Yearly Archives: 2024

South Korea wants more travellers from Singapore to explore its south-east region

In an effort to bring more travellers’ attention to destinations beyond popular Busan in the country’s south-east region, the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) organised a fam trip for Singapore travel agents and media earlier this month.
The activity was part of KTO’s strategy to actively promote the cities of Busan and Ulsan, and Gyeongnam province, or BuUlGyeong, as a combined destination.
KTO organised a fam trip for Singapore travel agents and media earlier this month to spotlight destinations beyond Busan; photo by KTO
The fam trip highlighted a blend of cultural heritage, natural scenery, arts and creativity, local cuisine and outdoor leisure activities across Sancheong, Hapcheon, Hadong, and Gimhae in Gyeongnam province, as well as Ulsan and Busan.
Park Chul-ho, senior director of regional tourism promotion, KTO, said: “The BuUlGyeong region’s blend of urban excitement, natural beauty, and cultural richness creates an ideal destination for Singapore travellers seeking diverse experiences beyond Seoul.”
Lee Kyung Jin, deputy director of KTO (Singapore Office), added: “Singapore travellers are very well-travelled and they have been to South Korea many times. It is about showing them new places and attractions so they want to revisit South Korea.”
Park shared that the top inbound tourist markets to South Korea for 2023 were Japan, China and the US.
“While Singapore ranks behind these top markets, it remains a key focus for us. We will focus on targeted promotions to foster further growth,” remarked Park.
Exploring the south-east region is made possible with Busan’s Gimhae International Airport as a natural jumping point. To further facilitate tourism, a new international airport is being built on Busan’s Gadeok Island, which is expected to open in December 2029.
At present, Singapore Airlines flies to Busan four times a week, while Jeju Air does so seven times a week. In addition, Busan is developing the north port and expanding high-speed rail connections, which will boost access for international visitors, added Park.
When asked how the BuUlGyeong region would appeal to Singapore travellers, travel agents told TTG Asia that they could include certain destinations into their future itineraries.
Syaza Anwar, director, Azza Travel & Tours, which specialises in tours for Muslim travellers, said she usually uses the main cities of Seoul and Busan as a draw to invite travellers to explore other parts of South Korea that are new to them. Attractions such as the Jangsaengpo Whale Culture Village and Sancheong Donguibogam Village would appeal to her customers. With regards to food, she noted that “while there are not many halal restaurants, there are more vegetarian and vegan restaurants these days, so we can still find alternative places for our customers”.
Meanwhile, Busan is stepping up its promotional efforts. Inbound tourism for 2024 is expected to exceed the record set in 2019, indicating that Busan has nearly overcome the effects of the pandemic on tourism, shared Lee Jung-sil, president of Busan Tourism Organization (BTO).
BTO plans to enhance the port city’s branding as an “international tourism city”, further develop its tourism industry through corporate collaboration, and implement market-specific strategies targeting South-east Asia, including Singapore, as well as China, Taiwan, Japan, and the Americas.
“According to a survey of visitors planning to visit Busan, over 60 per cent of both domestic and international respondents listed food as the number one reason for their trip. Moving forward, we plan to strengthen experiential content that combines unique Busan experiences with local cuisine,” Lee added.

How waste management can boost tourism in Cyprus

Cyprus, the Jewel of the Mediterranean, gets millions of visitors every year with its beaches, landmarks and villages. Tourism is a big part of the island’s economy so we need to keep the beauty and cleanliness that brings visitors from all over the world. One often overlooked aspect of keeping all this is proper waste management.Proper waste management not only protects the environment but also the tourist experience, so Cyprus remains the number one choice for tourists. Here’s how to boost tourism with sustainable waste practices.

Natural beauty

Cyprus has so many natural attractions, from the crystal clear waters of Fig Tree Bay to the mountains of Troodos. But improper waste disposal (litter on beaches and fly-tipping in rural areas) can spoil all this natural beauty.

Local authorities can protect these lovely spots by having a waste management plan. Beach clean ups, public awareness campaigns and bins in high traffic areas are all effective. When tourists see a destination looks after its surroundings they are more likely to visit and Cyprus will be seen as an eco-friendly destination.

Organizations like Junk Bunk that specialize in efficient and responsible waste removal can help keep the island beautiful. With such initiatives Cyprus can keep its landscapes as lovely as ever.

The tourist experience

When planning a holiday tourists look for destinations that are clean, well maintained and welcoming. Littered streets, overflowing bins and polluted beaches can ruin their experience in no time.

A waste management plan ensures public spaces, popular attractions and accommodations are clean. Hotels and resorts can also contribute by adopting sustainable waste practices like reducing single use plastics and offering recycling options. Highlighting these efforts can attract environmentally conscious tourists who are choosing destinations that match their values.

By showing off its sustainability Cyprus not only enhances the tourist experience but also positions itself as a forward thinking destination.

Eco-tourism

Eco-tourism is not a trend it’s a shift in how we travel. More tourists are looking for destinations that put sustainability and environmental responsibility first. By adopting innovative waste management practices Cyprus can be a leader in eco-tourism.

Composting programs, campaigns to reduce single use plastics and promoting reusable alternatives can attract environmentally aware tourists. Partnerships with companies that specialize in responsible waste management can show the island is serious about sustainability.

These efforts create a positive cycle: tourists attracted to Cyprus’s eco-friendly image contribute to the economy and spread the word about its green initiatives and attract more visitors.

Protecting marine life and coastal areas

Cyprus’s coastlines are its most valuable assets, attracting snorkelers, swimmers and divers to experience the island’s underwater beauty. But marine pollution (especially plastics) is a growing threat to these ecosystems.

Proper waste management is key to protect Cyprus’s marine life and keep its waters a major attraction. Public awareness campaigns targeting locals and tourists can highlight responsible disposal. And improved recycling facilities and stricter regulations on coastal waste management can prevent litter from reaching the sea.

By doing so Cyprus will not only protect its marine biodiversity but also the appeal of its coastal attractions for years to come.

Improving local infrastructure

With the influx of tourists during peak season comes more waste. Without the right infrastructure this can overwhelm local systems and create unsightly conditions that will spoil the island.

Investments in modern waste management solutions can solve this problem. Smart bins that alert authorities when they need to be emptied, expanded recycling facilities and waste to energy technology can all manage the increased waste effectively. These will benefit tourists but also residents, creating a cleaner and healthier environment.

Public health risks

Poor waste management can lead to public health issues like disease outbreaks, water contamination and pest infestations. These will affect not only locals but also tourists and harm Cyprus’s reputation as a safe and popular destination.

By having efficient waste collection and disposal systems Cyprus can minimize these risks. Tourists who experience a clean and healthy environment will feel more confident in their decision to visit and boost the island’s reputation.

Community engagement

Sustainability is a team effort that requires the participation of local authorities, businesses, residents and tourists. Community driven initiatives like beach clean ups, recycling workshops and public awareness campaigns can create a sense of pride and ownership.

Tourists can also contribute by being sustainable during their stay. Hotels, tour operators and local businesses can support this by providing resources like reusable water bottles and accessible recycling bins. When the community and tourists work together everyone benefits.

Good PR

Destinations that are sustainable get good press. Cyprus can use its waste management successes to get coverage from travel influencers, bloggers and journalists. Stories about clean beaches, innovative recycling programs and community led initiatives will reinforce the island’s image as a desirable and responsible destination.

This will not only attract more visitors but also Cyprus’s credibility in the global tourism market and differentiate it from the competition.

Embracing sustainable waste management practices

Waste management is more than a necessity – it’s an opportunity for Cyprus to up its tourism game. By preserving natural beauty, protecting marine life and being sustainable Cyprus will be the top Mediterranean destination.

Tourists are choosing destinations that match their values and Cyprus can benefit from this trend. By investing in modern waste management and involving the community in sustainability Cyprus will keep its treasures for future generations and attract visitors from all over the world.

By doing so Cyprus will be a paradise for tourists and a benchmark for environmental responsibility.

Beautiful seaside town just like Brighton is ‘very pretty’ in winter with few tourists

Cromer in Norfolk was once a popular seaside resort that saw a decline in tourist numbers, but now it is attracting a new crowd.Brighton remains a bustling hub for sun-seekers every summer, and the Norfolk seaside destination has been tipped as “just as good” but with a trickle of crowd numbers.Described as “the gem of the Norfolk coast”, Cromer was once lauded by literary icon Jane Austen in her beloved novel Emma: “You should have gone to Cromer…the best of all the sea bathing places. A fine open sea…and very pure air.”Like most British seaside resorts, the town peaked in popularity just before the First World War, but its appeal dwindled when exotic foreign holidays became the rage.In response to dwindling tourist figures, with towns like Brighton stealing the limelight for coastal escapes, Cromer has reinvented itself. The opening of trendy bars, cafes and shops has seen it amass a new following, luring those seeking a quieter refuge by the sea.Cromer has been re-established, with surfers catching waves at its beaches and city dwellers escaping the hustle to savour seaside living amid rising living costs. As noted by travel expert Liz Hollis, Cromer boasts a “vibrant Brighton feel” and is now a haven for artists, galleries, and eclectic outlets.The seaside town is geared up for summer with colourful buildings that line its sandy beaches. But it’s just as attractive in winter, as Tripadvisor users agree.One person remarked that Cromer beach is “very pretty even in winter”, adding: “Stayed in Thursford but drove short distance to explore Cromer before heading home to Nottinghamshire. Easy to park near the Morrisons garage and seafront for £9 all day, and the pier is fun to wander down and to see the beach huts – there’s also a Banksy if you search hard enough on the sea wall. A very pretty beach perfect to stroll along and relax – pebbles in parts but also sand to enjoy.”Another wrote: “Staying in Cromer in January was glorious! Winter walks along the beach, with the waves crashing on the shore – a sound that is still ringing in my ears!”A third visitor reminisced of their “enjoyable walk on a winter day”, noting: “You can either walk along the beach with the cliffs above towards Sheringham or in the other direction. In the summer months it can get too crowded for that relaxing stroll behind the cliffs.”It’s also been named one of the top dog-friendly beach destinations for pet owners who want to take a break with their furry friends.Situated on the north coast of Norfolk, just 23 miles north of Norwich, this town was once a traditional fishing hub renowned for its Cromer crab.It later evolved into a popular tourist destination during the Victorian era, attracting notable holidaymakers such as the future King Edward VII, Oscar Wilde and Winston Churchill.The Grade II-listed pier, extending 151 metres to the sea, remains a significant attraction. Here, you’ll find the Pavilion Theatre, which hosts the UK’s only remaining end-of-the-pier variety show.Where to enjoy the iconic Cromer crab? The Old Rock Shop Bistro has an impressive 4.7 out of five stars on Google Reviews. Gibson’s Bistro and The Garden Street Grill are among the area’s top-rated eateries, along with Browne’s on Bond Street, which has a 4.9 out of five-star rating.Meanwhile, Upstairs @ NO1 Cromer is a great option for fish and chips with “amazing views” out to sea while you dig in.

Beautiful seaside town just like Brighton is ‘very pretty’ in winter with few tourists

Cromer in Norfolk was once a popular seaside resort that saw a decline in tourist numbers, but now it is attracting a new crowd.Brighton remains a bustling hub for sun-seekers every summer, and the Norfolk seaside destination has been tipped as “just as good” but with a trickle of crowd numbers.Described as “the gem of the Norfolk coast”, Cromer was once lauded by literary icon Jane Austen in her beloved novel Emma: “You should have gone to Cromer…the best of all the sea bathing places. A fine open sea…and very pure air.”Like most British seaside resorts, the town peaked in popularity just before the First World War, but its appeal dwindled when exotic foreign holidays became the rage.In response to dwindling tourist figures, with towns like Brighton stealing the limelight for coastal escapes, Cromer has reinvented itself. The opening of trendy bars, cafes and shops has seen it amass a new following, luring those seeking a quieter refuge by the sea.Cromer has been re-established, with surfers catching waves at its beaches and city dwellers escaping the hustle to savour seaside living amid rising living costs. As noted by travel expert Liz Hollis, Cromer boasts a “vibrant Brighton feel” and is now a haven for artists, galleries, and eclectic outlets.The seaside town is geared up for summer with colourful buildings that line its sandy beaches. But it’s just as attractive in winter, as Tripadvisor users agree.One person remarked that Cromer beach is “very pretty even in winter”, adding: “Stayed in Thursford but drove short distance to explore Cromer before heading home to Nottinghamshire. Easy to park near the Morrisons garage and seafront for £9 all day, and the pier is fun to wander down and to see the beach huts – there’s also a Banksy if you search hard enough on the sea wall. A very pretty beach perfect to stroll along and relax – pebbles in parts but also sand to enjoy.”Another wrote: “Staying in Cromer in January was glorious! Winter walks along the beach, with the waves crashing on the shore – a sound that is still ringing in my ears!”A third visitor reminisced of their “enjoyable walk on a winter day”, noting: “You can either walk along the beach with the cliffs above towards Sheringham or in the other direction. In the summer months it can get too crowded for that relaxing stroll behind the cliffs.”It’s also been named one of the top dog-friendly beach destinations for pet owners who want to take a break with their furry friends.Situated on the north coast of Norfolk, just 23 miles north of Norwich, this town was once a traditional fishing hub renowned for its Cromer crab.It later evolved into a popular tourist destination during the Victorian era, attracting notable holidaymakers such as the future King Edward VII, Oscar Wilde and Winston Churchill.The Grade II-listed pier, extending 151 metres to the sea, remains a significant attraction. Here, you’ll find the Pavilion Theatre, which hosts the UK’s only remaining end-of-the-pier variety show.Where to enjoy the iconic Cromer crab? The Old Rock Shop Bistro has an impressive 4.7 out of five stars on Google Reviews. Gibson’s Bistro and The Garden Street Grill are among the area’s top-rated eateries, along with Browne’s on Bond Street, which has a 4.9 out of five-star rating.Meanwhile, Upstairs @ NO1 Cromer is a great option for fish and chips with “amazing views” out to sea while you dig in.