Notes Tourism Industry What is tourism?

? It is the movement of people to place away from home over a short period of time. Tourism is an example of tertiary industry because it involves the provisions of services to those travelling and the activities they do while they are there.

Why do people travel? Recreational sightseeing, new experiences, shopping, relaxation eg Sunny beach resort in Bali, beautiful mountains in New Zealand Offbeat experiences (tours to Arctic, Antarctica) Cultural visit historical or cultural buildings eg. Eiffel Tower in Paris Social / Personal visit friends and relatives Sporting events mountain climbing, Olympics, International competition, The Olympics in Athens 2004 Health (eg spa resorts) Educational and professional goals, National University of Singapore. Businesses and work Business district in New York USA Religion (eg pilgrimage to religious holy lands) Entertainment (eg theme parks like Walt Disney World)

Importance of tourism: Being a labour-intensive service industry, tourism provides jobs and employment opportunities for people. $6 trillion in travel and travel spending and 11.7 % of GDP (2005) Predicted that by 2020, more than 1.6 billion international tourists spending US$2.1 trillion every year, growth of 4% Tourism helps develop the infrastructure within a country. For example, the development of airports, highways, hotels, etc helps to develop a country and benefit the people too. Tourism can help foster better cross-cultural understanding and goodwill between people and countries. It can increase an understanding and usage of foreign languages as well as to promote foreign foods and help native populations gain a better understanding of other countries. Tourism can be an important practical education for both locals and natives. It can serve as a cultural bridge between peoples of different countries and pave the way for better cooperation. Tourism promotes the conservation of natural environments and cultural heritage such as Angkor Wat revenue collected goes to conservation of the site. Showcase to the world like Singapore building of IR

What is Domestic Tourism? Travelling within the same country Especially in big country different and diverse culture, people and weather Gaining popularity in many countries since it is cheaper to that from an overseas trip In big countries, domestic tourism picks up especially during recession

What has caused the changes in tourism? The improvement in transport and information technology The mounting concern people have for ecology and the environment 1

The rise in multicultural societies Peoples quest for experiences in which educational and entertainment needs are met

Tourism trends Increasing over the years, with dips (notably recessions and unexpected events) Europe and North America are the main tourist-receiving regions, but Asia-Pacific share has increased from 1980s Many of the tourists are from developed countries, like Europe and North America, but increasing numbers from newly developing countries like countries in Asia-Pacific. Increase in non-conventional types of tourism related to new alternative experiences in exotic destinations, and increase in independent travellers.

Note that DCs contribute the most to tourist visitors/departures DCs are also the most popular destinations But LDCs (esp Asia and Middle East) are contributing and receiving more gradually Read the factors for explanation but a large part due to transport and accessibility, income level and government efforts Interesting facts of tourism Popular tourist cities include Paris, Madrid, Rome, New York, Vienna, Berlin, London, Barcelona, Los Angeles and Cairo. Popular tourist countries include France, Spain, USA, China, Britain. China is poised to be the top destination in less than 10 years time.

Do you know these tourist destinations? Eg: Las Vegas, Macao Casino and Entertainment; Ibiza, night entertainment and pubs, disco; Vienna - Music; New York Business / Financial; Mecca Religion Worldwide expansion of tourism Reasons for worldwide expansion of tourism: Demand: People are earning higher and more stable income especially because of rapid development growth. Since the end of World War Two, the unprecedented strong economic growth in developed economies of North America and Europe, and Japan fueled the growth of tourism. They can afford to travel and spend of leisure activities. They also want to take longer holiday to relief the stress of work. In addition, people in developing countries such as China and India are increasing becoming richer and travel more. Countries like Singapore, Thailand, South Korea are also becoming richer from strong economic growth, adding to the growth. With higher income, people have more disposable income, which may be spent on tourism, since they want to enjoy and relax to improve their quality of life. In addition, many countries have shorter work weeks, hence they have more time to relax and travel. Lifestyles of people are also changing. They are health conscious and want to have healthier lifestyles. Many want to relax and enjoy a break from work, and tourism is one of the ways they can do so. Educational tours, adventure tours, spas, health resorts are also gaining popularity due to increasing demand for better lifestyle. In developed countries, there are also more retirees (ageing population). This group is affluent and more choose travelling to spend their leisure time. Medical tourism is also gaining strength from increasing demand from this group of people. 2

Supply: Due to advances in technology on transport and in telecommunication , people can travel further and faster in more advance mode of transport like ships, railways and cars. Airplanes can take more people in their flights. Many cities are building bigger and better airports to cater for heavy air traffic, enabling more landings and take-offs. Thus distant places, once considered inaccessible, can now be reached by air. The vast improvement in telecommunications has made processing of travel arrangement fast and convenient. Booking of flights, car rental, hotels and places of interest can be done on the worldwide webs & the Internet. Tourists can search the internet to find out more info about the potential destination. They can compare between places and packages and plan their itinerary and visit places of interest base on what they through e-mails to find out more about the places. Tourists can book air, rail or ship tickets, check airport arrivals and departures and book admission tickets with great ease on the internet. Online customers can also obtain cheaper rates and bigger discounts than over-the-counter ones. Cashless payments are also made possible though e-commerce and services. Email and fax are readily available to connect tourists globally. Availability of amenities: wide range of accommodations, many shopping centres and food and beverage services provide tourists with basic convenience and comfort. Availability of convention and exhibition centres. Create an ambience of welcome for tourists. Liberalisation of Air transport: Open skies agreement open up air travel market allowing for more plane flights and connections between countries- hence more tourists can travel. New routes are also opened up such as those to secondary destinations, instead of just to their main cities.

Other factors: Tourism marketing and campaigns via media Aggressive marketing campaigns through media and internet, such as Uniquely Singapore campaign, Malaysia-Truly, Asia create a desire among people to travel to different parts of the world for their holidays. Availability of information Advancements in Information Technology (IT) such as Internet, has enabled people to have access to information. Can plan holidays, find places of interest, read reviews, etc Reduced political barriers Lifting of travel restrictions such as the collapse of Iron Curtain has led to increased tourism in Eastern Europe. Formation of EU (European Union) means citizens can travel freely within member states, boosting domestic travel within Europe. Political stability more stable economy, attracting investors and tourists. Eg. Fiji civil unrest in 200 adversely affected tourism industry, Bali bombing in Oct 2002 affected Bali severely with decline of up to 25% from 2001 to 2003 Factors affecting a destination Accessibility tourists will travel to easily accessible destinations faster, easier and cheaper to reach. Development of basic infrastructure such as airport and expressways are important. Development of good telecommunication facilities is important. Availability of amenities such as restaurants, hotels, shopping centres, etc to provide comfort and ease. A good mix of amenities to ensure attractiveness. Attractions Usually places or experiences which tourists do not have at home. May be manmade or natural.

Impacts of the growth of tourism Economy Positive Impacts Negative Impacts Contribute to revenue spending on food, Loss of income and development accommodation, entertainment, sightseeing opportunities - Not all money spent by and shopping. Increase revenue through tourists goes into the countrys economy. taxes. Tourists spent about US$700b in Some tour companies and hotels in the 2005, and about S$11b in Singapore. country may be owned by foreign companies, hence the profits goes to the foreign owners. Outflow of money leakage. Development of Infrastructure In addition, some of the jobs are not offered Development of tourism will be to locals, employ foreigners. accompanied by government spending on infrastructural improvement such as building more and better roads, railways and other Enclave tourism - Whereby people choose amenities. Upgrading of local places of to stay in resorts or to take a cruise interest and tourist facilities will make the package, whereby there is limited economic place more accessible. benefits to the destination countries and local communities Creation of jobs for host country as it is a labour-intensive industry such as chefs, High infrastructure cost need large drivers, tour agencies, hoteliers, etc. capital input to develop the industry such as Tourism has indirect impact on other sectors hotels and transport networks; lost since it can spurs demand and consumer opportunity to develop other sectors. spending. Unequal development of industries Contribution to local economies through Different service occupations are paid provision of services to tourists. Revenue differently. Some may be lowly paid like earned will be spent locally and promotes rickshaw drivers. further spending multiplier effect will expand economy greatly. Increase in prices Due to increase demand for basic goods and services which Diversification of local economies will result in an increase in prices of goods encourages the growth of supporting and services. Locals may not be able to industries, which creates an economy with a afford high prices inflation. variety of industries and businesses. Reduces need and overdependence and Vulnerability to seasons and unforeseen reliance on particular types of industry. events off-peak seasons / monsoon Provide supplementary income. periods / non school holidays will face temporary unemployment. Events like 9/11 Increase in foreign investment such as and economic crisis also lead to building of hotels and other investments (like unemployment as there is lesser demand IR, Disneyland, etc) will enhance countrys and revenue due to lesser tourists. image and attract more foreign investors. Society and culture Positive Impacts Negative Impacts Exchange of values Loss of local identity and values Demand for crafts, provides an opportunity for entertainment, or other commodities start to exert influence interaction between the on the local communities. Locals may change or discard tourists and locals. Promotes traditional lifestyle and activities for tourism related ones, better understanding of such as selling souvenirs to tourists. cultures and social practices. By learning and exchanging Conflict of resource use Competition for resources such experiences with one as water and electricity between tourists and local people. another, tourists and the local 4

people alike will be able to enrich their understanding of cultures of other people. Preservation of heritage refers to the preservation of cultural and historical traditions, as well as buildings and sites, which refers to the protection and maintenance of buildings or artefacts to keep from deterioration or loss. Such as Arab Street and Sultan Mosque in Singapore.

Tourist attractions such as water parks and golf courses strain water resources. Tourists and tourism facilities in Spain use up to 850 litres of water per person per day, 4 times more the daily consumption of an average city dweller. Economic inequality Economic gap created between the higher and lower paying sectors friction may arise Clash of values Tourists may bring their own behavioural norms and culture to the destination countries, sometimes undesirable and unacceptable such as wearing of bikinis in Malaysia beaches.

Crime generation Encourage vices and inappropriate activities due to lure of money. Example include drug trade, gambling and pickpocket. Environment Positive Impacts Negative Impacts Conservation of natural areas by local and national Environmental degradation government - Setting up of Pulau Payar Marine Park in Littering may be encouraged. Kedah and the Paulau Redang Marine Park in Trails will leave behind rubbish. Trengganu to attract tourists keen on acitivities such as Growth of tourism can bring snorkelling and diving. about other forms of pollution like carbon dioxide and nitrogen Lead to less destruction of habitats and wildlife. oxide. Increase sewage due to Example: Serengeti National Park in Tanzania where lack of sewage treatment admission fees are charged, and setting up of visitors facilities will lead to water centre to get the tourists to learn about the history and pollution. ecology and the local people.

Managing the Impacts of Tourism For continuing economic benefits for the locals such as creation of jobs For environmental purposes since tourism can affect the environment if it grows too quickly Sustainable Tourism Sustainable tourism means meeting the present needs of tourists and the host country while protecting and enhancing opportunities for future generations Long term and sustainable efforts to bring maximise positive impacts and minimise negative impacts tourism brings about on the cultural heritage or natural environment of a place.

Sustainable tourism includes Making optimal use of environmental resources such as conserving the natural heritage and biodiversity at tourist destinations Respecting the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities by conserving the cultural heritage and traditional values of the local people, and contributing to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance Provision of economic benefits to all stakeholders by distributing economic gains among all stakeholders fairly, ensuring stable employment and income-earning opportunities for host communities, and contributing to poverty alleviation. 5

Who should be responsible for conserving and protecting tourist areas? Stakeholders involved: Stakeholder 1) - Planning authorities Include local government or national government agencies Control rate and scale of development in tourist areas through policies and laws Includes: Setting up National Parks such as the establishment of Bunaken National Marine Park, a scuba diving spot in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, has helped to conserve coral and marine life and to ensure continued tourist arrivals in the long term. Use of cyanide and dynamite by locals for fishing is banned to reduce threats to marine life. Tourist must pay entrance fee; 30% of funds is then channelled to help develop local community. Restriction or control tourism development and visitors numbers such as in Bhutan. Bhutan accepts only 18000 visitors per year. Each charged about US$240 per day for entire trip policy of high-value, low-volume tourism. Development of a certain aspect of tourism to develop such as the case in Singapore. As part of their national development strategy, Singapore develops its medical and health tourism in its bid to become a regional medical hub. Offers high-end, specialised medical treatment at its specialised hospitals such as Raffles Hospital. Attracts many overseas patients especially from Middle East. Limitations: Difficulties in enforcing laws and regulations on proper tourist behaviour, as they lack sufficient funds to employ park rangers to patrol protected reserves, or to train more park personnel. Example: Penan people living in the Gunung Mulu National Park, Malaysia had been displaced when the government declared the area as a protected area. Penan people lost their rights to live in the land and make use of natural resources there, but were resettled into longhouses in designated locations, resulting in changes to their traditional customs and lifestyles. These people became a form of attraction. Stakeholder 2) - Businesses or companies Includes hotels, tour operators, transport services and retail shops. These stakeholders provide employment, generate revenue and act as frequent points of contact between the tourist and the destination. Includes: Practical guidelines for businesses to follow: International Tourism Partnership provides practical guidelines for hotels to adopt, such as measures to conserve energy and water, educate guests and staff on environmental management, purchase local products and employ locals, and involving guests in local community development projects. Tour packages to incorporate principles of sustainable tourism. International Tour Operator organisations such as Tour Operators Initiative (TOI) encourages tour operators to brief tourists on responsible behaviour, help local communities make preparations for visitor arrivals and provide feedback on their service standards. Hence maintaining healthy interactions between tourists and local communities. Limitations: Business or companies may be profit-driven and oriented. To follow guidelines may incur additional costs. Stakeholder 3) Tourists 6

Individuals or groups travelling UNWTO released the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism Includes: Gather information on the area and its local population before they depart such as learning about the culture, traditions and the background of a destination so that they can appreciate the locals way of life, as well as the problems they face. For example, trekkers aware of the problem of deforestation in Nepal would probably use less wood for hot water baths Paying attention to local custom such as need to remove footwear at certain places of worship like mosques and Hindu temples, or refrain from socially undesirable activities. Refrain from causing disturbances to the wildlife in natural environment, such as watching turtles lay eggs at Turtle Island in Sabah or In Trengganu. Tourists should avoid shining torches at the turtles or switching off flash. Limitations: Often up to tourist if they practise responsible behaviour. Planning authorities do not convey the code of conduct to tourists, due to fear of losing tourists.

Stakeholder 4) Non-government organisations (NGOs) Interdependent pressure groups or campaigning organisations that are formed to defend or promote a specific case, usually non profit-oriented. Some are interested in conservation in general. Other NGOs interested in preserving buildings with cultural and historical value. Includes: Conduct research and evaluate whether an area will be subject to any potential harm by tourists, government or corporations. Conduct campaigns, solicit signatures for petition, or organise protests to exert pressure against these unfavourable plans. Example: WWF World Wildlife Fun for Nature which is concerned with conserving the natural environment and ensuring the sustainable use of renewable natural resources. International Ecotourism Society (IES) educate and influence tourism industry, governments and other key organisations to integrate the principles of ecotourism into their operations and policies. Nature Society Singapore (NSS) is a not-for-profit NGO dedicated to the enjoyment, conservation and study of the natural heritage in Singapore, Malaysia and the surrounding region. Run by volunteers who organise activities such as conservation projects and natural walks, hence bringing about greater public awareness of environmental issues. Involved in successful discussion with the Singapore government on the development of natural areas, such as Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin. Successfully preserved it and had a boardwalk constructed for public. Limitations: NGOs may have limited power. Still need to win public support for many of their campaigns. Approaches to Sustainable Tourism 7

Strategy 1) Ecotourism Ecotourism What is it? Limitations: Responsible travel to natural areas that Profit-driven tour operators attempt to take conserves the environment and advantage of ecotourisms growing popularity improves the well-being of the local by offering nature-based tour packages that people. Ecotourism lets visitors appear to be ecotourism-related to attract appreciate the scenery of an area, and potential tourists. Nature-based tours however help them understand the local culture may not be environmentally friendly. Tourists may damage the ecosystem. How it helps: Example: Scuba diving in coral reefs regions will harm the corals, Pulau Tioman, Malaysia Part of the revenue earned is put back into maintaining and protecting the Carrying capacity for tours may exceed due area. to profit-driven objective of tour operators. Creating jobs such as local guides Example: Kampong Kuantan firefly-watching Minimising the impact on the natural use of motorised boats to replace sampans in environment by reducing volume of order to cater to large crowds, create waste generated, using recycled disturbances materials, and conserving resources such as water and energy. Enforcement of laws and regulations may Helping local community to develop be weak due to lack of supervision and rangers Example: Safari visits in Africa Area Example: too big for effective monitoring Phang Nga Bay, Phuket, Thailand Local guides are employed to led exploration Opening up of untouched natural tours into caves. environments with unique culture and Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia traditions will threaten the sustainability of to lead local exploration tours these areas. Masaai Mara Safari, Kenya tour guides Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia leading groups and conducting sea activities Community based tourism Strategy 2) Community based tourism Limitations: Community-based tourism will fail if certain parties fail to share in the ideals and objectives. Phuket, Thailand, there are reported cases of locals hunting down gibbons in their natural habitat to train them as performers for tourists. Small amount of revenue earned small scale due to limited number of tourists, as opposed to mass tourism. Insufficient to fund certain community-based tourism projects. Tourists having high expectations and lacking prior knowledge and understanding of the place they are visiting hence they became dissatisfied and make unreasonable demands of the people there, resulting in conflict with the local communities. 8

Process of tourism development and management that includes, consults, and benefits the local community, especially in rural villages and indigenous people in LDCs

How it helps: Getting the locals to participate in community-based tourism by giving them control over tourist activities such as jungle excursions, home stays, or teaching traditional handicraft. Hence locals community can promote their own authentic culture, and able to give tourists real experience and knowledge. Locals can benefit economically as they earn and share the revenue they

receive from tourists. Jobs are created, and revenue can be used to improve facilities as well as living conditions of the people. Provide consultation and offer advices to tour operators and government authorities on tourism projects so that different parties can agree on same guidelines on how to manage the area and minimise any misunderstandings. Example: Phou Khao Khouay nature reserve in Laos Meetings are regularly conducted between National Tourism Authority of Lao (NTAL) and the management of Phou Khoa Khouay, together with communities located inside or near the reserves to make decisions on various tourist project. The views of the local villagers are often sought, and training is given to these people to act as guides or home stay hosts to tourists visiting the area.

Trend of tourists to Singapore: Where they are from and why they come here Most come from Asean /Asia nearby / especially Indonesia, short shopping trip / business / 9

Conference/ Exhibition / relatives / transit to other places / cheaper / direct flight Less coming from Africa/South America far / no diplomatic contact / expensive / no direct flight / no economic ties / unfavourable currency exchange rate Japan Tropical weather attracts them/ leisure / Honeymooning / Business / shopping Australia Nearby / English widely spoken here / tropical weather / Business India / China ties with Singapore / Familiarity / Business / incentive tours USA/ Britain/ Europe Business / Gateway to other markets / Business connection to other markets/ English speaking / midway of lucrative Kangaroo route / historical links / MNCs / tropical weather / unique culture here / good currency exchange rate / leisure Introduction of cheap budget airlines such as Tiger Air has attracted even more regional travelers who previously cannot afford expensive airline tickets.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Tourism in Singapore (optional reading) Tourism is an important sector of the Singapore economy, contributing about 10 per cent to our GDP, and accounting for 7 per cent of our employment, counting both direct and indirect effects. It is one of the service industries that can spur Singapores growth and development. Singapore wants to be a premier leisure and business destination as for years to come, this industry will provide good jobs for Singaporeans. More than 9 million international tourists (excluding those from Malaysia) visit Singapore in 2008.

a) Accessibility (How does accessibility contribute to the growth of tourism in Singapore?) Singapore is strategically located in the canter of SE Asia. It is convenient for people in the neighbouring countries to visit Singapore. Tourists can also use Singapore as a base to visit near-by countries. Its excellent road transport network made Singapore a highly accessible place. It is also the stop-over transit for travelers between Europe and Australia, hence bringing in many of these travelers in this busy Kangaroo Route. Air transport first class International Changi Airport. It offers a wide range of services to airport user. Singapore is linked to 151 cities in 51 countries in 1998. In 2004, it is able to handle 60 million passengers a year. Sea transport developed Singapore Cruise Centre and Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to promote number of visitors to Singapore by sea routes. In 1998, 54 cruise ships made a total of 1700 port calls at Singapore Cruise Centre. Causeway Woodlands Checkpoint and Tuas Checkpoint to improve traffic between the 2 countries. Local Transport System There is a dense and efficient network of good roads and expressways within Singapore. The MRT, LRT, buses and taxis make traveling in Singapore very convenient. Public transport fare is very reasonable. Singapore is connected to many parts of the world by an efficient and modern telecommunication system. Many tourists still can keep in contact with their family and businesses even when they are far from home.

b) Climatic Conditions Singapore has a tropical climate that is favourable for vacation and recreational activities all year round. This is especially appealing to many tourists during winter time. Singapore has external summer. Tourists can visit the country at any time of the year. There is no extreme weather condition such as tropical storm or natural disasters such as earthquakes or volcanic eruptions in the country. 10

c) Good amenities (How does the availability of amenities contribute to the growth of tourism in Singapore?) Amenities are the facilities in a destination that makes a tourists stay in that place a pleasant experience. Singapore provides tourists with a wide range of accommodation that ranges from budget hotels to 5 star hotels to cater for tourists traveling on different budget. Other facilities such as theatres, cinemas, recreational centers and entertainment centers also serve as a tourist draw. Another reason why many tourists are drawn to Singapore is that shopping is convenient. This is due to the presence of many large departmental stores and chain outlets on the island. Singapore is well known as food paradise. The wide variety of food ranges from mouth-watering local dishes to international cuisine. Tourists have a wide choice of places to eat in open-air or air conditioned hawker center, coffee shops and world-class restaurants. For business travelers, Singapore is seen as an excellent destination as it has good telecommunication facilities and infrastructure such as large convention and exhibition halls, such as Suntec City and the Singapore Expo.

d) Various types of attractions Natural environment The Bukit Timah Nature reserve, with its undisturbed rainforest, preserved flora and fauna appeals to nature lovers. In 2004, the 250m Tree Top Walk attraction is opened for visitors and has attracted many tourists. Other places of natural interest are the Botanical garden, Pasir Ris mangrove and Sungei Buloh Nature Park. It boast of a Green and clean environment and the The Garden City. A part of Sentosa called the Sentosa Cove, along with the Southern Islands will be transformed into an international resort with white sandy beaches, marinas, spas, gourmet restaurant and even a casino to attract the worlds rich and famous. These islands have unspoilt natural attractions such as beaches and virgin forests not found in abundance on the mainland. The project will help Singapore maintain its position among the front rank of cities in the 21st Century. It will attract not only the tourist dollars with the increase tourist spending but also draws international talents, visitors and investments. This effort will certainly boost tourism and the service industry and thus the economic growth of Singapore will expand.

Traditional Environment (Cultural and Historical Attractions) The multi-racial society with its rich and diverse cultural traditions, food, culture and festivals draw many to Singapore. Chinatown Chinese temples, traditional shophouses, Chinese trades and crafts are found here. In a few years time, a Buddha tooth relic golden temple will be opened in Chinatown and this will offer another tourist attraction to visitors. Little India Rich culture of the Indian community / Indian places of worship, shop houses selling saris, spices, curry and bangles. Indian restaurants and eating places are found. Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour shopping centre, also attracts many tourists especially those who love shopping. Kampong Glam Found in the area of the golden domed Sultan Mosque are eateries selling Malay food. Also shops selling unique items that speaks of the Muslim way of life. Examples are Singapore River Significance Once the centre of trade and commerce, landing site of Singapore founder Sir Stamford Raffles. Man-made Attractions There are many man-made attractions such as Singapore Zoological Gardens with its world famous Night Safari, Jurong Bird Park and Sentosa (important case-study) Sentosa: It is an island resort that offers visitors exciting experiences. It appeals to tourists with 11

its many theme parks. Historical attractions: 2 museums, the Pioneers of Singapore and the Surrender Chambers makes the rich history of Spores past come alive. Fort Siloso reveals the time Singapore was fortified to defend against Japanese invasion. There are tunnels, bunkers cannons and guns on display. Natural Attractions: Nature lovers will flock to the Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom Musuem with 2,500 free flying butterflies and 4,000 mounted insects. Sentosa Orchid Gardens houses orchids from all over the world. The Underwater World, Asias biggest tropical Oceanarium has some 6,000 fish and other marine creatures form no fewer than 350 species. Recreational Activities: Includes sunbathing, canoeing, swimming, cycling, windsurfing and golfing Palawan Beach and Siloso Beach Resorts: Shangri-las Rasa Sentosa A beach hotel with modern facilities. Capella Hotel, Spa such as the Sentosa Resort and Spa / Spa Botanica is a 5-star spa and relaxation place for leisure tourists. Singapore Flyer + other marina bay developments like IR, Botanic Gardens 2

Event Attractions Cultural events and festivals: Thaipusam, an India festival, Singapore River Hong Bao, and the Chingay Parade during the Chinese New Year Season display the religious and cultural flavours of celebrating festivities. Other Events: The Great Singapore Sale. Singapore World Invitational Dragon Boat Races, Arts Festivals and Film Festivals, F1 (about 40000 tourists arrived here just for the event in 2008) Government Support and Initiatives The aggressive work of Singapore Tourism Board and its marketing blitz in many countries especially in growing markets like China and India. Attracting not just leisure tourists but also business travelers by building more convention centres and hosting exhibitions. Works hand-in-hand with many local hotels, agencies and event organizers to sell Singapore such as coming up with travel packages Conserving and preserving traditional ethic areas and along Singapore River and coming up with new attractions. Strategies adopted by Singapore government to attract even more tourists Improving accessibility / Communication / Telecommunications More airline / links / flights / connections to more countries Expansion / Upgrading Changi Airport Cheaper / competitive airport usage / surcharge Better transportation network within Singapore MRT / LRT / Expressways Cruise Centre built Two links to Malaysia (Causeway and the Second Link / Tuas Link) Better telecommunication links / overseas call / Internet / etc Aggressive promoting: STB offices in other countries Advertisements / Brochures / promotion overseas Tap into lucrative / potential markets such as China, India NewAsia Singapore (Internet promotion) / Tap into IT to promote Singapore / Booking of airlines / booking of hotels 12

Joint ventures With companies, local and foreign Travel package with other countries Travel hub / tourist hub

Selling Singapore to business travellers Build more convention halls, Singapore Exposition Hall (EXPO) Singapore HarbourFront (WTC) Suntec City Vie for more conventions / exhibitions / talks / summits / conferences Such as WTO Summit / other mention of any other talks Vibrant city to attract them Incentives tours Spend more compared to normal leisure tourists Building new and upgrading existing attractions Organising events: Great Singapore Sale / Food Festival / Chingay / Festival celebrations / NationParty / WOMAD Building new or upgrading attractions: Chinatown / Sentosa / Resort Development / Little India / Singapore River / Esplanade / Night Safari / Mandai Zoo / Develop Arts Scene / Singapore Flyer / IR Bukit Timah Natural Reserve / Sungei Buloh / Coral Diving in Southern Islands / Chek Jawa Build up nightscene such as pubs Amenities More and better facilities Wide range of hotels / lots of hotels Good infrastructure / telecommunications such as telephones, internet access Lots of cabs, taxi, MRT Shopping is easy / Orchard Road Food is available here easily Others Promoting Sporting events, such as Tiger 5 Futsal, SEA Games / Showcasing Singapore to the rest of the world by organising events such as speedboating competition, dragonboating, golf events (Singapore Barclays Open) Promotes better services / smile Safe Singapore (good security) Clean and Green Singapore Setting up of Singapore Tourism Board Sports Hub

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