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Fliggy reports strong Double 11 sales

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HANGZHOU, China, 15 November 2024: Fliggy, an online travel platform and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group, has posted strong growth during the 2024 Double 11 shopping event, marking a standout finish to this year’s Global Travel Festival. 

The platform reported robust double-digit year-on-year sales growth, with a 40% increase in shoppers and 22 brands generating over RMB100 million in gross merchandise value (GMV).

As of midnight on 12 November, the GMV for reserved promotional items increased by nearly 90% compared to last year, indicating faster bookings. Fliggy’s official content-driven sales channels, including its Fliggy Super VIP livestream, performed strongly, with 19 individual products exceeding RMB10 million each.

‘Buy Now, Plan Later’ drives growth

The “Buy Now, Plan Later” model – where consumers purchase travel products for future use without committing to immediate travel dates or visa arrangements at the time of purchase – emerged as the dominant trend in tourism. This year’s Double 11 event saw a 40% increase in the number of shoppers compared to last year, with new users making up about one-third of the total number of shoppers.

Fliggy reported record-breaking sales across a wide array of travel products. Nearly 1 million flexible “All You Can Fly” tickets and multi-trip flight passes were sold, along with nearly 3 million hotel packages and over 1.1 million amusement park tickets and leisure packages. 

New offerings, including RV travel passes, car charter tours, Arctic cruises, and hotel stays across 32 global cities, further bolstered the platform’s growth.

These products spanned nearly 200 countries and regions, from domestic destinations like Nujiang in Yunnan to Bomi in Tibet and from Svalbard in Norway to Queenstown in New Zealand.

Outbound travel, in particular, saw strong demand, with Fliggy data revealing that this mega campaign’s share of outbound travel products increased by 30% year-on-year. 

Popular destinations included Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Macau SAR, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, the US, Singapore, Vietnam, and Australia. Meanwhile, Iceland, Turkey, Cambodia, Fiji, and France were among the fastest-growing destinations compared to last year.

Fliggy’s success during the Double 11 sales campaign also highlighted the appeal of its “Buy Now, Plan Later” offerings. At midnight on 12 November, the platform reported a nearly 90% year-on-year surge in GMV for reserved promotional products. High demand has been

evident across popular theme parks, with Shanghai Disney Resort, Beijing Universal Resort, and Universal Studios Japan all seeing significant increases in reservation rates. Some tour activities have reached booking rates of nearly 50%, while flight passes are also experiencing strong demand. 

For example, China United Airlines’ seasonal unlimited one-way tickets have seen reservations top 40%. Car rental pass bookings have risen sharply, while hotel packages are seeing a notable uptick, with bookings for ski resorts are approaching one-third of total reservations.

A strong season for merchants

Fliggy’s Double 11 event sets a new benchmark for merchant success. This year, a record 22 major brands — eight more than last year — surpassed RMB100 million in GMV. These included Shanghai Disney Resort, Beijing Universal Resort, Chimelong Tourist Resort, Songtsam, Hong Kong Disneyland, and major hotel groups like Marriott,

Wanda Hotels & Resorts, New Century Tourism Group, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, Banyan Group, Accor, Club Med, Senbo Resort, as well as airlines such as Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Loong Air, Sichuan Airlines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and Qatar Airways.

The platform partnered with major brands, including 40 airlines — such as Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines and over 6,000 hotel brands, including Marriott, Hilton, Accor, Hyatt, Wanda, and Narada to offer flash sales, with some offering deals starting at RMB1 and additional loyalty points. The strategy proved successful, with Fliggy recording a 120% year-on-year increase in GMV for hotel bookings and an approximately 70% rise in conversion rates.

About Fliggy
Fliggy is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group and is one of the leading online travel platforms in China.

Elite Havens rewards travel partners

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TTR WEEKLY
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Villa Jia, a luxury villa located in Jivana Estate, Natai beach, Phuket, Thailand

SINGAPORE, 14 November 2024: To celebrate the grand opening of the Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel, Elite Havens, Asia’s premier luxury villa rental and management provider, is offering registered travel partners an exclusive opportunity to win a three-night luxury stay when making a booking with Elite Havens between now and 31 December 2024.

To celebrate the grand opening of the Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel, Elite Havens, Asia’s luxury villa rental and management provider, is offering registered travel partners an opportunity to win a three-night luxury stay when making a booking with Elite Havens between now and 31 December 2024.

As part of Dusit International, Elite Havens is proud to invite one lucky registered travel partner to be one of the first to experience the iconic charm of this newly reopened Bangkok hotel. To be eligible to win, travel partners just need to confirm and have a paid booking with Elite Havens to receive an automatic entry along with additional cash prizes to be won every week.

Pick of the Prizes

● Three nights in a deluxe room at Dusit Thani Bangkok

● Exclusive Porsche Panamera limousine airport transfers

● Complimentary USD200 welcome dinner voucher at Pavilion restaurant

● Daily breakfast for two people

To become an Elite Havens travel partner, email: [email protected]

Existing travel partners can book directly or via our travel partner portal.

Elite Havens manages villas across Thailand, Bali & Lombok (Indonesia), Niseko (Japan), Goa, India and beyond, including:

To become an Elite Havens travel partner, email: [email protected]

Existing travel partners can book directly or via our travel partner portal.

To view the full list of villas available to book through Elite Havens, visit: https://www.elitehavens.com

Terms and conditions apply:
● Travel partners must be registered with Elite Havens to enter. Existing travel partners will automatically be entered for each booking made.

● Every booking is an entry. There is no limit on the number of entries made per travel partner.

● Each Tuesday in November and December, a weekly winner will be selected randomly from the previous week’s bookings to win $100 cash.

● On 31 December 2024, the major prize winner will be selected randomly from all bookings received during the promotion period – 30 October to 31st December. The winner will be announced on Monday, 6 January 2025.

● Prize must be redeemed before 31 December 2025.

● Stay dates are subject to availability.

Sarawak embraces Indigenous Tourism

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 14 November 2024: Indigenous Tourism is reshaping the travel landscape in Sarawak, according to Sarawak Tourism Board CEOS Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor.

Sharzede shared how indigenous-led efforts fostered meaningful connections for travellers while honouring cultural legacies, supporting local economies, and conserving vital natural resources during a panel discussion co-hosted with the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) in London earlier this month.

The session, “Indigenous Tourism… A Legacy Reawakened in Heritage, Community, and Conservation,” highlighted the power of Indigenous-driven tourism initiatives to preserve cultural heritage, promote sustainable practices, and drive economic and social impact within local communities.

Sarawak’s Pioneering Role in Indigenous Tourism

Sharzede highlighted how Sarawak Tourism Board’s initiatives place indigenous communities at the core of its tourism strategy. Sarawak’s approach empowers communities to share their heritage and traditions while directly benefiting from tourism activities.

“Indigenous Tourism in Sarawak is a testament to responsible tourism that honours both people and the planet,” Sharzede reflected. “We are proud to create experiences where culture, nature, and sustainability intersect, positively impacting local communities and visitors alike.”

Key Highlights

  1. Cultural Engagements and Authentic Experiences
    • Sarawak offers travellers immersive experiences, from traditional longhouse stays to vibrant celebrations like Gawai Dayak, providing unique insights into Sarawak’s indigenous way of life. Cultural festivals and crafts workshops foster interaction between visitors and locals, deepening their understanding of Sarawak’s rich cultural landscape.
  1. Economic Empowerment and Sustainability
    • Sarawak’s indigenous tourism strategy generates sustainable income for artisans, musicians, and local homestay operators, particularly through events such as the Rainforest World Music Festival. These initiatives showcase the state’s cultural treasures and empower indigenous communities to sustain their livelihoods and preserve their heritage.
  1. Environmental Stewardship and Conservation Initiatives
    • Emphasising environmental responsibility, Sarawak’s tourism model incorporates sustainable practices, including the Forest-to-Table initiative and EcoGreen Planet programme, which involves reforestation efforts. By embracing green innovation, local artisans also produce eco-friendly crafts, preserving traditional artistry while appealing to eco-conscious travellers.
  1. Empowerment through Digital Tools
    • Through the Jejak Digital programme, Sarawak equips local communities with the tools to share their unique stories and tourism offerings with a global audience. This digital empowerment initiative ensures that Indigenous communities can reach wider markets and sustainably promote their cultural heritage.
  1. Sarawak Responsible Tourism (RT) Pledge
    • Sharzede also highlighted Sarawak’s Responsible Tourism Pledge, which encourages visitors to respect and conserve the state’s cultural and natural heritage. This pledge attracts eco-conscious travellers who value sustainable and mindful tourism by fostering mutual respect between locals and visitors.
  1. Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
    • Sharzede illustrated how Sarawak’s tourism strategy aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), prioritising quality education, climate action, and sustainable tourism practices. This commitment underscores Sarawak’s dedication to responsible tourism, drawing travellers who value authenticity, community empowerment, and conservation.

The Lasting Impact of Indigenous Tourism

Sharzede’s insights underscored Sarawak’s commitment to fostering a sustainable tourism model that respects cultural heritage and empowers local communities. By positioning Indigenous Tourism as an essential part of its identity, Sarawak is pioneering a model for responsible tourism that benefits both residents and visitors, strengthening its global reputation as a destination for cultural and environmental stewardship.

For further information, visit: www.sarawaktourism.com

Absolute Hotel Services expands in Laos

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 14 November 2024: Absolute Hotel Services Group will add its fourth hotel in Laos after signing a management contract with the property developer Manignom Auto Group Company Limited.

Set along the banks of the picturesque Song River in Vang Vieng, Laos, the upcoming U Vang Vieng hotel will open in 2028 in the popular riverside tourist destination, which is around 400 km north of the Lao capital, Vientiane and on the highway to Luang Prabang.

Absolute Hotel Services Group CEO Jonathan Wigley commented on the news: “We are pleased to expand our footprint in Laos with this stunning riverfront property. Vang Vieng is a destination of unparalleled charm, and we look forward to crafting memorable experiences for our guests in such a beautiful setting.”

The 60-key hotel will offer spacious rooms, a food and beverage outlet, a modern fitness centre, and a swimming pool. The new development reinforces Absolute Hotel Services Group’s commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence, setting new standards in the world of hospitality.

The group already has properties in Vientiane and Luang Prabang under its popular Eastin and U brands.

About Absolute Hotel Services 

AHS is one of Asia’s fastest-growing hospitality management and branding companies, with an ever-expanding geographic portfolio of hotels, resorts, and serviced residences. The group’s headquarters are in Bangkok, Thailand, and it has regional offices in Vietnam, Indonesia, Hong Kong, India, and now Europe.

Tourism leaders join COP29 roundtable

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SINGAPORE, 14 November 2024: Tourism’s place in global climate action will be centre stage on 20 November at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, as part of the COP29 Presidential Initiatives. 

For the first time, the UN Climate Change Conference of the parties will welcome Tourism Ministers, placing the sector firmly within the COP29 Action Agenda.

UN Tourism reported in its latest update on COP29, saying the inclusion of tourism leaders worldwide was welcomed by the G20 Tourism Ministers Meeting in Belem, Brazil.

It provides a high-level platform for dialogue, initiated and led by the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). 

This achievement reflects the leading role played by UN Tourism in a shift for a science-based approach to guide the sector on tourism climate action and builds on the efforts of the Glasgow Declaration Initiative, which is implemented within the framework of the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme. 

The collaboration of committed Member States and tourism stakeholders and the support provided by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), have been instrumental in achieving this landmark momentum for the tourism sector at COP29.

Scheduled for 20 November, the First Ministerial Meeting on Climate Action in Tourism will be followed by three high-level thematic roundtables addressing three hot topics: measurement and decarbonisation, regeneration (adaptation) and finance and innovative solutions; the outcome will build towards a bold tourism climate agenda for good UN Tourism noted.

Access the Programme of Events here.

Baku Declaration: Tourism steps up its ambitions

The COP29 Presidency will lead the launch of the Baku Declaration on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism. The Declaration is a call to action in response to the need to develop more economy-wide Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement, as called for by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, UNFCCC’s Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, and UN Tourism Secretary–General Zurab Pololikashvili. 

In Baku, government representatives will be encouraged to endorse the Declaration and set out their plans to connect tourism policies and efforts with national climate goals and the UN Climate Change Agenda. UN Tourism and the State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan will release a Position Paper on Exploring Opportunities to Integrate Tourism in NDCs in a nationally determined manner for public consultation.

The full text of the Baku Declaration is available here (see Annex 9 on page 20).

Boosting Engagement and Accountability

Two of UN Tourism’s flagship sustainability initiatives will also feature in the Thematic Day, with stakeholders urged to take action.

The Glasgow Declaration Initiative on Climate Action in Tourism is a voluntary commitment launched at COP26, implemented within the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme framework, and recognised as a Global Climate Action initiative by UNFCCC. At COP29, the Glasgow Declaration Initiative will be given fresh impetus to include additional signatories, especially focusing on its positioning as a tool to support the implementation of national climate policies through tourism climate action structured around five strategic pathways: measurement, decarbonisation, regeneration/adaptation, collaboration, and finance.

To join the Glasgow Declaration Initiative and become part of a multi-stakeholder network of over 900 organisations collectively working on climate action, please visit Glasgow Declaration Initiative page.

Also in Baku, the Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST), adopted by the UN Statistical Commission in February 2024, will be formally acknowledged as the tool to measure the sector’s climate action impacts. 

“The MST Framework moves beyond GDP to include environmental data, such as GHG emissions and energy use. In recognition of this, MST will be positioned in its capacity to drive the production of more trustworthy, country-owned and internationally comparable data on the impact of tourism on climate change, laying the necessary foundation for progress in the mitigation of tourism-related GHG emissions and energy efficiency,” the UN Tourism statement explained.

ONYX rebrands Bangsaen hotel

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE 14 November 2024: ONYX Hospitality Group has signed an agreement to manage Amari The Tide Bangsaen set to reveal its new look in the second quarter of 2025. 

Located in Thailand’s Chonburi Province on the eastern seaboard, the hotel group recently secured a management contract for the Amari The Tide Bangsaen with the developer and owner Five Leader Group Co Ltd. The owner’s representative, Thanasit Khunplome and ONYX Hospitality Group CEO Yuthachai Charanachitta presided over the signing ceremony.

Left to Right: Thanasit Khunplome andYuthachai Charanachitta.

The project’s neighbourhood on Thailand‘s eastern seaboard has seen a steady expansion in recent years, driven by the continuous development of infrastructure to support tourism and its capacity to host major festivals and events. This positions the 154-room Amari The Tide Bangsaen as an appealing destination for Thai and international tourists within close reach of Bangkok, just over an hour’s drive, and only 45 minutes from Pattaya city. 

Thanasit, representing the owner of Five Leader Group Co Ltd, said the decision to rebrand the hotel from The Tide Resort to Amari The Tide Bangsaen would support Bangsaen in hosting sporting events, such as the Bangsaen Series, Ironman 70.3 Triathlon, and Bangsaen Grandprix Road Race.

Qantas closes seat sale at midnight

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 14 November 2024: Last-minute offers are due to expire. The Qantas 72-hour sale, which presents 1 million discounted seats to more than 60 destinations around Australia, ends at midnight on Thursday, 14 November.

Travellers can snap up domestic economy sale fares starting from AUD109 one-way for travel from 24 December 2024 to 18 September 2025, including some dates across the Christmas and school holidays.

The sale on 30 routes with fares around AUD150 one way includes Brisbane to Whitsunday Coast, Melbourne to Gold Coast and Launceston to Melbourne.

Qantas fares include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages, free Wi-Fi on domestic aircraft and seat selection.

Qantas Frequent Flyer recently launched a new type of reward seat called Classic Plus. Classic Plus reward seats can be booked across international flights and will be rolled out on domestic flights by the end of the year.

Sale fares are available until 2359 (AEDT) on 14 November 2024.

Demand for aircraft soars to new heights

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 14 November 2024: Airbus has released its latest regional market forecast, projecting that the Asia-Pacific aviation sector will require 19,500 new aircraft over the next 20 years. 

This demand represents 46% of the global requirement, which is expected to reach around 42,430 new aircraft by 2043.

Airbus Asia-Pacific President Anand Stanley presented these findings during the Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines (AAPA) Annual Assembly of Presidents in Brunei, underscoring the region’s continued growth and importance in the global aviation market.

The Asia-Pacific forecast, which includes China and India, reflects a year-on-year growth of 3% in terms of new aircraft needed. With this surge in demand, the region’s fleet will continue to expand, driven by both growth and replacement needs, with sustainability initiatives becoming more prevalent.

Airbus anticipates the need for 16,000 single-aisle aircraft, such as the A220 and A320neo Family, to support the region’s short-to-medium haul routes. At the same time, demand for medium and large-sized long-range aircraft, like the A330neo and A350, will total approximately 3,500 aircraft. Key recent widebody aircraft orders in the region include Cathay Pacific (A330neo), as well as EVA Air, Japan Airlines and Korean Air (A350), with several other ongoing campaigns expected to fuel growth.

Airbus estimates that nearly 71% of the aircraft deliveries will support fleet expansion, while 29% will replace older models, significantly contributing to decarbonisation efforts. The next generation of Airbus widebody aircraft offers an immediate 25% improvement in fuel efficiency and a corresponding reduction in carbon emissions. These advancements reflect Airbus’ commitment to supporting the aviation industry’s goal of minimising its environmental footprint.

In the cargo segment, Asia-Pacific is expected to require 250 new widebody freighter aircraft, representing 10% of global demand for new freighters. The A350F, based on the proven A350 platform, is poised to meet this demand with superior efficiency, reduced CO2 emissions, and best-in-class economics. The A350F also complies with the latest ICAO emissions standards, positioning it as the frontrunner in the large freighter market. A key endorsement of this model from the region comes from STARLUX Airlines, which ordered five A350Fs earlier this year.

In passenger traffic, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to have an annual growth rate of 4.8%, outpacing the global growth rate of 3.6%. Widebody aircraft are pivotal to this growth, enhancing passenger connectivity and supporting the region’s increasing cargo needs. E-commerce and global trade drive demand for efficient cargo transport, making widebody aircraft integral to swift, reliable delivery across continents.

The A350 has established itself as the leader in long-range travel, with nearly 300 A350s already in service in Asia-Pacific and another 230 on order. The aircraft’s cutting-edge technology, fuel efficiency, and superior economics make it the preferred choice for airlines across the region.

At the same time, the A330ceo replacement cycle is underway, with some 540 A330ceos currently operating in the region. The A330neo is positioned as the optimal replacement, offering a seamless transition for airlines, with commonality in pilot training and technical operations between the two models.

“As one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world, the Asia-Pacific region is poised for significant growth over the next two decades. With rising demand for both passenger and cargo operations, we are well-positioned to help our airline partners meet their long-term goals with the most efficient, sustainable, and advanced aircraft available while contributing to decarbonisation efforts across the industry,” said Stanley.

MATTA backs tax incentives for domestic travellers

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KUALA LUMPUR, 14 November 2024: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents welcomes the recent proposal by the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, YB Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, that Malaysians travelling in the country should be eligible for income tax deductions.

MATTA says the move would promote domestic tourism and cut travel expenses if it is approved.

MATTA commends YB Datuk Seri Tiong’s proactive leadership in seeking innovative ways to encourage domestic tourism, especially as we build our momentum toward Visit Malaysia 2026. 

By allowing tax deductions on expenses incurred on domestic travel, people will be further incentivised to support local tourism stakeholders such as travel agents and tour operators, hotels, local business enterprises, and local communities.

In support of the proposal, MATTA calls for tax deductions to be applied specifically to travel expenses booked through various stakeholders, such as licensed travel agencies, tour operators, and hotels. 

This measure will ensure that government-supported incentives reach legal tourism operators and industry players, further strengthening the industry’s integrity, professionalism, and contribution to the country’s economic growth.

MATTA President Nigel Wong stated: “The Minister’s proposal is a progressive step towards boosting domestic tourism and ensuring that travel within Malaysia remains both accessible and beneficial for Malaysians. MATTA has advocated for such support measures in previous submissions for the national Budget to the Ministry of Finance. We believe incentivising Malaysians to explore local destinations will boost domestic tourism and create ripple effects that support job creation, economic growth and cultural exchange within the country.”

Wong added, “MATTA has consistently championed similar measures in past budget proposals, recognising the potential to build a strong and sustainable tourism industry. We look forward to collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture and the Ministry of Finance to realise this plan, which will contribute significantly to the success of Visit Malaysia 2026 and beyond.”

HK Express welcomes 10th A321neo

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 13 November 2024: HK Express Airways (HK Express) welcomed its 10th Airbus A321neo, the largest passenger aircraft in its fleet, which serves 21 destinations.

HK Express Chief Executive Officer Jeanette Mao said: “As HK Express continues to introduce new routes, we are thrilled to welcome our 10th Airbus A321neo aircraft, marking a significant step towards growing our fleet to 40 aircraft. Since receiving our first A321neo aircraft in March last year, we have added 10 A321neo aircraft in just over a year and a half. With our fleet’s rapid expansion and the launch of new routes, HK Express will increase frequencies to over 800 weekly flights.”

HK Express CEO Jeanette Mao (second from left), HK Express Maintenance & Engineering Director Geoffrey Hung (second from right) and HK Express Maintenance & Engineering – Technical Service Engineers Kim Leung and Duncan Chiu (first from left and first from right) welcomed the 10th Airbus A321neo aircraft on the tarmac.

HK Express now flies an average of over 15,000 passengers arriving and departing the Hong Kong International Airport daily. This contributes to the development of the city’s tourism industry, facilitating more frequent travel between Hong Kong and other Asian countries while creating new business opportunities.

“HK Express is confident in the Asian market, especially with the commissioning of the Three-runway System,” Mao added. “We look forward to the new opportunities it will bring. We will continue to expand our fleet, introduce new routes, and enhance our Asian flight network, providing more affordable and reliable flight options while reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as the region’s leading international aviation hub.”

The A321neo can accommodate 236 passengers with 18-inch-wide cabin seats and plenty of overhead storage space to ease the boarding and disembarking procedures. 

HK Express has a fleet of 39 aircraft, including six Airbus A320ceo, 10 A320neo, 13 A321ceo and 10 A321neo.

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