The post Rakuten Travel seeks to bring foreign tourists to Japan’s less well-known destinations appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Japanese online travel agency (OTA) Rakuten Travel aims to draw foreign travellers to Japan’s lesser-known destinations by way of its multilingual website.

The OTA hopes that the site can serve as a comprehensive travel guide focused on both popular and less-explored areas even as the Japanese government plans to bank on the increasing popularity of secondary destinations among repeat inbound tourists.

According to Rakuten Travel’s global head Jeremy Bek: “There are more hidden gems to discover, so I think people will keep coming back and keep wanting to discover Japan [on a deeper level.]”

Bek explained that up to 30 percent of international bookings at Rakuten Travel are for travels to secondary destinations, as well as nature treks and mountain climbing expeditions.

A truly comprehensive travel guide to Japan

In its present incarnation, the Rakuten Travel website is available in nine languages, including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and Indonesian.

It offers a guide to car rentals and a customer call service to respond to troubles encountered during travels, along with various types of authentic accommodations, including traditional ryokan inns, machiya which offer accommodations in traditional architecture, and family-run minshuku guesthouses.

The post Rakuten Travel seeks to bring foreign tourists to Japan’s less well-known destinations appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Korean Air expands China and Japan networks appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

South Korean flag-carrier Korean Air announced the upcoming expansion of its route networks in China and Japan.

The airline plans to resume several routes to the two nations even as it increases the number of flights plying popular routes.

Among those slated for resumption are Korean Air’s Seoul Incheon-Mudanjiang and Busan-Qingdao services. The former takes off beginning 22nd October, while the latter take flight from 1st December. 

Korean Air’s Seoul Incheon-Mudanjiang route flies five times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The Busan-Qingdao route, on the other hand, is slated to fly daily.

Heading into China and Taiwan

Korean Air expanded its Seoul Incheon-Zhengzhou route from four weekly flights to a daily service as of 12th August. 

At the same time, it will schedule more flights for its Seoul Incheon-Xiamen route beginning 1st October.

From 10 September to 26 October, Korean Air’s Seoul Incheon-Taichung flies four times on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Beginning 27th October, the airline will further increase the frequency to a daily run to boost its presence in the Taiwanese aviation sector.

By December of this year, Korean Air hopes that its flights to China will reach around 95 percent of the capacity seen back in December 2019.

Relaunching into Japan

Korean Air is also slated to relaunch its Seoul Incheon-Nagasaki route for the winter season after a break of more than 11 years. 

Beginning 27th October, the route operates four times weekly on Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, opening up new travel opportunities to the historic Japanese city.

There will likewise be a temporary increase in flights on the Seoul Incheon-Osaka route between 2 September and 26 October. Korean Air is slated to operate four daily flights on top of its three current daily flights. This enhanced schedule seeks to accommodate a surge in travel to Osaka for much of the autumn.

September 2 to October 26, the airline will operate four daily flights, up from the existing three daily flights. This enhancement will accommodate the anticipated surge in autumn travel to this popular Japanese destination.

The airline hopes to achieve 106 percent of its pre-pandemic capacity to Japan by the end of this year.

The post Korean Air expands China and Japan networks appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Influx of cruise arrivals raises overtourism concerns in Greece appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Greek government announced new measures to address the adverse effects of overtourism in the country. 

This is in light of a growing influx of travellers pouring in from cruise trips sailing into Greek ports as travel restrictions relaxed post-pandemic.

In his keynote speech at the Thessaloniki International Fair on Saturday, 7th September, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis highlighted concerns regarding tourist arrivals at certain points of the year. This prompted the government to propose a new tax geared towards mitigating the effects of the ongoing climate crisis in the Greek hospitality sector.

Mitsotakis added that the government also intends to restrict cruise ship arrivals to Greece’s most popular islands beginning next year.

Current statistics and potential changes

In the past year, tourist arrivals in Greece hit a record 36.1 million visitors.

As of 30 June 2024, the Bank of Greece reported that the number of foreign arrivals increased by 16 percent, settling at 11.6 million.

While the tourism sector contributes up to 20 percent to the national economy, Greek citizens complain that the influx of foreign nationals has adversely impacted their cost of living, overall security, as well as the state of cultural landmarks.

To mitigate this, the Greek government plans to expand its Golden Visa programme to investors willing to put up at least US$277,000 into local startups. Prior to the pandemic, potential foreign investors needed to buy property in the country to secure the Golden Visa.

Likewise, passengers arriving at Greek sea ports will be required to pay additional fees. Such fees will be higher for key tourism destinations like Mykonos and Santorini.

At the same time, the government will implement the charging of a higher lodging tax throughout the peak travel season which runs from April to October.

The post Influx of cruise arrivals raises overtourism concerns in Greece appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Japan tourism firm HIS Group upgrades amenities for Henn na Hotel chain appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Innovative Japanese travel firm HIS Group seeks to shift the focus of its unique hotel chain with a slate of upgraded amenities.

Currently, HIS Group operates more than 40 lodging facilities in Japan and abroad, specifically through its tech-centric and quirky Henn na Hotel chain. The chain is known for its use of robotic technology and holograms for checking guests in or out at reception desks without need for human intervention.

Under the new scheme, Henn na Hotel’s branches in Kyoto, Sendai, and the Asakusa district of Tokyo will be equipped with upgraded amenities, including larger televisions.

Through this, HIS Group hopes to boost its average daily rate by as much as 30 percent.

HIS Hotel Holdings senior executive Manabu Shimizu remarked that, before the pandemic, the company focused on increasing the number of its hotels in order to raise sales. Now, though, the company aims to improve its overall profitability.

The slow road to recovery

In April of this year, HIS reported that the average daily rate (ADR) for its domestic hotels came to around JPY13,457, up 10 percent from where it was during the 2019 fiscal year.

However, the HIS Group’s finances are still struggling to bounce back from the impact of the pandemic. As of 30 April 2024, the company’s capital ratio remains at 12 percent.

HIS has, nevertheless, sought to diversify its operations, specifically with regard to its hospitality arm. Indeed, in the past fiscal year, the company’s hotel segment made up for 30 percent of its overall operating profit.

The post Japan tourism firm HIS Group upgrades amenities for Henn na Hotel chain appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Asia Foundation hosts regional workshop on sustainable and inclusive cultural tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Asia Foundation teamed up with the US Embassy in Indonesia and Universitas Gajah Mada to host this year’s Young Southeast Asian Leadership Initiative (YSEALI) Regional Workshop on Sustainable and Inclusive Cultural Tourism.

Held last month, the workshop brought together 60 young leaders from ten Southeast Asian countries to address the critical need for more sustainable and inclusive tourism.  

The workshop emphasised how study and network development in sustainable and inclusive tourism bridges cultural divides, empowers communities and preserves heritage. 

Empowerment through cooperative effort

Likewise, the YSEALI program empowers young individuals to enhance their soft skills and leadership abilities, equipping them with the tools to take on influential roles in the community. 

By empowering young leaders and fostering collaboration between ASEAN nations and the United States, the workshop is paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable tourism industry. 

As these young leaders apply their knowledge, they are transforming the tourism landscape to become a powerful force for positive change, cultural preservation, and sustainable development across the region. 

An immersive learning experience

According to Jason P Rebholz, counsellor for public diplomacy for the US Mission to Indonesia: “Southeast Asia is a region rich in culture, tradition, and culinary experiences that offer valuable opportunities for connection with the United States and the global community.”

Rebholz explained how the event enabled participants to learn from each other, share expertise, and empower each other for the future of sustainable and inclusive cultural tourism within the region.

He added: “We were delighted to have all the participants join us today to discuss sustainable and inclusive cultural tourism, which was an important issue in the region.”

The post Asia Foundation hosts regional workshop on sustainable and inclusive cultural tourism appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Philippines hits over half of its 2024 arrival target appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine tourism secretary Christina Frasco disclosed that the country achieved half of its arrivals target for this year as of 5th September.

At the opening of the 35th Philippine Travel Mart on Friday, 6th September, Frasco disclosed that the country already welcomed 4.08 million foreign travellers through its air and sea ports.

As of press time, the Philippines is still around 3.61 million arrivals short of its 7.7 million target for 2024, but the secretary expressed optimism that numbers will grow before the end of the year.

The secretary likewise added that the numbers prove that interest in the Philippines remains strong among global travellers.

A strong financial rebound

Frasco added that the Philippine tourism sector achieved full recovery of pre-pandemic figures over the first eight months of the year, earning PHP362 billion in revenues from January to August 2024.

This is at least 111.17 percent higher than the PHP326 billion it recorded in the same period in 2019.

Frasco said: “This financial rebound underscores the growing appeal of the Philippines and the robust recovery of the tourism sector.”

She added that her department would continue the diversification of its portfolio in order to encourage more international tourists to travel and discover the Philippines. As such, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is slated to offer unique and immersive experiences to enable travellers to make the most out of their trips to the country.

As she puts it: “We are pioneering new approaches such as experiential tourism and diversification of tourism products. We are moving beyond traditional tourism by inviting travelers to engage with the Philippines on a deeper level.”

The post Philippines hits over half of its 2024 arrival target appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Indonesia reports tourism sector recovering well appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hotel analytics firm Hotelivate released its report on the Indonesian tourism sector which shows that it is recovering well thanks to a spike in tourist arrivals in Bali and Jakarta.

While foreign tourist arrivals have not, as yet, returned to pre-pandemic levels, Indonesia saw significant growth in terms of occupancy rates and average daily rates (ADRs) thanks to a boom in domestic tourism. At the same time, growth in the sector was not limited to Bali and Jakarta as significant increases were also seen in several major cities.

Nevertheless, Bali and Jakarta remain the top Indonesian destinations, registering ADR growth year-on-year of 14 percent and 11 percent respectively. At the same time, ADRs for Bali’s luxury hotel scene has risen from around US$400 in 2019 to US$2,000 as of the end of the first half of 2024.

Who’s flying into Indonesia?

Currently, Australians remain the largest group of international tourists arriving in Indonesia, though both India and China are becoming increasingly important source markets, contributing significantly to the tourism sector. 

Experts attribute this development to the increase in disposable income among Chinese and Indian travellers over the past couple of years.

Domestic visitors travelling inland top various destinations within the country also contributed significantly. As the Indonesian middle class is projected to triple, growing from 45 million in 2021 to 135 million by 2030, those in this economic bracket are expected to take 5.6 trips per year, around 40 percent more than other travellers, with a significant portion traveling for leisure.

Hotelivate also noted that additional investments in infrastructure, specifically into improved connectivity, are what will spur further growth in the country’s tourism industry.

The post Indonesia reports tourism sector recovering well appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Tourism Authority of Thailand shows support for Pacific Asia Travel Association at PATA Travel Mart 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) went all out with its support of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) at the latter’s Travel Mart (PTM) in Bangkok.

PATA hosted the 47th edition of PTM from 27-29 August, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC). The annual event is regarded as one of Asia Pacific’s most prominent and longest standing international travel trade exhibitions.

TAT led a delegation of 16 exhibitors to the PTM, including hotels, tour operators, and related businesses. The Thailand Stand promoted sustainable tourism initiatives, including Thailand Tourism Awards winners, STAR-certified tourism products, 20 recommended low-carbon tourism routes, and a workshop on recycled plastic.

A fun-filled occasion

Marking this special occasion, TAT arranged a welcome reception where  PTM delegates experienced the fun and colourful atmosphere of a Thai temple fair firsthand. 

Likewise, the cocktail dinner was filled with fun activities, traditional Thai games, as well as art and cultural shows that included a traditional puppet show, a contemporary Thai music performance, and a Phi Ta Khon happy ghost dance.

The post Tourism Authority of Thailand shows support for Pacific Asia Travel Association at PATA Travel Mart 2024 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Tourism Malaysia runs second series of sales missions to China appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with state tourism bodies and the Malaysia Inbound Chinese Association (MICA), embarked on a second series of sales missions to explore southern and eastern China between 26 and 30 August. 

This second mission sought to foster closer tourism ties and further explore potential leads from Shenzhen, Chongqing, Wuhan and Nanjing.

Tourism Malaysia’s deputy general director Lee Tai Hung led the delegation, together with Ng Suee Lim of the Selangor State Executive Council, Nicole Tan Lee Koon of the Negeri Sembilan State Executive Council, Tourism Perak CEO Nurmalis Musa, MICA president Angie Ng Wai Sam, and representatives from 78 tourism organisations and establishments.

Lee said of the mission: “Building on the momentum of the 30-day visa-free travel policy for Chinese citizens, which commenced on 1 December 2023, we aim to cultivate confidence and explore further collaborations to achieve pre-pandemic levels while showcasing the latest offerings to the Chinese market. Thus, this sales mission provides a platform for the industry community to gather, exchange ideas, and collaborate to bring more arrivals to Malaysia.”

As of June 2024, Malaysia has welcomed 1,449,711 arrivals from China, representing a significant 190.8 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023. With the goal of attracting 27.3 million international arrivals and generating RM102.7 billion in tourism receipts in 2024, Malaysia aims to attract 5 million tourists from China by the end of this year.

The post Tourism Malaysia runs second series of sales missions to China appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post RateTiger Channel Manager improves online booking efficiency for Al Ebaa Hotel Makkah appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Al Ebaa Hotel Makkah reports that it has successfully implemented the RateTiger Channel Manager for streamlining its online booking operations.

Over the past five months, the hotel used the channel management system to update rates and inventory across online sales channels and receive reservations into their PMS. 

As a result, the hotel significantly streamlined its online booking operations and enhanced its overall revenue management strategies. 

Likewise, RateTiger Channel Manager saved the hotel considerable time in terms of global and regional OTA management and the provision of extensive market coverage through a wide OTA spread.

According to hotel IT manager Waqas Ahmed: “We are thoroughly impressed with the RateTiger Channel Manager and the exceptional support from the team. This system helped streamline our processes, boosted our revenue, and provided us with peace of mind. The exceptional support and comprehensive features have allowed us to manage our online distribution channels more efficiently and effectively. We are grateful for this partnership and excited about the continued growth and success it will bring to our business.”

The post RateTiger Channel Manager improves online booking efficiency for Al Ebaa Hotel Makkah appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia