Some of the popular tourists’ attractions in Hanoi increases entrance fees

Vietnam

2024 has seen a significant increase in entrance fees for several popular tourist attractions in Hanoi, Vietnam. This change, implemented by Hanoi’s Department of Tourism, affects six key sites: the Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Temple, Hoa Lo Prison, Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Co Loa Citadel, and Huong Pagoda. These adjustments, approved by the Hanoi People’s Council in December 2023, represent a substantial hike in costs for visitors.

The Temple of Literature, a renowned historical and cultural site, now charges VND70,000 ($2.80), up from its previous rate of VND30,000 ($1.20). Similarly, Ngoc Son Temple and Hoa Lo Prison have increased their fees to VND50,000 ($2) from the earlier VND30,000 ($1.20). The Thang Long Imperial Citadel has seen a more gradual increase, with a current fee of VND70,000 ($2.80) set to rise to VND100,000 ($4) in 2025, a substantial increase from the earlier VND30,000 ($1.20). Co Loa Citadel’s fee has tripled from VND10,000 (40 cents) to VND30,000 ($1.20). The Huong Pagoda now charges VND120,000 ($4.90), which includes tourist insurance, up from VND78,000 ($3.10).

These fee adjustments aim to generate additional revenue to support the preservation, renovation, and management of these cultural landmarks. Such financial measures are crucial for maintaining the integrity and quality of these historic sites, ensuring they remain attractive and informative for future generations of visitors.

A significant portion of the revenue from ticket sales is allocated to the state budget, with different percentages for each site. For instance, 10% of the revenue from the Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Temple, Hoa Lo Prison, Co Loa Citadel, and Thang Long Imperial Citadel contributes to the state budget. In contrast, a higher percentage of 85% from Huong Pagoda ticket sales goes to the state budget.

The policy includes exemptions and discounts for various groups. Individuals with severe disabilities, children under 16 years old (or those below 1.3 meters in height), people with disabilities, students, the elderly, and residents of remote areas receive free entry or discounted rates. Additionally, specific days like Cultural Heritage Day, Lunar New Year, and religious occasions offer free access to these sites.

This increase in entrance fees reflects a broader trend in the tourism industry, where destinations are balancing the need for revenue generation with accessibility and preservation of cultural heritage. As Hanoi continues to attract tourists with its rich history and cultural significance, these fee adjustments will play a crucial role in sustaining the quality and appeal of its attractions.

Special Deal for January CFM New Discovery Tour

Toum Tiou 2 

• Boutique 9 days/8 nights Mekong cruise
• Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City A$1,444 (US$960) off price of 2nd person in a shared cabin
• No Single Supplement (limited to 4 cabins) 

CF Mekong River Cruises (CFM) is offering a discount deal on its New Discovery Tour - Siem Reap, Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam for two cruises: 3 Jan 2025 to 11 Jan 2025, and 19 Jan 2025 to 27 Jan 2025. 

With the 50% discount on the price of a second person in a shared cabin for the two cruises, prices per couple are A$4,333 (US$2,880) for an Upper Deck double cabin and A$4,116 (US$2,736) for a Main Deck double cabin. 

Savings of A$1,444 (US$960) on the Upper Deck and A$1,372 (US$912) for the Main Deck. 

Two cabins are being offered on each cruise with no Singles Supplement creating discounts of A$2,889 (US$1,920) for an Upper Deck cabin and A$2,744 (US$1,824) for a Main Deck cabin. 

The nine-day/eight-night cruises aboard the boutique 14-cabin luxury teak Toum Tiou 2 (TT2) riverboat include all onboard meals, boat transfers and land excursions including tours of Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City. Options for additional tours are available and are priced separately. 

The CFM New Discovery Tour provides unbeatable value. 

On offer is a unique experience providing more light adventure than a typical cruise as well as personalized service and cultural exploration. 

Passengers enjoy the hidden treasures of the Mekong River, including traditional village visits and gentle hikes to the stunning Udong Hill. 

Included are motor and rowing boat tours of the magnificent Tra Su Forest, on-land walking and a variety of biking, kayaking, and sampan experiences - all tailored to suit individual preferences and ages. 

Highlights include a cable car ride in Chau Doc to the crest of Sam Mountain and tours of bustling Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City. 

Passengers onboard the TT2 enjoy never-forgotten views of remote riverside hamlets, rice farms and ancient temples – hardly touched by the modern world – as the riverboat glides the meandering Mekong waterways. 

2 Full panelled in teak, the TT2 is built for passenger privacy, intimacy, comfort and safety. 

Toum Tiou 2 

Its design reflects a bygone era with international standard features including cosy air-conditioned double cabins with private ensuite bathroom, a large lounge area, a panoramic viewing space to the front, a half-covered bar-restaurant to the rear and a roof patio. 

The heritage style of the TT2 is in harmony with Khmer and Vietnamese river culture. Friendly staff speak English and genuinely enjoy their service. 

Passengers wanting to take advantage of the special pricing on offer will need to hurry. The discounts are dependent on cabin availability. 

Special pricing and tour details are available from office@cfmekong.com

Sri Lanka Convention Bureau Holds the Successful Southern MICE Expo 2024

Southern MICE EXPO 2024

The Southern MICE EXPO 2024, held earlier this year, was organised by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau in association with Sri Lanka Tourism. It was held to promote southern Sri Lanka as an ideal destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).

The Minister of Tourism, Lands, Sports, and Youth Affairs, Mr Harin Fernando spoke about the positive value of the expo: “The Southern MICE Expo 2024 seeks to be more than just an event; it will serve as a gateway to extraordinary experiences, strengthening local economies and leaving a lasting impression on all participants.”

Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, Mr Thisum Jayasuriya said “The Southern Region, with its vibrant culture and breathtaking coastal landscapes, is a prime MICE destination with immense potential to engage a global audience through social media.”

Mr. Krishantha Fernando, General Manager of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, spoke of the development of MICE events in Sri Lanka: “During COVID-19, we held the first MICE Expo virtually, attracting over 250 buyers and 70 local vendors. The success of the first in-person Sri Lanka MICE Expo in 2023 inspired us to concentrate on regional promotions, including the northern region. The high demand for the southern region’s stunning beaches and abundant wildlife, such as Yala National Park, made organizing the Southern MICE Expo the obvious next step.”

Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau highlighted the growth of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry: “We came just 10,000 short of our 2023 target of 1.5 million arrivals. This year, we are on course to exceed our peak of 2.3 million visitors set in 2018.” He spoke of the importance of India as Sri Lanka's largest tourism market  tourism growth. "The Indian outbound MICE market is expected to reach USD 13.4 billion by 2031. This is why we are prioritizing the Indian market,” Gajabahu added.

After the business meetings, the travel trade professionals and media representatives from 15 countries explored the southern region of Sri Lanka, including Galle Fort, Hambantota and Yala National Park.

Discover an Exciting New Tourist Experience: Active Travel Adventures in Nikko and Kinugawa with Tobu Railway!

Cycling in Nikko

Tobu Railway Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as Tobu Railway) is pleased to introduce exciting new activities for travellers. Utilising Tobu Railway, which conveniently connects the scenic Nikko and Kinugawa areas, we offer a journey that allows you to fully experience Japan's stunning nature and rich culture. Enjoy invigorating cycling in Nikko, thrilling line rafting and river rafting in Kinugawa, the soothing waters of Kinugawa Onsen, and the historical charm of Edo Wonderland, or Nikko Edomura.

Cycling in Nikko

Nikko is famous for its historic shrines and temples, as well as its breathtaking natural scenery. The Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Nikko Futarasan-jinja Shrine, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, attract numerous tourists. After arriving at Tobu Nikko Station, we recommend renting a bicycle to explore Nikko.

Popular cycling routes include visits to Toshogu Shrine, Nikko Futarasan-jinja Shrine, Kanmangafuchi Abyss, and Kegon Falls. Travelling by bicycle allows you to immerse yourself in the local scenery and enjoy a unique experience compared to cars or buses. Witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring and colourful leaves in autumn, appreciating the seasonal splendour all year round.

Rental bikes are available! Find out more on the Nikko Official Guide.

Recommended Route: World Heritage Area, and Oku-Nikko on Route 1002

The World Heritage area in Nikko includes Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Kanmangafuchi Abyss, and Takino Path.

Route 1002, located in the Oku-Nikko area, is a separate forest path where general vehicles are prohibited, offering a peaceful cycling experience.

Relaxation at Oku-Nikko Yumoto Onsen

Nikko Yumoto Onsen, located in the heart of Nikko National Park, is surrounded by protected wetlands. Discovered by the monk Shodo 1,200 years ago, the spring's emerald green water turns milky white when exposed to air. Rich in metasilicic acid, the water is believed to smooth the skin.

Nestled in the forest by Lake Chuzenji in Nikko National Park, the log cabin-themed Western-style Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Guests can indulge in the traditional French cuisine of Kanaya Hotels and relax in the hot springs. The open-air bath, with stunning seasonal views, features healing waters sourced from Oku-Nikko Yumoto Onsen. It's the perfect retreat to soothe your tired muscles after a day of cycling.

Line Rafting and River Rafting in Kinugawa

Next, head to Kinugawa Onsen Station via Tobu Railway to experience line rafting and river rafting in Kinugawa. Line rafting offers a leisurely descent of the river, allowing you to enjoy the gorge's beautiful scenery from spring to autumn, with views of cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and autumn leaves.

For a more active adventure, river rafting is ideal. Navigate the exciting rapids of the Kinugawa River with friends and family. Safety is a priority, with guides ensuring a secure experience, making it accessible even for beginners.

Historical Experience at Edo Wonderland

Edo Wonderland is a theme park that recreates the Edo period townscape, a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Dress in Edo period costumes, enjoy ninja shows and samurai sword performances, and participate in traditional crafts and Edo period cuisine, for an immersive time travel experience.

Access and Reservations

Edo Wonderland Nikko

Tobu Railway provides convenient access from the city centre. From Asakusa Station, take the direct limited express train "SPACIA X" on the Tobu Nikko Line to reach Nikko in about two hours. The Tobu Kinugawa Line offers a quick journey from Nikko to Kinugawa Onsen.

Reservations can be made online, making trip planning easy. We recommend booking early for popular seasons and weekends to avoid crowds.

Discover the Nikko Pass, your gateway to the beautiful Nikko region. This convenient pass offers unlimited rides on trains and buses within the designated area, allowing you to explore top attractions such as Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility to make the most of your visit to Nikko with the Nikko Pass.

For more information and reservations, please visit the official Tobu Railway website.

COZY HIDEAWAY-STYLE RESORT

BARCOS RYOKAN Misasasou

In Tottori's renowned hot spring destination of Misasa, 'BARCOS RYOKAN Misasasou' offers a unique concept of a stay without encountering anyone,' limited to just 9 groups per day. 

Each group has their dining area and hot spring facilities. 

The 9 rooms are arranged around a central courtyard, providing views of a 170-year-old Japanese garden. 

With a range of room types including Japanese-style, Japanese-Western fusion, and Western-style, each with its distinct design, many guests return for a fresh experience every time. 

The cuisine highlights Tottori's rich ingredients, featuring creative menus that blend Japanese, Italian, and French influences. 

We cater to various dietary restrictions with fully customizable meals.

BARCOS RYOKAN Misasasou 

Address: 847 Misasa, Misasa-cho, Tohaku-gun
Access: Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from JR Kurayoshi Station https://maps.app.goo.gl/oGxhbwGDpbJePeuf8

Harnessing Local Knowledge to Explore the Fascinating Secrets of the Distant Stars with Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villa’s SKY Gurus

We have all, at one time or another, gazed up into the night sky and contemplated the mysteries of the universe, but if ever you were planning to learn more about the stars and the secrets they hold, you would be hard-pushed to find a more ideal location than SKY at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas.

Located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah is not only a tropical island paradise but also a stargazer’s dream location. The private island’s remoteness means that it is free from light pollution, while its proximity to the equator affords spectacular views of both the southern and northern sky.

At SKY, Anantara Kihavah’s overwater observatory combined with a luxury cocktail bar, the far reaches of the universe are brought into crystal clear focus as guests sip Champagne or cocktails and gaze through one of the most powerful telescopes in the region while the resort’s two resident SKY Gurus regale them with fascinating stories of the night sky. Harnessing their local knowledge of the Maldivian sky to reveal the intriguing stories behind the countless stars that make up the distant constellations, Zunnoon Ahmed, known as Zunnu, and Ali Arushal, who goes by the name of Shalli, are Anantara Kihavah’s Resident SKY Gurus. Both natives of Baa Atoll, Zunnu and Shalli are not only captivating storytellers, but they also each have their own story to tell.

Born and raised on the small island of Kudarikilu in Baa Atoll, Zunnu has always been fascinated by the night sky. Driven by a curiosity to unravel the secrets and stories behind the stars that fill the cloudless Maldivian skies, his fascination evolved into a passion for astrophotography when he was just 16 years old, marking the beginning of his journey into the enthralling world of astronomy.

Although Zunnu pursued a career in the more conventional field of IT, currently serving as Assistant IT Manager by day and storytelling SKY Guru by night, his passion for stargazing only grew stronger. He collaborates with online telescope operators in his spare time, engaging in astro imaging to capture captivating glimpses of the cosmos through remote telescopes, while he is constantly looking for new ways to expand his knowledge. “I always make it a habit to check online astronomy forums for the latest celestial discoveries and engage in discussions with fellow space enthusiasts,” he explained.

Having originally joined Anantara Kihavah in 2017 as an IT Coordinator, overseeing the hotel network, managing hotel applications, and playing a key role in ensuring the seamless operation of various technological aspects for a smooth guest experience, Zunnu grabbed the opportunity to develop his celestial passion by volunteering to study stargazing under the supervision of the resort’s first SKY Guru, Ali Shameem.

Across the next five years, Zunnu conducted research, took theory tests and participated in stargazing demos as part of his detailed training process. “The experience of learning about the stars was a bit challenging when I started,” he explained. “But it has become truly fantastic now. The journey of understanding the cosmos has been both rewarding and enlightening.”

Zunnoon Ahmed (Zunnu) at SKY Observatory

Recalling his first stargazing session at Anantara Kihavah, Zunnu commented on how the positive reactions of the guests turned it into a rewarding and fulfilling experience, both for him and for his captivated audience. Sharing his passion now comes easily to the engaging Zunnu. “We all have a natural curiosity to understand the world around us,” he explained. “And the night sky, with its myriad stars, has always been a source of wonder and questions. Stars often hold cultural and mythological significance in various societies. Many cultures have created stories, myths, and legends based on constellations and individual stars, adding a sense of mystery and importance.”

While his own personal favourite star is Aldebaran, Zunnu is more than happy to take advantage of Anantara Kihavah’s pristine location away from light pollution to find and share a variety of celestial events with the resort’s guests. “We regularly witness awe-inspiring solar eclipses, captivating lunar eclipses, mesmerising meteor showers, and enchanting planetary conjunctions in our cosmic spectacle,” he enthused.

A more recent addition to Anantara Kihavah’s small but elite team of SKY Gurus, Shalli is another native of Baa Atoll, having been born and raised on the island of Kendhoo. Shalli describes his childhood on Kendhoo as happy and enjoyable, and while his interest in the stars began at a young age, it was not until he joined Anantara Kihavah that he delved deeper into the field of astronomy.

Having joined Anantara Kihavah’s transport department in 2021, Shalli is part of the resort’s launch crew, where his main responsibilities include ensuring transport operations run smoothly. However, his fascination with the amazing views of the Maldivian night sky resulted in him volunteering to train as the resort’s next SKY Guru.

During one and a half years of learning about stargazing from the resort’s first SKY Guru, Shalli’s intensive training involved theory tests, reading assignments, and stargazing demonstrations. Eager to expand his knowledge and complement his training, Shalli also seeks out additional information from the internet and YouTube.

Describing his first stargazing session with guests as stunning, Shalli quickly warmed to his new role. As a SKY Guru, Shalli enjoys sharing his passion and imparting unknown knowledge about the stars to others. While he names Antares as his personal favourite star, he enjoys nothing more than being able to show guests distant constellations or share such amazing spectacles with them as a lunar eclipse, solar eclipse or meteors.

Our SKY Gurus lead guests on a cosmic journey across both hemisphere’s stars and planets, clarifying what can be seen in the sky with the naked eye and using a green laser, they point out different constellations and explains light years and different types of galaxies. Guests are then able to view the sky from the observatory telescope which has a viewing capacity of 30 million light years away.

The locale gives guests an opportunity to see lunar eclipses, stars and planets invisible from Europe or America. Sometimes, depending on climate and time of the year, you can even catch a glimpse of Saturn with its pale-yellow rings, belts of Jupiter that vary in width, colour and intensity from year to year and the several hundred thousand of stars that make up Messier 13.

SKY is the finest over water observatory in the Maldives built with a 3.8 metre revolving Ash-dome and equipped with a research-grade Meade 16” LX200 telescope with a magnification of 400x mounted on a super-giant field tripod.

Embark on a cosmic journey at Anantara Kihavah’s SKY Observatory. For more information or to book, call +960 664 4111, visit us at www.anantara.com/kihavah-maldives or email reservations.maldives@anantara.com.

Rydges Ringwood to Join EVT Hotels & Resorts

 Rydges Ringwood

EVT will commence management of Rydges Ringwood, effective 1 August, after it rebrands from Sebel Ringwood. Located in the vibrant and fast-growing suburb of Ringwood, this high-quality property, constructed in 2021, marks a welcomed addition to EVT's growing portfolio of hospitality venues, and the sixth EVT hotel in Melbourne.

The decision to award EVT the management contract was influenced by EVT's local expertise and operational capabilities. EVT's decision-making teams in Melbourne and Sydney will ensure agile responsiveness to market dynamics, fostering strong partnerships like the one with Serene Capital, the property's owner.

Norman Arundel, Director of EVT Hotels and Resorts, expressed enthusiasm about the new venture: "We are thrilled to welcome Rydges Ringwood into our portfolio. The competitive selection process highlighted EVT's commitment to quality management practices and exceptional guest experiences. This management contract aligns with our strategy to enhance the Rydges brand presence and reinforces our commitment to offering quality accommodation to our guests.

"We are excited to work with Serene Capital, a relationship that prioritises trust and alignment," noted Arundel. "This management agreement represents a strategic alignment of interests, bolstered by EVT's strong distribution networks and loyalty programs. We are eager to leverage these strengths to drive the success of Rydges Ringwood and explore future opportunities with Serene Capital."

Glen Boultwood, CEO and Co-Founder, Serene Capital added, “Serene Capital is delighted to partner with EVT to add what will be known as Rydges Ringwood. The property is by far the best quality hotel in Ringwood and will withstand the test of time.”

The opening of Rydges Ringwood represents EVT's strategic commitment to expand the Rydges portfolio and its 'refreshingly local' proposition with properties that deliver memorable guest experiences for both leisure and business travellers alike.

The Rydges Ringwood property will include:

• 103 guest rooms including studios, one and two bedroom apartments and courtyard balconies
• All rooms feature a kitchen or kitchenette, workspace, flat screen TV, and high-speed internet catering to business, leisure, and family travellers
• The Orchard Bar and Grill offering a locally soured menu with indoor and outdoor dining
• Two connecting meeting and event spaces equipped with the latest audio-visual technology
• Health and fitness centre with state-of-the-art facilities
• Onsite parking

Situated at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges and near the renowned Yarra Valley region, Rydges Ringwood offers guests easy access to one of Australia's most sought-after tourism destinations, making the property and ideal gateway to the iconic region.

Located at 96 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood, Victoria, Rydges Ringwood is only 200m from Eastlands Shopping Centre, a five-minute walk to Ringwood Rail Station and 23km from Melbourne's CBD.

To make a reservation or for more information about Rydges hospitality venues, visit www.rydges.com
Tags: #Rydges, #evt, #Hotels, #Ringwood, #hma

CARNIVAL SPLENDOR SETS SAIL INTO DRY DOCK FOR A NEW WAVE OF FUN

Carnival Splendor 

Carnival Cruise Line’s Sydney-based ship has set sail to Singapore to go into dry dock for a host of new onboard upgrades. Carnival Splendor will return to Sydney on Monday 9 September with refurbished spaces, updated amenities, and all-new offerings.

From food to activities to entertainment, the new and exciting upgrades are sure to delight those who have cruised on Carnival Splendor before and entice those who are new to the Carnival FUN. There will be brand new onboard dining options, even more amenities, and an enhanced experience thanks to new and refreshed spaces for kids and adults alike.

The ship will arrive in Singapore on 5 August and spend nearly three weeks in dry dock before embarking on her return journey to Sydney on 24 August.

On the upcoming dry dock, Carnival Cruise Line VP Kara Glamore said, “We're thrilled to be bringing new offerings and upgrades to our Australian guests who have shown Carnival so much love over the years. It’s wonderful to be able to return the favour by creating an even better guest experience onboard Carnival Splendor through continued innovation and investment.”

Carnival Splendor has been homeported in Sydney since joining the Australian fleet in 2019 and is the largest ship sailing year-round from Australia. She joined the Carnival fleet in 2007 ahead of her inaugural sailing in 2008 and was last refurbished before coming to Australia in 2019.

Bookings on Carnival Splendor are open for sailings through to 2026 across a variety of destinations in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific.

For more information on Carnival Cruise Line and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit https://www.carnival.com.au/ .

Myanmar Airways International aims to enhance connectivity to existing markets & braces for the Chinese market recovery

Tanes Kumar, Acting Chief Executive Officer & Chief
Commercial Officer of Myanmar Airways International (MAI)

Myanmar Airways International (MAI) is strategically expanding its network in Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, and the Middle East, addressing both lost connections in post-2020 markets and exploring avenues for growth in the recovering Chinese market. In an interview with Brand TD, Tanes Kumar, Acting Chief Executive Officer & Chief Commercial Officer of Myanmar Airways International (MAI), shares more about the airline and its expansion plans.

Brand TD: Could you elaborate on the airline’s fleet? Tell us about the Yangon International Airport (RGN). What are you looking at in terms of growing your network and destinations?

Tanes Kumar (TK): MAI currently operates a fleet comprising 4 Airbus A319-100, 4 Airbus A320-200, and 2 Embraer 190 aircraft. Our flights connect to 10 domestic destinations in Myanmar and 14 international destinations across Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, China, India, UAE, Cambodia, Vietnam, South Korea, and Russia.

Yangon International Airport (RGN) is our primary hub as it is the country’s largest air travel gateway, serving the nation’s central commercial hub. Besides RGN, we also focus on Mandalay International Airport (MDL), our secondary hub connecting MDL to domestic and international destinations.

As we have demonstrated coming out of the pandemic, we will continue actively exploring and pursuing new destinations across Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia & the Middle East. Our approach evaluates connections lost post-2020 established markets and new markets, such as our Chennai route, to ensure we provide travellers with an extended array of options.

Brand TD: Can you elaborate on your codeshare and expansion plans in 2024? Which are your key markets? Which other potential markets are you looking at? Which route sees the maximum seat load factor for you?

TK: We have a robust codeshare and interline partnerships pipeline for 2024, including major global carriers. We have increased our partners from 33 to 41 during 2023, and for this year, we are in discussion with another six partners. We aim to conclude these partnerships to ensure we continue providing a seamless travel experience for our guests.

China remains the largest market for us. Hence, we earnestly hope that the tourism conditions between both countries will normalise so that we can relaunch the routes we operated before the pandemic. Besides that, we are considering operating direct flights to new markets such as Japan or Qatar, plus to secondary cities in the existing markets in which we are operating to provide further connectivity. We continually assess routes to optimise our network and ensure that our services meet the demands of our passengers.

As for load factors, we are experiencing high load factors in all our core markets, namely Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, followed by our India and Vietnam routes.

Brand TD: High operating costs and infrastructure constraints have hit major airlines across the world, how is MAI rising above the same?

TK: MAI is navigating the high operating costs and infrastructure constraints posed by embarking on multi-faceted initiatives internally, which cover many of our operational areas. Some of these initiatives include fuel tankering by Flight Operations, reducing wastage by Inflight Services, and enhancing or replacing our equipment to reduce wear & tear by our Ground Services. On-time performance (OTP) has also been our focus to ensure our flights are handled effectively rather than incurring unnecessary costs.

Besides focused initiatives on specific areas, MAI also embarked on a company-wide technology revamp to ensure our airline runs on a simplified approach, covering Commercial, Finance, and Operations functions. Based on this roadmap, we aim to introduce technology and digitalize existing manual processes within the company, improving efficiency and reducing manual workload.

Besides that, we also engage various external stakeholders to identify and address infrastructure challenges proactively, which may be beyond our airline’s control, which is slow in nature but moving in the right direction.

Brand TD: What has the post-COVID-19 demand and behavior changes in passengers?

TK: In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, passenger demand and behavior have noticed a noticeable shift. With a heightened emphasis on health and safety, MAI has adapted its services to meet these evolving expectations. This adaptation includes the introduction of enhanced cleanliness protocols, flexible booking options, and integration of digital solutions to ensure a secure travel experience.

In response to these changes, passengers now actively seek a cost-effective travel experience combined with value-added services. This shift reflects an awareness of the importance of health-conscious travel choices and a desire for enhanced flexibility in booking options. As MAI continues to prioritize safety and customer satisfaction, these adjustments align with the evolving preferences of travellers in the post-COVID era.

Brand TD: What kind of incentives and benefits does MAI offer to travel agents and tour operators for mutual growth in business and opportunities?

TK: Recognising the crucial role of travel agents and tour operators, MAI offers a range of incentives and benefits, which include competitive commission structures, exclusive promotional opportunities, and access to our extensive suite of services. These measures are designed to foster mutually beneficial relationships that contribute to the growth and success of our valued partners in the travel industry.

Besides the traditional and mortar partners, MAI has also been actively expanding product offers via various channels and markets, including working closely with online travel agents (OTAs) and aggregators or activating IATA Billing and Settlement (BSP) in potential markets, including offline markets.

Brand TD: What all initiatives has the Government of Myanmar taken to promote tourism? What kind of international connectivity does the destination have? How is MAI contributing to the same?

TK: The Government of Myanmar has introduced several initiatives to promote tourism, and MAI actively contributes to these endeavors by facilitating international connectivity through our expansive network. We collaborate closely with tourism authorities, engaging in comprehensive marketing activities to position Myanmar as an appealing destination. This involves reciprocally inviting key opinion leaders (KOLs) to Myanmar, hosting them, and organising familiarization (FAM) trips to popular tourist destinations nationwide.

In addition to direct engagements, MAI actively participates in international travel fairs, leveraging these platforms to exhibit Myanmar’s cultural heritage, tourism products, and the warmth of its hospitality. This global presence allows us to interact with a broad audience of travel enthusiasts and industry professionals, fostering partnerships and promoting Myanmar as a must-visit destination.

Brand TD: Why should one choose to fly with Myanmar Airways International (MAI)?

TK: As a leading airline in Myanmar, we pride ourselves on delivering outstanding service and offering various destinations across Myanmar and the region, catering to various travel segments. MAI is committed to providing seamless connections with our airline partners, adding flexibility and convenience to your travel options. Beyond our flights, we also offer various add-ons that give a modern traveller the added comforts to ensure their journey is smooth and enjoyable.

Our user-friendly platform and amiable representatives make a seamless booking experience. Our warm hospitality and punctuality further contribute to a comfortable and reliable journey, meeting travelers’ expectations and seeking flexibility. Beyond being a flight provider, MAI offers additional privileges to guests with our Sky Deals boarding pass program, ensuring an extended and enjoyable experience beyond the journey itself.

PRODUCTION OF MONSTROUS PROPORTIONS TAKES CENTRE STAGE IN MELBOURNE AND SYDNEY

Producers Shake & Stir Theatre Co and John Frost for Crossroads Live have today confirmed a thrilling new stage adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein will play for strictly limited seasons at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre and Theatre Royal Sydney, from August this year.

For over two centuries Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein has captivated audiences with her timeless literary classic, considered by many as the very first science fiction novel.

In this faithful yet contemporary large-scale theatrical stage adaptation, Frankenstein is brought screaming into the 21st century combining cutting edge production elements with the power of virtuosic storytelling, offering audiences a night of thrilling theatre of monstrous proportions.

Frankenstein played an inaugural sold-out season at QPAC last year, with critics calling it “a hauntingly, captivating masterpiece” (The Fame Reporter) and ‘a monster of a production’ (ArtsHub).

“We couldn’t be more excited to be presenting this brilliant production to audiences in Melbourne and Sydney. Those eager to see an absolute classic story live on stage will be appeased, along with those hungry to be impressed by new theatrical forms” said Nick Skubij, Shake & Stir Artistic Director and Director of Frankenstein.

“This production invites audiences on a journey into the mind of a madman and they will see things on stage, that they’ve seldom seen before. This is Shelley’s classic story told in a brand-new, hi-tech monster of a show. Multiple axis of automation, over 140sqm of LED video panels, pyrotechnics and a cinematic, sweeping score – all working seamlessly together to bring Shelly’s tale to visceral life.’John Frost added, “Following the success of our partnership on The Mousetrap, I am delighted to work with the team at Shake & Stir once again to present this impressive adaptation of one of literature’s most revered stories. After seeing the premiere of this work at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in 2023, we were adamant that more audiences must see this thrilling production.”

“Consistently, Shake & Stir creates innovative and compelling work with impeccable storytelling and awe-inspiring production elements. Frankenstein is no exception – I cannot wait for Melbourne and Sydney to experience it for themselves.”

In this authentic retelling of the literary classic, audiences will bear witness as Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant and ambitious young scientist, pushes the boundaries of theory and morality to create a living being from the remains of the dead.

Shunned by society and plagued by an inherited sense of confusion and rage, Victor’s miracle of science becomes a monster that threatens to destroy everything his creator holds dear. But playing God has its consequences…

Can Victor redeem his unthinkable actions, or will he succumb to the horrors of his own making?

Frankenstein will play at the Princess Theatre, Melbourne from August 23 to September 1 and Theatre Royal Sydney from September 28 to October 13

MELBOURNE

23 AUGUST TO 1 SEPTEMBER
PRINCESS THEATRE
GET TICKETS

SYDNEY

28 SEPTEMBER TO 13 OCTOBER
THEATRE ROYAL SYDNEY

GET TICKETS

Frankenstein

https://frankensteinlive.com.au/