By M V A Kumar DOHA: The allure of Southeast Asian destinations is giving traditional favourites like London, Dubai and Bahrain stiff competition, as Qataris and affluent residents draw up plans for their leisure travel during Eid Al Adha holidays next month. Malaysia another favourite of Qatar residents Like Thailand, Malaysia too is very popular among Gulf and Middle Eastern travellers. The idyllic Langkawi islands are a big tourist magnet. The famed archipelago houses Southeast Asia’s first Unesco Park. Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur is preferred by leisure and business travellers alike. The Peninsula
Southeast Asian destinations, which are well-serviced by leading carriers of the region, offering non-stop flights figure prominently on the favourites’ list because of their new tourist attractions and affordability.
For example, Thailand family packages for six days and seven nights are available from QR1,950 per person on twin or double share basis, whereas a London package would cost close to QR5,999.
Even airfare to Europe’s hot destination would be anywhere between QR3500-QR4000 at this time of the year, according to travel industry sources.
“Many people are travelling to Thailand on our holiday packages this time. The booking is really heating up to this destination,” says Vijay Raj, Operations Manager, Orbit Travels. His company offers family packages to Bangkok and Pattaya in Thailand; Malaysia, Hong Kong and Macau; Manila and Angel city, besides honeymoon specials, wellness packages and holiday packages to European, Gulf and other Asian destinations.
“With so many luxury hotels opening up in Asian tourism hotspots like Bali, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, they are increasingly attracting residents from Qatar who crave for a luxurious getaway during their holidays.
“Besides, Southeast Asian destinations offer guests a variety of halal food options and family-friendly entertainment.
“Thanks to government initiatives, Thailand now caters strongly to Muslim travellers, providing them with prayer facilities at the airport, Arabic-speaking staff and halal food options at Muslim-friendly hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions throughout the country,” said a hospitality industry source.
The city has its own attractions like Lake Gardens and heritage landmarks.
Bali in Indonesia, known for its natural wealth, beauty, culture, hospitality and world-class tourist facilities, is another favourite of holidaymakers from the Gulf. Bali is also known for its soft white sand beaches and water sports like snorkelling and kite surfing.
Singapore, a hub for business and leisure travel, has been attracting tourists from GCC countries because of its world-class shopping facilities and ultramodern cityscape.
Its premier shopping district, Orchard Road and Singapore Botanic Gardens, are major attractions, among others. “Many holiday packages to South Asian destinations are so affordable that I am tempted to prepone my holiday plans even at the risk of upsetting my personal budget,” said Benny Alex, a travel-loving resident, who just returned from three-week holiday less than a month ago.
