Singapore Soars Into Its 50th Year

with B.A.

For a tiny island nation, Singapore has built itself an impressive reputation for doing things right including having an economically viable marketplace and garnering top awards for its national carrier and its international airport.

Recently, executives from SQ, the Singapore Tourism Board and Changi Airport stopped in YVR to meet with members of the industry. About 40 agents attended the early morning event at the Coast Restaurant - across the street SQ's former office.

As part of its 50th birthday celebrations, the STB's Jubilee Marketing Campaign is offering visitors attractive airfares, hotel accommodation (stay 2 nights and get the 3rd night free), retail experiences, dining deals and nominal admissions to attractions. Under the "Kids Play for Free" program, children get complimentary admission to participating attractions.

SQ is also offering a $1 Singapore Stopover Holiday which includes accommodation, 50% meal discount, airport/hotel transfers, unlimited rides on the SIA Hop-on Bus and admission to over 15 top tourist attractions. This package must be purchased by June 30th for stays through July 15th and is only applicable for flights originating from the U.S. and transiting through Singapore.

Toh Ern Chong, Senior Manager – Airline Development for the Changi Airport Group told guests that SIN “is the most awarded airport in the world". Since it opened in 1981, it has received 478 awards. As the 6th busiest airport worldwide, SIN sees 1 plane taking off every 90 seconds and in 2014, handled 54.1 million pax.

A destination in itself, each terminal has different attractions to keep pax suitably occupied including movie theatres, eateries, retail outlets plus extras like T1's rooftop Balinese-themed swimming pool, T2's full gaming experience at the Entertainment Deck and the Butterfly Garden in T3. Toh was in town with some of his colleagues for the annual “Slots Conference" (no, it has nothing to do with casinos). Organized by IATA, its prime objective is to allow airlines to acquire, retain and exchange slots necessary to operate at the airport.

SQ's Sales Manager – Western Canada Michael Wraight, showed a commercial of the carrier's new “Making You Feel At Home" campaign. The airline is in the process of upgrading its B777-300ER aircraft in all classes including leather seats designed by BMW. In addition, SQ will also be progressively introducing Premium Economy seats on its 777's and A380's. This cabin will debut in the U.S. in December on LAX and JFK flights.

The Singapore group will continue their cross country tour heading to Toronto and Montreal next.