Removal of visa restrictions boosts China inbound bookings: DidaTravel
DidaTravel has revealed data that reflects a positive impact for inbound travel to China following the recent visa exemption announcement.
China recently announced a new visa-free policy for passports holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia. This policy took effect on December 1 and will last for one year.
Based on DidaTravel’s booking data, since the implementation of the recent visa-free policy, hotel bookings from the six countries named have grown by over 50 per cent from December 1 to 7 in comparison to the previous week.
Hotel bookings for travellers from Spain to China have jumped by more than 100 per cent compared to the same period last week. Bookings from Italy and Malaysia to China saw an increase of 50 per cent and 67 per cent week on week, respectively.
Meanwhile, although the wider Chinese inbound market has not yet recovered to pre-pandemic levels due in part to the fact that China’s borders only fully opened in early 2023, DidaTravel’s year-to-date inbound hotel sales to China have seen a 151 per cent growth compared to the same period in 2019.
According to DidaTravel’s year-to-date total transaction value, Spain, Malaysia, and Italy have been among the top 20 source markets for inbound China travel in 2023. The most booked destinations in China are Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Xiamen, Suzhou, Langfang, Dongguan, and Wuhan.
Rikin Wu, founder and CEO of DidaTravel, remarked: “Thanks to proactive policies like this, that create a strong business environment for tourism, we are able to unlock the full potential of the demand that exists to experience China. We look forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world and exploring new opportunities for collaboration within the country’s ever-evolving tourism industry.”
Jetstar to launch direct flights to Perth from Singapore and Thailand
Jetstar Airways is set to boost international capacity to Australia from Singapore, Bangkok and Phuket in 2024, launching new flights to Perth and additional flights to Melbourne.
From August 2024, Jetstar will start flying up to six times a week between Singapore and Perth and operate up to four weekly return flights from Phuket to Perth. Then from September 2024, Jetstar will also begin flying up to four days per week between Bangkok and Perth.
In addition, Jetstar will increase the number of direct flights to Melbourne from Singapore, Bangkok, and Phuket from June 17, 2024 during peak times.
Countdown to the new year at Banyan Tree
Both Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi in Thailand have each unveiled a programme of dining experiences and fun-filled celebrations to welcome 2024 in style.
At Banyan Tree Samui, join a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner Buffet at any one of the resort’s three restaurants, and stay at the resort’s villas, each with a private infinity pool, from just US$585 per night.
Nestled into a hillside overlooking the Andaman Sea, Banyan Tree Krabi’s Gala Dinner and Countdown Party will include live entertainment, free-flow drinks and fireworks – little ones are welcomed to enjoy a special kids’ menu. Guests will be invited to enjoy drinks by the resort’s secluded beach as the midnight celebrations begin. Rooms and suites come with a plunge pool and hot tub, with rates starting from US$475 per night.
For more information, email Banyan Tree Krabi or Banyan Tree Samui.
Amari Raaya Maldives’ unveils private yacht sailings
Amari Raaya Maldives has introduced its private yacht, Raaya, allowing guests to enjoy half- or full-day sailings in the area.
The luxury yacht accommodates up to 20 guests across four cabins, and features a fully-stocked bar, and a highly-experienced crew including an on-board private chef and waiter.
Raaya offers tailored experiences with VIP services, such as gourmet dining experiences, sunset evening cruises, Champagne breakfast sailings, secluded at sea adventures, and more.
The yacht is also available for charter for private airport transfers, letting guests arrive and depart Male seamlessly.
For more information, visit Amari Raaya Maldives.
Markus Tan helms as IMESA regional director of Singapore Tourism Board
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has named Markus Tan as the regional director for India, Middle East, South Asia, and Africa (IMESA), effective January 1, 2024.
In his new role, based in Mumbai, Tan will spearhead STB’s initiatives in promoting Leisure and Business Travel & Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (BTMICE) in the IMESA region. He will oversee travel promotions, public relations, and marketing, and drive developmental efforts to enhance Singapore’s position as a premier travel and business destination.
A veteran of STB, Tan has dedicated 18 years to the organisation in various pivotal roles. He was most recently the director for World Expo where he led the whole-of-government efforts to conceptualise, develop, and operate the Singapore Pavilion at Osaka World Expo 2025.
Silversea welcomes new DOS (Japan, Korea, and South-east Asia)
Silversea has appointed Takanobu Kobayakawa as the new director of sales for Japan, Korea, and South-east Asia. He will report to Adam Radwanski, Silversea’s managing director for the Asia-Pacific region.
In his new position, Kobayakawa will lead the strategic sales initiatives and cultivate trade partnerships across markets within his portfolio.
Prior to joining Silversea, he played pivotal roles in shaping sales strategies and enhancing market presence for notable cruise lines.
JA Resorts & Hotels names new DOSM
JA Resorts & Hotels has appointed Khumar Askerova as the new director of sales and marketing for the Indian Ocean region.
In her new role, she will oversee sales for the company’s Indian Ocean flagship property JA Manafaru in the Maldives and two properties in the Seychelles, the boutique JA Enchanted Island and luxury villa residencies at JA Enchanted Waterfront.
She brings with her 25 years of experience in sales and marketing within the hospitality industry, and served most recently as regional director of sales & marketing at COMO Hotels.
Explore South-east Asia with BWH Hotels
Brought to you by BWH Hotels
THAILAND
Welcome to the first BW Signature Collection in Pattaya
The Sanctuary Resort Pattaya, BW Signature Collection by Best Western: Nestled on the shores of Jomtien, guests can unwind and experience the oceanic wonders of Thailand’s eastern seaboard, complete with awe-inspiring uninterrupted sea views. World-class water parks, tourist attractions, and golf courses are also within convenient access.
The resort boasts a total of 164 rooms and suites, including family-friendly options with a spacious living area and bunk beds for the kids. Apart from thoughtful facilities such as a rooftop bar, pool, and gym, hotel guests even get to dine at Oceana restaurant that serves Thai and international cuisine against an extraordinary aquarium showcasing Australian Blacktip sharks.
Where comfort meets convenience
Best Western Click Sathorn 11, Bangkok: Located in a quiet residential street on Sathorn Road, the contemporary hotel features 119 rooms fully equipped with amenities for a comfortable stay, apart from an on-site restaurant and outdoor swimming pool.
The unique convenient location ensures close proximity to the buzzy Silom Sathorn district of the capital, which is also a hip drinking and dining neighbourhood, as well as the Chao Phraya riverside, along with the BTS Saint Louis station being just a short stroll away. Best Western Click Sathorn 11 is ideal for business and leisure travellers looking to enjoy a variety of dining options, world-class medical care, and inspiring experiences on their Bangkok sojourn.
INDONESIA
Take in the magnificent natural wonders of Indonesia
Alhambra Hotel & Convention, BW Signature Collection by Best Western: For nature-lovers, this hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of West Java’s Mount Galunggung tourist area – between the city of Tasikmalaya and the authentic village of Kampung Naga where it is surrounded by green landscapes and dramatic volcanic peaks.
All 116 rooms and suites afford panoramic views for hotel guests. With its extensive function space including a convention hall which can accommodate 1,000 delegates, the hotel presents a suitable option for corporate events like large-scale conferences and social functions like weddings.
VIETNAM
Discovering the ultimate beach adventure
Best Western Premier Marvella Nha Trang: The new upscale beachfront hotel is strategically located in the heart of Nha Trang, one of the country’s most dynamic tourism destinations. It has 335 stylish rooms and suites, from the 31m2 Superior to the 218m2 Presidential Suite. Hotel guests can explore the hotel’s various facilities such as a spa, gym, sky-high infinity pool, 3D golf simulator, and kids’ club.
THE PHILIPPINES
City accommodation at its best
Best Western Plus Metro Clark: Situated in the heart of Angeles City, surrounded by many attractions including casinos, the 186-key hotel has an outdoor pool, gym, and event spaces. Dining options comprise three diverse international cuisines at Namari Japanese Bistro, The Legend Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant, and Cactus Jack Smokehouse for varying palates. Guests can also lounge around the pool bar for relaxation while enjoying great views of the city. It is an ideal accommodation of choice for both business and leisure travellers.
The Third SureStay hotel opens in the Philippines
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Cebu City: Located in the centre of Cebu City, the hotel is within close proximity to attractions such as Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del Sto. Niño, and Fuente Osmeña Circle, one of the liveliest spots during the Sinulog Festival. All 63 modern and stylish guestrooms come complete with a kitchenette. Connecting rooms and family rooms are also available, making the new BWH Hotel a great option for extended breaks in the dynamic city for business and leisure travellers alike.
From December 4, 2023 – February 4, 2024, BWR® members can now register for the attractive promotion here or with the specific country links (below) before their stays and be rewarded with 3,000 BWR® points per eligible stay through the direct booking channels, up to a maximum of 12,000 points.
They can choose from BWH Hotels in Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Pakistan.
1st stay: 3,000 points
2nd stay: 3,000 points
3rd stay: 3,000 points
4th stay: 3,000 points
Total rewards: 12,000 points
Amadeus reveals top hotel destinations for Christmas and New Year’s travel
As hoteliers are preparing for demand this the festive season, Amadeus’ Demand360+ data shows that global hotel occupancy for the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s is already at 23%, up 10% from the same time last year.
Globally, occupancy levels this festive season are trending ahead of 2022, reflecting a return of confidence in travel and a desire for warmer climates in some of the leading destinations.
According to hotel occupancy, the top destinations globally are: Los Cabos, Mexico (77%); Cape Town, South Africa (71%); Phuket, Thailand (69%); Cancun, Mexico (69%); Honolulu, Hawaii (64%); Tokyo, Japan (61%); the Maldives (59%); Sydney, Australia (58%); Taipei, Taiwan (58%); and Kahului, Hawaii (57%).
The top destinations in Asia-Pacific are Phuket (69%); Tokyo (61%); the Maldives (59%); Sydney (58%); Bali (51%); Bangkok (51%); Osaka (50%); Melbourne (47%); Mumbai (44%); and Singapore (42%).
Sydney has seen an increase of 29% on 2022, as it sits higher in the list for this year, Osaka has also seen an increase in demand, up 16% over 2022.
More travellers are prioritising sun, nature, gastronomy, and culture this festive season, contributing to high occupancy levels across Asia-Pacific – compared to last year, Asia-Pacific is trending 8% higher.
The data also reveals travellers are still booking accommodation close to their intended travel dates. Booking lead times remain short as 56% of travellers worldwide are making hotel reservations within a week of their trip, up 4% on 2022. This presents hoteliers with an opportunity to make the most of last-minute demand.
“Having access to comprehensive forward-looking business intelligence data is important, because it allows hoteliers to identify booking patterns and revenue opportunities so they can still drive last minute demand, while ensuring their property is staffed and ready to provide a great guest experience,” said Edward Wright, regional vice president, hospitality, Asia Pacific, Amadeus.
IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has signed its seventh voco in Australasia, partnering with Sydney developer ALAND to open voco Gosford in regional New South Wales (NSW) in early 2025.
The brand-new voco Gosford will be the second voco in regional NSW and will form part of Archibald by ALAND, a landmark mixed-use development precinct overlooking the Brisbane Water.
Situated just an hour’s drive from Sydney’s CBD, the development covers 5,656m² and will include 320 residential apartments, a 130-room lifestyle hotel, a portfolio of hospitality venues and a podium outdoor pool with swim-up bar.
Other facilities comprise a street level pub and pizzeria, rooftop sky bar and lounge on level 28, restaurant, wellness centre and events venues.
IHG is currently enjoying its largest ever period of growth in Australasia, with a significant number of new openings under its InterContinental, Kimpton, voco, Crowne Plaza and Hotel Indigo brands, as well as huge city and regional growth for its Holiday Inn brand family.