Cambodia heads for showdown over VIP safaris

PHNOM PENH -Cambodia is heading for a confrontation with green groups if it goes ahead with plans to allow game safaris for wealthy overseas tourists.

Officials said this week Spanish firm Nsok Safaris had drawn up plans for a five-star jungle camp in a 100,000-hectare (250,000-acre) forest reserve. About 30 species of mammals, reptiles and birds would be fair game for the hunters, said officials.

A Reuters report said the area, in Mondulkiri and Rattanakiri provinces, is home to several indigenous hill-tribes whose first main contact with the outside world was during the Vietnam War when their territory was crossed by the myriad paths of the Ho Chi Minh trail.

Dany Chheang, deputy director of the Agriculture Ministry's Wildlife Protection Office, said allowing foreigners to pay to shoot game was far better for conservation than having poachers take it illegally.

"Illegal hunters are burning dollars every day," he told Reuters. "We have not explored all the potential of our natural resources. Now is the time to do so.

"These are our natural resources. We do not need permission from wildlife conservation experts to run our business," he said.

"The money we net will be invested in preserving the animals and forest. It is better for sustainable development than letting local hunters deal with cheap black markets."

The forest area is thought to be one of Southeast Asia's last wildernesses and is home to wild elephants and tigers.

Environmental group WWF, which has been promoting wildlife conservation in Cambodia since 1998, said it was concerned about the plan, which has been in the pipeline for two years, but had been kept under wraps.

Source: travelmole

Growth of Medical Tourism in Asia

2nd International Medical Travel Conference – IMTC 2007. Manila, Philippines

Tourism Secretary Hon. Joseph Duranao along with DOT Dir. Elizabeth Nelle, Avail CEO Mr. Dedric Lam and Ms. Geraldine Chew (R)

Medical tourism is becoming a popular way of trying to get high-quality, affordable medical care.

Health and wellness tourism in Asia is being promoted aggressively by the private hospitals as well as by the respective governments. Apart from affordable healthcare, Asia has many scenic attractions for tourists seeking relaxation from mountains, beaches, forests, rivers, palaces, historical monuments, and temples.

Industry leaders forecast healthy growth for the health and wellness tourism industry in Asia. Due to the rising costs of health care in the US, UK, Canada and Europe, the growth of medical tourism in Asia has emerged. Other factors that make medical tourism favorable to Asia, apart from the increasing medical expenses in developed nations are the long waiting period of medical appointments, the improved medical technology in developing countries and the ease and affordability of international travel.

In a recently published article about the rise of medical tourism across the globe, Josef Woodman, author of the medical tourism guidebook Patients Beyond Borders: Everybody's Guide to Affordable, World-Class Medical Tourism estimated that more than 150,000 Americans traveled abroad for health care in 2006. And since its gaining popularity quickly, Woodman expects that number to double in 2007.

To understand why so many people want to travel from their home countries in the USA, Canada, and the UK for medical care, you only need to compare the prices for treatment and also the expecting the same quality of Medicare services with affordable cost and with an option of traveling and relaxing.

The price savings on cross-border medical care can be dramatic. Even more surprising than the price differences is the fact that insurance companies are now collaborating with medical travel agents with the hope of keeping costs their cheapest.

DOT Dr. Elizabeth Nelle. DOT USEC Oscar Palabyab

The need of the hour, therefore, is to create and foster the ideal environment for the development of the industry. Government incentives in the form of tax relief measures, land subsidizing, international accreditation for hospitals, and better insurance coverage for foreign patients will greatly boost the medical tourism potential.

To address these challenges and many more related to Medical Tourism, the Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) along with Avail Corporation Singapore organized the 2nd International Medical Travel Conference (IMTC 2007) on November 19-23 at the Hotel Intercontinental Manila, Philippines.

Participants from 23 Countries at IMTC 2007. IMTC 2007 Show Exhibitors

The Philippines is experiencing a ‘new wave’ of travelers seeking medical treatment abroad. The market is growing and current estimates place the number of foreigners visiting the nation for medical treatment at around 100,000.

With the worldwide earnings from medical tourism expected to reach USD188 Billion by year 2013, the Philippines wants to share a slice of the global market as government is focusing its efforts in promoting the medical and surgical services of the country’s capital abroad. A somewhat late entrant into the race, it faces stiff competition from other Asian countries such as Thailand, India, Singapore, Malaysia and Korea who has already strong holds in the global medical tourism market.

Facility at BHMG. Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center

Philippines Medical Tourism Program is a private-public initiative aimed at attracting foreign clients to the country for medical and health and wellness care on top of leisurely vacation trips to tourist spots within the Philippines.

Facility at Asian Hospital & Med Center Cheering Staff at Your Service

The government recognizes the potential strength of the Philippines in providing health and medical services on par with international standards with highly educated medical specialists while medical centers, are already ISO (international standard organization) compliant.

In terms of human resources, the Philippines also has a comparative advantage as medical specialists are well-trained with most having post graduate training abroad and speak excellent English so there is no communication barrier while the health personnel have been described as being more compassionate and caring.

Today, the Philippines find itself in the company of some of Asia’s best when it comes to Medical Tourism. It stands alongside Thailand, India, Singapore and Malaysia. Having taken great strides towards making a mark in this evolving industry, the Philippines is making a name as a premier health holiday destination in Southeast Asia. It boasts of having 9 DOT accredited hospitals and 5 accredited clinics that aim to deliver quality health care.

Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano revealed that the DOT is pushing to make the country one of the top destinations for Medical Tourism.

“We have some of the best hospitals and stand alone specialty clinics in Southeast Asia. The facilities and services are of top-notch quality and patients and customers can be sure to get the best value for their hard-earned money. Moreover, we have some of the best beaches and spa resorts. Our country is the place where medical travelers and their companions can be cared for with the warm, nurturing and friendly nature of the Filipino,” Durano added.

Today, health has become synonymous to well being and a balanced lifestyle and in the Philippines, given a wealth of medical expertise; world class facilities, wow holiday destinations and also the Filipinos reputed personal care, that has made our health care professionals - a cut above the rest - anywhere in the world said USEC Oscar Palabyab.

With over 250 trade participants from 23 countries, the four day event IMTC 2007 developed medical value travel and served as the catalyst for industry alliances among medical establishments, health benefits companies, insurance travel partners, government agencies and other related enterprises. Show Exhibitors from Singapore, Korea and Jordan also highlighted the IMTC 2007 conference by their exclusive presence.

“Being part of IMTC 2007 opened boundless opportunities for the participants. It is the global platform for everyone involved in medical tourism to address important issues and to strengthen their trade ties,” explained Dir. Elizabeth Nelle, director of the DOT Office of Product Research and Development.

Mr. Vishal Bali, Wockhardt India. Dr. Jason Yap, Singapore Tourism

A special highlight of the event IMTC 2007 was enriching Workshops by the profound speakers like Dr. Jason Yap, Mr. Vishal Bali, Professor Steven Green, Mr. Rudy Rupak, Dr. Fawzi Al Hammouri, Dr. Hernando Delizo, Dr. Premhar Shah, Ms. Alma Rita Jimenez and many others, which assisted participants knowledge base to understand key topics in medical tourism, such as designing the scope of medical travel services, internal and external resources to ensure service delivery, accreditations procedures, developing holistic packages and providing integrated services that cover transportation, interpretation, logistics, hospitality care and post care options. It also served as a venue for medical contact exchanges, cross-country panels, business clinics, as well as sponsorships and exhibitions agreements. Forum sessions covered case studies and best practices in India, Singapore and Philippines, as well as global industry prospects and on the Philippine scenario.

The part of the conference was also medical site visits and guided demonstrations to get to know the some of the best medical and surgical service providers of the Philippines.

The following list is a random selection of the medical and surgical service providers who participated in the IMTC 2007 held at Philippines:

Philippines:
Asian Hospital and Medical Center – www.asianhospital.com
The Medical City – http://www.themedicalcity.com/
World CITI Med – www.worldcitimed.com
St. Lukes Medical Center – http://www.stluke.com.ph/
Capitol Medical Center – http://www.capitolmedical.org/
UST Hospital – http://www.usthospital.com.ph/
St. Frances Cabrini Medical Center
Beverly Hills Medical Group – http://www.beverlyhills.ph/
GAOC – http://www.gaocdental.com/

India
Wockhardt Hospitals – http://www.wockhardthospitals.com/
Apollo Hospitals – http://www.apollohospdelhi.com/

Singapore:
Singapore Medicine – www.singaporemedicine.com
Parkway Group Healthcare Pte Ltd. – http://www.parkwayhealth.com/

Malaysia
Institut Jantung Negara - National Heart Institute – http://www.ijn.com.my/

Korea
Korea Health Industry Development Institute – http://www.khidi.or.kr/
Wooridul Spine Hospital – http://www.wooridul.co.kr/
INHA University Hospital – http://www.inha.com/
Yonsei University Health System
Jaseng Hospital of Oriental Medicine

Jordan
Jordan Hospital – http://www.jordan-hospital.com/
Private Hospitals Association – http://www.pha-jo.com/

UK
The Medical Tourist Company – http://www.medicaltourist.co.uk/

USA
Planet Hospital – http://www.planethospital.com/

Vietnam
FV Hospital – http://www.fvhospital.com/

Further Information:

About Philippines:
The Philippines is the third largest English speaking country in the world. It has a rich history combining Asian, European, and American influences. The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands covering a land area of 115,739 sq. m. (299,764 sq. km.). Main island groups are Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Capital is Manila. Time Zone is GMT + 8 hours. Filipino is that native language which is used nationally as the language of communication among ethnic groups.
DOT Philippines: http://www.tourism.gov.ph/

About Avail Corporation, Singapore:
Avail Corporation is the foremost provider of industry and strategic events throughout the Asia Pacific Region. Ranging from high level government and executive summits to in-depth custom designed training courses; our Events division provides revealing presentations from the most influential speakers in business today and provides unsurpassed opportunities to network with senior decision makers.
Avail Corporation: http://www.availcorp.com/

About IMTC:
IMTC (International Medical Travel Conference) is an annual global medical travel event platform to spearhead the development of medical value travel and industry alliance between global healthcare service providers, health benefits and insurance, travel & hospitality partners, government & policy-makers, corporations and financiers.
IMTC: http://www.medicaltravelconference.com/

Medical Tourism in the Philippines

Experiencing the Philippines Medical Tourism

The growing worldwide trend of medical tourism is opening doors for countries like the Philippines to compete globally in a market that exceeds trillions of dollars a year.

7,107 islands enriched with natural wonders – the bluest of seas, the softest white sand, the most glorious sunset and the warmest of smiles. The Philippines, truly a marvelous place to explore… Today, the Philippines is offering its healthcare services to the world… state of the art diagnostic and medical equipment… competent medical practitioners…and excellent medical services at a fractional of the cost in other countries.

The Philippines has been growing as a tourist destination of choice for health and vacation because of world class physicians, modern technology, and uniquely Filipino brand of caring and compassion at great values for money at a fraction of the cost in developed countries. Philippines is a home to some of the best hospitals and stand alone Specialty clinics in the world, offering world-class expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and the distinct warmth of the Filipino hospitality. Moreover Philippines have some of the world's best spa retreat resorts and tour destinations in this part of the earth. This is where the medical traveler and accompanying persons can be pampered with rejuvenating treatments delivered with the natural warmth and nurturing nature of Filipinos.

Envisioned as a vital catalyst to fuel the country's economy in the near future, the Arroyo Administration has included Medical Tourism in its Philippine Medium Term Development Plan. In 2004, the Philippine Medical Tourism Program was launched through Executive Order 372 as a public-private sector initiative.

The DOT conceptualized the Philippine Medical Tourism Program in accordance with its mandate to promote and develop tourism as a major socioeconomic activity to generate foreign exchange and employment.

Other agencies likewise supported the initiative among them, the Board of Investments, which included medical tourism in the 2007 Investment Priority Plan, the Development Bank of the Philippines through its Health and Wellness Enhancement Access Loan Program and the Philippine Export Zone Authority through the establishment of medical tourism zones.

This development is expected to boost the country’s tourism earnings while burnishing the Filipino medic’s reputation.

Philippines is a natural world class destination for medical travel with amazing beaches, tropical weather, historical landmarks, golf courses and hospitality among many other enticements that tourists find attractive. Further to that the low cost medical procedures, accommodations, food and transportation in Philippines make it a very attractive destination.

With some of the best hospitals and stand alone specialty clinics in the south east Asian Region, the Philippines offers world-class healthcare expertise and state of the art medical facilities at rates more reasonable and comparatively lower than what can be had in most industrialized countries and with no waiting line for much needed treatments to speak of. Some of the prominent hospitals like St. Luke's Medical Center, Asian Hospital & Medical Center, Medical City, World Citi Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, Capitol Medical Center, the University of Santo Tomas Hospital and St. Frances Cabrini Medical Center are offering full range of healthcare services from health screening, cosmetic treatments and health management to cardiac treatments, bariatric surgery and other highly specialized procedures.

The most established International and DOT-accredited Patient Facilities offering complex procedures or simple medical acre in the Philippines are following:

Asian Hospital and Medical Center – http://www.asianhospital.com/
The Medical City – http://www.themedicalcity.com/
World CITI Medical Center – http://www.worldcitimed.com/
St. Lukes Medical Center – http://www.stluke.com.ph/
Capitol Medical Center – http://www.capitolmedical.org/
UST Hospital – http://www.usthospital.com.ph/
St. Frances Cabrini Medical Center
Beverly Hills Medical Group – http://www.beverlyhills.ph/
GAOC – http://www.gaocdental.com/

The Philippines has several medical tour packages which include Tee-Off to Wellness, beauty Holidays, Vision Plus and Smile Holidays. These are packaged with special tours and activities that will surely make your stay in the Philippines extra special.

Related Institutions:
Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) – http://www.wowphilippines.com.ph/
Philippines Medical Tourism Association
Spa Association of the Philippines

Korea New Destination of Global Healthcare

Korea Healthcare can be described as Excellence of Services, Affordable Prices and Easy Accessibility.

Healthcare in Korea provides world class healthcare services, including Health Screening, Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery, Dental Care, Ophthalmology, Infertility Treatment, Otorhinolaryngology, Korean Traditional Medicine, with passion for patient care and compassion... Korean physicians, specialists and surgeons are known to be among the best in the world of medicine. The highly advanced healthcare facilities in Korea have cutting-edge medical technology.

South Korea has made its first moves to join Asia's lucrative health tourism business by setting up an agency in collaboration with the Ministry of Health & Welfare, Korea Health Industry Development Institute and Korea Tourism Organization to attract foreign patients, called the Council for Korea Medicine Overseas Promotion with almost 34 hospitals to achieve this.

The organization, the Council for Korea Medicine Overseas Promotion, will market tourist packages that include treatment at local hospitals. The agency will be jointly financed by the government and hospitals taking part in the project.The government has set aside 570 million won ($601,000) for 2007, with each member hospital to pay 15 million won in fees.

Korea Medicine Overseas Promotion Delegation at 2nd International Medical Travel Conference, Manila. Philippines

Health tourism is big business in other Asian countries such as India, Philippines. Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. "We need to enhance the overseas awareness of South Korea's medical service which is low-priced but of high quality," said Park Jong-Eok, a ministry official in charge of the project. The council will act as an integrated marketing network for individual hospitals.

Korean Hospitality in Healthcare

Health Screening
Health Screening Services are provided at a reasonable price, with experience, expertise and a variety of choices.
- Basic Comprehensive Health Screening: physical measurement, cardiopulmonary function test, gynecologic test, etc.
- Intermediate Comprehensive Health Screening: Basic Screening + ultrasound, stress echocardiography, bone density test, etc.
- Advanced Comprehensive Health Screening: Intermediate Screening + MRI, PET-CT, etc. - Extensive Health Screening Program for lung cancer, heart diseases, spine, etc.

Precise diagnoses are guaranteed by excellent medical specialists and the cutting-edge medical equipment, such as DDR, PACS, TLAS, PET-CT, CT, MRI, and RT. One stop follow up care is provided with expedition in case that any abnormal symptom is discovered.

Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgery in Korea is very well known for abundant experience and expertise. We provide world class plastic surgery services, including replantation using microsurgery, flap operation, burn care, and craniofacial surgery on palatine cheilognathus and congenital malformation of face. Especially, Korea has the highest reputation of cosmetic surgery services, such as ophthalmoplasty, rhinoplasty, and rhytidoplasty in Asia, which attracts many patients from other Asian countries including Japan and China. We always make every endeavor to improve the quality of services and to develop new techniques through various societies for research of plastic surgery.

Dental Care
Dental hospitals and clinics in Korea provide highly qualified dental care services, including implant, prosthesis, whitening, and orthodontics with distinguished dentists, techniques and dental equipment. Each provider has enthusiasm passion for the high quality of services in accordance with each patient's needs and provides a variety of services from basic dental cares to complicated procedures.
- Prevention of swelling after painless treatments and procedures.
- Trustworthy diagnosis and cure with digital CT and 3-D CT X-ray.

Ophthalmology
Korean ophthalmology, specialized clinics, university hospital, and other ophthalmologic research centers operate several special clinics of the anterior segment retina, glaucoma, strabismus, and ophthalmoplasty for specialized treatment and each of the specialized clinics is systematically connected to provide a comprehensive and organized treatment system. Korean ophthalmology has made great advancements in relatively underdeveloped areas such as angle-closure glaucoma, thus contributing to elevating Korea’s status in an international medical society. .The field of vision correction for refractive error (myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia) developed well. Moreover, it has an important role in ophthalmology by publishing excellent papers for keratoplasty and intraocular lens implantation. With specialists who have many clinical experiences, proved high-tech medical equipments and technologies, precise diagnosis, post-operation treatment, post-operation patient management programs, and great facilities and environment comparable to hotel services, Korean ophthalmology provides high-quality medical service.

- Cataract: senile cataract, juvenile cataract, cataract presbyopia correction
- Retina/uvea: diabetic retinopathy, vitreous hemorrhage, uveitis, macular degeneration, muscae volitantes, high myopia
- Glaucoma: primary open-angle glaucoma, normal tension glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, secondary glaucoma
- Vision correction: LASIC, LASAC, Wave Front, Laser presbyopia correction, ICL/Altisan lens intraocular lens implantation, CLE
- Strabismus and pediatric ophthalmology: strabismus, amblyopia, eyelashes poking an eye
- Cornea/external eye: keratoconjunctivitis, keratoplasty, pterygium, scheroma
- Ophthalmoplasty: lacrimal passage intubation, double eyelid formation, ptosis, blepharoptosis, Entropion

Korean traditional medicine
The Korean traditional medicine has built its reputation throughout Korean history on the uniqueness of its holistic approach. The whole world can benefit from its comprehensive and integrated care for wellness as well as treatment for future intractable disease. Medical Centers specialized in oriental medicine now provide a new model of integrated services between western and eastern medicine with competent caregivers and cutting-edge medical equipment. In addition, the joint research for globalizing Korean traditional medicine is ongoing with foreign research centers. A WHO Collaboration Center for researching oriental medicine was established in 1988, Korea.

Otorhinolaryngology
Otorhinolaryngology in Korea provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for problems of ear, nose, throat and voice associated with professional use. Korean board-certified otorhinolaryngologists, also called ENT specialists, are highly qualified, skilled in treating or managing ENT disease. Our specialties include microsurgery of ear, cochlear implantation, hearing loss, balance disorder, hearing aid and hearing rehabilitation, sinus disease, endoscopic sinus surgery, rhinoplasty, and reconstructive surgery. Voice and speech disorders and laryngeal disorders are treated by leading edge special care service, and are commonly managed by special expertises. We are committed to providing state-of-the-art medical service to our patients and to improve overall patient’s health. Specialized excellent service is devoted to the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation in fields of otorhinolaryngology, speech pathology, and vocal pedagogy.

Infertility Treatment
Since test tube baby was born for the first time at 1985 in Korea, Korean infertility treatment techniques have been rapidly developed. To date, approximately 70 domestic infertility centers, including university hospital and specialized clinic, systematically connected to provide a comprehensive and organized treatment system for male infertility as well as female infertility, In particular, Korean infertility treatment techniques have great outstanding achievements in the field of test tube baby (IVF; In vitro fertilization), ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) for treating azoospermia, and cryopreservation of sperm and eggs. These clinical experiences and technical excellence have been previously recognized by all over the world through presentation in the international society meetings, such as ASRM, ESHRE, and IFFS. Recently, the development of in vitro maturation (IVM)-IVF) and oocyte cryopreservation techniques have contributed to upgrading our infertility treatment levels to a leading status. With specialists who majored reproductive endocrinolgy, high-tech medical equipments and technologies, appropriate treatment according to the causes of infertility through scientific evaluation, Korean infertility centers provides high-quality medical service.

- Test tube baby (IVF): treating tubal obstruction, endometriosis, and unexplained infertility etc.
- ICSI-IVF: treating male infertility such as oligospermia, azoospermia, and athenozoospermia
- Intrauteirne insemination (IUI): treating ouvulatory dysfunction, male subinfertility
- Cryoperservartion: freezing sperm, oocytes, and sparing embryos after IVF
- Assisted hatching: increases implantation potential of embryos
- Tubal reversal surgery by mciroscppe and laparoscope
- Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD): an evolving technique that provides a practical alternative to prenatal diagnosis and termination of pregnancy for couples who are at substantial risk of transmitting a serious genetic disorder to their offspring.

Other Major Specialties
World-acclaimed organ transplants have been successfully carried out in Korea. Korean physicians have an international reputation for the following:

- Living-related liver transplant ('94)
- Lung transplant ('96)
- Pancreatic islet cell transplant ('99)
- The world's first liver transplant from dual donors ('00)
- Adult-child heart transplant from an adult donor to a 9-year-old patient, overcoming problems related to age and weight differences ('01)
- The world's first live transplants on two recipients with each receiving part of the other's liver from two family donors ('03)
- Kidney transplant on a 16-month-old infant ('04)
- An unprecedented record for liver transplantation worldwide has a 95% success rate that is higher by 10~15% than those of many prestigious hospitals in the world. ('04)
- Simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplants from living donors ('06)

Coronary artery angioplasty using a drug-eluting metal stent for ischemic heart disease has been performed with an astonishing 5% restenosis rate in Korea. Cancer Treatments are carried out by highly skilled medical professional teams dedicated solely to treating and curing cancer. "Higher volumes, better outcomes" is true in these healthcare services. The Korean cure rates for stomach cancer, liver cancer and uterine cervix cancer are notable, since they are common among various cancers in Korea. Nuclear medicine and radiotherapy techniques using superb equipment such as the proton accelerator, thermotherapy, and the cyber knife are among the best in the world.

For the Complete List of Hospitals in the Council for Korea Medicine Overseas promotion, please check the following link:

http://www.koreahealthtour.co.kr/medical/medicalList.do?lgid=en

Related Organizations:
Council for Korea Medicine Overseas Promotion (CKMP)

- http://www.koreahealthtour.co.kr/
Ministry of Health & Welfare of Korea (MOHW)

- http://www.mohw.go.kr/
Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI)

– http://www.khidi.or.kr/
Korea Tourism Organization (KTO)

– http://www.tour2korea.com/

An Interview with Mr. Veng Sereyvuth , Minister of Culture and Fine Arts

Keeping an eye on Culture

Veng Sereyvuth, Cambodia's new Minister of Culture and Fine Arts, has been active in Cambodian public affairs since the late 1980s when he became a senior official in Funcinpec. Infectiously youthful and positive, he appears completely passionate about Khmer culture, both ancient and new. He served 11 years as Minister of Tourism from 1993-2004 and has been a member of parliament for nearly 15 years. His youth was spent in the turmoil of the 60s and 70s. He explained: "I was born on 31 May 1960 in Prey Veng where I experienced a lot of US bombing. My village in Prey Veng was 'liberated' by the Khmer Rouge in 1970, and in 1971 I escaped to Phnom Penh. From 1971 to 1975 I was a cyclo-driver - as well as selling noodles." After the fall of Phnom Penh, he was sent back to Prey Veng for one year and then on to Battambang. "I was just waiting to die during this time. I lived under the Vietnamese for one year as a smuggler - fishing nets and hooks, sarongs etc." He finally escaped across the Thai border in 1980. His family resettled in New Zealand where he received a degree in 1987 from Victoria University in Wellington. In 2002, he studied economic reform at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard. Sereyvuth spoke to reporter Dan Poynton about his philosophy of simplification and preserving Cambodia's arts and culture.

Tell us about your experience as Minister of Tourism and head of the National Tourism Authority.
I was 11 years as minister. In 1993 there were only 120,000 tourists per year in Cambodia. Now we have two million, which isn't too bad! We have an average growth rate of 20 percent plus, and I foresee that this growth rate will continue. The prime minister had a very clear vision at that time: we adopted an open sky policy, visa on arrival, and we gave every Cambodian who was born here or had parents who were born here a permanent life visa. We got the ball rolling in the
worldwide promotion of the country. We embarked on massive tourism investment and construction of infrastructure such as airports and roads.

Is being Minister of Culture and Fine Arts your "dream job"?
For a long time I have had a habit of loving my work. I just get along, and I have a burning desire to get the job done effectively. I am very proud that the prime minister has entrusted me to work in this ministry. We Khmers do not like to openly express our ambitions, and it is not for me to say which area I should be working in. That is for those above me to decide.

What does "culture" mean to you?
I see culture as instilling spirit in people. Through this spirit people become aware of their cultural codes, ways of proper behavior, and good and bad. Culture is not just dance shows, it's education. It teaches you about life, society and ways of living. Culture is also
identity. For example in a crowd you should be able to immediately see that a person is Khmer. I am not conservative but I would like to see a return to more traditional dress, especially at official functions. We are in a mess in terms of resources in Cambodia. A challenge working in this ministry is to learn how to use those resources for the benefit of society. The richness of Khmer culture can mobilize the country for years to come. We will try to get people to participate in training programs - from schools upwards.

Does the CPP give enough important cabinet positions to FUNCINPEC members?
This is a very important job. What's more important than culture for a society? After all we are here for a short time and human life is all about culture, custom, education, humanity and these things. Life needs more than material things. Can you imagine human life without culture? But the society that Pol Pot tried to destroy came rushing back. The sharing of political positions is above me, and not for me to comment on.

Does the government have the will to put enough money into culture and the arts?
The government is getting richer every year and they're already pumping more money into different departments. They've already increased their budget for cultural activities but we can certainly ask for more. The government is fully aware of the value of the arts.

How are the arts doing in Cambodia today?
For example just look at how many more Cambodian movies are now being produced, even compared with just a few years ago. Cambodians are now watching their own movies. If sometimes they get a bit sexy, well that's only a detail that can be addressed, but the main thing is that movies are being made.

How is globalization affecting Khmer arts and culture?
You cannot try to prevent globalization in the 21st century, because it brings economic power with it. Pol Pot threw everything away in a short period, but Angkor civilization had developed to a great extent and today it has come back vibrantly and quickly. It shows our culture is rich and very, very strong. To conserve our culture and counter globalization we are going to have to find out how to train people, and teach the cultural values of this society in all areas.

Does Cambodia run risk of being "culturally swamped" by its larger neighbors?
In fact the countries around us are also being swamped by our culture. Angkor civilization is in the blood. We're talking about "those dark Khmers" - you see their expression in the faces of Bayon. They're very peaceful and self-confident. It is a special Khmer character formed 2000 years ago with the coming of Indian influences. This produced the real Khmer culture. Our civilization is going to be here forever - I'm not that panicked about the impact of other cultures.

Can you keep alive the Royal University of Fine Arts, Dey Krahorm and the Bassac Theatre ?
The government has put in a lot of effort to preserve these living arts but it's never enough. I'm very positive that'll we get more from the government to undertake different programs. I know the government's economic power is getting stronger and the trickle-down effect will benefit the arts.

Can Cambodia provide better protection for the Angkor antiquities?
We have to transform the people into being their own guards. They must see that whatever is around their village or district is a treasure, and they can turn this treasure into economic prosperity.

How do you cope with the pressures of your work?
Keep it humble and simple. My father taught me to be honest and to preserve your dignity and honor at all costs. If you have to eat noodles on the street tomorrow so be it. Nothing is permanent. My job is busy, but at the same time it's similar to any other job. I believe in the simple equation. There is a solution to every issue. I tend to simplify this whole business of government. You should be able to laugh when you work. It's not a matter of life and death. You will then find plenty of time to do your job. Worry is a terrible disease.
Do not worry, worry gives you nothing.

Go back to the faces of Bayon - serene, above everything else.

Singapore Asias Leading Medical Hub

Medical Travel to Singapore

When it comes to seeking the best medical treatment, patients today are no longer to the services offered in their countries. An increasingly global mindset and the proliferation of the internet are driving healthcare seekers to be more discerning about the treatments they can get, while the lower costs of air travel in recent years have also made it easier to travel overseas for healthcare.

Little wonder than that Singapore is a choice destination for affordable and excellent healthcare for international patients. As Asia’s leading medical hub, more and more international patients are drawn to her shores for internationally-accredited world-class healthcare with the assurance of competitive pricing, shorter waiting periods and wider treatment options ranging from basic to complex surgery procedures.

Voted the “Best Medical/Wellness Tourism Destination” by TravelWeekly (Asia) Industry Awards 2007 in June and the second most desired destination for medical care and treatment after the United States by a Reader’s Digest Asian Health Survey across seven Asian cities in 2007.

Last year, over 410,000 international patients from 60 countries traveled to Singapore for its excellent, safe and trustworthy healthcare. Accompanying them on their visits were a further 89,000 persons. Another 56,000 people received healthcare incidentally on visits for other purposes. In total, some 555,000 international visitors to Singapore in 2006 were involved in some aspect of medical travel.

Dr Jason Yap, Director (Healthcare Services), Singapore Tourism Board, said, “Singapore offers many diagnostic and treatment choices to international patients, ranging from but not limited to cancer treatment, heart surgery, orthopedics, neurosurgery, ophthalmology and cosmetic surgery. Singapore is one of the few medical travel destinations that truly offer peace of mind when health really matters.”

Singapore Medicine
Singapore Medicine is a multi-agency government-industry partnership to develop and promote Singapore as a medical hub. In 2000, the World Health Organization ranked Singapore as having the best healthcare system in Asia, with excellent healthcare outcomes for her people while maintaining affordability. With her healthcare facilities accounting for one-third of all Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited facilities in Asia, Singapore offers internationally trained and respected healthcare professionals, advanced technology and the latest and safest drugs, backed by a sound research foundation, for better diagnostics and outcomes. International patient liaison services, a cosmopolitan culture, convenient access and transport, and a clean and safe environment provide peace of mind to healthcare visitors and their families in their time of need. For more information, visit http://www.singaporemedicine.com/

Nine hospitals and Two medical centers in Singapore have attained Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, accounting for one-third of all JCI-accredited medical facilities in the whole of Asia including Turkey. Seven hospitals in Singapore are certified by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).

Singapore promotes an environment that sets and enforces standards to safeguard public health and ensure efficiency, yet allowing for innovation in medical technologies. Administered by highly trained and experienced professionals, this healthcare system allows patients faster access to safe new treatments and healthcare products.

Healthcare Providers

National Healthcare Group (NHG)
http://www.nhg.com.sg/

Alexandra Hospital (AH)
http://www.alexhosp.com.sg/

Institute of Mental Health (IMH)
http://www.imh.com.sg/

John Hopkins Singapore International Medical Centre
http://www.imh.jhmi.edu/

National University Hospital (NUH)
http://www.nuh.com.sg/

Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH)
http://www.ttsh.com.sg/

Parkway Group Healthcare
http://www.parkwayhealth.com/

Parkway Medical Referral Centre
http://www.ipac,sg/

East Shore Hospital
http://www.eastshore.com.sg/

Gleneagles Hospitals / Medical Centre
http://www.gleneagles.com.sg/

Mount Elizabeth Hospital / Medical Centre
http://www.mountelizabeth.com.sg/

Singapore Health Services
http://www.singhealth.com.sg/

Changi General Hospital (CGH)
http://www.cgh.com.sg/

KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH)
http://www.kkh.com.sg/

National Cancer Centre (NCC)
http://www.ncc.com.sg/

National Heart Centre Singapore (NHC)
http://www.nhc.com.sg/

National Neuroscience Institute (NNI)
http://www.nni.com.sg/

Singapore General Hospital (SGH)
http://www.sgh.com.sg/

Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)
http://www.snec.com.sg/

Hospitals / Medial Centers

Camden Medical Centre
http://www.camden.com.sg/

Raffles Hospital
http://www.raffleshospital.com/

Thomson Medical Centre
http://www.thomsonmedical.com/

Novena Medical Center
http://www.novenamedicalcenter.com/

Uniquely Singapore
http://www.visitsingapore.com/

Blessed with a strategic location and linked by more than 80 airlines serving 180 cities in 57 countries, the city is easily accessible to the rest of the world and is also a leading knowledge hub for the international business and financial industries.

Rare river dolphins to aid Cambodia’s poor

PHNOM PENH - – The last 80 or so river dolphins in the Mekong River are at the heart of a development programme to tackle poverty and attract tens of thousands of visitors to two of the poorest provinces of Cambodia.

The Mekong River Discovery Trail Project will draw visitors to view the endangered fresh water dolphin that lives in deepwater pools in a 190-km stretch of the Mekong River, mostly between the quiet provincial capitals of Kratie and Stung Treng.

The main objective of the Discovery Trail is poverty alleviation. About 50 percent of all households in Stung Treng and 30 percent of those in Kratie live on less than US$1 a day.

"The Mekong River Discovery Trail Project aims to bring about sustainable pro-poor tourism that helps develop Northeast Cambodia," says Dr Harsh Varma, director of development assistance department of the World Tourism Organisation.

While Cambodia's tourism arrival statistics show growth in excess of 20 percent a year, it is not equitably distributed, said Anne-Maria Makela, senior tourism advisor for SNV Netherlands Development Organisation.

"Too much of it goes to Angkor and Siem Reap. We want to bring more communities into the tourism picture, either as employees or as suppliers to the tourism industry."

In addition to 80,000 domestic tourists, the Cambodian government says that about 10,800 international visitors, mostly backpackers, visited Kratie in 2006, 35 percent up on the previous year.

It estimates that 4,000 visited Stung Treng, an increase of 20 percent. Nearly all stayed in guest houses for less than US$5 a night and took motos, bicycles, motorbikes and longtail boats to see the dolphins, which must break surface every few minutes for air.

By seeking out the dolphins, backpackers have indicated the potential to the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism, which is now mobilising money and expertise from SNV and UNWTO.

A study conducted jointly by SNV and the International Finance Corporation found that only 12 percent of the US$3.12 million dollars spent by tourists in Kratie in 2006 was returned to people from a poor or near poor background. However, SNV says that when tourism spreads its roots this figure is likely to expand to around 30 percent.

The survey showed that 80 percent of people working in the accommodation and restaurants in Kratie came from very poor families.

As part of the project to attract tourists to the Mekong, villagers near the pools will be encouraged to diversify economic activity away from fishing. Local authorities believe fishing is depleting the dolphins' food supply. Fishermen will be encouraged to take visitors to see the dolphins and sell food and drinks instead.

"No dolphins means no tourism. No tourism means no development," says Dr Thong Khon, Cambodia's Minister of Tourism.

"Our challenge is to secure the long-term viable future of local communities and the river dolphin. Our priority is to build community awareness as well as hotels, guest houses and a boat jetty in Kratie to encourage more visitors."

Phase I of the project, the Tourism Development Master Plan for Kratie town, was completed in September 2007. Phase II, the design and development of the Mekong River Discovery Trail, community based tourism and training, begins this month.

The project will only directly help selected villages along the route. However, the UNWTO believes "backward linkages" such as tourism demand for agricultural produce will indirectly help hundreds more.

The UNWTO and its partners admit they will need to carry out a lot of public awareness and training programmes, as well as build jetties and seek investors for hotels.

Access and infrastructure in Kratie and Stung Treng are problematic. There is no international standard hotel. There is no local airport. The nearest is in Phnom Penh, a five-hour road trip or a six-hour congested public boat trip away.

Nevertheless, budget travellers and a few tour groups have already 'discovered' Kratie, which still has some architecture and ambience from the French colonial period.

Visitors to Kratie and Stung Treng praise the simple pleasures of travelling in country lanes near the river. There are enjoyable chance encounters with monks, school children and villagers in riverside huts selling snacks and toddy palm drinks.

Apart from seeing the dolphins, gathering by the Mekong to watch the sun go down across the river is part of Kratie's simple appeal.

The few tour groups that do visit Kratie tend to spend only an hour or so viewing the dolphins, a nearby temple and a rubber plantation. The groups then continue on to the mountains and hilltribe attractions of Rattanakiri province before returning to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, where the Angkor ruins are.

"Kratie has potential," says Luzi Matzig, Group CEO of Bangkok-based tour operator Asian Trails. "But there needs to be a lot more investment in three-star accommodation, restaurants and riverine attractions before it becomes a significant destination.

"What I do like about the place is the charm and friendliness of the people and the feeling that you're part of an authentic Khmer experience."
Source: travelmole

Climate change may wipe some Indonesian islands off map

JAKARTA (Reuters) - Many of Indonesia's islands may be swallowed up by the sea if world leaders fail to find a way to halt rising sea levels at this week's climate change conference on the resort island of Bali.

Doomsters take this dire warning by Indonesian scientists a step further and predict that by 2035, the Indonesian capital's airport will be flooded by sea water and rendered useless; and by 2080, the tide will be lapping at the steps of Jakarta's imposing Dutch-era Presidential palace which sits 10 km inland (about 6 miles).

The Bali conference is aimed at finding a successor to the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012, on cutting climate warming carbon emissions. With over 17,000 islands, many at risk of being washed away, Indonesians are anxious to see an agreement reached and quickly implemented that will keep rising seas at bay.

Just last week, tides burst through sea walls, cutting a key road to Jakarta's international airport until officials were able to reinforce coastal barricades.

"Island states are very vulnerable to sea level rise and very vulnerable to storms. Indonesia ... is particularly vulnerable," Nicholas Stern, author of an acclaimed report on climate change, said on a visit to Jakarta earlier this year.

Even large islands are at risk as global warming might shrink their land mass, forcing coastal communities out of their homes and depriving millions of a livelihood.

The island worst hit would be Java, which accounts for more than half of Indonesia's 226 million people. Here rising sea levels would swamp three of the island's biggest cities near the coast -- Jakarta, Surabaya and Semarang -- destroying industrial plants and infrastructure.

"Tens of millions of people would have to move out of their homes. There is no way this will happen without conflict," Environment Minister Rachmat Witoelar said recently.

"The cost would be very high. Imagine, it's not just about building better infrastructure, but we'd have to relocate people and change the way people live," added Witoelar, who has said that Indonesia could lose 2,000 of its islands by 2030 if sea levels continue to rise.

CRUNCH TIME AT BALI
Environmentalists say this week's climate change meeting in Bali will be crunch time for threatened coastlines and islands as delegates from nearly 190 countries meet to hammer out a new treaty on global warming.

Several small island nations including Singapore, Fiji, Kiribati, Tuvalu and Caribbean countries have raised the alarm over rising sea levels which could wipe them off the map.

The Maldives, a cluster of 1,200 islands renowned for its luxury resorts, has asked the international community to address climate change so it does not sink into a watery grave.

According to a U.N. climate report, temperatures are likely to rise by between 1.1 and 6.4 degrees Celsius (2.0 and 11.5 degrees Fahrenheit) and sea levels by between 18 cm and 59 cm (seven and 23 inches) this century.

Under current greenhouse gas emission levels, Indonesia could lose about 400,000 sq km of land mass by 2080, including about 10 percent of Papua, and 5 percent of both Java and Sumatra on the northern coastlines, Armi Susandi, a meteorologist at the Bandung Institute of Technology, told Reuters.

Indonesia, the world's fourth-most populous country, has faced intense pressure over agricultural land for decades.

Susandi, who has researched the impact of climate change on Indonesia, estimated sea levels would rise by an average of 0.5 cm a year until 2080, while the submersion rate in Jakarta, which lies just above sea level, would be higher at 0.87 cm a year.

A study by the UK-based International Institute for Economy and Development (IIED) said at least 8 out of 92 of the outermost small islands that make up the country's borders are vulnerable.

TOO MANY ISLANDS TO COUNT
Less than half of Indonesia's islands are inhabited and many are not even named. Now, the authorities are hastily counting the coral-fringed islands that span a distance of 5,000 km, the equivalent of going from Ireland to Iran, before it is too late.

Disappearing islands and coastlines would not only change the Indonesian map, but could also restrict access to mineral resources situated in the most vulnerable spots, Susandi said.

He estimates that land loss alone would cost Indonesia 5 percent of its GDP without taking into account the loss of property and livelihood as millions migrate from low-lying coastlines to cities and towns on higher ground.

There are 42 million people in Indonesia living in areas less than 10 meters above the average sea level, who could be acutely affected by rising sea levels, the IIED study showed.

A separate study by the United Nations Environment Programme in 1992 showed in two districts in Java alone, rising waters could deprive more than 81,000 farmers of their rice fields or prawn and fish ponds, while 43,000 farm laborers would lose their job.

One solution is to cover Indonesia's fragile beaches with mangroves, the first line of defense against sea level rise, which can break big waves and hold back soil and silt that damage coral reefs.

A more expensive alternative is to erect multiple concrete walls on the coastlines, as the United States has done to break the tropical storms that hit its coast, Susandi said.

Some areas, including the northern shores of Jakarta, are already fitted with concrete sea barriers, but they are often damaged or too low to block rising waters and big waves such as the ones that hit Jakarta in November.

"It will be like permanent flooding," Susandi said. "By 2050, about 24 percent of Jakarta will disappear," possibly even forcing the capital to move to Bandung, a hill city 180 km east of Jakarta.

Source: green.yahoo.com

What is Medical Tourism

+ Medical :) Tourism

What exactly is medical tourism?

Medical tourism is the practice of traveling to another country in order to receive medical attention, be it heart surgery, breast implants, a hip replacement, or dental work. Depending on the location and procedure, a medical vacation can cost 50%, 30%, or even 10% of what you would pay at home.

Even when you factor in air fare, hotels, travel insurance, car rentals, shopping, and dining, many medical vacations are substantially more affordable than domestic health care is. For example, a heart valve operation that might require $100,000 in the States could cost well under $25,000 in a country like India or Philippines where lower labor costs help drive down the price considerably. The same is true in popular medical tourism destinations like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Korea.

Medical Tourism For Life-Saving Procedures
Ten years ago, medical tourism usually referred to cosmetic, plastic, or elective surgery, but increasingly, patients are receiving life-saving medical operations such as heart surgery. Hip replacements, fertility work, and cancer treatments have also become quite popular in recent years. In fact, some medical and dental destinations offer procedures that are unavailable in certain Western countries.

Medical Tourism's Growing Popularity
Thanks to Internet technology, more affordable international travel, and major advances in medical science, medical tourism is becoming less of a novelty and more of a global trend. But in truth, medical tourism has existed for millennia. The concept of medical tourism is almost as old as medicine itself.

What Are the Benefits and Advantages of Medical Tourism?
You might be wondering why anyone would travel to a foreign country in order to receive medical care? There are actually many reasons for medical tourism's increasing popularity. ]

1. Medical Vacations Can Be Affordable
For many procedures, it's often more expensive to receive treatment at home than it is to purchase a plane ticket, book a hotel, and pay for all medical expenses out of pocket in a foreign country. This is especially true in popular medical tourism destinations in Asia

2. Medical Tourism Provides You with Options
Some countries heavily regulate (or even ban) certain elective procedures or complicated surgeries. In other cases, treatments are so prohibitively expensive that they are impossible to afford in your home country.

With medical tourism, you can travel to parts of the world where hospitals specialize in the aforementioned procedures. And you won't necessarily have to break the bank either. Equally important, wait times tend to be considerably less if you plan your medical vacation accordingly.
Because popular medical destinations actively recruit patients from abroad, they do everything they can to eliminate wait times, provide patients with options, and ensure optimal care.

3. Medical Vacations Are Fun
For many people, a medical vacation is exactly that... a medical "vacation."
Imagine recuperating after surgery on a white sand beach while sipping island drinks and receiving full-body massages. Think about all the exotic foods, tourist attractions, and shopping you could enjoy. The fact of the matter is, most of us need medical treatment from time to time, and most of us plan vacations every year or so. Why not combine the two into an all-out medical vacation that provides you with everything you need, want, and desire?

4. Conclusion
Health care costs are constantly on the rise in countless Western countries. In the US alone, it is already a multi-billion dollar industry that shows no sign of stopping (worldwide it is over $3 trillion US). But why pay exorbitant prices at home when you can travel abroad and receive the same treatment (if not better) from a fully certified medical facility for a fraction of the price? Until countries like the US, Japan, and France implement aggressive strategies to lower prices and reduce waiting times, it is likely that the global medical tourism industry will continue to flourish.

The Gateway to Quality Medical Care in Asia
India + korea + Malaysia + Philippines + Singapore +Thailand

Indonesians to bankroll Cambodia’s new national airline

PHNOM PENH - Cambodia is to launch a new national airline, giving it a flag carrier for the first time since Royal Air Cambodge folded in 2001.

AFP reports that Cambodia's government will partner with two private Indonesian firms, who will provide all the investment and absorb any losses.

Deputy Prime Minister Sok An said at a signing ceremony, "It's a great day ... a day for which we have waited a very long time."

The government hopes to start flights with the as yet unnamed airline within six months to take advantage of the booming tourism sector. It will have a 51 percent stake in the venture, Sok An said.

The two firms, Rajawali Group and Ancora International, will get 70 percent of the carrier's eventual profits, the official said.

Earlier this year, the Rajawali Group - a conglomerate owned by Indonesian businessman Peter Sondakh, was reported to be considering purchasing shares in the national airline Garuda Indonesia.

"A reliable and dependable flag carrier that is also the pride of the country is the key to strong and sustainable economic growth," said Sondakh.

Cambodia saw 1.7 million visitors in 2006 with the country set to surpass that total this year, according to tourism officials.

New domestic air routes would open up Cambodia's more remote locations and encourage travellers to seek sights beyond the famed Angkor temples in northwest Cambodia, its most popular tourist draw, tourism officials said.

Royal Air Cambodge, folded in 2001 after running up huge losses.
Source: travelmole

Vietnam offers latest Cosmetic Surgery Technology

The medical tourism industry has really taken off in Vietnam thanks to the opening of additional specialized clinics and the latest technologies, it has been reported.

According to the Thanh Nien News, there are now 53 licensed cosmetic surgery clinics in Ho Chi Minh City alone, 45 of which are specialised clinics while the remainders are hospitals providing cosmetic surgery services.

Dr Tran Thi Anh Tu, a cosmetic surgeon in the country's largest city, revealed: "Vietnamese plastic surgeons at the moment are able to carry out most types of plastic surgery offered elsewhere in the world, like nose jobs, scar removal, breast implants, or liposuction."

According to Dr Tu, private clinics are keen to keep up with technical advances, such as pixel laser skin tightening which is available in the city.

Earlier this year, Vietnam celebrated the opening of its very first medical tourism resort, which operates in the southern seaside town of Vung Tau.

The resort, Medicoast, offers full travel packages that combine professional healthcare services and spa therapies with recreational and travel tours.

Philippines Hosts 2nd International Medical Travel Conference

The country’s top medical and wellness facilities and resort destinations take center stage as the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced that it is organizing the 2nd International Medical Conference (IMTC 2007). The event will be held on November 19-23 at the Hotel Intercontinental Manila in Makati City.

The global event, jointly organized by the PDOT with Avail Corporation, aims to raise the profile of the Philippines as a primary destination for medical tourists. It is a key venue for major players in the medical travel industry to discuss and address core issues and is expected to draw more than 250 senior decision makers of the industry. The IMTC is also the medical travel industry’s one-stop event platform to meet healthcare, travel, hospitality, government, medical ancillary services and buyers of medical.

According to Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, “I am calling on local stakeholders in the medical tourism industry, such as hospitals, wellness resorts, and healthcare financing services, tour operators and transportation companies to participate in this event and take advantage of the opportunity to meet and network with their counterparts around the world.”

The four-day event aims to develop medical value travel and to be the catalyst for industry alliances among medical establishments, health benefits companies, insurance travel partners, government agencies and other related enterprises. IMTC 2007 is expected to draw in more than 250 trade participants from over 23 countries.

“Being part of IMTC 2007 opens boundless opportunities for the participants. It is the global platform for everyone involved in medical tourism to address important issues and to strengthen their trade ties,” explained Elizabeth Nelle, director of the DOT Office of Product Research and Development.

According to Director Elizabeth Nelle, conference organizer at the DOT’s office of Product Research and Development, the conference is a first step in the Philippines’ bid to be part of the $40 billion medical travel industry with over 780 million patients seeking faster, less expensive and world class medical care outside their principal country of residence.

IMTC 2007’s keynote address will be delivered by Jonathan Edelheit, president of the Medical Tourism Association, USA. He is set to speak on the next wave of medical travel. Edelheit is also the vice president of the Optimed Health/ United Group Programs, an American organization that specializes in creating and administering tailor-fit company health benefit programs.

Workshops will be programmed to assist participants understand key topics in medical tourism, such as designing the scope of medical travel services, internal and external resources to ensure service delivery, developing holistic packages and providing integrated services that cover transportation, interpretation, logistics, hospitality care and post care options.

Site visits and guided demonstrations will also be scheduled to provide first-hand experience of some of the best practices existing in the country. DOT will be arranging tours to The Medical City, St. Lukes’s Medical Center, World City Medical Center and Asian Hospital and Medical Center.

The DOT will further arrange venues for medical contact exchanges, cross-country panels, business clinics, as well as sponsorships and exhibitions agreements. Forum sessions will cover case studies and best practices in India, Singapore and Thailand, as well as industry prospects in the Gulf Area and updates on the Philippine scenario.

Organizers will provide delegates with post conference trips to some of the country’s top destinations.

A special highlight of the said event is the International Medical Travel Excellence Awards, which will recognize the outstanding medical travel providers.

Durano revealed that the DOT is pushing to make the country one of the top destinations for medical tourism.

“We have some of the best hospitals and stand alone specialty clinics in Southeast Asia. The facilities and services are of top-notch quality and patients and customers can be sure to get the best value for their hard-earned money. Moreover, we have some of the best beaches and spa resorts. Our country is the place where medical travelers and their companions can be cared for with the warm, nurturing and friendly nature of the Filipino,” Durano added.

For more information, visit the event’s website at:
http://www.availcorp.com/
http://www.medicaltravelconference.com/
http://www.tourism.gov.ph/

India to invest $6.5bn in Medical Tourism

The Indian government has announced that it plans to invest $6.5 billion (£3.14 billion) to encourage medical tourism in India.

Tourism minister Ambika Soni said that "affordable hospitals and budget hotels for patients' relatives" would be built with the money, the Economic Times reports.

She explained that three international firms have arranged to meet with officials to discuss setting up these facilities in Delhi and NCR.

"They will meet government by the end of this year and they will also set up budget accommodation facilities for patients," Ms Soni said.

She added that India has been working to facilitate the process of international investment in the country. Hospital management and doctors' profiles will also become more accessible, she claimed.

Meanwhile, Leena Nandan, joint secretary to the government of India and ministry of tourism, said that a task force had been set up to help ensure high standards at hospitals and wellness clinics.

Taiwan to Promote Medical Tourism

Private hospitals in Taiwan are to promote the country for medical tourism and hope to generate US$215.52 million within three years.

According to the Taipei Times, The announcement was made as the Taiwan Non-governmental Hospitals and Clinics Association, Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research and 20 hospitals announced the inauguration of a project management center.

The center will promote ectogenesis, liver transplants, hip joint replacement, cardiology and cardiovascular surgery and craniofacial surgery.

The project members got together after the Executive Yuan approved a program to promote medical services.

Wu Ming-yen, chief executive officer of an international medical services project, said 30,000 job opportunities would be created.

The Taiwan department of Health has also backed the project.

Mekong Countries Deepen Tourism Relations

H.E Dr. Thong Khon & H.E Hoang Tuan Anh, Tourism Ministers of Cambodia and Vietnam

Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam will enhance tourism cooperation as the result of a meeting of their tourism ministers in Ho Chi Minh City October 5. The ministers pledged to share information and experience in tourism planning, product development and investment; host tourism investment forums; increase support for tourism-related cultural and sports events in each other's countries; encourage art performance and heritage tourism; enhance cooperation in tourism training; encourage direct air links between major cultural heritage sites; and bolster private-public partnership on tourism investment initiatives.

Speaking at the meeting, Dr Thong Khon, Cambodia's minister of tourism said: "The most significant issue that we should not forget is travel facilitation and promotion of tourism investment of our three countries. So far, we have done remarkably well in terms of intraregional tourism cooperation, but we should encourage more travel movement." The three destinations have a "Three Countries -- One Destination" philosophy that has been in place since 2002. Mr Hoang Tuan Anh, Vietnam's minister of culture, sports and tourism, said the aim was to "build Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam into a single tourism destination with diverse, unique and sustainable tourism products that would be highly competitive in the region".

eTNs Global Ambassador Program - An Innovative Way

eTurbonews establishes new way to facilitate an instantaneous communication among travel industry experts and insiders. eTurboNews has yesterday launched its latest program allowing travel and tourism experts from various parts of the world to share their knowledge about their respective destinations.

Called eTN Ambassador Program, travel journalists, tourism executives and government officials are given the opportunity to share pertinent information about their respective countries through breaking news reporting and destination updates.

“Using eTN’s columns to share relevant information has always been a major for us, so we are always developing ways to enhance and build our network,” says eTN vice president and editor-in-chief Nelson Alcantara. “With eTN’s Ambassador Program, tourism stakeholders can take the pro-active role and bring their respective country into the forefront of the industry.”

eTN prides itself in having established a list of individuals that the travel and tourism industry can count on to provide relevant information especially in times of crisis such as natural disasters and terror attacks. Having done this allows eTN to bridge the communication gap, thus keeping the industry well-informed with the latest developments in every aspect of travel and tourism, the Hawaii-based travel publication said.

“Using eTN’s columns to share relevant information has always been a major for us, so we are always developing ways to enhance and build our network,” says eTN vice president and editor-in-chief Nelson Alcantara. “With eTN’s Ambassador Program, tourism stakeholders can take the pro-active role and bring their respective country into the forefront of the industry.”

In recent years, eTN has managed to become one of the influential travel trade publications, with affiliations as the United Nations World Tourism Organization, the World Travel and Tourism Council, the International Institute for Peace through Tourism, no name just a few. Even the world’s biggest travel trade fairs, such as Berlin’s yearly ITB, Frankfurt’s IMEX, London’s World Travel Market, Lebanon’s Arab World Travel and Tourism Exchange, and Rome’s GLOBE have either worked or are currently working with eTN, as the Hawaii-based publication truly has emerged to become a powerful player in global travel trade communications.

“Countries must now find ways to tap the global market through ways unorthodox,” added eTN president and publisher Thomas Steinmetz. “Traditional ways of marketing one’s destination are no longer sufficient, as the Internet has become such important element in the success of today’s travel and tourism marketing.”

According to Steinmetz, eTN recognizes the impact the Internet has in today’s global travel and tourism dynamics. “eTN is always looking for innovative ways to maximize the advantages of having a channel to communicate instantaneously, so we came up with the eTN Ambassador Program.”

eTN has in place 116 ambassadors from 75 countries and territories. A dedicated webpage (http://etn.travel/ambassador) for these individuals has been established so that interested parties may get to know them.

Source: eTN

Lonely Planet Boosts 'Mekong' Identity

For the first time, Lonely Planet has launched a Mekong region guide, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & The Greater Mekong. "This new guide recognizes that travelers are increasingly interested in this region as a multi-stop destination and we hope it will prove popular with travelers and also benefit Mekong tourism," said Simone McNamara, a Lonely Planet spokesperson.

The 524 page guide book includes 28 maps, a chapter on ancient wonders, detailed information on border crossings, sustainable travel information and extensive accommodation listings. The ninth edition of Lonely Planet's dedicated Vietnam guide was published in July and the sixth edition of its Laos guide came out in August. http://www.lonelyplanet.com/

Miss Earth at ITE HCMC 2007

Beauties for a Cause

The 3rd International Travel Expo ITE HCMC 2007 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam participated in by 11 countries was not only about promotion of different tourists spots all over the world. This year's exposition was highlighted with the presence of 3 reigning Miss Earth beauties who were invited to grace the event by the Department of Tourism Ho Chi Minh City. Miss Earth 2006 Hil Yesenia Hernandez together with Miss Earth-Water 2006 Catherine Untalan and Miss Earth-Singapore 2007 Nicole Chen Lim took part in the 3 day event which was held in the Phu Tho Exhibition Center located at the business district of the country which is dubbed as the "hidden charm". The group, together with representatives from C.T. Hansen International Pte. Ltd; franchise holder of Miss Earth-Singapore, TV Media at Work, Eyemail Technology Inc. were warmly welcomed by the people upon their arrival at the Tan Son Naht International Airport last October 4, 2007.

The locals and press people followed them religiously everywhere since Day 1 in all their upcoming activities. In the opening ceremony the following day, the 3 beauties wore ao dais, the traditional Vietnamese attire and non la, the palm leaf conical hat. This was followed by the ribbon cutting which was led by Hil Hernandez and tourism ministers from Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos which formally opened the exhibition of 180 participants. The group also had a booth wherein the people were given the chance to have their photograph taken with and signed by the ladies. They took this opportunity to raise funds for the victims of the recent tragedy wherein the bridge being built above the Hau River, a branch of the Mekong River collapsed causing the death of 52 individuals. Nicole, Singapore's bet for this year's Miss Earth pageant to be held in Manila starting October 21 felt very privileged to be given this chance to help the people. "I found out about the accident before I came here to Vietnam. What happened was extremely heartbreaking. I am very glad to be part of an organization that does not only campaign to save our planet but looks out for other people across the globe especially in times like this." All the earnings from the booth, in the amount of 50,000,000 VND or 3,125 USD were donated during a turnover led by the event organizer in the closing of the exhibition which was immediately followed by a tree planting in the back of the stadium.

Aside from the main event, the group also conducted an environmental forum with members of the press last October 6, Friday. The audience asked questions about how the ladies feel about Vietnam; its people, the food, culture and of course the environment. During the discussion, issues on pollution brought about by millions of motorcycles, the basic mode of transportation of Vietnamese and protection of natural wonder sites like the Halong Bay surfaced and were discussed. The ladies also conducted a motorcade around the city promoting the use of helmet to encourage safe and friendly driving to prevent accidents amongst the motorists which go to about 30,000 casualties per year. "Apart from these movements, we would like to introduce alternative fuels and push for the improvement of mass transportation to help lessen the pollution. Also, since the country is developing, it is important to achieve a level of sustainability wherein both progress and the environment will not be jeopardized. In the end, money is nothing when the Earth's resources are already exhausted." answered Cathy to one of the questions.

The group had the chance to experience the richness of the culture through short trips, visits to landmarks and meals in various restaurants. "I am very happy to be in Vietnam. This is my first time and I am mesmerized by almost everything. The people are really very nice and welcoming. Every one is very friendly. Our four days stay is not enough to see the beauty of Vietnam. We will surely come back. But I do hope that the campaigns to maintain or improve the environmental conditions will be more aggressive. We should all work together to preserve the planet's natural wonders for the whole world and future generations to see." says Hil.

This visit is a testament to Miss Earth's commitment to promoting eco-tourism and preservation of the world's wonders. The contingent left Vietnam with very positive feedbacks, enthusiasm and hopes that they have been successful in sending the message across to the people to answer the call to heal and protect our Mother Earth.

About Miss Earth:
After establishing a track record in mounting world-class beauty pageants over the last decade, Carousel Productions Inc. decided to reinvent and improve the concept of beauty competitions for the new millennium.

Because many people admire and aspire to be a beauty queen, Carousel Productions, Inc. believed beauty queens would be a good and effective advocate of worthy causes. To give life to this vision, Carousel organized and launched in 2001 the MISS EARTH® Beauty Pageant, a beauty event whose raison d’etre was to have its candidates and winners actively promote and get involved in the preservation of the environment and the protection of Mother Earth.

http://www.missearth.tv/