Diethelm Travel Celebrates 60 Years of Service
Diethelm Travel Celebrates 60 Years of Service Inbound Asia Tour Operator Marks Six Decades of Operation While Looking Ahead to the Future BANGKOK – 7 April 2017 – Diethelm Travel Group, an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, is celebrating its 60th anniversary of offering discerning travellers unforgettable Journeys of a Lifetime. The company officially turned 60 on 2 April and marked the occasion with festive celebrations in all regional offices on 3 April. “It’s been wonderful to experience all the celebrations – in person and in spirit – around Asia and see the passion our staff has for Diethelm Travel,” said Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel. “Diethelm is dedicated to serving our clients with the most innovative Asia travel products, resources and services, all of which would not be possible without such a committed and creative team – a number of our staff have been with the company for decades!” Now recognised as one of Asia’s leading tour operators, Diethelm Travel was originally established in 1957 in Bangkok and cultivated a long-lasting, trusted reputation within the country and with the Thai royal family. The company has been received a royal warrant of appointment from the late King Rama IX, one of the highest honours in Thailand, recognising the business for significantly supporting the country’s economic and social development. In 1991, Diethelm expanded internationally with an office in Vientiane, Laos, and has since continued to use its strong local connections and expertise to further grow, now boasting more than 3,300 custom tours in 12 countries that emphasise authentic experiences. “While we’re tremendously proud of what we’ve accomplished during our 60 years of service, we’re still devoted to continually providing unique new experiences and services for agents and travellers,” added Fitzell. “By using our decades of on-the-ground experience, relationships and intimate regional understanding, combined with a never ending desire for discovery and progress, 2017 is set to be our greatest year yet.” To see more of the birthday celebrations, watch Diethelm’s birthday video here, visit our 60th anniversary web page, or follow the hashtag #DiethelmTurns60 on social media. For any media-related inquiries, please contact press@diethelmtravel.com.
Diethelm Travel Appoints Group Product & Contracting Director
Diethelm Travel Appoints Group Product & Contracting Director Oscar Lopera Will Join the Inbound Tour Operator to Drive Product Development Across the Company BANGKOK: 02 March 2017 – Diethelm Travel Group (DTG), an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, today announced that Oscar Lopera will assume the position of Group Product & Contracting Director beginning on 06 March 2017. He will be responsible for managing the company’s overarching product development and contracting strategy working closely with Diethelm Travel’s 12 regional product managers and directors to ensure all products meet Diethelm Travel’s high standard of quality while also creating unique and innovative offerings to add to the company’s portfolio. Originally from the U.K., Lopera will join the company at the Diethelm Travel headquarters in Bangkok. With more than 15 years working in the industry, including positions in both the mainstream and luxury sectors with operators such as Western & Oriental and Aspire Holidays, Lopera brings a wealth of experience in all aspects of the business, from commercial and marketing to product development and contracting. He was most recently a Senior Purchasing Manager for Dnata Travel overseeing a team responsible for procuring Asia Pacific product remit on behalf of the Dnata Travel portfolio, which included brands such as Emirates Holidays, Dnata Travel as well as the former Gold Medal Group and Stella Travel Services portfolio of brands. “For 60 years, we have been offering outstanding Asia travel experiences.” says Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel Group. “We are excited for Oscar to join the Diethelm Travel team. With his extensive professional experience and contacts, he will strengthen and add value to our product portfolio across the region.” Dedicated to providing comprehensive travel services that allowing discerning travellers to tap into Asia’s enigmatic cultural core, Diethelm Travel is constantly looking for new ways to ensure guests experience Journeys of a Lifetime. Oscar Lopera Group Product & Contracting Director Diethelm Travel Group
Diethelm Travel Group Expands Global Sales Team
Diethelm Travel Group Expands Global Sales Team Leading Asian Tour Operator Appoints New Sales Management Positions in North America and Continental Europe BANGKOK – 23 December 2016 – Diethelm Travel Group (DTG), an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, today announced that it has appointed two brand new positions further extending the company’s international reach. Dietmar P. Schulz has assumed the position of Sales Manager Continental Europe and Stephen Marshall has taken the role of Sales Director for North America. Schulz has a long history within the tourism industry with nearly four decades of on the ground experience. Past roles include working for Qantas Holidays, The AOT Group (Australasia’s largest DMC) and its inbound travel brand, ATS Pacific, and more than two decades spent with FTI Group, one of Germany’s leading travel operators. Schulz’s vast professional experience and connections, combined with an education in economics, uniquely positions him to lead the company’s continental European sales initiatives from Munich. Originally from the UK and now based in Los Angeles, Marshall will be responsible for extending the company’s reach into the lucrative U.S. and Canada markets by establishing Diethelm Travel’s first in-market office in the U.S. Marshall most recently launched and oversaw Tourism New Zealand’s inaugural Luxury strategy for the US which saw the organisation go on to be awarded “Tourism Board of the Year” for two years consecutively by Virtuoso, the world’s leading luxury travel network. Prior, Marshall was General Manager of New Zealand at The AOT Group where he oversaw the company’s inbound operations across the sectors of FIT, Groups and Cruise. “With six decades of experience as one of Asia’s leading inbound tour operators, we are fully committed to supporting our existing partners in each world market while also developing new partnerships,” says Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel Group. “We are delighted to have Dietmar and Stephen join our global sales team, together with Karen Davidson in the U.K. who started earlier this year, and are confident that their combined expertise and locations will work to bring new travellers to explore the wonders of Asia.” Known for its highly localised offerings, Diethelm Travel prides itself in offering unique Journeys of a Lifetime across 12 countries in Asia focusing on local experiences, cultural connections and unique itineraries. Headquartered in Bangkok, the company also has 26 other regional offices around the world.
Diethelm Travel Set for Growth in Singapore for 2017
Diethelm Travel Set for Growth in Singapore for 2017; Appoints Key Senior Management Positions Industry Veterans Yvonne Wong and Judy Lum will Serve As Diethelm Travel Singapore’s New Business Consultant and General Manager BANGKOK – 16 January 2017 – Diethelm Travel Group (DTG), an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, today announced appointments of two key senior management positions for Diethelm Travel Singapore, including Yvonne Wong taking the position of Business Consultant (active now) and Judy Lum assuming the role General Manager beginning 4 February 2017. As Diethelm Travel Singapore’s new Business Consultant, Wong now support the development of the business. Wong first started working with Holiday Tours & Travel including roles in administration, ticketing and inbound. In the 1990s she moved to Jakarta to manage launching a new Holiday Tours & Travel office, which she then headed for five years. Wong returned to Singapore in 2000 as the General Manager of Tour East Singapore where she was responsible for the overall business activities, day-to-day operations and performance of the company. Lum began her career as a tour guide before moving to Holiday Tours & Travel where she worked in operations, as well as product and business development. In 1996, she assumed the position of General Manager Sales & Marketing Singapore for Tour East before subsequently being promoted to her most recent role as Senior Vice-President Sales & Marketing, International, where she was responsible for identifying business opportunities, establishing strategies and maintaining client relationships for the group of offices under Tour East. Extremely well connected and involved within the industry, Lum also served on the executive committee of National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS) as Chairman Inbound from 2012 – 2016. “I am delighted to welcome Yvonne and Judy to the Diethelm Travel family as part of our developing Singapore team,” said Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel Group. “Both women have over 30 years of DMC experience in Asia and have a proven track record of not only understanding the nature and nuances of the business, but implementing smart strategies that drive innovation and sales. There’s no doubt that they will be a huge asset to Diethelm Travel especially as we move forward with big plans for future growth in Singapore.” With nearly six decades operating in Asia, Diethelm Travel is known for not only its respected service but also highly localised Journeys of a Lifetime. The lauded company offers unique experiences in 12 countries across Asia with dedicated in-country teams and offices. Media Contact: press@diethelmtravel.com
Diethelm Travel Launches Second Issue of Diethelm Discovery Magazine
Diethelm Travel Group Launches Second Issue of Diethelm Discovery Magazine at ILTM Cannes Industry Publication Presents an Inside Look at Travel Throughout Asia; Exclusive Product Offers CANNES – 06 December 2016 – Diethelm Travel Group, an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, today launched the second issue of its praised Diethelm Discovery magazine at ILTM Cannes. The self-published magazine offers a detailed look not only at new Diethelm Travel products, but the most fascinating destinations and activities throughout Asia straight from Diethelm’s travel experts living and working in the field. Available in print and digital formats, the publication is free for Diethelm Travel clients and features a selection of special seasonal offers, along with sections for: Diethelm Moments – creating a ‘wow’ factor Go Local Travel Family Travel Cross Country Travel Diethelm Cares Destination and Accommodation Spotlights Wellness Travel Insights & Experiences Click here to download the digital version of the magazine or click here to request a complimentary hard copy. “We were delighted by the feedback we received from our first issue of Diethelm Discovery in April and are proud to say that our second issue is even better as we continue to evolve the magazine to help supply clients with innovative ideas and inspiration to sell Asia,” said Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel. “Not only is it a valuable resource for clients, but simply fun to read, packed with personal accounts from our staff.” With nearly 60 years creating memorable travel experiences throughout Asia, Diethelm Travel Group has a long history within the region and continues to be a leading provider offering discerning travellers unique and authentic experiences. “This year, we’ve really focused on strengthening our Go Local and Family Travel offerings, along with our recently released series of Diethelm Moments including 81 tailored gifts, outings and surprises available across the 12 different countries we operate in. These experiences are unavailable anywhere else and we encourage clients to learn more through the magazine and come meet us while at ILTM Cannes.” To meet with Diethelm Travel Group at ILTM Cannes, please visit Booth #G190 in the Thai Pavilion to speak with company representatives, Karen Davidson, Sales Director – UK, US & Scandinavia, and Natalia Anosova, Sales and Account Manager – Russia/CIS & Eastern Europe. For more information on Diethelm Travel Group’s Diethelm Discovery magazine, please contact sales@diethelmtravel.com. ### Media Contact: press@diethelmtravel.com
Diethelm Travel unveils fully redesigned website
Diethelm Travel Unveils Fully Redesigned Website; Enhanced User-Friendly Navigation New Media-Rich Website Offers Even More Resources and Booking Capabilities BANGKOK – 06 September 2016 – Diethelm Travel Group, an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, today launched a completely redesigned website boasting updated product information, easier search and booking capabilities, media-rich trip inspiration from on-the-ground staff (including video, images and downloads of Diethelm Discovery magazine), and a brand new blog for even more Asia travel help, information and resources. The easy-to-navigate website – www.diethelmtravel.com – features extensive product information for overnight tours, day tours, accommodation options and land services with products organised by travel style including: Live like a local Cultural and Tradition Family Beach Nature & Soft Adventure Foodie’s Delights Luxury Honeymoon Trekking & Hiking Cruises Cycling Events Go local (day tour) “Our new website is not only eye-catching and more user friendly, but incredibly resource rich with helpful information, tips and features found on every page,” says Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel. “Along with being a comprehensive guide to the destinations we operate in, with plenty of expert travel recommendation and insights, high-powered search tools and easy access to our online booking system make trip planning a breeze.” Additionally, clients can access promotional offers, product and destination news, travel tips for the 12 Asian countries Diethelm operates in, and an agent portal storing even more images and reports. With nearly 60 years of being Asia’s go-to travel experts, Diethelm’s newly redesigned and updated website further shares the depth and breadth of the company’s expertise with clients to ensure even more Journeys of a Lifetime. To see all that Diethelm Travel has to offer, please visit www.diethelmtravel.com. Media Contact: press@diethelmtravel.com
Diethelm Travel Launches Magazine, Diethelm Discovery
Available Now: Diethelm Travel Launches Magazine, Diethelm Discovery New Publication Covers Insider Travel Tips, Destinations, Offerings and More BANGKOK; June 09, 2016: Diethelm Travel Group, an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, is proud to present its first issue of a new magazine titled Diethelm Discovery launching at Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2016 which is being held in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Created to offer an exclusive, in-depth look at Diethelm Travel products as well as rising travel trends and destinations in Asia, the self-published magazine is now available in both print and digital forms and free for Diethelm Travel clients. Covering more than 30 pages packed full of travel advice and offerings readers can’t find anywhere else, each edition of Diethelm Discovery features a range of interesting sections highlighting: Go Local – Unique Local Experiences Family Travel Responsible Travel New Travel Programmes Destination Spotlights An Upcoming Holiday & Festival Calendar Foodie Tips M.I.C.E. Specific country recommendations for shopping, dining and following local customs Current Diethelm Travel Special Offers …and more! “We’ve gathered an incredible collection of insider travel tips, information and stories from our regional experts to bring clients and industry peers not only a helpful resource, but a publication that’s interesting and enjoyable to read as well,” says Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel. “With each issue of the beautifully designed Diethelm Discovery, we aim to educate and inspire while encouraging even more exploration throughout the countries Diethelm Travel operates in. Happy reading!” With nearly six decades of offering comprehensive travel services in 12 countries across Asia, Diethelm Travel holds a unique position in the travel industry understanding the region’s past, present and future. Click here to download the digital version of the magazine or contact Louise Lithgow at louise.l@diethelmtravel.com to request a complimentary hard copy. To meet with us at TTM+ 2016 from 9 – 10 June 2016 in Chiang Mai, please contact us at louise.l@diethelmtravel.com. Warm regards, Diethelm Travel Group Media Contact: press@diethelmtravel.com
Announces Appointments of Three Key Senior Positions
Diethelm Travel Group Announces Appointments of Three Key Senior Positions Leading Inbound Tour Operator Continues to Strengthen Management Team; Provide Outstanding Service BANGKOK – 23 March 2016 – Diethelm Travel Group (DTG), an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, today announced the appointments of three senior positions within the company including the roles of Managing Director, General Manager Thailand and Group Sales Director. Jean Francois (Jeff) Redl has been promoted from Country Manager Vietnam to Managing Director, replacing Torsten Edens who is now Group Operating Director. Redl brings more than 25 years of professional experience in the tourism industry to the role with an emphasis on operations, sales, marketing, and business development, most recently driving Diethelm Travel’s operations and sales in Vietnam. Additionally, Victor Mogilev has moved from his role as Sales Director Emerging Markets to General Manager Thailand and will support Torsten in Bangkok. Mogilev originally joined Diethelm Travel Group in 2012 guiding the growth of its partners in Russia, the CIS countries and Eastern Europe and has since been promoted two times due to his attention to detail and excellent understanding of Diethelm Travel’s high standards and commitment to quality. Furthermore, Louise Lithgow has been employed as the Group Sales Director of Diethelm Travel Group, responsible for managing the entire sales team and activities across the twelve countries Diethelm operates in. Lithgow joins the company with 14 years of experience working for STA Travel as well as time spent with various hospitality groups, such as Millennium Hotels. “I’m delighted to announce the appointment of these roles and welcome all three talented team members to their new positions within the company,” says Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel Group. “Each member brings a wealth of valuable knowledge and expertise to these essential roles that will play a vital part in continuing to strengthen Diethelm Travel’s leading position in Asia’s inbound tourism industry.” With more than five decades managing tours and travel services in Asia, Diethelm Travel Group is recognised for not only its impressive product offerings but exceptional team, dedicated to providing clients with incredible Journeys of a Lifetime. Warm regards, Lisa Fitzell Group Managing Director Diethelm Travel Group Media Contact: press@diethelmtravel.com
2016 Asian Tourism Expert Guide
Diethelm Travel Group to Release 2016 Asian Tourism Expert Guide Inbound Tour Operator Partners with TTG Asia to Produce Anticipated Annual Resource for Travel Professionals BANGKOK; January 28, 2016: Diethelm Travel Group (DTG), an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, today announced it has again partnered with TTG Asia, Asia Pacific’s leading travel trade business resource, to produce the 2016 Asian Tourism Expert Guide. This year’s feature-rich guide is more valuable than ever before, filled with 100 pages of exclusive travel tips, products, and offerings around Asia. The guide offers a comprehensive look at 12 countries including individual country profiles featuring insider destination tips and itinerary recommendations from local Diethelm team members, along with regional shopping and dining highlights, responsible tourism offerings and recent product news. “The annual Asian Tourism Expert Guide has become a prominent directory of travel and tourism information for travel industry professionals in Asia Pacific”, says Darren Ng, Managing Director of TTG Asia Media. “This year, we’re pleased to offer even more information, resources and inspiration for an incredibly useful guide that will benefit both travel experts and their clients.” With the continuing trend of seeking truly local experiences while traveling, the guide also includes a new section, “Go Local with Diethelm Distinctive”, showcasing handcrafted itineraries that dive deep into the local culture and community of a place. These offerings provide guests with authentic experiences emphasising local activities and personal connections for memorable Journeys of a Lifetime. “We are honoured to collaborate with TTG Asia to bring you this year’s guide”, says Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel Group. “Nowhere else can you find this level of detailed information highlighting the best travel experiences in the region which draws heavily on our combined experience and expertise within the Asia Pacific travel industry.” For additional information about the 2016 Asian Tourism Expert Guide or to learn more about Diethelm Travel offerings please click here or contact sales@diethelmtravel.com. Warm regards, Diethelm Travel Group Media Contact: press@diethelmtravel.com
New Sales Director for the U.K., U.S. and Scandinavia
Diethelm Travel Group Names New Sales Director for the U.K., U.S. and Scandinavia Role Will Be Responsible for Driving Sales Across the Three Markets; Maintaining Key Client Relationships LONDON; January 11, 2016: Diethelm Travel Group (DTG), an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, today announced the appointment of Karen Davidson to Sales Director – U.K., U.S. & Scandinavia. Based in London, Davidson will be responsible for managing sales efforts across these three regions further supporting Diethelm’s strong relationships with clients while driving sales in 2016. Davidson was most recently the Director of Business Development for Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts overseeing the leisure marketing within the U.K. and Ireland. During her 16 years with the company, she was responsible for a variety of accounts, including the top volume producers, luxury operators, cruise specialists and niche touring operators, while directly supervising all sales and marketing activities throughout the leisure market. “Davidson comes to us with not only an extensive background in the hospitality and travel industry, but also a strong commitment to quality, successful relationships and company dedication,” says Lisa Fitzell, Group Managing Director of Diethelm Travel Group. “We couldn’t be more pleased with having her join Diethelm Travel Group and anticipate an incredible year to meet KPIs and sales targets, as well as strengthening Diethelm Travel’s reach within the significant U.K., U.S. and Scandinavian markets.” Dedicated to exceptional service, Diethelm Travel Group prides itself on its outstanding team, both within Asia and abroad, while continually providing clients with unforgettable Journeys of a Lifetime. Warm regards, Lisa Fitzell Group Managing Director Diethelm Travel Group Media Contact: press@diethelmtravel.com