June 28 2024
Finnair voted again as the Best Airline in Northern Europe
Finnair has once again been voted the best airline in Northern Europe at Skytrax’s World Airline Awards 2024.
The World Airline Awards by Skytrax is the world’s largest, annual airline passenger satisfaction survey, also known as the Oscars of the aviation industry. The survey analyses customer satisfaction for the overall airline customer experience, at both the airport and on board the aircraft.
”We are honored to receive this recognition, which is a testimony to the hard work and dedication of our Finnair team who strive to ensure the smoothest possible travel experience for our customers every day across our customer touchpoints. We continue investing in seamless customer journey, starting from our digital channels and customer care to the inflight experience and cabin design,” says Ole Orvér, Finnair’s Chief Commercial Officer.
Finnair was also named Best Cabin Crew in Northern Europe, and awarded Cleanest Airline in Europe, which measures the standard and quality of aircraft cleanliness. Finnair also ranked within the top 25 airlines globally and moved up one place to 23rd place worldwide.
Finnair continues to work for customer experience with special focus on operative reliability, enhanced digital services and increased customer choice. Finnair has recently announced that the airline completed the rollout of its new 200-million-euro long-haul cabin renewal, with all long-haul aircraft now refurbished and the opening of a new, larger Finnair Lounge at Helsinki Airport Schengen area. In the coming months, Finnair will continue to invest in its customer experience and fleet, having announced the upcoming renewal of the cabins of its regional E190 aircraft.
June 28 2024
Etihad Airways launches international roadshow in major pilot recruitment drive
Etihad Airways is set to recruit hundreds more pilots this year to support its expanding fleet and network, delivering on the airline’s ambitious growth plans and supporting its purpose to give flight to ambition.
- Pilots benefit from excellent career progression opportunities, a tax-free salary, a wide range of benefits and a home in the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi
- Recruitment roadshow will begin in Cyprus, Bulgaria, Albania, Romania, Hungary, Poland and Lithuania and expand globally in the months to follow
- Etihad is set to double its 2022 fleet size by 2030, offering extraordinary growth opportunities for pilots choosing to join the airline now
The UAE’s national airline will embark on an international roadshow to meet pilots who may wish to join the growing global airline, beginning in eight cities across Europe before expanding to many more global locations.
Etihad is inviting pilots of all ranks and aircraft types to register their interest by attending one of the roadshows or signing up for more information online at careers.etihad.com.
As it builds its position as the airline everyone wants to fly, Etihad also welcomes the partners and family members of prospective pilots to the roadshows. Etihad will showcase Abu Dhabi as a fabulous destination to live and build a career, both for individuals and for families.
John Wright, Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “As we embark on this pilot recruitment roadshow, we’re proud to showcase everything that both Etihad and Abu Dhabi have to offer, and we are seeking pilots who share in our ambitions.
“We appreciate that pilots choose which airline to join for the length of their career, and as such we would like to highlight not only the career development and progression opportunities on offer at Etihad, but also the fantastic home and lifestyle that Abu Dhabi provides.”
tihad is seeking pilots of all ranks and aircraft types from across the Etihad fleet including the Airbus A320, A350 and A380 as well as the Boeing 777 and 787, and Boeing 777 freighters. Pilots who do not yet fulfil the Etihad criteria but may wish to join Etihad in the future are also encouraged to attend the roadshow or register their interest online.
As one of the world’s fastest growing airlines, Etihad will double its fleet size by 2030 compared to 2022. This growth trajectory will offer pilots significant career progression and promotion opportunities, making Etihad a highly attractive employer for ambitious pilots looking to build a solid career.
Etihad’s diverse pilot community works alongside 142 nationalities who make up the Etihad family, all based out of its welcoming home in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. There has never been a more exciting time to join Etihad and enjoy living in the UAE.
Living in the UAE’s thriving capital offers crew a safe city with plenty of things to do for individuals as well as families. Pilots living in Abu Dhabi have access to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and can take part in watersports in the Arabian sea or outdoor pursuits in the desert. Abu Dhabi also offers an abundance of restaurants, bars and nightlife, meaning there will never be a dull moment. The metropolis of Dubai is also just a short drive away.
For families, Abu Dhabi offers a friendly community with excellent schools and an abundance of family-friendly activities.
Etihad’s pilots fly to more than 70 destinations across Australia, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America. The airline continues to grow its network and this June is commencing flights to Bali, Jaipur and Al Qassim, as well as a number of seasonal destinations including the Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini, Nice in the French Riviera and the holiday resorts of Malaga in Spain and Antalya in Turkey.
Sessions will run from 9.30am to 11.30am and 12pm to 2pm
For further details:
Duty Media Officer
Etihad Airways
Email: [email protected]
June 27 2024
Embark on the Ultimate Adventure at Science Centre Singapore
From being amazed by science, challenging your fears, or diving into snowy adventures, there’s something for everyone. If you are planning a trip to Singapore, make sure to add Science Centre Singapore and Snow City to your must-visit list. Tickets are available from SGD 25.
Other key highlights include:
- Explore the science behind your deepest and darkest fears at Phobia2 – The Science of Fear exhibition, as you embark on a journey of self-discovery to find out what phobia really is.
- Snap insta-worthy photos as you navigate through a labyrinth of mirrors and lights in Professor Crackitt’s Light Fantastic Mirror Maze, where every turn promises a new illusion!
- Decipher clues, solve riddles, and more at the one and only science themed, Escape @ Science Centre (E.S.C.). This fun-filled attraction blends the popular escape room concept with the wonders of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), and an added sprinkle of theatricality.
- Exciting Daily Science Shows: Bear witness to a towering vortex of flame soaring over 600°C in the iconic Fire Tornado Show. Learn about the history of electricity at the Energy Titans Show through jaw-dropping demonstrations that recreate lightning live in front of your eyes!
About Science Centre Singapore
Science Centre Singapore, a non-formal educational institution and leading regional Science Centre, along with its group of attractions, brings out the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics through its unique blend of exhibitions, educational programmes and events. A custodian of creativity and innovation, Science Centre Singapore has captured the evolution of scientific developments for more than four decades. The Centre and its partners have played a pivotal role in transforming the way students and the public interact with and learn about science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Since 1977, the Centre has welcomed over 30 million visitors and inspired them with more than 1,000 exhibits spread across 14 exhibition galleries and outdoor exhibition spaces.
The Centre’s group of attractions include Omni-Theatre, Snow City and KidsSTOP™. The Omni-Theatre, Southeast Asia’s first 8K 3D digital theatre with a 23m wide seamless dome screen, is an immersive destination like no other. Snow City is Singapore’s only permanent indoor snow centre offering an Arctic inspired experience at Singapore’s first ice gallery and snow chamber. KidsSTOP™ ️- Where every child gets to Imagine, Experience, Discover and Dream – is Singapore’s first children’s science centre offering an enriching experience through purposeful play for children aged 18 months to 8 years old.
June 27 2024
Leading Companies in the Retail and Consumer Goods Industries Support the Transition to QR Codes with GS1 Standards
• 50 years after the barcode was first scanned, 22 leaders from the world’s biggest companies sign a global joint statement calling for the transition to QR Codes with GS1 standards to revolutionise the consumer experience
• Signatories include industry champions like Alibaba.com, AS Watson, Carrefour, IGA, JD.com, JM Smucker, Mondelēz, Lidl, L’Oréal, Nestlé, P&G, and Savencia
• This initiative aims to have QR Codes with GS1 standards widely adopted by retailers and manufacturers globally by the end of 2027
On the 50th anniversary of the barcode being scanned for the first time, 22 industry champions – including marketplaces such as Alibaba.com, retailers like AS Watson and manufacturers like Procter & Gamble, are calling for the global adoption of QR Codes with GS1 standards. Powered by GS1, the leading standards organisation behind the barcode, these QR Codes can give access to a wealth of product information easily accessible via smartphones – which is expected to completely revolutionise the consumer experience.
Since the first scan in 1974, the collaboration between retailers and manufacturers through GS1 has led to the widespread adoption of the original barcode. Today, this technology is the trusted universal method for product identification, with over 1 billion items carrying barcodes that are scanned more than 10 billion times daily, enhancing supply chain efficiencies worldwide. Today, global industry leaders are again uniting in the transition to QR Codes with GS1 standards, a 2D barcode also known as QR Codes powered by GS1.
“The first barcode scan forever changed how we buy and sell products,” said Renaud de Barbuat, President and CEO of GS1. “Fifty years on, industry champions have come together calling for the transition to QR Codes powered by GS1. This collaborative effort is set to transform in new ways how we shop, eat, and live. We believe this marks the start of a second barcode revolution – making products more traceable and transforming the consumer experience, thereby unlocking the future of retail.”
Revolutionising the consumer experience
Unlike traditional barcodes, QR Codes powered by GS1 can connect consumers to extensive amounts of product information to elevate their experience – including usage and recycling instructions, safety, nutritional information, and industry certifications.
“As our customers have become increasingly digitally-savvy, adopting QR Codes with GS1 standards inside is important in providing a seamless O+O (Offline plus Online) customer experience. These QR Codes enable customers to easily access detailed product information with a simple smartphone scan, empowering them to make more informed purchasing decisions. At AS Watson, we are delighted to support this transition, and I’m confident that it will unleash a wealth of new opportunities ahead”, said Malina Ngai, Group CEO of AS Watson Group.
With information easily accessible via smartphones, this opens a range of new possibilities for consumers, manufacturers, and retailers alike – giving access to all the information consumers need and desire, improving traceability, and driving efficiencies through the supply chain, while still enabling scanning at checkout.
• Smarter choices: with information no longer limited by packaging space, QR Codes powered by GS1 can enhance the consumer experience by allowing brands to share additional information including video tutorials, style advice, suggested recipes or other information relevant to their purchase.
• Sustainable insights: with increasing consumer demand to understand the environmental impacts of products, QR Codes powered by GS1 can connect consumers to information such as where a product was sourced, its components, carbon footprint, and guidance on recycling or reusing packaging.
• Safer food: alongside health and nutrition, QR Codes powered by GS1 can facilitate access to regulatory information, detailed allergy advice, and ‘Best Before’ or ‘Sell By’ dates – allowing expired foods to be rejected at checkout, and those close to expiry to be sold at reduced rates – leading to a reduction in food waste.
Companies will need to evaluate their internal technology and processes to make the most of QR Codes with GS1 standards. Adding more detailed product information into QR Codes can be done gradually, allowing businesses to plan changes at their own pace.
QR Codes with GS1 standards should be widely adopted by the end of 2027
This industry initiative is a groundbreaking, collaborative effort to advance global standards for efficiency, safety, and sustainability across the retail and consumer goods industries. The companies who have joined forces with GS1 are a combination of leading brand owners, retailers and marketplaces that have a combined market value of over $1.5 trillion USD. These companies operate in over 160 countries and reach billions of consumers worldwide – paving the way for the project’s success.
The goal of this collaboration is that by the end of 2027 QR Codes with GS1 standards should be widely adopted. To achieve this, a coordinated effort is necessary between manufacturers and retailers: manufacturers should start implementing QR Codes with GS1 standards on product packages, while retailers should ensure their point of sale (POS) scanners are equipped to read the new barcodes.
The shift has already begun with the new technology being tested in 48 countries across the world, representing 88% of the world’s GDP.
The complete list of companies that have signed the global joint statement is the following: Alibaba.com (Taobao & Tmall Group), AS Watson, Barilla Group, Carrefour, 7-Eleven (CP ALL Thailand), Dr. Oetker, IGA, JD.com Group, Lidl International, L’Oréal, Master Kong (Tingyi Holding Corp.), Mengniu Group, Metro, Migros Ticaret A.S., Mondelēz International, Nestlé, The Procter & Gamble Company, Savencia Fromage & Dairy, The J.M. Smucker Co., Tsingtao Beer Group, WH Group (Henan Shuanghui Development Co.), and Yili Group.
You can access the global joint industry statement here.
There are several types of next generation 2D barcodes. The QR Code is the most widely used in retail, while the GS1 DataMatrix is commonly used in healthcare. To learn more about QR Codes powered by GS1’s, please visit this page.
About GS1
GS1 is a neutral, not-for-profit organisation that provides global standards for efficient business communication. We are best known for the barcode, named in 2016 by the BBC as one of “the 50 things that made the world economy.” GS1 standards improve the efficiency, safety and visibility of supply chains across physical and digital channels in 25 sectors. We enable organisations of all types and sizes to identify, capture and share information seamlessly. Our scale and reach – local Member Organisations in 118 countries, more than 2 million user companies and 10 billion transactions every day – help ensure that GS1 standards create a common language that supports systems and processes across the globe. Find out more at www.gs1.org.
About GS1 Hong Kong
Founded by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce in 1989, GS1 Hong Kong is the local chapter of GS1®. GS1 Hong Kong’s mission is to empower businesses of their digital transformation, improve supply chain visibility and efficiency, ensure product authenticity, facilitate commerce connectivity and enable sustainable value chain through the provision of global supply chain standards (including GTIN & barcodes), and a full spectrum of platforms, solutions and services.
GS1 Hong Kong currently supports close to 8,000 corporate members from 20 sectors including retail & consumer packaged goods, food & beverage and food services, healthcare, apparel & footwear, logistics & ICT. By working closely with communities of trading partners, industry organizations, government, and technology providers, we can foster a collaborative ecosystem, paving the way for “Smarter Business, Better Life”.
As a non-profit organization, GS1 develops and drives global adoption of supply chain standards. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, GS1 has 118 national chapters in 150 countries.
For more information, please visit www.gs1hk.org.
June 26 2024
Liverpool FC and Japan Airlines enter into multi-year partnership as club's official airline partner
The partnership, which extends to the men’s and women’s teams, will see both organisations work together to support and complement their ambitious global growth plans, leveraging their respective strengths to grow their global footprints.
Ben Latty, chief commercial officer at LFC, said: “We are delighted to welcome Japan Airlines onboard. LFC and JAL are two premium market leaders, recognised for their winning mentality and shared commitment to connecting with either fans or flyers and communities worldwide.
LFC is the most-engaged club in the Premier League with more than 1.5 billion fan engagements on social media, and the most-viewed club on socials with 11.9 billion views. LFC is also the most-watched European football club globally across domestic league and cup fixtures, with hundreds of millions of fans and more than 330 Official Liverpool Supporters Clubs across the globe.
Junko Sakihara, deputy senior vice-president – customer experience at Japan Airlines, said: “This partnership is significant for us because it will allow us to deepen connections with our customers and develop new relationships with Liverpool FC fans around the world. We feel incredibly fortunate to be embarking on this exciting journey with Liverpool FC and LFC Foundation.”
Minako Kent, managing director of global marketing at Japan Airlines, added: “Japan Airlines and Liverpool FC share a deep commitment to nurturing multinational talent, investing in youth development, and supporting the communities we serve.
The first initiative will kick off in July, with the airline supporting a youth football clinic in conjunction with LFC’s international pre-season match held in Philadelphia on the USA east coast.
June 24 2024
Travel Interest from Australia to China 80% Increase in Half-Hour After Visa-Free News
Following the recent announcement that China has included Australia in its visa-free list on 17 June, there has been a significant surge in interest in the former destination.
Within just 30 minutes after the news was shared, Trip.com search data reveals that China-related keywords have seen an 80% increase among Australian users, highlighting the strong interest in this visa-free scheme.
The news also sparked an increase in bookings on Trip.com on the day of the announcement, which reported a 20% increase in bookings from Australia to China, as compared to the previous day.
From January to May this year, Trip.com has recorded a significant upward trajectory in flight search volumes from Australia to China, with a notable 154% increase in search volumes compared to the same period last year.
Travel to Australia: Strong Interest from APAC
Trip.com has also seen a significant increase in bookings to Australia, particularly from key markets in the Asia-Pacific region. Overall, booking data shows a more than 150% rise in bookings to the destination in Q1 2024 compared to Q1 2023, with China, Korea, and Japan being the main contributors to this growth.
In line with promoting Australia as a destination, Trip.com recently signed a strategic partnership with Tourism Western Australia. This strategic partnership aims to promote Western Australia’s unique and captivating tourism experiences across key Asian markets, including China.
Interest in China Rises with Visa-Free Arrangements
Interest in China has been increasing globally since the country expanded its unilateral visa-free travel policy, with 14 countries and regions added to the arrangement from November 2023 till present. In Q1 2024, there was a significant 400% growth in inbound travel to China, driven by the benefits of such visa-free policies.
June 22 2024
Centara Celebrates Four "Top 10" Accolades at Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024
The Four “Top 10” Accolades are：
Centara Reserve Samui
Roukh Kiri Khao Yai
Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives
Centara Grand Hotel Osaka
Centara Reserve Samui now in its third year of operation, continues to enhance its reputation, rising two spots in the rankings this year to secure seventh place in the highly sought-after best “Beach + Island Resorts” category for Thailand.
Roukh Kiri Khao Yai made a significant leap this year, rising four places to claim fourth in the top “Upcountry Hotels” category for Thailand. With 12 contemporary barn-style villas set within organic gardens in the verdant hills of Khao Yai.
Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives has earned a distinguished fifth place in the best “House Reefs” category for the Maldives, showcasing the exceptional allure of its underwater world. Situated in the picturesque South Ari Atoll, this resort is celebrated by visitors of all ages for the vibrancy and health of its coral reef and diversity of sea life.
Centara Grand Hotel Osaka celebrating its first anniversary on 1 July 2024, has swiftly become a leading destination in the heart of the city. Guests are treated to a fusion of modern elegance and the rich traditions of Japanese culture.
Its General Manager, Shigeki Nakagawa, was honoured with the top award in the highly-competitive “Hotel General Managers” category for Japan.
Thirayuth Chirathivat, CEO of Centara Hotels & Resorts: “These four accolades are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. Our commitment to Thai-inspired hospitality ensures that every stay at Centara is warm, welcoming, and unforgettable.”
June 22 2024
Kempinski Hotels Scoops Three Prestigious Titles At Global Hotel Alliance Awards In Tokyo
Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, with the award-winning loyalty programme GHA DISCOVERY, has announced the winners of its 2024 awards in which Kempinski Hotels was crowned with three awards: Green Collection Hotel of the Year Award for Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest, recognised for 20 Years of GHA Membership as well as Runner up for Best Brand Perfomance.
Hosted at the historic Kanda Myojin Shrine in Tokyo, the annual awards ceremony acknowledged more than 20 hotel brands and properties from the GHA portfolio, including those in the Green Collection and the Ultratravel Collection, while hotels demonstrating performance excellence related to the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme also received accolades.
Every awards category was hotly contested, with at least four nominations in each from GHA’s more than 800 hotels in 100 countries, representing 40 brands, selected according to multiple criteria.
GHA CEO Chris Hartley remarked: “As we celebrate the alliance’s 20th anniversary, these awards, which include recognition of brands that have been part of GHA for more than a decade, highlight the strength of our global network, which continues to go from strength to strength.”
GHA’s awards ceremony coincided with its annual CEO meeting, which took place in Japan for the first time. Staged at HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU in Tokyo, it was attended by the CEOs of more than 40 GHA hotel brands, including Amanda Elder, Chief Commercial Officer Kempinski Hotels and Member of the Management Board.
First launched in 2010 and reimagined in 2021, GHA DISCOVERY now serves 27 million members worldwide, generating $2.3 billion in revenue and 10 million room nights (as of 2023).
June 17 2024
Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism Sector Reached Record-Breaking New Heights Last Year
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) has revealed Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism sector broke all records last year, reaching new milestones across four key metrics.
In 2023, the sector contributed TRY 3.11TN to the economy, accounting for 12% of total GDP. This is a significant increase of almost 30% from the previous peak in 2019.
The sector also supported more than 3.2MN jobs, representing one in 10 jobs across the country, and more than 18% above the 2019 high point.
International and domestic visitor spending also exceeded their previous records, reaching TRY 1.68TN and TRY 761.3BN respectively.
International visitor spending has surpassed its 2019 record by almost 36% and domestic visitor spending broke its previous record, from 2018, by almost 24%.
Looking Ahead
The sector is forecast to continue breaking records in 2024, with GDP contribution set to reach almost 12.5% of the country’s economy.
Jobs supported by Travel & Tourism are projected to surpass 3.3MN and spend from international and domestic visitors is also anticipated to set new records.
According to WTTC’s latest research, spending from international visitors could reach more than TRY 1.7TN next year, and spending from domestic visitors could reach almost TRY 799BN.
In an effort to continue growing its crucial Travel & Tourism sector, Türkiye’s Government is considering introducing nomad visas, aimed at expanding its potential for longer stays and in turn increasing visitor spending.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said; “As the world’s fifth most popular destination, Travel & Tourism in Türkiye is more than just a sector, it’s an integral part of the nation’s economy, fuelling growth, investment, and new jobs.
“We congratulate the national government’s efforts to place Travel & Tourism at the heart of decision-making, recognising its critical role in the country’s economy.”
What does the next decade look like?
The outlook for the next ten years forecasts a decade of growth.
By 2034, the sector is expected to contribute more than TRY 4TN to the economy annually, whilst jobs are projected to reach almost 3.75MN.
The next decade is poised to be a period of remarkable growth and transformation for Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism sector.
June 17 2024
LVMH and Accor join forces to take Orient Express to new horizons
Accor and LVMH have entered into a strategic partnership to accelerate the development of Orient Express, a legendary House synonymous for more than a century with the most exclusive travel experiences.
Since the inaugural voyage of its train in 1883, Orient Express has been taking the discovery of the world to new heights for clients in search of distinctive and refined adventures. A symbol of elegance and audacity, Orient Express embodies a lifestyle that encapsulates the extraordinary and enchantment.
Following its acquisition by Accor in 2022, Orient Express is developing new iconic ventures for trains, hotels and sailing ships whose exacting standards will reflect an extraordinary positioning within the travel world. The renaissance of an historic train and the launch of the first Orient Express sailing ship in 2026 will be the next steps in this renewed impetus. In parallel with these launches, Orient Express will open its first hotels in Rome and Venice while continuing the selective development of its global destinations.
Under the terms of the agreements signed today, LVMH will be joining forces with Accor through a strategic investment in the Orient Express brand, in the company that will operate the future hotels and trains, and in the entity that will own the two sailing ships. The first ship is currently under construction at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, France, and the two groups will continue to search together for a third partner for this new venture.
By contributing to the revival of this iconic brand, LVMH will add its unique expertise in high-quality products and services, illustrated in particular, in the world of travel, by the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train and the five other trains also operated by Belmond around the world. These extraordinary experiences reflect the operational expertise and creativity of LVMH Hospitality Excellence in this field.
Within its Luxury and Lifestyle division, Accor brings together the leading collection of luxury brands with a century-old legacy in the hotel and fine dining sectors. The remarkable heritage and history of several of these brands, including Raffles, Fairmont and Potel & Chabot, have enabled Accor to rejuvenate the experience for clients in search of excellence and distinctiveness. This vision is at the heart of the Orient Express project.
Bernard Arnault, LVMH Group Chairman and CEO, said, “Orient Express has embodied adventure and elegance since its origins. Its name has become part of our cultural heritage and remains a source of inspiration for the greatest artists. Orient Express epitomizes the art of refined living and the audacity that drives each of our Houses. We are delighted to be partnering with Accor to accelerate the renewal of this travel icon. Each of our groups will bring the best of its expertise to take Orient Express to the pinnacle of the art of hospitality.”
Sébastien Bazin, Accor Group Chairman and CEO, said, “Orient Express is a legend ever since its creation 140 years ago, drawing on its roots and its oneiric universe while remaining at all times firmly focused on the future. With Orient Express, Accor is reinventing the art of travel, discovery and great odysseys. With LVMH today, we are opening a new chapter in this exciting journey, with the ambition of exploring new horizons and embodying the audacity and creative passion that drive our groups. We’re delighted to enlist LVMH’s rare expertise to continue pushing further the frontiers of this legend and bringing its embodiment to life in an ever more singular way.”
June 15 2024
The 2nd Ho Chi Minh City River Festival 2024
The 2nd Ho Chi Minh City River Festival 2024 is organized on a larger scale than before, reinforcing the city’s image as a vibrant, modern riverine metropolis rich in cultural and historical identity.
The festival commences with the musical performance program “Legendary Voyage,” which transforms Khanh Hoi Port into a cinematic spectacle featuring over 1,000 performers and attended by 9,000 spectators. The historical narrative unfolded with cinematic effects, utilizing modest technologies like 3D mapping and drone shows, creating an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience.
The festival offers a vibrant tapestry of cultural activities, celebrating the essence of river life. Highlights include a recreated Mekong Delta floating market, the “Trên Bến Dưới Thuyền” fruit week featuring boats brimming with flowers and fruits, soulful Southern folk songs, and captivating traditional games.
Additionally, exhilarating water sports events such as the open-water swimming championship, stand-up paddleboard championship, and various river sports performances provide thrilling experiences like SUP paddling, Flyboarding, and panoramic paragliding over the Saigon River.
These activities ensure a lively and immersive experience for all visitors. The culinary area on Le Loi Street (District 1) showcases 24 booths introducing various regional specialties from across Vietnam. Visitors can savor beautifully presented, delectable traditional dishes that highlight the nation’s rich culinary heritage, offering a true feast for the eyes and the palate.
The festival ends in a breathtaking spectacle, showcasing 1,100 drones synchronized with laser lights, a thrilling water sports performance with 100 athletes and 100 sports vehicles (including paragliders, jet skis, jetboards, flyboards, and sailing boats), and a majestic parade of cruise boats on the Saigon River known as the “Sparkling River,” illuminating the river. Iconic images of traditional Vietnamese cranes and the WE LOVE HO CHI MINH CITY symbols captivate and inspire both tourists and locals alike.
The River Festival 2024 not only leaves an indelible mark on the public but also significantly boosts tourism and unveils the vibrant, dynamic spirit of Ho Chi Minh City through every unforgettable experience.
June 14 2024
Tokyo room rates reached a new peak in May
Tokyo’s hotel industry reported record-high average daily rate (ADR) and revenue per available room (RevPAR) in May, according to preliminary data from CoStar. CoStar is a leading provider of online real estate marketplaces, information, and analytics in the property markets.
May 2024 (year-over-year % change):
- Occupancy: 78.4% (+4.2%)
- ADR: JPY 37,671.27 (+44.0%)
- RevPAR: JPY 29,529.07 (+50.0%)
According to daily data, Tokyo’s occupancy levels peaked on Saturday, 25 May (89.1%), helped by a number of music events held in Tokyo Dome. The market recorded its highest RevPAR levels on the same night, at JPY 38,913.89. Overall, Tokyo’s occupancy remained above the 70% mark throughout the month apart from five days.
The market’s room rates spiked on Constitution Memorial Day (Friday, 3 May), at JPY 44,743.14; closely followed by Saturday, 4 May (Greenery Day), at JPY 44,038.37.
Apart from events in May, a number of contributing factors, such as a later opening post-pandemic, above-average inflation, and an influx of international demand, also had a significant impact on Tokyo’s ADR and RevPAR increases. A full Japan room rate analysis can be found here.
For more information about the company and its products and services, please visit www.costargroup.com.
June 12 2024
FOUR SEASONS SOLIDIFIES GLOBAL CULINARY LEADERSHIP
It’s Magic at the Table. The melding of flavours. The clinking of glasses. The spark of conversation. Life’s most magical moments happen around the table. Make it a meal to remember at Four Seasons award-winning restaurants and bars around the globe.
Leading luxury hospitality company Four Seasons continues to set the standard for culinary excellence around the globe, celebrating its latest award wins in style and inviting guests to join in the excitement.
Fresh off the June 5 announcement of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, SÉZANNE, the esteemed French culinary gem nestled within Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, earned the 15th spot on the prestigious list. Earlier this year, SÉZANNE also took the #1 position in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants and the distinguished title of Best Restaurant in Japan for 2024.
“Our restaurants and bars are the heartbeat of our hotels. Not only do they enhance the stay experience and foster memorable moments for our guests, they also serve as an anchor to the community, as a place for connection and camaraderie,” says Rainer Stampfer, President, Global Operations, Hotels and Resorts, Four Seasons. “We are so proud of everything our teams around the world have accomplished. Through our consistent pursuit of culinary innovation and a most caring service team, we continue to elevate our brand and drive industry leadership.”
With more Michelin stars across its global portfolio than any other luxury hospitality brand, Four Seasons also debuted two of its latest projects with one Michelin star each in the past year. Pavyllon London*, the first London restaurant from multi-Michelin-starred Chef Yannick Alléno set within Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane received its first star just six months after opening. Auro* located at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley, helmed by Executive Chef Rogelio Garcia, was recognized as the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Calistoga, California.
“This industry recognition is the product of our incredibly talented craftspeople across the globe and is a true testament to our team’s commitment to culinary excellence,” says Philipp Blaser, Senior Vice President, Food and Beverage, Four Seasons. “These category-defining restaurants and bars are culinary institutions that drive the industry conversation around tradition, excellence, modernity, and sustainability.”
Four Seasons culinary leadership sparkles under 34 Michelin Stars across 25 restaurants in 20 hotels and resorts around the world. This includes both Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris and Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong holding Michelin stars at all restaurants under their roofs. Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris holds six Michelin stars and one Green Star for sustainability across its landmark restaurants: Le Cinq***, L’Orangerie**, and Le George*. Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong holds eight Michelin stars for its exceptional dining establishments: Caprice***, Lung King Heen**, Noi** and Sushi Saito*.
Beyond Michelin stars, Four Seasons boasts a strong presence in an array of highly acclaimed industry awards including 50 Best, La Liste, Black Pearl, Gault Millau, and Wine Spectator among many others.
To view a full list of Four Seasons awards and accolades, click here.
Guided by a philosophy of genuine care and service excellence, Four Seasons focuses on creating personal experiences that leave a lasting impact on guests. Across more than 600 dining outlets, guests embark on exquisite culinary journeys, experiencing artfully crafted dishes and unforgettable dining moments.
“Magic at the Table” – A Celebration of Culinary Excellence
This June and July, Four Seasons will host a series of bespoke culinary events and promotions at select restaurants and bars to celebrate culinary excellence. These unique dining experiences will illuminate the personalized service, genuine heart, and culinary artistry that is synonymous with Four Seasons and its talented craftspeople, creating a magical moment personalized for every diner.
Below are some handpicked examples of the distinctive culinary adventures awaiting guests at Four Seasons.
Pelagos on Tour in Greece – Discover the culinary treasures of Greece’s lesser-known Aegean islands with Chef Luca Piscazzi’s Pelagos On Tour tasting menu from Pelagos at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens. This experience is a tribute to the unique flavours and rich culinary traditions of the Cyclades region. Chef Piscazzi and his team invite guests to embark on a journey through the islands, meeting the small-scale farmers and artisans who inspired the menu, and exploring uncharted gastronomic territory together.
Sunset Cruise and Michelin Dining in Hong Kong – Experience a breathtaking Victoria Harbour sunset aboard the Aqualuna Harbour Cruise with Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong. Then, indulge in an exquisite dining experience at Lung King Heen, the world’s first three-Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant, featuring an eight-course tasting dinner curated by Chef Chan Yan Tak celebrating the highest expression of modern Cantonese cuisine.
Wine Tasting Dinners in Napa Valley – Celebrate the craftsmanship of Napa Valley’s local artisans with Auro’s Wine Dinner Series at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley. A sensory journey featuring a seven-course prix fixe tasting menu meticulously prepared by Executive Chef Rogelio Garcia showcases the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with a selection of exceptional wines from esteemed partners, creating an unforgettable dining experience that highlights the essence of Napa Valley’s terroir and culinary heritage.
June 6 2024
Hilton Set to Double Lifestyle Portfolio To 700 Hotels Within Next Four Years
Recent acquisitions of Graduate Hotels and NoMad brands and appointment of new global lifestyle president affirm Hilton’s focus on lifestyle category expansion.
With nearly 350 existing lifestyle hotels and another 350 expected to join the portfolio by 2028, Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is set to double its presence in the fast-growing lifestyle category in the next four years. The recent addition of Graduate Hotels and NoMad to Hilton’s portfolio, coupled with increasing guest and owner demand, has positioned the company to further accelerate lifestyle category growth.
After adding more than 50 new lifestyle hotels and approving another 100 in 2023, Hilton anticipates opening more than 100 new hotels this year across its lifestyle brands, each designed to meet the increased enthusiasm from guests for distinct and localized travel experiences. This year will also mark the debut of Hilton’s 400th property in the category.
The accelerated growth will be supported by the addition of the Graduate and NoMad brands. NoMad’s flagship London hotel and more than 30 existing Graduate locations will be available on Hilton’s booking channels later this summer, in addition to new Graduate hotels that will open this year in Princeton, N.J. and Auburn, Ala.
“As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Hilton’s entry into the lifestyle segment, we look ahead to even more rapid growth with a powerhouse line-up of brands that will meet the needs of developers and guests alike in some of the world’s most desirable locations,” said Kevin Jacobs, chief financial officer and president, global development, Hilton. “The recent addition of the Graduate and NoMad brands to our lifestyle and luxury lifestyle portfolio will accelerate our growth as we look for more opportunities to deliver the exceptional experiences guests want in the world’s top hotel destinations.”
NoMad to Drive Luxury Lifestyle Category Growth
Earlier this year, Hilton announced plans to expand the NoMad luxury lifestyle brand from its existing London flagship location to high-end markets around the world. NoMad, a meticulously designed brand defined by exceptional food and beverage, captivating interior design and exemplary service, will bring Hilton travelers a new sophisticated option for luxury stays in some of the world’s greatest locations.
Andrew Zobler, founder and CEO, Sydell Group, continues to lead the NoMad brand with responsibility for design, branding and hotel management while Hilton is leading future development. Over the last decade, Zobler and his team have created seven dynamic lifestyle brands, with award-winning hotel concepts including NoMad, The Line, Freehand and The Ned. Sydell will be responsible for design, branding and management of the NoMad brand while Hilton will lead all development.
Hilton’s growing portfolio of lifestyle brands now includes:
Canopy by Hilton
Blending sophisticated design with crafted touchpoints that celebrate the best of the neighborhood, Canopy by Hilton offers an inviting and locally inspired boutique hotel experience. This year, the brand opened its first resort property with Canopy by Hilton Seychelles, positioning the brand’s expansion into high-value leisure destinations with additional resorts planned in Okinawa, Japan; Bozeman, Montana; and more. Canopy by Hilton – which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2024 – signed six new hotels in the first quarter, including two new countries in Greece and Malta, and will debut in Japan this year.
Curio Collection by Hilton
Curio Collection by Hilton provides immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences in the world’s most sought-after destinations. Expanding from 34 countries in 2022 to 40 countries by mid-2024, the brand’s growth highlights its appeal in diverse markets, offering guests bespoke and elevated adventures in key urban and resort destinations. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the brand plans to open nearly 30 new properties this year. Keight Hotel Opatija, Curio Collection by Hilton marks the brand’s debut in Croatia and its 40th country milestone. Additional first-in-country entries in 2024 include Grand Hotel Vilnius in Lithuania and Kwetu Nairobi in Kenya; the soon-to-open Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort in the Dominican Republic; and nine first quarter signings in new markets such as Romania, Thailand, and Mykonos poise the brand for continued growth.
Graduate by Hilton
In a strategic move to enhance market reach and diversify its offerings, Hilton has welcomed Graduate Hotels into its lifestyle category. This addition brings a unique blend of collegiate charm and nostalgia, targeting key customer segments that seek localized travel experiences. The brand currently has a portfolio of more than 35 properties open or in the pipeline, with Graduate Princeton and Graduate Auburn scheduled to open in 2024. With thousands of colleges and universities around the world, the addressable market for the Graduate brand is 400-500 hotels globally.
Motto by Hilton
Featuring flexible spaces and dynamic design inspired by the location, Motto by Hilton connects guests and locals to the center of it all. The brand continues expanding its footprint, most recently debuting in South America with Motto by Hilton Cusco. With robust expansion plans, Motto by Hilton is set to be in 10 countries by 2026, further cementing its position as a global player in the lifestyle hotel segment. As the first hotel of its kind in Asia, Motto by Hilton Hong Kong Soho will debut in late 2024 and the brand will also expand into Bentonville, Arkansas, later this year.
Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Each Tapestry Collection by Hilton property boasts a unique and vibrant personality crafted through elevated design and locally inspired food and beverage, offering guests authentic experiences in diverse destinations. After celebrating its 100th opening in 2023, the brand is now on track to reach its 150th opening this year. With a strong pipeline of more than 100 properties, showcasing significant expansion in the independent hotel segment and market penetration, especially through conversions, Tapestry is expanding in high barrier-to-entry markets in Europe where small boutique properties are looking for an engine to help them grow. A number of first-in-country milestones are slated for the brand, with openings planned in Thailand, Paraguay and Türkiye. Later this year, the first Hilton in Bermuda will open with Bermudiana Beach Resort, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.
Tempo by Hilton
With a stylish, contemporary experience tailored to the needs of active, ambitious travelers, Tempo by Hilton features purposefully designed guest rooms, wellness-focused amenities, and balanced food & beverage options to empower guests to maintain their routines and thrive. Tempo by Hilton is rapidly expanding its footprint with recent and upcoming openings in Times Square, Nashville, Louisville and Raleigh, and expects to have approximately 30 hotels open by 2026.
June 6 2024
Travel & Tourism in China set to surpass pre-pandemic levels this year
The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) has revealed today that China’s Travel & Tourism sector is set to inject a record-breaking ¥12.62TN into the national economy by the end of this year.
In partnership with Oxford Economics, a world leader in global economic forecasting, WTTC’s latest research shows that domestic travel spend is also set to reach new heights this year – expected to contribute ¥6.79TN into China’s economy in 2024.
According to the global tourism body, employment in Travel & Tourism is expected to represent 10.6% of all jobs in the country this year, although just 2% behind 2019 levels.
Yet despite this growth in GDP contribution and with job numbers returning to pre-pandemic levels, international visitor spending is expected to remain more than 25% behind 2019 levels this year.
One of the last major economies to reopen its borders after the COVID-19 pandemic, China’s late reopening to international visitors in 2023, had a significant impact on Travel & Tourism’s full recovery.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said; “While China’s Travel & Tourism sector has shown signs of resilience, with a strong recovery in both its economic contribution and domestic travel spend, the much later reopening has meant international travel spend is off the pace.
“The new, more simplified visa application process is certainly a step in the right direction and should see more visitors from overseas this year and next.”
A look back at 2023
Last year, China’s Travel & Tourism contributed ¥9.2TN to the economy, 24% behind 2019 levels, and while jobs in the sector rose by almost 16%, the total number of people employed in the sector remained 4.8MN behind the previous peak, at 77.47MN.
Spending by domestic travellers also experienced slower growth last year, reaching just over ¥5TN, 17.2% behind 2019, while international travel spending hit just over ¥406BN – almost 58% behind.
Across Northeast Asia Travel & Tourism in Northeast Asia is expected to grow by more than 29% this year to reach a record-breaking USD 2.3TN, whilst jobs could reach more than 89.5MN, just behind 2019 levels.
International spending is expected to reach more than USD 250BN this year, while domestic visitor spending is set to reach an all-time high of USD 1.2TN, surpassing the pre-pandemic level by almost 10%.
Visit the Economic Impact data at the WTTC Research Hub
This research was carried out in partnership with Oxford Economics. All values are in constant 2023 prices and exchange rates, as reported in March 2024.
Northeast Asia economies include China, Hong Kong (SAR), Japan, Macao (SAR), Mongolia, South Korea, and Taiwan (China).
June 5 2024
International tourism reached 97% of pre-pandemic levels in the first quarter of 2024
According to UN Tourism, more than 285 million tourists travelled internationally in January-March, about 20% more than the first quarter of 2023, underscoring the sector’s near-complete recovery from the impacts of the pandemic.
In 2023 international tourist arrivals recovered 89% of 2019 levels and export revenues from tourism 96%, while direct tourism GDP reached the same levels as in 2019.
UN Tourism’s projection for 2024 points to a full recovery of international tourism with arrivals growing 2% above 2019 levels. In line with this, the newest data released by the UN specialized agency for tourism show that:
- The Middle East saw the strongest relative growth, with international arrivals exceeding by 36% pre-pandemic levels in Q1 2024, or 4% above Q1 2023. This follows an extraordinary performance in 2023, when the Middle East became the first world region to recover pre-pandemic numbers (+22%).
- Europe, the world’s largest destination region, exceeded pre-pandemic levels in a quarter for the first time (+1% from Q1 2019). The region recorded 120 million international tourists in the first three months of the year, backed by robust intra-regional demand.
- Africa welcomed 5% more arrivals in the first quarter of 2024 than in Q1 2019, and 13% more than in Q1 2023.
- The Americas practically recovered pre-pandemic numbers this first quarter, with arrivals reaching 99% of 2019 levels.
- International tourism is experiencing a rapid recovery in Asia and the Pacific where arrivals reached 82% of pre-pandemic levels in Q1 2024, after recovering 65% in the year 2023.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The recovery of the sector is very welcome news for our economies and the livelihoods of millions. Yet it also recalls the need to ensure adequate tourism policies and destination management, aiming to advance sustainability and inclusion, while addressing the externalities and impact of the sector on resources and communities”.
By subregions, North Africa saw the strongest performance in Q1 2024 with 23% more international arrivals than before the pandemic, followed by Central America (+15%), the Caribbean and Western Europe (both +7%). Southern Mediterranean Europe exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 1%, while South America virtually reached 2019 levels. Northern Europe recovered 98% of pre-pandemic levels, while Subsaharan Africa and North America both recovered 95%.
According to available data, many destinations across the world continued to achieve strong results in Q1 2024, including Qatar (+177% versus Q1 2019), Albania (+121%), Saudi Arabia (+98%), El Salvador (+90%), Tanzania (+53%), Curaçao (+45%), Serbia (+43%), Turks and Caicos (+42%), Guatemala (+41%) and Bulgaria (+38%).
The robust performance of international tourism can also be seen in the UN Tourism Confidence Index which reached 130 points (on a scale of 0 to 200) for the period January-April, above the expectations (122) expressed for this period in mid-January.
Receipts
International tourism receipts reached USD 1.5 trillion in 2023, meaning a complete recovery of pre-pandemic levels in nominal terms, but 97% in real terms, adjusting for inflation.
By regions, Europe generated the highest receipts in 2023, with destinations earning USD 660 billion, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 7% in real terms. Receipts in the Middle East climbed 33% above 2019 levels. The Americas recovered 96% of its pre-pandemic earnings in 2023 and Africa 95%. Asia and the Pacific earned 78% of its pre-crisis receipts, a remarkable result when compared to its 65% recovery in arrivals last year.
Total export revenues from international tourism, including both receipts and passenger transport, reached USD 1.7 trillion in 2023, about 96% of pre-pandemic levels in real terms. Tourism direct GDP recovered pre-pandemic levels, reaching an estimated USD 3.3 trillion in 2023, equivalent to 3% of global GDP.
Several destinations achieved remarkable results in terms of receipts in the first quarter of 2024 as compared to 2019 levels based on available data, including Serbia (+127%), Türkiye (+82%), Pakistan (+72%), Tanzania (+62%), Portugal (+61%), Romania (+57%), Japan (+53%), Mongolia (+50%), Mauritius (+46%) and Morocco (+44%).
Looking ahead to a full recovery globally in 2024
International tourism is expected to recover completely in 2024 backed by strong demand, enhanced air connectivity and the continued recovery of China and other major Asian markets.
The latest UN Tourism Confidence Index shows positive prospects for the upcoming summer season, with a score of 130 for the period May-August 2024 (on a scale of 0 to 200), reflecting more upbeat sentiment than earlier this year. Some 62% of tourism experts participating in the Confidence survey expressed better (53%) or much better (9%) expectations for this 4-month period, covering the Northern Hemisphere summer season, while 31% foresee similar performance as in 2023.
Challenges remain
According to the UN Tourism Panel of Experts, economic and geopolitical headwinds continue to pose significant challenges to international tourism and confidence levels.
IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook (April 2024) points to a steady but slow economic recovery, though mixed by region. At the same time, persisting inflation, high interest rates, volatile oil prices and disruptions to trade continue to translate into high transport and accommodations costs.
Tourists are expected to continue to seek value for money and travel closer to home in response to elevated prices and the overall economic challenges, while extreme temperatures and other weather events could impact the destination choice of many travellers. This is increasingly mentioned by the UN Tourism Panel of Experts as a concern for the sector.
Uncertainty derived from the Russian aggression against Ukraine, the Hamas-Israel conflict and other mounting geopolitical tensions, are also important downside risks for international tourism.
As international tourism continues to recover and expand, fuelling economic growth and employment around the world, governments will need to continue adapting and enhancing their management of tourism at the national and local level to ensure communities and residents are at the center of this development.
June 3 2024
HO CHI MINH CITY RIVER FESTIVAL 2024
Ho Chi Minh City always knows how to captivate visitors with its unique charm, vibrant lifestyle, and impressive cultural and historical heritage. Adding to its allure, the city’s annual festivals have carved out a distinctive identity, drawing an ever-growing number of tourists. The Ho Chi Minh City River Festival, one of the most anticipated summer festivals, exemplifies this magnetic appeal.
Aiming to preserve and honor cultural heritage and the city’s rivers and canals, the Ho Chi Minh City River Festival 2024 introduces numerous enhancements in both scale and program quality. This year’s festival will span 10 continuous days from May 31 to June 9, 2024, across multiple locations in the city. Remarkably, it will strengthen connections with the Mekong Delta and Southeast provinces.
Locals and tourists will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities, spectacular fireworks, vibrant river parades, and immersive experiences such as recreating the Western floating market, a fruit week, open river swimming competitions, stand-up paddleboarding championships, jet ski performances, and artistic light decorations. Throughout the festival, over 100 businesses will offer promotional discounts from 10% to 60% on shopping, dining, and sightseeing services.
Honoring the Cultural and Historical Values of a City Rich in Heritage
The event’s highlight is the opening art program titled “The Legendary Voyage”, which will be scheduled at 8 PM on May 31, 2024, at the Nha Rong Wharf – Saigon Port. This spectacular musical drama will feature over 1,000 performers and is expected to attract 9,000 live attendees. The production vividly recounts the poignant and epic journey of the great leader Ho Chi Minh as he sought a path to national liberation. Harmonizing elements of cinema, music, and dance, the performance will also utilize cutting-edge technologies such as 3D mapping, moving water stages, drone shows, and fireworks. These innovative presentations aim to transform historical narratives into cultural tourism products, spreading national values and spreading the image of Vietnam and its people to both domestic and international audiences.
Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism
May 27 2024
ITB China 2024 Kicks Off, Heralding New Growth for the Global Tourism Industry
ITB China, the premier B2B trade show dedicated to the Chinese travel market, launches today at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center.
Running from 27 to 29 May, this year’s event boasts an impressive lineup with over 600 exhibitors from more than 80 countries and regions, 1,000+ hand-selected buyers, and 240 media representatives. With a 60% increase in scale compared to last year, ITB China welcomes 13 new destinations on the show floor and quite many first-time commercial participants.
The Maldives, as the Partner Destination, significantly expands its presence, showcasing diverse products and activities. ITB China 2024 has adopted the inspiring theme “Thrive in Transformation, Reach New Heights. Together”, reflecting the importance of adaptability and innovation in the travel industry, as well as the huge untapped potential of the Chinese travel market.
Mr. David Axiotis, Vice President China at Messe Berlin GmbH says: “This year’s ITB China will once again be a truly remarkable event. Since 2023, China’s travel market has been on a steady positive trajectory, and with the impact of improved visa policies and increased flight capacity, China’s travel market is showing strong signs of growth at the start of 2024. The buyer market this year is buzzing with even stronger demand and a much larger number of participants compared to last year. ITB China supports our global partners in finding their Chinese counterparts and reaching new heights for their China travel business in the coming years.”
May 22 2024
2024 ITB China Conference Unveils A Dynamic Agenda
ITB China, the leading platform for the Chinese travel industry, is unveiling its comprehensive conference program, embodying the spirit of its new slogan “Thrive in Transformation, Reach New Heights. Together.” Through a variety of keynote speeches, panel discussions and dialogues, ITB China aims to empower industry professionals to adapt, innovate, and excel in the face of challenges, while fostering collaboration and mutual support.
The highly anticipated three-day conference will be held from 27 to 29 May at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center alongside ITB China. China’s travel think tank promises to be an unparalleled gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders, including representatives from Partner Destination Maldives, Trip.com, HUAWEI, CTG Travel, China Association of Travel Services (CATS), Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), European Travel Commission, German Travel Association (DRV), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) and many more. With approximately 100 distinguished speakers covering about 50 thought-provoking topics, attendees can expect engaging discussions on industry hotspots and emerging trends, providing a platform to connect with industry key opinion leaders.
The ITB China Conference is organized in collaboration with ITB China co-host and partner, TravelDaily. It will delve into a wide array of topics to address the evolving needs of industry professionals from both supply chain and procurement perspective, offering profound insights into the Chinese and global tourism market. The conference
will feature five main segments focusing on China Outbound Travel, China Inbound Travel, the China-Europe Travel Dialogue, MICE & Business Travel and Travel Technology.
The ITB China Conference will utilize two stages, one in the Conference Room and the other in the Presentation Hub. The detailed agenda for each day of the conference includes various keynote speeches, panel discussions, and dialogues from industry tycoons and thought leaders, highlighting key themes in outbound and inbound travel, sustainability, corporate procurement strategies and more.
Day 1: 27 May 2024 | Conference Room
Starting with the opening session in the morning, top level representatives of the organizer and host ITB China, Partner Destination Maldives, Trip.com Group, and China Association Of Travel Services, will deliver welcome greetings to attendees onsite and across the world via live-streaming.
In the afternoon, outbound industry stakeholders convene at ITB China for a series of informative sessions on the key topics shaping the future of global travel. Supply chain leaders and distributors examine collaborative pathways to stimulate the resurgence of China’s outbound tourism sector. Meanwhile overseas destinations are discussing innovative approaches that leverage the dynamic power of new media platforms to resonate with and captivate the younger generation, igniting a passion for international exploration.
Opening
10:30-10:50: Welcome speech by Lydia Li, Project Director ITB China
10:50-11:10: Keynote speech by Partner Destination-Maldives, Mr. lbrahim Faisal, Minister at the Ministry of Tourism Maldives
11:10-11:30: Keynote speech by Mr. Xing Xiong, COO of Trip.com Group on Insights into the 2024 Civil Aviation Market
11:30-11:50: Keynote speech by Ms Baiyu Chen, President of China Association Of Travel Services /Guangzhou Lingnan Group Holdings Co., Ltd, on Prospects for International Tourism Cooperation and Development
Outbound Travel Session
14:00-14:20: Dialogue on Changes in tourism demand and business model innovation of travel agencies led by Charlie Li from TravelDaily and Dongjie Guo from HCG Travel Group.
14:20-14:40: Keynote speech by Maria Ramiro, Director Of Huawei Petal Ads European Business Development of Huawei Software Technologies Co., Ltd.
14:40-15:20: Panel discussion on boosting the recovery for China’s outbound travel, featuring industry experts such as Kuth Huang from GZL INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL SERVICE LTD., Baichuan Hu from Convergent International Travel（CIT）, Ivy Li Qi from Fliggy, Liu Jianbin from Shangchuanba.com/Shanghai Stellar Internation Travel Service Co. and Charlie Li from TravelDaily.
15:20-15:40: Keynote speech by Bryan Xiao, Founder & CEO of JNE Group about the comparison and outlook of consumption data of China’s mainstream outbound tourism before and after the pandemic.
15:40-16:20: Panel discussion on New Media and Travel, leveraging new media to attract young people, with insights from Mr. Amr Elkady, from Egyptian Tourism Authority, Luis Miguel Cabello from PROMPERU, Influencer & KOL Yina Wei, Xu Jianian from Oceanengine and George Cao from Dragon Trail International.
16:20-17:00: Panel discussion on Adventure Travel, driving sustainability through adventure, featuring David Wu from Visit Finland, Glen Fu from 54traveler Planet David Cheng from Benchmark Adventure, Joe Zou from Hurtigruten Group and Miya Liu from Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA).
Day 2: 28 May 2024 | Conference Room
In the morning, the inbound travel sessions will gather industry insiders to discuss how inbound tourism can strengthen its product advantages and increase visibility to cope with the ongoing shift in demand, and how to ride the wave of opportunities and dividends from the growing trend of inbound tourism.
In the afternoon, the China–Europe Travel Dialogue will take place just after the MOU signing ceremony between ITB China and DRV, the leading German Travel Association. With insights into China’s outlook for European source markets, industry leaders are primed to capitalize on emerging opportunities and navigate potential challenges. The spotlight also shines on the German outbound market, where discussions center on collaborative strategies and future prospects for mutual growth. Moreover, the recent introduction of China’s visa-free policy presents both opportunities and hurdles for the inbound tourism recovery of European source markets, underscoring the need for agility and innovation in destination management. Similarly, the changes in demand and trends of Chinese tourists returning to European destinations are noteworthy as well.
Inbound Travel Session
10:00-10:25: Keynote speech on Keeping pace with outbound and domestic travel – Opportunities for the growth of inbound travel to China by Aaron Goldring, Senior Economist from Tourism Economics, An Oxford Economics Company.
10:25-11:05: Panel discussion on responding to changes in demand from inbound customers, featuring insights from industry leaders and experts such as Charlie Li from TravelDaily, Nan Zhang from China Comfort Tourism Group, Annie Liew from Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels, Edwin Zhang from Mastercard and Hanming Li from TravelDaily.
11:05-11:45: Panel discussion on strengthening China’s inbound tourism marketing, featuring Yiming Hu of GDCTS, Steven Ler of NATAS, Oliver Graue of FVW Medien and YU MingYang of Shanghai Jiao Tong University as speakers. The session will be moderated by Lydia Li from ITB China .
11:45-12:15: Dialogue on innovation of inbound tourism products in the new era, led by Charlie Li from TravelDaily, Rebecca Smith from Wendy Wu Tours UK and Ping Liu from China Star.
China–Europe Travel Dialogue
14:00-14:15: Organizer welcoming session by Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin
14:15-14:30: Keynote on the German outbound market: Developments, perspectives and potential for future collaboration with Norbert Fiebig, President, German Travel Association (DRV).
14:30–15.20: Panel discussion on China’s visa-free policy and the opening up of opportunities and challenges for the inbound tourism recovery of European source markets. featuring Norbert Fiebig from German Travel Association (DRV), WAN Ting from Network of International Culturalink Entities of Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, Kexiong Zhang, from CTG Travel/Inbound Tourism Branch of China Association of Travel Services , and Aaron Goldring from Tourism Economics, An Oxford Economics Company. The session will be moderated by Sun WeiJia, former Director General from International Exchange and Cooperation Department of Counsellors’ Office of the State Council.
15:20-15:30: Keynote speech by Petra Hedorfer, CEO, German National Tourist Board.
15:30-1610: Panel discussion on development trends of Chinese tourists returning to European destinations, with insights from industry leaders and representatives from various companies and destinations, led by María Llinares from TOURSPAIN, Bond Cao from UTour Group Co., Ltd., Wen Jiang from Trip.com and Lydia Li from ITB China.
Day 3: 29 May 2024 | Conference Room
From a procurement perspective, a series of keynote speeches will be delivered by key industry players focusing on corporate/MICE purchasing including travel products, demands, selection preferences, cost control and more.
Corporate/MICE Purchasing Session
10:00-11.35: A series of keynote speeches will be delivered by corporate procurement managers focusing on procurement and supply chain management in the MICE and business travel industry, covering topics such as cost control, digitization, procurement strategy, corporate ESG and MICE procurement. The keynote speakers include speakers such as Jacky from Yiche, Allen from Yinlian, Gordon from Sensetime, Kevin from Fanshu, Johnny from Waterdrop, Lance Liu from Purchasing and Supply Chain Coalition(CPSC) and Alan Li from Grandall Law Firm (Shanghai).
11:35-12:00: The conference will conclude with a panel discussion on the Keypoints of MICE Procurement with key industry leaders, summarizing the insights gained and outlining future directions for the industry, Moderated by Yvonne from Liepin, speakers include Ivy from Yiche, Gordon from Sensetime, Kevin from Fanshu, Johnny from Waterdrop.
Trade Visitor and Media Registration for ITB China 2024 are now open. All attendees are required to complete their online registration prior to the event.