Feb 26, 2010
WITH the economy fast picking itself out of the doldrums, Singaporeans are more prepared to spend on vacations overseas, especially in other Asian nations.
A survey conducted by credit card company MasterCard found that more Singaporeans expect to go on holiday in the first half of this year, compared to six months ago.
Of 400 Singaporeans polled between Oct 1 and Nov 9 last year, 42 per cent said that international personal air travel was a purchasing priority in the next six months, up from 30 per cent in the last survey last April.
Ms Julienne Loh, vice-president and country manager of MasterCard in Singapore, said: 'This can be attributed to a rebound in consumer confidence levels in Singapore which reflects the strong progress seen in the real economy. Consumers are now cautiously optimistic and are more willing to spend on discretionary items like leisure travel.'
And regional destinations remain top picks - 97 per cent of those who want to travel picked a country in the Asia-Pacific region as one of the top three places they were likely to travel to in the next six months. Malaysia was the most popular destination, drawing 40 per cent of respondents, followed by Hong Kong with 33 per cent and Taiwan with 31 per cent.
Mr Robert Khoo, the chief executive of the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (Natas), said: 'Asia will continue to be one of the most popular destinations for reasons of cost and proximity.' -- MYPAPER
