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.

Cambodia, Myanmar Agree On Tourist Air Links

Cambodia and Myanmar have agreed to direct flights between the two countries, home to some of Southeast Asia's greatest cultural treasures, Cambodian Foreign Minister Hor Namhong said on Wednesday.

"There will be direct flights from Bagan and Mandalay, which are Myanmar's main tourist destinations, to Siem Reap," he told reporters, referring to the tourist town near Cambodia's famed Angkor temples.

"We have the same culture, same civilizations as we're Buddhists," he said. "We need to have direct flights so that we can attract more international tourists to visit our two countries."

Hor Namhong, who accompanied Prime Minister Hun Sen on a two-day official visit to Myanmar, said other direct flights were planned between the Southeast Asian countries.

The 800-year-old Angkor Wat temple complex is largely responsible for an explosion of tourists to the war-scarred nation, which attracted 1.7 million visitors last year.

Cultural aficionados say the similar-aged Buddhist temples in Bagan in central Myanmar are a close rival to Angkor, but a chronic lack of infrastructure in the former Burma power cuts are a daily problem and foreign credit cards are rarely accepted means they attract only a fraction of the number of visitors.

Airlines in Thailand have tried to promote a similar "cultural package" in the region, with flights linking Angkor to the ancient Thai and Lao capitals, Sukhothai and Luang Prabang, and Hoi An in central Vietnam.

Cambodia, Myanmar Move To Strengthen Tourism Ties

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen met with junta head Senior General Than Shwe in military-ruled Myanmar on Tuesday, officials said, as the two nations moved to improve tourism links. Officials from both countries have said the focus would be trade and tourism.

Cambodian government spokesman Khieu Kanharith told AFP that Hun Sen would discuss ways of making travel easier between Myanmar and nearby Thailand, Cambodia and Laos, with possible direct flights and package tours.

"Buddhism will be the potential tourist link for these four countries -- like Cambodia, there are a lot of temples in Myanmar," Khieu Kanharith said.

These talks are hoped to spur action on a tourism agreement already signed between the two countries, but which has not been implemented yet. Tourism is a key industry in impoverished Cambodia, and tourist arrivals in Myanmar are also creeping up.

On Monday, Hun Sen met with acting premier Thein Sein and a number of officials, including the transport and foreign ministers and the deputy minister for tourism, the state-run New Light of Myanmar newspaper said.

Source: Asian News from AFP

UN aids Cambodia to develop eco-tourism

The United Nations' World Tourism Organization (WTO) has signed an agreement with the Cambodian Tourism Ministry to help the country develop eco-tourism in its northern province of Kratie, local media said on Saturday.

According to the agreement, the WTO will grant technical assistance worth 700,000 U.S. dollars to help establish sustainable eco-tourism system, improve protection of environment, and develop tourism promotion programs in the resort areas in Kratie, Cambodian daily newspaper Koh Sonthephea reported.

The development projects aim to attract more tourists to Kratie, which boasts primitive scenery and endangered species habitants, and contribute to poverty reduction in the country, the WTO said.

Source: Xinhua

Sihanoukville, re-opened air travel network

A triangular air travel network over western Cambodia was formed as a world-class airport was re-opened on Monday in seaside resort Sihanoukville to embrace anticipated influx of foreign visitors.

The network can apparently serve to link up the kingdom's major sight-seeing spots in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, so as to provide more selectable travel routes for those curious about this colorful country.

"The re-opening of the airport is really good for our tourism," said Thong Khon, secretary of state at the Ministry of Tourism, adding that it is part of the ministry's strategy to connect Siem Reap and Sihanoukville by airlines to encourage tourists to extend their stay to enjoy the kingdom's sandy beaches after seeing the Angkor temples.

Upon the inauguration of the Sihanoukville International Airport, a former Soviet Union-made Antonov-24 propeller-driven aircraft from Siem Reap landed on the runway in its maiden flight with 11 passengers and four crew members on board.

Currently, flights by domestic airliner PMT have started to shuttle between Sihanoukville and Siem Reap around three times a week, while the beach city's connection with Phnom Penh, some 300 kilometers away, is yet worth of air travel and can be easily handled with automobiles at around three hours' drive on the national road.

Meanwhile, said Thong Khon, there is still another option for non-domestic travelers, who can first reach Sihanoukville by marine route and then transfer to Siem Reap by airlines and, of course, vice versa.

The Societe Concessionnaire des Aeroports (SCA), a French- Malaysian joint firm entrusted to run the hub, is now in talks with several other airliners about using the airport, whose runway will be extended from the current 1,800 meters to 2,200 meters with a further investment of 200 million U.S. dollars to accommodate jet flyers such as Boeing 737 by the end of 2007, said Norinda Khek, SCA's communications and marketing manager.

By then, international routes will also be opened, thus tapping the potential of Siem Reap's already established air links with countries such as South Korea, Thailand and China to expand foreign tourists' access to Cambodia, he said, adding that SCA, a subsidiary of France's biggest construction group Vinci, is licensed to operate the hub until 2040.

The Sihanoukville airport was closed in the early 1980s due to financial difficulties. Renovation by SCA started in June 2006 to preliminarily extend the terminal and the runway suitable for propeller-driven aircraft to land.

According to official statistics, some 280,000 tourists visited Sihanoukville in 2006, up by 30 percent over 2005. Among them 60, 000 were foreigners. In addition, tourist arrivals in Cambodia jumped more than 20 percent to about 1.7 million in 2006, bringing in 1.4 billion U.S. dollars in revenue for the government.

Each visitor was estimated to have spent some 700 U.S. dollars in Cambodia, while 300,000 local people have found jobs in the industry, according to the Ministry of Tourism, which expects to receive 3 million foreign travelers in 2010.

Mondulkiri as a Potential site to attract eco-tourists

Cambodia, flush with its success in attracting half a million foreign tourists to the massive temple complexes at Ankor in Siem Reap Province, is now turning to the eastern province Mondulkiri as a potential site to attract eco-tourists.

Already the government, with help from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, is now processing a master plan for new destinations in the province on the border with Vietnam.

Thong Khon, secretary of state for tourism, said the more than 200-page master plan covers the background, characteristics, assessment of tourist sites, the tourist market and infrastructure projects for the two provinces to begin sustainable development. But development will not be easy.

Mondulkiri is some 400 kilometers from Phnom Penh, a distance that requires 12 hours to traverse by car over a still poorly developed road system.

And within the province itself, roads and tourism services are still minimal -- only two guesthouses and an electricity supply that shuts down at 9:30 p.m. each evening.

But Long Vanny, deputy director of tourism in Mondulkiri, said his province has a great potential for naturalists and other eco-tourists because of its waterfalls, hill-tribe villages, plateau grasslands, highland forests, mountains and rare wildlife.

He said there are at least 60 waterfalls that would be as attractive to adventure tourists as would the many kinds of wildlife species still in the area, including wild buffaloes, wild elephants, tigers, deer, bears and Cambodia's national animal the kuprey, a kind of wild cow.

So far, Mondulkiri receives only about 100 to 200 tourists annually, far less than Siem Reap's 500,000 visitors.

But the government is keen to develop natural, ecologically friendly tourism in the region particularly because Mondulkiri's mass forests are being illegally logged.

Tor Soeuth, the provincial governor, said infrastructure development in his province will contribute to poverty reduction and if that infrastructure includes making Mondulkiri more accessible to tourism, then the provincial living standard can be lifted and more resources devoted to fighting the illegal logging.

At the national level, Thong Khon, the tourism secretary, wants to add eco-tourism to Cambodia's already successful cultural tourism program represented by the Ankor temples.

Prime Minister Hun Sen, pointing to both Cambodia's vast natural ecology and its 1,080 temples in 14 provinces, said, ''We pride ourselves to be a nation rich in tradition, unparalleled cultural heritage, archeological treasures, pristine tropical ecology and diversified natural beauty.''

Cambodia sees tourism as one of the six key directions for accelerating economic growth and promoting poverty reduction.

It already earns about $120 million a year from tourism and hopes to see that double, or more, by attracting at least one million visitors annually from 2003.

''We have to think about the trend of tourism in this new world in which tourists prefer a variety of destinations offering culture, entertainment and eco-tourism,'' said Ruos Sam Ear, director of tourism planning and development.

Provincial tourism deputy director Long Vanny said more tourists visiting Mondulkiri would mean more income for his people.

The population in Mondulkiri is just 39,600, almost 80% of them from 20 hill-tribe minority groups who are ready to welcome tourists.

People in Mondulkiri can grow coffee, bananas, corn and tea, but because there is so little infrastructure and too little tourism to create new markets, few provincial citizens farm now.

But with an increase in ecologically friendly, culturally neutral tourism, officials such as Long Vanny believe his province, Cambodia as a whole, and foreign visitors can all benefit.

Official e-Visa by Kingdom of Cambodia

Get your Cambodia Visa through email

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has launched e-Visa, which enables you to apply for a Cambodia tourist visa online. Instead of applying through Cambodian Embassy, all you need to do is to complete the online application form and pay with your credit card. After receiving your Visa through email, print it out and bring it along when you travel to Cambodia.

Tourist Visa

Entry Type: Single entry only

Fees: USD20 + USD5 (processing charge)

Validity: 3 months (starting from the date of issue)

Length of Stay: 30 days. Minimum length of stay is 24 hour.

Processing Time: 3 business days

Requirement: A passport validity of more than six months balance at time of entry, a recent passport-size photo in digital format (JPEG or PNG format), a valid credit card (Visa/MasterCard/American Express/Discover).

Visa Exemption: Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore

Countries not supported: Afghanistan, Algeria, Arab Saudi, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sudan (Please apply your Visa from your nearest embassy or on-arrival at all major checkpoints)

Apply Online: http://evisa.mfaic.gov.kh/index.php
Cambodia eVisa Blog: http://www.cambodiaevisa.com/

Four Points by Sheraton Angkor, Cambodia set to open in 2009

Starwood has signed its first Four Points by Sheraton hotel in Cambodia and the Indochina region: Four Points by Sheraton Angkor, Cambodia. Scheduled to open in 2009, the hotel will feature 150 rooms, 8,500 square feet of meeting space, 3 restaurants, a health club, spa, swimming pool and a business center. The hotel will be located on Road No. 6 which links Siem Reap international airport to Siem Reap town. The hotel is a 10-minute drive from the airport, a 5-minute drive to the city and a 10-minute drive to the heritage site of Angkor temples.

“We are thrilled about the choice location of our new hotel in Angkor and are honored to partner with TTY Corporation Co., Ltd to manage this exciting new addition to our portfolio in the Indochina region, which will provide the Four Points by Sheraton brand with a great presence. Cambodia’s tourism industry has continued to experience very strong growth for the past few years, with an average growth rate of close to 20%. In particular, over 50% of travelers to Cambodia visit Siem Reap. Although there are a number of upper upscale international and local hotels in Siem Reap, there are no internationally branded upscale hotels present in Siem Reap. The introduction of Four Points by Sheraton Angkor will be an exciting addition to the market and will offer travelers to this city more options in terms of guest experiences and accommodation,” said Wayne Buckingham, Regional Vice President for Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Thailand and Indochina region.

Besides Four Points by Sheraton Angkor, Starwood is currently developing eight other new hotels in Thailand and the Indochina region: Le Meridien Pattaya Resort, Le Meridien Chiang Mai Resort, Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, Le Meridien Bangkok, Le Meridien Suvarnabhumi Golf Resort & Spa, W Retreat & Residences, Koh Samui, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort, Vana Belle Samui Resort & Spa, a Luxury Collection hotel.

Source: asiatraveltips.com

Official e-Visa by Kingdom of Cambodia

More than 25,000 travelers have chosen e-Visa

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has launched e-Visa, which enables you to apply for a Cambodia tourist visa online. Instead of applying through Cambodian Embassy, all you need to do is to complete the online application form and pay with your credit card. After receiving your Visa through email, print it out and bring it along when you travel to Cambodia.

Tourist Visa

Entry Type: Single entry only

Fees: USD20 + USD5 (processing charge)

Validity: 3 months (starting from the date of issue)

Length of Stay: 30 days. Minimum length of stay is 24 hour.

Processing Time: 3 business days

Requirement: A passport validity of more than six months balance at time of entry, a recent passport-size photo in digital format (JPEG or PNG format), a valid credit card (Visa/MasterCard/American Express/Discover).

Visa Exemption: Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore

Countries not supported: Afghanistan, Algeria, Arab Saudi, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sudan (Please apply your Visa from your nearest embassy or on-arrival at all major checkpoints)

Apply Online: http://evisa.mfaic.gov.kh/index.php
Cambodia eVisa Blog: http://www.cambodiaevisa.com/

ITE EXPO 2007 - HCMC, Vietnam

UNVEIL THE CHARMS OF INDOCHINA

Cambodia – Laos – Vietnam

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International Travel Expo HCMC 2007October 5-7, 2007.

Phu Tho Exhibition Centre, Ho Chi Minh City

From the first two presentations of its maiden launch of International Travel Expo HCMC, the dream of developing a cross country tourism product finally came through in October 2006 pursuant to an official meeting amongst the government officials of Cambodia Tourism Bureau, Laos National Tourism Administration and Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism.

The theme of ITE HCMC 2007 would be “Unveil the Charms of Vietnam –Laos – Cambodia – Three countries One destination”.

This product will attract many far away tourists from USA, Europe, Australia, Japan and Korea to visit HCMC, and then extend to the rest of the countries in the IndoChina circle” commented by Mr La Quoc Khanh, Deputy Director, HCMC’s Department of Tourism.

The airline industry in Ho Chi Minh City applauds this initiative and is extending its support to this project. “This is a very good move by the three countries as many of the tourists in the United States of America would normally spend 3 weeks or more in Asia. With the concerted effort to promote this package, it makes the travel to Vietnam more attractive by packaging another two beautiful Asean countries into their itinerary. Said Mr Joe Mannix, General Manager in Vietnam, United Airlines. The airline will be one of the supporting airlines of ITE HCMC 2007 bringing in over 20 buyers from USA to attend this Exhibition.

Additionally, the official airline, Vietnam Airlines announced that the IndoChina Air Pass will be launched during ITE HCMC 2007. The airline which is now having direct flights from HCMC to Cambodia and Laos will offer a special price per sector for travelers who wish to unveil the Charms of Viet Nam –Lao – Cambodia.

“We are heartened by this initiative as it not only will strengthen the ties amongst the countries but also will act as a booster for our economies.” Said Mr Bounma Phetsavong – Vice Minister of Laos National Tourism Administration,“Three countries, One Destination (“TCOD”) is a strong marketing platform for Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. With the support from Vietnam Airlines and having HCMC as the travel hub for this initiative, it will definitely be a memorable experience for the tourists” said Mr So Mara, Vice Secretary of State, and Assistant to Prime Minister, Cambodia Tourism Bureau.

“We have set the stage to position HCMC as the hub of tourism development for 3 countries with the support from airlines flying into HCMC particularly the national airline, Vietnam Airlines. It is definitely going to be an exciting and challenging ITE HCMC 2007” concluded Mr Alex Eow, President of Binet Exhibitions Pte Ltd, a member of the Organising Committee.ITE HCMC 2007 will be held from 5-7 October 2007 at Phu Tho Exhibition Centre, Ho Chi Minh City. There will be a hosted buyer’s programme from 4-6 October 2007 comprising social activities, destination presentation, buyers and sellers meeting, FAM trips etc. The exhibition will be opened to the trader and professionals on 5-6 October 2007 and the last day (7 October 2007) will be opened to the public.

ITE HCMC 2007 is sponsored by Vietnam National Administration of Tourism and supported by Ministry of Trade and The People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City. It is jointly organized by HCMC Department of Tourism, Vinexad and Binet Exhibitions Pte Ltd.

For more information and participation, please contact: http://www.itehcmc.com/
BINET Exhibitions Pte LtdEmail: kamlin@binetexpo.com

HCMC Department of Tourism
Email: congtran.minh@gmail.com

TOURISM WILL DRIVE ADDITIONAL US$110 BILLION TO ASIA PACIFIC TO 2009

Eighteen Asia Pacific destinations are expected to receive more than US$110 billion in additional tourism revenue over the next three years, according to a new report by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).

Thailand will be one of the biggest beneficiaries, gaining almost US$13 billion by 2009. Other markets likely to receive strong receipts growth over the forecast period include Malaysia with close to US$11 billion; Korea (ROK) with US$7 billion, China (PRC) with US$36 billion; and Macau SAR with US$5 billion.

These findings are contained in the Asia Pacific Tourism Forecasts 2007-2009 report which was just released by PATA.

The predicted windfall for Thailand follows on from the results of the recent Asia Travel Intentions Survey 2007 which revealed that nine percent more travelers were looking at Asia as their next travel destination. One in five ranked Thailand as their most likely destination with 84% of Swedish respondents most likely to consider the destination for a holiday within the next two years.

The survey was jointly conducted by Visa International Asia Pacific (Visa) and PATA.

One of the fast growing regions in the world, Asia Pacific stimulates some 60% of global tourism demand. Last year, we recorded 350 million international inbound trips - that's almost 100 million more arrivals to Asia Pacific shores than we saw at the end of the twentieth century, only a few years ago, says John Koldowski, Director of PATA's Strategic Intelligence Centre.

And PATA expects this momentum to continue in the medium-term with arrivals growth averaging around six cent per year to 2009. While inbound flows are expected to continue in the medium-term, Asia Pacific shall remain largely an intra-regional bloc. Most of this growth will come from other Asia Pacific markets with some of these expected to show double digit growth. Hong Kong traffic into Japan is expected to grow by 17% over the forecast period; China (PRC) to Singapore by 16%; India to China by 15%; and USA and Canada to China each by 13%, he added.

Produced by PATA's Strategic Intelligence Centre, the Asia Pacific Tourism Forecasts 2007-2009 is a must-have resource for travel industry decision-makers and researchers who need in-depth knowledge to formulate winning business strategies.

It is researched and prepared by the noted Professors Lindsay W. Turner and Stephen F. Witt, both of whom are internationally recognised as leading experts on the econometric modelling and forecasting of tourism demand.

For more information, visit www.PATA.org/catalogue or email sic@PATA.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
PATA Corporate Communications
Ms Min Min WongTel: +66 (0)2 6582000 extension 107
E-mail: minmin@PATA.org

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

More than any other spot in the country, Kuala Lumpur, or "KL" as it is commonly known, is the focal point of new Malaysia. While the city's past is still present in the evocative British colonial buildings of the Dataran Merdeka and the midnight lamps of the Petaling Street nightmarket, that past is everywhere met with insistent reminders of KL's present and future. The city's bustling streets, its shining, modern office towers, and its cosmopolitan air project an unbounded spirit of progress and symbolize Malaysia's unhesitating leap into the future. To some, this spirit seems to have been gained at the loss of ancient cultural traditions, but in many ways KL marks the continuation rather than the loss of Malaysia's rich past. Like Malacca five hundred years before, KL's commercial centre is a grand meeting place for merchants and travelers from all over the world.

In the same way, the city brings together Malaysia's past and present, its many constituent cultures, and even its remarkable natural treasures, allowing first-time visitors an invaluable opportunity to see Malaysia as a whole before setting off to explore its parts. In the botanical and bird parks of the Lake Gardens one is treated to a first glimpse of the unsurpassed beauty and variety of Malaysia's plants and animals. In the vibrant Central Market, music, crafts, and cultural practices from Kelantan to Sarawak can be explored and experienced. And in the National Museum, the dizzying multiplicity of Malaysia's cultural history comes into focus. As the entry point for most visitors and the meeting point of the country's many attractions, Kuala Lumpur is a grand gateway to a fascinating destination.

With a height of 1,453 feet, one of the world's tallest buildings rise above the skyline of Kuala Lumpur. They are called the Petronas Towers, and, inevitably, they have become the symbols for the astounding growth that has taken place in Malaysia over the last two decades.

History
Near the center of Kuala Lumpur, the Klang and Gombak rivers flow quietly together, their confluence barely noticed amid the dwarfing skyline of gleaming new hotels and office buildings. A few feet from the place where the rivers meet, the Jame Mosque rests in the middle of it all like a piece of beautiful antique furniture, curiously left behind in a living room renovated for the space age. Walk to the rear of the mosque, and you will come to a small grassy field; walk to the southernmost edge of the field, and you can stand at the exact point where the rivers join. It is a strange place to stand. Overshadowed by the crowded skyline, the spot feels improbably humble and empty. It seems impossible that the entire city sprung from this one spot.

Yet in 1857, this is where it all began. A group of 87 miners, all of them Chinese, poled their way up the Klang in search of tin. At that time, tin was in huge demand, especially by America and the British Empire, which needed the durable, lightweight metal to help fuel their industrial revolutions. In Ampang, few miles to the east, there were huge reserves of it, and this spot was the highest point where the prospectors could land their supplies. They named it "muddy confluence," built a ramshackle, thatched-roof village, and within a month all but 17 of them had died of malaria. It was a devastating beginning to what would become one of Asia's richest cities.

More tin prospectors, however, soon followed, and within a few years the village thrived. Like all mining boom-towns, it was raucous place, populated almost exclusively by men.

They spent their days in grueling labor, crouching over tin pans or digging the earth, returning to the town at dusk to console their loneliness in bars and gambling halls.

Few got rich, but throughout the peninsula the mania for tin inspired fierce rivalries and claim disputes. As they did in the gold fields of California, the Chinese miners organized themselves into clans and warring factions called "secret societies." Without a centralized Chinese authority keeping peace, order in the mining areas was nearly impossible. Whole clans could be swept up in fights that started over little more than a drunken dispute between two men. In 1868, needing a solution to the chaos, the headmen of the local clans elected a man named Yap ah Loy as "Kapitan China," or leader of the Chinese community. With the support of the local sultan, he built prisons and quelched revolts, quickly establishing an infamous reign over the entire Kuala Lumpur mining area. If KL has a "founding father," it is Loy.

Loy had barely established control, however, when the Malay Civil War broke out a few years later. Local sultans were fighting for the throne of Perak, and KL, swept up in the conflict, burned to the ground. The merchants of the Straits Settlements, concerned that the war would ruin their prosperity, asked Britain to intervene. Britain was initially reluctant to get involved with internal politics, but rumors that the merchants would turn to Germany instead sparked a fear in London that Britain could lose its tin interests in Malaya. London sent in a new territorial governor, Andrew Clarke, to apprise the situation. Clarke gathered the feuding princes aboard his ship off the island of Pangkor, and convinced them to sign a document known as the Pangkor Agreement. The Agreement ended the war, established a new Sultan of Perak, and -- most significantly -- called for the presence of a British Resident "who must be asked and acted upon on all questions other than those touching Malay religion and custom." This was the beginning of a dramatically increased British involvement in Malaya, one that would eventually place Kuala Lumpur at center of history.

The British residential system quickly spread. Frank Swettenham, the Resident of Selangor, chose Kuala Lumpur as his administrative center and oversaw the rebirth of the city, ordering the construction of new buildings using brick. In 1896, Swettenham convinced the Sultans of four states to unite under the umbrella of the Federated Malay States (FMS), and Kuala Lumpur was chosen as the capital. The city became a classic center of British colonialism. Sharply uniformed officers and bureaucrats administered the FMS from beneath the distinctive copper domes of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. In the off-hours, they played cricket on the field of the Padang and sought liquid comfort in the Selangor Club, where only whites were allowed. Unsurprisingly, the club became a symbol of British imperialism and oppression and fueled the ever-growing dreams of independence. At midnight on August 30, 1957, amidst a crowd of tens of thousands, British soldiers finally lowered the Union Jack for the last time in front of the Selangor Club. Interestingly, the old British watering hole would become the meeting place of the new Malaysian elite.

With independence, KL was poised for its greatest transformation ever. One of the city's darkest days came in 1969, when civil unrest - spawned by racial tensions -- swept through the city, sparking a state of emergency that would last for two years. Bolstered by a growing economy and a sincere desire for cooperation between Malaysia's ethnic groups, the tensions subsided, and in 1974 the city was given the status of Federal Territory. The last 20 years have seen Kuala Lumpur undergo phenomenal growth, with a population explosion of almost 50 percent, not to mention development on a monumental scale. One of the world's tallest buildings, the Petronas Towers, now rise above the city of 1.4 million. If those 87 Chinese miners could have poled their way 140 years up the river of time, they probably wouldn't recognize the legacy that began where the two muddy rivers met.

Exploring Kuala Lumpur

General Attractions

Malaysia Tourist Information Complex (MATIC)
A good place to begin any visit to Kuala Lumpur is the one-stop information centre, which provides a general picture of what the city and Malaysia have to offer. Audio-visual equipment provides background information on each state in the country. You can book a tour, arrange to go on a trishaw ride in the city, change your money, and book air or bus tickets to various destinations in Malaysia. International calls, facsimile and telex services are also offered. For your first taste of Malaysian cuisine, there is a restaurant in the right wing of the building. Cultural performances are held daily.

National Zoo and Aquarium
Thirteen kilometers north-east of Kuala Lumpur is the National Zoo. It contains hundreds of different species of animals, birds, and reptiles. The aquarium has an extensive collection of marine and freshwater species. Both the Zoo and Aquarium are open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
Located at Jalan Hishamuddin, this Moorish-style terminal was designed by architect A.B. Hubbock, who also designed the Masjid Jam. Built in 1910, it underwent extensive renovations in 1986. It is equipped with air-conditioned waiting halls, snack kiosks, money changing booths, souvenir shops, restaurants and a tourist information counter. Across the street is the Malayan Railway Administration Building, another fine example of the British colonial adaptation of Moorish architecture. It is linked to the station by an underground thoroughfare.

Central Market
Fifty years ago this site was occupied by a wet market. Today, the art-deco structure of the Central Market is a centre for the display and development of Malaysian culture, arts and crafts. There are many performances, demonstrations, and activities offered here, including batik painting, fortune telling, shadow puppet plays, glass blowing, dance classes, art classes, and many others. The building won the Coronation Architecture Design Award in 1953.

National Library
Located at Jalan Tun Razak. The blue-roofed building was inspired by a tengkolok, the traditional Malay headgear, and songtet, a richly-designed brocade fabric. The library is a very recent addition to Kuala Lumpur, having opened only in 1992. The extensive holdings include a collection of publications on Malaysia by Malaysian authors as well as ancient Malay manuscripts. Open: 1Oam-5pm (Sat-Sun), Closed on Monday.

Petaling Street
The center of Kuala Lumpur's original Chinatown. Petaling Street maintains much of its traditional atmosphere, particularly at night when vendors spread their wares out on the street. While it is possible to purchase anything from gems and incense to toys and t-shirts here, enjoying the night market is really a matter of just wandering about and enjoying its sights, sounds, and energy.

Religious Attractions
Masjid Jame
Located in Jalan Tun Perak, this Moorish mosque rests on the confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers, the birth-place of Kuala Lumpur. This is the very spot where the first settlers of Kuala Lumpur built their shacks.

The mosque, which dates from 1908, is the oldest in the city. It was designed by Arthur Benison Hubbock, an architectural assistant in the Public Works and Survey Department, who was intrigued and inspired by the Mogul architecture of India

National Mosque
The boldly modern National Mosque is located near the railway station, along Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin. Its roof, designed in the shape of an eighteen-pointed star, has the appearance of a partly opened umbrella roof. The mosque was completed in 1965, and it is situated among five acres (13 hectares) of beautiful gardens. Visitors are required to remove their shoes. Special robes are provided if you are not appropriately attired.

Sri Mahamariaman Temple
Built in the late nineteenth century, this is one of the most ornate and elaborate Hindu temples in the country. The detailed decorative scheme for the temple incorporates intricate carvings, gold embellishments, hand-painted motifs and exquisite tiles from Italy and Spain. The Sri Mahamariaman Temple is the departure point for the annual Thaipusam Festival pilgrimage to the Batu Caves, and the temple houses a giant chariot that is used each year to transport a deity in the procession. Located along Jalan Bandar, Kuala Lumpur.

Islamic Centre
Located at Jalan Perdana, facing the National Mosque, is the Islamic Centre (Pusat Islam), a modern building of cubist and Islamic architecture. It is the centre of Islamic learning, art, design, and culture, and houses local and international Islamic exhibits.

Museums and Galleries
National Museum
The National Museum, located atop a hill at Jalan Travers, provides an interesting introduction to the history and culture of Malaysia. Built in the style of a Malay palace, its impressive facade of two large murals depicts scenes of the country's colourful past. The museum houses various galleries, each with its own theme. The Historical Gallery traces the different periods in the history of Peninsular Malaysia. The Cultural Gallery is a collection of various aspects of the Malaysian culture, from common everyday pastimes to important ceremonial customs. Included in the exhibits are a Malay wedding scene, a royal circumcision ceremony, and an presentation on the heritage of the Straits-born Chinese. The Metalwork and Musical Instruments Gallery showcases various objects and utensils from kitchenware and ceremonial ornaments to weapons and traditional instruments of Malaysian music. Other galleries include the National Sports Gallery and the Natural History Gallery. The National Museum also holds regular thematic exhibitions. Visiting hours are from 9am-6pm daily.

Natural Rubber Museum
Located at the Rubber Research Institute's Experimental Station in Sungai Buloh, the Rubber Research Museum traces the history and development of the rubber industry in Malaysia. Visitors get to see what a rubber estate looks like and how it functions.

National Art Gallery
Located at Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin (opposite The Kuala Lumpur Railway Station), the National Art Gallery is housed in a 1932 building which is conserved under the National Heritage Trust. The building was formerly the Majestic Hotel. The art gallery showcases a the works of contemporary artists, and a permanent collection of works of local and foreign origin are also displayed. The National Art Gallery is open from 10am to 6pm daily (closed on Friday from 12:45-2.45 pm) Admission is free.

The National Planetarium
Located atop a hill in the Lake Gardens, this centre for Space Science Studies is indicative of Malaysia's efforts to create a scientifically and technologically-inclined society. It is also a fun way to spend an afternoon. A Space and Sky Movie is screened daily. There is also a working observatory equipped with a 14-inch telescope. The National Planetarium is open from Wednesday to Sunday.

Parks and Gardens
Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens
Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens (Taman Tasik Perdana) dates to the 1880s and is the city's most popular park. Built around an artificial lake, it encompasses 91.6 hectares of undulating greenery interspersed with flowering shrubs, shady trees, exceptional botanical gardens, and other notable features. The Panggung Anniversary, set in a secluded valley, is a regular venue for musical and cultural performances. There is a children's playground, jogging tracks, exercise stations, and rowing boats. Among the notable gardens and places of interest in the Gardens are the following:

The Orchid Garden
showcases more thousands of international varieties of the most beautiful flower in the world. The garden contains over 800 species from Malaysia alone. Orchids are for sale on weekends (10am-6pm).

The Hibiscus Garden
A small terraced garden which provides a strikingly colourful panorama of countless varieties of hibiscus.

The Butterfly Park
The Butterfly Park houses some 6,000 butterflies of over 120 species. The park is an imitation of the butterfly's natural habitat. It includes more than 15,000 plants from 100 species that have been used to recreate a Malaysian rainforest atmosphere. There is a nursery and breeding area for the butterflies. Visiting hours are from 9am to 5 pm on weekdays. Admission fees are RM4 for adults and RM2 for children.

Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, the largest bird park in South-East Asia, holds thousands of birds representing nearly every major species of this part of the world. Open from 9am - 6pm daily except public holidays.

Malaysian National Monument
Also within the Lake Gardens, one of the world's largest freestanding bronze sculptures. The monument commemorates those who died in Malaysia's struggle against Communist insurgency in the 1950s. Beside the National Monument are the ASEAN Gardens and the Memorial Tun Razak, which houses memorabilia of Malaysia's second Prime Minister, the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein.

The Deer Park
Located in the undulating slopes and sprawling valley of the Lake Gardens. Close to the bubbling stream at the edge of the valley are several mousedeer. The mousedeer is the world's smallest hoofed animal and a popular figure in local folklore due to its legendary wit. Open: 9am-5pm (Daily) Admission fees: RM1

Carcosa Seri Negara
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Lake Gardens is Carcosa Seri Negara, a pair of nineteenth-century British colonial mansions. The Carcosa Seri Negara was the residence of the British Governor and British High Commissioners. Today, it has been converted into an exclusive hotel.
Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM)

An area once used for mining is now a sprawling forest science park. FRIM contains several experimental plant arboreta as well as extensive reforested areas, which have reverted to the semblance of natural forest conditions. Located in Kepong, km north-west of Kuala Lumpur, the Institute includes jungle trails, waterfalls, a herbarium, a library and a museum. Since it is not a public park, all visitors should forward advanced written application to:

Public Relations Officer
Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM)
Locked Bag 210, Jalan FRI Kepong, 52109 Kepong, Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-6342633 Fax: 03-6367753

Historical Attractions
Dataran Merdeka
The Dataran Merdeka (formerly the Selangor Club Padang) was once the focal point, and cricket green, of the British colonial presence in Malaysia. Like the surviving Dutch buildings in Malacca, the structures edging the Dataran Merdeka are startling testimony to colonial residents' desire to recreate the physical environment of their native land. Situated on one corner of the square is the Selangor Club, which once served as the social centre for British residents. Although its membership today reflects Malaysia's remarkable cultural diversity, the building itself is plucked from the merry old England of the Tudors. Close by is St Mary's Cathedral, a neo-Gothic church more than a hundred years old.

Appropriately enough, it was on the Dataran Merdeka that at 12:01 am on August 31, 1957, the Union Jack was lowered and the Malayan flag hoisted, signaling Malaysia's independence as a nation. A 100-meter flagpole, one of the tallest in the world, marks the spot. Beneath the Dataran Merdeka is the Plaza Putra, an underground food, leisure, and entertainment complex, which houses the Putra Indoor Golf Centre, the first Par-T-Golf in the city.

Sultan Abdul Samad Building
The gleaming copper domes and 130-meter clock tower of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building are by far the most impressive architectural feature of the Dataran Merdeka. This elaborate edifice is a fantastic blend of Moghul, Moorish, Arab, and British neoclassical architecture, a style far more expressive of the British colonial imagination than of Malay culture. Designed by architects Norman and Bidwell, the building took more than two years to build and was completed in 1897. It served initially as the center of British colonial administration in Malaysia. Today, it houses the Judicial Department on one end and Infokraf, a centre for Malaysian handicrafts, on the other.

Carcosa Seri Negara
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Lake Gardens is Carcosa Seri Negara, a pair of nineteenth-century British colonial mansions. The Carcosa Seri Negara was the residence of the British Governor and British High Commissioners. Today, it has been converted into an exclusive hotel.

Parliament House
Standing on elevated ground commanding a panoramic view of the Lake Gardens is the modern Parliament House. The main building and its adjoining tower block accommodate the two houses of Parliament, a banquet hall, library, various offices and committee rooms. Visitors may view Parliamentary sessions by prior arrangement with the authorities, who will advise on protocol and dress code.

Istana Negara
The official residence of the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong (The King), located on a hillock at Jalan Istana. The palace is surrounded by green lawns, ponds and trees. On ceremonial occasions, the palace and its grounds are gaily lit-up.

Dayabumi Complex
The massive white modern complex of the famously expensive Dayabumi Complex was designed to blend in with the pervading Moorish and Byzantine atmosphere of the structures that surround it. The complex houses a shopping arcade, City Point, offices and the General Post Office.

Pak Ali's House
Located at the 10 km mark along Jalan Gombak. Designed in a unique blend of Sumatran and Persk architecture, the house was built early in this century by Haji Abbas bin Haji Abu Bakar, a headman of the Gombak village. The house is divided in to five main sections according to the traditional lifestyle of village folks. Open daily: 9am-5pm

Getting Around
Transportation
Kuala Lumpur is served by a comprehensive modern network of transportation systems. More than 30 foreign airlines fly in from various parts of the globe through the Subang Kuala Lumpur International Airport and KL International Airport at Sepang.

Railway lines and roads radiate from the city to many other parts of the country. Within Kuala Lumpur, buses, mini-buses and taxis ply regularly. The city's public transportation system will soon be further augmented by the Light Rail Transit (LRT). Kuala Lumpur is also served by the country's largest seaport, Port Klang.

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Indonesia Trade Delegation Focus on Tourism, Investment

The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia, Mumbai, India, in co-operation with the Indonesia Business Association, Mumbai organised an exclusive Indonesia Trade, Tourism & Investment exhibition titled ‘Expo Indonesia 2007’ in Mumbai from April 6-8, 2007 at World Trade Centre, Mumbai, India.

The event was attended by officials of Indonesia, Ministry of Industry - Republic of Indonesia, Department of Culture and Tourism - Republic of Indonesia, Jakarta Investment Board, Association of Indonesian Handicraft Exporters & Producers (ASEPHI), Indonesian private companies and travel and tour operators, hotels, resorts, spa, villa and restaurants.

They promoted Indonesia to Indian buyers in various travel and tourism sectors including hotels, resorts, spas, airlines, National Tourism Offices, tour operators, travel agencies, cruise liner operators, golf operators, and many more.

Visit Malaysia Year 2007

Malaysia launches Visit Malaysia Year 2007

Aiming to attract 20 million tourists, Malaysia unveiled its 2007 campaign. With the tagline “Malaysia Welcomes the World,” the country’s New Year celebrations and revelry coincided with the official launch of the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 campaign.

“We are pleased to announce our plans for the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 campaign to promote Malaysia aggressively to the world market,” Malaysian Tourism Minister Leo Toyad said, adding, “We look forward to see greater increase in tourist arrivals and foreign exchange earnings by 2007 and thereafter as global travel grows by leaps and bounds.

” Tourism Malaysia has just completed its "Make It Malaysia" program to bring in a total of about 150 journalists, tour consultants and corporate agents from the Middle East and North Africa to experience Malaysian culture, food and tourist attractions apart from visits to the country's tourist destinations.

The country's tourism ministry is targeting 200,000 tourists from West Asia, northern Africa and Iran this year. It will be drawing up programs to enable airlines from West Africa and Northern Africa to lease planes for flights to coincide with Visit Malaysia Year 2007," said Deputy Tourism Minister Zahid Hamidi.

“It is so important to tell the world that Malaysia is a travel-friendly and safe country to visit," said Michelle Newman, an American journalist who writes for women’s magazines. “With all the fabulous food, I don't want to go home; I am going to stay in Malaysia. They would have to drag me home.”

It is also bringing in "mega familiarization" groups to join in the major festivities and events. Recent groups from China, India, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates participated in the now familiar Open House, held to celebrate all the major religious festivals throughout the country.

The government has designated 2007 as Visit Malaysia Year to commemorate the country’s 50th year of independence, complete with its logo of national flower the bunga raya, symbolic of Malaysia welcoming the world with open arms and hearts.

Under its newly introduced “Eco-Host Malaysia” program, there are now 3,000 nature guides to conduct and sell ecotourism products in the country. More nature guides are expected to be certified by the ministry.

Tourism Malaysia together with City Hall will also be introducing its own version of "hop on/off" double-decker and sky- roofed busses for tourists to complement the existing public transport available. "The bus service will allow tourists to alight at a certain tourist attraction where they can spend time visiting, before hopping onto another bus for their next destination, "said Kamaruddin Siaraf, director-general of Tourism Malaysia.

“We have plenty to showcase," Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi said. "Historical sites, modern landmarks, bustling cities and pristine villages to offer our visitors. Our warm hospitality, generosity, welcoming faces, clear blue skies, smooth white sandy beaches, and lush verdant jungles also offer an unforgettable eco-experience."

Check out @ : http://www.tourism.gov.my/