Hot on the heels of Finnish Capital Helsinki’s recent push for Chinese tourists using a handy destination mini program, designed with Tencent. Swiss Tourism and WebBeds Asia Pacific have signed a deal to woo Asian customers to Northern Europe.

Through the exclusive agreement, WebBeds Asia Pacific will encourage Asian travel agents to promote Switzerland’s many exciting summertime experiences to their customers. Participating TA’s will be rewarded with bonus points and prizes, including a familiarisation trip to Switzerland.

By harnessing WebBeds Asia Pacific’s extensive regional network, Switzerland Tourism is aiming to increase the volume of Asian travellers choosing Switzerland as a year-round destination, encourage travellers to spend longer exploring the country, and expand the range of activities undertaken by Asian visitors in the country.

“we aim to broaden the appeal of this stunning nation and also update the travelling community on what’s trending with Swiss travel” – Daryl Lee

“We are delighted to partner with Switzerland Tourism to showcase the many different attractions and experiences offered by this beautiful country,” commented Daryl Lee (above left), CEO of WebBeds Asia Pacific. “Switzerland is already a popular destination for Asian travellers, and through this collaboration, we aim to broaden the appeal of this stunning nation and also update the travelling community on what’s trending with Swiss travel.

“We want to show Asian travellers that Switzerland is an all-year- round destination, with plenty to do. We look forward to working with Switzerland Tourism and our Asian travel trade partners to introduce even more Asian travellers to the wonders of Switzerland,” Mr Lee added.

Switzerland is a destination with many appealing activities and attractions. Experiences being promoted to the Asian travel trade include visits to alpine peaks and glaciers, trips on the Bernina Express, helicopter sightseeing flights over the Matterhorn and even a journey to the top of Europe on the Jungfrau Railway.

A series of cycling tours are also available, allowing guests to discover Switzerland’s beautiful summer scenery. These range from the “Light Tour” through flat countryside, which is perfect all ages and ability levels, to the challenging “Alpine Tour” across mountain passes and deep gorges.

Switzerland Tourism is also highlighting the country’s urban attractions, including Basel’s art scene, Zurich’s innovation, the cultural appeal of Lausanne and the history of Bern, the Swiss capital.

To raise awareness among Asian agents, Switzerland Tourism and WebBeds Asia Pacific will conduct joint road-shows across the region. Running for the month of April 2018, this initiative will enable travel agents in seven key markets (Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the Philippines) to learn the latest about Switzerland.

The overall aim of the partnership is to drive greater and longer visitor-ship to Switzerland’s key destinations during the forthcoming summer season, from its key Asian source markets through high level engagement with key market players.

Asian travel agents will be empowered to up-sell and bundle hotels and experiences, with the Swiss Travel Pass, providing even more opportunities for affordable adventure and exploration. Asian agents who are members of WebBeds Asia Pacific’s travel trade reward programme, FIT Rewards, will also have the ability earn bonus FIT Points, as follows:

The top bookers in each market will be rewarded with special prizes, including the chance to join Switzerland Tourism’s sensational “Winter Wonderland in Switzerland VIP Fam” trip in December 2018.

The new partnership doubles down on the already fruitful relationship between the two organisations, who  previously collaborated on a successful project to seduce Asian travellers with the appeal of modern European train travel, alongside Rail Europe last summer.

Commenting on why the region is such a focus for the Swiss Ivan Breiter (above right), director of South East Asia for Switzerland Tourism, said “Asia is the strongest growing source market for Switzerland Tourism. We are extremely optimistic about this new agreement with WebBeds Asia Pacific.”

“FIT travel is increasing over proportionally as more and more guests realise that Switzerland is the ideal FIT destination in Europe, combining Swiss quality with breath-taking landscape and must-see attractions, all connected with the world renowned Swiss Travel System. The expensive portfolio of world class experiences from FIT Ruums allows guests to plan and book their ideal trip at home. Catering to the thrill  as well as the inspiration seekers, we are convinced that with those new offers all generations find their way to happiness in Switzerland,” he concluded.