ITB ASIA NEWS 2023 - DAY 3 EDITION

DAY 3
FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2023
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ITB ASIA 2023
GREEN
GETAWAYS
DESTINATIONS PIONEERING
SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL
NEWS
MANDAI WILDLIFE RESERVE
– A UNIQUE INTEGRATED
WILDLIFE AND NATURE
DESTINATION IN SINGAPORE
REGION: OCEANIA
“TRAVELLERS ARE
INCREASINGLY
FOCUSED ON
SUSTAINABILITY,
ECO-TOURISM,
AND AUTHENTIC
CULTURAL
EXPERIENCES.”
#05
#07
#06
EXCLUSIVE
INTERVIEW
MARIA MARGARITA
MONTEMAYOR NORGRALES
COO, Tourism Promotions
Board (TPB) Philippines

HALL PLANS
STAND K 031
STAND K 05

Morning Briefing
by Laurence Gaborieau,
Directrice du salon IFTM Top Resa
Director IFTM Top Resa
Charting the course
for tomorrow's travel
Good morning and welcome to the
final day of ITB Asia 2023. This year
the show is bringing together key
players in the global travel industry
with over 1,838 international
exhibitors, a 35% increase in
new exhibitors, a 38% increase in
MICE, and over 200% growth in
travel technology. With over 1,300
global top-tier buyers, and over
a hundred conference speakers
participating, ITB Asia 2023 is not
only meeting expectations but
exceeding them.
One of the standout sessions from
yesterday was on the topic of "Driving
China’s Next Tourism Revolution".
The deep dive into the intricacies of
the evolving Chinese tourist market
provided attendees with invaluable
insights, setting the stage for future
strategies and collaborations. The
commitment of the industry to both
growth and innovation was evident
in every discussion and interaction.
As we transition into today's agenda,
there are several sessions that
you won't want to miss. The panel
on "The Changing Landscape in
Global Meetings and Events" is of
utmost importance in today's travel
landscape. As the industry gravitates
towards more eco-conscious
practices, understanding the
nuances of these trends for the MICE
sector is becoming crucial. Another
anticipated session is "Upcoming
Trends in Hospitality: Flexible Living
vs Serviced Apartments". This will
explore the changing dynamics of
traveler preferences and how the
hospitality sector is innovating to
meet these demands.
The exhibitor stands have been a
consistent highlight over the past
two days. Their vibrant displays and
the wealth of information they offer
have been instrumental in bridging
connections. The dedication,
creativity, and effort behind each
stand illustrate the passion that
drives the tourism industry.
While this is our final day, it's essential
to approach it with the same vigour
as the first two. The corridors of ITB
Asia are still ripe with opportunities
for networking, collaboration, and
business growth. There's ample
time to engage in meaningful
conversations, solidify partnerships,
and lay the groundwork for future
endeavours.
Let's embrace Day 3 with enthusiasm
and determination. Here's to making
the most of every moment, forging
lasting connections, and setting the
trajectory for the next phase of travel
and tourism!
Need to
advertise for
next year?
It's never too
soon!
Would you like to
strengthen your brand’s
presence at the show?
Book your advertising or
advertorial space in ITB
Asia News.
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!
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ITB ASIA NEWS • FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2023 3

I NEWS I
Royal Caribbean set to return
to China in 2024
Shanghai, Hong Kong and Singapore will
see Royal Caribbean cruise lines across Asia
throughout the year 2024
Royal Caribbean International has been delivering innovation at sea for
over 50 years offering elevated technology and guest experiences aboard
its cruise ships with itineraries to 240 destinations in 61 countries on six
continents.
The company is actively planning its return
to China beginning in April 2024 with one
of Asia’s largest and most innovative ships,
Spectrum of the Seas, leaving from Shanghai.
Travellers can already book packages for
4- and 5-night cruises to popular Japanese
destinations like Fukuoka, Okinawa, Nagasaki,
Osaka, and Tokyo.
Spectrum of the Seas will also offer eight trips
from Hong Kong, beginning in December
2024, to places such as Ishigaki and Miyazaki
in Japan, Taipei (Keelung), and Nha Trang in
Vietnam.
"This is the moment we – along with Chinese
holidaymakers – have been waiting for. Our
return to China is an exciting milestone that
could only be marked with Spectrum of the
Seas, which became a household name
with Chinese travellers when it debuted in
Shanghai in 2019,” said Bert Hernandez, Senior
Vice President, International, Royal Caribbean
International. “We thank the government of
China for establishing a pathway forward and
continue to be committed to expanding the
cruise industry in a region we have sailed from
for more than a decade.”
Specially designed for Asian travellers of all
ages, Spectrum of the Seas features an array
of restaurants with regionally inspired menus
and entertainment, with original productions
like Showgirls at the Royal Theater. A line-up
of adventures will include skydiving on the
RipCord by iFly, scaling more than 90 metres
above the ocean on the North Star all-glass
observation capsule, and The Effectors in the
Royal Theater, a transformative venue that
comes alive with performers and robots.
Another of the company's ships, Anthem
of the Seas, will start to sail by year-end
2024 from Singapore for the first time, with
a number of experiences for travellers to
choose from. Lounges and bars will welcome
guests to relax and enjoy the sunset while
live music bands entertain them at Latinthemed
Boleros or Brass & Bock, an authentic
English pub. Shows will be available on deck,
including the Olivier Award-winning musical
We Will Rock You – featuring a score of Queen
hits. An extensive range of cuisines will be
available, from Mediterranean-inspired food to
classic American steakhouse dishes or fresh
Japanese fare.
"We are proud to have another award-winning
ship sets sail in the region with the introduction
of Anthem of the Seas in Singapore," added
Hernandez
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4 ITB ASIA NEWS • FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2023 itb-asia-news.com

I NEWS I
ADVERTORIAL
Predators on Wings
Manatee Mania Tour
Tram Experience - Indian Rhino
Mandai Wildlife Reserve – a unique integrated
wildlife and nature destination in Singapore
Home to award-winning wildlife parks – Singapore Zoo,
River Wonders, Night Safari and newly opened Bird Paradise
- Mandai Wildlife Reserve aims to connect visitors to the
fascinating world of wildlife.
Bird Paradise, one of Asia’s largest
bird parks, opened on 8 May 2023
and features 10 zones, including
8 thematic walk-through aviaries
inspired by habitats around the
world. The park is also home to more
than 3,500 birds from over 400 avian
species.
The Wings of the World presentation
gives visitors a chance to witness
the different colours, flights and
natural behaviour of some of these
birds, while the Predators on Wings
presentation give demonstrations
of some of the world's top winged
predators.
Singapore Zoo's world-famous
naturalistic exhibits offer many
opportunities to experience the
wonders of wildlife, with more than
4,200 animals of over 300 species,
of which 34 per cent are threatened.
Visitors are given the chance to
experience a rainforest climate with
encounters ranging from getting
splashed by a sea lion to feeding a
white rhino from the palm of your
hand.
DWTC sets the course for
sustainable, innovative
events in Dubai
Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice
President at Dubai World Trade
Centre, tells ITB Asia News
how DWTC is increasingly
sustainable, community-linked
and at the cutting-edge of
technologies.
What can you tell us about DWTC’s
role in the MICE sector in the region,
specifically in growing community
events?
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
serves as a hub for the exchange
of ideas, partnerships, and pushing
boundaries. Our commitment to
nurturing community events is a
River Wonders is a river-themed
wildlife park with some unique
river-dwelling animals including
Indian gharial crocodiles, Mekong
giant catfish and giant pandas. With
the Backstage Pass, visitors can
experience the Manatee Mania Tour
and learn about the quirks of these
animals, participate in their daily
training sessions, and even handfeed
them.
significant aspect of our mission. We
cultivate a spectrum of events, from
large international exhibitions to
community events and local festivals.
With world-class facilities, seamless
management services, and our
steadfast dedication to sustainability,
DWTC cultivates an environment
encouraging community engagement
with the MICE sector.
How will Dubai hosting COP28
highlight the city’s thriving MICE
ecosystem?
Dubai's selection as the host city for
COP28 places us in the international
spotlight. Hosting COP28 illustrates
how the UAE seamlessly integrates
sustainability into a cohesive and
engaging event experience while
fostering significant global dialogue
and cooperation.
Our readiness to host COP28 is built
on the success of Expo 2020 Dubai
and the invaluable lessons and
infrastructure developed for Expo
2020 such as waste management,
energy efficiency, and sustainable
transportation options. This
underscores Dubai's readiness for
eco-friendly events.
Night Safari, the world’s first
nocturnal zoo according to the
company, is a 13-time winner for Best
Attraction in Singapore. Visitors can
be enthralled by the the mysterious
kingdom of animals after dark as they
explore the four Safari Trails across
the park and embark on the Safari
Tram Adventure to meet over 900
nocturnal animals
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What trends do you see for MICE
tourism in the future?
Several trends are shaping the
landscape of MICE tourism. The
digital transformation is increasingly
influencing our industry, with
virtual and hybrid events gaining
prominence, although in-person
events have made a robust comeback
since Covid. Secondly, sustainability
is transitioning from being a desirable
aspect to an absolute necessity.
Finally, data analytics and artificial
intelligence are revolutionising
our ability to offer personalised
experiences to event attendees and
exhibitors. We can tailor our offerings
to precisely match their requirements,
setting new standards
PANEL
The Changing Landscape
in Global Meetings and
Events
Today / 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
B2, MICE Show Asia Theatre
ITB ASIA NEWS • FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2023 5

I EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW I
Empowering local communities at the heart
of the Philippines' tourism strategy
ITB Asia News spoke with Maria Margarita Montemayor Norgrales, COO for
the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, in an exclusive interview
The COO emphasised how important it is for the institution
to foster and strengthen local communities as part of the
country's unique appeal.
Could you shed light on the key
initiatives that the TPB has taken to
promote sustainable tourism in the
Philippines?
Sustainable tourism has been at
the forefront of the TPB’s initiatives
and is already incorporated into
our programmes with discussions
on circular economy, sustainable
sourcing, and targeting carbon neutral
events and activities. Beyond learning
initiatives, we are promoting more of
our lesser known attractions to avoid
over-tourism in our award-winning
destinations.
How does the TPB work with local
communities to ensure they benefit
from the growth of tourism in their
areas?
For years, the TPB has continuously
been empowering local communities
all over the Philippines. We are now
FOR YEARS,
THE TPB HAS
CONTINUOUSLY BEEN
EMPOWERING LOCAL
COMMUNITIES ALL OVER
THE PHILIPPINES.
in the fourth phase targeting 14
local communities. Our Community
Based Tourism (CBT) Marketing
Enhancement Programme serves as a
platform for our local communities to
enhance their marketing and branding
capabilities, understanding the
aspects of unique experiential tours.
It also allows local travellers to directly
interact with them.
Other programmes include the
Tour Operators River Protectors
of Environment and Development
Organisation (TORPEDO) where
former Illegal loggers have become
Environmental Protectors of the
Ulot River, the third longest in the
Philippines; the Domestic Tourism
Invitational Programme with tourism
circuits such as Cagayan De Oro-
Bukidnon-Davao; and wellness
tourism in Batangas and Cavite. We
also showcase communities' heritage,
culture and tradition in various
domestic and international travel and
trade fairs.
What are some of the most innovative
initiatives the TPB has launched
to bolster the Philippines' tourism
industry in the post-pandemic era?
Travel Philippines is the official travel
app of the Department of Tourism
(DOT) and the Tourism Promotions
Board (TPB) Philippines. It provides
up-to-date information on our 7,641
islands. The app also allows tourists
to create their own trips and save
important travel documents for a
seamless travel experience. Our
enhanced app was actually launched
just yesterday!
How is the TPB collaborating with
other sectors to diversify and enrich
the Philippines' tourism experience
for travellers?
We are continuously collaborating
with local government units and
their respective tourism officers to
provide tourism marketing seminars
to help them to better promote
their destinations, and train their
stakeholders to level up services.
We also work with tour operators
and MICE organisers through our
MICEPlus programme to improve
incentive experiences. Another part
of our promotional programme is
working with the Department of
Agriculture and the National Museum
to integrate their ecotourism parks
and our heritage museums into
tourism activities.
How important is ITB Asia for the
Philippines?
On a national level, the TPB always
ensures a strong Philippine delegation
when participating in international
big ticket events such as ITB Asia.
This year we are joined by 25
tourism stakeholders from the airline,
accommodation, travel and tours, and
government sectors
PROMOTING NEW
THEMES AND
DESTINATIONS IN
THE PHILIPPINES
The TPB has a series of initiatives
to highlight new themes,
destinations and activities across
the archipelago. This year tourism
marketing educational seminars
and workshops were conducted
to promote the Philippines'
indigenous textile and weaving,
their nature-based attractions in
Sagay City, and bag makers in
Mauban in Quezon.
New destinations emphasised
by the TPB include Rizal with its
verdant hills and valleys stretching
from the rugged foothills of
Montalban and Antipolo down to
the picturesque shores of Laguna
de Bay; Romblon, a laid back
island town a few hours away from
world-famed Boracay; Dumaguete
in Negros Oriental province, a
fantastic tourist getaway with great
food and incredible diving spots
including natural attractions such
as Red Rock, Pulangbato Falls, Mt.
Kanlaon and Lake Balinsasayaw
as well as vibrant and diverse
diving sites at Apo Isand; Cagayan
De Oro in Mindanao, considered
the "City of Golden Opportunities";
and South Cotabato, dubbed the
“Land of the Dreamweavers” in
the southern part of Mindanao
with T’nalak textiles with their
traditional geometric patterns of
T’boli women
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6 ITB ASIA NEWS • FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2023 itb-asia-news.com

I REGION I
OCEANIA I
“Travellers are increasingly focused
on sustainability, eco-tourism, and
authentic cultural experiences.”
Adela Issachar Aru, CEO
of Vanuatu Tourism Office,
delves into the allure of
adventure tourism for
Asian visitors and the
evolving travel trends
shaping Vanuatu's tourism
strategies.
How important is adventure tourism
for Vanuatu’s Asian tourists? What
are some of the most popular
attractions?
Vanuatu boasts stunning natural
landscapes, including volcanoes,
rainforests, coral reefs, and pristine
beaches, making it an ideal destination
for adventure seekers. They can
engage in a wide range of adventurous
activities such as scuba diving,
snorkeling, hiking, volcano trekking
on the active Mont Yasur volcano on
Tanna island, and zip-lining.
Have you noticed any changes in
travellers' habits recently? How are
these changes affecting what sectors
Vanuatu Tourism is looking to invest
in and develop in the future?
The Vanuatu Tourism Office has
assessed through its market research
that travellers are increasingly focused
on sustainability, eco-tourism, and
authentic cultural experiences.
Therefore, Vanuatu Tourism's Market
Development Plan 2030 aligns with
these evolving trends, emphasising the
preservation of natural environments,
promotion of sustainable tourism
practices, and the provision of unique
cultural experiences to visitors.
What are your main goals at ITB Asia
this year?
Participating in ITB Asia is crucial for
us in order to promote Vanuatu as a
destination for adventure tourism
and other unique experiences, to
gain insights into the latest travel
trends and market demands,
especially from Asian travellers and of
course, to showcase the People, the
sustainability and cultural aspects of
Vanuatu to align with evolving traveller
preferences
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Tonga welcomes tourists
back with open arms
Tonga Tourism reopens its doors to the world, putting
behind it the years of pandemic crisis with a new slogan:
"Kingdom of Tonga, the True South Pacific".
The Kingdom of Tonga is back on
the international tourism stage, as
proven by its presence at ITB Asia
this year. Data shows that tourism
in Tonga is recovering faster
than expected. Current statistics
demonstrate a notable increase
in visitor arrivals with renewed
interest in the country's natural
beauty and cultural heritage.
The resurgence in Tonga's tourism
industry after the pandemic
years led to a sharp surge in total
international arrivals in 2022.
The kingdom welcomed over
36,000 international arrivals, an
amazing 1,805% compared to
2021. The Tonga travel industry
is rebuilding rapidly with over
85% of the industry now fully
recovered. Tonga looks ready to
return to its 2019 record of 136,000
international travellers, and is
once again connected by air to
Auckland, Fiji and Sydney.
The whale watching and
swimming sectors are expanding
this coming season with many
new marine activities. Historical
sites and natural attractions have
been upgraded and restored
while cultural tours have bounced
back with enhanced products
to entertain visitors. Tourism
products and services have been
revitalised and most importantly,
everyone is ready and eager to
welcome tourists back with open
arms and smiling faces
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ITB ASIA NEWS • FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2023 7