Safety and security issues have resulted in the decline of the Philippines’ ranking in the World Economic Forum (WEF)’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report.
The country dropped five notches in the latest edition of the bi-annual Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report, which measures how “tourism-friendly” the economies are.
The Philippines ranked 79th out of 136 countries in this year’s report, compared to placing 74th out of 141 economies in 2015.
The country’s tourism attractiveness was dragged down by safety and security concerns, poor ground and port infrastructure and lackluster environment policy.
Among the nine Southeast Asian countries measured in the report, the Philippines ranked third to last, ahead only of Laos (94th) and Cambodia (101st).
Spain, France and Germany were the top three most tourism-friendly destinations in the world, based on the report. They were followed by Japan at 4th and the United Kingdom at 5th.
Completing the top 10 are the United States, Australia, Italy, Canada and Switzerland.
The 2017 Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report measured each economy’s attractiveness through 14 pillars, with each having its own sub-pillars.
The country’s most enticing aspects proved to be its price competitiveness and natural resources, being ranked 22nd and 37th globally, respectively.
The price competitiveness pillar is composed of ticket taxes, airport charges, hotel price index, purchasing power parity and fuel price levels, while the natural resources pillar is composed of the number of World Heritage natural sites, total known species, total protected areas, natural tourism digital demand and attractiveness of natural assets.
Other dimensions where the Philippines performed well are in human resources and labor market (50th), prioritization of travel and tourism (53rd) and business cultural resources and business travel (60th),
“The travel and tourism sector continues to develop on the back of the country’s rich natural resources and high price competitiveness, and arrivals have continued to grow so far,” the WEF report said.
“Yet this country attains a lower competitiveness performance this year due to a more restrictive visa policy that reduces its openness performance (60th), a reduction of the government budget dedicated to the development of the travel and tourism sector by almost half and reduced efficiency of ground transport (107th, losing 14 places),” it added.
The WEF said these factors may not have their full effect yet and may reduce tourism activity in the future.
“In addition, security concerns remain high (126th) and diminished protection of property rights, less effective judicial system and stricter rules on FDI (foreign direct investment) have reduced the conduciveness of the business environment (82nd),” the report stated.
The safety and security pillar was measured based on reliability of police services, business costs of crime and violence, index of terrorism of incidence, business costs of terrorism and homicide rate.
“At the same time, environmental policy has improved but remains low (118th), risking to undermine natural resources, the main asset for attracting tourists in the country. Although the Philippines’ travel and tourism potential remains high, there are several areas where policy interventions could help to regain competitiveness,” the report said.
According to the WEF, research has shown that for every 30 new tourists to a destination, one new job is created, making the travel and tourism industry a tremendous employment generator.
“To reach their potential, the majority of countries still have more to do, from enhancing security, promoting their cultural heritage, building their infrastructure and creating stronger visa policies,” WEF’s Community Lead of the Aviation, Travel and Tourism Industries Tiffany Misrahi said.
Tourism, Travel, Hospitality, Conservation: News,Stories And Experiences From Allover The World
Wednesday, 12 April 2017
UKRAINE: European Parliament Supports Easing Travel Rules For Ukrainians
European Parliament on Thursday supported easing travel rules for Ukrainians, driving on a Western integration viewed with great suspicion by Moscow.
Ukraine has been the scene of the worst confrontation between Russia and the West in Europe since the Cold War with Moscow annexing Crimea from Kiev in 2014 and backing separatist rebels in the east of the country.
The West has sided with Ukraine, where Russia intervened after a Moscow-allied president was toppled by street protests demanding an end to corruption and closer EU ties. Russia denies direct military involvement in its southern neighbour.
European lawmakers voted 521 to 75 to grant Ukrainians holding biometric passports the right to visit for up to 90 days for tourism, business or visiting relatives and friends.
"Great day for the people of Europe and Ukraine," said Anna Maria Corazza Bildt, a Swedish member of the Parliament.
The visa waiver, which does not give Ukrainians the right to work in the EU, is expected to take effect this summer.
The pro-Western government in Kiev is moving closer to the EU and NATO. But a weak economy and endemic corruption would hinder any move to accession, and some states would be unwilling to further anger Ukraine's Soviet-era ruler, Russia, by incorporating it into an alliance it views as hostile.
The waiver covers all EU states except Ireland and Britain, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland - not in the EU but members of Europe's free-travel Schengen zone.
Kiev's Europe Minister Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze said the vote on Thursday was "a strong signal to the aggressor that Ukraine is on its way back to the European family."
Three years of fighting in Ukraine's industrial east killed more than 10,000 people.
While the heaviest battles have died down, the conflict is still simmering and peace efforts are stalled amid mutual recriminations by Kiev, EU and NATO on the one side, and Russia and the rebels on the other.
Ukraine has been the scene of the worst confrontation between Russia and the West in Europe since the Cold War with Moscow annexing Crimea from Kiev in 2014 and backing separatist rebels in the east of the country.
The West has sided with Ukraine, where Russia intervened after a Moscow-allied president was toppled by street protests demanding an end to corruption and closer EU ties. Russia denies direct military involvement in its southern neighbour.
European lawmakers voted 521 to 75 to grant Ukrainians holding biometric passports the right to visit for up to 90 days for tourism, business or visiting relatives and friends.
"Great day for the people of Europe and Ukraine," said Anna Maria Corazza Bildt, a Swedish member of the Parliament.
The visa waiver, which does not give Ukrainians the right to work in the EU, is expected to take effect this summer.
The pro-Western government in Kiev is moving closer to the EU and NATO. But a weak economy and endemic corruption would hinder any move to accession, and some states would be unwilling to further anger Ukraine's Soviet-era ruler, Russia, by incorporating it into an alliance it views as hostile.
The waiver covers all EU states except Ireland and Britain, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland - not in the EU but members of Europe's free-travel Schengen zone.
Kiev's Europe Minister Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze said the vote on Thursday was "a strong signal to the aggressor that Ukraine is on its way back to the European family."
Three years of fighting in Ukraine's industrial east killed more than 10,000 people.
While the heaviest battles have died down, the conflict is still simmering and peace efforts are stalled amid mutual recriminations by Kiev, EU and NATO on the one side, and Russia and the rebels on the other.
JAMAICA: Tour Operators Gain From Customs Tariff Regime
Changes have been made to the Customs Tariff Regime, which will enable ground transportation operators in the tourism sector to diversify, upgrade and replenish their fleets.
This was disclosed by Tourism Minister, Edmund Bartlett, while opening the 2017/18 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday.
The new framework will see an increase in the upper Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) value on motorcars for rental and contract carriage operators to US$41,000, with full duties payable on the first dollar in excess of this amount.
Bartlett said the current cubic centimetre (cc) rate restrictions on these operators will remain unchanged.
Additionally, he said the new Productive Relief Inputs facility will see an increase in the upper CIF value allowed for motorcars to US$50,000.
The minister said other benefits of this facility for tour operators include the removal of the cc rate restrictions on imported cars and an increase of 20 additional cars.
“These are game-changing arrangements that we have brought in to ensure that the capacity for us to deliver and produce is at the highest level,” Bartlett stated.
This was disclosed by Tourism Minister, Edmund Bartlett, while opening the 2017/18 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday.
The new framework will see an increase in the upper Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) value on motorcars for rental and contract carriage operators to US$41,000, with full duties payable on the first dollar in excess of this amount.
Bartlett said the current cubic centimetre (cc) rate restrictions on these operators will remain unchanged.
Additionally, he said the new Productive Relief Inputs facility will see an increase in the upper CIF value allowed for motorcars to US$50,000.
The minister said other benefits of this facility for tour operators include the removal of the cc rate restrictions on imported cars and an increase of 20 additional cars.
“These are game-changing arrangements that we have brought in to ensure that the capacity for us to deliver and produce is at the highest level,” Bartlett stated.
GERMANY: Aircraft Interiors Expo, Airbus Wins 2 Awards
Airbus has won in two categories in this year’s Crystal Cabin Award for the first time at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Germany.
The winning projects are the ‘ReTrolley’ in the Greener Cabin, Health, Safety and Environment category, and the ‘Smart Cabin Reconfiguration’ in the Passenger Comfort Hardware category. Airbus received two additional awards for partnering in the ‘Smart Onboard Wheelchair’ in the University category and the ‘Octaspring Lightweight Seat Cushion’ in the Material & Components category.
“Winning several categories at the aviation’s ‘Oscars’ shows that we are constantly pushing the latest in innovative cabin design solutions,” said Ingo Wuggetzer, vice president Airbus Cabin Marketing. “This means we stay true to our Airspace principles, delivering comfort and benefits to both passengers and airlines.”
Charles Champion, Executive Vice President Engineering, added: “The awards also demonstrate that we strive with our partners to continuously innovate for our customers and passengers worldwide. I am proud of the teams that have worked really hard and I congratulate them on their well-deserved success.”
Octaspring Lightweight Seat Cushion
Cabin comfort is one of the top priorities for passengers and designers constantly seek to maximise it. In cooperation with Studio Moderna, Boxmark, and Stelia, Airbus has found a way to enhance seat comfort and save weight at the same time.
The breathable Octaspring seat cushion featuring coil springs made of foam uses different levels of density to optimally distribute the passenger's body weight over the entire seat.
It also helps to keep the seating surface cool through better ventilation inside the cushion. This cushion is about a third lighter than an all-foam cushion, equalises pressure and facilitates an ergonomic seating position.
The Crystal Cabin Award is the leading international award for excellence in aircraft interior innovation, sponsored by the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg. A total of 85 applicants from 21 nations entered their latest innovations in the competition across seven categories.
ReTrolley
ReTrolley separates waste as it is collected in the aisle, reducing its volume by up to 30% through manual compression.
This saves space in the galley and increases the share of recyclable waste as airlines are looking for new and simple solutions that reduce the cabin’s ecological footprint. Only separated recyclable waste can actually be recycled.
The ReTrolley solution is based on a concept first designed by students of the University of São Paulo and later advanced by Airbus Innovations experts.
As part of the Airbus BizLab Accelerator programme, the concept was validated with airlines last year using a demonstrator.
Smart Onboard Wheelchair
For passengers with limited mobility, independence on board an aircraft is highly desirable. This is made possible with the Smart Onboard Wheelchair which the passenger can roll over the toilet seat unassisted. Structural changes to the aircraft lavatory are not required.
The wheelchair was designed by students of the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences supported by Airbus experts. The project was tested by wheelchair users. Their verdict: easy to handle, stable, and safe.
Smart Cabin Reconfiguration
At least three seats remain unoccupied on many flights. Now, passengers can benefit from it. The Smart Cabin Reconfiguration project frees up space in A320 Family cabins without much effort.
It uses movable seats designed in cooperation with seat manufacturer Recaro.
Selected rail-mounted seat rows, designed in cooperation with THK, enable cabin crew to adjust seat pitch based on flight reservation data – within turnaround time.
A member of the cabin crew can fold away one seat row and then quickly move those in front of it just like a car seat. Passengers in these seats benefit from more legroom.
The winning projects are the ‘ReTrolley’ in the Greener Cabin, Health, Safety and Environment category, and the ‘Smart Cabin Reconfiguration’ in the Passenger Comfort Hardware category. Airbus received two additional awards for partnering in the ‘Smart Onboard Wheelchair’ in the University category and the ‘Octaspring Lightweight Seat Cushion’ in the Material & Components category.
“Winning several categories at the aviation’s ‘Oscars’ shows that we are constantly pushing the latest in innovative cabin design solutions,” said Ingo Wuggetzer, vice president Airbus Cabin Marketing. “This means we stay true to our Airspace principles, delivering comfort and benefits to both passengers and airlines.”
Charles Champion, Executive Vice President Engineering, added: “The awards also demonstrate that we strive with our partners to continuously innovate for our customers and passengers worldwide. I am proud of the teams that have worked really hard and I congratulate them on their well-deserved success.”
Octaspring Lightweight Seat Cushion
Cabin comfort is one of the top priorities for passengers and designers constantly seek to maximise it. In cooperation with Studio Moderna, Boxmark, and Stelia, Airbus has found a way to enhance seat comfort and save weight at the same time.
The breathable Octaspring seat cushion featuring coil springs made of foam uses different levels of density to optimally distribute the passenger's body weight over the entire seat.
It also helps to keep the seating surface cool through better ventilation inside the cushion. This cushion is about a third lighter than an all-foam cushion, equalises pressure and facilitates an ergonomic seating position.
The Crystal Cabin Award is the leading international award for excellence in aircraft interior innovation, sponsored by the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg. A total of 85 applicants from 21 nations entered their latest innovations in the competition across seven categories.
ReTrolley
ReTrolley separates waste as it is collected in the aisle, reducing its volume by up to 30% through manual compression.
This saves space in the galley and increases the share of recyclable waste as airlines are looking for new and simple solutions that reduce the cabin’s ecological footprint. Only separated recyclable waste can actually be recycled.
The ReTrolley solution is based on a concept first designed by students of the University of São Paulo and later advanced by Airbus Innovations experts.
As part of the Airbus BizLab Accelerator programme, the concept was validated with airlines last year using a demonstrator.
Smart Onboard Wheelchair
For passengers with limited mobility, independence on board an aircraft is highly desirable. This is made possible with the Smart Onboard Wheelchair which the passenger can roll over the toilet seat unassisted. Structural changes to the aircraft lavatory are not required.
The wheelchair was designed by students of the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences supported by Airbus experts. The project was tested by wheelchair users. Their verdict: easy to handle, stable, and safe.
Smart Cabin Reconfiguration
At least three seats remain unoccupied on many flights. Now, passengers can benefit from it. The Smart Cabin Reconfiguration project frees up space in A320 Family cabins without much effort.
It uses movable seats designed in cooperation with seat manufacturer Recaro.
Selected rail-mounted seat rows, designed in cooperation with THK, enable cabin crew to adjust seat pitch based on flight reservation data – within turnaround time.
A member of the cabin crew can fold away one seat row and then quickly move those in front of it just like a car seat. Passengers in these seats benefit from more legroom.
BRUNEI: Visit Brunei, LGBT Stay Away, Alchohol Not Allowed
The Sultanate of Brunei (Negara Brunei Darussalam) officialy Nation of Brunei, the Abode of Peace is a small but thanks to natural gas and petroleum resources,very rich country located in Southeast Asia.
It's surrounded by Malaysia and has two parts physically separated by Malaysia, almost being an enclave.
Strategically located on the South China Sea, close to vital sea lanes linking Indian and Pacific Oceans, it has an exclusive economic fishing zone that extends as far as Louisa Reef in the southern Spratly Islands although it makes no public territorial claim to the offshore reefs.
Brunei is a pint-sized and fabulously wealthy oil-rich sultanate with a population of just under half a million, if illegal immigrants from countries such as Indonesia, India, China and the Philippines are included.
It is a member of the Commonwealth and has good education and hygiene.
The population is devoutly Muslim.
The Sultanate of Brunei's heyday occurred between the 15th and 17th centuries, when its control extended over coastal areas of northwest Borneo and the southern Philippines.
Brunei subsequently entered a period of decline brought on by internal strife over royal succession, colonial expansion of European powers, and piracy.
In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate. It was offered the opportunity to join Malaysia as a state in 1963, but opted out of the Federation due to a disagreement on the amount of its oil income that would have to be given to the central government in Kuala Lumpur.
Independence was achieved in 1984. The same family has ruled Brunei for over six centuries.
Holidays
Independence Day: 1 January (from UK in 1984)
National Day: 23 February, 1 January 1984 was the date of independence from the UK, while 23 February 1984 was the date of independence from British protection.
Constitution Day: 29 September,Brunei's constitution was promulgated in 1959, but some provisions were suspended under a State of Emergency in December 1962, others since independence on 1 January 1984
Economic Development
The backbone of Brunei's economy is oil and gas and the Sultan of Brunei is, famously, one of the richest people in the world with an estimated personal wealth of around 40 billion dollars.
Per capita GDP is far above most other developing countries, and substantial income from overseas investment supplements income from domestic production.
The government provides for all medical services and subsidizes rice and housing.
All sectors of economy are fairly heavily regulated and government policy is an odd mixture of subsidies, protectionism and encouragement of entrepreneurship.
Brunei's leaders are attempting to balance the country's steadily increasing integration into the world economy with internal social cohesion.
It became a more prominent player in the world by serving as chairman for the 2005 APEC (Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation) forum.
Plans for the future include upgrading the workforce, reducing unemployment, strengthening the banking and tourist sectors, and, in general, widening the economic base beyond oil and gas.
Heritage And Culture
Brunei is officially an Islamic state, with hundreds of large beautiful mosques across the country.
Sale of alcohol is banned. Bringing in meat,other than seafood which has not been certified "halal",slaughtered according to Islamic law, is also banned.
During the fasting month of Ramadan, many shops and restaurants will be open. However, eating, drinking or smoking in front of people who are fasting is considered rude and asking permission is appropriate.
Due to the respect of the Holy Month in Islam, in 2014, new law had been passed by the government where non fasting people only allowed to take out foods from all restaurants and eat privately.
The bulk of the population is Malay (67%) and there is also a significant Chinese minority of some 15% as well as a number of indigenous peoples, including the Duson tribes who inhabit the jungle upriver and the Temburong district,the smaller eastern part detached from the rest of Brunei.
There is a large number of foreign workers who work on the oil and gas production or in positions such as restaurant staff, field workers and domestic staff.
The male to female ratio is 3:2. More than a quarter of the people are short term immigrant workers, most of whom are men.
Prostitution in Brunei is illegal and can incur a punishment of imprisonment for 5 years and a fine of $ 20,000.
Climate
The climate of Brunei is tropical equatorial.
The average annual temperature is 26.1°C (79.0°F), with the April–May average of 24.7°C (76.5°F) and the October–December average of 23.8°C (74.8°F).
Brunei's topology is of a flat coastal plain rises to mountains in the east, the highest point being Bukit Pagan at 1,850m, with some hilly lowlands in the west.
There are no typhoons, earthquakes, severe flooding and other forms of natural disasters to contend with, and the biggest environmental issues is the seasonal haze resulting from forest fires that is caused by illegal clearing of land in nearby Indonesia.
Regions
Brunei has four districts (Malay: daerah)
Brunei regions map.png
Brunei and Muara
Heart of the country where the capital Bandar Seri Begawan is located.
Tutong
Lies under the coverage of the virgin forest, scattered small scale plantations.
Belait
Western-most district, also the centre of the country's petroleum industry. Seria town is a small oil town.
Temburong
Cities
Bandar Seri Begawan — the capital, sometimes known as "Bandar" or "BSB" for short.
Bangar — the tiny district capital of Temburong district.
Kuala Belait — town to catch transport to or from Miri, Sarawak.
Muara — main port of Brunei with passenger ferries to Labuan and Sarawak.
Seria — oil capital of Brunei, also known as "Shelltown".
Tutong - full of virgin forest and the beauty of nature including Tasek Marimbun
Isolated eastern district, separated from the rest of country by the Sarawak district of Limbang.
Other destinations
Gadong; shopping centres where the biggest mall in Brunei located. Local markets can be found just next to the building. Full of local shophouses from cheap T-shirt to cheap food, even car's workshop!
Serusop; newly shopping complex. New malls and affordable Times Hotel. Serusop located just 5 min from Brunei International Airport. The new trend for youth hang out place.
Tasek Merimbun; famous lake located in Tutong district.
Pantai Gadong, Pantai Muara and Pantai Serasa; the must visit beaches in Borneo.
Kiulap; Shophouses and Shopping Mall.
Kampong Ayer; the very old, traditional kind of the Venice of the East. It is not a shopping complex but only cover with full of traditional and modern floating water villages.
Entry requirements
Foreign nationals of the following countries/territories can enter Brunei visa-free as long as they present a passport valid for at least 6 months.
For up to 90 days: All European Union member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and the United States.
For up to 30 days: Malaysia, New Zealand, Oman, Singapore, South Korea, Ukraine and the United Arab Emirates
For up to 14 days: Cambodia, Canada, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Macau, Maldives, Myanmar, Peru, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam
Nationals of Australia and Bahrain may obtain a single entry visa for B$20 or a multiple entry visa for B$30 at Brunei International Airport valid for 30 days.
Nationals of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia may obtain a single entry visa for B$20 at Brunei International Airport valid for 30 days.
Nationals of China (PRC), Qatar and Taiwan may obtain a single entry visa for a fee at Brunei International Airport valid for 14 days.
Proof of return or onward travel is required to check in for your flight to Brunei.
If you plan to leave by ferry you will need to purchase a cheap flight out of Brunei before you arrive there.
Those who need a visa must apply in advance at a Brunei embassy, where processing can take up to 3 days and costs B$20 for a single entry visa.
Apply for the visa in Kota Kinabalu: It costs 70 RM and takes 3 working days. Time to receive application is 8.30am-11.30am (Monday-Friday). Time of collection is 2.30pm-3.30pm (Monday-Friday).
The Consulate of Brunei is in Grace Square. You need one photo and proof of onward travel.
If you require a visa to enter Brunei, you might be able to apply for one at a British embassy, high commission or consulate in the country where you legally reside if there is no Bruneian foreign mission.
For example, the British embassies in Addis Ababa and Belgrade accept Bruneian visa applications,this list is not exhaustive.
British diplomatic posts charge £50 to process a Bruneian visa application and an extra £70 if the authorities in Brunei require the visa application to be referred to them.
The authorities in Brunei can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly.
By Air
Brunei's sole airport of significance is Brunei International Airport (BWN), the hub of national carrier Royal Brunei Airlines The airport itself is small but clean and functional.
After over-expansion and huge losses in the 1990s, Royal Brunei Airlines (RBA) has cut down on its services considerably but still offers a reasonably comprehensive network, with daily flights to London via Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Kota Kinabalu.
There are also frequent flights to Jakarta, Surabaya, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Melbourne and Shanghai. The best prices are usually found on Royal Brunei Airlines website.
Stopovers in Brunei are available and are good value, though you'll need to book by phone or through a travel agent. Royal Brunei Airlines is a dry airline; if you wish to drink you must bring your own.
In addition, Singapore Airlines flies 5 times a week from Singapore, and Malaysia Airlines flies from Kuala Lumpur, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu.
In July 2006, AirAsia started flights from Kuala Lumpur, bringing some much-needed competition. AirAsia is the cheapest carrier to serve Brunei from an international Hub, with fares as low as US$35 one-way from Kuala Lumpur.
AirAsia flies from 35 destinations in Asia to Kuala Lumpur, where connections to Brunei are available.
Cebu Pacfiic fly red-eye flights to Manila.
Departing by plane from Brunei involves paying a departure tax: B$5 for flights to Kuching and Kota Kinabalu and B$12 to other international destinations. This is included in the price of Royal Brunei Airlines tickets.
By Taxi
A taxi to Bandar Seri Begawan takes 20 minutes and costs around B$25. A covered walk down to the end of the car park further away from the Terminal a turn right from Arrivals leads to a bus stop for Purple buses to the city centre (B$1) along with other busses for tours & hotel shuttles. The reason for the long walk is extensive construction of airport upgrades.
By Your Car
You can drive into Brunei from Sarawak, Malaysia. There are two entry points for the main part of Brunei, one from Miri at Sungai Tujuh and one from Limbang at Kuala Lurah,Tedungan on the Malaysian side.
Both these crossings have drive-through immigration checkpoints at the border but queues can be horribly long, especially during weekends.
Note that the border checkpoint opens at 06:00 and closes at 00:00 midnight daily.
It is also possible to drive from the Sarawak towns of Limbang and Lawas to the Temburong district of Brunei.
The drive from Limbang requires a ferry ride across the Pandaruan River (RM8 or B$4) which forms the border between Malaysia and Brunei.
You can now conduct immigration formalities at Pandaruan with the opening of the Malaysian checkpoint in June 2007.
Brunei immigration formalities are conducted at Puni, about 600m away from the ferry landing. From Lawas,which is connected by road to Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, a ferry ride across the Trusan River (RM10) is required before you can proceed to the actual border at Labu.
Malaysian immigration formalities are done in Trusan,the immigration office, officially known as the Mengkalap immigration checkpoint, is in a shoplot just east of the ferry crossing about 8km away, and no longer in Lawas.
Those for Brunei can be done at the Labu checkpoint at the border.
It is possible to drive from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah to Bandar Seri Begawan in one day. See the Kota Kinabalu to Brunei in a day page for details.
By Coach or Bus
The Miri Belait Transportation Company DOES NOT RUN ANYMORE as of November 2016.
It used to run buses between Kuala Belait in Brunei and Miri in Sarawak, Malaysia. The journey required a bus change at the Sungei Tujoh border checkpoint.
Tickets were however available at RM12.20 from Miri. Note that there have been reports that buses from Miri occasionally refuse to go all the way to the border and stop just before the Asean Bridge at Kuala Baram because of the high toll charge of the bridge.
You may have to use taxis to complete the final 5km between the border and the bridge. As of November 2016, this bus does NOT exist anymore,their website is not updated and provides outdated information.
From Kuala Belait, there are buses to Seria (B$1) approx. every 20 minutes, where you can change to another bus for Bandar Seri Begawan (B$6). The entire journey takes about 5 hours. Buses depart Seria every hour.
There are also two express buses a day between Bandar Seri Begawan and Miri, run by PHLS. One runs early in the morning dep 8:15am from Miri, 7am from Bandar, as of november 2016, and the second in the afternoon dep 3:45pm from Miri, 1pm from Bandar, as of november 2016. Fares have increased, B$38.
The direct bus from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kota Kinibalu serves Bangar, Limbang, Lawas and other stops en route to Kota Kinibalu.
It leaves opposite Tamu Kianggeh at approximately 8am. Alternatively, you can catch a local bus from Bandar's bus station to Kuala Lurah on the border, walk across the checkpoint into Tedungan in Sarawak and catch a Syarikat Bas Limbang bus to Limbang.
Do the reverse if coming from Limbang to Bandar. Buses depart from Limbang bus terminal several times a day and bear the destination "Batu Danau". Taxis are also available on both sides of the border but bargain hard for the fare.
You can also get to Temburong district by bus from Limbang, although again, there are no direct buses into Bangar; all buses destination "Pandaruan" stop at the ferry landing at Pandaruan, where there is now a Malaysian immigration checkpoint. Cross the river by ferry and catch a taxi for the 5km to Bangar.
There is a daily bus from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kota Kinibalu. The bus departs opposite Tamu Kianggeh approx 8am and takes approximately 8-9 hours, given twisting single lane highways, picking up and dropping passengers along the way, and the numerous border crossings which entail passport/immigration checks. It costs 100 RM.
By Boat
The main ferry terminal in Brunei is the Serasa Ferry Terminal at Muara, where there are several ferries daily to/from Labuan and one daily ferry each to/from Lawas and Sundar, both in Sarawak.
With a change of boats in Labuan, you can even make it to/from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, in a day. See the Kota Kinabalu to Brunei in a day page.
Please note that the ferry terminal is quite a distance from actual Muara town where the container port is located. The terminal is about 25km from Bandar Seri Begawan. Getting there are purple buses (No. 38) linking the ferry terminal with BSB. Or you can just take a tour van / taxi.
There is a car ferry service from Brunei to Sabah.
Please note that you need to pay a tax "cukai kepala" to get out of Brunei (currently, B$ 2 per ferry ticket). Enquire the counters/travel agent if you didn't get the tax coupon when purchasing the tickets.
There is one "motorway", from Bandar Seri Begawan along the coast. It devolves into dual and then single carriageway but is suitable for all vehicles, right through to Kuala Belait and the toll bridge to Malaysia/Sarawak in the west.
There is also a side road off this, which runs into the jungle towards the settlement of Labi and beyond. Excellent scenery, and a 4-wheel drive may be useful, but the road is now sealed up to the longhouses some distance beyond Labi. Stock up on water at the convenient shop at the junction.
There are only few taxis in whole Brunei, because the car ownership and usage are high.
Since there are around 10 waiting at the airport and 8 in the Belait District there is a little chance of finding a free taxi along the road, especially during morning and afternoon peak hours when they are hired by business men.
Needing a taxi might require a phone call. The main taxi stand is direct north of the bus station in the capital with only a few taxis waiting.
None of the taxis has a taxi meter since there is no taxi company nor regulation requiring to have one. Drivers have fixed prices for most trips, although the tariffs may vary between different drivers, or they will give a price for an irregular trip.
Another alternative is hiring a tour van to drive you around Brunei, for example, for a whole day, or several hours. Try asking them from the ferry counters in Muara. Discuss the price first before agreeing to board the van.
Around the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, there is a good-sized network of purple minibuses. Brunei's high rate of private car ownership means very few Bruneians take these buses, which largely cater to foreign workers.
The speed of the buses are limited to 50km/h but are actually quite efficient and reliable. Bus routes cease operation before 8pm.
In general, the bus system around the capital radiates from the bus terminal in the central district.
There are designated bus stops along each route but passengers are picked up or let off at unofficial locations at the discretion of the driver.
The unofficial mode of operation makes easy travel and entice patronage. Unfortunately, it is difficult to obtain some form of details on bus routes and timetables.
Experience in mid 2011 prompted a small contribution in the form of pictures of the known bus routes at the time.The pictures of the bus routes will be posted at a later date.
There are 13 routes and the fare is flat B$1.00 which is collected by a conductor. The passenger can advise the driver the location to disembark.
Sometimes, the conductor asks the passengers their respective locations to disembark and skips part of the route, to the dismay of passenger who wish to catch the bus. This also implies that there is no strict scheduled time. It is quite normal to wait 30 to 45 minutes for a bus.
There is also an infrequent long-distance bus which runs between BSB and Seria through Tutong.
Language
The official language of Brunei is Malay, but due to its British colonial past, English is widely spoken and understood in urban areas.
A little Malay will come in handy in rural areas, as English proficiency is limited there. While all Bruneians are able to speak standard Malay, the local dialect of Malay is almost incomprehensible to other Malay speakers.
Solely among the Malay-speaking states, Brunei also officially uses the Arabic script for Malay known as Jawi, although most signs are written both in Jawi and Roman letters.
Nevertheless, the Roman alphabet is still the more commonly used script when writing Malay in Brunei.
The ethnic Chinese community in Brunei continues to speak a variety of Chinese languages, including Hokkien, Teochew and several others.
Attractions To Visit
The Istana Nurul Iman is the world’s largest residential palace in occupation. The 300-acre palace sits on a man made hill with a clear view of Kampong Ayer. Istana Nurul Iman is the residence of the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and the palace is quoted to have an estimated value at USD600 million.
There are many eco-tours which typically go to the Temburong district by boat then to a native "longhouse". It is then followed by a powered boat by the natives up the river to the Belalong National Park, a reserve in the Borneo rainforest.
There is a canopy walk and research centre at the park headquarters. Visitors can book to stay overnight at the Ulu Ulu Resort or discover the rainforest with Borneoguide and stay in the Sumbiling Eco Village.
For nature lovers, a new activity to try in Brunei is the Tutong River cruise tour, about 40 minutes away from Bandar Seri Begawan.
The cruise provided by Sunshine Borneo Tours & Travel emphasizes on mangrove ecology and conservation education. The beautiful and calm mangrove-fringed Tutong River is home to the endemic Proboscis monkeys, eagles, crocodiles, macaques, kingfishers and other wildlife.
Some villages and other eco-activities can also be found on Eko-Brunei
Bukit Shahbandar is a nature reserve offering several hikes according to the number of small peaks you want to ascend. All well marked. The longest takes 1.5 to 2 hours among trees and steep dirt hills. At the bottom, there is a park and jogging trail. It is 5 min drive, 15 min walk from The Empire Hotel.
Jerudong Park was once a decent theme park with a multitude of rides. Sadly, a downward cycle of neglect, declining admission and unaffordable maintenance costs led to the closure and sale of most of the big-ticket rides, including the three rollercoasters.
This has given the park a sad "circus left town last week" air about it. Though in recent years there have been attempts to revive the park, including some new rides,mainly for children as well as clown shows. The original bumper cars, go-karts, paddle-boats & merry-go-round are still operational. As is the fountain & light show.
Most people who visit only go at night to avoid the heat during the day. Outside the park, but very close, is a small complex of restaurants which is open at night, though only around half of the stalls are still operational.
Scuba Diving
Brunei offers some great diving. In addition to coral and fish, Brunei is home to several shipwrecks and many species of nudibranch,one of the best places in S.E. Asia for macro photography.
Water temperature is generally around 86 degrees (30 Celsius) and visibility is usually in the 10-30m range, although this can be changeable during the monsoon season. As diving here is not overly developed, it means that the sites, and especially the coral reefs, are unspoiled and in pristine condition.
Popular dive sites include the Blue Water Wreck, a 80m trawler that gets her nickname from the blue water around her and is still completely intact.
Cement Wreck, a 2,687 ton Japanese freighter that hit a sandbank in 1980 while carrying cement. She has a length of 92m and a 15m beam. Easy to penetrate, the freighter lies upright on the bottom at 30m. Australian Wreck, In 1949 while on a voyage to Manila it struck a mine off Brunei and sank.
The wreck lies in 33m of water and is roughly 85m . Dolphin 88 Wreck Malaysian commercial vessel sunk in bad weather in 2013 . Experienced divers will enjoy exploring the interior of the wreck.
Rig Reef, a decommissioned oil rig. There are 9 structures to be explored, each seeming to be home to one dominant group of fish.
Diving is very reasonable, averaging out to BN$35-45 per dive depending on how many dives you do and whether you bring your own gear. There are a number of organisations you can do trips with such as; Oceanic Quest, The Brunei Sub Aqua Dive Club in Brunei-Muara & Panaga Divers based in seria.
Currency
The local currency is the Brunei dollar (BND) you might hear ringgit used to refer to the dollar but be sure that participants are not talking about the Malaysian ringgit (MYR) which is valued at less than half a Brunei dollar.
The Brunei dollar is tied to the Singapore dollar at a 1:1 rate. By law both currencies can be used interchangeably, so if you're coming in from Singapore, there's no reason to change money as your cash will be readily accepted. Likewise, any leftover Brunei dollars can be used at par in Singapore.
Although Singaporean coins can be used in Brunei with the exception of the SGD1, Singapore does not accept Bruneian coins.
However, many stores refuse Singapore notes with seemingly microscopic tears in them, and notices to this effect are posted at the cash register.
The Brunei dollar is divided into 100 cents. There are banknotes from BND1 to a whopping BND10,000 and coins of 1 to 50 cents.
All smaller notes and the 2004 series of larger notes are printed as brightly coloured polymer notes.
Spending
By South-East Asian standards Brunei is roughly on par with Singapore, meaning roughly twice as expensive as neighbouring Malaysia. You can reduce costs by eating at local restaurants and avoiding the more expensive restaurants in hotels.
Budget accommodation, once very limited, has expanded in recent years and you can now get a decent bed for the night for around B$30.
Dining
Bruneians love to eat out and there are many excellent restaurants in Brunei serving a wide variety of cuisines, thanks to the large number of foreign workers in the country.
There is also the local nasi katok, a simple combination of rice and curried beef or chicken, which can be quite spicy. It is relatively inexpensive when compared to other food that you can buy, for example local food such as chicken rice. However, it is not a healthy option, with few vegetables and too much fat.
Another choice is ambuyat, a culinary experience unique to Borneo. It is a starchy and gooey paste made from sago that can be dipped into a savoury sauce.
Brunei produces excellent quality soy sauce, darker, thicker and stronger in flavour than you'd typically find in Japan or China.
Very cheap local fastfood restaurant also available across the country such as Ayamku Restaurant
Rice and Grill restaurant in Bandar Seri Begawan serves curry and tandoori dishes with a Borneo twist. Prices are very cheap at around 6 Brunei dollars for a set meal.
Sipping
Alcohol is not sold anywhere in the country and consumption of alcohol in public is prohibited by law. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed to bring in up to two litres of alcohol (wine or spirits) plus up to twelve 330mL cans of beer, lager or cider every 48 hours, and there is a wide array of duty-free shops just across the border in Malaysia to cater to this demand.
However, alcohol permits must be obtained upon arrival in Brunei while going through customs. At customs you will be required to fill in a yellow form to declare your alcohol.
Many higher-end restaurants allow guests to bring in their own alcohol and corkage is not charged, though this is technically illegal and it's best to keep a low profile if you choose to consume in a public establishment.
At the lower end particularly Chinese restaurants, many restaurants supply illicit booze under euphemisms like "special tea".
One should definitely try out teh tarik, a sweet milk tea, as well as the wide array of coffee (kopi) available in restaurants.
Cigarettes
Cigarettes are difficult to obtain, if you wish to smoke it is advisable to bring your own supplies. There is no duty free allowance for cigarettes or tobacco, duty is always payable,approx BND50 per 200 cigarettes.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Brunei was until recently famously expensive,there is still only one youth hostel in the entire country but some reasonably cheap guesthouses can now be found here and there.
There are also some descent accommodation and even business hotels in other parts of Brunei.
Jobs
Many of the jobs in Brunei are in the gas and oil industry but many positions have opened up for international English Teachers due to the booming economy and business sector.
Footprints Recruiting offers placement in teaching jobs in Brunei. This can be a great way to absorb the culture and see many of the wonderful attractions Brunei has to offer, while making money to boot.
Safety
WARNING: Brunei treats drug offences extremely severely. The death penalty is mandatory for those convicted of trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 1 g of heroin, 1 g of morphine, 1 g of cocaine, 1 g of cannabis, 1 g of cannabis resin and 1 g of opium, and possession of these quantities is all that is needed for you to be convicted.
For unauthorised consumption, there is a maximum of 10 years' jail or or a heavy fine, or both. You can be charged for unauthorised consumption as long as traces of illicit drugs are found in your system, even if you can prove that they were consumed outside the country, and you can be charged for trafficking as long as drugs are found in bags that are in your possession or in your room, even if they aren't yours and regardless of whether you're aware of them,therefore be vigilant of your possessions.
Brunei is a very safe country, with theft being uncommon and violent crime almost unheard of. However, you should use common sense, no matter what.
Brunei revised its penal code in 2014, implementing Sharia law. On paper, the death penalty by stoning is stipulated for numerous offences, including insult or defamation of the Prophet Mohammed, insulting any verses of the Quran and Hadith, blasphemy, declaring oneself a prophet or non-Muslim, robbery, adultery, sodomy, extramarital sexual relations for Muslims and murder.
Other crimes, such as drug trafficking to a certain degree, kidnapping and unauthorised possession of firearms are also punished with death.
Homosexual acts are illegal, with death by stoning being the punishment. The introduction in 2014 of an Islamic Criminal Code, means any convicts that engage in homosexuality acts that have been testified to by four honest-in-character witnesses to the court would be punishable by death if proven to a jury's satisfaction.
Police will join in or turn a blind eye to violence toward LGBT. Businesses will turn you away, attack you, or report you to the police. If you're LGBT stay out of Brunei.
Brunei uses caning for males only for less serious crimes, including illegal entry, overstaying your visa for over 90 days, corruption, and vandalism. Caning is no slap on the wrist: strokes from the thick rattan cane are very painful. The wounds can take weeks to heal and even scar for life. These laws apply to foreigners as well. However prostitution is allowed.
Eating out is generally safe because of good food safety standards. Though tap water is not fit for drinking & should be boiled first. Alternatively, bottled water is very cheap.
Respecting
The Brunei Government is run as a Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), and the Sultan of Brunei, apart from being one of the richest men in the world, is in charge and frequently appears on the front page of the two daily newspapers. At all costs, do not insult or speak badly of the Royal family.
Furthermore, though Bruneians are generally courteous and tolerant, it is a good idea to be aware of sensitivities surrounding certain topics of conversation, especially politics (domestic, regional & international) and world events, particularly those relating to Islam or Islamic countries.
Phone Communication
The international code for Brunei is 673. The telephone numbers in Brunei consist of 7 digits with no local codes, although the first digit of the number indicates the area such as 3 for the Belait District and 2 for Bandar Seri Begawan.
The prepaid Hallo Kad, available from TelBru telephone offices including one at the airport and other outlets in denominations from B$5 to B$50 can be used at any phone in the country to make local and international calls.
Other phone cards are also available for use in public phones.
GSM mobile phone services are available from network operator DST . They have a good range of roaming connections. 3G mobile phone services are available from B-Mobile .
B-Mobile is now known as Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB). Once exit from the Arrival Hall at Brunei International Airport, they have a counter selling simcards & plans.
There is also a Visitor Sim - for short term stay (BND10 all in SMS, voice & data).
It's surrounded by Malaysia and has two parts physically separated by Malaysia, almost being an enclave.
Strategically located on the South China Sea, close to vital sea lanes linking Indian and Pacific Oceans, it has an exclusive economic fishing zone that extends as far as Louisa Reef in the southern Spratly Islands although it makes no public territorial claim to the offshore reefs.
Brunei is a pint-sized and fabulously wealthy oil-rich sultanate with a population of just under half a million, if illegal immigrants from countries such as Indonesia, India, China and the Philippines are included.
It is a member of the Commonwealth and has good education and hygiene.
The population is devoutly Muslim.
The Sultanate of Brunei's heyday occurred between the 15th and 17th centuries, when its control extended over coastal areas of northwest Borneo and the southern Philippines.
Brunei subsequently entered a period of decline brought on by internal strife over royal succession, colonial expansion of European powers, and piracy.
In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate. It was offered the opportunity to join Malaysia as a state in 1963, but opted out of the Federation due to a disagreement on the amount of its oil income that would have to be given to the central government in Kuala Lumpur.
Independence was achieved in 1984. The same family has ruled Brunei for over six centuries.
Holidays
Independence Day: 1 January (from UK in 1984)
National Day: 23 February, 1 January 1984 was the date of independence from the UK, while 23 February 1984 was the date of independence from British protection.
Constitution Day: 29 September,Brunei's constitution was promulgated in 1959, but some provisions were suspended under a State of Emergency in December 1962, others since independence on 1 January 1984
Economic Development
The backbone of Brunei's economy is oil and gas and the Sultan of Brunei is, famously, one of the richest people in the world with an estimated personal wealth of around 40 billion dollars.
Per capita GDP is far above most other developing countries, and substantial income from overseas investment supplements income from domestic production.
The government provides for all medical services and subsidizes rice and housing.
All sectors of economy are fairly heavily regulated and government policy is an odd mixture of subsidies, protectionism and encouragement of entrepreneurship.
Brunei's leaders are attempting to balance the country's steadily increasing integration into the world economy with internal social cohesion.
It became a more prominent player in the world by serving as chairman for the 2005 APEC (Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation) forum.
Plans for the future include upgrading the workforce, reducing unemployment, strengthening the banking and tourist sectors, and, in general, widening the economic base beyond oil and gas.
Heritage And Culture
Brunei is officially an Islamic state, with hundreds of large beautiful mosques across the country.
Sale of alcohol is banned. Bringing in meat,other than seafood which has not been certified "halal",slaughtered according to Islamic law, is also banned.
During the fasting month of Ramadan, many shops and restaurants will be open. However, eating, drinking or smoking in front of people who are fasting is considered rude and asking permission is appropriate.
Due to the respect of the Holy Month in Islam, in 2014, new law had been passed by the government where non fasting people only allowed to take out foods from all restaurants and eat privately.
The bulk of the population is Malay (67%) and there is also a significant Chinese minority of some 15% as well as a number of indigenous peoples, including the Duson tribes who inhabit the jungle upriver and the Temburong district,the smaller eastern part detached from the rest of Brunei.
There is a large number of foreign workers who work on the oil and gas production or in positions such as restaurant staff, field workers and domestic staff.
The male to female ratio is 3:2. More than a quarter of the people are short term immigrant workers, most of whom are men.
Prostitution in Brunei is illegal and can incur a punishment of imprisonment for 5 years and a fine of $ 20,000.
Climate
The climate of Brunei is tropical equatorial.
The average annual temperature is 26.1°C (79.0°F), with the April–May average of 24.7°C (76.5°F) and the October–December average of 23.8°C (74.8°F).
Brunei's topology is of a flat coastal plain rises to mountains in the east, the highest point being Bukit Pagan at 1,850m, with some hilly lowlands in the west.
There are no typhoons, earthquakes, severe flooding and other forms of natural disasters to contend with, and the biggest environmental issues is the seasonal haze resulting from forest fires that is caused by illegal clearing of land in nearby Indonesia.
Regions
Brunei has four districts (Malay: daerah)
Brunei regions map.png
Brunei and Muara
Heart of the country where the capital Bandar Seri Begawan is located.
Tutong
Lies under the coverage of the virgin forest, scattered small scale plantations.
Belait
Western-most district, also the centre of the country's petroleum industry. Seria town is a small oil town.
Temburong
Cities
Bandar Seri Begawan — the capital, sometimes known as "Bandar" or "BSB" for short.
Bangar — the tiny district capital of Temburong district.
Kuala Belait — town to catch transport to or from Miri, Sarawak.
Muara — main port of Brunei with passenger ferries to Labuan and Sarawak.
Seria — oil capital of Brunei, also known as "Shelltown".
Tutong - full of virgin forest and the beauty of nature including Tasek Marimbun
Isolated eastern district, separated from the rest of country by the Sarawak district of Limbang.
Other destinations
Gadong; shopping centres where the biggest mall in Brunei located. Local markets can be found just next to the building. Full of local shophouses from cheap T-shirt to cheap food, even car's workshop!
Serusop; newly shopping complex. New malls and affordable Times Hotel. Serusop located just 5 min from Brunei International Airport. The new trend for youth hang out place.
Tasek Merimbun; famous lake located in Tutong district.
Pantai Gadong, Pantai Muara and Pantai Serasa; the must visit beaches in Borneo.
Kiulap; Shophouses and Shopping Mall.
Kampong Ayer; the very old, traditional kind of the Venice of the East. It is not a shopping complex but only cover with full of traditional and modern floating water villages.
Entry requirements
Foreign nationals of the following countries/territories can enter Brunei visa-free as long as they present a passport valid for at least 6 months.
For up to 90 days: All European Union member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and the United States.
For up to 30 days: Malaysia, New Zealand, Oman, Singapore, South Korea, Ukraine and the United Arab Emirates
For up to 14 days: Cambodia, Canada, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Macau, Maldives, Myanmar, Peru, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam
Nationals of Australia and Bahrain may obtain a single entry visa for B$20 or a multiple entry visa for B$30 at Brunei International Airport valid for 30 days.
Nationals of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia may obtain a single entry visa for B$20 at Brunei International Airport valid for 30 days.
Nationals of China (PRC), Qatar and Taiwan may obtain a single entry visa for a fee at Brunei International Airport valid for 14 days.
Proof of return or onward travel is required to check in for your flight to Brunei.
If you plan to leave by ferry you will need to purchase a cheap flight out of Brunei before you arrive there.
Those who need a visa must apply in advance at a Brunei embassy, where processing can take up to 3 days and costs B$20 for a single entry visa.
Apply for the visa in Kota Kinabalu: It costs 70 RM and takes 3 working days. Time to receive application is 8.30am-11.30am (Monday-Friday). Time of collection is 2.30pm-3.30pm (Monday-Friday).
The Consulate of Brunei is in Grace Square. You need one photo and proof of onward travel.
If you require a visa to enter Brunei, you might be able to apply for one at a British embassy, high commission or consulate in the country where you legally reside if there is no Bruneian foreign mission.
For example, the British embassies in Addis Ababa and Belgrade accept Bruneian visa applications,this list is not exhaustive.
British diplomatic posts charge £50 to process a Bruneian visa application and an extra £70 if the authorities in Brunei require the visa application to be referred to them.
The authorities in Brunei can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly.
By Air
Brunei's sole airport of significance is Brunei International Airport (BWN), the hub of national carrier Royal Brunei Airlines The airport itself is small but clean and functional.
After over-expansion and huge losses in the 1990s, Royal Brunei Airlines (RBA) has cut down on its services considerably but still offers a reasonably comprehensive network, with daily flights to London via Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Kota Kinabalu.
There are also frequent flights to Jakarta, Surabaya, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Melbourne and Shanghai. The best prices are usually found on Royal Brunei Airlines website.
Stopovers in Brunei are available and are good value, though you'll need to book by phone or through a travel agent. Royal Brunei Airlines is a dry airline; if you wish to drink you must bring your own.
In addition, Singapore Airlines flies 5 times a week from Singapore, and Malaysia Airlines flies from Kuala Lumpur, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu.
In July 2006, AirAsia started flights from Kuala Lumpur, bringing some much-needed competition. AirAsia is the cheapest carrier to serve Brunei from an international Hub, with fares as low as US$35 one-way from Kuala Lumpur.
AirAsia flies from 35 destinations in Asia to Kuala Lumpur, where connections to Brunei are available.
Cebu Pacfiic fly red-eye flights to Manila.
Departing by plane from Brunei involves paying a departure tax: B$5 for flights to Kuching and Kota Kinabalu and B$12 to other international destinations. This is included in the price of Royal Brunei Airlines tickets.
By Taxi
A taxi to Bandar Seri Begawan takes 20 minutes and costs around B$25. A covered walk down to the end of the car park further away from the Terminal a turn right from Arrivals leads to a bus stop for Purple buses to the city centre (B$1) along with other busses for tours & hotel shuttles. The reason for the long walk is extensive construction of airport upgrades.
By Your Car
You can drive into Brunei from Sarawak, Malaysia. There are two entry points for the main part of Brunei, one from Miri at Sungai Tujuh and one from Limbang at Kuala Lurah,Tedungan on the Malaysian side.
Both these crossings have drive-through immigration checkpoints at the border but queues can be horribly long, especially during weekends.
Note that the border checkpoint opens at 06:00 and closes at 00:00 midnight daily.
It is also possible to drive from the Sarawak towns of Limbang and Lawas to the Temburong district of Brunei.
The drive from Limbang requires a ferry ride across the Pandaruan River (RM8 or B$4) which forms the border between Malaysia and Brunei.
You can now conduct immigration formalities at Pandaruan with the opening of the Malaysian checkpoint in June 2007.
Brunei immigration formalities are conducted at Puni, about 600m away from the ferry landing. From Lawas,which is connected by road to Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, a ferry ride across the Trusan River (RM10) is required before you can proceed to the actual border at Labu.
Malaysian immigration formalities are done in Trusan,the immigration office, officially known as the Mengkalap immigration checkpoint, is in a shoplot just east of the ferry crossing about 8km away, and no longer in Lawas.
Those for Brunei can be done at the Labu checkpoint at the border.
It is possible to drive from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah to Bandar Seri Begawan in one day. See the Kota Kinabalu to Brunei in a day page for details.
By Coach or Bus
The Miri Belait Transportation Company DOES NOT RUN ANYMORE as of November 2016.
It used to run buses between Kuala Belait in Brunei and Miri in Sarawak, Malaysia. The journey required a bus change at the Sungei Tujoh border checkpoint.
Tickets were however available at RM12.20 from Miri. Note that there have been reports that buses from Miri occasionally refuse to go all the way to the border and stop just before the Asean Bridge at Kuala Baram because of the high toll charge of the bridge.
You may have to use taxis to complete the final 5km between the border and the bridge. As of November 2016, this bus does NOT exist anymore,their website is not updated and provides outdated information.
From Kuala Belait, there are buses to Seria (B$1) approx. every 20 minutes, where you can change to another bus for Bandar Seri Begawan (B$6). The entire journey takes about 5 hours. Buses depart Seria every hour.
There are also two express buses a day between Bandar Seri Begawan and Miri, run by PHLS. One runs early in the morning dep 8:15am from Miri, 7am from Bandar, as of november 2016, and the second in the afternoon dep 3:45pm from Miri, 1pm from Bandar, as of november 2016. Fares have increased, B$38.
The direct bus from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kota Kinibalu serves Bangar, Limbang, Lawas and other stops en route to Kota Kinibalu.
It leaves opposite Tamu Kianggeh at approximately 8am. Alternatively, you can catch a local bus from Bandar's bus station to Kuala Lurah on the border, walk across the checkpoint into Tedungan in Sarawak and catch a Syarikat Bas Limbang bus to Limbang.
Do the reverse if coming from Limbang to Bandar. Buses depart from Limbang bus terminal several times a day and bear the destination "Batu Danau". Taxis are also available on both sides of the border but bargain hard for the fare.
You can also get to Temburong district by bus from Limbang, although again, there are no direct buses into Bangar; all buses destination "Pandaruan" stop at the ferry landing at Pandaruan, where there is now a Malaysian immigration checkpoint. Cross the river by ferry and catch a taxi for the 5km to Bangar.
There is a daily bus from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kota Kinibalu. The bus departs opposite Tamu Kianggeh approx 8am and takes approximately 8-9 hours, given twisting single lane highways, picking up and dropping passengers along the way, and the numerous border crossings which entail passport/immigration checks. It costs 100 RM.
By Boat
The main ferry terminal in Brunei is the Serasa Ferry Terminal at Muara, where there are several ferries daily to/from Labuan and one daily ferry each to/from Lawas and Sundar, both in Sarawak.
With a change of boats in Labuan, you can even make it to/from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, in a day. See the Kota Kinabalu to Brunei in a day page.
Please note that the ferry terminal is quite a distance from actual Muara town where the container port is located. The terminal is about 25km from Bandar Seri Begawan. Getting there are purple buses (No. 38) linking the ferry terminal with BSB. Or you can just take a tour van / taxi.
There is a car ferry service from Brunei to Sabah.
Please note that you need to pay a tax "cukai kepala" to get out of Brunei (currently, B$ 2 per ferry ticket). Enquire the counters/travel agent if you didn't get the tax coupon when purchasing the tickets.
There is one "motorway", from Bandar Seri Begawan along the coast. It devolves into dual and then single carriageway but is suitable for all vehicles, right through to Kuala Belait and the toll bridge to Malaysia/Sarawak in the west.
There is also a side road off this, which runs into the jungle towards the settlement of Labi and beyond. Excellent scenery, and a 4-wheel drive may be useful, but the road is now sealed up to the longhouses some distance beyond Labi. Stock up on water at the convenient shop at the junction.
There are only few taxis in whole Brunei, because the car ownership and usage are high.
Since there are around 10 waiting at the airport and 8 in the Belait District there is a little chance of finding a free taxi along the road, especially during morning and afternoon peak hours when they are hired by business men.
Needing a taxi might require a phone call. The main taxi stand is direct north of the bus station in the capital with only a few taxis waiting.
None of the taxis has a taxi meter since there is no taxi company nor regulation requiring to have one. Drivers have fixed prices for most trips, although the tariffs may vary between different drivers, or they will give a price for an irregular trip.
Another alternative is hiring a tour van to drive you around Brunei, for example, for a whole day, or several hours. Try asking them from the ferry counters in Muara. Discuss the price first before agreeing to board the van.
Around the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, there is a good-sized network of purple minibuses. Brunei's high rate of private car ownership means very few Bruneians take these buses, which largely cater to foreign workers.
The speed of the buses are limited to 50km/h but are actually quite efficient and reliable. Bus routes cease operation before 8pm.
In general, the bus system around the capital radiates from the bus terminal in the central district.
There are designated bus stops along each route but passengers are picked up or let off at unofficial locations at the discretion of the driver.
The unofficial mode of operation makes easy travel and entice patronage. Unfortunately, it is difficult to obtain some form of details on bus routes and timetables.
Experience in mid 2011 prompted a small contribution in the form of pictures of the known bus routes at the time.The pictures of the bus routes will be posted at a later date.
There are 13 routes and the fare is flat B$1.00 which is collected by a conductor. The passenger can advise the driver the location to disembark.
Sometimes, the conductor asks the passengers their respective locations to disembark and skips part of the route, to the dismay of passenger who wish to catch the bus. This also implies that there is no strict scheduled time. It is quite normal to wait 30 to 45 minutes for a bus.
There is also an infrequent long-distance bus which runs between BSB and Seria through Tutong.
Language
The official language of Brunei is Malay, but due to its British colonial past, English is widely spoken and understood in urban areas.
A little Malay will come in handy in rural areas, as English proficiency is limited there. While all Bruneians are able to speak standard Malay, the local dialect of Malay is almost incomprehensible to other Malay speakers.
Solely among the Malay-speaking states, Brunei also officially uses the Arabic script for Malay known as Jawi, although most signs are written both in Jawi and Roman letters.
Nevertheless, the Roman alphabet is still the more commonly used script when writing Malay in Brunei.
The ethnic Chinese community in Brunei continues to speak a variety of Chinese languages, including Hokkien, Teochew and several others.
Attractions To Visit
The Istana Nurul Iman is the world’s largest residential palace in occupation. The 300-acre palace sits on a man made hill with a clear view of Kampong Ayer. Istana Nurul Iman is the residence of the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and the palace is quoted to have an estimated value at USD600 million.
There are many eco-tours which typically go to the Temburong district by boat then to a native "longhouse". It is then followed by a powered boat by the natives up the river to the Belalong National Park, a reserve in the Borneo rainforest.
There is a canopy walk and research centre at the park headquarters. Visitors can book to stay overnight at the Ulu Ulu Resort or discover the rainforest with Borneoguide and stay in the Sumbiling Eco Village.
For nature lovers, a new activity to try in Brunei is the Tutong River cruise tour, about 40 minutes away from Bandar Seri Begawan.
The cruise provided by Sunshine Borneo Tours & Travel emphasizes on mangrove ecology and conservation education. The beautiful and calm mangrove-fringed Tutong River is home to the endemic Proboscis monkeys, eagles, crocodiles, macaques, kingfishers and other wildlife.
Some villages and other eco-activities can also be found on Eko-Brunei
Bukit Shahbandar is a nature reserve offering several hikes according to the number of small peaks you want to ascend. All well marked. The longest takes 1.5 to 2 hours among trees and steep dirt hills. At the bottom, there is a park and jogging trail. It is 5 min drive, 15 min walk from The Empire Hotel.
Jerudong Park was once a decent theme park with a multitude of rides. Sadly, a downward cycle of neglect, declining admission and unaffordable maintenance costs led to the closure and sale of most of the big-ticket rides, including the three rollercoasters.
This has given the park a sad "circus left town last week" air about it. Though in recent years there have been attempts to revive the park, including some new rides,mainly for children as well as clown shows. The original bumper cars, go-karts, paddle-boats & merry-go-round are still operational. As is the fountain & light show.
Most people who visit only go at night to avoid the heat during the day. Outside the park, but very close, is a small complex of restaurants which is open at night, though only around half of the stalls are still operational.
Scuba Diving
Brunei offers some great diving. In addition to coral and fish, Brunei is home to several shipwrecks and many species of nudibranch,one of the best places in S.E. Asia for macro photography.
Water temperature is generally around 86 degrees (30 Celsius) and visibility is usually in the 10-30m range, although this can be changeable during the monsoon season. As diving here is not overly developed, it means that the sites, and especially the coral reefs, are unspoiled and in pristine condition.
Popular dive sites include the Blue Water Wreck, a 80m trawler that gets her nickname from the blue water around her and is still completely intact.
Cement Wreck, a 2,687 ton Japanese freighter that hit a sandbank in 1980 while carrying cement. She has a length of 92m and a 15m beam. Easy to penetrate, the freighter lies upright on the bottom at 30m. Australian Wreck, In 1949 while on a voyage to Manila it struck a mine off Brunei and sank.
The wreck lies in 33m of water and is roughly 85m . Dolphin 88 Wreck Malaysian commercial vessel sunk in bad weather in 2013 . Experienced divers will enjoy exploring the interior of the wreck.
Rig Reef, a decommissioned oil rig. There are 9 structures to be explored, each seeming to be home to one dominant group of fish.
Diving is very reasonable, averaging out to BN$35-45 per dive depending on how many dives you do and whether you bring your own gear. There are a number of organisations you can do trips with such as; Oceanic Quest, The Brunei Sub Aqua Dive Club in Brunei-Muara & Panaga Divers based in seria.
Currency
The local currency is the Brunei dollar (BND) you might hear ringgit used to refer to the dollar but be sure that participants are not talking about the Malaysian ringgit (MYR) which is valued at less than half a Brunei dollar.
The Brunei dollar is tied to the Singapore dollar at a 1:1 rate. By law both currencies can be used interchangeably, so if you're coming in from Singapore, there's no reason to change money as your cash will be readily accepted. Likewise, any leftover Brunei dollars can be used at par in Singapore.
Although Singaporean coins can be used in Brunei with the exception of the SGD1, Singapore does not accept Bruneian coins.
However, many stores refuse Singapore notes with seemingly microscopic tears in them, and notices to this effect are posted at the cash register.
The Brunei dollar is divided into 100 cents. There are banknotes from BND1 to a whopping BND10,000 and coins of 1 to 50 cents.
All smaller notes and the 2004 series of larger notes are printed as brightly coloured polymer notes.
Spending
By South-East Asian standards Brunei is roughly on par with Singapore, meaning roughly twice as expensive as neighbouring Malaysia. You can reduce costs by eating at local restaurants and avoiding the more expensive restaurants in hotels.
Budget accommodation, once very limited, has expanded in recent years and you can now get a decent bed for the night for around B$30.
Dining
Bruneians love to eat out and there are many excellent restaurants in Brunei serving a wide variety of cuisines, thanks to the large number of foreign workers in the country.
There is also the local nasi katok, a simple combination of rice and curried beef or chicken, which can be quite spicy. It is relatively inexpensive when compared to other food that you can buy, for example local food such as chicken rice. However, it is not a healthy option, with few vegetables and too much fat.
Another choice is ambuyat, a culinary experience unique to Borneo. It is a starchy and gooey paste made from sago that can be dipped into a savoury sauce.
Brunei produces excellent quality soy sauce, darker, thicker and stronger in flavour than you'd typically find in Japan or China.
Very cheap local fastfood restaurant also available across the country such as Ayamku Restaurant
Rice and Grill restaurant in Bandar Seri Begawan serves curry and tandoori dishes with a Borneo twist. Prices are very cheap at around 6 Brunei dollars for a set meal.
Sipping
Alcohol is not sold anywhere in the country and consumption of alcohol in public is prohibited by law. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed to bring in up to two litres of alcohol (wine or spirits) plus up to twelve 330mL cans of beer, lager or cider every 48 hours, and there is a wide array of duty-free shops just across the border in Malaysia to cater to this demand.
However, alcohol permits must be obtained upon arrival in Brunei while going through customs. At customs you will be required to fill in a yellow form to declare your alcohol.
Many higher-end restaurants allow guests to bring in their own alcohol and corkage is not charged, though this is technically illegal and it's best to keep a low profile if you choose to consume in a public establishment.
At the lower end particularly Chinese restaurants, many restaurants supply illicit booze under euphemisms like "special tea".
One should definitely try out teh tarik, a sweet milk tea, as well as the wide array of coffee (kopi) available in restaurants.
Cigarettes
Cigarettes are difficult to obtain, if you wish to smoke it is advisable to bring your own supplies. There is no duty free allowance for cigarettes or tobacco, duty is always payable,approx BND50 per 200 cigarettes.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Brunei was until recently famously expensive,there is still only one youth hostel in the entire country but some reasonably cheap guesthouses can now be found here and there.
There are also some descent accommodation and even business hotels in other parts of Brunei.
Jobs
Many of the jobs in Brunei are in the gas and oil industry but many positions have opened up for international English Teachers due to the booming economy and business sector.
Footprints Recruiting offers placement in teaching jobs in Brunei. This can be a great way to absorb the culture and see many of the wonderful attractions Brunei has to offer, while making money to boot.
Safety
WARNING: Brunei treats drug offences extremely severely. The death penalty is mandatory for those convicted of trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 1 g of heroin, 1 g of morphine, 1 g of cocaine, 1 g of cannabis, 1 g of cannabis resin and 1 g of opium, and possession of these quantities is all that is needed for you to be convicted.
For unauthorised consumption, there is a maximum of 10 years' jail or or a heavy fine, or both. You can be charged for unauthorised consumption as long as traces of illicit drugs are found in your system, even if you can prove that they were consumed outside the country, and you can be charged for trafficking as long as drugs are found in bags that are in your possession or in your room, even if they aren't yours and regardless of whether you're aware of them,therefore be vigilant of your possessions.
Brunei is a very safe country, with theft being uncommon and violent crime almost unheard of. However, you should use common sense, no matter what.
Brunei revised its penal code in 2014, implementing Sharia law. On paper, the death penalty by stoning is stipulated for numerous offences, including insult or defamation of the Prophet Mohammed, insulting any verses of the Quran and Hadith, blasphemy, declaring oneself a prophet or non-Muslim, robbery, adultery, sodomy, extramarital sexual relations for Muslims and murder.
Other crimes, such as drug trafficking to a certain degree, kidnapping and unauthorised possession of firearms are also punished with death.
Homosexual acts are illegal, with death by stoning being the punishment. The introduction in 2014 of an Islamic Criminal Code, means any convicts that engage in homosexuality acts that have been testified to by four honest-in-character witnesses to the court would be punishable by death if proven to a jury's satisfaction.
Police will join in or turn a blind eye to violence toward LGBT. Businesses will turn you away, attack you, or report you to the police. If you're LGBT stay out of Brunei.
Brunei uses caning for males only for less serious crimes, including illegal entry, overstaying your visa for over 90 days, corruption, and vandalism. Caning is no slap on the wrist: strokes from the thick rattan cane are very painful. The wounds can take weeks to heal and even scar for life. These laws apply to foreigners as well. However prostitution is allowed.
Eating out is generally safe because of good food safety standards. Though tap water is not fit for drinking & should be boiled first. Alternatively, bottled water is very cheap.
Respecting
The Brunei Government is run as a Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), and the Sultan of Brunei, apart from being one of the richest men in the world, is in charge and frequently appears on the front page of the two daily newspapers. At all costs, do not insult or speak badly of the Royal family.
Furthermore, though Bruneians are generally courteous and tolerant, it is a good idea to be aware of sensitivities surrounding certain topics of conversation, especially politics (domestic, regional & international) and world events, particularly those relating to Islam or Islamic countries.
Phone Communication
The international code for Brunei is 673. The telephone numbers in Brunei consist of 7 digits with no local codes, although the first digit of the number indicates the area such as 3 for the Belait District and 2 for Bandar Seri Begawan.
The prepaid Hallo Kad, available from TelBru telephone offices including one at the airport and other outlets in denominations from B$5 to B$50 can be used at any phone in the country to make local and international calls.
Other phone cards are also available for use in public phones.
GSM mobile phone services are available from network operator DST . They have a good range of roaming connections. 3G mobile phone services are available from B-Mobile .
B-Mobile is now known as Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB). Once exit from the Arrival Hall at Brunei International Airport, they have a counter selling simcards & plans.
There is also a Visitor Sim - for short term stay (BND10 all in SMS, voice & data).
Tuesday, 11 April 2017
SAMOA: Travel Gurus Overwhelmed By Authentic Samoan Experience
The Travel Trade and Media experts from around the world who visited Samoa for the Samoa Tourism Exchange (STE) 2017 have relished their time in Samoa, following a busy interactive three days of exhibitions, property inspections, Food and Wine Tour and activities across the country.
“I’ve had a great time at the Samoa Tourism Exchange, where we’ve seen beautiful and outstanding resorts and properties, each with something different to offer families and couples alike.” Said Anita Gatley of Wedding Travel from New Zealand.
Cristina Cali of Flight Center Travel Group from Australia said that, “Samoa is absolutely an appealing place for my clientele because it is cultural, the people is what makes it and the place here is very unique, raw and genuine.”
Mr Aries Leopold of Voageurs Du Monde of France also enjoyed the destination. “Samoa is a very authentic destination with a unique culture and very friendly people, which is something I absloutely enjoyed, and an experience that fits well with our people in France.”
STE continues to be a successful event since it was initiated in 2008, and in a special year for Samoa being the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, similar positive feedbacks were widely received from all influential travel trade and media representatives who attended from across the world including American Samoa, China, South Korea, Japan, North America, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia and New Zealand.
On the theme, Beautiful Samoa, the three day event hosted by Taumeasina Island Resort, began on the 3rd of April, with the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Sala Fata Pinati officially welcoming the overseas Buyers and acknowledging the support from the local Tourism Industry, the Sponsors and the Government of Samoa for making the event possible.
The country’s hard working Prime Minister has displayed one of his many talents as he entertained the public and the village of Poutasi, Falealili by singing and playing the ukulele.
Showing his support for community development, Hon. Tuilaepa Fatialofa Lupesoliai Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi this week attended the opening of the ukulele and craft workshop at Poutasi village, hosted by Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale and the Poutasi Development Trust.
Known also for his humorous nature, Tuilaepa played and sang ‘Afitusi’ - match stick, and kept everyone amused.
A video of his performance was posted on social media and the public acknowledged his leadership. “I just admire this about our PM – his ability to show his many sides – the romantic, the musician, the humourist, the leader.” Said one comment. “Tuilaepa serenades us by playing a ukulele made by local artisans.” Said another comment.
The Government Leader acknowledged the work by Poutasi village in further developing this craft, and also shared with all how he learned to play the ukulele during his early days, which was widely applauded and appreciated by everyone.
The Poutasi Development Trust is a charitable trust that engages in the social, cultural and educational development of Poutasi Village in Samoa.
New resorts and an airport terminal, faster internet, port redevelopment and better service standards were among the hot topics at the Samoa Tourism Exchange (STE) held at Taumeasina Island Resort in Apia this week.
Dwayne Bentley, Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) Marketing and Promotions Manager, says tourism is top of people’s minds in Samoa, and everyone is working to increase visitor numbers.
Kiwi visitor numbers for 2016 were up 8% from 2015 to around 66,000, securing their place as our biggest market.
Australians were just under half that at 31,000, with American Samoa sitting third with about 15,000. In total we welcomed 145,000 tourists last year – a 4.4% growth from 2015, he says.
It’s a positive result that can be attributed to awareness of the destination and the effort everyone is putting in to get people here.
Bentley revealed there is much work going on in the background to ensure numbers remain strong, including the construction of a new arrivals terminal that is timetabled to open in January 2018.
The speed of the internet is also being addressed and Bentley says the country can expect to be connected to the Southern Cross cable before the end of 2017.
Meanwhile, Kate Payne, consultant with Samoa Hotel Association, says moves are afoot to address service standards - a situation that has been a sticking point in the past.
But in the past two years we have made positive progress in food and beverage delivery, kitchen standards and housekeeping skills for the members of the Samoa Hotel Association and the wider community.
The Travel Trade and Media experts from around the world who visited Samoa for the Samoa Tourism Exchange (STE) 2017 have relished their time in Samoa, following a busy interactive three days of exhibitions, property inspections, Food and Wine Tour and activities across the country.
I’ve had a great time at the Samoa Tourism Exchange, where we’ve seen beautiful and outstanding resorts and properties, each with something different to offer families and couples alike.
Said Anita Gatley of Wedding Travel from New Zealand. Cristina Cali of Flight Center Travel Group from Australia said that, Samoa is absolutely an appealing place for my clientele because it is cultural, the people is what makes it and the place here is very unique, raw and genuine.
Mr Aries Leopold of Voageurs Du Monde of France also enjoyed the destination.
Samoa is a very authentic destination with a unique culture and very friendly people, which is something I absloutely enjoyed, and an experience that fits well with our people in France.
STE continues to be a successful event since it was initiated in 2008, and in a special year for Samoa being the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, similar positive feedbacks were widely received from all influential travel trade and media representatives who attended from across the world including American Samoa, China, South Korea, Japan, North America, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia and New Zealand.
On the theme, Beautiful Samoa, the three day event hosted by Taumeasina Island Resort, began on the 3rd of April, with the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Sala Fata Pinati officially welcoming the overseas Buyers and acknowledging the support from the local Tourism Industry, the Sponsors and the Government of Samoa for making the event possible.
Samoa Tourism Authority 7th april 2017 STE 2017: Susie Williams - Return to Paradise, Natalie von Dincklage - House of Travel, Wendy Graham - Lifestyle Holidays, Chris Martin - Seabreeze Resort, Laura Wadsworth - Samoa Scenic / Taumeasina Island Resort, Carole Thorburn - Return to Paradise, Raumati Barbara - Saletoga Sands Resort, Fiona Wozney - Sinalei Reef Resort.
Travel experts overhwelmed by authentic Samoan experience
7th April 2017 2 Working Prime Minister sings and plays the ukulele The country’s hard working Prime Minister has displayed one of his many talents as he entertained the public and the village of Poutasi, Falealili by singing and playing the ukulele.
Showing his support for community development, Hon. Tuilaepa Fatialofa Lupesoliai Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi this week attended the opening of the ukulele and craft workshop at Poutasi village, hosted by Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale and the Poutasi Development Trust.
Known also for his humorous nature, Tuilaepa played and sang ‘Afitusi’ - match stick, and kept everyone amused. A video of his performance was posted on social media and the public acknowledged his leadership. I just admire this about our PM – his ability to show his many sides – the romantic, the musician, the humourist, the leader.
Said one comment. “Tuilaepa serenades us by playing a ukulele made by local artisans. Said another comment. The Government Leader acknowledged the work by Poutasi village in further developing this craft, and also shared with all how he learned to play the ukulele during his early days, which was widely applauded and appreciated by everyone.
The Poutasi Development Trust is a charitable trust that engages in the social, cultural and educational development of Poutasi Village in Samoa.
Faster internet, top service - the road toward tourism success New resorts and an airport terminal, faster internet, port redevelopment and better service standards were among the hot topics at the Samoa Tourism Exchange (STE) held at Taumeasina Island Resort in Apia this week.
Dwayne Bentley, Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) Marketing and Promotions Manager, says tourism is top of people’s minds in Samoa, and everyone is working to increase visitor numbers.
Kiwi visitor numbers for 2016 were up 8% from 2015 to around 66,000, securing their place as our biggest market.
Australians were just under half that at 31,000, with American Samoa sitting third with about 15,000. In total we welcomed 145,000 tourists last year – a 4.4% growth from 2015,he says.
It’s a positive result that can be attributed to awareness of the destination and the effort everyone is putting in to get people here.
Bentley revealed there is much work going on in the background to ensure numbers remain strong, including the construction of a new arrivals terminal that is timetabled to open in January 2018.
The speed of the internet is also being addressed and Bentley says the country can expect to be connected to the Southern Cross cable before the end of 2017.
Meanwhile, Kate Payne, consultant with Samoa Hotel Association, says moves are afoot to address service standards - a situation that has been a sticking point in the past.
But in the past two years we have made positive progress in food and beverage delivery, kitchen standards and housekeeping skills for the members of the Samoa Hotel Association and the wider community.
TRAVELinc Sharon O’Brien of Live Breathe Travel and Wendy Graham of Lifestyle Holidays receive a warrior’s welcome at Seabreeze Resort Ruzanne Keresoma of helloworld; Amanda North of STA and Sibyl Hauraki of GO Holidays ‘take five’ with Air New Zealand’s Hylda Bloomfield at STE 2017 The food and wine tour: Natalie von Dincklage, HoT Product; Emma Cameron, Our World; Sarah Bedford, STA; Wendy Graham, Lifestyle Holidays and Sharon O’Brien, Live Breathe Travel Prime Minister, Hon. Tuilaepa Fatialofa Lupesoliai Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi during his performance as Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale listens on.
7th April 2017 3 The Samoa Tourism Exchange 2017 concluded on a high with an evening of fun and celebration, as all International Buyers and Sellers alike dressed up to the theme Moana. The ceremony culminated an eventful three days of exhibitions and activities, and celebrated Samoa’s unique culture and what makes Samoa a genuine and sustainable destination. Held at the Taumeasina Island Resort, a prayer was led by Rev.
Afamasaga Mautofu Fuimaono, and the keynote address delivered by the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Sala Fata Pinati.
As the curtain falls on STE 2017, I thank all the Buyers from around the World, both new and existing, for accepting our invitation, and we trust your experience has given you that fresh understanding about where Beautiful Samoa is and where it’s heading.Said Sala
To our Industry and Sponsors, thank you for your support. Your assistance as always is appreciated and we hope that the past few days have provided the opportunity from which strategic partnerships will continue to flourish and grow.
Tourism as many of you know is Samoa’s leading industry with numerous direct and indirect benefits. And as market segments and their respective behaviour and purchasing preferences evolve and as competition intensifies, it’s those partnerships and networks which will help us all in our ongoing efforts to improve and grow. Sala added.
Two lucky Buyers will to return to Samoa, after they won best female and male Moana themed dresses of the night, namely Rosanne Keresoma of Helloworld Travel from New Zealand and Joe Dolphire of Scoopon Travel from Australia.
Each received prizes from the hosts Taumeasina Island Resort, of three nights Villa accommodation with free meals of breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Travel Trade and Media experts from around the world who visited Samoa for the Samoa Tourism Exchange (STE) 2017 have relished their time in Samoa, following a busy interactive three days of exhibitions, property inspections, Food and Wine Tour and activities across the country.
I’ve had a great time at the Samoa Tourism Exchange, where we’ve seen beautiful and outstanding resorts and properties, each with something different to offer families and couples alike.” Said Anita Gatley of Wedding Travel from New Zealand.
Cristina Cali of Flight Center Travel Group from Australia said that, “Samoa is absolutely an appealing place for my clientele because it is cultural, the people is what makes it and the place here is very unique, raw and genuine.
Mr Aries Leopold of Voageurs Du Monde of France also enjoyed the destination.
Samoa is a very authentic destination with a unique culture and very friendly people, which is something I absloutely enjoyed, and an experience that fits well with our people in France.” STE continues to be a successful event since it was initiated in 2008.
In a special year for Samoa being the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, similar positive feedbacks were widely received from all influential travel trade and media representatives who attended from across the world including American Samoa, China, South Korea, Japan, North America, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia and New Zealand.
On the theme, Beautiful Samoa, the three day event hosted by Taumeasina Island Resort, began on the 3rd of April, with the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Sala Fata Pinati officially welcoming the overseas Buyers and acknowledging the support from the local Tourism Industry, the Sponsors and the Government of Samoa for making the event possible.
Samoa Tourism Authority 7th april 2017 STE 2017: Susie Williams - Return to Paradise, Natalie von Dincklage - House of Travel, Wendy Graham - Lifestyle Holidays, Chris Martin - Seabreeze Resort, Laura Wadsworth - Samoa Scenic / Taumeasina Island Resort, Carole Thorburn
Return to Paradise, Raumati Barbara - Saletoga Sands Resort, Fiona Wozney - Sinalei Reef Resort.
Travel experts overhwelmed by authentic Samoan experience
7th April 2017 2 Working Prime Minister sings and plays the ukulele The country’s hard working Prime Minister has displayed one of his many talents as he entertained the public and the village of Poutasi, Falealili by singing and playing the ukulele. Showing his support for community development, Hon. Tuilaepa Fatialofa Lupesoliai Dr.
Sailele Malielegaoi this week attended the opening of the ukulele and craft workshop at Poutasi village, hosted by Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale and the Poutasi Development Trust. Known also for his humorous nature, Tuilaepa played and sang ‘Afitusi’ - match stick, and kept everyone amused.
A video of his performance was posted on social media and the public acknowledged his leadership. I just admire this about our PM – his ability to show his many sides – the romantic, the musician, the humourist, the leader. Said one comment.
Tuilaepa serenades us by playing a ukulele made by local artisans.” Said another comment. The Government Leader acknowledged the work by Poutasi village in further developing this craft, and also shared with all how he learned to play the ukulele during his early days, which was widely applauded and appreciated by everyone.
The Poutasi Development Trust is a charitable trust that engages in the social, cultural and educational development of Poutasi Village in Samoa.
Faster internet, top service - the road toward tourism success New resorts and an airport terminal, faster internet, port redevelopment and better service standards were among the hot topics at the Samoa Tourism Exchange (STE) held at Taumeasina Island Resort in Apia this week.
Dwayne Bentley, Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) Marketing and Promotions Manager, says tourism is top of people’s minds in Samoa, and everyone is working to increase visitor numbers.
Kiwi visitor numbers for 2016 were up 8% from 2015 to around 66,000, securing their place as our biggest market. Australians were just under half that at 31,000, with American Samoa sitting third with about 15,000. In total we welcomed 145,000 tourists last year – a 4.4% growth from 2015,” he says.
It’s a positive result that can be attributed to awareness of the destination and the effort everyone is putting in to get people here.
Bentley revealed there is much work going on in the background to ensure numbers remain strong, including the construction of a new arrivals terminal that is timetabled to open in January 2018. The speed of the internet is also being addressed and Bentley says the country can expect to be connected to the Southern Cross cable before the end of 2017.
Meanwhile, Kate Payne, consultant with Samoa Hotel Association, says moves are afoot to address service standards - a situation that has been a sticking point in the past. “But in the past two years we have made positive progress in food and beverage delivery, kitchen standards and housekeeping skills for the members of the Samoa Hotel Association and the wider community.
TRAVELinc Sharon O’Brien of Live Breathe Travel and Wendy Graham of Lifestyle Holidays receive a warrior’s welcome at Seabreeze Resort Ruzanne Keresoma of helloworld; Amanda North of STA and Sibyl Hauraki of GO Holidays ‘take five’ with Air New Zealand’s Hylda Bloomfield at STE 2017 The food and wine tour: Natalie von Dincklage, HoT Product; Emma Cameron, Our World; Sarah Bedford, STA; Wendy Graham, Lifestyle Holidays and Sharon O’Brien, Live Breathe Travel Prime Minister, Hon. Tuilaepa Fatialofa Lupesoliai Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi during his performance as Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale listens on.
7th April 2017 3 The Samoa Tourism Exchange 2017 concluded on a high with an evening of fun and celebration, as all International Buyers and Sellers alike dressed up to the theme Moana.
The ceremony culminated an eventful three days of exhibitions and activities, and celebrated Samoa’s unique culture and what makes Samoa a genuine and sustainable destination. Held at the Taumeasina Island Resort, a prayer was led by Rev. Afamasaga Mautofu Fuimaono, and the keynote address delivered by the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Sala Fata Pinati.
As the curtain falls on STE 2017, I thank all the Buyers from around the World, both new and existing, for accepting our invitation, and we trust your experience has given you that fresh understanding about where Beautiful Samoa is and where it’s heading.” Said Sala.
To our Industry and Sponsors, thank you for your support. Your assistance as always is appreciated and we hope that the past few days have provided the opportunity from which strategic partnerships will continue to flourish and grow. “Tourism as many of you know is Samoa’s leading industry with numerous direct and indirect benefits.
And as market segments and their respective behaviour and purchasing preferences evolve and as competition intensifies, it’s those partnerships and networks which will help us all in our ongoing efforts to improve and grow.
Sala added. Two lucky Buyers will to return to Samoa, after they won best female and male Moana themed dresses of the night, namely Rosanne Keresoma of Helloworld Travel from New Zealand and Joe Dolphire of Scoopon Travel from Australia.
Each received prizes from the hosts Taumeasina Island Resort, of three nights Villa accommodation with free meals of breakfast, lunch and dinner. STE 2017 ends on a high with Moana-themed finale A fun filled closing ceremony for all to end the Samoa Tourism Exchange 2017 at the Taumeasina Island Resort. Best Moana dressed female and male, Rosanne Keresoma and Joe Dolphire with Taumeasina Island Resort General Manager, Nathan Bucknall, flanked by STA Staff. Minister of Tourism, Hon. Sala Fata Pinati closes STE 2017.
7th April 2017 4 Samoa’s first and only Olympic Medallist, Ms Ele Opeloge has gone down on the world sporting history books as one of the very few Pacific Islanders to have won those hard earned Olympic medals.
Though her moment has come eight years too late, she has nevertheless further lifted Samoa’s name in the highest level of world sports, by winning an Olympic Silver medal for her country.
Ele was recently awarded the Sliver Medal, after two competitors failed doping tests from the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
Ele was congratulated by the Government in a public parade and ceremony held infront of the Government Building in town. The Prime Minister, Hon. Tuilaepa Fatialofa Lupesoliai Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi spoke on behalf of the Government, and applauded Ele and for winning the Silver Medal, and acknowledged the support of her family, as well as the hard work by the Samoa Weightlifting Federation.
Ele was officially presented her Silver Medal by the Minister of Education, Sports and Culture, Loau Keneti Sio. She was also presented a monetary donation of over twenty five thousand tala, put together by Samoa Observer.
Also attending the ceremony were the Cabinet Ministers, Associate Ministers, Government CEOs, members of Samoa Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee, Ele’s parents, family, friends, public servants and the wider public.
KENYA: Marriott International Opens Sheraton Nairobi Hurlingham
In East Africa alone the brand is set to open three more hotels later this year with the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport, Four Points by Sheraton Dar es Salam and Four Points by Sheraton Arusha
Marriott International announced its first property in Kenya with the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Hurlingham.
Owned by Kamcan Properties Limited, the hotel is strategically located in the upmarket suburb, close to the city center and within easy access from the surrounding business areas of Westlands, Kilimani and Nairobi Central as well as from the Kenyatta International Airport and the Wilson Airport.
Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi, Hurlingham is a significant addition to our fast growing portfolio in the region offering a perfect blend of stylish comfort and genuine service at an honest value, said Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International.
The hotel is yet another example of our conversion friendly strategy that highlights our ability to convert hotels successfully within a short period of time and have them join our system while delivering value to our partners and creating memorable experiences for our guests in exciting new destinations.
Designed for the modern traveler with an emphasis on approachable design and stylish comfort, Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi, Hurlingham features 96 spacious and modern rooms as well as food and beverage options including an all-day dining restaurant.
A rooftop restaurant with spectacular city views and a bar and lounge where guests can experience the brand’s signature Best Brews™ program featuring an array of local beers – the ideal spot to watch sports matches and unwind with friends and colleagues.
Other hotel facilities include a fitness center, a rooftop pool and 8500 square feet of flexible meeting spaces.
The hotel provides all of the brand’s defining elements including the signature Four Points bed, free bottled water in all rooms and suites, fast and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and an energizing breakfast with fresh coffee that helps guests start and end the day right.
By introducing a Four Points property, we expect to attract travelers familiar with this popular global brand and everything it has to offer, said Vivek Mathur General Manager Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Hurlingham and we are confident that the hotel will emerge as a preferred choice for travelers looking for stylish accommodation and a relaxing atmosphere whether they are on business or on leisure.
Marriott International is also currently developing a 365 room JW Marriott in Nairobi slated to open in 2020 which will substantially enhance Marriott International’s presence in the country.
Globally Four Points by Sheraton continues to experience incredible growth momentum.
In East Africa alone the brand is set to open three more hotels later this year with the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport, Four Points by Sheraton Dar es Salam and Four Points by Sheraton Arusha.
Four Points is travel reinvented. With over 200 hotels in nearly 40 countries, Four Points meets the needs of the everyday traveller and offers guests exactly what they need on the road.
Four Points combines timeless style and comfort and an authentic sense of the local as well as genuine, always-approachable service, all around the world.
Marriott International announced its first property in Kenya with the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Hurlingham.
Owned by Kamcan Properties Limited, the hotel is strategically located in the upmarket suburb, close to the city center and within easy access from the surrounding business areas of Westlands, Kilimani and Nairobi Central as well as from the Kenyatta International Airport and the Wilson Airport.
Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi, Hurlingham is a significant addition to our fast growing portfolio in the region offering a perfect blend of stylish comfort and genuine service at an honest value, said Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International.
The hotel is yet another example of our conversion friendly strategy that highlights our ability to convert hotels successfully within a short period of time and have them join our system while delivering value to our partners and creating memorable experiences for our guests in exciting new destinations.
Designed for the modern traveler with an emphasis on approachable design and stylish comfort, Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi, Hurlingham features 96 spacious and modern rooms as well as food and beverage options including an all-day dining restaurant.
A rooftop restaurant with spectacular city views and a bar and lounge where guests can experience the brand’s signature Best Brews™ program featuring an array of local beers – the ideal spot to watch sports matches and unwind with friends and colleagues.
Other hotel facilities include a fitness center, a rooftop pool and 8500 square feet of flexible meeting spaces.
The hotel provides all of the brand’s defining elements including the signature Four Points bed, free bottled water in all rooms and suites, fast and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and an energizing breakfast with fresh coffee that helps guests start and end the day right.
By introducing a Four Points property, we expect to attract travelers familiar with this popular global brand and everything it has to offer, said Vivek Mathur General Manager Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Hurlingham and we are confident that the hotel will emerge as a preferred choice for travelers looking for stylish accommodation and a relaxing atmosphere whether they are on business or on leisure.
Marriott International is also currently developing a 365 room JW Marriott in Nairobi slated to open in 2020 which will substantially enhance Marriott International’s presence in the country.
Globally Four Points by Sheraton continues to experience incredible growth momentum.
In East Africa alone the brand is set to open three more hotels later this year with the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport, Four Points by Sheraton Dar es Salam and Four Points by Sheraton Arusha.
Four Points is travel reinvented. With over 200 hotels in nearly 40 countries, Four Points meets the needs of the everyday traveller and offers guests exactly what they need on the road.
Four Points combines timeless style and comfort and an authentic sense of the local as well as genuine, always-approachable service, all around the world.
Rhino Poaching In Europe A Surprise
This month’s shocking incident of a rhino poached at Parc zoologique de Thoiry in France is the first of its kind on European soil.
In the early hours of Tuesday 7 March, keepers found the carcass of Vince, a four-year-old white rhinoceros, with its horn removed with a chain saw.
This poaching incident is truly shocking, and it is very sobering to think that armed criminals are now willing to break into Europeans zoos to kill our rhinos.
It highlights how the criminal networks running the illegal wildlife trade operate across borders, and how all of us are affected by the illicit rhino horn trade.
As atrocious as the poaching of a rhino in a European zoo is, rhinos face the biggest dangers in the wild across Africa and Asia.
The extensive poaching crisis continues to threaten the survival of the species, with three rhino killed every day on average in South Africa alone.
At Save the Rhino International, we work hard to equip our conservation partners on the ground with what they need to combat poaching.
Thanks to your amazing support and generous donations, you have helped provide rangers with the much needed equipment, skills and training, and together help all five rhino species thrive in the wild for future generations.
In the wake of the poaching incident in France, many zoos have been taking measures to increase their security and ensure the safety of both the staff and animals.
As Susie Offord-Woolley, Managing Director at Save the Rhino highlights, the zoos are now facing increased pressure to both ensure the welfare of its animals and provide the essential security. Read about what actions have been taken by several European zoos to protect their rhinos.
Overwhelmed by the negative news, such as the tragic poaching incident in the French Zoo, it is good to remind ourselves of the bigger picture.
The good news is that the last rhino population census from 2015 showed that global rhino numbers were still growing and not declining.
The African Rhino Specialist Group published figures at the end of 2015, concluding there were 30,000 rhinos living in the wild across Africa and Asia.
However, this year could be the tipping point, when the number of poached rhinos tips the overall balance of rhinos into decline.
Therefore, it is important to stay vigilant – your continued support will help to ensure the programmes protecting rhinos have the resources they need to keep these figures on the rise.
Demand for rhino horn in countries such as Vietnam is one of the key drivers behind the extensive poaching crisis.
The new documentary by Jake Dudman and Paul Blackthorne uncovers Vietnam's illicit rhino horn trade, its devastating impact on our shared natural heritage, and – most importantly – what we can do about it. As Paul advocates, “rhino horn has become a status symbol – it’s fashionable. But as a new trend, it’s something we can change before it’s too late.”
Have you ever read that rhino horn is commonly used as an aphrodisiac in Asia, or as a cancer cure in traditional medicine? And did you think that dying rhino horn pink can deter poachers? In the post truth age of alternative facts, we hear lots of unsubstantiated rhino rumours and frequently spot dubious stories circulating the net.
Save the Rhino's Susie reflects on why now, more than ever, we need to stay positive. In a round up of 2016, she looks back at a year of turbulent politics, exciting opportunities and key conservation successes.
Susie shares achievements that would not be possible without your fantastic support - such as providing rangers with the much needed equipment, and delivering effective demand reduction campaigns in countries like Vietnam.
On Sunday the 23rd of April 60 rhino heroes will be taking part in the 2017 London Marathon to raise vital funds for Save the Rhino.
Including 15 particularly brave Rhino Runners, who will be donning our iconic rhino costumes to complete the infamous 26.2 mile route through the streets of London, finishing in front of Buckingham Palace.
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority Has New CEO, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority
'He and many others should have been fired the moment they killed Air Uganda. That was a low point in Uganda's aviation history and marked an abyss in relations between the industry and the regulators' commented a regular aviation source from Entebbe on the breaking news that Dr. Rama Makuza has been dismissed from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority.
Makuza was reportedly given his sack notice by the Minister of Transport and Communications on recommendation of the Board, which found his performance wanting and decided he needed to go before his contract expired at the end of the year.
Capt. Mike Mukula, a former airline pilot said There has been a decline in Uganda’s Aviation sector compared to our regional neighbours in Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda and I am happy about the board’s decision.
Mukula repeatedly saw himself at the receiving end from the UCAA and time and again took issue with the organization's decisions when he strongly disagreed with them, but several of the CAA's top team habitually ignored private sector input and stayed aloof, though other 'victims' described them as arrogant, ignorant and to some extend even incompetent.
There have been repeated calls to also clip the CAA's wings and remove from them the management of the airports as is seen as international best practice, where the regulators are no longer involved in the management of any facilities and elements of the aviation industry but remain solely in a regulatory role.
However, given the ongoing massive investment projects for Entebbe and other airfields in the country, has the UCAA resisted this change, leaving Uganda as the only major country in East Africa without a dedicated airports authority and related bodies.
This is a joke and the appointing authority surely must see the error of their ways. How can the CAA hang on to a regime which has long been discarded in Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda?
It raises all sorts of questions what vested interests exist within the CAA especially when they talk of hundreds of millions of US Dollars in coming investments.
This stinks to heaven and therefore is one sacking simply not enough, a whole lot of others also need to go' added another regular outspoken source on condition of anonymity.
Former staff of Air Uganda too expressed their satisfaction that the top manager at the UCAA was sacked but demanded that others must follow, especially those involved in the killing of Air Uganda at the time, at the expense of our industry in general and our company in particular'.
Dr. David Kabuka has in the meantime been appointed as Acting CEO of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority.
Good Luck Dr. David Kabuka
Gulf Airlines Offer Guests Laptops On Board
US carriers are said to be livid over gestures made by the leading Gulf airlines like Qatar Airways to offer their premium guests on board laptops on loan, allowing uninterrupted work by busy executives flying on their aircraft.
Qatar Airways earlier announced a unique solution to the recently imposed Electronics Ban by offering passengers a laptop loan service that takes their award-winning five-star reputation to new heights.
Showing true commitment to travellers affected by the ban the Doha-based airline has taken the notable step to purchase laptops available for loan on all of their US flights; meaning uninterrupted productivity and service throughout their journey.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said when making the announcement: 'As an award-winning and global airline we truly appreciate the importance of being able to work on board our aircraft and that is why I have insisted on offering only the best possible solution for our customers.
By providing this laptop loan service we can ensure that our passengers on flights to the US can continue to work whilst on-board.
This unique ability to offer ‘business as usual’, above and beyond the competition, is yet another example of Qatar Airways justification for being the ‘World’s Best Business Class'.
The complimentary laptops will be available to Business Class passengers travelling on all US-bound flights from next week and and can be collected from the Gate just before boarding.
Customers will be able to download their work on to a USB before stepping on board to pick up where they left-off.
Qatar Airways is offering a special service at the gate for all passengers, whereby any electronic items prohibited by the new ban will be collected and securely packaged.
These will be tagged, loaded as check-in baggage and returned safely to the customer on arrival to the US.
In another move to guarantee the comfort and productivity of all passengers on board US-bound flights Qatar Airways is providing one hour of free Wi-Fi for all passengers and a special Wi-Fi package of US$ 5 to stay connected for the duration of the whole flight.
When most people’s smart phones will be the only device they can take on-board this generous offer will ensure passengers can stay connected and stay entertained.
Qatar Airways only a few days ago was once again named as the World's best airline by the Air Transport Awards as was reported at the time.
All passengers wishing to partake of the offer need to do is to bring their memory sticks with data onloaded, or an external hard drive,which is not included in the electronics ban and to work enroute to the United States.
Other airlines like Emirates and Etihad have made similar offers to their premium passengers, effectively defeating the discriminatory ban by the Trump regime against these airlines after the intended travel ban was twice defeated in the US court system.
Notably have US carriers not been affected by these arbitrary new rules which the rest of the world, apart from the UK, has also rejected, leaving US carriers again second best in comparison with the service levels offered by Gulf airlines.
Qatar Airways flies to daily to Entebbe and Kigali, Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar and double daily to Nairobi presently using Airbus A320 aircraft though Nairobi will go widebody later this year.
Qatar Airways earlier announced a unique solution to the recently imposed Electronics Ban by offering passengers a laptop loan service that takes their award-winning five-star reputation to new heights.
Showing true commitment to travellers affected by the ban the Doha-based airline has taken the notable step to purchase laptops available for loan on all of their US flights; meaning uninterrupted productivity and service throughout their journey.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said when making the announcement: 'As an award-winning and global airline we truly appreciate the importance of being able to work on board our aircraft and that is why I have insisted on offering only the best possible solution for our customers.
By providing this laptop loan service we can ensure that our passengers on flights to the US can continue to work whilst on-board.
This unique ability to offer ‘business as usual’, above and beyond the competition, is yet another example of Qatar Airways justification for being the ‘World’s Best Business Class'.
The complimentary laptops will be available to Business Class passengers travelling on all US-bound flights from next week and and can be collected from the Gate just before boarding.
Customers will be able to download their work on to a USB before stepping on board to pick up where they left-off.
Qatar Airways is offering a special service at the gate for all passengers, whereby any electronic items prohibited by the new ban will be collected and securely packaged.
These will be tagged, loaded as check-in baggage and returned safely to the customer on arrival to the US.
In another move to guarantee the comfort and productivity of all passengers on board US-bound flights Qatar Airways is providing one hour of free Wi-Fi for all passengers and a special Wi-Fi package of US$ 5 to stay connected for the duration of the whole flight.
When most people’s smart phones will be the only device they can take on-board this generous offer will ensure passengers can stay connected and stay entertained.
Qatar Airways only a few days ago was once again named as the World's best airline by the Air Transport Awards as was reported at the time.
All passengers wishing to partake of the offer need to do is to bring their memory sticks with data onloaded, or an external hard drive,which is not included in the electronics ban and to work enroute to the United States.
Other airlines like Emirates and Etihad have made similar offers to their premium passengers, effectively defeating the discriminatory ban by the Trump regime against these airlines after the intended travel ban was twice defeated in the US court system.
Notably have US carriers not been affected by these arbitrary new rules which the rest of the world, apart from the UK, has also rejected, leaving US carriers again second best in comparison with the service levels offered by Gulf airlines.
Qatar Airways flies to daily to Entebbe and Kigali, Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar and double daily to Nairobi presently using Airbus A320 aircraft though Nairobi will go widebody later this year.
Ethiopian Airlines And Singapore Airlines Codeshare
Star Alliance members, Ethiopian Airlines and Singapore Airlines will expand their existing codeshare agreement as of 01st of June 2017, offering customers travelling between Africa and Asia seamless connectivity options.
Ethiopian Airlines’ daily non-stop services to Singapore from Addis Ababa, due to be launched in June 2017, will be covered by the expanded codeshare agreement.
Under the new agreement, Ethiopian Airlines customers will be able to access multiple destinations in Australia, China, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Thailand and Vietnam across Singapore Airlines’ wide network.
In turn, Singapore Airlines customers will enjoy access to Ethiopian Airlines’ vast intra-African network including countries like Botswana, Burkina Faso, Chad, Cote D’Ivoire, Kenya, Nigeria, Mozambique, The Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania and Zimbabwe.
Mr. Girma Shiferaw, Acting Vice President, Strategic Planning and Alliances, remarked: 'I wish to thank Singapore Airlines for the successful completion of this vital agreement.
The two airlines will synergize their respective networks in Asia and Africa to offer customers the best connectivity options with one ticket and one single check-in at the first boarding airport. It will also play a critical role in enhancing investment, trade and tourism ties between a rising Africa, and a highly developed, innovative, and business-friendly Singapore'.
Singapore Airlines Senior Vice President Marketing Planning, Mr Tan Kai Ping, said, 'We are delighted with our expanded codeshare operations with Ethiopian Airlines. This significant expansion of our important partnership is in line with our ongoing effort to continuously expand our network reach and to offer customers more travel options and convenience when travelling between Africa, Asia and Southwest Pacific'.
The airlines first began code sharing on each other’s flights to and from Dubai in 2011. The expanded codeshare flights are subject to regulatory approvals and will be progressively made available for sale across various sales channels.
Ethiopian Airlines operates one of the youngest fleets on the African continent with an average aircraft age of less than five years, serving more than 90 international destinations across five continents with over 240 daily departures.
Singapore Airlines operates a modern passenger aircraft fleet of more than 100 aircraft and together with wholly owned passenger airline subsidiaries SilkAir, Scoot and Tigerair, the SIA Group’s combined network covers more than 130 destinations around the world.
Ethiopian Airlines flies three times a day to Entebbe and also operates multiple flights each day to Kigali, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam while serving the tourist destinations of Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and Mombasa too.
Ethiopian Airlines’ daily non-stop services to Singapore from Addis Ababa, due to be launched in June 2017, will be covered by the expanded codeshare agreement.
Under the new agreement, Ethiopian Airlines customers will be able to access multiple destinations in Australia, China, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Thailand and Vietnam across Singapore Airlines’ wide network.
In turn, Singapore Airlines customers will enjoy access to Ethiopian Airlines’ vast intra-African network including countries like Botswana, Burkina Faso, Chad, Cote D’Ivoire, Kenya, Nigeria, Mozambique, The Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania and Zimbabwe.
Mr. Girma Shiferaw, Acting Vice President, Strategic Planning and Alliances, remarked: 'I wish to thank Singapore Airlines for the successful completion of this vital agreement.
The two airlines will synergize their respective networks in Asia and Africa to offer customers the best connectivity options with one ticket and one single check-in at the first boarding airport. It will also play a critical role in enhancing investment, trade and tourism ties between a rising Africa, and a highly developed, innovative, and business-friendly Singapore'.
Singapore Airlines Senior Vice President Marketing Planning, Mr Tan Kai Ping, said, 'We are delighted with our expanded codeshare operations with Ethiopian Airlines. This significant expansion of our important partnership is in line with our ongoing effort to continuously expand our network reach and to offer customers more travel options and convenience when travelling between Africa, Asia and Southwest Pacific'.
The airlines first began code sharing on each other’s flights to and from Dubai in 2011. The expanded codeshare flights are subject to regulatory approvals and will be progressively made available for sale across various sales channels.
Ethiopian Airlines operates one of the youngest fleets on the African continent with an average aircraft age of less than five years, serving more than 90 international destinations across five continents with over 240 daily departures.
Singapore Airlines operates a modern passenger aircraft fleet of more than 100 aircraft and together with wholly owned passenger airline subsidiaries SilkAir, Scoot and Tigerair, the SIA Group’s combined network covers more than 130 destinations around the world.
Ethiopian Airlines flies three times a day to Entebbe and also operates multiple flights each day to Kigali, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam while serving the tourist destinations of Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and Mombasa too.
ZIMBABWE: CAA Woeing Lufthansa To Start Flights
Following the opening of the new Victoria Falls International Airport and the success to bring airlines to fly to the new facility ,South African now uses an Airbus A330 for the service while Ethiopian launched flights two weeks ago and Kenya Airways will follow suit in a few weeks time,Zimbabwe Civil Aviation Authority now widened their horizon.
After attending the annual general meeting of the Airports Council International in Lusaka / Zambia recently did new emerge that ZCAA has made serious overtures to Germany's Lufthansa to return to not just Harare but also consider a combined flight to Victoria Falls and a fifth freedom rights onward service to a final destination in Southern Africa.
Nothing could be found out about Lufthansa's reaction to the proposals made but it would be a major coup for the Zimbabwean aviation regulators if an airline of such reputation could return to the country.
LH had to halt services to Harare nine years ago over their inability to repatriate ticket sales and only iron clad assurances that remittances will be made possible as and when requested might persuade the German airline giant to give Zimbabwe a fresh look.
Germany is a major source market for tourists to Zimbabwe who often combine a visit to Victoria Falls with safaris across the country, to explore the Great Zimbabwe Ruins and Matopos National Park's scenic rock formation before moving on to other Southern African countries like Zambia, Botswana, South Africa and Namibia as part of their African journeys.
After attending the annual general meeting of the Airports Council International in Lusaka / Zambia recently did new emerge that ZCAA has made serious overtures to Germany's Lufthansa to return to not just Harare but also consider a combined flight to Victoria Falls and a fifth freedom rights onward service to a final destination in Southern Africa.
Nothing could be found out about Lufthansa's reaction to the proposals made but it would be a major coup for the Zimbabwean aviation regulators if an airline of such reputation could return to the country.
LH had to halt services to Harare nine years ago over their inability to repatriate ticket sales and only iron clad assurances that remittances will be made possible as and when requested might persuade the German airline giant to give Zimbabwe a fresh look.
Germany is a major source market for tourists to Zimbabwe who often combine a visit to Victoria Falls with safaris across the country, to explore the Great Zimbabwe Ruins and Matopos National Park's scenic rock formation before moving on to other Southern African countries like Zambia, Botswana, South Africa and Namibia as part of their African journeys.
KENYA: Park Inn Nairobi Westlands by Carlson Rezidor To Open Shortly After Easter
A flying visit to Nairobi over the past few days allowed for a closer look at one of Nairobi's latest additions to the hospitality industry, the new Park Inn Nairobi Westlands by Carlson Rezidor.
Ready to open its doors to guests in the space of the next couple of days are only final touches being put on the new property's public areas like the rooftop bar, the lobby and the ground floor restaurant with the outdoor terrace but the meeting rooms, all five of them, and most important the 140 rooms, are ready.
The hotel has a total of 140 rooms, 130 of them well sized and equipped standard rooms while 10 Executive Rooms offer an even larger space for those who need to spread out and work in a more generously appointed room.
The bathrooms are well designed and for a hotel in this category best described as large. And, reminiscent of the mood lighting on modern aircraft like the Boeing B787 can the room lights around the bed also be changed by the touch of a finger on the bedside panel, something which may hopefully inspire what guests need inspiring for.
High speed WiFi connects throughout the building, rooms, meeting rooms, lobby, restaurant and terrace, even the gym if someone needs to check messages while on the treadmill and right to the rooftop swimmingpool with a view over the Westlands area of Nairobi.
The fresh, imaginative colour scheme is novel for Nairobi, with bright variations and the rooms alternating from floor to floor between green and purple.
The same bright colours also impress on the ground floor where a small lobby lounge allows for some informal meetings while the adjoining bar, the indoor and outdoor terrace restaurant - in part under a translucent roof - gives guests that contemporary feeling, further underscored by the unconventional uniforms for the staff, again set alight by colours rather than the 'regular' dull grey or black suits.
The menu presents itself with a range of starters, main courses, desserts but also snacks, available throughout the day and if the soup I was served is anything to go by I certainly look forward to a full meal when in due course returning to the Park Inn after it has formally opened its doors.
As mentioned are there five meeting rooms of different sizes with state of the art equipment for remote light dimming and audio visual connections via laptop to project presentations on the wall mounted screen.
As a special gesture is the Park Inn serving flavoured water to guests in the conference rooms but it is also available in the two restaurants.
Underground parking is ample and a available for guests who come to the hotel for workshops or conferences or those inhouse who prefer to hire their own four wheels instead of opting for the city's Little Ride, UBER or regular cab services.
Caught up in pre-opening sales activities and with all hands needed on deck for the final few days to get everything in ship shape I was doubly impressed by the Park Inn staff to take their time and show me around the hotel.
I only wish the already soft opened Pullman Nairobi by Accor could take a leaf from such a welcoming attitude, which will no doubt put the Park Inn into the good books of local and international clientele.
Ready to open its doors to guests in the space of the next couple of days are only final touches being put on the new property's public areas like the rooftop bar, the lobby and the ground floor restaurant with the outdoor terrace but the meeting rooms, all five of them, and most important the 140 rooms, are ready.
The hotel has a total of 140 rooms, 130 of them well sized and equipped standard rooms while 10 Executive Rooms offer an even larger space for those who need to spread out and work in a more generously appointed room.
The bathrooms are well designed and for a hotel in this category best described as large. And, reminiscent of the mood lighting on modern aircraft like the Boeing B787 can the room lights around the bed also be changed by the touch of a finger on the bedside panel, something which may hopefully inspire what guests need inspiring for.
High speed WiFi connects throughout the building, rooms, meeting rooms, lobby, restaurant and terrace, even the gym if someone needs to check messages while on the treadmill and right to the rooftop swimmingpool with a view over the Westlands area of Nairobi.
The fresh, imaginative colour scheme is novel for Nairobi, with bright variations and the rooms alternating from floor to floor between green and purple.
The same bright colours also impress on the ground floor where a small lobby lounge allows for some informal meetings while the adjoining bar, the indoor and outdoor terrace restaurant - in part under a translucent roof - gives guests that contemporary feeling, further underscored by the unconventional uniforms for the staff, again set alight by colours rather than the 'regular' dull grey or black suits.
The menu presents itself with a range of starters, main courses, desserts but also snacks, available throughout the day and if the soup I was served is anything to go by I certainly look forward to a full meal when in due course returning to the Park Inn after it has formally opened its doors.
As mentioned are there five meeting rooms of different sizes with state of the art equipment for remote light dimming and audio visual connections via laptop to project presentations on the wall mounted screen.
As a special gesture is the Park Inn serving flavoured water to guests in the conference rooms but it is also available in the two restaurants.
Underground parking is ample and a available for guests who come to the hotel for workshops or conferences or those inhouse who prefer to hire their own four wheels instead of opting for the city's Little Ride, UBER or regular cab services.
Caught up in pre-opening sales activities and with all hands needed on deck for the final few days to get everything in ship shape I was doubly impressed by the Park Inn staff to take their time and show me around the hotel.
I only wish the already soft opened Pullman Nairobi by Accor could take a leaf from such a welcoming attitude, which will no doubt put the Park Inn into the good books of local and international clientele.
TANZANIA: Air Tanzania Bombardier Q300 May Be Disposed Off Because Of Age
Speculation is growing over the fate of Air Tanzania's aging Bombardier Q300 aircraft which maintenance input has been growing almost correspondingly with age and use.
While the aircraft, MSN 474 only joined the ATCL fleet in 2008 under registration 5H-MWF is the plane nevertheless now 20 years old and maintaining continued airworthiness is becoming a challenge due to the downtimes this causes.
Initially operated by Air Pelangi did the aircraft then make its way across the world and flew for such airlines as Brymon Airways, British Airways City Express, BA Connect and FlyBe before in February 2008, i.e. 9 years ago ending up on the Tanzanian registry for Air Tanzania.
The aircraft did suffer one mishap while being operated by Air Tanzania, namely a cracked windscreen not long after takeoff from Kigoma to Dar es Salaam (TC119) in January 2012 but at the time did the plane return safely to Kigoma before being repaired and returned into service.
Last year Air Tanzania received two brand new Bombardier Q400NextGen's and a third is on order and due for delivery this year, as are incidentally two Bombardier CS300's, the first such planes sold to an African airline as reported here at the time.
If suggestions by the same source from Dar es Salaam of accurate previous news are correct will Air Tanzania very likely dispose of the aged Q300 aircraft and acquire a fourth brand new Bombardier Q400NextGen instead, further boosting dispatch reliability and also increasing seat capacity on the turboprop fleet.
Watch this space for breaking and regular aviation news from the wider Eastern African region.
While the aircraft, MSN 474 only joined the ATCL fleet in 2008 under registration 5H-MWF is the plane nevertheless now 20 years old and maintaining continued airworthiness is becoming a challenge due to the downtimes this causes.
Initially operated by Air Pelangi did the aircraft then make its way across the world and flew for such airlines as Brymon Airways, British Airways City Express, BA Connect and FlyBe before in February 2008, i.e. 9 years ago ending up on the Tanzanian registry for Air Tanzania.
The aircraft did suffer one mishap while being operated by Air Tanzania, namely a cracked windscreen not long after takeoff from Kigoma to Dar es Salaam (TC119) in January 2012 but at the time did the plane return safely to Kigoma before being repaired and returned into service.
Last year Air Tanzania received two brand new Bombardier Q400NextGen's and a third is on order and due for delivery this year, as are incidentally two Bombardier CS300's, the first such planes sold to an African airline as reported here at the time.
If suggestions by the same source from Dar es Salaam of accurate previous news are correct will Air Tanzania very likely dispose of the aged Q300 aircraft and acquire a fourth brand new Bombardier Q400NextGen instead, further boosting dispatch reliability and also increasing seat capacity on the turboprop fleet.
Watch this space for breaking and regular aviation news from the wider Eastern African region.
CUBA: Portugal And Cuba Sign For Cooperation On Tourism
A protocol of cooperation agreement has been signed between Cuba and Portugal that will boost work on key issues for the joint development of the industry in both countries.
The agreement was signed on Friday by Cuba’s head of tourism Manuel Marrero and Portugal’s Secretary of State for Tourism, Ana Mendes Godinho,.
According to Mendes Godinho, the agreement is a historical one as Portuguese businessmen are interested in investing in Cuba and accompanying its development, adding that the positive political relations between the two countries, “were increasingly strengthened in the last year.”
Mendes Godinho , who was here on a two day visit, argued that the legal document will also enable the formation of students and the exchange of experiences between the two nations.
Her Cuban counterpart noted that Portugal has 12 public tourism schools, considered among the best in Europe, which can contribute to the training of Cuban personnel.
Marrero said that this step creates a new stage for joint work on issues such as the use of the Portuguese experience in the sector, useful at a time when Cuba is experiencing a remarkable growth in the so-called leisure industry.
She emphasized that the Caribbean island is currently in the international eye, while new business opportunities are opening up.
According to the Cuban minister, tourism can be an important element to further strengthen the ties between the two countries.
During the meeting, it was also disclosed that 4,035,577 tourists visited Cuba in 2016.
The agreement was signed on Friday by Cuba’s head of tourism Manuel Marrero and Portugal’s Secretary of State for Tourism, Ana Mendes Godinho,.
According to Mendes Godinho, the agreement is a historical one as Portuguese businessmen are interested in investing in Cuba and accompanying its development, adding that the positive political relations between the two countries, “were increasingly strengthened in the last year.”
Mendes Godinho , who was here on a two day visit, argued that the legal document will also enable the formation of students and the exchange of experiences between the two nations.
Her Cuban counterpart noted that Portugal has 12 public tourism schools, considered among the best in Europe, which can contribute to the training of Cuban personnel.
Marrero said that this step creates a new stage for joint work on issues such as the use of the Portuguese experience in the sector, useful at a time when Cuba is experiencing a remarkable growth in the so-called leisure industry.
She emphasized that the Caribbean island is currently in the international eye, while new business opportunities are opening up.
According to the Cuban minister, tourism can be an important element to further strengthen the ties between the two countries.
During the meeting, it was also disclosed that 4,035,577 tourists visited Cuba in 2016.
UAE: Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai Opens
Viceroy Hotel Group (VHG) unveiled Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai, a stunning beachfront resort, showcasing sweeping, unobstructed views of the surrounding city, from the Dubai Marina to the Burj Khalifa.
Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai is home to 477 rooms and suites, including 352 guestrooms, 85 suites and 40 hotel apartments located across 16 floors.
The arrival of Viceroy in Dubai marks the modern luxury hospitality group’s second foray into the UAE, bringing a fusion of California cool with Dubai sensation.
The opening of Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai marks the next step of VHG’s aggressive and expansive growth strategy over the next few years, with forthcoming properties slated for Argentina, Chicago, Colombia, Panama, Portugal, and Turkey.
Home to eight spectacular food and beverage outlets, Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai features:
BLVD on One: A vibrant, global brasserie led by executive chef Robert Nilsson
Elevate: The 13th floor’s elegant wine bar and hideaway with an unpretentious, youthful vibe
Maiden Shanghai: A contemporary, authentic Chinese menu with Cantonese, Sichuan, Shanghai and Beijing influences
Quattro Passi: Founder and two Michelin-starred chef Antonio Mellino brings an outpost of his highly-acclaimed London Mayfair institution and Nerano restaurant off the Amalfi Coast offering culinary theater and innovative Italian cooking inspired by the fresh flavors of Campania
The Beach Club: Light bites, drinks and seductive tunes
The Delisserie: The buzzy, neighborhood cafe with light meals such as Danish open-faced sandwiches and modern high tea
The Lobby Lounge: Morning coffee, afternoon tea, and light meals
The Pool Bar: Refreshing beverages, innovative mixes, mocktails and cocktails served from this twin outlet located on each side of the 60-meter social pool
Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai’s 1,675 sq. m. spa simultaneously evokes the rolling Arabian sand dunes and golden beaches of Santa Monica. It’s a fitting reflection of Viceroy’s Los Angeles roots, further enhanced by a menu that combines LA infused treatments and holistic, locally-inspired massages and hammam treatments.
Topline services include exclusively designed signature experiences with advanced anti-aging offerings from Natura Bisse; cleansing hammam rituals from the traditional marocMaroc line; and reinvented Hammam experiences from Terres D’Afrique.
Fabulous enhancements include treatments with Knesko 24k nanogold technology, a first in Dubai.
Further amenities include fourteen treatment rooms and four open air cabanas alongside a hammam, spa pool, relaxation lounge, Spa Cafe, fully-equipped gym with the latest Artis Collection from Techonogym, personal training services and wellbeing sessions.
Suspended on the 14th floor and featuring panoramic views across the Arabian Gulf, Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai’s 600 sq. m. Vista Ballroom serves as the perfect backdrop for any occasion – from glamorous fashion shows and photo shoots to dazzling weddings and corporate events – and accommodates up to 350 guests.
Three fully-equipped meeting rooms with a combined capacity of 245 sq. m. offer views toward the coastline and Burj Al Arab.
Especially for the younger guests, there are enriching and educational experiences at Generation V, Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai’s colorful kids’ club, as well as a dedicated children’s pool for hours of fun in the water.
For parents wishing to enjoy a romantic date night, babysitting services are also available.
Opening rates for Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai start from $259 USD, plus applicable taxes and services fees.
Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai is home to 477 rooms and suites, including 352 guestrooms, 85 suites and 40 hotel apartments located across 16 floors.
The arrival of Viceroy in Dubai marks the modern luxury hospitality group’s second foray into the UAE, bringing a fusion of California cool with Dubai sensation.
The opening of Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai marks the next step of VHG’s aggressive and expansive growth strategy over the next few years, with forthcoming properties slated for Argentina, Chicago, Colombia, Panama, Portugal, and Turkey.
Home to eight spectacular food and beverage outlets, Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai features:
BLVD on One: A vibrant, global brasserie led by executive chef Robert Nilsson
Elevate: The 13th floor’s elegant wine bar and hideaway with an unpretentious, youthful vibe
Maiden Shanghai: A contemporary, authentic Chinese menu with Cantonese, Sichuan, Shanghai and Beijing influences
Quattro Passi: Founder and two Michelin-starred chef Antonio Mellino brings an outpost of his highly-acclaimed London Mayfair institution and Nerano restaurant off the Amalfi Coast offering culinary theater and innovative Italian cooking inspired by the fresh flavors of Campania
The Beach Club: Light bites, drinks and seductive tunes
The Delisserie: The buzzy, neighborhood cafe with light meals such as Danish open-faced sandwiches and modern high tea
The Lobby Lounge: Morning coffee, afternoon tea, and light meals
The Pool Bar: Refreshing beverages, innovative mixes, mocktails and cocktails served from this twin outlet located on each side of the 60-meter social pool
Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai’s 1,675 sq. m. spa simultaneously evokes the rolling Arabian sand dunes and golden beaches of Santa Monica. It’s a fitting reflection of Viceroy’s Los Angeles roots, further enhanced by a menu that combines LA infused treatments and holistic, locally-inspired massages and hammam treatments.
Topline services include exclusively designed signature experiences with advanced anti-aging offerings from Natura Bisse; cleansing hammam rituals from the traditional marocMaroc line; and reinvented Hammam experiences from Terres D’Afrique.
Fabulous enhancements include treatments with Knesko 24k nanogold technology, a first in Dubai.
Further amenities include fourteen treatment rooms and four open air cabanas alongside a hammam, spa pool, relaxation lounge, Spa Cafe, fully-equipped gym with the latest Artis Collection from Techonogym, personal training services and wellbeing sessions.
Suspended on the 14th floor and featuring panoramic views across the Arabian Gulf, Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai’s 600 sq. m. Vista Ballroom serves as the perfect backdrop for any occasion – from glamorous fashion shows and photo shoots to dazzling weddings and corporate events – and accommodates up to 350 guests.
Three fully-equipped meeting rooms with a combined capacity of 245 sq. m. offer views toward the coastline and Burj Al Arab.
Especially for the younger guests, there are enriching and educational experiences at Generation V, Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai’s colorful kids’ club, as well as a dedicated children’s pool for hours of fun in the water.
For parents wishing to enjoy a romantic date night, babysitting services are also available.
Opening rates for Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai start from $259 USD, plus applicable taxes and services fees.
SAUDI ARABIA: Dusit International Into Joint Venture Hotel Management Agreement With Dyar Hotels And Resorts
DUSIT ENTERS THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
After more than a decade operating hotels in the Middle East, leading Asian hospitality group Dusit International further solidifies its presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) by entering into a joint venture hotel management agreement with a local partner in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Dusit International and regional hoteliers Dyar Hotels and Resorts recently held a signing ceremony to formally establish a joint venture hospitality management company.
Dyar has over 30 years of experience owning and operating hotels throughout the GCC and their local knowledge and expertise, coupled with Dusit’s international experience accumulated over 65 years, will offer truly distinctive products managed in a Shariah compliant manner to the growing Middle Eastern hospitality market.
The new company is already off to a solid start, with three projects confirmed in the pipeline.
One will be located in Jeddah under the Dusit Thani label, the company’s original hotel brand most well known for providing gracious hospitality to guests worldwide.
The other two projects, to be located in both Jeddah and Doha, will come under the company’s chic and contemporary “next generation” dusitD2 brand, whose newest hotel recently celebrated its Grand Opening in Nairobi, Kenya.
A further five properties are currently under negotiation in the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah, which together form the largest tourism market within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In 2014 alone, the Holy Cities collectively welcomed 18 million visitors and this number is expected to surge to 23 million by 2020.
This exceptional market is amply catered for by Dyar’s sister company Nebras for Tourism Development, an established, tourism company providing an integrated services for visitors and pilgrims, affiliated with over 60 agents from the Far East, Africa, Australia, Europe and the Middle East.
It is also one of only 48 companies authorised by the Ministry of Hajj to issue Religious Tourism visas.
Outbound tourism from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is also significant. Nearly 30% of yearly arrivals to Dubai, where Dusit has been operating for over 14 years, hail from Saudi Arabia—over 1.5 million travellers.
With major infrastructure projects currently underway, such as the expansion of Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport to accommodate 80 million guests by 2035, the Haramain High Speed Railway linking Jeddah to Makkah, and over 30,000 hotel rooms set to come to market over the coming years, the Saudi Arabian hospitality and tourism market is simply booming.
“We have been looking for a way to work within the Kingdom for some time,” remarked Mr. Chanin Donavanik, Managing Director and CEO of Dusit International.
“We are proud to partner now with Dyar Hotels and Resorts—their local expertise and decades of experience will be invaluable to the success of Dusit within Saudi Arabia, and we are confident the alliance of an international hotel chain with the knowledge, relationships and distribution channels of a regional operator will provide Owners with a compelling proposition.”
“Being family businesses, Dusit and Dyar share a similar owner-operator mindset, as well as one vision, now we are united under the joint venture,” said Khalid Al-Hattami CEO, Dyar Hotels and Resorts.
“This will ensure the companies deliver excellent products to the market, combining the very best of Asian and Middle Eastern hospitality traditions to create something new, unique and unmatched here within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
After more than a decade operating hotels in the Middle East, leading Asian hospitality group Dusit International further solidifies its presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) by entering into a joint venture hotel management agreement with a local partner in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Dusit International and regional hoteliers Dyar Hotels and Resorts recently held a signing ceremony to formally establish a joint venture hospitality management company.
Dyar has over 30 years of experience owning and operating hotels throughout the GCC and their local knowledge and expertise, coupled with Dusit’s international experience accumulated over 65 years, will offer truly distinctive products managed in a Shariah compliant manner to the growing Middle Eastern hospitality market.
The new company is already off to a solid start, with three projects confirmed in the pipeline.
One will be located in Jeddah under the Dusit Thani label, the company’s original hotel brand most well known for providing gracious hospitality to guests worldwide.
The other two projects, to be located in both Jeddah and Doha, will come under the company’s chic and contemporary “next generation” dusitD2 brand, whose newest hotel recently celebrated its Grand Opening in Nairobi, Kenya.
A further five properties are currently under negotiation in the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah, which together form the largest tourism market within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In 2014 alone, the Holy Cities collectively welcomed 18 million visitors and this number is expected to surge to 23 million by 2020.
This exceptional market is amply catered for by Dyar’s sister company Nebras for Tourism Development, an established, tourism company providing an integrated services for visitors and pilgrims, affiliated with over 60 agents from the Far East, Africa, Australia, Europe and the Middle East.
It is also one of only 48 companies authorised by the Ministry of Hajj to issue Religious Tourism visas.
Outbound tourism from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is also significant. Nearly 30% of yearly arrivals to Dubai, where Dusit has been operating for over 14 years, hail from Saudi Arabia—over 1.5 million travellers.
With major infrastructure projects currently underway, such as the expansion of Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport to accommodate 80 million guests by 2035, the Haramain High Speed Railway linking Jeddah to Makkah, and over 30,000 hotel rooms set to come to market over the coming years, the Saudi Arabian hospitality and tourism market is simply booming.
“We have been looking for a way to work within the Kingdom for some time,” remarked Mr. Chanin Donavanik, Managing Director and CEO of Dusit International.
“We are proud to partner now with Dyar Hotels and Resorts—their local expertise and decades of experience will be invaluable to the success of Dusit within Saudi Arabia, and we are confident the alliance of an international hotel chain with the knowledge, relationships and distribution channels of a regional operator will provide Owners with a compelling proposition.”
“Being family businesses, Dusit and Dyar share a similar owner-operator mindset, as well as one vision, now we are united under the joint venture,” said Khalid Al-Hattami CEO, Dyar Hotels and Resorts.
“This will ensure the companies deliver excellent products to the market, combining the very best of Asian and Middle Eastern hospitality traditions to create something new, unique and unmatched here within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
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