Poll Shows That South Korea is S’poreans’ Top Country to Have Air Travel Bubble With

South Korea. A land filled with dreams…

And of course, all your favourite oppas and unnies.

So really, it’s little wonder why even amidst the current pandemic…

It remains Singaporeans’ top choice to have an air travel bubble with.

Oh, and let’s not forget the bimbimbap too.

South Korea is S’poreans’ Top Country to Have Air Travel Bubble With

According to The Straits Times, majority of Singaporeans have picked South Korea as the foremost countries the Republic should have an Air Travel Bubble with.

The result was determined via an online poll conducted by The Straits Times on Facebook on Wednesday (Oct 7). Readers were asked to choose from countries which Singapore has some form of travel arrangements with, or is currently in the process of arranging.

In the poll, South Korea was the clear winner, having garnered 40.7% of votes.

Japan came second with 17.7%, and Thailand with 16.9%.

Over 6,000 responses were recorded on the poll.

No Surprise

According to the same news report, travel agencies have stated that the results came as no surprise to them.

“South Korea has a lot of pull factors, from its fashion and culture to food and cosmetics. Destinations like Japan and Thailand are nearby with less than seven hours of flight time,” said Ms Alicia Seah, director of public relations and communications at Dynasty Travel.

Existing Travel Arrangements

Lest you’re unaware, Singapore and South Korea do have a safe travel “Fast Lane” agreement since 2 September, but it is currently restricted to essential business and official travel purposes.

The Republic also has a similar arrangement, known as the “Reciprocal Green Lane”, with Japan since 11 September.

But of course, what we want is to go to the country to have fun and not to make some presentations to people in suits.

Air Travel Bubbles With Safe Countries Or Regions

On Tuesday (6 October), Transport Minister Ong Ye Kyung announced in parliament that Singapore will begin negotiating Air Travel Bubbles with nearby safe countries or regions.

The arrangement will cater to general travellers, and is one that will not require a controlled itinerary.

Apart from these two-way travel bubbles, the nation will also implement other measures such as the unilateral lifting of border restrictions.

These are part of Singapore’s efforts to revive its air hub, in a safe and controlled manner.

Previously, it was announced that Singapore and Malaysia could have their own travel bubble in the near future, as long as no further complications arise.

However, a recent spike in cases across the causeway may have voided that option for the time being.