, which they described as a “positive step forward” for the battered tourism industry.
The tourism boards of both cities have welcomed the new launch date and stressed that travellers can expect a “safe, yet delightful” experience. The Singapore Tourism Board will work closely with trade partners in Hong Kong, such as travel booking platforms, travel agents and airlines “to drive consideration and travel via joint campaigns and deals to Singapore”, said its chief representative and executive director of Greater China Juliana Kua.
But before that, attraction operators will need more details such as whether additional safety measures will be needed when entertaining foreign travellers. “SHA is confident that all our hotels in Singapore are now proficient and well-equipped to deliver our renowned hospitality excellence in the new era of travel… Looking beyond the Singapore-Hong Kong travel, we hope that more air travel bubbles will soon be established for vaccinated travellers in a safe and responsible manner.
Instead, they will be looking at “travelling to and staying at places and brands they can trust for their safety", said Mr Kumar, who noted that Grand Hyatt Singapore has its own cleanliness guidelines to ensure safety of its guests and employees.
I hope it’s preparation for disappointment.