asian tourism guide 2014/2015

2014/2015

PPS 1789/06/2013(022997)MCI (P) 027/10/2014

ASIAN TOURISM

EXPERT GUIDE

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C H I N A H O N G K O N G I N D O N E S I A M A L A Y S I A P H I L I P P I N E S S I N G A P O R E T A I WA N T H A I L A N D

millenniumhotel s .com

M o r e t h a n 1 0 0 h o t e l s g l o b a l l y

G D S C h a i n C o d e : M U

Thousand Happy Moments

CONTENTS

ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2014/20152

CORPORATE HEAD OFFICEKian Gwan II Bldg., 12/F140/1 Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330, ThailandTel (66-2) 660-7000 Fax (66-2) 660-7200E-mail: [email protected]

Maarten Groeneveld Chief Executive Officer [email protected]

Patama Narintarangkool Group Managing Director, Finance [email protected]

Edyta Peszko Group Procurement & Product Director [email protected]

Martyn HedgesHead, Business Development [email protected]

CORPORATE SALES OFFICEKian Gwan II Bldg., 14/F140/1 Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330, ThailandTel (66-2) 660-7227 Fax (66-2) 660-7027

James Ramage Group Managing Director, Sales & Marketing [email protected]

Sam VincentKey Account Director [email protected]

Rafael DomingoKey Account Director [email protected]

Nataly Wanhoff Key Account [email protected]

Tony Champion Head of Sales & Marketing Europe [email protected]

Victor Mogilev Market Manager Russia/CIS & Eastern Europe [email protected]

Chavaroon Satarujawongse Sales Manager [email protected]

Jrmie DescellesStrategic Account Manager [email protected]

CONTENTS08 BHUTAN15 BRUNEI 21 CAMBODIA 27 CHINA 33 HONG KONG 41 INDIA47 INDONESIA

54 LAOS60 MACAU66 MALAYSIA 75 MALDIVES81 MYANMAR87 PHILIPPINES94 SINGAPORE

101 SRI LANKA 107 THAILAND113 VIETNAM120 DIETHELM TRAVEL

LOCATIONS

EDITORIALKaren Yue Group Editor ([email protected]) Gracia Chiang Deputy Group Editor ([email protected])Hannah Koh Assistant Editor, TTG Asia Online ([email protected])Lee Pei Qi Assistant Editor ([email protected])Xinyi Liang-Pholsena Assistant Editor, Thailand/Indochina ([email protected])Kathy Neo Copy Editor ([email protected])Mimi Hudoyo Editor, Indonesia ([email protected])S Puvaneswary Editor, Malaysia/Brunei ([email protected])Redmond Sia, Goh Meng Yong Creative DesignersTan Kok Yong Contributing Creative DesignerLina Tan Editorial Assistant

CONTRIBUTORSSim Kok Chwee, Greg Lowe, Rosa Ocampo, Prudence Lui, Hong Xu, Rohit Kaul, Feizal Samath, Tobias Esche, Lou Darriet and Li Xu

SALES & MARKETINGMichael Chow Group Publisher ([email protected])Shirley Tan Senior Business Manager ([email protected]) Karen Cheung Senior Business Manager ([email protected])Jonathan Yap Senior Business Manager ([email protected])Cheryl Tan Corporate Marketing Manager ([email protected])Stephanie Toh Marketing Executive ([email protected])Cheryl Lim Advertisement Administration Manager ([email protected])Carol Cheng Assistant Manager Administration and Marketing ([email protected])

PUBLISHING SERVICESTony Yeo Division Manager ([email protected])Carol Wong Senior Circulation Executive ([email protected])Haze Loh Senior Creative Designer ([email protected])Lynn Lim Web Executive ([email protected])

TTG ASIA MEDIA Darren Ng Managing Director ([email protected])Raini Hamdi Senior Editor ([email protected])

TTG Travel Trade Publishing is a business group of TTG Asia Media

OFFICESSINGAPORE 1 Science Park Road #04-07 The Capricorn Singapore Science Park II, Singapore 117528 Tel: (65) 6395-7575 Fax: (65) 6536-0896 [email protected]; www.ttgasia.comHONG KONG Unit 2011, 20/F Harbour Center25 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong KongTel: (852) 2237-7174 Fax:(852)2237-7227

ADVERTISEMENT REPRESENTATIVES Australia Zorka Sipkova, Publishers Internationale Tel: (61-2) 8298 9318 Fax: (61-2) 9252 2022 Email: [email protected]; Germany Wolfgang Jaeger, IMV Internationale Medien Vermarktung GmbH Tel: (49-8151) 550 8959 Fax: (49-8151) 550 9180 Email: [email protected]; India Meena Chand, Adcom International Tel: (91-11) 2576 7014 Fax: (91-11) 2574 2433 Email: [email protected]; Indonesia Sarah G Hutabarat, Media Mandiri Tel: (62-21) 835 5510 Fax: (62-21) 829 3563 Email: [email protected]; Italy Marco Reggiani, TTG Italia Spa Tel: (39-02) 8068 9227 Fax: (39-02) 8068 9250 Email: [email protected]; Japan Michiko Kawano, Pacific Business Inc Tel: (81-3) 3661 6138 Fax: (81-3) 3661 6139 Email: [email protected]; Korea SS Song, First Media Services Corp Tel: (82-2) 738 3591/2 Fax: (82-2) 738 7970 Email: [email protected]; Malaysia Gerald Saw Raffles International Media Sdn Bhd Tel: (6) 019 2296 484 Email: [email protected]; Spain (Madrid) Luis Andrade, Luis Andrade International Media Tel: (34-91) 788 5301 Fax: (34-91) 395 6396 Email: [email protected]; Sri Lanka Vijitha Yapa/Albadur Cader, Vijitha Yapa Associates Tel: (94-11) 255 6600 Fax: (94-11) 259 4717 Email:[email protected]; Taiwan Virginia Lee/Shirley Shen/Kitty Luh, Spacemark Media Services Tel: (886-2) 2522 2282 Fax: (886-2) 2522 2281 Email: [email protected]; Thailand Chower Narula/Anchana Nararidh, World Media Co. Ltd. Tel: (66-2) 641 2693-6 Fax: (66-2) 641 2697 Email: [email protected]/[email protected]; The Philippines Eduardo S Bassig, ESB Marketing Services Tel: (63-2) 448 5848 Email: [email protected]

Asian Tourism Guide 2014/2015 is published by TTG Travel Trade Publishing, a business group of TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd. It is mailed free on written request to readers who meet predetermined criteria. Paid subscriptions are available to those who do not meet the criteria.

MCI (P) 027/10/2014 PPS 1789/06/2013(022997) Printed by Times Printers Pte LtdList of new hotels in each destination by no means exhaustive.All images courtesy of Diethelm Travel Group unless otherwise credited.

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FOREW

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PUSHING AHEAD WITH BETTER CONTENT Dear travel trade partners,

Change is the only constant in life, and improvement is what we consistently seek in the production of our annual Asian Tourism Expert Guide.

In the seventh edition of the guide, we continue to bring you tourism performance analysis of 17 Asian destinations which you have told us you love as well as product highlights and recommendations, some of which are contributed by our partner Diethelm Travel Group.

New to this edition include a calendar of key events in each destination we feel travellers should look out for and plan their itineraries around, as well as personal recommendations from our very own TTG reporters on things to do and places to stay, eat and visit.

We hope you will continue to nd this publicationindispensablein the course of your business, and we welcome your frank feedback on how we can do even better for the next edition. Please write to us [email protected].

Warmest regards,

Darren NgManaging Director TTG Asia Media

JOURNEYS OF A LIFETIME Dear travel trade partners,

e Diethelm Travel Team is delighted to once again be working in cooperation with TTG Asia to present the latest and the best of the region with the Asian Tourism Expert Guide.

Beautifully illustrated, and packed with Diethelm Travels insider tips, this publication spotlights the most innovative of travel suggestions in Asia. Drawing on our long expertise we showcase our travel selections under ve dierent themes, namely Trend Watch, Discover the Unforgettable, Urban Retreat, Hot Dates, and Because We All Care.

Additionally, under a special section named Diethelm To You, our travel experts in each of the countries oer personal advice and tips on the latest newsworthy activities and destinations.

Experience-led activities come in many forms and with an introduction of the Diethelm Design department, we oer journeys that go beyond the usual touring experience allowing travellers to immerse themselves more deeply into varied aspects of the Asian cultures.

We hope you enjoy this edition of the Asian Tourism Expert Guide. It is our great pleasure to share unforgettable Journeys of a Lifetime with you and your clients.

Warmest regards,

Maarten GroeneveldCEODiethelm Travel Group

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BHUTAN


Though best known as a cultural destination, Bhutan is beginning to see the need for product diversification. Visitors focus on culture and the colourful tshechus

(festivals) has resulted in the shortage of airline seats and hotel rooms during the spring and autumn peak seasons. According to the Bhutan Tourism Monitor 2013, 72 per cent of all visitors are keen on cultural sightseeing while another 13 per cent are attracted to cultural festivals.

As such, the tourism industry has attempted to coax off-season travellers with lesser-known nomad, mountain and matsutake festivals as well as sporting activities such as white-water kayaking, bird-watching and farmstays. However, this has had minimal impact. In 2013, 65.4 per cent of all international visitors arrived in the five months of March, April, September, October and November.

In 2014, the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) boldly experimented with the enticement of low prices under the

By Sim Kok Chwee

BHUTANguise of a Bhutan-Thailand Friendship offer celebrating 25 years of diplomatic relations between the two kingdoms, but aiming to attract Thai nationals and others with proof of residency in Thailand to visit Bhutan during the leaner months of June, July and August. The usual US$200 per day tariff was available at just US$65. All stakeholders were urged to reduce their tariffs and Drukairs fares for these packages were slashed by half. The target of 3,000 visitors under this promotion was quickly and easily exceeded.

Meanwhile, limited air access and infrastructure, and high tour packages prices have continued to keep visitor numbers under control, helping Bhutan mitigate the cultural erosion and environmental impact brought on by mass tourism. As its prime minister Tshering Tobgay said: We dont want so many tourists in Bhutan that the very purpose of visiting Bhutan is destroyed.

pMasked dancers at Drupchen Festival in the dzong of Punakha

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EXPERIENCE 12 COUNTRIES IN ASIA

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Tel: (+66-2) 660 7000 | Fax: (+66-2) 660 7020-21 | Email: [email protected]

FOLLOW US ON:

BHUTAN

CAMBODIA

CHINA

HONG KONG

SINGAPORE

SRI LANKA

THAILAND

VIETNAM

LAOS

MALAYSIA

MALDIVES

MYANMAR


Top 10 source markets in 2013

Country Arrivals Year-on-year change (%)

US 6.927 15.3China 4,764 26.5Japan 4,615 -42.4Thailand 3.494 -2.2Germany 2,753 -4.4UK 2,291 -7.1Australia 2,043 6.0Singapore 2,037 26.9Malaysia 2,029 55.3France 1,561 -15.5

Source: Bhutan Tourism Monitor 2013

Top 10 source markets in January-August 2014

1 India 6 Germany

2 China 7 Malaysia

3 US 8 UK

4 Thailand 9 Australia

5 Japan 10 Singapore

Source: TCB

ARRIVALS

As per Bhutan Tourism Monitor, Visitor arrivals hit a new peak in 2013 with a total of 116,209 visitors, growth of 1.3 per cent year-on-year. International visitors totalled 52,783 while regional visitors from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives totalled 63,426.

In recent years, visitor arrivals from Asia-Pacific have grown more robustly than those from the western hemisphere and in 2013, Asia-Pacific markets carved out a 48.4 per cent share of international visitor arrivals.

Arrivals from Malaysia grew strongest at 55.2 per cent followed by Singapore with 26.9 per cent and China with 26.5 per cent. Japan the star performer in 2012 when it grew 76.7 per cent witnessed a correction when arrivals slumped 42.4 per cent in 2013.

Visitors from Europe and North America accounted for 30.4 and 18,6 per cent respectively of all international arrivals. International visitor arrivals in 2013 generated tourism receipt of US$63.49 million, a marginal increase from the previous years collection of US$62.8 million.

First-time visitors accounted for 87.6 per cent of total international visitors in 2013 and the highest incidence of repeat visitors are those from Thailand, the Netherlands, Japan, Germany and France.

For 2014, in a departure from previous practice, TCB declined to provide visitor arrival statistics for the top 10 market citing the likelihood of changes. The NTO did, however, provide a ranking of the top 10 markets at press time (see table below), possibly based on arrival statistics for the period from January to August 2014.

Compared against 2013s top 10 (see table above), it is noteworthy that India (classified as a regional source market) is ranked alongside others in the international market, and given the countrys proximity to Bhutan and

the fact that Indian nationals do not require visa and are exempted from the US$200/US$250 daily tariff, it is ranked at the top. China has overtaken the US while Thailand has overtaken Japan in the ranking. Malaysia too has grown strongly and with better choices of Bangkok and Singapore as gateways into Bhutan, it is the market to watch. TCB has set its sight on welcoming 133,000 international and regional visitors in 2014 and 155,000 in 2015.

The Royal Government of Bhutan has designated 2015 for Visit Bhutan campaign and is in the process of compiling a Calendar of Events. There will also be a dedicated website for this promotional year at www.visitbhutanyear.com

New hotels in 2014 and 2015

2014 Hotel Norbuling, Thimphu Hotel Vara, Phunakha, 19 keys Dorji Elements, Thimphu, 24 keys

2015 Le Meridien Thimphu, 78 keys, January Druk Deothjung Hotel, Trashigang, March Le Meridien Paro, 59 keys, April Tashi Namgay Resort, Phuntsholing Peaceful Resort, Thimphu

(Note: According to TCB, Bhutan Ventures Hospitality Put Ltd will open five hotels two in Paro and one each in Thimphu, Wangdi and Bumthang by end-2015.)

pView of the Taktshang monastery in Paro

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ASIAN TOURISM EXPERT GUIDE 2014/2015 11

AIR ACCESS

Due to the demand nature of flight operation in Bhutan dictated largely by the geography and mountainous terrain around Paro Airport, Bhutanese carriers continue to enjoy exclusivity in the provision of scheduled air services.

Tashik Air conducting business as Bhutan Airlines launched services from Bangkok and Kathmandu in October 2013. From end-September to early-October, both Drukair and Bhutan Airlines operate a series of additional flights to and from Bangkok and Kathmandu.

According to Druk Asia, the existing twice-weekly Paro-Kolkata-Singapore service may be increased to thrice weekly in 2H2015. Singapore is gaining popularity as a gateway to Bhutan for travellers from Singapore, Japan, Indonesia and Australia, and the existing services enjoy annual load factor of 62 per cent, and almost full during the peak season.

Paro Airport continued to be constrained by limited parking space for aircraft and plans for the expansion of the ramp is hindered by the fact that land needed is controlled by the Indian Air Force.

ESSENTIALS IN THE CITY

Best time to visitSpring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most popular as clear skies and cool weather prevail. Trekkers are attracted to the ideal conditions in the mountains and this continues into February for low-altitude trekkers and bird-watchers. Throughout the year, temple festivals with spectacular performances are staged.

Tipping culture Although tour prices are all inclusive, the going rate for tipping tour guides and drivers is US$5 per person per day. Tipping is seldom expected in other establishments, some of which already have a service charge.

Public transportationTour packages already come with transportation and one hardly ever needs to resort to public transportation. Taxis exist in small numbers.

Sound adviceTravelling around Bhutan involves a significant amount of driving through mountains and valleys. Visitors should pack some motion sickness pills and take them ahead of the drive.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

NTOTourism Council of Bhutan Website: www.tourism.gov.bt

Travel Trade Associations

HOTEL PERFORMANCE

Overall, according to Bhutan Tourism Monitor 2013, the average length of stay of visitors to Bhutan was 6.9 days and those from longhaul source markets stayed longer than the increasingly larger number of visitors from Asia-Pacific.

Swiss visitors stayed the longest at an average of 10.8 days, followed by their counterparts from Australia, Germany and France all of whom stayed slightly longer than nine days.

Within Asia-Pacific, visitors from Singapore stayed longer than their Asian peers with an average of 7.2 days while those from Malaysia stayed 5.2 days and others from Thailand, Japan and China stayed slightly longer than four days on average.

The spread of bed-nights consumed is biased towards the western and central regions, with Paro grabbing 33.7 per cent share of bed nights followed by Thimphu (24.31 per cent), Punakha (14 per cent) and Bumthang (9.7 per cent).

Throughout the kingdom, there are nine hotels of five-star rating, eight of four-star, and 45 of three-star. Top performers among the five-star rated hotel properties (in terms of bed-nights) are Uma Paro, Hotel Zhiwaling in Paro and Hotel Taj Tashi in Thimphu.

Distribution of star-rated accommodation providers

5-star 4-star 3-star 2-star 1-star

Paro 3 1 14 14 5

Thimphu 2 4 8 10 3

Bumthang 1 2 11 6 3

Punakha 2 1 1 1 0

Wangdue Phrodrang 1 0 1 5 1

Trongsa 0 0 4 0 1

Chhuka/ Phuentsholing 0 0 4 1 0

Trashigang 0 0 1 1 2

Monggar 0 0 1 2 0

Haa 0 0 0 0 2

Samdrup Jongkhar 0 0 0 2 2

Total 9 8 45 42 19

Source: Bhutan Tourism Monitor 2013

Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators Website: www.abto.org.bt

Visit Bhutan 2015Website:www.visitbhutanyear.com

Matching the seasonal pattern of international arrivals, room occupancy rates in each of the star-rated category swung wildly from a high in October to the low when measured on an annual basis. In 2013, five-star rated hotels enjoyed 63 per cent occupancy in October but annual average occupancy rate AOR) is a paltry 28 per cent. Four-star hotels fared worse with 39 per cent in October compared to AOR of just 13 per cent. Three-star hotels occupancy in October was 50 per cent but AOR slipped to 17 per cent.

It should however be noted that actual occupancy rates throughout the year were higher than these statistics show as they only take into account international arrivals but did not include regional and domestic visitors, government guests and corporate guests etc.



SPOTLIGHT ON BHUTANWITH DIETHELM TRAVEL

Bhutan has been known for cultural tourism, but now we are seeing the growth of activity tours leveraging the Kingdoms breathtaking mountain scenery. More

nature-based activities, such as trekking, bird watching, wilderness tours and adventure sports have drawn more tourists to the destination recently. Bhutan is one of the few places in the world that is truly authentic and unspoiled, offering true peace of mind that keeps visitors coming back.

pPunakha Dzong (top); Punakha white river rafting

TREND WATCH

The new rafting tour is gaining popularity. With rapids ranging from Class II to IV, it is a visually appealing tour showcasing the best of the western valleys of Punakha, Thimphu and Paro. It is one of the most interesting and important tours in Bhutan even though rafting is a fairly new concept to the country, usually done in the Po Chu and Mo Chu rivers east of Punakha. It allows visitors to take in the beauty of the mountains and valleys, passing by culturally important landmarks such as the Punakha Dzong as well as the different types of flora and fauna.

DISCOVER THE UNFORGETTABLE

Tshelung Ney cave is located above Rabday Bridge, about an hour and a half from the capital Thimphu. Legend has it that around 800 AD, the second Buddha Guru Rinpoche visited many places in Bhutan, with Tshelung being one of the holy places that was blessed. The word Tshe means life and it is believed that people who visit Tshelung Ney will be blessed with a long life, and if they drink from a stream near a cliff

BHUTAN


BHUTAN


SPOTLIGHT ON BHUTANWITH DIETHELM TRAVEL

pImage of Guru Rinpoche printed on a rock (top); Paro Valley with prayer flags swinging in the wind

there, their sins will be purified by the holy water extracted by Lam Drukpa Kuenlay (the divine mad man). There are many treasured

imprints left behind by Guru Rinpoche, Lam Drukpa Kuenlay and many other religious figures.

URBAN RETREAT

An overnight stay at a local farmhouse offers an experience of the Bhutanese peoples way of life. The farmhouses are decorated and built in a classical style with three storeys. The ground floor is used for housing cattle, the top floor as a store, while the family lives in the middle. Farming still plays an important role in Bhutanese daily life as a leading occupation. Visitors can observe age-old farming traditions as the family goes about its daily tasks, and enjoy home-cooked meals.

As electricity and running water are not available, hot water is provided by the family, served in a washbowl. A traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath is widely practised in Bhutan for relieving various health complications and illnesses, and is a must-try for visitors looking to soothe aches and pains. Another interesting tradition is soaking in a menchu (water with herbal essences), believed to be useful for curing infirmities.



BECAUSE WE ALL CARE

Draktsho is the first of its kind in the country, a community service organisation that aspires to create awareness and encourage people living with disabilities to have

meaningful participation in society. As attitudes towards disabled people and other minority groups become more positive, there is still a lack of understanding about them, referring to them as disadvantaged individuals whose disabilities cause suffering. It is, however, merely the environment that imposes constraints, preventing people with disabilities from running their lives in a way equal to non-disabled people. In May 2014, the Diethelm team screened a Bhutanese movie called Baeyul The Hidden Paradise for Draktsho students and staff, led by Aum Deki Zam, project coordinator of Draktsho. The movie showcased good moral values for our youths. A local cinema was rented for the screening to increase public awareness and encourage support and donations from locals and foreigners, to help keep Draktsho alive.

My favourite place is the Buddhist site popularly known as Kuensel Phodrang. e Buddha Dordenma statue is located on a hilltop in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, overlooking the southern entrance to imphu Valley. From here, one can get a beautiful view of the capital imphu.

e Buddha Dordenma statue fulls an ancient prophecy from the 8th century AD and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. It has a height of 51.5m, making it one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, and is made of bronze and gilded in gold. Another 125,000 bronze and gold-gilded, but smaller Buddha statues are placed within the Buddha Dordenma, with 100,000 eight-inch tall and 25,000, 12-inch.

e throne Buddha Dordenma sits upon is a large meditation hall. Just beneath the statue is a new 199.3ha park which caters to the locals and tourists who may be joggers, hikers, bikers, students, nature lovers, photogra-phers, religious people and many others, thanks to its close proximity and easy access from the city.

My favourite place to eat is the Bhutanese Restaurant because it gives you a complete local culinary experience, with seaweed soup, buckwheat noodles, red rice and spicy emi datse (chilli and cheese). e modern setting also oers a Bhutanese touch, featuring a beautifully designed interior with a stupa. e chef works hard to get the authentic Bhutanese taste, and the sta are very hospitable.

Please feel free to contact me personally if you would like to discuss any of this information in greater detail.

DIETHELM TO YOU

UGEN PENJOR

Managing Director, Diethelm Travel Bhutan

HOT DATES

Paro Tshechu, March 28-April 4, 2015This is a Buddhist dance festival and one of the major annual events in Bhutan. It is held across the country to commemorate Guru Rinpoche, who brought tantric Buddhism to Bhutan. People gather to enjoy a collective showcase of dance, music and drama through masked dancers in colourful, fancy costumes seeking to portray Guru Rinpoche and celebrate the events of his life. The dancers move to the rhythm of trumpets, cymbals, flutes and Bhutanese folk songs, all to demonstrate the triumph of good over evil.

Thimphu Tshechu, September 23-25, 2015This annual festival held in the capital city is witnessed by thousands of people, many of whom travel from neighbouring dzongkhags (administrative and judicial districts). The actual Tshechu is preceded by days and nights of prayer and rituals to invoke the gods. Performance by masked dancers, such as the Guru Tshengye (Eight Manifestations of Guru) and Shaw Shachi (Dance of the Stags), are fun to watch and contain theatrical elements. Along with the equally important Atsaras, who are more than just clowns they are believed to provide protection against evil forces.

qParo Tshechu

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BRUNEI


Brunei Tourism is not aiming for volume but well-travelled tourists looking for fresh experiences in a new destination in South-east Asia. So far, most of its

visitors are from Asia-Pacific destinations, which are within six hours flight from the capital city Bandar Seri Begawan.

The NTO is constantly working towards creating awareness for the destinations ecotourism, sports, heritage and cultural offerings through fam trips for tour wholesalers and retailers from its key markets.

Bandar Seri Begawan best depicts the culture and heritage of Brunei, while Temburong, Muara and Tutong are places visitors will enjoy for nature. Popular beaches are located in Muara, Jerudong and Tutong, whereas diving, a

By S Puvaneswary

BRUNEI Bandar Seri Begawan best depicts the culture and heritage of Brunei, while Temburong, Muara and Tutong are places visitors will enjoy for nature. Diving, a new product Brunei Tourism wants to promote, can be best enjoyed at Brunei Bay.

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pThe Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the capital Bandar Seri Begawan

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BRUNEI


Top 10 source markets in 2013

Country Arrival numbers

Malaysia 57,476

China 30,481

Philippines 18,868

Indonesia 18,109

Singapore 17,819

Australia 13,823

UK 12,162

India 6,281

Thailand 6,063

Japan 5,747

Top 10 source markets in 1Q2014

CountryArrivals numbers in 1Q2014

Arrivals numbers in 1Q2013

Year-on-year change (%)

Malaysia 14,303 15,086 -5.19China 9161 8773 4.42Indonesia 4408 6391 -31.Singapore 3919 4150 -5.6Philippines 3663 4416 -17Australia 2939 4756 -38.2UK 2647 6039 -56.2India 1,363 1354 0.7Japan 1,266 1280 -1.1Thailand 1,249 1287 -3

Source: Brunei Tourism

new product Brunei Tourism wants to promote, can be best enjoyed at Brunei Bay.

The NTO is also promoting its culture and Muslim way of life, targeting especially Muslim travellers from China, Malaysia and Indonesia. For 2014, it is targeting 240,149 tourists, an increase from 2013s total of 224,904 arrivals. At press time, 2015s arrivals target has yet to be determined.

ARRIVALS

The top 10 source market in 1Q2014 were Malaysia, China, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, Australia, UK, India, Japan and Thailand. These 10 countries accounted for 84 per cent of total tourist arrivals (53,282) to Brunei. Malaysia remains the top destination due to easy air accessibility and close proximity.

Comparing 1Q2014 with the corresponding period in 2013, among the top 10 source markets, only China and India turned in positive growth of 4.4 and 0.7 per cent respectively. All other markets recorded a decrease. Markets that showed the biggest decrease were the UK (-56.2) and Australia (-38.2), due partly to Brunei Tourisms shrunken budget for promotions in these two markets.

The longhaul market remained small compared with the Asia-Pacific market, which made up the bulk of air arrivals to the Sultanate. Hence, the main focus of Brunei Tourisms marketing efforts will continue to be on Asia-Pacific. For 2014, the NTO will focus on B2B and B2C consumer travel shows around Asia where there are direct flights to Brunei.

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pA fisherman at sea around the capital


BRUNEI


IMPORTANT CONTACTS

AIR ACCESS

Royal Brunei Airlines (RBA) commenced flights between Melbourne and London via Bandar Seri Begawan and Dubai on April 3, 2014, using its Dreamliner B787. It makes two stops, which breaks the journey into three legs. The first leg departs Melbourne and arrives in Bruneis capital, while the second leg departs Bandar Seri Begawan to arrive in Dubai, where it makes an hour-long fuel stop before continuing on to London.

In May 2014, the airline signed a contract with Airbus covering the firm order of seven A320neo aircraft plus three options, under the latest phase of its fleet modernisation programme. Delivery of the fleet will begin in 2018. Featuring a two-class premium layout, the aircraft will be operated on the airlines regional network linking Bandar Seri Begawan with destinations across Asia.

Additionally, RBA resumed services to Bali In July 2014 and Ho Chi Minh City in October. The airline had suspended flights to Bali and Ho Chi Minh City in 2008 and 2011 respectively.

Meanwhile, Brunei International Airport is undergoing expansion and renovation works which are scheduled for completion in 4Q2014. Once completed, there will be a new

pWater taxis waiting for customers

HOTEL PERFORMANCE

According to Brunei Tourism, the inventory in Brunei was 3,567 rooms, including hotels and apartments as of August 2014.

There are only two new hotel openings in 2014 V Plaza Hotel, in Kuala Belait and Stoneville Hotel, in Temburong.

As per the Brunei Association of Hotels, the average occupancy rate (AOR) in Brunei for 1H2014 was 38.8 per cent, lower than 2013s 53 per cent. The increase was largely attributed to Brunei chairing of the ASEAN Summit.

There is only one five-star property in Brunei, which is The Empire Hotel & Country Club. The 522-room hotels AOR and revenue per available room in 1H2014 were 27.5 per cent and B$76 (US$59) respectively.

This years low occupancy was attributed to a decrease in arrivals. While the introduction of the Sharia law in May 2014 received support from some Muslim travellers, according to inbound travel consultants, it also made promotions to non-Muslim markets more difficult. Recent airline disasters also raised safety concerns among international travellers, which resulted in some short-term deferments on non-essential travel.

Brunei rates are fixed throughout the year, with no high or low season. For travel consultants, there are no blackout dates other than during Chinese New Year. According to some inbound consultants, Brunei hotels are maintaining contract rates for 2015.

New hotels in 2014

V Plaza Hotel, Kuala Belait, 82 keys, 1Q Stoneville Hotel, Temburong, 36 keys, 1Q

departure check-in hall, improved security system, baggage handling and the expansion of floor areas. Costing B$150 million, the renewal project is expected to double annual passenger capacity to three million.


Best time to visitAll year round; rooms are easy to secure at any time of the year, except during Chinese New Year.

Tipping culture Tipping is not expected.

Public transportationThere are no metered taxis in Brunei and the limited number means flagging one down is not easy. There are six bus routes servicing the Bandar Seri Begawan area and they operate from 6.30 to 18.00. Water taxis are the most common means of transportation at Kampung Ayer.

Sound adviceAsk for permission before taking photographs inside a mosque.

NTOBrunei Tourism Email: [email protected] Website: www.bruneitourism.travel

Travel trade associationsAssociation of Travel Agents Brunei

Email: [email protected] Website: www.bruneitravelagents.org.bn

Brunei Association of HotelsEmail: mailto:bahsecretariat@ gmail.com Website: http://www.hotelsofbrunei.com


BRUNEI


WHATS KEY

Kampong Ayer is a must-see destination for all, regardless of age. It is a historic settlement of more than 4,000 houses built on stilts over Brunei River, and is home to more than 20,000 people. Many of these houses have been in continuous occupation for at least 400 years.

For royal watchers, Brunei History Centre has a wealth of information regarding the Sultans of Brunei, from family trees to replicas of royal tombs to reference books on regal matters. It opens from Monday to Thursday and Saturday, 7.45 to 12.00, 13.45 to 16.30. Admission is free.

Then there is Royal Regalia Museum on Jalan Sultan, a tribute to the Sultan. The main gallery presents a recreation of the coronation of the Sultan, while another is devoted to information on the Sultans life up to the time of his coronation. It is open from Saturday to Thursday, 9.00 to 16.30; Friday, 9.30 to 11.30 and 14.30 to 16.30. Admission is free.

For nature lovers, a must-visit attraction is Ulu Temburong National Park. Within the park, visitors are kept off the delicate vegetation on the forest floor, thanks to a series of canopy walkways rising above the treetops. There are many

pKampong Ayer in Bandar Seri Begawan (top); Royal Throne, at the Royal Regalia Museum

experiences to savour here, from watching gibbons foraging along the river at daybreak to taking on the Grade 1 and 2 rapids on the Temburong River.

SPOTLIGHT ON BRUNEIWITH S PUVANESWARY

ATEGBrunei2014kn2_15-20_knOct31-1.indd 18 4/11/14 11:26 am

BRUNEI


WHATS NEW

Diving is being promoted by Brunei Tourism. There is relatively little fishing in Brunei waters, resulting in many diving sites still in pristine condition and still mostly unknown to the diving community at large. There are shallow coral dives perfect for inexperienced divers, as well as more challenging reef- and wreck dives.

Tour operator Oceanic Quest has charted more than 50 potential dive sites in Brunei waters, the most interesting and accessible dive sites being the sheltered waters of Brunei Bay and coastal reefs of Brunei. These sites are very accessible, with the Brunei International Airport being less than 30 minutes drive.

Brunei Tourism and some inbound operators are strongly promoting the Sultanates Malay heritage and Islamic traditions. Tours are designed to give participants enriched with meaningful and memorable experiences of an ancient Sultanate, where strong religious faith and practical modern life harmoniously co-exist. Itineraries include visits to Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Islamic Exhibition Gallery to view some of His Majestys priceless collection of ancient Holy Qurans and manuscripts, mosques, as well as various museums in Brunei.

pDiving in crystal clear waters

SPOTLIGHT ON BRUNEI


BRUNEI


What to do:Kampong Ayer is a great way to experience the lifestyle and customs of local villagers who choose to live in houses built on stilts above water. It is about experiencing how a simple life can still be meaningful and happy. Take a tour of the village on water via the water taxis. It gives one a dierent perspective from walking along the village on foot via the boardwalks.

Where to stay:For me a holiday means quality time spent lazing. e luxurious e Empire Hotel & Country Club oers just the right facilities that kept me happy during my three-day stay in the Sultanate a few years back. It has a lovely beach with water sports activities as well as a swimming pool and a cinema playing the latest movies.

What to eat:Ambuyat, a dish native to Brunei, is a must-try. It is derived from the interior trunk of the sago palm. An Ambuyat set will comprise Ambuyat and dips as well as traditional Brunei dishes to accompany your meal, such as sweet potato leaves cooked in gravy, fried sh, and pais marinated meat wrapped in banana leaves and grilled or baked.

What to see:Head to Royal Regalia Museum for a better understanding of Brunei Royalty. Visitors get a glimpse of the Sultans full royal regalia, including the crown and royal chariot, along with a vast collection of opulent treasures and gifts given to His Majesty and chronicling his achievements.

I RECOMMEND...

S PUVANESWARY

WHATS GOING ON

Royal Regatta, February/March 2015The regatta is jointly organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs along with the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. It features traditional boat race events and speed boat competitions.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri, July 18 and 19, 2015His Majesty the Sultan will have an Open House at Nurul Iman Palace, which gives visitors a chance to meet and wish His Majesty and other members of the Royal Family.

Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day, May 31, 2015This event is held at Haji Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien Park. It comprises a military parade and displays such as parachuting shows for the public.

His Majesty the Sultans Birthday, July 15Every year, His Majesty will deliver a speech, usually at Taman Haji Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien, followed by an investiture at the Istana Nurul Iman. There will be a two-week celebration to mark this happy occasion around the world, culinary delights and entertainment. Revellers can also participate in a series of guided hiking tours to discover the citys hidden places.

HOW TO HELP

Many inbound travel operators offer tour programmes that take visitors to the homes of local communities to experience the local way of life. Homestays benefit the villagers, who are paid a fee by the local tour operator for

Brunei Tourism and operators are strongly promoting the Sultanates Malay heritage and Islamic traditions. Tours are designed to give participants meaningful and memorable experiences of an ancient Sultanate, where religious faith and modern life harmoniously co-exist.

their services. Tourists are usually taken on a tour of the house by the owner and served lunch or tea. Interactive activities such as learning to make local handicrafts or a traditional dish can also be arranged with advance notice. Some itineraries also include a one- or two-night homestay experience.

Freme Travel Services and Sunshine Borneo Tours offer homestay programmes at Kampong Sungai Matan and Kampong Ayer respectively.

All pho

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pUlu Temburong National Park


CAMBODIA


Cambodias tourism sector remains in good health and continues to grow, albeit at a slower rate than in previous years, with the destination targeting 4.6

million international arrivals in 2014, rising to five million in 2015 and eight million by 2020 when annual spending is forecast to reach US$5billion. Growth has been buoyed by the increase in LCCs servicing the country over the past few years.

The destinations performance was negatively affected early in the year by Thailands protracted political crisis, where a spate of cancellations to Bangkok the key transit hub in the region also caused arrivals to decline in Cambodia. Phnom Penh also faced its own unrest during the first half of the year when sporadic and occasionally violent labour disputes spilled onto the capitals streets. The

By Greg Lowe

CAMBODIA

pMonument of independence, Vimean Ekareach in Phnom Penh

situation has since returned to normal.However, Cambodia is still sold as an extension to a

regional trip rather than as a destination in its own right, a key problem often cited by travel experts. Ancient temples, especially the Angkor Wat complex in Siem Reap and Khmer Rogue-era memorials remain key attractions. DMCs say about 80 per cent of their clients, especially those from longhaul markets, head straight to Angkor; most of the remaining 20 per cent land in Phnom Penh but will also visit Siem Reap.

Sihanoukville is being promoted as the countrys premier beach destination, but it currently only has a few international-standard four- and five-star properties and cannot yet compete with beach destinations in established markets such as Phuket.

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CAMBODIA


ARRIVALS

More than 2.5 million international travellers visited Cambodia from January to July, representing 4.5 per cent growth from 2.4 million visitors a year earlier, according to data from Cambodian Ministry of Tourisms statistics and tourism information department. While the performance was positive, the rate of growth was significantly lower than the 17.5 per cent achieved in 2013 in fact, arrivals had grown by between 14.9 per cent and 24.4 per cent each year since 2010 so the effects of political problems on the domestic front and in neighbouring Thailand have been significant.

Vietnam remained the key source market with 492,920 visitors during the period, a three per cent decline from the previous year, followed by China (318,245, +19 per cent), South Korea (267,915, -0.1 per cent), Laos (230,699, +3.9 per cent) and Thailand (125,732, -3.2 per cent). It is worth noting that Cambodian tourism figures include cross-border trade almost half of the arrivals to the country travel overland which skew the data in favour of neighbouring Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. Japan and the US are the only other places from where arrivals exceeded 100,000 in the first seven months, with 121,679 (11.7 per cent) and 116,146 (2.7 per cent) respectively.

Statistics on tourism spending and length of stay are published annually. The most recent figures are from 2013, when 4.2 million international arrivals stayed an average 6.8 days per person, up from 6.3 the previous year. Total tourism spending was US$2.5 billion, up from US$2.2 billion in 2012.

HOTEL PERFORMANCE

Reliable data on hotel performance is hard to come by in Cambodia, a market that is not yet covered by the likes of STR Global. The most recent data published by the Ministry of Tourism shows average occupancy in 2013 was 69.4 per cent, up less than one percentage point from 68.5 per cent the previous year. Average occupancy has been above 65 per cent since 2010.

Siem Reap remains the key hotel investment market, with a number of international branded resorts including Sofitel, Park Hyatt, Anantara, Raffles, Le Meridien, as well as a number of luxury boutique properties such as Soneva Kiri. This provides a stark contrast to the situation in Phnom Penh, which currently only has three five-star properties, Sofitel Phokeethra Phnom Penh, Raffles Hotel Le Royal and InterContinental Hotel. Hoteliers report occupancy is above 60 per cent in the capital, but the luxury market remains soft. Most leisure visitors stay just one or two nights, with MICE groups staying a little longer.

Anecdotal evidence from international travel specialists based in Cambodia suggests the countrys lack of infrastructure and attractions dampen its allure with leisure tourists. Phnom Penh especially needs more for tourists to do in the city for the hotel market to be able to sustain more international-standard properties. While there has been an increase in weekend arrivals from Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, the overall numbers are still relatively low, industry players shared.

The market is even less developed in Sihanoukville, which the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism is promoting as the countrys prime beach destination, where there is a serious shortfall in quality accommodation. Cambodia Airports, which runs the local airport, says the resort town only has about 1,000 four- and five-star rooms. Several DMCs say the properties they can use for longhaul clients from Europe and the US include the 391-key Sokha Beach Resort and the luxury 27-villa Song Saa Island resort. Another option is the four-star 113-room Independence Hotel & Spa.

Cambodias tourism sector remains in good health and continues to grow, albeit at a slower rate than in previous years, with higher arrival targets set for 2014 and beyond.

Source markets in January-July 2014

Market Arrival numbersYear-on-year change (%)

Total 2,541,459 4.5Vietnam 492,920 -3.0China 318,245 19.0South Korea 267,915 -0.1Laos 230,699 3.9Thailand 125,732 -3.2

Source: Ministry of Tourism, Statistics and Tourism Information Department

Performance from 2010 to 2013

Year Average occupancy

Average length of stay (days)

Tourism receipts (US$, millions)

2010 65.7 6.5 1,7862011 66.2 6.5 1,9122012 68.5 6.3 2,2102013 69.4 6.8 2,547

Source: Cambodias Ministry of Tourism, Statistics and Tourism Information Department

pVimean Ekareach at night, in Phnom Penh

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CAMBODIA



2014 Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence, 523 rooms, 3Q2014

2015 Rosewood Phnom Penh, 148 rooms, 2015

AIR ACCESS

Some 5.1 million passengers passed through Cambodia Airports facilities in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville last year and the operator expects the figure to rise to 5.4 million this year. It also plans to invest US$120 million to double capacity of the international terminals at both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports from 2.5 million to five million by the end of 2015 and early 2016.

LCCs the likes of AirAsia are adopting a wait-and-see strategy with Sihanoukville. Increased room capacity is essential if the market is to become feasible for budget airlines, the lifeblood of much of the countrys trade. It would only take four or five Airbus A320s, the aircraft favoured by LCCs, to fill most of the destinations rooms. Sihanoukville is also expanding its runway to 2,500m and renovating the facility as a cost of about US$40million. The destination welcomed its first seasonal direct charter flight from Seoul in July when Skywings Asia Airlines launched its inaugural flight.

China is a key source market for Cambodia, serviced by seven airlines, four regular and three additional seasonal connections during the winter, according to Cambodia Airports.

A number of new domestic players have recently entered the market. In September, Cambodias State Secretariat of Civil Aviation licensed Apsara International Air to launch a service between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and its CEO was reported as saying there are plans to start flights to China next year.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

NTOTourism Cambodia Website: www.tourismcambodia.com

Travel trade associationCambodia Association of Travel AgentsWebsite:www.catacambodia.com

pRoyal Palace in Phnom Penh

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Bassaka Air plans to start flights to China from December 2014. The same month Cambodia Bayon Airlines will launch domestic flights, with an eye on expanding its network to China in the near future.


Best time to visitDecember and January are the best months to visit Cambodia, humidity is at its lowest and temperatures range from 20-25C. April is the hottest month when the mercury reaches 40C.

Tipping culture Some restaurants include service, otherwise tipping is at your discretion. Keeping some Cambodian riel, the local currency, is useful for small tips; otherwise you have to break out US dollars.

Public transportationThere are very few taxis in Cambodia, but the tuk tuk a three-wheeled motorised vehicle is ubiquitous. Short rides around Phnom Phen start from US$2, more if you flag one down outside an expensive hotel.

Sound adviceYou can only withdraw Cambodian riel from an ATM if you have a local bank account. Otherwise its US dollars all the way. Be sure to keep small denomination notes with you at all times.


CAMBODIA


SPOTLIGHT ON CAMBODIAWITH DIETHELM TRAVEL

Cambodia is a country full of awe-inspiring culture and history that recently decided to promote its natural attractions, including astonishing scenery with dense,

unexplored mountains, forests, rivers, caves and waterfalls. Cambodians are extremely hospitable and warm in Conde Nast Travellers annual readers choice survey in 2014, visitors voted Siem Reap one of the friendliest cities in the world. Not only did travellers enjoy Siem Reaps beautiful sights, delicious cuisine and the extraordinary Angkor Wat, but also the kindness and friendliness of the Cambodian people.

TREND WATCH

With an extensive list of new excursions and cruises, Cambodia has much more to offer than temple visits. The RV Indochine, the flagship of Compagnie Fluviale Du Mekong, is available for cruising on the Mekong River between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap. Each of the 24 well-appointed cabins offers a luxurious experience in a stylish and cosy environment. Cruise company Aqua Expeditions also launched a fivestar cruise ship, the Aqua Mekong, in September 2014 for trips from My Tho and Siem Reap. pTa Promh Khmer temple; Buddhist monks (top; middle); RV Indochine


CAMBODIA


pVespa Adventures-After Dark Foodie tour in Siem Reap (top); Phsar Thmei central market in Phnom Penh

While cycling tours continue to be the best way to explore Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, other options include kayaking, hiking

and bird watching.


Phnom Krom is a small 140m hill located 12km south-west of Siem Reap near the north end of Tonle Sap Lake. The view from the hill is breathtaking. Visitors can sit back, relax and take in the view while enjoying a sunset cocktail.

Alternatively, expert local Vespa drivers are available to whisk visitors to striking surroundings, introducing them to Cambodias exotic cuisine typically involving fresh spices and herbs. These guided tours expose visitors to the Khmer way of life. To enjoy the real Cambodian food scene in Siem Reap, some exploration is needed. Vespa Adventures offers a special ride that leads participants out of the main tourist areas and into the real Khmer nightlife. After an exciting Vespa day ride, participants will find themselves on a bustling street of vendors peddling an overwhelming variety of unusual food and fruits. The tour ends with visits

SPOTLIGHT ON CAMBODIAWITH DIETHELM TRAVEL


CAMBODIA


My favourite place is the central market (Phsar mei) of Phnom Penh. e unique Art Deco building with its high dome and four arms branching out into hallways crammed with countless stalls of goods is a landmark in the city. Within, visitors can nd watches, jewellery and stalls that sell luggage, clothes, fabrics, shoes, electronic goods, stationery and countless other products. Particularly interesting are the wet and dry markets around the central dome where seafood, desserts and every spice needed to prepare Cambodian food are sold. It is open until 17.00, allowing plenty of time to explore.

I also recommend a cycling tour out of the city to the countryside, taking a ferry to cross rivers, and passing coriander gardens and small wooden houses. Visits can be paid too to the schools and small rural pagodas, before returning to town with a completely altered view of life outside Phnom Penh. Bicycles are also the best means of transportation in Siem Reap.

en, my favourite eating place is the Mie Caf. A quiet place near the bustling city centre of Siem Reap, its appeal lies in its wooden house and the fresh smell of the garden. e dcor is warm, simple and beautiful and the service, very friendly. Chef and owner Pola Siv has created a truly unique menu to boast about. He is a self-made man who realised his dream with this restaurant after training in the hospitality sector in Switzerland. My favourite dish is roasted eggplant with fried pork.


DIETHELM TO YOU

PIERRE JUNGO

Managing Director, Diethelm Travel Cambodia

to some great restaurants that only the locals know about, featuring freshly prepared food.

URBAN RETREAT

Visitors ought to visit the village of Kompong Khleang near Siem Reap, as this permanent community is one of the largest on the Tonle Sap Lake, home to over 20,000 people living in gigantic stilt houses and making a living from fishing. It is a spectacular site where a private boat can be boarded to visit a small island at the centre of the village to see its market, school and brightly painted pagodas. Continuing on, life in floating houses on the lake can be observed. An overnight stay in a fishermans house can be arranged, including a dinner prepared by the family. After breakfast the following morning with the family, participants will travel through rice paddies on the ox cart.

HOT DATE

PCHUM BEN DAY, September 28-October 13, 2015This is a colourful religious festival for blessing the souls of those who have passed away. It lasts 15 days, each of which is called Kan Ben. During the first 14 days, the local people take food to their local pagoda in the hope that it will reach the souls of their ancestors and friends through the monks

qPlae Pakaa by Cambodian Living Arts

chanting. The final day is the most important. On this day, at every pagoda around the country, the mass collection of offerings is dedicated to the souls of ancestors. In the early morning, visitors can join the crowd at pagodas and take photos of the locals of all ages in traditional costume. Women especially don their best traditional dresses and come wearing silk, embroidered blouses and scarves, and bearing offerings, candles and incense.

BECAUSE WE ALL CARE

Cambodian Living Arts (CLA) has taught nearly 600 students in nine different provinces studying a variety of traditional forms of Cambodian dance, music and theatre. In 2010, the school realised there was a dearth of jobs in the arts sector. With the help of friends and donors, it built a stage from the ground up at the National Museum, creating Plae Pakaa, a top-ranking cultural performance in an open-air theatre showcasing traditional Cambodian dance and opera accompanied by live music. Through Plae Pakaa, CLA employs over 100 arts professionals including dancers, singers, musicians, and production technicians. Diethelm Travel Cambodia recommends and encourages visitors to join CLAs events, including the events on the must-do list for travellers.


CHINA


According to China National Tourism Administration (CNTA), Chinas domestic tourist numbers in 2013 increased 10.3 per cent year-on-year, reaching 3.3

billion. China Tourism Academy, the research arm of CNTA, has anticipated that for 2014, the number of domestic tourists will hit 3.6 billion, up 11.3 per cent year-on-year, while outbound tourist numbers will increase 18.2 per cent to 116 million. It has also projected that total foreign tourist arrivals will stop declining and will be equivalent to 2013s.

According to Bernold O Schroeder, CEO of Pan Pacific Hotels Group, China is now the worlds largest outbound tourism market and spender, and the Experienced Affluent consumer segment is expected to spearhead the explosive growth of Chinas outbound market over the next decade. By 2020, China will account for 50 per cent of Asias outbound expenditure. He noted that the Chinese travellers appetite has grown tremendously over the past few years. Currently, about two-thirds of outbound travel is to Hong Kong and Macau, but as the market matures and with the easing of visa requirements, travellers will start to venture farther to South-east Asia and longhaul destinations. Additionally, they are already beginning to eschew packaged tours for independent travel, and prioritise local cultural experiences, outdoor activity and relaxation over shopping.

Chinas new tourism law since October 2013 banning zero-fare tours has also led to a decline in outbound numbers to countries like South Korea and Australia, so O Schroeder recommends that travel agencies reinvent their offerings to cater to preferences for independent travel.

Shao Qiwei, director of CNTA, has projected that in the next five years, the number of Chinas outbound tourists will exceed 500 million.

ARRIVALS

Foreign tourists arrivals fell 3.3 per cent year-on-year to 26.3 million in 2013. Wu Wenxue, deputy director of CNTA, attributed the fall to the aftermath of the global financial crisis, the sharp drop of Japanese tourists, natural disasters in China, as well as the appreciation of the renminbi. However, he is upbeat foreign tourist arrivals in 2014 will rebound.

In 2013, Asia remained Chinas major source market region, with total tourist arrivals of 16.1 million and accounting for 61.2 per cent of total foreign visitors, albeit

By Hong Xu

CHINAdecreasing 3.4 per cent year-on-year. South Korea sent the most number of tourists. Vietnam witnessed the largest growth rate of 20.1 per cent.

Apart from the African market, all other markets witnessed a year-on-year drop. European tourists totalled 5.7 million, down 4.4 per cent. Oceanian tourists totalled 863,400, down 5.6 per cent.

In 1H2014, China attracted 12.5 million foreign tourist arrivals, a year-on-year drop of 1.78 per cent. Tourists from Asia reached 7.7 million, accounting for over 60 per cent of total foreign visitors. There were seven Asian countries in the top 10 source markets. The US is the third source market, after South Korea and Japan.

The number of foreign tourists for sightseeing in 1H2014 was about 4.2 million, accounting for 34 per cent of total foreign tourist arrivals; 2.6 million, or 21 per cent, came for business; the rest are for other purposes, such as visiting friends or relatives.

From January to July 2014, the number of foreign tourists continued to decline. Official statistics showed that, during this period, China attracted 14.7 million foreign tourist arrivals, a year-on-year drop of 1.4 per cent. Arrivals from Vietnam recorded the largest year-on-year increase of 21.3 per cent, while Japan saw the largest drop of 7.1 per cent.

International source markets in January-July 2014


Year-on-year change (%)

South Korea 2.3 million +2.0

Japan 1.5 million -7.1

US 1.2 million -1.3

Russia 1.7 million -4.8

Vietnam 917,700 +21.3

Mongolia 599,300 +6.6

Malaysia 594,400 -5.3

Philippines 557,600 -4.2

Singapore 522,300 +1.8

Overall total 14.7 million -1.4

Source: CNTA

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HOTEL PERFORMANCE

The year 2013 was a challenging one for Chinas hotel industry. The Chinese governments policies to restrain public consumption had hit the high-end hotels hard, competition among mid-level hotels was fierce, and the budget hotel sector became saturated, with declining profits.

According to CNTA, by end-2013, there were 11,687 registered star-rated hotels across the country, with approximately 1.5 million rooms or 2.7 million beds. Aggregated revenue was RMB229 billion (US$37.4 billion), of which 42.3 per cent were revenue from F&B and 43.31 per cent from rooms.

In 2014, Chinas hotel sector is basically a continuation of 2013s, which is essentially flat. According to Han Ming, president of China Hotel Association, the toughest challenge the hotel industry is facing now is the substantial decline in income from F&B and meeting segments.

However, comparing to the first year when the governments policy of restraining public consumption was announced (December 2012), its much better now; the domestic hotel sector is slowly recovering with growing demand from the general public, he said.

According to Han, in 1H2014, average occupancy rate (AOR) in fact rose from the same period in 2013, while average room rate (ARR) dropped slightly.

In 2Q2014, the aggregated revenue of the total 11,955 hotels were RMB52.28 billion, out of which, 41.4 per cent were revenue from F&B and 46.1 per cent from rooms.

Meanwhile, Jesper Palmqvist, director, Asia Pacific of STA Global, said Chinas hotel sector still has great potential and that it is not true to say that supply has exceeded demand.

No. of properties in 2013

Overall 11,6875-star 7394-star 2,3613-star 5,6312-star 2,831

Performance in 2013

Indicator Overall 5-star 4-star 3-star

AOR 56.0% 56% 57% 55.6%

ARR RMB333 RMB687 RMB363 RMB216

Revenue per available room (RevPAR)

RMB186 RMB385 RMB207 RMB120

Top 10 cities in 2013 by key performance indicators

AOR ARR RevPARChangsha Sanya ShanghaiKunming Shanghai SanyaLhasa Beijing ChangshaSanya Chengdu BeijingShenzhen Guanghzou GuangzhouLijiang Shenzhen WenzhouGuiyang Xiamen FuzhouNanjing Wuhan WuxiHaikou Qingdao NanjingFuzhou Lijiang Shenzhen

Performance in 2Q2014

Indicator Overall 5-star 4-star 3-star AOR 54.35% 56.13% 54.8% 53.87%ARR RMB326 RMB666 RMB345 RMB210RevPAR RMB177 RMB374 RMB189 RMB113

Top 10 cities in 2Q2014 by key performance indicators

ARR AOR RevPARShanghai Changsha ShanghaiBeijing Shanghai GuangzhouSanya Nanjing SanyaGuangzhou Jinan BeijingChengdu Shenzhen ShenzhenShenzhen Zhuhai ChangshaXiamen Guangzhou XiamenHangzhou Lhasa HangzhouTianjian Xiamen NanjingQingdao Fuzhou Fuzhou

Source: CNTA

Chinas hotel sector still has great potential and it is not true to say that supply has exceeded demand.

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pThe Bund in Shanghai, at dusk

CHINA


CHINA


New hotels in 2014

2014 Waldorf Astoria Beijing, 171 keys, 1Q Hotel Pullman Shanghai South, 338 keys, 1Q Lushan Resort, Jiujiang, 297 rooms, 2Q Millennium Resort Hangzhou, 151 keys, 2Q JW Marriott Hotel Beijing Central, 412 keys, 2Q Hyatt Regency Chongming Shanghai, 235 keys, 2Q The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square, 336 keys, 2Q

F-hotel, Ningbo, 81 keys, 3Q The GtEL Qingdao, 152 keys, 3Q Hyatt Regency Suzhou, 355 keys, 3Q JW Marriott, Zhengzhou, 416 keys, 3Q St Regis Hotel, Chengdu, 279 keys, 3Q Wanda Realm Hotel, Jining, 280 keys, 3Q Hengtong Gloria Resort Suzhou, 72 keys, 3Q Hilton Qingdao Golden Beach, 431 keys, 3Q Wanda Vista Hotel, Dongwan, 302 keys, 3Q The Azure Qiantang, Hangzhou, 205 keys, 3Q Grand Mercure Beijing Dongcheng, 202 keys, 3Q The Westin Blue Bay Resort, Hainan, 356 keys, 3Q Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xian, 71 keys, 3Q

Renaissance Beijing Wangfujing Hotel, 329 keys, 3Q The Westin Zhujiajian Resort, Zhoushan, 263 keys, 3Q

G Charlton Hotels & Resorts, Sanya, Hainan, 402 keys, 3Q

Blue Horizon International Hotel Gaomi, Weifang, 311 keys, 3Q

Doubletree by Hilton Hainan Qixianling Hot Spring, 254 keys, 3Q

Sheraton Zhuhai Hotel, 548 keys, 4Q Hotel Nikko Guangzhou, 400 keys, 4Q Rosewood Beijing, 283 keys, 4Q W Beijing Changan, 353 key, 4Q Grand Hyatt Lijiang, 312 keys, 4Q Yanqi Lake Kempinski Hotel Beijing, 595 keys, 4Q Crowne Plaza Guangdong Zengcheng, 340 keys, 4Q Pan Pacific Hotel and Serviced Suites Tianjin, 319 keys, 4Q

DoubleTree by Hilton Haikou Meilan, Hainan, 543 keys, 4Q

AIR ACCESS

According to Civil Aviation Administration of China, as of end-2013, there were 193 domestic airports, 10 more than the year before. These newly opened airports were Alxa Left Banner Bayanhot Airport, Alxa Right Banner Badanjilin Airport and Ejin Banner Taolai Airport, which are all in Inner Mongolia; Hebei Zhangjiakou Airport, Sichuan Daocheng Yading Airport, Guizhou Kaili Huangping Airport, Anhui Chizhou Jiuhuashan Airport, Guizhou Bijie Feixiong Airport, Jiangxi Yichun Mingyue Mountain Airport, and Gansu Gannan Xiahe Airport.

The top 10 airports in terms of traffic in 2013 were Beijing Capital internal Airport, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai

Hongqiao International Airport, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, Shenzhen Baoan International Airport, Kunming Changshui International Airport, Xian Xianyang International Airport, Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport and Hangzhou Xiaoshan international Airport. Passenger throughput of airports in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou accounted for 29 per cent of all.

On July 31, 2014, the State Council officially approved Zhejiang Yiwu Airport to be open to international flights. At present, the airport has completed construction of its international terminal, it has plans to initially open flights from Yiwu to South-east Asian countries.

The Chinese government has also encouraged airline companies to venture out. As a result, domestic airlines launched as many as 92 new international flights in 2013. For instance, China Southern Airlines started new flights from Shenzhen to Danang, and from Changchun to Bangkok. It also increased flights from Guangzhou to Delhi. China Eastern Airlines launched Nanchang-Phuket, Nanchang-Singapore, Wuhan-Phuket, and Chengdu-Chiang Mai flights.

In 2014, Air China launched Beijing-Rangoon as well as Beijing-Cheju flights. The Yunnan branch of China Eastern Airlines has set its eye on the South-east Asian market with new flights from Kunming to Naypyidaw and Jakarta.


Best time to visitSpring or autumn is the best for most places, with the exception of some tourist attractions.

Tipping culture Tipping is not practised in China, as a service charge applies on most bills.

Public transportationTaxis are the most convenient option in most cities, but in Beijing and Shanghai, the subway is a well-developed mode to get around.

Sound adviceDo not visit the country during holidays such as the week-long National Day, as everywhere in China will be crowded.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

NTOChina National Tourism AdministrationWebsite: www.cnta.gov.cn

China Tourism AcademyWebsite:http://www.ctaweb.org/

Travel trade associationsChina Association of

Travel ServicesWebsite:www.cats.org.cn

Shanghai tourism Trade AssociationWebsite: www.shtour.org

China Tourist Hotels AssociationWebsite:www.chinatouristhotel.com



SPOTLIGHT ON CHINAWITH DIETHELM TRAVEL

With the introduction of high-speed trains in many cities and an increase in flights, both domestic and international, todays China is more accessible.

The eyes of the world are on China and the government is promoting tourism by announcing further expansion plans of its 72-hour visa-free policy to additional cities in China, including a continuation of their efforts in expediting visa applications.

Additionally, Chinas Tibet Autonomous Region founded a chamber of tourism in the capital of Lhasa to bring more visitors to the area. Once a landmark in Chinese culture, Beijings Dashilar Teahouse opened its doors again after 40 years of closure and renovations.

TREND WATCH

China is still a mystery to many. From the modern, vibrant Shanghai to the cultural experience of Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xian to a cruise along the Yangtze River, China has something for every visitor. Now, the country even offers a beach destination with Sanya, known as the Hawaii of China, providing a wide choice of accommodations for all

categories of visitors. pPotala Palace under the morning sunshine in Lhasa,

Tibet (top); Wuzhizhou Beach in Sanya

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SPOTLIGHT ON CHINAWITH DIETHELM TRAVEL

pJade Dragon snow mountain near Lijiang in Yunan


Kingsway Tented Resort is located about two hours drive from Lijiang on the riverside of the Yangtze, with Yulong Snow Mountain to the east and Laojunshan National Park, known as the Grand Canyon of China, to the west. The whole area covers 45km2 of grassland, with the tent camp parked in the centre.

Meanwhile, Gladin Prairie is a little-known alpine meadow with beautiful scenery and quiet places to hide in the mountains. The meadow east of the famous Yangtze River First Beach is perfect for camping, and allows for a panoramic view of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountains 13 peaks.

URBAN RETREAT

The Brilliant Resort & Spa located in Kunming, Yunnan offers a spa with an outdoor garden pool. The entire property spans 15,000m2, including a unique water house with a glass floor and large windows affording views of beautiful Yangzonghai.

Then, a visit to Amdo in February allows an experience of colourful Buddhist and minority culture at the Monlam Festival. Buddhist Thangka paintings are on display at Guomari monastery, the Longwu monastery offers the chance to see monks debating, and Labrang monastery

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qThe Terracotta Warriors in Xian



Ganlanba is one of my favourite places, also known as Menghan in the Dai language, some 26km down the Mekong River from Jinghong. With fertile land growing an abundance of rice and various tropical fruits, it has traditionally been inhabited by Dais. With vast paddy elds in the countryside spread across a canvas dotted with Dai villages, the region paints a picture of peaceful rural life. e people are hospitable and hardworking, maintaining most of their ancestors traditions, such as practising eravada Buddhism, living in stilt houses, growing rice and being optimistic about life. Since Ganlanba its a at region with paved roads connecting the villages, biking around is recommended.

Another place I like is Mount Nannuo, 25km to the west of Jinghong city, and famous for tea production. e local residents are mostly Aini, a sub-branch of Hani, living at elevations of 1,200 to 1600m. e cool and humid climate paired with fertile forest soil yields a superb quality of tea. is is a good place for short hikes, walking across the forest with numerous aged tea trees, some of them hundreds of years old, and passing the Aini villages while learning about their history and culture. e locals are very friendly and will think nothing of inviting visitors into their home for a chat with family members over a cup of homegrown organic tea.

My favourite restaurant is Cai Chun Qing located at the corner of Man Ting Lu and Meng Long Lu in Xishuangbanna. It is a Dai restaurant oering a wide range of local food, from traditional sour shrimp soup to simple fried rice options, you can always nd something to your taste.


DIETHELM TO YOU

JULIA SHI

Managing Director, Diethelm Travel China

qLongwu Temple, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Huangnan Prefecture, Qinghai

features lectures from professors and Monlam chanting ceremonies. Diethelm offers tours to Amdo region, located in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau comprising Qinghai, northern Sichuan and southwest Gansu provinces. Many families in Amdo are nomads who maintain the traditional Tibetan culture and lifestyle, herding yaks and sheep. The area is known for its well-preserved monasteries and sacred mountains.

HOT DATES

Chinese New Year, February 18-23, 2015This is the most important festival in China, where families gather and celebrate with many colourful activities. As it is celebrated nationwide, there is diversity in the types of parties. Mid-autumn Festival, September 27, 2015In the evening of this important day, watch families stay up late together eating moon cakes, gazing at the moon and admiring colourful lanterns.

It is projected that Chinas total foreign arrivals will stop declining and will be equivalent to 2013s.

BECAUSE WE ALL CARE

Yunlong County is located in western Yunnans Lancang Rift Valley, in the Dali Prefecture. It is mountainous and many children have to live on campus to attend school. As average income in the region is quite low, some students still lack basic necessities such as stationery and clothing.

Diethelm Travel visited and organised donation drives to improve the living conditions of the children at the school, enduring a three-hour drive from Dali, passing Connaught Deng village in Yunlong, the first Chinese landscape village and one of the top 10 tourist towns in Yunnan. The town is also known for its Shimen wel. Connaught Deng is located in the mountains north of Deng Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, an area with thousands of years of Bai village culture.

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Encouraged by the continuous growth in visitor arrivals in recent years, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) projected high 8.6 per cent growth to about 59 million

arrivals for 2014. Over half of the total marketing budget for 2014-15 set at HK$330.6 million (US$42.6 million) will be used for promotions targeting overnight visitors, and out of this 75 per cent will be for the international markets, compared to 70 per cent in 2013-14. The remaining 25 per cent will be used to drive the China market, particularly overnight arrivals from non-Guangdong areas.

Relatively new markets like Russia, India, the GCC countries, Vietnam and the Netherlands had achieved satisfactory performance in 2013. As of Aug 2014, there were about 532,256 visitors from these new markets, representing year-on-year 3.8 per cent growth. India grew 15.4 per cent, but Vietnam plunged 24.9 per cent. For 2014-15, HKTB has stepped up promotions to draw Russian and Indian visitors

By Prudence Lui

HONG KONGwhile increasing investment in Vietnam.

Meanwhile, despite a commendable year-on-year performance in terms of arrival numbers in the first eight months of 2014, the trade remains cautious for the results in the last quarter, in view of the Occupy Central protest that started in late September. At press time, it is still early days to assess the impact the incident still ongoing has had on tourism, nor is there any clear indication of when it would end.

In 2011, the Hong Kong government conducted a review of the regulatory framework of the tourism sector and decided to set up a statutory body, the Travel Industry Authority (TIA), to oversee the regulation of travel agencies and tourist guides. The Tourism Commission has commenced the drafting of the new legislation and other relevant work for the establishment of TIA, which is expected to come into operation in late 2015 at the earliest.

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ARRIVALS

The year 2014 could be another record year for Hong Kong as total arrivals for the first seven months went up 12.3 per cent to about 33.9 million. The top source market was China, followed by Taiwan, South Korea, the US, and Japan. There were about 15.8 million overnight visitors, a 10.5 per cent increase. Again, China led the pack with 10.8 million arrivals, up 13.2 per cent.

In the same period, the shorthaul markets contributed about 5.2 million visitors (up 4.5 per cent excluding China) as per HKTBs statistics. South Korea replaced the US as the third top source market. Leveraging on the stable economic development in the region, HKTB has increased its marketing budget in 2014-15, rolling out image-boosting campaigns in South-east Asian markets like South Korea and Taiwan.

As for the longhaul segment, traffic from the US and Europe for Jan-July 2014 dropped a slight 0.3 per cent year-on-year to about 2.6 million. HKTB has decided to maintain its presence in these markets through public relations and digital marketing efforts, with a focus on attracting high-spending, mid-career achievers and the MICE segment. It will also collaborate with major travel agencies and airlines to push multi-destination itineraries featuring Hong Kong and the Pan-Pearl River Delta Region.

Top five source markets and respective arrivals in January-July 2014


China 26.1 million

Taiwan 1.2 million

US 653,437

South Korea 716,548

Japan 612,519

Year-on-year change in overnight arrivals in Jan-July 2014 (%)

Overall shorthaul +8.5

Overall longhaul +0.3

China +13.2

South Korea +24.6

Singapore +25

Indonesia +14.9

Source: HKTB

Year-on-year change in ARR in 1H2014 (%)

Overall +2.8Tariff A hotels +3.3Tariff B hotels +3.1Source: Jones Lang LaSalles Hotels & Hospitality Group

HOTEL PERFORMANCE

As of June 2014, Hong Kong was home to 231 hotels, or 71,066 rooms. According to Hong Kong Hotels Association (HKHA), the city did very well in the first eight months of 2014, with average occupancy rate (AOR) of 89 per cent, average room rate (ARR) of HK$1,450 (US$187), and revenue per available room of HK$1,300. However, new inventory is slowing a little with new room additions of three to four per cent per annum expected in 2014-2016.

HKHA, executive director, James Lu said room rates are not expected to soften, as the future addition of new hotel rooms in Hong Kong is well within HKHAs estimates of new tourism demand.

The conclusion may be drawn that Chinas new tourism law curbing zero-fare tours implemented since October 2013 minimally affected top-rated hotels. Occupancy for High Tariff B hotels, which tend to be supported by leisure travellers, remained slightly below the 90 per cent level, indicating continual strong leisure demand to Hong Kong.

According to HKTB, approximately 2,488 hotel rooms are expected to enter the supply in 2H2014. As at 2Q2014, approximately 843 hotel rooms were added, most of which belong to independent or locally operated properties with relatively smaller room count (below 150 rooms). If all projects materialise, hotel room supply will increase 4.8 per cent to 73,348 rooms by end-2014.

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2014 A3 Hotel, Kowloon, 37 keys 1Q Residence G, Kowloon, 29 keys 1Q Dorsett Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong, 547 keys, 1Q iClub by Regal Tin Hau Hotel, Hong Kong, 338 rooms, 2Q

The Pottinger Hong Kong, 68 keys, 2Q Ovolo Southside - Wong Chuk Hang, 162 keys, 3Q TUVE, North Point, Hong Kong, 68 keys, 3Q Pop Hotel ( Tsim Sha Tsui), 63 keys, 3Q iClub Sheung Wan Hotel, Hong Kong, 248 keys, 3Q Somerset Victoria Park Hong Kong, 92 keys, 3Q The Bauhinia Hotel ( Tsim Sha Tsui ) extension project, 89 keys, 3Q

IW Hotel, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, 90 keys, 3Q HSRS Red Hotel, Kowloon, 22 keys, 3Q China Grand Hotel, Hong Kong, 214 keys, 3Q Ai Boutique Hotel, Tsim Sha Tsui, 76 keys, 3Q Holiday Inn Express Hong Kong Mongkok, 148 keys, 4Q

2015 Hotel sv, Hung Hom, 388 keys, 1Q Novotel Nathan Road Kowloon Hong Kong extension project, 75 keys, 1Q

ECOTEL, Sham Shui Po, 72 keys, 1Q B & G Hotel, Sham Shui Po, 48 keys, 2Q Chuen Lung Spa Hotel, Tsuen Wan, 78 keys, 2Q The Kush Hotel, Hong Kong, 199 keys, 3Q The Emperor Hotel, 210 keys, 3Q Silka Tsuen Wan, 240 keys, 4Q Kings Hotel, Kowloon, 99 keys, 4Q Austin Hotel, Tsim Sha Tsui, 100 keys, 4Q

Source: HKTB

AIR ACCESS

The award-winning Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) serves as a major regional aviation hub and continues to ensure its competitiveness hardware and software upgrade. New international destinations for additional scheduled passenger services in 2014 include Irkutsk (Russia), Kagoshima (Japan), Minneapolis (US) and Wuyishan (China).

The Civil Aviation Department (CAD) approved the applications from Thailands Siam Air Transport Company and Japans Vanilla Air to commence scheduled passenger services to and from Bangkok in September 2014 and to and from Tokyo in November 2014 respectively.

From February to August 2014, frequencies were increased to Seoul (+42 services), Shanghai (+28) and Osaka (+20). The long-awaited Jetstar Hong Kong is still queuing for an Air Operators Certificate and CAD noted its application is still being processed at press time.

In terms of infrastructure, the Midfield Development is in progress with Phase 1 scheduled for completion by end-2015. The Midfield area is the last piece of land on the airside for large-scale development on the airport island. It is located to the west of Terminal 1 and between the two existing runways.

Some of the facilities to expect include a five-storey Midfield Concourse with 20 aircraft parking stands, an Automated People Mover linking Terminal 1, and a cross-field taxiway.

Meanwhile, the government has approved in principle the construction of HKIAs third runway. The Airport Authority has submitted the Environmental Impact Assessment Report to the Environmental Protection Department in April 2014, with a target to put the three-runway system into operation by 2023.


Best time to visitOctober to February, as the weather is perfectly cool and free from typhoon.

Tipping culture As service charge applies to most bills, there is no need to tip, but visitors are free to reward excellent service.

Public transportationThe city is well connected by a highly efficient and comprehensive transportation network at affordable rates.

Sound adviceWi-Fi.HK provides the public and visitors free Wi-Fi connection at hotspots under the identifier named Wi-Fi.HK with their smartphones or mobile devices, or at places with the Wi-Fi.HK signage. The Wi-Fi service is either completely free or free for at least 30 minutes, with no registration required.

pHong Kong Disneylands night parade

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

NTOHong Kong Tourism BoardTel: (852) 2807-6543Website: www.discoverhongkong.com

Travel Trade AssociationsHong Kong Association of Travel Agentswww.hata.org.hk

Quality Tourism Services Scheme www.discoverhongkong.com/hk/qts

Travel Industry Councilwww.tichk.org

PATA Hong Kong Chapterhttp://www.pata.org/Chapters/392

SPOTLIGHT ON HONG KONGWITH DIETHELM TRAVEL


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SPOTLIGHT ON HONG KONGWITH DIETHELM TRAVEL

Hong Kong is quintessentially a city of compact variety, where strikingly different worlds historical versus modern, East versus West coexist. Fascinating

contrasts are also manifested through its offer of global lifestyle trends.

TREND WATCH

Family fun seems to be the latest trend to look out for in Hong Kong, with a number of new attractions offered.

First, there is Disney Paint the Night Parade, a colourful, high-tech visual treat for visitors at Hong Kong Disneyland, which was launched in October 2014 following two years of preparation.

In the same month, Hong Kong also opened its first observation wheel in the central district, right next to Victoria Harbour, offering visitors another vantage point from which to take in amazing views of the city.

Additionally, viewing will soon take another form up at Victoria Peak, where development plans are underway for the Zipline.

Then, at Ocean Park, the new Shark Mystique is a three-level shark aquarium offering over 100 sharks and stingrays

pTraditional junk boat in Hong Kong harbour (top); Hong Kong city skyline

which can be observed from a panoramic 360-degree view, interactive games revealing hidden secrets about sharks, and a chance to support the FINished with FINS shark conservation campaign.

DISCOVER THE UNFORGETTAB

asian tourism guide 2014/2015

Documents