Wednesday, April 30, 2025
Home Blog Page 369

Tips to avoid solo travel pitfalls

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

SINGAPORE, 15 May 2023: Solo travellers are urged to take the necessary safety steps to ensure their trip of a lifetime runs smoothly without risk.

Travel experts at Panache Cruises advise lone holidaymakers how to avoid putting themselves at risk when jetting off on their own.

Photo Credit – Unsplash

Bookings for solo travel have almost doubled since the pandemic – 14% of travellers planned a solo trip in 2019, but now 23% plan on venturing alone.

But despite this surge in individuals wanting to experience the world on their own, several barriers are still in place, putting some travellers off.

Personal safety remains top of the list of obstacles why solo travellers, particularly females, feel they can’t take a holiday alone.

To protect their safety, one of the most important things to do if travelling alone is to share live locations with others and update friends and family on itineraries.

There are a wealth of mobile phone apps which are designed to keep you safe by sharing your location in real-time with friends and loved ones.

Solo travellers should also take time to create an emergency plan, knowing where the local hospital and police stations are and remembering the emergency phone numbers for each country.

Panache Cruises founder Janes Cole said: “A solo trip often becomes the trip of a lifetime. It’s liberating to take in all the different languages and landscapes in your own time without having to worry about anyone else.

“It’s all about stepping outside of your comfort zone and getting the opportunity to meet new people worldwide. You can quickly immerse yourself in unique cultures and go wherever you want.

“The lessons and knowledge you gain from exploring new countries alone can lead to once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a path of self-discovery.

“But travelling to an unknown place alone can also be unsettling if you don’t put safety measures in place. That’s why the most important thing when going on holiday alone is to protect your safety first and foremost.

“Protect yourself against tourist crime by researching the local scams in each area and keep your valuables close by and out of sight.

“Never tell a stranger you are travelling alone, as this can put you in a vulnerable position. Before leaving, make sure you have all the correct travel insurance documents to hand in case of an emergency.

“The experiences and memories from a solo trip are truly priceless, but it’s crucial not to forget your safety always comes first.”

Top 10 Safety Tips for Solo Travellers:

  1. Inform people of your location
    Before going away, make sure to let friends and family know of the trip and make sure to keep them updated with any changes to the itinerary. Keep in regular contact and turn on live location so someone at home knows where contact details of where you are staying.
  2. Create an emergency plan
    Be prepared for emergencies by knowing where the local hospital, police station and other useful spots are in each city. Learn key phrases such as ‘I need help’ or ‘Ring for an ambulance’ in the local language and the emergency phone numbers.
  3. Protect valuables
    It’s a good idea not to pack anything sentimental and only take what is necessary – like a credit card, local currency, passport and a mobile phone. Keep these hidden in a secure bag out of sight at all times.
  4. Protect yourself against crime
    Solo travellers should stay safe from local crime and tourist scams by researching the destination beforehand. Read up on travel guides, blogs, and news sites. Talk to others who have visited the area to learn about potential risks.
  5. Book solo accommodation
    Booking shared accommodation such as hostels poses more risks than booking a solo room. Many travel providers now include smaller rooms or cabins for those holidaying alone.
  6. Choose accommodation with caution
    Check that the hotel or hostel is safe and close to public transport and restaurants. Travellers should also check the accommodation’s check-in timings to avoid waiting in an unknown environment.
  7. Travel Insurance
    Travellers are advised to protect themselves from unforeseen events by getting travel insurance. Trip cancellation and interruption insurance can help recover damages from weather and natural disasters. Medical insurance can cover unexpected costs, while luggage insurance can help recover losses from theft or delays.
  8. Study the local language
    Tourists are encouraged to learn the local language to enrich their travel experience and keep themselves safe, especially when visiting less popular tourist destinations. Use translation apps.
  9. Be respectful of local culture
    To reduce vulnerability and avoid drawing attention, travellers should dress appropriately to respect the local culture. Some countries may require hair to be covered up and not too much skin to be on show.
  10. Never tell strangers you are travelling alone
    Finally, solo travellers should never share too much with strangers or risk becoming a target. Instead of telling someone they are solo travelling, let them know that friends are just waiting up ahead or back in the hotel room.
    For more tips on how to make the most out of your solo trip, please visit https://www.panachecruises.com/

(Source: Panache Cruises)

Sarawak introduces voucher incentive

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

KUCHING, 12 May 2013: Sarawak has launched a campaign selling travel and lifestyle getaways in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo, until mid-July.

Offering MYR900,000 worth of redeemable vouchers, the Global Sia Sitok Vacations travel campaign is available until 16 July. The campaign supports some 51 merchants offering 147 packages through the EnjoySarawak App.

West Malaysians, Sabahans and international travellers can download and redeem MYR100 e-Vouchers from the EnjoySarawak App, available for download on Android and IOS platforms. The app offers a comprehensive guide to Sarawak’s attractions, accommodations, restaurants, tour operators, healthcare, and spa and wellness operators, making it easier for visitors to plan their trip and maximise their experience.

Visitors can explore Sarawak and, at the same time, attend the 26th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival happening at Sarawak Cultural Village from 23 to 25 June 2023. Music lovers can also take the opportunity to grab the travel vouchers and attend the festival to enjoy quality music from an array of international and local performers, including Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo and Big Mountain.

Organised by the Sarawak Tourism Board in collaboration with the Malaysian Association of Hotels, the Global Sia Sitok Vacations is an expansion of the homegrown “Sia Sitok Sarawak” intra- and inter-state travel campaign introduced in 2020, and the phrase ‘Sia Sitok’ means ‘Here and There’ in the Sarawak local dialect.

According to the CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board, Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor explained: “We are thrilled to launch the Global Sia Sitok Vacations and welcome the world through our popular homegrown travel campaign to highlight the best of what this region has to offer for international visitors.

“With Malaysia on the path of recovery since the pandemic, we are confident that this campaign will attract more visitors during the period, contributing to our effort to target 3 million visitors to Sarawak for 2023.”

The Global Sia Sitok Vacations Campaign is an opportunity for participating tourism businesses in Sarawak to use a single voucher per transaction, drive conversion in arrivals and increase growth in both medium and long-haul markets with continuous presence and visibility.

Download the EnjoySarawak App and redeem your RM100 e-Voucher to enjoy various tourism products and services in Sarawak.

 Download the EnjoySarawak App and redeem your MYR100 e-Voucher to enjoy various tourism products and services in Sarawak. For more information, visit the Sarawak Tourism Board’s website at www.sarawaktourism.com.

(Source: Sarawak Tourism Board, Hornbill Trail Newsletter)

Emirates supports island tourism

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

DUBAI, UAE 12 May 2023: Emirates inks Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with three tourism boards – Tourism Seychelles, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.

All three agreements reaffirm the airline’s commitment to the island nations and outline key joint initiatives to promote trade and tourism to the respective countries.

The Seychelles

Emirates has been serving Seychelles since 2005, consistently contributing to the growth of its tourism industry. The airline’s commitment to the nation continues with the renewal of a decade-long partnership to promote tourism and broaden its appeal across Emirates’ global network of over 140 passenger destinations.

Emirates currently operates two daily flights to the island nation and was the first international airline to resume passenger services to Seychelles in August 2020, coinciding with the country’s re-opening to international tourists.

Mauritius

Now in its 20th year of service to the island nation and 10th year of partnership with Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA), Emirates’ latest agreement includes initiatives designed to promote the nation’s tourism and trade industries.

Mauritius continues to be an important destination for Emirates. Last year, the airline celebrated 20 years of operations to the island nation, which has seen more than 6.5 million passengers carried on the Dubai-Mauritius route since 2002. The airline currently provides two direct daily flights to Mauritius, both operated by its flagship A380 aircraft.

Sri Lanka

Emirates has pledged its renewed support to promote tourism in Sri Lanka with an agreement that includes a host of initiatives designed to promote and play a key role in the revival of the nation’s tourism and trade industries and comes as part of the airline’s long-standing commitment to Sri Lanka which now spans 37 years.

Emirates launched its services to Sri Lanka in 1986 and has carried more than 11 million passengers on the route since then. The airline currently provides two direct daily flights to Colombo and a daily service via Male. It is also the only international carrier to serve the country with First Class services.

Visit: www.emirates.com

(Source: Emirates)

Singapore investors buy Red Planet Sapporo

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

SINGAPORE, 12 May 2023: JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group announced Thursday that it advised GK Fortune One on the successful sale of the Red Planet Sapporo Susukino South hotel to GK Nakashima for JPY1.725 billion (approximately USD13 million), an investment vehicle owned by a consortium led by Singapore’s Heeton Holdings Limited.

According to JLL, the hotel has been acquired with vacant possession and will be rebranded to a domestic Japanese hotel brand. Built in 2018, the hotel is located in Susukino, the entertainment and nightlife district of Sapporo and features 123 rooms across eight floors.

“We are seeing strong appetite for hotels with vacant possession where investors can rebrand and capitalize on the exceptional recovery in tourism demand in Japan. JLL is delighted to have advised on this exciting transaction and helped Heeton to secure their third hotel in Japan,” says JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group executive vice president of investment sales, Asia Pacific, Charlie Macildowie.

According to data from STR Global, the Sapporo Limited-Service hotel segment has seen a strong recovery in 2023, with revenue per available room (RevPAR) up 184% for year-to-date March versus the same period in 2022. This performance represents 82% of the RevPAR achieved for year-to-date March 2019 and positions the market on track for a full recovery in 2024, according to JLL forecasts.

The Heeton-led consortium comprises Heeton subsidiary Heeton Invesco Pte Ltd, Hong Heng Company Private Limited and NineCo Investments Pte Ltd.

JLL analysis suggests interest in Japanese hospitality assets remains buoyant on the back of the strong recovery and attractive borrowing costs compared to other markets worldwide.

Vietjet reports strong Q1 performance

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

HO CHI MINH CITY, 12 May 2023: Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company has recorded its positive performance in Q1/2023, resulting from stable domestic flight operation and expansion of the international network.

According to the Q1/2023 financial statements, Vietjet’s air transport revenue reached VND12,880 billion (USD553 million) while the after-tax profit was VND168 billion (USD7.2 million), increased by 286% and 320% YoY respectively. Ancillary revenue, in particular, was reported at VND4,312 billion (USD185 million), accounting for more than 33% of the revenue.

The company’s consolidated revenue and after-tax profit were VND12,898 billion (USD554 million) and VND173 billion (USD 7.4 million), respectively.

In the first three months of the year, Vietjet has operated 31,300 flights and transported nearly 5.4 million passengers, growing by 57% and 75% YoY respectively. The airline’s load factor averaged 85%, while the technical reliability rate was 99.59%.

Vietjet’s air cargo volume in the quarter totalled more than 14,800 tons, up by 20% YoY.

International passenger transport remained the highlight, accounting for nearly 45% of the total passenger transport revenue and 30% of flight and passenger numbers.

As of 31 March 2023, the airline’s assets totalled more than VND69,200 billion (USD2.96 billion), with the debt-to-equity ratio at one while the liquidity ratio at 1.3, both were staying within the safe range of the aviation industry.

Vietjet has paid up to VND1,053 billion (approx. USD45 million) of direct and indirect taxes, fees, and charges to the State.

In Q1/2023, the airline introduced 10 new routes (four domestic and six international), bringing the total routes to 105 (55 domestic and 50 international).

Since early 2023, Vietjet has increased flights connecting Hanoi and HCMC with other localities to meet the travel demand for family reunions and added more flights to tourist destinations.

The airline has launched new international routes from Vietnam to India, Kazakhstan and Australia. It also added new destinations in high-performing markets like Japan, South Korea and Thailand, attracting investment and tourism to Vietnam.

The airline expects to expand the fleet to 87 aircraft, operating 139,513 flights with 25.7 million passengers onboard in 2023.

A newly-introduced Skyboss Business product on the A330 aircraft and the loyalty programme SkyJoy both received positive feedback from passengers. Skyboss Business passengers are gradually increasing, while SkyJoy has over 3 million members.

Oceania’s newest ship sails the Med

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

HONG KONG 12 May 2023: Oceania Cruises has welcomed its newest ship – Vista – delivered at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Genoa, Italy, and is due to start her inaugural summer season sailing the Meditteranean.

Oceania Cruises’ initial Allura Class ship weighing in at 67,000-ton will sail with 1,200 guests offering spacious standard staterooms, three brand-new dining concepts and a service ratio of two staff members for every three guests.

Photo Credit: Oceania Cruises – Vista.

Vista will offer 11 culinary venues, three of which are new concepts – Ember, a signature restaurant featuring elevated American cuisine; Aquamar Kitchen, which brings wellness offerings to a new level; and The Bakery at Baristas, an expansion of popular coffee bar Baristas, serving freshly baked French and Italian pastries.

After her summer sailings in the Mediterranean, the ship will sail to Canada and New England before heading south for winter itineraries exploring the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.

(Source: Oceania)

Malaysia on a mission to woo GCS travellers

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

KUALA LUMPUR, 12 May 2023: Tourism Malaysia led tourism sales missions to Bahrain and Kuwait from 7 to 9 May to reach out to travel agencies and capitalise on the outbound tourism growth in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The delegation led by Tourism Malaysia’s senior director of the international promotion division (Asia/Africa), Manoharan Periasamy, visited Manama and Kuwait City to promote Malaysia as a top-of-the-mind tourist destination region.

In 2019, Malaysia welcomed 309,224 tourists from the GCC region delivering MYR3.2 billion (AED 2.8 billion) in tourism-related revenue, considerably higher when compared to other tourists visiting Malaysia.

The sales mission also strengthened Malaysia’s presence in the market, particularly to develop and promote Malaysia as a preferred holiday destination to GCC tourists and update the travel trade industry about new tourism products, packages, and attractions.

The delegation comprised 14 organisations, including hotels and resorts, travel agents, associations, and representatives from state tourism boards. For the Malaysian private sector participants in the mission, it was an ideal platform to enhance networking with their GCC counterparts.

A travel mart in both cities allowed Malaysian travel content suppliers to network, discuss potential partnerships and develop travel packages.

Among other sales mission activities, the Tourism Malaysia mission delegates met with Gulf Air, Kuwait Airways, and top travel agents.

Airline seat capacity in recovery mode

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

SINGAPORE, 12 May 2023: Asia has the highest airline seat capacity growing at 12.2%, and room rates record a booking increase of 26%, according to FCM Consulting’s latest Q1-2023 Global Trends Report.

Key takeaways

Q1-2023 has seen the positive momentum of H2-2022 continue in both business and leisure travel, with demand across the world forecast to be at 85.5% of 2019 levels this year.

Q1-2023 corporate travel demand remained strong despite the mixed economic conditions, with securing options and booking lower prices driving corporate travellers to book online early.

Domestic booking trends for Q1-2023 versus Q1-2022 saw a 27 % rise in online adoption, the booking days extended from 17 to 19, and the average days away held firm at 2.9. The report also showed that in-person meetings were the leading reason for corporate travel.

On the accommodation side, global hotel occupancy for the quarter was 60.46 %, only 4% points below the occupancy levels of 2019.

Air travel stability returns

After 2022, a year full of significant supply and demand imbalance, air travel is predicted to stabilise this year, seeing added capacity in H1-2023 and airfares moderating in the second half of 2023. Data showing Q1-2023 seat capacity was up 2.1% in Q4-2022 and down 6.8% in Q1-2019. Early forecasts show air capacity offered in 2023 will be just 2.5% short of 2019 volumes.

Lift off in Asia with a 12.2% seat growth

The region with the highest seat growth in Q1-2023 vs Q4-2019 was Asia, with a 12.2% increase, with most other regions averaging two % growth.

The exception to this was Europe which saw an 8.7% decline as the region balanced changes in demand – but the Northern Hemisphere summer will drive demand in Q2 and Q3-2023.

94% of airline seats reinstated in 2023

The forecast across seats offered from 20 major airlines for a full calendar year reports a 94% return of seats in 2023 versus 2019. Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways and Qantas Airways have a seat forecast of 97% as travel normalises.

23% increase in business class fares in Asia

While the global average of international business class fares increased by 18% in the first two months, Asia experienced an increase of 23%. Discounted economic fares increased by 14% internationally, while Asia had a 15 % increase.

Mumbai to London saw the highest increase of 14% in discounted economy fares, while business class fares from Dubai to Shanghai increased by 47%.

Asia demand fuelling robust room rates

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

As China opened its borders, the rebound across Asia increased by 26%. Room rates in Tokyo averaged USD294, Singapore USD269, Seoul USD239 and Hong Kong USD224, making Tokyo the most expensive city to stay in Asia.

On the accommodation front, there is also a growing demand for one of the most successful traveller offerings in recent years – lifestyle hotels – focused on travellers who want to experience something unique.

Customers are looking for hotels with lobbies encouraging interaction and offering green initiatives, slick technology and well-being choices. 

“Despite mixed economic conditions, corporate travel demand remained strong in Q1-2023. High global inflation rates continue to put pressure on costs. The travel industry eco-system has reviewed operating costs, changed pricing, upgraded technology to drive efficiency, reduce underlying costs, and removed disruption and risks,” said FCM Asia managing director Bertrand Saillet.

“In-person meetings are the leading reason for corporate travel, but business travellers also book online early to secure lower prices. Domestic booking trends for Q1-2023 versus Q1-2022 also saw a 27% increase in online adoption,” added Saillet.

Methodology

The FCM Consulting quarterly report draws on global data 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. Fares and rates are in US dollars. STR hotel data and content quoted as of 26 April 2023.

PAL signs MOU to buy A350-1000s

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

SINGAPORE, 11 May 2023: Philippine Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Airbus to purchase nine A350-1000s.

Under the Philippine carrier’s Ultra Long Haul Fleet project, the A350-1000 will serve nonstop routes from Manila to the US East Coast and Canada.

The new aircraft will join two A350-900s already flying to North America, Asia and Australia destinations. As with the A350-900, the PAL A350-1000s will be configured in a premium layout with separate business class, premium economy and economy class cabins.

Philippine Airlines president and COO Stanley K Ng said that the range of the A350-1000 would enable the airline to fly nonstop transpacific and transpolar routes in both directions all year. These will include some of the longest commercial flights in the world, such as those linking the Philippines with New York and Toronto. With an expanded A350 fleet, PAL can once again provide a direct link from the Philippines to Europe.

 “The A350-1000 combines greater range capability with the higher capacity we need to serve future demand. It’s the perfect aircraft to enable PAL to meet its expansion plans sustainably while offering passengers the highest levels of onboard comfort. We are committed to offering our passengers the best possible travel experience, and these state-of-the-art aircraft will enable us to do just that as we carry out our mission to connect the world and grow trade and tourism.”

Airbus Chief Commercial Officer  Christian Scherer added: “Flying passengers farther and in greater comfort, the A350 brings a step-change in fuel efficiency and an immediate significant contribution to reduced emissions. We look forward to working closely with our long-standing customer Philippine Airlines as it moves forward with its long-haul fleet modernisation programme.”

The A350 offers the longest range capability of any commercial airliner in production today and can fly 8,700 nautical miles or 16,100 kilometres nonstop.

Philippine Airlines operates various Airbus types on its full-service network. In addition to the A350 on long-haul intercontinental routes, PAL flies A330-300s on services to the Middle East, Australia and various points in Asia. The Philippine flag carrier also operates a fleet of A320 and A321 single-aisle aircraft on its extensive domestic and regional network out of hubs in Manila and Cebu.

(Source: Airbus)

Centara introduces Premier Pool Access

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

BANGKOK, 11 May 2023: Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne has introduced a new special room class, Premier Pool Access, that delivers more space and an impressive design that connects guests directly to the resort’s jewel-blue lazy river.

The romantic coast of the Mediterranean inspires the spacious bedrooms ​​(40m2), a harmonious combination of blue from the sea, rich earthly terracotta of tile roofs and warm yellow of sunshine.

Premier Pool Access delivers a private and comfortable living experience. Designed with open space, a balcony filled with sunshine, a tropical garden, and colourful bougainvillaea – the unique charms of ​​Mui Ne land. The room class features the choice of a king or twin bed, providing an unforgettable experience in a peaceful tropical oasis. The tranquil lazy river flowing along 144 villas will be an ideal place to indulge in the cool water and connect with beautiful natural surroundings to recharge for the fun journey ahead.

Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne general manager Tom Van Tuijl shared: “Premier Pool Access with special lazy river design is a unique highlight of the resort, bringing an exceptional experience for our guests. We are delighted with our effort to launch a new room type just before the long holidays to satisfy an increasing demand for accommodation in Mui Ne.

“Besides, we also offer various dining options, ranging from traditional local flavours of Mui Ne fishing village to international tastes, spa to other leisure activities for guests of all ages to fulfil their experience as a destination of fun, entertainment and joy.”

“Explorer’s Playground” theme, Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne offers a series of endless fun activities and high-class amenities, creating a true sense of belonging for each generation of families and group of friends. With the desire to create beautiful memories for little explorers, Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne is the perfect destination for children to enjoy their voyages of discovery and excitement at E-Zone, indoor & outdoor playgrounds, bowling, karaoke room and entertainment activities designed for all ages.

ABOUT CENTARA MIRAGE RESORT MUI NE

Located 200 km from Ho Chi Minh City, this is a family-friendly integrated resort with the ‘Explorer’s’ playground’ theme, consisting of 984 rooms and villas with various options. Inspired by Binh Thuan and the rich maritime heritage of the Mediterranean, guests will enjoy a sunbathing area with a wide range of leisure activities and facilities, including restaurants, bars, conference rooms, a water park, indoor and outdoor playgrounds and a lazy river.

For more information: Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne | Beach Holidays (centarahotelsresorts.com)

ABOUT CENTARA

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 92 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey, Indonesia and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.

For more information: Centara Hotels & Resorts | Book an Exciting Escape Now (centarahotelsresorts.com)

1...368369370...599Page 369 of 599

Stay ahead with the
latest travel news
on Southeast Asia.

Subscribe now


Contact Us
TTR Weekly (TTRW) is published in Bangkok, Thailand, registered since 1978.
/ month
placeholder text
/ month
placeholder text
Press releases, announcements, events for calendar should be sent to: [email protected]
/ month
placeholder text

Copyright © 2023 TTR Weekly, all rights reserved.