ASEAN Tourism Forum 2010 Draws Strong Response

Brand new BRIDEX all set for ATF 2010 at Brunei Darussalam

The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), the region’s foremost tourism and travel event, to be hosted by member-nation, Brunei Darussalam, in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei from 21 to 28 January 2010, is well on its way to bringing more than 400 seller organisations and 400 hosted buyers together to traverse new horizons at TRAVEX (Travel Exchange), the travel mart component of the annual event. One hundred media representatives from over the world are also expected to attend.

Into its 29th year and represented by the 2010 theme – ‘ASEAN – The Heart of Green’, ATF 2010 is set to resonate the success of past ATFs in promoting tourism in the region, as well as advancing 2010’s green theme in entrenching responsible environmental and social practices in tourism related businesses.

Registrations have been streaming in since its official announcement early this year and it is envisaged that many participants will capitalise on this platform to re-evaluate strategies and set new directions in the travel industry in the region, as the global economy undergoes a shift to counter the effects of the financial crisis.

ATF 2010 will be staged at the spanking BRIDEX (Brunei International Defence Exhibition) Centre. The purpose-built exhibition centre, located within a natural terrain setting on a prime ocean-facing site in Jerudong, is the home ground of the international defence & security event in South East Asia, BRIDEX, which made its debut in August 2009. The centrally located and well equipped exhibition hub is well poised to impress both exhibitors and delegates at ATF 2010 as much as Brunei will charm with its pristine rainforests, majestic landmarks and warm culture.

The Host Committee, led by Brunei Tourism, is sparing no efforts in ensuring all delegates and visitors will have a memorable time in Brunei. All wheels have been set in motion to ensure that event preparations run according to, or even ahead of schedule so that any new developments can be promptly dealt with. Mr Sheikh Jamaluddin Sheikh Mohamed, CEO of Brunei Tourism, said, “We are excited to be hosting the ATF again and the entire nation is all geared up to welcoming our guests from all over the world next January. The support of various government agencies, private organisations and TTG Asia Media has contributed tremendously to the smooth planning process and delivery. We are looking forward to presenting a cherished experience
encompassing culture and green tourism to our guests.”

Another distinctive and new feature of ATF 2010 is the ability of delegates to book their choice of official or supporting hotels online. The online facility greatly enhances convenience for delegates to select, book and receive a confirmation of their accommodation in just a few clicks. With more than 600 rooms available across a range of three to five-star hotels, delegates can be assured of an enjoyable and comfortable stay in Brunei.

For full details of ATF 2010 and regular updates, visit www.atfbrunei.com.

About Brunei Tourism

As a division within the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, Brunei Tourism is in charge of tourism development, marketing and promotion, as well as licensing of tour companies. The division has been actively engaged in the promotion of tourism to Brunei since the mid 1990s. It was then that tourism gained recognition as a rising industry capable of greatly contributing to the Kingdom’s economic diversification efforts, as well as becoming a significant generator of future employment opportunities for Brunei's citizens.

With recent increases in manpower and expertise, including the hiring of international tourism consultants, and a clear strategy with ambitious but feasible goals, Brunei Tourism is working to market its undiscovered tourism potential in the competitive regional tourism market. Brunei Tourism has also recently launched a fresh new identity to carve a face for Brunei in the competitive and dynamic regional tourism market. Brunei Tourism is committed to working closely with both local and overseas industry partners and the media to position Brunei Darussalam as a distinctive, exciting and undiscovered travel destination in Asia.

For more information on Brunei Tourism, visit www.bruneitourism.travel

Cambodia and Vietnam - Two new air routes in planning

Cambodia and Vietnam aviation officials are planning to launch two new aviation routes between the two countries, officials said Thursday.

The routes will connect Phu Quoc Island, off the southern coast of Vietnam near the mouth of the Mekong River, with Sihanoukville International Airport, and the southern province of Can Tho with Phnom Penh.

State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) Undersecretary of State Soy Sokhan said the SSCA and its Vietnamese counterpart were conducting a joint feasibility study on the routes.

“We see huge potential for these routes,” he said. “Sihanoukville International Airport will be a popular destination for the tourism industry, but the Phnom Penh International Airport also has great potential for cargo shipments.”

It was too early to estimate when that feasibility study would be completed, he said, but one flight was expected to be scheduled daily in each direction on both routes.

Flag carrier in running

SSCA Secretary of State Mao Havannal said the routes had not yet been allocated to any carriers but confirmed that Cambodia Angkor Air had been involved in discussions. The airline is 51 percent owned by the Cambodian government in a joint venture with Vietnam Airlines.

Ho Vandy, co-chairman of the Government-Private Sector Forum’s Tourism Working Group, said Phu Quoc Island and Can Tho province were both popular tourism hubs in Vietnam and could be valuable feeders for the Cambodian tourism sector if the routes became available.

Thailand Mega Fam Trip To Boost Winter Arrivals From Russia And Its Neighbouring Countries

Nearly 70 travel agents and media representatives from Russia, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and the Central Asian Republics are visiting Thailand between 24 October – 1 November, 2009, for a “mega fam trip” designed to attract more visitors from one of Thailand’s most important source markets.

The 58 travel agents, tour operators and 11 media hail from many of Russia’s key cities; such as, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Krasnoyarsk, Yeketerinburg, Rostov-na-Donu, Vladivostok and Khabarovsk, as well as countries such as Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and Uzbekistan.

They have been invited to visit Thailand and survey the new tourism products and services in preparation for their package tours in the winter of 2009-2010.

In 2008, Russian visitors to Thailand totaled 319,587, up 14.23% over 2008, and generated 16.24 billion Baht in tourism income. During 2002 – 2008, Russian visitors to Thailand grew by an annual average of 28.79% while expenditure grew by an annual average of 32.76%.

However, due to the recent global financial crisis and economic slowdown, Russian visitor arrivals to Thailand fell 29.43% during January – April 2009. Hence, the TAT Moscow office is seeking to revive this market by launching the “Welcome to Thailand Mega Fam” programme.

During their stay here, business to business meetings organised by TAT will give the visiting agents, operators, and media a chance to meet with 134 local Thai operators.
TAT estimates that this mega fam trip will generate 293,000 visitors from the Russian market alone, generating roughly 14.03 billion baht in tourism income over the winter season, most of it during this year.

Mrs. Juthaporn Rerngronasa, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, Tourism Authority of Thailand said “Our research into the Russian market shows many opportunities for growth.

“The most important thing is that it is mainly a winter-season market, as Russians love the warm weather, the beaches, and the sea. Many are also enjoying learning how to dive in our resorts on both sides of the south Thailand peninsula which are home to some of the most dazzling underwater wonders anywhere.”

Russians get a visa on arrival in Thailand. Most visitors from Russia travelled to Thailand for a holiday, especially to popular beach resorts like Pattaya and Phuket, which are attracting Russian charter traffic.

In addition, as of October 2009, six direct scheduled weekly flights are being operated between Moscow - Bangkok by Thai Airways International and Aeroflot Russian Airlines. Many Russian visitors are also coming via Doha and Dubai on Emirates airlines and Qatar Airways.

In accordance with the TAT marketing plan, the potential customer market segments are high-end tourists, MICE delegates, combined package tours with neighbouring countries, and stopover traffic in Bangkok.

The emerging market segments are identified as female tourists (spa and medical tourism, shopping); families (soft adventures, sea beaches); youth tourism (sports, ecotourism) and sports-lovers and professionals (golf, yachts, diving, rafting, trekking).

Thailand occupies the 10th position in the preferred destinations of Russian tourists worldwide and second position in Asian destinations preferred by Russian tourists (after PR China).

Contact information:
International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2253 7419
E-mail: prdiv3@tat.or.th

For the latest updates, please visit: www.TATnews.org

AirAsia - Free Flights to Mother and Child

Photo 1- FREE flights for life, for mom and baby: AirAsia Director of Operations Moses Devanayagam (left) presenting Liew with free flights for life, for herself and child.
Photo 2- AirAsia Flight Attendant Manager Jackie Teo presenting Liew with a bouquet of flowers.

Baby delivered at 2,000 feet!
Mother and child get FREE flights for life

AirAsia Flight AK 6506 from Penang to Kuching was blessed with a new member onboard on Wednesday, when a guest, Liew Siaw Hsia, 31, gave birth to a baby boy.

When Liew began to show signs of discomfort while the flight was en route to Kuching, an emergency re-route to Kuala Lumpur was immediately initiated. On the flight was Dr. Ronald Tang, also a guest on the flight, attended to Liew and provided initial medical attention. He was duly assisted by the airline’s flight attendants, who instantaneously rendered essential support and ensured Ms. Liew’s comfort in preparing for a possibility of delivery on board.

The baby was safely delivered when flight AK 6506 was approaching Kuala Lumpur for landing at 2, 000 feet. As soon as the aircraft landed, an ambulance, medical staff and AirAsia ground staff were already waiting to transfer the mother and baby to the hospital. AirAsia also provided an ambulift to facilitate transfer of both mother and baby from the aircraft into the ambulance. They were brought to Putrajaya Hospital for further medical care.

Yesterday, AirAsia’s Director of Operations Moses Devanayagam, Flight Attendant Manager Jackie Teo and flight attendants visited the mother and child at the hospital to convey their well wishes and announced that they are granted free flights on AirAsia for life. AirAsia is also very happy to have a first baby delivered onboard its aircraft, and that both mother and baby are healthy and safe.

Moses said, “I would like to congratulate Ms. Liew and wish her all the best of luck. Delivering a baby at 2,000 feet is indeed a very rare experience, and certainly she will cherish the moment forever. To celebrate this momentous occasion, we decided to present both mother and child with free flights for life. We look forward to them flying AirAsia for many years to come.

“I would also like to thank Dr. Ronald Tang for giving Ms. Liew the best care whilst the flight was on course to Kuala Lumpur. Facilitating a birth on a flight is definitely a heroic feat, and we are very privileged to have him onboard,” he concludes.

When contacted by AirAsia, the hero of flight AK 6506, Dr. Ronald Tang praised AirAsia’s competency in handling the situation.

He said, “AirAsia’s staff did a great job in handling the situation. They were very efficient and helpful. The staff has done something really significant by comforting, reassuring and accompanying the mother at all times. The delivery was blessed with no complications. The mother and baby were safe and immediately transferred to the hospital upon landing. Everything was smooth and efficient. Well done to all!”

AirAsia Media Relations:
Nazatul Ekma Mokhtar - nazatulekmamokhtar@airasia.com

Thailand as seen through the eyes of a 9-year-old girl

I, my parents, and my elder brother, Abhishek, started our journey to Thailand from Indira Gandhi International Airport at New Delhi. As our Cathay Pacific flight was to leave on September 19 at 0330 hours, we reached the airport by a private taxi by around 0030 hours. We stood at the airline check-in counter and waited for our turn. At the time of check-in we were politely informed about the delay in our flight by over 3 hours. With heavy hearts and thinking this was a bad omen, we checked in our luggage, and I got my first international flight boarding pass. We then went to the immigration counters, and I was thrilled to get the first stamp on my passport. Once the immigration formality was over, my father told us that we were now outside the territorial jurisdiction of India. It evoked a mixed and sad feeling in me to be leaving my beloved country, even though it was only temporarily.

I spent the next few hours wandering all over the airport, window shopping for duty-free goodies and other things. It was such an amazing sight - seeing and meeting fellow travelers from all over the world with people belonging to diverse countries, speaking different languages, wearing varied costumes, and belonging to different cultures, all under one roof. After getting tired, I massaged my feet in the automatic foot massager and fell asleep within my seat at the airport.

My mother woke me up in the morning and told me that boarding had been announced. I stood in the queue and was happy to be finally entering the Cathay Pacific aircraft. On taking my seat, I immediately began using the in-flight entertainment system and started enjoying the same. However, my joy was cut short by the in-flight announcement requesting us to vacate the flight as the aircraft needed to be fumigated against the swine flu. We finally re-entered the aircraft after about a half an hour, and I prayed for an uninterrupted flight hereafter.

After enjoying a sumptuous breakfast, our flight landed at Bangkok’s Swarnabhumi Airport at 1230 hours. As Bangkok is one hour and thirty minutes ahead of India, I moved forward my watch forward by 90 minutes to be in line with local time. The experience of using a floor escalator for the first time in my life left me dumbfounded. The experience of going through immigration, filling out a Thai language form, passport stamping, and customs clearance was a new and educational one. We were now officially in Bangkok, Thailand.

We came out of the airport and were welcomed by Thai girls in their traditional nationalistic-styled clothing. I enjoyed some wonderful new ice cream flavors at the airport arrival lounge, and we ate lunch prepared and carried by our mother.

We then began our journey to Pattaya in luxury in an air-conditioned coach along with our guide Mr. Sam and fellow travelers of the group. On the way to Pattaya, we stopped at McDonald's and KFC restaurants for light snacks and water. The items on the menu were very different from the ones we generally see at our local outlets in India, and the taste, though different, was delicious. The roads during the journey were very clean and comfortable and offered a beautiful view of the countryside with vast greenery, large trucks, fly-overs, and markets.

The first sights of Pattaya were very beautiful. The clean beaches with blue waters, white sands, sunny beaches, crowded markets, colorful vehicles, tall buildings, boats, and street food were a totally new experience for me. We checked into the Pattaya Garden Hotel and went to our rooms. The rooms were large, air-conditioned, and had a television, as well as a well-stocked refrigerator. After having a comforting swim, we went to watch the world-famous Tiffany’s cabaret show.

The Tiffany's show is one of the world's most famous cabaret shows, which was watched by about 500 people who enjoyed its spectacular performances. The talent of Tiffany's artists was undeniable, and they performed on various sets (15 different sets and backdrops), in many languages, and in numerous numbers. I especially enjoyed the artists' beautiful performance on our very own Hindi film song, “Dola re” of Devdas. The show, with its star-studded music and dance extravaganza complete with light and sound systems, was amazing, spectacular, and touched my heart.

We walked back from the Tiffany’s show to our hotel enjoying the evening and the cool sea breeze. The roads were full of tourists who were enjoying themselves. On the way back we relished the famous Thai street food and also had ice cream at the omnipresent 7-Eleven stores.

The next morning, we woke up early and went for another swim in the hotel’s pool and enjoyed a continental buffet breakfast. At 9:00 am, our guide, Mr. Sam, took us to the Pattaya beach by bus. The beach was very neat and clean with its clear blue waters in the shining sun. Once on the beach, we wore life jackets and boarded a high-speed boat, which was to take us to Coral Island. The boat, with its powerful propellers, moved on the South China sea at such a tremendous speed that all of us were enthralled. The cool morning breeze striking my hair and cheeks made the moments unforgettable. In no time, we reached our first halt, which was a platform on the sea.

I was scared to see so many people participating in parachute gliding but still wanted to do it. My father purchased the tickets and much against my thoughts, I decided to take the plunge. I wore the life jacket and the parachute with nylon cords and shackles. The cord was tied on one end of the speed boat, and as the speed boat started its journey on the sea, it pulled me so that in no time I was in the air. It was such a terrifying moment, and I thought I was going to fall down and drown in the sea. However, after a few seconds, I actually started enjoying sailing in the air. I was on top of the world, looking down where everything appeared so tiny. The speed boat operator then played a game with me. He suddenly stopped cruising, and I yelled and cried, because I was rapidly falling towards the sea. Within a few moments, I had dropped in the sea and was fearing for my life and thinking that the sharks in the sea would attack me and eat me up. I sincerely started praying for my safety. The next moment, I found that the boat had restarted and was picking up speed. I was once again in the air and started enjoying the natural beauty. After some time, I landed back on the platform safely and in one piece. What a terrifying yet fulfilling experience it was!

The next stop was on a platform in the middle of sea just near the Coral Islands. People on this platform were enjoying scuba diving along with professional divers. I also wanted to explore the depths of the sea and be among the fish and marine vegetation. Though I was slightly anxious, I decided to undertake this scary activity as well. I put on the gloves and a glass mask with oxygen supply and went in the sea along with a professional diver escorting me. The sea was about 5 meters deep, and the view was unimaginable. I could see large numbers of fish in all sizes, shapes, and colors. I fed some food to the fish and even touched a few of them. The fish also touched me all over the body, and I felt a strange tickling sensation. The rich vegetation and marine life left be dumbfounded. We walked on the sea floor for some time. A video shoot of our underwater adventure was also taken by the divers, which they gave to us in the form of a CD. We came out of the sea after about 25 minutes. The experience was completely new and adventurous.

We finally reached the Coral Island after traveling on the speed boat. After alighting from the boat, I realized that the sand was very white, the sea water was crystal clear, and I could see fish in the water. We took some rest in the tents and enjoyed boiled corn along with coconut water, which was very tasty. Changing into our swimming costumes, we went for a swim in the clean, cool comforting waters. I was amazed to see that my body could actually float in the sea water without any difficulty, and I realized that the salinity of sea water was high and may be similar to the salt content of the Dead Sea, which allowed me to float freely. I also did a round of water skiing on the sea and enjoyed it thoroughly.

The journey back to the shore took about 30 minutes and was rather uneventful. Once ashore we had lunch at an Indian restaurant, which was very delicious.
After lunch, we did some shopping at the local floating market and bought many handicrafts and mementos. The entire market is situated around water and can be reached by way of wooden bridges. Journeying around the market is also possible in boats. I fed bananas and other fruits to a baby elephant at the market, and in the evening, we went out in the markets and explored the various goodies, which were on offer including gems and jewelery, clothes, and leather items. It was an altogether new experience for me to be going around and shopping in a floating market.

The next morning, we checked out of the hotel and started on our journey to the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok, in an air-conditined bus. After about two hours, we reached Bangkok. It is a lovely city, distinctly modern and westernized, with tall buildings, good roads, sky trains, fly-overs, and very polite and disciplined people. Major tourist attractions include glittering Buddhist temples, palaces, canal and river scenes, rich cuisine, classical dance extravaganzas, and numerous shopping centers. Before checking in to our hotel, we visited the world-famous Buddhist temple, Wat Trimit. The large standing gold statue of Lord Buddha inspired religious feelings in me. We were told that the statue is made of solid gold and weighed 5.5 tons. The temple was very huge and a large number of Thai people were worshipping for the good health and speedy recovery of their king who was not keeping well.

At Bangkok, we checked in at the Hotel White Orchid, which was situated in the busy marketplace of Chinatown. It was a good, comfortable hotel but lacked a swimming pool. After taking a rest, we went out and shopped at the MVK Mall and came back to the hotel in the evening. At the mall, we had snacks again at McDonald's, as well as KFC. The mall had a lot of gold jewelery shops, clothes, leather goods, and electronics. A large number of Indians were also shopping at the mall. At night we went out and tasted the ethnic Chinese food being sold by the roadside. Though tasty it was not the same as the Chinese food available in India.

The next morning, we started our journey to Safari World by a private air-conditioned van, after first enjoying a buffet breakfast at the hotel. The entry to Safari World was very inspiring, and there was a large number of three-dimensional replicas of various wild animals like giraffes, elephants, and zebras to welcomie us.

The park is spread over a large area with animals housed in various enclosures. In between and all throughout the day, various animal shows are organized. In Safari World, we saw many kinds of different birds, tigers, polar bear, crocodiles, elephants, and sea lions, to name a few. We also saw beautiful performances by various animals during the 20-30 minute shows by sea lions, chimpanzees, elephants, and dolphins. I really loved the dolphin show, as well as the elephant show. The shows evoked enthusiastic clapping from the audience, especially a large number of smartly-dressed school children from Bangkok. I remembered my beloved country, India, when I realized that Hindi film songs sung by Mr. Himmesh Reshamiya were playing in the background at the venue.

The most thrilling moment of the entire trip was the time when my parents, brother, and I held a 5-foot tiger cub in our laps and fed him milk. His body was so soft, while he was also ferocious looking with his sharp teeth and claws. He looked extremely dangerous. Though initially terrified, I could handle him without much problem. I also held another young tiger cub, which was very cuddly and hardly 1.5 feet in length. It was all so very exciting, and something I will never forget.

Many school children and I fed bananas to tall giraffes by climbing on a platform. Though I had fed cows, buffaloes, dogs, and elephants, feeding so many tall giraffes was something entirely new to me.

In the evening, we went on a wild safari at a protected national park in air-conditioned buses. In the park, we saw lions, tigers, rhinoceros, various types of deer, giraffe, zebra, bear, birds, and many other animals. We could see the animals in their natural habitat away from captivity. It was so very interesting to see these ferocious animals roaming about freely in the wild without any fear.

We returned back to the hotel after a memorable day spent amongst the wild animals, taking pictures, feeding tiger cubs and giraffes, and seeing the acrobatic activities of dolphins.

The next morning we went to see the largest statue of a reclining Buddha at the Wat Po temple. The statue was marvelous, and the environment in the temple was very peaceful and quiet. Large numbers of tourists and devotees from across the world were visiting the temple. The tourists were also putting a large number of small coins in many vessels kept in the temple.

After returning to the hotel, we had lunch and started our return journey to the Bangkok airport. At the airport, we did some shopping at the Duty-Free shops and killed time enjoying the large, clean, and imposing airport. We took the Cathay Pacific flight from Bangkok to New Delhi, and fortunately the flight was on time. The flight arrived at New Delhi as scheduled, and we reached our sweet home after clearing immigration and customs.

Though happy to be home, I would always remember my maiden journey abroad among very hospitable, friendly, and polite people. I learned about the culture of Thai people and their foods, currency, environment, cleanliness, occupations, natural beauty, wildlife, water sports, and marine life. I will never forget my thoroughly enjoyable trip to Thailand.

French firm SCA, the chief operator of the Kingdom’s airports, forecasts that passenger traffic will increase through Phnom Penh as recovery picks

The operator of Cambodia’s three major airports forecast Wednesday a “slight rebound” for the domestic aviation sector next year.

Societe Concessionaires des Aeroports (SCA) Chief Executive Officer Nicolas Deviller said passenger traffic at Phnom Penh International Airport would increase 3.6 percent over 2009 levels and plane movements 2 percent.

He also projected a 5.6 percent jump in passenger numbers at Siem Reap International Airport and a 2.2 percent gain in plane movements.

The projection was based on an anticipated climb in travel demand as the worldwide economic climate begins to improve, he told reporters at the launch of the winter-season flight schedules for Cambodia’s international airports.

SCA operates the international airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, as well as Sihanoukville International Airport, which Deviller said is now fully operational, although it has not yet been officially launched.

“The Cambodian government wants to officially open the airport, and it expects to have French government officials present,” he said. “I know there are some discussions between the government, but we are a private company, so I don’t interfere in this.”

A notable absentee from the winter schedules, which run from Sunday until March 27, was Siem Reap Airways, which is in negotiations with the government to resume operations. Domestic routes operated by Bangkok Airways have also been taken out of the domestic schedules, as the government has said it will not renew its permit when it expires Sunday.

Among highlights in the schedules, Korean Air has been allotted three flights each week on its new route between Busan and Siem Reap. National carrier Cambodia Angkor Air has been allocated 28 slots each week for its ATR72 aircraft out of Phnom Penh and 42 flights from Siem Reap, where it operates the ATR72 and A321 aircraft.

Lao Airlines has increased the frequency of its flights from Siem Reap by four to 14 each week. South Korea’s Asiana Airlines will resume flights between Siem Reap and Seoul from mid-November, scheduling 4 flights per week, while fellow Korean carrier Jeju Air will also operate flights between Cambodia’s key tourist hub and Incheon. Japan Airlines will add charter flights between Japanese cities and Siem Reap, Devillers added.

There are 17 airlines operating from Cambodia’s international airports, carrying around 3 million passengers every year, Deviller said. Ministry of Tourism figures show air arrivals were down 13 percent for the first eight months of this year.

source: Phnom Penh Post

All Eyes on Youth & Student Travel at ITB-Asia

All eyes will be on the youth and student travel market at ITB-Asia this week, as more and more governments throughout the region unveil new campaigns to attract this resilient and unique market.

Demand for international education, backpacking adventures and cultural exchange has remained high throughout the recession as more young people continue to travel study and develop new skills until the economy recovers.

Government Campaigns Focus on Youth & Student Travel in Asia

The social benefits of youth and educational travel - combined with its resilience to the financial crisis – have led national tourism boards throughout South East Asia to focus on the youth sector. ASEAN, The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is promoting 2010 as the year of ‘Youth Travel’ with global branding and promotional efforts focusing on attracting young travelers from all over the world.

Singapore is another example of Asia’s immense inbound and outbound market opportunities. Eager to build a competitive edge in Asia, the Singapore Government has focused on promoting work and study abroad opportunities to improve the language and cultural skills-set of its students. The Ministry of Education is busy establishing satellite campuses in cities such as Beijing in order to achieve its goal of sending 50% of Singaporean students abroad on educational exchanges.

Singapore Education has also embarked on a new initiative across western markets aimed at attracting foreign students from Europe, North America, and Oceania interested in Asian business and language courses.

In Thailand, a forthcoming Government campaign will promote Thailand as a regional hub for international education by focusing on attracting foreign students. The education sector in Thailand is projected to grow at least 10 per cent annually due to the implementation of the government’s new 'Strong Thailand' campaign (Thai Kem Keng scheme), says Thailand’s export chief.

Tourism Boards Anticipate Huge Growth in Youth Travel

WYSE Travel Confederation, a global not-for-profit association for the youth and student travel industry, works closely with tourism boards and officials from around the world to help capture and incorporate this unique and valuable market into long term national tourism strategies.

Hosting a strategy session last month at the World Youth & Student Travel Conference - the industry’s annual global conference - WYSE Travel Confederation confirmed that 60% of tourism boards view youth travel as vital to the future of their industry and anticipate huge growth in this sector over the next five years.

Over the next year, the Confederation will host a series of high profile events to promote youth and student travel throughout Asia. Beijing has been officially announced as host city for the World Youth & Student Travel Conference in 2010, bringing immense strategic opportunities for China and Asia.

A workshop hosted by the International Au Pair Association will take place in Bangkok this month to help local au pair agencies build relations with the international industry. And in Vietnam, The Association of Language Travel Organizations (ALTO) will host a road show in November to introduce language agents from around the world to local language schools.

Visit WYSE Travel Confederation at ITB-Asia Stand Number P38 to find out more about these events, pick up the latest industry research and speak to industry experts about global trends in youth and student travel.

WYSE Travel Confederation’s 550+ members in 120 countries serve 10 million youth and student travelers. For More information, check the website www.wysetc.org

AirAsia XCelebrates Inaugural Flight to Chengdu, China From Kuala Lumpur

From Left: Mr. Pan Gang Jun, Deputy General Manager of Sichuan Airport Group, Mr. Edzuar Zar Ayob, Tourism Consul of Malaysia Consulate General in Shanghai, Mr. Azran Osman Rani, CEO of AirAsia X, Mr. Chen Zhong Wei, Changdu Municipal Commitee of Communication Office, Mr. Deng Li Gong, Deputy General Secretary of Chengdu City Government and Mr. He Jian, Director of Chengdu Culture & Tourism Development Group together with 7 lucky draw winners, flanked by AirAsia cabin crew.

AirAsia, the world’s best low cost airline today celebrates its maiden flight to Chengdu from Kuala Lumpur with a big celebration upon arrival at the Chengdu International Airport. This new service is operated by AirAsia X, the low cost long-haul airline affiliate of AirAsia. AirAsia X continues to aggressively expand its China network by launching four direct weekly flights from Kuala Lumpur to Chengdu,further strengthening its already vast network to China.

The inaugural flight took off from Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) Kuala Lumpur at 09:00 and landed in Chengdu International Airport at 13:40. Mr. Azran Osman-Rani, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia X was onboard the maiden flight with 378 guests and represented AirAsia at the momentous inaugural flight ceremony at the Chengdu Internationalairport. Present at the function were representatives from Chengdu Tourism and Tourism Malaysia Bureau, several Hangzhou airport and government representatives, and over 80 local and foreign media members.

AzranOsman Rani said at the press conference, “With Chengdu now added on to our network, AirAsia is unlocking the potential of travel to the western territories of China and further boost our vast network in China with more than 160 flights weekly. AirAsia has already recorded an o verwhelming load for the route from Kuala Lumpur to Chengdu, as the city being the capital of Sichuan Province in the People's Republic of China has become increasingly popular among overseas visitors.We are promoting Chengdu as a gateway to Tibet, which its capital Lhasa is home to the historical center of Tibetan Buddhism and famous Potala Palace. Chengdu, well known for its interesting sites and attractions such as Wide and Narrow Cultural Street, Dujiangyan water irrigation system and Tea Houses at Chun Xi Road, the city is also well known as the home of the Giant Pandas.

"We also look forward to draw more international and regional guests to China using Kuala Lumpur as its connecting gateway. Through AirAsia’s eight major hubs (Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, Bangkok, Jakarta, Bali and Bandung), stretching across 20 countries and over 130 routes, we offer the most extensive route network in the region hence AirAsia guests will enjoy seamless access in the region and beyond including routes serviced by AirAsia’s long-haul affiliate, AirAsia X.”

Home to more than 10 million people, Chengdu is located in southwest China at the western edge of the Sichuan Basin and is the gateway to the Unesco World Heritage Site “Jiuzhaigou”, one of the most scenic places in China. This capital city of Sichuan province is known as one of the most important economic centers and is a major transportation and communication hub in China. Historically, it has played an important role in the political, economical, cultural, and military development of southwest China. The city is regarded as the starting point of the Southern Silk Road and is the gateway to the Tibet Autonomous Region. The surrounding region is famous for its three unique characteristics: Heavenly scenery, Bashu Culture, and home of the Giant Pandas..

The Kuala Lumpur - Chengdu route is serviced by our Airbus A330- 300, which holds 383 economy seats including 28 Premium seats which have an impressive 60-inch seat pitch. For more details on flight times and bookings, please visit www.airasia.com or mobile.airasia.com.

Stay tuned! Follow AirAsia on Twitter, Facebook, and AirAsia Blog where we will provide real time updates on our latest promotion.

FLIGHT SCHEDULE:
Flights commencing 20th October 2009
Flights From Departure / Arrival Flight No Frequency
Kuala Lumpur - Chengdu 09:00/13:40 D7 2 6
Chengdu – Kuala Lumpur 14:55/19:35 D7 2 6
Kuala Lumpur - Chengdu 18:00/22:40 D7 4
Chengdu – Kuala Lumpur 23:55/04:35 D7 4
Kuala Lumpur - Chengdu 13:00/18:10 D7 7
Chengdu – Kuala Lumpur 19:25/00:05 D7 7

Media Contacts:
Sherliza Zaharudin - sherlizazaharudin@airasia.com
Linda Foo - fooyanyan@airasia.com

Hon Tam Resort – Eco Green Island at Nha Trang, Vietnam

Passionate yourself into the nature and enjoy the great life at Hon Tam Resort

Carpeted with a green tropical forest throughout 4 seasons, the long sandy coastline winds like a mermaid exposing the smoothness of the Creator by thousands of pampering waves onto the shore all day and night. Underneath the uneven cliffs is the blue water as clear as crystal abounds with many kinds of coral reefs blooming in hundred-pink and thousand-purple colours, and hundreds of schools of fish swimming heartily here and there like visitors flocking to festivals. All seem to be fairy like and dreamlike.

Imagine… A Place, where there is no limit of space and time endless blue ocean in front of you white silky sand spreading out to the mileness primitive green mystical tropical forest at the back, where the transparent blue sky harmonized with blue ocean

A Place you will be waken up by birds singing hamormonized with rustling noise of sea waves your faces will be lightened up by the sun lights over the sea your soul will be re-freshed while walking along the beach you will be released from noisy busy, a place reserved for you – Hon Tam Island ...Natural Paradise

You will be waken up by the harmonization of birds singing sounds in the rustling noise of sea waves. After having a deeply sleep, full of fresh sea-salt wind will get into your own bungalow space. You can admire the old traditional construction of the bungalows with the wall made from clinker mud mixed up with thatches, roof was covered by coco leaves but in artistic way, your own room furniture was made from ebony wood, the lights are artistic design in harmonizing with bungalow color tone and luxury facilities. Your bungalow is surrounded by fruity trees in a nice landscape for your admiration.

The bungalows have been designed to give you fully-open to the nature, just opening the doors then your room will be full of fresh air and sun light. Particularly, the bath rooms have been friendly environmentally designed to help you relaxed in extremely large and surrounding by the green nature. The special combination between unique designed architecture with natural materials will help to bring you the privacy but in full luxury facilities. In your own bungalow you may relax reading master-pieces from different centuries while tasting the served seasonal fruits, listening to the rustling noise from the sea while spreading out your watches over the beach, your soul should be re-freshed and dreamed up as the ocean breeze.

The Garden Restaurant which can serve 150 persons looks over the sea, swimming pool and garden. This is the ideal place for your family and loved ones enjoy the diversity gourmet menu from the special dishes of Hon Tam to the typical taste of different cooking arts Vietnam and to the other Asian and European foods. Especially, you will have a chance to enjoy buffet parties next to the romantic swimming pool.

It would be great to sip a tasty well-known wines, admiring the romantic surrounding landscape, listening to the melodious music master-pieces while cheerfully talks to your friends, all those would bring you the love of the hidden charming island.

Here, you are invited to try the traditional massage combined with many methods of mystical therapy from the ancient times. The therapeutic massage helps regain the association between your health and mind and gives relaxation to your body. All the aromatic oils, which are 100% natural, are chosen carefully and combined appropriately with accurate proportions to make the treatments effective. The method of massaging with many steps to reduce stress is correctly and carefully compiled to help bring you health and give you new energy.

For those who want steam bath, the sauna room with specialized equipment is an ideal place to rest and relax.

You may enjoy having funs with the beautiful blue water and calm swimming pool next to the beach or enjoy relaxing in the massaging lake inside the swimming pool, or you may have your own enjoyment of drinking special colorfull fruity cocktails in the bar next to the swimming pool.

Or you may have another way of enjoyment is to lazy down on the swimming pool while oversleeping in the fresh breeze and rustling melodious sound of music.

Discover the hidden charming of Hon Tam nature through a pass day tour with full of interests which will bring you the enjoying and relaxing time. Admire the tropical island of intact full vastly green trees and herbs, attractiveness of the traditional culture among the huge crystal blue water of the most beautiful bay of Viet Nam. You would deeply enjoy pass day tour with comfortable and luxury day in the nature.

Ancient House Area at Hon Tam

Visiting the ancient houses, where traditional cultural activities are preserved and restored, you will know how people lived in the old days. It is like the fact that you discover part of yourself that has been forgotten for a long time. This is a way to connect yourself with the past, review the present and look forward to the future.
The ancient houses aim to help tourists study the Vietnamese people’s culture which is typical and close to nature. Here, you can see houses with more than 200 years of existence, gardens, temple roofs, wells, lotus ponds, and so forth.
Passing the village gate and going along the main road, visitors will have the feeling of returning to a village of the past, especially when they see familiar household items such as hoes, bamboo-woven trays and stone rice grinders.

Tourists can also visit a traditional craft village to study the Vietnamese handicraft. Here, they will observe craftspeople bake bricks or weave brocade.

Hon Tam Resort – Eco Green Island is one of the most beautiful settings and best places for family and friends. Nha Trang bay was acknowledged in 2003 as one of the most beautiful in the world by the UNESCO-backed Club of the World's Magnificent Bays, joining Ha Long in the country's north.

Tam Island offers many kinds of water sports such as jet skiing, boating, windsurfing, parachute pulling, adventure diving... Other than that, tourists can enjoy camp-fire nights on the fascinating island.

For further information to visit this dream destination for your fantastic holiday experience, please contact the sales department or directly to the very Friendly General Manager Mr. Dilan De Silva (gmr@hontamresort.vn)

Alternatively you can also contact:

Mr. Phan Hung Vi, Area Manager – managerab@hontamresort.vn
Mr. Duong Thanh Phuong, Front Office Manager – fom@hontamresort.vn

Hon Tam (Silkworm Island), Vinh Nguyen, Nha Trang
88A Tran Phu St, Nha Trang, Vietnam
+84 58 3523100, +84 58 3597777
+84 58 3525587, +84 58 3597799
info@hontamresort.vn
www.hontamresort.vn

Airasia Announces 3 New India Routes To Kolkata, Kochi And Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) From Kuala Lumpur

Skytrax “World’s Best Low Cost Airline” and Asia’s largest and leading low-cost carrier, AirAsia has announced that it will commence its daily direct flights to Kolkata, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in November 2009 respectively. Following a successful launch from the South Indian city of Trichy last year, AirAsia now offers the people of Kolkata, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram the pleasure of flying to Kuala Lumpur for an unbeatable all-inclusive fare from as low as INR 1499 (RM 129) all in fares one way respectively for the booking period from 15th to 20th October, 2009 for the travel period from 12th November 2009 to 31st July 2010 for Kochi, from 16th November 2009 to 31st July 2010 for Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) and from 19th November 2009 to 31st July 2010 for Kolkata. Promotional seats are limited and available on first-come, first-served basis and made exclusively available online via www.airasia.com and mobile.airasia.com.

AirAsia launched its first route to Trichy, India which is situated in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu on December 1, 2008, and is the first airline in South East Asia to fly direct to the city. The launch of the first frequency to the city recorded an overwhelming response with an average load factor of 85% which led the airline to increase its 2nd frequency to the city with AirAsia’s 2nd direct daily flight on 1st September, 2009. To date, AirAsia have carried over 100,000 guests to and from Trichy.

AirAsia Regional Head of Commercial, Kathleen Tan said, “Today, AirAsia is reiterating its commitment to the Indian market with the launch of three new routes- Kolkata, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the first airline to launch 3 cities in India in one day. While most airlines are cutting back during these tough economic times, AirAsia is aggressively expanding its India route network as we believe there is robust demand in low fare travel. The three new India destinations are colourful cities with rich historical and cultural traditions. We believe our low fares and outstanding innovative services, will definitely open up new markets, stimulate new travel demand and enable more people to fly with us; thus promoting tourism which is beneficial for the economies of both countries.”

“It has been an ongoing and sustained effort for AirAsia to provide the best service with unbelievable low fares to our guests. With the introduction of the three new routes, connectivity to the three cities to and from Kuala Lumpur direct will bridge social ties and promote new connectivity via our hub in Kuala Lumpur as a gateway to over 130 routes in Asia, including the ones served by Airasia X, its long haul affiliate to Australia (Gold Coast, Perth, Melbourne), China (Hangzhou, Tianjin, Chengdu), Taipei, London and Abu Dhabi, bringing the well known brand on to a global stage” concluded Kathleen.

It is now more convenient than ever to fly to Kuala Lumpur from Kolkata, located in the East Indian State of West Bengal and Kochi & Thiruvananthapuram, both located in the South Indian State of Kerala. Moreover as compared to other budget carriers, the route network offered by this award-winning airline is the most extensive in the region. This will translate into a low-cost yet efficient travel experience for guests who would benefit from using the LCC Terminal in Kuala Lumpur to connect to other regional ASEAN cities or long haul sectors serviced by AirAsia X. To add value, under GoHoliday at goholiday.airasia.com, guests may choose their holiday lodgings from over 50,000 hotels across Asia, Europe, India, Australia, Sri Lanka and China including ground transfer options and fantastic tour packages.

Attractions:

Kochi
Kochi is arguably the ideal starting point for exploring the unfathomable diversity and beauty of Kerala, rated in the top three tourist destinations by the World Travel & Tourism Council and featured in National Geographic Traveler's '50 greatest places of a lifetime'. Guests can explore Fort Kochi well known for the Chinese fishing nets, stroll down Fort Kochi beach, visit the St. Francis Church and historical Palaces, museums and bird and wildlife sanctuaries.

Trivandrum
A must on every tourist itinerary for Trivandrum, the Padmanabhaswami temple with its gopuram (tower) soaring majestically upwards, is believed to be one of the 108 shrines sacred to the Vaishnavites in India. Visit the Museum with its profusion of gables and turrets. A repository of fine works of art, the chief attraction here is the 250-year-old temple car made for Lord Vishnu, artistically designed and ornamented. Besides this, objects carved out of wood, models of temple, antique jewelry, etc., make the museum worth a visit. Guests may also experience the boat ride on its enchanting backwaters and be seduced by beautiful landscapes, beaches and waterways, coconut palms and, of course, beautiful, friendly people of Trivandrum in India.

Kolkata
Amongst the must visit places of Kolkata is the Victoria Memorial, a huge white-marble structure and the most enduring of remains of the British Raj in India. Guests may also visit the Indian Museum of Kolkata, the oldest museum in India, with its rare archeological collections. Then there’s the Eden Gardens, which houses the renowned cricket ground by the same name, visit the famous Kali Mandir temple, and explore the Birla Planetarium, one of the largest of its kind in the world.

Flight Schedule KUALA LUMPUR – KOLKATA
Flight No. Destinations
(Flights from/to) Depart Arrive Frequency
AK 323 Kuala Lumpur Kolkata 14:30 15:50 Daily
AK 324 Kolkata Kuala Lumpur 16:35 22:55 Daily
Flight Schedule KUALA LUMPUR – KOCHI
Flight No. Destinations
(Flights from/to) Depart Arrive Frequency
AK 203 Kuala Lumpur Kochi 14:50 16:30 Daily
AK 204 Kochi Kuala Lumpur 17:00 23:50 Daily
Flight Schedule KUALA LUMPUR – THIRUVANANTHAPURAM (TRIVANDRUM)
Flight No. Destinations
(Flights from/to) Depart Arrive Frequency
AK 295 Kuala Lumpur Trivandrum 06:20 07:50 1,3,4,5,6
AK 296 Trivandrum Kuala Lumpur 08:30 15:00 1,3,4,5,6
AK 295 Kuala Lumpur Trivandrum 05:20 06:50 2,7
AK 296 Trivandrum Kuala Lumpur 07:40 14:10 2,7

Historic Rex Hotel Vietnam - Your Home in Ho Chi Minh City

Already for over 80 years now, the historic Rex Hotel is located in the heart of Saigon's business district in modern downtown Ho Chi Minh City and is by far the most prominent accommodation landmark in the whole of Viet Nam. The 5-star luxurious property has just recently undergone some extensive renovations without losing any charm from the past.

All the 289 rooms and suites at the Rex Hotel strike a harmonious balance between modernity and tradition and offer all the expected luxury within its three wings, namely New Wing, East Wing and West Wing.

The successfully extended traditional hotel is conveniently located next to the People's Committee Building and within walking distance to the fashionable shopping street, the former Rue Catinat.

Very popular for the last decades already is the "Rooftop Garden" Restaurant & Bar, overlooking the central Le Loi Street and busy Nguyen Hue Boulevard. In the 1960s, the hotel was a popular drinking place for U.S. officers and their staff, as well as international correspondents from all over the word to cover the "American" Viet Nam War. There is still a small rooftop swimming pool from those turbulent times. Today, the place is crowded every night with tourists and businessmen alike.

Among the many other dining places, there are the distinctive Cung Dinh Restaurant, which is decorated in the style of the former Royal Court of Hue, the Asian favorite Hoa Mai Restaurant, as well as the Paradise Lounge, which offers welcomed coffee breaks, afternoon teas or fine dining with live entertainment.

Eleven well appointed banqueting and ballroom venues can be booked for gala dinners, business seminars, conferences and weddings. Not to be missed, when staying in the Rex Hotel, is the sophisticated "La Cochinchine Luxury Fitness Centre" to offer yearly membership fees. The centre allows hotel guests to use two swimming pools (the new one is just one year old), a modern gym and spa facilities with hydrotherapy areas, jacuzzis, sauna, and massage and shower rooms. Even special Ayurvedic treatments are possible. The opening hours are from 9am up to midnight. Pool tickets for outside guests cost 6USD for a day, including sauna.

For people, who prefer to travel, when in Saigon, there is the house-intern Rex Tour Service, selling the common tours, but also special tours to the Cai Be and Cai Rang Floating Markets in the Mekong Delta, Nam Cat Tien National Park, as well as playing Golf. If the historic Rex Hotel is your home in Saigon, so you can all enjoy that.

The Rex Hotel has a long and storied history.

The Rex Hotel Vietnam has an unconventional history: It used to be a French garage, was expanded by the Vietnamese, and then was used by the United States government for information and espionage purposes in the 1960’s and 1970’s. The hotel was changed in a massive renovation and opened in 1990 for the first time as the Rex Hotel Vietnam as the slightly cheesy, atmospheric government-run place it is today. There are a range of rooms, but all are large and clean, with feathery carpets and bamboo detailing everywhere. The lampshades are big royal crowns, which you have to see to believe. There's good indirect lighting throughout. Some of the suites have beaded curtains and Christmas lights over the bathroom mirrors.

"Your home in Vietnam” is the experience you will get for the stay at Rex Hotel in Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City. With professional and friendly staff, facilities of international standard, and the charm of traditional Vietnamese ambience, the Rex hotel really create truly Saigon for you.

For Sales inquiry, please contact: Tran Thi Nguyen Thao - thaottn.rex@sgtourist.com

Novotel Nha Trang Hotel, Nha Trang, Vietnam

Great Hotel with Great Sea Views... Simply Exotic

Family friendly as well as ideal for a corporate retreat, this Novotel property in Nha Trang makes for an ideal destination in this resort town. Located in the center of town, the hotel is just 35 km from the airport. Despite the location, this Novotel property is just walking distance to the beach, and a swim in the South China Sea. Nha Trang is also diving central, with its claim to some of the best dive spots in Vietnam. Other than diving you can also go on a boat cruise, sailing, or simply relax on the beach or at the natural hot springs. Being in the center, guests are close enough to several restaurants; choose from budget to high-end. Novotel Nha Trang can also be used as a base to further explore the surrounding area, especially the less crowded beaches.

The hotel lobby is modern and nice. The rooms are sensational with massive bathroom, plasma and cable and sensational view of the beach and islands. The Vous spa is fantastic and relaxing. It's time to take a break and experience pure relaxation for your body and mind.

Novotel Nha Trang
50 Tran Phu Street, Nha Trang City. Vietnam
Tel: + 84 (0) 58 6 256900
Fax: + 84 (0) 58 3 6256901
Email: rsvn@novotel-nhatrang.com
Web: http://www.novotel-nhatrang.com/

AirAsia Launches First Ever Brand Campaign

‘Have You Flown AirAsia?’
Airline Launches First Ever Brand Campaign

In an unprecedented move, AirAsia launches a regional campaign this week positioning the world’s best low-cost airline as a high quality, sleek and cool brand.

Aptly themed ‘Have You Flown AirAsia?’, the campaign aims to shift consumers’ mindset of low-cost carriers by showcasing the airline’s innovation, high quality service and unique experience.

Spearheading the campaign will be the television commercial directed by the late Yasmin Ahmad. It will be rolled out across Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand on 14th October 2009, supported by online, outdoor, print and social media presence. A refreshing microsite has also been created (www.haveyouflownairasia.com) to keep the brand relevant and dynamic. Guests can continue to look forward to exciting contests and promotions, treating winners to premium events and concerts.

The integrated format of this campaign is a great example of how television, print and social media can work together to engage today’s well-traveled consumers.

AirAsia Group CEO Dato’ Sri Tony Fernandes said, “To stay ahead of the competition, we need to keep our brand fresh. We want our guests to feel good about the AirAsia experience and keep them coming back for more.”

So, have you flown AirAsia?

ITE HCMC 2009 Photo Tour - Covering ITE 2009, Ho Chi Minh City & Nha Trang

ITE HCMC 2009 - The Largest Travel Show in Vietnam Covering Three Destinations ( Cambodia, Laos & Vietnam ) as a Single Destination.

The ITE HCMC 2009 event was bigger and better than before. Most of the International Buyers and Media were given an opportunity to Tour the Ho Chi Minh City and Selected Post Tour to Nha Trang and other destinations. Here we have covered the ITE Event, HCMC and Nha Trang as we opted for Nha Trang, the exotic beach destination of Vietnam. You can imagine by looking these photos, how magnificent the destination is..

ITE HCMC 2009 - Vietnam Photo Tour (Pre & Post Tour)