Thailand and India to Play Single-Match Rugby World Cup 2015 Qualifier

Thailand held on in a tight wire match against Malaysia in the HSBC Asian 5 Nations (HSBC A5N) Division II final in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, winning 22-19.

China was relegated to Division III for 2013 after a 52-3 loss to Iran in the Division II 3rd/4th place play-off.

Despite having a man advantage for most of the second half after a Malaysian red card, the Thais were unable to close out the game against a gritty Malaysian team that pushed the visitors to the limit until the final whistle.

 Saturday’s HSBC A5N Division II final was a tight encounter throughout with neither team able to enjoy a comfortable lead. Malaysia was the first team on the scoreboard today with a penalty in the 5th minute from fullback Zulkifli Azmi.

Thailand replied in the 11th minute with a penalty from star fullback Walongkorn Khamkoet to level the scores. Four minutes later Khamkoet put Thailand further out at 6-3. Shortly thereafter, Malaysian winger Dinesvaran Krisnan was sin-binned, giving Khamkoet the opportunity to slot his third penalty as Thailand took a 9-3 lead.

The kicking battle continued as Zulkifli converted his second penalty attempt to edge Malaysia close at 9-6. A Thai sin-bin soon leveled the numbers on both sides, but it was Thailand that scored next through Khamkoet’s fourth and final penalty of the half, taking the score to 12-6 at the break.

Unfortunately for Malaysia, flanker Kini Rasolosolo had a moment of insanity as he lost his cool and punched his opponent, earning a red card and leaving his side to play a man down for the entire second half. The sending off may well have lost Malaysia the match as the hosts at full strength would likely have been too much for the visitors to handle.

Even with the numbers disadvantage, Malaysia came back from halftime firing on all cylinders. The hosts got a break shortly after the start of the second half as Thai hooker Jayasevi was sin-binned, leveling the sides for ten minutes. Malaysian flyhalf Timoci Nocakula immediately punished the Thais for the sin-bin as he scored from a tap and run penalty to pull his team into the lead 13-12 after Zulkifli’s conversion.

Malaysia coach Boon Hoon Chee’s strategic adjustments at halftime seemed to be paying dividends as Malaysia focussed on maximizing their size advantage by keeping the ball in close to their forward pack, frustrating the Thais who were intent on stretching the undermanned Malay defence.

Malaysia’s forward pressure soon told as Thailand conceded a sitter penalty on their 22, which Zulkifli slotted to push Malaysia out at 16-12 after 48 minutes. But Malaysia then conceded a penalty that was nailed by Khamkoet from 35 metres to bring them nearly level at 16-15, with 20 minutes remaining.

The final quarter of the HSBC A5N Division II final was a tense and exciting affair. At one point, Thai indiscipline saw a difficult penalty kick advanced ten metres into kickable territory after the Thais were penalized for backchat. Zulkifli converted the shorter kick as Malaysia took a 19-15 lead.

With ten minutes remaining, all Malaysia had to do was to control the ball and maintain calm under pressure but the Thais had other plans. A well-weighted kick ahead from a Thai offensive move put Malaysia’s cover defence under real pressure. A hasty clearance kick was beautifully charged down by Thai winger Wongsalankarn, who followed through on his solo effort to touch down before the ball crossed the dead ball line for Thailand’s first try of the match. Khamkoet slotted the conversion to put Thailand ahead 22-19 with less than ten minutes remaining.

The Malaysians lifted themselves again, working the ball into Thai territory and forcing what seemed like a sitter penalty just outside the 22-metre line. But Zulkifli’s boot deserted him at the worst possible moment and he shanked a kick that would have drawn his team level and forced extra-time.

The desperate Malaysians again put forward a heroic effort, eventually winning a scrum on Thailand’s five-metre line. The Malaysians rolled off the back using their bigger backline to try for a pushover try from close range, but the ball was held up. Another penalty conceded by Thailand on the last play of the match saw Malaysia go for the tap and run but they knocked on over the line. The resulting scrum saw Malaysia concede a penalty, which the Thais kicked into touch to close out a thrilling encounter.

 “We were concerned because we were playing Malaysia at home and they always have strong support. They are bigger than us and we knew that we would have to play smarter today, especially after playing another big team in Iran in the semi final,” said Thai captain, Tanyavit Kuasint. “Khamkoet came up huge again and the whole team was very cool under pressure. At halftime with the man advantage we knew we would have to stay calm and just take what was in front of us. Malaysia is a great team and they have many skillful players but in the end we came here to win a chance to qualify for the Rugby World Cup and I knew that even though we were giving up a lot of size that our heart is bigger than the other teams and that if we play as a team we can beat anyone.”

As this week’s HSBC A5N Division II and III are doubling as Asian qualifiers for Rugby World Cup 2015, Thailand will now progress to a one-off match against Division III champions India later this summer in Thailand. The winner will be promoted to Division I next season and continue their march along the road to Rugby World Cup 2015. Next year’s Asian qualifiers for RWC 2015 will be the Division I and Top 5 competitions of the HSBC A5N.

Looking ahead to the Division I / Rugby World Cup 2015 play-off, Kuasint said, “If we can make it to Division I it will be the first time for us since 2009 and it will be a great experience for Thailand, but we can’t get ahead of ourselves. We will host the play-off and I think our support will be a key to helping us win and continue our Rugby World Cup qualification.”

In the 3rd/4th place play-off a disappointed Iran team made up for an earlier loss this week against Thailand with a convincing 52-3 win over China. The result was never in doubt as Iran took China’s first scrum against the head in the opening moments and continued to exert their dominance throughout the match.

Iran’s first try came in the 12th minute after a long period of sustained pressure as prop Anoghin Rozbeh drove the ball from the back of the maul over the line. The try was converted by flyhalf Amin Hosseinzadeh to set Iran off to the races.

Iran’s second try came through the loosehead prop Hassan Nowzad in the 28th minute with a second conversion from Hosseinzadeh. Iran truly began hitting their straps then, taking the ball straight from the re-start through the middle of China’s defence for a third try in the first half, this one finished off nicely by centre Naser Eslamimanesh.

Moments later, the Iran front row completed a hat trick of sorts as hooker Asmer Rasoul scored, giving each of the front row a try in the first half – a great effort from the heroes of the coalface. A third conversion from Hosseinzadeh saw the score reach 28-0 at halftime.

Iran ran in four more tries after the break while China could only muster a single penalty from scrumhalf Zhan Xi Chun to bring the final score to 52-3 Iran. It is the second year that Iran have managed to remain in Division II rugby, while China will be relegated back to Division III (which they won last year in Jakarta) for next season.

Indian Army Woman Scales Everest

Discovery Channel will air a programme on the Indian Army's women scaling Mount Everest.

This is the first time an army women's contingent has scaled the Everest summit from the South Ridge route. The route was used by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953.

The Indian Army has appreciated the efforts of Discovery Channel to undertake the coverage of such an expedition for the first time. "Such coverage ... will provide a platform for future joint ventures with the Discovery Channel on issues related to sports and adventure in the Indian Army," Lt. Gen. S.P. Tanwar, director general of military training, said in a statement.

The collaboration with the Indian army was also a first for Discovery.

The production team of the channel went with the expedition to capture the grueling attempt on the summit by a group of seven Indian Army women officers.

The first army women's team to scale Everest in 2005 had approached from the North route via Tibet.

"Discovery Channel is delighted to cover this unique and distinguished expedition by Indian Army's women officers. We are committed to present stories of success and achievement from India to audiences around the world," said Rahul Johri, senior vice president and general manager - South Asia, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific.

The army team was led by Col. Ajay Kothiyal and included seven Indian Army women officers: Capt. Deepika Rathore (Rajasthan), Capt. Namrata Rathore (Uttarakhand), Capt. Prachi R. Gole (Maharastra), Maj. N. Linyu (Nagaland), Maj. Neha Bhatnagar (Rajasthan), Capt. Poonam Sangwan (Haryana) and Capt. Smitha (Karnataka).

The programme is expected to be aired later this year.

Ritz-Carlton Montreal to Reopen on 28 May 2012

On Monday, 28 May 2012, the Ritz-Carlton, Montreal will reopen after an extensive $200 million restoration.

 Under the direction of Quebec architectural firm Provencher Roy + Associés, the building’s facade was preserved and restored, public spaces were renovated and upgraded, and the guestrooms were redesigned.

 The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal now has 98 rooms and 31 suites. The 4,700-square-foot Royal Suite is the largest hotel suite in Montreal.

 Montreal’s mayor, Gérald Tremblay, said, “The Ritz-Carlton is reclaiming its rightful place here in Montreal and among the guests who stay there. Since it opened in 1912, the hotel has been one of the most elegant addresses in our city and the jewel of the storied Golden Square Mile, close to high-end boutiques, galleries and museums. Our city has changed a great deal—for the better. The reopening of The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal makes a notable contribution to what makes our city different.”

The building’s façade was preserved and restored, as were the Lobby, the Palm Court, the Oval Room and the hotel’s famed garden. Many decorative details from 1912, such as marble fireplaces in some of the suites, reflect this masterful blend of old and new.

The guestrooms also feature high-tech amenities, such as thermostats that intuitively remember a guest’s temperature preferences upon check-in, and motion sensors that activate lights when guests enter a dark room.

The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal offers guests a wealth of amenities at their fingertips. The 10,000 square feet of meeting space are flexible and offer event planners the possibility of accommodating up to 300 people. Guests can dine at acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud’s restaurant, Maison Boulud, in the 130-seat dining room, the 46-seat year-round greenhouse, or on the new terrace on Sherbrooke Street. They can enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel’s gardens, work out at the gym or take a dip in the new indoor salt-water pool.

“We are extremely proud to reopen this emblem of the very best Montreal has to offer," said Andrew Torriani, president and general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal. “The hotel today is a showcase of modern luxury, but it has not lost the discreet charm of the past or the patina of history.”

To ease traffic woes, water taxis launched on Jhelum River in Kashmir

In an effort to reduce traffic congestion on the streets of Jammu and Kashmir and to attract tourists, the state government has launched a water taxi service on the Jhelum River.

The service is a joint effort of the state government and state Irrigation and Flood Control Department.

The first taxi service, having the capacity of eight persons, was flagged off by Kashmir Divisional Commissioner, Asgar Samoon, from Peerzoo to Chattabal Weir on Saturday.

Samoon said besides providing a cheap alternative transport facility, it would also attract tourists.

"It is an alternate form of transport because this water transport is cheaper. The Irrigation and Flood Control Department will monitor the services and issue the license. However, the state government has initiated the project but the connected departments like tourism and municipality are helping out. Two-three water boats are deployed and these will operate for 15-20 days till private players enter the field and tenders will be announced for them by the Irrigation and Flood Control Department.

The private parties will provide water transport to people. This facility is not just for tourists but actually for the locals, for their daily travelling, we would also be using these water boats from tomorrow for travelling to our offices," said Samoon.

The fare for the whole stretch has been fixed at Rs. 60, while charges from one bank to another would be Rs. 25 per passenger, he said.

The boarding and de-boarding operations would be carried out from the existing banks till a permanent infrastructure is established.

Happy with the new service, locals said this would generate employment opportunities in the city.

"This is a good step initiated by the government. This will reduce traffic congestion from the city streets and the river will also remain clean. The people living in Srinagar will realise the importance and benefits of water transport. This will also boost tourism and locals will get employment opportunity," said Reyaz Ahmed, a local.

Tourism is one of the biggest means of earning for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, Kashmir of northern Jammu and Kashmir state was once a top Asian tourism destination, popular among honeymooners, skiers, trekkers and anglers, and attracting about a million tourists a year until 1989, when a simmering anger against New Delhi's rule burst into a violent rebellion. And the numbers of visitors shrunk to only a few thousand a year.

However, with peace being restored in the province, the influx of tourists has increased. (ANI)

Songkran Splendours Festival 2012

Travellers from all over the world are visiting Thailand this week and next to enjoy the Songkran Splendours Festival, which highlights the many traditional celebrations that take place during Songkran, the festival that marks the Thai New Year.

 The Songkran Splendours Festival offers a range of cultural events that will take place in Bangkok and 12 history-rich cities across Thailand from 9 to 24 April 2012.

“Songkran is the annual festival that all Thais look forward to, as it brings together families and friends to celebrate the Thai New Year by honouring their elders, while relieving the summer heat by joyfully splashing each other. It's a uniquely Thai combination of honouring ancient traditions while having a good time together, which makes the Songkran Festival popular with visitors who want a memorable Thai experience,” said Mr Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Despite in recent times becoming more of a fun mass water fight/party, the Songkran Festival is actually based on ancient traditions that recognize the importance of family ties and the progression of life by honouring family elders.

A word with roots in the Sanskrit language, “Songkran”, means “move into”. Historically, it marked the end of a twelve-month cycle and the beginning of a new solar year. Water plays a major role in the Songkran Festival, symbolizing the cleansing and purification process.

Communities throughout Thailand really come to life during the Songkran Festival. Cultural traditions include cleaning temples, making merit with monks, bathing Buddha statues and images with scented lustral water to show respect, and decorating temple grounds. Many communities also feature parades, street parties and other events that offer visitors to Thailand a chance to immerse themselves in Thai culture in a fun and fascinating way. 

“During the 2012 Songkran Festival, visitors to Thailand can enjoy a series of events taking places throughout the country, so they can experience how people living in different areas of Thailand celebrate the Songkran Festival," Mr Suraphon added.

Highlights of the Songkran Splendours Festival and the 13 provinces include:

Bangkok Songkran Splendours Festival (10 - 15 April 2012)

Songkran Festival in the Capital include pouring scented water on Buddha images, sampling delicious Thai cuisine, and enjoying cultural performances at Nagaraphirom Park during 10-15 April 2012, from 10.00 to 20.00 hrs. (The Opening Ceremony was held on 9 April 2012).

Songkran is also the perfect time to visit royal temples including Wat Phra Kaeo, Wat Pho, Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), Wat Ratchaorasaram, Wat Ratchaphradit, Wat Ratchabophit, Wat Bowornniwet, Wat Suthat, Wat Phraram Kao, Wat Chanasongkhram, Wat Saket (The Golden Mount), Wat Rakhang, and Wat Kanlayanamit. 

From 9 to 17 April 2012, from 10.00-18.00 hrs., visitors should go to the information booth at each temple to receive a souvenir passport for collecting a stamp from each location. Once the passport is filled with stamps, visitors can receive a special gift at Wat Pho.

Visitors can also join in the Songkran Festival activities at Rattanakosin Royal Square, as well as in the neighboring areas including Bang Lamphu, Khao San Rd., Phra Athit Rd., Santhichaiprakan and Wisut Kasat.

 Chiang Mai Songkran Festival (12 - 15 April 2012)

Chiang Mai is renowned for holding one of the grandest Songkran celebrations in Thailand. Visitors can participate in the Opening Ceremony for the 2012 Songkran Festival by joining in the wonderful procession that takes place around Chiang Mai city. They can also pour scented water on a Buddha image and willing elders, delight in cultural performances and traditions that reflect the Northern style and enjoy a variety of foods available along the streets.

Chon Buri Songkran Festival (13 - 21 April 2012)

There are four key venues for the Songkran festival in Chon Buri province, which are Ko Si Chang, Wan Lai Bang Saen, Wan Lai Pattaya, and Si Maha Racha.

 The "Kong Khao" religious ritual, which is also related to the Thai New Year, includes a procession of ‘kong khao’ floats and Buddha images, plus the ritual bathing of Buddha images. Visitors should also make sure they see the tradition of local men carrying a lady to the sea and back at Ko Si Chang, which is followed by a folk dance.

Hat Yai Midnight Songkran Festival, Songkhla (11 - 13 April 2012)

In the south of Thailand’s largest city, Songkran includes water-splashing, beauty pageants and other activities such as Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha image and Songkran Goddess procession. The Midnight Songkran Festival also features late-night fun on Niphat Uthit Road and Odian Intersection in Hat Yai.

Isan Songkran Festival, Dok Khun Siang Khaen Festival, and Khao Niao Street (11 - 18 April 2012)

Khon Kaen lies in the heart of the Northeast, and is a very nice city to visit. Here, visitors can experience the longest human wave in the world and take part in the water splashing on "Sticky Rice Street or Khao Niao Street" and watch the Flora Cart and Songkran Procession that starts out from Fountain Park. There is also a variety of entertainment to choose from; a mountain bike competition, volleyball tournament, petanque competition for the Royal Cup from HRH Princess Sirindhorn, cooking contest, OTOP product fair, folk plays, and a food fair at Kaen Nakhon Lake in Khon Kaen.

Maha Songkran Festival – Hae Nang Dan Muang Nakhon (11 - 15 April, 2012)

Visitors to this southern province can participate in the Songkran festivities by bathing the Phra Phuttha Sihing image. Other highlights include the Nang Kradan procession and a Swing Ceremony to welcome the god Shiva. Exciting activities will take place at Wat Phra Borom That and Si Thamma Sokarat Park, Sanam Na Muang, Phra Isuan Hall, and Phra Narai Hall.

Nakhon Phanom Songkran Festival (11 - 15 April 2012)

At Sai Thong Sri Kottabun Beach in Muang District and Renu Nakhon Municipality, Nakhon Phanom, visitors can join in a Buddha image bathing ceremony at the birthday pagoda. To encourage good fortune, they can pour some flower-scented water on the seven pagodas that signify the seven days of birth.

Other activities include creating a sand pagoda and participating in the Buddhist ceremony, and making offerings to Phra That Si Khottabong in Lao PDR. For a special cultural experience, visitors can join in making a sand sculpture that is believed to bless people with good health, as well as watch a procession done in the Renu Nakhon tradition.

Nong Khai Songkran Festival (12 - 15 April 2012)

Visitors will find the beautiful procession at Wat Pho Chai enchanting and can see water being sprinkled on the sacred Luang Pho Phra Sai Buddha image in Nong Khai province. Of course, there is plenty of water splashing, while the cultural heritage of the Mekong River area is celebrated through ethnic performances and entertainment.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Songkran Festival (13 April 2012)

In Thailand's ancient capital, Songkran celebrations take place at various sites around the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya City Island. Visitors can experience Buddhist merit-making and join elephants and their mahouts for some Songkran water-splashing fun. Mon Songkran Celebrations will also be held at Wat Tong Bo in Sao Kradong in the Bang Pa-In district of the province. For great photo opportunities, visits should not miss the procession of swan and centipede flags, as well as the Mon-style Buddha image bathing ritual.

Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival, Samut Prakan (22 - 24 April 2012)

This is one of the few places in Thailand that celebrates the Songkran Festival in the Thai-Mon style. The not-to-miss highlight is a magnificent parade. Visitors can learn how to play saba, enjoy a Mon folk play and many other forms of entertainment, and also see a procession of swan and centipede flags.

Songkran on the Beach, Phuket (12 - 13 April 2012)

Visitors can join in a communal Thai New Year merit-making ceremony, witness a procession of Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha images along Patong Beach, and pay homage to elders with scented lustral water. A range of events will be held at Loma (Dolphin) Public Park and the port, and the Jungceylon activity plaza overlooking Patong Beach.

Sukhothai Songkran Festival (9 - 19 April 2012)

The Songkran celebration in Sukothai includes a variety of entertainment and performances, a parade, and food fairs at Si Satchanalai district, as well as at the Sukhothai Historical Park, and Thai Phuan Buddhist Ordination on Elephant’s Back at Ban Hat Siao. Visitors who want to truly experience the the roots of traditional Thai culture must not miss exploring this city.

Suphanburi Maha Songkran 2012 (13 - 16 April 2012)

Along Nean Kaeo Road in Suphanburi, in the heart of Thailand's central region, visitors can enjoy a procession featuring the golden Luang Pho To Buddha Image, along with other processions put together by public and private entities in the province. There will also be folk music performances, a Miss Songkran beauty contest, and water splashing with Suphanburi artists.

Those in Bangkok and less interested in the traditional side of Songkran and just want to get wet, and enjoy a mass water fight/party, should head to Khao San road if they are in Bangkok. There are other areas along Silom and Sukhumvit but Khao San seems to have become party central.

Water guns are readily available throughout Bangkok, but you may want to bring your own water proof protection for mobile phones and the such. You will get wet, very wet, so if you head to any of the main party areas be prepared and dress appropriately. And remember, it is all about fun, so enjoy!

Record-Breaking Bridges

At 1,102 feet up and 3,858 feet across, the ambitious suspension bridge in China's Hunan province has become the highest and longest in the world. The Anzhaite Long-span Suspension Bridge in Jishou was officially opened to motorists Tuesday, Daily Mail reported. 

 

The bridge, which is lit up at night with 1,888 lights, is the fourth suspension bridge to cross a valley so wide it seems to be connecting two mountain ranges, the Mail said. The bridge is a key part of the Jishou-Chadong Expressway, a 64-km road which has 18 different tunnels that cover about half of its length. Once on the bridge cars and lorries can motor along a two-way, four-lane motorway at about 50 mph. Pedestrians can also walk along it on a special walkway under the road. Here’s a look at some record-breaking bridges from around the world.

Train to five Sikh shrines in December

A luxury train covering all the leading Sikh shrines in the country will be flagged off in December this year, a Punjab official said Tuesday.

Principal Secretary Tourism Geetika Kalha said an agreement had been signed between Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corp (IRCTC) and Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board (PHTPB) to run the train.
Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal would flag off the train Dec 26 this year.
The train would cover Akal Takht in Amritsar, Takht Sri Damdama Sahib at Talwandi, Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib (Anandpur), Takht Sri Patna Sahib (Patna) and Takht Sri Hazur Sahib at Nanded in Maharashtra.
Starting from Amritsar, the train will embark on a nine-day journey via Delhi, Agra and Gwalior and culminate at Nanded.
At a meeting here Tuesday, Badal approved the name of the train as "Panj Takhts Yatra Express".
Kalha sought the personal intervention of the chief minister with the central government for the grant of subsidized tariff rates, as allowed to the Buddhist circuit train.

Carlson Opens 2nd Radisson Blu Hotel in Chennai

Carlson Rezidor has opened the Radisson Blu Hotel Chennai City Centre in India.

The hotel is the second Radisson Blu hotel to be established in Chennai, and Carlson Rezidor’s 51st hotel in India.

“We achieved unprecedented growth across Asia Pacific in 2011 and we are building upon this momentum in 2012 to establish a stronger presence across Asia Pacific,” said Simon C. Barlow, president, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, Asia Pacific. “The opening of Radisson Blu Hotel Chennai City Centre, together with another 13 scheduled openings in India will bring our India portfolio to 64 operating hotels by year end. This will entrench our leadership position in India and places us closer to doubling our Asia Pacific portfolio to achieve our Ambition 2015 goal of more than 150 operating hotels.”

Located in the heart of Chennai City, Radisson Blu Hotel Chennai City Centre offers 162 guest rooms and suites and complimentary high-speed internet access for all guests.

 The hotel is ideal for business and leisure travelers as it is within easy reach of the airport and railway station. The hotel is also just minutes away from the city’s main commercial and business hubs, including Express Avenue, Spencer Plaza and Raheja Towers. It provides a good base to explore the cultural capital of South India with its temples, art galleries, artists’ villages and centers of performing arts.

Radisson Blu Hotel Chennai City Centre has 9,700 square feet of conference and meeting space that can accommodate up to 800 people. It also has a business center offering the latest business facilities and full secretarial support.

 Recreational facilities at the hotel include a world class spa - Chakra by Thai Sabai, a gymnasium, an outdoor swimming pool and a discotheque.

The hotel also offers a range of food and beverage options, including one of the largest bars in town with a separate cigar lounge, signature restaurant - The Great Kebab Factory - and specialty coastal Asian Cuisine restaurant - Coast to Coast.

“It was a strategic decision to partner with Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. It has an excellent global revenue generation infrastructure, extensive hotel management experience and the expertise to ensure the success of Radisson Blu Chennai City Centre,” said Vikram Aggarwal of VVA Hotels Pvt Ltd, the hotel’s owner. “The globally well known Radisson Blu brand has a strong appeal to business and leisure travelers and this will greatly benefit the hotel and put it on the global map.”

Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit Hotel to Open in April 2012

The 32-storey Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit hotel, featuring 345 contemporary and elegant rooms, is currently in its final stages of development with its opening scheduled for April 2012.

 Designed by BBG-BBGM, a renowned architectural firm from New York with an extensive international portfolio of hotels and resorts, retail space and high-rises, among other developments, Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit represents a modern interpretation of an art deco tower with a façade of limestone, concrete, stainless steel and glass, topped by a signature crown.

 The hotel’s interior, a combination of contemporary French and Thai designs covering over 50,000 sqm of space, has been completed by PIA, one of Thailand’s leading interior design companies.

The dedicated meeting facilities on the 3rd floor are the hallmark of Sofitel’s InspiredMeetings concept offering a modern yet intimate ambience with individually tailored event themes, state-of-the-art technology and dedicated concierges. The hotel will also offer some of the largest meetings and function facilities in Bangkok, with Le Grand Ballroom able to accommodate up to 800 guests cocktail style.

Six trend-setting restaurants and bars offer a range of culinary delights to tempt any palate. The rooftop L’Appart bar and restaurant, based on the Parisian Hausmann-style design, reflects the traditional images of Paris in the heart of Bangkok and features a luxurious outdoor terrace capturing panoramic views of the city skyline.

Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit also has a dedicated wellness floor for health and well-being, including a high-rise swimming pool with pool bar, fitness centre, beauty salon and Thailand’s first Le Spa with L’Occitane offering popular L’Occitane products from the South of France.

“The hotel is ideally located in the heart of the city on the vibrant Sukhmvit Road, one of Bangkok’s premier locations. We are confident that the Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit will offer a luxurious stay, and appeal to both corporate as well as leisure travellers,” said Christophe L.M. Caron, General Manager, Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Strong Commercial Backing for Tokyo Sevens

Thirteen companies, along with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, are teaming up to support the Tokyo Sevens, round seven of the HSBC Sevens World Series, which will take place 31 March - 1 April 2012.

The four major sponsors of the Tokyo Sevens are Canon Inc, Taisho Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Taiyo Life Insurance and Toshiba.

The remaining nine sponsors are Yomiuru Shimbun, JTB Business World Tokyo Corp, PIA Corporation, Canterbury of New Zealand Japan Inc, Gilbert Rugby, Suntory Beverage & Food Limited, ITOCHU Corporation, OKAMURA Corporation, NARITA International Airport Corporation.

“We are delighted to announce that these leading Japanese companies have teamed up to support the Tokyo Sevens 2012,” said Japan Rugby Football Union Chairman, Tatsuzo Yabe.  “The enthusiastic support of these partners are essential for the success of the Tokyo Sevens. We are very much looking forward to delivering this world class event of a dynamic and exciting sport. We expect that the tournament will attract more young people to the sport of rugby.”

Tokyo is one of five applicant cities to host the 2020 Summer Olympic Games where Rugby Sevens will be played.

Tokyo will also provide the focal point for the Rugby World Cup 2019 as Japan hosts the first RWC in Asia.

Before the Tokyo Sevens, the 2012 Cathay Pacific / HSBC Hong Kong Sevens will take place 23-25 March 2012.

India to Need Over 1,040 More Aircraft in Next 20 years

According to Airbus’ latest market forecast, Indian carriers will require 1,043 new passenger (1,020) and freighter (23) aircraft valued at US$145 billion between now and 2030 to satisfy surging annual demand.

 India’s market for new aircraft makes it the world’s fourth largest in both number of aircraft and value.

Indian annual passenger traffic growth rates of 7.2% are well above the regional Asia Pacific average growth rate of 5.9% and the world average 4.8%.

Of the requirement for 1,020 new passenger aircraft, some 860 will be for growth and 160 to replace the eldest aircraft in the existing fleet of 327.

 By 2030, this means that India’s passenger fleet will more than triple to some 1,180 aircraft. The new passenger aircraft include 646 single aisles like the A320 and A320neo Family, 308 twin aisles like the A350 XWB and A330, and 66 very large aircraft such as the A380.

Growing urbanization and population concentrations combined with a growing middle class and dynamic economic growth are driving demand and this trend is expected to continue. Despite near term challenges, the Indian economy is forecast to continue expanding, helping India’s growth in domestic air travel to reach even higher growth rates of nearly 10% annually, making it one of the fastest growing aviation markets anywhere in the world.

“By 2030, India’s economy is forecast to be the fourth largest in the world creating exceptional potential for growth in the aviation sector. Through our Indian industrial partnerships we are proud to boast that every A320 today is partly made in India,” said Dr. Kiran Rao, Airbus Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing, and President of Airbus India. “Our engineering and industrial footprint in India supports over 2,000 highly skilled Indian jobs throughout our supply chain, and this figure is growing.”

Airbus’ partnership with India dates back almost 40 years. Today, half of all A320 forward doors and all flap track beams are produced in India.

 Established in 2006, the Airbus Engineering Centre India (AECI) in Bangalore employs over 270 highly skilled local engineers working in high end analysis and design on all Airbus products. The centre is expected to grow to 450 over the next three years.

Airbus also recently established a second pilot training centre in Noida (this one in cooperation with CAE and Interglobe) to complement the existing facility in Bangalore. Combined, they will have the capacity to train up to 5,000 pilots and maintenance engineers per year.

Hotel Prices in Asia Drop; Singapore Most Expensive in AP

According to the latest Hotels.com Hotel Price Index, global hotel prices increased by 4% on average in 2011 over 2010, continuing the process of steady recovery from the lows of 2008, albeit at a distinct walking pace.

 Prices fell 2% in Asia year-on-year but rose in all other areas, including 8% in the Pacific, 5% in North America, 4% in Latin America, 3% in the Caribbean and 2% in Europe and the Middle East.

David Roche, President of Hotels.com, said, “The hotel sector is a good barometer for the global economy as a whole. Prices are up because demand for rooms is on the rise – a sign of higher levels of business and consumer spending. Local conditions, influenced last year by political uprisings, natural disasters and currency fluctuations, do have a major impact on prices but the momentum is there and the market is growing.”

Asia Sees Overall Price Falls Despite Growth in Chinese Economy

There was a mixed picture in China with Beijing up 5% to HK$742 and Hangzhou up 25% to HK$873. However, Shanghai posted the steepest decline in prices down 23% to HK$682. This was in large part caused by an oversupply of rooms from new construction projects and falling demand after the World Expo in 2010. Guangzhou was also down 15% to HK$662 and Shenzhen down 7% to HK$695.

Reduced occupancy and falling demand in Japan after the March 2011 earthquake drove hotel rates downward. The earthquake also had a knock-on effect in other parts of the region as fewer Japanese executives and tourists travelled abroad. Japanese destinations were forced to discount following the earthquake in March, for example Sapporo was down 11% to HK$769 and Kyoto down 5% to HK$1,143. However, the average room rate in Tokyo remained unchanged at HK$1,115.

Also, popular Thai destinations did not fare as well because of the extensive flooding that spread throughout the country’s northern and central regions between July and December 2011.

On the other hand, the average hotel room price in Hong Kong continued to soar by 46% to HK$1,270.

Singapore Hotel Rooms the Most Expensive in Asia Pacific

Despite the drop in hotel prices across Asia Pacific, Singapore remains the most expensive Asian country for hotel rooms. The city-state ranked in sixth place among traditionally expensive countries like the UK, Switzerland, Italy, Denmark and France.

Singapore was also ranked second most expensive city for five star hotels, with London taking the top spot and Dubai coming in third with Hong Kong in fourth.

Johan Svanstrom, Managing Director, Asia Pacific for Hotels.com, said, “The hotel industry in Singapore has developed tremendously in recent years. For one, the hotel room inventory has really grown with numerous openings of prestigious hotels targeted at affluent, business travellers. On top of being a business hub and a stopover for long-haul travellers, the country has also invested in upscale attractions such as the integrated resorts that have proved to be a great hit with tourists – these make Singapore the perfect vacation option for luxury travel.”

The report also showed that Singaporeans paid the second lowest amount for hotels on average while abroad but the third highest amount on hotels at home, spending an average Sin$175 on rooms overseas but Sin$239 on their own soil.

“With their busy schedules, Singaporeans do not always have time for trips abroad; some prefer to enjoy higher quality for less with ‘staycations’ at home. The number of new luxury hotels have definitely provided Singaporeans with many options for a short but affordable luxurious getaway,” Johan added.

Japan’s Prince Hotels and Resorts Trades Private Label for Utell

Japan’s Prince Hotels and Resorts has traded its private label chain code (PJ) for full-service representation with Utell Hotels & Resorts under the UI chain code.

 The change for 11 Prince properties will also include a migration to Pegasus Solutions’ next-generation central reservations system (CRS) RezView NG.

“Corporate RFP sales are incredibly important to business for Prince Hotels, but establishing and maintaining relationships with major international corporations, TMCs and travel agencies is not an area they can devote resources to,” said Yoshinori Nishihara, regional director, revenue generation management for Pegasus Solutions. “They can, however, utilize Utell’s experience and position, giving hotels access to the contacts, structure and tools that will drive this valuable business.”

Prince Hotels and Resorts operates more than 40 hotels and ryokans, 28 golf courses and nine ski resorts covering Tokyo and other major destinations in Japan. Operating three sub-brands including The Prince, Grand Prince Hotel and Prince Hotel, it is one of Japan’s leading hotel chains, claiming a rich half century heritage, and a nearly three decade relationship with Utell services.

“Prince Hotels has a long-standing relationship with Pegasus’ Utell representation service that dates back to the late 1980s,” added Tom Gallagher, executive vice president of revenue generation for Pegasus Solutions. “We have consistently provided distribution services, but are eager to once again add value through full service representation with sales campaigns, TMC call centre visits and in-market showcases, not to mention the preferred consideration they get from key corporate buyers.”

RezView NG from Pegasus Solutions will allow the Prince properties to centrally manage content and rates for all channels, operating and adapting business to strategy, not based upon the constraints of the system. This flexibility includes support for a wide variety of revenue management strategies, the ability to sell and manage non-room inventory, high-level customization, real-time reporting, close integration with property management systems and revenue management systems, as well as automated distribution content management.

Singapore’s TravelRave to Take Place 15-19 October 2012

TravelRave, Singapore’s mega travel and tourism festival, will this year take place 15-19 October 2012.

 TravelRave 2011 concluded on a high note, with more than 9,500 attendees, representing a 15% growth over the 2010 debut.

 From 15 - 19 October, the 2012 edition will see the return of key anchor events such as the Asia Travel Leaders Summit, ITB Asia, Web In Travel, Aviation Outlook Asia and Singapore Experience Awards.

 In addition, the Asia Pacific Tourism Destination Investment Conference, which was first introduced as the half-day Asia Pacific Hotel and Tourism Investment Conference last year, has evolved into a full-day event this year.

 “Asia continues to be an engine of growth for global tourism,” said Ms. Aw Kah Peng, Chief Executive of Singapore Tourism Board. “This is thus the time to deepen our understanding of Asian consumers and markets. The research and knowledge shared in the first two editions of TravelRave have also reaffirmed our belief that content centred on a better understanding of Asia is key. To this end, we will focus our efforts on making this a vital part of TravelRave 2012, to ensure that TravelRave remains impactful and relevant.”

Despite the uncertainty in America and Europe, the latest projections by the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) indicate that Asia will continue to grow at a healthy 4 to 6% above the international growth rate of 3 to 4%.

At TravelRave 2011, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) released findings on the importance of business travel and its impact on Asia. According to the report, companies will continue to spend to develop and maintain relationships through face-to-face meetings, but are also looking to maximise their returns. It was also reported that South East Asia generated the highest returns out of business travel to the Asia Pacific region.

During the strategic high-level Asia Travel Leaders Summit, leaders discussed the manifold opportunities presented by the fast-rising Middle Affluent Consumer segment in Asia as well as the pressing talent crunch the industry faces despite its large populations.

TravelRave 2012 will once again enable participants to come together and discuss key issues pertaining to the ever evolving needs of the Asian travel and tourism industry. For instance, the Asia Pacific Tourism Destination Investment Conference 2012 will focus on Asia’s future tourism destinations. Supported by the International Hotel Investment Association, this event will focus on Tourism Infrastructure Development and Hotel Investment Opportunities across Asia. The event will consist of an array of networking opportunities, business meetings, exhibitions and a thought-provoking programme featuring insight into the Asian market.

In addition, ITB Asia will increase its overall exhibition floor space by 15%, following its record performance in 2011 which saw an increase in business activity, reflecting the strength of the regional travel industry. In 2012, ITB Asia will take place at Marina Bay Sands.

MP is the best tourist destination this year

ITC Maurya hotel in New Delhi bagged an award for offering the best facilities for  differently-abled guests, while New Delhi Railway Station was adjudged most tourist-friendly for the second consecutive year, at the annual awards function of tourism ministry here.

Among the states, Madhya Pradesh took home four national awards and honours for best tourism infrastructure and programmes in the country. Rajasthan came a close second.

The award for best implementation of Clean India Campaign of the government went to Sikkim, which also netted a national award for best tourism infrastructure and programmes among seven North Eastern States and Jammu and Kashmir.

A total of 79 awards under different categories were conferred on various states and union territories, hotels, travel and tour operators and private organisations to acknowledge their contribution to tourism sector. President Pratibha Patil presented the awards at a function organised by Ministry of Tourism here.

Hyderabad won best heritage city award, while Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad received the honour for best airport in the country.
Kerala Tourism Department bagged an award for most innovative use of information technology, best website and portal.

Among hotels, The Oberoi Rajvilas in Jaipur, Rajasthan, was given the best five star (deluxe) hotel award, while the Gateway Hotel in Ernakulam, Kerala was conferred the best five start hotel award. Bangalore’s ITC Gardenia bagged the Best Eco Friendly Hotel award

The world's top 10 beaches

Seychelles, once believed to be the location of the Garden of Eden, has pristine white sandy beaches that draw both families and solitude-seekers.

Maldives, the 'Garland of Islands,' comprise 1,102 unspoilt coral atolls in the Indian Ocean. 

Bora Bora in Tahiti is surrounded by a picturesque lagoon and barrier reef. It is one of the charming islands of French Polynesia.

The Hamptons, home to the prettiest beaches in Long Island, are a favorite weekend getaway for New York’s swish set.

Hawaii’s Lanikai means “heavenly sea.” Warm turquoise waters and happy sunshine make this island a piece of heaven on earth.

Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, is famous for serene beaches, scenic bike paths and historic tours.

Australia’s Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island and a World Heritage Site, offers the pleasures of beach life and treks in its dense rainforests.

St Bart's, a volcanic island in the Caribbean, is famous for dreamy beaches. Its French cuisine and culture makes it a hotspot with wealthy tourists.

Langkawi, a 99-island archipelago along Malaysia’s west coast, beckons tourists with gorgeous beaches, verdant paddy fields, and lush forests.

The stunning Kauna'oa Bay is a crescent-shaped white sand beach on the western coast of Hawaii.

Asia Pacific Airlines Traffic Results for January 2012

Preliminary traffic figures compiled by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) for the month of January 2012 show continued growth in international air passenger traffic demand, with air freight demand falling sharply during the month as a result of the earlier timing of the Lunar New Year holidays this year.

In aggregate, Asia Pacific airlines carried 17.2 million international passengers in January, a 7.3% growth compared to the same month last year, boosted by an increase in travel during the Lunar New Year holiday season.

 In revenue passenger kilometre (RPK) terms, international passenger traffic grew by 6.3%. Available seat capacity was up by 6.7%, resulting in a slight 0.2 percentage point fall in the average international passenger load factor to 78.2%.

International air cargo demand, measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), declined by 13.7% in January compared to the same month last year, reflecting the persistently weak trading environment and the closure of manufacturing plants due to the holidays. Even with a 5.3% reduction in offered freight capacity, the average international cargo load factor fell by 5.7 percentage points, to 59.6%.

“The continuing growth in passenger numbers marks an encouraging start to the year for Asian carriers. The slump in air cargo demand mainly reflects the earlier timing of the Lunar New Year holidays this year, but is nevertheless also a reminder of the still uncertain outlook for the global economy in the year ahead,” said Mr. Andrew Herdman, AAPA Director General. “With Europe sliding into recession, we expect this to be another challenging year for the industry, but remain guardedly optimistic given some tentative signs of recovery in the US and continuing positive momentum here in Asia.”

ibis Hua Hin Opens; Rates from THB 1080++

he ibis Hua Hin, Accor’s latest hotel in Thailand, has opened.

 Located in Khao Takiab, Hua Hin with easy access to the beach, the night market and many tourist attractions, the newly constructed 200-guest room hotel has been designed to provide guests with an international quality seaside getaway at value for money rates.

Guest rooms feature LCD satellite television, Wi-Fi internet access, 24-hour services, reasonably-priced food and drinks at the signature TASTE restaurant as well as eight hours nonstop breakfast concept starting from 4am to 12pm noon.

The ibis Hua Hin also offers two meeting rooms for small meeting and incentive groups .

Mr. Nikolay Stoyanov has been appointed as ibis Hua Hin’s General Manager to oversee operations of the hotel. Mr Stoyanov who was previously Operations Manager of ibis Pattaya has had extensive operational experience and played a key role in the deployment of the network in Thailand.

Hua Hin is a beachside town and a favourite destination for both Thai domestic and international visitors alike. Hua Hin is some 200 kilometers south of Bangkok and just over 2-hour drive from the capital. Beyond the beach, other activities visitors can enjoy while in Hua Hin includes golf, spas, pony-riding, shopping at the local market, and visits to historical temples and palace.

Executive General Manager of ibis Hotels Thailand, Mr. Erwann Mahe said, “We are delighted to introduce one of the world’s largest and respected economy hotel brands to Hua Hin and further extending the ibis network in Thailand to eight hotels spread throughout the country. With an award-winning blend of quality and consistent service and value for money accommodation, we are confident that ibis Hua Hin will quickly become one of the city’s most preferred hotels for Thai and international travellers.”

ibis Hua Hin Introductory Promotion

ibis Hua Hin is offering a Standard Room from THB 1,080++ per night or a Family Room from THB 1,580++ per night. The offer is valid until 30 April 2012. Terms and conditions apply.

Starwood Shakes Up Hotel Industry with 24-Hour Stays

With Your24, Starwood Hotels & Resorts is abolishing set check-in and check-out times for select Starwood Preferred Guest elite members, and introducing round-the-clock check-in/out at all Starwood hotels and resorts.

While tradition has long held hotel check-in to 3 p.m., Starwood is bucking convention to give its most frequent travelers complete control of their check-in and checkout times. A member who chooses to check in at 10 p.m. won't have to checkout until 10 p.m. on their day of departure, 24 hours later. Platinum SPG members who spend 75+ eligible nights at Starwood hotels can request Your24 service.

"We're constantly striving to make travel as personalized as possible for Starwood Preferred Guest Members, and that means fresh thinking around long-standing industry practices," said Mark Vondrasek, Senior Vice President for Distribution, Loyalty & Partnership Marketing at Starwood. "Your24 reflects very clearly that the preferences of our guests drive how we do business, and that's another reason why Starwood and SPG have earned such intense loyalty with global travelers."

Starwood recently reported that elite membership in Starwood Preferred Guest has doubled over the past five years. What's more, they are spending 60% more than they did five years ago.