Cambodia Travel, Cambodia Tours: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Cambodia Travel, Cambodia Tours: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Two decades after the collapse of the Khmer Rouge, Siem Reap is finally regaining its footing as one the most popular destinations on earth.

Siem Reap is undoubtedly Cambodia's fastest growing city, welcoming over 100,000 international tourists every year and gaining recognition from locals as the 'tourist town'. The city comprises of over 116 hotels with continuing developments, a far cry from its mere two properties just three years ago.

Tuk tuk's are the best way to get around the city, drivers often knowing exactly where you want to go so long as you say it slowly. In some cases, drivers even have translation cards for major landmarks or tourist areas.

If you wander around independently, you will find that the most activity is in the Old Market Area (Psah Chas) which runs alongside the Siem Reap River. There, streets are filled with restaurants, spas, hotels, markets and bars. In particular, Pub St (where the name speaks for itself) turns into a hub of tourist activity at night, clubs pumping foreign pop and rock music while tuk tuk drivers scramble to grab the next customer stumbling out of a bar.

Apart from Pub St, the best place to be at night is at the Angkor Night Market, where over 200 huts showcase some of the best traditional Cambodian handmade products such as clothing, silk art, jewellery, scarves, wood and stone carvings and other handicrafts. If your feet are sore from shopping, head to the back of the market to get a US$2 foot massage or go to the market's Dr. Fish stall and have fish nibble the dead skin off your feet and legs!

But tourists simply cannot say they've been to Siem Reap if they haven't visited its biggest claim to fame - Angkor Wat. Built in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is one of few UNESCO world heritage listed sites and Cambodia's most valuable monument. Angkor Wat is breathtaking, to say the least, and Siem Reap owes its booming tourist numbers to this majestic site.

With Angkor Wat standing as a reminder of such a grand past, it's no wonder that Siem Reap has picked up the pieces so diligently and drawn in the world once again.


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A new Luxurious Hotel appears in Siem Reap map, Cambodia

The Kingdom of Cambodia has grown up in all fields, especially in tourism that is one of six priorities in the Cambodian economic developmental process. Tourism is playing a pivotal role in the Cambodian socio-economic development. As the top hot sport tourism destination in Cambodia, Siem Reap Province is gaining wide popularity as natural and historical tourist destination in Cambodia while accommodation industry continuously growing.

Now this hot spot tourism destination offers you more choices for luxurious accommodation to stay in. The Sothea Luxury Boutique Resort is peaceful Siem Reap luxury hotel in Cambodia. This impressive hotel offers a unique architectural feature, combining a contemporary resort design with subtle images of traditional Cambodian art and craftsmanship.

It is a great deal to visit Siem Reap and enjoy the truly luxury accommodation - a one-of kind Cambodia Luxury hotel nestled within a tranquil refuge. Find your luxurious accommodation within Siem Reap and more in Cambodia with special price by dialing hotline (+855 583 483) or visit http://www.tourismindochina.com/ to book the luxurious travel.


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Pursat Province offers a new attraction

Situated in northwester Cambodia, Pursat Province is rapidly gaining popularity as a leading area of ecotourism. It is gaining wide popularity as natural and historical tourist destination in Cambodia. This province offers a wide variety of nature to explore. When you are in Pusart Province, you can see a wide range of attractions such as the following:

• River Bank Park and SBOV REACH Pagoda, built at least 400 years ago
• Marble and Wood Carving Product and other domestic product
• Scenic Riverbank
• KOH SOMPOVMEAS, Island Park
• OKNHA KALNG MEUNG, a must see historic site
• KAMONG LUONG, the floating village in the Tonle Sap Great Lake with 10,000 habitants
• CHROK LA EING and VEAL VENG Waterfall
• LOK and LANG TRACH Mountain


Besides from these existing attractions, Koh Thas is a new island resort created in early 2009. The trip to Koh Thas from Pursat Province should take no longer than forty minutes. There you will see many small huts with straw roof where you can relax and taste a variety of traditional Khmer food. If it is hot, you can swim and rent a pedal boat shaped like a duck or a swan. Also you can glide along a cable cord that hangs above the Pursat River. Commonly, Koh Thas is a wonderful place to relax and take in Khmer culture.


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Flight from Siem Reap and Phnom Penh to Sihanouk Ville

Air traffic to Cambodia’s recently revamped Preah Sihanouk International Airport is on track to start from November, officials said last week. “I went to check all the technical equipment last Friday” State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) Secretary of State Mao Havannal told the Phnom Penh Post on Tuesday.

“Everything is in place and complies with international standards” he said referring to the refurbishments completed by Societe Concessionnaire des Aeroports (SCA). Mao Havannal said the launch of the airport would be presided over by Prime Minister Hun Sen and top officials from France including French Prime Minister Nicholas Sarkozy. The launch will see national carrier Cambodia Angkor Air offer chartered services to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap from Sihanoukville. Soy Sokhan, SSCA undersecretary of state in charge of CAA, said the airline was still considering the feasibility of establishing regular flights on those routes. “Firstly, we need to complete a market survey looking at the number of tourists, and contact with travel agents who book passengers on cruises to get an idea of potential demand,” he said. According to Mao Havannal, Siem Reap Airways may be unable to fly from the airport as it has not registered any planes in Cambodia, a requirement for domestic operators to receive an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). “I don’t know for sure if Siem Reap Airways will be able to fly or not” said Mao Havannal. “It depends on the airline because we have already confirmed with them that if they want to resume their operations, they need to register an airplane [in Cambodia].

“It already completely complies with SSCA requirements and has satisfied concerns over its operations.” SCA will announce its flight schedule for Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanouk international airport on October 21.

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Tourism Indochina: Indochina Divulgence

Tourism Indochina: Indochina Divulgence

Indochina is a special and elegant destination you can find out the great taste of travel experiences. The mixture of travel experiences of the three countries -Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and the magic of Mekong Delta River -will immerse you to the paradise gate way of Southeast Asia. You can start your journey with Indochina exploration, a three in one destination, which has become more popular in South East Asia. With Indochina exploration, you will explore a wide variety of recreational tourism activities and enjoy:

• ecotourism activities (canoeing, trekking, meeting indigenous people ,discover the Mekong trail and fresh water dolphin )and also responsible tourism
• city tours excursion and nightlife city
• the pristine beach ( Sun, Sea, and Sand )
• regional cuisine and leaning to cook
• interaction with friendly local resident
• line of natural , cultural and historical tourism


Start your traveling from Cambodia-heart of charming Indochina- where you can see famous Kingdom of Wonder with friendly resident-and continuously to Vietnam, where you can see fascinating combination of Vietnamese traditional characters with Chinese and Japanese ancient influent architecture. Endlessly, go forwards your travel to Laos PDR, where you will see the best –preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia.


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Tasting Cambodia Ecotourism with TourismIndochina.com

Ecotourism development is an emerging trend being developed for responsible tourists. Ecotourism is a current diversified form of tourism contributed to national economic growth. A new form of ecotourism development drives local community to a next stage to local livelihood improvement through alternative income, diversified job, capacity building and community empowerment.

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Ecotourism development in Cambodian has been progressively developed in the northeastern area, where fabulous of biological species, life style and charming alongside region of the Mekong River, is not yet completely explored. With ecotourism development, community no longer predominantly depend on previous occupation, especially agricultural productivity, but having more opportunity to gain operational skills for ecotourism demands. Tourist involvement in ecotourism activities operated by local community is an act of stepping forwards to poverty alleviation responding to one of main millennium development goals.



With a wide variety of natural creational activities, you can enjoy cycling, trekking, boating, viewing landscape, and involving with local livelihood activities like agricultural activities which will immerse you a real combination of communities’ life experiences and natural tourism in Cambodia, a Kingdom of yet explored. Through accurate ecotourism activities, negative impact will be minimize, environmental and cultural experiences and respect will be built, experiences for both hosts and visitor will be provided, financial benefit will be contributed to conservation, community empowerment will be enhanced , and sensitivity of host environmental, political, social climate will be raised.



Cambodian communities are warm-hearted, friendly, and helpful. Tasting ecotourism and other types of tourism Cambodia is looking to serve, you will feel like you make your self at home as we greet you as resident and evoke you to revisit as family. Will you enjoy tasting ecotourism in The Kingdom of Wonder? Why not! We, Bayon Heritage Travel and Tours, could drive you to taste the environmental friendly and responsible tourism with our hard working colleagues committed to ensure your quality experience via good packages provision. Waiting no more to see a charming and yet explored of the Southeast Asia.


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Cambodia Travel, Cambodia Tours: Cambodian domestic flights

PHNOM PENH, Sept. 25 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian government will not renew its agreement with Bangkok Airways, under which the Thai-owned airline flies Cambodian domestic routes, when it expires on Oct. 25, local media reported on Friday, citing a senior aviation official.

State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) Secretary of State Mao Havannal was quoted by the Phnom Penh Post as saying that the decision was made to give a boost to the new national carrier Cambodia Angkor Air (CAA), which made its maiden flight on July 28. "Now that we have our own domestic airline, Bangkok Airways will not be allowed to continue flights when the agreement finishes on Oct. 25," he said. Bangkok Airways has been flying four flights daily between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap since taking over the route last November when its subsidiary, Siem Reap Airways, was grounded by the SSCA. SSCA Cabinet Chief Long Chheng said Thursday that the body sent Bangkok Airways a letter last week informing it of the decision.

Bangkok Airways Acting Country Director Amornrat Kongsawat has not been available for comment.

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US Senator Jim Webb makes quick stop in Cambodia on Asian tour

Phnom Penh - US Senator Jim Webb made a lightning visit to Cambodia on Tuesday as part of a regional trip designed to 'invigorate the relationship' between the United States and South-East Asian nations.

Webb is in the region in his capacity as chairman of the Sub-Committee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs for the US Senate's Foreign Relations Committee. His trip takes in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. At a press conference in Phnom Penh on Tuesday ahead of a scheduled meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, Webb was asked about the ongoing crackdown by the Cambodian government against its opponents. The question followed a strong European Union statement issued earlier in August in which the EU warned that the government's actions could narrow Cambodia's democratic space. Webb would not be drawn on whether or how the US would exert pressure on Phnom Penh to respect democratic rights, saying only that the US wants to do 'what we can to encourage political diversity in Cambodia.' 'As a part of my visit here I met with the leaders of two of the opposition groups to hear their views, and we had [a] discussion with respect to the issues that you mentioned, and we will continue to listen to people from all sides,' Webb said. 'I listened in great detail to the concerns of the two opposition leaders on that topic.' He was more forthcoming on the Trade Act of 2009, a measure introduced by Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein to provide duty-free access to the US market for garments made in 14 least-developed countries. Cambodia, whose economically vital garment industry has been battered over the past year, would benefit from the passage of the bill.

However the legislation is currently languishing in the US Senate. 'That issue was the subject of a pretty lengthy discussion with the minister of commerce, and I committed to him that we'll take a very close look at the legislation,' Webb said. Webb said one key concern is that labour standards in beneficiary countries should meet international standards. 'It's very important to the Democratic Party in the United States to make sure we have a fair playing field among our workers and workers overseas,' he explained. 'That being said, the minister made a very compelling case for us to look at that legislation and we will do that when we get back.' Webb leaves Cambodia later on Tuesday headed to Vietnam.

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Thai Tourism Fund in trouble

According to the breaking news of Bangkok Post, five billion baht fund for tourism operators is not enough for them to all survive the slump, said Tourism and Sports Minister Chumpol Silpa archa.

The financial support programme was officially launched Tuesday and will run until April 30.

The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (FTTA) predicted that at least 450 tour operators would seek financial help worth at least 1.8 billion baht.

More than 1,000 restaurant operators are expected to submit loan applications for 500 million baht, with small hotels likely to seek up to two billion baht.

Soft loans to help tourismrelated operators will charge an interest rate at 2% in the first two years, followed by the minimum lending rate (MLR) 3%.

"The requests for loans during the 1.5 month period will exceed five billion baht for sure. If demand is excessive, we will go forward with the second fund,'' Mr Chumpol said.

The minister estimated that the tourism business would pick up near the end of this year if the private and government sectors worked hand in hand to promote the country in the same direction.

Apichart Sankary, the FTTA president, said the tourism industry in Thailand would be sluggish in the next two years, particularly for inbound business.

"I can say that this year is the poorest since I have been in business. This summer, tourist arrivals from Europe and the United States will drop more than 30%. Instead, most operators should pin their hopes on Asian tourists particularly from Japan and China,'' he said.

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Middle East advised to focus on religious tourism sector

Industry experts are saying specialist travel operators in the Middle East should focus on capturing the potential of the religious tourism sector which is currently valued at $18 billion per year.

Currently, the majority of religious travel, tourism and hospitality, is driven by the Middle East with the sector contributing 11 percent in annual tourism growth.

However, Kevin J Wright, President of the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) says that more travel alternatives need to be developed to capture the three billion people across the globe that has religious roots in the Middle East.

“Pilgrimages are not the sole driver of the religious market anymore and people of faith are increasingly seeking greater quality travel experiences across the full spectrum of sub-sectors which drive the industry” said Wright.

Affordability is a factor that Wright believes specialist travel operators must concentrate on.

“Investment...needs to be focused on surrounding infrastructures to ensure the increased visitors experience quality services at affordable prices”

The primary driver of the religious market is Saudi Arabia with over six million Islamic Hajj and Umrah pilgrims making their way to the Kingdom each year.

“In Saudi Arabia alone the religious tourism industry generates an estimated US$7billion annually and with the market expecting 20 percent growth in the coming years, tour operators, hotels and airlines are already tailoring products to tap into the religious market”

Jordan and Palestine were identified as growth markets by Wright, with 95 percent of tourism in Palestine religion-based and Jordan aiming to garner tourism revenues of up to US$2.4billion per year by 2010.

Similarly, Iraq’s religious sector is booming with the sacred shrine of Prophet Mohammad welcoming 8 million pilgrims a year.

It is these robust revenue streams that must be tapped into in order to weather the current economic storm according to Mark Walsh, Group Exhibition Director, Reed Travel Exhibitions - Organiser of Arabian Travel Market.

“Our industry is changing and tour operators and travel companies need to examine alternative business avenues to increase profits during these challenging times” said Walsh.

“The religious tourism market is one such possibility and remains extremely relevant to Middle East based operations”

Wright will conduct a seminar entitled ‘The New Era of Religious Tourism’ at the Arabian Travel Mart in May


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Singapore named Asia most competitive tourism destinations

In this year’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report, Singapore was named the most competitive Asian destination for travel and tourism, moving six spaces to make tenth for most competitive global destination.

2009’s report, with the theme “Managing in a Time of Turbulence”, looks closely at the impacts of oil prices in the tourism industry and also price competitiveness in attracting customers.

Switzerland, Austria and Germany were named the top three, with their positions unchanged from 2008. France shot up from tenth to fourth, followed by Canada at fifth up from last year’s ninth position.

Singapore was the only Asian destination to make the top ten.

“We are pleased to have improved our ranking in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2009 to be among the top 10 countries globally and the only Asian country in the top 10 out of 133 countries,” said John Gregory Conceicao, Singapore Tourism Board Director Strategic Planning.

“This is an indication of Singapore’s strengths in its tourism management and infrastructure. It will in turn strengthen our efforts to ride out the current downturn and position ourselves for future growth.”

Singapore’s “excellent” transport infrastructure, both public and air, was noted in the report, as well as its human resources sector and environmental policies.

“To thrive, or even survive, in this period of uncertainty and change, both the travel and tourism industry, and destinations themselves will need to approach the challenges in a holistic and systemic manner,” said Thea Chiesa, the World Economic Forum Head of Aviation, Travel and Tourism.

“This would allow innovative ideas to emerge, new directions to be taken, new alliances to be forged and profits to be reaped. This comprehensive approach to travel and tourism competitiveness is taken in the report aims to contribute to this discussion.”

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Tourism crucial in this current economic crisis: UNWTO

Outlining tourism ‘Roadmap for Resilience’ Taleb Rifai, UNWTO Secretary General, opened the 2009 ITB Berlin travel exhibition on Tuesday in front of thousands of representatives from around the world.

ITB Berlin kicked off on its five-day agenda underneath the cloud of gloomy economic data, but Mr Rifai implores the travel community to pull together under a brand new framework of resilience.

“Over the last few decades, our industry has experienced various setbacks, and faced severe natural and man-made crises. Through it all, the industry demonstrated a remarkable resilience and always came out stronger and healthier,” he said in his opening speech.

“Indeed, resilience has become synonymous with our industry. This juncture, however, seems to be different. This crisis is truly global and its parameters are unclear. We need a different mindset.”

Outlining six main points, he highlighted the need for the industry to be realistic with forecasts, take actions to shore up defences, recognise that measures need to be taken immediately, use all available tools including new technologies, take advantage of tried and tested partnerships, and lastly he pledges that the UNWTO will offer all the support that it can.

“History shows that the biggest challenges provide the biggest opportunities,” Mr Rifai adds.

He reiterates, “We know that tourism means trade, jobs, development, cultural sustainability, peace and the fulfilment of human aspirations. If ever there was a time to get this message out loud and clear, it is now.”

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Thai FM: Foreign tourists' visa exemption effective

Foreign tourists' visa exemption earlier approved by the Thai cabinet has been effective from March 5 to June 4, according to Tharit Charungvat, Director-General of the Department of Information of Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Thai cabinet approved on Jan. 20 the tourist visa exemption for all foreign nationals for three months to boost the country's tourism industry as parts of the government's economic stimulus packages, the Thai News Agency reported.

The government has hoped that revenues from the tourism industry will help offset the sharp falling revenues on the country’s exports, which have been hit by the rising global economic turmoil.

Prior to the global economic slump, for years the revenues from the tourism and export sector had largely contributed to the country's economic growth.


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Vietnam Airlines aims to rank second in South East Asian aviation by 2015

Vietnam Airlines has set out to achieve its 2015 goal to become the second largest airline in the South East Asian region, just after Singapore.

As planned, Vietnam Airlines will improve the quality of its services in addition to expanding its aircraft fleet to 104 in 2015 and 150 in 2020.

Vietnam Airlines currently ranks fourth in the region with 50 aircraft operating on 29 domestic and 36 international air routes.

Vietnam Airlines believes this goal will become attainable through a direct focus on upgrading air routes, developing infrastructure, training pilots and improving maintenance work.

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THAI says goodbye to Don Mueang airport

THAI says goodbye to Don Mueang airport

THAI Airways will stop using Don Mueang airport and operate all flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport as of March 29, acting THAI president Nargongsak Sangkhapong said Friday.

Under the single-airport policy, all 23 of Don Mueang’s THAI flights will be transferred to Suvarnabhumi Airport, in an effort to strengthen the airport as a major hub for THAI and Star Alliance.

THAI’s decision to cease domestic and international operations from Don Mueang is expected to save the national flag carrier an estimated Bt600 million in salaries and operational overhead costs annually.


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Thai Airways back IATA's urgent plea

Thai Airways back IATA's urgent plea


Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) have said that it will support the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) recovery plan at this week’s IATA World Cargo Symposium 2009.

IATA joint with THAI to organise the Cargo Symposium being held 2-5 March at the Centara Grand Hotel, the Bangkok Convention Centre.

This year’s theme for the symposium was “Focus on the customer: Delivering in Turbulent Times”, with IATA emphasising the need for more effective operations on the cargo supply chain in order to tackle the challenging economic environment.

ACM Narongsak Sangapong, THAI Senior Executive Vice President Corporate Secretariat said in a statement that THAI Cargo would review and improve the utilisation of cargo space, equipment and its workforce.

THAI said that measures had already been taken to improve delivery services and cargo management systems. Campaigns and activities have also been rolled out to increase sales and revenues.

The group added that it would follow IATA’s advice in concentrating on e-payment, e-freight and Cargo 2000 so that the global cargo industry can become one step closer to establishing a quality standard.


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Hotel industry to continue struggle in 2009: EY report

A report by Ernst & Young has forecasted continued struggle for the global hotel markets, as contracting economies and falling travel demand continue to pressure the hospitality industry.

Last year still allowed the hotel industry to remain profitable, in spite of the major declines, as hoteliers lifted their operating performance by focussing on cost control.

"There is little doubt that most markets in the current economic climate are challenging at best and growth will be hard to come by for most operators," said Michael Fishbin, National Director of Hospitality Services, Ernst & Young.

"As a result, this year we will see hotel operators continue to focus more of their energies on cost reduction, improving operating efficiencies in their hotels, reaching out to guests via enhanced Internet communication and strengthening their brands through an emphasis on green principles in activities related to both development and operations," he continued.

The report by Ernst & Young, entitled the ‘US 2009 Lodging Report’, reviewed the global hotel sectors, including the United States, providing in-depth analysis of the market and lodging segments for seventeen major American cities.

These included New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Dallas and San Francisco.

The report highlighted ten trends and issues which were expected to be topical in the hotel industry for 2009.

There was speculation of transaction floodgates opening, as hotel values drop and hence those with capital remain keen to make valuable acquisitions.

In contrast, hotel borrowers will also be proactive in seeking loan modifications and other options to re-capitalize their assets, considering the debt in the industry.

The increased focus on efficiency and reducing costs will continue well past 2009, according to the report, as hoteliers plan to position their businesses to dominate during the next cycle.

Business development and brand presence is also going to be crucial for hotels, as a recent Google survey revealed that a third of accommodation decisions are based on online reviews from sites such as TripAdvisor and Travel Muse.

The report also flagged areas such as China, India, Vietnam and Brazil to lead future growth markets, as the slowdown will affect some economies worse than others.

Other issues which were noted included the worldwide momentum behind ‘green’ hotels, the alternatives to air travel such as shorter cruise routes and the need for stimulus into US infrastructure.

The report proposed that stimulus into US infrastructure could have a positive impact in the long term upon the domestic hospitality sector, by improving access to tourist destinations and encouraging domestic travel.


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Cambodia Travel, Cambodia Tours: Growth Triangle Tourism Cooperation

Cambodia Travel, Cambodia Tours: Growth Triangle Tourism Cooperation

Phetchaburi - Leaders of Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia on Saturday agreed to step up closer tourism cooperation under the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle in a campaign to be launched this year.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva also urged his two counterparts, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia and Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi, to further cooperate in energy to strengthen regional security in the longer term.

The three leaders held talks on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Cha-am district of Phetchaburi.

PM's Office Minister Virachai Virameteekul said after the fourth IMT-GT meeting, chaired by the Indonesian president, that the new tourism campaign for the sub-region would be officially launched in Sumatra Island in coming months as a joint effort between the three countries.

The private sector would be encouraged to take leading role to promote tourism opportunity in the sub-region including medical tourism, he said.

Mr Abhisit has expressed his opinion that tourism would be the key for IMT-GT members to get through the current global economic crisis.

Besides, the premier called on Indonesia to develop cooperation on liquefied natural gas. With Malaysia, Thailand proposed joint development of the energy land bridge which is a part of Thailand's long-delayed Southern Seaboard project.

The southern seaboard has been suggested to be developing in line with Malaysia's northern and eastern regional development plan.

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Jet Airways joins forces with entertainment hospitality and banking firms

India’s largest frequent flyer programme, Jet Airways’ JetPrivilege has joined forces with companies in the entertainment, hospitality and banking spheres to offer their members a wider range of experiences.

The airline’s new partnership with movie rental service company, Seventymm, allows frequent flyers to earn up to 750 JPMiles as well as enjoying exclusive discounts on new subscription/rental plans offered by the firm, the carrier said in a statement.

In addition, the first such 10,000 new subscribers will also receive three complimentary Hollywood DVD’s worth INR 1500.

Jet has also entered into a partnership with Carlson Hotels Worldwide under which airline passengers may get concessions from the carrier for their stay at more than one thousand participating hotel locations in seventy-four countries.

Through this partnership JetPrivilege members will be given the opportunity to earn JPmiles across five leading hotel brands in the Carlson Hotel portfolio: Regent® Hotels and Resorts, Radisson® Hotels & Resorts, Park Plaza® Hotels & Resorts, Country Inns & Suites CarlsonSM, and Park Inn®, which cover luxury, mid-range and affordable hotel properties.

The airline has also entered into a partnership with Sarovar Hotels and Resorts, India’s leading hotel Management Company.

With this partnership, JetPrivilege members may earn up to 250 JPMiles during their stay at various participating Sarovar hotels.

Additionally, Jet Airways’ frequent flyers will also enjoy special benefits at participating Sarovar properties, including a 10% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages and late check out till 15:00 hours.

JetPrivilege Platinum members will also be entitled to an upgrade to the next room category/suite.

JetPrivilege members will also enjoy additional benefits with the airlines new partnership with Axis Bank, a leading Indian private bank with over 729 branches across the country.

JetPrivilege members who are Axis Bank Platinum and Gold Credit Cardholders may convert their PlusPoints into JPMiles.

Platinum cardholders may convert their Pluspoints at the rate of 1000 PlusPoints = 1000 JPMiles; while Gold cardholders may convert their Pluspoints at the rate of 500 PlusPoints = 250 JPMiles.


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Asia to suffer this year as travel demand slumps

Experts suggest new figures set to be released at the ITB Future Day in March will show a significant drop in the travel demand in Asia for 2009.

The 2009 ITB World Travel Trends Report is still being finalised but the preliminary trends show Asia will suffer a challenging 2009.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) reported that the growth of inbound and outbound international travel in Asia fell from 6% in January-June to 2-3% in the second half when fuel prices soared and the economy cracked.

Rolf Freitag, President of IPK International, suggested that many leading source markets for Asia which experienced declines in outbound travel in 2008 will most likely experience it further in 2009.

However there is a light at the end of the tunnel according to Dr Martin Buck, Director of the Competence Center Travel & Logistics at Messe Berlin.

“It is still possible that Asia could start to recover before the end of 2009”

“Initial findings in the World Travel Trends Report still point to a modest overall growth in outbound travel demand from Asian markets in 2009”

“We expect short-haul travel to gain at the expense of long-haul demand. And if oil prices stay low, there could be another surge in low-cost flights in the region”

Asia will now rely on younger consumers which, according to Dr Yuwa Hedrick-Wong, economic advisor, Asia/Pacific, MasterCard Worldwide, are being much more powerful travellers.

“Young consumers in Asia Pacific now typically see personal travel as a key activity in their lifestyles” said Mr Hedrick Wong.

“Our research on consumer purchasing priorities shows personal travel ranking among the top discretionary spend priorities for consumers in the region”

The finalised ITB World Travel Trends Report 2009 will be released at the ITB Convention on ITB Future Day, Wednesday 11 March 2009.


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Gulf Air signs on for four new Boeings

Intent on continuing re-fleeting and product-enhancement plans, Gulf Air signed an agreement with Jet Airways late last week to lease four new Boeing 777 ER aircraft.

The national carrier of Bahrain will receive three aircraft during March of this year and the fourth plane will arrive in May.

Trade Arabia reported that the new Boeings will slowly replace the Airbus 340s, serving routes between London, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and intra Gulf routes.

“The introduction of these four aircraft is another important step in our strategic direction towards re-fleeting, enhancing our product and strengthening our presence as the carrier of choice in the Middle East and beyond” said CEO.

As the largest long-range twin-engine commercial airplane in the world, the wide-body Boeing 777-300ER will feature a three class configuration with a total of 312 seats.

“It will further strengthen our successful hub-and-spoke network and our operational efficiency while offering enhanced passenger comfort and flying experience”

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Guests commend Airasia's self check in service

AirAsia guests have commended the airlines’ latest addition to its self check-in facility – the web check-in that was made available from Tuesday, 17 February 2009.

With the new innovation, air travelers can now save time on pre-departure procedures by using the free- of-charge web check-in facility implemented across AirAsia and AirAsia X’s entire network.

“This is a wonderful innovation. With AirAsia’s web check-in, I can perform check-in myself in the office. I do not have to worry about long queues at the counters anymore. It allows me to plan my trip better and saves me a lot of time, and it minimizes chances of missing my flight,” said Janice Kuek, an AirAsia guest from Kuala Lumpur when met at the Low Cost Carrier Terminal today.

The web check-in facility allows AirAsia and AirAsia X guests to skip long check-in queues at the airport if they web check in at www.airasia.com from 48 to 4 hours before their scheduled flight departure.? Web check in is available for all AirAsia and AirAsia X flights.

During web check-in, guests may also opt for AirAsia’s Baggage Supersize and “Pick A Seat,” new services that allow for carriage of more baggage weight and the option to choose seats, respectively. “Pick A Seat” has been smoothly implemented on all AirAsia flights beginning 17 February 2009.

Another guest, Nazatul Ismail Kamaruddin from Sungai Buloh who was en route to Bandung for a holiday with his family, said: “The web check-in is really convenient for me and my family. All we need to do upon reaching the airport is present our printed boarding passes and drop our luggage at the special counter. Also, with Pick A Seat, we no longer have to worry about rushing to board the aircraft. With a nominal fee we can choose where we want to sit, and that is important for a family with small kids like us.”

Kathleen Tan, Regional Head of Commercial, AirAsia, said, “At AirAsia, long check-in queues will be history.? We have invested in technology that now offers web check-in services to guests flying across our network of over 114 routes to over 64 destinations.? With our increasing use of technology to enhance services, we stay in step with the needs of our guests, who call for convenience in their travels.”

AirAsia’s web check-in is complemented by the self check-in kiosks that allow self-check in from 6 to 1 hour before departure. Airports that allow kiosk check-in include those in Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Penang), Thailand (Chiang Mai, Hatyai, and Phuket) and Indonesia (Jakarta and Bali).

With the latest addition of web check-in facility, AirAsia now boasts of three check-in options for its guests:? via web at www.airasia.com, self check-in kiosk at selected airports, and through conventional check-in counters at airports.

“We expect our host of check-in options to increase demand for AirAsia seats, especially among professionals and young adults who gravitate towards fast and efficient do-it-yourself electronic services.? This increase in demand can only strengthen AirAsia’s lead among low-cost airlines in Asia.? Our string of innovations brings ease of travel to guests from Southeast Asia, China, Bangladesh, India, Australia and UK.? These electronic services are incredibly user-friendly; guests from all walks can easily use them,” Kathleen said.

Check In Options

1. To check in via the web, guests must log on to www.airasia.com between 48 to 4 hours before flight departure, key in details pertinent to their travel, then print their web check-in boarding passes.

2. To check in via self check-in kiosk, guests need to key in details pertinent to their travel into self check-in machines at selected airports.

3. At the airport, domestic travelers with check-in baggage go to the baggage drop/document check counter before proceeding to the departure gate.?

4. All international travelers go to the document check counter for baggage check-in, if needed, and travel document verification before proceeding to immigration and departure gates.

5. Domestic travelers with check-in baggage and all international travelers need to receive verification stamps on their web check-in boarding pass before proceeding to the departure gate.

Web and kiosk check-in are available to guests except those who are expectant mothers, traveling with infants, 16 years old and below and traveling alone, traveling in a group of more than 9 under the same reservation number, and those who have reduced mobility and special needs and who book flights using credit cards within 24 hours of flight departure.? Kiosk check-in is not available to guests who fly within 12 hours after booking their seats? Other terms and conditions apply.


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Aviation accident rate worsens in 2008, fatality numbers improve

In announcing the aviation safety performance for 2008, the International Air Transport Association has found the number of fatalities to fall compared to 2007, although the global accident rate worsened.

Aviation accidents led to 502 fatalities in 2008, whereas there were 692 in 2007, which represented a 56% improvement from 0.23 fatalities per million passengers, to 0.13 per million.

The global accident rate, which is measured in hull losses per million flights of Western-built aircraft, stood at 0.81, which indicates an accident for every 1.2 million flights.

The 2007 safety record was slightly more impressive, with an accident rate of 0.75 which represented an accident for every 1.3 million flights.

Last year saw 109 accidents occur, compared to 100 in 2007, and the fatal accidents also increased, from 20 in 2007 to 23 last year.

The member airlines of the IATA had a far lower accident rate than the average in 2008, with 33 accidents reflecting a rate of 0.52 in 2008.

“Safety is the industry’s number one priority,” said Giovanni Bisignani, Director General and CEO of IATA. “Today’s statistics confirm that travelling by air is one the safest things that a person can do.”

The IATA Operational Safety Audit provides a global industry standard for airline safety, and is now a pre-requisite for IATA membership, as of 2009.

Airlines that have not passed the IOSA quality control process by 31 March, 2009, will have their IATA memberships terminated.

“IATA is a quality association. And the mark of that quality is safety,” said Bisignani.

“While we will be strict in upholding the IOSA standards, which are recognised by governments around the world, our goal is to raise the bar on safety with a transparent global standard and bring all of our members on board.”

The regional differences in accidents are evidence, with areas such as North America, Europe and Asia/Pacific performing consistently above the global average. North Asia as a region had a perfect record in 2008, reporting no hull losses.

The accident rate in Africa was 2.12, which was 2.6 times worse than the average. However, considering that the African rate was 9.21 in 2005, this is evidence of significant improvement.

The worst accident rate in the world was found in the Commonwealth of Independent States, a number of ex-Soviet nations, which was 7.9 times worse than the global average at 6.43.

However, these numbers are skewed by the reduced numbers of Western-built aircraft in the region.

The Latin America and Caribbean region had a hull loss rate of 2.55, which was 3.1 times worse than the global average, and the Middle East and North Africa saw their accident rate worsen to 1.89.

Some of the prominent safety issues which emerged in 2008 were runway excursions, which accounted for 25% of all accidents, ground damage, which accounted for 17% of all accidents and deficient safety management at the airline level, which contributed to 30% of all accidents.

In response to these concerns, the IATA has developed a Runway Safety Toolkit, the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations, and incorporated a Safety Management Systems requirement into IOSA.

“Our record on safety is impressive,” Bisignani maintained. “But the accident in Buffalo last week and all the 502 fatalities in air accidents in 2008 are human tragedies reminding airlines, regulators and industry partners everywhere that safety is a constant challenge and we must always strive to do better.”

“Our target is zero accidents, and zero fatalities. Nothing less is an acceptable result.”

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Vietnam Airlines to open direct flight to the US in 2010

The national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines has announced a new plan to open direct flights to the U.S in 2010 if conditions are right, three years later than its earlier plan which was delayed for three years.

Vietnam Airlines confirmed that it would open direct flights to the U.S once the carrier is again economical strong enough.

At the moment, the airlines is preparing the market and planes to reach the goal of direct flights to the US by 2010.

According to the Vietnam Aviation Department, the US is a difficult market, and that aviation authorities in the country impose many conditions on airlines wanting to open direct flights to the country.

Besides making the airlines follow the US’ tight security and safety regulations, US aviation authorities also require airlines to supply a passenger list with personal information on all passengers on-board the planes four hours before take-off. This is an unprecedented condition, not require by most other countries. However, the US remains the number one aviation market, so most airlines in the world want enter it. That is why Vietnam Airlines is trying to open direct flights to the country, even in this time of worldwide economic crisis.

Like other airlines around the world, Vietnam Airlines’ number of passengers and cargo flights are decreasing.

In the first quarter of 2009, the number of international passengers traveling with the airline fell 5%, and the airline has set a target to carry only around 9.4 million passengers in this challenging year of 2009.

Last year, Vietnam Airlines carried nine million passengers.

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Kingdom of Wonder still deserves

Cambodia: Ministry of Tourism has been launching the new tourism branding “Cambodia, Kingdom of Wonder” so as to provide more recognition to the world. This new slogan has been displayed at international travel shows and hand out to major media and tour operators from around the world. The branding represents the potential tourism in Cambodia and attracts more international visitors and visitors in tourism industry.

To see the fabulous attractions through the tourism branding display is just visualization. But…. you can make it REAL. Start now! Visiting Cambodia to fulfill your dream the land of wonder- Kingdom of Wonder won’t disappoint you through unique destination and make you feel great with the high quality of travel experiment. Be apart of what Cambodia can offer will gain tasteful travel experiences, hence, waiting no more! No matter whom you are, sooner and later, Cambodia still deserves!


By CHHEM Samnang

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Visa and PATA Survey Boosts Morale of Asia Pacific Tourism Industry

The positive results of the Visa and PATA Asia Pacific Travel Intentions Survey has boosted the overall morale of the Asia Pacific tourism industry.

The survey, entitled, ‘Determining Travel Preferences in 2009 and Beyond’ found that of the 5,554 people surveyed, 36 percent said they did not expect to make any changes to their travel plans in the near future.

Australians, British, Singaporeans, Indians, French and Americans considered their holidays to be a right not a privilege and were less likely than the average respondent to let the economic crisis get in the way of their travel plans.

64 percent of respondents said that in light of the economic uncertainty they would review their travel plans.

Among those respondents reviewing their plans, 57 percent (mainly from Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, Chinese Taipei and China) said they would search for less expensive destinations or itineraries.

Domestic travel was an option being considered by 38 percent of respondents, with more travellers from Japan, India, Chinese Taipei, the United States and China opting to holiday ‘in their own backyards’.

While just 36 percent of travellers surveyed said they were planning to postpone travel in the near future.

Meranda Chan, Visa Country Manager for Singapore and Brunei, and PATA Board Director, said: “While the global economic situation will impact tourism, it is unlikely to bring travel to a standstill. What our survey has shown is that travelers will be more creative in their selection of destinations.”

Greg Duffell, President and CEO - PATA said: “The travel and tourism industry is a major employer in nearly every destination in Asia Pacific. Indeed, the top two global markets for travel and tourism employment are China (74.5 million jobs) and India (30.5 million jobs) with Japan, Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand also in the top 10.

“We must never understate the importance of working with the travel industry to shape promotions and offerings that suit travellers’ desires for new and economically sensitive travel options – and it’s vitally important that the industry delivers innovative and creative solutions to keep these people travelling.” The Visa and PATA survey has named Asia Pacific as the number one region for those intending to travel overseas from now until 2010.

60 percent of respondents said they would travel to Asia Pacific while North America and Western Europe ranked second and third with 35 percent of the votes each.

The top three Asia Pacific destinations that respondents were considering between now and next year were Australia (43 percent), Japan (37 percent) and Hong Kong (35 percent).

Meranda Chan, Visa Country Manager for Singapore and Brunei, and PATA Board Director, said: “That Asia Pacific was named the leading global leisure travel region by respondents in Visa and PATA’s latest travel survey reinforces the vital role this industry fills in the regional economy.

“ PATA figures show that international arrivals to Asia Pacific destinations grew year on year by some 2.6 percent in 2008 - despite the economic slowdown which created a serious impact on inbound traffic in the second half of the year. The industry accounts for more than 5.5 percent of the total gross domestic product in the region, underscoring the importance of travel and tourism to the vibrant economies of Asia Pacific.”

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Cambodia: Horse race complex approved

The Council for Development of Cambodia has approved a US$516.7 million horse-racing and entertainment centre project by Heng Development and Horse Racing Co and two undisclosed foreign companies from France and Malaysia, Heng Development said Wednesday.

The complex, an international entertainment centre over 200 hectares, will be the first of its kind in the Kingdom.A manager at the company who requested anonymity told the Post that the project - to be built 25 kilometres south of Phnom Penh in Ang Snuol district, Kandal province - would aim to attract wealthy domestic and foreign tourists.

"Our plan is to start the investment project in 2009, but with the financial crisis ... we are just at the stage of clearing space and building infrastructure," the manager said, adding that roads, water systems, electricity and drainage all had to be added to the Greenfield site.

Heng Development said the names of the two foreign companies involved would be unveiled at a later date.The project, which has been in the works since 1995, said the manager, will also feature a hotel, guesthouse, golf course and a lake.

Minister of Tourism Thong Khon welcomed the project this week, saying that a boost to tourism would be good for the industry, but noted that a gambling complex would require authorization from the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

Such a complex would likely help attract wealthy tourists from Asia - China, Japan and South Korea, in particular - and add to the Kingdom's high-end tourist attractions following the recent development and promotion of the King's Golf Course project.

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US Airways Ranked Number One On Time Airline for 2008

US Airways officially became the nation’s number one on-time airline among the “Big Six” hub-and-spoke airlines for 2008 according to results released by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) monthly Air Travel Consumer Report. For the year, 80.1 percent of US Airways’ flights arrived within 15 minutes of their published arrival time—the metric by which airlines’ on-time performance is measured by the DOT.

“The first place ranking amongst the Big Six for the year is a direct reflection of the hard work and determination of our 34,000 employees,” said US Airways Chairman and CEO, Doug Parker. “While 2008 was a very challenging year for the airline industry, our employees pulled together to deliver an amazing operational turnaround.”

Year over year, US Airways jumped from sixth to first in on-time performance among the six largest hub-and-spoke carriers (American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines and United Air Lines), achieving a 16.5 percent improvement over 2007.

“We know that time is very important to our customers and today’s report validates the importance we place on running a reliable airline. Our customers can count on us to get them where they want to go on-time,” Parker said.

And for the month of December, despite severe winter storm conditions, US Airways ranked first in on-time performance among the ten largest carriers. In 2008, the airline ranked among the top three in on-time performance nine times and finished among the top three in bag handling once, resulting in $500 in bonuses for every employee for 2008’s performance.


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AirAsia Offers 500,000 FREE seats to Exciting Holiday Hotspots

AirAsia is offering 500,000 FREE seats on flights to the most exciting holiday destinations in Southeast Asia, China and Australia.

AirAsia’s FREE seats promotion will take travellers to holiday hotspots Bali, Bangkok, Gold Coast, Haikou, Hangzhou, Ho Chi Minh, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kota Kinabalu, Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Melbourne, Perth, Phuket, Shenzhen, Siem Reap, Singapore, Yogyakarta and many more. .

Travellers who would like to take advantage of this fabulous offer simply have to book online at www.airasia.com or via mobile phone at mobile.airasia.com. .

The free seats are available for bookings made from 10 - 15 February, 2009 for travel from 12 October, 2009 to January 31, 2010.

AirAsia’s no fuel surcharge policy means that passengers will simply have to pay for airport tax and administration fee.

Guests may also buy complete holiday packages at goholiday.airasia.com, where they will by able select their holiday lodgings from over 50,000 hotels. .

Kathleen Tan, Regional Head of Commercial, AirAsia said, “During a time when most people are cutting down on traveling and holiday-making, AirAsia comes up with an irresistible alternative that reinforces its commitment to grow tourism in the region.

“Our 500,000 regional free seats campaign is an important impetus to boost tourist numbers and spread the economic benefits brought on by tourism. We continue our role as the chief campaigner for tourism in this part of the world.

“This campaign allows travelers from all sectors to easily fly to our destinations and experience more of the region’s unique cultural offerings and enjoy various oriental landscapes. We foresee interest in Southeast Asia and China to snowball among travelers from within and from outside the region.”

“With the ongoing expansion of AirAsia’s fleet, opening of new routes and addition of flight frequencies, AirAsia is best positioned to cater to the growing interest in regional travel.

“AirAsia aims to increase its share in the world market for tourists and to fly these tourists all around Asia Pacific. This should speed up development of tourism and transportation infrastructure here,” Kathleen added.


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Cambodia: Meeting Incentive Conference Exhibition

MICE tourism, namely Meeting Incentive Conference and Exhibition, is become increasingly important in business context as this model provides elegant facilities with a wide variety of creational activities during the pleasure holiday business. With its unique incredible and fabulous culture and nature destination’s beauty, Cambodia can be a better place to celebrate MICE smoothly, reaching both successful business meeting and negotiation and enjoyable holiday business. Why Cambodia-be a better place?

Cambodia has many things to offer everyone. International standard hotel with modern conference facilities in a world heritage destination, resort and meeting rooms and variety of attraction suiting all taste for nature and culture lovers, relaxation activities, health and spa enthusiasts, cuisine, environmental friendly, and a nice sand, sun and sea. Nature and culture is waiting to sustainably serve and satisfy you.

Bayon Heritage Travel and Tours specializes in planning and organizing incentive tripe and package tours including meeting, conference, exhibition or seminar facilities. Feel free and go straight to summit your requirement proposal to our team work and we will work with you so as to make an innovative program. Our creative team workers have a good relationship with suppliers in order to ensure that our clients absolutely receive best services.


By CHHEM Samnang

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Korean Air Set to Purchase Two Additional A380s

Korean Air has announced plans to purchase two additional A380 superjumbo jets from Airbus, at a cost of approximately USD$514 million in list price terms.

The two new aircraft orders will be delivered in May and June, 2014. Airbus is set to deliver the eight previously ordered A380s to Korean Air between 2010 and 2013.


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Tini Tinou Cambodia circus extravaganza

Tini Tinou 2009, Cambodia’s circus extravaganza now in its sixth year and bigger than ever, which attracts artists from around the world, will take place in both Phnom Penh (the country’s capital) and Battambang this coming March & April.

The spectacle is arranged and hosted by Phare Ponleu Selpak, whose roots are in the 1980s Thai refugee camps, caused by helpless people fleeing Cambodia as a result of the brutal Khmer Rouge regime in the late 1970s. Phare’s initial aim was to utilise visual arts to help children and young people overcome the Regime’s and subsequent 20 years of civil war’s torments. Today Phare Ponleu Selpak (meaning Light from Arts) is based in Battambang and goes from strength to strength, now providing fresh beginnings for disenfranchised and disaffected youth.

From March 10 to 26, prior to the festival officially commencing, their will be two weeks of workshops held by professionals and senior artists from around the world, such as France, Canada, Romania and Japan, to train the younger Cambodian artists.

The festival will officially open in Phnom Penh on March 28 with a colourful and exciting parade through the streets of the city, featuring all the invited artists, over 120 from 10 countries. Later that evening in the capital’s Olympic Stadium there will be a stage show, continued the following morning, with a cabaret afternoon; rich moments, unique & unmissable!

The international troupe then moves on to Battambang, where from 2 to 5 April the 12 companies from Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Japan, Romania, Germany, France, Belgium, Canada and Australia, will entertain the public with feats of acrobatics, juggling, trapeze flying, tightrope displays, contortionists, tumbling, and of course everyone’s favourite the antics of the clowns…

For people wishing to visit Cambodia during this time and experience the lively atmosphere, Asia Adventures Co. Ltd. - a Cambodia tour operator, is putting together a number of itineraries that will allow people to experience the event from start to finish, or just parts of it whilst visiting other destinations in the country such as the magnificent ancient temples of Angkor Wat. ‘This is truly a unique event in South East Asia, and it is a great time to visit Cambodia where not only can you experience the ancient cultural heritage of the country, but also witness the vibrancy of contemporary Cambodia’, explained Mark Ellison, Asia Adventures Managing Director. ‘The work Phare is doing with these youngsters, lifting them off the streets and filling them with hope, seeing how much they enjoy performing, shouldn’t be missed by anyone who is in the c! ountry during this time,’ he added.


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Will Thai Airways have the courage of Malaysia Airlines

Repeated rumors about Thai Airways International quasi-bankruptcy have surfaced in Thailand’s newspapers over the last ten days, forcing the country’s national carrier to issue a release to officially deny it. But, according to The Nation newspaper, Thai management last Thursday also had to reassure the airline’s employees assuring of “stable outlook’” and adding also that staff lay-offs would be the last option.

It is definitely true that the airline will not go bankrupt. Thailand’s government, which holds 51 percent of the airline through the Ministry of Finance, will not let it happen. Thai Airways might even get a financial injection due to a severe liquidity shortage. The airline needs some Baht 19 billion (US$ 540 million) to resolve its liquidity problems. It has earlier discussed an agreed with Airbus to postpone the first payment of six new Airbus A330-300 by three months. The six jets must be delivered over the year and replace aging aircraft such as Airbus A300 and Boeing 747-300.

Thai Airways lost already Baht 6.6 billion (US$ 188 million) during the first nine months of the year with experts estimating now that the airline could lose up to US$ 300 million. In an interview conducted in late December, Thai Airways executive vice president for commercial and marketing Pandit Chanapai estimated that the closure of both Bangkok airports between November and December had cost the airline some Baht 500 million per day.

However, Bangkok airports’ woes just accelerated a rapid downturn in the airline’s fortune. If Thai Airways wants to survive, it has to change its way to conduct business and get rid of political interference, nepotism and its culture of inefficiency. In the last decade, Thai Airways’ strategy has been constantly fluctuating due to regular changes in its board of directors. They are generally acknowledged as rather incompetent as most of them are political appointees.

Thai Airways currently has one of the oldest fleet of any large Southeast Asian carrier. On average, 11.6 years with over 20-years old aircraft such as Airbus A300 and Boeing 747-400.

Adding to the airline’s woes is its overstaffing problem. The airline currently has 27,000 employees, compared to 14,000 at Singapore Airlines or 19,000 at Malaysia Airlines.

The Thai flag carrier is also struggling to build an efficient air hub at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi. complete missed integration of low cost subsidiary Nok Air into Thai’s network strategy, the forced transfer of some domestic routes to Don Muang or Thai website’s failed revamp can be described at best as “misguided” strategic decisions from the board.

Transport Minister Sopon Sarum acknowledged himself recently the need to have a board of directors capable to deal with hard times. “The new board must consist of people who can devote themselves and their time to their work,” the minister explained.

Under close scrutiny are all perks and advantages provided to all employees and especially directors and board members. The Bangkok Post revealed that the minister would like to review various allowances for fuel expenses, entertainment and attending board of directors meeting. Each year, directors, their families and accompanying passengers are entitled to 15 free first-class tickets for domestic and international routes with previous directors and their families to pay only 25 per cent of normal fares for up to 12 international and six domestic trips per year. Staff can enjoy up to 90 percent discount on air tickets, according to The Bangkok Post.

Although Thai Airways can’t indulge itself such luxuries for its employees, it is unlikely that anything will happen. The Minister will definitely face resilience from Thai staff with a board of directors watering down any decision until another Minister of Transport takes over. It is also unlikely that Thai Airways will reduce its staff, many of them being there thanks to their connections. “Retrenching employees will be the last option,” reassures Chanapai.

Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij asked already Thai Airways management to present a restructuration plan that will lead to financial sustainability of the airline and have long-term effects. Only a credible plan would open up the doors to the Ministry’s generosity.

Some measures have already been taken but they are certainly insufficient. According to Chanapai, Thai has started restructuring its network. Non-stop very long haul routes from Bangkok to Los Angeles and New York are already gone, Johannesburg was close on January 16 and Auckland is now under review.

“With the sharp decline in markets such as Korea and Japan, we think to provide more intra-orient flights,” added Chanapai.

Under consideration are frequencies such as Bangkok-Manila or Taiwan-Japan or Bangkok-Manila-Korea. Chanapai would also like to fly to the USA via Mainland China. Capacities will now be adjusted strictly to demand and not anticipated with a close eye on yields. But rather to close routes, Chanapai is keener to play on frequencies.

The airline wants also to renegotiate fees with its GDS. “It still costs us US$3 per transaction,” stresses the executive vice president. Other decisions include the reshaping of Thai website. “Only 3 percent of our sales are on the web as we would like to reach at least 12 percent”.

And by next March, Thai will finally retransfer all its domestic operations from Don Muang to Suvarnabhumi.

Financial relief will also come from the end of a costly fuel hedging operation in March and an anticipated travelers’ come-back in the second half of the year. Despite controversies about the delivery of new Airbus A330, the brand new aircraft will help Thai airways to cut its fuel and maintenance costs substantially. But Thai Airways must further act and is due to present more measures in February. And they should be painful, if politics allow it.

The airline could take its inspiration from its Malaysian neighbor. Managed in a similar way to Thai Airways today, Malaysia Airlines (MAS) was on the verge of bankruptcy in 2006. It went then through a painful but successful restructuring process. With new cash injected into the airline, Malaysia’s government also told the management that it would be the last time they would bail out the national carrier. But they also promise not to interfere into MAS management and commercial decisions. Today, Malaysia Airlines is again profitable. A lesson to be meditated by Thai authorities and Thai Airways board of directors.


Cambodia tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/cambodia/tours/
Vietnam tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/vietnam/tours/
Laos tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/laos/tours/
More about Cambodia Rice Exporter, please visit: http://www.cambodiaorganic.com/

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Minority groups in Cambodia get spotlight

According to media sources in Phnom Penh, the Center for Advanced Study (CAS) has announced a release of the first book about the history of ethnic minority groups in Cambodia.

The 664-page book examines the lifestyles and cultures of Cambodian residents of Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai and Laotian descent, as well as members of Muslim and other minority communities, CAS director Hun Sokhom was quoted by the Phnom Penh Post as saying.

"We hope the book will help Khmer people better understand the traditions and cultures of each ethnic group," Hun Sokhun said, adding that he believed that widespread distribution of the book will reduce discrimination directed at minority groups.

The book is based on two separate studies carried out by Khmer and foreign experts - a three-month study by the United Nations in 1996, and a 12-month study in 2006, paid for by the Rockefeller Foundation, according to the newspaper.

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Vietnam tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/vietnam/tours/
Laos tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/laos/tours/
More about Cambodia Rice Exporter, please visit: http://www.cambodiaorganic.com/

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UN to setup new charter on combating pilot fatigue

After several recent studies that many pilots are flying whilst fatigued, the United Nations’ aviation agency announced that it is working on a new charter to better combat pilot fatigue.

The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) will take steps to drop the existing standards to battle fatigue which only consider hours of flight time, for a new model which considers things like sleep cycles, quality of rest breaks, and even nutrition.

Using the relatively new concept of “fatigue risk management systems”, an ICAO spokesperson said the existing standards will be reviewed before June this year, and new best practices could be launched by year’s end.

Some sleep experts have placed being fatigued to being more detrimental to motor skills than being drunk.

Many pilots are concerned about current standards which only consider time up in the air, and not layover and transiting period. They have been seeking mandated rest periods to be determined by total time on duty instead.

In Europe a 47-page report released this month by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) raised serious concerns about the number of pilots who were potentially flying fatigued due to work conditions such as long hours, crossing time zones and having to work too often at night.

EASA’s report, which was written by ten experts across the EU, recommended including at least ten hours sleep for crew, meal breaks for 30 minutes ever six hours as well as a shorter 10 minute break every three hours.

In the US the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has this year introduced new rules for long-haul flights to ensure pilots receive quality rest breaks, which is already seen seven major airlines file an appeal to block the move saying it will incur “significant costs”

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Vietnam tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/vietnam/tours/
Laos tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/laos/tours/
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Phnom Penh traffic strong, Siem Reap dips slightly

Full year figures are in for Cambodia’s two airports and while the airport serving the capital Phnom Penh held its own, the more leisure hub of Siem Reap dipped slightly as leisure travelers opted to stay at home.

Following years of dramatic growth levels Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) lifted by 5.6% to 1.69 million visitors from the 2007 level of 1.6 million passengers, holding steady amidst global uncertainties.

Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SEP), which services the world heritage site of Angkor Wat saw a marked downturn of leisure traffic, dropping 11.6% down to 1.53 million passengers for the full year from 1.73 million achieved in 2007.

Despite the fact the Phnom Penh serviced the capital city; traffic at the touristier SEP overtook PNH in 2006. This recent dip edges PNH back in front.

Forecasts for 2009 show that whilst the capital is expected to slightly grow its traffic numbers Siem Reap, on the other hand, is expected to continue its contraction.

Both PNH and SEP are managed by Cambodia Airports. The government run aviation body also runs Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS), the country’s third, and newest, international airport which does not yet offer scheduled services.

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Vietnam tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/vietnam/tours/
Laos tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/laos/tours/
More about Cambodia Rice Exporter, please visit: http://www.cambodiaorganic.com/

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Will Thai Airways have the courage of Malaysia Airlines

Repeated rumors about Thai Airways International quasi-bankruptcy have surfaced in Thailand’s newspapers over the last ten days, forcing the country’s national carrier to issue a release to officially deny it. But, according to The Nation newspaper, Thai management last Thursday also had to reassure the airline’s employees assuring of “stable outlook’” and adding also that staff lay-offs would be the last option.

It is definitely true that the airline will not go bankrupt. Thailand’s government, which holds 51 percent of the airline through the Ministry of Finance, will not let it happen. Thai Airways might even get a financial injection due to a severe liquidity shortage. The airline needs some Baht 19 billion (US$ 540 million) to resolve its liquidity problems. It has earlier discussed an agreed with Airbus to postpone the first payment of six new Airbus A330-300 by three months. The six jets must be delivered over the year and replace aging aircraft such as Airbus A300 and Boeing 747-300.

Thai Airways lost already Baht 6.6 billion (US$ 188 million) during the first nine months of the year with experts estimating now that the airline could lose up to US$ 300 million. In an interview conducted in late December, Thai Airways executive vice president for commercial and marketing Pandit Chanapai estimated that the closure of both Bangkok airports between November and December had cost the airline some Baht 500 million per day.

However, Bangkok airports’ woes just accelerated a rapid downturn in the airline’s fortune. If Thai Airways wants to survive, it has to change its way to conduct business and get rid of political interference, nepotism and its culture of inefficiency. In the last decade, Thai Airways’ strategy has been constantly fluctuating due to regular changes in its board of directors. They are generally acknowledged as rather incompetent as most of them are political appointees.

Thai Airways currently has one of the oldest fleet of any large Southeast Asian carrier. On average, 11.6 years with over 20-years old aircraft such as Airbus A300 and Boeing 747-400.

Adding to the airline’s woes is its overstaffing problem. The airline currently has 27,000 employees, compared to 14,000 at Singapore Airlines or 19,000 at Malaysia Airlines.

The Thai flag carrier is also struggling to build an efficient air hub at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi. complete missed integration of low cost subsidiary Nok Air into Thai’s network strategy, the forced transfer of some domestic routes to Don Muang or Thai website’s failed revamp can be described at best as “misguided” strategic decisions from the board.

Transport Minister Sopon Sarum acknowledged himself recently the need to have a board of directors capable to deal with hard times. “The new board must consist of people who can devote themselves and their time to their work,” the minister explained.

Under close scrutiny are all perks and advantages provided to all employees and especially directors and board members. The Bangkok Post revealed that the minister would like to review various allowances for fuel expenses, entertainment and attending board of directors meeting. Each year, directors, their families and accompanying passengers are entitled to 15 free first-class tickets for domestic and international routes with previous directors and their families to pay only 25 per cent of normal fares for up to 12 international and six domestic trips per year. Staff can enjoy up to 90 percent discount on air tickets, according to The Bangkok Post.

Although Thai Airways can’t indulge itself such luxuries for its employees, it is unlikely that anything will happen. The Minister will definitely face resilience from Thai staff with a board of directors watering down any decision until another Minister of Transport takes over. It is also unlikely that Thai Airways will reduce its staff, many of them being there thanks to their connections. “Retrenching employees will be the last option,” reassures Chanapai.

Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij asked already Thai Airways management to present a restructuration plan that will lead to financial sustainability of the airline and have long-term effects. Only a credible plan would open up the doors to the Ministry’s generosity.

Some measures have already been taken but they are certainly insufficient. According to Chanapai, Thai has started restructuring its network. Non-stop very long haul routes from Bangkok to Los Angeles and New York are already gone, Johannesburg was close on January 16 and Auckland is now under review.

“With the sharp decline in markets such as Korea and Japan, we think to provide more intra-orient flights,” added Chanapai.

Under consideration are frequencies such as Bangkok-Manila or Taiwan-Japan or Bangkok-Manila-Korea. Chanapai would also like to fly to the USA via Mainland China. Capacities will now be adjusted strictly to demand and not anticipated with a close eye on yields. But rather to close routes, Chanapai is keener to play on frequencies.

The airline wants also to renegotiate fees with its GDS. “It still costs us US$3 per transaction,” stresses the executive vice president. Other decisions include the reshaping of Thai website. “Only 3 percent of our sales are on the web as we would like to reach at least 12 percent”.

And by next March, Thai will finally retransfer all its domestic operations from Don Muang to Suvarnabhumi.

Financial relief will also come from the end of a costly fuel hedging operation in March and an anticipated travelers’ come-back in the second half of the year. Despite controversies about the delivery of new Airbus A330, the brand new aircraft will help Thai airways to cut its fuel and maintenance costs substantially. But Thai Airways must further act and is due to present more measures in February. And they should be painful, if politics allow it.

The airline could take its inspiration from its Malaysian neighbor. Managed in a similar way to Thai Airways today, Malaysia Airlines (MAS) was on the verge of bankruptcy in 2006. It went then through a painful but successful restructuring process. With new cash injected into the airline, Malaysia’s government also told the management that it would be the last time they would bail out the national carrier. But they also promise not to interfere into MAS management and commercial decisions. Today, Malaysia Airlines is again profitable. A lesson to be meditated by Thai authorities and Thai Airways board of directors.


Cambodia tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/cambodia/tours/
Vietnam tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/vietnam/tours/
Laos tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/laos/tours/
More about Cambodia Rice Exporter, please visit: http://www.cambodiaorganic.com/

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Asia Pacific travel sector will get worse before it gets better

Key Asian tourism destinations including Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and India are bracing themselves for a weak 2009, as traveller numbers are expected to drop.

In a recent report from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the tourism body recognised that the tourism sector in the Asia Pacific bore much of the brunt in the last quarter of 2008.

“The slowdown was particularly strong since August following the spike in oil prices and the consequent cuts in airline capacity and increasing transport costs,” noted the UNWTO.

“In the shorter term, overall prospects – against continuing downward revisions in macro-economic expectations and primary generating markets in recession – look quite gloomy.”

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) too has noted that traffic in and out of the Asia Pacific has dropped more than any other region in recent months.

In comparison, North America traffic figures were doing relatively well due to having entered the downward trend much earlier than the Asia Pacific.

IATA notes that in 2009, “North America [aviation] will be the only region in the black,” whereas the Asia Pacific is expected to see losses more than double from the US$500 million in 2008 to US$1.1 billion.

For these destinations a drop in capacity from carrier will translate to weaker profits across the board, from hotels to attractions as well as restaurants and convention centers.

Cambodia tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/cambodia/tours/
Vietnam tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/vietnam/tours/
Laos tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/laos/tours/
More about Cambodia Rice Exporter, please visit: http://www.cambodiaorganic.com/

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Aviation industry still committed to reaching emissions targets

The international aviation body has reiterated that it is still committed to cutting its carbon footprint despite a weakening global economic sentiment set to cut into their profit margins.



Using what it calls a “four pillar strategy”, which features investing in technology, flying planes more effectively, building efficient infrastructure and using positive economic measures, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) says the aviation industry is still eyeing a carbon-neutral future.



“Our commitment to environmental responsibility is firm and strong.” said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA Director General and CEO.



“Even as we face the worst revenue situation in 50 years - with US$2.5 billion in losses this year, following a US$5 billion loss in 2008 - we are determined to continue to deliver effective solutions that reduce aviation’s emissions.



“No other industry is as united in its approach. The IATA vision is to achieve carbon-neutral growth on the way to a carbon-free future.”



Using its four pillar strategy, IATA forecasts that the aviation industry will reduce its emission by 4.5% in 2009, and while it notes that 2.5% of this reduction will be due to a reduction in traffic, the rest will be achieved by efficiencies.



IATA points out that saving fuel-burn, which then leads to lower emissions is a good practice for the airlines as well, as they then save more on fuel efficiencies.



By 2020 IATA is targeting a 25% improvement in fuel efficiency when compared to 2005.



In 2008 alone airlines saved 15 million tonnes of CO2 with more streamlined procedures, which amounted to US$5 billion worth in savings


Cambodia tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/cambodia/tours/
Vietnam tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/vietnam/tours/
Laos tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/laos/tours/
More about Cambodia Rice Exporter, please visit: http://www.cambodiaorganic.com/

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