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Marriott reaches a China milestone

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 19 June 2023: Marriott International has announced the opening of its 500th hotel in Greater China – Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

The company plans to bolster its strong position in Greater China, with 47 hotels due to open in China in 2023 – adding close to 13,000 guestrooms to the portfolio.

Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

Situated in the southwest of China, Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, boasts 87 private villas within a nature reserve, offering immersive experiences that showcase the heritage, culture, and natural splendour of Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a World Biosphere Reserve.

“Reaching our 500th hotel in Greater China is a noteworthy accomplishment. It is a testament to the trust placed in Marriott by our owners, franchisees, and guests,” said Marriott International president Greater China Yibing Mao. “With nearly 190 hotels planned to open in the region in the next three years, we look forward to further growing our footprint in lockstep with our guests’ evolving needs and preferences in this robust market.”

Marriott has a diverse portfolio of 31 brands. Covering over 30 key leisure destinations with nearly 70 resort properties in the region, the company expects to strengthen its presence in leisure destinations with first-time entries and brand debuts in new markets across its well-established labels in the next few years, including Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, Marriott Hotels, Four Points by Sheraton, and Fairfield by Marriott.

Looking ahead, The Ritz-Carlton brand is expected to expand to include more destinations, such as openings in Suzhou and Wuhan in 2025. The St Regis brand also anticipates extending its iconic exquisite lifestyle, timeless tradition, and signature services to visitors and locals alike, including in Shenzhen in 2025, setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in the Silicon Valley of China.

Busan’s A-Z Guideline for Sustainable MICE

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TTR WEEKLY
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BUSAN, 19 June 2023: The sustainable management strategy for businesses, known as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) management, is spreading throughout the MICE industry. Along with the infrastructure, costs, and service levels, the application of ESG is gaining prominence as a key consideration when selecting MICE destinations. As a result, international organizations such as the United Nations Environment Assembly and the European Union, as well as governments around the world, are providing guidelines for sustainable MICE events. In line with this trend, Busan is actively taking steps to implement and expand ESG practices in the MICE industry.

Moving Beyond Green to Sustainable MICE!

Busan MICE Sustainable Management Declaration.

Since 2020, Busan has been a leader in the implementation of environmental practices by aiming to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency through its eco-friendly MICE campaigns. In 2022, Busan took a significant step towards sustainable management by announcing a joint ESG declaration with public and private entities, including the MICE industry. The goal of Busan’s sustainable MICE approach is to prepare environmentally-responsible events, while maximizing community participation and the overall impact. Fulfilling social responsibilities during MICE events and reporting the effectiveness of ESG at MICE events are also included in these objectives.

To achieve these goals, the Busan Tourism Organization (BTO) has developed the “Sustainable MICE Guidelines for Busan” that are tailored to the realities of the Busan MICE industry. These guidelines, which can be directly utilized by event organizers, PCOs, convention centers, hotels, and other relevant parties, have been distributed to those involved in the industry since the end of last year.

MICE Guidelines for Step-by-step Sustainability Assessments and Implementation

The sustainable MICE guidelines developed by Busan, which are the first of their kind in the region, are designed to assess and implement every stage of MICE events in a sustainable manner, from the preparation and planning to the organization and operations, as well as monitoring and reporting on the ESG performance. The guidelines provide detailed examples and recommendations to assist companies that may encounter challenges in establishing the ESG strategies and goals for events, as well as assistance in preparing operational manuals. Furthermore, they are presented in a checklist format, listing the key considerations for sustainability practices tailored to those involved in events, thereby enhancing their usability. In addition, the guidelines provide detailed guidance on incorporating ESG principles into event planning and different operational stages. This includes addressing aspects such as registration and entry procedures, integrating ESG into conference and exhibition programs, as well as planning for food, beverage and accommodation services.

Busan ESG management guidelines training.

The BTO has also conducted the “Training on ESG Management Guidelines for Busan” that is targeted industry professionals based on these guidelines. A range of initiatives is being promoted to expand ESG practices in the MICE industry, such as by organizing a relay of MOU signing ceremonies for ESG management practices with nine tourism and MICE organizations.

The implementation of the “Sustainable MICE Guidelines for Busan” is expected to further vitalize the planning and operation of sustainable MICE events in Busan. Through these efforts, Busan is aiming to evolve into a MICE-centric city that is in alignment with global trends.

Follow the link for more information: https://bto.or.kr

(SOURCE: Busan Tourism Organization)

Centara benefits greet Thai Vietjet passengers

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 19 June 2023: Centara Hotels & Resorts and Thai Vietjet have joined hands to launch a marketing partnership, offering special benefits to Thai Vietjet’s passengers and Centara’s customers throughout the year.

In line with the new marketing partnership, passengers of Thai Vietjet can benefit 19% discount on Flexible and The Place To Be room rates when logging in as CentaraThe1 members and booking through Centara’s website at www.centarahotelsresorts.com/vj.

The deal applies to participating Centara hotels & resorts in Thailand, UAE, Sri Lanka, Qatar, Oman, the Maldives, Japan and Vietnam. CentaraThe1 members can enjoy a special discount code of 20% off when booking domestic and international tickets with Thai Vietjet applied at https://th.vietjetair.com/

Centara also offers Thai Vietjet’s passengers additional special perks when staying at Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne (Vietnam), including a complimentary hotel upgrade to the next upper category (subject to room availability upon check-in) and a 10% discount applied for spa treatments during their stays (for reservation in advance) when presenting Vietjet’s boarding pass upon check-in.

The partnership between Centara and the airline took to the skies with Thai Vietjet flight VZ110 from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai on 6 June 6, 2023, with a lucky draw activity for a special prize of a complimentary voucher from Centara for a two-night stay at Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne, and two round-trip complimentary tickets from Thai Vietjet presented by Pinida Pettanagul, Corporate Director of Marketing & Creative Services of Centara Hotels & Resorts and Pinyot Pibulsonggram, Director of Commercial of Thai Vietjet.

“It is our great pleasure to announce our second partnership campaign with Thai Vietjet to offer their customers an opportunity to explore exciting destinations in Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, UAE, Qatar and Oman. As we see the international travel sector continuing to grow, with further collaboration between the two companies, we look forward to welcoming more and more guests to our hotels & resorts and ensuring Centara’s signature of Thai hospitality and family value service are at the heart of every stay,” said Centara Hotels & Resorts corporate director of marketing & creative services Pinida Pettanagul.

Centara’s customers can book Thai Vietjet’s air tickets and receive a 20% off discount by redeeming a special discount code until 20 December 2023, with the travel period also expiring on 20 December (excludes public holidays, and terms apply).

The special discount code is applicable to the entire Thai Vietjet’s domestic and international flight networks, including flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Hat Yai, Krabi, Surat Thani, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Fukuoka, Osaka, Taipei, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and Phnom Penh.

For more information: www.centarahotelsresorts.com

India’s domestic passenger data recovers

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TTR WEEKLY
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DELHI, India, 19 June 2023: Passengers carried by India’s domestic airlines grew 36.10% from January to May 2023 and expanded 15.24% during May, a performance the Ministry of Civil Aviation described as impressive.

Reporting on the aviation sector’s recovery, the ministry quoted traffic data provided by domestic airlines reached an impressive milestone of 63,607,000 from January to May 2023. It represented a significant annual growth rate of 36.10% compared to January to May 2022. During that period in 2022, the passenger count reached 46,737,000.

The ministry also reported that passenger complaints decreased in May 2023 compared to May 2019. In May 2019, 746 passenger-related complaints were registered by scheduled domestic airlines compared with 556 passenger complaints in May 2023.

Commenting on the recovery data in the aviation industry, Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia said:

“The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders have played a crucial role in propelling the growth of the aviation sector and establishing India as a prominent global aviation hub. The consistent expansion of the domestic airline industry and the birth of regional airlines are strengthening our economy, connecting people throughout the nation and ensuring last-mile connectivity through the UDAN Scheme.”

Penang to host 45th IAA World Congress

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TTR WEEKLY
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PENANG Malaysia, 19 June 2023: Penang has won the bid to host the next International Advertising Association (IAA) World Congress, making it the first time the prestigious event visits Southeast Asia.

The event will be Scheduled from 6 to 8 March 2024, jointly hosted by IAA Malaysia, Penang State EXCO Office for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE) and Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).

Yeoh Soon Hin, the State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy.

An official industry networking event hosted by PETACE and PCEB was held at the Amari Spice Hotel on Thursday, 15 June, to confirm the 45th IAA World Congress would convene in Penang.

In attendance was the Honorable Yeoh Soon Hin, the State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, who commented: “With our diverse multi-faceted multi-cultural heritage and culture, Malaysia is a destination that offers much for business event visitors. Penang is proud to host the 45th IAA World Congress 2024, for it will further cement the reputation of both Penang and

 Malaysia as Southeast Asia’s most advantageous, preferable and safe Business Event destination.”

The International Advertising Association was established in 1938 and is the only global association representing all marketing and marketing communications industry spheres.

Boeing: Air travel outpaces economic growth

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TTR WEEKLY
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LE BOURGET, France, 19 June 2023: With a resurgence in international traffic and domestic air travel back to pre-pandemic levels, Boeing projects global demand at 42,595 new commercial jets by 2042 worth an estimated USD8 trillion.

Boeing released its 2023 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO), the company’s forecast of 20-year demand for commercial aircraft and services, on the eve of the Paris Air Show from 19 to 25 June.

The new CMO comes three years after the pandemic grounded most global fleets.

Key takeaways

  • Passenger traffic continues to outpace global economic growth of 2.6%.
  • The global fleet nearly doubles to 48,600 jets, expanding by 3.5% annually.
  • Airlines are replacing about half of the global fleet with new, more fuel-efficient models.

“The aviation industry has demonstrated resilience and adaptability after unprecedented disruption, with airlines responding to challenges, simplifying their fleets, improving efficiency and capitalising on resurgent demand,” said Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McMullen. “Looking to the future of air travel, our 2023 CMO reflects a further evolution of passenger traffic tied to the global growth of the middle class, investments in sustainability, continued growth for low-cost carriers and air cargo demand to serve evolving supply chains and express cargo delivery.”

Regional demand and key trends

Asia-Pacific markets represent more than 40% of global demand, with half of that total in China.

South Asia’s fleet will expand more than 7% annually, the world’s fastest rate, with India accounting for more than 90% of the region’s passenger traffic.

North America and Europe will account for about 20% of global demand.

Low-cost carriers will operate more than 40% of the single-aisle fleet in 2042, up from 10% 20 years ago.

After omitting demand for Russia and Central Asia in last year’s CMO due to uncertainty in the region, this year’s forecast covers Russia and Central Asia in the Eurasia region, which comprises about 3% of the global fleet by 2042.

Commercial Services forecasts a total served market worth USD3.8 trillion, including digital solutions that increase efficiency and reduce cost; robust demand for parts and supply chain solutions; growing maintenance and modification options; and effective training to enhance safety and support the pilot and technician pipeline.

Also, in the 20-year forecast period, Boeing anticipates demand for these models:

New single-aisle aircraft will account for more than 75% of all new deliveries, up slightly from the 2022 outlook and totalling more than 32,000 aircraft.

New widebody jets will be nearly 20% of deliveries, with more than 7,400 aircraft enabling airlines to open new markets and serve existing routes more efficiently.

(Source: Boeing)

Lifestyle hotels gaining traction

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 19 June 2023: Growing demand for one of the most successful traveller offerings in recent years – lifestyle hotels – has fuelled the accommodation comeback as global occupancy rates in Q1-2023 neared pre-Covid levels, according to FCM Consulting’s latest Global Trends Report.

Insights showed global hotel occupancy for the first quarter of the year was at 60.46%, only four percentage points below the levels of 2019.

“Corporate travellers looking to experience something unique are booking lifestyle hotels with different offerings such as lobbies that encourage interaction, green initiatives, slick technology, and well-being choices.

Newer hotel offerings such as The Clan Hotel Singapore and the upcoming The Singapore Edition are challenging the legacy style hotels,” said FCM Asia managing director Bertrand Saillet.

Q1-2023 average room rates saw all six regions surpass data for Q4-2022 by 4 to 26%, with Asia up 26%, the Middle East rising by 22%, Europe up 19%, Latin America increasing by 12%, Australia/New Zealand up 12%, and North America rising 4%.

“As China opened borders, the rebound across Asia was significant, with an increase of 26%. Room rates in Tokyo averaged USD294, Singapore at USD269, Seoul USD239 and Hong Kong at USD224, making Tokyo the most expensive city to stay in Asia,” said Saillet.

“This demand indicates that business travellers are willing to shop differently based on price and the value of service offering, creating significant supplier changes in corporate travel programs worldwide,” added Saillet.

The latest FCM Consulting quarterly report draws on global data sourced from FCM and Flight Centre Travel Group corporate booking data for travel from January to March 2023 (Q1-2023). The report uses Cirium aviation schedule data as of 24 April 2023. Airfare pricing variations exclude all taxes.

The hotel average room rate (ARR) quoted is the average booked rate using FCM and Flight Centre Travel Group corporate booking data. Variations in rates booked reflect seasonality, supply and demand, booking lead times and variations in exchange rates.

Unless otherwise stated, all fares and rates are reported in US dollars. STR hotel data and content quoted as of 26 April 2023.

For the full report, see FCM Consulting’s latest Global Trends Report.

AirAsia X adds flights to Amritsar

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TTR WEEKLY
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SEPANG, 19 June 2023: AirAsia X continues to expand its medium-haul network by resuming direct services from Kuala Lumpur to Amritsar in northern India.

From 3 September 2023, the four times weekly services will provide access to Amritsar, a destination with strong potential in terms of religious significance, tourism attractions, commercial opportunities, and trade prospects.

As the second destination to India after New Delhi, this route will deliver an additional annual capacity of 157,263 seats between Kuala Lumpur and Amritsar for AAX.

AirAsia X chief executive officer Benyamin Ismail said: “We are pleased to restart our direct services to Amritsar, home to the world-famous Golden Temple. Amritsar holds a monumental cultural and religious significance, and this route not only provides the opportunity for our guests in the region to visit the holy city affordably but also for the people in Amritsar to visit amazing holiday destinations with the best value fares, including Perth, Melbourne, Bali, Bangkok and more with our Fly-Thru service.

“The restart of this route is also part of our efforts to strengthen AAX’s position in South Asia, complementing our robust network in North Asia. We are optimistic that this route relaunch will enhance our medium-haul destination offering with affordable fares and contribute to the overall business growth.”

To celebrate the route recommencement, AAX offers promotional all-in*fare from MYR299* one-way for the economy seat and MYR999* one-way for Premium Flatbed. In addition, guests travelling to/from Amritsar will also enjoy 50% off check-in baggage when they book from today until 2 July 2023 for the travel period from 3 September 2023 to 30 March 2024.

Amritsar is one of Punjab’s top destinations in northwestern India, which but underserved by airlines from the Asia Pacific region. The city is also home to Sikh’s most sacred shrine, the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), and has plenty of historical monuments, including Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border and Gobindgarh Fort.

Flight schedule between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Amritsar (ATQ):

*The all-in fare is for one-way travel only, including airport tax, MAVCOM fee, fuel surcharge and other applicable fees. Terms and conditions apply.

Korean Air on a mission in North Thailand

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TTR WEEKLY
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SEOUL, 16 June 2023: Korean Air’s volunteer team visited Chiang Dao in far north Thailand from 8 to 13 June to conduct volunteer activities, including road paving projects and introducing Korean traditional culture to residents.

Chiang Dao is a hill-country district located 2,100 metres above sea level in Thailand’s Chiang Mai province. Villages in the region lack basic infrastructure such as electricity, water, medical services and educational facilities for children.

During their visit, Korean Air’s volunteers paved lanes in the local village using concrete to help prevent accidents caused by poor road conditions. They also painted the exterior walls of old buildings. They introduced Korean culture through traditional music and dance performances and demonstrated how to make and share popular Korean food such as ‘tteokbokki’, a spicy rice cake.

With the pandemic in retreat, Korean Air is back to actively engaging in community service activities. Last week, the airline also resumed its annual rural volunteer activities in the village Myeongdong-ri, Gangwon Province, where it has been visiting twice annually since 2004. Employees visited the village to provide medical assistance and help with agricultural work.

Sabah hosts Ghost Net Hunters

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TTR WEEKLY
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KOTA KINABALU, 16 June 2023: The highly anticipated Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) Sabah Ocean Partnership Summit, 18 to 20 August, is all set to undertake an ambitious endeavour highlighting the need to protect the marine environment worldwide.

One of the event’s highlights will be the groundbreaking attempt to set a new world record for the longest ghost net cleanup, aptly named “Ghost Net Hunters – 23 Hours” in waters off the coast of Sabah.

ADEX Sabah will convene from 18 to 20 August at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), with the ghost net cleanup to be held on 20 August.

This initiative falls under the ADEX Sabah corporate social responsibility programme, aiming to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect and conserve Sabah’s marine environment. It will feature two ADEX ambassadors, Hong Kong actress Hidy Yu, and Guinness World Record Swimmer Ben Lecomte.

On Wednesday, 14 June, Sabah Tourism Board, alongside the ADEX Sabah team and government agencies, discussed preparations and logistics assistance for the event.

Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment cum Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai commended ADEX Sabah’s initiative in recognising the gravity of ghost net issues.

“The event will raise awareness about the threats posed by ghost nets and inspire greater involvement in initiatives that protect Sabah’s natural resources.

“Through this remarkable feat, we seek to foster a sense of responsibility and empower communities to actively participate in preserving the pristine beauty of Sabah’s marine environment for generations to come,” he said.

Present were SICC chief executive officer Datuk Rosmawait Lasuki, Sabah Parks deputy director Rimi Repin, ADEX Sabah project director Theresa Tham, and Royal Navy and Marine Department representatives.

Ghost nets, abandoned or lost fishing nets, severely threaten marine life, entangling and endangering numerous species. The “Ghost Net Hunters – 23 Hours” initiative will bring together a dedicated team of divers who will strive to remove as many ghost nets as possible within a continuous 23-hour period, showcasing their commitment to preserving the marine environment.

Joniston also called upon all local dive operators to unite and actively participate in ADEX Sabah, emphasising the significant benefits it can bring.

“I see ADEX Sabah as a marketing platform and an opportunity to gain valuable insights into the dive industry’s latest trends, technologies, and best practices.

“Local participants can attend seminars, workshops, and presentations by industry experts, which can help them stay updated with the latest developments and improve their services.

“They can learn from successful dive operators and adopt innovative strategies to enhance the overall dive experience in Sabah,” he remarked.

Joniston underscored the importance of unity and collaboration among local dive operators to foster a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem in Sabah.

“By supporting ADEX collectively, they can showcase the strength and diversity of Sabah’s dive industry. Their participation will contribute not only to the exhibition’s success but also to future collaborations, knowledge sharing, and sustainable practices benefiting the entire dive community in Sabah,” he stated.

ADEX Sabah will also feature international speakers, diving industry experts, and conservationists. It will encompass a range of activities and topics, including a mermaid festival, free diving, sustainable marine tourism, and the blue ocean economy to attract the participation of diving enthusiasts, universities, and schoolchildren.

Meanwhile, ADEX Sabah project director Theresa Tham said the event aimed to create awareness to protect and conserve Sabah as a premium dive destination.

“We hope to contact all dive professionals, businesses, and enthusiasts to come together and experience this international dive expo. Various topics of interest will be covered that complement, enhance, and inspire steps forward in the tourism and diving industry, further improving the industry. “We can learn from each other through such an event as it will connect us to all relevant government agencies, dive operators, and entrepreneurs to unite to work on the conservation of the environment,” she said.

Visit: www.sabahtourism.com

(Source: Sabah Tourism Board)

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