Travel and tourism students attending the PATA Youth Symposium 2024 have revealed both enthusiasm and concern about future careers in tourism and hospitality, with many torn by the lure of opportunities to expand their horizons and fear of job instability.
During a roundtable discussion on interest in a travel and tourism career, a student from Bangkok University expressed fascination with the chance to meet people from different cultures. On the other hand, others, like Min, a student studying tourism, business, and events at Mae Fah Luang University, cited concerns about job stability and competition.
Students said stiff competition for positions by skilled workers from abroad has made it challenging for locals to find opportunities. At the same time, desired salaries are harder to come by.
A recurring concern expressed at the discussion was the impact of the pandemic. A Bangkok University student noted: “We saw how the pandemic caused massive layoffs, and that makes me worried about the future.”
Cultural perceptions and societal expectations also dampen enthusiasm. Lee from a Singapore university shared: “When I told people I wanted to be a flight attendant, they said I could do something better because the hospitality industry is seen as an easy option. However, I believe it requires specific knowledge, skills and maturation,” she expressed.
When asked about the most pressing topic they would like to address with industry professionals, students’ responses converged on the theme of work-life balance and development opportunities.
Natalia, a student in exhibition and event management from Silpakorn University, said: “It’s tough to find the right job because even when opportunities come up, you start questioning if the position is a good fit. Is it worth it? Will I be able to grow in this role?”
Students emphasised the need for the industry to offer more stable and fulfilling career paths as well as a desire for the industry to adapt to changing customer preferences and cultural dynamics.
With a career in the hospitality industry spanning over three decades, Kreuzer has worked in countries such as Europe, Asia, the US, and the Middle East.
Radisson Hotel Group has signed Park Inn by Radisson Melbourne Carlton, which marks its upper-midscale brand’s debut in Australia, and the group’s third hotel in Australia.
Park Inn by Radisson Melbourne Carlton is set to open its doors in 4Q2024, and is situated in the suburb of Parkville.
Following the conversion of an existing hotel, it will undergo a complete renovation and redesign to align with Park Inn by Radisson’s international standards.
Park Inn by Radisson Melbourne Carlton will feature 89 guestrooms, an all-day dining restaurant, a casual grab & go café, gym, pool, and two meeting rooms.
The hotel is just three-kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD, and places guests on the doorstep of Australia’s top biotech and neuroscience R&D facilities, and Monash University, which is known for its Pharmaceutical Studies faculty. It is also situated close to Royal Park and Royal Melbourne Zoo, and opposite Princes Park, the home of Carlton Football Club, the leading AFL team, and 20km away from Tullamarine Airport.
A representative of Star Capital Group, parent of Frater Capital Group, said: “The contemporary Park Inn by Radisson, Melbourne Carlton, is the ideal market introduction to this upper-midscale brand. We have plans to continue to expand our hotel portfolio in Australasia and we eagerly anticipate further opportunities for collaboration with Radisson.”
Victor Kondarios, director, development, Australasia, RHG, added: “We are excited for this opportunity to introduce Park Inn by Radisson to Australia. Frater Capital Group is a strong company looking to grow its hotel portfolio. We are delighted to enter into this relationship with them, which includes a full range of support services such as revenue management, sales and marketing. We look forward to developing more hotels together in the future as we continue to expand across Australia.”