WHILE inbound agents have said that Japanese arrivals to Singapore have dipped, not all accommodation providers here are hanging off the edge of their seats.
Robert Lagerway, Capella Singapore’s general manager, said there was a slight reduction in numbers, but not “an exodus of cancellations”.
For Swissôtel Merchant Court, the impact of immediate cancellations was somewhat softened by a number of extended stays by Japanese guests who were unable to return home.
General manager Rainer Tenius expects to see a drop in numbers for individual but not corporate travellers this year. He believes that the summer months may also see a rise in bookings from other travellers diverting their holidays from Japan.
A similar situation is already unfolding for Frasers Hospitality, which operates four serviced residences in Singapore.
General manager for Singapore, Tonya Khong, said international MNCs with offices in both countries were trying to relocate their employees to Singapore, which was considered a “safer hub” in the light of the recent crisis.
About half a dozen companies had booked extended stays – some even up to a month – contributing about 180 roomnights. Most of its properties are running 90 per cent occupancies.
Frasers’ Japan property in Osaka was also experiencing some spillover effect, added Khong.
Additional reporting from Gracia Chiang
