Emirates joins hands with Icelandair
Emirates and Icelandair have signed a codeshare agreement that will allow customers to seamlessly travel across the two airlines’ networks.
The flights will be available for sale on September 1 this year, subject to securing regulatory approvals.
The agreement will increase both airlines’ offerings for convenient connections where customers can travel on a single ticket and have their luggage checked through all the way to the final destination. Icelandair passengers in North America and Iceland can connect eastbound via Emirates’ network to Dubai; and Emirates worldwide passengers can connect westbound via Icelandair’s network to Iceland.
Emirates and Icelandair expect to further develop and expand the partnership in the future.
Korean Air to launch new route to Macau
Korean Air is starting a new daily service between Seoul (Incheon) and Macau from July 1.
The new Macau service provides Greater Bay Area travellers with more flight options, allowing those from cities such as Jiangmen, Zhongshan, and Taishan to reach the airport in as little as two hours.
Travellers from the region will also have the option to connect to Korean Air’s extensive North America and Japan destinations via Seoul Incheon International Airport.
From July 15, the route will be served by the airline’s fleet of Airbus A321neos, which is equipped with fully lie-flat seats in Prestige Class.
Sustainability is calling
Since the start of GSTC’s work in 2007, has the travel and tourism community changed the way it regards sustainable tourism concepts?
Indeed, there have been very significant changes.
One, we had a role to define sustainability to include social issues, community impacts, cultural respect and heritage conservation, and governance that supports sustainability to go along with environmental issues.
Two, few businesses thought about sustainability in 2007. All too often we heard, “well, the customer isn’t asking for it”. Today, there is social, business and regulatory pressure to make a big change.
Three, back then, when businesses thought about sustainability, their typical action was to bring in a consultant. Today, businesses take a team approach.
One thing that has not changed – the industry does not understand how to apply standards and to speak the language of standards and verification systems. People refer to any form of external review as certification. We’re trying to get the word out that external review comes in many forms. For example, we’re partnering with WTTC to communicate that the WTTC Basics is a starting point for hotels to focus on a small number of attributes. Hotels should over time add more attributes they’re working on and higher levels of external review.
GSTC offers training and certification programmes – why are they increasingly important and necessary?
Awareness of the sustainability definition and training on how to do it are strongly needed. People always ask me how they can get certified. They expect me to tell them who to call and where to go online. However, I like to tell them to make their business practices more sustainable, which requires staff training, adjustments to processes and systems, self-awareness through honest self-assessment, and development of skills to report and provide evidence of compliance. Only after all that they might be ready to apply for certification.
In 2014 we launched a general course by teaching the essence of our two long-time standards, the GSTC Industry Criteria and the GSTC Destination Criteria. That is very successful, and continues to grow with online and offline classes in many languages.
We’ve added courses specific to industries, starting with hotels and now tour operators. The flagship course will carry on, but the real growth is providing staff and practitioners with very practical training.
Hotels of size should have at least five people taking such classes; not just the engineer but all department managers and perhaps more.
Are there aspects of sustainability that are not getting enough attention within the global travel and tourism arena?
Attention to social issues for staff and community impacts for residents is needed because sustainability is not just about carbon and plastics.
One critical social issue is skills training and management promotion opportunities for local residents including ethnic minorities. Businesses thrive when they’re part of the community, and there’s no better way than to hire, train, and promote community members into your business.
Rate Asia-Pacific’s progress in sustainable tourism development on a scale of 10. How do you see this score changing in the next decade?
I’m not fond of this question because scores are all over the place. Furthermore, I often hear Asians say that they are behind Europeans on sustainability; to that I say, your societies have been a bit behind but you’re all rapidly catching up.
We’re working with several Asian hotel brands that are quickly rising above western ones. In part, this is due to a higher degree of ownership and therefore control than most western brands have with their franchise model.
Asians are ahead on innovation. Nobody does urban composting like the South Koreans and Japanese. Only Europe has the clean-energy high-speed rail networks that are on par with Japan or China.
Invent one thing to catalyse the adoption of responsible tourism practices.
The best sustainable aviation fuel and I would get it to market.
There is another thing I wish for, but isn’t an invention – I want CEOs of large western-dominated global hotel brands to go to their next annual owners meeting and say that they must put significant sustainability requirements into the brand structure. They have good but voluntary internal programmes. Sustainable practices need to be baked into standard operations manuals and practice.
Brisbane set for major tourism boost with new developments, opening of Bluey’s World
Brisbane is expecting to see a significant surge in visitation this year, driven by the launch of the Queen’s Wharf project and the arrival of Bluey’s World, Tourism and Events Queensland’s biggest campaign in more than a decade.
In just two months, the A$3.6 billion (US$2.39 billion) Queen’s Wharf development will launch to transform the city’s CBD and boost tourism numbers by 1.4 million visitors annually.
The new dynamic hub overlooking the Brisbane River will feature over 50 bars and dining experiences with 10 establishments opening initially, including a luxury five-star hotel to offer 340 rooms.
“Queen’s Wharf is a game-changer for Brisbane’s tourism, especially appealing to the South-east Asian market where direct flights from Singapore make the city more accessible than longhaul destinations like the UK,” said Georgia Linton, PR lead for Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ).
Meantime, TEQ launched a domestic and international publicity blitz last weekend ahead of the opening of Bluey’s World in November, leveraging on the cartoon series that has become a global phenomenon.
Marketed as Bluey’s world, for real life, the campaign is expected to reach tens of millions of potential tourists in its top markets where Bluey is popular, including Singapore and Japan.
Key partners in the campaign, including Qantas Group, Expedia Group, Flight Centre Travel Group, and Accor Group, are working together to convert global publicity into booked Queensland holidays through exclusive deals.
Also as part of the launch, Brisbane achieved a new world record for the biggest Keepy Uppy game, inspired by Bluey, involving 700 people in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Cairns.
“The city is ready for big events and we’re a big destination. Bluey is a much-loved character created in Brisbane and is hugely popular in the US, the UK, and in Singapore. I think the Bluey exhibition will be especially significant for the (visiting friends and relatives) market,” Linton told TTG Asia at the recent Australian Tourism Exchange held in Melbourne.
Other new attractions expected to enhance Brisbane’s tourism appeal include a new Vertigo dining experience at Brisbane Powerhouse, where visitors can bungee jump off the side while enjoying a farm-to-table meal, and new luxury family accommodation on Hamilton Island.
TEQ anticipates an additional A$1.7 billion will be spent by tourists in Queensland by June 2025 as a result of the campaign.
Indonesia needs to inject more funds to stimulate tourism growth
Indonesia will need more investment in tourism-supporting infrastructure to balance the dominant hospitality sector, which currently accounts for 80 percent of total tourism investment.
This was the consensus reached at the International Tourism Investment Forum (ITIF) 2024, held in Jakarta on June 5 and 6. The forum was organised by the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy and supported by UN Tourism.
Speaking at the opening of ITIF 2024, Sandiaga Uno, Indonesia’s minister of tourism and creative economy, said: “Indonesia recorded more than US$3 billion in tourism investment last year, surpassing our target of US$2.6 billion. However, 80 per cent of this investment has been directed towards hotels, restaurants, and cafés.
“We need more investments in the ecosystem, including the development of sustainable products and inclusive community-based tourism. We need between US$15 billion and US$20 billion (of investment funds).”
Accommodation has also taken up the largest portion of Greenfield FDI investment in Asia-Pacific, accounting for 46 per cent of total investment between 2013 and 2023, according to UN Tourism data.
Natalia Bayona, executive director of UN Tourism, noted: “This is a strong message that we need to diversify, to promote and work together with governments to create new incentives and regulations (to stimulate investment in supporting sectors).”
Meanwhile, Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Indonesia’s minister of finance, stated in her keynote address that despite global economic challenges, Indonesia continues to demonstrate relatively strong and resilient growth at five per cent.
Sound fiscal policies have been a strategic tool in maintaining economic stability, including leveraging the potential of the tourism sector to support inclusive economic growth towards Indonesia’s vision for 2045.
“For Indonesia to achieve its aspiration of becoming a high-income country by 2045, we need to grow by six to seven per cent or even eight per cent. Tourism and the tourism industry can provide a quality, inclusive source of growth,” Sri Mulyani said, adding that Indonesia’s abundant natural resources, rich cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality are significant assets.
However, several challenges need to be addressed, such as improving the quality of human resources and infrastructure development to support growth.
Price wars add to Thai Chinese market woes, country turns to Indian market uptick
Thailand’s tourism industry experienced a setback during last month’s Labour Day holiday, with the Chinese market failing to meet expectations despite relaxed visa policies.
The country, a pioneer in offering visa-free entry for Chinese tourists as a marketing tool – launched in September 2023 – saw a five per cent decline in arrivals compared to the same period in 2019. This stands in stark contrast to fellow Asian destinations like Malaysia (33 per cent growth) and Singapore (21 per cent growth) that implemented similar visa-free programmes.
Additionally, ForwardKeys reported a staggering 212 per cent increase in Chinese tourists visiting Kazakhstan, a rising destination for the Chinese in its analysis of Chinese international departures from April 27 to May 5.
Chuwit Sirivajjakul, executive director for East Asia region at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), attributed this unexpected outcome to a new challenge: price wars from Asian neighbours.
“Take for example, Japan – traditionally, they haven’t competed with us on price,” Sirivajjakul explained. “Now, they’re leveraging their lower cost of living and favourable exchange rates to attract Chinese travellers with budget-friendly travel packages.”
He said Japan’s geographical proximity to China also allows for cheaper airfares which appeal to budget sensitive travellers.
Prior to the pandemic, Chinese tourists comprised a significant portion of Thailand’s tourism industry, accounting for roughly 25 per cent of all arrivals (10 million out of 40 million in 2019). However, post-lockdown recovery has been hampered by traveller safety concerns, a weakened yuan, and China’s focus on promoting domestic tourism.
Recognising the current limitations of the Chinese market, Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT’s deputy governor for international marketing Asia and South Pacific, advocates for a strategic shift, suggesting that “rather than doubling down on a struggling market, it’s time to explore other promising source markets and growing segments”.
He highlighted India’s rapid rise, climbing from fifth to third place in tourist arrivals this year, with over 868,000 visitors to date.
“India holds immense potential,” Na Ayudhya emphasised, adding that while “India can’t replace China’s volume entirely, any key market growth is beneficial and influences our marketing strategy”. He also pointed out that the Tourism Roadshow to India in August will help capitalise on this trend.
He shared that the Indian market has responded well to visa-free offerings, which started in November 2023 and have been extended another six months as of May 11.
“The visa-free scheme has extended Indian travel demand throughout the year. India, which traditionally saw a dip in arrivals during the mid-year period, has now emerged as our third-largest source market,” he noted.
New hotels: SO/ Maldives, Palace Dubai Creek Harbour and more
SO/ Maldives, the Maldives
SO/ Maldives is nestled in Emboodhoo Lagoon in the Kaafu Atoll, just a short speedboat ride from Malé’s Velana International Airport.
The resort features Beach Villa and Water Villa Collections plus dining and social venues, a Wellness Camp, fitness centre, and the Lazuli Beach Club, which will host the Maldives’ hottest parties and international DJs.
SO/ Maldives is one of the three resorts of Crossroads Maldives, the Indian Ocean’s first and only fully-integrated leisure destination. These three distinct resorts are seamlessly connected to facilities at The Marina @ Crossroads, an 800-metre lifestyle area and beach walk lined with restaurants, bars, a beach club, retail boutiques, wellness centres, water sports, diving and snorkelling, kids’ clubs, an events centre and a 30-berth yacht marina, plus the Maldives Discovery Centre cultural hub and Marine Discovery Centre.
Palace Dubai Creek Harbour, the UAE
The 122-key Palace Dubai Creek Harbour is located within a 15-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, and is in close proximity to iconic landmarks such as Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and downtown attractions.
Guests can enjoy spacious private balconies in the guestrooms, and facilities such as the rooftop infinity pool, spa, and dining options. Other amenities include a fitness centre, kids’ club, and meeting venues.
Radisson Hotel & Residence Riyadh Olaya, Saudi Arabia
Nestled in the northern Al Yasmin suburb, Radisson Hotel & Residence Riyadh Olaya offers 201 guestrooms, a restaurant, lobby lounge, as well as meeting and event facilities.
There are separate indoor fitness centres for ladies and gentlemen, and other facilities such as a pool, spa, and kids’ club.
Mercure Surawong Bangkok, Thailand
Set against the backdrop of Surawong’s rich history and Thai culture, Mercure Surawong Bangkok is the latest addition to the Silom neighbourhood, allowing guests to discover the locale and explore a dynamic mix of business, creativity, and culture surrounding the hotel.
All 219 guestrooms boast panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline. The hotel also features F&B options, including a rooftop bar.
Philippines to host the inaugural UN Tourism Gastronomy Forum
UN Tourism is organising its first-ever UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific from June 26 to 27 in Cebu, the Philippines.
Hosted by the Philippines through its Department of Tourism (DoT), the forum will be held at Shangri-La Mactan in Cebu City from June 26 to 27, alongside the 36th UN Tourism Joint Commission Meeting for East Asia and the Pacific and Commission for South Asia which is scheduled on June 28 at Sheraton Mactan.
Expecting to gather some 300 attendees including ministers from UN member-states, affiliate members, and tourism stakeholders from international organisations, the day-long forum will see delegates discuss the policy framework for the development and promotion of gastronomy tourism, value of land and products in the sustainable development of gastronomy tourism, cost-effective and environmentally responsible strategies for reducing food waste and promoting local sourcing, as well as best practices in gastronomy tourism in the Asia-Pacific region. They will also be able to sample the best of Philippine flavours through a showcase by top Filipino chefs, and get a glimpse of Cebu’s allure as a top tourist destination through a technical tour on June 27.
Christina Garcia Frasco, tourism secretary and chair of the UN Tourism Commission for East Asia and the Pacific, shared that the country’s hosting was a perfect opportunity for the Philippines to showcase its culinary treasures on a global stage. She noted that Filipino dishes have gained popularity around the world, which encouraged DoT to further promote culinary tourism, recognising the country’s vast potential as a leading gastronomy destination in Asia.
She said: “In addition to integrating food in festivals, arts and crafts, traditions, and practices, we are actively working towards supporting the development of halal/Muslim-friendly tourism, heritage villages for cultural communities, and the preservation of farms and heritage sites.
“The Philippines has a myriad of experiences in store for our delegates to offer tourists coming from around the world. Experiencing our food is on top of that list as it is rooted in our history and tradition. Just as the Philippines is a blend of various cultures, Filipino food mixes and melds different influences to come up with something for everyone.”
NGO campaign to stop dog, cat meat consumption achieves positive results
A campaign recruiting tourism players to join efforts to curb the dog and cat meat trade (DCMT) in Cambodia, Indonesia and Vietnam has reaped huge rewards, with several states and cities enforcing a ban.
In 2020, NGO Four Paws launched a collaborative effort to engage the global tourism industry in supporting its campaign to end the DCMT in the three countries. According to Four Paws, DCMT poses a threat to inbound tourism, undermining efforts to control the spread of rabies and other zoonotic diseases – this poses a threat to locals and tourists.
As part of the campaign, Four Paws piloted a DCMT reporting tool in Quang Nam and Danang in Vietnam. The tool enabled the public and tourism players to report incidents of dog and cat meat consumption.
Between November 2022 and December 2023, 288 DCMT-related activities were reported. A nationwide rollout of the tool is scheduled for this month. A raft of tour operators has also signed a two million-strong pledge to end the trade.
“Our guests overwhelmingly come from countries where pets are part of their daily life. The thought of some people eating dog and cat (meat) is enough to stop guests travelling to South-east Asia,” said Steve Lidgey, general manager at Travel Asia a la Carte, which has signed the pledge.
To date, in Indonesia, a total of 51 provinces, cities and regencies have committed to end the trade. Additionally, in December 2023, one of the last remaining dog and cat meat restaurants in Hoi An closed after a two-year campaign to phase the trade out of the Vietnamese city.
Suyin Lee, managing director of Discova, said: “We have signed the pledge because protecting animals and betterment of care is a key focus for Discova. We believe that animal-friendly tourism is both possible and necessary, and encourage others to support this initiative.”
Etihad Airways and China Eastern Airlines have signed a Joint Venture (JV) to cement the strategic partnership between the two airlines, making it the first commercial JV between a Middle Eastern airline and a Chinese airline.
The JV will allow both airlines to jointly develop and grow the routes between the UAE and China, offering expanded travel options and seamless travel experiences for passengers travelling between major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an, and Kunming, and key cities in the UAE and across the Middle East and Africa regions.
Etihad and China Eastern Airlines will implement the JV cooperation in early 2025 when both teams secure all necessary regulatory clearances. Additionally, both airlines will introduce full reciprocity to their existing frequent flyer programmes in 4Q2024, allowing passengers to seamlessly earn points and redeem rewards when flying with either airline.
Etihad Aviation Group chairman Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa stated: “This partnership is more than the expansion of routes; it is about creating lasting and meaningful connections between our two nations which will stand for decades to come.”
“This year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the UAE. Both countries continue to develop and strengthen the high-value, strategic collaboration on the Belt and Road Initiative, and this momentum creates opportunities and motivation for deepening cooperation between China Eastern Airlines and Etihad Airways,” said Wang Zhiqing, chairman of China Eastern Airlines.
“Both China Eastern Airlines and Etihad Airways have strong global hubs, and our cooperation is highly complementary, covers a broad scope, and has great potential. We look forward to our collaboration creating more synergies, not only in facilitating passenger travel but also in building deeper economic, trade, and cultural exchanges between China and the UAE.”