Amadeus accelerates NDC adoption in APAC to help rebuild travel
Amadeus is strengthening its NDC content capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region with various partnerships across airlines and travel sellers, which will enable a delivery of richer and more tailored content through end-to-end integration for a simpler, seamless customer experience.
In a press release, Amadeus said that the travel industry recognises NDC as a key element to rebuild travel and keep up with evolving consumer needs and demands in the wake of the pandemic.
In Asia-Pacific, Amadeus works with its airline partners such as Singapore Airlines to make its content and offers now available to travel sellers through the Amadeus Travel Platform. Travel agents worldwide connected to the Amadeus Travel Platform can shop, book, and pay for all Singapore Airlines offers made available through NDC as part of the airline’s KrisConnect programme.
Meanwhile, Qantas recently partnered with Amadeus to deliver Qantas’ NDC-sourced content to pilot travel sellers to test booking and servicing through the Amadeus Travel Platform.
The partnerships also extend to travel sellers in the region. Most recently, Riya Travel, one of Amadeus’ long-term partners and one of India’s largest retail agencies, has implemented NDC to enhance its retailing capabilities. In Indonesia, tiket.com, one of the fastest growing OTAs in the country, became the first OTA to adopt NDC in South-east Asia.
Amadeus has also partnered with ezTravel, the largest OTA in Taiwan, to adopt Amadeus’ NDC-enabled Travel API where ezTravel can access aggregated NDC and non-NDC content.
Frederic Saunier, Asia Pacific vice president of airline distribution sales, Amadeus, said: “As the travel industry rebuilds, we believe technology innovations like NDC will be key to recovery. It is no secret that our digital-first travellers want richer, relevant and tailor-made content; the kind of experience they already see in many other parts of their lives.
“Through technology like NDC, we can power great journeys for travellers. NDC is a strategic priority for Amadeus and our goal is to make NDC-sourced content available to all our travel sellers around the world over the course of this year.”
First flight from Hong Kong arrives in Phuket under Sandbox scheme
The Thai resort island of Phuket has welcomed its first direct flight from Hong Kong under the Sandbox programme, with 134 passengers arriving at Phuket International Airport via Cathay Pacific flight CX771 on Tuesday (August 10).
The passengers landed to a dramatic water cannon greeting and warm welcome from the Airports of Thailand staff and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officials.
The weekly Cathay Pacific service which operates every Tuesday added Hong Kong to a number of points in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East from where major airlines have been flying direct to Phuket since the Phuket Sandbox programme began. This includes Thai Airways International from Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Paris, London, and Zurich; Singapore Airlines from Singapore; Etihad Airways from Abu Dhabi; Emirates from Dubai; Qatar Airways from Doha; and EL AL Israel Airlines from Tel Aviv.
Under the Phuket Sandbox programme, which signalled the beginning of Thailand’s tourism revitalisation with Phuket as the pilot destination, fully vaccinated foreign tourists can visit without the need to quarantine. However, tourists must stay at hotels certified with SHA Plus certification, which indicates that the hotel meets the Covid-19 safety standards, and also that at least 70 per cent of its workforce has been fully vaccinated.
From July 1 to August 10, the Phuket Sandbox has seen a total of 19,166 international arrivals. The first month of the programme recorded more than 14,055 arrivals, generating over 829 million baht (US$24.8 million) in revenue for the local economy.
TAT expects 100,000 foreign tourists will visit Phuket in 3Q2021 (July-September) and inject some 8.9 billion baht of revenue into the local economy.
New Anantara resort to land on Dubai’s World Islands
Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas will be expanding its Middle East portfolio with the launch of a new resort on Dubai’s World Islands.
Slated to open in 4Q2021, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort is in the final stages of development in the World Islands archipelago, located in the Arabian Gulf, approximately 4km off the coast of Dubai in the UAE.
Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort is owned by luxury real estate and hospitality developer Seven Tides. The new resort is the first hotel in the South American continent of the World Islands development. The island will be completely dedicated to the resort, with guests able to access by boat in just 15 minutes from the jetty at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.
The property will feature 70 keys comprised of suites, beach and pool villas. Villas will have a private pool, an outdoor dining area and direct access to the beach. In-room spa treatments, a gym and a kid’s club will also be part of the new resort’s amenities.
Dining options will include a Mediterranean al fresco restaurant and Arabic-Indian specialty dining. In addition, freshly caught seafood will be prepared by an in-house team of chefs. A bar lounge will offer panoramic views of the Dubai skyline, including landmarks Burj Khalifa and Burj al Arab.
Agoda pilots Vaxxed To Go campaign in Malaysia
In support of Malaysia’s nationwide immunisation drive, Agoda has launched the Vaxxed To Go campaign incentivising travellers who are fully vaccinated with special travel deals and benefits.
Through this campaign, Agoda hopes to galvanise other travel and hospitality stakeholders to come together and play a part in helping the country return to normalcy.
The Vaxxed To Go campaign follows the implementation of Malaysia’s National Recovery Plan, which places vaccination as one of the three key threshold indicators to determine the gradual reopening of economic and social activities.
Malaysia currently boasts one of the fastest vaccination rates in the world with its National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme. As of July 31, around 64 per cent of the country’s eligible population have registered for their vaccine shots.
With Agoda’s Vaxxed To Go initiative, accommodation providers on the platform will be able to get behind the national vaccination effort and benefit from bookings from vaccinated travellers.
Participating properties will benefit from increased visibility and exposure from Agoda’s marketing efforts for the campaign, which will span across a range of channels including social media, banner promotions, and pop-ups. Consumers will also be able to easily browse through Vaxxed to Go packages on dedicated landing pages.
“After months of lockdown and movement restrictions, many Malaysians are no doubt looking forward to travelling again as it becomes safe to do so,” said Cleland Robertson, country director, Malaysia and Brunei, Agoda.
“Malaysians have always had a healthy appetite for travel, so promoting the concept of ‘Vaxxed To Go’ – exclusive deals for vaccinated travellers – which offer exclusive great value deals, Agoda hopes to encourage more Malaysians to feel safe and confident to travel again, and to get their Covid-19 shots.”
He added: “Aside from safeguarding public health, increased inoculation rates will be crucial in kickstarting the recovery of the nation’s economy as a whole and particularly that of the travel and hospitality sector. Agoda also hopes to inspire other industry players to play their part in helping Malaysia achieve herd immunity as soon as possible.”
With Vaxxed To Go, hotel partners will be able to offer discounted rates to fully vaccinated travellers when domestic travels are allowed, alongside value-added perks such as room upgrades and F&B discounts. Properties may also list special packages for on-site experiences, from resort activities to spa and wellness deals.
Vaxxed To Go is an extension of the Agoda Special Offers offering, which was launched in May in several other markets. With Malaysia as its pilot market for the campaign, Agoda said that it aims to roll out Vaxxed To Go in more markets in the months to come.
ASEANTA partners with Fusionex in launch of virtual platform to amplify business opportunities
The ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) has signed an agreement with Malaysia-based analytics and big data company Fusionex to develop ASEANTA Travel Exchange (ATEX), a comprehensive virtual exhibition and engagement platform, to help facilitate an inclusive business environment and provide greater access to new markets.
By leveraging ATEX to pivot from physical to virtual during this pandemic, ASEANTA will be able to seamlessly improve accessibility, connection and engagement while removing the restrictions of time and space through virtual exhibitions, webinars, digital marketing campaigns, and more.
Eddy Krismeidi Soemawilaga, president of ASEANTA, said that the collaboration between ASEANTA and Fusionex will help “take tourism in the region to new levels and to firmly establish (South-east Asia) as one of the most viable and attractive tourism destinations in the world”.
Powered by Fusionex technologies, the platform is expected to go live in 4Q2021, offering a suite of innovative solutions to empower ASEANTA in organising virtual events while driving meaningful and measurable online interactions.
The platform offers an intelligent B2B matchmaking feature that connects local enterprises with global businesses, thereby expanding market reach.
Travel and tourism players can also leverage the platform’s global distribution system to conduct secure and uninterrupted business transactions.
In addition, the platform enables businesses to showcase their offerings via virtual booths, facilitate pitching sessions through livestreaming, provide real-time reporting capabilities as well as performance monitoring and measurement features. It will also allow enterprises to capitalise on AI-powered digital marketing tools to tailor personalised campaigns.
ATEX enables ASEANTA to not only create engaging online events but also generate vital business prospects and develop networking opportunities in a data-driven way.
Nigel Wong, secretary-general at ASEANTA, shared that the association will leverage the platform to organise virtual talks and seminars for its members, with attendees being able to interact with speakers. As well, there will be static travel-related content curated by ASEANTA in a variety of formats.
The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2022 and its B2B Travex will be hosted by the Cambodian government in Sihanoukville from January 16-22.
Thong Rathasak, chairman of ASEAN National Tourism Organisations and director general for tourism development and international cooperation at Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism, shared that the ATF 2022 might take on a hybrid format, but nothing is set in stone yet.
Wong shared that the ATEX would complement the B2B travel exchange component by providing industry players with an extended opportunity to continue leveraging the awareness generated about the ASEAN member countries through the ATF and other similar regional events online.
New Zealand eyes reopening borders to vaccinated travellers early 2022
New Zealand plans to allow quarantine-free entry to vaccinated travellers from low-risk countries from early 2022, as part of a phased reopening of its borders that have been shut since last March due to the pandemic.
Prime minister Jacinda Ardern said on Thursday (August 12) that the government will adopt a new individual risk-based approach for quarantine-free travel from the first quarter of 2022.
Vaccinated travellers from low-risk countries can enter the country quarantine-free. Those travelling from medium-risk countries will have to undertake self-isolation or a shorter stay at a quarantine hotel, while those coming from high-risk countries will have to serve a 14-day quarantine.
“We’re simply not in a position to a fully reopen just yet. When we move, we will be careful and deliberate, because we want to move with confidence and with as much certainty as possible,” Ardern said in a speech detailing plans to reconnect New Zealand with the world.
Some vaccinated travellers will be able to participate in a pilot from October through December this year, wherein they can travel and self-isolate at home.
New Zealand has been widely lauded as a success story in combating the coronavirus – the South Pacific nation of five million people has recorded just 2,500 cases and 26 deaths since the pandemic began. But the government has come under increasing pressure to reopen borders as businesses and the public sector struggle with worker shortages.
New hotels: Raffles Udaipur, Mercure Ambassador Jeju, and more
Raffles Udaipur, India
Raffles Udaipur, India’s first Raffles hotel, has opened in the city of Udaipur and region of Rajasthan. Perched on a 18.5ha private island set in the middle of the Udai Sagar lake, the property boasts panoramic views of the surrounding hills, lake and a 400-year-old temple. Guests can get to the resort via a 20-minute drive from the airport, followed by a boat ride.
The hotel is home to 101 rooms, suites and signature suites; with each boasting lake views, private gardens, balconies, and plunge pools. F&B options include Sawai Kitchen, an Indian speciality restaurant; farm-to-table concept Harvest, set to open in October; and Raffles Patisserie offering breads, French desserts, pastries, and more. Culinary enthusiasts can also enjoy a co-cooking experience at Rasoi, the cookery school.
There are also two bars, including the Long Bar which serves the signature Udaipur Sling – the Singapore classic remade with fresh produce from the island and home-made syrups. Leisure amenities include a spa, fitness centre, and swimming pool. The Grand Ballroom of 836m2, including pre-function area, multiple outdoor gathering areas and an on-site temple, stands ready to host special events and celebrations.
Mercure Ambassador Jeju, South Korea
Mercure Ambassador Jeju has opened as the first Accor Ambassador property in Jeju Island and marks the eighth city of Accor Ambassador’s expansion across the country. Surrounded by Gotjawal, Jeju’s unique forest created on a lava region, Mercure Ambassador Jeju overlooks the Hallasan and Sanbangsan mountain views and features a 18-hole golf course. The resort offers 71 guestrooms, an all-day-dining restaurant, meeting space, fitness centre, outdoor driving ranges, and an infinity swimming pool along with a pool bar and cabanas.
Hyatt Regency Guangzhou Zengcheng, China
Centrally located in the Zengcheng National Economic and Technological Development Zone of east Guangzhou, the Hyatt Regency Guangzhou Zengcheng offers 408 guestrooms, including 21 suites; in addition to 96 serviced apartments. All guestrooms offer smart technology, including a 65-inch LED TV with international satellite channels and JBL Bluetooth stereo speaker, while all serviced apartments are equipped with a kitchenette and washer-dryer.
F&B venues include the signature Chinese restaurant Xiang Yue; and the Market Café offering breakfast and dinner, plus an all-day a la carte menu. For a family dining experience, the hotel features two private dining rooms and a children’s play area. Meanwhile, The Lounge serves social afternoon teas and a selection of wines, spirits, and cocktails from the central bar.
The hotel offers 2,929m2 of event space, including the 850m2 Regency Ballroom featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, natural light, and a foyer suitable for large exhibitions. There are also eight multifunction rooms, and a 451m2 outdoor event garden. Leisure facilities include an indoor heated pool, a children’s pool and playground, and a 24-hour fitness centre.
Crystalbrook Vincent, Australia
Crystalbrook Collection has unveiled Crystalbrook Vincent in the heart of Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves, following the group’s acquisition of the property. Set beneath the iconic Story Bridge, Crystalbrook Vincent, formerly known as The Fantauzzo, is Crystalbrook Collection’s seventh property to open in three years. The hotel will retain its partnership with namesake Vincent Fantauzzo, with more than 500 pieces of the acclaimed Australian painter’s artworks featuring throughout the six-story hotel. Crystalbrook Vincent is home to 166 rooms, Fiume rooftop bar, Polpetta restaurant, a rooftop pool, and a 24-hour fitness centre.
India’s hotel industry on the mend
After a rapid decline due to a second Covid-19 wave, India’s hotel industry has seen a continued increase in occupancy due to the progressive approach to vaccinations in key markets across the country, according to preliminary data and analysis from STR.
India’s daily occupancy sat in the 20-30 per cent range in early June but improved by the end of the month with several days closer to 35 per cent and an outlier of 50.5 per cent on June 26. In July, the country took another step forward with most days in the 40-60 per cent range and a peak of 63.2 per cent on July 17.
“The progressive approach to vaccinations has led to an increase in travellers and hotel demand – leisure demand continues to drive this growth,” said Vidhi Godiawala, STR’s business development manager for Central and South Asia.
“Beyond the noticeable improvement, we have seen a different trend in where the country is regaining occupancy. Whereas India’s first recovery earlier this year was concentrated in leisure destinations, such as Goa, heavily populated markets such as New Delhi and Mumbai have seen improvement in this latest rebound.”
Mumbai’s daily occupancy reached as high as 77.9 per cent on June 26, while New Delhi’s daily occupancy improved to as high as 79.7 per cent on July 17. Those were each market’s highest daily levels in 2021.
Minor Hotels to debut in Bahrain with two new signings
Minor Hotels will be making its foray into Bahrain with the upcoming debut of its Avani and Tivoli brands.
Scheduled to open in 2024, Avani Bilaj Al Jazayer Bahrain Resort and Tivoli Bilaj Al Jazayer Bahrain Resort will be part of Bilaj Al Jazayer, a new waterfront leisure mixed-use masterplan owned by Edamah, the real estate arm of Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund, Mumtalakat.
The new development will offer resorts, residential villas and apartments, F&B outlets, retail, offices and entertainment.
Bilaj Al Jazayer is located on the south-west coast of Bahrain and encompasses 1.3km² of land with a 3km beachfront. The new Avani and Tivoli hotels, each with 110 keys, will be located along the main boulevard of Bilaj Al Jazayer on the waterfront.
Avani Bilaj Al Jazayer will offer a selection of guestrooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, an Avani Pantry and a pool bar, in addition to an outdoor swimming pool, a gym and meeting space.
Tivoli Bilaj Al Jazayer’s facilities will include guestrooms and suites, two restaurants, two bars and a café, an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, plus spa and wellness facilities. In addition, the hotels will share a beach club within the Bilaj Al Jazayer development.
Dream Cruises will be collaborating with four Singapore brands to create exclusive collections that will be available for purchase onboard World Dream, as part of its newly-launched Support Local initiative.
World Dream is currently sailing two and three-night “cruises to nowhere” from Singapore.
The first of such collaboration by Dream Cruises, it will be working with Singapore’s oldest tea producer The 1872 Clipper Tea Co., social enterprise The Animal Project, ice-cream and coffee lifestyle café Creamier as well as lifestyle fashion brand Binary Style.
The exclusive collections will be showcased onboard World Dream in the later part of September 2021. Binary Style will design a bright and colourful scarf drawing inspirations from World Dream’s hull artwork, while Creamier will unveil a special ice cream flavour “that brings to mind the gentle sea breeze and lightly salted air during a refreshing day out at sea”.
The Animal Project, which showcases lifestyle products by artists with special needs, will create a pouch that weaves together the artists’ love for animals with elements of World Dream using digital calligraphy. Meanwhile, The 1872 Clipper Tea Co. will introduce a refreshing and calming tea blend “inspired by the haven of calm that World Dream offers”.