ASEAN Tourism Forum 2006
Every year, the ASEAN Tourism Ministers and ASEAN National Tourist Organisation (NTO) officials gather to exchange ideas to promote tourism in the region. This year’s ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), hosted by the Philippines, took place between 13 – 17 January. Tourism has been identified by the ASEAN leaders as one of the key priority segments for liberalisation by 2010.

At the ATF 2006 in Davao City, Philippines, the STB and its ASEAN counterparts renewed their commitment to strengthen regional collaboration to promote ASEAN as a single destination, and bolster tourism traffic into and within the region.

Please click here to read the press release.

Uniquely Singapore Phase II Unveils at ATF 2006
Phase Two of the Uniquely Singapore campaign was unveiled by the STB at the Singapore Night during the ATF 2006 on 19 January. The evening was the STB’s way of welcoming delegates to ATF 2007 which Singapore will host from 26 January – 3 February next year.

Guests attending the function at the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao witnessed the new television commercial which views Singapore as seen from a little girl’s perspective. It is her Unique, Personal Experience that takes the viewer through Singapore. A journey that leaves her so overwhelmed that it is simply beyond words. This is the thought that encapsulates our brand thinking in Phase Two.

The TVC is supported by print ads that each describes a "personal" experience that is simply "Beyond Words" – and attempts to showcase Singapore as a destination where no two experiences are the same, no two days are the same and a place that no two people can experience in the same way.

The ‘Uniquely Singapore’ brand positioning, launched in March 2004, captures as well as celebrates the total Singapore experience and Singapore’s unique and distinct blend of the best of the modern world and rich cultures. Having established this “unique blend” in Phase One, the STB has now embarked on delivering enriching and memorable experiences for each consumer. “Unique, Personal Experiences” will focus on what every consumer experiences during his/her visit to Singapore.

TRAVEX
The STB/Manila took part in this year’s Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), held at the NCCC Exhibition Centre in Davao City, Philippines, from 18 - 20 January, one of many highlight activities as part of the ATF 2006. Uniquely Singapore was showcased with four booths totaling 26 square metres in dimension with the STB staff kept busy with some 44 pre-scheduled appointments (and a few more unscheduled ones) with travel industry participants from around the world.

The event was attended by some 420 sellers from 10 ASEAN countries and 370 buyers from 49 countries, not to mention 175 media professionals from 30 countries globally.

TRAVEX, organized by TTG Asia Media Singapore, is a trade-only show that serves as an avenue for suppliers of ASEAN travel products to meet selected buyers through scheduled appointments. At the same time, it is also an ideal occasion for buyers to gather the latest information on ASEAN tourism products and services.