There’s a new tide in the Travel and Tourism industry, and interestingly, this one is pointing towards Asia. Destination Asia, a prestigious and comprehensive destination management company (DMC) specializing in East and Southeast Asia, has recently had a shift in leadership, bracing themselves for fresh changes and unique perspectives. Matthew Smith, a well-respected figure on the travel scene with rich experience spanning over 15 years, has been appointed as the new CEO of Destination Asia. Let’s dive into the details and implications of this recent development.
About the noteworthy appointment
Matthew Smith, a seasoned veteran in the travel industry, will now helm the affairs at Destination Asia as the new CEO starting from January 2022. Smith is stepping into some pretty big shoes, taking over from James Reed, an iconic figure who leaves behind an enormous legacy in Destination Asia.
David Kevan, Partner at Destination Asia remarked upon Smith’s appointment, praising his great enthusiasm and dedication to Asia, its unique culture, and its people. Smith’s strategic understanding of the travel industry at the global level, combined with his profound knowledge of Asia and its unique selling points, positions him perfectly for the role, stated Kevan.
A little about Smith’s background
Smith’s expertise comes from working in a variety of roles within the travel industry, which have equipped him with a variety of skills and a broad perspective of the field. It’s worth noting that Smith’s journey in the travel industry started at TUI UK. Over the years, he has held key management roles at major travel companies like Thomas Cook and TUI Nordic. His last role before stepping into this new one was the Head of Product and Purchasing for Asia at TUI.
What this means for Destination Asia
This new appointment comes as a breath of fresh air for Destination Asia, which has enjoyed over 20 years of offering exotic travel and tour programs for travelers. Smith’s appointment is pivotal as it signals the dawn of a new era, potentially filled with exciting changes and advancements.
Having Smith on board is an opportunity for Destination Asia to leverage his vast knowledge, especially of Asia. The company is hopeful that his leadership skills and solid grasp of the Asian market will further enhance Destination Asia’s status as a key player in the tourism industry.
A significant move worth noting is Smith’s intention to restructure Destination Asia around a more eco-friendly, sustainable model of tourism. This can potentially revolutionize the tourism industry across Asia, pushing for more eco-conscious and sustainable travel practices.
With this change in leadership coupled with its commitment towards sustainable tourism, Destination Asia is likely to broaden its horizons and spark more interest amongst travelers and the tourism community at large.
There’s no doubt that this appointment strongly positions Destination Asia to face the future’s prospects and challenges. And as Matthew Smith steps into his role, eyes will be on him, watching to see how he navigates through this new chapter. As they say in these parts, “the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step”, let’s watch Mr. Smith as he takes that brave step. Wholeheartedly, we wish him the best in his new role.
Ava Thompson is a vibrant and adventurous travel writer, who has been captivating audiences with her vivid storytelling and insightful travel tips for nearly a decade. At the age of 29, Ava has already traversed the globe, exploring over 60 countries on six continents. Her passion for discovery and her degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley, have fueled her pursuit to uncover the world’s hidden gems and share them with her readers.
Ava’s journey into travel writing began shortly after her graduation, when she embarked on a year-long solo backpacking trip. Her experiences, from the bustling markets of Southeast Asia to the serene landscapes of the Scandinavian fjords, became the foundation of her now-popular travel blog. This platform not only showcased her talent for engaging narrative but also her keen eye for the cultural nuances that make each destination unique.
As the lead travel writer for a major online news outlet, Ava specializes in off-the-beaten-path destinations, sustainable travel practices, and cultural immersion experiences. Her articles are a treasure trove of practical advice, covering everything from budget-friendly itineraries to luxury retreats, always with a focus on traveling respectfully and responsibly.
Beyond her written work, Ava is a sought-after speaker at travel conferences, where she shares her expertise on ethical tourism and the transformative power of travel. She is also deeply involved in various conservation projects, advocating for the protection of natural sites and cultural heritage around the world.
Ava’s infectious enthusiasm for adventure and her commitment to sustainable tourism make her a beloved and inspiring figure in the travel community. Through her stories, she encourages her readers to embrace the unknown, connect with different cultures, and see the world with an open heart and mind.
