Vietnam PM attaches importance to ties with India

Viet Nam highly appreciates India’s practical strength and potential, and wants the country to be a major partner of Viet Nam in trade, investment, science and technology, tourism, culture, education and training.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung is set for a visit to India, a trip considered to be a landmark event marking a new step in the traditional friendly and cooperative relationship between the two countries.

PM Dung, in his recent interview with the Vietnam News Agency, expressed his belief that the visit will create positive development in the Viet Nam-India multi-faceted cooperation, thus bringing the bilateral cooperative ties to a new plane.

Hereunder is the whole interview:

Question: Viet Nam and India have maintained a time-honoured friendly relations. Regarding economic cooperation, how do you assess the effectiveness of bilateral ties over the recent past and the future prospects, particularly in trade and investment?

Answer: Viet Nam and India with the time-honoured historical links in culture, religion and trade have fostered and built up their friendship and cooperation. The bilateral relationship, which was forged by late President Ho Chi Minh and Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, has been constantly nurtured and developed by the two countries’ leaders and peoples.

Over the recent past, the two countries’ relationship has seen fine development and recorded many important achievements in politics, economics, security, defence, education and training, science and technology, and culture. Noteworthy, among these bilateral economic ties has gained many outstanding results. Two-way trade value has increased relatively fast from 72 million USD in 1995 to more than 1 billion USD in 2006 or an average annual growth rate of close to 20 percent. India’s direct investment in Viet Nam reached 580 million USD in 2006. The year 2007 saw a breakthrough in India’s investment in Viet Nam with steel projects by the Essar and Tata conglomerates. These have placed India in the group of 10 biggest investors in Viet Nam. Viet Nam has become the biggest Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) nation to attract the direct investment (FDI) from India. Over recent years, projects using India’s credits have been carried out more and more effectively.

The prospect for increased cooperation between Viet Nam and India is diverse and great, conforming to aspiration and efforts from both sides. I believe that my up-coming official visit to India will be a good opportunity to create strong development in cooperation in politics, economy, security, national defence, culture, education and training, science and technology, thus bringing the Viet Nam-India relations to a new height.

Question: As India is considered as a rising economic power and one of ASEAN’s important partners, how do you assess the role of the Indian economy towards the ASEAN community in general and Viet Nam in particular?

Answer: By successfully performing the open door policy, India obtained big and impressive achievements in many fields, especially in economy, science and technology, enjoying unceasingly improved prestige in the region and the world.

As an ASEAN member country which has traditional and fine comprehensive cooperation with India, Viet Nam aims to continuously boost cooperation with India, both bilaterally and multilaterally.

Viet Nam highly appreciates India’s practical strength and potential, and wants the country to be a major partner of Viet Nam in trade, investment, science and technology, tourism, culture, education and training.

Holding an important political role and big economic potential in the Asia-Pacific region, ASEAN has become an important investment and trade partner of India, one of the focus for the country’s “Look East” policy. Vice versa, India’s large market, economic scientific and technological potentials as well as with diverse investment opportunities have become a big magnet to ASEAN member countries. From sectoral dialogue partners in 1992, India and ASEAN have become full dialogue partners since 1996. Since 2002, the two partners have adopted a mechanism of high-level meetings, these show how ASEAN recognised India’s important role towards the association.

Over the past time, India and ASEAN obtained good results in implementing important joint agreements and statements such as those on anti-terrorism, partnership for peace, common development and prosperity and comprehensive economic cooperation. The two sides have affirmed determination to bring the ASEAN-India to a new level with higher efficiency, focusing on speeding up the negotiations for ASEAN-India Free Trade Area (AIFTA).

India has been and will be an important partner of ASEAN and Asia and the Pacific as a whole.

Question: Please tell us something about agreements planned to be signed during the visit and also contracts that Vietnamese businesses will sign with Indian partners.

Answer: During the visit, the two countries plan to sign the Viet Nam-India joint statement, agreements on cultural exchange, cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, seafood, sea transport and legal assistance. Accompanying business also plan to sign a number of contracts.

Source: vnagency.com.vn

China, Indonesia to join hands in Heritage Preservation

China and Indonesia, which have a long cultural relationship, will cooperate in heritage development and preservation, cultural ministers of the two countries said here Wednesday.

After meeting Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, visiting Chinese Minister of Culture, Sun Jiazhen and Indonesian Minister of Culture and Tourism, Jero Wacik told a press conference that the relationship of the two countries was very strong and was supported by culture sector.

Sun said that during the meeting with Indonesian President Susiloit the two sides decided that the two countries would further strengthen cultural cooperation under the framework of strategic partnership.

"Our two countries will enhance efforts in cooperation in the field of heritage preservation and development as part of economy," he said.

Sun also said that the culture ministries of the two countries will join efforts to expand more channels and to increase cultural exchanges program in the future.

On his part, Wacik said the relations between Indonesia and China has been lasting for a long time, and the two countries could cooperate in cultural exhibitions and film production.

"In China there are big museums, and so are here. We can exchange the museum's collections and cooperate in producing film which have link with the cultural relations of Indonesia and China," said Wacik.

Source: Xinhua

TTM & TTF Going Hand in Hand

As part of its strategy to broaden the sources of visitor arrivals, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) organised this year’s annual travel mart with a strong contingent of “new” buyers from countries and regions that are expected to deliver promising results in the future.

The presence of 508 buyers and trade visitors from around the world made last week’s Thailand Travel Mart (TTM) 2007 Plus Amazing Gateway to Greater Mekong Subregion and Thailand Tourism Festival 2007 (TTF 2007), the biggest such event to be ever held.

Although most of the buyers were from the traditional visitor-generating markets such as the UK, Germany, Russia, Scandinavia, and the Americas, this year’s buyers contingent included Russia/CIS/Baltic countries (30), Kazakhstan (10), Morocco (10), Tunisia (5), Ukraine (3), Brazil (2), and one each from Turkey, Argentina, and Estonia.

There were 22 buyers from Vietnam, Cambodia, Lao PDR. and Myanmar.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Mrs Phornsiri Manoharn said, “We are trying to raise the Thai profile in new regions like North Africa, Russia/CIS/Baltic regions, and South America. Over time, as airline contacts grow, there is little doubt these countries will become good sources of visitor arrivals.”

Altogether, the buyers and trade visitors included 256 hosted buyers, 84 non-hosted buyers, 16 on-site buyers, and 158 trade visitors.

The 325 seller organisations this year included 231 hotels, 5 airlines, 8 ecotourism and adventure operators, 16 other services, 6 NTOs and other services, 30 travel agents and tour operators, and 29 companies from the Greater Mekong Subregion.

The Thailand Tourism Festival 2007 (TTF 2007), the annual travel and tourism showcase event targetting Thai and expatriate residents, was held in Challenger Hall 1 and 2 of the Impact Muang Thong Thani Exhibition Centre.

Over 300 exhibitors at the Festival included tour operators, travel agents, diving schools and equipment, spas, hotels and accommodation, airlines, golf courses, car rentals, suppliers of souvenirs, local handicrafts, local foods, and entertainment services.

The Festival included many activities relating to Thai culture, traditions, and local lifestyles. Special traditional parades from each of the four regions were held, along with stage performances of local folklore, plays, Thai puppet performances, the Khon dance, etc.

By combining the trade and consumer components, the sellers got an opportunity to expand their business prospects by reaching out to both the international trade as well as the growing number of Thai travelling consumers. In turn, the buyers got an opportunity to do business as well as to see some of the fun and festivities that are an inherent part of the Thai and Mekong tourism product.

This is the first year that TTM+ 2007 was opened for online registration. Buyers and sellers could make their pre-appointments online. The official hotels were Sofitel Central Hotel, Rama Gardens Hotel, and Siam City Hotel.

Siam Paragon hosted a welcome reception dinner for buyers on 6 June, 2007 at the Royal Paragon Hall. Thai Airways International and Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau hosted lunch for buyers on 7 and 8 June. Eleven programmes of Post Tour and Complimentary Tours were also provided for buyers and media interested to explore Thailand.

Mrs Phornsiri said, “In 2006, we met the target of 13.8 million visitor arrivals through continued emphasis on our traditional marketing activities and the active support of our many industry partners, including the airlines and the private sector.”

“In January – April 2007, international visitor arrivals at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport totalled 3,413,197, an increase of 2.61% over the same period of 2006.

“These figures only include those who arrived in Bangkok as the first point of entry and not those who flew directly to other points in Thailand, such as the popular beach resort island of Phuket, or those who crossed over through the overland border checkpoints.”

TAT has set a target of 14.8 million international visitor arrivals in 2007 which will help generate estimated revenues of 547.5 billion baht (about US$ 14.5 billion). The domestic tourism target is for 82 million domestic trips with a projected revenue of 377.8 billion baht (about US$ 10 billion).

In 2008. the Thailand Travel Mart Plus Amazing Gateway to Greater Mekong Subregion will be held between 5-8 June, also at the Impact Exhibition Centre.

For Further Participation, Please contact:

International PR Division

Tourism Authority of Thailand

1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan,

Rajatevee, Bangkok 10400Thailand

Tel: 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext.4545-4548

Fax: 66 (0) 2253 7419

E-mail: prdiv3@tat.or.th

for TAT News updates check http://www.tatnews.org/

Vietnam Tourism to emerge as Tourists Hotspot by 2016

Vietnam tourism industry is expected to grow at a CARG of 14% during the next five years’ period (i.e. from 2007 to 2011). And, the country is expected to become one of the top ten tourist destinations by the year 2016.

In its recently published market research report on “Opportunities in Vietnam Tourism Industry (2007-2009)", RNCOS has found that the tourist influx in Vietnam would grow at a CAGR value of approximately 14% over the next five years (2007-2011).

Vietnam is one of the best performing economies in Asian region. The country welcomed around 3.6 million international tourists last year (2006), representing a 2.1 million increase from 2000. And, receipts from incoming tourists reached almost US$2.4 Billion (around 3.9% of overall GDP), US$1.2 Billion up against 2000.

By 2016, Vietnam is expected to emerge as one of the top ten tourist destinations in the world. As a result of the tourism industry’s expansion, there will be more job opportunities, and increased incomes & consumer spending. This will also drive the economic growth in the country. Aviation, transportation, hospitality and other industries closely associated with the tourism industry will also benefit from this surge in tourism.

As per the RNCOS report “Opportunities in Vietnam Tourism Industry (2007-2009)", “Tourism is amongst the most rapidly growing industrial sectors in most countries of the world. And, in Asian countries, Vietnam in amongst the destinations enjoying maximum growth rates in tourist arrivals.

In recent years, the country has welcomed visitors from different countries. The list includes long haul visitors from countries such as US, China, Australia, and France, and regional travelers from adjoining countries within ASEAN (Association of South-East-Asian Nations) and high spending visitors from North East Asia.”Key issues and facts analyzed in this report include: performance of Global tourism, Asia-Pacific tourism and ASEAN tourism industry, position of Vietnam tourism industry with respect to the ASEAN tourism industry, outbound tourism, domestic tourism, and expenditure by inbound tourist, etc.

Experience Philippines

Ten Things to do in the Philippines

The Philippines being an archipelago, offers countless of destinations to see, adventures to experience and activities to do. The country is blessed with a rich environment— lush forests, tropical islands, white sand beaches, lakes, rivers, mountains— and friendly, artistic and hardworking people who are always happy to welcome visitors and friends. When you come for a visit, be sure to stay for a long time so that you can enjoy the different exciting experiences that the country has in store for you. Here is a list of ten things to do in the Philippines to help you plan and maximize your stay. Do all ten for a unique and complete travel experience— a guaranteed unforgettable vacation.

SEE some sights

There are a lot to see in the Philippines. The country is blessed with a beautiful environment and skilful people whose talented hands created some of the most magnificent man-made structures in the world. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banaue Rice Terraces; The well-preserved Spanish-style architecture in the historic town of Vigan, Ilocos Sur; The Baroque-style Philippine World Heritage site churches: the San Agustin Church in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, the Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion Church in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur, San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila, and the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Church in Miag-ao, Iloilo.The smallest active volcano in the world Taal Volcano in Batangas; the volcano with the most perfect cone, Mt. Mayon in Legazpi, Albay; the unique land formation that is the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. Marvel at the endemic Philippine fauna: Tamaraw, Tarsier, Phillipine Eagle.

GO on a beach holiday

The Philippines is a tropical country with one of the longest coastlines in Asia at 36,289 kilometres. It has numerous beaches most with fine powdery white sand and clean, clear and cool blue waters. Be sure to bask in the warm tropical sun and get the perfect tan that will be the envy of your friends back home. Top Philippine beach locations: Boracay Island, Aklan; El Nido, Palawan; Camiguin Island; Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte; Puerto Galera, Mindoro; Nasugbu and Lian in Batangas; Ternate in Cavite.

DIVE

The Philippines is Asia’s Dive Capital. If you are a diving enthusiast— amateur or professional, or someone who is looking for an underwater experience of a lifetime, then you must go to the Philippines if only for the reason that the country has the highest density of coral species in the world. Philippine seas are some of the most bio-diverse and marine-rich waters in the world and home to a diverse species of aquatic resources. Amateur divers can train and get their licenses at any of the diving training centers located in diving spots Anilao, Puerto Galera and Boracay, and once done with training, they can dive side-by-side with professional divers in the country’s other must-see diving spots: the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tubbataha Reef and the location of some of the best wreck diving sites in the world, Coron both in Palawan; Verde Island in Mindoro Oriental; Apo Reef National Park in Mindoro Occidental, the largest atoll-like reef in the Philippines which includes 285 species of fish and 197 species of corals (featured in the SHEDD Aquarium permanent Philippine reef display in Chicago, Illinois, USA) ; the Apo Island Marine Reserve & Fish Sanctuary in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental; Balicasag and Pamilacan Islands in Bohol; and Malapascua and Moalboal/Pescador Islands in Cebu.

ENGAGE in your favourite outdoor sport or activity

The Philippines offers a wide variety of sports adventures. Different locations cater to a specific activities: play a few rounds of golf in the different golf courses around the country designed by some of the most famous golf celebrities in the world; Snorkel and interact with the “gentle giants”— the whale sharks— in Donsol, Sorsogon; Surf in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Baler, Aurora, Daet, Camarines Sur and in Catanduanes province; climb the country’s highest peak at 9,689 feet- Mt. Apo- in Davao City, Davao, trek Mt. Pinatubo or explore the Callao caves in Tuguegarao, Cagayan province; go white river rafting in Chico River or in Cagayan de Oro River; go kayaking and canoeing at the Bacuit Archipelago and at the St. Paul Subterranean Cave both in Palawan; windsurf in Lake Caliraya or in Taal Lake, kitesurf in Boracay, wakeboard in Pili, Camarines Sur.

RELAX in a spa

There is nothing more relaxing than enjoying the traditional Filipino "healing" massage or touch therapy called Hilot. The soothing touch of this massage relaxes and heals tired muscles and aching joints. Try this and other spa treatments at the Nurture Spa in Tagaytay, Mandala Spa in Boracay, Sanctuario Spa in Manila, Chi Spa Village in Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu, and at The Farm at San Benito in Batangas.

FEAST

Be ready to put on a few extra pounds as you satisfy your cravings by indulging in a Filipino feast. Dishes to try: Lechon, spit-roast whole pig served with liver sauce; Adobo, pork, chicken or a combination of both, marinated in vinegar, soy sauce and garlic and stewed until tender; Kare-kare, meat and vegetables cooked with peanut sauce served with shrimp paste; Sinigang, pork, or seafood in tamarind soup; or the freshest seafoods— fish, squid, shrimp, lobsters— grilled to perfection. The more adventurous should try Balut or boiled duck eggs containing a partially formed embryo, and Dinuguan, the pork blood stew eaten with steamed rice or Puto, rice cakes. All around the country, there are restaurants offering different cuisines from American to Chinese, from Indian to Greek, from Japanese to French.

SHOP

Shopping in the Philippines is an experience both in bargain and variety. Most shopping places or Malls in Manila, Makati, Cebu and Davao virtually have everything that you will need— from designer western brands to items specifically designed for the tourist market. Around the country, specifically in city centers, Tiangges or the Filipino version of flea markets abound offering quality items at bargain prices. In Manila shop at the third largest mall in the world Mall of Asia, Robinson Place, Balikbayan Handicrafts, Tutuban Center Mall and at the San Andres Market (for fresh fruits and other produce). In Makati and its surrounding areas, shop at Greenbelt, Glorietta, Landmark Department Store, Greenhills Shopping Center, Megamall, Shangri-La Mall and at Tiendecitas. In Cebu, check out the Ayala Center, the Gaisano Malls, Robinson’s Place, SM City, and for native delicacies, fresh produce and fresh and dried seafood, go to the Carbon and Tabo-an Markets. In Davao, shop at Aldevinco Shopping Center (for fabrics, batik, carvings) Victoria Plaza, Gaisano Mall and at the New City Commercial Center department store.An experience not to be missed in flea market-shopping in the Philippines is the ”bargaining” where shoppers can buy items with big discount, depending on charm and good bargaining skills.

EXPERIENCE Philippine culture

Philippine culture is best experienced in events and activities that highlight what Filipinos are passionate about— faith, love for country, family, beautiful women, and celebrations. Filipinos love to celebrate, and there is no better way of celebrating than by having festivals: Ati-atihan in Kalibo, Aklan, January, the best and biggest in the country, it commemorates the feast of the Sto Nino with a week-long street party. Groups of dancers dressed as the aboriginal Atis, representing different communities from the city participate in the festive weeklong street party that highlights during the feast of the patron saint; Pahiyas in Lucban, Quezon. May 15, the annual harvest festival and feast of San Isidro Labrador. Witness the colourful display of kiping and other thanksgiving offerings hung in the houses that line the street where the procession of the image of the patron saint will pass. Giant papier-mache effigies join the parade to add to the spectacle of a celebration; Masskara Festival in Bacolod City, October, coinciding with the city’s charter day celebration, the festival features carnivals, fairs and a mardi gras-style parade by costumed and masked street dancers. There are as many festivals as there are towns in the Philippines and when you attend and enjoy a Filipino celebration, you come closer to understanding the culture of the people.Other unique Philippine cultural events and activities include the cultural spectacle Santacruzan—a Maytime procession of beautiful Philippine maidens staged as a re-enactment of St. Helen’s quest for the Holy Cross; the awesome display of Filipino religiosity in the frenzied Black Nazarene procession during the Quiapo fiesta every January in Manila; the Holy Week rituals in San Fernando, Pampanga— proof of the Filipino’s and Philippine culture’s deep Catholic roots; and the displays (giant Christmas lanterns), rituals (dawn masses) and traditions (noche buena feasts) that mark the Filipinos’ celebration of Christmas.

NIGHTLIFE

There is an abundance of places to go to and enjoy a night out in the Philippines. Every major city of the country has a number of nightlife activity hubs with restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs and karaoke bars all promising a good time of fun and entertainment. In the country’s financial district Makati, there is the Greenbelt, Glorietta, The Fort, Jupiter St. and J. P. Rizal Street. In the city’s capital, Manila, nightlife is diverse. There is something for everybody in Malate, and in the newly revitalized Roxas Boulevard and its Baywalk. Quezon City is a popular destination of locals as the club prices are a little lower than those in Makati. Most clubs are close to each other so common to bar hop. Try the establishments along Timog & Tomas Morato Avenues and Quezon Boulevard, and in Eastwood City in Libis. Outside of Metro Manila, there are a number of popular places to go to. The nightlife of Subic in the province of Zambales, is known all over the world because of its history as a former rest and recreation center of the US Navy. The city is still teeming with nightlife activities as the Subic Free Trade Port is home to a lot of expatriates from other foreign countries as well and it is now a major Tourist hub. Foreign Navies still use the port as a rest and recreation spot every now and then. Check out Subic International Hotel and the Magsaysay Blvd. Angeles City in Pampanga, formerly the home of the US Air force in the Pacific, is also known for its Angeles City nightlife stayed almost the same as a lot of retired US and Australian citizens decided to make Angeles City their second home. Establishments in Balibago are still popular. The central Philippine city of Cebu is a popular destination among tourists because its nightlife is at par if not better than in Metro-Manila. Big development companies have opened up operations in the city as well as major club chain operators have set up their presence. Be sure to go to Ayala Mall and in the different establishments that abound Osmena Blvd. The ultimate island-nightlife location in the Philippines is Boracay Island in the province of Aklan. The island is known for its carefree attitude, and the island is home to a lot of clubs and bars on the beach: Bazzura, Hey Jude, D’ Mall, and the Station 2 establishments.

WATCH a performance of World-class Filipino artists

The Philippines is home to a number of world-class artists. Occasionally, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, show performances by the Ballet Philippines, the Philippine Madrigal Singers, and the Bayanihan Dance Troupe. World-renowned artists Lea Salonga and Cecile Licad, from time to time, give performances in big concert halls in Manila. The Center of Arts in San Antonio (CASA) in San Miguel, Zambales features violinist Alfonso “Coke” Bolipata and his Pundaquit talents. Other groups that showcase the Filipino performing talents are Repertory Philippines, the Loboc Children’s Choir, and the Amazing Philippines Theatre.In the Visual Arts, works of world-class Filipino masters Juan Luna, Felix Resurrection Hidalgo and Fabian de la Rosa, National Artists Fernando Amorsolo, Carlos Francisco, Victor Edades, Vicente Manansala, other Philippine painting greats and contemporary visual artists can be viewed at the Philippine National Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, the Ayala Museum and in some galleries and University museums around Metro Manila.Colleges and universities in the Philippines are home to award-wining performance groups that have been recognized internationally for their artistry and excellence in the performing arts: Dulaang UP (student theatre group), the UP Concert Chorus, UP Singing Ambassadors of the University of the Philippines; Ateneo College Glee Club and the Ateneo Chamber Singers of the Ateneo de Manila University; the UST Chorale and the Salinggawi Dance Troupe of the University of Santo Tomas.All around the country in simple stages, live bands and professional singers perform in clubs and music halls showcasing Filipino talent in entertaining.

2007 Wellness Summit - Manila, Philippines

SPAASIA ANNOUNCES 2007 WELLNESS SUMMIT TO BE STAGED IN MANILA, PHILIPPINES

Wellness Media announces the return of SpaAsia Wellness Summit 2007 to be held on October 3- 5, 2007 in Manila, Philippines which will gather over 500 delegates and participants ranging from CEOs, directors, spa proprietors, journalists, healers, doctors, therapists and trainers to owners, financiers, investors, developers and development teams who have made invaluable contribution to the Asia Pacific spa industry.

Now on its third year, the 2007 SpaAsia Wellness Summit proposes to address a theme of great relevance to the future of the spa and wellness industry at large. “Harnessing Collective Consciousness: Nurturing Growth, Inspiring Change” is an apt theme as the industry has now evolved and matured. During the summit, the theme will be moulded in more concrete and tangible forms, through proven methods/techniques and doable programmes. This is among the main objectives of the 2007 Summit.

Industry experts and noted speakers will present keynote addresses, dissect case studies, unravel research findings and helm various discussion panels. All these are geared towards reaching ‘an unspoken agreement’ on pertinent issues affecting the future of the spa and wellness industry at large. Among the invited speakers are: Susan Harmsworth, Founder and CEO of ESPA; Professor Mary Tabacchi from Cornell Hotel School; Bryan Durocher, Founder of Durocher Enterprises, Professor Marc Cohen, Founding Professor of Complementary Medicine at RMIT University and Grace Gawler, Internationally renowned holistic wellness practitioner, author and herbalist.

Past events saw delegates from various sectors, the greater majority of whom hailed from the spa, wellness and health sectors from across the globe. An increasing number of hoteliers, spa hotel/resort chain operators and hotel groups are expected to attend. This year, speakers from major spa and hotel groups such as the Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, the Jumeirah Group, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and MSpa International are among those confirmed to make presentations.Mr. Michael Loh, Group Publisher and Editorial Director of Wellness Media says, “It is through this annual gathering of leading professionals within the realm of the industry that Wellness Media/Partners hopes to propel new trends and thinking in the industry. While playing the role of initiator of new trends, we at the same time attempts to assume the role of being the voice that will persuade the industry to embrace the conscience of this frontier of Wellness. We believe that the collective wisdom of ancient traditions can only be honoured if it is delivered to the consumers with its due measure of integrity.

”That the wellness boom has been projected to become a ‘trillion-dollar industry’ within a decade has not gone unnoticed. Financiers and investors, key executives of governments, senior managers and executives and professionals from the infrastructure, travel and hospitality industries have set aside dates for spa and wellness shows in various parts of the world, this one included, as must-attend events on their calendar. Each year the Summit grows in scope and diligently takes into account the escalating concerns, interests and feedback from delegates and industry stakeholders. In 2007, ‘Wellness’ and ‘Going Green’ have been identified as global trends that demand to be heard! The highlight of the Summit is the SpaAsia Crystal Awards ceremony which is traditionally held on the second evening of the Summit. This much-awaited event singles out excellence in various categories of the spa industry in Asia Pacific. This is the moment that only one brand in each category will be accorded the honour to bask in the limelight for being the BEST among the best. SpaAsia Crystal Awards has become an accolade equivalent to receiving recognition of industry excellence in the Asia Pacific region.Past recipients of the SpaAsia Crystal Awards include the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, JW Marriott Resort and Spa Phuket, Conrad Bali Resort & Spa, Spa Village Pangkor Laut Resort, Chiva-Som International Health Resort, The Farm at San Benito, The Sentosa Resort & Spa and Six Senses Resorts & Spas.

The SpaAsia Wellness Summit will be held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Manila, Philippines and is organized by Wellness Media/Partners in cooperation with the Department of Tourism, Philippines.

For more event details and registration, please contact:Wellness Summit Secretariat’s Office

9 Temasek Boulevard, #15-03 Suntec Tower Two, Singapore 038989

Tel: +65 6220 6583 Fax: +65 6220 7162

Email: summit@spaasia.comWebsite: www.spaasia.com

ITE HCMC 2007 Secured the Support from Regional Tourism Associations

ITE HCMC 2007 secured the support of TCOD (Three Countries and One Destination) associations, namely Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA), Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA), Cambodia Hotel Association (CHA), Lao Association of Travel Agents (LATA) and Lao Hotel and Restaurant Association (LHRA). This is the result of TCOD visit to Cambodia, Laos and Hanoi by Department of Tourism (DOT), Ho Chi Minh City - Senior Manager, Mr Ta Nam Binh and Binet Senior Executive Mr Alex Eow and Ms Chong Kamlin, a follow up visit during 27 – 31 May 2007 after the official meeting of the authorities in the three countries on 5 August 2006 at ITE HCMC 2006.

The support and co-operation among these associations in TCOD will not only lift the profile of ITE HCMC 2007 but also provide impetus of co-operation among the industry stakeholders in these three countries – Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Dr. Thong Khon, the newly appointed Minister of Tourism Cambodia after meeting the delegation remarked “ I am pleased with this proposal and would like to see closer co-operation amongst the 3 countries in tourism promotion locally, regionally and also globally.”

Mr. Soukaseum Bodhisane, Vice Chairman of Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA) was
very pleased of this initiative, and appreciate that Vietnam takes the lead to be the travel hub for inbound tourism into the three countries. The charms of TCOD, particularly the Eco-Tourism of Laos will be further unveiled to the international buyers from America, Europe, Australia, Korea and Japan.

“More than 100 buyers from 19 countries will be invited to ITE HCMC 2007, which will be held on 5-7 October 2007 in HCMC, and hosted by DOT HCMC and sponsored by Vietnam National
Administration of Tourism. The extension of this opportunity of meeting international buyers in 3 days to Cambodia and Laos is a strategic move to focus on the charms of TCOD – Vietnam,
Cambodia and Laos ” commented Mr Ta Nam Binh.

ITE HCMC 2007 will be increased by 50% in size and participation by October 2007. This is largely due to the booming economy and growing tourism trade after Vietnam joining WTO last year. TCOD promotion will further accelerate the tourism industry in these 3 countries.

“We expect ITE HCMC 2007 to be largest since its inception in 2005 with strong inbound airlines support like Qatar Airways, United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Jetstar Asia, Eva Airways, Korean Air, Philippines Airlines in addition to the national carrier Vietnam Airlines. The regional NTOs support further indicates that the Vietnamese tourists with the growing economies has importantly driving the region’s outbound tourism as well. It is a bi-directional promotion.” remarked Mr La Quoc Khanh, Deputy Director of DOT HCMC.

ITE HCMC 2007 will be held at Phu Tho Exhibitions Center from 5-7 October 2007. 50% has been booked and any sales enquires should be addressed to following contacts:

Ms Chong Kam Lin

Binet Exhibitions Pte Ltd

Email: kamlin@singnet.com.sg

Mobile: (84) 903 693 824

Tel: (848) 8224 207.

Mr. Tran Minh Cong

HCMC Department of Tourism

Email: congtran.minh@gmail.com

Mobile: (84) 903 600 620

Tel: (848) 8242 903 # 172.

New Cambodian museum to show lost Buddhas

A museum showing 274 long-lost Cambodian Buddhist statues, some a millennium old, will open in November near the Angkor Wat temples, the head of the Japanese preservation project announced Tuesday.

The Japanese-led research team found the statues in 2001 some six kilometers (four miles) from Angkor Wat, the former capital of the powerful Khmer empire and emblem of Cambodian identity. The statues will go on display in November in the new two-storey Preah Norodom Sihanouk Museum, named after Cambodia's former king, team leader Yoshiaki Ishizawa said.

"By exhibiting the Buddhist statues, I hope the museum will be able to complement what is lacking in Angkor Wat and that is to offer idols dating from ancient times," said Ishizawa, who is also president of Tokyo's Sophia University. The statues, crafted between the 11th and 13th centuries and some as tall as 1.2 meters, were buried underground after the apparent destruction of a temple.

Looking back at the team's moment of excavation, Ishizawa said: "Our Cambodian members were getting a bit emotional, with their hands trembling with excitement." The museum, which has 1,820 square meters (19,580 square feet) of floor space, is located about one kilometer from Angkor Wat. The museum will be donated to and run by Cambodia.

"What's important is that the Cambodian people preserve these national treasures with their own hands and proudly talk about them as their cultural heritage," Ishizawa said. He said that he hoped to expand the museum eventually with a library and the creation of a scholarship for Cambodian researchers.

The museum was made possible through a donation of 130 million yen ($1 million) by the Aeon Co., a leading Japanese retail chain.

Source: metimes.com

Amazing Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+)

Thailand Travel Mart Plus Amazing Gateway to the Mekong Region (TTM+) expanded this year into the Thailand Tourism Festival 2007 and was popular with the public and consumers alike during June 7-10.

As usual, the venue was at Muang Thong Thani, IMPACT Arena, Challenger 3, hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and supported by Thailand Conventions and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) as well as Thai Airways International (THAI). The official hotels were Sofitel Central Plaza and Rama Gardens near the re-activated Don Muang Domestic Airport in Bangkok.

On the evening before the event started, TAT organised a welcome reception for invited buyers and media at Dragon Passage on the 4th Floor of Siam Paragon. TAT Governor Ms Phonsiri Manoharn highlighted the Amazing Thailand campaign and noted that the event will provide the best opportunities to smaller and medium sized enterprises (SME) in the travel business to present their quality tourism products to meet the world wide market demand. Later on, the distinguished guests were invited to visit the very impressive Siam Ocean World at Siam Paragon.

During the official TTM+ media briefing by TAT on June 7 it was revealed that there were 325 seller organisations and 508 registered buyers from around the world. For the first time, TTM+ was combined with the newly initiated Thailand Tourism Festival to make it the largest event ever held in the Thai travel and tourism industry. Also, the ongoing celebrations mark the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday, which falls on 5 December 2007. For the year 2007, the target is to welcome 14.8 million tourists to the Kingdom of Thailand.Furthermore, strengthening co-operation with the neighbouring countries of the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) stays important as an integral part of future marketing plans. Participate National Tourism Organisations (NTO) came from Yunnan/China, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. Vietnam was not present, mainly because they will have their own International Travel Exhibition (ITE) at Ho Chi Minh City on October 5-7. Next to the 18 TAT offices world wide, new offices will be in Dubai, Moscow and Ho Chi Minh City. For 2008, there will be the promotion of Beijing and Bangkok ties with active links by THAI and Air China. Bangkok will be in the spotlight again during the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in January, PATA Annual Summit in April and TTM+ on June 5-8, 2008.

In the context of the mid-September opening of the new Novotel King Power Bangkok, which will provide 387 fully I.T. equipped rooms and suites in the heart of city, there was a small wine party organised by some executives of ACCOR. Shortly after, on the evening of June 7 at Challenger 1-2, Thai Tourism Minister Dr. Suvit Yodmanee ceremonially opened the Thailand Tourism Festival 2007, promoting the traditions and cultures of the four main regions of the Kingdom.

On June 8, there was another media briefing by Laos, focusing on the upcoming Lao Eco-tourism Forum “Bridging the Mekong Region” at the Don Chan Palace Hotel in Vientiane on July 26-29, 2007. Mr. Saly Phimphinith, Acting Director-General, Tourism Marketing and Promotion Department, Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA), introduced the world heritage sites of Luang Prabang and Wat Phu Champasak, while Mr. Kettasone Sundara, Director for Tourism Marketing Division, detailed the program for the event. There will be a Mekong Night Gala Dinner, Lao Food Festival, Mekong Fun Run, and Music and Dance Show.

Another highlight of TTM+ was the complimentary post-mart tour to Hua Hin, which was successfully organised by TAT Central Region Office 2, on June 9-10. Some 34 international buyers and media representatives were taken by bus from Bangkok to Samut Songkhram to visit the Dao Dong Ago-tourism Centre and King Rama II Memorial Park. Lunch was offered at Baan Amphawa Resort & Spa, which is idyllically nestled along the Mae Klong River.

Passing the town of Petchaburi, which celebrates its Visit Petchaburi Year 2007, there was a hotel inspection at the progressive Asara Villa & Suite in Hua Hin, where Executive Assistant Manager Richard James Hoek welcomed the group. Just before sunset, we reached the Springfield Village Golf & Spa in a superb mountainous surrounding to have a buffet dinner and overnight. Later on, there was the good opportunity to enjoy the last night of the Hua Hin Jazz Festival on the beach, mainly sponsored by Heineken Beer and where more than 60,000 visitors listened to the music.

After a late breakfast next morning, the group left the golf resort designed by Jack Nicklaus for sightseeing and visited the elegant and windy seaside Mrigadayavan Summer Palace of King Rama VI built in 1923-24 by a Swiss architect. Shopping was possible at the Rashnee Thai Silk Village & Handicraft Centre in Hua Hin. Later on, lunch was taken at the romantic Supatra-by-the-Sea Restaurant. Before leaving Hua Hin back to Bangkok, the group inspected the Let’s Sea Hua Hin Al Fresco Resort, where you can swim right into your room. Amazing Thailand, I guess!Last not least, there are preparations to see some other regional travel marts coming, such as the Philippines Travel Mart at Cebu in September, the Indonesian one along with PATA Travel Mart in Bali, Indochina Travel Expo in Ho Chi Minh, and last not least, the Cambodian Travel Mart (AITEX) re-scheduled at Siem Reap on October 1-3.

UN to determine status for Cambodia's centuries-old monument

A U.N. committee is expected to rule on Cambodia's request for «World Heritage» status for a well-known 11th century temple during a meeting later this month, an official said Tuesday.

Cambodia began seeking the status five years ago for Preah Vihear temple from World Heritage, a committee of the U.N. cultural organization UNESCO. Such status encourages conservation and usually helps attract funds for preservation, in addition to raising the tourism profile of the site.

The committee will decide on the Cambodian bid during its meeting in New Zealand that is scheduled to start June 23, said UNESCO director in Cambodia Teruo Jinnai. It's now up to the committee. You have to wait, he said.

The temple deserves to be given World Heritage status, he said, because of its unique historical and cultural value.

Preah Vihear temple is located on the top of a cliff in the Dangrek Mountains, about 245 kilometers (150 miles) north of the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh. It is more easily accessible from Thailand, however.

The two countries have been at loggerheads in the past over ownership of the temple, which was held by Thailand until the International Court of Justice awarded it to Cambodia in 1962.

The World Heritage list currently includes Cambodia's Angkor archaeological site, where the famed Angkor Wat temple, the country's main tourist attraction, is situated.On the NetWorld Heritage:

Source: whc.unesco.org

Vietnam Attracts Indian Tourists In A Big Way

Vietnam, ranked among the top 10 countries expected to see the strongest tourism growth in the next decade, is keen to get more and more Indian visitors, who now number just a trickle.

'We now want to pitch ourselves hard in India especially as it represents one-sixth of the population. It is obviously a huge tourist market for us,' says Do Minh Tuan, deputy director of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT).

'We have a master plan on tourism in place. So, obviously we need to run more promotion campaigns to boost our image in the international market,' said Tuan.

One major reason for the Indian modest arrivals, officials say, has been the absence of direct flights between the two countries. Last year, just over 5,500 Indians visited Vietnam, which is famous for its ancient architecture, stunning landscapes, pristine beaches and historic relics.

Vietnam Airlines and Indian Airlines have announced sharply reduced round-trip tickets on the New Delhi-Bangkok-Hanoi route to lure more Indian tourists.

'I would imagine that if direct flights were started, there is bound to be increased volumes of tourists. Also, more tourism campaigns are in order as many Indians still believe that Vietnam is a war-ravaged country, which is not the case,' exclaims India's consul general Jitendra Nath Misra.

Last year, Vietnam had nearly 3.6 million foreign tourist arrivals. It expects to get four million tourists this year. Topping the list were tourists from China followed by South Korea, the US, Japan and Taiwan.

As Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dzung sets off next week on his maiden visit to India, promoting tourism will be on top of his agenda, especially with India's rising profile.'We have great potential to develop tourism. This is one area which both countries need to bolster,' said Dzung.

Vietnam hopes to get at least 5.5-6 million foreign visitors and 25-26 million domestic ones by 2010, to take its total tourism revenues to $4-4.5 billion.

Malaysia Mega Carnival 2007

Malaysia Mega Carnival 2007

It's shopping carnival time in Malaysia between 16th June and 2nd September 2007. The Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival is being organised by Tourism Malaysia, Ministry of Tourism and Shopping Malaysia Secretariat. Shoppers have a great opportunity to enjoy amazing discounts and special offers.

The sale event signals weeks of promotions, bargains and discounts of up to 70 per cent on a wide variety of products and services, concessions on room rates, F&B, entertainment outlets and attractive offers on transportation and travel packages.

The variety of merchandise available during the sale ranges from fashion, haute couture, accessories, jewelleries and cosmetics to sophisticated electrical and hitech equipment, handicrafts and unique curios. Moving upscale, Kuala Lumpur's monster malls are crammed with designer brands like Versace, Gucci and Prada to Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior. With the whole of Malaysia celebrating this major sale event, you and your family can shop to your hearts' content and have a great fun time too.

To further enhance the sale period, exciting activities and contests are held and organised at the various shopping precincts, shopping malls and retail outlets nationwide.

The Mega Sale Carnival has been a significant contributor to the country's economy as the tourist in-flow in 2006 indicated a marked increase of tourist arrivals during the Mega Sale months. Hence, boosting the economy and making Malaysia present this carnival to the world with great pride and enthusiasm.

As an Educational Destination

Malaysia is fast emerging as a centre for educational excellence. The growth in the number of institutions of higher learning and twinning programmes with foreign universities has resulted in education tourism. Foreign students and travel trade operators seeking information about studying in Malaysia can now refer to note that a new booklet entitled 'Education Tourism' available at Tourism Malaysia offices worldwide. The booklet, published by Tourism Malaysia with the cooperation of the Ministry of Education, Malaysia lists schools, colleges and universities in Malaysia plus important information on studying in Malaysia. It is a useful guide for expatriate parents in Malaysia, travel agents and foreign students looking for affordable quality education.

Various factors like the high standard of education, close monitoring by the Government and the affordability have made Malaysia the preferred destination for foreign students to pursue tertiary education here.

More than 600 public and private educational institutions ranging from pre-tertiary to university level currently exist in Malaysia. These include excellent homegrown institutions with numerous foreign affiliations as well as a number of branch campuses of distinguished foreign universities. A qualification from these institutions ranks on par with that received at home campuses. Malaysia has a broad range of high-quality yet affordable educational options and courses that are recognized internationally. Foreign students from approximately 100 countries study in Malaysian educational institutions.

Malaysia.s multi-racial make-up and welcoming nature make it easy for students to discover more about the people, traditions and cultures while pursuing their education. The cost of living in Malaysia is comparatively cheap and the country has modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities that make life comfortable for students staying here. There are also many relevant agencies with a strong commitment to cater to the welfare of foreign students.

Malaysia's political stability and sound economy provides a peaceful and conducive environment for study. The multi-racial population that living in harmony and the traditional warm Malaysian hospitality help make students feel welcome. In addition, English is widely spoken and the medium of instruction for most courses. Malaysia has placed all the right strategies in place and is poised to become a regional centre of research and educational excellence.

For more details, please contact Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (www.tourism.gov.my) or Malaysia Embassy at your respective country.