SINGAPORE, 7 June 2024: Amadeus and Accor expand their partnership, with the global hotel group adopting Amadeus’ Central Reservation System (ACRS) for its properties worldwide.
Accor Chief Digital Officer Alix Boulnois and Amadeus President, Hospitality Francisco Pérez-Lozao Rüter negotiated the partnership extension, which empowers Accor to draw on Amadeus’ cloud-based technology to boost revenues and maximise distribution strategies.
Sébastien Bazin, Group Chairman and CEO, Accor (left), shakes hands with Luis Maroto, President and CEO, Amadeus.
Implementing Amadeus’ Central Reservation System will not only empower Accor’s hoteliers to leverage the established ACRS product but will also unlock new capabilities. These include enhanced flexibility, seamless integration with emerging technologies, and simplified daily operations. These advancements will enable hotels to meet the evolving needs of guests better, ensuring Accor remains at the forefront of the hospitality industry.
ACRS incorporates sophisticated features like room views, styles, and bedding preferences. Accor’s sales teams can elevate the sales process to a holistic guest experience.
Accor Chief Digital Officer Alix Boulnois and Amadeus President, Hospitality Francisco Pérez-Lozao Rüter negotiated the partnership details.
SINGAPORE, 7 June 2024: Sabre Corporation, a leading software and technology provider powering the global travel industry, confirmed earlier this week that it has renewed its longstanding agreement with Singapore Airlines.
Through the latest agreement, Singapore Airlines will continue to leverage Schedule Manager and Slot Manager from Sabre’s Network Planning & Optimisation technology suite, reinforcing its commitment to operational efficiency, choice and reliability for its passengers.
Sabre Slot Manager, the industry’s most widely used system for managing slots at busy airports worldwide, is a key tool that enables carriers to identify and secure slots required for future schedules. This system also minimises the chances of losing valuable historic slots. On the other hand, Schedule Manager is a powerful tool that empowers airlines to create and execute robust, accurate, and feasible operating schedules across their networks. These tools will continue to be instrumental in Singapore Airlines’ operations, providing a powerful way to boost revenue and gain a competitive advantage.
“Without the right slots and schedules, it’s impossible to fly routes that are both profitable for airlines and meet evolving passenger demand,” said Sabre Vice President Travel Solutions Airline Sales and Regional General Manager, Asia Pacific Rakesh Narayanan. “We’re pleased and proud to renew this valued and longstanding collaboration with Singapore Airlines so they can continue to benefit from advanced network planning capabilities, enabling them to optimise their flight schedules, maximise resource allocation, and deliver superior service to their customers.”
KHAO LAK, Phang-Nga Thailand, 7 June 2024: Sustainability plays a crucial role in the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s strategy to position Thailand as a high-value, high-quality destination.
TAT is monitoring a substantial shift in the tourism landscape towards millennials, young generations, and individuals who have grown up with the online world. According to its research, TAT concludes that today’s travellers, even in main markets such as China, are highly conscious of sustainability and environmental impact.
TAT calls on suppliers to embrace sustainable practices, not only for their enterprises but also for a better and more sustainable tourism industry.
At the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2024, held in Khao Lak, Phang-Nga Province, TAT introduced its new communication concept, ‘Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End’ which TAT focuses on delivering meaningful travel experiences that would create a lifetime memory. Highlights range from luxury, wellness, soft adventure, and sustainable tourism.
TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing Asia and South Pacific Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya stated that sellers offering products at the event this year have been incredibly supportive of the sustainability initiative.
The event attracted 430 booths of quality sellers nationwide, including 46 exhibitors who won the Thailand Tourism Awards 2023. There were 360 hotels and resorts, 34 tour operators, 18 entertainment venues and attractions, eight transportation companies and carriers, and 10 other companies, such as online travel platforms, shopping malls, golf clubs, and vineyards.
“Joining the event, these sellers must prove to TAT that they have at least one programme in place to reduce waste, become more eco-friendly, or use less water. We’re bringing together all these practitioners of a greener tourism industry. We’re asking them to show us what they’re doing — it doesn’t have to be everything. We need to see that they’re taking some action, and then we’ll welcome them into our community of sellers.
“Every single event we organise now has to be 100% focused on sustainability, and that’s the way we go,” Chattan concluded.
Meanwhile, TAT Executive Director of the East Asia Region, Chuwit Sirivajjakul, commented on the buyer turnout saying that even in major East Asia travel markets (China in particular) they are prioritising sustainability.
“Today’s travellers, particularly millennials, young generations, and the ‘new gen’ raised on digital experiences, prioritise sustainability and meaningful engagement with destinations.
“They are particularly interested in activities like marine freediving, which minimises carbon dioxide and nitrogen emissions that can harm the ocean ecosystems. On land, the focus has shifted from ‘check-the-box’ sightseeing to slow-living experiences. Travellers seek deeper connections with local cultures, support local businesses, and give back to the community. This includes volunteering at elephant sanctuaries, cooking and bathing elephants, or supporting sick elephants.”
Chuwit added, “Even traditionally golf-centric markets like Japan and Korea are witnessing a shift. Travellers now seek eco-friendly golf courses that prioritise environmental responsibility. Post-Covid, tourists are quite attentive to the environment and travel in detail, rather than superficially as before.
This shift is not just a trend. As humans, we all have a responsibility to protect our planet. Tourists are increasingly aware of this. Hence, old and new businesses must adapt to cater to these markets.”
According to TAT, the agency’s initiatives to promote responsible travel practices include the Thailand Tourism Awards and the Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs), rated with a STAR certification and CF-Hotels.
KHAO LAK, Phang-Nga, Thailand, 7 June 2024: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) highlighted its latest marketing communication concept, Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End, during the Thailand Product Update business session for buyers and media attending the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2024.
TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications Nithee Seeprae led the session, saying, “Our latest concept underscores our ongoing promotion of meaningful travel experiences in Thailand with an enhanced effort to instil unforgettable stories. We aim to inspire travellers to become storytellers, share their lasting memories, and motivate others to seek out their own memorable stories in Thailand.”
TAT highlighted the new marketing communication concept and showcased Thailand’s diverse tourism offerings, focusing on delivering meaningful travel experiences that would create a lifetime memory. Highlights ranged from luxury to wellness to soft adventure to sustainable tourism.
Your Luxury Stories Never End
A holiday in Phuket and Phang-Nga can be elevated with a stay at the pool villas, treehouse villas, or even a private island. Be mesmerised by a world of culinary delights, from authentic local specialities to Michelin-starred restaurants.
In Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, luxury journeys explore nature and culture. These include travelling on a pontoon along the Mekong River to spend time in a luxury tented camp or boutique hotel, exploring the beauty of Lanna’s heritage by visiting temples, or relaxing the mind and body at award-winning spas.
Your Wellness Stories Never End
Immerse in a variety of health and wellness offerings at La Vita Sana Khao Lak, Phang-Nga, or rejuvenate at Thailand’s Top Wellness Retreats such as RAKxa Wellness & Medical Retreat in Samut Prakan or THANN Wellness Destination in Ayutthaya. Both offer integrative wellness programmes.
Your Soft Adventure Stories Never End
Travellers who crave unlimited challenges may look to Phang-Nga for many kinds of water sports, including surfing at Memories Beach and diving at famous diving spots like Similan Island. They can also opt for forest walking at famous routes like Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai and exploring the nature cave at Lam Khlong Ngu National Park in Kanchanaburi.
Sustainable Tourism
“Sustainability plays a crucial role in our strategy to position Thailand as a high-value and sustainable destination. Our initiatives to promote responsible travel practices include the Thailand Tourism Awards and the Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs), rated with a STAR certification and CF-Hotels,” Nithee explained.
Some of the high-quality and sustainable products and services guaranteed by TAT initiatives have included:
Wareerak Hot Spring and Wellness in Krabi – recipient of the Silver Award for Health and Wellness in the Thailand Tourism Awards 2023 and a 5-STAR certification. The retreat that nestles in a tropical forest offers the healing traditions of hydrotherapy, Thai wellness and holistic wellness.
Siam Bayshore Resort Pattaya, Chon Buri – recipient of the Gold Award for Accommodation in the Thailand Tourism Awards 2023 and 5-STAR certification, and a participant of the CF-Hotels initiative. The resort boasts the architectural Art Deco style that seamlessly blends Thai cultural elements with the surrounding greenery.
Mekin Farm, Khon Kaen – recipient of a 5-STAR certification. Visitors can explore the organic farm’s sustainable practices, experience farm stay, and join DIY workshops and eco-printing with local materials.
World-Class Event Hub
The government promotes Thailand as a centre of world-class events, leveraging the host country’s status for various upcoming global events. These include the Summer Sonic Bangkok, from 24 to 25 August; OR Thailand Grand Prix (Moto GP), from 25 to 27 October in Buri Ram; Loi Krathong Festival on 15 November; Vijit Chao Phraya 2024 in November; and Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok 2024 on 1 December.
Thailand’s Tourism Health Check
Last year, Thailand recorded over 28 million international arrivals and a revenue of THB1.2 trillion. The top five markets were Malaysia, China, South Korea, India, and Russia.
This year, from 1 January to 31 May, Thailand welcomed over 14.76 million international visitors, generating more than THB682 billion in revenue. China, Malaysia, Russia, India, and South Korea are the top five markets.
TAT has set an overall tourism revenue target of THB3 trillion for this year — THB1.92 trillion from 35 million international arrivals and THB1.08 trillion from 200 million domestic trips.
KUCHING, 6 June 2024: The greatest show on earth, the ‘Great Britain Circus’, pitches its tent at Kuching’s Sarawak State Stadium from 8 to 14 July.
Described as a tented travelling circus, Sarawak residents will experience a traditional authentic circus production on tour across the state from Big Kid Entertainment in the UK.
The Great British Circus tradition shines the spotlight on the Big Top, a magnificent cylinder-like theatre topped with a conical canopy. At its base, fresh sawdust covers the arena, surrounded by audience seating set out in tiers rising in circular rows almost to the tent’s canopy. It’s a family fantasia crammed with sparkling costume performances, the high-wire trapeze, and a troupe of clowns. Once the week is over, the giant circus tent will move to Miri, a coastal town in the far north of the state close to Brunei.
Sarawak is making giant strides in the events sector, attracting conferences, concerts and now an international circus from the UK.
“In addition to the development of local tourism attractions, Sarawak is also an in-demand venue to host international events such as the annual Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) and the recently announced Borneo Pickleball International Tournament slated for later this year,” he told the media during the circus launch,” said Minister of Tourism, Art, Culture, Youth and Sports YB Abdul Karim.
“These international events not only enrich our cultural landscape but also significantly contribute to our local economy. They create job opportunities for our local talents and boost revenue for our local businesses, making them a win-win for everyone involved.”
DUBAI, UAE, 6 June 2024: Emirates, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and Airbus have joined forces to deliver an enhanced Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) programme for the A350-type rating as the airline prepares to deliver 65 A350s by mid-2024.
An initial cohort of 256 pilots will be trained in the new course at Emirates Training College in Dubai starting in July 2024.
From left to right: Capt Stéphan Labrucherie, Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide, Mikail Houari, President Africa & Middle East, Capt. Bader Al Marzooqi, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Flight Training, Yann Reiner, IATA Head Training and Licensing and Nick Careen, IATA Senior Vic president, Operations, Safety and Security.
The advanced pilot training programme uses the CBTA training methodology, which combines IATA’s principles and documentation with Emirates’ operational expertise and resources and Airbus’ over 10 years of CBTA training experience on the A350.
Driven by pilot competency and behaviour, the A350 CBTA programme utilises the proven CBTA training philosophy, which allows instructors to assess the pilots’ training and seek immediate improvements in their performance. The programme will run in two phases and include 20 days of simulator training and evaluation in 15 separate sessions.
“With this programme, Emirates’ pilots receive in-house competency-based training with highly qualified instructors, equipping them with world-class capabilities to support the airline’s global operations. The tailored CBTA programme for the A350 supports integrating the new aircraft into our fleet, with 1,000 pilots set to complete the A350-type rating course. This latest initiative is part of Emirates’ commitment to deliver the highest standards of service and comfort while supporting our operational growth and expansion,” said Emirates Senior Vice President Flight Training Bader Al Marzooqi.
“Combining the expertise of Emirates, Airbus and IATA to design and deliver A350-type rating training is a unique opportunity. Our joint aim is to fully utilise the benefits of CBTA to qualify the pilots on the A350 most efficiently and effectively as possible. And by doing it together, all three organisations will also gain valuable experience that can strengthen their other training activities,” said IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security Nick Careen
“The A350 is a state-of-the-art aircraft requiring equally advanced training solutions. Our partnership with IATA and Emirates ensures that Emirates’ pilots receive the most comprehensive and effective training, supporting the smooth entry into service of the A350 worldwide,” said Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide Stéphan Labrucherie.
Emirates is preparing to enter service with its new A350 through the A350-type rating programme. In addition to pilot training, other parts of the airline, including the service delivery and engineering teams, are also working on preparing for the debut of A350 operations.
CBTA and IATA
Gaining the benefits and efficiencies of CBTA training is a longstanding industry objective. For flight crew, IATA supports this with its CBTA Guide for Flight Crew Training, which is fully aligned with ICAO CBTA standards and includes specific libraries for airlines/operators and training organisations.
IATA also focuses on CBTA training in support of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. The IATA CBTA Center supports organisations across the aviation industry, including operators, Civil Aviation Authorities, and training organisations, in developing the capabilities and resources for dangerous goods training programs. It also offers CBTA training specialised in various airline functions, from ground handlers to passenger agents, load planning, crew, and others.
KHAO LAK, Thailand, 6 June 2024: The Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2024 opened on Wednesday at the JW Marriott Khao Lak, with business matching appointments between 425 travel buyers and 430 Thailand travel suppliers. The event concludes on Friday, 7 June.
Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sermsak Pongpanit presided over the opening ceremony, joined by Phang-Nga Province Vice Governor Niracha Banditchat and other travel-related VIPs such as Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool and Phang-Nga Tourism Association, President Lertsak Ponklin
ON TTM’s long success, the minister said: “The Thailand Travel Mart Plus is organised in line with the government’s “IGNITE Thailand” vision and plays a crucial role as a premier showcase of Thai tourism. This year’s event will further affirm its well-earned recognition as a must-attend B2B tradeshow that provides a valuable business platform for sellers and buyers.
Now in its 21st edition, the TTM+ presents the theme ‘Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End’.
Thapanee added: “The TTM+ 2024 showcases the diverse tourism offerings that leverage Thai cultural values for a remarkable and excellent experience. Another prominent feature is our ‘smart tourism’ strategy, which elevates Thai tourism’s competitiveness. We highlight the unprecedented digital transformation to accelerate Thailand’s tourism ecosystem to quality and sustainability.”
Buyers return to TTM
The TTM+ 2024 has registered a strong turnout, with 425 international travel buyers, of whom 55.5% are returning buyers and 44.5% are new participants. Buyers come from East Asia (30.4%), Europe (25.2%), ASEAN, South Asia and the South Pacific (20.9%), the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East (11.3%), as well as Thailand (12.2%).
There are 430 travel content sellers across Thailand, including 46 exhibitors who won the Thailand Tourism Awards 2023. There are 360 hotels and resorts, 34 tour operators, 18 entertainment venues and attractions, eight transportation and carriers, and 10 companies such as online travel platforms, shopping malls, golf clubs, and vineyards. In addition, there are over 100 media from overseas and in Thailand.
“The event provides a platform for 15,000 business appointments between buyers and sellers. As a result, this is estimated to bring about THB3 billion in revenue for Thailand’s tourism industry and distribute no less than THB30 million back to local communities,” the TAT Governor explained.
The three-day TTM+ 2024 programme started on Wednesday evening with pre-tours, an opening ceremony, a Thailand product update, TTM Talk, and a welcome reception. B2B appointment sessions and networking events continued on Thursday and Friday.
At the Thailand Product Update, buyers and media were briefed on Thailand’s tourism direction, marketing strategy, and a national focus on sustainability.
TTM Talk focused on two keynote topics
TrendWatching Head of Trends Victoria Loomese presented “Navigating Tomorrow: Global Consumer Trends Reshaping the Tourism Industry”.
She was followed by Michelin-starred restaurant Baan Tepa Head Chef Chudaree Debhakam, who gave a presentation on “Thailand’s Gastronomic Journey: Towards a Sustainable Food Future.”
Spotlight on Phang-Nga
This year, the event presents four tourism experiences in Phang-Nga.
Try & Taste: A selection of coffees and teas from various regions, such as Thai-style coffee from Kopi Kuapa and organic tea from Sawanbondin.
Showcase: Unveils secrets: Legends and traditions behind local crafts like those from Morgan Village and Batik from Takuapa.
Local Products: Presents authentic local dishes and fresh fruits.
Unleash: Introduces do-it-yourself activities on batik painting or beadwork workshops.
Reflecting TTM’s overarching theme, the half-day pre-tours presented hidden gems of Phang-Nga. At the same time, the post-tours will allow participants to visit other parts of Thailand, such as Phuket, Krabi and Ko Samui in the south and Chiang Mai and Lamphun in the north.
Zero waste landfill initiative
TAT continues to prioritise the effort to minimise the environmental impact of waste generated at travel events. Actions at TTM include sorting waste into organic, recyclable, and general waste categories and sending it to appropriate destinations for further management. This is aimed at helping reduce waste sent to local landfills, following the Zero Landfills concept in the “Reduce World Mess: Zero Landfills” activity.
SYDNEY, 6 June 2024: The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) continues to engage with the Federal Government to support travel businesses in rebuilding their workforces, with a submission to ensure key travel occupations are eligible for skilled migration.
ATIA’s submission to Jobs and Skills Australia urges the government to ensure Travel Consultants, Travel Agency Managers, and Tour Guides are on the Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL).
ATIA’s submission is backed by data and evidence in relation to shortages, current demand, and future demand, including results from ATIA’s Skills and Workforce Survey.
With enrolments in travel-related traineeships dropping by over 80%, this is a vital avenue to ensure travel businesses have access to the skilled workers they need to succeed and support travelling Australians.
ATIA Director of Public Policy and Advocacy Ingred Fraser explains: “ATIA welcome the opportunity to engage in relation to Australia’s migration strategy. Travel businesses have worked hard to support new entrants to the industry, including via traineeships and pursuing new and creative initiatives to attract and retain workers. However, skills shortages are significant, demand is high, and the future pipeline of skilled workers remains limited.
“In this environment, ATIA supports the occupations of Travel Consultants, Travel Agency Managers, and Tour Guides being on the CSOL.”
“Access to skilled migrants, as an option where local workers are not available, is vital in ensuring the travel industry has the workforce it needs to support travelling Australians. It is also vital in enhancing the quality and tour services offered, benefiting Australia’s overall travel and tourism industry.
KUALA LUMPUR, 6 June 2024: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents supports Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail’s recent announcement regarding the expansion of the autogate facility for immigration clearance to travellers from 36 additional countries.
The initiative, which launched on 1 June, marks a significant step towards Malaysia’s goal of becoming a more accessible and attractive destination.
This expansion follows the success of the autogate facility, which was previously available to travellers from 10 countries. Among the new countries included are nationals of the European Union, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, China, Canada, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.
“This is a very welcome move by the government,” stated MATTA President Nigel Wong. “Including these 36 countries in the autogate facility will not only improve efficiency at our entry points but will also elevate the image of Malaysia as an accessible, friendly, and attractive tourist destination”.
The autogate facility expansion, a top priority for both business and leisure travellers, brings a host of benefits. By reducing wait times and streamlining the immigration process, it significantly enhances the overall travel experience. The increased efficiency will benefit all travellers, from tourists to business delegates, fostering a more positive perception of Malaysia on the global stage.
With 40 million travellers entering Malaysia between 1 January last year and April this year, primarily through KLIA Terminals 1 and 2 and entry points in Johor Baru, the demand for efficient immigration processing has never been higher. MATTA believes this initiative will be crucial in accommodating the growing number of international visitors. It anticipates that the expanded autogate facility will significantly contribute to the appeal of Malaysia as a premier tourist destination, especially in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia 2026.
As Malaysia prepares to welcome more visitors from around the world, MATTA plays a pivotal role. We remain committed to supporting initiatives that enhance the travel experience and promote the country’s tourism industry. The expanded autogate facility is a testament to Malaysia’s dedication to becoming a top choice for international travellers.
SINGAPORE, 6 June 2025: China has recovered its position as the top spender on international tourism in 2023 as Asia and the Pacific consolidate recovery from the impacts of the pandemic.
In 2022, the top spenders list was headed by the US, France and Spain. The US took the top spots for most-visited destinations.
Top Tourism Spenders in 2023
Chinese expenditure on travel abroad reached USD196.5 billion in 2023, ahead of the USA (USD150 billion), Germany (USD112 billion), the UK (USD110 billion) and France (USD49 billion). The top 10 spenders for 2023 were Canada, Italy, India, the Russian Federation and the Republic of Korea. India jumped to 8th place from 14th in 2019, confirming the country’s growing importance as a source market, while Italy rose from 10th to 7th position.
Top in arrivals and receipts: France, Spain and the USA consolidate their positions.
France became the world’s most visited destination in 2023 with 100 million international tourist arrivals. Spain was second with 85 million, followed by the USA (66 million), Italy (57 million) and Türkiye, which closed the top five with 55 million international tourists.
Completing the top 10 most visited destinations in 2023 are Mexico, the United Kingdom, Germany, Greece and Austria. Compared to before the pandemic, Italy, Türkiye, Mexico, Germany and Austria all rose one position, while the United Kingdom rose from 10th to 7th and Greece from 13th to 9th.
As for international tourism receipts, the US leads the ranking, earning USD176 billion in 2023, followed by Spain (USD92 billion), the UK (USD 74 billion), France (USD 69 billion) and Italy (USD 56 billion).
Following the above, destinations earning the most from international tourism in 2023 include the United Arab Emirates, Türkiye, Australia, Canada, Japan, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Macao (China), India and Mexico, which complete the top 15 list of tourism earners.
Upward movements in the ranking among the top earners include the UK jumping to the 3rd position from 5th pre-pandemic, the United Arab Emirates from 13th to 6th, Türkiye from 12th to 7th, Canada from 15th to 9th, Saudi Arabia from 27th to 12th, and Mexico from 17th to 15th.
Croatia (from 32nd to 25th), Morocco (from 41st to 31st) and the Dominican Republic (43rd to 34th) also moved up in the Top 50 ranking by receipts in 2023, as did Qatar (from 51st to 37th) and Colombia (50th to 44th).
Looking ahead to a full recovery globally in 2024
According to the latest World Tourism Barometer, in 2023, international tourist arrivals recovered 89% of 2019 levels and 97% in Q1 2024. UN Tourism’s projection for 2024 points to a full recovery of international tourism, with arrivals growing 2% above 2019 levels, backed by strong demand, enhanced air connectivity, and the continued recovery of China and other major Asian markets.
Total export revenues from international tourism, including receipts and passenger transport, reached an estimated USD 1.7 trillion in 2023, about 96% of pre-pandemic levels in real terms. Tourism direct GDP recovered pre-pandemic levels in 2023, reaching an estimated USD 3.3 trillion, equivalent to 3% of global GDP.
