New Pyrotechnics for Hong Kong’s New Year Countdown

This year’s Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations on 31 December 2010 will feature new visual effects in the stunning pyrotechnic display, including numeric patterns for the countdown.

The combination of colourful patterns and movements atop the buildings will symbolise a soaring dragon, which is set to light up the spectacular, world-famous Victoria Harbour.

Manila to Host PATA Travel Mart 2012

Manila has been chosen as the host city of the PATA Travel Mart 2012.

Manila hosted the very first PATA Travel Mart back in 1978, when over 300 delegates assembled to experience one of Asia Pacific’s first regional industry trade events. After more than three decades PATA Travel Mart still remains one of Asia Pacific’s leading travel trade shows.

Crowne Plaza Returns to Bangkok

IHG’s Crowne Plaza brand today returns to Bangkok following the rebranding of the popular Pan Pacific Hotel.

The 241-room Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park is located on the 21st to 32nd floors of the Ramaland complex in the Silom-Rama IV district.

Hotel DeBrett in Auckland Joins Design Hotels

Design Hotels has added another hotel to its Oceania portfolio – Hotel DeBrett in New Zealand.

Situated in a traditional Art Deco building in Auckland’s hip fashion district, the 25-room hotel is designed and run by Michelle Deery and John Courtney.

Aston Opens New Hotel in Bogor

Aston International has opened the group’s first hotel in Bogor – the 4-star Aston Bogor Hotel & Resort.

The Aston Bogor Hotel & Resort is part of the Nirwana Epicentrum commercial and entertainment area and features 123 rooms and suites in a variety of configurations ranging from studios to one and two bedroom serviced condominiums.

Marriott Signs Hotel in Hoi An, Vietnam

Marriott International has signed a long-term management agreement with Phat Dat Quang Ngai Hotel & Resort Corp. to operate the 250-room Hoi An Marriott Resort & Spa.

The resort, which is scheduled to open in 2015, will be the ninth Marriott International-flagged property and second Marriott-branded resort in Vietnam.

Lady Gaga Unveiled at Madame Tussauds

The new Lady Gaga figure at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong was unveiled this week wearing a black Marjan Pejoski body suit.

In the most ambitious figure launch in Madame Tussauds history, Hong Kong joins seven other attractions around the world revealing new Lady Gaga figures. Each has depicted the fashion icon in a totally different style and details about which city is getting which outfit were kept a closely guarded secret until the moment they were revealed.

Expedia Reports Strong Growth for Hotels in Indonesia

Expedia has reported that the number of international bookings made on its global sites for travel to Indonesia has grown nearly 70% over the past twelve months, with the majority of the travelers coming from Australia, the US, and the UK.

Jumeirah Signs Venu Hotel in Azerbaijan

Jumeirah Group, a Dubai-based luxury hotel company and member of Dubai Holding, has signed an agreement with Azinco Holding Company to manage the Venu Bilgah Hotel, Baku. The hotel, located on the shores of the Caspian Sea, is scheduled to open in 2011.

Absolute Hotel Services Signs Eastin Hotel in Ahmedabad

Absolute Hotel Services has signed a new Eastin Hotel in India.

The brand new Eastin Hotel Ahmedabad, which is scheduled to open in mid 2013, will be developed on the main SG road in an important commercial location of Ahmedabad.

Design Hotels launches ‘Winter Spaces’ Promotion

Design Hotels has launched a ‘Winter Spaces’ promotion at over 60 of its member hotels.

The promotion gives those staying between 22 November 2010 and 3 April 2011 a free upgrade, a complimentary room night or save 10% off the Best Available Rate when booking through designhotels.com.

Citibank And Visa Launch Platinum Travel Prepaid Card

Citibank and Visa have launched the Citibank World Money Visa Platinum Card, a Visa Platinum Travel Prepaid card that brings together the benefits of both Citibank’s best-in-class Travel Prepaid cards platform and Visa Platinum cards, for the first time.

Mandarin Oriental Launches Global Gift Card

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has launched a global Gift Card.

The Mandarin Oriental Gift Card is available in denominations ranging from US$ 50 to US$ 10,000, and can be redeemed for hotel accommodation, spa treatments, dining and more.

Imperial Hotel Tokyo Celebrates 120th Anniversary with Suite Promotion

Tokyo’s legendary Imperial Hotel, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is celebrating its 120th anniversary with special rates on luxury suites.

The iconic landmark favoured by statesmen, royalty and celebrities is promoting Imperial Floor Junior Suites from JPY 60,000 for single occupancy, JPY 67,000 for couples and JPY 74,000 for three guests for bookings before 31 November 2010 on visits up to 31 March 2011.

Promotion @ Two New Tune Hotels

Tune Hotels has opened bookings for its 2 new hotels in Bintulu, Sarawak that is slated for opening on 3 January 2011, and Kota Bharu, Kelantan that will open for business on 23 January 2011.

To celebrate the opening of the 2 brand new hotels, Tune Hotels is offering rooms from as low as 12 sen (RM0.12) for its Malaysian hotels; from Rp12,000 for its Bali hotels and from GBP25 for its London hotel.

Centara Launches Phuket Promotion

Centara Hotels & Resorts is offering a seven-night package with special benefits for guests staying at the Centara Villas Phuket, at Karon, or the Centara Sawaddi Resort Patong, at Patong Beach, during the winter season.

Aston Opens New Hotel in Jakarta

Aston has expanded its portfolio of hotels in Indonesia with the opening of the Aston Paramount Serpong Hotel & Conference Center, Jakarta.

The Aston Paramount Serpong Hotel is a newly built international 4 star hotel located in the heart of CBD Serpong serving West Jakarta, Serpong and the Tangerang area’s growing business travel and conference market as well as domestic leisure travelers from the surrounding areas.

Eaton Hotel Hong Kong Rebrands as Eaton Smart, Hong Kong

The Eaton Hotel Hong Kong has rebranded as the Eaton Smart, Hong Kong.

As part of the rebranding. the hotel has spent over HK$10 million on refurbishing its lobby which includes a new reception, retail shop, internet portal and indoor and outdoor bar areas.

Sofitel Luxury Hotels Expanding Portfolio in Asia Pacific

Sofitel Luxury Hotels has unveiled plans to expand its network across Asia Pacific, with the addition of eight new hotels. The hotels which will open in 2010-2011, include:

ITB Asia 2010 Opens in Singapore

ITB Asia 2010 opened in Singapore on Wednesday.

Exhibitor numbers at the three-day B2B travel show organized by Messe Berlin (Singapore) are up 6% on last year, with growth in the travel industry reflecting much improved economic growth figures and demand in Asia.

Eforea first step in Hilton reimaging

Hilton Hotels and Resorts’ launch of a new branded spa product, Eforea, is part of the company’s five-year strategy that will reimage every aspect of the Hilton brand—including rooms, lobbies and restaurants, according to Dave Horton, global head of the Hilton brand.

Etihad Airways launches Multiflyer Promotion

Etihad Airways has launched ‘Etihad Multiflyer’, an offer that has been designed specifically for frequent travellers to the GCC, Middle East and North Africa.

The new deal, which incentivises customers to book multiple trips with the airline, offers a number of benefits, including:

Hyatt Doubles Down On Chinese Hotel Development

Hyatt Hotels Corp. this week announced management agreements that double its pipeline in China, bringing its total number of properties under development in the country to 22.

Properties announced this week include Hyatt Regency hotels in Changbaishan, Changchun, Guiyang, Jinan, Qingdao, Tianjin East and Wenzhou; Grant Hyatt properties in Dalian, Sanya Haitang Bay and Shenyang; and a Park Hyatt in Changbaishan. Hyatt currently has 17 hotels in China, which include properties in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, making it the country with the second-highest number of Hyatt properties behind the United States.

Red Planet Boost for Tune Hotels in Asia

The number of rooms emerging Asian hotel investment company, Red Planet Hotels, has under construction surged past 1,000 this week, fuelled by the injection of fresh investment capital.

The company is developing a portfolio of Tune hotels in China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Bangladesh. Red Planet already has 1,023 hotel rooms through six hotels in Jakarta, Bangkok, Pattaya, Angeles City and two in Manila, with more announcements expected soon.

Napasai Samui launches Golf Promotions

The secluded Orient-Express beachside hideaway Napasai on Thailand’s tropical island of Koh Samui is offering three-night packages for couples with a passion for golf, starting from USD 329++ per room per night, with green fees costing an extra USD 95++.

The island is one of Thailand’s newest golf destinations with two championship courses, Santiburi Samui Country Club and Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, plus the fun nine hole, par 3 Bophut Hills Country Club.

Travel forecast, Expedia’s philosophy and more

As the International Society of Hospitality Consultants began looking toward the second decade of the 21st century, members in attendance at the group’s annual conference heard some interesting observations regarding where the travel-and-tourism industry is heading.

Hotel Okura becomes majority owner of JAL Hotels

Hotel Okura Co., Ltd. has completed the acquisition of 79.6% of the issued and outstanding shares of JAL Hotels from JAL International, based on that certain share transfer agreement, executed on 6 August.

Pan Pacific Loses Hotel in Bangkok

Pan Pacific Hotels Group today confirmed that its agreement to operate the popular Pan Pacific Bangkok hotel in Thailand until the end of 2010 won't be renewed.

The group has managed the hotel, owned by Ramaland Development, under the Pan Pacific brand since 1995. Ramaland Development is owned by Kajima Corporation Japan.

Wyndham Opens Ramada Hotel in Bangkok

Wyndham Hotel Group, one of the world’s largest hotel company’s with nearly 7,200 hotels and 12 brands, has opened the Ramada Hotel & Suites Bangkok.

Owned by Sookjai Condominium Co. Ltd, a subsidiary of the Kokar group of companies, the 11-storey hotel features spacious studio and suite accommodations. The larger suite accommodations are particularly well-suited for extended-stay business travelers looking for apartment-size accommodations.

Accor Hotels in Bangkok and King Power launch Duty Free Shopping Promotion

Accor has partnered with King Power Duty Free to launch a “Shop in Bangkok” promotion, where guests receive up to THB 1,000 Duty Free voucher to shop at King Power Duty Free, and also stand a chance to win part of a THB 1,000,000 shopping prize pool.

Taj determination on display at Palace reopening

When the iconic Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai recently reopened the doors to its restored Palace wing, it was a momentous occasion not only for Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, but also for the hospitality industry in India.

Hotel Soul in Suzhou launches Promotion

Travellers can enjoy a Premier King bedroom at the new Hotel Soul in Suzhou for a special rate of RMB458 per night inclusive of service charge from 17 September to 10 October, 2010.

The package includes complimentary breakfast for two, shuttle bus service, free use of fitness centre, late check-out until 2pm (subject to room availability), 20 percent discount for patronage in all food and beverage outlets and 25 percent discount on laundry service.

Eastin Hotel Makkasan in Bangkok launches Express Link Promotion

The Eastin Hotel Makkasan, Bangkok launched an Express Link Value Promotion available till 31 October 2010.

The package starts from Baht 2,999 net for a superior room and Baht 3,199 net for a deluxe per room per night with a minimum 2-night stay. The deal includes:

Hotel Ritz Madrid Celebrates Centenary with Promotion and Events

On October, 2nd 2010, the Hotel Ritz Madrid will mark its centenary, having provided guests with a luxurious and elegant base from which to explore Spain’s vibrant capital city for ten decades. Madrileños love to celebrate and the Ritz Madrid is no exception, with a year-long schedule of events and parties planned.

Hotel Fort Canning in Singapore to Open next October 2010

Fort Canning Park’s heritage as an exclusive and historical landmark is being revived with the opening of a fashionable boutique hotel, Hotel Fort Canning (Hfc) next October 2010.

Nestled between Orchard Road, the Clarke Quay entertainment hub and Central Business District, Hotel Fort Canning features a collection of 86 rooms and suites.

Hong Kong Music Festival 11-17 October 2010

The Chopin Society of Hong Kong’s annual ‘The Joy of Music Festival 2010’ will be staged this year at the City Hall Concert Hall from October, 11st - 17th, 2010.

The Joy of Music Festival is held in the two interim years between The Chopin Society’s acclaimed Hong Kong International Piano Competition which was launched in 2005, and which is held every three years, the last one presented in 2008 and the next being in 2011.

Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea launches Spa Promotion

The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea launched a Scorching Spa Promotion. It includes a free grape seed body scrub, followed by a relaxing one hour massage, topped with a hydrating facial.

The promotion, available for both ladies and gentlemen, is priced at 175++ JOD for two and a half hours of spa treatments plus unlimited use of the Anantara Spa facilities.

Hotels in Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta is a beautiful city. It's still a safe place as long as common sense precautions are taken. Always use Blue bird or Silver Bird taxis these are highly reputable and the safest of all taxis in Jakarta. Because of the turmoil you can stay at some of the best hotels at excellent prices.

Here are selections and reviews of some hotels in Jakarta. These hotels in Jakarta are listed in no particular order.

Ayana Resort and Spa – The cliff

Stroll through the hotel’s landscape, and you will find a virtual celebration of life. With tropical flowers and trees set amidst tiered lawns. Stone step, cut into the cliff, lead into a lush ravine that forms the entance to secluded, calm waters.

Singapore Hotels Returning to Pre-Crisis Levels

Singapore hotels seem to be returning to pre-crisis levels with the vibrant city-state leaping 19 places as most expensive city in the world for business travellers, according to the Global Hotel Market Survey from the Hogg Robinson Group.

Results for H1 2010 shows that Singapore is ahead of Beijing, but still cheaper than Hong Kong. Key trends from the update include:

Hilton Hotels in Thailand join Golf Consortium

Hilton Hotels joined the Thai marketing cooperative Golf in a Kingdom: The Thai Golf Experience.

As new hotel partners, Hilton properties across Thailand in Bangkok, Pattaya, Hua Hin and Phuket are preferred lodging options now, along side some of the country’s top golf courses, in a variety of stay-and-play itineraries offered and executed by tour operator Golfasian. The four Hilton properties that have joined Golf in a Kingdom include:

Deutsche Bahn Opens Agency in Beijing

Deutsche Bahn is the German national railway company, he has opened of its first agency in China, using booking technology from Amadeus to sell tickets for both Deutsche Bahn and other European railway providers.

The agency is based in the capital Beijing and will offer the same ticket and service options for private and business customers as any Deutsche Bahn travel centre in Germany, including access to the full range of Deutsche Bahn rail content.

Novotel Solo

Discover the cultural heritage of Solo with its ancient palaces, traditional handicraft and mesmerizing Gamelan music.

The Novotel Solo offers 142 well-appointed rooms in the heart of Solo’s business, shopping and cultural district. Excellent restaurants await you as well as extensive leisure facilities and multi-function meeting and banquet facilities for up to 1,000 people.

Hotel Ibis Tamarin Jakarta

Night or day you will be greeted with a smile. Our reception area is open 24 hours a day. Services include safety deposit boxes, foreign exchange and a team of professionally trained Guest Relation Managers.

The Ibis Tamarin is located in the centre of Jakarta. Stay with us and you will find easy access to major destinations in town for business or leisure.

Our restaurant offers guests an array of quality food, of both Indonesian and International flavours.

For the health conscious, our fitness centre is the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after a hard day at work or play.

Keys to Success - Hospitality Tips

One of the most meaningful and comprehensive service codes ever introduced in hospitality.

This series on the 'high-touch' side of hospitality prompted positive reader feedback and ideas from hoteliers and managers who have participated in some of my workshops idea
* Segment 1 underscored the need for hospitality businesses to deliver unique experience to avoid being viewed as a commodity.
* Segment 2 focused on identifying ways to encourage hotel staffs to think about the 'guest experience' , whether you are an independent hotel or brand affiliated It offered concrete examples ways to avoid being seen as ordinary or a 'commodity' in the critical guest service of SLEEP
* Segment 3 examined the essential topic of significant value to hotel guests everywhere: BREAKFAST.
* Segment 4 generated the most reader feedback, with general agreement that calming “an angry customer” gives hotels the chance to win loyalty be demonstrating sincere concern.

Dubai's Seawings launches Ramadan Promotion

Seawings, a Dubai-based seaplane tour operator, launched a 2010 Ramadan promotion.

For 699 AED guests can enjoy a spectacular aerial view of Dubai's famed attractions amid the rosy glow of the setting sun, after which they will be treated to a mouthwatering spread of Iftar foods at the five-star Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club.

The one of a kind aerial tour of Dubai includes breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa, Palm islands, Burj Al Arab, historical Dubai Creek and more.

Hotel segments and the laws of economics

The opportunity to examine hundreds of hotel markets and thousands of competitive sets because of joining STR Analytics, we have observed that the hotel industry operates some counter to other sectors of the economy.

During a severe economic recession, most of industries find products which cater to the budget-conscious lose less or even increase demand relative to those that appeal to the luxury segment. But STR data indicates the opposite occurs in the hotel industry.

In other industries, customers continue or even increase demand for products offered by the likes of McDonalds, Wal-Mart and Hyundai, while Ruth’s Chris, Neiman Marcus and Cadillac suffer lower demand than ever. But in the hotel world, the economy and luxury segments both lost 8.8% in occupancy from 2008 to 2009 based on the 2009 year-end results. Something inverted is going on here.

Journey To Hanoi

The day I have been looking forward to for the last three months has arrived.  With all bags properly packed, I rode a taxi to the airport.  It had been raining heavily for days so I figured it was better to start the trip as early as possible in order for us to get to the airport at least three hours before our scheduled flight.

It's important to remember that the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in the Philippines has three airport terminals. Terminal 1, the old airport, handles all international flights except those under Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific.  Terminal 2 is allocated for the exclusive use of Philippine Airlines, serving both international and domestic flights.  The newest terminal, Terminal 3, operates flights under Cebu Pacific as well as several subsidiaries of Philippine Airlines. There is also a terminal fee of PhP 750 for international flights which must be paid before going through Immigration.

Beijing hotel development is booming

2 years on from the Olympic Games and the city-wide frenzy of hotel building that went alongside it, Beijing hoteliers are celebrating a strong recovery despite fears of oversupply and competition from the Expo in Shanghai.

The hotel market in Beijing and China as a whole has improved significantly since 2009, that has helped galvanise the global hotel sector from crisis mode to slow growth. STR Global report occupancy rates in Beijing nearly doubled during June 2010 from the previous year, up 33.5 percent to 66.3 percent, while revenue per available room was up 41.2 percent to US$63.52 during the same period.

"The increase is due to a number of factors: the recovering Chinese and world economy, the stabilising supply increase and an increase in demand," said Konstanze Auernheimer, director of marketing and analysis at STR Global.

Novotel Lombok Coralia

Exquisitely secluded on the exotic southern shores of Lombok, Indonesia, lies a unique tropical oasis. The Novotel Lombok that a delightful cluster of rustically thatched bungalows is perched upon a stunning white sandy beach with a crystal clear lagoon. It is the ideal place from which to explore the parts of Lombok that remain entirely untouched by time, the unique culture of the indigenous people and the natural beauty of the island.

The Novotel Lombok evokes a luxuriously appointed traditional 'Sasak' village. Whimsical architecture, natural stone, coconut wood and local artworks create a delightful holiday environment.

A pool is perched right on the the edge of the idyllic white sandy beach. Dine at the open air 'Empat Ikan' restaurant and 'Kafe Chilli' coffee shop or sip exotic cocktails at the Papaya Bar with its splendid ocean views.

At the Novotel Lombok you will be able to revel in traditional herbal spa treatments and massage, or participate in our wide range of daily water sports, diving and fishing.

Innovative recreation programs are available around the clock, and discovery excursions to some of the most untouched destinations in Asia are readily available.

All the rooms at the Novotel Lombok have individually controlled air conditioning, private shower or bathtub in bungalows, international direct dial telephone, mini bar, safety deposit box, satellite television, complimentary water, tea and coffee.    

AirAsia launches Major Branding Campaign

AirAsia has launched a major branding campaign in Hong Kong which includes a series of activities across Causeway Bay, Central, major beach areas and MTR trains.

The Hong Kong public can expect AirAsia giant floating billboards across major beach areas such as Stanley, Repulse Bay, South Bay and Clear Water Bay with promoters at the beach clad with iPads to sign people up for AirAsia’s RedA!ert email and AirAsia’s Hong Kong Facebook Page. The public also stand a chance to win a surprise from AirAsia when they snap photos with the AirAsia team throughout this campaign by the beach.

Asia Fitness Convention 2010

Asia Fitness Convention 2010, that is being organized for the second consecutive year at Centara Grand’s Bangkok Convention Centre @ Central World, is aiming to attract over 700 fitness and health professionals and enthusiasts from the Asia Pacific region between 17 - 19 September, 2010.

With the theme of Raising the Bar, the organizers of this year’s event are bringing in 40% more world-class presenters and providing more workshop and sessions than last year. Some of the world’s leading fitness experts coming to share their latest exercise techniques, regimes and nutrition programs include Fabio Comana, Steve Cotter, Carrie Ekins, Joe Friel, Jennifer Galardi, Fraser Quelch, Jim Stoppani, Peter Twist and Tim Ziegenfuss.

“This year, as the fitness and health industry is growing so fast in Asia, we have also included sessions on how to manage fitness clubs, how to attract and retain members and sustain profitability. These sessions will be led by Paul Brown, CEO and creator of the Face2Face Retention System, and Tracy Minnoch-Nuku, SEA Director of Les Mills Asia Pacific, from Australia,” said Dr. Suzanne Hosley, Managing Director of Fitness Innovations (Thailand) Ltd., on behalf of the event organizers.

Bangkok hotels

Over months this spring, thousands of red-shirted protesters camped in the heart of Bangkok, shutting down a dozen hotels and four high-end shopping malls.

General managers of five hotels close to the conflict zones each said they lost millions of dollars in revenue between April and June. Hotels throughout the country are resorting to promotions and fam tours.

The protesters, mostly rural poor from the north and northeast, demanded dissolution of parliament and fresh elections. The focal point of a three-square-mile occupation area was a large televised stage set up at Rajaprasong. This four-way intersection is best known to visitors for the Erawan Shrine, the Grand Hyatt Erawan and the huge CentralWorld shopping mall.

The protesters were predominantly peaceful, respectful of property and not hostile to tourists or foreigners. But in the final week, as the army encircled the area preparing for its 19 May final assault, violence exploded north of the protest zone along Rajaprarop Road and to the south in the main commercial districts. By then, at least 20 hotels had closed. In Bangkok alone, 38 buildings were set on fire. In the final tally, nearly 90 people were dead and thousands wounded.

For at least the fifth time since the December 2004 tsunami, the Thai tourism industry is in tatters. According to STR, the citywide hotel occupancy in May was 26.2%, down 38.3% from May 2009, about the same as the decline in room demand for the same period. June occupancy has crept up to 34.9%, but two recent small bombings could threaten to keep tourists away, despite the Prime Minister’s lift of the emergency decree in some provinces. The GM interviews took place before these bombings.

Manila Binondo Chinatown District

Binondo is truly a historic district of Old Manila, serving as the Chinese community since the earliest days of the city.  This area near the Spanish settlement of Intramuros was a major financial center until Makati took over the role (it was even referred to as “The Wall Street of the Philippines” at one time).

Since then, members of the Chinese community who made it big have established new residences in the suburbs, but often still maintain stores and offices in Binondo. Today, the world’s first Chinatown retains much of its heritage, and visitors can enjoy a quick immersion of Chinoy culture by walking along these crowded urban streets, a combination of high-end stores, vintage establishments and iconic institutions.

Shop for Sweets in Eng Bee Tin. Eng Bee Tin is a famous Chinese pastry shop that sells red bean paste pastries, glutinous rice cakes, moon cakes and other tempting delights. There are several branches in Binondo and throughout Metro Manila. The owners of Eng Bee Tin paid homage to their Binondo roots by donating a purple fire truck to the local fire department, in reference to their popular purple yam (ube) pastry.

The Journey of Enjoying Good Hot Springs Near Kanto Area

Hot springs abound in Japan and this week we go in search of hidden spas. Located in unusual spots, these exquisite hot springs will rejuvenate you. Along the way, we will also indulge in seasonal local culinary delicacies.

Our first hidden hot spring is located in Gunma, which is known for its hot springs. From Tokyo, travel by Joetsu Shinkansen to Takasaki Station, Gunma. Then, hop on board a Galaxy Express 999 train from Takasaki and head to Shimonita. The Joshin Dentetsu train is decorated with the illustrations of author Matsumoto Leiji. Four trains ply daily from Takasaki to Shimonita, which once prospered as an agricultural town. The local specialities of Shimonita are green onions and konjac. Konjac is cultivated almost exclusively in Gunma Prefecture. So you may first wish to visit the konjac fields to see how konjac is harvested. You will notice that machines are used for digging the konjac out of the earth, but their buds and sprouts are removed by hand. As for Shimonita green onions, they are characterised by their shortness and thickness. To try these local delicacies, go to the Nabeya restaurant, located near the train station. It was established in 1928. The Sukiyaki set meal features Shimonita green onion, Shimonita konjac and Shimonita mushrooms. At a price of 1,000 yen (S$16), the set comes with rice, miso soup, tender local beef and other side dishes.

Thai Airways Partners Tiger Airways to launch Thai Tiger

Thai Airways International and Tiger Airways Holdings Limited today sign a Memorandum of Understanding to form a new low cost airline called Thai Tiger Airways Private Limited.

The new airline will operate the same low fare, low cost model as the other airlines in the Tiger Airways Group, and is expected to commence operations in the first quarter of 2011, pending regulatory approvals.

Based in Bangkok, Thai Tiger will operate international and domestic flights out of Suvarnabhumi International Airport offering short-haul, point-to-point services within a 5-hour flying radius.

Mr. Piyasvasti Amranand, THAI President, said, "We are pleased to partner with Tiger Airways in establishing Thailand's newest airline, Thai Tiger. With its disciplined approach to the low-cost model, Tiger Airways has proven that it has the right approach to competing effectively in the growing low fare travel market in Asia. For people in Thailand and the region, our launching Thai Tiger will mean that in addition to the global network of premium services operated by THAI, more people will have access to new low fare, point to point services, giving a big boost to tourism and employment. THAI and a Thai entity will collectively hold 51% while Tiger Airways will hold 49%. The Thai Tiger Board will consist of three nominees from THAI and two nominees from Tiger Airways, with the Chairmanship being held by THAI."