Tourism Indochina: The Most Recommended World Heritage Site Worldwide is Angkor Wat

Tourism Indochina: The Most Recommended World Heritage Site Worldwide is Angkor Wat

World Heritage Site: A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place (such as a forest, mountain, lake, desert, monument, building, complex, or city) that is listed by the UNESCO as of special cultural or physical significance. The list is maintained by the international World Heritage Programme administered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, composed of 21 states parties which are elected by their General Assembly.

The program catalogues, names, and conserves sites of outstanding cultural or natural importance to the common heritage of humanity. Under certain conditions, listed sites can obtain funds from the World Heritage Fund. The programme was founded with the Convention Concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage,[3] which was adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO on November 16, 1972. Since then, 186 states party have ratified the convention.

As of 2011, 936 sites are listed: 725 cultural, 183 natural, and 28 mixed properties, in 153 States Parties. Italy is home to the greatest number of World Heritage Sites to date with 47 sites inscribed on the list. UNESCO references each World Heritage Site with an identification number; but new inscriptions often include previous sites now listed as part of larger descriptions. As a result, the identification numbers exceed 1200 even though there are fewer on the list.

While each World Heritage Site remains part of the legal territory of the state wherein the site is located, UNESCO considers it in the interest of the international community to preserve each site.

Angkor Wat: Angkor Wat (Khmer: អង្គរវត្ត) is a temple complex at Angkor, Cambodia, built for the king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as his state temple and capital city. As the best-preserved temple at the site, it is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, dedicated to the god Vishnu, then Buddhist. It is the world's largest religious building. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. Angkor Wat combines two basic plans of Khmer temple architecture: the temple mountain and the later galleried temple, based on early South Indian Hindu architecture, with key features such as the Jagati. It is designed to represent Mount Meru, home of the devas in Hindu mythology: within a moat and an outer wall 3.6 kilometres (2.2 mi) long are three rectangular galleries, each raised above the next. At the centre of the temple stands a quincunx of towers. Unlike most Angkorian temples, Angkor Wat is oriented to the west; scholars are divided as to the significance of this. The temple is admired for the grandeur and harmony of the architecture, its extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas (guardian spirits) adorning its walls.

Tourism Indochina: The Most Recommended World Heritage Site Worldwide is Angkor Wat:

(Tourism Indochina:Date : 2011-03-07):

According to the quarter million of survey conducted under collaboration of UNESCO and Trip Advisor, it revealed that most recommended world heritage site worldwide is Angkor Wat , a human treasure in Kingdom of Cambodia and that 72 % of traveler would do more to contribute to world heritage site conservation if they know how.

Trip Advisor revealed the result of the biggest analysis ever conducted of UNESCO World Heritage Site around the world. This result collected via on site and email campaign of trip advisor from around a quarter of a million (244,690) feedback submission of travelers who have visited 789 of world heritage site list.

The two year- partnership between Trip Advisor and UNESCO world Heritage Site promote awareness to support cultural and natural site of world heritage site and also 1.5 million (USD) is donated by TripAdvisor to help World heritage Center in conservation.

According to Trip Advisor Travelers, the “Top Ten” most recommended sites are:

1. Angkor, Cambodia 2. Historic Center of Rome, the Properties of the Holy See, Italy 3. Historic Center of Florence, Italy 4. Historic Areas of Istanbul, Turkey 5. Old and New Towns of Edinburgh, Scotland 6. Historic Center of Prague, Czech Republic 7. Venice and its Lagoon, Venezia, Italy 8. Works of Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona, Spain 9. Westminster Palace, Westminster Abbey and Saint Margaret’s Cathedral, London, England 10. Historic Center of Vienna, Austria.

We, Cambodian are very proud to have Angkor as the most recommended world heritage site ever recorded in the world among others site and pleased to warmly welcome for tourism in Cambodia, a kingdom of wonder.

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Tourism Indochina: Cambodians cheer World Heritage nod for temple

Tourism Indochina: Cambodians cheer World Heritage nod for temple

(Tourism Indochina:Date : 2008-07-10):

PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA - CAMBODIANS celebrated in the streets on 8 July 2008 over their nation's success in having an ancient Hindu temple named a World Heritage landmark.But the decision is set to stoke political tensions in Thailand, with the top court questioning the legality of Bangkok's support for the Cambodian bid.In Phnom Penh, thousands of people danced, sang and waved flags, chanting 'Long live Preah Vihear temple!' in response to news of the World Heritage Site status.


'This is a very auspicious day for us. We're delighted,' said medical student Ti Vansi.Prime Minister Hun Sen issued a statement yesterday, calling the temple's designation 'a new pride for the people of Cambodia'. UNESCO spokesman Joanna Sullivan said on Monday that the temple had been designated a heritage site at a meeting in Quebec City.The building, which lies along the disputed Thai-Cambodian border, has long been a point of contention between the two countries.


In 1962, the International Court of Justice awarded the temple and the land it occupies to Cambodia, a decision that still rankles with Thais, even though the temple is culturally Cambodian, sharing the Hindu-influenced style of the more famous Angkor Wat in north-western Cambodia.


Cambodia started seeking the World Heritage status for the temple in 2001, hoping for the influx of tourists and international funding that normally accompany such a designation.In the past, Thailand had vetoed its neighbour's submissions for fear that the status would include disputed land along the border.


But Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's government bypassed Parliament and endorsed Cambodia's application.Yesterday, the Constitutional Court ruled 8-1 that the communique approved by the Cabinet last month needed parliamentary approval.The opposition Democrat Party pounced on the verdict, saying it would launch a Senate petition to oust Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama, who had sought Cabinet approval for the communique.


Under the Constitution, lawmakers can ask the Speaker to investigate unconstitutional actions by a minister.'We are aiming to terminate Noppadon first,' chief opposition whip Satit Wongnongtaey said, adding that a petition to remove the entire Cabinet may eventually be submitted.


By K. Kesavapany

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Tourism Indochina:Tourists to Asia Pacific spoiled by listing of eight new World Heritage Sites

A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place (such as a forest, mountain, lake, desert, monument, building, complex, or city) that is listed by the UNESCO as of special cultural or physical significance. The list is maintained by the international World Heritage Programme administered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, composed of 21 states parties which are elected by their General Assembly.

The program catalogues, names, and conserves sites of outstanding cultural or natural importance to the common heritage of humanity. Under certain conditions, listed sites can obtain funds from the World Heritage Fund. The programme was founded with the Convention Concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage, which was adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO on November 16, 1972. Since then, 186 states party have ratified the convention.

As of 2011, 936 sites are listed: 725 cultural, 183 natural, and 28 mixed properties, in 153 States Parties. Italy is home to the greatest number of World Heritage Sites to date with 47 sites inscribed on the list. UNESCO references each World Heritage Site with an identification number; but new inscriptions often include previous sites now listed as part of larger descriptions. As a result, the identification numbers exceed 1200 even though there are fewer on the list.

While each World Heritage Site remains part of the legal territory of the state wherein the site is located, UNESCO considers it in the interest of the international community to preserve each site.

Tourism Indochina:Tourists to Asia Pacific spoiled by listing of eight new World Heritage Sites

(Tourism Indochina: Date : 2008-07-16):

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (eTN) - Tourists heading to Asia Pacific this coming summer can now follow the trail of seven new World Heritage Sites, following the latest official listing by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Quebec, Canada on Monday.


The sites in Asia Pacific listed are the Kuk Early Agriculture Site (Papua New Guinea), Chief Roi Mata's Domain (Vanuatu), Preah Vihear Temple (Cambodia), Le Morne Cultural Landscape (Mauritius), Fujian Tulou and Mount Sanqingshan National Park (both in China).George Town and Malacca join two other listed sites, Mulu Caves and Kinabalu National Park, as Malaysia's new World Heritage Sites. The recognition marks the end of an almost 20-year odyssey, started in 1998 by Malaysia to have both sites listed by UNESCO.


Looking forward to the tourist spin-offs following listing of both cities, Shafie Apdal, Malaysia's minister for culture, arts and heritage, said the hotel, transport and food industries in both sites will further thrive with the world recognition. "Some of our historical sites are around 400 years old, especially those in Malacca. This recognition can also dispel the notion that we live on trees, or Malaysia isn't safe."Malaysia, according to Apdal, will be inviting foreign expertise to preserve George Town and Malacca. "It will be of value to experts conducting studies on history."


Lim Guan Eng, chief minister of Penang, said a committee will be formed so the state can fulfill and comply with the "parameters" of a living heritage and cultural site, in addition to the expected surge in historical and heritage tourism.The challenge now, is to prevent heritage buildings from being left derelict, or modernized into glass boxes," said Dr. Choong Sim Poey, president of Penang Heritage Trust.


In recognition of their listing status, the sites listed will now be eligible for financial assistance and expert advice from the World Heritage Committee to support activities for the preservation of its sites.


By Yusof Sulaiman

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Luang Prabang is a Beautiful and Tranquil Dream-like Setting

Luang Prabang is a beautiful and tranquil dream-like setting with a fusion of foreign influences and splendid landscape scenery, making this an idyllic, unspoiled and charming destination for visitors. It is no wonder this amazing city was recently declared a World Heritage City by UNESCO. The ancient city was the former capital of Laos, with a reign of more than 63 kings over 600 years. Luang Prabang is known as the ‘Thousand Pagoda City’, there are countless intriguing architectural highlights in the sleepy and once royal capital.

Luang Prabang is an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions.

The town is situated on a peninsula formed by the Mekong River and its tributaries in a clay basin surrounded by limestone hills that dominate the landscape. According to legend, the Buddha smiled when he rested here for a day during his travels, prophesying that it would one day be the site of a rich and powerful capital city. Another legend attributes the choice of the site to two hermits, attracted by its natural beauty, who gave it the name of Xieng Dong (or perhaps Xieng Thong).

It was known under this name at the end of the 13th century AD. A few decades later it became the capital of the powerful kingdom of Lan Xang, whose wealth and influence can be attributed to the location of its capital at a crossroads on the Silk Route, as well as the centre of Buddhism in the region. It remained the capital until 1560, when this title passed to Vientiane. It was at this time that it received a new name, Luang Prabang, the name of the famous Buddha image brought earlier from Cambodia. The towns in Laos conformed with the European urban of defended royal administrative complexes with adjacent temples and monasteries. Around them clustered a number of distinct village communities, supplying their needs but not integrated into a single administrative entity. The villages acted as commercial centres, not the town as such, which did not have the large mercantile communities to be found at the time in Thailand or Cambodia.

On the death of King Sourigna Vongsa at the end of the 17th century a serious political crisis ensued. The Lan Xang kingdom was divided first into two independent realms, those of Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and then into three, with the creation of the kingdom of Champasak. Luang Prabang retained its role as the royal capital until 1946, when Vientiane took over as administrative centre.

The political and religious centre of the town is the peninsula, with its royal and noble residences and religious foundations. This is defined by a defensive wall built from one river bank to the other, sealing off the peninsula at its base. The majority of the buildings are, following traditions, built from wood (part of the temples are in stone). The colonial element of the town is characterized by one- or two-storey terraced houses built from brick: they often have balconies and other decorative features in wood.

The commercial buildings are grouped along the Mekong, interspersed with private houses. The temples and royal residences line one side of Avenue Pavie, which runs the length of the peninsula, the other side being occupied by traditional and colonial houses. The administrative buildings are for the most part at the crossroads with Rue Gernier. The monasteries generally consist of: the cult buildings (shrine, chapel, library, stupa, stone post), ancillary buildings and buildings for inhabitants or visitors (monastic communal buildings, cells, refectory, etc.). Most are simple shrines with three aisles and a single porch. Their interior furnishings comprise a pedestal or throne for the main Buddha image, a pulpit, a terrace and a lamp. Most are elaborately decorated with carved motifs but the wall paintings are relatively simple. The Luang Prabang chapels are simple structures for housing images; they may be open or walled.

The traditional Lao wooden houses are basically divided into spaces: the private rooms and the public terraces. They are usually raised on wooden piles, giving a space beneath for working and for shelter for both men and animals. Walling may be of planks or plaited bamboo on a wooden frame. A developed form of this house makes use of brick, following the French introduction of this material, but conserving the general layout and appearance of the traditional house. Finally there are the administrative buildings, which more or less successfully blend traditional elements with European materials, techniques and uses.

The LUANG PRABANG STOPOVER Tour:

On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Luang Prabang is perhaps the best-preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. The tranquility and charm of this town with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Laos. After a short rest, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham, Wat Mai. We then climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a beautiful sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by the hilltribe and local people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang

Today, we enjoy a short-guided tour seeing the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. We then embark on a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside as well as explore the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by devoted pilgrims. Along the way, we will stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where the local rice wine is produced. On return, we take a short drive to another small village Ban Phanom, which is well known for its hand weaving. Overnight in Luang Prabang...

Breakfast, we visit the National Nuseum (close Tuesday) at the former Royal Palace displays a lovely collection of the artefacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign. The National Museum and the Central Market are not to be missed. After visiting these sights in the morning, there will be free time to venture into town and stroll around the shopping area. The tour ends after your transfer to the airport for departure...

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Australian Government reinforces its Funds in Trust for conservation of Angkor and other heritage

The Australian Funds-in-Trust, established in August 2008 between the UNESCO World Heritage Centre and the Australian Government, has been increased. A sum of $AUS830, 000 has been added to the Australian Government's first generous contribution of $AUS2.5 million. From the Funds-in-Trust, $AUS1.13 million will be used to support the development of a conservation and management plan for the World Heritage property of Angkor, Cambodia, through a project called Heritage Management Framework. The framework is designed to strengthen the technical expertise and governance of the Cambodian Government managing agency, APSARA, so that the benefits of tourism and development at Angkor can be shared fairly while ensuring environment protection.

The Funds-in-Trust was created to support World Heritage-related activities in Asia and the Pacific region, with a particular priority to projects in the Pacific region, which is still one of the least represented regions on the World Heritage List.

The Funds-in-Trust will also support the organization of a workshop on the future direction of the World Heritage Convention to be held in February 2009. This workshop, requested by the World Heritage Committee, is meant to reflect on global strategic issues, key challenges, trends and opportunities facing the World Heritage Convention in view of its upcoming fortieth anniversary in 2012.

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Cambodia Tourism Peak Season: Bayon Heritage Travel and Tours ready to serve

Cambodia tourism is growing notably. Cambodian Ministry of tourism is reporting number of tourist arrival were up 13 percent in the first half of 2008. The World Heritage-listed ruins have been a vital engine driving Cambodia’s tourism. Cambodia has the potential attraction and provides the real experiences to tourists as Ministry of tourism has proposed a news tourism slogan-Visiting Cambodia, Kingdom of Wonder- which reflects the tremendousness of Cambodia’s tourism. During holiday vacation and peak season for tourism in Cambodia, the reservation rate in tourism industry is expected to be high.

As yet Bayon Heritage Travel and Tours, one of the leading tour operators in the Indochina Region, is ready for the TRAVEL peak season. We are fully licensed as international tour operators and recognized as a leading luxury holiday and vacation organizer arranging private and group tours to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar. Why Travel with us?

Bayon Heritage offers exciting and enjoyable trips ranging from free and easy tours to challenging activities and in-depth exploration of culture, history, tradition, and lifestyle, including a wonderful variety of cuisines, vistas, and personal encounters in the enchanting, unspoiled landscapes of Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar.

With in-depth local knowledge, our friendly tour operators provide holiday experiences that you will remember and treasure long after your holiday has ended. We tailor our tours to suit each traveler’s needs and to exceed their expectations -- including the most discerning of travelers. Customer satisfaction is highly taken in to consideration and is our great success.

Selecting Bayon Heritage Travel and Tours as your travel consultant is smarter decision making and choice to fully taste travel experience with suitable price that won’t disappoint you. So DO NOT Wait! The time is now to travel to enjoy your holiday in Indochina region with Bayon Heritage Travel and Tours who is a smart travel consultant standing next to you while on trip. To book your trip, please link to http://www.tourismindochina.com/ .


By CHHEM Samnang

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The listing of Preah Vihear Temple as world heritage site could boost Cambodia Tourism

Preah Vihear is one of the most fascinating places in the world, with its ancient ruins and mysterious temple. Preah Vihear temple is the historical site named “Se Khari Svarak” means “power of mountain” and was built at the end of 9th century and at the beginning of 10th century by four Cambodian kings namely: Preah Bat Yak So Varman I (AD 889-910), Preah Bat Sorya Varman I (AD 1002-1050), Preah Bat Chey Varman VI (AD 1080-1109) and Preah Bat Sorya Varman II (AD 1113-1150).


After having been listed the Preah Vihear, a temple built in at the end 9th century, as a world heritage site, Cambodian was very happy with victorious event of the nation and celebrated a congratulation party at stadium in Phnom Penh. Listing Preah Vihear Temple as a world heritage site could not only help preserve the temple but also reflect an economic miracle that would help mitigate poverty, one of the most crucial Millennium Development Goals of Cambodia, through the tourism economic contribution while Cambodia’s Tourism Action Plan targeted 3.2 million tourists by 2010 and 5 million tourists in 2015. Preah Vihear's World Heritage listing reflects the success of the Cambodian Government's Economic Quadrangle policy.


It is no surprise to say that Preah Vihear Temple is one of the most foremost temples in Cambodia. Significantly, promoting the Preah Vihear site as a Cultural Development Area would be an option to enable Cambodia to enjoy economic benefits and let the world to increase cultural understanding as well as cultural link in the region via tourists flow.


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Tourists to Asia Pacific spoiled by listing of eight new World Heritage Sites

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (eTN) - Tourists heading to Asia Pacific this coming summer can now follow the trail of seven new World Heritage Sites, following the latest official listing by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Quebec, Canada on Monday.


The sites in Asia Pacific listed are the Kuk Early Agriculture Site (Papua New Guinea), Chief Roi Mata's Domain (Vanuatu), Preah Vihear Temple (Cambodia), Le Morne Cultural Landscape (Mauritius), Fujian Tulou and Mount Sanqingshan National Park (both in China).George Town and Malacca join two other listed sites, Mulu Caves and Kinabalu National Park, as Malaysia's new World Heritage Sites. The recognition marks the end of an almost 20-year odyssey, started in 1998 by Malaysia to have both sites listed by UNESCO.


Looking forward to the tourist spin-offs following listing of both cities, Shafie Apdal, Malaysia's minister for culture, arts and heritage, said the hotel, transport and food industries in both sites will further thrive with the world recognition. "Some of our historical sites are around 400 years old, especially those in Malacca. This recognition can also dispel the notion that we live on trees, or Malaysia isn't safe."Malaysia, according to Apdal, will be inviting foreign expertise to preserve George Town and Malacca. "It will be of value to experts conducting studies on history."


Lim Guan Eng, chief minister of Penang, said a committee will be formed so the state can fulfill and comply with the "parameters" of a living heritage and cultural site, in addition to the expected surge in historical and heritage tourism.The challenge now, is to prevent heritage buildings from being left derelict, or modernized into glass boxes," said Dr. Choong Sim Poey, president of Penang Heritage Trust.


In recognition of their listing status, the sites listed will now be eligible for financial assistance and expert advice from the World Heritage Committee to support activities for the preservation of its sites.


By Yusof Sulaiman

Cambodia tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/cambodia/tours/
Vietnam tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/vietnam/tours/
Laos tours=> http://www.tourismindochina.com/laos/tours/

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