THE Singapore Tourism Board is to spend £300,000 promoting special millennium packages being launched by four UK operators this month.
Called Singapore and More packages, they combine three nights in Singapore with two at another destination in Southeast Asia, such as Penang, Langkawi, Bali or Bangkok.
They are being featured by Kuoni, Tropical Locations, Thomas Cook and direct-sell operator Travelbag, and available for travel from mid-October to early December and January-March 2000. Each package includes return flights, accommodation and transfers and prices range from £500 to £1,800.
STB UK director Aaron Hung said: “Our aim is to encourage people to come to Singapore during MilleniaMania, our 15-month-long celebration of the new millennium.”
He said the packages are weighted more towards Singapore than the twinned destination.
“Until now most standard packages have tended to do the reverse, but Singapore’s ever-increasing attractions ensure a jam-packed holiday which warrants it being the focus of a trip to Southeast Asia,” he added.
The STB is expecting a 7%-8% increase in British visitors this year.
Hung said: “UK visitors to Singapore are enjoying more affordable hotel accommodation, air fares and tour packages as a result of the strong pound.”
The STB’s latest annual survey shows visitors are also arriving in bigger groups and spending more during their stay.
The Survey of Overseas Visitors to Singapore 1998 showed the average total party size is now three people.