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Asia/Singapore Monday, 6th April 2026
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Taiwan’s domestic tourism gets US$130m boost

By TTG Asia
0
Top view of Jiufen Old Street in Taipei Taiwan

Taiwan has rolled out a NT$3.9 billion (US$130 million) stimulus package to bolster domestic tourism, which includes travel subsidies for citizens, as Covid-19 restrictions ease.

The announcement was made by the Ministry of Transportation and Communications on Monday, according to a report on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of China (Taiwan) website.

Taiwan will provide citizens with travel subsidies from July in bid to boost domestic tourism; Jiufen Old Street in Taipei, Taiwan pictured

From July 1 to October 31, citizens travelling within Taiwan can enjoy discounts and subsidies for hotel stays, park admissions and travel packages.

Individual travellers will receive a one-time NT$1,000 or NT$2,000 subsidy for hotel stays, depending on whether they are travelling within Taiwan, or its offshore counties.

In addition, Taiwan Tour Bus passengers on half-day or one-day tours can benefit from a two-for-one discount. As well, citizens born on or after July 1, 2001, can enjoy unlimited free admission to participating amusement parks between July 1 and August 31.

For groups of at least 10 people on two-day or longer tours, each member will get NT$700, with the total capped at NT$30,000 per group, and increasing to NT$70,000 for groups with more than 15 people travelling for three days or more.

The government will offer NT$1,200 per person for groups of 15 or more on tours of two days or longer to the outlying counties of Kinmen, Lienchiang and Penghu, up to a maximum of NT$70,000 per group.

A maximum subsidy of NT$10 million will also be given to city and county governments to aid with planning and launching local tourism campaigns.

The initiatives are expected to encourage 6.38 million citizens to travel domestically, said the ministry, pegging estimated revenue at NT$23.5 billion.

JNTO Singapore launches contest for agents, airlines

By Kathryn Wortley
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The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) is inviting the travel trade to bid in a competition to help recover travel from Singapore to Japan. The project is part of plans to boost inbound tourism to Japan, which has been devastated by the global pandemic.

The co-promotion competition invites airlines and agents to propose projects that could stimulate interest among the Singapore market to travel to Japan from now till March 31, 2021.

Japan’s tourism board eyes Singapore travellers in bid to boost inbound tourism to the country

According to JNTO’s Singapore office, the project aims “to support sales of travel products to Japan, and provide information of Japan through co-promotion with airline companies and OTAs in order to promptly recover the demand for travel to Japan, which has decreased due to the global epidemic of Covid-19″.

Before the pandemic, Singapore was a growing market for Japan. In calendar 2019, Japan welcomed 492,252 visitors from Singapore, an increase of 12.6 per cent year-on-year. In April 2020, however, less than 10 travellers arrived from Singapore, down from 36,704 a year earlier, according to JNTO data.

“In order to appeal to and attract numerous Singaporeans coming back to Japan when the recovery begins, we are thinking of working with airlines, travel agencies and OTAs, who are our important partners, on various promotions,” said Max Ye, a JNTO Singapore spokesperson.

Singapore is among more than 100 countries whose citizens are banned from entering Japan at present. Although direct sales advertisements, such as those selling airline tickets, are on hold until travel restrictions are lifted, JNTO wants to start preparing now for Singapore arrivals, Ye explained.

“For Japan travel, the Singapore market comprises largely repeating travellers, and Singaporean travellers spend – and are willing to spend – quite a lot in Japan, so the Singapore market remains an important market for Japan tourism,” he added.

In 2018, the average spend per visitor from Singapore was 172,821 yen, (US$1,600), higher than that of many of its neighbours, including Hong Kong, at 154,581 yen.

Organisations wishing to take part in the competition should submit a proposal, in Japanese or English, by 13.00 (GMT +8) on June 24.

Travel bubbles part of Myanmar tourism’s recovery plan

By TTG Asia
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Myanmar has developed a roadmap for the recovery of its tourism industry, which has been ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic

Myanmar has mapped out a three-phase plan to reinvigorate its tourism industry, including fiscal aid for businesses, implementation of health and safety protocols, and looking to domestic travel to drive initial recovery.

The announcement was made by H.E. U Ohn Maung, union minister of Ministry of Hotels and Tourism (MOHT), on Tuesday. The ministry has been working on the post-Covid recovery plan since April.

Myanmar has developed a roadmap for the recovery of its tourism industry, which has been ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic

In the first “Survival” phase, financial aid will be provided to hotels and tourism businesses, in the form of tax relaxation, reduction of license fees, deferment of rent payment, and loan provision.

As well, MOHT will conduct more online training for tourism professionals and staff, discussing travel destinations and tourism market assessments.

Under phase two of “Reopening”, which will take place in June, July and August, businesses will have to observe a set of SOPs for the health and safety of travellers and staff. Focus will be placed on promoting domestic travel, as local travel destinations reopen in June.

Pagodas, museums and parks will also be reopened, in accordance with the national guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Sports.

Phase three will focus on “Re-launching”, and will be implemented within six months to a year. The phase will see the rolling out of new marketing campaigns and long-term plans to reinvent Myanmar’s tourism.

Furthermore, when the country reopens, the government plans to create “travel bubbles” through bilateral agreements with Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam.

The government has announced extension of entry restrictions for travellers from all countries until June 15, 2020. However, Yangon International airport terminal remains operational for all domestic flights and special relief flights.

Myanmar Tourism Marketing is working with MOHT and other travel associations to launch a domestic tourism campaign, said May Myat Mon Win, Myanmar Tourism Marketing chairperson. Once pandemic eases, she added, they will target regional markets, followed by longhaul destinations.

A lot might have changed, But HAPPY TOURS remains the same: Your trusted European Travel Partner

By TTG
0

Brought to you by Happy Tours

WHO IS HAPPY TOURS?

Happy Tours has grown as a family company and now we are celebrating 20 years!

We have several offices around Europe with skilled staff, an in-house developed IT system, which we are very proud of and we call it TOP (Tour Operators Programme) for a just reason – as this is where we want us to be – and with you along!
We own our own coaches and since last year even a hotel.

Lyra is the first modern 4* hotel in Plitvice in Croatia.

SLOVENIA – THE ORIGINAL HOME OF HAPPY TOURS

Slovenia, this small, yet cosmopolitan country is surrounded by much more internationally well-known countries: Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia and is one of the countries with direct access to the Adriatic Sea, although with a mere 46 km of coastline. Although only half the size of Switzerland, Slovenia boasts beautiful and diverse nature, comprising all the major regions found in Europe – thus it is often referred to as Europe in a nutshell. Short distances between diverse landscapes make you feel everything is within your grasp. This means that you can go skiing in the morning and sail the Adriatic in the afternoon.

Explore the land of diversity

Slovenia boasts numerous must-see places, like the charming pocket-sized capital of Ljubljana with its dazzling hilltop castle; the coastal town of Piran perched on a tiny piece of land jutting into the sea; the biggest European cave, Postojna Cave, which never fails to work its magic; Bled with a picture-postcard lake with an island in the centre and a medieval castle rising overhead, and the emerald green Soča River, one of the most thrilling places for white-water rafting in Europe.

Water is the driving force of all nature

Slovenia is one of the richest countries in Europe in terms of water. Either in search of an unforgettable rafting experience on the foamy emerald waters of the Soča River, an exciting sailing adventure on the Mediterranean or a perfect spa retreat in one of the spas with natural thermal water springs, Slovenia has it all. Also, tap water is drinkable in Slovenia.

Some of the highlights of the country include:

Charming Ljubljana

Fairy-tale Bled Lake

Postojna Cave, the biggest cave in Europe and Predjama Castle

The chronicles of the emerald-green Soča River

The cobbled streets of Piran and sandy beaches of Portorož


Kozjak Waterfall


Logar Valley


Lake Bled

Get to know us, at Happy Tours we are always at your disposal for itineraries throughout the Europe. With offices in London, Athens, Croatia and Slovenia, and with sales support in Malaysia, China and India, we are indeed your trusted European travel partner.

Win a fantastic holiday in our country, and experience its beauties for yourself: www.happytours.eu/prize.

For any enquiries please contact us at: sea@happytours.eu

Airlines flying into US$84.3b loss in 2020: IATA

By TTG Asia
0

Airlines across the world are set to lose US$84.3 billion this year, with revenues halved to US$419 billion from 2019, the IATA forecasted.

In 2021, however, IATA expected losses will be reduced to US$15.8 billion, spurred by a 42 per cent growth in revenue to US$598 billion.

Airlines in Asia-Pacific are set to post the greatest loss at US$29 billion in 2020, says IATA; grounded fleet of Cathay Pacific planes parked at taxiway of Hong Kong International airport this February pictured

“Financially, 2020 will go down as the worst year in the history of aviation,” said Alexandre de Juniac, director-general and CEO, IATA, adding that each day of the year is predicted to add US$230 million to industry losses.

While the lower fuel prices and the increase in cargo revenues will bring some relief, all regions are set to post losses, as the coronavirus grounds the world’s airlines.

Asia-Pacific, first to be impacted by Covid-19, is expected to register the greatest absolute loss at US$29 billion, followed by North America at US$23.1 billion.

Losses will be primarily driven by the fall in passenger demand, with airlines not being able to cut back capacity at the same rate. Across all regions, capacity cuts are expected to lag 10 to 15 percentage points behind the overall fall in passenger demand of 50 per cent.

Additionally, IATA predicted that passenger yields will fall by 18 per cent year-on-year, with passenger revenues down by US$241 billion, as airlines lower prices to spur travellers to fly again.

While the opening up of borders and recovery in passenger demand means airlines are likely to cut back on losses in 2021, de Juniac posited that “airlines will still be financially fragile” next year.

“Passenger revenues (in 2021 are expected to) be more than one-third smaller than in 2019. Airlines are still expected to lose about US$5 for every passenger carried,” he said.

The road to recovery is likely to be long and tough. Airlines will face the challenge of turning the lower losses in 2021 into profits come 2022, to pay off the debts incurred during the pandemic, noted de Juniac.

Korean Air starts zonal boarding

By TTG Asia
0

Korean Air has become the latest airline to implement a back-to-front zone boarding system for economy passengers on all its domestic and international routes.

Under the system, the airline will board passengers seated at the back of the aircraft first, as part of social distancing measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 by reducing contact between passengers.

Korean Air rolls out reverse zone boarding system on its economy flights as part of social-distancing measures

Each aircraft is subdivided into three to four zones depending on its size, and the zone number is printed on passengers’ boarding passes so that travellers can easily check their boarding order.

However, passengers with infants or children, the elderly and those needing special assistance will be permitted to pre-board, regardless of their zone number.

Korean Air has been actively implementing social distancing and hygiene protocols at all stages of travel. For instance, there are floor markers at the gate for international flights to remind passengers to maintain distance while waiting to board the flight.

The airline requires all passengers and employees to wear face masks, regularly disinfects all its aircraft and provides hygiene products, including hand sanitisers for travellers and staff on both aircraft and at airports. In addition, Korean Air conducts temperature checks on passengers on all flights and provides protective gowns and goggles to all cabin crew members.

JLL reshuffles APAC leadership

By TTG Asia
0

JLL’s Hotels and Hospitality Group has made several new appointments to its Asia-Pacific leadership team.

Mike Batchelor will take on the role of CEO, JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group, Asia-Pacific. He will divide his time between Asia and Australia, overseeing a team of 80 across seven countries and territories.

Mike Batchelor will take on the role of CEO, JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group, Asia-Pacific

In his new role, he will provide Asian clients with access to Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands hospitality markets. Batchelor was previously CEO, JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group for the Asian region.

Meanwhile, Craig Collins will be stepping down from his role as CEO, Australasia. Peter Harper will assume the roles of managing director, head of investment sales, Australasia.

Nihat Ercan’s current role as head, investment sales, JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group, Asia, will be expanded to comprise Asia-Pacific. He will be working closely with the Australasia investment sales team to help Asian capital sources expand their investment portfolios worldwide.

Currently head, advisory and asset management, Asia, Xander Nijens’ role will expand to involve asset management across the Asia-Pacific region.

World of Hyatt offers members triple points

By TTG Asia
0

Hyatt is restarting the Bonus Journeys promotion, allowing members of its World of Hyatt loyalty programme to expedite point earning and reward redemption, as travel begins to pick up worldwide.

To participate, existing World of Hyatt members must first register for the free Bonus Journeys membership online by August 31, 2020.

World of Hyatt members can earn triple points on each eligible spend at Hyatt properties worldwide

They would then need to make a qualifying booking for a stay at a participating property between June 15 and September 15, 2020, and provide their World of Hyatt membership number during the booking and check-in. The points will be credited to their accounts in two to three weeks after their stay.

All members will earn triple points on each eligible spend, starting with their second qualifying stay during the offer period.

Participating Hyatt hotels and resorts span across 17 brands worldwide, such as Thompson Hotels, Hyatt Regency, Andaz, Hyatt Place and Hyatt House. Other participating brands include MGM Resorts, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and cruise operator Lindblad Expedition.

Elite World of Hyatt members will also receive 2,500 bonus points on their first qualifying stay between June 15 and September 15, 2020.

China’s tourists warming up to foreign travel again

By Marissa Carruthers
0

Destinations across the globe are pinning hopes on China leading travel recovery, as a recent survey reveals 45 per cent are willing to travel overseas this year.

At last week’s inaugural Arabian Travel Market Virtual, panel members discussed a joint survey by Ivy Alliance Tourism Consulting, China Comfort Travel Group, and PATA, which revealed 60 per cent of Chinese intend to travel in 2020, with more than 45 per cent wanting to go abroad.

A recent survey showed Chinese travellers are keen to travel abroad, with more preferring to tour in small groups

Adam Wu, CEO of CBN Travel & Mice and World Travel Online, regarded the results as “very good news for foreign destinations (that) need to start planning for this”.

Tropical island and cultural destinations topped the choices, with a shift in travel trends to favour smaller group travel. Almost half of the respondents said they prefer group tours, however, the wake of coronavirus has led to a surge in demand for small group tours and FIT.

Tony Ong, chief business officer and vice president of HCG International Travel Group, said: “Groups will be smaller, reduced to 10-50 people, which will probably happen one to two months after borders have opened.”

Japan was the number one desired destination, followed by Thailand, Europe, the Maldives and Singapore.

Helen Shapovalova, founder and director of Pan Ukraine, predicts ecotourism will be a major trend with Chinese travellers once restrictions are lifted. She said: “Natural settings with green open spaces, mountains, rivers and fresh air will play a big part post-Covid-19.”

While shopping has always been a major drawcard for Chinese tourists, especially luxury goods, it is expected this may change as travellers balance risk management with the customer experience.

Destinations around the world need to start preparing for the rebound in China outbound tourism: Wu

Lisa Dinh, tourism director at VIA Outlets, said: “Trust is the new currency. The demand is still there, but health and safety and relationship-building will be key. Training will be essential to changing mindsets.”

Agreeing, Taleb Rifai, chairman of the International Institute of Peace for Tourism, said that destinations need to have solid health and safety measures in place if they want to capture the market.

He added global governments need to work together by signing bilateral agreements. An internationally-recognised certification programme would also help standardise levels of sanitisation and build consumer confidence.

Laguna Phuket’s marathon goes virtual

By TTG Asia
0

Banyan Tree’s Laguna Phuket, Asia’s first integrated resort, will be pushing forward with its annual Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon (SLPM) – in virtual form – this weekend.

Held over the original event dates on June 13-14, the inaugural SLPM Virtual Weekend will be an interactive experience to remain connected with its keen runners and guests worldwide amid the Covid-19 pandemic, while encouraging them to keep fit.

Meanwhile, the resort still plans to hold a physical marathon year-end, with the 15th Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon now set to take place from December 5-6, 2020.

Race organiser Go Adventure Asia welcomes participants to choose any preferred distance – the 2K Kids Run, 5K, 10.5K, Half or Marathon.

Entry is free to all existing SLPM registered runners. For new runners who have not yet registered for the SLPM in December, the exclusive entry fee is US$3 per person. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Kao Kon La Kao Foundation.

Participants stand to win prizes, donated by the luxury hotels, spas, golf and lifestyle facilities within Laguna Phuket. Runners are to complete their individual races anywhere worldwide on June 13-14, 2020, while following local public health regulations, and submit online from June 13-19, 2020.

Registration can be made here, and is now open until June 12, 2020.

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Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Sono signs hotel project in Hanoi Old Quarter for 2026 opening
TTG Asia | Asia-Pacific LCCs face fuel cost shock amid Middle East conflict
TTG Asia | Sun World Vũng Tàu unveils beachfront water park in Vietnam