Singapore Airlines unveils new lounges at Changi Airport

June 2, 2022

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has opened its all-new flagship SilverKris and KrisFlyer Gold lounges at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, following a S$50 million (US$36m) redesign, upgrade, and expansion project.

SilverKris Lounge comprises the business class section and the first-class The Private Room. Together with the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge, both can accommodate around 1,150 customers within 6,100m² of space, doubling the capacity that was available during the pandemic while the upgrading works were going on.

Singapore Airlines unveils new lounges at Changi Airport

Designed to enhance the comfort and convenience of diverse groups of travellers, the new facilities offer world-class products and services, as well as enticing F&B options available round the clock.

Goh Choon Phong, CEO of Singapore Airlines, said: “Extensive customer engagement and research have gone into the design of the new SilverKris and KrisFlyer Gold lounges. Customers will enjoy thoughtfully curated product offerings and experience the signature Singapore Airlines hospitality, all within a comfortable and restful environment, ensuring that they are refreshed and ready for their journey.

“Opening these lounges at this time signals our commitment to SIA’s premium brand and growth strategy. It reinforces our position as Changi Airport’s anchor airline, and reflects our confidence in Singapore’s future as a pre-eminent global air hub.”

Singapore enhances incentives programme; gears up for strong recovery

By TTGmice

June 1, 2022

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SINGAPORE_CBD — The positive outlook for MICE follows the recent relaxation of COVID-19 measures in Singapore

The recovery of Singapore’s business events industry is picking up pace, and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is riding the momentum by launching an enhanced incentive programme for international groups.

Under the In Singapore Incentives & Rewards (INSPIRE Global 2.0) programme by STB, qualified corporate groups can look forward to new experiences from dining and attractions to thematic tours and team building. They can choose from a selection of close to 80 complementary experiences that delegates can enjoy in Singapore – an increase from 54 experiences that were introduced under INSPIRE Global 1.0.

The positive outlook for business events follows the recent relaxation of COVID-19 measures in Singapore (pictured)

New INSPIRE Global 2.0 partners include Sentosa’s perfumery attraction, Scentopia; 1-Group, a lifestyle group offering a range of dining experiences; and Urban Yogis, a yoga wellness centre providing wellness teambuilding experiences. A new retail category has also been added, and experiences include exclusive shopping sprees at Design Orchard2, as well meet-and-greet sessions with designers.

A strong pipeline of events for the rest of 2022 and beyond has also been confirmed, and these include inter airport South East Asia (IASEA) 2023; Rotary International Convention 2024; FIND – Design Fair Asia in 2023 and 2024; Worldchefs Congress and Expo 2024; and 110th Lions Clubs International Convention 2028.

As such, a full recovery for the business events industry is expected in about three years.

In another positive sign, PEOs are also expanding their teams in Singapore, as they deepen their presence in the region and anchor new events in the city-state. For example, MMI Asia and dmg events Asia increased their staff strength to handle the anticipated growth in new events across physical, digital and hybrid formats.

In-person engagements with clients crucial for business recovery: Marriott

By TTGmice

June 1, 2022

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marriott_bonvoy_events_640_copy — A screenshot from The 5Gs of Human Connection campaign page

A new Asia Pacific survey by Marriott International revealed that over 81% of respondents believe that in-person engagements with clients are vital for business recovery.

The findings also revealed that 53% of respondents felt face-to-face activities were important to motivating and establishing bonding among teams and building company culture.

A screenshot from The 5Gs of Human Connection campaign page

Next, over 60% of the respondents elaborated that restrictions on social gatherings and uncertainties regarding international travel remain a concern; while a further 40% also stated that providing unique meeting activities and experiences pose a challenge when faced with these restrictions.

Launched earlier this year, the survey reached more than 300 business travellers and business events professionals.

In response to this, Marriott International has launched The 5Gs of Human Connection, a campaign that aims to remind people of the warmth of human connection and encourage people to meet face-to-face again.

The 5Gs – representing Gather, Global, Gratitude, Giving and Gourmet – are moments when people connect with each other in meaningful and memorable ways. Each pillar is designed to meet the evolving requirements of professionals and support meeting planners in crafting a memorable experience for their attendees.

The hospitality brand is also offering enticing rewards through its The Time Is Now – Where Can We Take You? group offer. The rewards can be redeemed when booking an eligible face-to-face meeting or event at participating hotels and resorts.

Thailand signals its readiness to welcome more international MICE events

By TTGmice

June 1, 2022

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TCEB_press_con_IMEX_640 — TCEB's Supanich Thiansing, and Nooch Homrossukhon, presenting at IMEX Frankfurt

To strengthen Thailand’s business events proposition and celebrate the reopening of Thailand, the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has rolled out a new business events brand at IMEX Frankfurt.

Thailand MICE – Meet the Magic heralds Thailand’s new position in revitalising travellers’ experience and re-energising the industry after two years without international travel. The country is ready to show its uniqueness in combining economic potential, new business events infrastructure and cultural soul in delivering magical events.

TCEB’s Supanich Thiansing, and Nooch Homrossukhon, presenting at IMEX Frankfurt

TCEB has also announced new products and initiatives These include localised experiences, growth opportunities for new business and professional sectors, mega-events, technological solutions and hygienic practices for events, as well as carbon footprint initiatives and support schemes.

Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, TCEB President, said in a press release: “We are aware that the industry has the appetite for reconnection in face-to-face events, new inspiration and new opportunities. With new development in sustainability, opportunities for growth in new business sectors and localised experiences, we will showcase a new facet of Thailand with deliverables that can not only make up for a two-year absence of our direct contact but also create positive magical impacts for the industry.”

The first large convention this year is the 2022 Global Summit of Women in Bangkok. Slated for June 23-25, the event will welcome over 1,000 participants from over 60 countries.

Other confirmed events for Bangkok this year include the Unicity: 2022 Global Leadership & Innovation Conference with over 12,000 attendees between August 6-7, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit between November 18-19.

Elsewhere in Thailand, Pattaya will host 5,000 attendees for the International Conference on Family Planning (ICFP) 2022 from November 14-17, while Phuket will host Travel Blog Exchange Asia 2022 from November 15-18.

FCM opens new Tokyo office to bolster Asian capabilities

By TTGmice

June 1, 2022

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Kenichi_Shiraishi,_GM,_Japan,_FCM_640 — Shiraishi: strong demand for Japanese domestic content for air and land through local partnerships

Global travel management company FCM has established a new, dedicated Tokyo office, to help travel managers develop a more consistent programme while meeting local traveller requirements.

While FCM has previously assisted its portfolio of large national and multi-national clients through Japanese agency partnerships, this investment in a direct-to-market strategy means clients will experience additional investment and new solutions designed for the local market via access to the global FCM Platform.

Shiraishi: strong demand for Japanese domestic content for air and land through local partnerships

This approach is especially crucial for a market like Japan and helps travel managers have a more consistent programme while meeting local traveller requirements.

Bertrand Saillet, managing director for FCM in Asia explained the decision to expand in Japan was driven by evolving customer requirements, while recognising considerable business development opportunities the country offers.

Japan is the world’s fourth-largest business travel market; however, FCM’s research shows there is still significant scope for business development. Less than 15 per cent of Japanese companies currently use TMCs, with business travel mostly managed in-house.

Kenichi Shiraishi, FCM’s general manager, Japan, highlighted a number of areas where he believes the company will fill market gaps.

“We are going in with a two-prong strategic approach: first we will increase our direct-to market engagement throughout Japan to elevate our reach. Simultaneously, we will be extending the opportunity territory to global companies with Japanese operations.

“Although companies continue to believe they can drive strong business growth through resumption of face-to-face connections, we also see them putting more emphasis on risk management and operational improvements in technology and service as cost reduction becomes relatively muted,” said Shiraishi.

Brisbane to host two large-scale US-based conventions

By TTGmice

June 1, 2022

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Brisbane has been picked to host the Convention of Zonta International 2024 and Baptist World Congress 2025.

Held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC), the two events are expected to attract more than 8,000 delegates, and deliver 58,000 room nights and A$35 million (US$25.5 million) in economic contribution to the Queensland economy.

Zonta International 2024 follows on from the successful hosting of the Australia & New Zealand Zonta Centennial Convention at BCEC in 2021, which attracted 900 delegates from across the region.

Currently, Zonta International has more than 1,100 clubs with over 27,000 members in 64 countries and it is renowned for its strong advocacy of women’s rights.

Brisbane’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination, combined with BCEC’s appeal at the top of world venue rankings, accessibility and variety of accommodation options, were all factors in the selection of Brisbane as the host city, according to Judy Gorton, chair of the 2024 Convention and former Zonta International Board Member.

Meanwhile, organisers of the Baptist World Congress are expecting more than 6,000 delegates to attend the Brisbane event, with more than 5,000 of those coming from overseas.

BCEC general manager Bob O’Keeffe AM said securing two such high-profile, first-time international events for Brisbane was a further indication of a strong economic recovery.

“These are but two of 77 conventions confirmed for BCEC during 2021, ensuring a strong pipeline of business events into the future for Brisbane and Queensland and boosting the city’s appeal as a destination leading into the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.”

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre partnered with Tourism Australia, Tourism & Events Queensland and the Brisbane Economic Development Agency, to secure these events.

ICCA develops skills accreditation programme

By TTGmice

June 1, 2022

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iccaskills-sm-banner_640 — ICCASkills will be relevant and accessible for every career level, location, and sector

The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) has launched ICCA Skills, the first accredited and globally-recognised certification programme for suppliers across every sector of the meetings industry.

Announced at IMEX Frankfurt, ICCA revealed that the educational programme offers 51 high-quality chapters, divided across two certification tracks.

ICCASkills is relevant and accessible for every career level, location, and sector

The Certified International Convention Specialist (CICS) track provides foundational knowledge and practical skills for professionals who are new to the industry or want to improve their understanding of global business events standards. Learners are not required to have any previous industry experience and the certification can be earned in seven weeks.

Meanwhile, the Certified International Convention Executive (CICE) track is for professionals with at least three years of management experience. This eight-week programme offers advanced courses with a focus on collaborative learning.

Both courses will address today’s critical issues such as sustainable destination growth, stakeholder collaboration, community engagement, industry advocacy, and best practices in proposal bidding. All ICCASkills instructors are industry experts with proven teaching abilities and extensive international business events experience.

ICCASkills was developed in partnership with industry consulting firm Gaining Edge. Meetings industry associations such as the International Association of Convention Centres, Destinations International, the AMC Institute, the International Association of Exhibitions and Events, and the American Society of Association Executives also contributed to the curricula. The ICCASkills website is powered by EventsAir.

Enrollment is now open for both certifications. The first CICS class will commence in July 2022 and the CICE programme will begin in August.

Work from paradise at The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives

By TTGmice

June 1, 2022

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The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives is offering digital nomads the chance to work from the resort with their Stowaway package.

Along with special room rates, guests will receive several perks including complimentary daily breakfast, weekly laundry service, weekly house reef snorkel tours and a daily ‘Buzz Break’ at the café featuring unlimited house coffee. The package also includes resort-wide discounts such as 20 per cent off of all food and beverage and 20 per cent off treatments at The Standard Spa.

Other perks include access to gym and sports facilities; scheduled group yoga and wellness classes; use of tennis and beach volleyball; and use of snorkelling equipment, kayak or paddleboard daily.

The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives, nestled between the Raa and Baa Atolls, is home to 115 private pool villas, each featuring its own private lounge deck and plunge pool. Facilities include a spa with nine treatment rooms and a communal hammam; an overwater nightclub; and six F&B offerings ranging from a beachfront BBQ shack to Maldivian cuisine featuring ingredients taken from the island farm.

Two new IHG hotels say Kia Ora to Auckland

By TTGmice

June 1, 2022

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Two new hotels under the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), have opened in Auckland.

The voco Auckland City Centre, and the Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre, are both part of a new dual-tower development on the corner of Albert and Wyndham Street.

The first voco-branded property in New Zealand, the 201-key voco Auckland City Centre boasts five flexible meeting rooms, in addition to the all-day Italian trattoria Bar Albert and Mozzarella & Co. which offers additional space for hosting more relaxed, social functions.

Another F&B option is Bar Albert on voco’s rooftop, billed as New Zealand’s highest rooftop bar; as well as numerous community spaces, bars and lounges dotted throughout the hotel.

Within the same compound is the second Holiday Inn Express Hotel, the 294-key Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre.

Business travellers will be treated to the fast check-in and unlimited fast Wi-Fi, as well as the three flexible meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 40 people. There is also a fitness room and a self-service laundry on-site.

A complimentary Start Breakfast that includes hot and cold options is included with the room rate; while in the evenings, guests can choose from a drink in the Great Room or head up to the neighbouring voco Auckland City Centre for Italian food at Mozzarella & Co. or cocktails at the rooftop bar, Bar Albert on Level 38.

Philippines names new tourism secretary

By TTGmice

May 31, 2022

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The Philippine Department of Tourism (DoT) welcomes the impending appointment of Christina G Frasco as secretary.

Frasco, who is currently mayor of Liloan, Cebu, will replace Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

In a statement on Monday, Romulo-Puyat said the DOT is ready for a “smooth turnover” to the new leadership, and will be handing the National Tourism Development Plan 2022 to 2028 to Frasco.

Frasco serves as the spokesperson of vice president-elect Sara Duterte since July 2021. She is also the daughter of Cebu governor Gwendolyn Garcia.

Singapore Airlines unveils new lounges at Changi Airport

Singapore enhances incentives programme; gears up for strong recovery

In-person engagements with clients crucial for business recovery: Marriott

Thailand signals its readiness to welcome more international MICE events

FCM opens new Tokyo office to bolster Asian capabilities

Brisbane to host two large-scale US-based conventions

ICCA develops skills accreditation programme

Work from paradise at The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives

Two new IHG hotels say Kia Ora to Auckland

Philippines names new tourism secretary

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