ITB ASIA NEWS 2023 - DAY 1 EDITION

DAY 1
WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023
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ITB ASIA 2023
THE INTELLIGENT
FUTURE OF TRAVEL
MAPPING OUT A NEW WORLD
OF OPPORTUNITIES
#08
EXCLUSIVE
INTERVIEW
JAMES LIANG
Co-founder and Executive
Chairman of the Board,
Trip.com Group
#09
EXCLUSIVE
INTERVIEW
HERMIONE JOYE
Sector Lead,
Travel and Vertical Search APAC,
Google

HALL PLANS
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Morning Briefing
by Laurence Gaborieau,
Directrice du salon IFTM Top Resa
Director IFTM Top Resa
ITB Asia 2023:
A new era of travel
& tourism
CONFERENCE
HIGHLIGHTS
9:00-9:15 a.m.
KEYNOTE: The Evolution of Travel in the New
Era: Embracing Change and Opportunities
L3, Begonia Ballroom, 3001A
Hermione Joye, Sector Lead, Travel and Vertical
Search APAC, Google
9:15-9:30 a.m.
KEYNOTE: How AI is Powering Travel
L3, Begonia Ballroom, 3001A
James Liang, Co-founder and Executive
Chairman of the Board, Trip.com Group
10:30-11:00 a.m.
Travel & Tourism Trends in the Asia Pacific
B2, Knowledge Theatre
Sarah Wang, Regional Director for Asia, World
Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)
Welcome to the 16th edition of
ITB Asia - the largest travel trade
show on the continent. This year
the show is bigger and better than
ever with two full floors! After our
triumphant comeback last year,
this year's show promises to take
things to the next level.
As the travel industry evolves at
an unprecedented pace, ITB Asia
Conference 2023 is here to help
you stay ahead of the curve. We
have a full programme planned for
visitors this year under the theme
"Accelerating Growth: Paving the
Way for New Opportunities in
Travel & Tourism”. Featuring three
theatres, the conferences will
include a wide range of industry
leaders and innovators sharing
their insights and expertise
on topics encompassing
MICE, corporate travel, leisure
and travel technology. The
conference theme aptly sums
up the proactive stance that the
industry must adopt: it's time to
navigate challenges and foster
rapid growth by discovering
fresh possibilities that will shape
the future of travel and tourism.
It would be impossible for
me to choose just one or two
sessions, but you won't want to
miss keynote addresses from
Hermione Joye, Sector Lead,
Travel and Vertical Search APAC
at Google, and James Liang, Cofounder
and Executive Chairman
of the Board at Trip.com Group
this morning. I hope listening to
these industry giants will inspire
you to make the most of your
time at ITB Asia this year.
Holding ITB Asia alongside MICE
Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia
provides an optimised experience
of 3 events in 3 days. ITB Asia
will span both floors while you
can find Travel Tech Asia on
Level 1 and MICE Show Asia on
Basement 2 this year. Exhibitors
are such an integral part of all
3 shows, and it's such a great
opportunity to have so many
destinations and agencies under
the same roof. I hope this first day
of the show is full of networking,
brainstorming and business
1:00-1:30 p.m.
Travel Confidence in The Face of New
Realities
B2, Knowledge Theatre
Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director, Asia
Pacific, Booking.com
James Lambert, Director of Economic
Consulting, Asia, Oxford Economics
1:00-2:00 p.m.
Two Takes on Incentive Travel: "Leadership"
vs. "Participant" inSITEs
B2, MICE Show Asia Theatre
Rebecca Wright, Head of Chapter Engagement,
Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE)
3:30-4:00 p.m.
Travel & Hospitality Strategy and Investment
Outlook
L1, Travel Tech Asia Theatre
Nicholas Cocks, Managing Partner, Velocity
Ventures
4:00-4:30 p.m.
C-Suite Talk: Successfully Enabling your
Travel Platform with AI
L1, Travel Tech Asia Theatre
Tim Hentschel, Co-Founder & CEO,
HotelPlanner
FOR THE FULL
PROGRAMME, SCAN
THE QR CODE:
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ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 3

I NEWS I
“We are focused on giving our
customers more of what they
are asking for”
Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Booking.com,
sheds light on APAC travellers' shifting priorities in the face of challenges
and the transformative impact of AI in the travel industry.
How is the industry showing that travel is a
priority in spite of obstacles such as rising
living costs? What are the main priorities of
travellers today?
Close to three-quarters
(73%) of APAC travellers
believe they are the best
version of themselves while
on holiday. Underscoring
the profound influence of
travel on personal growth
and well-being, over twothirds
(72%) aspire to
incorporate aspects of their
vacation personas into their
daily lives upon returning
home.
We are seeing a rising
demand for water-centric travel in APAC, with
the consensus amongst 72% of travellers that
being close proximity to water instantly makes
them feel more relaxed.
What role is AI playing in the travel industry
right now? What are some trends that you’ve
observed that you think will continue to
develop in the future?
The latest innovation Booking.com has been
working on is our AI Trip Planner. Leveraging
the unique framework utilised by Booking.com’s
existing AI and machine learning systems, the
AI Trip planner is honed to recommend travel
destinations, lodging choices, travel inspiration
and itineraries to millions of
platform users, at any time of
the day. We are focused on
giving our customers more
of what they are asking for,
which includes interactive
and in-depth itineraries,
and additional conventional
search funnel capabilities
(e.g. filters, integration with
other verticals such as flights
and attractions). At Booking.
com, we use AI extensively
to enhance interactions with
both travellers and partners, working towards
a single goal, that is enhancing the overall
traveller experience
CONFERENCE
Travel Confidence in
The Face of New Realities
Today from 1:00-1:30p.m.
B2, Knowledge Theatre
ONYX unveils the Amari Bangkok
at ITB Asia 2023
ONYX Hospitality Group is showcasing the
transformation of the iconic Amari Watergate
Bangkok into the "Amari Bangkok", a change which
signifies more than just a decision to streamline
the name. According to the company, the Amari
Bangkok is always welcoming and vibrant,
just like the city it calls home. With the brand's
"Brighten Your World" proposition, the hotel will
offer upgraded rooms, various dining options and
the exclusive Club Siraa. The "maai spa", which
will open in the first quarter of 2024, will further
enhance the guest experience
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4 ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 itb-asia-news.com

I NEWS I
Frasers Hospitality
celebrates the launch of
the Fraser Residence River
Promenade at ITB Asia 2023
This year, visitors to ITB Asia have the opportunity to discover
Frasers Hospitality's new luxury residence.
The Fraser Residence River
Promenade, managed by Frasers
Hospitality, has officially opened its
doors. Nestled by the iconic Singapore
River, this residence blends heritage
conservation with modern luxury and
sustainability.
Ms Eu Chin Fen, CEO of Frasers
Hospitality, describes it as a blend
of "luxury, historical charm, and
environmental responsibility." As
part of Frasers Property Singapore's
integrated precinct, it complements
the Rivière residential development
and three heritage warehouses filled
with lifestyle offerings. Ms Soon Su Lin,
CEO of Frasers Property Singapore,
highlights their vision, "We’re excited
to play a role in enhancing the vibrancy
of the Singapore River with our
integrated precinct that aims to offer
inspiring spaces for the community to
live, work, and play."
Housing 72 meticulously designed
apartments, the residence pays
homage to its historical roots on Jiak
Kim Street, once home to warehouses
and the iconic Zouk nightclub. Today, it
promises river and city views, coupled
with eco-consciousness. Certified
Green Mark GoldPLUS, the residence
champions sustainability with features
like energy-conserving elevators
and smart room technology. Guests
can explore the neighbourhood on
provided bicycles, reducing their
carbon footprint.
Amenities include a state-of-theart
gym, outdoor pool, and The
Living Room, a communal space
for residents to relax and connect,
offering daily breakfast, snacks and
evening cocktails. The residence is
also pet-friendly.
To celebrate its launch, exclusive perks
are available to visitors from 27th
September to 1st December 2023
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“The incentive travel
experience will always
concern real people, in real
places, in real time.”
Rebecca Wright, Head of
Chapter Engagement at
Society for Incentive Travel
Excellence (SITE), spoke
with ITB Asia News in an
exclusive interview about
the impact of incentive travel
on corporations and its place
in the industry today.
How has the landscape of incentive
travel evolved in response to
recent challenges, and what
strategies have been effective in
demonstrating the value of incentive
travel programmes to corporations?
Incentive travel programs are aligning
with these changing circumstances in
a variety of ways. Safety concerns are
mitigated by opting for destinations
that are national, regional and closer
to home. Choosing destinations
that are closer to home also helps
with issues around price since air
fare, usually about 25% of the total
incentive budget, is less expensive
than long haul.
While tried and tested destinations
bring the comfort of familiarity, we
are also seeing a dramatic increase in
destinations not previously used.
What emerging trends or
developments do you foresee in the
world of incentive travel, and how
can corporations adapt to maximise
the benefits of this motivational tool
in the future?
Rapid ongoing advancements in
technology are unlikely to impact the
actual incentive travel experience
CONFERENCE
Two Takes on Incentive
Travel: "Leadership" vs.
"Participant" inSITEs
Today - 1:00-2:00 p.m.
B2, MICE Show Asia Theatre
which will always concern real people,
in real places, in real time.
That said, technology will continue
to drive many changes within the
broader ecosystem of incentive
travel. Undoubtedly, technology will
automate or speed up many of the
processes that today are clunky and
labour intensive and, ultimately, it will
create more frictionless and affordable
channels for the delivery of incentive
travel.
Workplace realities and relationships
are an emerging trend where incentive
travel will play an ever-increasing role.
With dispersed workforces now de
rigeur, incentive travel will “expand”
its remit beyond simple reward and
recognition and become the means
by which company culture, esprit de
corps and collegiality are mediated
within a corporation
CONFERENCE
The Incentive Travel Index –
A First Look at Results from
the 2023 Edition
Thursday 26 th Oct. - 1:00-2:00 p.m.
B2, MICE Show Asia Theatre
ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 5

I NEWS I
ADVERTORIAL
WORLDWIDE
HOTELS
GROUP
PROPERTIES
ON DISPLAY AT
ITB ASIA 2023
Hotel Mi Rochor,
Singapore
Jordan’s road to recovery
in tourism
Jordan has experienced a remarkable recovery in tourism
as an increasingly popular choice for Asian travellers
seeking unique experiences. The Jordan Tourism Board
(JTB) has understood the importance of the Asian market
and is actively promoting the country's diverse offerings to
cater to their preferences.
In order to appeal to Asian tourists,
JTB is focusing on promoting travel
during the low seasons of summer
and winter. This allows visitors
to enjoy fewer crowds while still
experiencing all that Jordan has
to offer. It provides an opportunity
for more personalised experiences
at iconic sites without feeling
overwhelmed by large groups.
Tourism plays a vital role in Jordan's
economy, contributing significantly
to its GDP and providing
employment opportunities for local
communities. JTB is committed
to creating sustainable tourism
practices that benefit both visitors
and locals alike.
Jordan boasts six UNESCO World
Heritage Sites that showcase its
historical and cultural significance.
From the ancient city of Petra,
carved into the mountains, to the
Roman ruins of Jerash and the
desert landscapes of Wadi Rum,
each site offers a unique glimpse
into Jordan's rich past.
As Jordan continues to recover
and welcome tourists from
around the world, Asian travelers
are discovering the allure of this
captivating destination. With JTB's
focus on promoting travel during
low seasons and offering more
affordable options, now is the
perfect time for Asian tourists to
explore the wonders Jordan has
to offer. From UNESCO World
Heritage Sites to warm hospitality
and breathtaking landscapes,
Jordan promises an unforgettable
experience
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Worldwide Hotels Group is highlighting
their dedication to innovation in
hospitality and strong trade ties at
ITB Asia this year. Visitors to the show
can discover the group's 40 properties
and 7 brands in Singapore, including
the new Hotel Mi Rochor on 89 Short
Street and the flagship ICON Hotel on
8 Club Street.
Worldwide Hotels Group is one of
Singapore's largest hoteliers, with
7 hotel brands - ICON Hotel, V
Hotel, Hotel Boss, Hotel Mi, Value
Hotel, Venue Hotel and Hotel 81, and
properties at strategic locations around
Singapore
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A special cocktail
reception will be held
Today at 4:30 p.m.
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© Nico Smit - Unsplash
Would you like to strengthen your
brand's presence at the show?
Book your advertising or advertorial
space in ITB Asia News.
Need to advertise
during the show?
You still can!
We'd be happy to discuss
opportunities with you.
Give us a call at +33 7 66 66 80 30.
We'll help you increase your brand
awareness in the tourism industry!
ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 7

I EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW I
THROUGH TEXT, OUR AI
CHATBOT RESOLVED 160
MILLION TEXT-BOT
INQUIRIES LAST YEAR
James Liang
Co-founder and Executive Chairman
of the Board, Trip.com Group
“Travellers seek efficient and personalised solutions
to plan their trips in today's fast-paced world.”
Trip.com Group's Co-founder and Executive Chairman of the Board is giving
a keynote address this morning at ITB Asia on "How AI is Powering Travel"
ITB Asia News caught up with James Liang ahead
of the show in an exclusive interview to discuss how
Trip.com Group is harnessing AI and technology to
provide travellers with an enhanced experience.
Could you provide some realworld
examples or case studies
showcasing how AI technology
has directly impacted
the efficiency and costeffectiveness
of travel services
provided by Trip.com Group?
The current AI technology
can help streamline travel
planning, offering personalised
recommendations, comprehensive
travel plans, and a consolidated
booking service.
In addition to launching TripGen
which then became TripGenie
this year, we've implemented AIdriven
data filtering, handling a
vast amount of high-quality nonstructural
travel data, which could
include user reviews and posts.
With advanced AI technology, we
go beyond providing products
and services to inspire those who
may not know where to start.
Our personalised understanding
of each user means we look at
a user’s trends and preferences.
Based on this information,
we curate relevant tourist
destinations, preferred hotel
options, best flight deals, and
local tourist activities.
We have also launched an array
of AI-powered tools, such as our
AI-empowered curated lists: "Trip.
Trends", "Trip.Best", and "Trip.
Deals". By presenting algorithmic
curated lists of options based on
user preferences and real-time
data, users can quickly compare
and choose from a selection of
highly relevant travel products.
The ability to include real-time
information also helps users
make cost-effective decisions by
accessing the most up-to-date
and competitive travel options.
How are some specific ways in
which AI is improving customer
service within the travel sector,
and how is Trip.com Group
embracing this transformation?
Customers are always our first
priority at Trip.com Group. Over
the years, we have leveraged AI
technology to resolve customer
requests more efficiently and
precisely.
AI customer service finds its
primary application in automated
classification and responses via
calls, online chat and emails. At
the heart of this technology is
machine learning and natural
language processing algorithms
that swiftly and accurately
identify and categorise customer
queries and needs.
Nowadays, our human employees
only need to handle the more
complex incidents. Most of the
typical questions are taken care
of by AI chatbot, which includes
both text and voice. Through
text, our AI chatbot resolved 160
million text-bot inquiries last
year, achieving a self-service rate
of 75% of our global customer
service inquiries. Through voice,
our AI chatbox resolved 40 million
phone consultations last year,
achieving a 50% self-service
rate. This means many customers
no longer have to endure long
phone queues or wait for email
replies; they can instantly access
relevant answers and solutions
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KEYNOTE
How AI is Powering Travel
Today - 9:15-9:30 a.m.
L3, Begonia Ballroom, 3001A
TRIP.COM GROUP'S AI
TRAVEL ASSISTANT
Trip.com Group launched TripGen, their first
AI travel assistant, in February of this year. In
July, they enhanced its features, and TripGen
became TripGenie, a more intuitive travel
planning assistant. According to James Liang,
the advanced AI technology built into TripGenie
allows Trip.com Group to offer consumers
improved user engagement; provide highly
relevant and accurate recommendations;
elevate travel and itinerary planning; provide
quick conversational answers; and make the
booking process more efficient.
When asked what set TripGenie apart from
other solutions on the market, James Liang
emphasised the assistant's use of human
feedback: "What makes TripGenie exceptional
is its reliance on our extensive proprietary
database from Trip.com Group and its effective
utilisation of human feedback. Our algorithm
processes a vast 20 billion travel-related
data points, supported by a team of in-house
experts worldwide who curate and verify travel
content, drawing on their deep knowledge of
local cultures and attractions."
In the future, James Liang said that Trip.com
Group would continue to invest in TripGenie,
notably developing itinerary sharing and
integrating existing bookings. The former will
allow travellers to share itineraries through
social media enabling "collaborative real-time
editing by multiple individuals". The latter will
aim to help travellers "refine and optimise" their
itinerary for an improved experience
8 ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 itb-asia-news.com

I EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW I
“Travellers are willing to pay a premium
for brands to deliver a personal experience”
ITB Asia news spoke with Hermione Joye, Sector Lead, Travel and Vertical
Search APAC, Google, ahead of her keynote at ITB Asia 2023
Hermione Joye looks at
travel trends in APAC, how
traveller behaviour has
shifted and the influence
of digital technology and
artificial intelligence on the
market today.
How has traveller behaviour changed
in the way they plan and book their
trips today and what are the main
priorities for APAC travellers?
Without a doubt, the region has seen
an acceleration towards all things
digital in the last few years and this
digital adoption looks set to continue,
especially since APAC has a large Gen
MZ population and one of the highest
mobile app penetrations in the world.
While cost and currency fluctuations
are top of mind for travellers according
to our latest travel research, they are
willing to pay a premium for brands
to deliver a personal experience.
For example, 73% of respondents
are willing to pay a premium for
accommodation platforms that
delivered positively, and 80% are
willing to pay a premium for airline
platforms that delivered positively. This
means travellers are more discerning
about their choices and are willing
to shed those extra few dollars if
they perceive they’ll get a highly
personalised and premium experience.
While travellers are feeling the pinch of
economic pressures, it’s not that they
aren’t willing to travel - they just expect
to get the most out of their buck.
How are travel companies harnessing
digital strategies to adapt to these
priorities?
A digitally savvy region means
consumer journeys are much more
fragmented, spanning a broader
spectrum of touchpoints - search,
video, social media and many more.
Our research found the average post-
A DIGITALLY
SAVVY REGION
MEANS
CONSUMER
JOURNEYS ARE
MUCH MORE
FRAGMENTED,
SPANNING A
BROADER
SPECTRUM OF
TOUCHPOINTS
Covid consumer journey comprises
140+ touchpoints when researching
brands they have not purchased
before!
This is a staggering figure but presents
a huge opportunity for brands to reach
out to the consumer and rise to the top
of the consideration set. And artificial
intelligence can play a role in helping
brands drive marketing efficiencies.
For example, Scoot, a low-cost
airline under the Singapore Airlines
group, saw at least 30% incremental
conversions using the AI-powered
Performance Max tool compared to
non-Performance Max campaigns.
By pairing Performance Max with its
Search campaigns to analyse traveller
intents and preferences, Scoot was
able to identify new search queries
that were not covered by its existing
keywords, and new segments of
customers it could engage. Doing so
allowed Scoot to deliver ad creatives
with information relevant to people’s
travel intent.
How is APAC faring as a tourist
destination? What do the forecasts
for the future look like?
APAC is and remains a popular tourist
destination. Among the fastestgrowing
destination countries in 2023
by search demand, we have 3 APAC
countries in the top 10 list - Japan and
China occupy the top 2 spots while the
Philippines comes in at 10th.
We cannot talk about travel in APAC
without mentioning Japan - search
interest for the land of the rising sun
grew almost 80% in 2023 compared
to 2019, and 30% year-on-year. Its
popularity among APAC travellers
is undisputed - when we looked at
searches on Google Flights for yearend
holidays across APAC, Japan
comes out on top in 9 of the 12 APAC
markets
KEYNOTE
The Evolution of Travel in
the New Era: Embracing
Change and Opportunities
Today - 9:00-9:15 a.m.
L3, Begonia Ballroom, 3001A
THE TRAVEL
MARKET
TODAY
For Hermione Joye,
the two words that
best describe the
travel market today
are "stability" and
"opportunity".
Stability might seem like a
surprising choice after the
many changes and ups and
downs of the industry in the
last few years due to Covid
measures such as border
closures, vaccinations and
travel restrictions. But we
are now entering a period of
stability in which travellers
can, according to Ms Joye,
"plan and forecast their
trips more than 3 months
out." Travel demand as
measured by search interest
is now surpassing 2019
levels and remaining high as
of July 2023. APAC’s travel
resurgence is surpassing
that of other regions says Ms
Joye, with APAC’s demand
for international travel at 85%
more than 2019 levels, and
demand for domestic travel at
52% above 2019 levels.
And opportunity? For
Hermione Joye, stability
and opportunity go hand
in hand: "Stability brings
about opportunity, which
makes travel a bright spot
for the region whether that’s
international travel or intraregion
travel"
ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 9

I SPECIAL FEATURE I NATURE & ADVENTURE TOURISM I
Japan's National Parks offer travellers the chance
to explore nature throughout all four seasons
Japan is exhibiting at ITB Asia this year, and while the country is known for
its urban and cultural tourism, the destination is also growing increasingly
popular with adventure and nature enthusiasts
Japan's national parks showcase the country's impressive
range of wild landscapes and preserved habitats throughout
the year. These parks, the first three of which were designated
in 1934, provide travellers with the opportunity to appreciate
the natural beauty of Japan through different activities such
as hiking and kayaking.
HIKING ACROSS THE
PRIMEVAL FORESTS
OF CHUBUSANGAKU
NATIONAL PARK
Situated amidst a towering
3,000-metre mountain range,
Chubusangaku National Park is
a testament to nature's grandeur.
Come hiking season, from May to
October, adventurers can explore
the protected area of Kamikochi
and walk along the Azusa River. As
they proceed up the mountain, the
panoramic landscape comes into
perspective with its unique geological
features. Early risers can take in a
dramatic sunrise at the spearheaded
summit of Mt. Yarigatake as the sun
appears over a sea of clouds.
Further south, a guided nature
walk suitable for families explores
the unspoiled nature reserve of
Goshikigahara Forest in the foothills
of Mt. Norikura. As one of Japan's
rarest and most valuable old-growth
forests, restrictions in place to protect
the natural habitat require visitors to
be accompanied by a certified guide.
SOAKING IN THE
VOLCANIC STEAM OF
KIRISHIMA-KINKOWAN
NATIONAL PARK
Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park,
formerly known as Kirishima National
Park, was one of Japan's first three
national parks designated in 1934. Its
unique combination of the Kirishima
mountains, the active Sakurajima
volcano and the Kinkowan Bay is a
botanist's dream, housing an array
of plants like the Miyamakirishima
(Kyushu Azalea) and Kirishimamizuki.
On the extreme southern tip of
Kyushu's Satsuma Peninsula, Ibusuki
Onsen is known for its unique openair
sand baths heated by volcanic
steam. Visitors can lie down facing
the bay in a cotton Yukata, buried
up to the neck in hot sand listening
to the waves. Afterwards, they can
cook seasonal vegetables and eggs
using the volcanic steam from natural
geothermal cauldrons at Unagi
Onsen by Lake Unagi.
DISCOVERING WILDLIFE
AND CRATER LAKES
IN SHIKOTSU-TOYA
NATIONAL PARK
Visitors hiking in Shikotsu-Toya
National Park can discover a wide
range of wildlife including Ezo red
foxes, alpine hares, and Hokkaido
squirrels. The park is also home to a
number of crater lakes including the
circular Lake Toya which was formed
on a caldera from a volcanic eruption
110,000 years ago.
In the eastern part of the park, also
formed on a caldera, Lake Shikotsu
is Japan's second-deepest and
one of its most transparent lakes.
Visitors can stay at camping sites
by the lake and enjoy diving and
kayaking activities or explore the
unique aquatic habitat with a glassbottomed
kayak
STAND J 041
© Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO)
© Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO)
10 ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 itb-asia-news.com

I SPECIAL FEATURE I
TRANSPORT I
Air India launches non-stop
flights between Kolkata and
Bangkok
© Air India
AIRCALIN
ADDS A
SIXTH
WEEKLY
FREQUENCY
BETWEEN
NOUMEA AND
SINGAPORE
© Nico Smit - Unsplash
Present at ITB Asia 2023, Air India has introduced a nonstop
service between Kolkata and Bangkok starting on 23 rd
October. Launched during the festive season in Kolkata,
this new flight provides a convenient direct connection
between the two cities.
The flight, operated with a
narrowbody Airbus family aircraft,
has a two-class configuration of
Economy and Business Class and
operates six days a week from
Monday to Saturday.
In addition to helping boost tourism
and trade in both cities, the direct
service to Bangkok offers Air
India passengers the opportunity
for convenient connections via
Bangkok to and from 10 popular
destinations in Thailand, Laos
and Cambodia on the network of
Bangkok Airways, with whom Air
India enjoys an interline partnership
with connections beyond Bangkok.
Prior to this launch, Air India already
operated a total of 14 flights to
Bangkok per week with daily nonstop
flights from Delhi and Mumbai
connecting the destination. Building
a more robust network is a key
part of Air India’s growth strategy
and the new launch highlights the
airline’s commitment to expanding
connectivity and enhancing
frequency on its domestic and
international sectors as it keeps
augmenting the fleet with new
aircraft.
Air India is moving through a fiveyear
transformation roadmap with
the goal of becoming a world
class airline with an Indian heart.
The airline has completed the first
phase of this transformation, the
taxi phase, which focused on fixing
the basics including bringing many
long grounded aircraft back in
service, adding talent across flying
and ground functions, upgrading
technology, and strengthening
customer care initiatives
STAND Q 033
A year ago, AirCalin (short for Air
Caledonie International) inaugurated
the only connection between New
Caledonia and Southeast Asia with
Noumea-Singapore. The flight, which
connects the cities in just 9 hours, has
proven to be very popular: Singapore-
Noumea is now served five times a
week.
AirCalin has a Special Prorate
Agreement (SPA) with Singapore
Airlines for connections to the rest
of Southeast Asia as well as Europe
-particularly to Paris. AirCalin will add a
sixth frequency from January, boosting
further capacities between Noumea
and Singapore
STAND L 025
ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 11

I REGION I ASIA I
ADVERTORIAL
© P. Kelor
Jakarta,
at the heart of MICE tourism
Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Department are participating
in ITB Asia this year with the aim of promoting regional tourism on
the international stage
The show is of strategic importance for Jakarta with its focus on
Leisure, MICE, Corporate and Travel Technology, making it the main
meeting place for the travel and tourism industry to network and
conduct business in the region.
It is very important for DKI Jakarta Tourism
and Creative Economy Department to
promote regional tourism overseas now as
Jakarta will soon no longer be the national
capital of Indonesia. Jakarta is optimistic,
however, that it will remain a popular
destination for MICE venues, strengthening
its strategic position in the economic sector.
All the transportation provided is designed
to work together as a system, making it
easier for tourists to explore Jakarta. The
city offers 24-hour entertainment and is a
melting pot for diversity, art, culture and
culinary arts in Indonesia and the world
STAND L 033
Jakarta has become a main MICE
destination in the ASEAN region, due in part
to its various city charms and urban tourist
attractions. The diversity of its historical,
natural, cultural, religious, culinary, film and
convention offerings are the main elements
attracting tourists to Jakarta today.
© P. Macan
In line with its many tourist options, Jakarta
also provides complete facilities for land,
sea and air accessibility. There are more
than 40 international airlines with over 20
flights a day arriving to Jakarta. Currently,
Jakarta has also developed a lot of
infrastructure including the airport, city toll
roads, MRT, LRT, and air-conditioned city
buses.
12 ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 itb-asia-news.com

ADVERTORIAL
I REGION I
ASIA I
Seoul: a prime destination
for MICE and bleisure
Ki Yon Kil, Seoul Tourism Organisation's President and CEO,
shared his thoughts on Seoul's growth as a MICE destination:
"Seoul presents itself as Asia’s leading
MICE city, and it's easy to see why.
With convenient MICE infrastructure
and diverse MICE content combined
with the boom of the Korean wave
and its image as a “safe city” during
the pandemic, many business events
are being held in Seoul today.
The Seoul Convention Bureau (SCB)
has been closely collaborating with
qualified MICE companies in Seoul
in order to enable the hosting of
high-quality MICE events. The SCB
manages a unique pool of 70 venues
in categories like traditional houses;
museums and galleries; cultural
complexes; and dining and rooftops
to support events with Seoul’s
unique atmosphere. It also provides
a customised support program called
PLUS SEOUL for every step of MICE
events (bidding - promoting
- hosting) to fully support the
successful hosting of business
events.
As a result of such efforts, a
distinguished media outlet has
designated Seoul as the 'Best MICE
City' for eight consecutive years and
TIME magazine designated Seoul as
one of the 50 “World’s Greatest Places
of 2022,” recognising the city’s charm
as a tourist destination. This has led
to wider recognition of Seoul as a
bleisure city to be enjoyed for both
tourism and MICE.
The SCB will spare no effort to support
the successful hosting of MICE events
and the active provision of excellent
MICE services in close collaboration
with the MICE industry in Seoul"
STANDK K 013
STO's 8 co-exhibitors at ITB Asia
AJU INCENTIVES
Travellers can experience lifechanging
moments in Korea with
Aju Incentives, a one stop destination
management company (DMC)
offering bespoke solutions, expert
planning and unrivaled support.
JANE DMC KOREA
Jane DMC Korea develops
programmes for international groups
and individuals from over 40 countries
in places including the Middle East,
Europe, Indonesia, Southeast Asia and
Russia. They specialise in inbound
tourism, MICE, medical tourism and
international events.
GRAND WALKERHILL
SEOUL
Walkerhill Hotels & Resorts located
in the heart of Seoul is the ideal place
for travellers who want to escape from
busy city life and enjoy various cultural
experiences.
FLOATING ISLAND
CONVENTION
The Floating Island Convention is the
only water convention facility in South
Korea, located on Sebitseom Island,
an artificial island and landmark of the
Hangang River.
BOSUK TOURS
Bosuk Tours is an inbound destination
management company serving
tourists from Southeast Asia, the
Americas and Europe. With their
wealth of experience, Bosuk Tours
provides top service for foreign tourists
visiting Seoul and South Korea.
JW MARRIOTT HOTEL
SEOUL
The JW Marriott Hotel Seoul is located
in Shinsegae Central City, a hub of
shopping, culture and transportation.
It features 379 guest rooms, including
two penthouses and 32 suites.
E-LAND CRUISE
E-Land Cruise has been operating
since 1986 and is now the only river
cruise company in Seoul. With E-Land
Cruise, travellers can experience a
special voyage across Seoul from east
to west.
NANTA
Nanta is a nonverbal comedy show
that combines drama with Samulnori
from Korean folk music. Everyone
can understand what’s happening on
stage without any language barriers,
making it very popular among
tourists.
ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 13

I REGION I ASIA I
ADVERTORIAL
Busan: a strategic
choice for MICE
venues
With an impressive history of facilitating over 100,000 events
with 55 million attendees, the city remains a dominant force in
the MICE industry.
PRIME ACCESSIBILITY
Busan's global accessibility is
facilitated by Gimhae Airport and
Busan Port, strengthened by the
reintroduction of direct flights from
key Asian cities and the upcoming
Helsinki connection. The forthcoming
Gadeokdo Airport is also expected
to enhance the city's connectivity.
For travellers within Korea, the
ease of reaching Busan, either by a
short flight or a KTX journey from
Seoul, is a notable advantage. With
its established convention centres,
BEXCO and BPEX, and a diverse
range of venues, Busan is wellprepared
to accommodate the diverse
needs of the MICE industry in 2023.
BETWEEN BUSINESS
AND TOURISM
The city is encircled by seven beaches,
all in close proximity to the urban
centre, offering a range of leisure
activities. The HAVENUE, Korea's
only international conference complex
located next to the sea, epitomises
Busan's commitment to bleisure. This
complex is a nexus of MICE facilities,
tourist hotspots and accommodation,
all accessible within 15 minutes. With
a choice of over 60,000 rooms, ranging
from opulent 5-star hotels to practical
business accommodations, and an
additional 15,000 rooms in the scenic
Haeundae area, there's something
to suit every preference and budget.
New Korea Unique
Venues in the spotlight
at ITB Asia 2023
The Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) is highlighting MICE
at ITB Asia this year. The KTO has been fostering the Korea
Unique Venue programme since 2017. This programme
provides a selection of venues where travellers can experience
Busan's retail scene is equally
impressive, with shopping giants like
Shinsegae and the Lotte Department
Store dominating the landscape. For
travellers seeking a more tranquil
experience, wellness tourism and
authentic Korean activities such as
forest trekking and temple stays are
readily available
STAND K 031
a MICE event in host city or enjoy the unique charms of a
specific region. While these venues are not traditional MICE
facilities (i.e. convention centres, hotels), they give organisers
the option of holding MICE events somewhere different.
As the MICE industry continues
to grow, venues are diversifying.
Corporations and institutions,
which tended to prefer large scale
convention centres in the past, are
increasingly seeking out unique
places and experiences for their
events. There is a trend for private,
small-scale event spaces along with
an interest in venues which showcase
local cultures and characteristics.
This year, the Korea MICE Bureau
(KMB) selected new additional venues
to bring the total number of Korea
Unique Venues up to 52. The selection
process for the new venues began
in February with an open call from
regional organisations (RTO, CVB).
The resulting pool underwent an initial
document and PT evaluation to create
a shortlist, then in May and June, KMB
conducted on-site evaluations with
industry professionals to select the
final venues.
All Korea Unique Venues are selected
through a rigorous process in which
they are evaluated based on suitability,
scale and distinct characteristics.
The resulting selection guarantees
an event experience which allows
visitors to not only experience Korean
tradition and culture, but also art,
leisure sports, Korean Wave, natural
scenery and more
STAND J 05
14 ITB ASIA NEWS • WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2023 itb-asia-news.com