[Sponsored Post] Oakwood returns to CTW Asia-Pacific as gold sponsor

July 23, 2016

OAKWOOD Worldwide returns as a Gold Sponsor for the 3rd consecutive year at Corporate Travel World (CTW) Asia-Pacific 2016. Its collaboration with TTG Events has been elevated to include a pulse survey that will be conducted among attendees to gain deeper insight into the trends, needs, and prevailing concerns faced by corporate travel professionals.

(Ms) TJ Spencer, Vice President, Sales and Managing Director, Asia-Pacific, Oakwood Worldwide, “Our participation over the past few years has driven greater brand awareness and reach for Oakwood Worldwide. Connecting with key decision-makers and influencers in the industry is one of the main motivations behind our continued partnership with CTW Asia-Pacific.”

tj-spencer
TJ Spencer

Survey results will be disclosed at the CTW Asia-Pacific Opening Session on ‘Corporate Travel Beyond 2016’, providing an in-depth discussion and talkback on the hottest issues, priorities, and emerging trends facing the hospitality industry from the perspective of a global accommodation solutions provider.

Added Spencer, “It’s important for us to better understand their key considerations and challenges they face, to see how we can tailor our solutions to alleviate any pain-points within their travel accommodation programmes. As part of our ongoing strategy to maintain our position in the marketplace, we are committed to strengthening the breadth and depth of our service offering to support our clients and the industry. This partnership and survey provides us with an opportunity to demonstrate our leadership, expertise and innovation.”

CTW Asia-Pacific brings together some of the best practitioners and expert speakers in the field, providing valuable educational opportunities for Corporate Travel Professionals to catch up on industry developments and challenges, and current best practices, by imparting their knowledge and encouraging peer sharing.

As the only event in the Asia-Pacific with the largest hosting programme for Corporate Travel Buyers, applicants are handpicked via a strict validation programme aimed at bringing in qualified delegates across the region every year. This year, close to 150 top corporate travel buyers are expected to attend with access to unparalleled opportunities to learn, source and do business. This is why sponsorship has been an integral part of CTW Asia-Pacific in helping suppliers reach out to their desired profiles.

Spencer concluded, “Our sponsorship with CTW Asia Pacific is testament to our commitment to the region and we are looking forward to engaging with our clients and forming new relationships at the event that will help strengthen our presence in the industry.”

Interested sponsors can contact ctwapac@ttgasia.com for more details on customised sponsorship packages. For more information, log on to www.corporatetravelworld.com/apac.

Singapore Michelin Guide debut a likely allure for gastro-tourists

By Rachel AJ Lee

July 22, 2016

SINGAPORE became the only place in the world possible to get a S$4 (US$2.90) Michelin-star meal as two hawker stalls were conferred a one-star Michelin rating in the first ever Singapore Michelin Guide.

The vendors are Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle in Crawford Lane and Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle at Chinatown Food Complex.

These results were announced at the gala dinner at Resorts World Sentosa yesterday night, in addition to the Bib Gourmand list released last week.

Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodles’ owner Tang Chay Seng was nonchalant about the award but said that he was surprised by the inclusion of his stall in a list filled with fine dining establishments. Yet he stressed, in Mandarin, that they “are not the same” and that it “cannot be compared”.

On the other hand, Chan Hon Meng of Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle, seemed overwhelmed by the attention.

Chan said in Mandarin: “I feel very privileged and am very happy with this recognition. I hope every year there will be a hawker that gains such a recognition. Nothing will change for us.”

In all, 22 establishments received the one-star rating, such as the only Peranakan restaurant on the list, Candlenut, and Corner House, located within the UNESCO-listed Botanic Gardens.

When asked if the award will entice more tourists to try our local food, chef Malcolm Lee of Candlenut, said: “We have some following (in Singapore), but as this guide is international, I guess there will be a lot more tourists (coming to visit) given that we (offer) local-style cuisine.”

Corner House’s Jason Tan, another home-grown chef, agreed: “I think we will definitely see an increase (in tourists). Our restaurant is in a UNESCO site, so that in itself is already a plus point. Our restaurant currently gets a lot of guests from China, Indonesia and Hong Kong, and I hope that more will come.”

Meanwhile, six restaurants such as Odette, which only opened late last year, and Restaurant Andre, obtained two stars each.

When asked if it makes it easier for people around the world to recognise his eponymous restaurant now that there is a Michelin-star branding, chef and co-owner Andre Chiang, said: “I personally think it might not change much (for Singaporeans), but it is an important reference for people outside of Singapore when they come here, (as a reference) to choose where to go and what they want to try.”

Julien Royer, chef and co-owner of Odette, opined: “I think the Michelin Guide will definitely impact traveller habits. Nowadays when I travel, I look at Michelin Guide and many other platforms, and as the Michelin Guide is the most prestigious one, this will – hopefully – bring a very interesting crowd to our restaurant.”

The only restaurant conferred three stars was Joël Robuchon’s eponymous restaurant at Resorts World Sentosa. The veteran chef now has 30 Michelin stars across his restaurant empire, and remains as the chef with the most number of Michelin-stars under his belt.

Regardless, the Michelin Guide will help place Singapore in the global spotlight, and boost the country’s reputation as a gastronomic hub.

In his opening speech, Lionel Yeo, chief executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, said: “I was having a meeting with some senior executives of a large travel agency – they are based in North Asia and account for 12 per cent of visitor arrivals for Singapore – and they were very excited about the Singapore Michelin Guide.

“They were discussing with us how they could incorporate more dining experiences for their customers, so that they can sell such packages and entice more people from their market to come to Singapore.”

Michael Ellis, international director, Michelin Guides, concurred: “(Based on the spotlight that we give), the arrival of the Singapore Michelin Guide (should) generate a significant number of gastro-tourists – people who plan their vacations around where they are going to eat.”

Corporates prefer in-person meetings when doing business

By TTG Asia

July 22, 2016

DESPITE the proliferation of technology that makes it easier for companies to communicate internationally, an Egencia study revealed that a majority of corporates still find in-person meetings more effective and productive.

The study further showed that travellers in Australia, Canada, China, India, the UK and the US made a stronger endorsement for face-to-face meetings on average, at 90 per cent, higher than the global average of 86 per cent.

Meanwhile, 91 per cent of travellers with a title of vice president and above indicated a preference for conducting business in-person.

The study further revealed that 67 per cent of those surveyed said they would be less successful in their role if they did not travel to meet their potential clients and customers.

Khiri Travel launches first itinerary to war-torn Jaffna

By TTG Asia

July 22, 2016

Kathurogoda Ancient Vihara in the Jaffna district, Sri Lanka

BANGKOK-based Khiri Travel has introduced a tour itinerary to the city of Jaffna in northern Sri Lanka, one of the first agencies to do so now that the the surrounding region has recovered from civil conflict.

According to a statement by Khiri, the 4D/3N package is now being launched as the area has returned to normalcy, allowing travellers to explore the place whether by train, bicycle, jeep or catamaran.

“Our aim is to share the wonderful seafood, curry, architecture, beaches and friendliness of the Jaffna people with guests who share a passion for discovery,” said Gonzalo Gil Lavedra, general manager of Khiri Travel Sri Lanka, who inspected the area and created the trip.

“We are providing an itinerary that is not only groundbreaking in terms of the destination and experience, but has been designed with the people of Jaffna in mind.”

Highlights of the itinerary include a train ride aboard the Queen of Jaffna that passes through the main conflict region, a visit to Casuarina Beach, a full-day ride on a catamaran to nearby islands, and many more.

“If there is a place in Sri Lanka that has remained hidden, it is Delft island. With its unique people, coral walls, fort, feral horses, food, temples and lovely beaches, I could go on and on. But the best way is for the clients to see it for themselves,” said Gil Lavedra.

“The area is perfectly safe. The time is right for tour operators to add Jaffna to their Sri Lanka itineraries.”

Costa Cruises makes debut in India with Mumbai homeport

By TTG Asia

July 22, 2016

Costa neoClassica

COSTA Cruises is marking its entry into the Indian market with the launch of the Costa neoClassica from homeport Mumbai between December 16, 2016 to March 18, 2017.

The weekly itineraries will include destinations such as Goa, Cochin and Colombo. The Costa neoClassica will also be the first large cruise ship to sail between Mumbai and the Maldives.

The vessel has 654 cabins – including sea view cabins and suites with private balconies – and feature a casino, theatre, disco, ballroom, duty-free shopping centre, library and bar. Its wellness centre is spread across 1,300m² with a gym, treatment rooms, sauna and steam room. It also features an outdoor jogging track, four jacuzzis and two swimming pools. Indian and Italian cuisine will be available onboard.

First launched in 1991 as the Costa Classica, the vessel has undergone several rounds of refurbishments over the years. It was relaunched as the Costa neoClassica along with its most recent upgrade in December 2014.

Nalini Gupta, managing director of Lotus Destinations (GSA of Costa Cruises India), feels the modern Indian traveller is now seeking a different kind of thrill and cruise holidays are now a must-do for them.

She added that “the fact that Indians can now embark directly from Mumbai not only makes the process hassle-free and visa-free, but also saves the traveller cost and time”.

Who wants to operate the ‘loneliest airport in the world’?

By Feizal Samath

July 22, 2016

IN AN unprecedented move, Sri Lanka is offering open skies and all nine air freedoms to any organisation interested in running its second international airport.

The Mahinda Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), located about 250km south of Colombo, had been chalking up losses from day one and has been described as “one of the loneliest airports in the world” by international media.

Only budget carriers Flydubai and Rotana Jet are using the airport since its opening in March 2013. The lack of infrastructure and distance from the capital has made it unattractive for airlines. National carrier SriLankan Airlines had operated flights via MRIA but discontinued in early 2015 as it was uneconomical.

Now, in a bid to revive interest in the airport, the government had on July 3 called for expressions of interest from international players to operate the airport. Bids close on August 12.

A senior aviation official, who declined to be named, said a few parties including two Chinese companies, a Japanese company and a consortium believed to represent Airbus have shown interest but not yet submitted bids.

However, the widely-authoritative political column in last week’s Colombo-based Sunday Times newspaper said the government had already decided to hand over airport operations to China’s IZP group, which also recently purchased Italy’s Parma International Airport, as a trade-off for a US$210 million loan.

New hotel openings: July 18 to 22, 2016

By TTG Asia

July 22, 2016

The latest hotel openings and announcements made this week

Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts will be opening its fourth property in Hong Kong in December, located by the waterfront of Hung Hom Bay in Kowloon. The 545-key Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong has rooms ranging from 42m² to 294m², with 60 per cent of its rooms boasting harbour views. The resort-style hotel caters well for MICE events, with facilities such as a 1756m² Grand Ballroom, 17 flexible meeting rooms that can accommodate between 30 to 600 pax, as well as other outdoor and indoor spaces.

W Goa
W is making its brand debut in India with W Goa this September, located on a 10ha plot of land overlooking Vagator beach in North Goa. The property will offer 160 rooms and villas. F&B options include pan-Asian restaurant Spice Traders, fusion establishment The Kitchen Table, and bars The Rock Pool and WET Deck. W’s signature FIT gym and Spa by Clarins are also available. A special rate starting from US$305 per room per night including breakfast is being offered to mark the hotel’s opening.

Holiday Inn Osaka Namba
InterContinental Hotels Group will be taking over operations of the 314-room Hotel Vista Grande Osaka by this year-end after rebranding it into a Holiday Inn property in partnership with Japan Hotel REIT Investment Corporation. This also marks the Holiday Inn brand’s debut in Osaka city. The hotel is located a 7-minute walk away from Nippombashi Metro station in the city’s famed Namba entertainment district.

Le Méridien Qingdao West Coast Resort
Starwood Hotels & Resorts has opened the 218-key Le Méridien Qingdao West Coast Resort in Shandong province, located on a stretch of beach at Lingshan Bay, marking the second Le Méridien property in the Chinese port city of Qingdao. It is sited slightly more than an hour’s drive away from Liuting International Airport. The resort is equipped with three F&B venues, a fitness centre, an indoor swimming pool and 2900m² of events space including a 880m² Grand Ballroom.

Photo of the Day: Chris Bailey bids adieu to Centara

By TTG Asia

July 22, 2016

Chris Bailey taking a selfie with staff and partners of Centara Hotels & Resorts at a gathering held early last week

COO of Centara Hotels & Resorts, Chris Bailey, has resigned after 12.5 years of service with the company. The travel industry veteran is slated to leave the chain at the end of September. During his time with Centara, the company has grown from a portfolio of eight properties to over 65.

Sri Lanka’s main airport to temporarily switch to night operations

By Feizal Samath

July 21, 2016

Bandaranaike International Airport

SRI Lanka’s main gateway will operate mostly night flights for three months in 2017, from January 6 to April 6, so that the airport’s 30-year-old runway can undergo urgent repairs.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) informed industry stakeholders last week that flights won’t be permitted between 08.30 and 16.30 at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) for the period.

The dates and hours of closure were decided in consultation with airline operators, said the CAA.

Operators said that the repairs are necessary and agreed to day flights being rescheduled to operate during after hours. Ruha Jasinghe, secretary of the Sri Lanka Association of Airline Representatives said the repairs are needed and long overdue, and are looking at ways to try and reduce the inconvenience to passengers.

This is the first time overlaying work is being carried out on the airport’s runway since it completed construction in 1986.

BIA handles an average of 170 flights per day with roughly 60 flights taking place during daytime. Last year, 8.2 million passengers passed through the airport.

SriLankan Airlines CEO Suren Ratwatte told local media that they are now working on the new schedules. Other sources added that the national carrier would be the most affected due to the volume of flights they operate.

Etihad Airways general manager Kumar De Silva said they would not be impacted as they operate day flights only during the summer.

According to officials, there is also a likelihood that some flights will operate out of Mahinda Rajapaksa International Airport in cases of emergency.

A meeting will be held later this month to iron out how carriers will operate during this period, stated the CAA.

North Korea seeks FDI for new tourism zone

By Julian Ryall

July 21, 2016

Inside the Wonsan Kalma International Airport. Credit: Aram Pan/DPRK360.com

NORTH Korea is embarking on a major campaign to expand its tourism sector and is appealing to foreign investors to sink money into the Kalma district on the east coast of the peninsula.

The campaign to develop Kalma, close to the city of Wonsan, comes just weeks after North Korea created another special tourism zone at Mubong, the area around Mount Paektu and on the border with China.

State media has reported that a resort town is to be constructed along a 4km stretch of beach at Kalma and is emphasising its proximity to scenic spots including Mount Kumgang, Lake Sijung, Samil lagoon and the Masikryong ski resort.

Under the terms of the 2013 Law on Economic Development of Parks, foreign investors are permitted to carry out independent business activities in designated tourism zones. However, the country’s appeal to investors remains questionable as it still faces international economic sanctions.

Simon Cockerell, general manager of Beijing-based Koryo Tours, said a conference last year for potential investors in the Wonsan area attracted “a couple of hundred people, almost all of them Chinese”. Yet, he remains skeptical of the event’s success as “investment there can be complicated”.

It is also uncertain if tourism development in the area will be matched with mass market tourist demand. “Wonsan already has hotels and an airport built, so they have done the easy stuff,” Cockerell said. “But why would tourists want to go there?”