ASEAN Tourism Ministers are showing unity

During the annual ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), hosted on a rotational basis among the 10 member countries by Thailand on 17-25 January 2008, the prominent ASEAN Tourism Ministers met at the re-named Sofitel Central Grand Hotel in Bangkok on January 21 by showing a strong sense of unity.

Under the chairmanship of H.E. Dr. Suvit Yodmani, outgoing Minister of Tourism and Sports in Thailand, the ASEAN Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the overall vision of an . As preliminary reports demonstrate that in 2007 ASEAN attracted some 60 million visitors, reflecting an increase of 8% growth compared to 2006, all the ministers emphasized the need to accelerate the progress of the common “Roadmap for Tourism Integration” and further strengthen ASEAN as a single destination.

Proud achievements are ASEAN tourism joint promotion, tourism manpower arrangement, vision of ASEAN open skies policy by 2015, co-operation in crisis management, quality assurance, as well as an important co-operation agreement with the UN World Tourism Organisation, which was signed by Dr. Surin Pitsuwan, the new Secretary General of ASEAN.

Furthermore, it was proved that the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) scheme is still on the radar, when tourism ministers and senior officials from Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam had met to discuss the implementation of a new tourism development and marketing plan.

As the Mekong region is the fastest-growing tourism destination in the world today, the 6 Mekong countries ultimately aim to have a common GMS visa in the not-too-distant future. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Manila/Philippines has therefore provided USD 40 million in financing the support of the GMS projects and sponsoring the development of transport infrastructure that will open new opportunities for tourism development in the region.

On January 22, the 10 ASEAN Tourism Ministers met with their counterparts of China, Japan and the Republic of Korea. They welcomed the decision of ASEAN Plus Three (APT) to fully support the implementation of the APT Co-operation Work Plan 2007-2017, including cultural and Eco-tourism, cruise tourism, and youth exchange. In another meeting, the ASEAN Tourism Ministers met with Madam Ambika Soni, Minister of Tourism and Culture in India, to develop co-operation on joint tourism promotion and marketing, especially in pilgrimage tourism and tourism investment.

Nevertheless, the media highlight of the ASEAN Tourism Ministers and Related Meetings was the presentation of the ASEAN Green Hotel Recognition Award 2008 to a list of 81 properties. The ASEAN “Green Hotel” has to be environmental-friendly and adopts special energy conservation measures. The standard should be recognized internationally, as it focuses on the principles of sustainable tourism by ways of improving the quality of tourism products to reduce global “greenhouse” gas emissions and address the phenomenon of imminent climate change. By example, such green hotels are (one by each country):

Orchid Garden, Brunei - Nikko Bali Resort & Spa, Bali/ Indonesia - Sokha Beach Resort, Sihanoukville/Cambodia - Champasak Palace, Pakse/Lao PDR - Shangri-La, Kuala Lumpur/Malaysia - The Governor’s Residence, Yangon/Myanmar - Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu/Philippines - Shangri-La, Singapore - Banyan Tree, Bangkok/Thailand - Caravelle, Ho Chi Minh City/Vietnam.

Under the theme “Synergy of ASEAN: Towards Dynamic Unity in Diversity” - the show of ATF2008 was officially opened on the evening of January 22 at the Royal Jubilee Ballroom at IMPACT in Muang Thong Thani by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Thai Tourism Industry.

Some 627 confirmed international buyers, media, and sellers from 446 organizations were welcomed for a gala dinner, ASEAN cultural performances and to attend the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), which is the most important event in Southeast Asia for tourism-related service suppliers to meet with travel producers from all over the world.

During the half-day ASEAN Tourism Conference 2008 on January 23 at IMPACT Challenger, TAT Governor Mrs. Phornsiri Manoharn thanked Mr. Oscar P. Palabyab, Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism in the Philippines, to deliver the keynote speech on ASEAN tourism trends. There followed a panel discussion, substantiating the theme of .

Dynamics were also produced for the ASEAN National Tourism Organizations (NTO) media briefings. Starting with Singapore, Myanmar, Thailand, Philippines, and Malaysia on January 23, Viet Nam, Brunei, Indonesia and Lao PDR had their presentations on January 24. Surprisingly, Cambodia’s NTO cancelled their much expected press conference on a last notice.

Singapore’s Head of NTO Mr. Lim Neo Chian, Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, tabled the fact that the small island republic has now attracted around 10.3 million tourists in 2007.

For 2008, there will be the establishment of Changi Airport Terminal III and opening of the Peranakan Museum in April. Thus, Singapore will be looking ahead to 17 million visitors in 2010 and prepares to be a sports hub in 2011.

Myanmar’s U Htay Aung, Director General of the Directorate, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, introduced his country as an Eco-tourism paradise between snow-capped mountains and tropical islands. Because of the situation in September 2007, when monks took protest to the street, the arrival figures hovered only around 716.434. But all in all, there is an increasing growth rate of 25%, which was generated by 6 border crossings with China and 4 ones with Thailand, namely Ranong, Three Pagodas Pass, Mae Sot and Mae Sai. In spite of the “No Travel to Burma” campaign in Europe, Myanmar’s situation is already back to normal. Anyway, the projected ASEAN open sky policy will benefit Myanmar the most.

Having nearly achieved the target of 14.5 million visitor arrivals in 2007, TAT is now projecting some 15.7 million in 2008. TAT Governor Mrs. Phornsiri Manoharn is firm on reinforcing the “Amazing Thailand” slogan for the near future to come. Regarding the quality of tourism products, she singled out some new boutique properties in the North, such as the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Sofitel Riverside Chiang Mai and the RarinJinda Wellness Spa Resort. In the South, there are properties on Phuket, Samui and Koh Lanta for more high spending, long staying visitors. On the other side, low-cost airlines will continue to make an impact as they boost the number of flights to many under-utilized airports within the ASEAN region.

The Philippines – with their slogan of 7.107 islands beyond the usual – had for the first time ever breached 3 million arrivals and 40% growth in tourist spending for 2007. The Department of Tourism’s ultimate goal is to attract not only more tourists, but also higher value visitors, who stay longer and spend more by generating more opportunities for the country. While Philippines‘ position in core markets such as China and Korea was successfully solidified, the efforts for building up newer areas such as India and strategic European countries bear first fruits. Arrivals from Russia grew by 128% and Russia is an emerging market indeed. Philippines Airlines is successfully restructuring and Manila will be the host of the ASEAN Investment Forum in July 2008.

Malaysia sells itself as an all year round destination. The “Visit Malaysia Year” campaign has already drawn some 20.8 million tourists to the country, which celebrated 50 years of nationhood in 2007. This success has spurred the Malaysian Government to extend the campaign until August 2008.

Among the states that will organize an additional “Visit State Year 2008” are Terengganu, Kelantan and Kedah. With Director General Dato’ Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, Tourism Malaysia looks optimistic into a rosy future.

For Viet Nam – with the Hidden Charm slogan – the year 2007 has actually brought in slightly more than 4 million arrivals, mainly from Japan, Korea and Taiwan. Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Long Bay are the main tourist attractions. For 2008, there is the “Mekong Delta Year” promoted, especially in Can Tho. The Hue Festival will be organized on June 3-11, while this year’s Miss Universe contest will be in Nha Trang during July/August.

Another highlight of the year will be the International Travel Expo (ITE) at Phu Tho Exhibition Centre in Ho Chi Minh City during 11-13 September 2008. More importantly, the new created Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in Viet Nam will actively prepare ATF2009 in Ha Noi, which will be held during January 5-12 in the coming year. Viet Nam Airlines will be modernized accordingly, as Viet Nam projects the target of reaching 6 million tourists by 2010.

Brunei, which will organize ATF2010, is marketing itself as the green heart of Borneo. This is no wonder because of the country’s forest cover of 78%. Some 178.000 visitors – around 20.000 from Europe – were counted in 2007 with more to come in the future. Eco-tourism is the name of the game – the same as in nearby Indonesia.

Indonesia’s press conference highlighted the role of Garuda Indonesia in the promotion of the country’s tourism industry and the airline’s support for the Government’s “Visit Indonesia Year 2008” program. Following the Bali bombings and in the aftermath of the Yogya earthquake, Indonesia’s tourism industry went through difficult times and is now in the midst of a recovery phase. As part of the “Visit Indonesia Year 2008” program, Minster of Culture and Tourism, H.E. Jero Wacik, has issued a list of around 100 tourism events around the country in an effort to attract 7 million visitors to Indonesia. Garuda Indonesia alone plans to bring in 56 additional air-planes and currently serves 22 domestic cities plus 17 international destinations as far as Japan, Australia and the Middle East. A revived service to Amsterdam/Holland is due in the near future, if conditions allow.

Last not least, Mr. Sounh Manivong, Director General of Tourism Planning and Co-operation Department of the Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA), noted a record tourism growth rate of 37% with some 1.3 million tourists, counted from January to November 2007. Eco-tourism activities centre in Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Pakse. Road projects connect to Thailand and Viet Nam.

On the entertainment side of ATF2008, there were two media luncheons hosted by Thai International Airways (THAI) and Dusit International respectively. Viet Nam invited for a dinner night with a brilliant traditional song, dance and music theatre on January 23 at the Plaza Athenee Hotel, followed by a TTG Asia Media late night function at the new Pullman Bangkok King Power Hotel.

Finally, Visit Malaysia invited for a gala dinner on January 24 in the Royal Jubilee Ballroom at the IMPACT side, where the Honorable Datuk Seri Tengku Mansor, Minister of Tourism in Malaysia, presided over “One Golden Celebration” – a cultural showcase of the multinational country. The following night function happened at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, hosted by Singapore’s Travel Weekly. Thus, ATF2008 phased out on a high note, while there was no official closing ceremony for the show on January 25. Fair enough that some pre- and post tours were offered complimentary.
By Reinhard Hohler

IMT - GT (Indonesia, Malaysia & Thailand - Growth Triangle

Tourists heading for destinations within the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand-Growth Triangle areas during the region’s Visit IMT-GT 2008 year are spoilt for flights and choice of destinations following a “free-fall” of ticket prices by leading regional carriers Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia.

IMT-GT destinations including Jakarta, Yogyakarta (Indonesia), Langkawi, Kota Bahru (Malaysia), Chiang Mai, and Krabi (Thailand) are poised to receive its share of tourists from member countries.

At the recent ASEAN Tourism Ministers' Meeting in Bangkok, Malaysian Tourism Minister Tengku Adnan disclosed that many activities have been lined up to celebrate the Visit IMTGT 2008 through to 2009.

"The tourism industry within the IMT-GT growth areas will get a boost with the opening of more air routes," said Minister Adnan. According to him recently, there have been more efforts to open up more destinations within the region. "Greater connectivity will help in promoting the growth triangle areas, benefiting the people through tourism and economic activities.

The Malaysian minister added: "In addition, many carriers from participating countries have asked for waiver of landing fees and discounts on airport fees. Carriers have proposed starting new routes, including Hatyai-Subang, Batam-Langkawi, Hatyai-Langkawi and Bandar Acheh-Penang."
Spreading its wings as well as introducing new routes, Malaysia Airlines and its subsidiaries are offering up to six million seats, from “free” seats to some with up to 70 percent discount, during its yearly Malaysia Airlines travel fair.

For the first time, Malaysia Airlines subsidiaries MAS wings and low-cost carrier Firefly are offering 150,000 'free seats' to introduce its brand and routes to the flying public.

Not to be “unseated” by its competitor, AirAsia is offering online a million seats, starting from less than US$3 cents, excluding taxes. "This is part of our gesture to make holidays more affordable," said spokeswoman Kathleen Tan.

The ASEAN Secretariat plans to also promote the region as a single destination by publishing a coffee-table book, similar to the Commonwealth Tourism Center's book on Commonwealth countries.

"Despite pushing for a similar project for the region for many years, our efforts have received little support due to financial constrains faced by the other developing countries," said Adnan.

The IMT-GT Growth Triangle is an affirmative action by the governments of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand to boost the economy of Sumatra in Indonesia a, northern states of Malaysia, and Southern provinces of Thailand, which together accounts for a total population of about 100 million people.

Source: etn, yusof sulaiman

Eco-Tourism Transforms Former Prison

Once a prison for Vietnamese patriots during French domination, Con Dao National Park is now a top tourist destination.

When most Vietnamese think of Con Dao Island, they think of prison. And for some 100 years that is what it was, but now people are beginning to recognise island as something very different: a hot-spot for eco-tourism.

Formerly known as Con Son or Con Lon, the National Assembly renamed the island Con Dao in 1977. It is the largest of 16 islands in the archipelago in Southern Viet Nam, and spans 51.52sq.km with 6,000 residents, rich forests, mountains and beaches. 19,990ha of the island are forest and include virgin and sea forests, favourite areas for eco-tourists.

The journey to the island is no simple matter and takes 12 hours by ship from Vung Tau City in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, which is 97 nautical miles south-east. Only Co Ong Airport flies to the island, using a 70-passenger ATR-72 and adjusts flight schedules based on demand and climate.
The island resembles a bear turning its back on the mainland and has thus far made most of its revenue through tourism. Of over VND75 billion (US$4.7million) in revenue, VND14 billion come ($870,000) from tourism.

"The island received full support from the Government’s project on eco-tourism and historical relics last year. The Ben Dam Port, which is 11m deep, makes it ideal for becoming a major fishing centre along the southern coast," said District People’s Committee vice chairman Bui Van Binh.

"We expect to expand the airport by lengthening the runway to the sea, thereby allowing bigger air planes in. But the project still requires large investments and time," he added.

Ocean treasure
Specifically, eco-tourism services like trekking through the primitive forest, scuba diving and staying overnight on the rescue and release turtle centre have been drawing visitors.

Con Dao National Park is one of the country’s six areas with concentrated bio-diversity in both sea and land, possessing thousands of types of flora and fauna. Black and brown squirrels, birds and endangered, endemic animals such as sea cows (Dugong), green turtles and hawk’s bill turtles abound.

This unspoiled environment and the well-protected forests helped the park attract around 3,000 visitors over the last year, a third of whom were foreign.

"We are proud of the environment and security on Con Dao over the years. The islands are the first site in Viet Nam involved in rescuing and releasing turtles. We release around 60,000 turtles every year during the reproduction period," explained vice director of Con Dao National Park Tran Dinh Hue.

"Turtles appearing and reproducing on the islands is a signal of a well-protected environment because the animal is highly sensitive the water where it lives and breeds," Hue added.

During night stays on Bay Canh Islet once can watch green turtles give birth and release their young into the sea. A hatchery centre also exits where turtles are then released by the park staff and mother turtles are tagged.

National park researchers are presently watching between eight and 12 sea cows living among the islands. Hue explained that sea grass growing abundantly around the islands is the main food of the endangered animals.

Historical relics
During the French colonial in the 18th century, this now eco-tourist site was known as the great prison for Vietnamese patriots.

French and Americans built Con Dao with 127 detention rooms, 42 cells and 504 tiger cages, spanning 151,334sq.m.

The former prison has been restored as an historical site for visitors interested in tracing the history of Vietnamese revolutionaries. Last year, over 17,000 people came to the area, and over 18,000 more are expected this year.

Combined with the areas natural wonders, many investors have also begun recognising the area as ideal for tourism.

"Twenty investors came to the islands to survey them as tourist sites during 2006-07 alone. However, transport is still a handicap for them," said the district’s Deputy Head of the Tourism Board Nguyen Xuan Dung.

"The island has accommodations of around 147 rooms and the figure will increase in the next few years. A four-star hotel with an investment of VND80 billion ($5 million) will be built by Sai Gon Tourist, and another international $23 million resort Dat Doc is under construction by Con Dao Resort Limited Company."

Currently, the island is trying to overcome transport difficulties with two vessels carrying 500 passengers from Vung Tau City three times a week.

Although ATR-72 air planes arrive once weekly, flights are sometimes cancelled due to weather between September and April or seats remain empty during this off season.

But some are avoiding the problem of transport all together. Tran Thi My Tam, a woman born in Vung Tau City, has settled on the island and has been living there for the past two years.

The 27-year-old now works at the national park and said she liked living there very much.

"I graduated from a college in HCM City and volunteered to work on the island. I think Con Dao has great potential in the future given its peaceful environment," Tam said.

"I have an easy time here and have devoted my life to the island," she says.
Source: vietnamnews.vnagency.com.vn

Philippines among the World’s Most Desired Destinations

MANILA, Philippines - World’s best beaches, traditional hilot, Western-oriented hospitality services, crafts and arts, nature and food at reasonable prices are among the reasons Philippines is now one of the most-desired destinations worldwide.

Department of Tourism figures showed that tourism arrivals to the Philippines grew by 8.7 percent last year, placing the country in the number 6 spot in Asean.

The improved ranking was achieved despite the numerous crises last year, such as the Glorietta mall explosion, the Congress bomb blast, and the siege at the Manila Peninsula.

Oscar Palabyab, undersecretary for tourism services and regional offices, said the incidents were isolated and didn’t hurt tourism at all. In fact, the DOT’s participation in the recently-held 26th Asean Tourism Forum (ATF) in Bangkok was quite a success, an indication that the country’s tourism industry is doing well.

Eduardo Jarque, undersecretary for tourism planning and promotions, said global events such as the ATF have opened more opportunities for Philippine tourism.

The ATF, with the theme this year of “Synergy of Asean towards Dynamic Unity in Diversity,” is a regional cooperation group that promotes Southeast Asia as a tourist destination to the global travel market. The forum is an effort among the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian consisting of Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia and Brunei.

Its main feature was the Travel Exchange (Travex), where buyers of wholesale tourism packages from all over the world got the chance to meet major tourism players in the region, set up new business contacts and learn about tourism trends.

The nine-day event involved a series of talks, ministerial conferences and business forums among participating countries, with discussions on new market plans and common tourism-industry concerns.

The event was also an opportunity for each member country to showcase each country’s culture and traditions, sights and natural attractions.

The Philippine delegation consisted of key officials from the DOT. Officers from top travel associations and representatives from major hotels and resorts came in full force.

Top destinations
As part of its attempt to secure a larger influx of tourists, the DOT is refurbishing the country’s major destinations and tourism services.

For instance, Metro Manila is being repackaged as an entertainment, leisure and shopping destination. Jarque said Manila is now considered as an end destination with many attractions and no longer as a mere stopover to the islands.

“The malls in Metro Manila have become more than places for shopping,” said Jarque. “Shopping malls have evolved into lifestyle centers—places to celebrate special gatherings, to hang out with friends and to spend quality time with the family.”

Palawan, on the other hand, is gaining international prominence in high-end adventure travel programs. Several investors, including Singapore’s Banyan Tree, are eyeing Palawan for integrated resorts.

Cebu is being developed as an ideal destination for meetings, incentive travels, conventions and exhibitions (MICE).

Bohol, aside from its pristine beaches and natural attractions, now boasts of boutique properties like Eskaya Beach Resort and Amorita Resort.

Boracay has implemented a one-entry, one-exit policy.

DOT is also exploring volcano and surfing tourism. “We are pushing Mt. Pinatubo more than ever,” said Jarque. “There is now kayaking on the volcano lake.”

Festivals showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage are also major draws. “First-time visitors are looking for something new—culture and places of history, the reason why they love to see festivals,” said Jarque. Some of the most sought after festivals are the Sinulog of Cebu, Mindoro’s Bakya Festival, Iloilo’s Dinagyang and Bacolod’s Masskara festival.

Tailor-made campaign

The department has engaged in market-specific campaigns carrying the same umbrella tagline, “Beyond the Usual,” promoting the countries 7,107 islands.

Jarque said the DOT is designing specific programs to cater to the different needs of the market. It is also building on existing strategies that worked.

Research in Korea, for instance, showed that Koreans were attracted to the diversity of the islands, that one island offers something unique than another.

“Koreans love adventure,” Jarque said. He added Koreans usually come to the country Friday night, play golf the following day; then enjoy a relaxing massage and eat Korean food; and play 18-hole golf before flying back.

In Japan, the DOT built the campaign around the beach destinations, such as Boracay and Bohol. This is based on a survey that said the beaches were what the Japanese loved about the Philippines.

The Chinese, according to DOT, are happy and contented with the package tours and shopping. So DOT offers budget-shopping tours designed specifically for the China market.

And what are the new markets the department is eyeing to penetrate?

“We are now focusing on Russia and India,” said Jarque. “For Russia, we have just implemented the 21-day visa-free entry to the Philippines.” Waiving the visa requirement would encourage more contacts and tourist relations between the two countries.

“Russia is a valuable market for us. They stay an average of three weeks in the Philippines and they hop through the islands of Palawan and Boracay. By spending a long time here, they tend to spend more,” explained Palabyab during the ATF conference.

The Russian tourists today, according to dealers, are very rich and prefer tailor-made holidays over off-the-shelf packages. They usually stay between three to four days in the city before moving on to beach resorts for at least a week. Singapore Tourism Board (STB) reports show Russian arrivals have been growing steadily in the last few years, making it an important market for Asia.

In 2007, the average length of stay for visitors across all markets was 16.7 nights compared to 12.6 nights in 2006.

Infrastructure

The continued growth of foreign arrivals however put more pressure on the country’s infrastructure. Currently, hotel occupancy rates in Metro Manila are close to 80 percent. The good news is, according to DOT, there are significant investments being made on infrastructure.

DOT said it would continue to develop new facilities to cope not only with the increasing tourism arrivals but also with the changing needs and demands of the growing market.

“More and more hotels are opening while some are being upgraded,” said Jarque.

This year, Boracay welcomes its first international branded hotel, the 217-room Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa. The 150-room Microtel Inn & Suites Mall of Asia and the 100-room Manila Ocean Park Hotel will also be inaugurated.

Several domestic and foreign visitors—Banyan Tree and the Kingdom Holdings from Saudi Arabia—announced new projects in key destinations such as Cebu, Boracay, Negros Oriental, Bicol and Palawan.

Provincial airports in Iloilo, Kalibo, Puerto Princesa and Bacolod are being upgraded to accommodate international flights. As a result, several global airlines have opened new regular and charter flights not only to Manila but also direct flights to key tourist destinations. China Eastern Airlines has mounted direct flights to Cebu.

“Low-cost carriers have contributed a lot in terms of tourism arrivals to the country,” said Jarque. “In fact, there are tie-ups made with airlines to lower ticket prices.”

For 2008, the DOT is targeting US$5.8 billion in tourism income, surpassing the medium-term goal set two years ago of US$ 5 billion in 2010.

The department pledged further investment in promotions, including education travel and medical tourism. Participation in trade and consumer events primarily to attract holiday-seekers, honeymooners, families and students will be DOT’s top priority this year.

Jarque said 2007 was indeed a fruitful year for Philippine tourism and he hopes that new investors will flock to the country this year.
showbizandstyle.inquirer.net

Chiang Mai is aiming at the high-end market of tourism

To attract more “quality” tourists in the future and shedding its reputation to be a backpackers destination for many years, Chiang Mai is gearing up to promote events and festivals more aggressively. Besides, after the festive hard opening of the Sofitel Riverside Chiang Mai last month, Shangri-La Chiang Mai and the upcoming Le Meridien Chiang Mai will guarantee that the “Rose of the North” is well prepared to welcome wealthy tourists in the long run.

This month’s main attraction is the Rachapruek Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) Exposition 2008, which has opened on February 9 and will last until February 17. Some 600 exhibitors from Thailand and other Mekong River countries offer goods for sale, including handicrafts, textiles, furnishings, ceramics, and diverse agricultural products. Also, there are food stalls from all over the region.

GMS Expo 2008 is destined to attract more than 300.000 visitors, stimulate trade between Northern Thailand and the other Mekong countries, as well as promote improving relationships between the Kingdom of Thailand, Union of Myanmar, Lao PDR, Kingdom of Cambodia, Vietnam and China, especially Yunnan. The Expo is organised by the Chiang Mai Provincial Authorities in co-operation with the Ministry of Commerce in Bangkok and with the aid of the Provincial Commerce Office plus the Chiang Mai Chamber of Commerce.

Another highlight is the announcement of an eminent archaeological event in Mae Hong Son Province, namely the opening ceremony of the exhibition “From different horizons of rock shelter: Breaking through the lines of archaeological methods, phases in anthropology and myths of arts.”

H.E. Eric G. John, Ambassador of the United States of America in Thailand, will preside over the opening ceremony on Feb 15, 9.00 a.m. at Tham Lod rock shelter, Amphoe Pang Mapha, Changwat Mae Hong Son. Also present will be Dr. Rasmi Shoocongdej from Chiang Mai University and representatives from Bangkok’s famous Silpakorn University plus Office of Contemporary Art and Culture. The exhibition itself will remain until March 2, 2008.

Further away from Chiang Mai, namely in Thailand’s northeastern province of Udon Thani, home of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ban Chiang, there will be a travel show and tourism festival on 15-17 February at Charoensri Grand Royal Hotel and Charoensri Department Store Complex in the provincial capital city.

The event will be organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Northeastern Region 5 to promote tourism in the Northeast and the surrounding regions, and highlight the province’s growing importance as a bridgehead to the neighboring country of Lao PDR.

As the I-san Tourism Festival open to the public is designed to promote Udon Thani as a hub of tourism products and services in the upper north-eastern region, Chiang Mai should look to intensify ways of communication, improve more air links and establish a productive co-operation with Udon Thani. The same concept has to apply to a future connection with Ubon Ratchathani, which is an emerging destination in the lower I-San region within the Emerald Triangle, a border area of Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. Please note that the new incoming Minister of Tourism and Sports, H.E. Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat is a native of Ubon Ratchathani.

According to TAT figures, in 2006, Northeast Thailand welcomed 21 million visitors or up 8.46% over 2005. Of these, 20 million were Thai and the rest foreigners. The top three visited provinces were Nakhon Ratchasima (4.9 million), Khon Kaen (2.4 million) and Udon Thani (2.11 million). For more details, please contact TAT Northeastern Region 5 Office, Tel: 042-32 5406-7 or Fax: 042-32 5408.

Important to note is that Laos celebrates its annual Elephant Festival on 15-17 February at Paklai, Sayabouri Province, which can be reached via Loei Province coming from Chiang Mai. So where to go on the upcoming weekend is a matter of hard choice.

Finally, on the restaurant front, Chiang Mai has also a new attraction: Dusit D2hotel Chiang Mai located right at the well-known night bazaar is offering a special “barbecue night” at the hotel’s beer garden from 17.00 o’clock onwards on every Friday and Saturday until the end of March. There will be a dinner buffet prepared by Chef Chalong Sakkapalangkul, including roasted beef, marinated ruby fish, tiger prawns, duck and much more. For 299++baht per person and a draft beer pitcher for 150++baht, the offer and presentation is overwhelming.

By: Reinhard Hohler, Thailand

Thailand’s new tourism minister outlines vision

BANGKOK – Thailand's new Minister of Tourism and Sports, along with Tourism Authority of Thailand senior executives, were due to outline some important policy initiatives today.

The minister, Weerasak Kowsurat, was holding a media conference to deliver his policy and perspective of the tourism industry.

The minister will set a new target for international visitor spending of US$24.9 billion by the end of 2008.

TAT executives were also expected to report on activity in their major international markets.

TAT is expected to be questioned about its WIKI Mission for Thailand Tourism Project that aims "to improve and edit all the information about Thailand on www.WIKIPEDIA."

TAT officials said the project would target digital citizens "to make them have a better understanding of Thailand by uploading complete, accurate and up-to-date information on to the websites in order to promote tourism in Thailand".

Source: travelmole

Tourism Rides New Investment Wave

As the foreign investment flow into Vietnam is increasing, the tourism industry has attracted a greater share of attention.

According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the year 2007 saw 47 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects pouring 1.86 billion USD in the non-smoke industry, almost tripling the figure of 2006 and equal to the total amount of 7-8 previous years.

The ministry’s Planning and Finance Department Head Ho Viet Ha said foreign investors are particularly interested in building entertainment parks, hotels, resorts and golf courses on a large scale and with high-quality services.

The most noteworthy is a 1 billion USD project of Singapore ’s Banyan Tree group, which is completing procedures for building an ecological resort in the Chan May-Lang Co Economic Zone in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue .

As scheduled, construction of the resort will begin in March and be completed in early 2014, containing 10 five-star hotels with close to 3,000 rooms, a golf course, an international conference centre and 470 villas for sale.

Thailand ’s Six Senses group is preparing for a project to build three Ana Mandara resorts in Nha Trang and Da Lat.

TJ Grundl Hong, Six Senses Project Manager, said Vietnam has over 3,200km of coastline and many localities have beautiful beaches but sea-borne tourism is under-developed. He revealed his group’s plan to build six resorts in Vietnam by 2010.

Central Da Nang city, with its socio-economic and geographic advantages, attracted a series of tourism projects in 2007 with a combined capital of hundreds of millions of USD.

According to Lam Quang Minh, director of the city’s Investment Promotion Centre, four projects will be carried out in 2008.The largest of these, the 325 million USD Capital Square project by Vinacapital Commercial Centre Ltd. will be launched in this year’s first quarter to build a hotel, apartments for rent, deluxe villas and an entertainment park.

The acceleration of foreign investment in the non-smoke industry, according to Ha, was the result of the door-opening process in accordance with Vietnam ’s WTO commitments, with many tourism services now open wide to various economic sectors.

But the most important thing, Ha said, is “the attractiveness of Vietnam ’s investment environment thanks to political stability and many incentives for investors.”

At a recent workshop on investment in Vietnam , Vinichai Chaemchaeng, Vice Director of the Thai Ministry of Commerce’s Department of Trade Nagotiations said Vietnam ’s exemption of taxes in line with its integration process has made its investment environment more attractive and opened up great chances for the development of the country’s service sector.
Source: vietnamnet.vn

Republic of Korea President-Elect Meets with Tourism Leaders

President-elect Lee Myung-bak sat down Monday with leaders of the country's tourism industry.In the meeting he stressed the need to view tourism as part of Korea's culture, adding that the government needs to see the industry in a new light.

He stressed that the government and private sector must join hands to boost tourism and that he will revise necessary laws and regulations to increase support.

As a success story the incoming president highlighted efforts by Dubai to draw more tourists by building a waterway through the desert where ships can sail.

The remark was viewed by some as a way of promoting his own plans of building a cross-country canal across Korea.
Source: chosun.com

Burma lures tourists with reopening of Ancient Palace

In an attempt to entice tourists to the military-ruled country, Burma's Ministry of Culture has reopened the Thiri Zeya Bumi Bagan Golden Palace. The palace—whose reconstruction began several years ago—is one of the most impressive remnants of the ancient city of Bagan, which flourished as a Buddhist center from the 11th to the 13th centuries. The site spreads across 80 kilometers and encompasses over 2,000 ruins.

Burma hopes that the reopening will inject a much-needed boost to the country's tourism, which took a heavy hit after the violence that erupted following last fall's pro-democracy rallies. International condemnation of the military junta, along with long-standing calls to boycott tourism to the country, have kept tourist numbers low compared with surrounding countries.

On January 15, the UK's Trades Union Congress (TUC), in conjuction with UK charity Tourism Concern, renewed the call for a tourism boycott of Burma, citing evidence of child labor in the development of tourist infrastructure and the displacement of people near tourist attractions—among other human rights abuses—as rationale. The boycott originated over a decade ago with democratically-elected Burmese leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who is still under house arrest in Rangoon.

However, some say that a continued boycott will only prevent much-needed outside support from reaching the Burmese people. The Observer's Chris McGreal discovered on a recent trip that "[o]rdinary Burmese people say tourism provides many with the means to feed their families." Not only that, but "[t]ourists are witnesses to the state of the monasteries after the regime purged them of monks to break the pro-democracy protests. The monks who remain are often willing to talk discreetly about the assaults on them and their supporters and about how the military is keeping up the pressure despite the generals' attempts to persuade the outside world that everything is back to Burma's abnormal form of normality."

Whether Bagan's Golden Palace—or McGreal's plea on behalf of the Burmese people—will invite tourists to break the boycott remains to be seen.
Source: ethicaltraveler.org

Government of India to introduce Tea Tourism in North Bengal

With an eye on attracting both domestic and foreign tourists, the state government has embarked on an ambitious project for the development of an integrated tea tourism circuit.

"The Centre has sanctioned schemes worth Rs six crore for the development of infrastructure and accommodation in North Bengal to promote tea tourism," Managing Director of West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Ltd, T V N Rao told PTI here.

Eight areas in North Bengal including Malbazar, Murti, Hilla, Mohua, Samsing, Nagrakata, Batabari have been selected under this scheme, he said.

"Tourists who visit Dooars areas had showed interest in staying in the tea gardens and see how tea leaves are plucked and processed. Tourists are also attracted to the lush green tea gardens and the scenic beauty. So why not promote the tea gardens as tourists spots," he said.

Rao said that the government was also trying to rope in private parties to commercially exploit the potential of tea tourism through public private partnership.

Hospitality major Ambuja Realty is taking keen interest in developing properties in North Bengal to promote tea tourism and has also identified land for setting up hotels, company sources said.

Rao said that major investment would be made at Murti near Indong tea garden and Malbazar where work has already started to create a tourism facilitation centre and tourism amenities.

The Centre has also requested the state government to amend the Land Ceiling Act to enable tea gardens to utilise five per cent of their total land for tea tourism and horticulture. Currently only Assam had relaxed norms for use of five per cent of the tea gardens for alternative use like tea tourism.

"Land transfer proposals in Hilla and Mohua state owned tea estates, were in process. We also plan to set up tented accommodation in Murti, which is named after the Murti river," Rao said.

Officials in the tourism department say that North Bengal, especially the Dooars region which also houses the Gorumara National park, the Chapramari wildlife sanctuary, the Buxa Tiger Reserve, attract lakhs of tourists every year.

The government would create a tea tourism circuit with an information centre and tourist amenities for which work was scheduled to begin by the middle of this year and was expected to be completed in stages from the end of 2008, Rao said.
Source: etn

HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN (Vietnam) – A World Cultural Heritage Site

Hoi An is located 30km south of Danang City, and 60 km northeast of Tam Ky. Hoi An used to be an international trade center by sea on the eastwest area in the 16th and 17th centuries. It was the busiest trading port in Dang Trong region of Vietnam under the reign of Nguyen as merchants from Japan, China, Portugal, Spain, Holland...often landed for exchanging, purchasing commodities. In the historical progress of establishment and development, Hoi An was known by foreign merchants as Faifo, Haisfo, Hoai pho, Ketchem, Cotam. Based on archeological relics and architecture documents, Hoi An was not only a place of converge and exchanging of many cultures such as: Champa, Vietnamese, Portuguese, Japanese and Chinese, especially impacted most by Vietnamese and Chinese civilisations.

Up to now, the ancient town of Hoi An intactly preserves its original architectures, including houses, temples, pogodas, streets, ports, civil buildings, religious structures and other non-religious worshipping structures. The every day lifestyle with deep-rooted customs and cultural activities is fascinating.Hoi An also attracts tourists thanks to its poetic and picturesque landscapes such as Thuan Tinh islet, Cua Dai beacch, together with traditional handicrafts and famous local specialities.

Hoi An was listed as a world cultural heritage site by UNESCO in December 1999. As statistics shows, in Hoi An there are 1,360 relics and landscapes. These relics are divided into eleven kinds, including 1,068 ancients houses, 19 pagodas, 43 temples, 23 communal houses, 38 family temples, 5 assembly halls, 11 old wells, one bridge, 44 ancient tombs. In old quarter, there are more than 1000 relic sites.

Japanese Coverd Bridge
Conecting Tran Phu St. with Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St., Japanese Covered bridge was constructed in the middle of the 16th century by Japanese merchants in Hoi An. Due to natural disaster, Japanese Covered bridge was restored so many times that it gradually lost its original Japanese architecture style and was impacted by Vietnamese and Chinese design. The bridge was provided with a roof which was arched shape and skilfully carved with many fine patterns. Over the door, 3 Chinese characters “ Lai Van Kieu” (it means Bridge for Passers-by From Afar) were carved prominently to name the bridge by Nguyen Phuc Chu Lord in his trip to Hoi An in 1719.

The two entrances to the bridge are guarded by a pair of monkeys on one side and a pair of dogs on the other. According to legend, these once lived an enormous monster called Cu whose head was in India, its tail in Japan and its body in Vietnam. Whenever the monster moved, terrible disaster such as floods and earthquake befell these places. Thus, aprat from the purpose of transportation, building the bridge aslo is to speak-killing the monster to preserve safe and peaceful life. Japanese Covered Bridge is an invaluable property and has been officially selected to be the symbol of Hoi An.

Quan Thang ancient house (77 Tran Phu St.)
Quan Thang is, currently, evaluated as one of the nicest ancient houses in Hoi An. It is an over 150 year old house with architecture style of Hoa Ha, China. Through years, the syle as well as interior decoration of the house has been lovingly preserved. That helps us partly imagine the lifestyle of its owner generations who were the merchants class in Hoi An earlier. It is known that the whole of lively and fine architecture and sculptures were made by craftmen of Kim Bong carpentry village.

This is a main spot in the journey of discovery the world cultural heritage in Hoi An.

Tan Ky ancient house (101 Nguyen Thai Hoc St.)
Built about 200 years ago, Tan Ky’s architecture style is piped shape - a typical style of Hoi An ancient houses. Its interior is divided into many apartments and each one has its own function. The front of the house is used for stores and the back of the house near the river was the place for import and export goods. The interior decoration item was made of unique wood skilfully carved with symbols of dragon, fruits, eight weapons, silk fillets showing well-off of its owners.

On 17th February 1990 Tan Ky house was listed as a national historical vestige.

Phung Hung ancient house (04 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St.)
Over 100 years old, Phung Hung house possessed a unique architecture. The high wooden ceiling and large corridors represent the development of architecture and exchange among Asian architectural styles in Hoi An in the earlier centuries. The house exhibits a lot of information about the lifestyle of merchants who lived in Hoi An long time ago. Although being made from unique woods, Phung Hung house was not carved at all by the owner on purpose.

On the 29th of June 1993 the house was listed as a national historical vestige.

Phuc Kien Assembly hall (46 Tran Phu St)
It is said that Phuc Kien Assembly hall was once a small temple where Thien Hau Thanh Mau statue (a goddess who protects merchants sailing in the sea) was worshiped. It was picked up on the beach of Hoi An in 1697. Due to restorations and support of the Fukien people, the Assembly hall became resplendent and spacious taking part in the embellishment of Hoi An architecture. Arranging the statues for worshiping means “ human happiness” profoundly expess the oriental philosophy.

Annually, on the 15th of January lunar year, 16th of February lunar year and 23th of March lunar year many activities are organized, attracting a lot of foreigners as well as domestic tourists.

On 17th of February 1990 Fukien was listed a national historical vestige.

Trieu Chau Assembly hall (157 Nguyen Duy Hieu St.)
Trieu Chau Assembly hall was built in 1845. The General Phuc Ba, who was claimed to be able to make winds calm and waves quiet, was worshipped there.

The house possesses a special value in architecture with its skilfully carved wood house-frame and wooden decorated alter and many glazed terracotta carving works.

Quang Dong Assembly hall ( 17 Tran Phu St.)
Founded in 1885 by Cantonese people, Quang Dong Assembly hall was firstly used to worship Thien Hau Thanh Mau and Khong Tu, and later in 1911 was used to worship Quan Cong and their ancestors.

The harmonious combination of wood and stone material and beautiful decorations bring the house the unique and sacred design. Annually, on the 15th of January lunar year and the 24th of June lunar year festivals are held, attracting many people.

Ngu Bang assembly hall ( 64 Tran Phu St.)
Ngu Bang is also called Duong Thuong or Chinese Assembly hall. It was built in 1747 by five groups of Chinese people: Fukien, Trieu Chau, Cantonese, HaiNam and Gia Ung. Here, they worship Thien Hau Thanh Mau and it is used as a meeting place to do business. Its architecture is influenced by Chinese style.

Ong pogoda ( 24 Tran Phu St.)
Founded in 1653, Chua Ong was restored six times in years of 1753, 1783, 1827, 1864, 1904, 1906 and restored six times. Chua Ong possesses a magnificent and impressing architecture, and is also called the Quan Cong temple. Quan Van Truong, (a symbolic image which represents loyalty and integrity according to Confucianism, is worshipped here). This place was once both a religious center of ancient Quang Nam people, and a place where people came to consult oracles and believed it to bring luck.

Quan Am pogoda (7 Nguyen Hue St.)
Being the only remaining Buddha-worshipped pogoda in Hoi An ancient town., Quan Am pogoda possesses a nice scenery and interresting architecture. Special wooden scultures carved by skilful craftman of Kim Bong carpentry village are intactly preserved here. Quan The Am Bo Tat and other bodhisattvas are worshipped here. On the fifteen day of the lunar month, people come here participating actively in religious activities.

Tran family temple (21 Le Loi St.)
Founded in 1802 by Tran mandarin (a large family emigrating from China to Hoi An in 1700s) built in 1802 in accordance with the traditional science of winds and waters of Chinese and Vietnamese. Located on the area of 1500m2, Tran family temple consits of many sections such as temple of ancestor worship and display of relics relating to family, house...

This is the place where descendants get together, worshipping, and solving affairs in their lineage.

Tran family temple is one of the place attracting attention and interest from visitors.

Historical- cultural museum (7 Nguyen Hue St.)
Established in 1989, the museum displays 212 artifacts and documents made from porcelain, pottery, bronze, iron, paper and wood. They represent many stages of development of Hoi An trading port from Sa Huynh civilisation (the second century AD) to Cham civilisation (from the 2nd to 15th century). Visiting Hoi An Historical and Cultural museum, tourists get an overview of history development and culture of the ancient town.

Pottery trade museum ( 80 Tran Phu St.)
Founded in 1995, the Pottery trade museum exhibits a rare collection of 430 artifacts from the 8th to the 18th century. Most of the artifacts are originally from central Asia, India, China, Japan, Thailand and Viet Nam playing an important role of Hoi An trading port in pottery trading in the earlier centuries. This museum aslo shows that Hoi An was once a busy international exchanging town for culture and business.

Sa Huynh cultural museum (149 Tran Phu St.)
The museum supplies a plenty of information about ancient people of Sa Huynh civilisation who were the first owners of Hoi An trading port, having exchanging relationship with China, India, and South East Asia. About 216 objects which are some 2000 years old of Sa Huynh civilisation are exhibited. These items are found through explorations and excavations of archaeological sites in such the places as Hau Xa, Thanh Chiem, An Bang, Xuan Lam from 1989 to 1994.

The artifacts at the museum are evaluated as the most unique collection of Sa Huynh civilisation in Viet Nam

Israel truly a destination with something for everyone

Israel, perfectly located at the fulcrum of Europe, Asia and Africa, is a world-class destination for sophisticated travelers. Israel offers cultural attractions on a par with any other country, luxury hotels, glamorous spas and a hot restaurant scene - all within an atmosphere that combines the very ancient with the ultra high-tech, and the exotic with the contemporary.

Nothing underscores the variety of Israel’s attractions more than realizing that within a few hours you can go from the snowy heights of Mount Hermon to the Judean Desert and the saltiest sea on earth, the Dead Sea, while visiting ancient biblical cities, covered markets and a high-rise metropolis on the way. This is what makes Israel truly a destination with something for everyone.

In Israel you have to use the word “old” sparingly – the age of most of its cities is counted not in decades or in centuries, but in millennia. The ingenuity and complexity of some of these historical gems have won them a place on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. And of course, Jerusalem is an incomparable highlight that is both historical and spiritual. Restored 19th century villages like Rosh Pina in the Upper Galilee and Zichron Ya’akov on Mount Carmel reveal another side of Israel – its pioneering days. Shops along these streets feature local arts and crafts that make the best gifts. They are often artist-owned as well, which holds the promise of getting to know some very interesting folks.

There’s no place like Tel Aviv to indulge your urban tastes. Classified by geographers as a “world city,” it offers museums, opera, theater and dance, fine restaurants with cuisines from around the world, its own beautifully restored 19th-century quarter, Neve Tzedek and even antiquities, in the form of its “older sister” – Jaffa, which also has galleries galore.

Tel Aviv’s Mediterranean location also means quality beach-time can be part of the experience. As for other beaches, there’s variety there, too: the sand on Ashkelon’s fine-grained shores has been buffeted by the waves all the way from the Nile Delta, while in the north, rocky and romantic coves sprout lovely wildflowers in their season. At the Caesarea beach, divers can take an underwater tour of the Roman antiquities. And for fresh-water fun, head for Tiberias and the Kinneret.

Another kind of diving experience stars at Israel’s Red Sea Riviera on the Gulf of Eilat where a wonder-sea of corals and exotic fish awaits. In addition to hiking and diving, other adventure challenge experiences are to be had in the desert cliffs around Eilat and in the Negev and the forested ridges of the Upper Galilee, including cycling, off-road touring and rappelling. Even those snowy heights are not one-dimensional: in the winter they boast ski-runs with all the amenities, but when the snow melts, Mount Hermon becomes a hiker’s delight with trails to charming alpine-like meadows and shady streams.

Israel boasts a number of unique edutainment attractions that families love – Jerusalem’s Time Elevator, Mini Israel, the new Kings City in Eilat and the Haganah Museum are only a few of the fun-while-you-learn experiences in store.

Lodgings come in all shapes and sizes, from fine international chains to budget hotels and – great for the family or a romantic interlude – country-style bed-and-breakfast accommodations.

Plan your trip around the date of one of Israel’s many annual international events - whether music, sports, theater or film – and see how all the wonderful pieces fit perfectly together.

For information check the Israel Tourism website: http://www.goisrael.com/

MY SON SANCTUARY (Vietnam) - A World Cultural Heritage Site

Belonging to Duy Phu, Duy Xuyen district, My Son sanctuary is 45 km west of Hoi An, 70 km south of Danang.

In 1898, a French soldier named M.C. Paris, found out My Son temples in a secret narrow valley among dense forests.

My Son used to be a group of more than 70 temple towers. Each temple has a typical architecture which reflects a historical stage of the Champa kingdoms. Most of the architecture and sculptures were influenced by Indian culture. Most of the temples point to the East, the sun direction. Champa people thought that the East was the place where the gods lived. Only a few towers point to the West or both East and West this meant that when the king died he would be conferred as a god and present his affection to his ancestor.

In 1898, a French soldier M.C. Paris, found out My Son temples in a secret narrow valley among dense forests. Not long after that, scientists and archeologists from French Far Eastern Archaeological Scholar Institute came and researched epitaphs, architecture and sculptures in My Son. They revealed that My Son was the most grandiose vestige in Viet Nam, continuously built for more than 1000 years. My Son temples were built from the 4th century under the reign of king Bhadravaman, until late 13th century, and early 14th century under the reign of King Jaya Simhavaman III (Che Man).

My Son was once a group of more than 70 temple towers with various styles of architectures and sculptures typically representing for each historical stage of Champa kingdom. Most of these architectures and sculptures in My Son were impacted by Hinduism. A large number of these were designed toward the East, the sun direction. Champa people thought that the east was the place where the gods lived. While, exceptionally, a few towers pointed to the west or both east and west, representing the idea of commemorating the afterworld where the kings died and were deified as god and reflecting commemorating ancestors.

Due to natural disasters and war-related damages, only about 20 temple towers still remain in My Son. However, most of the remaining epitaphs, archaeology analysis and relies preserved in My Son and some domestic museums such as Danang Cham museum, Hochiminh historical museum sufficiently make us dramatically admire the art of architecture and sculpture of the ancient Champa people. Especially, up to now, the technic of sticking building materials without any mortar in construction of temple towers in My Son still a secret stimulating fondness for curiosity, discovery and research of scientists as well as of everyone.

Although My Son is not as majestic and spectacular as Angkor ( Cambodia), Pagan (Myanma), Borobudua ( Indonesia)..., My Som possesses an important role in South East Asia’s civilisation of art. In December 1999, Hoi An ancient town along with My Son were recognised as the world cultural heritages by UNESCO. Hundreds of thousands of tourists and researchers visit My Son every year.

Dong Duong institute of Buddhism
Dong Duong Buddhism institute lies in Binh Dinh District, Thang Binh district, about 60 km southwest of Da Nang and about 40km northwest of Tam Ky.

Built in 875 under the dynasty of King Indravaman II, this was the Buddhist institute of the Champa kingdom. It was one of the most important relics of Buddhist architecture in the Champa kingdom. Due to war and time, what remains today is only a piece of a low wall, some architectural decorational pieces and the foundation of the old building. However, scientific research documents and archaeological artifacts in Dong Duong show that it was once one of the most typical Buddhist architecture of Champa kingdom in Southeast Asia with seminaries and a Buddhist alter. The altar is in a rectangle shape 330 meters long, 240 meters wide. In 1901, the archaeologist, L. Finot found 229 relics, one of which was a bronze Buddhist statue, 1m high and influenced by Indian style-Amaravati. It’s one of the most beautiful statues in South-East Asia, now displayed in Ho Chi Minh History Museum.

Chien Dan Towers
The Chien Dan Towers represent a group of three towers and each door points to the East. Their foundations are all square in shape, wide-based with narrow steps to the top. There isn’t decoration on the body of the towers, but on the top of the towers were decorated an edging line with many masks of Kala. In Chien Dan, many sculptured artifacts with high value were discovered, especially the Yoni alter and "human animal" statues such as Naga snake, Hamsa grouse, Garuda Bird, Gajasiha elephant, etc which were influenced by Chanh Lo sculpture style (in the end of 11th century, early 12th century).The towers lie beside national highway 1, about 5km to the north of Tam Ky town.

Khuong My towers
Khuong My in Tam Xuan I District is located near the National Highway No.1 and 2 km away from Tam Ky to the southwest. Khuong My Towers is a group of three towers in line from the north to the south. Their specific architecture reflects a traditional Champa style with three levels, the upper level representing the stereotype of the lower one with a sandstone top.
Khuong My Towers show the first style of Champa architecture influenced by the Khome design (curled and deep carved leaves and lozenges representing diagonal and stylish flowers). This is the specific design of Khome art dated from the 9th and 10th centuries.

Here, archaeologists had found many original sculptures (at present are displayed at Da Nang Cham Museum) and many jars of hundreds years old.

Bang An Tower
Located on Dien An District, Dien Ban district along the 609 road, 30km to the south of Da Nang and about 12km to the west of Hoi An.

According to an inscription found here, this tower was built in the 12th Century by king Bhadravaman II and was named as Linga Paramesvara (meaning the supreme God - a name for Siva), as an offering for God Siva. This is the only tower which has an octagonal face- a unique structure- resembling no other towers which still exist.

Coming to Bang An tower you will see huge Linga, 21.5m high and standing against the vast sky. It symbolizes a continuous moving cycle of life.

Ancient Capital of Tra Kieu (The Lion Citadel)
Sinhapura Tra Kieu (the Lion Citadel) was once the capital city and the political center of Champa, serving in that capacity from the 4th to the 11th centuries.

According to the bibliography, Tra Kieu earlier was surrounded by a fairly grandiose system of citadel and rampart, defence works, fortress and temples in oriental military style. Tragically, through many centuries, so far what remains now is foundation of broken walls. Based on the discovered foundation, it is estimated that the imperial city‘s circumference was about 4 km. In the front of the imperial city, there were many beautiful sculptures architecture which majestically located on the low hills. Siva saint and Visnu, who were considered as the Guardian angels of Champa dynasty at that time, were worshiped in all the temples in Tra Kieu imperial city. Prominently standing out from the architectures and sculptures in Tra Kieu are lively stony lion and elephant statues. Now, some of these are displayed at Danang Cham museum and Tra Kieu Church.

Singapore Received 10.3 Million Visitors in 2007

Visitors to Singapore continue to increase with more choosing to stay longer

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) achieved a record high of 10.3 million visitor arrivals (VA) in 2007, exceeding its target of 10.2 million VA and registering growth of 5.4% over 2006. Estimated Tourism Receipts for the period January to December were posted at a record £4.6 billion (SGD13.8 billion), representing an 11.3% increase over the same period last year.

Singapore Tourism Board Area Director North & West Europe, Ms Divya Panickar, said: “We are delighted by the record breaking visitor arrivals to Singapore for 2007. It is particularly pleasing to see that more and more British holidaymakers are choosing to discover the unique delights and experiences that Singapore has to offer. And as the figures show, Singapore is so much more than just a stopover destination, with visitors choosing to spend more time to discover our vibrant, multicultural island.”

Total visitor days to Singapore grew 13.4% to reach 38 million days in 2007. The average occupancy rate for the hotel sector reached 87%, a 1.7 percentage point increase over the previous year, with the average room rate estimated at SGD202, an increase of 23.1% on 2006 rates.

Ms Panickar continued: “Last year’s success was a result of the tourism industry’s investment to refresh current tourism products as well as bring in and develop new ones, to ensure that Singapore remains an attractive must-visit destination. And this year is set to be equally exciting with the opening of The Singapore Flyer on 1 March and the hosting of the inaugural 2008 Formula One™ SingTel Singapore Grand Prix, the first and only night race on the Formula One™ calendar as well as Asia’s first city street circuit, on 28 September.”

2007 highlights included the opening of a plethora of new hotels, bars and restaurants including the luxury St. Regis hotel.

Looking forward, the 2008 Formula One™ SingTel Singapore Grand Prix promises to be a spectacular event, set against the backdrop of Singapore’s historic buildings as well as modern developments including Marina Bay and the Esplanade.

Visitors to the city in 2008 will experience a further selection of new luxury hotels, bars, restaurants and attractions, including the Singapore Flyer, the world’s largest observation wheel, opening in March.

These exciting developments, along with Singapore’s impressive annual events such as Chinese New Year, the Hungary Ghost Festival, the Food Festival, ZoukOut and Christmas in the Tropics, are a reflection of how the island-state is redefining itself as a vibrant, must-visit destination offering an array of world-class, unique and culturally-rich experiences.

With the two Integrated Resorts, Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World at Sentosa, coming up in 2009 and 2010, Singapore can look forward to even more regional and world interest in the coming years. The STB also aims to continue its promotional focus on key markets and key sectors such as the cruise industry, with a view to sustaining the good overall growth achieved in 2007.

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is an economic development agency for one of Singapore’s key service sectors – tourism. The mission of the Board is to develop and champion tourism, so as to build the sector into a key driver of economic growth for Singapore. The STB aims to differentiate and market Singapore as a must-visit destination offering enriching experiences through the “Uniquely Singapore” brand. For more information, please visit http://www.stb.com.sg/