Cambodia Tourism Law To Regulate Industry

The Cambodia National Assembly on April 29, 2009 approved a new draft tourism law, tightening industry regulations as part of efforts to increase security and crack down on rogue operators, officials said.

"Our tourism industry is growing fast, and we need to have a law making the industry accountable," Sam Prumnear, a Secretary of State at the Ministry of Tourism, told lawmakers Wednesday. "The police will take control of [implementing the law] relating to the sex industry and human exploitation."

Tourism Minister Thong Khon said that around 30 percent of tourism-related businesses did not hold government licences, and that such operators would be given three months from the implementation of the law to register with the government.

Thong Khon added that the general situation of the industry at popular tourist spots was good, but that new rural destinations - especially a string of villages between Siem Reap and Kampong Thom offering home stays to foreign tourists - were still a concern. "There is a need for a public-awareness campaign, and the participation of citizens will help the tourism industry keep growing," he said.

However, opposition leader Sam Rainsy expressed concerns over widespread corruption in the tourism industry and appealed for lawmakers to give at least one year for poor tourism businesses to apply for licences. "Because of the lack of information about the law, smaller businesses will not have enough time to apply for licences within three months," he said.

Foreign tourist arrivals to Cambodia dropped 3.4 percent in the first quarter of 2009, falling to 622,288 from 644,205 in the same period in 2008, according to Ministry of Tourism statistics.

Cambodia Tourism - Arrivals down 3.4 percent in first quarter of 2009

Latest figures up to March confirm that the sector is in decline as Vietnamese surpass South Koreans as top visitors to the Kingdom.

The Ministry of Tourism on Thursday reported a 3.4percent drop in foreign arrivals in the first quarter of 2009.

Kong Sopheareak, director of the ministry’s Statistics and Information Department, said 622,288 foreigners arrived in Cambodia during the first three months of the year, compared with 644,205 during the same period last year.

The quarter-on-quarter comparison also revealed that Vietnam replaced South Korea as the biggest source of visitors to Cambodia.

The number of Vietnamese arrivals increased by 49 percent, from 53,386 during the first quarter of 2008 to 79,724 in 2009.The number of South Korean arrivals fell from 97,536 during the first quarter of 2008 to 62,633 in 2009.

The number of Japanese arrivals also fell markedly, from 54,149 to 41,745, while the number of American visitors changed only slightly, from 47,612 to 46,616.

The number of arrivals form Thailand fell from 40,611 in 2008 to 27,050 in 2009, making it the eighth-largest supplier of visitors to the Kingdom.

“We have seen that tourists from Vietnam during this quarter have increased, while Thailand has been the opposite,” Kong Sopheareak said.

Both Kong Sopheareak and Ang Kim Eang, president of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents, said the overall decline was insignificant and paled in comparison to decline seen in other countries, particularly elsewhere in Southeast Asia.

“I don’t really think it is a big problem for us,” Ang Kim Eang said.

“We are in a stable situation, even though there will be a slight increase in unemployment in the sector. If tourism dropped between 20 and 30 percent, that would be a big problem that we would care about.”

He said that the country’s political stability was a big factor in its ability to keep visitor number fairly level.

Minister of Tourism Thong Khon said he was encouraged that the sector did not rely solely on arrivals from Thailand.

“Now, Vietnam is the main tourism source for us,” he said.

Looking ahead, he said the ministry planned to target potential visitors in countries that had not been significantly affected by the financial crisis as well as to promote the Kingdom’s ecotourism destinations.

“We will also try to make it easier for tourists to make it through border checkpoints, especially from nearby countries,” he said.

Air traffic

Local media reported last week that the number of visitors passing through Phnom Penh International Airport dropped by 12.5 percent in the first quarter of 2009, while Siem Reap International Airport experienced a drop of 26 percent.

Mao Havannall, a secretary of state at the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), said he did not believe the decline was so dramatic but that he could not provide exact figures.

“My point of view is that the airline industry won’t really be affected much because everyone needs airlines,” he said.

Kao Sivorn, director of flight operations at the SSCA, also said he believed air traffic had declined somewhat but not to the extent reported in local media.

For example, he said, airlines that typically offered five flights a week might have dropped down to four.

He also said the recent state of emergency declared in Bangkok had not significantly affected the number of travellers arriving form there, adding that Bangkok Airways did not cancel a single flight.

Cambodias Underwater World - Taking the plunge in Cambodia

Discovering the Kingdom’s underwater world may be easier than you think

Perhaps Cambodia’s best-kept secret is the underwater world around Sihanoukville. Whether you are an experienced diver eager to clock in additional dives or a beginner interested in checking the sport out, the Kingdom has a number of dive shops to help you organize your date with diving.

Most of the dive operators in Cambodia have set up shop in Sihanoukville because of its proximity to dive sites, which are about two to five hours away by boat from the port of Sihanoukville depending on the weather and water conditions.

Koh Rong Samloem (two hours from Sihanoukville) offers visibility of up to 10 to 15 metres on a good day.

Scuba Nation, which opened its doors in 2002 with offices in both Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, is the pioneer of Cambodia’s diving industry.

Partners Vicky Leah and Gerard Leenan have 32 years of diving experience between them and, after surveying what Cambodia has to offer, decided to open their own dive shop in Sihanoukville.

“We came to Cambodia on holiday and saw there was no organised diving. We spent six months checking out the reefs before deciding to open Scuba Nation,” said Leah.

New kid on the block The Dive Shop Cambodia opened in Sihanoukville in December 2007.

The Dive Shop is owned by two Germans, Rudy Schmittlein and Irfan Arndt, who have dived in numerous exotic locations around the world before stumbling upon Cambodia. Taken by the beauty of the country, they both decided to settle down in Sihanoukville and capitalize on the surrounding is lands’ virtually untouched dive sites.

Eco-Sea Dive and a smaller operator Frogman Dive Center also operate out of Sihanoukville.

Both Scuba Nation and The Dive Shop Cambodia have been accredited by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and have been awarded National Geographic Dive Centre status.

Those interested in diving in Cambodia’s southwestern-most province close to the Thai-Cambodian border can venture out to Koh Kong.

Initially operating out of a small dive.

IN EVERYTHING WE DO, WE ALWAYS TRY TO LOOK FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY OPTIONS.”

Centre in Koh Tao, Thailand, Alan Andrew and Robert Rhemrev opened Impian Divers in Koh Kong in December 2008. Both have certifications from PADI.

Challenges

As Cambodia’s diving industry is not even a decade old, many dive operators face numerous challenges.

Leah admits her frustration over the lack of skilled personnel but it hopeful that with training and encouragement this will change.

The crews of Scuba Nation’s two dive boats are local, and the operation’s owner Leenan is quite pleased with their performance.

The Dive Shop Cambodia is proud to have trained Cambodia’s first dive instructor.

Schmittlein and Arndt encouraged a local from Koh Rong Samloem to take advanced courses in diving to enable him to move from the dive master level to the dive instructor level. They now hope that this will inspire more locals to pursue the sport and realize what career opportunities diving can offer.

Proper conservation and responsible diving are two causes that bigger operators such as Scuba Nation and The Dive Shop Cambodia are trying to champion by being Go-Eco Operators and active members of Project Aware, an environmental project of PADI.

“In everything we do, we always look for the environmentally friendly option,” said Leah.

After research trips to Indonesia and Malaysia to study methods of reef restoration, Scuba Nation has recently anchored the first trial artificial reef close to the islands off the southwestern coast of Cambodia.

“Although the reefs in Cambodia are generally healthy, there is some cause for concern due to rising sea temperatures, pollution and the residual effects of dynamite fishing. Our trial artificial reefs are situated in different areas and depths and use supports of different heights to ascertain the optimum height, current and depth for growth of coral,” Leah said, estimating that in three months the trial should provide her with enough data to successfully create larger permanent artificial reefs.

One of the projects initiated by Schmittlein and Arndt from The Dive Shop include beach and marine cleanup days.

They are also raising funds for a school near Koh Rong Samloem, the area where they do most of their diving.

The Dive Shop Cambodia hopes to establish a long-term relationship with the school so the students develop and appreciation for the unique environment they are in and learn about sustainable livelihood.

“We hope to be able to demonstrate to local people and to the government the benefits that tourism can bring, and encourage them to fish in ways that will help retain as much of Cambodia’s wonderful marine life as possible,” said Schmittlein.

Cambodia’s Jungle Refuge a hit with Ecotourists

Koh Kong is becoming a magnet for travellers seeking something a little off the beaten track

Cambodia’s southwestern province of Koh Kong is fast becoming a magnet for intrepid ecotourists eager to explore the region’s vast array of flora and fauna in a remote part of the Kingdom once bypassed by the majority of travellers.

Koh Kong, a region often seen as merely a passageway to the Thai border, is home to lush virgin rainforests, waterfalls, mountains, crystal-clear rivers and kilometer upon kilometer of undeveloped coastline and islands.

The region has enjoyed relative sanctuary from poachers and loggers. This is no accident as the local communities have been working together with various NGOs and government agencies to preserve one of Cambodia’s most pristine regions.

Located 7 kilometers from Koh Kong city, Pream Krasop Wildlife Sanctuary is a 25,897-hectare protected zone established in 1993 to conserve one of the world’s last intact coastal mangrove forests.

The local community of Boeung Kayak, in partnership with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and the Cambodian government, has endeavoured to make the mangrove forest an environmentally friendly and sustainable tourist site.

For a nominal fee of 5,000 riels (US$1.22) for foreign nationals or 3,000 riels for Cambodians, visitors can meander through the mangroves on a shady 1-kilometre stretch of locally built, Robinson Crusoe-like walkways and suspension bridges.

At one point, a 15-metre viewing platform emerges, uncovering a stunning view of faraway mountains, while below the platform local fisherman harvest green mussels in the shallow waterways of an estuary.

The same fishermen offer boat rides, which provide an entirely new perspective of Pream Krasop’s mangrove system from a small canoe-like wooden vessel.

A chartered boat costs $25 and usually includes a trip to an old fishing village deep in the forest where fresh local seafood and vegetables can be purchased and prepared, or a trip along the coastline to search for various types of sea birds, fish and even dolphins.

“Everything you see here was built by local villagers and is maintained by local people. We sell the crabs to some of the restaurants in town, and catch fish and small squid to sell or to make kapei,” said a local fisherman known simply as Chea.

Kapei is Koh Kong’s unique version of prahok – a thick, pungent, plum-coloured fish paste, which can be eaten with rice, vegetables or sour fruit.

Tatai Waterfall

Tatai waterfall is another protected area 20 kilometres east of Koh Kong city. The turnoff to the fall passes a police checkpoint where officers act as both law enforcement officials and part-time park rangers.

Depending on the amount of recent rainfall, visitors can clamber over massive rock shelves, take picnics next to the falls or simply cool off under the thundering cascades of clear mountain water, streaming fresh from the Cardamon mountains.

Rainbow Lodge is Koh Kong’s only eco-lodge, one of only two in Cambodia, the second of which is located in Ratanakkiri.

Owned by the friendly and down-to-earth barrister-turned-green business owner, Janet Newman, the lodge is located on a quiet, verdant patch of jungle overlooking the Tatai river.

The lodge can only be reached by boat and was built in 2008 using local labour – and whenever possible, local materials. It is powered almost entirely by solar panels and staffed by locals from the Tatai region.

“When I was researching how to build and eco-lodge, I learned that the most environmentally damaging structure is one that is built in a straight line, which forces people to make multiple paths directly to the building,” Newman said.

“This is why the bungalows here are laid out in a rainbow formation, this way each bungalow has a great view of the forest and the river,” she added.

For $50 a night, guests receive three meals a day, including a three-course dinner in the evening with different options for starters, mains and dessert.

Local involvement

“I buy all the food here locally at the markets,” Newman said, adding that this way she can provide the freshest food for guests while still supporting the local community.

During the day, Rainbow Lodge guests can swim in the peaceful, slow-moving Tatai river, take boats and kayaks out on the river or take small nature walks around the property to enjoy the greenery and the ever-present and brightly coloured butterflies and birds.

The lodge also offers day trips to the Tatai waterfalls, guided treks and boat trips to a set of rapids one hour up stream from the bungalows.

There is also the option of spending the night deep in the forest, and while this may seem daunting to some, the opportunity to dine on local produce under the stars is one not to be missed.

The rapids offer a perfect example of the serenity and pristine nature of Koh Kong.

Virtually deserted, the rapids are made up of a jumble of huge boulders in the river that cause the water to pool and form a small lake before tumbling over the rocks and down the river.

Visitors can picnic on the small beach nearby, sunbathe on the large rocks or swim in the pure, natural pools with only the sounds of running water and chirping birds to be heard.

“I think I give visitors a lot of independence. People can do pretty much whatever they want during the day. However, the only thing I’m pretty adamant about is that people do not at tempt to go trekking in the forest without a guide,” Newman said, adding that people sometimes underestimate the fact that they’re in a jungle and it’s just way too easy to get lost or hurt.

The road to Koh Kong is now in good condition and can be accessed from Phnom Penh by bus with the Virak Bunthan bus company, or by share taxis, both of which take about five to six hours.

Alternatively, travellers can also reach Koh Kong from Sihanoukville by bus (five hours) or boat (four hours).

To contact Koh Kong’s Rainbow Lodge, call 099 744 321, or check out its website at www.rainbowlodgecambodia.com

Kep - The Emerging Cambodia's Beach Destination

In Cambodia, where a decade-long tourism boom has been driven almost entirely by safe and easy access to the ancient Angkor Wat temples, the rebirth of a seaside resort town is helping lure visitors to the country’s long-neglected coastline.

The sleepy town of Kep on the southeast coast has been earmarked as Cambodia’s first boutique tourism destination, but for now it bears few of the characteristics of the countless backpacker Meccas and resorts scattered throughout Southeast Asia.

Tourist numbers have surged in recent years, but this town of just a few thousand people has maintained its unhurried, pastoral character. Unlike Sihanoukville, a lively huddle of guesthouses, bars and nightclubs on the central coast, Kep seems to be taking a relaxed path towards developing its tourism sector.

But with its lush rainforests, crystalline waters and bountiful seafood, Kep is finding that the tourists don’t need much encouragement. A three-hour drive from the capital Phnom Penh, Kep has become a favorite weekend retreat for expatriates and Cambodia’s burgeoning middle class.

The town is only 20 minutes from a recently opened Vietnamese border crossing, making it a perfect place to say hello or goodbye to Cambodia.

"They told us to expect fewer tourists in Cambodia this year," a local taxi driver says. "But more and more come here every week, to see the mountains and the caves, and of course, to eat."

Kep’s famous crabs were among the many treasures that helped the town become a playground for Cambodia’s French rulers in the early 20th century. Along with former king and independence leader Norodom Sihanouk, the French elite built dozens of mansions in the hills along the coastline and sailed their yachts in the protected waters in the Gulf of Thailand.

But like many regions in Cambodia, Kep was ravaged by the United States’ secret bombing campaign during the Indochinese War, and was forcibly evacuated during the Khmer Rouge’s 1975-1979 rule. The ultra-communist group considered the town a symbol of bourgeois hedonism and colonial oppression, and destroyed most of its infrastructure.

Kep lay dormant for more than a decade, and the scars of its troubled past are still visible among the poor local population and neglected amenities. The seaside villas left standing have become overgrown with vines and tree trunks, and now only the smallest of fishing boats dock in the once-bustling port.

But Kep’s striking beauty has not paled despite years of conflict, neglect and civil war. Guesthouses and hotels catering to all budgets have been built along the coast, including the exclusive Knai Banh Chatt hotel, which boasts views of the imposing Bokor Mountain from its infinity pool.

While the town has no beach and is separated from the sea by a strip of coarse red stones, a cheap 30 minute boat ride to Koh Thonsay — known as Rabbit Island — reveals one of Cambodia’s pristine beaches. Budget accommodation is compulsory, as the island’s only available beds are housed in palm-wood bungalows, which can be rented for between $7 and $10 per night.

The bungalows’ power generators are switched off at 10 p.m., and as the fluorescent lights along the beach fade, a spectacular night sky is revealed.

But Kep’s greatest attraction may well be the variety of seafood on offer in the restaurants and stalls downtown. Crabs cooked with local pepper sell for between $3 and $10, and grilled fish on skewers cost less than $5. For the more adventurous, or less eco-conscious, grilled seahorse is also available.

Driving past the various building sites, road workers and bulldozers on the road out of town, one gets the impression that the place is on the verge of a tourism storm. So as travellers look for cheaper tropical escapes in South-East Asia, now might be the time to experience Kep and beat the rush.

Ratanakkiri - Northeastern Cambodia as an alternative destination for tourist

Extensive construction work to build and pave roads in Cambodia’s northeast includes plans to build a bridge across the Sre Pok River to connect Ratanakkiri and Mondolkiri provinces, according to provincial officials.

The feasibility and environmental impact are still being studied for a $3 million bridge to be built along National Road 76 across the Sre Pok River in Ratanakkiri’s Lumphat district that will connect with Mondolkiri’s Koh Nheak district, according to So Samnang, Director of the Provincial Public Works and Transportation department.

He said the bridge, which would be built by the Chinese company China Road Bridge Corporation, was part of plans to make the region’s roads more accessible for tourists and to improve the transportation of agricultural products.

“If the road construction is finished, it will attract many more tourists to Ratanakkiri from Vietnam,” he said. Vietnam, according to Tourism Ministry statistics, has been the foremost source of tourists to Cambodia so far this year.

Overall, So Samnang said, about 70 km of National Road 78 between the provincial capital of Banlung and the Vietnam border is being paved in work paid for by a $20 million loan from the Vietnamese government.

Another project – paving 118 km of the same road between Stung Treng province and Banlung – will be managed by the Chinese company Shanghai Construction, So Samnang added. He said the project will cost $70 million – paid for by a loan from China – and will begin later this year.

Tra Nuth Sean, Director of the Provincial Tourism department, said the roadwork was part of the government’s plan to promote northeastern Cambodia as an alternative destination for tourist after the temples of Angkor and the coast.

“I predict that, in the next 20 years, Ratanakkiri will receive as many tourists as other tourist-attracting provinces because the government is now promoting the province,” he said.

As the Ratanakkiri airport is not operational, the only way to travel to Ratanakkiri is by road, making smoother transportation key to promoting tourism, Tra Nuth Sean said.

About 19,000 foreigners visited the province in 2008, he said, ranking it the fourth-most popular tourist destination in Cambodia behind Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and the coast.

Phu Quoc – Viet Nam’s Hidden Gem

Beaches to dream of ever after are not easy to find these days. Some 30 years ago, there were some romantic beaches on Phuket Island and Koh Samui, and the secluded beaches from Sihanoukville in Cambodia are just now getting to be developed. In Viet Nam, the long sandy beaches of Da Nang's China Beach and the palm-fringed beaches in Nah Trang are well known since the infamous Viet Nam War, but did you ever hear about Phu Quoc or have you even be there?

Phu Quoc is a new emerging island paradise at the outmost Southwest of Viet Nam near the Cambodian border. Actually, Phu Quoc consists of 26 islands and belongs to Kien Giang Province, which is part of the vast Mekong Delta. With its population of approximately 85,000, Phu Quoc is the name of the largest island with an area of 573 square kilometres (similar to Singapore). Besides a myriad of beautiful unspoilt beaches, the mountainous island is home to Phu Quoc National Park, which boasts a rare flora and fauna of original tropical rainforest. That is why Phu Quoc is also called “Emerald Island” - in contrast to the “Golden Island” Hainan, better known as the Hawaii of China, where the original forests are long gone already.

Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is some 45km west of Ha Tien on the Vietnamese mainland and only 15km south of the coast of Cambodia. In former times, Phu Quoc was a Cambodian island named Koh Tral. Nowadays, Phu Quoc is well known for its high-quality fish sauce and boasts arguably some of the best seafood in Viet Nam. Fishing is still the main industry on the island, but there are more and more plantations coming up to produce the highest quality pepper. Another distinctive feature of Phu Quoc is its native dog, which was originally a wild dog and only later domesticated. With a line of spirals running on the back, its unusually sharp teeth and razor-like claws are remarkable.

My plan to survey Phu Quoc was confirmed, when I had met GM Alban Mangione during ATF2009 in Ha Noi, who manages Chen La Resort & Spa on the island. As he had invited me to come down to inspect his property, I had the chance to take Vietnam Airlines Flight VN481 (52USD/per seat) from Ho Chi Minh City to Duong Dong in the early afternoon on January 20. After more than an hour flight, I landed at the small domestic airport (served by ATR 72) and headed straight north for 10km to Ong Lang Bay on a motor taxi to reach the resort in beautiful and tranquil setting.

The resort’s 24 villa rooms face the dramatically blue ocean and give the feeling to get away from it all. Incidentally, it was the night where the new American president was inaugurated! At a bar near the beach it was possible to play the Internet. Also, there were a cosy restaurant, small swimming pool, tennis court and 5 open rooms for spa and massages. A taxi speedboat (12USD p.p.) connects to Duong Dong. Constructions to enlarge the property with another 13 villas are on the way and it seems obvious that the resort has a rosy future (see at www.chenla-resort.com).

Duong Dong (“place of the poplar”) is the administrative capital of Phu Quoc Island and is nestled along a river with the same name. Fishing boats and sail junks a-bound and serve the central market with fresh seafood on a daily basis, while vegetables, fruit, and other consumer goods are carried from the mainland. To be near the people and inspect the cultural sites of the island, I changed residence to be near the fishing port, which is overshadowed by a Cao Dai (“Holy Eye”) sanctuary.

Astonishingly, Viet Nam has a diverse mix of religions, including Ancestor Worship, Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam. The dominant religion seems to be Buddhism, but Christianity is also strong as a result of decades of French colonial rule. Interesting to note is that Cao Daism is a mixture of all the existing world religions – founded in 1926 by Ngo Minh Chieu and now flourishing with an estimated 2 million followers, mainly in the populous Mekong Delta.

First of all, I stayed one night in the Sasco Blue Lagoon Resort & Spa, which is getting modernised under Singaporean management (see at www.sasco-bluelagoon-resort.com). The 75-room resort seemed to be busy with affluent Russians and is just next to the luxury 4-star Sai Gon-Phu Quoc Resort & Spa, which is the centre of the island's booming tourism industry, with visiting Europeans and Vietnamese alike. There is an ATM machine, accepting all kind of credit cards. From this balcony, overlooking the Pacific, with its 90 bungalows and suites, the 20km white sandy Bai Long Beach stretches further south (see at www.sgphuquocresort.com.vn). When the annual “Tet” Festival arrived on January 25, Chief Marketing Officer James Doan Anh Phuc kindly invited me to the resort’s New Year Party, which featured local zither music, a sticky rice cake baking demonstration and a fierce beer-drinking contest.

Along the beach, it is easy to reach other properties by walking, such as the newly opened “la veranda” – Accor’s Grand Mercure Resort & Spa. Its 43 rooms and villas, including 6 suites in a colonial-style ambience, reflect the new pride of the island – just 3km away from the airport (see at www.laverandaresort.com).

Over seafood (mussel) dinner in a tropical garden setting, GM Nicolas Josi revealed that sightseeing options on the island are countless. Also, the island itself is calling for brave investors.

The rest of the quiet island days, I stayed in the centrally located Voi Vong Guesthouse, from where it was easy to walk downtown to explore Duong Dong’s important temples, such as Sung Hung Co Tu, a huge park-like area, where a spotless white statue of Kwan Am is venerated. Not to be missed are the ancestral shrines of Dinh Than Duong Dong in town and Dinh Cau, which is right near the busy port. Both temples tell intriguing stories about the earliest Vietnamese settlers of Phu Quoc Island.

Another tour takes tourists to the South to visit a famous pearl farm at Duong To Village, operated by New Zealander Grant Johnston. Some 32km south from Duong Dong Airport, you arrive in An Thoi, port and gateway to a bunch of islands, which are good for coral reef diving. An Thoi houses a big Christian church and offers a busy fish market. Also, there is the former Cay Dua colonial prison with a characteristic French architecture that was rebuilt in 1967 to jail Communist rebels. Today it is a tourist spot.

Coming to the eastern side of the island, tourists like to visit Bai Sao Beach, where Robinson comes alive. Already, there are 10 wooden bungalows to rent for 10USD each and a scenic seafood restaurant. The tour also touches down at Ham Ninh fishing village, where sea turtles and the protected “dugong” will be regularly sighted in a respectively clean environment. A crab eating experience is in order. Coming back to Duong Dong, there will be a visit to a fish sauce factory, Sim winery, and to the lively Night Market.

A tour to the North of Phu Quoc includes a visit to Ganh Dau, where people worship at the shrine of Nguyen Trung Truc, a national anti-French hero (1838-1868), and stroll along newly reclaimed land.

Cape Ganh Dao is just 5km from the Vietnamese-Cambodian sea border and near Sihanoukville in Cambodia. A recommended seafood (shrimp) restaurant is called “Gio Bien” at one of the most romantic beaches. On the way back, tourists can enjoy the tropical rainforest and visit one of the pepper plantations.

Highly advertised is “night fishing” by heading to the sea for catching fish and squids. Being a fisherman for a short while, you find yourself at night on board a fishing boat. In the distant, you see the light from the other boats stretching out like on a pearl chain. The bait is usually a worm to attract the fish accordingly. When successful in your catch, you will realise that Phu Quoc is still Viet Nam’s hidden gem.

I left Phu Quoc on January 27 to return to Ho Chi Minh overland via the huge Mekong Delta. With a Cantho-Vinashin Passenger Boat (190.000Dong=11USD p.p.), I first went to Ha Tien on the mainland from the new ferry departure point of Bai Vong Beach in the East. I stayed there for two nights at the Duc Tai Hotel to survey the city near the newly opened international border gate to Cambodia.

After that, I took a minibus from Ha Tien to Rach Gia and Long Xuyen, from where I made a side trip to Oc-Eo in An Giang Province. From there, after one night at the small An Long Hotel, it was not far to reach the river town of My Tho, where I stayed for another night at the Huong Duong Hotel to see the recently inaugurated 9km long Rach Mieu Bridge. Built by Vietnamese, the modern bridge now connects Tien Giang and Ben Tre Provinces. Reaching the Moevenpick Hotel Sai Gon in Ho Chi Minh City on the evening of January 31, I left Viet Nam the next day.

The new modern bridge is a clear sign that the Mekong Delta will be strategically developed to upgrade infrastructure, including Phu Quoc Island. Last year, constructions at the new Phu Quoc International Airport have already kick-started and will be completed in 2020. It is projected that some 7 million passengers will pass its doors in 2030. With its natural and cultural potentials, as well as proper investment projects, Phu Quoc will be then at the core centre of economy and tourism in the ASEAN region.

Travel Story by: Reinhard Hohler, GMS Media

Philippine tourism prepares to fly further as a world class destination as the country

Philippine tourism prepares to fly further as a world class destination as the country develops birdwatching sites for the 200 birds which are endemic to the Philippines.

Scenic locations have always been the country’s foremost tourist attraction. Over the years, these natural resources have also been the reason why the Philippines has attracted a new set of visitors; it is an asset that has the potential to enhance the country’s tourism numbers.

As one of the most naturally blessed countries in the world, Philippines is surrounded by pristine beaches, breathtaking peaks, and other gorgeous sites. It’s undeniable that philippines charm comes from having multiple destinations, as it can cater to every tourist’s individual interests.

CATCHING VISITORS

A province in Pampanga has been receiving growing numbers of tourists vying to get a glimpse of its unique avian visitors. Serving as a temporary home to numerous migratory birds, the 32,000 hectares of wetlands in Candaba Marsh has been catching the attention of the bird watching public.

The wetland is primarily composed of freshwater ponds and swamps and marshes with surrounding areas of grasslands and rice fields. Candaba Marsh regularly supports thousands of birds, especially during the months of October to April.

About 60 bird species abound in the area, including the Philippine Duck, garganeys, Northern Pintail, Noerthen Shoveler, and egrets. The number and variety of avian species have been delighting guests and giving rise to the popularity of bird watching in the country.

BIRDS’ “I” VIEW

Bird watching can be considered a relatively new hobby in the country but not in other parts of the world. The relaxing activity is very popular in the west, especially in European countries.

Called “birders,” bird watchers travel to different parts of the world for the chance to see specific species of birds. Aside from having binoculars and long lenses for their cameras, birders also bring with them a checklist of birds that they want to see as they enthusiastically go on adventures to different destinations for their passion.

Bird watching can be considered the aerial counterpart of scuba diving. The birders get a sense of fulfillment as they get to see, in the flesh, species of birds that they saw only in books and websites—just as scuba divers enjoy the marine biodiversity of our oceans.

“We have a total number of 600 species of birds in the country. What’s exciting about it is, 200 of those are endemic birds. They can only be found here in the Philippines,” said the Department of Tourism’s (DoT) Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque as he marveled at the avian species in Candaba.

“At first, I was already amazed by the number of birds in plain view in the area. But with the use of binoculars, I saw the peaceful creatures up close. Watching them closely and noticing the details of the colors on their feathers is truly an enthralling feeling,” added the undersecretary as he shared his thoughts on his first experience with bird watching.

THE MARKET

The number of endemic birds in the country in itself serves as a very big draw for tourism. The Philippines has more endemic birds per square meter compared to the Amazon and the estimated number of bird watchers in the world is 8 million.

Jarque emphasized that “the UK has the most numbers of bird watchers; there are so many birders in that one country alone. There’s still a lot more in places such as London and nearby European countries. The market is really that big, that’s why I believe that Candaba has a very big potential in terms of attracting international tourists.”

But Candaba is not only being promoted to the international market but to local tourists as well. “The Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, the first bird watching organization of the country, has reported a rapid growth in members and has been receiving a lot of inquiries. This shows how Filipinos are catching up on the hobby and are keen on appreciating the new attractions of the country,” remarked Jarque.

“With its proximity to Manila and [its] unique ambiance, I know that Candaba will be one of the provinces in the country that Filipinos will definitely enjoy,” he noted.

FROM ATTRACTION TO DESTINATION

Having recently celebrated its second Ibon Ebon festival, which is one of the most original celebrations in the country, Candaba is all set for further progress in the coming years.

The dance and festival reflect the culture of Candaba and has produced one of the most striking and original dances and parades the country has seen in years: the bird dance.

The province’s visionary mayor, Jerry Pelayo, announced the development in the province of a 500 million-peso ecopark at the heart of an 18,000 square meter swamp. For the province, it is not enough to just attract tourists; they also want tourists to have a full unique experience of Candaban culture.

“An attraction is not a destination; of course it’s a start and a good way to attract tourists. But the Department of Tourism is strongly encouraging projects such as that of Candaba wherein an attraction evolves into something deeper. The migratory birds will not just be a part of what people can see in the province but also the culture, the local food, the ambiance, and heritage sites will make the people stay and develop it from an attraction to a full-fledged destination,” concluded Jarque.

Thailand is ready to host TTM+ 2009

Thailand Travel Mart Plus the Greater Mekong Subregion (TTM+):
The Biggest Travel Business to Business Opportunity

With cooperation between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Thai tourism industry, Thailand has the honour to annually host the largest B2B event ‘Thailand Travel Mart Plus the Greater Mekong Subregion (TTM+).

The event, first organized in 2001, has the uttermost objective to promote the tourism and service business in Thailand and its Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) counterparts. Small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) have also been supported on the international stage with their products on offer. The major markets include Europe, South East Asia, Eastern Asia, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as emerging ones; such as, the CIS countries, Eastern Europe, Middle East, South America, and South Africa.

In 2008, the Thailand Travel Mart Plus welcomed 440 delegate buyers from 60 countries including Thailand, an increase of 26.5% over the previous year. Participants were encouraged to meet 388 travel organisations and related service operators from Thailand and the GMS countries, featuring 67% from hotels and resorts, 12% from travel agents and tour operators, 10% from companies from the GMS, IMTGT, and NTOs, and 11% from other travel services; such as, airlines, ecotourism and adventure operators, golf courses, wellness and spa centres, as well as entertainment venues, theme parks, and culture shows.

For the year 2009, the Thailand Travel Mart Plus is scheduled to be held on 3-7 June. A briefing for buyers and sellers, together with on-site appointments between operators and patrons, will be arranged on the opening day at Central World’s Bangkok Convention Centre.

The last four days of the event will take place at the Challenger Hall, Muang Thong Thani Impact Arena Exhibition and Convention Centre. 4-5 June will be trade days, focusing on trade and business talks among operators and participants. 6-7 June will be consumer days for the general public, as well as post-tour days for buyers and media.

From 5 January-31 March, 2009, TAT is pleased to invite applicants from all over the world to be one of 300 delegate buyers in the Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2009.

Applications for participation can be submitted at www.thailandtravelmartplus.com. Alternatively, TAT overseas offices are open for application by invitation.

In the same period, application forms for 400 booths are available for travel operators and service businesses across Thailand and the GMS countries. The 10 business categories arranged for the event are eco and adventure, wellness and spa, airlines, Greater Mekong Subregion, tour operators and travel agents, hotels and resorts, golf courses, entertainment venues/ theme parks/ culture shows, NTOs and associations, and other travel services. Application forms can be submitted online at www.thailandtravelmartplus.com.

Moreover, TAT welcomes local and international media to take part in this event to help promote tourism in Thailand and the GMS countries.

THAILAND WAIVES VISA FEE AS PART OF DRIVE TO REVIVE TOURISM

Continuing its efforts to expedite the revival of the Thai travel and tourism industry, the Royal Thai government has agreed to exempt the fee for tourist visa applications for a three month period, effective 5 March, 2009 to 4 June, 2009.

Thailand presently gives Visa on Arrival for citizens of 20 countries for a stay not exceeding 15 days. Citizens of another 42 countries are allowed a visa-free stay in Thailand not over 30 days. Those who wish to stay longer than those periods have to apply for visas at the Thai embassies or diplomatic missions abroad before their arrival in Thailand.

Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva is personally spearheading efforts to revive the tourism industry and boost the country’s competitive position to offset the impact of the global financial crisis.

Mrs Phornsiri Manoharn, TAT Governor said “The support we are getting from the highest levels of the Royal Thai government is a clear indication that Thai travel and tourism is back to business with excellent deals and marketing support for our friends in the travel trade.

“Thailand is and continues to be a wonderful diverse tourism destination with great beaches, food, spas, hotels, nature, sports and smiles. We are welcome all visitors around the world.”

On 3 February, 2009, Thai Cabinet approved a visa exemption scheme for transit passengers through Suvarnabhumi International Airport who must wait long hours to catch a connecting flight. The waiver will allow transit passengers to temporarily leave the airport premises on a short visit or to shop at places near the airport without a visa.

Each year Thailand welcomed a thousand of transit passengers daily, many of whom must stay at the airport for up to eight hours.

In 2009, TAT is conservatively expecting 14 million visitor arrivals, with tourism revenue projected at 505 billion baht (US$14.46 billion).

Contact information:
International Public Relation Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2253 7419
E-mail: prdiv3@tat.or.th
Web site: www.tatnews.org

THAILAND-MYANMAR JOIN HANDS IN PROMOTING THE “BUDDHIST CIRCUIT”

With the ASEAN member countries having agreed to develop the Buddhist Circuit/Pilgrimage Tourism for ASEAN and India, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is positive that this will be another great effort which will encourage all members to work together in close cooperation in tourism promotion and marketing within ASEAN.

Therefore, to ensure that the set objectives are achieved, TAT has been actively working on this project. The Union of Myanmar is one of the pilot countries with whom TAT is keen to join hands in promoting the “Buddhist Circuit”. Apart from having participated in the seminar held during 24-28 August, 2008, in the Union of Myanmar, TAT recently organized an educational trip covering the Bangkok-Chiang Rai-Thachilek-Kengtung-Bagan-Yangon-Bangkok route during 17-21 February, 2009. A total of 22 participants including representatives from the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), the Chiang Rai Tourism Society, as well as travel writers, took part in the trip which was headed by Mr Suraphon Svetasreni, TAT Deputy Governor for Policy and Planning.

This educational trip was not only part of the “Buddhist Circuit” route survey, but was also an opportunity for the Thai private sector and travel writers to meet and exchange information with their counterparts.

Fruitful results of the Thailand-Myanmar Buddhist Circuit packages and other tourism promotion and marketing activities are another step forward that both Thailand and Myanmar expect following the trip.

In addition to the hosting of the Buddhism Pilgrimage documentary film production team from India scheduled next, both countries are optimistic and look forward to welcoming increased cooperation from other ASEAN members who might wish to join the ASEAN-India Buddhist Tourism Circuit and contribute to its future development.

Contact information:
International Public Relation Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2253 7419
E-mail: prdiv3@tat.or.th
Web site: www.tatnews.org

An Interview with Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism, Cambodia

Figures suggest that the global economic crisis has already hit Cambodia’s tourism sector, but Tourism Minister Thong Khon says there is no need for the travel industry to start panicking

In an interview with the Post, Minister of Tourism Thong Khon reflects on the further development of Cambodia's tourism sector during what will be a difficult period, given that many potential travellers in the West are now suffering from the financial crisis. With the tourism sector already showing signs it has been hit, Cambodia is now trying to develop strategies to deal with the slump, the minister says.

What strategies and plans do you have for developing the tourism sector in Cambodia during the global financial crisis?
First we must find out the effect of the global financial crisis as clearly as possible. We know that the financial crisis is having a negative affect on the income of travellers in many countries.

The income of people in the United States and in Europe has also been affected, which shortens their trips. There was a decline in the number of tourists in Europe in 2008, and this problem has also spread to Asia.

Seeing the above problem, we have decided to choose strategies to attract tourists in the region during this year and the future. This does not mean that we will forget tourists from the US and Europe.

The first thing we have to do is boost the number of regional tourists by introducing a simple travelling process for them, including the facilitation of visa documents for getting in and out of Cambodia.... We have already highlighted the need for visas with countries like Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Brunei.

It is only Thailand and Indonesia that we have not dealt with yet. We will solve this problem by 2010. Apart from that, we are also trying to facilitate transportation services by allowing automobiles to cross the border for one week by just showing a valid customs document. We want to let in 150 automobiles, both passenger carriers and goods vehicles, from countries that have land borders with us so that travellers can cross the border, in and out of our country, every day.

We also haven't forgotten to boost cheap flights that connect to the region.

To what extent can the above perspective help increase visitors to Cambodia?
According to our ... strategies as mentioned above, we hope that there will be more travellers. We expect to increase the number of tourists by five percent to seven percent on top of the 2.15 million visitors we received in 2008.

On what basis can you make such projections?
We will create a competition system for the most beautiful and clean cities and resorts to attract visitors. In the meantime, we will also expand advertising for two new products ... the dolphin site in Kratie province and the mangrove forest in Koh Kong province - to overseas travellers because we know that tourists at present like visiting environmental resorts and they like to help reduce poverty.

In two years, we will try our best to make Siem Reap a town free of flies, highlight commission payments and increase the quality of food to an acceptable level.

From which countries does Cambodia plan to attract visitors to ensure an increase during the financial crisis period?
Our new targets include the Middle East and Russia because these countries have not been affected by the global financial crisis very much.

We will have a memorandum of understanding agreement with Kuwait, and then we will soon expand our advertising into Kuwaiti markets. We expect to get at least 50,000 visitors from Kuwait every year. Similarly, we also wish to boost advertising to attract visitors from Russia by encouraging direct flights from such countries to Cambodia.
Moreover, we plan to also get tourists from Asean countries, China, Japan, Korea and India, too.

Has the ministry thought of building more hotels in such circumstances?
We believe that the global financial crisis will disturb our tourism sector for two years only, and that the sector will recover in 2011.

According to the tourism statistics we are getting now, we think that we need to build 1,000 extra hotels rooms every year.
And we will encourage the building of more hotels in certain areas such as Koh Kong and Kratie provinces where modern hotels do not exist yet.

Will the revenue and the number of people who work in this sector decrease or not?
In 2008, we received an income of about US$1.4 million from the tourism sector, and we expect $1.5 million in 2009. Also, the tourism sector has created jobs for about 300,000 people in Cambodia, and this figure may increase up to half a million people in the next five years. This is what we expect.

The first thing we have to do is boost the number of regional tourists.

Tourism Sector Stimulus

Following a meeting with the travel industry Friday to discuss strategies to help the industry weather the global financial storm, Tourism Minister Thong Khon will meet with Minister of Finance Keat Chhon today. The two ministries will decide whether the government coffers can withstand a host of proposals designed to stimulate the flagging tourism sector, among them the proposed scrapping of tourism visas, a measure that the industry has supported to boost traveller numbers. Nevertheless, US$20 travel visas are a lucrative source of state finances – more than two million tourists visited the Kingdom in 2008. Tourist-visa revenue was therefore more than $40 million last year, money that would be lost should travel visas be abolished. Other proposals include increasing flights and lowering Angkor Wat entry fees.

Cambodia: Government Mulls Tourism Stimulus

Governmnet and private travel companies proposed a host of incentive measures aimed at stimulating the tourism sector at a meeting in Phnom Penh on Friday, the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA) said.

Ho Vandy, Co-chair of the Tourism Working Group, said that members of the private sector met with Tourism Minister Thong Khon to discuss the possibility of visa exemption for tourists along with a possible increase in flights from Bangkok to Siem Reap, among other initiatives.

Thong Khon will take these proposals to the Ministry of Economy and Finance on Wednesday, said Ho Vandy, to assess whether the measures are financially viable. bout two million tourists visit Cambodia per year with each required to buy a $20 visa.

Ho Vandy said incentive measures are urgent given the economic climate. "If the government doesn't take action ... we will face a serious problem in the tourism sector," he said.

Laos expects 1.8 million foreign visitors this year

Laos expects to welcome 1.8 million international arrivals by the end of 2009, earning about 270 million USD, the Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA) said.

In order to reach the target, LNTA plans to coordinate with private tourist companies in carrying out tourism programmes and promotion activities, Vice Chairman of the administration Vang Rattanavong said recently.

In 2008, there were about 1.6 million international travelers to Laos, making a turnover of 235 million USD, the official added.

According to the Lao News Agency (KPL), over the past years, Laos has scaled up investments in infrastructure to make it more attractive in the eyes of foreigners, such as in upgrade of Louang Namtha airport, national road No. 3, construction of the second bridge over Mekong River linking Laos and Thailand, improvement of the nation’s telecommunications and tourism services as well as building new spots of tourist attractions.
Source: VNA

Mandarin Media Post-ATF2009 Tour held what it promised

The Sai Gon-Portland-Hue based company of Mandarin Media (MM) was successfully looking and recruiting some media delegates for a special press trip through Viet Nam after the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) held in Ha Noi last January. As the company represents a number of leading hospitality properties in Viet Nam, I was highly interested to join this trip and see more of Viet Nam than just its capital Ha Noi.

The dates of the trip were scheduled on January 13-20, 2009, and included one-night stops at the Moevenpick Ha Noi Hotel, Emeraude Classic Cruises in Ha Long Bay, and La Residence Hotel & Spa in Hue. The Life Heritage Resort and The Nam Hai in Hoi An followed, while the Caravelle and Moevenpick Hotels were visited in Ho Chi Minh City. As I wanted to spend more than one night in the Imperial City of Hue, I took the train from Ha Noi in the morning of January 13 (for just 10USD), only to join the press tour on January 15 in Hue.

The fascinating train trip from Ha Noi to Hue started on 10.05 to run first south through the heavily settled parts of the Red River Delta, then passing the provincial towns of Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, Vinh, Dong Hoi and Quang Tri, and finally arrived in Hue at 2.15. From passengers, most of them Vietnamese, I learned that the 1727km long journey continued another day and night via Da Nang and Nha Trang to reach Sai Gon Railway Station in Ho Chi Minh City at 2.55.

As a long-stretched country along the South China Sea, Viet Nam has over 3,260km of coastline, but experiences several different tropical monsoon climate regions. Almost the size of Germany, Viet Nam has a population of over 85 million people, comprising 54 different ethnic groups, with the Kinh (or Viet) people in the absolute majority. All of the groups have their own culture, language, and customs. With a nearly 3,000 years old history, the Vietnamese are proud to overcome a 1,000 years lasting colonisation of China, but also having swallowed the ancient peoples and empires of the Cham and Khmer on their long march down from north to south.

Having explored the “water town” and citadel of Hue along the Perfume River for two days, I checked in at La Residence Hotel & Spa on January 15 to wait for the coming of the 8-headed press tour to arrive with the evening flight from Ha Noi. GM Carmen Marienberg from Waldshut/Germany gave me a hearty welcome and introduced me to the most luxurious boutique hotel in Hue, formerly the French governor’s residence, with its subtle and refined art deco design, as well as 122 rooms and suites.

When the press tour arrived in the evening, we all had an outstanding Imperial dinner at the hotel’s Le Parfum Restaurant, including the sophisticated Minh Mang Emperor liquor made from glutinous rice and rare medical plants. Early next morning, there was a sightseeing tour of the Imperial City guided by MM PR representative Scott Resch. I chose to explore the impressive Ho Chi Minh Museum nearby, before checking out from the hotel at noon (see at www.la-residence-hue.com).

Soon, we were on the way by bus to the scenic Hai Van Mountain Pass of Clouds, the climatic divide between North and South Viet Nam. Having stopped for a short break at the Thanh Tam Seaside Resort, which is prominently located at the more than 10km long sandy beach of Lang Co, we passed the 500m high mountainous divide via a recently built 16300m long tunnel. After two hours, we already arrived in Da Nang, the emerging gateway to the East West Economic Corridor, leading to Lao PDR, Thailand and Myanmar.

We passed the huge and already developed “Indochina” Riverside Highway crossing the busy Han River to reach the 30km long stretch of windy beaches, with new high-class tourist resorts, luxurious condos and villas, as well as shopping centres. Finally, we arrived at the Life Heritage Resort in Hoi An, where we were welcomed by Assistant Resort Manager Erik Billgren, who introduced the 96 plus 18 river view rooms property along the scenic Thu Bon River as environment-friendly and sensitive for the local culture. A sundown boat cruise in style along the old waterway of Hoi An was more than we expected (see at www.life-resorts.com).

Next morning, we walked through the ancient exceptionally good preserved trading port, which was situated halfway between China and India along the old maritime silk-road. Our tourist sights were to the covered Japanese Bridge from the 16th century, Phu Kien Assembly Hall, Museum of History & Culture, and Hoi An Central Market, which is busy from early morning to evening. “Cyclos” are the best mode of transport. After a refreshing lunch at the hotel’s Senses Restaurant, we left by taxi to the nearby “5-star” luxury The Nam Hai Resort, Hoi An (see at www.ghmhotels.com)

Welcomed by GM Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, our group was checked in at some of the 60 beautiful one-bedroom villas. Each occupies its own section of landscaped gardens and boasts views of the South China Sea at the world-famous China Beach and nearby Cham Island. Interesting to note is that the listed room rates start at 750USD per day and ending at 3,900USD at one of the 40 pool villas. There are three swimming pools in the main area, with one pool temperature controlled. Other recreational facilities include “The Spa” at The Nam Hai, Health Club, and the nearby Montgomerie Links Viet Nam Golf Course (see at www.montgomerielinks.com)

The fine seafood dinner at the spacey “The Restaurant” was arranged by Miss Barbie I. Takahashi, Director of Sales & Marketing, who entertained the group until late in the night. On January 18, we had to leave a small piece of paradise back to Da Nang, from where to fly to Ho Chi Minh City – some 977km further south, but not before to inspect the 18-hole Montgomerie Links Golf Course, which is managed by Indochina Land (see at www.indochinacapital.com)

Also, the nearby attraction of the Marble Mountains was visited, where mysterious caves were occupied during the American War. Today, the temples there are visited along a pilgrimage path. Dating back for centuries, they all serve as very important, mostly Buddhist sanctuaries.

The group flew from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City with Vietnam Airlines, while I opted to try the new local Indochina Airlines (for some 50USD/per seat). Actually, there are 12 domestic airline flights per day - namely four flights from HCMC-Ha Noi (vice versa) and two flights from HCMC-Da Nang (vice versa). Besides, there are already 290 sales agents nation wide (see at www.indochinaairlines.vn)

Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City after one hour and half at 16.15, I took a taxi to the centrally located Caravelle Hotel, with its legendary hospitality in the heart of Sai Gon. After checking in at an executive floor, there was a re-union with the press group and a welcome dinner organised by GM John Gardner. Through a vast extension of the original hotel of 50 years ago, the hotel offers - tourists and businessmen alike - some 335 modern and tastefully decorated rooms and suites. Always a hotel highlight is the visit of the well-known Saigon Saigon Bar on the old rooftop, with the most spectacular views of the inner city (see at www.caravellehotel.com)

Next morning, our group strolled down the famous Rue Catinat of Graham Green’s Saigon, which is nowadays called Dong Khoi – the trendiest street downtown lined with fancy restaurants, art galleries and souvenir shops. We visited the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral and the opposite Central Post Office. Le Duan Street around the corner is running past the Sofitel Plaza Saigon and ends near the Museum of Vietnamese History within the Zoological and Botanical Garden. Ho Chi Minh City today is the secret capital of modern Viet Nam and also the gateway to the colourful Mekong Delta.

After check out from the Caravelle Hotel at noontime, we were picked up by the staff from the Moevenpick Hotel Sai Gon and enjoyed a delicious Vietnamese lunch at the popular Quan An Ngon Restaurant opposite the Reunification Palace. Later on, we had a guided tour through the residence for the past presidents of the old regime, until on April 30, 1975, the palace was overrun by tanks of the Communist Liberation Army. At 15.00, we checked in at the Moevenpick.

Vietnamese hospitality with a Swiss touch was guaranteed with the welcome of the group. Swiss GM Hubert Klemenz, Vice-President Operations Viet Nam, explained that after extensive renovation work the Moevenpick Hotel Saigon is to be tailored precisely to the needs of its guests and will become one of the leading hotels in the region. All of the 251 rooms and suites offer convenience and comfort. Furthermore, the upscale hotel is equipped with function halls for up to 400 guests. The outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa facilities offer plenty of opportunities for sporting activities and relaxation (see at www.moevenpick-saigon.com)

At 17.00, we had a final session organised by Claudio F. Kellenberger, General Manager of Asian Trails, Ho Chi Minh City, to brief us about the future of tourism in Viet Nam. After that, we had the last site inspection of our press tour and enjoyed cocktails at the hotel’s Mulligans Irish Pub. Thereafter, we headed to a seafood buffet dinner at Cafe Saigon Restaurant hosted by Moevenpick, where Stephen O’Grady, General Director of VinaCapital Real Estate, and George Ehrlich-Adam, General Manager of Exotissimo in Viet Nam, attended as special guests.

To sum up the result of the press trip, it was more than obvious that it held what it promised. I have to thank MM Partners, Jim Sullivan and Hal Phillips, for their generous support.

For further information, please contact GMS Media Travel Consultant Reinhard Hohler by e-mail: sara@cmnet.co.th