Phuket hotels support local talent

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May 19, 2023

PHUKET, 19 May 2023: Phuket Hotels Association, the nonprofit organisation of hoteliers focused on promoting a positive image of Phuket, is inviting members of the public to take part in its “Absolutely Fabulous Online Travel Sale” – an online auction with great prizes that will fund scholarships for talented young people in Phuket.

This forms part of the Phuket Hotels Association Benefit (PHAB) 2023 campaign, an important fundraising initiative including “PHAB 5”, a charity gala dinner at Angsana Laguna Phuket on 20 May 2023.

Bidding in the online auction is open until midday (Thailand time, UTC+7 hrs) on 15 June, with prizes in dream destinations worldwide! Participants can bid for spectacular five-star stays and exciting experiences generously donated by sponsors in destinations such as Dubai, Sydney and the Maldives, as well as Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui – all potentially available with big discounts for the highest bidder. In addition to hotel stays, the auction includes various exhilarating activities such as yacht charters, golf, tennis, surfing classes and gym memberships.

Proceeds from the auction will sponsor at least 20 hospitality scholarships and internships exclusively for the benefit of young Phuket residents who would otherwise be unable to fund their education. The association has successfully sponsored over 30 students studying hospitality and tourism in Phuket.

The PHAB 5 online auction is being continually updated with new prizes. Bidders can check back on their progress, make new offers and see what other exciting prizes are coming up! To learn more about the PHAB 5 online auction and to place your bid in the “Absolutely Fabulous Online Travel Sale”, please visit phab.phukethotelsassociation.com/silent-auction.

“By taking part in our online auction, not only will you be bidding on great prizes and five-star hotel stays worldwide, but you will also be benefiting the local community by helping young people to discover a new career that could raise their standard of living and even support an entire family,” explained Phuket Hotels Association president Bjorn Courage.

Hosted at Angsana Convention & Exhibition Space (ACES), the world-class event space at Angsana Laguna Phuket,”PHAB 5″ is an upbeat fundraising event. The evening will commence with welcome cocktails and live music, followed by an indulgent international buffet dinner featuring live cooking stations by some of the top chefs from Phuket’s best hotels and drinks prepared by the island’s most creative mixologists. A lively MC will keep the fun flowing throughout the night!

Musical highlights include a live band, Feelsion, plus in-demand Phuket DJ CAMMUK, and dazzling dancers who will get the party started with their performances. Tickets are priced at THB4,900 (premium) or THB5,900 (VIP), with the proceeds also funding the hospitality scholarships. CLICK HERE to book tickets.

To learn more about the Phuket Hotels Association and PHAB 2023, please call 087 468 8588, email [email protected], or visit www.phukethotelsassociation.com.

Six key trends shaping travel

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TTR WEEKLY

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May 19, 2023

BANGKOK, 19 May 2023: Arival, the leading authority for the tours and activities sector, has released six key trends shaping the future of travel experiences in APAC.

The findings from its recent The Outlook for Experiences 2019-2025 research are released ahead of the annual Arival Activate event, which will take place in Bangkok on 12 to 14 June.

Arival CEO and co-founder Douglas Quinby said: “With many countries beginning to open travel after the pandemic, the Asia Pacific (APAC) region is seeing a surge of renewed interest in travel and tourism. APAC travellers are spending more, travelling further and for longer.”

Intra-regional travel is first, but long-haul travel to Europe is not far behind.

Quinby notes the following six essential experiences trends that are likely to shape the travel experience sector’s recovery – and that every creator and seller of tours, activities and attractions should be watching:

A very uneven recovery

There are still considerable variations in the pace of recovery throughout APAC. In some markets, travellers are making a strong comeback – especially from Southeast Asia, Korea and Australia – while some source markets, such as China and Japan, are slower to return.

Intra-regional travel is first, but long-haul and Europe are not far behind

Asia’s travellers have started to travel regionally, but long-haul destinations will likely not be far behind. Operators and resellers are reporting increased demand for Europe in particular.

The return of the outbound Chinese traveller remains a wild card

China has been a crucial engine of travel growth before the pandemic. While domestic travel has primarily recovered, international outbound travel has slowly returned. Operators in the region should focus first on other source markets in the region – and be prepared for China’s return in the second half of 2023.

Asia-based DidaTravel’s chief strategy officer Eric Zhuang recently commented on this shift in preference at the Arival 360 event in Berlin. “The supply chain needs to be reformed, and also, many clients have changed consumer behaviours and booking patterns. Most people will still go to the top destinations of pre-Covid times, but the things they want to do will be quite different.”

Younger travellers – and their booking habits – will define the rebound

Gen-Z and younger Millennials are driving the recovery across Asia, and their behaviour is already reshaping the industry. This large, experience-hungry cohort of the traveller population prioritises experiences over stuff. They are putting experiences first and are willing to pay for them. Operators must be ready for this. This means more small-group, immersive experiences that get travellers off the beaten path with unique, memorable interactions. And it has to be all mobile bookable, with plenty of Instagram- and TikTok-worthy moments.

Mobile booking and online marketplaces will more than triple in market share by 2025

With younger travellers leading the rebound, operators must be ready for the mobile wave. “We have seen a growth of 120% above the pre-pandemic level,” said Klook ChiefCief Commercial Officer Wilfred Fan when speaking at Arival 360 Berlin in March 2023. “That’s a company record, and that trend continues.”

Small group and independent travel will not only lead travel’s return but re-define its future in Asia

Younger travellers are seeking more independent and adventurous travel and experiences. This means more small group tours, independent tours, outdoor adventure activities and other unique experiences that travellers can cherish with family and friends.

For more information about the Outlook for Experiences 2019-2025 research, click here.
To find out more about Arival Activate, or to register as an attendee, click here.

Gold and silver artisans resume trade fair

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TTR WEEKLY

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May 18, 2023

GEORGETOWN Penang, 17 May 2023: The Province Wellesley Gold & Silver Ornament Merchants Association has confirmed the PWGS Trade Fair 2023 will take place from 9 to 11 June 2023 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre.

The event will showcase Penang’s gold and jewellery industry, as well as its distinctive culture, traditions, and craftsmanship. Around 100 exhibitors have booked booth space, with the organisers estimating 10,000 visitors.

In addition to boosting the local economy, the PWGS Trade Fair 2023 will help to promote the state as a hub for creative industries. It will also provide a platform for international promotions and publicity supporting local designers.

“Penang’s unique cultural identity and beauty can be seen in every piece of jewellery created by our talented designers. The designs reflect our diverse heritage, influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European cultures,” said Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, Yeoh Soon Hin. “At PWGS 2023, we are not only promoting the jewellery industry but also showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Penang to the world.”

Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau chief executive officer, Ashwin Gunasekeran, noted that by bringing in renowned exhibitions and trade fairs, “we showcase Penang’s capabilities and bolster our local economy. These events attract a diverse range of exhibitors, buyers, and visitors.”

Afro rhythms star at RWMF 2023

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TTR WEEKLY

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May 18, 2023

KUCHING, 18 May 2023: Festival-goers to the iconic Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2023 can look forward to grooving along to funky and upbeat African rhythms from two of its international acts – Safi Theatre Group from Tanzania and Afriquoi from the UK.

Safi Theatre is a dance-based performance group that showcases improvised traditional ngoma music (drumming and dance), blending their captivating and lively shows with acrobatics to create an exciting mix of traditional Tanzanian music and artistic creativity. Musically, the group plays various danceable and energetic tunes by using traditional percussive instruments as well as other contemporary ones, including the Snare drum, Conga flutes and Toms.

Led by Ramadhani Maneno, the members also comprise young musicians and dancers between the ages of 10 to 20, whose performances are inspired by the richness of Tanzanian traditions and cultural diversity, which they believe are not being shared enough. According to Maneno, having young performers is an element of sustainability, as it is the best way to keep their heritage and traditions alive for future generations.

The troupe is proud to share their Tanzanian culture and tradition with the world over the years, having performed at various international events such as the annual Festival Rudolstadt in Germany and Saruj Kund Mela in India. Safi Theatre believes that this cultural exchange, including musical instruments and songs, could facilitate future collaborations.

Afriquoi is a UK-based sensation that fuses African rhythms with live electronic beats, creating an incomparable, energetic, and mesmerising sound. Their live performances combine Gambian kora, Congolese guitar, and Mandinka percussion styles with electronic music drawing on house, garage, disco, soul, and jungle to create something unique.

The band – comprising of Jally Kebba Susso playing the Kora; Fiston Lusambo on guitar, Andre Espeut as the lead vocalist, Nico Bentley raving on the electronics, keyboard, bass and André Marmot on percussions – showcases music that carries a message of togetherness, health, healing and happiness and is known for their ability to get the crowd on their feet and dance. Formed in 2011 out of London’s cultural melting pot, they have established a global cult fanbase, loved by fans both of African and electronic music. Their Afro house classic ‘Kudaushe’ has become an established favourite in clubs all over the world, and they have toured all over Europe, with huge crowds singing along to their songs on major stages at Glastonbury, WOMAD, Dimensions, Fusion, Boomtown, Shambala, Bestival, Secret Garden Party and the London 2012 Olympics.

Being their first time in Malaysia, Afriquoi is thrilled to be invited to perform at the Rainforest World Music Festival 2023. They are excited to be in a new environment and indulge themselves in the extraordinary musical experience that awaits in Sarawak. Their message to RWMF2023 attendees? “We cannot wait to meet you, get ready and make sure to dance along!”

Rainforest World Music Festival 2023

Musicians and fans of world music all over the globe are invited to experience different sounds from across the world at the iconic Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2023, which is making its full physical comeback from 23^rd to 25^th June 2023 at the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV).

With the theme ‘Reflections’, RWMF 2023 allows festival-goers to reflect on their connection with nature and embrace diverse musical styles with underlying values for a deeper appreciation of the world. This year marks RWMF’s 26^th edition, and the festival continues to advocate sustainable practices and greening initiatives, making Sarawak a leading ecotourism destination for future generations of music lovers.

The festival features 199 musicians from 12 countries from four continents. Festival-goers can look forward to performances by Grammy Award winner Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo from France of such hits as ‘Djobi Djoba’ and ‘Bamboleo’, Big Mountain from Jamaica and the USA best known for their hit song ‘Baby I Love Your Way’, Safi Theatre from Tanzania, Rastak from Iran, Fasylive from the Maldives, Afriquoi from the United Kingdom, Chatusram from India, Rizal Hadi & Folk from Indonesia and Ethno Thai Fusion Sound Band from Thailand. The line-up will also include performers from Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore.

RWMF2023 will also highlight Malaysian local talents from East and West Malaysia, which include Zee Avi, Suk Bini, Aseana Percussion Unit, Nadir, Steve Thornton & Afroasia, Sada Borneo, Tuku Kame, Nading Rhapsody, Geng Wak Long, Buloh Bekocak, At Adau, Meruked, and Orang Orang Drum Theatre.

The ‘Pre-sale’ tickets are available on Klook ticketing platform across a range of categories: Adult 1-Day Pass Fri/Sun (MYR230), Adult 1-Day Pass Sat (RM260), Adult 2-Day Pass Fri + Sat / Sat + Sun (MYR440), Adult 3-Day Pass (MYR590), and Child 1-Day Pass Fri/Sat/Sun (MYR80) – under a limited-period offer.

More info on the musical line-up and ticketing can be found on the Rainforest World Music Festival’s official website at www.rwmf.net.

(Source: Sarawak Tourist Board)

Centara names GM at Pattaya Mirage

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TTR WEEKLY

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May 18, 2023

BANGKOK,18 May 2023: Centara Hotels & Resorts confirmed earlier this week the transfer and appointment of Chaiphun Thongsuthum as general manager located at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya.

Chaiphun Thongsuthum started his career with Centara Hotels & Resorts in 1984 at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok. In 1992, he was appointed as general manager at Central Wong Amat Pattaya, which was the former resort on the land of today’s Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya.

After that, he transferred to Centara Hotel Hat Yai as general manager and has been appointed as general manager at various of the group’s properties until the present time. They included appointments with Central Hotel Myanmar, Centara Villas Samui, Centara Hotel Hat Yai, Corporate Office, Centara Hotel & Convention Centre Udon Thani and Centra by Centara Maris Resort Jomtien. He also served as area general manager overseeing four resorts in the Eastern Seaboard region of Thailand, including Centra by Centara Maris Resort Jomtien, Centara Q Resort Rayong, Centara Chaan Talay Resort & Villas Trat and Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resortbefore taking the position of General Manager at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya.

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, located directly on the beach at Wong Amat in North Pattaya, is Thailand’s first truly themed hotel that adopted a Lost World concept in its design and its entertainment facilities geared for families.

Centara Hotels & Resorts

Oceania’s Vista sets sail in the Med

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TTR WEEKLY

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May 18, 2023

SINGAPORE, 18 May 2023: Oceania Cruises christened its newest ship Vista at a ceremony in Valletta, Malta, ahead of a summer season in the Mediterranean.

The first of the line’s Allura Class vessels, the all-veranda ship is 791 feet (241 metres) long and can accommodate 1,200 guests (double occupancy).

Vista features 11 onboard culinary venues, including three new to Vista. These include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes with a hint of indulgence; The Bakery at Baristas, serving tempting freshly baked pastries; and the new signature restaurant, Ember.

Following the seven-night roundtrip VIP christening cruise, Vista set sail on her maiden voyage on 13 May from Rome to Venice before embarking on a sold-out summer in the Mediterranean.

In September, she will sail to Canada and New England before heading south for a series of winter itineraries exploring Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean from her homeport of Miami.

Vista’s 2024 summer season will see her sail a series of Grand Voyages in the eastern Mediterranean, Aegean and Adriatic Seas, visiting an intriguing array of iconic cities and smaller boutique ports throughout Italy, Turkey, Greece and the Holy Lands.

Singapore agents explore Selangor

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TTR WEEKLY

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May 18, 2023

PETALING JAYA Malaysia, 18 May 2023: Tourism Malaysia is organising a business-to-business (B2B) session under the “Meet The Experts” programme this week in collaboration with Tourism Selangor.

The 16 to 19 May familiarisation trip takes travel agents and media from Singapore to several destinations in Selangor to explore new travel content options that could be promoted in the Singapore market.

Meet The Experts aims to establish business partnerships, new or renewed contracts, product updates and opportunities to develop new travel packages.

A total of 25 travel agents and four media representatives from Singapore had the chance to meet up and discover tourism product offerings during the B2B session at Le Meridien Hotel in Petaling Jaya. More than 44 local representatives, including travel agents, tourism products and hoteliers from Selangor, attended the session.

Other highlights of the trip included opportunities to explore Agro Tourism, homestay experiences, food tourism, and cycling tours.

Malaysia has surpassed its initial target of attracting 9.2 million international tourists since the reopening of its international borders in 2022 by recording 10,070,964 arrivals with MYR28.2 billion in tourist receipts. Malaysia welcomed 5,222,991 tourist arrivals from Singapore in 2022.

Tourism Malaysia deputy director-general (promotion), Datuk Musa Yusof said: “Singapore remains the prime market for Malaysia in terms of tourist arrivals and receipts. With help from our Singapore partners, we hope the Singapore market will rebound to its pre-pandemic level as tourists are increasingly expected to seek value for money and travel closer to home.”

Malaysia targets 16.1 million international tourist arrivals and MYR26.8 billion in tourism receipts this year.

Vietnam: Cheapest spot for a cocktail

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TTR WEEKLY

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May 18, 2023

SINGAPORE, 18 May 2023: Following World Cocktail Day on 13 May, long-haul holiday specialists Travelbag names Vietnam the cheapest country to enjoy a cocktail, costing an average of just £5.20.

Travelbag analysed the average cost of a cocktail in the 30 most-visited countries worldwide, revealing that Vietnam was the cheapest holiday destination for cocktail lovers. The average cocktail cost was just £5.20, nearly £4 cheaper than the UK’s £9 average.

Poland ranked as the second cheapest, with an average cost of £5.32 per cocktail, followed by Japan (£5.91), Thailand (£6) and the Czech Republic (£6).

For more information, visit the Travelbag website, or the Vietnam page https://www.travelbag.co.uk/holidays/asia/vietnam

Rank	Country	Avg. cost of a cocktail (£)
1	Vietnam	£5.20
2	Poland	£5.32
3	Japan	£5.91
4	Thailand	£6.00
4	Czech Republic	£6.00
5	Italy	£7.00
	Mexico	£7.00
	Croatia	£7.00
	Hungary	£7.00

Travel Bag analysed the monthly Google searches for over 100 cocktails in each country to reveal the most popular cocktails globally. The research uncovers the winners in the UK, as well as the popular holiday destinations where travellers can enjoy a cocktail (or two) for the lowest price.

Piña Coladas are the most popular cocktail globally, ranking number one in almost a third of countries.

If you like Piña Coladas, you’re not alone. According to monthly search volume, this rum-based drink has been crowned the world’s most popular cocktail, ranking number one in 61 out of 195 countries.

Countries where the Piña Colada reigns supreme include Algeria, Egypt, Fiji, India, Jamaica, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Norway, Pakistan, and Thailand. So whether you sip it from a coconut while relaxing on a Caribbean beach or savour it after a long day of sightseeing in a new city, the iconic coconut-and-pineapple blend is a winner no matter where you are on holiday.

The Aperol Spritz is the world’s second most popular cocktail, coming first in 32 countries. Other favourites across the globe include the Mimosa (29), Martini (24), Negroni (17) and Paloma (17).

Rank	Cocktail	Number of countries where it’s the favourite
1	Piña Colada	61
2	Aperol Spritz	32
3	Mimosa	29
4	Martini	24
5	Negroni	17
6	Paloma	17
7	Porn Star Martini	4
8	Amaretto Sour	3
9	Old Fashioned	2
10	Kir	2

(Source: Travelbag)

Delhi hosts RARE Showcase 2023

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TTR WEEKLY

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May 18, 2023

DELHI, 18 May 17, 2023: RARE India will host the sixth edition of its annual signature event, ‘The RARE Showcase’ at The Imperial New Delhi from 9 to 10 June 2023.

Established in 2003, RARE India partners with owner-run hotels, retreats, lodges and camps in the Indian subcontinent, many off the usual tourist circuits.

Ramathra Fort Rajasthan – four-star property and a RARE member.

It numbers 35 stand-alone hotel brands from India, Nepal and Bhutan that will attend the RARE Showcase 2023 to network with travel designers and tour operators from over 100 inbound and domestic travel companies in India.

RARE India’s founder Shoba Mohan said: “We renew our focus towards small owner-led brands vetted for authenticity and experience, from unknown wilderness to forgotten heritage conserved as combined efforts of pioneers who turned to travel and hospitality to celebrate the destination.

Phuket hotels support local talent

More flights link China and Malaysia

Six key trends shaping travel

Gold and silver artisans resume trade fair

Afro rhythms star at RWMF 2023

Centara names GM at Pattaya Mirage

Oceania’s Vista sets sail in the Med

Singapore agents explore Selangor

Vietnam: Cheapest spot for a cocktail

Delhi hosts RARE Showcase 2023

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