STB tips continued robust growth from Europe 

Europe is expected to remain Singapore’s third largest source market, with tour operators saying they are seeing longer stays.

Encouraged by a record performance from Europe last year – it recorded 1,125,000 visitor arrivals – the Singapore Tourism Board aims to keep the continent as its third largest source market this year, after ASEAN and Greater China.

In 2005, visitor arrivals from Europe grew by 5% driven by robust growth from Germany (+9%) and Russia (+38%).  The strong growth indicates that Singapore’s destination branding and remaking efforts over the last two to three years are paying off.   

Mr Dayne Lim, Co-ordinating Regional Director for International Group at the STB, said, “As a significant contributor to both Singapore’s visitor arrivals and tourism receipts, Europe is important to Singapore’s long-term tourism growth.

“The strong performance in 2005 was made possible through the continued support of our industry and media partners who have been instrumental in changing consumer attitudes and perception of Singapore. STB’s key strategies to focus on the ASEAN Explorer and MICE segments, as well as in building strategic partnerships in our key markets, have also paid rich dividends. We will continue to invest and work with our partners to ensure that Europe remains one of the primary source markets for Singapore.”

German tour operators are also seeing positive trends for their business to Singapore.

Ms Victoria Sertic, Product Manager at Thomas Cook Signature, said, “Singapore is growing well for us year on year with the average stay creeping up to 3 or 4 nights. Its location at the heart of South-east Asia, coupled with its cultural diversity, makes it so easy to combine Singapore with Langkawi, Bali, Koh Samui and Borneo. These traditional multi-centre experiences have really helped us boost our sales in 2005. We are excited to read about the huge levels of investment that will be pumped into the rejuvenation of Singapore. It is truly a city that never stands still."

Mr Matthias Tewes, Manager Planning and Contracting Asia at TUI, agreed. “Our customers realise that Singapore is a vibrant and exciting destination with its unique blend of the best of the modern world and rich cultures. Its efficiency and harmony coupled with exciting and trendy leisure products makes the destination a desirable hub to explore Asia as well as an ideal gateway to New Zealand and Australia.”

Tour operators welcome the emergence of new products which they say will help their sell.

These include the development of Marina Bay with its three world class gardens, the Integrated Resort with convention, hotel and gaming facilities, and the 178-metre Singapore Flyer; the rejuvenation of Orchard Road; the redevelopment of the Singapore River into a 24-hour playground; and the development of Singapore’s southern waterfront, including Sentosa Island, into a new lifestyle and entertainment cluster, anchored by an Integrated Resort, beaches and pulsating night entertainment.