Direct Flights between Indonesia and Cambodia

Prime Minister Hun Sen thursday called for direct flights between Cambodia and Indonesia to promote tourism. Prime Ministers spokesman Eang Sophalleth said after a Phnom Penh meeting between the premier and Indonesia's house of Regional Representatives Deputy Director Laode Ida that Prime Minister Hun Sen called for flights as soon as possible. Tith Chantha, Director General at the Ministry of Tourism said technical teams from both countries are finalizing the process with flights between Siem Reap and Borobudur on Jave expected from April.

Source: phnompenhpost

Discover Luxury in Cambodia's Nature

4 Rivers Floating Eco-Lodge
Like a rare butterfly, Cambodia has emerged from a troubled past to show off its beauty.

Away from the tourist trail to ancient civilizations there is another country… a land of unspoilt virgin forest, rare orchids and fragrant frangipani, the startling colors and calls of birds of paradise, secretive jungle creatures and a perfumed air of peace and solitude.

This ecological miracle deserves an environmentally friendly resort that captures the imagination while offering the luxury and high-end facilities of a four-star boutique resort.
Peaceful seclusion, privacy, luxury, exclusivity

The resort is ideally situated in Tatai, next to the Thai border halfway between Bangkok and Phnom Penh (via Koh Chang).

Highway 48 cuts straight through the jungle, with dramatic views of the magnificent Cardamom Mountains. Tatai is 20 minutes by car from Koh Kong City, four hours from Phnom Penh or three hours from Sihanoukville.

You embark at the steps of the bridge in the village of Tatai; in our boat the trip downstream the bridge to the resort takes less than 10 minutes with our speed boat or 25 minutes with our cruising boat.

For More information check http://www.ecolodges.asia

Tasek Merimbun -The Nature wonder of Brunei Darussalam

A heavily-forested kingdom state in Southeast Asia, the tiny kingdom of Brunei has one of the highest standards of living in the world thanks to its rich natural gas and petroleum resources.

Once a British colony, Brunei is today a unique tourist friendly destination. Located on the island of Borneo and bordering the Malaysian state of Sarawak, this city-sized country boasts a long-recorded history and unique culture.

A number of parks, lakes and countless architectural wonders including the gleaming gold dome of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque all add an interesting tourist spin to Brunei. The capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, has more than just beautiful mosques, however. It features a lively amusement park on its western outskirts and acts as a gateway to the port town of Muara and the oil towns of Seria and Kuala Belait.

It is not the cities and towns that visitors come here for but the Temburong eco-tours and longhouse stays. Rainforest covers Belalong National Park, and here visitors can walk among the trees on the canopy walk before learning more about the huge insects and other wildlife that call the forest home at the research center.

Once such interesting place is a trip to Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park including a boat cruise to the islands of the lake is a must see destination of Brunei. Positioned just 27kms inland from Tutong is Tasek Merimbun, Brunei's largest freshwater lake.

It is the only one in the country to be declared an ASEAN National Heritage Site way back in 1984. The park has a total area of about 8,000 hectares. Two rivers flowed through to the lake named Sungai Meluncur and Sungai Bang Oncom.

It is formed by two shallow lakes joined by a narrow channel. Each has a complex lake-cum-forest eco-system with diverse flora and fauna including a number of endemic and endangered species. It would not be advisable to swim or even touch the water because the area is home to a few species of crocodiles.

How does Merimbun gets its name? According to sources, Merimbun has been inhabited by the Dusun people more than a few hundred years ago. The Dusuns said that the area was discovered by someone named Imbun said to be the son of a Ketua Kampung from Merangking in Ulu Belait. It is said that while hunting, he reached this beautiful lake. He discovered that the place had plenty of food - fish in the lake and wild animals in the nearby forest. He brought his family and several of his fellow villagers followed suit to build a new home there. Over time, the Tasek and its surrounding area is called Tasek Merimbun, as a tribute to the founder, Imbun.

However, another version of how the name Merimbun is derived is also interesting. It is said that after the area was settled by the Dusun people, traders would come to bring goods to the area. One such trader was a Chinese man named Eng Boon. It is said that eventually the name Merimbun came from this Eng Boon.

Part of Merimbun Heritage Park, this tranquil nature spot is home to various animals including monkeys and birds. The water in the lakes is black because of the tannins produced in the peat forests through which the main tributary, Sungai Melunchor flows.

As part of the ASEAN Tourism Forum Delegates, we got this wonderful opportunity to experience and capture some of the amazing scenery & attractions around the park and also to explore the scenic view of Tasek Merimbun. The trip was organised by the Brunei Tourism Department to equip the participants with first-hand knowledge of the park’s rich biodiversity and instill awareness of its importance as a conservation area.

Don’t forget to include a quiet moment to appreciate the tranquility. There’s no lack of it if you know where to look. It can be found in the other smaller islands where the waters shimmer under the sun and stunning geological formations command the landscape.

The main attraction of Tasek Merimbun is the natural wildlife around the spectacular lake. Bird watchers and nature lovers will thoroughly enjoy what the area has to offer.

Merimbun Heritage Park has a host of activities to enjoy that center around appreciating the wild animals and plethora of exotic plant species that inhabit the park. The scientific research center provides a wealth of information about the local habitat and the protected wildlife.

Brunei Darussalam Tourism

This small sultanate is characterized by long stretches of coastline and rolling green hills, kept vibrant by the constant barrage of rain and humid air the land is subject to year round. The mangrove swamps cover a lot of the low lying land where the country’s four principal rivers end, while the eastern part of Brunei is more rugged and mountainous, with the highest peak reaching nearly 2,000 metres in height.

Brunei is not just a sultanate in name only, the royal family rules the country though the sultan has many advisory councils. With Brunei established as an ASEAN member, good ties are kept with close neighbors Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The monarchy has been in existence since the 5th century, but its official implementation of Islam as a state religion didn’t happen until the 15th century.

For the traveler, the country’s make up means it’s rugged going a lot of the time. Visitors will need to use natural waterways and open valleys to get around, which for many is part of Brunei’s allure. Tourist infrastructure has improved a lot, making Brunei a destination for the hearty and adventurous. The weather can be a factor in deciding when to come, with humidity levels often at 80 percent or above throughout the year. Visitors are advised to bring suitable clothing for the sticky climate.

A real treat for visitors to Brunei is the nation’s cuisine. As part of the Malay archipelago, old trade routes meant various culinary influences landed on Brunei’s shores. Today the food of Brunei is a refined mix of local Malay, Chinese, Indian and Arab tastes. Staples of a Brunei diet include rice, coconut milk and vegetables. Meat is sometimes available, but due to Islamic law bacon lovers will have to do without. Those who enjoy a cold beer after a long day will also be disappointed. Again, strict Muslim laws forbid alcohol so prepare to be teetotal for the duration of your stay in Brunei.

Brunei is preparing to be the popular travel destination compared to other countries in the region, the health care system is modern, and facilities and amenities in the capital of Bandar Seri Begawan are well developed.

Brunei boasts all the attractive traits of a tropical country, without the downsides that plague neighbouring holiday hotspots. Visitors can enjoy the warm climate, stunning coastline and rich culture without any worry of contracting tropical diseases from mosquitoes. A high level of hygiene and the availability of world class medical care also set this exotic destination aide from its neighbors.

When to go?
The country has a hot, humid tropical climate all year round. November and December are to be avoided due to the monsoon season, hence heavy rainfall.

Best months to go are March and April, when the weather is generally warm. As these two months are peak season, it is a good idea to book your hotel in advance. Annual average temperature is about 28°C.

Visa information
Most nationalities receive an entry pass on arrival at the immigration checkpoint. The length of stay permitted depends on the citizen’s nationality.

Health
Brunei boasts world class healthcare, with private clinics in each district and a large, well-equipped hospital in the capital city. The absence of tropical diseases and the high levels of hygiene mean visitors rarely experience any health problems. The sultry weather is usually the main culprit of visitor’s health complaints, so travelers should try to stay well hydrated and avoid midday sun. Hospitals and clinics in Brunei offer medical facilities of a high standard.

Safety
Brunei is one of the safest places in the world. Crime, even pick pocketing, is very rare in the country. Alcoholic drinks of all kinds are not sold in Brunei, but non-Muslim visitors may bring limited amount of alcohol into Brunei and to some high-end restaurants and hotel bars.

As one of the world’s safest countries, socially and politically, travelers are at little risk in Brunei. A stable government and flourishing economy keep the nation’s crime rate at bay. Despite the country’s strong Islamic faith, there are no known Islamic fundamentalist organizations in Brunei.

Brunei’s geographical location means it is safe from a host of destructive natural forces such as typhoons, volcanoes and earthquakes.

Money and Currency
The Brunei dollar (BND) has the same worth as the Singapore dollar. It’s around BN$1.44 to US$1. Credit cards are accepted in most major stores, hotels and restaurants and the majority of ATMs accept international Visa and debit cards.

Travel to Brunei - Transportation
Brunei’s sole airport, Brunei International Airport is located in the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan and handles all international air travel to the country. Royal Brunei Airlines is the main carrier, with flights arriving from numerous destinations in the region. Driving from Sarawak to Brunei is also possible via two entry points; one from Miri (Sungai Tujuh) and one from Limbang (Kuala Lurah). Buses also run between Kuala Belait in Brunei and Miri in Sarawak, with a bus change at the Sungei Tujoh border checkpoint. Alternatively, taking a boat from Sarawak is also a fun journey. You will arrive at the Serasa Ferry Terminal at Muara in Brunei, which is about 25kms from the city. To get around, taxis are aplenty while water taxis offer regular services to Kampong Ayer, the water village.

Language
The official language of Brunei is Malay, due to Malays constituting the largest national group. A substantial proportion of the population speaks a variety of Chinese languages, including Mandarin and Yue. Due to borrowings from English and the use of the Latin alphabet, Malay is quite easy to pick up. English is widely spoken by locals, particularly in the business districts.

Weather and Climate
The typical equatorial climate of Brunei ensures soaring temperatures all year round, with a daytime average of 84°F. Consistent rainfall is also a feature of the country’s climate, with annual monsoons blowing in from December to March, and from June until October. Brunei experiences its highest rainfall during these periods.

Development and Infrastructure
Brunei has a highly developed tourist infrastructure including 2,500 rooms in a wide range of establishments, from basic boarding houses to plush five-star luxury resorts. The government has grafted a plan to develop tourism at a steady rate, and attract more international visitors each year. Due to a rich oil and gas resource, the country enjoys some of the highest living standards in the world. Medicine and rice are subsidized, and crime rates are comparatively low. These factors add to the appeal of Brunei as a tropical holiday destination.

Food and Hospitality
Locals are helpful and speak fluent English yet they can be quite reserved. The country's infrastructure is excellent as Brunei is one of the richest in the region. There is a great selection of restaurants, for locals love to eat out. Many five-star hotels offer luxurious comfort, as well as 'hotel bars' where you can bring your own booze and mixers.

Recommended First-Time Itinerary
A week is enough to enjoy the spirit of Brunei fully.
Three days in Bandar Seri Begawan
One day in Kampong Ayer, the water village
Two days in Tutong district, for a tour around Tutong and other towns
Additional time
Two days (one night) in Ulu Temburong National Park
Two days for beach-hopping

Brunei Things to Do
Highlights
Bandar Seri Begawan
Located in the vibrant Brunei-Muara district, this bustling capital city is home to the world-famous Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of the most magnificent mosques in Asia, the Royal Regalia Building and the Brunei Museum.

Kampong Ayer
Just outside of the capital, this renowned water village, described as the Venice of the East, is a must-visit place, accessible by boat. Walk around this uber-equipped village featuring historic houses, clinics, schools and mosques.

Tutong
A peaceful town that has several natural spots such as beautiful parks, the country's largest lake, Tasek Merimbun, a small island and a beach. The big tamu (an open market) offers a variety of local foods and handicrafts.

Ulu Temburong National Park
One of the most important attractions in Temburong district, this large, unspoiled park offers canopy trails on wooden walkways and rich, fascinating wildlife.

Beaches
Muara, Serasa, Kuala Belait and Lumut Beach near Tutongboast golden sand and crystal clear waters with plenty of water sports, perfect for a family day out.

Activities
A visit to Jerudong Park Playground
Now one of the top destinations in Brunei, this gigantic theme park offers heart-stopping rides and extensive children's play facilities.

Hiking and trekking
Many natural spots make Brunei an ideal place for enthusiastic hikers. Ulu Temburong National Park offers excellent natural trails, wooden walkways, tree houses and hanging bridges.

Picnicking
As Brunei boasts a great number of parks, picnicking is one of the most popular activities among locals and tourists alike. Remarkable parks include Tasek Recreational Park in Brunei Muara district, Sungai Basong Recreation Park in Tutong district, and Sungai Liang Forest Recreational Park in Belait district.

Water sports
Most beaches in Brunei offer a wide range of water sports. There's also a newly built sports complex at Serasa Beach, providing various activities such as regatta, sailing, powered boat racing, water-skiing and fishing.

Dining
Similar to Malay cuisine, Brunei dishes also focus on rice and spicy fresh fish. Local specialities feature Daging Masak Lada Hitam, spicy beef with potato beans, and Udang Sambal Serai Bersantan, prawns with chilli and coconut milk.

Shopping
Those looking for unique souvenirs will find a selection of goods at the Bandar Seri Begawan Night Market including handmade silverware, brassware and bronzeware as well as gold and silver threaded material known as Jona Sarat

Indonesia Agrees to Visas on Arrival to Cambodians

Indonesia will allow Cambodian Passport holders to obtain visas on arrival to the country, the foreign Ministry announced on tuesday. According to a statement issued by the ministry, Indonesian authorities will grant 30 day visas to all Cambodian tourists and business travelers. Ministry spokesman Koy Kuong said the new arrangement has been in place since last month and predicted it would expedite travel to Indonesia. The move will make traveling to Indonesia easier and less time consuming he said.

Source:Phnompenhpost

Airasia’s Regional 20% Off Deals For All Seats, To All Destinations Are Back!

AirAsia, the world’s best low-cost airline brings more great news this auspicious Chinese New Year season by offering a 20% price slash for all seats, to all destinations for a limited four days only. This unbelievable promotion will be available exclusively online via AirAsia’s website at www.airasia.com starting from 18 February – 21 February 2010 for the travel period from 23 March – 31 May 2010.

This regional promotional campaign with an attractive 20% off on all flights for its domestic and international destinations are made available from AirAsia’s nine hubs (Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Penang, Bangkok, Phuket, Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, and Bandung) stretching across 20 countries to over 130 routes.

The promotion excludes domestic destinations within Thailand and the six new routes to India (Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Chennai from Kuala Lumpur, and to Chennai from Penang) which was announced open for sale recently, where promotional fares are still available online until 21 February 2010.

Kathleen Tan, Regional Head of Commercial, AirAsia said: “Guests will obtain greater savings from this promotion as the 20% off our existing low fares will add more value to their travel plans. We hope to continue in our efforts to make the tagline “Now Everyone Can Fly” a reality for everyone, apart from making travel easy, convenient and fun. In conjunction with the Chinese New Year Season, this is AirAsia’s “angpow” to our guests, where traveling is made more affordable and accessible than a bus ride. And there’s no better way for guests to spend their “angpow” money than to travel with AirAsia for a vacation or book our flights as “angpow” gifts for their friends, family and relatives.”

“Our extensive route network as well as having our Kuala Lumpur hub as a gateway across Asia, Australia and Europe opens up a great range of options for guests to connect across the globe. And through www.airasiago.com, guests are also able to mix and match their preferred tour and activities, apart from affordable holiday packages and lodging from over 50,000 hotels worldwide that will suit their budget and travel appetite. This will be a good opportunity for those who are still trying to get a Valentine’s Day gift or a Chinese New Year surprise for their family and friends,” she added.

Guests can utilize this limited four-day promotion to book flights to favourite destinations such as London, Australia, China, and across Southeast Asia attractive destinations such as Siem Reap, Bali, Phuket, Bangkok, Jakarta, Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City. Those who are planning for domestic travel in Malaysia can also benefit from this promotion as domestic destinations are all included.

For more promotional updates, as well as real time information on AirAsia’s activities, follow AirAsia on Twitter, Facebook and the AirAsia Blog!

Media Contact:
Daphne Cheah, Communications – AirAsia; Email : cheahuijen@airasia.com

Cambodia at ATF Brunei 2010

Cambodia Delegation at ATF Brunei 2010 was represented by Dr. Thong khon and his Ministerial team along with the Private Sector. Some of the snap shots of the Cambodia Delegation Team at ATF 201o at Brunei. Next Year Cambodia is going to be the host country to host 30th ASEAN TOURISM FORUM (ATF 2011) to be held at the newly built Diamond Island Convention and Exhibition Centerm Phnom Penh, Cambodia from 15th to 21 January 2011, under the theme of "ASEAN - A World of Wonders and Diversity". For further details check: www.atfcambodia.com