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MICE City of Busan Confirmed as Host for World Congress on Computational Mechanics 2028

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TTR WEEKLY
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BUSAN, 23 September 2024: Busan will host the World Congress on Computational Mechanics (WCCM), 2028, a major international academic conference that will bring together over 3,000 experts in computational mechanics from around the world. 

ⓒBusan Tourism Organization

WCCM is a biennial conference organized by the International Association for Computational Mechanics. It serves as a platform for sharing the latest research and innovations in computational solid mechanics and computational fluid dynamics through discussions and lectures. WCCM 2028 will take place at Busan’s BEXCO from July 16 to July 21, 2028. The six-day event is expected to attract more than 3,000 attendees from around the world. 

Busan’s Efforts to Land WCCM 2028

ⓒBusan Tourism Organization

Last year, following the joint marketing efforts of the Busan Tourism Organization and BEXCO, and after internal discussions within the Korean Society for Computational Mechanics, Busan was selected as a candidate city to host WCCM 2028. Since then, the WCCM 2028 Bid Committee, composed of prominent experts in the field, worked diligently both in Korea and abroad to bring the event to Busan. Their efforts finally bore fruit. This March, during the on-site inspection, Busan showcased its excellent infrastructure and growth potential. As a result, in July, Busan was selected as the final host city for WCCM 2028, beating out other candidate cities such as Shanghai and Singapore.

A MICE City Ready for the WCCM

ⓒBusan Tourism Organization

Behind Busan’s successful bid to host WCCM 2028 was the administrative and financial support from the city government and the Busan Tourism Organization. In January, Busan emphasized its commitment to future digital technology by designating “digital tech” as one of its nine strategic industries, leveraging the city’s unique regional characteristics. This highlighted the city’s deep understanding of the importance of computational mechanics. In alignment with Busan’s strategic industries, such as AI and smart cities, the city spared no effort in supporting its bid for WCCM 2028, laying the foundation for its success.

The successful bid for WCCM 2028 is particularly meaningful as it was achieved through the combined efforts of both the public and private sectors. The event is expected to generate an economic impact of KRW 13.8 billion and create over 100 jobs. In addition, the international technological exchanges that will take place during the congress are expected to play a major role in advancing the field of computational mechanics in Korea. The latest WCCM research and technologies have the potential to contribute to ship and aircraft designs, quantum computing, urban infrastructure optimization, and disaster prediction and response. These innovations are likely to positively influence the development of a diverse range of industries, including Busan’s strategic industries.

On to the Next Stage for WCCM 2028

ⓒBusan Tourism Organization

Busan was officially designated as the host city for 2028 at WCCM 2024, which was held in Vancouver, Canada. The Busan Tourism Organization will attend WCCM 2026 in Munich, Germany to further promote Busan as a premier MICE destination. Having passed the bid stage, Busan has entered the next phase of preparations to successfully host the WCCM in 2028. There is already growing anticipation for the computational mechanics festival that will blossom in Busan in four short years.

For more information on Busan visit:

https://www.busanmice.or.kr/en/board/post/lib/view.do?bcIdx=507&mid=0403020000&&idx=103977

HK Express to fly to Sendai

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 23 September 2024: HK Express Airways will launch a new route linking Hong Kong with Sendai (SDJ), Japan, on 17 January 2025, with four direct weekly flights. 

Sendai marks HK Express’s second new destination in Japan this year, following Hiroshima.  

To celebrate the new route, HK Express offers a roundtrip fare as low as HKD576 (‘Essential’ fare includes one small personal item and 20kg checked baggage). 

Travel is valid from 17 January 2025 to 29 March 2025. The booking window opened on 20 September 2024 and closes at 2359 on 24 September 2024. 

In Japan’s Tohoku (northeast) region, Sendai blends natural splendour with a rich historical culture. Hailed as the “City of Trees,” Sendai impresses travellers with scenic avenues lined with zelkova trees and the breathtaking Hirose River. 

Sendai is known as an academic city, but it is also famous for its lively festivals and music events, with the annual Sendai Tanabata Festival and the Johzenji Street Jazz Festival attracting thousands of visitors each year. At the Sendai City Museum, visitors can learn about the legendary Date Masamune, known as the “One-Eyed Dragon”, and admire his pure black armour. Travellers can enjoy sightseeing bus tours to explore key attractions such as Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, Aoba Castle and its historic remains. 

Amazing Thailand lights up Nihao Month

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TTR WEEKLY
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Bangkok, 20 September 2024: The “Amazing Thailand, Mid-Autumn Night” event at Siam Paragon shopping complex shined a spotlight on the months-long “Nihao Month” to celebrate the upcoming 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China in 2025.

Presenting Thailand and China at the evening event included, Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, Mr. Wu Zhiwu, Minister at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Kingdom of Thailand, and Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The event featured impressive cultural shows celebrating Thailand-China cultural ties, a much-hyped appearance by famous Chinese actor Luo Yunxi, and special performances by popular Thai stars DaOu Pittaya Sae-chow and Mai Davika Hoorne.

Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, said “Stimulating the international market is one of the key approaches to reviving tourism revenue, particularly the Chinese tourist market. Today’s event celebrates the time-honoured tradition of the Mid-Autumn Festival and strengthens cultural and tourism ties between Thailand and China. The event will indeed help pave the way for mutually beneficial tourism cooperation between two countries in the next decade and beyond.”

Mr. Wu Zhiwu, Minister at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Kingdom of Thailand, said “The Mid-Autumn Festival symbolises people coming together. The joint organisation of the “Amazing Thailand, Mid-Autumn Night” event between China and Thailand allows both nations to celebrate together as one close and warm family. This reflects the long-standing close relationship between the people of both countries.”

“Amazing Thailand Mid-Autumn Night” lights up “Nihao Month” campaign

The “Amazing Thailand, Mid-Autumn Night” marked a grand welcome for 102 Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) from China to experience Thailand’s charms and ‘Five Must-Do’ activities in tailor-made routes up and down the kingdom. Also enjoying the special evening were 520 lucky winners from TAT’s social media activity.

Chinese heartthrob Luo Yunxi, much to the delight of the audience, made a special appearance and joined a mooncake-making session with Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, and Chef Chumpol Jangprai, Thailand Iron Chef. The multi-talented actor also shared his views on Thai tourism in a special talk with the TAT Governor.

“Amazing Thailand Mid-Autumn Night” lights up “Nihao Month” campaign

Two of Thailand’s popular stars, DaOu Pittaya Sae-chow and Mai Davika Hoorne, also wowed the audience with dazzling performances. Adding to the fun atmosphere were Chinese cultural workshops, including Chinese paper lanterns, DIY crafts, and calligraphy, as well as Thai crafts workshops on weaving, traditional jewellery, and Thai herbal inhalers.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “Through content shared with followers of the participating KOLs via various online platforms in China, we hope the special activities at the “Amazing Thailand, Mid-Autumn Night” will further promote Thailand as a cultural tourism destination for Chinese tourists.”

The “Amazing Thailand, Mid-Autumn Night” event formed part of a series of special events and promotions scheduled between this month and the next leading up to the year-long celebration to mark the 50th Anniversary of Thailand-China relations in 2025.

Other activities include various joint promotions between TAT and China’s leading travel platforms between this month and December, the Chinese Passport Special Deals from now until the end of next month, and two Thailand-China friendship caravan trips scheduled between this month and the next.

TAT has set a target for the Nihao Month festival to materialise into 250,000 arrivals from China during the upcoming Golden Week. Special events and promotions would help generate about 500 million reaches and further enhance the positive image of Thailand as the preferred destination for Chinese tourists.

From 1 January to 8 September 2024, Thailand welcomed 4,895,707 tourists from China, maintaining its position as the country’s top source of international visitors. This success is bolstered by a significant increase in flight capacity, with 8,588,274 seats available in 2024 – a 65% jump from the previous year, and the mutual visa exemption policy by the two countries.

Along with other key supporting factors such as the growth of new high-quality tourist groups, and TAT’s promotional activities like the “Amazing Thailand Road Show to China, Thailand is optimistic about reaching its ambitious target of 7.3 million Chinese visitors in 2024.

Doors open at Best Western Adelaide Airport

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 20 September 2024: BWH Hotels opens its doors at the Best Western Adelaide Airport this week, bringing its legacy brand to South Australia’s capital.

Situated directly across from Adelaide Airport and a short drive from Adelaide city centre, the newly renovated Best Western Adelaide Airport has been transformed into a contemporary airport accommodation. 

Offering a modern and affordable stay with accessibility to the airport and seaside surrounds, the property caters to business travellers, transit passengers, and families.

The hotel features guestrooms intricately designed for maximum comfort, showcasing underfloor heating systems, double-glazed windows, and soundproof doors to ensure a restful night’s sleep. The property includes a restaurant and bar, EV charging facilities, airport shuttle service and other convenient amenities tailored to meet the needs of all guests, including families and groups. The hotel’s strategic location and exceptional facilities promise to deliver a comfortable and convenient stay.

“Best Western is the very essence of midscale hospitality, intertwining affordability with comfort and convenience in a contemporary spirit,” said BWH Hotels Managing Director Rod Munro. “We are thrilled to welcome Best Western Adelaide Airport into our portfolio of hotels, marking a significant milestone in BWH’s expansion in South Australia.”

Working in partnership with Across Australia Parks and Resorts Pty Ltd (AAPR), the duo worked to rebrand and launch the prominent hotel brand Best Western in South Australia. AAPR’s directors have extensive experience owning and operating some of the biggest and busiest holiday parks across Australia as they continue their growth in the accommodation sector. 

Across Australia Parks and Resorts Pty Ltd. (AAPR) Director Andrew Chapman commented: “Today’s launch celebrates a significant achievement for AAPR as we open our second accommodation in South Australia and continue our expansion into the hotel accommodation segment. We were eager to rebrand and launch the Best Western hotel to the Adelaide market as we saw great opportunities aligning with the BWH brand.” 

Located near some of South Australia’s prime attractions and beautiful beaches like West Beach, Henley Beach, and Glenelg, Best Western Adelaide Airport serves as a gateway to the state’s rich offerings. From beach activities to exploring local shopping and dining precincts like Harbour Town and Henley Square, the location is what sets it apart.

The hotel’s strategic location and exceptional facilities promise to deliver an outstanding guest experience, in line with BWH’s iconic Best Western brand, which has delivered extraordinary value with contemporary style and comfort for over seven decades. Best Western Adelaide Airport marks BWH’s third property in South Australia, alongside the Stamford Plaza Adelaide Hotel and the Stamford Grand Adelaide Hotel.

Book your stay at Best Western Adelaide Airport: airportmoteladelaide.com.au

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality network comprised of three hotel brands, including WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts and SureStay Hotels. The global network boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide.

TAT travels to Indonesia for roadshow

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 20 September 2024: The Tourism Authority of Thailand rolls out the  “Amazing Thailand Road Show to Indonesia 2024” touring three Indonesian cities – Medan, Jakarta, and Denpasar, Bali – to enhance Thailand’s position as the preferred destination for Indonesian travellers.

TAT Jakarta Office director Sirinard Chatsupakul said: “The Amazing Thailand Road Show to Indonesia 2024 is an important business-to-business marketplace for TAT and Thai tourism suppliers to meet with our Indonesian tourism partners. The event showcased a multitude of exceptional travel experiences in Thailand and encouraged Indonesians to travel to more destinations up and down the kingdom.”

The roadshow began on 17 September in Medan and travelled to Jakarta the following day, concluding in Bali on Friday, 20 September.

B2B sessions with Indonesian travel agents.

A Thai delegation of 18 tourism suppliers covering hotels, airlines, local tour operators, attractions, and golf courses joined the roadshow. They met more than 100 Indonesian travel agents from the three cities for B2B networking sessions, a Thailand product update and a banquet with lucky draws.

The programme presented TAT’s “Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End” marketing communication theme, underscoring the concept of ‘Five-Must Do’ experiences in Thailand.  

These include Must Taste – savour the iconic and diverse flavours of Thai cuisine; Must Try – engage with the traditional culture and local experiences; Must Buy – discover unique Thai Fashion and locally crafted products; Must Seek – explore Thailand’s new and hidden gems destinations; and Must See – experience the energy of Thailand through its festivals.

The presentations covered destinations and routings carefully selected for the Indonesian market by the TAT and tourism partners. They included Bangkok and Beyond, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Phang-Nga, Krabi, Hat Yai and its surrounding areas, and Ko Samui.

The Indonesian market to Thailand has shown promising growth over the past year. In 2023, the number of Indonesian tourists to Thailand totalled 760,938. In the first eight months of 2024, the number reached 570,386, and by the end of the year, it is expected to hit the 900,000-mark.

The expectation is based on TAT’s proactive marketing activities in the market and favourable factors, including Indonesia’s robust economy, which has driven strong demand for outbound travel among Indonesians and the rebound of air connections between Thailand and Indonesia.

SAii Koh Samui goes adults only

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK 20 September 2024: SAii Resorts, the lifestyle brand from S Hotels and Resorts PCL, will rename SAii Koh Samui Choengmon to SAii Koh Samui Villas effective 1 December 2024.

SAii Koh Samui Villas on a secluded beach is a short commute from Chaweng Beach, the iconic Big Buddha Temple, and key transport hubs such as Samui International Airport and Bangrak Pier (leading to Koh Phangan).

The 52 SAii Koh Samui pool villa resort has been repositioned as an adults-only resort with the property’s SAii Spa the signature attraction.

Special rates are available for those who book early. Rates start from THB5,200++ / night, which includes breakfast for two people daily. SAii Resorts is the lifestyle brand of S Hotels and Resorts PCL, a global hospitality company owned by Singha Estate PCL.

BWH Hotels appoints regional team leader

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TTR WEEKLY
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SYDNEY, 20 September 2024: BWH Hotels named Harry Dong the new President and CEO of BWH Hotels China (Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan), Mongolia, and Nepal earlier this week 

Harry Dong, New President and CEO of BWH Hotels China.

Dong has been with BWH for over 16 years, previously managing procurement, quality analysis, and project development for property hotels in this region. 

With 10 hotels in the region and a growing pipeline of properties, Dong will be responsible for the development strategy for new properties and supporting the already established hotels in his region. The BWH Hotels fast-growing portfolio includes 19 brands across the entire chain scale segment, all with development opportunities in China. 

“I am excited for Harry to take the leadership role for BWH Hotels China. His experience and knowledge will be tremendously helpful as we continue to grow in this region. I look forward to supporting him as we work together to leverage the power of the BWH Hotels global distribution system, loyalty program, and quality assurance,” commented Ron Pohl, President of WorldHotels and International Operations for BWH Hotels. 

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies: WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels. The enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide. With 19 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. To learn more visit: bestwestern.com

AirAsia operates dual hubs in Bangkok

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 20 September 2024: Thai AirAsia (FD) reaffirms it will continue to offer passengers flying domestic routes to and from Bangkok the option to travel via Bangkok’s two international gateway airports, Don Mueang (DMK) and Suvarnabhumi (BKK). 

Previously the airline operated all of its flights from Don Mueang. To promote the BKK option passengers who opt to fly from Suvarnabhumi to Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi and Hat Yai can grab promotional fares from only THB990  one way. Promotion runs until 6 October 2024 for travel from 1 July to 30 September 2025 via the AirAsia MOVE app and airasia.com.

AirAsia reaffirms domestic flights from two Bangkok hubs — DMK and BKK.

Thai AirAsia Head of Commercial Tansita Akraritpirom said: “AirAsia is a leader in the domestic flight market in Thailand with its extensive network and convenient services from both Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports. Since September, the carrier has been operating four routes out of Suvarnabhumi Airport, flying to Chiang Mai (five daily), Phuket (three daily), Krabi (daily) and Hat Yai (daily) to meet strong and growing demand. The four routes we currently serve saw an average load factor of 95% in the first eight months of this year.”

Thai AirAsia currently operates 34 domestic routes, totalling 113 flights a day, from the four flight bases of Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, Chiang Mai and Phuket airports.

In another development, Thai AirAsia X (XJ) will begin flying direct to Seoul, Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, Nagoya and Shanghai from Don Mueang Airport starting 1 October.

WTTC finalises line-up of summit speakers

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 20 September 2024: The World Travel and Tourism (WTTC) announced Thursday its full line-up of speakers and VIPs for its 24th Global Summit, to be hosted in Perth, Western Australia, from 8 to 10 October.  

The 68th US Secretary of State, John Kerry and conservationist and TV personality Robert Irwin are taking centre stage.

During a so-called ‘fireside chat’ with WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson, Secretary Kerry will share insights into navigating the international political landscape, forging strong alliances, and facilitating international cooperation for a more resilient and sustainable future.

Son of the legendary Steve Irwin, Robert will share unforgettable stories from his adventures in the wild, and how Travel & Tourism can play a vital role in creating a future where nature is enjoyed while being protected and celebrated.

Under the theme “Ancient Land: New Perspectives,” this year’s Global Summit will spotlight Australia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, emphasising its innovation and sustainable growth.

The global tourism body has also announced that, alongside Simpson and WTTC Chair Greg O’Hara, the Hon. Roger Cook MLA, Premier of Western Australia, will open the Global Summit on 9 October.

Notable speakers include Di Bain, Chair, Tourism Western Australia; Audrey Hendley, President, American Express Travel; Matt Goldberg, President & Group CEO, Tripadvisor; Jane Sun, Group CEO, Trip.com; Frank Marini, President & CEO, Railbookers Group; Jason Waters, CEO, Perth Airport; Kelly Craighead, President & CEO, CLIA; Francis Gatare, CEO, Rwanda Development Board; Christie Travers-Smith, Head of Retail and Travel EMEA Partnerships, Google, and many other business leaders from around the world.

Official government delegations representing more than 25 countries will attend, with delegations from several G20 economies, including Argentina, Australia, China, Mexico, South Africa, and the US.

Delegations from other major economies, including Nigeria, Peru, the Philippines, Thailand, and the UAE, will also participate, and the Deputy Prime Ministers of the Bahamas and Fiji will also attend.

A new addition to WTTC’s Global Summit, the Investors’ Nest will see university students worldwide pitch their ideas for sustainable tourism to Travel and tourism investors in a Shark Tank-style format. The winner will be announced at the end of the Global Summit.

British Airways resumes Tbilisi flights

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 20 September 2024: British Airways will start direct flights to Georgian capital of Tbilisi from its London Heathrow hub initially offering four weekly during the summer timetable effective 30 March 2025.

Return flights start from UKP275, with two-night British Airways holiday packages from UKP369pp.

Located at the crossroads where Europe meets Asia, Georgia is known for its rich history, culture, traditional cuisine, and picturesque scenery. The country proudly claims to be the birthplace of wine, with an 8,000-year-old history of winemaking that remains a predominant part of its culture today.

Tbilisi is located on the banks of the Mtkvari River, surrounded by hills with the Caucasus Mountains to the north. The city attracts visitors looking to soak up the charm of the cobbled streets of its historic city centre, its unique blend of architecture, and diverse cuisine, which has been influenced by its history and surroundings. The canyons and caves near Kutaisi and multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites are within easy reach for avid explorers.

British Airways Chief Planning and Strategy Officer Neil Chernoff said: “We’re delighted to welcome Tbilisi back into our route network after our last scheduled service in 2013. We expect this to be a popular route with the leisure market, which has seen a strong comeback since 2019, as well as with those looking to enjoy direct flights to visit friends and family. We look forward to improving the connectivity between our two capital cities next year.”

Holiday packages from British Airways Holidays offer two nights at the Moxy Tbilisi from UKP369pp on a room-only basis, travelling between May and July 2025 inclusive. Includes Euro Traveller (economy) return flights from London Heathrow and one 23kg checked bag per person. Book by 29 September 2024

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