Automated immigration check in New Zealand (photo credit: Facebook/ NZCustoms)
Starting today, Singaporeans and New Zealanders will be able to utilise the automated immigration facilities when travelling to each other’s country.
This was announced by the Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) yesterday on February 11.
Automated immigration check in New Zealand (photo credit: Facebook/ NZCustoms)
Eligible Singaporeans will be able to use New Zealand’s eGate passport control facility, if they are 12 years old and above and hold an ePassport. Automated eGates are available at Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown airports, according to the New Zealand customs service website.
Similarly, holders of New Zealand passports aged six and above, with more than six months’ validity will be eligible to apply for Singapore’s Frequent Traveller Programme (FTP). Applicants must have visited Singapore at least twice in the past two years to be eligible to apply for the FTP. The programme allows eligible travellers to clear immigration via automated clearance facilities.
Those interested can apply for the FTP at the enrolment centres located at Terminal 3 Changi Airport, the visitor services centre at the ICA Building, as well as at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints. Enrolment in Singapore’s FTP is voluntary and free for New Zealand nationals.
The mutual extension of such automated immigration clearance facilities comes as part of the Singapore-New Zealand Enhanced Partnership, which is aimed at boosting trade, business and tourism links between the two countries.
Aviation industry pioneer Fred Reid has joined Airbnb as global head of transportation, as the homesharing giant unveils its ambitions to build an end-to-end travel platform combining accommodation, activities and transfer options.
Tasked to focus on building partnerships and services to make travel seamless in his new role at Airbnb, Reid said: “I’m excited to work with (Airbnb) to tackle the third part of the travel experience: how you get there. Whether in the air or on the ground, there are tremendous opportunities to create products and forge partnerships with other companies that make travel easier and even fun.
“Realising those opportunities will take years and require constant experimentation, and I’m truly honoured to have the chance to take on such an audacious challenge with this team,” he added.
However, Airbnb’s co-founder, CEO and head of community Brian Chesky said the homesharing company is “not interested in building our own airline or creating just another place on the Internet where you can buy a plane ticket.
“We’re going to explore a broad range of ideas and partnerships that can make transportation better. We haven’t settled on exactly what those will look like… but there is a tremendous opportunity to improve the transportation experience for everyone,” he stated.
Reid is a global aviation expert with more than three decades of experience. He joins Airbnb from his role as president of the Cora Aircraft Program, a division of Kitty Hawk, where he oversaw the development of autonomous electric vertical takeoff and landing aircrafts. Prior to that, he was president of Flexjet, an independent operating unit of Bombardier.
Reid’s long list of credentials include being the founding CEO of Virgin America; president of Delta Airlines who led the formation of SkyTeam global alliance; president and COO of Lufthansa German Airlines in 1996; and was the co-architect of Star Alliance.
The newly released Mastercard-CrescentRating Halal Travel Frontier 2019 (HTF2019) Report has identified top trends expected to shape the next phase of development in the fast growing halal travel sector.
The report predicts that more millennials and Gen Z travellers will book “instant noodle trips” – affordable, impromptu short trips.
‘Rising authority’ of women when planning travels one of the trends that will change Muslim travel, report says
Another trend with the potential to “dramatically change the Muslim-friendly narrative” is the rise in popularity of non-OIC destinations, such as South Africa, Japan and Taiwan. Competition and dynamism are expected lead to innovations and developments that will benefit both destinations as well as Muslim travellers, according to the report.
In addition, heightened awareness on social causes and the rising authority of female influencers when planning trips, are expected to change how Muslims travel.
Finally, the report foresees the consolidation of Muslim travel service providers that will potentially result in the emergence of stronger Muslim lifestyle and travel brands.
The global Muslim traveller expenditure is projected to reach US$220 billion in 2020 according to the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2018. It is expected to grow a further US$80 billion to hit US$300 billion by 2026.
In 2017, there were an estimated 131 million Muslim visitor arrivals globally – up from 121 million in 2016 – and this is forecasted to grow to 156 million visitors by 2020, representing 10 percent of the global travel segment.
Checking in will be done at hotel bar or lobby; Great Bar at an ibis hotel (credit: Abaca Corporate Margaret Stepien)
A brand shake up is expected to see Ibis hotels take on a stronger lifestyle focus and create social settings for guests and non-guests alike, including through the introduction of new entertainment, design and dining concepts.
The strategy is in response to new customer expectations highlighted by an Ipsos study conducted across six countries on behalf of ibis: 80 per cent of respondents would like this new type of hotel to be a social venue, where everyone, including “non-staying” guests, feels welcome.
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Checking in will be done at hotel bar or lobby; Great Bar at an ibis hotel (credit: Abaca Corporate Margaret Stepien)
ibis Sao Paulo Morumbi
Lounging area at ibis Sao Paulo Expo
ibis Sao Paulo Expo exterior
This marks a repositioning of the ibis brand to one that represents “living spaces for everyone, that are flexible, welcoming and on-trend”.
To support the transformation, Ibis intends to welcome visitors to a “life hub”, where anyone can come to sleep, dine, meet people or enjoy live music. Results from the survey showed that a majority of respondents (67 per cent) has a liking for having a whole range of lifestyle possibilities within a single location.
Ibis has decided to make music an integral part of the customer experience to encourage social interaction between all the people passing through its hotels. In 2019, more than 100 live performances will be hosted in ibis hotels with emerging artists, supported by headline artists, to perform in six key countries.
The brand is positioning itself as a promoter of new talents and is planning to take the best of them to the Sziget Festival.
The ibis model is also evolving from a uniform and standardised approach into a more flexible one, made possible by three new design concepts. Selected designers in Europe, Latin America and Asia have based their concepts on connecting with the outside, giving the bar pride of place and making the hotels equally appealing to travellers and locals.
Travellers will have the option to choose from rooms that can accommodate one to six pax, depending on their requirements, or they can opt for the Smart Room.
The brand is introducing a new range of dining options. The bar, which ibis says serves as the hub in hotels, will offer a tailored menu and a signature visual identity. Ibis hoteliers can opt for the concept most suited to the specific characteristics of their clientele and tailor it according to their neighborhood in order to offer a menu that showcases local dishes and fresh produce.
A pilot hotel for this new offering, ibis Zurich Messe Airport has within its lobby created Charlie’s Corner, a bar devoted to beer where the menu changes depending on the time of day. In the morning, customers can enjoy a coffee, while in the evening they can discover the Beer Wall and its wide selection of Swiss beers. They can also enjoy regional dishes, such as “rösties”, in a pop-rock ambience.
Other new features of ibis include the replacement of the reception desk with mobile check-in. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by a member of the “ibis Smile Team” and complete check-in formalities at the bar or at the lobby. Although this new welcome format requires the use of tablets and a proprietary mobile solution (PSM FOLS Mobile), it makes employees less static and increases their interaction with guests, ibis said in a statement.
The brand aims to roll out mobile check-in to the entire international ibis network by 2022.
Moxy Hotels, Marriott International’s playful brand targeting the next generation of travellers, is set to make its Australia debut with the signing of Moxy Melbourne South Yarra.
Slated to open in July 2021, the 180-room, new-build is being developed by Melbourne businessmen Hector Ktori and Peter Arvanitis, and designed by architectural firm Rothelowman.
Artist impression of Moxy Melbourne South Yarra
Moxy Melbourne South Yarra promises a contemporary design with 180 rooms, with floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel will offer various live/work/play spaces, including a bar, co-working space and meeting studio, as well as a rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline with access to a large veranda. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel gym.
In line with the Moxy concept, the hotel will also feature 24/7 self-service grab-and-go food and drinks, ample plug-ins for personal devices and free Wi-Fi.
The brand portfolio now comprises 30 operating hotels across Europe, North America and Asia and more than 80 properties in development.
Commenting on the brand’s Australia debut, Sean Hunt, area vice president, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, Marriott International, said: “The next generation of travellers is seeking more than a comfortable bed and room-service burger. They want to stay in hotels with an approachable price point that offer bold, contemporary design and hyper social experiences that tap into the local culture.”
Paul Foskey, chief development officer, Asia-Pacific, Marriott International, added: “Australia has seen growing demand in the select-service tier and we look forward to introducing the Moxy brand to this market with Moxy Melbourne South Yarra.”
Moxy Melbourne South Yarra will open in the heart of Melbourne’s lively South Yarra neighbourhood at 30-32 Claremont Street. Guests will be a short walk from Chapel Street – the city’s trendy shopping and entertainment strip – and South Yarra Station.
Now on lease by insurance company FWD Group, the historic hotel housed within 1881 Heritage in Tsim Sha Tsui is set to undergo a revitalisation and reopen under the new name, House 1881.
Previously known as Hullett House, the heritage building comprises a boutique hotel and five dining concepts.
Hullet House to become House 1881
In the coming months, House 1881 will undergo a complete revitalisation in phases, including a revamp of the restaurants and a renovation of the guest suites. The refurbishment is scheduled for completion in April and FWD will host a celebratory event in May to mark the historic site’s new direction.
Tim Oliver, FWD Group chief customer & marketing officer, said: “In acquiring the lease for House 1881, we have a unique opportunity to preserve an important landmark and engage with the community. We’re planning to host regular activities that take full advantage of the property’s historic courtyard and surrounding gardens and showcase its enduring legacy and charm to both locals and overseas visitors alike.”
Built in 1884, the former Marine Police Headquarters is one of 120 Declared Monuments of Hong Kong. Today, it is a cultural and shopping attraction in a prime location in Canton Road, surrounded by high-end malls, luxury boutiques and museums.
Stars in cars at the Hollywood Dreams Light-Up Parade
Guests to Universal Studios Singapore can experience more thrills and fun after the sun goes down, as the park debuts its all-new Universal After Hours programme, which includes a light-up parade, pop-up food stalls, live band performances and firework displays.
Headlining Universal After Hours is the evening incarnation of the Hollywood Dreams Parade as it transforms into the Hollywood Dreams Light-Up Parade.
USS After Hours
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Stars in cars at the Hollywood Dreams Light-Up Parade
Journey 2 Madagascar
The Lost World
Revenge Of The Mummy
Guests can catch some of their favourite movies come to life in the parade, which will showcase a procession of 12 illuminated floats, along with a cast of more than 100 characters and performers – all decked out in neon and LED lights.
Groove along with characters from Madagascar, embark on an epic chase with Jurassic Park rangers, and be awed as Egyptian gods and mummies from Revenge of the Mummy come alive on the streets. The parade begins at 19.30 (weather permitting) and winds through various zones in the park.
Guests can continue to enjoy the thrilling theme park rides under the stars and end the night with a fireworks display.
During Universal After Hours, operating hours at the theme park will be extended until 22.00 on Fridays, Saturdays and select public holidays.
Universal After Hours activities are included with admission to the theme park or Annual/Season Pass. Singapore Residents enjoy online discounts for After-17.00 Adult Ticket and Dining Bundle at S$75 (US$55), including S$16 meal vouchers.
Jason Allen Villarino has been appointed general manager of Keemala boutique resort in Phuket.
He was most recently general manager of Silavadee Pool Spa Resort on Koh Samui. Prior to that, Villarino has experience working in the Maldives at Soneva Gili by Six Senses, and in Thailand at Tubkaak Boutique Resort, Krabi and Evason Hideaway & Six Senses Spa, Hua Hin.
Labuan Bajo, one of the 10 New Balis, is the gateway to Komodo National Park (pictured)
The Indonesia Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) is forming an integrated team to study the possible closure of the Komodo Island.
The decision was made during last week’s meeting of the director general of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), the East Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government and the West Manggarai Regency Government, following widespread concern in the travel industry when the regional government announced its intention to close the park for one year.
Labuan Bajo, one of the 10 New Balis, is the gateway to Komodo National Park (pictured)
The team consisting of local government, KLHK, tourism stakeholders, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, the Ministry of Tourism and civil society organisations will work together until July 2019, and provide recommendations to KLHK and the Directorate General of Conservation of Natural Resources and Ecosystem in August 2019.
Until the integrated team completes its research, tour operators can still sell packages to Komodo Island. However, tourism activities, such as trekking, snorkelling and diving will come under tightened regulations to ensure the sustainability of the park’s ecosystem.
Wiratno, director general of Natural Resources Conservation and Ecosystems, stated that all parties were in agreement that Komodo National Park is a world heritage site that must be managed with prudence.
“Governance needs to be improved, especially in relation to safeguarding and protecting Komodo animals, including the availability of prey, especially deer,” he explained.
In official press statement, Wiratno said that should the integrated team’s recommendations lead to closure, only the Komodo Island will be affected. The closure would not take place before January 2020.
“The closure plan is only for Komodo Island, not all of Komodo National Park. Snorkelling at almost 43 good dive spots can still be done,” Wiratno said.
In fact, Komodo dragons – one of the biggest sell-points of the destination – are not only found on Komodo Island but also on the surrounding islands.
Travellers can still see the famed creatures on Rinca Island, Padar Island, Gili Motang and Nusa Kode, as well as the mainland of Flores in the Riung Island Nature Park 17 in Ngada Regency.
Meanwhile, the assessment of the entrance tariff will also be immediately coordinated with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Tourism, tour operators and the Association of Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies, added Wiratno.
The visitor management system, information centre, and institutional strengthening of communities for conservation and the economy will also be thoroughly regulated.
Opportunities for cooperation in strengthening the function and licensing of natural tourism services and natural tourism facilities can also be explored according to applicable regulations and laws.
“In the coordination meeting it was also decided that the arrangement of the ship’s entrance lane and the entrance ticket sales to the Komodo National Park would be set through one door, namely Labuan Bajo Port,” Wiratno said.
With the signing of separate distribution agreements with major GDS players, Qantas will make available its new pathway designed to deliver more personalised and seamless experiences to customers via agent booking channels, set to come into effect on August 1.
Amadeus sellers that sign up to the Qantas Channel can continue to access the airline’s wide range of fares and products available for agents – including future NDC content – while enjoying the efficiencies and servicing capabilities of the Amadeus system when booking, changing or cancelling trips.
Amadeus and Sabre agents will be able to sign up to the Qantas channel
They will also be able to access Qantas fares without a channel fee.
Sabre-powered travel agencies who sign up to the Qantas Channel will enjoy a wider range of content from the airline, and be able to leverage up-to-date information to create rich, personalised offers for customers.
Qantas chief customer officer Vanessa Hudson said the airline was pleased to be working with the two GDSs to make the Qantas Channel available to their agents globally.
“The digital environment has changed the way we need to work with our trade partners, and our new technology paired with this new Qantas Channel agreement will support us on the journey to delivering our vision for our mutual customers. We’re excited to continue to innovate with our trade partners and share in the benefits of this new technology.”
Along with the Qantas Channel agreement, Sabre also announced the Australian airline will be joining its Beyond NDC Program as a strategic partner.
The airline is already part of Amadeus’ NDC-X programme, having joined last June with the aim of connecting the Qantas Distribution Platform (QDP) to Amadeus.
“Partnerships are the foundation of progress. As Qantas’ IT and distribution provider, we are proud to support the airline’s strategy to deliver increasing personalised experiences across all touchpoints,” said Cyril Tetaz, executive vice president, airlines, Asia-Pacific, Amadeus.
In 2018, Qantas renewed its IT and distribution agreement with Amadeus, and completed a major digital redesign of its online booking process in collaboration with the GDS, in order to provide customers with a more personalised and intuitive digital experience.
Update [February 11, 15:23]: Travelport has reached out to highlight that it has also signed with Qantas to give its agents access to content sourced from the NDC-enabled Qantas Distribution Platform. In a press release, Travelport’s managing director Australia and New Zealand, Scott Barber, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Qantas as it develops its new Channel and introduces the NDC standard. As the first GDS operator with an NDC booking solution available to a small group of customers, we have proven our capability to deliver this new standard.”
