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MITEC wins conference venue world title

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 29 November 2024: The Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), owned by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), has been recognised as the World’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2024.

Having clinched top honours in the Malaysia (World MICE Awards) and Asia (World Travel Awards) categories, MITEC has now triumphed internationally, solidifying its status as a premier global venue for MICE events. 

Zuhaila Sedek (second from the right) accepted the award on behalf of MITEC.

Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) representative Zuhaila Sedek accepted the award on behalf of MITEC (second from the right).

Notable events hosted at MITEC in 2024

• Defence Services Asia & NATSEC Asia 2024: 47,587 attendees from 114 countries.

• MATTA Fair: Over 170,000 visitors, generating RM230 million in sales.

• Perfect China International Convention: Over 10,000 international delegates, featuring an in-house catered 8-course Chinese banquet.

• International Dragon Awards (IDA) Annual Conference: 11,000 global financial and insurance professionals.

MITEC has welcomed over 4 million visitors during the first nine months of the year, reinforcing its role as a key driver of Malaysia’s business tourism sector and its significant contribution to the national economy.

As Malaysia takes on the prestigious ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, MITEC is gearing up for an extraordinary year with a diverse slate of major events that will continue solidifying its status as a world-class venue. 

Event highlights of 2025

• Joey Yap FSA 2025: A premier event focusing on Feng Shui and astrology, drawing thousands of international attendees.

• Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) 2025: One of Southeast Asia’s largest furniture trade shows, attracting global buyers and exhibitors.

• MATTA Fair 2025: Continuing its legacy as Malaysia’s largest travel fair, it is expected to surpass its record-breaking visitor and sales figures.

• International Healthcare Week: Bringing together medical professionals and innovators to explore advancements in global healthcare.

• ASEAN Road Traffic Tech Expo 2025: A critical platform for showcasing the ASEAN region’s latest technologies and solutions in road safety and traffic management.

Travel budget goes further in Penang

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TTR WEEKLY
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LONDON, 29 November 2024: Penang, Malaysia, has secured the 13th spot in the UK’s 2024 Post Office Travel Money Long Haul Holiday Report, ranking among 32 global resorts and cities surveyed for affordability.

This recognition further strengthens Malaysia’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling travel destinations. Malaysia is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, natural beauty, and exceptional value.

From the busy streets of Kuala Lumpur to the tranquil beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia offers a dynamic range of experiences. Among its top destinations, Penang stands out for its outstanding affordability, allowing visitors to explore the country’s culture and history without stretching their budget.

Penang blends affordability with diverse experiences, from mouthwatering street food to cultural landmarks, providing travellers with an enriching journey at every turn. With wallet-friendly dining options, reasonably priced beverages, and essential services, Penang offers an all-encompassing and enjoyable experience for holidaymakers, making it an ideal choice for those seeking value and adventure in 2025. Solo travellers, couples, and families alike can all find something to enjoy in Penang, which caters to a wide range of adventurers while ensuring a budget-friendly experience for all.

A must-visit destination, it undoubtedly deserves a spot on the 2025 travel hotspot list.

Penang, A Must-Visit Destination for 2025

  1. Culinary Paradise – Known as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang is a dream destination for food lovers. Its world-famous street food, including dishes like char kway teow, laksa, and satay, is delicious and incredibly affordable. Gurney Drive and local hawker centres offer the perfect opportunity to sample these delicacies.
  2. Cultural Heritage – Penang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its historic George Town district. Visitors can explore beautifully preserved colonial-era architecture, vibrant street art, and temples that reflect the island’s multicultural identity. Must-visit sites include the Kek Lok Si Temple, Pinang Peranakan Mansion, and the famous Cheong Fatt Tze Blue Mansion.
  1. Street Art and Scenic Landmarks – Jalan Kek Chuan, recently ranked 17th among the most beautiful streets in the world by House Beautiful magazine, is a must-see destination for art lovers and Instagram enthusiasts visiting Penang. This picturesque street is part of the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a visual feast of ornately detailed shops, vibrant murals, and colourful facades. The area has become a living canvas for renowned artists like Ernest Zacharevic, whose street art projects have transformed George Town’s historic streets into an open-air gallery. 
  2. Beaches and Natural Beauty – Penang features idyllic beaches such as Batu Ferringhi, where visitors can enjoy water sports, or relax by the sea. Nature enthusiasts can explore Penang National Park, hike up Penang Hill for stunning views, or visit the Butterfly Farm and Tropical Spice Garden.
  3. Festivals and Nightlife – Penang’s calendar is packed with festivals that showcase its diverse heritage, including the Thaipusam procession, Chinese New Year celebrations, and the George Town Festival. When the sun sets, vibrant night markets like Batu Ferringhi come alive, offering shopping, food, and entertainment.
  4. Family-Friendly Attractions – Visit the interactive Wonderfood Museum, the exciting Escape Adventureplay theme park and the quirky Penang 3D Trick Art Museum.

Key Barometer Costs in Penang

  • Coffee: UKP3.44
  • Local Lager: UKP3.44
  • Coca-Cola: UKP1.91
  • A glass of Wine: UKP8.60
  • Cocktail: UKP8.03
  • Small Chocolate Bar: UKP0.76
  • 1.5L Bottle of Mineral Water: UKP0.46
  • Suncream (SPF15): UKP11.94
  • Insect Repellent: UKP3.04
  • Three-Course Dinner for Two: UKP62.20

Visit the full 2024 Long Haul Holiday Report at www.postoffice.co.uk/longhaul

About Tourism Malaysia
Tourism Malaysia, officially known as the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, operates as an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia.

Air India upgrades metro to metro routes

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TTR WEEKLY
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GURUGRAM, India, 29 November 2024: Following the integration of Vistara earlier this month, Air India will deliver its best narrowbody cabin products on five key metro-to-metro routes beginning 1 December 2024.

This will see all* flights between the following metro cities operated with former Vistara A320-series aircraft offering business, premium economy and economy class:

1. Delhi and Mumbai
2. Delhi and Bengaluru
3. Delhi and Hyderabad
4. Mumbai and Bengaluru
5. Mumbai and Hyderabad

Flights will operate with an ‘AI’-prefixed and four-digit flight numbers beginning with ‘2’, such as AI2999 from Delhi to Mumbai.

Air India will also optimise flight schedules so that flight departures are spread throughout the day without reducing frequency. Air India now offers more than 1,000 weekly flights (round trips) on these key routes: 56 daily on Delhi-Mumbai, 36 daily on Delhi-Bengaluru, 24 daily on Delhi-Hyderabad, 22 daily on Mumbai-Bengaluru, and 18 daily on Mumbai-Hyderabad. 

Air India Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Campbell Wilson said: “The merger of Vistara into Air India has unlocked many new opportunities to improve our customer offering. By combining the strengths of both full-service carriers, we can consolidate our best narrowbody offering on routes where there is a desire for a high-frequency, full-service product. We will progressively expand the coverage to more routes as Air India inducts new aircraft and completes the retrofit of our legacy narrowbody fleet during 2025.”

Air India’s five key metro-metro routes aircraft feature a three-class configuration. Eight business class seats offer 41 inches of pitch, seven inches of recline, leg rest and footrest. There are 24 extra legroom seats in a dedicated, upscale premium economy class cabin, with each seat offering 33 inches of pitch and four inches of recline. The economy has 132 seats with 29 inches of standard pitch and three inches of recline. 

Travellers can expect a full-service flying experience on Air India’s metro-to-metro routes. This includes award-winning cabin interiors, complimentary hot meals, lounge access for premium guests at all major airports, the choice of convenient flight connections to destinations across five continents, and service delivered to the exacting standards of the new Air India.

Air India’s optimised domestic route network will be progressively visible across booking channels, including its official website, mobile app, and through authorised travel agents and partners.

*Air India will continue to operate one widebody flight each between Delhi and Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad using its Boeing 777 or Airbus A350 aircraft, which will have ‘AI’-prefixed three-digit flight numbers. 

Extra flights for Chinese New Year

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 29 November 2024: As AirAsia prepares to welcome the Year of the Snake in 2025, the airline is scheduling additional seasonal flights for the Chinese New Year between Singapore and East Malaysia.

AirAsia guests can start planning their festive travel between 24 January and 5 February 2025, as bookings are now open for festive season travel over the Chinese New Year week, including late-night flights from Singapore to Kuching or limited-time flights from Singapore to Sibu, Miri, or Tawau.

With 22 extra flights to selected destinations in East Malaysia, AirAsia will operate 43 flights during the 2025 festive season, offering over 7,900 seats at dynamic fares.

Additional flights from 2 to 5 February 2025

Seasonal Flights from 24 January to 4 February 2025

Experience Pattaya International Fireworks Festival

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TTR WEEKLY
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PATTAYA, Thailand, 28 November 2024: As the sun sets, the Royal Cliff Group presents an exclusive luxury catamaran cruise from the Bali Hai Pier on Pattaya main bay. Guests can immerse in a magical night of entertainment as the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival unfolds over Pattaya Bay on 29 and 30 November.

Enjoy music, breathtaking views, and sip your favourite drink while marveling at the dazzling fireworks and global competition from the vantage point of the Catamaran Night Cruising Experience. The entertaining evening rounds off with a stay in a luxurious room or suite at the Royal Cliff Hotel, complete with an international daily breakfast and world-class facilities.

The Pattaya International Fireworks Festival is a spectacular event that takes place annually on the last weekend of November in Pattaya. It is a highly anticipated event that attracts both locals and tourists from around the world, signalling the start of the tourist season at the popular beach resort.

The festival features dazzling fireworks displays from various countries, creating a magical and unforgettable experience for visitors.  The fireworks displays are choreographed to music and often tell stories or convey themes, adding an artistic dimension to the event. The festival includes other activities and entertainment, such as cultural performances, food stalls, and live music.  The Pattaya International Fireworks Festival is a must-see event for anyone visiting Thailand during the festival season. It is a celebration of light, colour, and sound that will inspire you.

Ticket: THB 2,000++ per person/day

Catamaran Night Cruising Experience

Room+2 Tickets: From THB 9,600 net/room/night

CATAMARAN NIGHT CRUISING EXPERIENCE PACKAGE

For more information, to book the package, or to reserve your spot, get in touch with the Royal Cliff team via:
Tel: 038250421, Email: [email protected]
Line ID: @RoyalcliffFacebook: www.facebook.com/royalcliff

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives officially opens

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, Thailand, 28 November 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts announces that its newest property, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, has officially opened its doors. 

With the arrival of its first guests, the resort invites guests to immerse themselves in an underwater world-themed paradise where unforgettable experiences await. This vibrant destination is set to redefine family holidays with its captivating attractions and Centara’s signature Thai-inspired hospitality.

Designed for boundless fun and adventure, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives features a meandering lazy river, a swimming pool, a kids’ pool, and a lively water playground. The resort also offers a Kids’ Club, the innovative Candy Spa for younger guests and the award-winning Spa Cenvaree for adults. With a private beach, water sports, snorkelling excursions, and more, every aspect of the resort is curated to ensure a memorable stay for guests of all ages.

“We are thrilled to welcome our first guests to Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives,” said General Manager Andrew Jansson. “This marks an exciting new chapter for Centara Hotels & Resorts, and our team is dedicated to crafting unforgettable experiences for guests of every age. We invite everyone to dive into the joy and wonder of our incredible new property, where memories are made, and every moment is filled with warmth and discovery.”

To celebrate its grand opening, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is offering exclusive rates, complimentary stays and meals for up to two children aged 15 and under, and free roundtrip speedboat transfers between Male airport and the resort. CentaraThe1 members will also enjoy an additional 15% discount on their stay.

This exclusive ‘Me & Centara’ offer runs until 20 December 2024 for stays between now and 31 October 2025. Additionally, guests completing their stay by 20 December of this year will receive a voucher for a complimentary return stay of the same duration between May and September next year.

For more information and to book your next adventure at Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, please visit https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cmlm/introductoryoffer.

Pandaw ships sail with new spa features

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 28 November 2024: Pandaw announced this week that its Mekong ships have been refitted, each with a new state-of-the-art gym, library, and spa. 

These facilities complement the extensive open deck spaces that help Pandaw maintain its position as Asia’s premier luxury river cruise operator.

In addition, the classic Pandaw cabin has undergone a makeover, with a new look using beautiful Khmer fabrics, the installation of minibars and Nespresso machines, and a selection of locally sourced tisanes (herbal teas).

Pandaw operates four 28-cabin classic river ships on the Mekong River between Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap (Angkor Wat). Two departures weekly schedule cruise durations of three, four, and seven-night experiences.

To book a cruise, visit pandaw.com, or contact the Pandaw team at [email protected].

Classic Vietnam & Cambodia Tour
SAIGON – SIEM REAP
11 nights
From USD3,948

For more details on the Classic Vietnam & Cambodia Tour visit:

https://www.pandaw.com/expeditions/classic-vietnam-cambodia-tour?utm_source=pandaw&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=mekong-ships-refit

Learning vacations take off in South Korea

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 28 November 2024: As global demand for “learn cations” spikes, South Korea emerges as a leading destination for travellers who combine cultural exploration with meaningful learning experiences. 

Learncations focus on immersive educational experiences, prioritising growth over traditional sightseeing. Activities can range from cultural immersion and language acquisition to high-tech skill-building and traditional craft learning.

Photo credit: Hannah Walding. Home cooking classes appeal to Asian tourists.

“South Korea’s unique blend of educational, cultural and technological experiences makes it a leading learncation destination. With a dynamic mix of tradition and innovation, South Korea invites travellers to learn and explore in an exciting, immersive environment,” said Korea Tourism Organization NY Office Executive Director Hee Jin Cho.

“From hands-on Korean cooking classes to immersive experiences with the latest technology, South Korea offers a wide variety of learning opportunities that appeal to modern travellers eager for personal growth and cultural connection.”

Top learncation experiences in South Korea

Historical and Cultural Learning Experiences: South Korea’s historical landmarks, including Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, set the stage for immersive learning about Korean history and Confucian philosophy. Guided tours and workshops at these sites offer a deeper understanding of South Korea’s cultural values and legacy, making history a key part of the travel experience.

Traditional Korean Arts and Crafts: With a rich cultural heritage, South Korea offers hands-on experiences in traditional crafts like calligraphy, hanbok making and pottery. Artisans in cities like Jeonju and Gyeongju guide tourists through these practices, creating meaningful connections with Korean tradition.

Korean Cooking Classes: A 2023 global trends report1 found that 86% of Gen-Z and Millennial respondents are open to venturing out of their comfort zone and trying new foods while travelling. For food enthusiasts, South Korea offers immersive Korean cooking classes that provide hands-on experience in preparing beloved traditional dishes like kimchi, bibimbap and bulgogi. Classes are typically led by skilled teachers who guide participants through authentic techniques and ingredients, offering a deep dive into the art of Korean cuisine. 

K-pop Dance and Music Workshops: South Korea’s entertainment industry captivates fans worldwide who are eager to experience K-pop firsthand. Visitors can participate in K-pop dance classes and music production workshops guided by industry experts.

Korean Language Immersion Programmes: The global popularity of Korean pop culture has sparked a tremendous interest in learning the Korean language. South Korea is a popular destination for international students, with many studying there and participating in immersive language programs. Institutions like the King Sejong Institute provide comprehensive courses for all skill levels, allowing students to immerse themselves in Korean language and culture.

Technology and Innovation Programmes: As a global technology hub, South Korea attracts tech enthusiasts and professionals who want to expand their skills. Programs in coding, AI, and robotics offered in Seoul’s innovation hubs are particularly popular, reflecting the country’s status as a leading tech innovator.

About the Korea Tourism Organization
Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is an organisation of the Republic of Korea (South Korea) under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST). 

(Source: Businesswire)

Cathay HK Sevens pack on sale

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 28 November 2024: As the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens gets ready to move to its new home of Kai Tak Sports Park, Cathay is offering travel packages to bring Sevens fans to Hong Kong for a sporting spectacle from 28 to 30 March 2025

World Rugby confirmed the dates as the HSBC SVNS 2025 takes shape, with Dubai, Cape Town, Perth and Vancouver also named as host cities for the Sevens series.

South Stand is where the Sevens Party 

This year, the world-famous South Stand is back following a comprehensive upgrade, which is now paired with a new South Deck that boasts an epic Hong Kong backdrop. 

What to expect

With the South Stand SuperPass, you can skip the queue and gain instant access to the legendary South Stand (18+ only).

How much?

To unlock the SuperPass, you’ll need a General Admission ticket (three-day or single-day). You can upgrade your Adult GA ticket for just HKD750 on Friday or HKD1,250 on Sunday. Think of it as your backstage pass to 7s heaven — where every sip and cheer adds to the unforgettable experience.

First come, first served

The SuperPass for Saturday sold out in just 48 hours. However, some tickets are still available for Friday and Sunday. Access to the South Stand is first-come, first-served for Adult GA ticketholders. Don’t forget your GA ticket for stadium entry.

With the South Stand SuperPass, you’re not just a spectator — you’re part of the action in the most electrifying fan zone. Whether you’re there for the free-flow drinks or the unbeatable atmosphere, this is your chance to be at the heart of the party.

You can skip the hassle of planning and dive straight into the action with Cathay’s two curated travel packages: the Flights + Event Ticket package or the Flights + Event Ticket + Hotel package. Packages are available in selected markets across the Asia Pacific.

Hong Kong Sevens package 

This Black Friday offer is available on the Cathay Pacific website (Thailand). Book the Flight & Event ticket package and earn a bonus of 5,000 miles. The offer is available from 25 November to 6 December 2024!

The Flight & Event Ticket Package with discount code 25R7TH has a lead-in price of THB17,520. The Black Friday offer is only available for the Flight & Event Ticket Package.

ITE confirms 2025 show dates

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 28 November 2024: The Hong Kong International Travel Expo (ITE Hong Kong) will be held from 12 to 15 June 2025 at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre featuring two days for trade buyers and content supplies and two for travel consumers.

Organised by TKS Exhibition Services, the 39th edition of ITE will co-locate with the 20th ITE MICE and has just been selected by the Hong Kong government for a listing on the official mega event calendar.

Photo credit: TKS Exhibition Services.

Recognised as the leading show to capture travel from the Greater Bay area of midland China, Macau and Hong Kong, the show enjoyed a robust recovery, hosting five annual events since the Covid-19 pandemic. The organisers report that the 2025 edition will cover five exhibition halls identical to its pre-pandemic years.

ITE 2024 drew 515 international exhibitors (87% from outside Hong Kong) and 7023 regional buyers and trade visitors, over 70% of whom were from the Greater Bay Area, which includes China’s top cities such as Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Guangzhou.

In 2023, the GBA had a combined GDP of USD1.97 trillion and a population of 86 million residents.

ITE 2024 attracted 63,027 public visitors, mainly premium independent travellers (90%) who often travel in private groups. A survey found that 40% have travelled or planned to travel more than six times in 2024 while projecting a 60% increase in travel spending.

The annual ITE Hong Kong is strongly supported by China’s Ministry of Culture & Tourism, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Macau Tourism Board, and private trade associations.

ITE Hong Kong 2024 key statistics

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