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SINGAPORE – South Korea led a survey of countries with which Singaporeans would like the Republic to have an air travel bubble.
South Korea was the clear favorite with 40.7 percent of the vote, while Japan came in second with 17.7 percent, followed by Thailand with 16.9 percent.
Malaysia, New Zealand, and China rounded out the list with 11.6%, 8.6%, and 4.5% of the votes, respectively.
The online poll was conducted by The Straits Times on Facebook on Wednesday (October 7), following the statement by Transport Minister Ong Ye Kung in Parliament that Singapore will negotiate Air Travel Bubbles with safe countries or regions in a deal aimed at to general travelers that does not require a controlled itinerary.
The survey had more than 6,000 responses. Readers were asked to choose from the countries with which Singapore already has some form of travel arrangement or is in the process of discussing it.
Singapore and South Korea have a secure “Fast Lane” travel arrangement as of September 2, but it is currently reserved for essential business and official travel. Travelers using Fast Lane must have a SafeTravel Pass and are only allowed to enter and exit through Incheon International Airport in Seoul.
The Republic has a similar agreement with Japan since September 11, known as the “Reciprocal Green Path.” Singapore is also in talks with Thailand about a similar lane since Aug. 26.
Interest in South Korea, Japan and Thailand did not surprise travel agencies.
Ms Alicia Seah, director of public relations and communications for Dynasty Travel, said that her company has shown great interest in destinations such as New Zealand and South Korea.
“South Korea has many pull factors, from its fashion and culture to food and cosmetics. Destinations like Japan and Thailand are close by with less than seven hours of flight time,” he added.
But he emphasized that many Singaporeans balance traveling and staying safe, saying: “Many Singaporeans are eager to escape, but are still wary of the potential risk.”
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