VIEW FROM THE TOPTOP Tran Trong Kien ditched the medical profession for travel & tourism and listens so well to its heartbeat PPS 619/02/2013(022926) that his Thien Minh Group, which owns Buffalo Tours and Victoria Hotels & Resorts, is going regional No. 1719/Febuary 13, 2015

BUILDING AN INCLUSIVE WORLD Greater attention to accessibility for senior and disabled travellers will enable Asia to tap a crucial niche tourism market, experts advocate

RIDING THE ASEAN CRUISING PLAYGROUND FOR OILING THE WHEELS DIGITAL WAVE FINDS SEA LEGS RUSSIA’S RICH OF CONNECTIVITY How can travel players surf the sea of More cruise ships are calling at South- A troubled rouble aside, deep-pocketed is leveraging the BMW campaign technological changes and compete in east Asian ports but are the region’s Russian travellers have found a new to encourage foreign vistors to explore the new-generation marketplace? travellers reciprocating their affections? vacation destination in the city by public transport

13feb ttgAsia p01 cover-OLDSTYLExymy.indd 1 9/2/15 11:26 am 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 2 Contents & editorial Want to read us on the go?

Analysis 06

Intelligence 08

Agency 09

Shop 10

View from the top 11

Connect 27 12 16 19 22 24 Report: Cruises Guide: Low-cost Destination: Destination: Destination: carriers Singapore Brunei BE A POSITIVE AGENT OF CHANGE t is with anticipation that I read that the Asia- Somsak’s vision is laudable, and I sincerely hope that IPacific Network on Accessible Tourism is setting up this start-up will retain its sustainable principles and country chapters to champion barrier-free travel for peo- make good progress in the days ahead to inspire more ple with disabilities in the region (see page 7) – a move- like-minded Asians to come forth and set up meaningful ment that South-east Asia strongly needs. tourism entreprises too. , where I now call home, may be a fascinat- I strongly believe that tourism need not be a detrimen- ing city that beckons repeat visitors year after year, but tal force, and everyone, whether a travel consumer or sell- its non-integrated public transport systems and cracked er, can play a part to make travel more inclusive and make pavements often leave me wondering how a family with the world into a better place, one trip at a time. For travel young children and strollers in tow or a physically chal- sellers, obtainable ways would be engaging the services of lenged traveller could properly navigate the capital. Such responsible ground operators, may it be recommending experiences are repeated across many Asian cities, un- restaurants that have implemented no shark’s fins policies fortunately, and if travellers leave with a bad taste in the or hotels that have pledged their stand as an ethical op- mouth, will they even want to visit the destination again? erator to oppose sexual exploitation of children in tour- But far from suffering from a broken tourism scene, ism. Lately, there has been a noticeable shift away from South-east Asia is also fast becoming a fertile ground elephant rides in the industry, with Bangkok-based Asian for novel and meaningful travel ideas. I can’t help but be Oasis being the latest tour operator to drop elephant rides inspired by a growing class of influencers and entrepre- from its tours to end animal cruelty in tourism. neurs shaping the region’s travel landscape. There is no lack of positive initiatives in this part of the There is no lack of positive initiatives in Driven by a desire for a world with equal socio-eco- world; what we need is the support of trade members to this part of the world; what we need is nomic opportunities, engineer turned social entrepre- share these meaningful tourism products with a greater the support of trade members to share neur Somsak Boonkam founded LocalAlike (see page 9) audience. to promote community-based tourism in . What these meaningful tourism products impressed me was Somak’s rural background, which was Xinyi Liang-Pholsena not a deterrent but an impetus for him to empathise with with a greater audience. Assistant editor, TTG Asia disadvantaged groups and set up a platform for commu- nity-based tour operators to connect with world travel- [email protected] lers and improve their livelihoods. twitter.com/xinyi_pholsena

COMING UP WE’RE SORRY

HONG KONG A fast-growing private dining scene is offering visitors a new way to experience the In last issue’s Shopaholics Wanted NEXT ISSUE: dynamic city destination report, we wrongly stated that last July began waiving BEACH RESORTS Two luxury properties prove that the allure of the Maldives as a paradisiacal resort MARCH 13, visa requirements for Indonesians destination is here to stay 2015 for stays of up to 15 days. The visa BUSINESS TRAVEL The sharing economy is making its way into corporate travel market, but are waiver actually started in December travellers biting? 2014.

13feb ttgAsia p02 Contentxyred2revisedxyredFINAL.indd 2 10/2/15 2:24 pm

13.02.2014 TTG Asia 6 Technology has disrupted the global travel landscape like a tsunami Analysis force, but how can industry players retool their organisations to compete in the next-generation marketplace? By Hannah Koh RIDING THE WAVE OF TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE ECHNOLOGY, once the exclu- change the company’s digital approach. sive domain of geeks and oc- “We have a website to show we are alive, cupying just a small section of but now we have to think about where we newspapers, is now so deeply have to go,” he said. “As a B2B company, embeddedT in the modern world that it has do we lose our partners by going B2C? Or left no industry untouched in its relentless how can we engage our existing partners?” march forward. Venkat Chandramoleshwar, head of Needless to say the travel sector has product marketing, APAC travel, Google, not been spared the all-pervasive influ- Singapore, a speaker at PATAcademy- ences – both beneficial and detrimental HCD, advised: “There’s a lot of cooler – of the technology cudgel. First came things that are happening, the cutting- OTAs, then metasearch, and now, the tide edge stuff. (But) it makes a lot of sense for of peer-to-peer consumption is drawing smaller businesses to get those that work the attention of a younger generation of for you, and for the rest you wait for the travellers that are seeing a lesser need for dust to settle, because you can’t invest in travel agencies. everything. But there are a lot of things on With the maturation of mobile, social Google, Facebook, TripAdvisor that you media, big data and cloud, it is also clear can do for digital relevance 101.” that technological changes will take place Words that now are almost prophetic faster and more profoundly than before. in light of news that Google has stopped For instance, Apple’s Bluetooth low- selling Google Glass in its current form, energy wireless technology iBeacon, which had, following its launch, excited which received an upgrade alongside the the travel industry with new possibili- release of the iPhone 6, paves the way for ties for customer service such that Virgin time-sensitive information prompts such Atlantic launched Google Glass trials at as flight status changes at airports or loca- London’s Heathrow airport. tion-based deals. Chandramoleshwar emphasised that Or the Internet of Things which can there were still immediate steps to be be more accurately described as Things taken: “Do you have your Google business Linked to the Internet, which left tech listing? Is your phone number there, is it pundits to predict that 2015 could be the updated? Do you have those basics taken year for it to take off. The ability to send care of? Many don’t, but the core thing to and receive data from everyday devices focus on are the basics. Respond to your and objects will have the most immediate reviews.” impact on hotels – think rooms you can Fellow speaker Bronwyn White, co- heat or cool before you return, baths you founder of MyTravelResearch.com, could fill, etc. stressed the nitty gritty: “You need to have In an email interview, Gerry Samuels, a clear brand position – it’s useless to be all CEO of MTT, which has worked with things to all people anymore, like market- Jetstar Asia and Abacus Singapore and is ing to honeymooners one day and fami- currently collaborating with Singapore lies the next. on smartphone apps, said travel “Do your research, get your marketing companies already know they need to in place and have a clear brand position. be on mobile and expects the roll-out of Link all your social media to one URL. more payment options such as Apple Pay You may have your Facebook account, to further mobile bookings growth in fu- Google Plus, Instagram, make sure it’s the ture. same URL across all of them. URL is go- “The industry will also see a rise in ‘data ing to be telling the search engine whether snacking’ as a key mobile trend whereby your social media is active. Make sure quick, actionable and personalised mobile your posts are geo-coded so people go- notifications are presented to travellers in ing around can see it. It’s important to get a timely and relevant manner.” your basics right.” “There is also a greater focus on intel- – in the digital environment. They need to bring to remain relevant today. In attendance at the seminar were a ligence, where mobile systems are aggre- grow and monetise their loyal user bases, This was the main theme at the 3rd PAT- pool of hotel, , NTO and travel gating data from a multitude of sources to finding innovative ways online to inform, Academy-HCD, held in Bangkok last De- agency professionals, largely from Asia, create true end-to-end smartphone apps serve, entertain, reward and retain cus- cember, where a lineup of speakers from united by their desire to know what they to cover the entire travel experience,” he tomers.” the travel and technology sectors spoke can do to ride the tech wave and emerge said. Over 50 per cent of travel consumers on possible technologies that could come safely the other side. However, when asked “Many airlines primarily focus on the do research online, making digital pres- into play in the travel industry in the next if the participants had ever used Airbnb, in-airport experience, but the majority of ence as important as word of mouth when few years, from wearables to artificial in- only six out of the 30 travel professionals travellers now want apps that help them reaching customers. Thus, it is important telligence. replied in the affirmative. Interestingly, navigate throughout their entire journey that travel companies ensure they are vis- When enquired if keyless entry and they were all female. from when they depart their home to get ible from the start of the travel cycle and mobile concierges were something Am- But is such a straw poll a measure of to the airport, in the airport itself, to the that their online presence must be “mo- ritanjali Sakya, executive director of KGH how ready travel industry players in Asia- hotel and beyond.” bile-friendly, user-friendly and adapted to Hotels, would like to implement at her Pacific are in embracing disruption and Gfk’s Destination Digital report stated: every new platform and every screen size”, properties in Nepal, she said: “Even if we travel technology? And what technology “The traditional travel (consultants) can- given that more than 65 per cent of travel did, people wouldn’t know how to use to adopt? Will keyless entry and augment- not ignore digital. In order to survive consumers now use three devices when them or what it’s about. People (in Nepal) ed reality make that much of a difference? they have to mirror their offline strengths researching and booking flights. aren’t ready yet.” However, one thing is clear – the tech- – such as friendly and personalised cus- It makes good sense then that travel Nguyen Truong Quan, CEO of Orient nological tide waits for no one. tomer service, reliability, attention to de- agencies are keen to find out what the Horizon, a travel agency in Ho Chi Minh Said PATA CEO Mario Hardy point- tail and the ability to negotiate great deals next wave of technological disruption will City, is considering whether he should edly: “Disrupt, or be disrupted.”

13feb ttgAsia p06 Analysis-technologyXYknfinal.indd 6 9/2/15 5:57 pm 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 7 Poor infrastructure, services and attitudes towards travellers with Analysis special access needs is preventing the Asian tourism sector from seizing an important niche market, writes S Puvaneswary MAKING TRAVEL INCLUSIVE

hile the concept of acces- personal one, as he suffers from polio. With an aim to make the state’s Sungai to develop a three-hour audio descriptive sible tourism for senior Leopold said: “We ventured into this Liam Waterfall in Ulu Yam accessible to guided walk around the UNESCO World and disabled tourists has segment in 2013 when we fitted our new all, the Waterfall Lovers Association of Se- Heritage site of George Town in , emerged in various parts van with a hydraulic wheelchair lift. That langor is raising funds through corporate catering to the visually impaired. The trail ofW the world, the needs of this niche mar- year, we had three physically challenged sponsorship to build parking areas for the is targeted to be launched in July. ket remain unaddressed and under-served clients. In 2014, we had 26 clients, rang- disabled, ramps linking the parking area Meanwhile, the Taiwan Access For in Asia despite its strong potential to con- ing from families with a member needing to the waterfalls, disabled-friendly toilets All Association had recently developed a tribute to tourist arrivals and revenue. a wheelchair, to couples and friends with and special wheelchairs for use in water. mobile app for inclusion and assistance The World Health Organisation Re- special needs travelling together. This ambitious project, scheduled to be for disabled and senior travellers. The port 2011 estimates that 15 per cent of “(This) year, we will fit another van completed in 1H2015, will be replicated at app provides a listing and photographs the world’s population has a disability and with two hydraulic wheelchair lifts as we other waterfalls too, said Mohd Ridzuan of accessible restaurants, tourist sites and more than one billion people with special get many requests from people travelling Gunasegaran Abdullah, secretary general hotels, and users can also share their ex- needs worldwide, of which an estimated in pairs,” he added. of the association. periences on accessibility. There are plans 80 per cent live in developing countries. Ace Altair Travels’ services include pro- Elsewhere in the country, National in future to develop this site in English, According to HelpAge International, viding trained personnel; recommending Council for the Blind will join according to the association’s secretary- by 2050, nearly one in five people in de- disabled-friendly hotels, restaurants and hands with George Town World Heritage general, Jacky Hsu. veloping countries will be over 60. United attractions; and offering special equip- Nations Economic and Social Commis- ment such as wheelchairs, ramps, shower sion for Asia and the Pacific projects that chairs and portable commode. Japan, South Korea, Singapore, China “There are different levels of disability,” and Thailand will become the five leading stressed Leopold. “Once we get a request countries in Asia with an ageing popula- from a client, we will first have to find out tion of 60 years and above in 2050. what is the level of their disability, what The Asia-Pacific Network on Accessible they are able to do and not do. If the per- Tourism (APNAT), which is headquar- son requires a wheelchair, we will find out tered in Malaysia and currently in the pro- the size and whether they want a motor- cess of being registered as an association, ised one or not.” will soon see the establishment of country Leopold also drew attention to the state chapters to champion barrier-free travel of disrepair of sidewalks and high curbs for people with disabilities in the region. in Malaysia, where wheelchair users fre- Sia Siew Chin, pro tem committee quently find their path of travel obstruct- chairman of APNAT, said: “Through AP- ed by poorly designed narrow sidewalks, NAT, we would like to be able to reach out parked cars, motorcycles, fences, stairs to governments, people in the tourism and trees, reflecting an accessibility issue industry and service providers to provide that is repeated across other South-east for the access needs of everyone in society, Asian cities from Bangkok to . in particular people with disabilities.” “In many areas of the city, it is virtually Advocating that the creation of barrier- impossible to travel without an assistant,” free travel can improve a country’s tour- he added. “We hope our effort will make ism competitiveness, Joseph Kwan, global accessible tourism a reality in Malaysia, chair, International Commission on Tech- which presents a great challenge for trav- nology & Accessibility, Rehabilitation In- ellers with mobility impairments.” ternational and advisor to APNAT, said: In Singapore, want2travel (www.want- “Making changes need not be too costly. 2travel.com.sg) was started by Patrick When transportation such as old buses Ang, a paraplegic, in July 2012 to encour- and cars need replacement, transport pro- age families to involve disabled or elderly viders can look at buying vehicles that are members with mobility issues in their user-friendly and accessible to the elderly travel plans instead of leaving them be- and people with disabilities, thus increas- hind. ing ridership and in turn, revenue. He said: “There is a lot of additional “Costs in making appropriate changes work when it comes to providing travel to building structures and facilities that services for the disabled. For example, we are accessible to all can be reduced by get- will find out the extent of the disability ting advice from specialist access archi- and then try and match accommodation tects and from organisations dealing with and services to suit the client’s needs. people with disability.” “Many hotels claim they are disabled Several enterprising travel organisa- friendly because they may have ramps tions in the region have already identified leading to the entrance, but the disabled the market as ripe for picking. room may not have a toilet that is disabled For Antony Leopold, managing direc- friendly (with) handrails or enough space tor of -based Ace Altair to manoeuvre a wheelchair, thus we do a Travels – which caters to the special needs thorough check first before recommend- of disabled travellers from the point of ar- ing a hotel or providing advice to a client.” rival to the point of departure – his inter- Non-profit organisations are also keen est in providing such travel services is a to make tourist sites more accessible.

13feb ttgAsia p07 Analysis-accessibletourismxymyknmy-newfinal.indd 7 9/2/15 11:37 am TTG ASIA_QP_FC

13 feb 15 114x180 mm 27 jan 15 May fair issue date size deadline content proofread 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 8 In this tie-up with Travel Business Analyst (TBA), we Intelligence crunch numbers that matter and make them meaningful. Plus, look out for our Hotel Barometer every month

Top five airlines in Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific’s top five airlines in 2014 tal was just ahead of AC, but on cur- remained unchanged from 2013, with rent growth patterns, even AC’s faster China’s top three also Asia-Pacific’s top growth will not be enough to overtake three. In order of seat sales, they are China CE this year. Southern Airlines (CS), China Eastern • On international routes, CE remained Airlines (CE), Air China (AC), followed largest with 9.6 million seats sold, but by Qantas and Cathay Pacific Airways. it grew only 6%. AC grew 18% to reach These are group totals and include do- just over 9.2 million, and CS grew even Seat sales of Asia-Pacific’s top five airline groups, million mestic traffic – one reason that neither faster at 21%, taking it to just under 9.2 2014 Growth, % AAGR, % 2013 Growth, % Japan Airlines (small domestic traffic of million. around 17 million, compared with, say, • Qantas is a multi-airline group with China Southern Airlines 100.9 9.9 7.2 91.8 6.1 nearly 75 million for AC) nor Singapore domestic operations in Australasia and China Eastern Airlines 83.9 5.9 6.9 79.2 8.5-E Airlines (no domestic traffic) are listed. regional operations – mainly under Jet- Cathay Pacific sneaks into the top five star name – in Asia. But our estimates Air China 83.0 6.9 19.5 77.7 7.3 both because it includes its Dragonair indicate weak growth in 2014 at just Qantas* 49.2 1.1 3.2 48.7 2.0 subsidiary in its totals, and their China 1%, down from +2% in 2013 and +6% routes are essentially domestic routes. in 2012. Cathay Pacific 31.6 5.5 4.2 29.9 3.3 Main trends: • Cathay Pacific’s +6% is close to AC Airways+ • CS not only topped 100 million but was and CE’s growth but below the +10% Notes: AAGR = annual average growth rate 2010-14 (except CE and AC 2011-14), still growing faster than China’s other of its nearest southern China neigh- E = TBA estimate. *Group; with Jetstar; based on Jan-Nov growth for 2014. +With Drag- major airlines at almost 10%. CE’s to- bour CS. onair. Source: companies, TBA.

FAIR Asia-Pacific’s travel stock prices in 2014

G

R O O

O Overall, the leading international travel Unlike in many years, airlines per-

D O

P HOTEL BAROMETER stocks in Asia-Pacific grew 21% over formed better than hotels in 2014, mainly 2014. However, that is not as good as it thanks to the late-2014 boost as the price seems because the relevant stockmarkets of fuel fell. Most of the savings from lower increased 17% – meaning that the real in- fuel prices will go straight into company Weaker performance from Asia last October crease can be read as being closer to 4%. profits, with some of that to dividend pay- Our data is shown in percentages (be- ments. In Asia-Pacific overall, hotel occupancy cause there is rarely any value in compar- There is rarely a clear connection be- was down fractionally in October to ing actual stock prices). This method can tween operational results and stock prices. 78%, average room rate (ARR) down produce big changes even if the dollar For instance, among China’s big three US$6 to US$147, pushing revPAR change is less impressive. For instance, the airlines (see report above), the slowest down US$6 to US$114. biggest growths – Qantas’ 119% and Chi- growth in seat sales was China Eastern In addition, the overall ho- na Travel’s 65% – represented a growth Airlines. But in stock prices, China East- tel TBA-100 Index for October of only A$1.31 (US$1.02) and HK$1.06 ern and China Southern grew fast, and Air stood at 98 – representing a (US$0.14) per share. China managed only 8%. 2% fall growth in comparison with the same months in 2013. Hotel results in the resort Growth in travel company stock prices, 2014 island of look weak, with Company* Stock Growth, % Market TBA-100 Index++ occupancy falling 5%; ARR Airlines and revPAR falls were partly related to exchange rate chang- September to early- AirAsia 23.6 -5.7 MY 102 December 2014), but hotel results seemed es – a stronger US dollar. Although the Air China 8.3 23.2 HK 90 patterns are not necessarily linked, Bali’s surprisingly unaffected. All three meas- occupancy fall is significantly different ures were essentially unchanged from Oc- Air New Zealand 50.6 17.5 NZ 125 from direct air foreign-visitor arrivals that tober 2013. All Nippon Airways 42.5 7.1 JP 118 month, which grew 27%. Singapore’s 2% fall in occupancy looks Bangkok occupancy continued to fall small, but it is greater than the fall in visi- Cathay Pacific Airways 3.0 23.2 HK 85 8%, although arrivals through the capi- tor arrivals that month, which fell just China Airlines 32.4 8.1 TW 110 tal’s airports that month showed the first -0.2%. increase (+4%) in the year, after nine Notes/Caveats: Although rates are quoted China Eastern Airlines 27.4 23.2 HK 105 months of falls – as much as -35%. How- in US dollars, the data is supplied by hotels China Southern Airlines 22.2 23.2 HK 101 ever, Bangkok’s ARR fall was less, only to TBA in local currencies, and thus changes -2%, which may predicate growth in the in exchange rates can affect figures. Differ- Japan Airlines 38.7 7.1 JP 115 last two months of the year. ent categorisation of hotels across countries Jet Airways 43.7 30.1 IN 119 For hoteliers, October is may also distort the rate comparison. For Malaysian Airline+ -14.5 -5.7 MY 71 usually their busiest month. The political this reason, percentage changes of ARR street protests in Hong Kong took place within a city may be a surer comparison of Qantas 119.2 1.1 AU 181 over this period (running from end- market progress. Singapore Airlines 11.4 6.2 SG 92

Hotel operating results in selected centres, October 2014 Thai Airways 5.8 15.3 TH 88 International Location Occupancy, Growth, ARR, US$* Growth, RevPAR, Growth, % % % US$ % Hotels Bali 69.9 -5.1 154 -15.3 108 -19.6 Banyan Tree -11.0 6.2 SG 74 Bangkok 67.2 -8.2 112 -2.3 75 -10.3 Jinjiang -6.1 23.2 HK 78 Mandarin Oriental 0.3 6.2 SG 83 Beijing 76.9 7.0 101 -5.6 78 1.0 Shangri-La -29.2 23.2 HK 59 Hong Kong 83.9 -0.3 263 0.8 221 0.4 93.7 4.7 184 -6.1 173 -1.7 Others Singapore 85.2 -2.3 181 -5.0 154 -7.2 China Travel 65.0 23.2 HK 137 Notes: Compared with same month, year earlier. ARR = average room rates, RevPAR = Genting -17.5 23.2 HK 68 revenue per available room. *Calculated at exchange rate for specific month to US dollars. Notes: *May not be full formal name in stockmarket listing. +Dec 13-Nov 14. ++Against Source: hotels to TBA. all companies listed here. Source: TBA.

13feb ttgAsia p08 Intelxyredfinal.indd 8 10/2/15 2:26 pm 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 9

Take heed of tech-savvy agencies that have Agency transformed their businesses and pick up new ideas on how to do better

INNOVATORS

EMPOWERING RURAL COMMUNITIES By Xinyi Liang-Pholsena WHO Growing up in upcountry Noi for their early morning catch to connect them directly to prospec- Thailand, the exposure to the inge- meeting with hill-tribe tea planters tive customers,” shared Somsak. Local Alike, the brainchild of nuity of rural cultures from young in Mae Salong, Chiang Rai and “My goal is to share the wisdom Somsak Boonkam (right), offers drives Somsak Boonkam, founder learning about tribal culture. of indigenous people to the mass travellers a chance to meet with and CEO of Local Alike, to address On the Local Alike website market, (and) develop sustainable rural villagers and contribute to community development socio-economic inequalities among (www.localalike.com), each listed products and services with a posi- less advantaged communities. trip clearly states the itineraries tive impact on society. Following an MBA on sustain- available, costs and a breakdown He added: “Local Alike can able management in the US, the of how fees contributed will be change city dwellers’ perspectives trained engineer gave up a stable channelled into the village income of looking at local villagers.” career to work in the non-profit and development fund respectively. sector, which subsequently led Each trip also details the village TARGET Somsak envisions Local to his founding of Local Alike in background, location, suggested Alike to become a “showcase” for September 2012. activities and amenities, alongside sustainable tourism in the region, photos. while growing into a reliable long- WHAT Local Alike is a social Since its official launch in March term partner for CBT suppliers. enterprise that provides a plat- 2014, Local Alike has received 660 “We plan to expand to at least form for authentic experiences in bookings from within Thailand and 100 communities (from the current community-based tourism (CBT) abroad, including travel agencies 15) in Thailand and neighbouring while helping to preserve local cul- and corporate companies. countries,” he said, citing Laos and ture and generate income to local Myanmar as the next targets in the villages. Its portfolio of immersive WHY “There are some 200 estab- enterprise’s growth plans. “Our ulti- experiences range from joining lished CBT (providers) in Thailand mate goal is to help our communi- southern Thai fisherman in Koh Yao but they lack reliable channels to ties achieve self sustainability.”

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13feb ttgAsia p09 AgencyxyredknxyFINAL.indd 9 9/2/15 11:40 am 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 10 Need ideas on what to buy? Take your Shop pick and load your cart with the array of new products showcased on this page

HOTELS

ANDAZ SINGAPORE JW MARRIOTT SHENZHEN U PATTAYA, THAILAND HUALUXE NANCHANG HIGH TECH BAO’AN, CHINA ZONE & HUALUXE YANGJIANG Expected to open in 2017 as part of the new U Hotels & Resorts has expanded its footprint CITY CENTRE, CHINA DUO development in Singapore’s Ophir-Ro- Opening in 1Q2015, the 356-room hotel is into Pattaya this month with a 44-key bou- chor district, the first Andaz hotel in South- the first international luxury hotel in Shen- tique hotel comprising villas and guest rooms InterContinental Hotels Group has announced east Asia will have more than 340 guest zhen’s Bao’an district, overlooking Qianhai with sizes ranging from 32-90m2. Located its first two Hualuxe Hotels and Resorts rooms. Featuring a boutique lifestyle hotel Bay and the Pearl River Delta. Hotel facilities between Jomtien and Bang Saray, a two-hour properties in Greater China. The 281-room concept, Andaz Singapore offers a lounge include two specialty restaurants and one drive away from Bangkok, U Pattaya’s facili- Hualuxe Nanchang High Tech Zone will oc- area, restaurants and bars, a rooftop outdoor lounge, a spa & wellness centre, a fitness ties include a French restaurant, a rooftop cupy the 39th to 56th floors of a skyscraper venue, event spaces, spa services, a fitness centre, indoor heated and outdoor swimming bar, a swimming pool, a fitness centre and in Nanchang, Jiangxi proince while the centre, a swimming pool and a gift shop, with pools, and over 2,600m2 of meeting spaces the U Spa. Opening rates start from 2,599++ 282-room Hualuxe Yangjiang City Centre is direct connection to Bugis MRT Station. including the 1,758m2 Grand Ballroom. baht (US$80++) per room per night. located in Yangjiang, Guangdong province.

TECHNOLOGY TRANSPORTATION

AMADEUS LINKS ARMS WITH CTRIP FOR FLIGHT INVENTORY Amadeus has entered into a multi-year agreement with China’s Ctrip.com International to provide all air content for points of sale outside of China. The agreement will intially include Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea and the US, with future plans to move into Canada, , New Zealand, Japan and Thailand, among others. Ctrip will implement Amadeus Master Pricer TravelBoard, Amadeus Mini Rules and Ama- deus Ticket Changer, with the aim to adopt more of Amadeus’ online search solutions in the near future.

NEW PREPAID CITIZEN CARD FOR MYANMAR’S TRAVELLERS Singapore-based payment services provider 2C2P and Myanmar Citizens Bank (MCB) have launched a reloadable prepaid card that is accepted by MasterCard merchants worldwide for Myanmar travellers. The Citizen Card comes with an optional iOS or Android smartphone app that allows NEWLY RENOVATED EMERAUDE TO ADD LUON GROTTO TO ITINERARY Hanoi-based investment firm Openasia has acquired the 37-cabin Emeraude cruise ship and the user to manage transactions in real life initiated the final phase of a three-year reburbishment to add new beds, sinks, wall coverings and get online support. The card will benefit and shower heads and repositioned toilets, along with an aesthetic makeover, to its interior. users who go overseas, as cardholders are The renovation will be completed this April. The ship’s management remains the same. entitled to special benefits and privileges at At the same time, the Emeraude has also added passage through Luon Grotto by bamboo destinations such as Thailand and Singapore. Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia boat to its cruise itinerary, moved the vessel’s dock to a new pier in Hon Gai and opened an Emeraude café at Halong Bay. OAG BOLSTERS STAKE IN REALTIME FLIGHT STATUS INFORMATION MARKET WITH FLIGHTVIEW ACQUISITION HK EXPRESS LAUNCHES SIEM REAP ROUTE OAG has upped its game in the in-flight status market with the acquisition of Boston-based Budget airline HK Express will launch a thrice-weekly route between Hong Kong and Siem Real-time flight information solutions provider FlightView. Reap from October 1, 2015, with reservations for the new service already open. FlightView aims to aid aviation and travel professionals offer better customer service and The flight from Hong Kong will depart at 07.15 while the return trip from Siem Reap will operational efficiencies, and has a portfolio of over 600 B2B customers. depart at 09.35, both operating on the same days of Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. OAG currently holds a schedules database of over 900 airlines, including 113 LCCs and 4,000 airports, and processes more than 21 million flight status updates every month.

ACTIVITIES TRAFALGAR ROLLS OUT MANDARIN GUIDED HOLIDAYS FOR ASIANS Trafalgar is offering Mandarin guided holiday programmes to cater to the needs of the Chinese-speaking population in the Asia-Pacific region for travel to Europe and the US. The programme will be available in Singapore, Malaysia, the , Taiwan, Hong Kong and Australia, as well as China where the programme had its trial. Building on the strengths of the English programmes, Trafalgar Mandarin programmes will enable travellers to interact with local characters and enjoy exclusive access and queue- skipping at major attractions. Another specialty will be highlight meals, which allows travellers to enjoy local cuisine combined with Asian fare at each destination.

13feb ttgAsia p10 Shop_ALmyxyfinal.indd 10 10/2/15 2:28 pm 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 11 He ditched the medical profession for travel & tourism and View from the top listens so well to its heartbeat that his Thien Minh Group, which owns Buffalo Tours and Victoria Hotels & Resorts, is going regional. Tran Trong Kien talks to Raini Hamdi A PULSE ON TOURISM You ran local tours to fund your medical What made you stick to the industry? studies. How did you end up as a tour- 1995 was a special year; it’s quite like ism entrepreneur rather than a doctor? Cuba today: after years of isolation, the 10 NEED TO KNOWS ABOUT TRAN TRONG KIEN It was summer work and I found guid- US embargo was lifted. Private sector was Who’s in your family? We have our beach resorts) and play football with ing French tourists enjoyable. I set up a allowed to enter and business suddenly three children. Our daughter and son are our Thien Minh Group FC team. I do not small tour guides’ office to create jobs for grew. studying in London and the little daughter drink and consider myself to be a social friends, who were six or seven other medi- I also began to enjoy running a busi- is living with us in Hanoi. sipper. cal students. ness. Later, as we grew, I went for an MBA, What do you do for fun? I run, and I Favourite food? Pho, Hainan chicken We were all born in 1973, Year of the as running a business requires you to collect pens. rice, English breakfast and canh ruou Buffalo, hence, Buffalo Tours. None of us know how to read a balance sheet, how to Your ideal vacation? Trekking in the cua (Vietnamese freshwater crab soup). had any guiding experience. What we had do marketing, etc, which medical studies Himalaya or skiing in the Alps. A bad habit you cannot kick? was pride in our country and the desire to do not teach you. How do you book your own leisure I like working long hours and can’t show visitors its authenticity – the street trips? I often research my own itinerary stop thinking about work when I am food, villages, etc. Are the others still with you? and book some of the hotels online. We at home. Yes. It’s because of trust and it made me often book activities in destinations. Your pet peeve, something that How did tourists find you? realise what a treasure it is to have the trust What are you reading right now? never fails to annoy you? Untidiness At the time (1994), Vietnam was open- and the belief of your team. Straw Dogs by John Gray and any form of cruelty. ing itself to the world. There was no in- frastructure. There were only state-owned Your parents must have flipped when How do you stay healthy? I run a Most people don’t know that tourism companies like Saigontourist. their son became a DMC chief rather couple of times a week, swim in the ocean you...I’m introverted and happy to be left Our tour guiding was far superior – we than a doctor. whenever I have a chance (visiting some of alone! (-: were young, educated, eager – and as a re- They were proud when I went to medi- sult, travel companies started approaching cal school. My parents always give me the us. A lot was also through word of mouth. total freedom to do what I want to do, Soon, we started booking transport and including going to medical school, then What about the business did you par- the JV with Flight Centre (TTG Asia e- became rather like a DMC. This wasn’t the going into this business. It was a shock for ticularly enjoy? Daily, December 19, 2014). Why Flight? plan at all. my friends, however. We were young, had the best education in They share our fundamental belief the city and were eager to learn. We had that the passenger is a human being and a blank slate to create something and, by wants interaction. And this is why tour 1997-98, we created a name as the first operators and retail agencies will continue company in Vietnam to offer the concept to thrive. of experiential travel – nothing fabricated, helping people to enjoy the culture and In a small country like Singapore where even, having a commitment to the com- you’ve just opened office, how do you munity. compete with the other established As medical students, we were trained to DMCs? We compete by do no harm – try to find the root cause We compete by bringing the company first and the different solutions to a prob- spirit and our beliefs and values to the bringing the company lem. Through tour guiding, we also met market. We don’t mind investing and spirit and our beliefs amazing people. One of them, Mike, we’re looking at six to eight new, authentic was a founder of the ecotourism society experiences in Singapore unique to Buf- and values to the in Washington DC. It’s people like him, falo. It could be, for example, a seaplane through a week of kayaking with us, who experience, an overnight cruise, a cycling market. We don’t opened my eyes as to why tourism should programme across the island – each will be a business that supports community be an engaging experience. mind investing and conservation. We also have local experts, the right people on the ground who have the ability we’re looking at six to Everyone now professes to be engaged to connect with clients and who can create in sustainability. So how do you stay a total experience. Our general manager eight new, authentic different when the USP is now the in Singapore, Carol Tan, for example, is norm? extremely experienced. Combined with experiences in Yes, it’s a standard today, but that’s good our technology and distribution, we will Singapore unique for the environment. As for staying differ- do well. ent, there is never a boundary that stays to Buffalo. still or fixed. It moves everytime. We just Why do you prefer to set up afresh than have to be nimble and flexible, and adopt buy an existing regional DMC? changes quickly as a result of changes It’s easier to create a new one and train from the demand side, be it geographical the people on the culture and spirit of or the tastes of clients. Buffalo, compared with buying company X, where we have to scrap their values, You went on to buy Victoria Hotels & then retrain. Resorts, seaplanes, cruises, etc. Why? As DMC, we’re a middleman. If we’re to What’s your advice to young entrepre- grow, especially in a developing country in neurs in emerging markets such as In- the 90s, we need to be able to control the dochina? entire supply chain. We don’t need to follow the models or So we started buying smaller hotels and brands set up in the West. We can create now we own 12 hotels. We also looked at our own. I have often wondered why it is innovative transportation means, so that rare for an Asian homegrown model to our guests could travel from point A to grow regionally, then globally. I believe B with our train, then cruise on our boat if you have the guts and the intelligence, and stay in our hotel – imagine the total you can create something that comes from experience and how we could control this your own backyard. Hopefully, this mes- whole experience. sage will be an inspiration to young entre- preneurs in places like Vietnam, Cambo- And now Buffalo is going regional with dia, Laos and Myanmar.

13feb ttgAsia p11 VFTT_KienRHredxyredFINAL.indd 11 10/2/15 2:28 pm 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 12 Cruise operators are embracing South-east Asia as a market as Report Cruises well as a destination but are travellers from around the region reciprocating their affections? By Mimi Hudoyo, S Puvaneswary, Paige Lee Pei Qi, Greg Lowe and Rosa Ocampo ASEAN CRUISING FINDS SEA LEGS ea-based explorations of South- Carnival Asia has also doubled its re- east Asia are experiencing a surge gional market share in the past two years in demand from within and out- as well. Farriek Tawfik, director of South- side the region, and cruise lines east Asia of Carnival’s Princess Cruises, have been quick to expand their credited this to the region’s booming con- reachS here with new homeportings and sumer market and rising purchasing pow- itineraries in recent years. er of the middle class. “We expect double- Intra-ASEAN cruising remains the digit growth in passenger traffic and 30 dominant choice, report cruise lines and per cent growth in sales for regional cruise travel consultants. packages in (2015).” First-time cruisers and large family A growing middle class lure more ships groups from the region tend to take three- ASEAN travellers are taking up regional to five-day cruises, opt for larger ships itineraries over international itinerar- and also prefer more affordable itineraries ies 70:30, according to Royal Caribbean within South-east Asia since it is nearer to Cruises’ managing director, Singapore home. and South-east Asia, Jennifer Yap, who at- Farriek commented that Princess tributed this to closer proximity and bet- Cruises is seeing an “increase in first-time ter flight availability. cruisers and young Asians”. Based on Car- “The number of guests from ASEAN nival Asia’s research, a larger proportion taking up regional cruises has also grown of 18- to 30-year-olds in Singapore aspire 50 per cent year-on-year, especially with… to go on a cruise holiday than the over-65 the arrival of the new Quantum of the Seas age group. (in Singapore this) June,” said Yap. Given such a forecast, it is unsurprising Royal Caribbean International’s Mari- that Princess Cruises entered a strategic ner of the Seas is plying 29 sailings for the partnership with Group current Singapore season until March and Singapore Tourism Board to promote 2015. Itineraries range from three to five fly-cruises out of Singapore last year. nights, cruising to Malaysia and/or Thai- Markets ripe for plucking for the Sin- land. gapore-centred fly-cruise segment are the Philippines and . Jenica Ferrer, sales and operations of- ficer at Travel People Philippines, Costa Cruises’ preferred sales agent and ground- handler in the Philippines, said about half of Costa’s Filipino clients sail around ASEAN. Ferrer attributes “strong bookings” to the lower cost of cruising compared with other means of travel, especially competi- tive fly-cruises in the region due to the proliferation of LCCs. Filipinos like flying into Singapore and sailing to Thailand and Malaysia, though some also venture farther to Shanghai, Ja- pan and South Korea. From above: Voyager of the Seas in Port Klang; dining on board Crystal Symphony Demand for cruising Elsewhere in the region, travel consult- ants are also reporting a continued prefer- donesia, collaborating with travel compa- Cruises’ three key ASEAN markets are in South-east Asia ence for ASEAN cruises. Anthony Chan, nies and offering promotional fares,” said Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia,” said is growing because group managing director and CEO, Chan WITA Tour Indonesia’s director of sales, Michael Goh, vice president sales. “Both Brothers Travel Singapore, said: “We have Rudiana, who said demand for ASEAN our two- and three-night destination- travellers want to try the seen a 30 per cent year-on-year increase in cruising has been increasing. centric cruises (in Asia) are very popular demand for regional cruises from Singa- Meanwhile Buhdy Bok, senior vice with ASEAN travellers.” facilities on board, the pore.” president Pacific Asia and China, Costa “We’ve seen year-on-year growth in duration is short and the Passengers range from busy profes- Cruises, noted China’s growing appetite the family segment for SuperStar Libra sionals to multi-generation families and for intra-ASEAN cruises, such that the mainly due to its affordable pricing. price is affordable. groups of friends with a budget, he said. Costa Serena will be deployed year-round The fact that it is homeported in Pen- “Since international cruise liners be- in Shanghai starting April 2015. ang, which has good access out of our Rudiana gan deploying ships in South-east Asia, On the other hand, local markets have main customer base Kuala Lumpur, also Director of sales, WITA Tour Indonesia they have been promoting heavily in In- also been a mainstay for Star Cruises. “Star helps,” Goh said.

13feb ttgAsia p12-15 report-cruises-xy1-finalmy.indd 12 9/2/15 11:44 am Advertorial COSTA CRUISES

Game changing for Costa in Asia Costa Cruises opens a new chapter in Asia’s cruise industry this year CosTa asia FleeT ❶ Costa Serena with the arrival of its third ship Costa Serena and the launch of Asia’s Theme Greek and Roman mythology. The ship is christened “Ship of God” and is positioned first ‘Around-the-World’ cruise onCosta Atlantica. as “Ancient Rome at Sea”. The decor is inspired by Olympian Gods and the ship is a focus on asia and China These moves will sig- a proud showcase of Italian art, culture, cuisine and wines. Special entertainment Costa Cruises will set a new nificantly strengthen Costa include 4D cinema and Grand Prix milestone as the first inter- Cruises’ presence in China, Simulator. CapaCiTy national cruise line with three which is set to become the 3,780 passengers ships based in Asia when world’s second largest cruise Costa Serena joins Costa market by 2017. Costa was the Victoria and Costa Atlantica first cruise company to sail in April. The new arrival will from China back in 2006. increase Costa Cruises’ ca- pacity in Asia by 74% to better meet growing demand. Costa Atlantica will soon ❷ Costa Atlantica achieve another honour by mr Buhdy Bok Theme Italian cinema and art –“Venice at Sea”. being Asia’s first “Around- Each deck is named after films by Italian the-World” cruise to sail from “Costa Cruises provides a unique ‘Italy at Sea’ film maestro Federico Fellini, while more than 400 artworks made it a floating art Shanghai. It will offer an expe- concept that gives our guests a rich and immersive museum. rience customised to the needs Theatre, Costa serena experience in Italian culture — from hospitality, to CapaCiTy 2,680 passengers of Greater China guests, fea- cuisine, and to art. Our ships, decked out in distinct italy at sea turing Chinese-speaking crew Costa Serena with other two Italian elements, and our services combine to give members and Asian cuisines. Asia fleet which have been the comfortable, right-at-home feeling on board.” operating successfully for mr Buhdy Bok years – Costa Victoria and President Costa Asia Costa Atlantica – will offer Costa Cruises Asia Pacific & China Costa Cruises’ unique brand of “Italy at Sea” experiences operate homeport cruises out ❸ Costa Victoria in terms of hospitality, cui- of Shanghai. In 2015, Costa will Theme Italian fashion and elegance, with an sine, design, entertainment offer more than 200 cruises in indoor spa pool inspired by the splendour and shopping. Asia, departing from Shanghai, of Pompeii, Bar Capriccio glamorously decorated with mosaics of Emilio Tadinis Costa Cruises, a pioneer Tianjin, Hong Kong, Singapore, and top European designer boutiques with duty-free prices. of Asia’s cruise industry, is the Fukuoka, Yokohama, Incheon CapaCiTy atrium, Costa serena first international cruise line to 4D cinema, Costa serena and Pusan. 2,394 passengers

about Costa Cruises Costa Crociere S.p.A. is the leading cruise company in Europe and Costa Cruises (www.costacruisesasia.com) is the first international cruise company to operate homeport cruises in the China market since 2006. For the past 9 years, Costa Cruises holds the principle of customer-oriented and focuses on innovation and excelsior to bring Chinese passengers the most creative and high- quality cruise products with the flavor of “Italy at Sea”. According to CCYIA, Costa Cruises continues its leading position in China with 35.98% market share of homeport cruise journey in 2014.

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SuperStar Aquarius’ Dynasty Restaurant; Enter the Muslim, incentive markets deeper pockets in South-east Asia tend to The lucrative Muslim market is also tak- gravitate towards far-flung destinations. ing to cruising, in the meantime. Paul Garcia, director of public relations Rakyat Travel Kuala Lumpur’s CEO, at Crystal Cruises, said that while demand Adam Kamal, told TTG Asia: “We’ve seen for cruises from Asia-based clients re- a 20 per cent increase in year-on-year mains strong, especially from Hong Kong, bookings for family travel on SuperStar Singapore and Taiwan, most travellers Libra, mainly due to the availability of ha- are opting to go beyond South-east Asia. lal food on board. This is very important Mediterranean and Baltic itineraries re- to entice the Muslim market, which is our main firm favourites. main customer base.” He explained: “The ultra-luxury cruise Sunflower Holidays Kuala Lumpur’s guest is much more adventurous than the managing director, Mint Leong, said the regular cruiser and therefore is seeking company is promoting the idea of cruis- destinations much farther afield, though ing as an incentive, which is still a novel they sometimes book a regional sailing at idea in Malaysia. “In 2014 we started to the very last minute if they opt for a last- market SuperStar Libra’s 4D3N cruise minute holiday.” from Penang to local corporates looking Likewise, cruise specialists in Thailand for new incentive ideas.” say demand for intra-regional trips re- Negotiations with two multi-level mar- mains weak. Supanee Bencharit, manag- keting companies for incentive cruises are ing director of SEA Tours Thailand, said also underway at the moment, she revealed. Crystal Cruises and Oceania Cruises re- “We have seen demand growing in the main the leading choices for local clients, last two years from both FITs and corpo- who range from 40 to 80 years old and rate incentives for South-east Asian cruis- comprise both FIT and group travel. es. They take 4D3N or 5D4N packages, Star Cruises’ Goh added: “Our affluent boarding in Singapore and cruising to guests are eager to experience longhaul Malaysia and Thailand,” said Edhi Sutad- cruises to worldwide destinations espe- harma, general manager of Golden Rama cially with our ships, Norwegian Breaka- Tours and Travel Indonesia. way and Norwegian Getaway.” Popular destinations include Alaska, the Medi- Far-flung destinations keep appeal terranean and Caribbean, or Hawaii, he On the other hand, cruise travellers with shared.

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13feb ttgAsia p12-15 report-cruises-xy1-finalmy.indd 15 9/2/15 11:44 am Guide Low-cost carriers THE PURSUIT OF WIDER SKIES here is never a dull moment and Indonesia AirAsia. But even with in ASEAN’s dynamic LCC the failure of its Indonesian and Filipino landscape. Today, LCCs are outfits, continues to grow its based in seven ASEAN coun- brand outside of the region, albeit with tries – only Brunei, Cam- only a token 10 per cent stake in Tigerair Tbodia and Laos do not have any home- Taiwan. With its less than sterling per- based LCC. formance, Tigerair had to park several LCCs have proven in the last decade aircraft in Alice Springs, Australia and to be nimble and exceptionally adaptable leased a dozen A320s to ’s IndiGo. to changing market conditions. Ahead of In an effort to rein in Tigerair and per- the ASEAN Open Skies, Indonesia and haps exercise greater control over the air- Airline Main operational base Fleet Singapore have, in fact, proceeded to sign line, Singapore Airlines has increased its Indonesia a more liberal air services agreement. stake in Tigerair to 56 per cent with the Express Jakarta – Soekarno-Hatta Airport Current: 31 x A320, 5 x B737-300 With some member countries less willing potential to up this to 70 per cent later. Jakarta – Halim Perdanakusuma On order: 10 x A320, 35 x A320neo than others to add signatures to the ASE- Valuair, which only continues to exist Airport AN Open Skies though, the arrangement for the purpose of operating Jetstar Asia’s is more likely to be a gradual process of flights to Indonesia, has begun to disap- Indonesia AirAsia Jakarta – Soekarno-Hatta Airport Current: 30 x A320 liberalisation than à la Europe. pear after Indonesia agreed to let Jetstar – Ngurah Rai Airport Hazem Hussein, Amadeus Asia-Pa- Asia operate its own flights. Indonesia Denpasar – Ngurah Rai Airport Current: 1 x A330-300 cific’s executive vice president of com- Amid the roller-coaster ride, LCCs’ AirAsia X mercial airlines, said: “The introduction market share in ASEAN has grown to Jakarta – Soekarno-Hatta Airport Current: 2 x B747-400 (leased out), 2 x of the Open Skies policy in 2015 will see nearly 50 per cent in Malaysia and In- Batam – Hang Nadim Airport B737-300, 4 x B737-400 (inactive), competition among airlines in ASEAN donesia, and only a shade lesser in Sin- 30 x B737-800, 71 x B737-900ER increasing. LCCs in particular will see gapore. On order: 15 x B737-800, the need to evolve to drive competitive 56 x B737-900ER, 201 x B737MAX-9, advantages and compete with full-service New entrants 46 x A320, 109 x Airbus A320neo, carriers.” In an already crowded arena, new entrants 65 x Airbus A321neo In June 2014, ceased – all of which are offshoots of existing Wings Abadi Air Jakarta – Soekarno-Hatta Airport Current: 20 x ATR72-500, operations – clearly a casualty of the LCCs – have entered the fray. Thailand 10 x ATR72-600, 5 x MD-80 (inactive) strong competition posed by Lion Air and Indonesia are the most sought-after 3 x Dash 3 Series 300 (inactive) On order: 56 x ATR72-600 Malaysia “The introduction of the Open Skies policy AirAsia Kuala Lumpur International Airport Current: 68 x Airbus A320 On order: 78 x Airbus A320, in 2015 will see competition among airlines 264 x Airbus A320neo AirAsia X Kuala Lumpur International Airport Current: 18 x Airbus A330-300 in ASEAN increasing. LCCs in particular will On order: 41 x Airbus A330-300, 10 x Airbus A350-900, see the need to evolve to drive competitive 50 x Airbus A330-900neo advantages and compete with full-service Firefly Kuala Lumpur – Subang Skypark Current: 12 x ATR72-500, 4 x ATR72-600 On order: 19 x ATR72-600 carriers.” Malindo Airways Kuala Lumpur International Airport Current: 2 x B737-800, Hazem Hussein Kuala Lumpur – Subang Skypark 6 x B737-900ER, 11 x ATR72-600 Executive vice president of commercial airlines On order: 3 x ATR72-600 Amadeus Asia-Pacific MASWings Kuching International Airport Current: 10 x ATR72-500, Kota Kinabalu International Airport 4 x ATR72-600 Planned: 12 x ATR72-600, B737-800 Myanmar Golden Myanmar Yangon – Mingaladon Airport Current: 1 x Airbus A320, Airlines 1 x A320 (damaged and inactive) 2 x ATR72-600 Vietnam Jetstar Pacific Ho Chi Minh City – Tan Son Nhat Current: Airport 8 x Airbus A320 VietJetAir Hanoi – Noi Bai Airport Current: 17 x Airbus A320 On order: 13 x Airbus A320 7 x A320 (to be leased), 42 Airbus A320neo photo by master films / H.GOUSSÉ 7 x Airbus A321

13feb ttgAsia p16-17 guide-LCCxy_ALfinalmy.indd 16 9/2/15 11:45 am 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 17 LCCs have changed the game for the aviation sector in the last decade as they capture the region’s growing appetite for air travel, but their full-service counterparts are also gaining altitude in the battle for ASEAN’s skies, writes Sim Kok Chwee photo by e*m company / P. e*m company photo by MASCLET

An AirAsia aircraft taxiing on the runway

markets, given the entrance of Thai Ai- ther deepen their partnership and boost rAsia X, Thai Lion Air, Thai VietJet and connectivity between them. The same Indonesia AirAsia X. connectivity is likely to be facilitated be- NokScoot, a joint venture between tween Scoot, NokScoot and Nok Air at Scoot and Nok Air, has also been estab- Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport. VietJet, lished in Thailand. Although it will only meanwhile, has expanded its network to Airline Main operational base Fleet begin operations in North Asia sometime Russia’s Vladivostok. Singapore in 2015, it has supplemented Nok Air’s However, Campbell Wilson, Scoot’s services in December 2014 and January CEO, noted that third- and fourth-free- Jetstar Asia Singapore – Changi Airport Current: 16 x Airbus A320 2015 on the popular Don Mueang-Chi- dom point-to-point traffic still produce Scoot Singapore – Changi Airport Current: 6 x Boeing 777-200ER ang Mai route. VietJet is also mulling a higher yield than fifth- and sixth-free- On order: 10 x B787-9 Dreamliner subsidiary based in Myanmar. dom connections. This February, Scoot 10 x B787-8 Dreamliner Malaysia Airlines, which currently op- will introduce its first B787-9 Dreamliner Tigerair Singapore – Changi Airport Current: 2 x A319 (inactive) erates Subang-based Firefly as its LCC and in late-2015 will also take delivery 24 x Airbus A320, 3 x A320 subsidiary, is rumoured to be transform- of the smaller B787-8 for the Singapore- (leased out) ing its Kuching- and Kota Kinabalu- Melbourne route, due to launch in No- 6 x A320 (inactive) based full-service subsidiary MASWings vember. On order: 6 x Airbus A320, into an LCC that will also operate inter- 37 x A320neo national flights of up to four hours’ flying Challenges Thailand time from both airports using B737-800s. With massive aircraft orders in the last few years, LCCs in ASEAN are now faced Nok Air Bangkok – Don Mueang Airport Current: 18 x -800 Infrastructure with inevitable oversupply of capacity. At 2 x ATR72-500, 4 x Dash-400 On order: 2 x Dash 8-400, Kuala Lumpur opened klia2 in May the same time, desirable slots at popular 7 x B737-800 2014, a mega LCC terminal now uti- airports are becoming increasingly diffi- 8 x B737-MAX8 lised by carriers such as AirAsia, Ai- cult to secure, while full-service carriers rAsia X, Lion Air, Malindo Air, Tige- are also increasingly mimicking LCCs, NokScoot Bangkok – Don Mueang Airport Current:1 x B777-200ER rair and Cebu Pacific. The 257,000m2 selling unsold seats in last-minute pro- Orient Thai Bangkok – Current: 2 x Boeing 747-400 klia2 has 68 departure gates with an addi- motions and unbundling specific servic- Bangkok – Don Mueang Airport (leased out), tional eight remote stands. With the abil- es to grow ancillary revenue. 1 x B767-300ER (leased out), ity to handle up to 45 million passengers Meanwhile, the growing strength of 1 x B737-300 (leased out) annually, it is the largest dedicated LCC the US dollar will also be of significant 3 x B767-300, 6 x B737-300, terminal in the world. concern to LCCs based in Malaysia and 2 x B737-400 In Singapore, the Budget Terminal Indonesia. While a significant portion of Thai AirAsia Bangkok – Don Mueang Airport Current: 40 x Airbus A320 will be replaced by a new Terminal 4 and revenue is ringgit- or rupiah-denominat- On order: 2 x Airbus A320 LCCs previously calling at the Budget ed, most of its expenditure and new air- Terminal have moved into Changi Air- craft cost are denominated in the US dol- Thai Lion Air Bangkok – Don Mueang Airport Current: 8 x B737-900ER, 1 x ATR72- port’s Terminal 2. Ironically, the first and lars, further inflating operational costs Hat Yai Airport 600 hitherto only airline to confirm moving and new fleet investment. to Terminal 4 is Cathay Pacific Airways. It has become increasingly necessary Thai AirAsia X Bangkok – Don Mueang Airport Current: 2 x A330-300 for LCCs to move from a pure-LCC to Connectivity a hybrid model in which travellers pay Thai VietJetAir Bangkok – Suvarnabhumi Airport Current: 1 x Airbus A320 With LCCs establishing operations in more to change bookings, secure seats The Philippines various short- and medium-haul mar- with better access and legroom, enjoy kets, the potential for connectivity has inflight meals, and bring more hand- Cebu Pacific Air – Ninoy Aquino International Current: 10 x , grown significantly. AirAsia X’s passen- carried and checked luggage. In essence, Airport 25 x Airbus A320, 5 x A330-300, 8 x ATR72-500 gers originating in Australia could book some of these are exactly what their On order: 9 x Airbus A320, travel beyond Malaysia to other destina- full-service counterparts are doing and 30 x Airbus A321neo, tions in South-east Asia, North Asia and the lines between LCCs and full-service 2 x Airbus A330-300, India. carriers similarly carriers are now more blurred than ever 1 x ATR72-500 offer connecting flights across much before. of Asia. Jetstar Asia is able to extend its The establishment of subsidiaries in PAL Express Manila – Ninoy Aquino International Current: 1 x A330-300, Airport 14 x Airbus A320, reach to more destinations in Japan via various ASEAN countries is one way for 4 x Dash 8-300, 5 x Dash 8-400 gateways in Bangkok, Manila and Taipei. LCCs to take advantage of traffic rights Scoot and Tigerair have a partnership available in those foreign markets. Along AirAsia-Zest Manila – Ninoy Aquino International Current: to facilitate connection between their with the liberalisation of flights under the (Merger of Airport 4 x Airbus A320 flights and with Singapore Airlines own- ASEAN Open Skies, this will have the cu- AirAsia Philippines Mactan-Cebu International Airport ing Scoot and potentially as much as 70 mulative effect of expanding the market and Zest Air) per cent of Tigerair, both LCCs will fur- size.

13feb ttgAsia p16-17 guide-LCCxy_ALfinalmy.indd 17 9/2/15 11:45 am

23,600 $2.1bn 2,745 visitors from 131 countries of new business exhibiting companies generated at ATM 2014

Register now arabiantravelmarket.com

• Fast track entry with your e-badge • Exclusive updates on new show features • Regular news on seminar programme • Access to ATM’s online planning tool to plan your visit 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 19 Despite the rouble’s ongoing depreciation, deep- Destination Singapore pocketed Russian travellers have found a new vacation destination in the Lion City, and hotels are rushing to serve the expanding market with cus- tomised services. Paige Lee Pei Qi reports svglass/123RF.com

Destination in numbers S$258 The ARR, equivalent to US$193, from January to October 2014, growing by a mere 0.1 per cent year-on-year 85.9% The AOR across all hotels in Singapore from January to October 2014, a year- on-year drop of 0.8 per cent 13.7 million Number of international arrivals from January to November 2014, a year-on- year drop of 3.4 per cent

Deep-pocketed Russian travellers are attracted to Singapore, with its broad array of luxury hotels and retail outlets A NEW PLAYGROUND FOR RUSSIA’S RICH

weak economy and to stay between five and 10 nights, the ma- nise that Russian guests are most comfort- a plunging currency jority of them opting for the standard or able conversing in their mother tongue. Viewpoints aside, the number of executive rooms. (Our) hotel has added a Russian-speaking Russians vacationing in “However, we are also seeing an up- associate as part of the guest services team What are your business prospects Singapore is on the rise, ward trend in the higher room categories, to specialise in caring for our Russian for 2015? and they are staying such as suites or even the presidential suite guests.” longer and splurging from this market,” he said. According to Abbott, W Hotel and The on high-end accommodation and luxury Over at Pan Pacific Singapore, director St Regis Hotel also offer Russian-speaking Jaclyn Yeoh, direc- itemsA in the Lion City. of sales and marketing Elaine Kum said staff to welcome guests. In addition, The tor, Siam Express According to statistics from the Sin- the Russian market is one of the hotel’s St Regis is in the midst of offering the The inbound gapore Tourism Board (STB), Singapore fastest growing, with a 70 per cent hike website in the Russian language as an ad- business for 2014 recorded 82,603 arrivals from Russia since 2012 and an average stay of four ditional option. was quite bad so I from January to November 2014, a 13.6 nights. However, Judy Lum, vice president of think 2015 will not per cent year-on-year increase. The aver- Kum said: “Russian guests typically sales and marketing for Tour East Group be rosy for inbound age Russian visitor was aged between 35 opt for rooms and suites that include club which specialises in the longhaul market, travel consultants too and 44 years, stayed for an average of four access and located on the higher levels for cautioned against setting an overly opti- – I would be lucky if I could days and each spent an average of S$1,456 views of the Singapore skyline.” mistic outlook for the Russian market. maintain the same sales revenue. (US$1,101) per trip, making them one of Likewise, at The Ritz-Carlton, Mille- “The Russian rouble has devalued to an I predict the main inbound market will still the highest-spending tourists. nia Singapore, director of public relations all-time low since 1998 and this will affect be driven more from China, Japan and niche Chuck Abbott, regional vice president, and marketing communications Nathalyn the growth forecast for this market,” said markets such as Africa and Mongolia. South-east Asia, Starwood Hotels & Re- Fong said the property saw a 67 per cent Lum. “Sanctions from Europe and the US sorts Worldwide, said: “Growing wealth in year-on-year increase in Russian guests is affecting the Russian economy and al- Russia and globalisation are contributing last year, a significant spike compared with though the government is looking to Asia, Judy Lum, vice to the rise of tourists from this region.” the 20 per cent increase in 2013 over 2012. the adverse economic impact will remain Abbott said while the number of Rus- Fong said: “Our Russian guests often for a long while.” president of sales sian guests to all four Starwood hotels – opt for our club rooms and suites, which According to STB data, the Russian and marketing, Sheraton Towers, The St Regis, The Wes- include exclusive benefits. They are also market started showing a decline towards Tour East Group tin and W Singapore Sentosa Cove – has willing to splurge on dining and alcohol, the last quarter of 2014, with a year-on- UK tour opera- “definitely grown” over the years, W Sin- and other luxury services such as spa year dip of 3.7 per cent and 13.6 per cent tors have reported gapore in particular stood out with a 400 treatments, butler-drawn baths and lim- recorded for Russian arrivals in October year-on-year double- per cent year-on-year increase in 2013. ousine transfers.” and November respectively. digit growth in forward “(W Singapore) appeals to the Russians Services are also being tailored to the When contacted at press time, The bookings compared with last year. We are attracted to its resort location and avant- Russian market to better serve them. Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore and Pan also seeing improvement in some parts of garde design,” he explained. Kum shared: “Apart from introducing Pacific Singapore did not observe notable Europe. As our core markets are primarily Abbott added that Russian guests tend Russian TV programmes, we also recog- slowdown in the Russian market. longhaul, this is good news for Tour East.

13feb ttgAsia p19-21 Singaporexyredknmy+RHfinalmy.indd 19 9/2/15 11:46 am Destination Singapore

TRIED & TESTED NEWS IN A MINUTE 1 Changi Airport adds Jewel Future rooms will feature modern, Construction of Jewel Changi Air- apartment-style furnishings and port, a mixed-use complex featur- smart technology including interac- ing attractions, retail outlets, a hotel tive TVs with multi-device enabled and facilities for airport operations streaming and in-room check-out. located in front of Terminal 1, broke ground in December 2014. 3 South Beach rises in Singapore A joint venture between Changi Due to open in 1Q2015, South Airport Group and CapitaMalls Beach will blend four historic build- Asia, Jewel will dedicate about ings on site with two new towers 22,000m2 of indoor space for plants, featuring a 654-room designer hotel comprising the five-storey garden conceptualised by Philippe Starck, Forest Valley, four different gateway luxury residences, offices, retail spac- gardens each featuring unique land- es and a members-only arts club on scaping elements, and the 40m-high Beach Road. The architecture for this indoor waterfall Rain Vortex. The mixed-use development is conceived development will be ready in 2018. by London’s Foster + Partners. A joint venture between Singa- 2 A new Jen-eration of hotels pore’s City Developments Limited Shangri-La International Hotel and Malaysia’s IOI Group, the pro- Management has launched a new ject is located opposite Raffles Hotel brand of fuss-free mid-range hotels, Singapore on the Beach Road side with the first two properties located and is directly connected to Suntec in Singapore. Singapore via an overhead bridge on Hotel Jen Orchardgateway Sin- the Nicoll Highway side. gapore opened in September 2014, offering 502 keys, dining outlets and 4 Premier Inn debuts in Lion City Sofitel So Singapore technology-driven complimentary Premier Inn, the UK’s largest budget services such as free Wi-Fi, mobile hotel chain with over 670 proper- ties globally, is expected to make its Paige Lee Pei Qi lands in a state of grandeur strategic location of the hotel offered a charging stations throughout the Singapore debut in mid-2016 with at a 1920s heritage building turned luxury 360-degree view of the CBD area, perfect hotel, iMac stations and a Press- Premier Inn Singapore Beach Road. boutique hotel with designer touches for photography aficionados. Reader app with free access to 2,500 Located within walking distance For workout junkies, the well-equipped online publications. to the cultural districts of Haji Lane LOCATION Sofitel So Singapore’s cen- gym awaits with bottled waters and tow- The 546-room Hotel Jen Singa- and Arab Street as well as the Marina tral location on Robinson Road, right in els. pore, occupying the former Traders Bay Sands business district, the 300- heart of the CBD, is unparalleled. Situated Hotel Singapore on Cuscaden Road, room Premier Inn Singapore Beach literally just a stone’s throw from Lau Pa F&B The hotel’s signature restaurant and has embarked on a three-phase ren- Road will have 300 rooms starting Sat, an established food centre in the city, bar, Xperience, promises diners an inter- ovation since last November. The from 18m2. It will feature ameni- the enticing aroma of satay enthralled my active culinary journey for the senses – revamp is scheduled for completion ties like a swimming pool, gym and senses before I entered Sofitel So – need- and I could see why. Guests are able to de- in 1Q2016, and the hotel will re- meeting room facilities. less to say, guests will find plenty of local sign their own customised menus, based main open throughout this period. culinary delights at the hotel’s doorsteps. on the flavours they are craving for – for But upon stepping through the instance, crunchy, juicy, smoky, revolving doors of the iconic creamy, spicy and zesty. You can heritage building, I was im- even order dishes in three dif- How to sell mediately transported into ferent sizes, from tasters to another world – one brim- “enough-for-one” to “large ming with extravagant lux- enough to share”. Naumi Hotel, which ury. I like how the open-con- reopened its doors after cept kitchen allows diners STAY a multi-million dollar ROOMS Separated into two to watch French chef Anne- renovation in 2013, impresses with its 73 wings (heritage and hip), the Cecile Degenne expertly com- guestrooms sporting designer furnishings, hotel boasts design touches cour- bine flavours of East and West onto work desks with built-in phone chargers, tesy of Karl Lagerfeld and 134 lavish gues- your plate – her adroit skills are definitely organic bath amenities from Malin + Goetz, trooms conceptualised by French interior a performance in itself. free high-speed Wi-Fi, and Apple TV’s AirPlay designer Isabelle Miaja. My 40m2 So Ur- Mirroring, which lets guests play videos from ban room wowed me with its colourful SERVICE The enthusiastic hotel staff, their Apple devices on the in-room TV. Parisian-influenced interior, especially dressed in crisp white jackets, were ever- the cupola-inspired ceiling light box that ready to greet me with a smile. Upon At the Singapore Flyer, the resembles a palatial glass dome typical of check in, I was puzzled when they asked flight simulator induces traditional architecture in Europe. me what time I would be heading out for DOan immersive experience of Equipped with the world’s first Apple- dinner, and it turned out that they were controlling a Boeing 737-800, with a fully based guest technology, the room further preparing for turndown service. A box of enclosed cockpit featuring full-functioning intrigued me when I realised that its de- chocolates arrived at my doorstep too. avionics and photorealistic visuals. The simu- fault in-room phone is the iPhone and lator also boasts a 180-degree wrap-around the master remote control panel – which VERDICT There was definitely a lot of screen projecting stunningly accurate visuals activates everything from the TV to the inertia for me to get out of the plush room The rooftop garden at Potato Head Folk of scenery and terrain – think flying into air-conditioning and the window curtains that pampered me to no end. It would be Paris in semi-darkness at dusk or enjoying a – are powered by an iPad mini. an understatement for me to say I had a bird’s eye view of picturesque Rome. Coffee is taken seriously here with the good night’s sleep there. In a highly urbanised Singa- Illy coffee machine, plus selected free pore, those seeking closer in- Potato Head Folk at drinks and snacks for indulgence. SEEteraction with Mother Nature Keong Saik Road is the first Name Sofitel So Singapore can head over to the MacRitchie Reser- EAT international venture of Ja- FACILITIES For a lazy night, guests can Rates From SG$279++ (US$209++) voir for the TreeTop Walk, the highlight of karta-based dining and lifestyle group Potato chill out by the poolside cabanas at Hi-So, No. of rooms 134 several long hiking routes there. The first Head. Decorated with whimsical sculptures the rooftop bar with a gold-tiled infinity Contact details of its kind in Singapore, the free-standing and murals, the four-storey project includes pool. I wasn’t that impressed because the Tel: (65) 6701-6800 suspension bridge connects the two highest a restaurant serving tasty burgers, sides and gold tiles gave the water a yellowish tinge, Email: h8655@sofitel.com points in the reservoir and offers a bird’s eye- cocktails; a lounge called Studio 1939; and a so I skipped the swim. Nevertheless, the Website: www.sofitel.com view of the forest canopy. rooftop garden with a tiki bar.

13feb ttgAsia p19-21 Singaporexyredknmy+RHfinalmy.indd 20 9/2/15 11:46 am 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 21

TRIED & TESTED Morton’s of Chicago, Singapore

The old favourite, which has been oper- well as partitions that created cosy in having top-quality US beef and ating in Singapore for 16 years, ushers in seatings. seafood served to perfection. I the new year with a bold change in design. The new Morton smells of love the prime ocean platter Raini Hamdi takes a look new money – fit for young comprising oysters, lobster, spenders who want to dine, crab meat and prawns that LOCATION Fourth level of Mandarin whatsapp and romance all are so sweet and fresh. It’s Oriental, Singapore. at the same time in one big such a shame people of- open space. ten forget Morton’s has an AMBIENCE The place is buzzing, as At a glance, its open con- extensive menu and there is though the year-end isn’t over. It isn’t cept gives me the impresion certainly plenty of choices other even TGIF yet, rather, another dull Thurs- of a hotel coffeehouse. But, having than steak, as the Chilean sea bass day evening. But Bar 12.21, which fronts settled at my table by the window, which that I ordered for my main course shows. Morton’s dining room, is packed with looks into the dining room and enables My partner, meanwhile, is over the moon after-office drinkers. I’m surprised, as bars me to see all the action, I begin to like the with his centre-cut prime ribeye. Name Morton’s of Chicago, Singapore in hotels usually aren’t this crowded. But fun and refreshing feel of the new Mor- Location 5 Raffles Avenue one bite of generous-sized Morton’s steak ton’s. There isn’t much real design work, SERVICE With many long-service staff, Contact details sandwiches that are being served to every frankly, just a good renovation that re- it’s no wonder Morton’s sticks like Teflon Tel: (65) 6339-3740 guest at the bar at no charge makes me do sults in a warm, casual, comfortable at- in Singapore’s competitive culinary scene. Website: www.mortons.com a mental note of returning again soon. mosphere and a trendy Morton’s indeed I’m being served by Achang; 16 years with From where I sit at Bar 12.21, I catch compared with the previous one. That the Morton’s, he knows the menu inside out, Seow taking a dig or two at Achang. Such a glimpse of the new Morton’s. My recol- restaurant is full and sizzling with chatter never misses a detail and interacts well young-at-heart people with a great sense lection of the steakhouse from many years and laughter are a sure sign that Morton’s with me. The staff are so ‘tight’ together; of humour actually go better with a con- ago was, in one word, ‘velvety’. It had the is popular as ever. it is heartening to see general manager temporary-looking Morton’s. traditional ‘old-money’ look, with deep- Seth Balgden himself serving and clear- red tapestries and polished dark wood, as MENU A large part of its popularity lies ing tables, andTTG restaurantAsia_Feb15_114x180mm_out.pdf manager Edwin 1/26/15 VER 4:30:20DI PMCT This place is prime cut. MY WAY

What do you do during your free Trick Eye Museum Singapore time? Time off work is dedicated to fam- ily and friends. I love to dine out with friends, and experience the wonderful array of restaurants that Singapore has to offer. From international cuisine to local fare, we are never short of food choices on this island nation.

Can you share one favourite hobby? It will be hard for me to choose a per- sonal favourite, but I rank skiing, golf- ing and working out at the gym as my top choices. It is my belief that a healthy body and mind is what drives you C

further in work and life. M

Y What is a must-do/see in Noel Hawkes CM Singapore? Vice president, engagement It will be hard to come & partnerships, Resorts World MY up with an exhaustive Sentosa list, (but) a visit to Sen- CY tosa Island and the Har- CMY L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon at Resorts boufront precinct is a must. K There is an incredible array of attrac- World Sentosa and Jamie’s Italian at tions to experience, from Singapore’s Vivo City, as well as hawker fare at Ma- largest shopping mall to world-class laysian Food Street. There is also a great attractions including Universal Stu- selection at Tanjong Beach Club, as well dios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Sin- as Quayside Isle at Sentosa Cove, which gapore 4D AdventureLand, as well as makes a good getaway from the hustle vibrant beaches, golf courses, marinas and bustle of the city. and spas. Beyond that, the Night Safari and Which is your favourite attraction in Gardens by the Bay will appeal to na- Singapore? ture lovers, while Little India and Chi- That would be a tie for many in that natown will provide a taste of local cul- number one spot! For adrenaline junk- tures. Singapore is a shopping haven so ies, I would recommend Universal Stu- Orchard Road is not to be missed. dios Singapore, iFly and MegaZip Ad- venture Park. And for those who prefer Which are the top dining spots? a more relaxing family day out, my top My personal recommendations will in- picks will be S.E.A. Aquarium, Madame clude celebrity-chef restaurants such as Tussauds and Trick Eye Museum.

13feb ttgAsia p19-21 Singaporexyredknmy+RHfinalmy.indd 21 9/2/15 11:47 am Destination Taiwan

How to sell

Nothing beats visiting leisure OILING THE WHEELS farms to experience the local DOlifestyle. Owners of the various themed farms can serve as professional guides to lead the countryside tour. Popular picks include the Flying Cow Ranch in Miaoli County and Sheng Yang Water

OF CONNECTIVITY tuomaslehtinen/123RF.com Grass Park in Yilan County.

Besides night markets, Taipei is also home to many EAT cosy bakeries and cafés. An example is Neverland Bakery & Restaurant in Neihu District, which serves quality food and beverages. To raise its offerings and service up a notch, the café has invited an expert from Hong Kong to teach the staff how to make milk tea and hired a pastry chef from The Sherwood Taipei.

Located at Jinshan District of New Taipei City, Juming SEEMuseum houses the Destination in numbers artworks and masterpieces of internationally renowned sculptor Ju Ming. Guided tours can 8,313 be booked for groups of over 20 people. Number of hotel rooms in Taipei with average occupancy and room rate at Shangri-La’s Far 76.8 per cent and NT$4,808 (US$153) Eastern Plaza Hotel, respectively in January-November 2014 STAY Taipei is expected to complete its revamp this March. The upgrade covers its 420 guestrooms and suites, the 9 million lobby and driveway, as well as two F&B Total visitor arrivals to Taiwan in January- outlets on the lobby level. All guestrooms and November 2014, up 24.2 per cent year- suites will be equipped with complimentary on-year high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with an HDMI device for connecting to personal laptops, among other amenities. 70.3% Surge in South Korean leisure arrivals in January-November 2014, followed by China (49.4%) and Europe (23.5%) Taipei’s convenient public transport options will foster more FIT arrivals to the city

everaging the growing Trade players are positive that Taipei’s from current 50:50 ratio. availability of tourist- transportation network will benefit FITs. “The convenience afforded by YouBike friendly infrastructure in K&A International managing direc- and the metro may not benefit travel con- Taipei, the city govern- tor, Kitty Wong, said: “The BMW is not sultants much, unless we add value to en- ment is pushing the BMW just for FITs. Operators of group tours rich visitors’ travel experience, such as tell- Travel in Taipei campaign, could also arrange bike rides for clients, ing the story behind sightseeing points,” which encourages visitors especially for commuting between the he pointed out. to explore the destination by bus or bicy- hotel and nearby shopping areas. First Last June, Lion Travel cooperated with cle,L metro or walking. promoted in Beijing, the programme is EasyCard to issue 20,000 smart cards have been added to Taiwan since January, As of December 2014, Taipei offered also well received in Malaysia, Japan and for its overseas agent partners. Yeh said: bringing the total to 86 routes. 12 metro lines, 4,000 public buses and Singapore.” “(This) enables smooth and seamless Having bidded for the route opera- 196 YouBike bicycle rental stations. Sur- Said Cary Gray, general manager of W travel in Taipei for our clients. So far, our tion since six years ago, Best Travel now passing 70,000 daily rentals with a fleet of Taipei, located right above a metro station orders mostly come from travel partners handles 11 routes. Its chairman, William 6,406 bicycles, YouBike aims to increase and near a YouBike station: “We believe in China.” Lu, said: “The bureau pushes the option to 250 and 300 stations in 2015 and 2016 we’ll see more guests because of BMW. Beyond Taipei, Taiwan has been stead- through its website and overseas so travel- respectively. But infrastructure, such as the MRT from ily ramping up its transport network too. lers feel safe to take it up. So far it’s popular Last November, Taipei also welcomed the international airport to Taipei, can be For over a decade, Taiwan Tour Bus, with with Asians, especially with the Chinese. the Songshan Line, a new 8.5km metro enhanced.” support from the Taiwan Tourism Bureau, The tour costs only NT$1,000 (US$32) line boasting six transfer stations among a Meanwhile, Lion Travel inbound de- has rolled out bus excursions operated by per day. Some routes cover areas outside total of eight stations, connecting to local partment manager, Leo Yeh, expects FITs local tour agencies to major scenic spots Taipei and complement YouBike, allowing night markets and temple attractions. to exceed group travel in two years, up across the island. Nine new bus routes exploration at a slow pace.”

Viewpoints What challenges does Taiwan’s tourism sector face?

Jason Yeh, CEO, GIS Group Cary Gray, general manager, W Taipei “Taipei needs more international five-star hotels to boost its image. “Visitors from China accounted for almost 40 per cent of Taiwan’s Moreover, the luxury resort market in popular leisure locations such 2014 arrivals; W Taipei has noted the risk of relying heavily on as Hualien and Taichung have not been tapped, so it’d be a big op- one single market, so we continue to diversify our feeder markets portunity for global chains to expand their footprints there. In terms through relevant talent recruitment and attendance of tradeshows in of business events, the government should be more proactive with a those markets. The authorities also ought to emphasise and ensure long-term strategy, like setting up a CVB and approaching potential the safety and quality of tourism attractions through appropriate organisers rather than just advertising.” regulations and their sound implementation.”

13feb ttgAsia p22-23 TaiwanknxymyALfinalmyxy.indd 22 10/2/15 2:30 pm 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 23 Taipei’s BMW campaign, which encourages vistors to explore the city via bus/bicycle, metro or walking, has received warm reception among Asian travellers, reports Prudence Lui maggielkw/123RF.com YouBike boasts over 190 NEWS IN A MINUTE MY WAY rental stations in Taipei 4 What are your hobbies? Apart from skiing and golf, I love jog- ging, a hobby I started a year ago. I run about seven kilometres per night after work, which allows me to enjoy the pre- cious moments with nature.

Where do you normally go jogging? There is a large sports field beside a lo- Two amba hotels on the way att’s signature red and white colours, 1 cal school so I go straight there after Following the launch of amba Tai- multi-media functional dock, and work on weekdays. Taipei has numer- pei Ximending in 2012, Ambassa- TV with Bluetooth. Each Grand ous scenic jogging areas, such as Taihu dor Hotel Group will add two more Club room and suite will have a Nes- Lake Park. I would also drive to river- properties to its amba portfolio, a presso coffee machine. side parks for a jog during holidays. boutique brand targeting FITs. To enhance the experience for fe- Opening in Q2, the 90-room male guests, all rooms will also pro- amba Taipei Zhonghshan offers only vide free hand cream, shaving cream How do you spend a day off work? one all-day dining outlet, but it com- and shaver, plus other amenities My busy work schedule prevents me pensates with its convenient location upon request. from visiting distant places so I usually in Zhongshan commercial, shopping patronise the café near my home for a and entertainment district. 4 New LCCs take off in Taiwan leisurely breakfast. Then I would watch Amba Taipei Songshan will open Last November, China Airlines a movie or chat with my friends in a atop Songshan Railway Station com- kicked off Tigerair Taiwan with a café in the afternoon. Taipei has many plex in Q4. daily Taipei-Bangkok route and small, themed cafés and Da An is a four-times weekly Taipei-Chiang popular spot. After that, I will go prawn 2 Songshan metro line debuts Mai services. fishing at a farm in north Taipei for a Andy Yu The 8.5km Songshan metro line was Meanwhile, TransAsia Airways couple of hours before heading home for dinner. Vice president, special interest tours inaugurated last November as the Group has launched V Air and in- Lion Travel third east-west route covering eight augurated its Bangkok-Taipei route underground stations. The terminal last December. V Air will expand its Any recommendations for local chang Road in Zhongzheng District. station, Songshan, connects with network to other Asian destinations Taiwanese cuisine? For biking, Neihu has many large-scale Taiwan Railways Songshan Station like Japan and South Korea this year. I strongly recommend local family- bike shops while mountain expedition via an underground passage. Beimen run outlets serving local snacks such as equipment stores are clustered near Tai- Station will connect with the future 5 World Chocolate Wonderland dumplings and beef noodles. Small lo- pei Station. airport line’s Taipei Main Station via The World Chocolate Wonderland cal eateries are worth a try as they also a moving walkway. The Songshan debuted in Danshui Fisherman’s serve excellent dishes, with many scat- What’s the best way to explore line increases Taipei’s MRT network Wharf in Taipei last July, spanning tered over Taipei. I especially love those Taipei? to 134.6km and 116 stations. two floors of themed zones. near my home in Neihu. The metro system here is well devel- A mecca for chocolate lovers, the oped and connects to different districts. 3 A refreshed Grand Hyatt Chocolate Theatre offers interactive Where are the best spots in Taipei to Visitors can use the metro and/or rent a Grand Hyatt Taipei will don a new games and performances while the shop for sports equipment? bicycle to explore the city. Most YouBike look when its full refurbishment is retail zones display chocolate-relat- The chain store Metroasis is a one-stop rental stations are near metro exits and completed in March. Guestrooms ed gifts imported from all over the shop for sports gear in general. For the rental is free for the first 30 minutes. will offer a brand-new East-meets- world. Groups can book DIY choco- skiing, I go to Prince Outdoor at Nan- Walking2 is a good alternative. West design in line with Grand Hy- late-making classes in advance. TRIED & TESTED Mandarin Oriental, Taipei At the Mandarin Oriental’s newest out- separately near the entrance, which was post in Asia, Prudence Lui finds that the a little inconvenient. The bright lighting property stays true to the group’s promise and spacious writing desk, however, were of refined luxury much appreciated when I had to do some work at night. LOCATION The hotel, situated on Dun- As a tea lover, I was impressed by the hua North Road, is just a five-minute taxi tailor-made, stylish tea boxes filled with ride from downtown Songshan Inter- various tea brands all made in Taiwan, national Airport and 40 minutes adding a local touch. from Taoyuan International Airport. The Xinyi shopping F&B The hotel houses six and business district is a F&B outlets, including fine- Unfortunately, I did not have a chance SERVICE Very personalised and atten- 15-minute ride away. dining Chinese restaurant to try the renowned afternoon tea at the tive; exceeding my expectations. Ya Ge and contemporary Jade Lounge, which usually requires reser- ROOMS I stayed in a com- French brasserie Café Un vation two to three weeks ahead. VERDICT An ideal choice for business fortable 55m2 Deluxe room Deux Trois. and leisure travellers alike. – the smallest room size – that I enjoyed a tasty Italian FACILITIES Besides the 12-suite spa, has a king-size bed. The elegant lunch at Bencotto, which is run the 20m outdoor pool and the 24-hour style and exquisite craftsmanship by the Michelin-starred chef Mario gym, the property also boasts the 960m2 Name Mandarin Oriental, Taipei were evident in the marbled bathroom, Cittadini. The spacious setting allows Grand Ballroom that accommodates up No. of rooms 303 walk-in closets and handcrafted wallpa- enough privacy between tables. to 1,200 guests, five Oriental rooms and Rate Deluxe rooms from NT16,500 per. The floor was a combination of par- At the Mandarin Cake Shop, a must- a pre-function area on basement two. (US$521) quet, marble and carpeting delineating buy is its signature rose petal strawberry The 185m2 Grand Salon on the eighth Contact details different purpose zones. jam, and the patisserie also sells unique floor can host up to 140 guests while The Tel: (886) 2-2715-6888 There was a deep bathtub and rain- Taiwanese jam flavours like pink guava Chairman’s Residence a floor down is Tai- Email: [email protected] forest shower, but the toilet was situated and lime. pei’s first luxurious private event space. Website: www.mandarinoriental.com/taipei

13feb ttgAsia p22-23 TaiwanknxymyALfinalmyxy.indd 23 9/2/15 11:47 am Destination Brunei

How to sell

To help visitors gain a better understanding of Bruneian TREADING IN SEEroyalty, schedule the Royal Regalia Museum into the itinerary. On display are the sultan’s full royal regalia, including the crown and royal chariot, along with a vast collection of opulent treasures given to His Majesty. NEW WATERS Serving traditional Bruneian specialties and showcasing EAT local handicraft such as Brunei brocade, silverware and ornamental dagger keris, Tarindak D’Seni is a great place to get a feel of the country’s food and

Destination in numbers -0.2% Year-on-year percentage decrease in air arrivals in 1H2014 which totalled 101,668

238,000 Viewpoints Air arrivals target for 2015. Brunei Tourism targeted 231,000 air arrivals to the sultanate in 2014, a three per What are your business prospects cent increase over arrivals in 2013 for 2015?

42% Khirul Zainie, Average occupancy rate of Brunei’s managing direc- hotels in 2014, a dip from the 52 per tor, MegaBorneo cent in 2013 when the sultanate was Tour Planner chair of ASEAN Brunei’s pristine coral reefs are a draw It looks good. Royal for seasoned divers in the region Brunei Airlines’ direct flights to Bali, Ho Chi Brunei Tourism Minh City and other parts of ASEAN make it easier to combine runei is seeking to pro- east Asia and they are easily accessible. product. Brunei with other parts of this region. mote itself as a new dive “It is very easy to get to the dive sites “Brunei is attractive to the Malaysian Traditionally, we used to sell Borneo as destination, offering an as Brunei is a small nation. From Bandar Muslim market because getting halal food a single destination, but we are slowly alternative to traditional Seri Begawan, it is about 30 minutes to the is very easy. Diving will give Malaysians expanding into other ASEAN countries sites in Malaysia, Indone- beach, and about a 30-minute boat ride to another reason to visit Brunei. It is an op- such as the Philippines, Indochina, sia and Thailand. the dive area.” portunity for us to start selling new diving Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand Due to little fishing in According to Thye, the company’s sites to repeat divers.” to provide complete inbound and its waters, many diving sites in the sultan- foreign clients are mainly from the Asia- Khirul Zainie, managing director of outbound tours within ASEAN, targeting ateB are still in pristine condition. Brunei Pacific region such as Singapore, Thai- MegaBorneo Tour Planner, added: “Bru- longhaul markets. Tourism wants to promote the fact that land, China, Hong Kong, the Philippines nei Tourism has to educate tour operators the destination has shallow coral dives and Australia, with some divers from on the dive sites and what the destination perfect for inexperienced divers as well as the UK. has to offer in terms of diving. Dive op- more challenging reef and wreck dives. Said Sugumaran Nair, inbound & erators do not have the expertise to pack- Peter Feran, Recently, it was discovered that there MICE division manager of Freme Travel age accommodation and land tours on are more unique dive sites off the Abana Services, which combines diving with their own, thus the involvement of tour general manager, Reef that have never been explored be- land tours: “Sabah is a lot more popular operators is important to grow this new Radisson Hotel fore, said Brunei Tourism acting director, for diving as it started promotions earlier segment.” Brunei Mariani Sabtu. whereas our destination is still new. But At least one hotel has also seen the op- Darussalam “Being a new dive destination, we at- with the negative publicity caused by the portunity in this space. Positive and tract seasoned divers who have never been recent kidnapping cases off the east coast Major dive operator Oceanic Quest optimistic following to Brunei before. Being new, there are of Sabah which has resulted in safety con- managing director, Steven Ng, said his on from a very successful also few divers in the water,” pointed out cerns, Brunei Tourism should take advan- company will from 1Q2015 offer dive pro- 2014, contributed by our newly reno- Bandar Seri Begawan-based Poni Divers tage to promote our dive sites more ag- grammes for adults and children at The vated guestrooms and suites. We are general manager Thye Sing Wong, who gressively and attract divers here.” Empire Hotel & Country Club, currently confident that with the numerous other works with travel agencies and consumers He notes that divers usually spend at the only luxury beachfront hotel. The pair product upgrades together with the alike in South-east Asia. least three nights in Brunei. will also team up to offer dive packages introduction of new Radisson service Shipwrecks along Brunei’s coastal Adam Kamal, CEO of Malaysia-based with accommodation. concepts and our exceptional service waters make the best dive spots, Wong Rakyat Travel feels that the NTO has to Ng added: “With this expansion as well standards, we will continue to be the opined. He added: “We have one of the embark on more promotions and fam as marketing efforts in 2013 and 2014, we market leader and hotel of choice in most numbers of shipwrecks in South- trips as little is known about this new expect business to double in 2015.” Brunei.

13feb ttgAsia p24-25 Bruneixyfinalmy.indd 24 10/2/15 2:31 pm 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 25 The sultanate wants to shout out about its marine attractions and diving sites, which remain unspoiled and unknown to the world, writes S Puvaneswary

culture at one go. It also provides a view of Kampong Ayer. NEWS IN A MINUTE The Empire Hotel & Country Club is the 1 River cruise service STAY only five-star beach Launched last November, MV Sen- resort in the sultanate. Besides a vast private tosa ferry cruise provides guests a beach offering a wide choice of water sports, comfortable option of touring Bru- there is also a Jack Nicklaus-designed nei River and Kampong Ayer (Wa- golf course. Other facilities include a gym, ter Village). Operated by Sha-Zan swimming pool, bowling alley, tennis, squash Marine in compliance with interna- and badminton courts, plus a movie theatre. tional maritime standards, the vessel can hold up to 60 passengers and has Brunei’s shipwrecks have fully enclosed air-conditioned decks. been described as being in It can also be chartered for private DOpristine condition, so don’t miss functions, meetings and trips to 1 out on them. They are scattered between Temburong. Brunei and the Malaysian island of Labuan. For enquiries, contact AZ B2N Tour Services at (673) 224-0529/ the arrival of up to 10 A320neo (new 3 Brunei Darussalam Sports (673) 881-8530 or visit www.b2n- engine option) aircraft at the end of Gallery brunei.com 2017. Overall, we will soon operate Brunei Darussalam Sports Gallery one of the youngest shorthaul fleets was opened in April 2014 to show- 2 Royal Brunei Airlines renews in the world, to complement our case the history of sports develop- fleet, adds HCMC state-of-the-art Dreamliner B787 ment in the country. Royal Brunei Airlines (RBA) will fleet on longhaul (routes).” Comprising five zones, the muse- take delivery of two new A320s in Last October, the airline also re- um exhibits cover the sporting events October 2015 to replace two leased sumed services to Ho Chi Minh City Brunei has engaged in over the years, A319 units. The new aircraft will be with four-times weekly flights. The the participation of national athletes used on regional routes. service, previously terminated in in the Southeast Asia Games and the Dermot Mannion, deputy chair- October 2011, will be operated by an Sultanate’s milestones in regional man of RBA, said in a release: “This Airbus A319 on Tuesdays, Thursdays competitions as well as sporting From left: The Empire Hotel & Country marks the start of the airline’s renew- and Fridays. On Sundays, an Airbus events involving athletes with special Club; Royal Regalia Museum al process for shorthaul fleet ahead of A320 will be utilised. needs.

13feb ttgAsia p24-25 Bruneixyfinalmy.indd 25 9/2/15 11:50 am 13.02.2015 TTG Asia 26 ICYMI: Tune in to what’s been going on at Connect ttgasia.com and the social media space

HEADLINES WHO’S SAYING WHAT WORLD’S FIRST ROBOTSTAFFED HOTEL TO OPEN IN JAPAN Instagram Opening this July in southern Japan, Hen-na Hotel, literally “strange EDITORIAL hotel”, will be run by androids able to speak Japanese, Chinese, Yesterday’s media #lohei at Karen Yue Group Editor Korean and English, make hand gestures, and determine a customer’s [email protected] #Legoland JB! The theme park mood based on their facial expressions. The hotel is located in Huis Xinyi Liang-Pholsena Assistant Editor, TTG Asia is attempting to enter Malaysia’s [email protected] Ten Bosch theme park outside Nagasaki. Hannah Koh Assistant Editor, TTG Asia Online book of records for having 1,888 [email protected] Lego mandarin oranges, each Paige Lee Pei Qi Assistant Editor, Singapore [email protected] put together by a park guest. Kathy Neo Copy Editor [email protected] S Puvaneswary Editor, Malaysia/Brunei [email protected] Mimi Hudoyo Editor, Indonesia [email protected] Sim Kok Chwee Correspondent-at-large [email protected] Greg Lowe Correspondent, Thailand Here’s our managing director [email protected] Oliver Slow, Sid Dhartha Correspondents, Myanmar MINUTEBYMINUTE AIRCRAFT TRACKING COULD Darren Ng with managing direc- [email protected], [email protected] tor of Dynasty Travel Clifford Neo, Marianne Carandang, Rosa Ocampo COME ONLINE IN 2016 Correspondents, The Philippines ICAO members are backing a new plan that will make it mandatory who’s acting as a pilot for tonight [email protected], [email protected] at Dynasty’s Dinner and Dance Prudence Lui Correspondent, Hong Kong for airlines to adopt a new system that gives aircraft location updates [email protected] at 15-minute intervals. During an emergency, the system provides 2015. Where’s your costume Caroline Boey Senior Correspondent, China & Special Projects Darren?? [email protected] minute-by-minute tracking. The plan could come into effect Julian Ryall Correspondent, Japan as soon as 2016. [email protected] Shekhar Niyogi Chief Correspondent, India [email protected] Rohit Kaul Correspondent, New Delhi THE LION CITCITY IS SOUTHEAST ASIA’S [email protected] DREAM DESTINATION Feizal Samath Correspondent, Sri Lanka/Maldives [email protected] Singapore is the stand-out favourite destination Faces of Myanmar at #ATF2015 Redmond Sia, Goh Meng Yong Creative Designers among South-east Asian travellers, found this year’s Lina Tan Editorial Assistant MasterCard Consumer Purchasing Priorities survey. SALES & MARKETING Asked where in Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa Michael Chow Group Publisher (APMEA) they would go to if awarded an all-expenses- [email protected] Shirley Tan Senior Business Manager paid holiday, Singapore ranked among the top three [email protected] destinations for all of the seven markets sur- Karen Cheung Senior Business Manager [email protected] veyed: Indonesia, Myanmar, Philippines, Jonathan Yap Senior Business Manager Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and [email protected] Cheryl Tan Corporate Marketing Manager Singapore. [email protected] Stephanie Toh Marketing Executive [email protected] Cheryl Lim Advertisement Administration Manager [email protected] WHO’S SAYING WHAT Carol Cheng Assistant Manager Administration and Marketing [email protected]

PUBLISHING SERVICES Most commented Tony Yeo Division Manager Haze Loh Senior Creative Designer Lynn Lim Web Executive THAILAND SLOWLY GETS BACK ON ITS FEET Carol Wong Senior Circulation Executive “If there is not a big increase from last year then Thailand is in big TTG ASIA MEDIA trouble since the numbers were so bad in 2014.” – upena1 Darren Ng Managing Director [email protected] Raini Hamdi Senior Editor TOILET TOURISM: HOW TO MAKE A MARKETING [email protected]

SPLASH OFFICES “As a B&B owner in Queenstown Tasmania I send an email to all of SINGAPORE 1 Science Park Road #04-07 The Capricorn, my guests who book online giving my driving tips for Tasmania. At the Singapore Science Park II, Singapore 117528 Tel: (65) 6395-7575 Fax: (65) 6536-0896 end of that email is a list of cafes, petrol stations and public toilets as [email protected]; www.ttgasia.com you travel around the state. My guests really appreciate it, especially HONG KONG Unit 2011, 20/F Harbour Center, 25 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong if traveling with children. Those facilities can be quite a distance apart Tel: (852) 2237-7174 Fax: (852)2237-7227 here so it is really handy advice to have.” – Oh Dear

TTG Asia is a product by TTG Travel Trade Publishing, a business group of TTG Asia Media. It is mailed free on written request to readers who meet predetermined criteria. Paid subscriptions FACEBOOK.COM/TTGASIA are available to those who do not meet the criteria. Annual airmail Mingalaba! Team TTG snacking on local delights in #Myanmar before subscriptions are US$180 to Asia and US$199 elsewhere. Cover we hit the ground running at #ASEAN Tourism Forum 2015! See you price US$5. TWITTER.COM/TTG_ASIA INSTAGRAM.COM/TTGASIA MCI (P) 098/09/2014 • PPS 619/02/2013(022926) in #NayPyiTaw Printed by Times Printers Pte Ltd 16 Tuas Avenue 5, Singapore 639340

Compiled by The Fox Travel Hall of Fame Since 2002, TTG Asia TRAVEL TRIVIA Media has honoured luminaries that have won the prestigious TTG Travel Award for at least 10 consecutive times for the same award title in the Travel Hall of Fame. HUMOUR QUIZ At present, these exceptional organisations • If Singapore Airlines signed an agreement with Gulf Air, would the 1. Which airline in Asia has just filed for bankruptcy protection? and their years of induction are: marketing slogan be Together we are SinGul? • Singapore Airlines (2002) 2. True or false: Singapore Airlines once operated scheduled services • Singapore Changi Airport (2002) • If a Myanmar company entered a JV with Marriott to develop hotels with the Concorde supersonic aircraft • Hertz Asia Pacific (2005) in the country, would it be named MyanMarr? • Royal Cliff Hotels Group (2006) 3. Which is the odd one out – Scoot, SilkAir, Tigerair? • Star Cruises (2008) • If Taiwan and China devised an aggressive travel marketing cam- • Abacus International (2009) paign together, would it be named TaiChi? 4. History: What is the current name of what was Mandarin • SilkAir (2010) • If Holiday Inn and Mandarin Oriental devised a joint marketing cam- • Lotte Tour (2011) Singapore Hotels? • Hong Kong International Airport (2013) paign for a religious community, would it be named HoliMan? 5. Outside Asia: Sabre Corporation has just sold which OTA to who? • Raffles Hotel Singapore (2013) TTG Asia Media is pleased to announce that

it is setting up a virtual TTG Travel Hall of Fame,

(5) Two transactions: Lastminute.com to Switzerland-based OTA, Bravofly Rumbo Group. And a month later, Travelocity to Expedia. to Travelocity later, month a And Group. Rumbo Bravofly OTA, Switzerland-based to Lastminute.com transactions: Two late-1990s. late-1990s. which will enable us to showcase the accolades,

(4) (3) Meritus Hotels. Changed in the the in Changed Hotels. Meritus Airlines. Singapore by owned cent per 40 is Holdings) Airways Tiger (via Tigerair group. Airlines’ Singapore the in subsidiaries owned cent per 100 are two other The Tigerair. colours, the other in BA’s. BA’s. in other the colours, artefacts and memorabilia of the region’s most

(2) (1) True. In a joint operation with British Airways, Singapore-London, 1977-80. One side was painted in SIA SIA in painted was side One 1977-80. Singapore-London, Airways, British with operation joint a In True. Japan’s Skymark. Originally linked to the HIS travel agency with no-frills flights, it has changed its business plan a few times. times. few a plan business its changed has it flights, no-frills with agency travel HIS the to linked Originally Skymark. Japan’s exceptional travel organisations in a far more effective way and to a global audience.

13feb ttgAsia p26 CONNECThhmyxyfinal.indd 26 10/2/15 3:45 pm

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