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Mongolia Named Top Destination for 2024 and Eases Travel for Visitors

Mongolia, with its breathtaking landscapes, reindeer sleigh rides, and camel racing, has been named the top destination for 2024. The country is actively working to attract more tourists by launching the “Welcome to MonGOlia” campaign. This initiative aims to revive its tourism industry, which was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the campaign, the Mongolian government has added more flights and simplified the visa process, offering visa-free entry for visitors from numerous countries.

Lonely Planet highlighted Mongolia as its top destination in the Best in Travel 2024 report. The country welcomed over 437,000 foreign tourists in the first seven months of this year, marking a 25% increase from the previous year. Visitors from Europe, the U.S., Japan, and especially South Korea have shown a notable rise, with the latter almost doubling due to the under-four-hour flight.

Despite these positive trends, Mongolia is still striving to reach its ambitious goal of attracting 1 million visitors annually from 2023 to 2025. This landlocked nation, once the heart of Genghis Khan’s vast empire, is now a sparsely populated country with only 3.3 million residents, half of whom live in the capital, Ulaanbaatar. The vast open spaces make it a paradise for adventure tourists, offering horseback trips, camping, and the unique experience of staying in traditional felt-covered dwellings known as gers.

Egjimaa Battsooj, a representative from a local tour company, emphasized Mongolia’s distinct cultural heritage, stating, “We are kind of like the last truly nomad culture on the whole planet.” With minimal restrictions on exploring the land, travelers can enjoy Mongolia’s rugged beauty without the need for permissions or gate entries.

Mongolia’s growing appeal has been further boosted by high-profile events and cultural exports, such as the visit of Pope Francis, the success of Mongolian breakdancers at the Asian Games, and the global popularity of The Hu, a folk-metal band blending traditional Mongolian instruments with modern rock.

Yet, Mongolia remains a largely undiscovered gem for many. American tourist Michael John, who included Ulaanbaatar in his itinerary after learning about Genghis Khan, shared, “It was a great opportunity to learn more.” This sentiment is echoed by many visitors who are drawn to the country’s rich history and cultural experiences.

Tourism was a significant contributor to Mongolia’s economy before the pandemic, accounting for 7.2% of its GDP and 7.6% of its employment in 2019. The World Bank sees great potential for Mongolia to further develop its tourism sector, particularly in sports and adventure tourism.

Mongolia’s tourism campaigns showcase its stunning winter landscapes, opportunities for skating on frozen lakes, viewing the Northern Lights, reindeer sledding, camel racing, and hiking adventures. Local entrepreneurs like Munkhjargal Dayan offer unique experiences such as rides on two-humped Bactrian camels, traditional archery, and eagle hunting demonstrations.

However, there are still challenges to overcome. The country’s vast steppes can become difficult to traverse in summer, and the infrastructure in tourism areas remains underdeveloped. A lack of accommodations and skilled labor also poses hurdles. Dutch tourist Jasper Koning acknowledged these challenges but praised Mongolia’s natural beauty and friendly people, noting that despite the difficulties, the trip was thoroughly enjoyable.

As Mongolia continues to enhance its tourism offerings, it remains a destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, waiting to be explored by those seeking unique and unforgettable experiences.

The post Best Easier Access to the World’s Most Stunning Country Mongolia appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Sarawak Tourism Board is set to captivate visitors at NATAS Holidays 2024 in Singapore with exclusive travel packages, highlighting the best of Sarawak’s culture and nature.

The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) is delighted to participate in the upcoming NATAS Holidays 2024, the leading consumer travel fair in Singapore. From August 16 to 18, 2024, visitors can explore enticing travel options at the Singapore Expo, booth 4H35, which include tours to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Niah National Park and Mulu National Park. Experience the captivating beauty of Sarawak and learn more about our unique travel offerings.

NATAS Holidays, a significant event annually drawing over 100,000 attendees, offers a wide array of travel-related products and services. The fair hosts a diverse group of participants, including outbound travel agencies, cruise lines, airlines, hotels, resorts, and national tourism boards, among others.

“We are incredibly excited to showcase Sarawak’s unique offerings at NATAS Holidays 2024,” said Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board. “Visitors can look forward to discovering the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine that make Sarawak a must-visit destination.”

Singapore remains a top source market for visitors to Sarawak, showing a notable 12% rise in tourists up to July 2024, compared to the same period last year. Singaporean travelers are particularly drawn to Sarawak for its genuine local cuisine, extensive cave explorations, national parks, and wildlife expeditions.

By joining NATAS Holidays 2024, the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) intends to further elevate Sarawak’s profile as a leading travel destination rich in culture, adventure, nature, culinary delights, and festivals—collectively known as CANFF. The event provides an excellent platform for STB to boost visibility for Sarawak’s cultural and natural treasures, and to interact directly with potential tourists, travel agents, and industry peers.

STB’s dedicated marketing strategies and collaborations aim to propel tourism growth, forge lasting partnerships, and enrich the tourist experience in Sarawak. This endeavor is expected to surge tourist numbers and foster economic gains for the area.

At the NATAS Holidays 2024, STB will unveil exclusive travel packages specifically designed for Singaporean tourists. These packages feature visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Niah National Park and Mulu National Park, marking Sarawak as the first Malaysian state with two such sites. The recent addition of Niah National Park at the 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting in July 2024 highlights its global importance and spectacular natural beauty.

Additional attractions in the packages include the Sarawak Delta Geopark, which covers the Wind Cave and Fairy Cave Nature Reserve, Bako National Park, and Semenggoh Nature Reserve. Positioned in the southern region of Sarawak, the geopark extends over Kuching, Bau, Padawan, and Siburan, offering visitors a chance to witness unique geological features and a diverse ecosystem that includes rare species like the proboscis monkey and fairy rock gecko.

Kuching, the vibrant capital of Sarawak, is renowned as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, reflecting its rich culinary diversity shaped by over 34 ethnic groups. This cultural blend has fostered a dynamic food scene, offering visitors a taste of both authentic and diverse local dishes. Additionally, Kuching’s craft scene is equally vibrant, evidenced by its designation as a World Craft City by the World Crafts Council, highlighting its position as a global center for unique and traditional crafts.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture with daily cultural dance performances at 4 PM, featuring prominent ethnic groups such as the Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Chinese, Melanau, and Orang Ulu. The performances include the mesmerizing sounds of the Sape, a traditional lute of the Orang Ulu, known for its soothing melodies and significant cultural importance.

Moreover, the artistry of Sarawak’s tattoo artists will be on display, offering visitors the opportunity to get temporary tattoos, providing a personal experience of this distinctive art form. These live performances and artistic showcases vividly bring to life the rich cultural and natural heritage of Sarawak.

We warmly invite everyone to visit our booth at Singapore Expo 4H35 to explore the wonders of Sarawak through our enticing tour packages. Entry to NATAS Holidays 2024 is complimentary, presenting an ideal opportunity to plan your next exciting adventure.

The post Explore Sarawak With New Packages At Singapore’s NATAS Holidays 2024 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Sarawak Tourism Board is set to captivate visitors at NATAS Holidays 2024 in Singapore with exclusive travel packages, highlighting the best of Sarawak’s culture and nature.

The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) is delighted to participate in the upcoming NATAS Holidays 2024, the leading consumer travel fair in Singapore. From August 16 to 18, 2024, visitors can explore enticing travel options at the Singapore Expo, booth 4H35, which include tours to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Niah National Park and Mulu National Park. Experience the captivating beauty of Sarawak and learn more about our unique travel offerings.

NATAS Holidays, a significant event annually drawing over 100,000 attendees, offers a wide array of travel-related products and services. The fair hosts a diverse group of participants, including outbound travel agencies, cruise lines, airlines, hotels, resorts, and national tourism boards, among others.

“We are incredibly excited to showcase Sarawak’s unique offerings at NATAS Holidays 2024,” said Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board. “Visitors can look forward to discovering the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine that make Sarawak a must-visit destination.”

Singapore remains a top source market for visitors to Sarawak, showing a notable 12% rise in tourists up to July 2024, compared to the same period last year. Singaporean travelers are particularly drawn to Sarawak for its genuine local cuisine, extensive cave explorations, national parks, and wildlife expeditions.

By joining NATAS Holidays 2024, the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) intends to further elevate Sarawak’s profile as a leading travel destination rich in culture, adventure, nature, culinary delights, and festivals—collectively known as CANFF. The event provides an excellent platform for STB to boost visibility for Sarawak’s cultural and natural treasures, and to interact directly with potential tourists, travel agents, and industry peers.

STB’s dedicated marketing strategies and collaborations aim to propel tourism growth, forge lasting partnerships, and enrich the tourist experience in Sarawak. This endeavor is expected to surge tourist numbers and foster economic gains for the area.

At the NATAS Holidays 2024, STB will unveil exclusive travel packages specifically designed for Singaporean tourists. These packages feature visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Niah National Park and Mulu National Park, marking Sarawak as the first Malaysian state with two such sites. The recent addition of Niah National Park at the 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting in July 2024 highlights its global importance and spectacular natural beauty.

Additional attractions in the packages include the Sarawak Delta Geopark, which covers the Wind Cave and Fairy Cave Nature Reserve, Bako National Park, and Semenggoh Nature Reserve. Positioned in the southern region of Sarawak, the geopark extends over Kuching, Bau, Padawan, and Siburan, offering visitors a chance to witness unique geological features and a diverse ecosystem that includes rare species like the proboscis monkey and fairy rock gecko.

Kuching, the vibrant capital of Sarawak, is renowned as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, reflecting its rich culinary diversity shaped by over 34 ethnic groups. This cultural blend has fostered a dynamic food scene, offering visitors a taste of both authentic and diverse local dishes. Additionally, Kuching’s craft scene is equally vibrant, evidenced by its designation as a World Craft City by the World Crafts Council, highlighting its position as a global center for unique and traditional crafts.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture with daily cultural dance performances at 4 PM, featuring prominent ethnic groups such as the Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Chinese, Melanau, and Orang Ulu. The performances include the mesmerizing sounds of the Sape, a traditional lute of the Orang Ulu, known for its soothing melodies and significant cultural importance.

Moreover, the artistry of Sarawak’s tattoo artists will be on display, offering visitors the opportunity to get temporary tattoos, providing a personal experience of this distinctive art form. These live performances and artistic showcases vividly bring to life the rich cultural and natural heritage of Sarawak.

We warmly invite everyone to visit our booth at Singapore Expo 4H35 to explore the wonders of Sarawak through our enticing tour packages. Entry to NATAS Holidays 2024 is complimentary, presenting an ideal opportunity to plan your next exciting adventure.

The post Explore Sarawak With New Packages At Singapore’s NATAS Holidays 2024 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is poised for transformation as Visa and STA launch a groundbreaking Data Lab to enhance visitor experiences and drive industry growth.

In a groundbreaking initiative for the region, Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has partnered with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) to launch the Tourism Data & Campaigns Management Lab. This innovative Lab is designed to align with the Saudi government’s vision to elevate the nation’s tourism industry and enrich the overall visitor experience.

The Visa-STA Tourism Data Lab leverages cutting-edge data analytics to provide valuable insights into travel and tourism trends. These insights empower STA to make strategic decisions regarding tourism campaigns and initiatives, fostering greater collaboration with stakeholders in the travel industry.

Driven by VisaNet, the world’s most extensive payments network, this collaboration offers a robust dataset that includes detailed information on visitor journeys, spending patterns, seasonality, digital adoption, and customer demographics. The data equips the Saudi government with the tools to optimize cashless strategies and deliver more personalized, seamless payment experiences for tourists.

Saudi Arabia, officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), is a prominent country in West Asia and the Middle East. Occupying the majority of the Arabian Peninsula, it spans approximately 2,150,000 square kilometers (830,000 square miles), making it the largest nation in the Middle East and the fifth-largest in Asia. The country is bordered by the Red Sea to the west, Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait to the north, the Persian Gulf, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates tothe east, Oman to the southeast, and Yemen to the south. The Gulf of Aqaba in the northwest creates a natural separation between Saudi Arabia and Egypt and Israel. Uniquely, Saudi Arabia is the only nation with coastlines on both the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. The landscape is predominantly characterized by arid deserts, lowlands, steppes, and mountainous regions. Riyadh serves as the capital and largest city, with Jeddah and the Islamic holy cities of Mecca and Medina also being major urban centers. With nearly 32.2 million inhabitants, Saudi Arabia ranks as the fourth most populous country in the Arab world.

The post Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Sector Set For Transformation With New Data Lab From Visa And STA appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is poised for transformation as Visa and STA launch a groundbreaking Data Lab to enhance visitor experiences and drive industry growth.

In a groundbreaking initiative for the region, Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has partnered with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) to launch the Tourism Data & Campaigns Management Lab. This innovative Lab is designed to align with the Saudi government’s vision to elevate the nation’s tourism industry and enrich the overall visitor experience.

The Visa-STA Tourism Data Lab leverages cutting-edge data analytics to provide valuable insights into travel and tourism trends. These insights empower STA to make strategic decisions regarding tourism campaigns and initiatives, fostering greater collaboration with stakeholders in the travel industry.

Driven by VisaNet, the world’s most extensive payments network, this collaboration offers a robust dataset that includes detailed information on visitor journeys, spending patterns, seasonality, digital adoption, and customer demographics. The data equips the Saudi government with the tools to optimize cashless strategies and deliver more personalized, seamless payment experiences for tourists.

Saudi Arabia, officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), is a prominent country in West Asia and the Middle East. Occupying the majority of the Arabian Peninsula, it spans approximately 2,150,000 square kilometers (830,000 square miles), making it the largest nation in the Middle East and the fifth-largest in Asia. The country is bordered by the Red Sea to the west, Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait to the north, the Persian Gulf, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates tothe east, Oman to the southeast, and Yemen to the south. The Gulf of Aqaba in the northwest creates a natural separation between Saudi Arabia and Egypt and Israel. Uniquely, Saudi Arabia is the only nation with coastlines on both the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. The landscape is predominantly characterized by arid deserts, lowlands, steppes, and mountainous regions. Riyadh serves as the capital and largest city, with Jeddah and the Islamic holy cities of Mecca and Medina also being major urban centers. With nearly 32.2 million inhabitants, Saudi Arabia ranks as the fourth most populous country in the Arab world.

The post Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Sector Set For Transformation With New Data Lab From Visa And STA appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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“Break The Ice,” an exciting networking event, is scheduled to take place from August 22nd to 24th, 2024, in the dynamic city of Antwerp, Belgium. This event is designed to foster communication, collaboration, and networking among participants from various industries, providing a platform to ease introductions and encourage interaction. Set against the backdrop of Antwerp’s rich history and vibrant culture, “Break The Ice” aims to create an environment where professionals can form new connections, deepen existing relationships, and explore new opportunities in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

A Glimpse into Antwerp’s Tourism Boom

Antwerp is preparing for a significant influx of tourists in 2024, driven by major events and the overall recovery of the tourism sector across Europe. The “Break The Ice” event is anticipated to contribute to this surge, drawing visitors from across the globe and adding to the city’s growing appeal as a top travel destination.

Expected Tourist Arrivals for “Break The Ice”

The “Break The Ice” event is expected to attract a considerable number of visitors, aligning with the broader trend of increased international tourism in 2024. According to projections by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the global tourism sector is poised to reach new heights in 2024, with international visitor spending nearing pre-pandemic levels. This surge indicates a strong appetite for travel and events, positioning “Break The Ice” as a key contributor to Antwerp’s tourism growth.

General Tourism Trends in Antwerp

Record Growth in European Tourism: Europe is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in tourism, with international arrivals expected to surpass previous records. Intra-regional travel, particularly from key markets such as the USA and Asia Pacific, is driving much of this growth, further boosting Antwerp’s appeal as a travel destination.

Impact of Major Events: Major events like “Break The Ice” play a crucial role in boosting tourism demand. Similar events, such as the UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany, have already shown a 19% increase in arrivals compared to the previous year. This trend suggests that Antwerp will likely see a similar boost in visitor numbers during the event.

High Occupancy Rates: Antwerp’s hotels have reported high occupancy rates, with a notable 70.8% during the holiday season. This strong interest in the city as a travel destination is expected to continue, with the “Break The Ice” event likely amplifying demand for accommodations.

Overall Recovery: International tourism has reached 97% of pre-pandemic levels in early 2024, with a significant increase in arrivals compared to the previous year. This ongoing recovery underscores the growing confidence in travel, making Antwerp a prime location for events like “Break The Ice.”

Economic Impact on Local Businesses

The “Break The Ice” event is expected to have a significant positive impact on local businesses, particularly in the hospitality and service sectors. The influx of visitors and participants will create a thriving environment for commerce, benefiting local hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Increased Visitor Traffic

The event will attract hosted buyers and suppliers from the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) sector, resulting in a substantial influx of participants. This surge in visitors will provide a significant boost to local businesses, as attendees seek accommodations, dining, and leisure activities during their stay.

High Occupancy Rates

With the event targeting 40 to 60 buyers and suppliers, local hotels, especially the Radisson Blu Hotel, where the event is hosted, can expect high occupancy rates. Given the recent trends of high hotel occupancy in Antwerp, the event is likely to drive even greater demand for accommodations.

Networking Opportunities

“Break The Ice” is designed to foster connections and collaborations within the industry. Local businesses will have the opportunity to engage directly with international buyers, potentially leading to new partnerships and contracts. These connections can enhance their service offerings and expand their market reach.

Sustainable Practices

The event’s emphasis on sustainable activities may encourage local businesses to adopt similar practices, appealing to environmentally conscious attendees and enhancing their brand reputation. This focus on sustainability aligns with the growing global trend toward eco-friendly business practices.

Long-Term Benefits

Beyond the immediate economic boost, the visibility and connections gained from hosting such an event can lead to future business opportunities. Attendees who experience Antwerp’s charm during “Break The Ice” may return for leisure or business, contributing to the city’s long-term economic growth.

Accommodations and Attractions in Antwerp

Antwerp offers a wide range of accommodations and attractions for visitors attending the “Break The Ice” event. Notable business hotels include:

Crowne Plaza Antwerp, an IHG Hotel : The Crowne Plaza Antwerp is a premier business hotel located close to the city center. It offers modern amenities, spacious rooms, and excellent conference facilities, making it ideal for business travelers. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the city, relax in the indoor pool, or dine at the hotel’s upscale restaurant.

Hampton by Hilton Antwerp Central Station : Situated right next to Antwerp Central Station, this hotel provides convenience and comfort for travelers. Hampton by Hilton offers well-appointed rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and a 24-hour fitness center. Its central location makes it a great base for exploring the city’s attractions.

Van der Valk Hotel Antwerpen : Van der Valk Hotel Antwerpen is known for its luxurious accommodations and top-notch service. The hotel features stylish rooms, a wellness center, and multiple dining options. It’s a popular choice for both business travelers and tourists looking to experience Antwerp in comfort.

Mercure Antwerp City Centre : Located near Antwerp’s beautiful city park, Mercure Antwerp City Centre offers a blend of elegance and modernity. The hotel boasts comfortable rooms, a cozy bar, and easy access to key attractions. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the city’s cultural and historical highlights.

Hotel FRANQ : Hotel FRANQ is a boutique hotel that combines contemporary design with historical charm. Situated in a former bank building, it offers an intimate and luxurious stay with personalized service. The hotel’s restaurant is renowned for its gourmet cuisine, making it a top choice for food lovers.

Tourists can also explore some of Antwerp’s most iconic attractions, such as:

Antwerpen-Centraal (Central Station) : Antwerpen-Centraal is not just a transportation hub but also an architectural masterpiece. Often referred to as the “Railway Cathedral,” this stunning station is known for its grandiose design, with a mix of neo-baroque, neo-Gothic, and art nouveau elements. It’s a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.

Museum Plantin-Moretus : A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Museum Plantin-Moretus offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of printing and bookmaking. Housed in the former residence and workshop of the famous printer Christophe Plantin, the museum showcases original presses, rare books, and a rich collection of artwork, offering visitors an immersive journey into the world of early printing.

Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp : The Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is a luxurious wellness retreat nestled within a historic botanical garden. It offers a serene escape in the heart of the city, featuring a state-of-the-art spa, fine dining restaurants, and elegant accommodations. It’s a perfect place for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation amidst beautiful greenery.

Grote Markt (Main Square) : Grote Markt is the vibrant heart of Antwerp, surrounded by ornate guild houses, the City Hall, and lively cafes. This historic square is the perfect spot to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage, with its stunning Renaissance architecture and a bustling atmosphere. It’s also a great place to enjoy local delicacies and people-watch.

Cathedral of Our Lady : The Cathedral of Our Lady is a towering Gothic masterpiece and one of Antwerp’s most iconic landmarks. It’s home to several works by the famous artist Peter Paul Rubens, including “The Elevation of the Cross” and “The Descent from the Cross.” The cathedral’s impressive architecture and art make it a must-visit for history and art lovers alike.

Upcoming Forums and Events in 2024

Antwerp will continue to host significant events throughout 2024, contributing to its growing reputation as a hub for international gatherings. Some of the upcoming forums include:

Davos, September 26-28, 2024

Cascais, November 14-16, 2024

IBTM Barcelona, November 20, 2024

Cannes, December 13-15, 2024

In conclusion, “Break The Ice” is set to be a pivotal event in Antwerp’s 2024 calendar, bringing together professionals from various industries and contributing to the city’s economic and cultural vibrancy. With the expected influx of visitors and the broader recovery of the tourism sector, Antwerp is poised for a year of growth and opportunity.

The post Antwerp Hosts “Break The Ice”: A Monumental Event to Boost Business Travel in Belgium appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Indonesia is transforming the air travel landscape by reducing costs, making flights more affordable and accessible for both locals and international visitors.

Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, announced on Wednesday that the country is actively working to make air travel more affordable for passengers.

To achieve this, the Indonesian government has formed a task force dedicated to reducing airfares. This initiative aims to lower domestic flight prices by around 10% by October.

The task force comprises various ministries and organizations, including the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs (Kemenko Ekonomi) and the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment (Kemenko Marves).

Previously, the Indonesian National Air Carriers Association (INACA) reported that the aviation sector in the country has been struggling, with airlines experiencing financial losses despite high ticket prices.

Denon Prawiraatmadja, President of INACA, explained that the significant operating costs for flights have driven up ticket prices, leading to these losses.

Sandiaga emphasized that the government will thoroughly examine these challenges to ensure that Indonesia’s aviation industry can operate as efficiently as those in other countries.

Aviation expert Alvin Lie highlighted that a substantial portion of high airfares in Indonesia is due to heavy taxation imposed by both the government and airports.

Alvin explained that ticket prices encompass various costs, including airport operations, maintenance, and service fees, all of which contribute to higher fares for passengers.

Additionally, he pointed out that airfares are burdened with an 11% VAT and a 0.25% aviation fuel surcharge for domestic flights.

Moreover, airlines face these taxes when purchasing fuel and also incur import taxes on aircraft and parts, leading to double taxation and further increasing airfares.

The post Indonesia Revolutionizes Airfare By Making Travel More Accessible appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Indonesia is transforming the air travel landscape by reducing costs, making flights more affordable and accessible for both locals and international visitors.

Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, announced on Wednesday that the country is actively working to make air travel more affordable for passengers.

To achieve this, the Indonesian government has formed a task force dedicated to reducing airfares. This initiative aims to lower domestic flight prices by around 10% by October.

The task force comprises various ministries and organizations, including the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs (Kemenko Ekonomi) and the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment (Kemenko Marves).

Previously, the Indonesian National Air Carriers Association (INACA) reported that the aviation sector in the country has been struggling, with airlines experiencing financial losses despite high ticket prices.

Denon Prawiraatmadja, President of INACA, explained that the significant operating costs for flights have driven up ticket prices, leading to these losses.

Sandiaga emphasized that the government will thoroughly examine these challenges to ensure that Indonesia’s aviation industry can operate as efficiently as those in other countries.

Aviation expert Alvin Lie highlighted that a substantial portion of high airfares in Indonesia is due to heavy taxation imposed by both the government and airports.

Alvin explained that ticket prices encompass various costs, including airport operations, maintenance, and service fees, all of which contribute to higher fares for passengers.

Additionally, he pointed out that airfares are burdened with an 11% VAT and a 0.25% aviation fuel surcharge for domestic flights.

Moreover, airlines face these taxes when purchasing fuel and also incur import taxes on aircraft and parts, leading to double taxation and further increasing airfares.

The post Indonesia Revolutionizes Airfare By Making Travel More Accessible appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Tourism New Zealand has unveiled an innovative initiative aimed at enhancing New Zealand’s appeal as a destination for gourmet dining and stargazing, working alongside local industry stakeholders to boost tourism throughout the year, particularly from March to November. This strategic effort seeks to not only double the nation’s exports but also increase tourism revenues by $5 billion by 2028.

“The campaign is strategically aligned to build desire for Aotearoa New Zealand as a compelling destination for international visitors all-year round. It is all part of helping build a resilient year-round sector, underpinned by international visitation as tourism continues to bounce back,” says Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy. 
 
“With this campaign we’re proving that our cuisine is worthy of a star or a billion, while showcasing New Zealand our fantastic dark skies and winter experiences in our key markets such as Australia, the US and China which are driving New Zealand’s tourism recovery.” 
 
“Stargrazing is based on consumer insight that New Zealand’s dark sky offering is increasingly important to 70% of potential off-peak visitors and for many visitors food is the number one topic of interest for 85% of potential travellers from our top markets,” de Monchy added. 

In collaboration with Christchurch NZ, the agency encouraged local enterprises to showcase their dark sky venues. This led to the creation of a unique event at the base of the Southern Alps, in the shadow of Kura Tawhiti, where the exclusive Pou-o-Kai pop-up restaurant was staged. This venue attracted prominent figures such as Australian food critic Sofia Levin, Ashley Day from the US’ Food and Wine, and representatives from Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia. These influencers experienced a specially curated menu by renowned chef Ben Bayly, featuring ingredients sourced nationwide, highlighting New Zealand’s culinary prowess under the stars.

The campaign is set to promote New Zealand’s stargazing spots and culinary delights nationwide, incorporating feedback from the event and the journeys of attendees across New Zealand. This initiative includes a robust set of trade training tools aimed at travel professionals to increase off-peak travel, supported by TNZ’s digital platforms and social media to help potential visitors plan their trips.

Chef Ben Bayly expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to advance New Zealand’s hospitality industry on a global stage, reflecting on two decades of significant progress and innovation in the field.

“I’m also incredibly proud to be asked to do this pop-up, Pou-o-Kai, beneath Kura Tawhiti. 
  
“It’s the perfect time to shine a light on Aotearoa’s hospitality industry on the world stage, we have our own unique culture of hosting guests in New Zealand which we call manakitanga and the love of showcasing New Zealand as an extraordinary destination is in the DNA of every Kiwi!” 
 
“Stargrazing is a special campaign for Canterbury as it aligns with two key priorities of the region’s Destination Management Plan, culinary leadership and dark sky experiences. Canterbury’s advanced farming practices make it a unique destination for high quality food production, which is then artfully prepared by our talented community of chefs in Ōtautahi Christchurch,” says ChristchurchNZ Head of Visitor Economy Kath Low. 

The post Tourism New Zealand’s Latest Campaign Seeks to Boost Off-Peak Travel and Grow Tourism Revenue by $5 Billion by 2028 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Tourism New Zealand has unveiled an innovative initiative aimed at enhancing New Zealand’s appeal as a destination for gourmet dining and stargazing, working alongside local industry stakeholders to boost tourism throughout the year, particularly from March to November. This strategic effort seeks to not only double the nation’s exports but also increase tourism revenues by $5 billion by 2028.

“The campaign is strategically aligned to build desire for Aotearoa New Zealand as a compelling destination for international visitors all-year round. It is all part of helping build a resilient year-round sector, underpinned by international visitation as tourism continues to bounce back,” says Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy. 
 
“With this campaign we’re proving that our cuisine is worthy of a star or a billion, while showcasing New Zealand our fantastic dark skies and winter experiences in our key markets such as Australia, the US and China which are driving New Zealand’s tourism recovery.” 
 
“Stargrazing is based on consumer insight that New Zealand’s dark sky offering is increasingly important to 70% of potential off-peak visitors and for many visitors food is the number one topic of interest for 85% of potential travellers from our top markets,” de Monchy added. 

In collaboration with Christchurch NZ, the agency encouraged local enterprises to showcase their dark sky venues. This led to the creation of a unique event at the base of the Southern Alps, in the shadow of Kura Tawhiti, where the exclusive Pou-o-Kai pop-up restaurant was staged. This venue attracted prominent figures such as Australian food critic Sofia Levin, Ashley Day from the US’ Food and Wine, and representatives from Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia. These influencers experienced a specially curated menu by renowned chef Ben Bayly, featuring ingredients sourced nationwide, highlighting New Zealand’s culinary prowess under the stars.

The campaign is set to promote New Zealand’s stargazing spots and culinary delights nationwide, incorporating feedback from the event and the journeys of attendees across New Zealand. This initiative includes a robust set of trade training tools aimed at travel professionals to increase off-peak travel, supported by TNZ’s digital platforms and social media to help potential visitors plan their trips.

Chef Ben Bayly expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to advance New Zealand’s hospitality industry on a global stage, reflecting on two decades of significant progress and innovation in the field.

“I’m also incredibly proud to be asked to do this pop-up, Pou-o-Kai, beneath Kura Tawhiti. 
  
“It’s the perfect time to shine a light on Aotearoa’s hospitality industry on the world stage, we have our own unique culture of hosting guests in New Zealand which we call manakitanga and the love of showcasing New Zealand as an extraordinary destination is in the DNA of every Kiwi!” 
 
“Stargrazing is a special campaign for Canterbury as it aligns with two key priorities of the region’s Destination Management Plan, culinary leadership and dark sky experiences. Canterbury’s advanced farming practices make it a unique destination for high quality food production, which is then artfully prepared by our talented community of chefs in Ōtautahi Christchurch,” says ChristchurchNZ Head of Visitor Economy Kath Low. 

The post Tourism New Zealand’s Latest Campaign Seeks to Boost Off-Peak Travel and Grow Tourism Revenue by $5 Billion by 2028 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.