Hilton Worldwide Inc. will be banned for two years from creating a luxury "lifestyle" hotel chain under an agreement to settle a corporate-espionage lawsuit.
The settlement stems from a suit filed last year by rival Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, which accused Hilton officials of stealing confidential Starwood documents to develop a new boutique-style chain that would appeal to modern tastes.
Terms of the settlement continue a court order that Hilton cease development of its Denizen lifestyle chain. Now, Hilton can never develop its Denizen lifestyle brand and can't start developing a similar brand for two years. Hilton also must allow a court-appointed monitor to review its marketing and branding materials to make sure they don't benefit from the information obtained from Starwood documents.
The deal also includes an unspecified payment to Starwood, according to the court documents.
The dispute between the two chains shocked the hotel world. Starwood is known for brands such as Sheraton, W and Westin. Hilton is a storied chain with a 90-year history and is now owned by private-equity investors Blackstone Group LP, which purchased the company for $26 billion in 2007.
The allegations had placed a cloud over Hilton, observers said, and taken up considerable time from Chief Executive Chris Nasetta and other managers. "It's important to put this type of situation behind them," said Bjorn Hanson, dean of New York University's Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management.
The lawsuit alleged that Ross Klein and Amar Lalvani, two former Starwood executives who had joined Hilton, took more than 100,000 documents to recreate the success of Starwood's W Hotel. Neither man could be reached for comment; both left Hilton after the suit was filed. Starwood said it discovered Hilton had the documents only after Hilton return them to Starwood. Hilton officials said they returned the documents out of "an abundance of caution.
Hilton's delay in developing a lifestyle hotel came at a convenient time given that new hotel construction is at its lowest level in years. In the future, the two-year delay could become a problem as the industry emerges from the recession, industry observers said Wednesday. It leaves a hole in Hilton's marketing to younger travelers seeking a high dollar hotel option.
Hilton's Mr. Nasetta said in a statement Wednesday that the company is "committed to fair, ethical and robust competition in the marketplace." The hotel chain "regrets the circumstances surrounding the dispute with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and is pleased to bring an end to this prolonged litigation," his statement continued.
The settlement specifies that a criminal complaint from the U.S. attorney for Manhattan continues. A person close to the matter said Hilton has received indication from the U.S. attorney that it does not intend to file charges, although the company continues to cooperate with the investigation.
A spokeswoman for the Department of Justice declined to comment.
Source : WSJ
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Malacca records RM84mil in tourist expenditure every week
Despite a lack in natural resources, the state’s booming tourism industry is seen by the Tourism Ministry as one of the most important contributors to the nation’s economic development.
Tourism minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said although Malacca has no significant contributions in the agriculture or major technology industries, Malacca has a very successful tourism industry with a record of RM84mil in tourist expenditure every week.
“Last year, the tourism sector contributed 8.2% to the nation’s overall GDP with 75% of its revenue coming from the industry here,” she said at the Malacca Hokkien Associations 209th anniversary dinner here recently. Dr Ng said the state had also set the foundation for the political development for the Chinese community in the country.
Later, during her official visit here, she took a Malacca river cruise and a walkabout around the waterfront with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam. She lauded the state’s efforts and creativity in turning the historic city into the country’s top tourist destination with over eight million tourist arrivals.
To further enhance this status, she said the ministry has allocated a sum of RM157.2mil to the state for tourism-related projects which will be disbursed in a two-year period under the 10th Malaysia Plan. The allocation represented 46% of the total allocation of RM340mil under the tourism implementation programme.
Dr Ng added that five main projects under the programme included the upgrading of facilities at the Botanical Garden in Ayer Keroh that would cost RM30mil, developing the Tasik Chin Chin area in Jasin (RM25mil) and a cable car service in Banda Hilir (RM49mil).
Two other projects include the monorail phase two project along the Malacca river (RM13.2mil) and development of the Hang Tuah Village along the Duyong River (RM40mil). Other than the listed projects, she said the ministry has plans to make Botanical Garden as the first ‘Night Flower Garden’ in Malaysia with a bird centre.
Dr Ng later also pledged RM30,000 to Jonker Walk Committee for its annual carnival and decoration fund with another RM10,000 for the associations annual activity fund.
Source : TheStar
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
Tourism minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said although Malacca has no significant contributions in the agriculture or major technology industries, Malacca has a very successful tourism industry with a record of RM84mil in tourist expenditure every week.
“Last year, the tourism sector contributed 8.2% to the nation’s overall GDP with 75% of its revenue coming from the industry here,” she said at the Malacca Hokkien Associations 209th anniversary dinner here recently. Dr Ng said the state had also set the foundation for the political development for the Chinese community in the country.
Later, during her official visit here, she took a Malacca river cruise and a walkabout around the waterfront with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam. She lauded the state’s efforts and creativity in turning the historic city into the country’s top tourist destination with over eight million tourist arrivals.
To further enhance this status, she said the ministry has allocated a sum of RM157.2mil to the state for tourism-related projects which will be disbursed in a two-year period under the 10th Malaysia Plan. The allocation represented 46% of the total allocation of RM340mil under the tourism implementation programme.
Dr Ng added that five main projects under the programme included the upgrading of facilities at the Botanical Garden in Ayer Keroh that would cost RM30mil, developing the Tasik Chin Chin area in Jasin (RM25mil) and a cable car service in Banda Hilir (RM49mil).
Two other projects include the monorail phase two project along the Malacca river (RM13.2mil) and development of the Hang Tuah Village along the Duyong River (RM40mil). Other than the listed projects, she said the ministry has plans to make Botanical Garden as the first ‘Night Flower Garden’ in Malaysia with a bird centre.
Dr Ng later also pledged RM30,000 to Jonker Walk Committee for its annual carnival and decoration fund with another RM10,000 for the associations annual activity fund.
Source : TheStar
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
Malaysia Among Top Islamic Tourist Destinations
Malaysia is now among the top Islamic destinations of tourists, especially Muslims, because the country offers various services and halal products.
In relation to this, Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) director-general Zainuddin Abdul Wahab said the centre was focusing on providing information and facilities sought by the Muslim community.
"There is much potential in Islamic tourism in Malaysia due to contributing factors such as its liberal policies which offer comfort in various aspects, including food, beverages, personal needs and facilities," he told reporters here Monday.
Zainuddin said, based on studies, tourists, especially Muslims, chose Malaysia because of the convenience of obtaining halal food, prayer houses, health-based tourism, variety of cultures and heritage and peaceful environment.
The ITC is recognised by the tourism ministry and Tourism Malaysia, as well as supported by the Bumiputera Adventure and Travel Companies and the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents
Source : Bernama
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
In relation to this, Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) director-general Zainuddin Abdul Wahab said the centre was focusing on providing information and facilities sought by the Muslim community.
"There is much potential in Islamic tourism in Malaysia due to contributing factors such as its liberal policies which offer comfort in various aspects, including food, beverages, personal needs and facilities," he told reporters here Monday.
Zainuddin said, based on studies, tourists, especially Muslims, chose Malaysia because of the convenience of obtaining halal food, prayer houses, health-based tourism, variety of cultures and heritage and peaceful environment.
The ITC is recognised by the tourism ministry and Tourism Malaysia, as well as supported by the Bumiputera Adventure and Travel Companies and the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents
Source : Bernama
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
Monday, December 13, 2010
Tourism Malaysia re-allocates promotion budget
TOURISM Malaysia will change how it spends its money next year due to rising costs. This includes scaling back its presence at some international trade shows and reducing the amount spent on print advertising.
The NTO's annual advertising and promotion budget has been capped at RM200 million (US$63.8 million) since 2001 without any adjustments for inflation. This was even reduced to RM150 million this year as part of a government cost-cutting drive.
Tourism Malaysia would still have a big presence at major shows such as the Arabian Travel Market and World Travel Market, but would be represented by its overseas tourism officers at others, said deputy director-general (marketing) Amirrudin Abu.
Amirrudin said it was "important to maintain a presence as a show of confidence to the market" but the NTO had to also stretch the budget.
He added that Tourism Malaysia was increasing its spending on Internet and social media marketing, as print advertising was getting more costly.
Source : TTG
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
The NTO's annual advertising and promotion budget has been capped at RM200 million (US$63.8 million) since 2001 without any adjustments for inflation. This was even reduced to RM150 million this year as part of a government cost-cutting drive.
Tourism Malaysia would still have a big presence at major shows such as the Arabian Travel Market and World Travel Market, but would be represented by its overseas tourism officers at others, said deputy director-general (marketing) Amirrudin Abu.
Amirrudin said it was "important to maintain a presence as a show of confidence to the market" but the NTO had to also stretch the budget.
He added that Tourism Malaysia was increasing its spending on Internet and social media marketing, as print advertising was getting more costly.
Source : TTG
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
AirAsia X to launch Japan route on Thursday
Malaysian long-haul budget airline AirAsia X is to launch regular flights between Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo starting on Thursday, airport officials said.
It will be the first foreign budget airline authorised to use Haneda, which began handling an expanded array of international flights in October when it opened a fourth runway and a new terminal. Haneda is considered more practical than its sister airport Narita as it is located only 30 minutes from Tokyo, roughly half the amount of time it takes to travel to Narita, which is 60 kilometres (40 miles) from the capital.
AirAsia X plans to sell a one-way ticket for 5,000 yen (60 dollars) for an economy seat from Japan as an opening discount, compared with economy fares of more than 200,000 yen offered by current route operators.
AirAsia's entry into the Japanese market is expected to further boost competition in a space that is set to become increasingly crowded as more budget carriers enter the fray.
In September Japan's All Nippon Airways said it will establish a low-cost carrier by the end of the year that will eventually operate international and domestic short-haul routes, anticipating booming Asian demand. Debt-hit Japan Airlines has also said it is also looking into the possibility of launching a low-cost carrier.
Japan's existing cheaper domestic carriers such as Skymark and Air Do have been unable to offer the kind of heavily discounted fares associated with budget airlines in the United States and Europe due to higher operating costs.
Qantas Airways' budget Jetstar airline already flies between Australia and Japan from Osaka and Narita.
Source : MSNNews
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
Malaysia poised to become luxury goods haven
Malaysia is carving a niche as the destination for luxury goods shopping, said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.
She said retailers had much to look forward to as Malaysia would be a duty free haven for most luxurious goods, including watches and jewellery, effective Jan 1.
“It is important to ensure an enabling environment for the industry. Last year, we received RM10bil from shopping tourism. Our target is to have 36 million tourists and RM168bil in tourism receipt by 2020, and we are expecting 35% to be from shopping receipts,” she said in her speech at the ‘A Journey Through Time IV - Watch of the Year Awards 2010 Gala Night’ held at the Starhill Gallery yesterday.
Also present was YTL Corp Bhd group managing director and organiser Tan Sri Dr Francis Yeoh and Tourism Malaysia ambassador Datuk Jimmy Choo.
Dr Ng said duty-free shopping was part of the steps being taken to create a conducive environment for such shoppers. “The 6km walkway to be built in the Bukit Bintang area will help encourage shopping and boost sales,’’ she added.
Yeoh said duty-free shopping would create a snowball effect on luxury retail and the tourism industry overall.
An extensive array of exclusive timepieces from many watch houses, some of which have stand-alone boutiques in Starhill Gallery, were paraded in a week-long event themed “Time to Love.”
Dr Ng presented the Tourism Malaysia Most Revered Award to the Richard Mille brand for its RM010 Sepang F1 model watch.
Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
She said retailers had much to look forward to as Malaysia would be a duty free haven for most luxurious goods, including watches and jewellery, effective Jan 1.
“It is important to ensure an enabling environment for the industry. Last year, we received RM10bil from shopping tourism. Our target is to have 36 million tourists and RM168bil in tourism receipt by 2020, and we are expecting 35% to be from shopping receipts,” she said in her speech at the ‘A Journey Through Time IV - Watch of the Year Awards 2010 Gala Night’ held at the Starhill Gallery yesterday.
Also present was YTL Corp Bhd group managing director and organiser Tan Sri Dr Francis Yeoh and Tourism Malaysia ambassador Datuk Jimmy Choo.
Dr Ng said duty-free shopping was part of the steps being taken to create a conducive environment for such shoppers. “The 6km walkway to be built in the Bukit Bintang area will help encourage shopping and boost sales,’’ she added.
Yeoh said duty-free shopping would create a snowball effect on luxury retail and the tourism industry overall.
An extensive array of exclusive timepieces from many watch houses, some of which have stand-alone boutiques in Starhill Gallery, were paraded in a week-long event themed “Time to Love.”
Dr Ng presented the Tourism Malaysia Most Revered Award to the Richard Mille brand for its RM010 Sepang F1 model watch.
Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
Friday, October 01, 2010
Malaysia Top Choice Of Affluent Travellers From Singapore, US And UK
Singapore, the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) emerged as the top tourism source market for affluent travellers considering visiting Malaysia in the next two years.
This was revealed by the Visa-Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Asia Pacific Travel Intentions Survey 2010 conducted online in May which asked 6,714 respondents from 13 key Asia-Pacific travel source markets including Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea about past and future travel plans.
Visa Malaysia Country Manager Stuart Tomlinson said among affluent travelers looking to head to Malaysia, 22 pe rcent were from Singapore, 17 per cent from the US and 16 per cent from the UK.
"This fact marks a bright spot for the (tourism) industry. Malaysia is blessed with a unique blend of culture and heritage, great food and dining, important historical sites and some of the best natural sceneries in the world," he said in a statement distributed during the one-day National Tourism Seminar 2010 "Tourism Futures:Evolving Towards High Income Tourism" organised by the Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute (Asli) here Thursday.
The seminar was opened by Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.
Tomlinson said the survey's findings highlight the ministry's fine work in promoting Malaysia as a unique travel destination. "Visa is committed to supporting Malaysia's ambitions to draw more affluent travellers to the country and we will work with the Tourism Ministry to help attract this segment," he said.
He said the survey also revealed the profile of this affluent traveller groups with most of them in it being professionals, managers, executive or businessmen, aged 40 years old and married. They are most attracted to destinations with natural sceneries (88 percent), new places (82 percent), good food (81 percent), sunshine and beaches and good weather (80 percent), he said.
Tomlinson said 34 per cent of the affluent respondents also said they were attracted to destinations with outdoor sports and activities with golf (33 per cent) positioned at the top of the list. "For those who have previously visited Malaysia, 69 per cent of respondents said they would be drawn to visit again due to the good food and dining," he added.
Source : Bernama
This was revealed by the Visa-Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Asia Pacific Travel Intentions Survey 2010 conducted online in May which asked 6,714 respondents from 13 key Asia-Pacific travel source markets including Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea about past and future travel plans.
Visa Malaysia Country Manager Stuart Tomlinson said among affluent travelers looking to head to Malaysia, 22 pe rcent were from Singapore, 17 per cent from the US and 16 per cent from the UK.
"This fact marks a bright spot for the (tourism) industry. Malaysia is blessed with a unique blend of culture and heritage, great food and dining, important historical sites and some of the best natural sceneries in the world," he said in a statement distributed during the one-day National Tourism Seminar 2010 "Tourism Futures:Evolving Towards High Income Tourism" organised by the Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute (Asli) here Thursday.
The seminar was opened by Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.
Tomlinson said the survey's findings highlight the ministry's fine work in promoting Malaysia as a unique travel destination. "Visa is committed to supporting Malaysia's ambitions to draw more affluent travellers to the country and we will work with the Tourism Ministry to help attract this segment," he said.
He said the survey also revealed the profile of this affluent traveller groups with most of them in it being professionals, managers, executive or businessmen, aged 40 years old and married. They are most attracted to destinations with natural sceneries (88 percent), new places (82 percent), good food (81 percent), sunshine and beaches and good weather (80 percent), he said.
Tomlinson said 34 per cent of the affluent respondents also said they were attracted to destinations with outdoor sports and activities with golf (33 per cent) positioned at the top of the list. "For those who have previously visited Malaysia, 69 per cent of respondents said they would be drawn to visit again due to the good food and dining," he added.
Source : Bernama
It's duty-free at Tasik Kenyir
Tasik Kenyir has been accorded duty-free status, joining the ranks of the islands of Labuan, Langkawi and Tioman.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Said said the state government's application for duty-free status had been approved by the Finance Ministry, which had informed them of the decision last week. He said with this, the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia would now be developed as a premier eco-tourism destination.
Ahmad, since taking over as menteri besar two years ago, has been aggressively promoting Tasik Kenyir as an alternative to Terengganu's famed Perhentian, Redang and Kapas islands.
Ahmad thanked Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak for approving the state's request. "We reapplied for the duty-free status some four months ago and I've been trying to convince the prime minister since then that Kenyir has the potential to be a top tourist destination."
Ahmad thanked Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak for approving the state's request. "We reapplied for the duty-free status some four months ago and I've been trying to convince the prime minister since then that Kenyir has the potential to be a top tourist destination."
Kenyir was created in 1985 by the damming of Sungai Kenyir to create the Sultan Mahmud Power Station. The lake covers 260 sq km and contains 340 small islands, once the tops of hills and highlands, more than 14 waterfalls, numerous rapids and rivers.
However, other than fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers, the area had not been aggressively promoted until the past few years.
However, other than fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers, the area had not been aggressively promoted until the past few years.
Ahmad said plans for a duty-free complex, to be situated in Pulau Bayas, would begin soon and was expected to be completed next year. The state government has already set aside an initial budget of RM100 million for basic infrastructure and amenities such as electricity supply, communications and jetties.
The integrated development plan include the development of five-star, four-star and three-star resorts on some of the 340 islands in Kenyir. Others include a cable car ride from Pengkalan Gawi, houseboat cruises, water theme parks and golf courses. All these were expected to be operational by April 2012, said Ahmad.
"Kenyir has been neglected for almost 30 years. It is time the people got to know of its natural wonder. Making Kenyir duty-free will help boost tourist arrivals and receipts,"
Terengganu recorded almost 3.5 million tourist arrivals for the past two years, although many head to the islands, which the state government fear would end up damaging their precious coral reefs. This has forced the state government to only allow luxury resorts on the islands in the future, and to promote other nature-based destinations such as Kenyir.
Source : NST
The integrated development plan include the development of five-star, four-star and three-star resorts on some of the 340 islands in Kenyir. Others include a cable car ride from Pengkalan Gawi, houseboat cruises, water theme parks and golf courses. All these were expected to be operational by April 2012, said Ahmad.
"Kenyir has been neglected for almost 30 years. It is time the people got to know of its natural wonder. Making Kenyir duty-free will help boost tourist arrivals and receipts,"
Terengganu recorded almost 3.5 million tourist arrivals for the past two years, although many head to the islands, which the state government fear would end up damaging their precious coral reefs. This has forced the state government to only allow luxury resorts on the islands in the future, and to promote other nature-based destinations such as Kenyir.
Source : NST
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Royal Jordanian and MH sign free sale code-share agreement
Royal Jordanian and Malaysia Airline (MH), the national carrier of Malaysia, signed a unilateral free sale code-share agreement, whereby MH is the marketing carrier, placing its code on RJ flights operated on Amman-Kuala Lumpur-Amman sector.
The agreement has been effective since September 1, 2010.
RJ President/CEO Hussein Dabbas, who signed the agreement with MH Managing Director Tengku Dato' Azmil Zaharuddin, said: "The code-share agreement between RJ and MH is a free flow agreement whereby MH may sell unlimited seats on each Amman-Kuala Lumpur-Amman flight.”
Dabbas added: “After resuming its regular flights to the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, on June 2, after a 7-year suspension in operations between the two countries due to the weak economic feasibility of the route over the past years, this move comes as a result of the economic revival and the growth of commercial activity and tourism between the two countries.
“This will offer new opportunities for passengers and will boost the tourism sector as Malaysia is considered a gateway to Southeast Asia, particularly in the economic field where it will serve the traffic of businessmen and students.”
Royal Jordanian operates three flights a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, using its recently introduced Airbus A330s.
Dabbas added that RJ is also preparing to transform a code-share agreement from bilateral to unilateral with British Airways; it comes after having implemented the Amadeus system in October 2010. Next year, RJ is planning to increase the number of code-share agreements with its oneworld partners.
Currently, Royal Jordanian has marketing alliances, through code sharing, with several international airlines: American Airlines, British Airways, US Airways, Iberia, Malév Hungarian Airlines, Siberia airlines (S7), Tarom, Gulf Air, Syrian Airlines and Yemen Airways.
Zaharuddin expressed satisfaction with the agreement with Royal Jordanian:
“RJ is a highly appreciated airline, and thus clients will enjoy the high-class services RJ offers them on board its aircraft.
“MH guests will enjoy the same services as those provided to the RJ passengers. Crown Class passengers will have the opportunity to benefit from the extended services provided by the operating carrier.”
New Visit Packages At Petronas Twin Towers
The Petronas Twin Towers will be offering new visit packages from Oct 1 to give the public an enhanced and more exciting experience when they tour Malaysia's popular tourist spot.
In a statement Monday, Petronas said the packages to be introduced, in addition to the existing Skybridge tour on Level 41, will include a visit to an observation deck on a top floor of Tower 2 and a meal at the Malaysian Petroleum Club (MPC) within Tower 2.
Fees for the packages will start from as low as RM3 per person for the basic Skybridge tour to RM350 per person for the premium package, it said, adding that the premium package will also include a fine dining experience at the exclusive, members-only MPC, almost half-way up the world's tallest twin towers.
The packages were introduced in support of the government's aspiration to realise the tourism potential of the Petronas Twin Towers and the attractions within their vicinity, such as the Suria KLCC Shopping Complex, the KLCC Park, Petrosains, Gallery Petronas, Aquaria and the Malaysian Philharmonic Petronas, the statement said.
These attractions would help position the towers as a premier tourism attraction enjoyed by other iconic buildings around the world, it added.
Petronas has plans to enhance the tour experiences of the buildings in the near future, including extending the visit operation hours, providing a more spacious viewing deck, and enhancing the Visitors Centre, ticketing facilities and other related visitor amenities.
In a statement Monday, Petronas said the packages to be introduced, in addition to the existing Skybridge tour on Level 41, will include a visit to an observation deck on a top floor of Tower 2 and a meal at the Malaysian Petroleum Club (MPC) within Tower 2.
Fees for the packages will start from as low as RM3 per person for the basic Skybridge tour to RM350 per person for the premium package, it said, adding that the premium package will also include a fine dining experience at the exclusive, members-only MPC, almost half-way up the world's tallest twin towers.
The packages were introduced in support of the government's aspiration to realise the tourism potential of the Petronas Twin Towers and the attractions within their vicinity, such as the Suria KLCC Shopping Complex, the KLCC Park, Petrosains, Gallery Petronas, Aquaria and the Malaysian Philharmonic Petronas, the statement said.
These attractions would help position the towers as a premier tourism attraction enjoyed by other iconic buildings around the world, it added.
Petronas has plans to enhance the tour experiences of the buildings in the near future, including extending the visit operation hours, providing a more spacious viewing deck, and enhancing the Visitors Centre, ticketing facilities and other related visitor amenities.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Tourism Malaysia targets MICE market
Tourism Malaysia is targeting the meeting, incentive, conference and events market after recording consistent growth in MICE visitor numbers in recent years. There were an estimated 1.18 million MICE arrivals in 2009, a 150% increase since the opening on the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in 2005.
For Australians, Malaysia’s state of the art facilities, value for money, close proximity and stability make it a popular choice. In the first six months of 2010, 2.7% of short term departures from Australia to Malaysia travelled for a conference or meeting, which was stable compared to the same period the previous year.
Kuala Lumpur has also recently leaped five spots to the 22nd position in the latest ICCA International Congress and Convention Association city rankings while Malaysia moved up one position to 32nd in the country rankings.
With a booming industry, product development in Malaysia has been significant. In 2010 no less than five new luxury resort developments will open with a total of 270 rooms. An additional 14 new resorts are planned before 2014.
Shahrin Mokhtar, director Tourism Malaysia Sydney says that Malaysia has maintained its position as a premier MICE destination in what was a challenging time for the overall industry. “Malaysia has been able to capitalise on conference organisers looking for destinations that offer value for money, are close to Australia and still offer attractions with a point of difference,” he said.
Malaysia is consistently ranked as one of the world’s best value for money destinations. This year Malaysia was listed as one of the best value destinations in the world by Lonely Planet and in 2009 Malaysia ranked as the 4th most price competitive country in the world according to the Travel and Tourism Competitive index by the World Economic Forum.
Malaysia has a growing number of venue options for small to large conventions including two well developed conference hubs in the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre opened in 2005 and the Borneo Convention Centre in Kuching opened in 2009.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Tourism Malaysia Makes Strong Pitch In Frankfurt For MM2H Programme
Tourism Malaysia, which is making a big push for its Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme to Europeans, made a strong pitch at a seminar in Frankfurt Monday night for the MM2H programme before a large German audience that included not only retired pensioners but also business entrepreneurs, government officials, professionals and others under 50, some of whom had come from as far as Switzerland.
Tourism Malaysia's Frankfurt-based director Syed Yahya Syed Othman explained the merits of the MM2H programme and its special appeal for Germans. He said this was the first seminar of its kind to be held in Germany. Syed Yahya played up Malaysia as an attractive destination, pointing out that it had been voted as the best long-stay destination in the top 20 list of retirement destinations by International Living.com magazine.
The reasons for this distinction include its value-for-money factor, location in Asia, tropical climate, well-developed infrastructure, wide use of English, educational and healthcare facilities, security, and variety of housing options available.
"Germany is the second largest source of participants, after the United Kingdom, in the MM2H programme," Syed Yahya said in an interview with Bernama as he highlighted the significance of Germany for the MM2H programme.
According to data from Tourism Malaysia, the total number of participants from around the globe in the MM2H programme is currently 14,358. The UK, with 1,750 participants, was the leading source of participants in the programme, followed by second-ranking Germany (192 participants), the Netherlands (182), France (108), Switzerland ((77) and Belgium (31).
Syed Yahya was supported by a group that had arrived from the Kuala Lumpur headquarters to answer MM2H-related questions. Dayang Balkis Ramli, the assistant director from the MM2H Centre at the Tourism Malaysia headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, was accompanied by two licensed agents, Hosanna MM2H Sdn Bhd of Petaling Jaya, and Optimal Home International of Kuala Lumpur, that offer specialised services to participants in the MM2H programme. "By licensing such agents whose performance is reviewed each year, the Malaysian Government becomes actively involved and thus ensures that the MM2H participants get the right services for which they pay," Dayang Balkis told Bernama.
However, some of the Germans seemed unsure of whether the MM2H provided them with adequate safeguards in their old age when participants want a hassle-free retirement devoid of any red-tape entanglement. The 10-year validity of the social pass that each MM2H participant would be getting seemed to dampen the spirits of some Germans who preferred, instead, to have a permanent resident status, as granted by some countries.
"The MM2H assumes that the 10-year life of the pass would satisfy the participants, many of whom find it restrictive. I have visited Malaysia and am impressed by its scenic beauty and level of development. I believe that Malaysia would benefit even more if it issued, instead, a permanent resident status to MM2H participants. After all, the Malaysian Government is, basically, interested in attracting capital from Germany and other countries, even though this will be deposited in Malaysian banks," an elderly German participant told Bernama.
The permanent resident status would, also, attract business people and others with professional skills who would help Malaysia's future development and catapult it to become Southeast Asia's leading economic power.
Keeping this in mind, Tourism Malaysia in Frankfurt sought the assistance of the Frankfurt-based German-Asian Business Circle, whose president Bodo Krueger was also present at the seminar, and the Japanese-German Business Group. Both these organisations had urged their members to participate in the seminar which was well-attended. According to Syed Yahya, there are some 300 German companies present in Malaysia, of which 70 operate plants.
Dayang Balkis said she discerned some "serious enquiries" from the participants in Frankfurt. "Many of the people said they would like to go to Malaysia and see for themselves the facilities available there. Indeed, I have been asked by some of the participants to organise a similar seminar in their company premises for those who are about to retire," she claimed.
The delegation, along with some staff members of Tourism Malaysia in Frankfurt, departed Tuesday for Stuttgart where they are organising a similar seminar.
Tourism Malaysia's Frankfurt-based director Syed Yahya Syed Othman explained the merits of the MM2H programme and its special appeal for Germans. He said this was the first seminar of its kind to be held in Germany. Syed Yahya played up Malaysia as an attractive destination, pointing out that it had been voted as the best long-stay destination in the top 20 list of retirement destinations by International Living.com magazine.
The reasons for this distinction include its value-for-money factor, location in Asia, tropical climate, well-developed infrastructure, wide use of English, educational and healthcare facilities, security, and variety of housing options available.
"Germany is the second largest source of participants, after the United Kingdom, in the MM2H programme," Syed Yahya said in an interview with Bernama as he highlighted the significance of Germany for the MM2H programme.
According to data from Tourism Malaysia, the total number of participants from around the globe in the MM2H programme is currently 14,358. The UK, with 1,750 participants, was the leading source of participants in the programme, followed by second-ranking Germany (192 participants), the Netherlands (182), France (108), Switzerland ((77) and Belgium (31).
Syed Yahya was supported by a group that had arrived from the Kuala Lumpur headquarters to answer MM2H-related questions. Dayang Balkis Ramli, the assistant director from the MM2H Centre at the Tourism Malaysia headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, was accompanied by two licensed agents, Hosanna MM2H Sdn Bhd of Petaling Jaya, and Optimal Home International of Kuala Lumpur, that offer specialised services to participants in the MM2H programme. "By licensing such agents whose performance is reviewed each year, the Malaysian Government becomes actively involved and thus ensures that the MM2H participants get the right services for which they pay," Dayang Balkis told Bernama.
However, some of the Germans seemed unsure of whether the MM2H provided them with adequate safeguards in their old age when participants want a hassle-free retirement devoid of any red-tape entanglement. The 10-year validity of the social pass that each MM2H participant would be getting seemed to dampen the spirits of some Germans who preferred, instead, to have a permanent resident status, as granted by some countries.
"The MM2H assumes that the 10-year life of the pass would satisfy the participants, many of whom find it restrictive. I have visited Malaysia and am impressed by its scenic beauty and level of development. I believe that Malaysia would benefit even more if it issued, instead, a permanent resident status to MM2H participants. After all, the Malaysian Government is, basically, interested in attracting capital from Germany and other countries, even though this will be deposited in Malaysian banks," an elderly German participant told Bernama.
The permanent resident status would, also, attract business people and others with professional skills who would help Malaysia's future development and catapult it to become Southeast Asia's leading economic power.
Keeping this in mind, Tourism Malaysia in Frankfurt sought the assistance of the Frankfurt-based German-Asian Business Circle, whose president Bodo Krueger was also present at the seminar, and the Japanese-German Business Group. Both these organisations had urged their members to participate in the seminar which was well-attended. According to Syed Yahya, there are some 300 German companies present in Malaysia, of which 70 operate plants.
Dayang Balkis said she discerned some "serious enquiries" from the participants in Frankfurt. "Many of the people said they would like to go to Malaysia and see for themselves the facilities available there. Indeed, I have been asked by some of the participants to organise a similar seminar in their company premises for those who are about to retire," she claimed.
The delegation, along with some staff members of Tourism Malaysia in Frankfurt, departed Tuesday for Stuttgart where they are organising a similar seminar.
AirAsia X optimistic over Tokyo route in December
Long-haul budget carrier AirAsia X will fly to Japan in December, with three non-stop flights a week from KL International Airport to Haneda in Tokyo.
Chief executive officer Azran Osman Rani said considering its status as the world’s largest metropolitan city, Tokyo was an important feeder market for the airline to move into the growing international network.
“The three weekly flights will strengthen our historic business and tourism links with Japan’s commercial centre,” he said.
Azran said he estimated that more than 60% of the passengers between Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo would be first-time visitors, adding that new market segments could be created from the tourism growth.
To mark its new destination, Air Asia X is offering promotional fares for a one-way ticket from Kuala Lumpur to Tokyo from as low as RM99. The tickets will be available from Sept 23 to Sept 26 for travel period Dec 9 to Jul 31, 2011.
The seats are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and tickets are only available online via www.airasia.com and mobile.airasia.com.
Passengers will travel in a brand new A330 aircraft with standard business class “Premium Flat Bed” seats that feature universal power sockets, adjustable headrests and built-in personal utilities, such as tray table, drink holder, reading light and privacy screen.
AirASia X currently flies to destinations in Australia, India, Taiwan, China, Europe and Korea.
Tourism industry to raise GNI to RM104bil by 2020
The tourism industry aims to raise its contribution to the Gross National Income (GNI) to RM104bil by 2020 through 12 entry point projects (EPPs) and new business opportunities.
This would require the sector to raise its annual contribution by RM67bil, tripling its GNI from RM37bil in 2009.
At the Economic Transformation Programme Open Day, the National Key Economic Area laboratory on tourism disclosed the 12 EPPs which are expected to deliver RM28.4bil and three business opportunities that would deliver RM28.6bil in incremental GNI.
Declaring Malaysia as a global biodiversity hub and positioning the country as a duty-free shopping destination for tourist goods are among the EPPs expected to deliver significant results in the industry within a 10-year time frame.
The other EPPs are developing the world’s first eco-nature integrated resort in Sabah, designating KLCC-Bukit Bintang as a vibrant shopping precinct and establishing three new premium outlets in Malaysia.
There are also plans to create a Straits Riviera, targeting more international events, establishing dedicated entertainment zones, developing local expertise and better regulating the spa industry, establishing Malaysia as a leading business tourism destination, improving rates, mix and quality of hotels and enhancing connectivity to priority medium-haul markets.
A total of RM204bil in funding would be required over the next 10 years to achieve these aspirations. Of this funding, only 2% is expected to come from the public sector.
Malaysia’s growth in tourism has mostly relied on growth in arrivals rather than yield: 75% of growth has been from increased arrivals and 25% from increased yield.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Malaysia International Gourmet Festival back in town for 10th time
The Malaysia International Gourmet Festival (MIGF) to start on Oct 1, will feature an excotic variety of local and international cuisine from Malaysia and other countries.
The annual festival held since 2001 is aimed at promoting Malaysia's fine dining on the world food tourism map and participated by 30 local restaurants located in five-star hotels and stand alone restaurants in the city.
Apart from authentic local cuisine, various international cuisines including Lebanese, Japanese, Swiss, Chinese, Italian, French, Thai, Indian, European and continental food would also be served.
Before the launch of the MIGF, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen and a group of chefs were flown in by five helicopters, courtesy of Eurocopter, and landed at Dataran Merdeka before proceeding to Restaurant Warisan, the venue of the launch.
During the festival, each restaurant will serve special menus at special prices, besides offering other promotions.
Speaking to reporters after the launch, Dr Ng said MIGF which is part of the ministry's three tier "Fabulous Food 1Malaysia" initiative, is hoped to elevate and popularize Malaysian cuisine at the international stage.
Apart from fabulous beaches, shopping complexes, authentic food from the various races in the country is also seen as a tourism product with the potential to attract tourists.
"The Ministry wants to raise the status of Malaysian cuisine because we want Malaysian food to be served at exclusive restaurants to attract tourists," she said.
She said last year tourists spent RM1 billion in a week and hoped tourists would spend more through the launching of MIGF.
Among the participants of this year's festival are The Olive from Maxims Genting, Seasonal Tastes from the Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa, restaurants like Al-Amar, Celadon, China Treasures, Neo Tamarind, Tamarind Springs, High Tidem Nerovivo and Vansh.
Also in the list are Chynna, Iketeru and Senses from Hilton KL, Lai Po Heen and Mandarin Grill (Mandarin Oriental), Lafite, Shang Palace, Zipangu (Shangri-la), Dynasty, Med@Marche-Live, Sagano (Renaissance), Sheraton Imperial's Villa Danielli, Equatorial's Chalet, Grand Millennium's Zing, The Royal Chulan's Bunga Emas and L'Heritage, Holiday Inn Glenmarie's Fu-Rin, The Club at The Saujana's The Restaurant, Doubletree's Makan Kitchen have also joined the MIGF.
AirAsia X opens tickets to Tokyo from next week
Airline will be first foreign low-cost carrier serving Haneda airport from Dec 9
AirAsia X will begin flights to Haneda airport in
The airline plans to mount three weekly flights and it will be the first foreign low-cost carrier serving the airport that is expected to open for international flights in late October.
Asashi newspaper in
AirAsia X chief executive officer Azran Osman-Rani declined to reveal any pricing when contacted yesterday by StarBiz. But the market is abuzz with talk that the introductory price could range from RM99 to RM199.
Azran said that flying to
Three flights per week may be too few for AirAsia X but for now the airline does not have much of a choice.
It is learnt that the Japanese authorities had accorded seven rights and the Malaysian authorities awarded three each to AirAsia X and MAS, and one to Transmile.
“
MAS will introduce three flights a week between Kota Kinabalu and Haneda from Nov 15.
Haneda airport is the main domestic hub for
To beat potential competition from six foreign low-cost carriers from
ANA has inked a deal with
Floating Hotel With Naval Museum Another Attraction For Lumut
A RM160 million floating hotel equipped with a naval museum will be another tourist attraction here.
The four-star hotel will be built by Plus Asia Jaya Sdn Bhd (PAJ) on a 1.99ha site next to the Lumut Waterfront Public Park here, said PAJ chairman Datuk Abdul Wahab Azizul Hassan.
He said a decommissioned frigate, Ex-Rahmad would be restored and turned into a naval museum as part of the hotel complex.
"The ship had ended its mission after serving the Royal Malaysian Navy for 22 years and was handed over to the Perak government on Jan 22," he told reporters here Thursday.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir is expected to officiate the ground-breaking ceremony of the 25-storey hotel on Saturday.
Abdul Wahab, who is also Orang Besar Jajahan Manjung, said the hotel, which would have 310 rooms, would be completed in two years' time.
He said the facilities include the biggest banquet hall in the state which could accommodate 1,500 people for banquet and 2,500 for conferences, a two-storey floating restaurant, 45 shops, three floors of offices and an underground parking area.
It will also provide Sungai Dinding and mangrove swamps boat tours for guests, he added.
The four-star hotel will be built by Plus Asia Jaya Sdn Bhd (PAJ) on a 1.99ha site next to the Lumut Waterfront Public Park here, said PAJ chairman Datuk Abdul Wahab Azizul Hassan.
He said a decommissioned frigate, Ex-Rahmad would be restored and turned into a naval museum as part of the hotel complex.
"The ship had ended its mission after serving the Royal Malaysian Navy for 22 years and was handed over to the Perak government on Jan 22," he told reporters here Thursday.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir is expected to officiate the ground-breaking ceremony of the 25-storey hotel on Saturday.
Abdul Wahab, who is also Orang Besar Jajahan Manjung, said the hotel, which would have 310 rooms, would be completed in two years' time.
He said the facilities include the biggest banquet hall in the state which could accommodate 1,500 people for banquet and 2,500 for conferences, a two-storey floating restaurant, 45 shops, three floors of offices and an underground parking area.
It will also provide Sungai Dinding and mangrove swamps boat tours for guests, he added.
Growth In Negeri Sembilan's Tourism Industry
Negeri Sembilan recorded 2,103,837 in tourists arrivals last year, State Tourism, Unity, Culture, Arts, Heritage and Malay Customs committee chairman Datuk Mohammad Razi Kail said.
He said about RM546 million was spent by tourists in the state last year.
"Studies show that each foreign tourist spend an average of RM351.20 a day, while domestic tourists spend RM210.72," he added.
He said about RM546 million was spent by tourists in the state last year.
"Studies show that each foreign tourist spend an average of RM351.20 a day, while domestic tourists spend RM210.72," he added.
InterContinental may be Nikko's new management
THE management of Hotel Nikko Kuala Lumpur may change hands after 15 years, sources say.
Japan-based Nikko Hotels International's management of the hotel in Jalan Ampang may not be extended when the management contract comes to an end in February next year.
Instead, it is understood that owner MTJ Development Sdn Bhd may bring in InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) - which operates brands like InterContinental, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn - to operate the hotel.
A source told Business Times that the new brand is likely to be the five-star InterContinental.
It is learnt that the hotel has some 400 employees.
Nikko general manager Michael Borostyan, when contacted, said: "Hotel Nikko will be undergoing changes in 2011. However, at this point in time, the board members have not officially signed a new management company agreement for the hotel."
A quick check with Japan Airlines' (JAL) Hotels Co Ltd website for Hotel Nikko showed that there were no more rooms available for booking from March 1 next year.
IHG vice-president of communications for Asia Pacific, Eric Lee, responding to questions on whether IHG will manage the hotel from next year, said that it did not have any news to announce at this time.
However, there is talk in the market that InterContinental has started to conduct interviews for placements at the hotel.
The 473-room five-star hotel has been managed by Nikko since July 1995.
Early last month, JAL announced the sale of a 79.6 per cent stake in JAL hotels to Hotel Okura.
The Japanese airline, however, was planning to retain an 11.1 per cent stake in the hotels as well as the brand names of the hotel chain it owns, including Hotel Nikko.
IHG hotels in Malaysia currently include Crowne Plaza Kuala Lumpur (563 rooms), Holiday Inn Kuala Lumpur Glenmarie (260 rooms), Holiday Inn Melaka (275 rooms) and Holiday Inn Resort Penang (358 rooms).
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Singapore Hotel Rooms Most Expensive in Asia
Singapore is the most expensive city in the Asia-Pacific region for hotel rooms, according to a survey of hotel prices in major destinations across the world.
A Singapore hotel room cost an average of S$230 (RM716) per night in the second quarter this year, up 22 per cent from the same period last year, according to a survey by online hotel booking operator Hotels.com.
Tokyo was the second-most expensive at US$156.80 per night, but was down 6 per cent year-on-year, while Sydney was the third at US$148.50 and up 16 per cent.
“We are definitely on a trend up in Asia. When you have more money, travelling quickly becomes an interest and that is going to be reflected in prices in the near future,” Johan Svanstrom, Hotels.com managing director for the Asia-Pacific region, said in an interview.
“The majority of the Asians travel within Asia. China is clearly going to be a very big driving factor for hotels anywhere in Asia,” he added.
Svanstrom cited a recent report by the China Tourism Academy which estimated that 54 million Chinese travellers would go abroad this year.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, this number would nearly double to 100 million by 2020.
Source : TMI
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
A Singapore hotel room cost an average of S$230 (RM716) per night in the second quarter this year, up 22 per cent from the same period last year, according to a survey by online hotel booking operator Hotels.com.
Tokyo was the second-most expensive at US$156.80 per night, but was down 6 per cent year-on-year, while Sydney was the third at US$148.50 and up 16 per cent.
“We are definitely on a trend up in Asia. When you have more money, travelling quickly becomes an interest and that is going to be reflected in prices in the near future,” Johan Svanstrom, Hotels.com managing director for the Asia-Pacific region, said in an interview.
“The majority of the Asians travel within Asia. China is clearly going to be a very big driving factor for hotels anywhere in Asia,” he added.
Svanstrom cited a recent report by the China Tourism Academy which estimated that 54 million Chinese travellers would go abroad this year.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, this number would nearly double to 100 million by 2020.
Source : TMI
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
Ritz-Carlton launches loyalty program
Beginning September 15, 2010, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. will introduce its highly-anticipated luxury frequent guest stay program – The Ritz-Carlton Rewards. Creation of The Ritz-Carlton Rewards is based on strong customer feedback and demand for a world-class loyalty program that goes far beyond providing complimentary stays and airline flights, and recognizes its members with a broad selection of unique travel experiences.
“No other luxury hotel company comes close to providing such a full range of opportunities to earn and redeem points and experience some truly exceptional and exotic adventures,” said Herve Humler, president and chief operating officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “We have already brought together some of the most exclusive names in travel and retail including world class travel provider Abercrombie and Kent; fashion icon, Vera Wang; National Geographic Expeditions photography workshops; and Neiman Marcus, one of the top luxury retailers in the U.S. This is just the beginning. We will continue to add global partners offering our members the very best in customized and one-of-a-kind memorable experiences.”
The Ritz-Carlton Rewards’ partners offer unique access available only to members, including Abercrombie & Kent members-only tours in locations such as China, Turkey and Egypt; special customer events and a half-day personal shopping experience with fashion experts at Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman featuring a private consultation, fashion presentation, lunch, facial and make-up application and the opportunity to redeem points toward wedding gowns and other select products from the world of celebrated designer Vera Wang. Another special opportunity for members will be four-day photography workshops with National Geographic’s renowned photographers at Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts in locations such as San Francisco and Miami. Members will also be able to redeem points for flights on 30 of the world’s major airlines and luxury cruise lines, including Crystal Cruises, The Yachts of Seabourn and Silversea.
Membership will be complimentary and guests are invited to enroll by going online at ritzcarltonrewards.com; visiting any Ritz-Carlton hotel front desk; calling toll free reservation at 1.800.241.3333, or, by contacting The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Guest Services at 1.866.922.6882.
As the premier luxury brand in the Marriott International, Inc. (MAR:NYSE) portfolio, The Ritz-Carlton Hotels will lead the high-end luxury hotel segment by offering a rewards program that enables guests to access benefits at more than 70 Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts, plus enjoy the full portfolio of Marriott brands worldwide – nearly 3,300 properties.
The Ritz-Carlton Rewards will partner with the award-winning Marriott Rewards program, whose members will now be able to earn Marriott Rewards points at The Ritz-Carlton hotels. Elite Marriott Rewards members will also receive special benefits when staying at The Ritz-Carlton’s properties.
For complete program details, visit www.ritzcarltonrewards.com.
Source : HNN
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
“No other luxury hotel company comes close to providing such a full range of opportunities to earn and redeem points and experience some truly exceptional and exotic adventures,” said Herve Humler, president and chief operating officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “We have already brought together some of the most exclusive names in travel and retail including world class travel provider Abercrombie and Kent; fashion icon, Vera Wang; National Geographic Expeditions photography workshops; and Neiman Marcus, one of the top luxury retailers in the U.S. This is just the beginning. We will continue to add global partners offering our members the very best in customized and one-of-a-kind memorable experiences.”
The Ritz-Carlton Rewards’ partners offer unique access available only to members, including Abercrombie & Kent members-only tours in locations such as China, Turkey and Egypt; special customer events and a half-day personal shopping experience with fashion experts at Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman featuring a private consultation, fashion presentation, lunch, facial and make-up application and the opportunity to redeem points toward wedding gowns and other select products from the world of celebrated designer Vera Wang. Another special opportunity for members will be four-day photography workshops with National Geographic’s renowned photographers at Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts in locations such as San Francisco and Miami. Members will also be able to redeem points for flights on 30 of the world’s major airlines and luxury cruise lines, including Crystal Cruises, The Yachts of Seabourn and Silversea.
Membership will be complimentary and guests are invited to enroll by going online at ritzcarltonrewards.com; visiting any Ritz-Carlton hotel front desk; calling toll free reservation at 1.800.241.3333, or, by contacting The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Guest Services at 1.866.922.6882.
As the premier luxury brand in the Marriott International, Inc. (MAR:NYSE) portfolio, The Ritz-Carlton Hotels will lead the high-end luxury hotel segment by offering a rewards program that enables guests to access benefits at more than 70 Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts, plus enjoy the full portfolio of Marriott brands worldwide – nearly 3,300 properties.
The Ritz-Carlton Rewards will partner with the award-winning Marriott Rewards program, whose members will now be able to earn Marriott Rewards points at The Ritz-Carlton hotels. Elite Marriott Rewards members will also receive special benefits when staying at The Ritz-Carlton’s properties.
For complete program details, visit www.ritzcarltonrewards.com.
Source : HNN
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Hyatt Hotels and iPads
Enhancing guest services globally with iPad.
For over 50 years, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts have aimed to make guests feel more than welcome by providing amenities and services that meet their needs as quickly and directly as possible. With iPad, Hyatt now has the ideal platform to deliver the kind of seamless guest services the company prides itself on — not to mention a powerful, portable business tool for executives in Hyatt’s corporate headquarters.
For over 50 years, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts have aimed to make guests feel more than welcome by providing amenities and services that meet their needs as quickly and directly as possible. With iPad, Hyatt now has the ideal platform to deliver the kind of seamless guest services the company prides itself on — not to mention a powerful, portable business tool for executives in Hyatt’s corporate headquarters.
“We’re all about home away from home,” says John Prusnick, Director of IT Innovation & Strategy for Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. “We’re also all about ‘high touch,’ meaning the interaction with the guest. We’re enabling that with iPad. The combination of the two has been very powerful for us to reach that operational vision.”
From Hyatt’s Chicago headquarters to individual properties throughout the world, iPad is changing the way this hotel empire does business. Features like instant-on power, fast Internet access, and a large, easy-to-use onscreen keyboard make iPad a valuable contributor in meetings — and many Hyatt executives now take iPads on business trips in place of laptops.
With iPad, Hyatt managers have an immediate, full-size view of their email, contacts, calendars, financial data, and other business resources wherever they are. “You can write up notes during a meeting, automatically make a PDF, and email it,” says John Wallis, Hyatt Hotels Corporation's Global Head, Marketing & Brand Strategy. “In our office, iPad has already become part and parcel of the way we do business.”
“I don’t carry my diary anymore,” adds Harmit Singh, Hyatt Hotels Corporation’s Chief Financial Officer. “I don’t carry a calculator. I used to subscribe to all the journals: the Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times. That’s all disappeared. It’s all on iPad."
Boardroom to Guest Room
With hundreds of iPads already in employees’ hands and thousands more in the works, Hyatt keeps finding new ways to use iPad to streamline operations. Plans are now underway to deploy iPad throughout the organization, enhancing everything from registration to in-room services.
“We’re looking at ways to make things simpler for business travelers,” Singh says. “Making check-in easier after a flight or a long day’s work, making it easy to access the Internet.”
When guests walk into Hyatt’s boutique-style Andaz hotels, they’ll be greeted by hotel staff with iPads. “We can swipe your credit card, capture your signature, and check you into the hotel,” Prusnick explains. “We even have the ability on iPad to encode your key so you can go directly into your room.”
When guests walk into Hyatt’s boutique-style Andaz hotels, they’ll be greeted by hotel staff with iPads. “We can swipe your credit card, capture your signature, and check you into the hotel,” Prusnick explains. “We even have the ability on iPad to encode your key so you can go directly into your room.”
Hyatt is also developing iPad-accessible apps that allow guests to order room service, view hotel amenities, review charges, and check out. “Business travelers are bringing their own iPads on trips,” says Prusnick. “We want to enhance their experience and allow them to manage their stay, leveraging iPad.”
Guest Services Go Mobile
The portability, large screen, and long battery life of iPad make it uniquely suited to the round-the-clock, perpetual-motion world of hospitality. “Imagine a large convention center hotel where there are 1000 people wanting to check out,” says Prusnick. “Now we’re able to empower hotel staff with iPads and allow them to quickly and easily check out guests.”
iPad is also a natural fit for the concierge staff, he notes: “They’re showing guests how to get to restaurants or the theater, and showing them the capabilities of the hotel. If guests want to see what the spa looks like or book a golf tee time, they use iPad.”
And for Hyatt’s sales team, iPad has been transformative. Rather than carrying bulky portfolios, they can show potential clients crisp digital images on iPad, or even display videos of property highlights. “It’s a great tool to sell the hotel,” Wallis says. “Especially in this industry, where you’ve got to show bedrooms, banquet space, all the things we have to offer guests.”
Secure and Simple
Secure and Simple
For the IT staff, supporting iPad has been a straightforward process requiring no formal user training. Using the same infrastructure and messaging platform Hyatt has already established for iPhone, users simply enter their account information and immediately begin using the device.
“We use Lotus Traveler as the core platform to integrate with our messaging collaboration system, Lotus Notes — and users have full access to our VPN infrastructure,” says Prusnick.
“We use Lotus Traveler as the core platform to integrate with our messaging collaboration system, Lotus Notes — and users have full access to our VPN infrastructure,” says Prusnick.
“Through the Exchange ActiveSync technology enabled within iPad, we’re able to get instant synchronization of mail, contacts, and calendars without any IT involvement.”
Another non-issue is security. “Hyatt is confident that iPad meets security requirements,” Prusnick states. “It’s fast, it’s secure, and it’s easy to use. iPad has integrated Cisco IPsec, so we can securely authenticate users into the environment.”
Up and Running
Once the devices are activated, users can expand the capabilities of their iPads by downloading business apps such as Keynote, Documents To Go, and Dropbox from the App Store. “With the App Store and the iOS platform, users can find and implement their own solutions without IT intervention,” says Prusnick.
From Hyatt’s headquarters to individual properties throughout the world, iPad is changing the way this company does business. “With iPad, the interaction between the guest and ourselves is now seamless,” Wallis says. “iPad has changed our world forever.”
Source : Apple.com
Source : Apple.com
MAS to boost its sales with innovative services
NATIONAL carrier Malaysia Airlines is relying on new technological devices such as iPhones, iPads, android and blackberry phones to ramp up its marketing efforts and rake in more sales.
Its senior general manager of commercial strategy Dr Amin Khan said the airline was using innovation to make travel easier and to offer good value.
MAS recently embarked on a three-phased upgrade of its passenger service system (PSS) for a total investment value of RM480 million. MAS' decision to upgrade its PSS, now in the final phase and to be completed in 2013, is to cut cost and drive revenue.
The traditional distribution channels for the airline are travel agents, other airlines and ticketing outlets. However, it has expanded the reach of its distribution by utilising call centres, Internet, mobile and iPad kiosks.
"Instead of just focusing on the marketplace, we are moving into the market space using e-commerce," Dr Amin said. He said the market space will allow the airline to recognise its customers as individuals and give them choices at their own convenience.
With 45 per cent of airline bookings done on the Web (based on an Airline Business report in June), MAS is focused on addressing three basic needs on the Web: giving information, getting a transaction done and providing help.
The airline is also using social networking sites such as Facebook and Flickr to generate news of its offers. Aside from this, Dr Amin said that MAS was the first airline in the world to introduce MHmobile with a complete suite of products.
The airline is also using augmented reality for iPhone users, through the global positioning system (GPS), for its offers on fares.
Among other services it has adopted are the introduction of iPad kiosks for booking and purchasing of tickets.
The airline plans to improve its call centre services by increasing its capacity through cloud computing. It will also introduce Web chat services to guide customers who book tickets online.
In line with innovative services, MAS is also looking at a similar model operated by low-cost carriers, such as unbundling its product offering. Dr Amin said that MAS was considering unbundling its low fares, more so for the MHlow category.
"The unbundling will probably happen for services at the ground level, like, if a customer chooses to select a seat." MAS will not look to unbundling meals, or comfort items like pillows and blankets, he said.
China Is Third Largest Tourist Market For Malaysia
Strong cooperation and friendship between Malaysia and China has paid dividends in the form of continued growth in trade and tourism.
This has led China to overtake Thailand into becoming the third largest tourist market for Malaysia, after Singapore and Indonesia.
Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said, last year alone, a million Chinese tourists visited Malaysia, an increase by 7.4 per cent as compared to the previous year.
"Malaysia attracted 23.6 million tourists to Malaysia last year, and we are now placed ninth in the world tourism branding.
"The China market is important to us for its quantity and quality...We are targeting 1.2 million Chinese tourists this year.
"Tourism Malaysia has changed its strategy accordingly, to attract high- yield Chinese tourists who will stay for five days or more, and those who visit frequently," she said, adding that as China had become more prosperous, Chinese tourists were now eyeing quality and luxury vacations overseas.
She was speaking to the media after officiating Malaysia Pavillion Day Celebration at the Shanghai EXPO Centre here Sunday.
Dr Ng was representing Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak at the event.
She said the ministry was in the midst of introducing focus packaging and do away with general sight-seeing tour packages which include Singapore and Thailand.
Tour packages have been re-designed and re-packaged to suit the Chinese tourists coming to Malaysia for shopping, delicious food, cultural heritage and adventure.
"China's tour operators are asked to develop focus products, such as to attract clans and associations and companies to hold annual gatherings and conventions in Malaysia, under the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions concept for tourism," said the minister.
Apart from famous Malaysian pop singer Michael Wong (Guang Liang), renowned Malaysia Philharmonic Orchestra conductor Datuk Ooi Chean See has also been appointed Tourism Goodwill Ambassador for Germany and Europe to lure tourists, she added.
Ooi works with the equally-renowned Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra, having put together a unique orchestral performance at the Shanghai Concert Hall, in conjunction with Malaysia's 53rd independence anniversary celebrations here Sunday night.
This has led China to overtake Thailand into becoming the third largest tourist market for Malaysia, after Singapore and Indonesia.
Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said, last year alone, a million Chinese tourists visited Malaysia, an increase by 7.4 per cent as compared to the previous year.
"Malaysia attracted 23.6 million tourists to Malaysia last year, and we are now placed ninth in the world tourism branding.
"The China market is important to us for its quantity and quality...We are targeting 1.2 million Chinese tourists this year.
"Tourism Malaysia has changed its strategy accordingly, to attract high- yield Chinese tourists who will stay for five days or more, and those who visit frequently," she said, adding that as China had become more prosperous, Chinese tourists were now eyeing quality and luxury vacations overseas.
She was speaking to the media after officiating Malaysia Pavillion Day Celebration at the Shanghai EXPO Centre here Sunday.
Dr Ng was representing Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak at the event.
She said the ministry was in the midst of introducing focus packaging and do away with general sight-seeing tour packages which include Singapore and Thailand.
Tour packages have been re-designed and re-packaged to suit the Chinese tourists coming to Malaysia for shopping, delicious food, cultural heritage and adventure.
"China's tour operators are asked to develop focus products, such as to attract clans and associations and companies to hold annual gatherings and conventions in Malaysia, under the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions concept for tourism," said the minister.
Apart from famous Malaysian pop singer Michael Wong (Guang Liang), renowned Malaysia Philharmonic Orchestra conductor Datuk Ooi Chean See has also been appointed Tourism Goodwill Ambassador for Germany and Europe to lure tourists, she added.
Ooi works with the equally-renowned Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra, having put together a unique orchestral performance at the Shanghai Concert Hall, in conjunction with Malaysia's 53rd independence anniversary celebrations here Sunday night.
MAS flyers can buy train tickets online
Malaysia Airlines (MAS) passengers can now purchase KL International Airport (KLIA) Ekspres train tickets via online, through the national carrier and MASholiday websites at malaysiaairlines.com and holiday.malaysiaairlines.com.
MAS senior general manager (Commercial Strategy) Dr Amin Khan said via the service which was available since August 23, customers only needed to follow three simple steps -- purchase, print and scan.
"Passengers can now avoid the rush and long queues at the KLIA check-in counters by simply checking in and collecting their boarding pass at the KL Sentral.
"All they have to do is purchase the train ticket through the website, print it from their email and scan the ticket at the gate before taking the train," he said in a statement today.
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"We are constantly looking for ways to provide more convenience to our customers and provide them with seamless connectivity when they travel with us," he added.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Penang Records Increase In International Tourist Arrivals
Penang has recorded a 40 per cent increase in the number of international tourist arrivals between January and June this year.
There were 405,932 tourists up till June, as compared to 244,146 in the same period last year.
Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said she was happy to note the increase in foreign tourists flocking to Penang as it reflected the island's good heritage, history, gardens, beaches and food.
Of the tourist arrivals, she said Indonesians topped the list at over 92,000, followed by Singaporeans (51,392), China (16,000), Australia, Japan, Latin America and India (12,000 each), United States (10,000) and Middle East countries (1,360).
"The federal government played a key role to attract more tourists to the state, such as allocating about RM51 million under the Budget 2010, for development projects such as the Penang Hill funicular train and Botanical Gardens," Dr Ng told reporters here Thursday.
The minister, who is on a working visit to the state's Contemporary Arts Gallery, said another factor contributing to the increase in international tourist arrivals could be the number of direct flights offered by various airlines.
Noting a poor response from Middle East tourists, Dr Ng said her ministry would hold discussions with the Emirates airlines to increase the number of direct flights.
On art, she said it had been identified as a new product to boost the country's tourism sector, with events such as art auction among activities on the cards.
She said, after the three-month 1Malaysia Contemporary Arts Tourism Festival ended next month, her ministry would work with a Penang-based artist to develop a Penang Art Tourism trail featuring the state art gallery in a booklet for distribution to tourists.
"We hope the booklet serves as directory for tourists who are keen in art. Apart from that, we will also be organising a seminar themed, 'Penang as a Sustainable International Hub for Contemporary Art Tourism', on Sept 29," she said.
There were 405,932 tourists up till June, as compared to 244,146 in the same period last year.
Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said she was happy to note the increase in foreign tourists flocking to Penang as it reflected the island's good heritage, history, gardens, beaches and food.
Of the tourist arrivals, she said Indonesians topped the list at over 92,000, followed by Singaporeans (51,392), China (16,000), Australia, Japan, Latin America and India (12,000 each), United States (10,000) and Middle East countries (1,360).
"The federal government played a key role to attract more tourists to the state, such as allocating about RM51 million under the Budget 2010, for development projects such as the Penang Hill funicular train and Botanical Gardens," Dr Ng told reporters here Thursday.
The minister, who is on a working visit to the state's Contemporary Arts Gallery, said another factor contributing to the increase in international tourist arrivals could be the number of direct flights offered by various airlines.
Noting a poor response from Middle East tourists, Dr Ng said her ministry would hold discussions with the Emirates airlines to increase the number of direct flights.
On art, she said it had been identified as a new product to boost the country's tourism sector, with events such as art auction among activities on the cards.
She said, after the three-month 1Malaysia Contemporary Arts Tourism Festival ended next month, her ministry would work with a Penang-based artist to develop a Penang Art Tourism trail featuring the state art gallery in a booklet for distribution to tourists.
"We hope the booklet serves as directory for tourists who are keen in art. Apart from that, we will also be organising a seminar themed, 'Penang as a Sustainable International Hub for Contemporary Art Tourism', on Sept 29," she said.
Malaysia Amongst Top 10 Tourist Destinations
For a variety of reasons, Malaysia has emerged as one of the world’s top tourist destinations - in fact appearing in the top 10. Both the public and private sectors have contributed towards the success of a nation many people would choose to ignore as a major tourism power.
In 1998, Malaysia welcomed 5.5 million foreign tourists. 11 years later, the situation has changed and that figure is over 18 million higher, despite the challenges to the tourism industry in recent years.
Last year, Malaysia jumped into the list of the top 10 world tourist destinations. This pleased Malaysian authorities very much particularly because tourism is the 2nd biggest foreign exchange earner in the country. So what is the reason behind this huge success story?
There is not one single reason and the Malaysian boom has to be explained by numerous factors. The most impressive aspect of Malaysia is the way it is able to offer a multitude of cultures in one go.
The people of Malaysia are far from being uniform. The country is a mixture of religions, foods, colours and cultures. Whereas the huge metropolitan areas in western countries host different nations, which tend to adapt to local conditions, the Malaysian people have always preferred to remain the way they are.
A second factor is the availability of tours and flights. Flying to far away destinations has never been easy or cheap.
Moreover, whilst many Southern European nations and other classic tourism giants suffer for various reasons, Malaysia is able to take advantage of wounded opponents.
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
Airlines leverage on social media sites
As travellers become more Internet and social media-savvy, airlines have started to leverage on social media sites for branding, promotion and marketing.
Airlines including Malaysia Airlines (MAS), AirAsia Bhd, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Delta Air Lines are using Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Flickr and even blogs to market themselves and engage with the public. Some airlines turn their Facebook page into a fan page whereby they can connect with their fans on the Internet. Some promote their business, products, and new offerings on Twitter to reach out to more people.
MAS senior general manager, commercial strategy, Dr Amin Khan said the carrier had a two-pronged approach for its Facebook and Twitter accounts. “For Malaysia Airlines Travel on Facebook, @MAS Twitter account and blogger engagements, our primary objective is to inspire travel by engaging and building a connection with our fans and followers.
Our efforts here are focused on engaging our younger audience and customers, around 20 to 35 years old. This includes promoting our fares and deals, destinations, travel stories and competitions,” he told StarBiz.
Amin said MAS started its social media outreach including the Malaysia Airlines Travel on Facebook in March 2009. “To date, we have more than 125,000 fans on Malaysia Airlines Travel on Facebook and some 16,500 followers on @MAS Twitter account.”
He added that the MH Deals by Malaysia Airlines on Facebook, which started in January, had 37,000 fans and it had 3,500 followers on @MHdeals Twitter account. “We also have 11,500 fans on MH Students Facebook pages. A majority of them are students who are currently studying in
MAS has managed to generate great interest with its lunch hour sales on Facebook. “The idea for the lunch hour sale came from our Facebook fans. We are constantly engaging with them to get their feedback on what they would like to see. We are also planning other promotions according to ticket availability and seasonality,” Amin said.
A quick search on Twitter revealed that AirAsia has one of the most followers on its Twitter account with some 50,086 followers. The budget carrier had previously operated under AirAsiaDotCom on Twitter. However, last Friday it announced to its followers that it had managed to secure back its @AirAsia twitter handler.
AirAsia has 478,708 fans on its main Facebook site. On top of the country specific sites that AirAsia has on Facebook and Twitter, it has a dedicated AirAsia YouTube channel, AirAsia Blog: Just Plane Thoughts and Flickr account as its official gallery of AirAsia pictures.
Media specialists see social media as a great platform to get the online community involved, to motivate them to travel, get them to spread the word on which airline to use.
“Most of these airlines make use of Twitter to introduce new events, offer a limited number of air tickets at discounted prices, etc,” a media specialist said. She added that airlines were beginning to use social media productively. “Facebook is an excellent way to engage customers. And both MAS and AirAsia are doing it well.”
She said both carriers managed to encourage their customers to engage with one another. “They made it easy to access the airlines and build relationships. Potential customers can also ask questions and get help. If their customers are happy, it means returning customers to the carrier.”
She said it was good to note that AirAsia had managed to put links on its websites to generate interest on its Twitter and Facebook pages and vice-versa. “It (AirAsia) manages to interact well on Facebook. Every news item it posts seems to get feedbacks and there are heaps of praises from fans.”
Last month, US-based Delta Air Lines had introduced the Delta Ticket Window, a Facebook application that allows its fans to find, book and share flights via the “Book a Trip” tab on its Facebook Page. The carrier believes it can capitalise on a captive audience given that Facebook is the most trafficked website on its inflight WiFi service. It is a cutting edge offering for the airline which is unparallelled by other airlines.
Asked if MAS would start offering such service, Amin said its offerings would tie in closely with its digital strategy. “For example, we are revamping our MASTraveller portal as part of our strategy to inspire travel. In line with this, our Facebook and Twitter accounts will be promoting destinations and encouraging user-generated content.”
“We also have a social media feature on MHmobile. After a customer books his ticket on flymas.mobi, he will be able to share his itinerary on his own Facebook page, Tripit or Dopplr. This ensures that all his friends are aware of his travel plans, and he is also able to make other travel arrangements such as hotel bookings and car rentals via Tripit or Dopplr,” Amin said.
Amin said all its channels were focused on attracting consumers to its main website, www.malaysiaairlines.com. MAS employee bloggers also share their experiences on its official blog. The carrier has a team managing the Facebook pages and Twitter accounts beside traditional media and other digital initiatives such as the website, applications for our mobile site, flymas.mobi, mobile gadgets and others.
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