SINGAPORE, 8 January 2024: All foreign tourists must pay an IDR 150,000 International Tourism Levy (approximately USD13) when entering Bali via the airport or seaports starting on Valentine’s Day, 14 February.
Bali Sun recommends that travellers pay the fee via the Love Bali App before they travel to avoid congestion at payment counters at the ports of entry.
Payment can also be processed at designated booths in Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, with the process taking around 30 seconds per passenger. Around 2 million visitors are expected to pay the levy during 2024 based on estimated travel arrivals to Bali in 2022.
The levy will help protect Bali’s culture and nature through funding environmental conservation and waste management projects and programmes designed to preserve local culture and support artistic communities. Part of the funds will also be used to improve tourism infrastructure and facilities.
Bali Sun’s latest update advises visitors “that the most effective way for tourists to pay the fee will be online, before arrival in Bali via the Love Bali website and smartphone app”.
The daily online news channel added that “the site and application have been up and running for years but until now have largely been underused and little-known resources to tourists.
“Once tourists have downloaded the Love Bali app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store or opened up lovebali.baliprov.go.id, the next step is to enter personal details and choose the payment method. Most tourists will make a simple online card payment.
“Once paid, the tourism levy voucher will be emailed, and tourists must keep the voucher on hand on their smartphones to scan at the checkpoint at Bali Airport or seaports.”
(Source: Bali Sun, Love Bali, Wonderful Indonesia)
MANILA, 8 January 2024: The Philippines Department of Tourism has set the 2024 tourist arrival target at 7.7 million international visitors, about 500,000 short of the country’s pre-pandemic count of 8.2 million.
The Philippines News Agency quoted Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco saying: “As we look ahead to 2024, our commitment to the transformation of Philippine tourism is unwavering. Guided by our National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028, we are poised for a thriving tourism landscape, evident in surpassing our targets in international and domestic arrivals and receipts, fostering economic prosperity and further job creation for our people”.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
Earlier, the DOT confirmed the country welcomed 5,450,557 international visitors in 2023, surpassing the 4.8 million target set by the Philippines’ Department of Tourism (DOT) for the entire year.
The DOT report confirmed that 91.80% or 5,003,475 visitors were foreigners, while the remaining 447,082 were overseas Filipinos visiting the homeland.
During 2023, the country generated an estimated PHP482.54 billion in international tourism revenue, more than double the receipts it recorded in 2022.
More than a quarter (1,439,336 visitors) came from South Korea, the traditional top source market for international visitors.
The US followed with 903,299 tourists (16.57%). Japan supplied 305,580 (5.61%), Australia supplied 266,551 (4.89%), and China supplied 263,836 (4.84%).
Frasco said the 2023 visitor receipts also show that the tourism industry is “recovering faster than expected.”
The country’s 2023 international tourism receipts grew by 124.87% compared with the PHP214.58 billion estimated visitor receipts from 2022. Before the pandemic in 2019, the DOT recorded PHP482.15 billion in international tourism receipts.
HANOI, 8 January 2024: Vietnam’s tourist arrivals for 2023 peaked at 12.6 million, 3.5 times higher than recorded in 2022, the Tourism Information Technology Center reported last week.
Based on independent data compiled by the General Statistics Office, international tourist arrivals steadily increased. Each of the last six months of 2023 gained over 1 million visitor arrivals, while December peaked at 1.37 million.
Data and graph from General Statistics Office.
Korea top source market
Korea was the top source market in 2023, with nearly 3.6 million arrivals (28% of all visitors). In second place, Chinese visits reached 1.7 million. Korea and China accounted for 42% of international visitor arrivals to Vietnam. In third place, Taiwan generated 851,000 arrivals, the US 717,000 (4th); and Japan 590,000 (5th).
Thailand supplied 489,000 visitors (6th); Malaysia 470,000 (7th); Cambodia (402,000 (8th); India 392,000 (9th); Australia 390,000 (10th).
The top source markets in Europe were the UK, 253,000; France, 215,000; and Germany, 200,000.
Compared with 2019 trends, Russia and the UK dropped off the top 10 source markets list, replaced by Cambodia and India.
Some large markets showed strong recovery trends, such as the US (96%), Korea (84%), Taiwan (92%), Thailand (96%), and Indonesia (99%). Some Southeast Asian markets are even higher than levels recorded before the pandemic — Cambodia (176%); Laos (122%); Singapore (106%). In South Asia, the Indian market also had an impressive recovery (231%).
Optimistic signals also came from the main markets in Europe: Spain recovered 91%, Germany 88%, the UK 80%, and France 75%.
Traditionally, China, the top source market, performed below expectations, reaching a 30% recovery rate. Before the pandemic, the Chinese market accounted for nearly 1/3 of the total number of international visitors to Vietnam. The Russian market only reached 19% compared to 2019. Another important market, Japan, reached 62% of pre-pandemic levels.
(Source: Data compiled by General Statistics Office; Tourism Information Technology Centre.)
BANGKOK, 5 January 2024: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, continues its domestic expansion with the soft opening of Dusit Princess Phatthalung.
It’s the 15th Dusit-branded property in the kingdom and its first in the country’s deep south.
Comprising 132 spacious rooms and suites spanning up to 79 sq m, the ‘resort-in-the-city’ themed four-star hotel aims to raise the bar for leisure and business stays in Phatthalung, an up-and-coming southern destination known for its rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, just a one-hour drive from Trang Airport and a one-hour and forty-minute drive from Hat Yai International Airport.
Thoughtfully designed to reflect its stunning natural surroundings and the intricate woven cattail handicrafts – known locally as Krajood – for which the area is famed, Dusit Princess Phatthalung offers a serene inner-city oasis and a wide range of family-friendly facilities.
They include a large, sculptured swimming pool with adjoining children’s pool and open spaces for Yoga and Muay Thai classes, nature-inspired activities, and regular events showcasing the handiwork of local artisans. A state-of-the-art ballroom accommodating up to 300 guests ensures the resort can cater to small and large-scale gatherings.
The resort also features a speciality restaurant, Chi Chiao, which celebrates local culinary traditions with refined interpretations of Thai-Chinese street food classics. Pan-fried rice noodles with crispy sea bass in gravy, Classic honey marinade char siu pork, Hainanese chicken rice, and Clay pot pork ribs bak kut are some of the delicious options. Meanwhile, Dusit’s signature Dusit Gourmet serves premium teas and coffee, invigorating juices and smoothies, fresh-baked treats, and an array of international favourites in a cosy setting overlooking the resort’s pond. Both dining venues spotlight locally sourced ingredients, including organic sangyod brown rice from nearby farms.
Rich with culture, Phatthalung is regarded as the birthplace of Nang Talung shadow-puppet plays and Nora, a lively and acrobatic form of dance theatre. The tranquil city is also home to numerous ancient monuments and temples and a unique natural landmark – Khao Ok Talu – a distinctive limestone rock formation whose summit offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Among the local gems is the renowned Tai Nod Green Market, a weekend retreat adorned with charming bamboo stalls presenting diverse local delights, from savoury curries and soups to fresh fruits and time-honoured desserts steeped in tradition. The daily Train Station Night Market, with over 200 stalls offering clothing, traditional crafts, and regional delicacies, adds to the city’s vibrancy. Chalerm Phra Kiat Bridge, Thailand’s longest bridge spanning the Wang Tanot River, stands as another notable attraction, providing stunning wetland vistas.
Guests of Dusit Princess Phatthalung also have convenient access to natural wonders such as the expansive Thale Noi Bird Sanctuary, the largest of its kind in Thailand, and Khao Pu-Khao Ya National Park, both just a 40-minute drive away.
“Southern Thailand’s expanding infrastructure, coupled with the emergence of new tourist attractions and business hubs, presents a timely opportunity for Dusit to expand its footprint in the region and introduce our guests to the natural, culinary, and cultural wonders of Phatthalung,” said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “Alongside welcoming guests with our signature brand of gracious hospitality and wide range of premium facilities, we look forward to positioning the resort as the top choice for unique corporate gatherings and memorable family getaways and actively engaging with the local community to support Phatthalung’s growth and contribute to the overall development of this beautiful destination in the exciting months and years ahead.”
To celebrate its opening, Dusit Princess Phatthalung is offering a special room package starting at TBH1,500 ++ (TBH1,766 net) per night for a superior room with breakfast for two, complimentary late check-out until 1500, and a 20% discount on dining at Chi Chiao Restaurant. This offer is valid until 31 January 2024.
Dusit’s property portfolio spans 19 countries and comprises 56 hotels operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and approximately 240 luxury villas under Elite Havens. More than 60 Dusit Hotels and Resorts are in the pipeline worldwide.
Photo credit Google Maps. Phatthalung province, South Thailand.
SINGAPORE, 5 January 2024: River cruise specialist Pandaw is releasing some additional staterooms for a unique combo exploration across India during April 2024.
Sailing far beyond any passenger craft up the Brahmaputra River to Dibrugarh, the first leg of this special combo will be an in-depth discovery adventure of the Brahmaputra. After flying to Kolkata, our journey will continue down into the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, before sailing through West Bengal along the Hooghly River, ending in Kolkata.
This one-time combo expedition departing this April has limited availability and will not be repeated. The cruise takes guests further up the mighty Brahmaputra than previously offered before embarking on a 10-night Sundarbans and Hooghly expedition highlighting the vast mangrove forest.
The Full Brahmaputra & Sundarbans and Lower Ganges GUWAHATI – KOLKATA 21 nights FROM US$ 15,180 PP
BACKGROUNDER
The Brahmaputra River is a majestic waterway coursing through India and Bangladesh, offering a wealth of attractions for diverse interests. According to the latest findings, the Brahmaputra River’s total and official length is 3,969 km (2,466 mi) from its source in Tibet, China, to its confluence with the Meghna River in Bangladesh.
Exploring nature
Kaziranga National Park: Embark on a jeep safari or elephant ride through this famed wildlife sanctuary, spotting one-horned rhinos, Asian elephants, tigers, and diverse birdlife.
Majuli Island: Explore the world’s largest river island, home to indigenous Mishing communities, vibrant festivals, and serene landscapes.
Brahmaputra River Heritage Centre: The centre presents the rich history and cultural significance of the river through exhibits, artefacts, and interactive displays.
Cultural attractions
Kamakhya Temple: Visit this ancient Hindu temple perched atop Nilachal Hill, dedicated to the powerful Goddess Kamakhya. Be prepared for vibrant rituals and a bustling atmosphere.
Assam Silk Weaving: witness the delicate art of silk weaving in villages along the riverbank and marvel at the exquisite silk garments and handicrafts.
Monasteries and Temples: Explore diverse religious sites like Ahom-era Sivadol (temple), and Tai Phake villages with their distinctive bamboo houses and unique Buddhist traditions.
Festivals: Participate in vibrant festivals like Bihu (Assamese harvest festival) and Durga Puja, experiencing traditional music, dance, and delectable local cuisine.
BANGKOK, 5 January 2024: Time is fast running out to book a special Festive Escapes deal at hotels in Osaka, Japan and the Maldives under the banner of Centara Hotels & Resorts.
Three of Centara’s hotels — one in Osaka, Japan, and two in the Maldives — offer festive season deals. The booking and stay period at the Osaka property ends on 29 February. The booking deadline for the two resorts in the Maldives is 10 January, but the stay period extends to 31 October 2024.
A leading hotel operator headquartered in Thailand invites travellers worldwide to celebrate the festive season at three of its most dazzling overseas properties with spectacular holiday offers for a limited time only.
In addition to a 25% discount on flexible room rates at the Centara Grand Hotel Osaka and 50% off member rates with half-board meal plans at Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives or the adults-only Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, Centara presents an array of additional privileges for guests to enjoy at each destination.
Centara Grand Hotel Osaka beckons with its enchanting “The Magic of Osaka: Exclusive New Year” offer with an exceptional 25% discount on Flexible room rates when booking a room only or a room with breakfast for stays up to 29 February 2024. Located in the heart of Namba, the city’s vibrant shopping and entertainment district, Centara’s stunning debut hotel in Japan is also offering JP5000 in food and drink credit for one or JPY10,000 for two persons per stay, plus 25% off rejuvenating treatments at SPA Cenvaree and a complimentary welcome drink for two at Smoke & Spin rooftop bar.
Bookings can be made online via the official website until 29 February 2024.
Centara Grand Island Resort & Centara Ras Fushi Resort:Festive Paradise
For unparalleled holiday bliss, Centara welcomes its loyalty members to explore the natural wonders and adventures of Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives or unwind at the stunning adults-only Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives with a captivating 50% discount on member rates with Half Board Plus meal plans. Including daily breakfast and a dinner buffet or set menu accompanied by two beverages, guests can also enhance their experience by upgrading to all-inclusive meal plan options during booking. Additional perks include a 25% discount on hotel transfers and the opportunity to earn triple CentaraThe1 points with every stay.
Bookings are open via the official website for the “Festive Paradise: Exclusive Maldives Offer” until 10 January 2024 for stays until 31 October 2024. For bookings or more information, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com/ and seize the opportunity to create unforgettable memories with Centara Hotels & Resorts.
KUALA LUMPUR, 5 January 2024: Travel booking platform airasia MOVE partners with international payment brand UnionPay to extend great customer rewards and benefits.
The partnership was sealed between AirAsia rewards head Nicole Tan and UnionPay International Southeast Asia assistant general manager David Chong.
From Left: Nicole Tan, Head of airasia rewards, and David Chong, Assistant General Manager, UnionPay International Southeast Asia.
Through the collaboration, airasia MOVE members, who spend MYR300 or more with their UnionPay cards on flights, hotels, or SNAP (flight plus hotel bundle), gain an upgrade to Platinum membership on their airasia rewards account, on top of free airport transfers* on airasia ride to and from any airport across Malaysia, as well as Bangkok, Thailand and Bali, Indonesia.
This special deal runs until 30 November 2024 and is applicable to airasia MOVE and UnionPay customers based in any country in Southeast Asia.
Airasia rewards head Nicole Tan said: ” We are happy to offer UnionPay cardholders airasia MOVE’s best value flights, hotels and other offerings with top-tiered benefits that will suit all their travel needs. We believe this will add value to both UnionPay cardholders and our members alike, bringing us closer to our vision of making AirAsia rewards a loyalty programme platform with the best value and widest array of offerings.”
SINGAPORE, 5 January 2024: Changi Airport Group (CAG) has launched a Grand Draw for its latest campaign, “Shall We Just Go?”, encouraging travellers to embrace spontaneity in travel with Changi Airport.
The 12-week campaign has already seen 40,000 entries, with participants vying to win a spontaneous holiday to one of six mystery destinations — Cebu, Ho Chi Minh City, Jeju, Penang, Phnom Penh and Surabaya.
Twelve winners walked away with return air tickets for two persons and SGD500 Trip.com accommodation vouchers for a token sum of SGD1. The only catch — they had to travel within the next 30 days.
Encouraged by the response to the campaign, CAG is extending the campaign by launching a Grand Draw, giving travellers another chance to win a spontaneous vacation to any of the six destinations.
Two lucky winners will be drawn, with one of them being a Trust Bank Singapore customer. Each will win a pair of return economy class air tickets and SGD500 Trip.com accommodation vouchers. All participants who have previously joined the campaign will be automatically enrolled in this Grand Draw. The Grand Draw is open to all Singapore residents.
One more chance for a free holiday
Participants who have yet to register for the campaign so far can drop their names into the Grand Draw pot on the “‘Shall We Just Go?” campaign website (https://changi.me/justgo) from now till 16 January 2024 for one more chance at winning a free holiday.
The winners will get to choose their holiday destination from the six destinations – Cebu, Ho Chi Minh City, Jeju, Penang, Phnom Penh and Surabaya.
All participants who have previously joined the campaign will be automatically enrolled in this Grand Draw. They can get an additional chance at the prizes by enrolling for the Grand Draw. Winners of the Grand Draw will be notified on 17 January 2024.
The “Shall We Just Go?” campaign is supported by Trip.com and Trust Bank, Cambodia Airways, Cebu Pacific, Firefly, Garuda and Scoot.
HONG KONG, 5 January 2024: Passenger traffic at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) during Christmas 2023 recovered to 80% of the pre-pandemic level, in line with Airport Authority Hong Kong’s forecast.
During the Christmas holiday travel peak, the airport consecutively handled more than 160,000 passengers daily on 22 and 23 December. The 164,000 passengers handled on 23 December is a new daily record after the pandemic.
Flight movements have exceeded 80% of the pre-pandemic level since mid-December. A new post-pandemic record of 1,034 daily flight movements was recorded on 23 December. Passenger traffic at HKIA is expected to fully recover to the pre-pandemic level by the end of 2024.
KUALA LUMPUR, 5 January 2023: Malaysia Airlines and Firefly are the early birds with special one-way economy fares capped at MYR599* for flights departing Kuala Lumpur (MH flights) and Penang (Firefly) to Sabah and Sarawak for all festive holidays scheduled in 2024.
The fares kicked in on 1 January 2024 following the country’s Ministry of Transport’s recommendation that low fares should be offered during holidays to boost domestic tourism.
Photo credit: Malaysia Airlines.
The capped fares are applicable from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) for travel to Kota Kinabalu (BKI), Tawau (TWU), Sandakan (SDK), Labuan (LBU), Kuching (KCH), Miri (MYY), Sibu (SBW), and Bintulu (BTU) via Malaysia Airlines, and between Penang (PEN) to BKI and KCH via Firefly.
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) airlines chief commercial officer Dersenish Aresandiran said: “We appreciate the government’s support in subsidising fares to ensure travellers can reunite with their loved ones. In line with this commitment, we will strive to provide a superior travel experience tailored to meet the needs and preferences of our passengers on their journey back home.”
Specified dates for holiday fares during 2024**
Chinese New Year 7, 8, 9 February 2024
Hari Raya Aidilfitri 7, 8, 9 April 2024
Kaamatan & Gawai 27, 28, 29 May 2024 (to Sabah/Labuan) 29, 30, 31 May 2024 (to Sarawak)
Christmas 22, 23, 24 December 2024 **Subject to change
In addition to the subsidised festive fares, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly will offer special fares, 9 to 22 January 2024, starting from just MYR79 all-in one-way to domestic destinations and from MYR219 all-in one-way to international destinations for travel starting from 9 January to 30 November 2024.
Travellers can also take advantage of Firefly’s promotion during the same period, starting from just MYR69 for travel beginning 9 January to 30 June 2024. The promotion applies to all Firefly-operated routes, including those operated by its Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
