Global tourism figures on the up

Worldwide international tourism during the first half of this year rose 4.5% to 440 million, 19 million more than the same period last year, according to the latest update of the World Tourism Barometer of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

All regions showed positive trends except the Middle East (-11%) and North Africa (-13%), which have been facing political unrest since the beginning of this year, said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai.

South America witnessed the strongest growth with a 15% increase in international travellers, followed by sub-Saharan Africa (9%), and Central and Eastern Europe (9%). Asia and the Pacific, on the other hand grew at a comparatively slower pace of 5%.

"Tourism can play a key role in terms of economic growth and development, particularly at a moment when many economies, for the most part in Europe and North America, are struggling with recovery and job creation," Rifai said.

Following an encouraging first half of 2011, growth for the remainder of the year is expected to soften somewhat, as recent months have brought increased uncertainty, hampering business and consumer confidence.

"We must remain cautious as the global economy is showing signs of increased volatility," Rifai said. Many advanced economies still face risks posed by weak growth, fiscal problems and persistently high unemployment.

Results from recent months show that destinations such as Egypt, Tunisia and Japan are seeing declines in demand clearly reverting.

"We are very encouraged to see demand picking up in such important tourism destinations and call for continued support for these countries, which are today fully ready to receive travellers from all over the world," he said.

Slow travel in the north

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has introduced the 'My Slow Day' e-guide in Thai to promote slow travel in the North.

The e-guide covers 10 routes in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Mae Hong Son, Nan, Phrae, Sukhothai, Uttaradit and Uthai Thani. Its highlight is a cute cartoon map which you can download to your computer. You can also enjoy story telling by well-known Thai writer Sarawut Hengsawat or 'New Klom', following his slow travel concept.

For more details and map, visit www.slowtravelnorth.com. 

Hotels raise rates

Hotels around the world have raised their rates by about 4% in the first half of this year due to increasing demand, according to the latest hotel survey from Hogg Robinson Group (HRG), the international corporate services company.

Of the 50 cities surveyed, 33 reported a year on year increase in hotel rates with strong growth in Asia. Despite the fact that many large companies have implemented travel restrictions and cost reductions, hotel rates in the majority of cities surveyed increased, according to HRG Group Commercial Director Stewart Harvey. It is a clear sign of global recovery and pick up in business travel.

The strongest performing region was the Asia Pacific, where average room rates rose by 7% due to the concentration of hotel development and financial centres including Hong Kong and Singapore. The survey also found that Moscow retained its top position with the most expensive hotel rates although many new hotels are opening, demonstrating the city's position as a strong business destination.

Contest boosts tourism and fashion

Bangkok and Pattaya are the locations for picture-taking for the region's first international Supermodel Contest.

The contest involves 30 models from countries in the Asia Pacific including Australia, China, Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Russia, Samoa and Vietnam. They arrived in Thailand on Sept 12 and the final round will be held tonight at the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel in Bangkok and then broadcast on Sept 20 on TV Channel 9.

Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Franchise Owner & Supermodel of Asia Pacific and SISI Bangkok, the event aims to promote the development of the region's fashion industry.

The contest would also promote tourist attractions in participating countries, said TAT Executive Director for East Asia Region Jamnong Junnapiya.

Airlines update

- Thai Airways International has maintained its 4th position in the World's Best Airline 2011 survey, according to SmartTravelAsia's Best in Travel Poll.

The online survey was conducted from May to July. On average, voters took 15.75 air trips over the past 12 months and earned US$156,716 (4.7 million baht) in household income. About 60% were based in Asia, 20% in Europe and another 20% in North America. About 36% had online booking experiences and most of the participants use the internet to seek independent reviews and information rather than the best price.

The survey found that the top three best airline are Singapore Airlines followed by Singapore Airlines Cathay Pacific Airways and Emirates. Singapore was also voted the best for Business Class and Cabin Service.

For more details, visit www.smarttravelasia.com/travelpoll.htm.

Hotels update

- Centara Hotels & Resorts will open Centara Hotel Manila next month.

The 4-star hotel is located in the culturally rich district of Malate in Manila. It is a newly-built 15-storey property and will managed by Centara. The hotel features 96 rooms and suites offering a minimum space of 43m2, with all rooms having views overlooking the city or Manila Bay.

Its all-day restaurant will offer international cuisines, with a combination of set menus of Filipino, Thai, Chinese and Mediterranean fare. There will also be a rooftop restaurant and lounge, a rooftop swimming pool with sundeck and bar, SPA Cenvaree and meeting rooms.

Source - bangkokpost