Monday, 4 January 2021

Central localities on joint tourism drive

Thua Thien-Hue, Quang Nam and Da Nang have agreed to develop a joint tourism promotion programme to boost travel demand to the central region.

Different tour promotions are being offered by travel agencies, resorts and airlines to lure people to the world heritage sites in central Vietnam as well as MICE (Meeting, Incentives, Conference, Exhibitions) tourism and golf tours from this December through 2021.

National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways in cooperation resort developers Vinpearl, Furama and Sheraton are jointly offering special package tours and accommodation till February 2021.

Destinations, museums and popular sites in Da Nang, Hue and Hoi An are also offering discounts from 50-100 percent on entrance tickets for tourists from this December to June 2021.

About 200 resorts, hotels and restaurants in the three localities have agreed to offer promotions from 20-40 per cent for tours in December of 2020.

Local travellers have a chance to stay at luxury resorts and hotels in the region from 690,000 VND (30 USD) to 1.1 million VND (48 USD) per night, while spa and cuisine services are ranging from 90,000 VND (4 USD) to 200,000 VND (8.7 USD).

“The promotion aims to offer local travellers the chance to explore new destinations and the hospitality of the three localities in central Vietnam. It will help refresh services and draw interest from tourists as well,” said director of the municipal Tourism Department Truong Thi Hong Hanh.

“We are committed to offering the best quality, while ensuring we control the COVID-19 pandemic for every tourist visiting the region.”

Da Nang, Quang Nam, Quang Binh and Thua Thien-Hue also announced promotion programmes at the Vietnam International Tourism Mart in Hanoi last week.

More than 100 representatives of caravan tour operators and travel agencies from Hanoi have been building links with destinations in the region to set up heritage routes from the North to central coastal Vietnam.

Da Nang is seen as a smooth logistics site for tourism in central Vietnam as the city hosts 23 daily direct flights with 2.35 million tourists, while more than 100 cruises including the Costa Atlantica and Seabourn Ovation have docked at Tien Sa Port to connect Hoi An and Hue.

In 2019, Joseph C. Lewis, a British businessman and investor, docked his yacht the Aviva at Tien Sa Port for a short visit to Da Nang and Hội An, seeking permission to develop an international marina on the Han River in the future.

Last week, the Ariyana Convention Centre in Da Nang was honoured as the best convention centre in Southeast Asia.

“The award is a testament to our efforts, capacity and ability to provide leading services to the MICE industry in Southeast Asia with our Ariyana Convention Centre,” said Brett Burton, area general manager of Furama Resort & Villa Danang, Ariyana Convention Centre.

Road and train trips are available from Da Nang to two UNESCO-recognised world heritage sites – Hoi An and the My Son Sanctuary – and the world biosphere reserve Cham Island-Hoi An in Quang Nam, as well as the Hue Monuments complex within one or two hours.

The unique cultural relics, festivals, folk songs, games and cuisine are another draw to the region.

Photo: Kids and tourists take part in sporting activities on a beach in Da Nang city (Photo: VNA)

Centara unveils new "Cosi Krabi Ao Nang beach" for the freedom loving traveller

Centara Hotels & Resorts has debuted its COSI brand in southwest Thailand with the opening of COSI Krabi Ao Nang Beach.

Styled as “The Lifestyle Hotel for the Freedom Loving Traveller”, COSI Krabi Ao Nang follows in the trendsetting footsteps of its sister hotels in Koh Samui and Pattaya.

Capturing the youthful energy of the hotel is a series of red hawk murals – a motif chosen to symbolise freedom – specially created for COSI Krabi by award-winning street artist Rukkit Kuanhaweth.

COSI’s signature social vibe is cultivated with The Hub, the heart of the hotel designed as a chill-out space to watch a film or a game, get some work done at the coworking space, and mingle with like-minded travellers any time day or night.

Also central to the COSI lifestyle is 24-hour convenience, which, in addition to the 24-hr Hub, extends to a café, COSI Fit fitness centre, and a self-service laundromat, all open around the clock.

The smart hotel provides all the necessary comforts for today’s connected generation. Each of COSI Krabi’s 142 rooms comes fully equipped with power shower, free Wi-Fi, Smart TV, bedside USB ports, in-room safe, and a small retro fridge. Guests have a choice of three room types, including king or twin bed configurations, and a COSI Plus room which features a king bed and bunk bed, ideal for a small group of friends or young family seeking the social and connected COSI experience.

When COSI guests are not out and about exploring all that Krabi has to offer, they can unwind at the hotel’s rooftop pool, complete with underwater speakers, and enjoy the stunning views of Ao Nang’s iconic limestone rocks.

Rock climbing holds adorn feature walls around the hotel, referencing Krabi’s reputation as a world-class rock climbing and bouldering destination. In the guest rooms, headboard designs draw inspiration from iconic long-tail boats that ply the waters in southern Thailand.

Guests who wish to explore more of the destination need not go far, as the hotel is located within walking distance from Ao Nang Beach and the town’s nightlife and restaurants. Further afield, adventure-loving travellers can visit and explore the region’s caves, go rock climbing on its soaring limestone cliffs, and go in search of offshore island gems.

“Krabi is a beautiful destination, and with the opening of COSI Krabi, we look forward to providing a trendy base for freedom-loving travellers exploring the region. After months of preparation, my team and I are very excited to start welcoming guests,” said Rutjiret Ananphong, General Manager, COSI Krabi Ao Nang Beach.

To celebrate its opening, COSI Krabi Ao Nang is offering an “Even Stronger Together” package with rates starting at THB 720, which includes THB 100 food & drink credit per person per night. Guests can also enjoy free early check-in from 9 a.m., and late check-out up to 9 p.m. for stays on Sundays to Thursdays, subject to availability.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Issue 5 of Family Holiday Destinations' Digital Magazine is out and free to read

I am pleased to announce that Issue 5 of Family Holiday Destinations' Digital Magazine is out and free to read!

Family Travel magazine is your comprehensive guide to family travel and leisure time. Whether you’re planning a holiday, a day trip or looking for activities to entertain your kids, you’ll find it all here.

We explore destinations, within Australia and overseas, which allow families to be more active and adventurous. We look at the latest film, DVD, game and toy releases. Plus we explore attractions and exhibitions and to give readers a comprehensive entertainment overview.

The Family Travel magazine events guide shares family friendly events around the world. It’s the perfect reference guide when planning weekend and school holiday activities, or if you’re wondering what will be happening in a city when you’re planning on travelling.

What’s more, the annual issue of Family Travel magazine is a guide to all things family holiday and leisure time for the coming year.

In 2020 Family Travel magazine went digital. You can read copies online here. Or grab a version for your kindle or to read offline.

Aces Hotel, Kuala Lumpur opens its doors

ACES Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, where contemporary comfort meets heritage charm, has opened its doors to guests on 16 December 2020 at the fifth floor of the Kota Raya Complex which was built in the 1960s. This brand-new hotel aims to offer a vibrant and cozy stay experience to the different needs of travelers, from no-frills affordable stays to business travels, at an attractive price.

Owned by Budi Impian Sdn Bhd, ACES Hotel is conveniently located opposite the Chinatown, one of Kuala Lumpur’s most historical and trendy areas for old and young alike. Whether you prefer to strike a bargain in Petaling Street, chow down on delicious local cuisine in a modern coffee shop or take a stroll along the River of Life, travelers will relish in the multitude of choices at the hotel’s doorstep.

Designed by Mantra Design Studio, an interior design firm specializes in the design of hotels and resorts for Berjaya Properties in Malaysia and abroad, the interiors feature a bold and inspiring lobby cum common area for guests to mingle, share holiday moments and exchange travel plans with other like-minded travelers. Guest services include 24 hours reception and reliable security for comfort and peace of mind while staying at the hotel. Grab & Go snacks and drinks kiosk, as well as an in-house self-service launderette are readily available for guest’s convenience.

The hotel’s exquisite 68 rooms are thoughtfully designed to optimize space with smart storage solutions like stylish ceiling-mounted clothes rail and a functional writing desk. The various room categories also offer a wide range of amenities including free Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel, en-suite bathroom with both handheld and rainfall shower heads, toiletries and a 42-inch Full HD TV.

“We are very proud to have ACES Hotel as part of our growing portfolio. This contemporary accommodation in the heart of the city center is perfect for travelers who values stylish comfort without having to pay a hefty price”, says May Cheong @ Nurul Hidayah, Hotel Manager of Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.

ACES Hotel is also perfectly situated for those who would like to explore the rest of Kuala Lumpur easily and on a budget. Various modes of public transportation are accessible within walking distance including Kota Raya Bus Terminal, Plaza Rakyat LRT Station, Pasar Seni MRT Station, Masjid Jamek and Pasar Seni LRT Station. Popular areas of interest nearby include Pudu, Chow Kit and Bukit Bintang. From flea markets to artisan handicrafts, local street food to hipster cafés, find it all at the ever-bustling Chinatown.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

LOVE FOR SYDNEY REACHES GREAT HEIGHTS

Sydneysiders and visitors are invited to enjoy the Emerald City from the top of the city’s tallest building with the new Sydney Tower VIP Experience.

Sydney Tower Eye and SkyFeast have joined forces to create an awe-inspiring, unforgettable experience towering above the city.

The Sydney Tower VIP Experience offers participants the opportunity to take in the city from the Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck, before circumnavigating the outside of Sydney Tower and feeling like they are walking on air, 268 metres above the city streets down below.

After collecting their SKYWALK photo pack, participants are escorted downstairs for a feast at the recently relaunched SkyFeast restaurants, which offers 360-degree revolving views of the city and stunning harbour.

The brand-new package supports Destination NSW’s Sydney. Love It Like You Mean It campaign which encourages Sydneysiders to show their love for their home city by dining out, visiting an attraction, museum, gallery, or having a staycation.

The Sydney Tower VIP Experience is available from Thursdays to Mondays and costs $150 for adults and $120 for children aged 10+.

Bookings are essential – click here for more information

CHEERS FROM THE ROOFTOPS

Festive cheers and Happy Holidays to all from the Rooftops of Kuala Lumpur (KL).

Let's get started with a locally inspired cocktail, or if you're keen a craft beer infused with typically Malaysian flavours that's if you are ready to explore some of the best-hidden gems of KL's nightlife?

KL is known to many as a city that never sleeps. If you thought KL is vibrant during the day, wait until the sun goes down. KL as a cosmopolitan capital has plenty of watering holes and well-hidden underground venues to sophisticated rooftop clubs with talented DJs spinning dance-worthy tunes. Alcohol may be expensive on the whole, but there's always a bargain to be had if you look in the right places – and at the right times. Look out for the Happy Hours.

Good drinks, loud cheers and coolest bars - this winning combination can be experienced everywhere in KL. To mention a few such as Heli Pad Rooftop Bar, Changkat Bukit Bintang to Petaling Street. It caters for all from luxury to a shoestring budget.

Rooftop Bars are massively popular offering classy restaurants and cocktail lounges with great ambience and breathtaking views of KL. One can celebrate or enjoy a drink and watch the sunset with a glamorous view of the city on the horizon. Such experience can be found at Marini's at 57, Heli Lounge Bar, Sky Bar and Troika Sky Dining to name a few…

Changkat Bukit Bintang, on the other hand, is widely regarded as KL's party venue and the dynamic focus of KL nightlife. It is easily accessible from prominent landmarks of KL. This narrow avenue is filled with international restaurants, nightclubs with cocktails bars, and vibrant pubs with DJs spinning music, ranging from house and electro to remixed pop and hip-hop tunes. While its nightlife scene is always changing, there are several crowd-favourite such as Pisco Bar, Havana Bar & Grill, and The Rabbit Hole.

Petaling Street in Chinatown KL is in a league of its own. It's not about rows of clubs, pubs and bars entertaining, but the colourful markets that dominate the nightlife scene here. One can find several nightlife hotspots here, from hostels fitted with makeshift rooftop bars to speakeasies and cocktail bars hidden along a narrow alleyway. They blend in really well with the traditional street food that has been served in this area for many years now. To name a few bars such as PS150, The Attic Bar and The Reggae Bar.

However, if you're looking for a quiet night, you can always stop at a traditional coffee shop, or 'Kopitiam', which locals frequent at night for Chinese food, coffee and tea. There is something very relaxing about sitting on the side streets, watching the nightlife pass you by.

Dream now and travel later as Malaysia awaits you to be a part of this experience.
Stay Safe, till we reconnect in the New Year.
Website:  www.malaysia.travel

ONE YEAR AFTER LISTING, PLAIN OF JARS IS A WORLD HERITAGE INDICATOR AMID PANDEMIC

Most sites see a dramatic change after being put on the World Heritage List. Visitor numbers shoot up, investors both domestic and international flock to the site, and there is a flurry of media interest and community activity. Yet, one year after the listing of the Plain of Jars in Lao PDR in July 2019, things have been quiet, largely because of the impacts of COVID-19.

While over-enthusiastic development has been the biggest headache for many World Heritage sites, an absolute dearth of footfalls and economic activity can be equally worrying. Although conservation is the primary purpose for listing, many countries seek recognition with a more pragmatic view of increasing the international profile and earning income for communities.

Prior to listing last year, Lao authorities in cooperation with UNESCO had been preparing the nomination dossier and management plan for 20 years. Local leaders had pinned their hopes on the new status lifting the fortunes of one of the country’s poorest provinces, which was one of the heaviest bombed areas in the 1960s and 1970s and still has a deadly legacy of unexploded ordnance. With ancient stone jars scattered on hill slopes and ridges throughout the Xieng Khuang Plateau, nearby villages play an important role in the protection strategy and stand to benefit from increased visibility.

The hoped-for World Heritage effect has only had limited impact so far, however, and life mostly goes on as usual for residents who eke out subsistence livelihoods in the rural areas near the ancient archaeological sites. “Villagers are still living as normal,” said Thongsavanh Khammanichanh, Deputy Director of Plain of Jars World Heritage Office. “They do farming and also some local business.”

Instead of the expected boom, tourism has been one of the hardest-hit sectors. As part of a nationwide shutdown, Plain of Jars sites were closed from March to May, with no visitors or outside activities allowed. Since then, the sites have resumed full operations, but visitor numbers are down 70 per cent compared with last year since the country is still closed to outside visitors.

“A lot of local tourism-related businesses have simply closed for now,” tourism expert Tara Gujadhur said. “They can’t pay salaries or overheads for such low visitation that is primarily over the weekends. This is a problematic cycle of travellers not wanting to visit if they feel that the tourism services won’t be operating as usual, but then businesses not opening because of low visitation.”

Short and long-term recovery
As part of the short-term recovery, authorities are looking to domestic visitors to fill in the gaps. “We now promote more domestic visits mainly through the social media and some advertisement on TV and radio,” Mr Thongsavanh said. “However, many main events have not yet been allowed such as festivals and other celebrations.” Even the large celebration to commemorate World Heritage status planned for earlier this year has been put on hold indefinitely.

“The challenge is keeping domestic travellers for a longer stay in the area, and visiting more than just Jar Site 1,” Ms Gujadhur said. “If we can entice them, and in the future international tourists, to go to the lesser-known sites, there will be more opportunities for villages around the sites to earn money through selling souvenirs, opening small restaurants, and provide services and activities. And these sites are highly interesting, with stunning nature and views.”

As part of the Laos-New Zealand Tourism Support Program, a new tourism development plan encourages visitors to visit multiple sites through a heritage passport scheme. The unique characteristics of each of the different sites can also be promoted to niche markets. More active visitors, for instance, might be interested in hiking to some of the more rugged areas, while improved trails, visitor facilities and carefully designed amenities could diversify visitor activities at various locations.

The downtime is providing opportunities to improve the presentation and management of the sites. Recent visitors have been greeted by new signs explaining various World Heritage components that have been implemented with New Zealand’s support. The signs complement earlier investments overhauling the Xieng Khouang provincial museum and upgrading facilities at the marquee Site 1 including a visitor centre, cafe, handicraft shops, parking and toilets.

This new visitor infrastructure is also helping to disseminate research findings from an ongoing Lao-Australian research project that is yielding insights into the once enigmatic site. A variety of human burials have been uncovered near the jars, along with a wide range of grave goods and other traces of funerary practices.

Read the full article at UNESCO: https://bangkok.unesco.org/content/covid-quiet
Tags: COVID-19 impact, Lao PDR, UNESCO, World Heritage Sites

Explore more stories about travel and tourism in the Greater Mekong Subregion. 

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Sunday, 3 January 2021

ITB China announces two industry events in Beijing and Shanghai next year

Following the successful premiere of the ITB China Industry Meetup Events in 2020, and traveler confidence recovering swiftly in China, the ITB China organizers have announced to launch an ITB China Special Edition in 2021. 

The two-day business event will make its debut in Beijing from 7 - 8 May 2021, to deliver an innovative showcase for business exchanges while providing a stage for sharing industry insights for the travel industry. 

The regular edition of ITB China 2021, together with the accompanying ITB China Conference in Shanghai, is being rescheduled to 24 - 26 November 2021.

“Fueled by promising news about vaccine developments we all anticipate upward trends in 2021. The way to real market recovery, however, will be a steady and gradual one that our industry will have to walk jointly in order to reach a post pandemic new normal”, said Mr. David Axiotis, General Manager of ITB China, further adding: “ITB China successfully kicked off the journey to recovery for its partners in China by premiering the ITB China Industry MeetUp event series in six key regions across China over the past three months. As the next major milestone, ITB China is once again leading the way with a tailor-made event format, the ITB China Special Edition 2021. Taking place in Beijing in spring next year, we expect a promising outlook on cross-border travel and emerging business opportunities at that time. Lastly, ITB China 2021 in Shanghai is set to once again serve as the leading platform to connect with the world’s largest travel source market, strategically rescheduled to the end of the year, paving the way for a strong rebound of the industry in 2022.”

The ITB China Special Edition in Beijing, set to take place from 7 - 8 May 2021, is a newly designed and hybrid event format that will feature two exclusive prescheduled meeting sessions with hand-selected Chinese buyers, representing the whole bandwidth of Leisure, MICE, Corporate and Travel Technology. A total of 1500 participants are expected to join networking events to establish new valuable contacts, as well as attend an extensive series of content sessions by C-level industry experts, focusing on new traveler demands and travel trends.

Additionally, the hybrid character of the event will be set up for those professionals who are not able to attend in person. Suppliers will be offered a solution for remote participation with an easy-to-exhibit package. The keynote speeches and panel discussions during the conferences will be made available to a global audience online through instant live streaming, while simultaneous artificial intelligence-based translation in different languages will be offered for all content sessions.

“The progressive recovery of the Chinese travel market is a highly encouraging sign to the tourism sector in Europe. Together with our members, we will continue monitoring the latest changes in the industry and building on our close cooperation with Chinese partners to prepare for a speedy recovery of international travel as soon as the health situation allows. We are looking forward to working with ITB China next year!”, said Mr. Eduardo Santander, Executive Director of the European Travel Commission.

ITB China, the largest B2B exclusive travel trade show in China, set to take place from 24 - 26 November 2021 in Shanghai, will keep revitalizing business relations between the Chinese and global travel industry during and after this major transformation of the market, and help global suppliers and Chinese agencies to quickly chart the newly developed travel business landscape in China.

“Given the impact of COVID-19, the structure of the Chinese travel industry and consumer demand has undergone major changes. Therefore, it is crucial to accelerate the progress of the digitalization of the business world, in which basic technologies improve the efficiency of information interactions in the upstream and downstream parts of the value chain, and update and iterate products quickly”, said Mr. He Yong, President of HCG Travel Group: “I would like to thank ITB China for organizing the Industry MeetUp events in the challenging year 2020 and sparing no effort to provide the industry a communication platform. We look forward to connecting with more partners at all ITB China events next year to explore desirable travel products and resources and better serve our customers,” he added.

The ITB China Industry MeetUp events, a specially designed networking format to bring together experts and representatives from the industry, were successfully held in six major cities in China from September to November 2020. The events attracted 53 sponsors and more than 1070 professionals. Altogether 95 speakers covering 36 topics discussed new market demands and effective market solutions in China. Check more details in the event fact sheet.

Early committed exhibitors enjoy a 10% early bird discount on their ITB China Special Edition stand rental by registering before 31 Jan 2021.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Double Tree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort Opens in South Eastern Sri Lanka

Hilton announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila, a new three-story, 78-room modern resort in Weerawila, Sri Lanka. 

Located amongst lush bird sanctuaries and in the midst of three of Asia’s most visited wildlife parks, the resort is set apart by an exquisite ballroom, nature-inspired meeting spaces, stunning restaurants and bars, which makes DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort a natural choice for business and leisure travelers alike. 

The unique features of the resort, coupled with its location in the heart of Weerawila, makes it a prime choice for domestic and international travelers alike. 

As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort is participating in the Hilton Clean Stay Program to help guests enjoy a clean and safe experience during their stay. 

The new standards under Hilton Clean Stay include a Hilton Clean Stay Room Seal to show that a room has not been accessed since being thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, additional cleaning of common areas and items, contactless check-in, innovative disinfection technology and flexible housekeeping options.

DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort is located 25 kilometers from Mattala Rajapakse International Airport – a convenient 28-minute drive away – and just over a half hour drive from Hambantota Port district, an up and coming commercial zone in the south of the country. 

The resort is also uniquely situated within the Weerawila Bird Sanctuary which is home to over 400 species of birds and just minutes away from popular tourist attractions such as Kataragama Sacred City, Bundala and Yala National Parks. 

For more details visit website Click Here

Columbus Tours (Pvt) Ltd.
No. 06, Tickell Road,
Colombo 08,
Sri Lanka.
http://www.columbustourssrilanka.com/

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Da Lat tourism honoured as national brand in 2020

A product of the tourism sector of Da Lat city in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong has been included in the list of national brand products of Vietnam for the first time.

The tourism product entitled 'Recreational Tourism Associated With Exploring Natural Tourism Resources and Culture of Da Lat', is one of 283 products of 124 enterprises granted the title this year, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

The tourism product, conducted by Dalattourist company, contains many highlights, being rich in regional cultures, history and offering a variety of services of both sightseeing, outdoor entertainment, sports and Central Highlands’ cuisine.

Also according to the decision, two other products of Da Lat – Dalat wine and Chateau Dalat wine, products of Lam Dong Food Joint Stock Company, have been recognised as Vietnam National Brands.

Dalattourist owns and runs four famous tourist destinations in the city, namely Datanla Waterfall, Langbiang Mountain, Da Lat Cable Car and Tunnel of Sculptures. Every year, such destinations welcome millions of domestic and foreign tourists.

The Vietnam National Brand Programme from 2020 to 2030 was approved by Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc in 2019. The overall goal is to build an image of Vietnam as a prestigious country in terms of high-quality goods and services, increase the pride and attractiveness of the country and people of Vietnam, contribute to promoting foreign trade development and improving national competitiveness.

As a locality where the economy depends heavily on tourism, the damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected the socio-economic development of Da Lat and Lam Dong province.

In the first eight months of this year, the total number of tourists to Da Lat was only more than 2 million, down by half compared to the figure in the same period last year.

“From June until now, the province has implemented many activities to stimulate tourism demand such as launching tourism promotions and discounts. Many enterprises providing tourism services such as dining, accommodation, sightseeing have offered discounts from 30 to 50 percent compared to normal days while many flights to Da Lat have also offered similar discounts,” said Nguyen Thi Nguyen, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Lam Dong Province.

“The province is also a safe destination as there have been no cases of COVID-19 infection. However, due to tourists’ worries and current national economic difficulties, it will take a long time for the local tourism industry to recover and develop,” she added.

Source: VNA
Photo: The cable cars enable tourists to have an aerial view of Da Lat city. (Photo: vietgiaitri.com)