than The explosion of It was Trafalgar I put to the test last month, and was pleasantly sur- buyers at ITB Berlin would have RMB10 million (US$1.6 million) prised by. My tour director and local guides provided rich nuggets of pressed a case with hotels in choices has made it information that I would not have gotten otherwise, my international Asia for rates to be maintained frustrating to sit in 48-strong group meant that I travelled to Italy but met the world, and – even though markets such as Hot Moves immersive experiences such as a Be My Guest dinner, which saw us China are picking up the slack. Sanne Emborg joins Courtyard by front of a laptop for eating in the kitchen of a family-run farmhouse surrounded by lemon He said: “(This year) has Marriott Bangkok as GM; Sofitel hours combing for the trees, fulfilled my desire for an authentic holiday. What’s more, I ap- started well, although every en- promotes Sofitel Legend Metropole preciated the operational expertise that allowed me to cover four ma- quiry probably has up to five Hanoi GM, Kai Speth, to area GM for best rate. jor cities seamlessly and still with pockets of own leisure time. operators chasing the same cli- Vietnam; Montigo Resorts Nongsa, With the FIT segment becoming commoditised, fragmented and ent. With some destinations Batam appoints Allwyn Drego as overcrowded, tour operators and travel consultants must continue like Dubai, clients have an even GM and Vanessa Kong as DOSM Gracia Chiang to invest in the traditional group market. Innovate and offer quality, more scattergun approach to Editor, TTG Asia one-of-a-kind experiences that bestow bragging rights; promote new operators. Price is all that ap- destinations that FITs might be hesitant to travel to due to logistical/ pears to matter.” Hot Deals perception of safety issues; be a great storyteller and sell advantages Kevan added that UK clients well; and lastly, multiply the positive effects of a satisfying trip by fa- were still travelling, with Thai- cilitating the sharing of photos and comments via social media. land, Malaysia and Indochina Don’t forget that when times are bad and value-for-money becomes proving particularly popular. the overriding principle, group tours have been known to thrive. And as experience shows, we’re never too far from the next crisis. Sound bites Most commented on www.ttgasia.com “We are the Preferred Hotel Group offers 15 per best-kept cent commission for bookings in Kudos for NATAS Former Sanya Huayu Crowne Plaza Hong Kong, Singapore, Shanghai, secret in Taipei, Tokyo and Bangalore; GDS training course staff gives inside scoop on operations South-east Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali (above) Patricia Kiing from Miri, Lau Lu from Sanya, who claims to be a former employee of the hotel Asia, but we’re tired of launches 4D3N golf package; Sarawak, applauded NATAS’ ef- at the centre of the ongoing legal tussle between Sanya Huayu Tour- Starwood offers incentives including forts in starting a new GDS train- ism and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) in China, shares his being a secret. There’s a five per cent rebate for meetings ing scheme targeted at school take on the issue. no money in being a booked from now till May 31 leavers considering a career as a “Li Tao (now head of hotel business at Huayu) was DGM of the secret.” corporate ticketing consultant. hotel for years and all was okay during his time there. Now, he comes “A good move as it will give out to accuse IHG of not providing good services...it’s ridiculous.” Ramon R Jimenez Jr, secretary, Poll school leavers with a love for “(The hotel owner) accused IHG of (indiscriminately) spending Philippines Department of Tourism, on how the destination simply needs Which is the up-and-coming Asian travel a good introduction into his money, but everybody knows the person who approved (purchas- more awareness in order to grow destination with the most potential? the workings of a travel (expert),” es) was the owner’s representative. All transaction documents passed its international arrivals. He said the she said. from his hand, so the owner knows what he spent to the last RMB.” Myanmar 32% Philippines deserved more than its “To me at least, it is now even “Another accusation is that IHG deliberately caused damage and current share of European traffic, Sri Lanka 29% more important to have a proper loss of equipment during its tenure, but the hotel was already dam- which saw double-digit growth for the Bhutan 39% consultant to sieve through the aged (when IHG took over). It was a tremendous challenge to fix (the first three months of this year; but this mountains of promos.” problems) and find ways to save costs.” was from a low base.

Timothy France, Chamsai Jotisalikorn (Chami) SALES & MARKETING Nancy Lee Correspondents, Thailand Michael Chow Desktop Publishing Executive ([email protected]) ([email protected], Group Publisher ([email protected]) Carol Wong Travel Hall of Fame [email protected]) TTG Travel Trade Publishing is a business group Katherine Ng Circulation Executive ([email protected]) The Travel Hall of Fame, displayed of TTG Asia Media Marianne Carandang Rosa Ocampo Associate Publisher ([email protected] in the Raffles Hotel Museum on the Correspondents, The Philippines Marisa Chen TTG ASIA MEDIA third level of Raffles Hotel Singapore, ([email protected], Senior Business Manager ([email protected]) Darren Ng EDITORIAL showcases accolades, artefacts and Raini Hamdi [email protected]) Karen Cheung Managing Director ([email protected]) Group Editor ([email protected]) Prudence Lui Business Manager ([email protected]) memorabilia of the region’s most exceptional travel organisations. Gracia Chiang Correspondent, Hong Kong ([email protected]) Jonathan Yap OFFICES Editor, TTG Asia ([email protected]) Patricia Wee Business Manager ([email protected]) SINGAPORE 1 Science Park Road Since 2002, luminaries who have #04-07 The Capricorn, Singapore Science Park II Karen Yue Correspondent, Shanghai, China Cheryl Tan won the prestigious TTG Travel Award ([email protected]) Singapore 117528 Editor, TTGmice ([email protected]) Corporate Marketing Manager Tel: (65) 6395-7575 Fax: (65) 6536-2972 at least 10 consecutive times for the Brian Higgs Manuela Zoninsein ([email protected]) [email protected]; www.ttgasia.com same award title have been honoured Editor, TTG Asia Online ([email protected]) Correspondent, Beijing, China Tan Ee Hiang HONG KONG 11/F ING Tower in the Travel Hall of Fame. ([email protected]) Linda Haden Marketing Executive ([email protected]) 308-320 Des Voeux Road, Central, Hong Kong Singapore Airlines and Singapore Senior Reporter ([email protected]) Glenn Smith Cheryl Lim Tel: (852) 2571-9333 Fax: (852) 2806-0646 Changi Airport are the Travel Hall of Liang Xinyi, Jayne Tay Correspondent, Taiwan Advertisement Administration Manager ([email protected]) ([email protected]) Fame’s pioneering honoraries, having Sub Editors been voted by Asia-Pacific’s travel ([email protected], Shekhar Niyogi Carol Cheng TTG Asia is a product by TTG Travel Chief Correspondent, India Assistant Manager Administration and Marketing Trade Publishing, a business group of trade as Best Airline of the Year and [email protected]) TTG Asia Media.. It is mailed free on written request to Mimi Hudoyo ([email protected]) ([email protected]) readers who meet predetermined criteria. Best Airport of the Year respectively, Editor, Indonesia ([email protected]) Feizal Samath Paid subscriptions are available to those who do not meet for more than a decade. Joining this Correspondent, Sri Lanka ([email protected]) the criteria. Annual airmail subscriptions are US$180 to Asia elite family are Hertz Asia Pacific, Sim Kok Chwee PUBLISHING SERVICES and US$199 elsewhere. Cover price US$5. Correspondent-at-large ([email protected]) Redmond Sia, Haze Loh Tony Yeo MICA (P) 044/09/2011 Star Cruises, Royal Cliff Beach Rosort N. Nithiyananthan Creative Designers Division Manager ([email protected]) PPS 619/02/2013(022926) Pattaya, Abacus International, SilkAir Chief Correspondent, Malaysia Lina Tan Agnes Loy Printed by Times Printers Pte Ltd and Lotte Tour ([email protected]) Editorial Assistant Senior Production Executive ([email protected]) 16 Tuas Avenue 5, Singapore 639340

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TTG Travel Pursuits A-Zs of Successful Agencies Specialisation Compiled by The Fox One of the most common Yes, I said that twice. What are investment bankers or inte- questions travel consultants you an expert at? It might be rior designers. It becomes so QUIZ ask me is: “How do I pick my obvious or you may have to much easier to know where 1. Does the ‘B’ in specialty?” Ironically, it is of- do some thinking. Don’t get to market when you identify ITB refer to ten the one thing that is keep- overly worried that you have a specific part of the popula- Berlin, Bild ing them from success. to know everything and any- tion and people will pay you (German It’s a great start to be think- thing on your topic. Remem- more because you under- for ‘image/

ing about specialising. It’s the ber this: to a third grader, a stand them. If you are having picture’) renjith krishnan by Illustrations number one thing you can do fourth grader is wiser than trouble deciding, ask yourself or Börse to make more money. words. this question: Who needs me (German for Many people erroneously If you don’t know what most? ‘exchange’)? think picking their specialty your expertise is, ask your- has to do with choosing a self some of these questions: 3. Start marketing experi- 2. In which Asian stock certain destination and then What are my passions? What ences and solutions market is Mandarin focusing on that. That is one activities completely con- People could care less about Oriental Hotel Group way to pick a specialty, but by sume me, where I am so en- what you do or what you of- listed on? no means is that the only way. gaged that hours will fly by? fer until they know what’s in 3. What kind of air freedom do Picking a specialty can be What are my greatest success it for them. If you are an ex- you get if you add a fourth broken down into three sim- stories with my clients? What pert on luxury travel focused freedom to a third freedom? ple steps: have I done for my clients, on investment bankers, don’t where they were totally awed tell them about your 22 years 4. What is the name of the 1. Claim your expert status and it was very easy for me? in the travel business. hotel group founded by Barry Stop trying to be all things to What do people constantly Instead, tell them about Sternlicht?

all people and start becoming compliment me on or ask my the secret hideaway in the

In this column debut, an authority on something. assistance for? Thailand with a Michelin- Group.) Capital Starwood company,

Adrian Caruso, founder Whether it’s gay travel, ro- star chef that is a short three separate a runs now (He Inc. wide, -

and CEO of TA Fastrack mantic travel, soft adventure 2. Pick your target market hours plane ride away, where World Resorts & Hotels Starwood 4. Singapore.)

Australia, dishes out advice travel for senior outdoor en- Even if your expert status you will arrange every last country home via Sydney-London be

to travel experts. A former thusiasts, travel for wine lov- is something as general as detail so all they have to do is would freedom sixth so-called The

ers, or Disney travel – be an luxury travel, you’ll do your- show up at the airport. Singapore-London. freedom, third a travel agency and hotel and Sydney-Singapore over sengers

owner/operator, Caruso expert! self a HUGE favour by pick- Go through these three pas carry to right the be would now coaches travel, tourism Experts make more mon- ing a subset of the market. steps: claim your expertise, freedom fourth a Airlines, Singapore

and hospitality businesses ey, are sought for their opin- Don’t sell luxury travel to pick your market and start of example the (Taking freedom! Sixth 3. 2. Singapore. Singapore. 2.

throughout the region. ions and make more money. everyone. Sell luxury travel to marketing experiences. Börse. Tourismus 1. Börse. ITB stands for Internationale Internationale for stands ITB Börse. 1. Chic to open China outlet BERLIN Chic Outlet Shopping, which Cambodia are emerging as markets. counts markets such as China, Singapore Based on 2011 figures, China is cur- and Malaysia as its top producers, is pur- rently Chic Outlet Shopping’s fastest- suing travel experts in the region through growing market (79 per cent), followed commissionable packages, marketing by Singapore/Malaysia (69 per cent) and support in brochures and fam trips, as it Russia (65 per cent). gears up for the opening of its first shop- Stazicker said the strategy was to arm ping village in Asia in 2013. tour operators with product knowledge Having established nine villages across and help to “find a spot in their itinerar- Europe, the 10th will be in a lakeside loca- ies”, with the selling point being that “eve- tion in Suzhou, China, Chic Outlet Shop- ryone likes a bargain”, especially in the ping head of tourism, Ian Stazicker, told current economic climate. It is also buying TTG Asia at ITB Berlin. Scheduled to space in brochures. open in October, it will be similar in size For FITs, standalone shopping pack- to the collection’s largest village – Bices- ages including transport, meals and gift ter near London – which has around 140 cards for retail spend are available. These stores offering savings of up to 60 per cent. allow travel experts to earn an average of “There will be a huge focus on the do- 10 per cent commission. mestic and regional markets, and we have A 10-12 day fam trip for six to eight key to make sure it does not dilute Europe’s partners in the region is being scheduled market share,” he said, adding that he was around this month, incorporating two or not too worried as only the first-tier cities three villages. Chic Outlet Shopping will had been tapped so far. Japan and South also be exhibiting at this year’s ITB Asia Korea are targets, while Vietnam and for the first time.– Gracia Chiang

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Hong Kong Bangkok Singapore BUSINESS TRAVEL Watching costs of travel Best Western eyes Middle Eastern promise Courtesy of Park Hotel Group espite an anticipated economic slowdown in Asia this year, airfares Best Western International Dand hotel rates are continuing to rise across the region, representing another year of consecutive increase. Best Western International’s Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) predicts a rapid Middle Eastern expansion continues this three to four per cent rise for Asia-Pacific air- year with the launch of its fares this year, while hotel rates in the region first ever hotel in Saudi are expected to jump by up to 15 per cent. Arabia - BEST WESTERN But contrary to popular belief that a hike PLUS Sand Rose Suite in hotel rates and airfares would curtail cor- Hotel. porate travel, business travel demand in Asia The new hotel marks not is expected to remain fairly robust. only Best Western’s first Large Asian economies, with the excep- hotel in Saudi Arabia, but tion of Japan, have so far appeared to be also its first in the spared the full impact of the economic tur- fast-expanding city of Al moil erupting across the US and Europe. Khobar, on the Arabian Gulf coast. Designed to Preliminary data from Pegasus revealed cater for business travellers that, as of February 28, advanced corporate and families, the hotel net reservations for June 2012 in Asia-Pacific features 12 rooms and 36 rose by 27.9 per cent over 2011, compared to larger suites, which range 7.6 per cent in North America, 8.5 per cent from 70-150m², and offers in Europe and a decline of 15 per cent in the Forecast % increase in Forecast % increase in intra-regional longer-stay facilities such Middle East and North Africa. intercontinental airfares for 2012 airfares for 2012 as kitchenettes, extra Looking further ahead, the Global Busi- guest bathrooms and free ness Travel Association (GBTA) anticipates Business Economy Business Economy Wi-Fi. There is also a North America 5 5 North America 3 5 business centre, swimming corporate travel expenditure in Asia-Pacific pool and fitness centre, as to grow by up to 11 per cent by 2015, almost Europe 3 3 Europe 1 3 well as a rooftop restaurant. three times the predicted rate for the US. Asia-Pacific 4 4 Asia-Pacific 4 9 Located in Eastern Province, Against a backdrop of more expensive air- Middle East 5 4 Middle East 3 5 Saudi Arabia’s main oil fares and hotel rates, corporate travel manag- Latin America 7 7 Latin America 5 8 producing region, Al ers are tightening travel polices to keep costs Khobar is seeing a swell of at a manageable level. Source: Advito Source: Advito development, with the Travel management companies (TMCs) waterfront corniche featuring that TTG Asia spoke to all agreed that while Hotel average daily rate increases lines into their travel programmes to reap the parks, cafes and restau- companies and the travel managers they deal 2012 forecast by region substantial cost savings that could be derived rants. The city is also with in Asia have not trimmed their travel by switching to such carriers, especially on linked directly to Bahrain shorthaul routes. via the 26km King Fahd budgets this year, they are now intent on Causeway, making it an sniffing out ground and air savings. Europe “Companies can expect to save up to 20 increasingly important “As airfares and hotel rates go up, corpo- North America 2-3% per cent on their airline expenditures simply 5-6 % Middle East regional economic centre. rates tend to examine their travel policies 7-15% by using low-cost airlines,” he said. Alternatively, some firms are reducing the BEST WESTERN PLUS more closely, making tweaks to optimise Asia-Pacific spending and returns, for instance, by tell- Africa 8-10% frequency in which employees undertake Sand Rose Suite Hotel 3-4% ing their staff to downgrade from business Latin America business trips, replacing face-to-face meet- marks the latest in a series 8-18 % of new Middle Eastern class to economy, or by switching to four-star ings with technology such as video confer- developments for Best from five-star hotels. encing or by combining multiple destinations Western. Last year, the “This is happening to a degree at the mo- into a single trip, according to a spokesperson company announced the ment (in Asia) as airfares and hotel rates es- Source: Advito for FCm Travel Solutions. development of its first two hotels in Iraq, adding calate, but it is not evident across all sectors to existing Best Western and organisations,” said Greg Treasure, Hogg Mike Orchard, senior director, CWT So- Adherence takes centre stage properties in Bahrain and Robinson Group’s managing director for the lutions Group, Asia-Pacific, said more clients The renewed interest on cost control has Qatar. Asia-Pacific region. were considering integrating low-cost air- given precedence to travel compliance. Now the ‘World’s Largest Hotel Chain’ expects to add a further six hotels across the Middle East in 2012, including a further two properties in Saudi Arabia – both located in Advito opens regional office in Singapore the capital city, Riyadh -, another in Bahrain, and Advito, the independent consultancy arm of work with any other TMC if we choose to, to manage their corporate bookings, making two more national debuts BCD Travel, is expanding its Asian presence avoiding any conflict of interest between our job just that little more complex,” he said. in Kuwait and Jordan. with the launch of its Singapore regional of- BCD Travel and ourselves,” he explained. Advito intends to foster “face-to-face con- These new additions will fice earlier this year. Jere Tala was As corporate travel management nections” with key industry stakeholders. add a further 618 rooms to appointed the firm’s director of con- is still in its infancy in Asia com- “Relationship-building forms the crux of our Best Western’s Middle sulting for the Asia-Pacific region in pared to the West, Tala anticipates a marketing strategy,” said Tala. Collaboration Eastern inventory, taking the total number of rooms January. raft of challenges. “Generally, Asian plans are in place with the Asia-Pacific chap- offered in the region to Comparing the differences be- firms don’t always see the need for ter of the Association of Corporate Travel Ex- almost 1000. tween Advito and its parent, Tala travel management strategies or ecutives, but nothing has been sealed. said: “BCD Travel is a general prac- even travel policies. There is a clear China, India, Singapore and Hong Kong titioner that manages the day-to-day need to educate Asian decision- have been identified as key source markets operations of a client’s travel man- makers about the financial benefits “We are starting out on a clean slate as all agement programmes. Advito, on Tala: room for that managed programmes can of our Asia-Pacific business is currently de- the other hand, is a specialist firm, growth in Asia bring.” rived from existing contracts with US- and led by expert problem-solvers who “Secondly, for certain markets Europe-based clients,” Tala said. analyse trends and issues to define tailor- such as China and India, data collection and He is optimistic about Advito’s prospects made solutions.” reporting, which are essential tools for devel- in Asia, given the region’s buoyant economic He added that Advito has one distinct oping effective travel management solutions, outlook. “I envision that in the not-so-distant characteristic. “Most TMCs operate their tend to be sparse and sporadic as (Asian) future, we will have a sizeable full-service consulting services in-house but Advito is firms often rely on small players, or even team, from just the two of us at the moment.” completely independent, and we are able to multiple non-specialist travel consultants, – Linda Haden

ttgAsia Apr06 p08-09rhBusiness Travel_LXgc.indd 8 3/30/12 3:32 PM APRIL 6 – 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 9

Corporate travel in Asia stays buoyant but interest in policy compliance Watching costs of travel and cheaper options heightens as prices rise, discovers Linda Haden

Courtesy of Park Hotel Group A CWT survey found that improving a prime motivator, and if policies become “gamification” techniques. “Persuade em- “Alternatively, give employees a trav- traveller compliance ranked the top pri- too restrictive, this will demoralise work- ployees to accumulate points in exchange eller score card that lists exactly where ority for Asia-based travel managers in ers, which could in turn affect retention for rewards for good travel behaviour, in- their behaviours are driving savings – it’s 2012, as they often face an uphill battle rates,” he said. stead of harking on about rules and regu- a good solution to keep employees on the in ensuring that travel policies are being Orchard, on the other hand, prefers lations.” straight and narrow.” adhered to. GBTA’s regional director for Asia-Pa- cific Welf Ebeling said: “Asia is still woe- fully behind the US and Europe when it comes to getting employees to toe the line, and in utilising online tools to keep travel expenses in check, even though they might have a travel programme and policies in place.” This point was reiterated by Advito (see related article below, left), which said in its 2012 industry forecast that Asia was 15 to 20 years behind the West in its travel management evolution. Orchard argued that the laissez-faire approach to travel policies among Asian employees was root- ed in the perception that booking directly with suppliers was the cheapest option. “However, our research found that average hotel rates offered by TMCs are around Orchard: carrot 18 per cent lower than over stick those directly quoted “PATA Travel Mart 2011 was really a successful event. It was by hotels,” he said. my pleasure to attend the PATA Travel Mart 2011 and we achieved our expected object. Hopefully, PTM 2012 in Policy restrictions are also a cause for Manila can bring more rewarding for all attendees.” employees skirting the rules. “Multina- Mr Mike Gao, Deputy General Manager, Beijing Zheng-an tional firms that have not adapted their “We need more choices in Asia Paci c region to oer to our International Travel Service, China high spending clients. PTM2011 ful lled this objective and global travel policies to accommodate lo- I’m grateful both to the organizer and exhibitors who wisely cal cultural differences and idiosyncrasies invested in stand space. A truly enjoyable and productive event and hope it can be repeated in Manila.” usually see more incidents of travel policy Sir David Christopher Kilgarri, Chairman & Managing defiance,” Orchard said. Director, Kingsleydrummond VIP Events/Centenaryclub.com, UK Best road to compliance While adherence to travel policies is crucial, travel managers should not be overzealous when clamping down on employees, said Carl Jones, director of ad- visory services, Japan, Asia-Pacific, Aus- Manila is an intriguing blend of the past and the present, of striking contrasts and tralia, American Express Business Travel. contradictions. Blessed with signi cant historical and cultural destinations, it is Instead of wielding the stick, employees likewise enriched with skyscraping edi ces, world-class convention facilities, state of should be encouraged to follow policies the art shopping malls, entertainment and restaurants that serve international through constant communication and gastronomic delights. engagement. “After all, (business) travel is

The SMX Convention Center is the largest private venue in the Philippines for trade events, Business essentials industry conventions, corporate functions and international exhibitions. for road warriors Conveniently located beside SM Mall of Asia, the world’s fourth largest shopping mall, and with in close proximity to prestigious hotels and key public transportation systems, the SMX Park Hotel Group is offering business convention Center has made itself one of the best agship establishments of the Philippine travellers selected complimentary meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions/events (MICE) industry. services across eight hotels in China, With ongoing developments for oce space, residential condominiums, and a 15000-seat arena, as well as a luxury hotel integrated within the SMX expansion project, the SMX Singapore, Japan and Hong Kong as part Convention Center and the rest of the Mall of Asia Complex is set to become a premier of its Business Essentials promotion. convention destination. Valid until June 30, this package allows guests to enjoy complimentary high-speed Internet access, daily buffet breakfast and discounts on laundry www.PATA.org/mart or email [email protected] services. Sellers - Register now to ensure prime space location Guests in Crystal Club rooms enjoy Buyers - Register now for the limited hosted program additional perks such as express check-in and check-out, exclusive use of Register by June 30, 2012 for pre-scheduled appointments Club meeting rooms, refreshments at the Crystal Club Lounge, as well as free local HOST : OFFICIAL CARRIER : OFFICIAL VENUE : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION : calls and laundry services. Other specific privileges apply to each property. Travel consultants receive a 10 per PAC 2012 Supporting Media Partners cent commission for every Business Essentials package sold. The package is priced from US$98++ per room per night.

ttgAsia Apr06 p08-09rhBusiness Travel_LXgc.indd 9 3/30/12 3:32 PM SACEOS ad(260x380mm)p 3/27/12 2:40 PM Page 1 VIETNAM: BRIEFING APRIL 6 – 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 11 Courtesy of Sophie Hughes

One of the business capital’s less-explored attractions: the Fine Arts Museum Seen in a new light Greater leisure potential for Ho Chi Minh City, as its product range broadens. By Duncan Forgan

Department of Culture, Sports twice-weekly codeshare flights dien in District 1, and an Ibis in Arrivals Tourist ar- and Tourism’s tourism pro- between Ho Chi Minh City and District 7. rivals to Ho Chi Minh City are motion division deputy head, Kiev, in conjunction with Aero- The increase in visitorship has on the up, with city officials Nguyen Bao Anh, said this year’s Svit-Ukrainian Airlines. In do- resulted in high occupancy rates. targeting 3.8 million this year. promotions would be directed at mestic skies, the arrival of the According to John Gardner, That figure should be comfort- South Korea, the UK, India and country’s only privately-owned general manager of Caravelle ably met based on Vietnam Na- Ukraine, which are also markets airline VietJet Air has also seen Hotel, five-star hotels in the city tional Administration of Tour- experiencing an uplift in air ca- the start of thrice-daily services have experienced a nine per cent ism’s (VNAT) latest figure of 1.3 pacity. between Ho Chi Minh City and growth in occupancy this year. million visitors in the first two Current numbers from the Hanoi. VietJet Air is set to launch However, real estate in Ho Chi months of this year. Last year, quartet remain small, but there a similar service to Danang. Minh City continues to be scarce there were 3.5 million arrivals are hopes that new tourism ini- Meanwhile, an airport hub at and overvalued, factors that have to the city, an increase of 12.9 tiatives will grow interest. For ex- Long Thanh just outside the city deterred well-known brands per cent from 2010. Top markets ample, South Korean tour opera- is scheduled to be completed in such as Four Seasons and Hilton, include the US, Japan, South Ko- tors will be invited for river tours “We are beginning 2020. Vietnam’s tourism author- both keen to establish a presence rea, Australia and China. and to explore joint venture pos- to see a broadening ities have also expressed inten- in the city. In spite of Europe’s grim eco- sibilities with local companies. tions to prioritise cruise tourism nomic outlook, inbound players of scope in the city’s by building ports that are capable interviewed ahead of ITB Berlin hotel sector. The busi- of receiving large ships. Products Ho Chi were optimistic that they would Access On April 5, Tour operator Saigontour- Minh City is seeing an influx be able to achieve growth from Jeju Air commenced daily ser- ness market has been ist reported over 115,000 cruise of high-end products, many of the region, with Germany be- vices between Ho Chi Minh City tourists in 2011, and expects a 10 them suitable for leisure tourists. ing a main contributor. Buffalo and South Korea’s Incheon, a strong for a while, but per cent increase this year. For instance, a new art tour Tours marketing director, Bev new air link for the city. Emirates “Vietnam needs to draw up by UK-born Sophie Hughes puts Taylor, said: “We are seeing an will also begin daily Ho Chi Minh the widening range a strategy on attracting tourism together visits to private collec- increase in returning German City-Dubai flights inJune, while of options reflects the cruises to Vietnam,” said Vu Duy tions, museums and contempo- tourists who are looking for a Vietnam Airlines has signed an Vu, deputy director of Saigon- rary galleries. Saigon After Dark greater insight into Vietnamese agreement with Jet Airways, with city’s growing appeal tourist. is another tour that takes tourists culture and off-the-beaten track a view to launching direct flights on motorbikes to experience the experiences.” The company is to India soon. to the leisure and city’s nightlife. It is currently be- anticipating an 85 per cent jump The end of last year saw a luxury markets.” Hotels Newcomers to ing run by companies such as Vi- in German sales. Vietravel was number of new services being Ho Chi Minh City include the etnam Vespa Adventures. also at ITB Berlin to introduce launched, the most significant five-star Hotel Nikko Saigon and Notable openings such as new products for the European of which was Vietnam Airlines’ John Gardner boutique hotel An Lam Saigon Strata at Bitexco, Bobby Chinn’s market, such as a heritage trail twice-weekly flights from Ho General manager Caravelle Hotel River, 20 minutes away by boat. restaurant and Chill Skybar, de- and a green travel tour. Chi Minh City to London. The Other additions to open this year signed by the firm behind Bang- According to reports, the city’s national carrier also introduced include a Novotel and a Le Méri- kok’s Sirocco, have also injected life into the city’s F&B scene.

ttgAsia Apr06 p11 viet B1 JTgc.indd 11 3/30/12 3:33 PM www.atflaos.com

Simply Beautiful Laos Invites You To ATF 2013 In Vientiane Immerse yourself in the beauty of this former Lane Xiang Kingdom – Jewel include its intrinsic Buddhist culture, national and colonial architecture, of the Mekong that boasts of mountains and dense, unspoilt forests. Laos gastronomy, World Heritage Sites, multi-ethnic people, trekking locations has one of the richest, most extensive networks of eco-systems in the and local handicrafts. Its unparalleled natural landscape has earned Laos Indochina Peninsula with over 800 species of birds and 100 large mammals, the reputation of being the only remaining “original” South-east Asian and new ones being discovered every year. The country’s unique highlights experience left, and it is just waiting to be discovered. The Annual Convention Of ASEAN Travel Industry 83% of Exhibitors 86% of Buyers 91% of Buyers expect orders over the next 6 to 12 months rated the quality of exhibitors and their met their objective to source for new ranging from USD 50,000 to USD 250,000 business appointments as Excellent products and services and Good “I successfully established new business contacts “The event was a good opportunity to meet many “I gathered several contacts, met many and relationships, and received the latest updates hoteliers and destination management companies professionals at one place, exchanged ideas with on destinations and properties.” from different countries.” them and developed my portfolio of clients.” Explorer Fernreisen GmbH & Co.KG, Germany Tourism & Leisure, Singapore Easytours, Belgium Monika Tigges David Miro Noens Antoine

Based on ATF 2012 Post-Show Feedback

The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) is a cooperative regional effort to promote the ASEAN region as one tourist destination where Asian hospitality and cultural ATF 2013 TRAVEX diversity are at its best. The TRAVEX component is a trade-only mart that Register 22 to 24 January 2013 showcases the world’s largest contingent of ASEAN destination products and Online services, and facilitates selling, buying and promoting the region internationally. Today! Exhibitors | Buyers | Media

Participation details, hosting programme for buyers and media and online registration available at: www.atflaos.com

Host Committee TRAVEX Secretariat Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd (MICT), Lao PDR 1 Science Park Road #04-07, The Capricorn, Singapore Science Park II PO.Box: 3556 Lane Xang Avenue, Hatsady Village Singapore 117528 Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital Lao PDR Tel: +65 6395 7575 • Fax: +65 6536 0896 Tel: (856-21) 212248, 212251 • Fax: (856-21) 212769, 217910 Corporate website: www.ttgasiamedia.com TTG Events is a business group of TTG Asia Media Website: www.tourismlaos.org Event email: [email protected] • ATF 2013 website: www.atflaos.com

ATF2013LaoAd2_260x380E.indd 1 3/5/12 3:37 PM VIETNAM: BRIEFING/INSIDER APRIL 6 – 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 13 Rolling out the luxe carpet The country needs to raise its game to corner the emerging luxury market, reports Duncan Forgan

Once perceived as a budget to meals at restaurants by Bobby highest end of the market. aude Cruises on Halong Bay. Up- ment at the very top of the scale. mid-range destination, Vietnam Chinn and Didier Corlou. “People who have money coming resorts like Banyan Tree’s Many are only interested in mak- has moved upscale in recent Tim Russell, director, Come & are always going to take their first Vietnam property in Hue ing a fast buck then putting the years – a development reflected Go Vietnam, said: “Our new itin- holidays,” said TJ Grundl-Hong, will also ensure more choices. property back on the market as in the growing crop of high-end erary reflects the growing num- managing partner, Epikurean. However, while the country’s quickly as possible.” resorts and gourmet restaurants. ber of requests we have been re- “There might have been a little appeal is growing among mon- Several industry members The first Hyatt Regency ceiving for upscale programmes. bump at the height of the crisis, eyed visitors, it still has a long feel that the Vietnam National opened in the central coastal city Luxury travel is the industry’s but the luxury market is now as way to go in becoming a serious Administration of Tourism of Danang last October, while fastest-growing sector.” (VNAT) should do more to at- Anantara debuted its resort and Added Cox & Kings Far tract big-spending visitors. spa in Mui Ne. Vietnam-based East product manager, Yaow “The funding of a complete Epikurean has also unveiled luxe Butwisate-Lok: “Vietnam is still “Short-term thinking is an issue. It’s difficult to study on tourism focusing on the boutique An Lam Ninh Van Bay relatively undiscovered com- find a partner committed to development and improvements and changes is the Villas (read review below) near pared with other countries. You ideal goal,” contended Pham Ha, Nha Trang and An Lam Saigon have great top-end hotels and re- investment at the very top end of the scale.” CEO of Luxury Travel. River in Ho Chi Minh City. sorts, but there’s still an element of “It shouldn’t be left up to the

This trend has prompted adventure about going to the TJ Grundl-Hong hotels and tour operators. VNAT operators such as domestic in- country.” Managing partner needs to instigate a luxury travel bound operators like Come & According to Butwisate-Lok, Epikurean department and play an active Go Vietnam and Luxury Travel, Vietnam currently outsells Thai- role in marketing Vietnam as a as well as international travel land and Malaysia by three to luxury destination overseas.” companies such as Kuoni, Cox one in the British market, a trend healthy as it has ever been.” contender in the luxury space. Inconsistent service standard & Kings and Page & Moy to aided by last year’s launch of di- From north to south, Vietnam “There’s not much progress in poses another challenge. “Viet- introduce new or enhanced itin- rect flights from London to Ha- has no lack of high-end accom- addressing the demand for truly namese are very hospitable, but eraries. noi and Ho Chi Minh City, and modation options to service a international-class luxury,” said there’s a lack of proper training,” For example, Come & Go the ease of combining Cambodia comprehensive upscale itinerary. Grundl-Hong. said Kai Speth, general manager, Vietnam, launched last month and Laos into the same itinerary. Established names include Park “Short-term thinking is an is- Sofitel Metropole Legend Hanoi. a customisable tour that takes Most operators agree that the Hyatt Saigon, The Nam Hai in sue in Vietnam. It’s very difficult “The poor quality of service travellers to and from Hanoi recent economic downturn has Hoi An, Six Senses at Ninh Van to find a partner who will com- generally can be off-putting for and Ho Chi Minh City, featuring not dampened demand at the Bay and Con Dao, and the Emer- mit to development and invest- high-end clients.”

Checking in An Lam Ninh Van Bay Villas

Duncan Forgan gets both hillside and lagoon experiences in tranquil Nha Trang, where he basks in Name An Lam Ninh Van Bay Villas unbridled luxury No. of rooms 35 villas Rate From US$500++ per room/night Contact details LOCATION Splendid isolation is the Tel: (84-58) 3624-777 watchword at this 35-villa luxury retreat, Fax: (84-58) 3624-999 which just opened last year. I was whisked Email: [email protected] off in a comfortable hotel car from Cam Website: www.epikurean.ws Ranh Airport (pick-ups from other points in Nha Trang are possible) to a landing pa- vilion 16km north of Nha Trang. After a F&B The resort’s only restaurant is smooth check-in with a welcome drink, a helmed by Australian chef Briony Crow- 10-minute speedboat ride took me across der who melds global and local influences turquoise waters to the jungle-clad hillside in her Vietnamese-meets-Western menu. bay where the resort is situated. The ‘fire’ bar has an extensive selection of cocktails and a full-sized pool table. ROOMS I stayed in a Lagoon Villa and Private dinners can be arranged in villas, a Hill Rock Villa – both equally impres- on the resort’s catamaran or at a secluded sive. The three-storey Hill Rock Villas are spot on the property. set back from the beach, featuring a top tier with a king-sized bed and balcony FACILITIES A full-sized spa is under with canopy views, a second floor with construction but guests can enjoy diverse an oversized bathroom and an expansive treatments in the temporary spa. Other deck and living area, and a plunge pool on facilities include a small gym, a chef’s gar- the lowest level. Lagoon Villas, built on a den with an attached teaching kitchen, a single level with an airy, open-plan layout, library, a viewing deck that can double as offer two bedrooms, a sizeable sitting area, a meeting room and an outdoor infinity outdoor showers and private pools larger pool. Several beaches lie in the vicinity. than the Hill Rock Villas. Villa designs are minimalist yet luxu- SERVICE The owners invested in staff rious, with liberal use of dark wood. training and it shows. Butlers – each guest Huge outdoor sofas make perfect loung- enjoys personalised service – are attentive ing spots, while in-villa facilities befit a while the service in the restaurant and bar high-end property, such as a flat-screen is unintrusive and friendly. TV, iPod dock and a private wine fridge stocked with a curated selection of bottles. VERDICT A superb luxury getaway.

ttgAsia Apr06 p13 Vietnam B2_LXgc.indd 13 3/30/12 3:34 PM Organized By:

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31st May - 2nd June PUTRA WORLD TRADE CENTRE & SERI PACIFIC HOTEL 2012 KUALA LUMPUR . MALAYSIA

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Sponsor: Technology Partner: CHINA: BRIEFING APRIL 6 – 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 15 Courtesy of Hangzhou Tourism The Yunqi Bamboo Path, one of Hangzhou’s growing number of attractions

Hangzhou heads up The scenic city sets its sights on European markets, as a raft of new hotels emerge. By Karen Yue

as popular as the big Chinese cit- Co, also recently signed on a five- from December through the first Arrivals Hangzhou ies of Shanghai and Beijing.” star hotel in the city, scheduled to quarter. received more than three million Jia added that plans were be- open in 2015. CTS deputy general manager- foreign visitors and 70 million ing made to encourage foreign In fact, Jin Jiang is eyeing head office, Zhang Wenquan, domestic visitors last year, the tradeshow attendees to extend growth beyond the capital city. said: “The arrival of high-end city’s vice mayor, Zhang Jianting, their trip to Hangzhou for lei- It is due to open Haizhongzhou hotel brands in the city has re- told national papers. sure. “For instance, Yiwu, a city Jin Jiang International Hotel in sulted in a corresponding in- Seeking to grow its European near Hangzhou, hosts many Zhejiang’s Zhoushan this quar- crease in high-end visitors and arrivals, the capital of Zhejiang tradeshows related to manufac- ter, and Yinrin Jin Jiang Inter- corporate groups. We are still province sent a delegation of turing, sourcing and consumer national Resort Hotel in Anji in the early part of the year, but Hangzhou tourism sellers to ITB products every year. These events County in 2014. The latter is a we have a number of corporate Berlin last month. are attended by many foreigners, castle-like 360-room property in events and groups in the bag for Zhejiang CYTS International who can potentially extend their the upcoming Hello Kitty Land Hangzhou this year.” Travel Co, one of the exhibitors travel and visit Hangzhou for theme park, a 90-minute coach at the annual tourism trade fair pleasure,” Jia said. “Hangzhou is a key ride from Hangzhou. told TTG Asia that it had recently Air access From partnered Europe’s TUI Group destination where we March 25, ANA increased the and American Express Business Hotels According to MICE Hangzhou gained a frequency of its flights from Kan- Travel to promote the province a hotel performance study by would like to develop new edge in its pursuit of MICE sai (Osaka) to Hangzhou from and grow its foreign leisure and Horwath HTL China and STR our brand. Hangzhou, business when the 380-key Sher- thrice-weekly to daily. This joins corporate arrivals from Europe Global last year, hotel supply in aton Hangzhou Wetland Park its existing daily Narita (Tokyo)- and beyond. It will also conduct Hangzhou grew nine per cent besides (being able to Resort opened last November Hangzhou service. roadshows and sales calls in Po- between Q12010 and Q12011. It in Xixi National Wetland Park. land, Estonia and Latvia this year. resulted in a two per cent dip in attract) leisure busi- The property has geared itself Roy Jia, general manager in- city-wide occupancy in the first ness, also has potential up for MICE business, offering a Products Sanrio bound tour centre, added that quarter of last year, although av- 1,946m2 conference centre, nine Corp Japan, creator of evergreen Russian arrivals to Hangzhou erage daily rate went up by eight for MICE.” meeting rooms, a pillarless ball- cartoon characters, has part- were rising prominently, and the per cent, indicating confidence room for a 600-pax banquet and nered a Chinese construction company was keen to develop among hoteliers. Cinn Tan an outdoor pre-function area for company to build a Hello Kitty its business from Russia by first Senior vice president New hotels are still emerg- marketing and sales 1,000 pax. theme park in Anji. Slated to securing a “strong Russian out- ing. Angsana Hangzhou opened Jin Jiang International Sheraton Hangzhou Wetland open in 2014, it will be the first bound company with the scale of last November with 59 rooms, Management Co Park Resort general manager, Hello Kitty theme park outside TUI Group”. joining sister hotel, Banyan Tree Colin Vickers, said the resort Japan. The attraction will appeal “Hangzhou is well-known Hangzhou, which opened in was the first in Hangzhou to to incentive planners, as it will be among Asian travellers, but more 2010. feature a large outdoor venue, supported by meeting facilities needs to be done to attract the Homegrown hotel group, Jin and demand from global and lo- in Yinrin Jin Jiang International Europeans, as well as to make it Jiang International Management cal companies had been strong Resort Hotel.

ttgAsia Apr06 p15 China B1KY_LXgc.indd 15 3/30/12 3:35 PM Scan the code below to register now Register for the Leading Travel Exhibition in the Middle East Opportunity to connect with more than 2,200 Discover solutions to improve exhibitors from up to 70 destinations. your future... Establish new business prospects, meet key contacts and discover developments that are Register as a visitor now at: driving the travel industry today. www.arabiantravelmarket.com/registernow www.arabiantravelmarket.com/registernow CHINA: BRIEFING APRIL 6 – 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 17 China takes European pulse The country’s government is leading the launch of traditional Chinese medicine tours, says Karen Yue

Catering to the rising level of interest in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), China’s Na- Explore and energise tional Center for TCM has start- Day 1 Arrive in Shanghai and embark on a tour around Pudong. ed to promote medical tours. An entity under the State Ad- Day 2 Start the day with a round of Five Animals Play qigong, one of the oldest styles of ministration of Traditional Chi- qigong that was said to be created by famous Chinese medicinal practitioner, Hua Tuo, nese Medicine that is responsible some 1,800 years ago. Later, visit Yuyuan Garden, The Bund and Nanjing Road. for establishing quality standards among TCM practitioners, the Day 3 Adjourn to Hangzhou, where scenic views are aplenty. A health check at the centre has started to arrange Hangzhou Air Force Retreat Centre is arranged. The centre is equipped with advanced medical programmes for both diagnostic facilities, guestrooms, a spa, a restaurant and a conference centre, and is life-saving and rejuvenation usually reserved exclusively for state guests. A tour of Lingyin Temple, Six Harmonies treatments, as well as study tours Pagoda and Longjin Royal Tea Garden will follow after the check-up. that range from two weeks to several years. Day 4 Activities for the day include an introduction to the Chinese system of Five Elements Joan Ye, project director (in- and fengshui, and a river cruise down the West Lake. ternational cooperation department) of the organisation, told Day 5 A trip to the Xixi Wetland Park marks the end of the tour. Additional health services TTG Asia that it had taken two may be added. years to prepare for its foray into TCM tourism. She said: “We started handling penetrating this market.” tourist attractions and exclusive mon for foreigners to enrol in China that are better known for TCM-related programmes last The National Center for TCM medical facilities in the country. TCM courses in China, and we TCM, such as Beijing, Shanghai, year, targeting only trade groups participated at ITB Berlin for the Ye said: “By personally arrang- have connections with reputa- Shandong and Xi’an, so we will from Asia. They visited TCM first time this year, where it dis- ing these tour programmes for ble outfits that can provide these recommend tours to those areas. hospitals, clinics and institu- tributed English brochures that European groups we can ensure training courses and hospitals However, we can develop pro- tions. We understand that many presented sample TCM-themed that they visit qualified practi- that can later facilitate internship grammes to other parts of China Europeans are also interested in itineraries (see box story above). tioners and institutions. programmes,” said Ye. according to the needs of Euro- TCM, which is why we are now These itineraries also feature “It is also increasingly com- “There are certain cities in pean groups.”

ttgAsia Apr06 p17 China B2KY_LXgc.indd 17 3/30/12 3:36 PM CHINA: BRIEFING/INSIDER APRIL 6 – 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 18 Hot Chinese pursuits

A trend towards dedicated hotels for Chinese travellers is emerging, as international brands strengthen their foothold in the market. Here are two that made headlines recently

teractions and business meetings. capable of understanding the diversity The first Hualuxe hotel is expected to and the complexity of their identity,” said open in late 2013 or early 2014, and over Grégoire Champetier, chief marketing officer 20 letters of intent have been signed, which of Accor. “With Grand Mercure, the group are now being converted into contracts. demonstrates its ability to have more flexible IHG also plans to extend the brand to more brands, that are locally relevant.” than 100 Chinese cities in the next 15 to 20 The group’s nine other similarly-branded years. The brand will be launched initially in properties in China will adopt the new iden- tier one, two and three cities in China, but tity, which will feature elements of Chinese will later open in major cities overseas to culture. cater to the burgeoning number of Chinese In Shanghai, for example, employees will outbound travellers. be conversant in the local Shanghainese lan- Richard Solomons, CEO of IHG, said: guage, and guests will be welcomed by staff “This is a genuine first for the industry, and wearing qipao, a traditional evening dress. Hualuxe Hotels & Resorts a unique brand developed by our Chinese All local staff will be identified with name InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) launched team that we know will resonate with the badges bearing Chinese characters followed last month its first international upscale very important, fast-growing, Chinese con- by a pinyin translation, enabling them to use hotel brand dedicated to Chinese travel- sumer base.” their given names rather than adopting for- lers – Hualuxe Hotels & Resorts. The name Keith Barr, CEO of IHG Greater China, eign equivalents. was derived from a combination of ‘majestic added that the chain has had nearly 30 Grand Mercure (Mei Jue) Other signature services include daily China’ (Hua) and ‘luxury’ (luxe). years of experience of working in China. Accor has revamped its Grand Mercure tai chi lessons, lavender-scented bathroom The brand aims to offer Chinese consum- “We have had great success over the years brand in China, offering products and ser- amenities, and complimentary head and ers a more traditional experience in an up- with the five brands that we already have in vices tailored for local clientele, in a move shoulder massages for guests staying on scale setting, built around the fundamentals this market, and we will now leverage our aimed at taking advantage of the booming premium floors. of tradition, rejuvenation, status and familiar experience and the strong relationships and upscale domestic travel market. Since launching this evolved version of spaces. reputation we have with customers and own- The re-engineered branding for Grand the brand, Accor has confirmed commit- This translates into offerings such as a ers to establish and grow Hualuxe.” Mercure, referred to in Mandarin as Mei Jue, ments for 10 more Grand Mercures in China. tea house in the lobby (pictured above), a Hualuxe will follow IHG’s managed oper- was unveiled in February at the inauguration Sam Shih, chairman and COO, Accor late-night noodle bar, natural surroundings, ating model, similar to how other IHG brands of Grand Mercure Shanghai Zhongya (pic- Greater China, said: “The Grand Mercure resort-inspired bathrooms, VIP arrivals and are currently operating in China. It will be tured above), the first hotel adapted to the brand provides Accor with a fresh platform a unique club lounge experience, and public supported by brand development and mar- new positioning. for organic upscale expansion throughout the and private spaces for a range of social in- keting funds in the first few years. “Our clients are now expecting brands country.”

Checking in Pullman Lijiang Resort and Spa

Manuela Zonin- ROOMS Opened last year, the sein discovers resort has a mixture of 130 a perfect mix of rooms and villas, with the latter mindless relaxa- offering one to three bedrooms. Rooms integrate contempo- tion and mindful rary technology and creature tourism in a relatively hidden comforts with Naxi-inspired corner of the world architectural designs (Naxi is the dominant ethnic group in LOCATION Situated close to Lijiang). Dark wood, Ming-style Shuhe Old Town, downtown Li- screens, pottery and refined art- jiang and UNESCO World Her- work come together with lots of itage Site, Dayan Ancient Town, light and glass, offering moun- the resort’s location is quiet yet tain views. Beds are top of the convenient. line, while bathrooms are luxu- Lijiang is a great base to ex- rious. Private courtyards also At the al fresco Western restau- get your heart pumping. In the Name Pullman Lijiang Resort plore attractions including the make for wonderful communal rant, Xi, local and international surrounding area, one can take and Spa Jade Dragon Snow Mountain spaces to hold barbecues. fare are on offer. The breakfast lessons at an 18-hole golf course, No. of rooms 130 (30km away and said to be the spread includes croissants, cakes go horseriding or cycle. Rate From RMB1,810 (US$287) for southernmost glacier in the F&B The F&B team goes the ex- and bread – arguably the best Other amenities include a rack rate Northern Hemisphere), Black tra mile to fully utilise local pro- baked goods in China – as well as 2,000m2 indoor and outdoor spa Contact details Dragon Pool (5km away), Lashi duce, which isn’t difficult given omelettes, pancakes and cereals. and extensive conferencing fa- Tel: (86-888) 5300-111 Hai Lake (10km away) and Tiger the rich agricultural surround- You’ll also find Cantonese spe- cilities with Wi-Fi access. Fax: (86-888) 5300-222 Leaping Gorge (32km away). ings. Both Chinese and Western cialties such as dim sum, soups When you need to rest, head Email: reservation@pullman-lijiang. However, due to its low lati- cuisine are served in the resort and fruit. to the clock tower or Tian Lu com tude and high altitude, Lijiang Chinese restaurant, Zun, de- In the rooms, guests are greet- Library, overlooking the hotel’s Website: www.pullmanhotels.com experiences a mild subtropical livers delicious pan-Asian deli- ed with local and organic fruit Couple Lake. highland climate that is sunny cacies cooked with ingredients including mangosteen, dragon VERDICT The resort is a great and warm during the day, but such as a mind-boggling array of fruit and pears, along with home- SERVICE Staff are honest, con- accommodation option for can be crisp and cold at night. mushrooms and even foie gras. made yogurt and dried fruit. fident, knowledgeable and atten- those who want to discover Li- Canals, Dali stone and grey- To go along with meals, several tive. Ready to help, they imme- jiang, as it offers warm respite stone sloping rooflines are seen types of teas are also available for FACILITIES A massive gym of- diately direct queries to the right after a day of outdoor activities throughout the whole property. sampling. fers a round-the-clock trainer to person if they are unsure. like trekking.

ttgAsia Apr06 p18 China JTgc.indd 18 4/2/12 4:50 PM NEWS APRIL 6 – 12, 2012 • TTG ASIA 19 Best Western’s next leap LCCs fuel Lanka comeback By Feizal Samath an untapped market”. COLOMBO More low-cost car- Shiromal Cooray, managing Sets sight on being largest single hotel brand in Asia by 2020 riers (LCCs) are flying to Sri director of Jetwing Travels, ech- Lanka, helping to fuel further the oed similar views, saying LCCs By Raini Hamdi Target: 300 hotels, 50,000 rooms by 2020 destination’s comeback. were definitely a plus to the mar- Last week, Singapore’s Ti- ket and, rather than competi- BANGKOK Best Western Inter- Best Western Premier Best Western Plus Best Western national aims to be the largest ger Airways announced thrice- tion, complement wide-bodied 300 single international hotel brand weekly flights to Colombo from carriers. She said LCCs had been 70 in Asia with 300 hotels and 250 66 May 31, joining LCCs such as instrumental in bringing in an 63 59 50,000 rooms by 2020. 56 Air Asia, which operates to the additional 6,000 passengers to 200 The chain operates the Best 49 52 46 50 Sri Lankan capital from Kuala Sri Lanka in the past five to six 46 39 43 42 30 35 Western brand covering three 150 39 23 26 Lumpur and Bangkok. months. tiers, the midscale Best Western, 14 18 180 These LCCs are seen as leisure Chaminda Dias, executive di- 170 175 upscale Best Western Plus and 100 159 164 arrival generators, while other rector of Luxe Asia, said Tiger’s 149 154 145 entry would even boost the Chi- deluxe Best Western Premier. 50 140 LCCs such as Air Arabia and Its new 10-year plan is on the 135 Flydubai deal mostly with labour nese market, which recorded just back of gains made in the previ- 00 traffic to Gulf states from Sri 16,000 arrivals last year. Apart ous 10 years, where it more or 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Lanka and India. from direct charters to Colombo less achieved goals of growing to (188) (200) (214) (224) (236) (250) (262) (276) (287) (300) “We should encourage 100 from Chinese destinations, Chi-

0.81.0 0.40.6 200 hotels in Asia by 2011, from Source: Best Western International 0.00.2 LCCs to come here,” said Ahin- nese travellers also travel through only six hotels in 2001. tha Amerasinghe, managing di- hubs such as Singapore. Glenn de Souza, vice president been held to bigger hotels – 100 rooms and rector of Worldlink Travels, who “We need more promotion International Operation-Asia & date, in Vi- above, rather than 30 to 50 views Tiger’s entry as positive as among the Chinese. For example Middle East, who wrestled with etnam, the rooms – and working with fewer most Singaporeans book their we have some 200,000 Chinese the perception of the chain as a Philippines owners but those with more ho- flights and hotels online. tourists sitting in a plane in tran- motel company, said now that and Japan. tels,” he said. “We have met many travel sit in Colombo en route to Mal- the brand had gained acceptance Properties Last year, Best Western opened consultants in Singapore over dives every year, and we are still among Asian owners, the next 10 that need re- 20 hotels in Asia, with a total of the years but we find that they not able to lucratively tap that years was time to solidify its foot- furbishment 2,461 rooms. This year, it will know little about Sri Lanka and market,” Dias said. hold further. de Souza: more will also be open another 19 hotels with a to- its beauty. This is a huge step Dias also hopes Sri Lanka can Among efforts, roadshows are selective encouraged tal of 2,625 rooms in the region. forward,” he said, noting that entice Indian budget airline In- being mounted to ensure owners to do so and, As of now, there are 191 proper- Tiger would be flying a Boeing diGo to fly to Colombo. “That fully understand how to maxim- going forward, de Souza said “we ties and 29,336 rooms operating, 747 with 160-170 seat capacity is a great airline and with trav- ise the infrastructure offered by could be more selective” in sign- rebranding and under construc- and “would have done a lot of ellers worried about the future the chain. ing on members. tion in Asia (including 17 in the research to decide to fly to Co- of Kingfisher, Sri Lanka needs a Three of these roadshows had “We’re looking at getting Middle East). lombo and sustain operations in quick replacement.”

ttgAsia Apr6 p19 News_rhgc.indd 19 4/3/12 4:02 PM