NORTH KOREA: Defectors Discourage Anyone Visiting North Korea

Despite its image of being secretive, North Korea invites foreigners to discover its attractions. But traveling as tourists comes with strings attached, as special guides shadow their every step.

Curious to witness a nation that is consistently in the news for all the wrong reasons, record numbers of tourists are booking visits to North Korea, although defectors who have fled a regime that has imprisoned their families and friends say they wish travelers would choose a different destination.

The vast majority of the tourists are from neighboring China, there has been a sharp increase in arrivals from China in the first half of the year.

In the first three months of the year, as many as 2,000 people were crossing the border into North Korea from China.

With limited tourist infrastructure such as hotels and restaurants, the North Korean government in March announced that a limit on foreign arrivals would be set at 1,000 people per day.

In total, around 100,000 tourists visited North Korea last year, all members of groups that were carefully taken to sites that the regime of Kim Jong Un wanted them to see.

Those sites included the vast expanse of Kim Il Sung Square, usually seen on television with hordes of soldiers marching in long parades, as well as the Tower of Juche and a replica of the mountain hut in which North Koreans are taught Kim Jung Un, the father of the present dictator, was born.

Another major attraction is the Mass Games, in which thousands of children perform tightly choreographed dances and performances in the Rungrado 1st of May Stadium with 114,000 seats, the largest stadium in the world, in praise of the nation and their leaders.

Performances for this year have been abruptly halted after Kim expressed his displeasure and it is not clear when they might resume but still the tourists come.

Tourists should not set foot in North Korea, a North Korean defector said. Anyone who goes there is being manipulated by the regime and told only what the North wants them to hear, he added.

Unfortunately, if they have no other sources of information on what life is really like in North Korea, and they have no chance to see how miserable the lives of ordinary people are, then they will come out thinking that North Korea is a safe and happy place, another South Korea-based defector said. It is not safe and it is not happy.

This defector fled North Korea in 2008 after becoming disillusioned with the regime. His father was a political prisoner and was taken from the family home when he was 9. One of his older sisters has also been sent to a political prison and he does not know if she is dead or alive, he said.

He believes his other sister is alive and still working as a doctor in the North, but he has made no effort to contact her in several years because it would be dangerous for her if the North's state security officials discovered that she was communicating with someone outside the country.

Visitors to North Korea are being told about the 'victory of the Juche ideology' of the country. They are being told of the greatness of the Kim family, he said. I know this because it is exactly what I was taught when I was at school. But it is a lie.

Another defector who defected from the North in 1985 and took two years to reach safely in South Korea, says Pyongyang has two prime motivations for attracting more foreign tourists; one is to feed them propaganda, the other is to earn hard currency, he said.

Since the United Nations introduced sanctions, they have been really struggling, he says. Tourism is one of the few ways that they still have of making any money.

The money that tourists spend to go there, and anything that they use when they are in the North, goes directly into Kim's political funds and is used to buy the loyalty of the political factions and the military leaders that he needs to keep happy to stay in power, said Heo, who is now chairman of the Seoul-based Committee for the Democratization of North Korea.

Tourism is helping to keep the North Korean regime alive and I believe it should also come under the international sanctions to stop that money going to Kim.

Tourism does not support the North Korean regime and the people who visit the North are not expressing their support, said Simon Cockerell, general manager of a North Korea travel agency, Koryo Tours.

In the same way, no travel company that is taking visitors to China would say that their travelers were supporting the Chinese government.

Cockerell also denied that money from the tourism sector is funneled to the national government, pointing out that the hotels, restaurants and their other travel partners in the North all have to pay their own staff and have other overheads.

Most North Koreans never have the opportunity to interact with a foreigner. These are people whose only understanding of foreigners is what they are told by their own government. So when they do meet foreigners, they have a very different perspective.

And when they realize that everything that the state has told them previously was incorrect, he said, they then begin to question other truths that they have been fed all their lives.


Tourism Observer

EUROPE: Hyatt Takes Alila To Europe

Hyatt is to bring its newly-acquired Alila brand to Europe, with a new hotel in La Gruyere, western Switzerland.

The brand currently operates 20 properties in Indonesia, India, China, Cambodia, Malaysia, Oman and the US.

Alila La Gruyere is due to open in 2023, overlooking a lake in Pont-La-Ville and forming part of the Golf Resort La Gruyere development.

It will have 85 hotel rooms alongside spa, conference and meetings facilities, restaurants, and a world class 18 hole golf course.

Hyatt took over Alila last year as part of its acquisition of lifestyle hotel management group Two Roads Hospitality.

Guido Fredrich, Hyatt regional vice president of development for Europe, said: "The Alila brand offers tremendous potential for growth in Europe by responding to the increasing trend of eco-tourism and wellness travel.

"We also know that well-travelled guests are looking to make impactful connections, and the Alila brand caters to this demand by crafting rare and intimate experiences."

Alila Hotels and Resorts is a hotel management company that operates in Indonesia, India, Oman and China, with their headquarters located in Singapore. Alila Hotels and Resorts is part of the Global Hotel Alliance.

Alila Hotels and Resorts was founded in May 2001 when their first property, "Alila Jakarta", opened its doors in Indonesia’s capital city. The brand was founded primarily by Mark Edleson, Alila operates 11 properties in Asia.

At present Alila Hotels and Resorts has a portfolio of 11 properties located in Indonesia, India and Oman. These hotels and resorts are also members of Design Hotels, which features properties that showcase modern design.
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In December 2012, Alila Hotels and Resorts added a liveaboard Phinisi sailing ship to their portfolio named the Alila Purnama.

It was the brand’s first luxury liveaboard ship. At present, the ship sails over the Indonesian waters of Raja Ampat and the Komodo area.

In May 2014, Alila Hotels and Resorts and Commune Hotels & Resorts announced their new partnership. Commune Hotels & Resorts owns Joie de Vivre Hotels, Thompson Hotels and tommie.RAlila was awarded The Best Foreign Hotel Brand 2010 by Condé Nast Traveller.


Tourism Observer

CHINA: Most Dangerous Zoo In The World Where Tourists Are Cagged And Animals Visit Them!

The Lehe Ledu Wildlife Zoo in the city of Chongqing in China has turned the traditional concept of a zoo on its head by caging its visitors instead of the resident animals.

People pay to get inside a cage at the back of a truck, which is driven into an open habitat where big cats, as well as bears in other areas, roam ‘free’.

Chunks of fresh meat are tied to the outside of a vehicle, which drives through the enclosure, in a bid to attract the predators and give tourists the closest possible dining experience with them without becoming dinner themselves.

What makes all of this even more unusual is the fact that the caged visitors can hand-feed the wild cats, including lions, Bengal tigers and white tigers, through a small opening at the top of the meh.

This draws the predators and images show the large cats up against and even on top of the cage as tourists push meat on a stick through the small opening at the top.

Critics say this is simply an accident waiting to happen, as the tigers’ claws, for example, get so close to the people inside the cages.

Only in China would such an out-there idea come to fruition. The country has been known for some of its outlandish occurrences like the giant moon that recently rolled through the city of Fuzhou, sharks and crocodiles for sale at Walmart and a variety of comical English translations on t-shirts.

So, it seems to be no surprise that the Lehe Ledu wildlife zoo offers such a strange experience, allowing humans to be caged and observe the animals as they freely roam.

The founders of the zoo say that they wanted to create an experience where visitors could feel the thrill of being stalked by a large animal without taking any actual risks.

They wanted to turn the traditional zoo experience around, and people are taking a huge liking to the idea. In fact, tickets to the park are being booked up months in advance as the demand is so high.

Animals included are White Tigers, Bengal Tigers, and Bears who are lured by live chickens and actual cuts of meats. As many pictures show, the animals will approach the caged vehicle and climb onto the sides to reach the meat, giving spectators a full on view.

Those inside the cage are warned by zoo officials to keep their fingers and toes inside as they could easily be mistaken for food by the animals.

The concept is bringing in local Chinese tourists from all over the country as well as international tourists who want to experience it too.

While the overwhelming majority find the zoo to be a fantastic idea, there are people out there saying that it’s an accident waiting to happen.

However, animal lovers have mostly good things to say as they feel that the zoo gives the animals a much better life than the traditional enclosures of zoos around the world. It also gives visitors an opportunity to understand how animals in captivity may feel.

On the flip side, extreme animal activists still believe that the practice is cruel as the animals have been taken out of their natural environments. These activists also argue that it’s inhumane to bait the animals and then watch them as a form of entertainment.

For now, the zoo still remains one of China’s top up-and-coming attractions since it opened in 2015. People are still flocking there to have a unique experience that they feel is both thrilling and educational.

If you’re thinking about checking out the zoo, there are plenty of other things for you to do while visiting Chongqing. Dig deeper into the industrial services and you will find some quirky attractions to fill in your visit to the zoo.

Venture and explore:

• Zhou Enlai’s Former Residence: Once working alongside Mao Zedong, this member of the Communist Party held residence in Chongqing along the Jialing River. His home has since been preserved and now serves as a museum that is open to the public.

• Foreigner Street: Considered an area for entertainment and amusement, it’s the place to go if you want to find shopping and foreign owned businesses. There is an Australian bar, and upside down house, church and apparently the world’s biggest public restroom.

• The Pedestrian Street: It’s located in the affluent downtown area amongst the skyscrapers and business centers. However, it is a gem full of shops, malls, high-end hotels and shopping centers.

• Three Gorges Museum: A museum showing off the Ba minority culture and life in Chongqing back in the Qing Dynasty.

• Zha Zi Dong: A prison from the 1940s that previously held more than 200 Communist prisoners who were killed at the end of the war in 1949.

• Red Rock Village: The spot where Mao Zedong negotiated with Jiang Jieshi. There is an exhibit center available here for those who wish to learn a little more about the history.

• Ciqikou: A river town that shows off the architecture of a Chongqing from the past. There are old streets and little shops selling tourist souvenirs amongst the functioning homes of locals and pretty views.


Tourism Observer

CHINA: Spring Airlines What About

Spring Airlines Co., Ltd. is a low-cost carrier with its headquarters in the Homeyo Hotel in Changning District, Shanghai, China.

While the company adopted the English name "Spring Airlines", the Chinese name literally means "Spring Autumn Airlines."

Spring Airlines is the aviation subsidiary of Shanghai Spring International Travel Service. It reported a net profit of 950 million yuan ($143 million) in 2016

The airline was given approval to be established on 26 May 2004. Its first aircraft, an Airbus A320 formerly of Lotus Air, was delivered on 12 July 2005, at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport.

Spring Airlines started operations on 18 July 2005 and the first flight on that day was between Shanghai and Yantai. Daily flights to Guilin were also initiated.

To keep operating costs low, Spring sells tickets exclusively from its ch.com website and some designated ticket offices, bypassing travel agents.

Spring no longer offers complimentary on-board meals nor complimentary water; however passengers are able to purchase meals and beverages on board. In December 2006, the airline offered a 1-yuan promotional price which caused trouble with government officials.

In late July 2009, Spring's plan to establish overseas routes was granted by the General Administration of Civil Aviation of the People's Republic of China, making it the first budget airline in China to explore the international market.

The airline plans to operate short-distance routes linking mainland Chinese cities to Hong Kong and Macau, as well as neighboring countries such as Japan, South Korea, Cambodia, Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand.

On July 29, 2010, Spring Airlines launched its first international route linking its home city Shanghai and Japan's Ibaraki Airport, about 80 kilometers northeast of Tokyo.

2 months later, on September 28, the airline successfully introduced its first flight from Shanghai to Hong Kong with almost full passengers on board.

Spring's daily flights from Shanghai to Macau commenced on 8 April 2011 with further international destinations following in the second half of 2011.

Since January 2015, the company has been listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange.

Spring Airlines also operates a subsidiary in Japan and is the first Chinese airline to do so.

In 2015, Spring announced plans to build a 250-300 room hotel at Chubu Centrair International Airport in Nagoya, Japan, a rare instance of a low-cost carrier entering the hotel business.

As of May 2019, the Spring Airlines fleet consists of the following aircraft:

- Airbus A320-200: 80

- Airbus A320neo 06

On June 6, 2014 at Xiamen Airport, an Airbus A320 operated by Spring Airlines experienced a runway excursion on the right side of the runway and struck a runway light.

The pilot then attempted to go around, causing a tail strike. There were no injuries, but the aircraft sustained substantial damage.


Tourism Observer

RWANDA: RwandAir Goes To Guangzhou In China Begining June 18th 2019

National carrier RwandAir is expected to commence flights to Guangzhou, the provincial capital of Guangdong and the third largest city in China, effective June 18, 2019.

RwandAir will fly to Guangzhou three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Guangzhou will be tagged to the existing Mumbai route and will be operated by Airbus A330, the national carrier said.

The long-haul flight will bear features such as triple class cabin and equipped with state-of-the-art technology, Wi-Fi onboard, inflight entertainment and extra legroom in an attempt to make the long flight bearable.

Yvonne Manzi Makolo, the Chief Executive Officer of RwandAir, said that the route was informed by the growing traffic between Africa and China in the recent past.

With the increasing volume of trade between African countries and China, the need to meet the high demand of businessmen and traders travelling between Africa and Guangzhou is strongly felt.

The new route will open new business opportunities and increase RwandaAir passenger and cargo traffic.

Guangzhou, popularly known as the Canton City, is an expansive port city northwest of Hong Kong on the Pearl River.

The city, which is one of the major shopping destinations for merchants, also features popular tourist attractions such as the iconic Canton Tower and Guangzhou Chimelong Tourist Resort, which offers an amusement park, international circus, water park, safari park, a bird park and a hotel.

Guangzhou will be RwandAir’s second destination in Asia following Mumbai, which has been operational since April, 2017.

This new route will extend RwandAir’s network to 28 destinations. Last month, the airline began flights to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s capital Kinshasa.

SINGAPORE: Ascott To Manage 14 Properties In China, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and Saudi Arabia.

The Ascott Limited, has clinched contracts to manage 14 properties with over 2,000 units across eight countries namely: China, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and Saudi Arabia.

Three of the 14 new properties are under its co-living ‘lyf’ brand, strategically located in the vibrant cities of Fukuoka in Japan, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Shanghai in China.

Under a partnership with Japanese real estate company, NTT Urban Development Corporation – a subsidiary of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation, Ascott will manage lyf Fukuoka as well as jointly explore serviced residence opportunities in Japan.

The 131-unit lyf property, nestled within Fukuoka’s major retail and recreational centre, is targeted to open in 2020.

Meanwhile, the 160-unit lyf Hongqiao Shanghai, strategically located in the Central Business District of Hongqiao, is set to open in 2022. lyf Raja Chulan Kuala Lumpur, which resides within Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle, the Malaysian capital city’s commercial, shopping and entertainment hub, is scheduled to open in 2020.

Mr Kevin Goh, Ascott’s Chief Executive Officer, said: Demand for our lyf-branded co-living properties is gaining ground.

We are bringing lyf to Fukuoka, Kuala Lumpur, and Shanghai as the buzzing start-up ecosystems in these cities have given rise to a popular culture of living and co-creating as a community among the millennials.

Ascott’s lyf properties, with their flexible communal spaces and social programmes, will cater to the lifestyle aspirations of creative professionals, technopreneurs, trendsetters and millennial travellers who seek collaborative and networking opportunities in the community.

Millennials already account for a quarter of Ascott’s customer base; and with our lyf brand, we can seize opportunities presented by the booming millennial generation, set to become the largest spending travel demographic in the near future.

Besides Singapore, China, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines where we will be opening lyf properties, we are also looking to bring lyf to other potential markets including Australia, France, Germany, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom.

The 14 new properties marked Ascott’s first foray into Changchun, the second largest city in Northeast China, and deepened its presence in Foshan, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Shenzhen, China; Frankfurt, Germany; Fukuoka, Japan; Gurgaon, India; Jakarta and Semarang, Indonesia; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Pattaya, Thailand; and Al Khobar in Saudi Arabia.

The Ascott Limited is a member of CapitaLand. It is an international serviced residence owner-operator with more than 73,000 units in over 500 properties, spanning over 130 cities across 30 countries like the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Its portfolio of brands includes Ascott The Residence, Citadines Apart’hotel, Somerset Serviced Residence, Quest Apartment Hotels, The Crest Collection and lyf.

From 1984 to 2000, merger and acquisition activities involving real estate and hospitality players in Singapore, Scotts Holdings, Pidemco Land, Somerset International, Liang Court Holdings, Stamford Group, DBS Land and Citadines an established hospitality brand in Europe led to the establishment of The Ascott Limited.

In 2006, the company established the world's first pan-Asian serviced residence real estate investment trust, the Ascott Residence Trust (Ascott REIT).

The Scotts Holdings, a Singapore corporation with business interests in serviced apartments, shopping centres and property investments, opened Asia Pacific's first international-class serviced residence, The Ascott Singapore on 14 August 1984.

Scotts Holdings was listed in 1991. In 1998, Pidemco Land set up Somerset International, its new serviced residence arm. It acquired Liang Court Holdings, one of Asia's largest serviced residence operators, to form Somerset Holdings.

Together, these two companies had a combined portfolio of 3,200 serviced residence units in 15 cities. Scotts Holdings merged with Stamford Group, the serviced residence arm of DBS Land to form The Ascott Limited, creating a joint portfolio of more than 1,700 units in eight cities.

Citadines merged with Orion, while Whitehall and Westmont later sold its tourist-oriented Orion serviced residences to focus on its business clientele.

In 2001, The Ascott Limited was listed following the merger of Somerset Holdings and The Ascott Limited in 2000. In the following year, Ascott acquired a 50 percent stake in Citadines, which made it the largest international serviced residence operator outside of the US.

In 2004, it acquired the remaining 50 percent interest in Citadines.

Ascott Reit was established with the goal of investing mainly in real estate related assets and real estate which are used or essentially used as rental housing properties, serviced residences and other hospitality assets which generates revenue.

With 11,430 units and 73 properties, in 37 cities across 14 countries, Ascott Reit has a presence in regions such as The Americas, Asia Pacific and Europe.

The asset size of Ascott Reit has grown to S$5.2 billion, four times the amount since it was listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (SGX – ST) in March 2006.

Ascott Reit clinched the “Best REIT (Asia)” award by World Finance magazine at its Real Estate Awards in 2015.

Ascott Brands are:

- Ascott The Residence

- Citadines Apart'hotel

- Somerset Serviced Residence

- Quest Apartment Hotels

- The Crest Collection

- lyf


Tourism Observer

UAE: Emirates And Etihad Cancel Flights Due To Typhoon Mangkhut

Emirates and Etihad have cancelled flights to and from Hong Kong as the world’s strongest typhoon of the year makes its way to the Asian city.

Passengers travelling to and from the Philippines and China from today until Tuesday could also expect some delays.

The Dubai-based carrier said that flights EK384 (Dubai to Hong Kong) and EK385 (Hong Kong to Dubai) have been cancelled on September 16. Passengers flying between Dubai and Bangkok are not affected.

The airline also advised that there could be delays on Emirates flights to and from Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Cebu and Clark on September 16, 17 and 18.

Customers are advised to check their flight status and to ensure their contact details are correct by visiting - Manage Your Booking - to receive the latest updates, the airline said in a statement..

Emirates apologizes to its customers for the inconvenience caused. The safety of our customers and crew is of utmost importance and will not be compromised.

Etihad has also confirmed that flight EY834, which was scheduled to operate from Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong on September 15, has been cancelled.

As a result, the inbound service, EY833 on 16 September, from Hong Kong to Abu Dhabi, has also been cancelled.

Guests booked on these flights are being assisted with their travel arrangements and being rebooked onto the next available flights, the airline said.

We apologise for any inconvenience this cancellation has caused, and we remain committed to offering the highest level of service to our guests. As always, safety remains the airline’s number one priority.

The super typhoon roared through the Philippines on Saturday and is now heading towards Hong Kong.

Flights cancelled:

* EK384 – Dubai (DXB) - Bangkok (BKK) – Hong Kong (HKG) (Passengers travelling from Dubai to Bangkok will not be affected)

* EK385 – Hong Kong (HKG) - Bangkok (BKK) - Dubai (DXB) (Passengers travelling from Bangkok to Dubai will not be affected)

* EY 833 – Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong and Hong Kong to Abu Dhabi


Tourism Observer

THAILAND: 171 Room Waldorf Astoria Bangkok Opens In Bangkok

Bangkok has become the maiden site for the first Waldorf Astoria brand hotel to open in SE Asia, with the luxury brand opening its doors for the first time in the Thai capital this week.

Housed in the 60-storey Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard, the new Waldorf Astoria Bangkok consists of 171 rooms and suites, each featuring marble bathtubs.

Property facilities include a lounge, two bars and three restaurants, among which is Front Room, led by Chef Fae Rungthiwa Chummongkhon, who has worked in some of Europe’s most acclaimed Michelin starred restaurants.

Additional dining options include Bull & Bear, which specialises in grilled meats and seafood, and Peacock Alley in which guests will find light and sweet afternoon teas and pastries.

The Waldorf Astoria Bangkok also features a 730 square metre Magnolia Bathroom complete with sweeping staircase as a grand backdrop for photos.

The hotel sits at the major Ratchaprasong intersection in the city centre and is close to tourist and city highlights such as Erawan Shrine and the Gaysorn Village mall.

Guests can get around the city via the Bangkok SkyTrain, both lines of which intersect nearby.

Hilton Asia Pacific President Alan Watts said the demand for luxury in Asia Pacific was generating exciting new demand for high-end hotels to enter or expand in the market.

As the first Waldorf Astoria in South East Asia, the opening of Waldorf Astoria Bangkok adds a much anticipated chapter to the brand’s story in Asia.

It builds on our series of iconic Waldorf Astoria hotels in Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu, while prefacing the arrival of additional unforgettable Waldorf Astoria hotels in the near future.”

The Hilton luxury brand is already active in Greater Asia with three hotels in China, and is in the midst of strategic expansion in other parts of SE Asia.

New Waldorf Astoria properties are in development and due to open soon in Bali and Jakarta in Indonesia, with another earmarked for China.


Tourism Observer

SOUTH KOREA: Busan Is Best Destination In Asia 2018

The portside city of Busan, South Korea, has been named the best destination in Asia 2018 by the travel experts at Lonely Planet, who describe the bustling city as a confluence of culture and cuisine.

For the third edition of Lonely Planet's Best in Asia list, editors picked 10 destinations worth visiting over the next 12 months, which span East, South and Western Asia.

In May, Busan hosted an opening ceremony celebrating its title as East Asia's Culture City 2018, as part of a joint agreement between Japan, China and Korea.

Every year, three cities are selected to promote artistic and cultural development in the region.

Busan shares the title this year with Harbin, China and Kanazawa in Japan.The city also tops the "Best in Asia" list for offering travelers an eclectic offering of activities, from hikes up to Buddhist temples and hot springs to seafood feasts at the largest fish market in the country, editors say.

Busan is the second-biggest city in South Korea after Seoul.In second spot is Uzbekistan, with its dreamy mosaic clad mosques and Silk Road lore.

Last year, the country announced new visa-free schemes, and introduced new air routes and extensions to its high-speed rail line in an effort to boost international tourism and attract tourists to its jewelled sites and ancient ruins.

And rounding out the podium is Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, where vintage boutiques, independent coffee shops and innovative breweries are transforming the city into a buzzing Asian megalopolis.

Here are the top 10 destinations in their Best in Asia 2018 list:

1. Busan, South Korea

In repose between mountains and sea, Busan is a stunning confluence of scenery, culture and cuisine. It’s long been domestically lauded as the country’s best beach getaway, but South Korea’s second largest city packs an eclectic offering of activities to suit all travellers: hike hills to Buddhist temples, settle into sizzling hot springs and feast on seafood still a-wriggle at Jagalchi, the country’s largest fish market.

Bestowed the title of East Asia Culture City for 2018, Busan will be at its most vibrant this year with a medley of colourful events showcasing the country’s cultural heritage, from street art festivals to traditional dance shows.

Plus prestigious international film festival and it seems this second-city is poised to steal the spotlight.

2. Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan has long held sway over travellers’ imaginations, with its dreamy mosaic-clad mosques and Silk Road lore. But the country has remained largely closed off to the wider world due to tight control following the end of the Soviet era. Thankfully, change finally appears to be afoot.

In late 2017, Uzbekistan took huge strides in opening up to tourism, announcing visa-free and e-visa schemes, new air routes and also extensions to its shiny high-speed rail network, making access to its collection of jewelled architecture and ancient cities easier than ever.

Whilst the country lags behind its neighbours in a few ways, particularly regarding human rights, there is a feeling of hope that, as Uzbekistan enjoys the benefits of being welcoming to all, positive change will follow.

3. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Though long heralded as hip, Vietnam's southern supercity somehow keeps getting cooler.

Aging apartment blocks are being colonised by vintage clothes stores and independent coffee shops, innovative breweries like Heart of Darkness and East West Brewing are fuelling one of the best craft beer scenes in Southeast Asia, and a selection of eclectic venues are strengthening the local music scene.

Add these recent developments to the city’s essential long-standing attractions like the War Remnants Museum, which details HCMC’s recent history in eye-opening displays.

A pioneering street food scene and accommodation suited to all standards not forgetting superb flight connections and it appears this buzzing Asian megalopolis is in no danger of going out of style.

4. Western Ghats, India

India’s steamy southern highlands have never garnered the same column inches as the hill stations and Himalayan heights of North India, but the Western Ghats offer an atmospheric mirror to Shimla and Darjeeling, with added jungle appeal.

Traversing Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra, these rugged hills are Unesco listed as one of the top spots for biodiversity in the world.

Protecting everything from wild elephants and tigers to the neelakurinji flower, which blooms only once every 12 years and will be painting the hills in purple livery from August to October 2018.

Visit now and you’ll find coffee, tea and spice plantations, charmingly dated colonial outposts, thundering waterfalls, and even a steam-powered mountain railway, while evading the crowds who mob the northern uplands.

5. Nagasaki, Japan

For most international tourists, Nagasaki is synonymous with the tragic atomic bombing of August 1945. Remarkably, the city has converted the catastrophe into a concerted call for peace.

This exemplified by both the tranquil Nagasaki Peace Park , where a simple monolith marks the explosion's hypocentre, and the Atomic Bomb Museum, where hibakusha the atomic bomb survivors make poignant pleas for international nuclear disarmament.

But Nagasaki’s identity transcends one violent act; for centuries Japan’s main foreign trade occurred through Nagasaki's old port, bringing a distinctive East-meets-West character and, notably, Christianity to the city, the influence of which is documented in a new museum housed in Japan’s oldest church.

More leisurely tourist delights also abound, from the verdant harbour to the hiking routes that snake through the surrounding volcanic hills.

6. Chiang Mai, Thailand

With its legion of temples and grand, weather-worn city walls, the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom feels plucked from the pages of history, where visitors browse stalls of antique jewellery as the familiar scent of tilapia grilled in banana leaf fills the air.

A young, creative population has taken up residency in the city, bringing an exciting buzz to the archaic alleyways.

Now, alongside majestic, gold-painted chedis or stupas are cafés known for their latte art, mural-walled restaurants specialising in experimental fusion cuisine.

And the newly-opened, award-winning MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum, which, like Chiang Mai itself, draws plaudits for its masterful intertwining of traditional and modern influences.

7. Lumbini, Nepal

For decades, Lumbini was somewhere travellers flashed through en route from India to Nepal, often unaware that they had passed within yards of the birthplace of the historical Buddha.

Thanks to the efforts of the international Buddhist community, Lumbini is on the ascendancy, but despite its heritage, this sacred site remains a sleepy detour off the backpacker trail.

However, change is apace; a new international airport is under construction, offering a new, safer route into Nepal, and ever-more aweing temples are springing up.

While these developments may finally be the catalyst that brings Lumbini the attention it deserves, the town’s cardinal draw will remain its tranquillity – embodied by the rare sarus cranes that stalk the wetlands around the World Peace Pagoda.

8. Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

Despite Sri Lanka emerging as one of the world’s hottest travel destinations, Arugam Bay, a surf town on the country’s east coast, has miraculously managed to retain its cool.

While holidaymakers swarm the country’s ancient citadels and hiker-strewn hill stations, here you’ll find barefooted boarders sprawled outside vegan cafes and scrawled signs on hotel doors reading - gone surfing, back soon.

Renowned as a long-time surf haven, the town boasts breaks to satisfy all levels, along with a number of schools to get everyone hanging 10.

If the turquoise swells can’t tug you in, Arugam has authentically grown its on land offering, with an increase in beachside bars and makeshift music festivals; plus a handy proximity to Kumana National Park, home to leopards, elephants and crocodiles.

9. Sichuan Province, China

Far-flung villages, towering skylines, giant pandas and fiery cuisine; Sichuan province is a microcosm of modern China, and 2018 is bursting with reasons to go.

Cosmopolitan Chengdu has become one of the country's design and tech hubs, which also means a mushrooming of luring brewpubs and boutique hotels.

Starting in 2018, travellers will be able to ride the first section of the Sichuan-Tibet Railway which will eventually link Chengdu to Lhasa in just 15 hours, west to visit time-frozen Tibetan villages dwarfed by dramatic mountain scenery.

Up north, the exceptional Jiuzhaigou National Park has reopened to limited numbers of visitors after the 2017 quake, while down south spiritual experiences reign supreme: gain perspective surveying the Le Shan Grand Buddha or climb Emei Shan to absolve a lifetime’s sins.

10. Komodo National Park, Indonesia

ome to the fascinating and formidable Komodo dragon, Komodo National Park is a nature enthusiast’s nirvana. Aside from laying eyes on the illustrious lizard.

Visitors to this cerulean silhouetted archipelago in Indonesia's Lesser Sunda Islands can hike to hallowed viewpoints on Padar, sample laid-back beachside living on Kanawa and dive with a mind-boggling array of marine life in the reefs off Komodo.

New flight connections and liveaboards to gateway Labuanbajo have made the park more accessible than ever, prompting local authorities to examine ways to protect the Komodo species.

Visitor caps and park fee rises are likely in 2018, but travellers should play their part by joining small, responsible boat trips to avoid overwhelming the park's guides and resources.


Tourism Observer

CHINA: Air China Starts Flights To North Korea Again

Air China has resumed its flights between Beijing and Pyongyang.

The Beijing-based carrier has announced the restarting of all its flights to the North Korean capital city following a lengthy suspension that began in November following a United Nations mandate.

North Korea has been relying on China for most of its imports and exports.

The service has now resumed due to subsequent meetings between the leaders of both countries, Xi Jinping and Kim Jong-un.

Data suggests that the route will operate three times per week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Air China will deploy a Boeing 737-700 on the route, with a seat configuration of eight reclining First Class seats and 120 seats in Economy.

An Air China official said that these flights are continuing due to market reasons but did not provide any further comments.

However, the fact that Kim Jong-un traveled to Singapore on June 12 for the summit with other leaders suggests that the political tensions in the region might be tuning down, re-opening the door for direct connectivity with other international destinations.

Air China’s service to Pyongyang launched had frequently been canceled or disrupted due to what had been unspecified problems, according to Chinese media.

Noth Korea’s national airline, Air Koryo, is also planning to open a new route between Pyongyang and Chengdu. However, there are no official confirmations in this regard.

This is a significant move for both China and North Korea, as this route opening could enable a relief on sanctions.

It is something that will have to be observed over the next few weeks as Kim Jong-un steps further onto the world stage and starts to provide the positive dialogue that the other world leaders are seeking to achieve.


Tourism Observer

CHINA: Hainan Airlines Introduces Flights To Edinburgh

Hainan Airlines inaugurated the first-ever direct flights between Scotland and China today with HU749, the first service between Beijing and Edinburgh.

The four weekly flights to the Scottish capital is the country’s first connection to the Far-East.

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport said: This is a momentous day as we connect not only Edinburgh and Beijing for the first time, but Scotland and China too.

It is a route which has immense opportunities for our countries, from tourism and business to culture, education and more.

We know Edinburgh is second only to London for Chinese tourists and we are eager to welcome more people to our fantastic capital city, but it’s also about connecting people from Scotland to Beijing and wider China thanks to Hainan’s hub network.

Hainan is one of the world’s most prestigious airlines and we are proud to be working with them. This is something the city has worked towards for a number of years and we are delighted to see this day finally arrive.

Minister for Business, Innovation, and Energy, Paul Wheelhouse, said: Securing direct links between Scotland and China is one of our key priorities for route development.

This new direct Beijing to Edinburgh route is an exciting first chapter indirect air connectivity between Scotland and China. It will enable China and Scotland to become closer in partnership and in travel time, building upon existing strong links for business and tourism.

The Scottish Government and our agencies look forward to working with Hainan Airlines and Edinburgh Airport to make this route a great success.

Malcolm Roughead, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, said: This first direct service from China to Edinburgh represents a gear change for Scottish tourism and further cement Scotland’s reputation as a world-class destination.

As the Chinese market has grown over the years so too has the Scottish capital’s popularity with Chinese visitors and it continues to be the top destination outside of London.

Through our ongoing work with key Chinese tour operators, we have seen visitor itineraries extending over the years.

Bringing visitors from China directly into the heart of Scotland will create greater opportunities for tourism businesses right across the country, as visitors stay longer and explore further.

Paul Lewis, managing director of Scottish Development International said: We’re working hard to ensure that more Scottish companies can take advantage of trade and investment opportunities in China, while at the same time trying to attract more Chinese companies to base their European operations here.

A direct air route is a significant enabler of both these goals and we welcome Hainan Airlines’ first ever route between Edinburgh Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport.

The flight currently includes a stopover in Dublin after its arrival in Edinburgh due to excessive demand interest at that airport for Chinese flight.

On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the aircraft will arrive into Edinburgh at 0600 and will then depart at 0800 to Dublin, to which it will carry on to Beijing after departure from Dublin.

On Thursdays and Sundays, the flight arrives into Edinburgh from Dublin at 0910 before departing for Beijing at 1110.

This flight continues the carrier’s continued expansion out of the UK, having launched their first Manchester route over two years ago this month.

As the carrier is slowly receiving the licensing from the CAAC - Civil Aviation Administration of China, it is becoming a little clearer into where the carrier wants to start their expansion.

With services from Capital Airlines out of Gatwick being operated on already, they are starting to cover all areas of the UK. The other airports of interest could potentially be those such as Glasgow, Birmingham and potentially Stansted if the demand appeals to HNA.

In terms of investment, the carrier is definitely putting money into the route developments they establish.

This comes following the news that the HNA board are looking to raise over $1 billion in capital to fund certain elements of the airline, placing worries into the security of these routes in case the airline has to downsize.

However, Hainan seems to be playing the UK market very strongly and are slowly, one by one, opening up China to most of the UK and beyond.

Especially with the Dublin connection point, where they can capture some of the Irish catchment areas on top of this, thus boosting their presence into Europe as well.


Tourism Observer

EUROPE: Chinese Air Travel Shoots Up, Europe Gains A Great Deal

Europe is set to benefit from increasing Chinese air travel with extra flights and more capacity for 2018.

The continent will see a boom in capacity on flights from China, according to the latest figures from travel pattern analyst ForwardKeys.

It reports that nine new routes and one resumed route will start during the first half of 2018, and a further three are in the pipeline.

At least four China-Europe routes are already planned for the second half of this year.

This follows an expansion in Chinese flights to the US and Australia over the past two years.

ForwardKeys predicts future travel patterns by analysing 17 million booking transactions a day.

According to its statistics, by June there will be an extra 30 flights a week from China to Europe and, based on an estimation of 200 seats per flight.

This means 6,000 more seats will be available for Europe-bound Chinese travellers.

Excluding Russia, the average total number of seats available each week last summer was 150,000.

In March alone new flights include:

- Twice weekly from Shenzhen to Madrid by Hainan Airlines.

- Resumption of three times weekly flights from Shenyang to Frankfurt by Lufthansa.

- Twice weekly from, Shenzhen to Brussels by Hainan Airlines in March 2018.

Finland is benefiting from a strong Asia strategy on the part of Finnair, which announced the opening of its seventh direct Chinese route in May 2018.

Spain, the UK and Ireland are seeing a mix of increased tourism alongside healthy Chinese business investment.

This growth will be building on an already strong start to the year.

Europe had a 10% market share of the outbound Chinese market and saw a 7.4% increase in Chinese travellers during January and February this year.

Turkey recovery after terrorist attacks increased by 108.2%, and Greece by 55.7%, compared to the same period last year.

Travel in the opposite direction is also set to increase.

Flight bookings to China, in the coming six months, from the rest of the world, are 11.8% ahead of this time last year.

Bookings from Americas, which is responsible for 25% of travel to China, are currently 24% ahead of last year.

The EU-China Tourism Year was launched in Venice in January, heralded as the largest-ever official EU-wide initiative to grow Chinese tourism across Europe.

ForwardKeys chief executive and co-founder, Olivier Jager, said It seems that the EU-China Tourism Year is having a positive impact on travel in both directions.

The Chinese have been growing in confidence for international travel for some time now and that trend is being reciprocated.

Europe clearly has a lot to gain from this increased capacity because the Chinese are ready to spend money on luxury goods while on holiday, providing good opportunities for European retailers.


Tourism Observer

CHINA: Chinese Tour Operators Visit Europe

As part of the EU-China Tourism Year, major TO's from across China were hosted in Europe on a fam tour this month.

The European Travel Commission (ETC), the European association of National Tourism Boards, in partnership with the European Tourism Association (ETOA) and several European destinations, hosted the first pan-European familiarisation trip to foster inbound tourism to the European Union from China on the occasion of the EU-China Tourism Year (ECTY).

From 8 March to 15 March 2018, 70 qualified tour operators from first and second tier cities across China -including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenyang, Jinan, Chongqing, Chengdu, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Wuhan, Nanjing and Xiamen- had the opportunity to experience European destinations through and beyond its famous gateway cities.

The Chinese tour operators organised into seven clusters that followed simultaneously different transnational itineraries based on their singular interests and product portfolio.

These destination clusters included fifteen countries in the macro-regions of the Adriatic, the Balkans, the Baltic, Benelux and Central Europe.

The itineraries included visits to landmark cities, cultural and natural attractions and meetings with local business as well as experiences at lesser-known destinations that are easily accessed from those traditional gateways.

The programme commenced with the Partnerships in European Tourism (PET) conference and B2B workshop between tourism-related European companies and Chinese operators hosted by ETC, ETOA and the European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Association (ECTAA) in Berlin on 6 and 7 March.

Both initiatives the pan-European FAM trips and the Partnerships in European Tourism are part of the programme of activities prepared by the European Commission during the EU-China Tourism Year.

The ECTY aims to promote the European Union as a travel destination in China, provide opportunities to increase bilateral cooperation as well as mutual understanding and create an incentive to make progress on market opening and visa facilitation.

China is the world’s largest travel market in terms of both outbound travel and expenditure. European destinations have strengthened their position in this market, attaining 13.4 million Chinese arrivals in 2017, accounting for a share of 14% of all outbound travel from China.


Tourism Observer

AUSTRALIA: Shangri-La To Manage New 500 Room Luxury Hotel In Melbourne Opening 2022

Hong Kong-based luxury hotel group Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts and Malaysian property developer S P Setia Berhad Group signed a management agreement for Shangri-La to operate the planned luxury development in Melbourne’s CBD.

At 308 Exhibition Street, the two-tower development was designed by Cox and Fender Katsalidis, and will be loacted near Melbourne’s World Heritage-listed Carlton Gardens.

The property is currently under consideration for planning approval. When it is completed in 2022, the Shangri-La Hotel, Melbourne will have an estimated 500 guestrooms with three floors of amenities, including a sky lobby, restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, a pool and a ballroom.

The second tower will include about 300 luxury residential apartments and office space.

A sky bridge will connect the two towers, and retail space will be in the lower floors of the development.

Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Wan Mohd Zahid, chairman of S P Setia, said that Shangri-La supported the project’s vision to provide development that increases capacity, creates local economic development opportunities and sets a new benchmark for five-star luxury in Melbourne.

Through the design and construction phases and for many decades to come as a luxury residence, retail and hotel precinct, the economic benefits of this project will be significant for Melbourne, Zahid said in a statement.

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently operates over 95 hotels in 22 countries and 73 destinations under the Shangri-La, Kerry, Hotel Jen and Traders brands.

Primarily operating in Asia, the group has established its brand over four decades in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, North America and the Indian Ocean.

The group has upcoming projects in Australia, mainland China, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka.

Launched in 1974, S P Setia's portfolio includes townships, eco-sanctuaries, luxury enclaves, high-rise residences, commercial and retail developments.

The group is established in the three economic centers of Malaysia, namely Klang Valley, Johor Bahru and Penang. It also has a project in Sabah.

Its international reach now includes five countries which are Vietnam, Australia, Singapore, China and the United Kingdom.

As of March 31, 2017, the group has 30 ongoing projects, with a stake of 5,141 acres in undeveloped land banks remaining and about $11.1 trillion in gross development value.

HONG KONG: Hong Kong Tourism Board Announces ICBC Asia

Hong Kong Tourism Board has announced The All New “ICBC (Asia) e-Sports & Music Festival Hong Kong” Featuring the First-ever E-sports, Music and Gourmet Extravaganza

This summer, visitors to Hong Kong will be able to immerse themselves in the world of e-Sports, music and exciting gourmet experiences unlike anything they have experienced before, as the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will launch the 3-day extravaganza “ICBC (Asia) e-Sports & Music Festival Hong Kong” at the Central Harbourfront from 4 to 6 August.

The Festival has three exciting, never-seen-before elements, offering visitors an unforgettable summer experience.

The world’s first ever “Return of the Legends” tournament: Held on 4 and 6 August, the “Return of the Legends” semi-finals and the final will highlight former professional league players of the online video game “League of Legends” from different regions of the world, such as Europe, Mainland China, Taiwan/ Hong Kong/ Macau, including world championship winners, to compete for glory.

Hong Kong’s first ever SMTOWN SPECIAL STAGE in HONG KONG: On 5 August, some of Korea’s hottest stars, including SUPER JUNIOR - D&E, SUPER JUNIOR – YESUNG, SHINee, f(x) Luna, EXO, Red Velvet, NCT 127 and NCT DREAM, will perform their latest hits, as well as group-crossover performances.

Be the first to experience products never before displayed in Hong Kong: There will be a Festival Zone featuring many e-sports and electronic products, such as multiple VR e-Sports combat games, for visitors to experience firsthand.

There will also be gourmet delights suitable for all ages for the enjoyment of visitors and locals alike.

The “Return of the Legends” contests will also be live broadcast on major networks in six languages (Cantonese, Mandarin, English, Korean, Thai, and Spanish).

Tickets for the SMTOWN SPECIAL STAGE in HONG KONG will be available for purchase from 19 June on www.hkticketing.com.hk ; tickets sales for “Return of the Legends” will be announced later.

The admission fee to the Festival Zone is HK$10 (CAD$1.7) at the entrance during the Festival. For more details about the opening hours and the latest game unveiling at the Festival, please visit www.emfhk.com

The “ICBC (Asia) e-Sports & Music Festival Hong Kong” is one of the events commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

BELARUS:UNWTO Supports Scraping Visa Requirements

UNWTO has expressed its full support to the decision of the Government of Belarus to launch the 5-day visa-free policy that will be applicable to travelers from 80 countries.

The measure aims at advancing seamless travel and attracting visitors, particularly those on business trips.

The Government of Belarus has recently decided to advance visa facilitation as a means to stimulate tourism development. The decision introduces visa-free entry at the Minsk National Airport and visa-free stay in Belarus for up to five days for the citizens of 80 states.

Among those, there are 39 countries of Europe, including the entire European Union, Brazil, Indonesia, the USA and Japan.

“Visa facilitation is among the most effective strategies to induce tourism development in a region or in a country, so we are sure that the tourism sector will experience a positive shift in Belarus,” said UNWTO Secretary General, Taleb Rifai.

The promotion of seamless travel is one of UNWTO’s priorities, considering the proven capacity of visa facilitation to stimulate economic growth and job creation through tourism.

President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has signed a decree scrapping visa requirements for residents of 80 foreign countries for a period of no more than five days, the press service of the Belarusian president reports.

“The document establishes visa-free procedures of entry into Belarus for a period no longer than five days on entry via a check point across the State Border, the Minsk National Airport, for citizens of 80 countries,” it said, specifying that the decree covers 39 European countries, including all EU countries, as well as Brazil, Indonesia, the United States and Japan.

First of all these are migrant-friendly countries, strategic partners of Belarus, states that have unilaterally introduced a visa-free regime for Belarusian nationals,” the press service explained. The decree also applies to “non-citizens of Latvia and stateless persons of Estonia.

“The document is aimed at giving a boost to travels of business people, tourists, individuals having domestic passports and will not apply to foreigners making official trips: diplomatic, business, special and other passports equivalent to them will not be taken into consideration,” the press service commented.

As for the citizens of Vietnam, Haiti, Gambia, Honduras, India, China, Lebanon, Namibia and Samoa, a compulsory additional demand for them is to have in their passports a valid multi-entry visa of a EU or a Schengen zone state with a mark confirming the entry to their territory, as well as plane tickets confirming the departure from the Minsk National Airport within five days from the entry date.

These visa-free travels don’t apply to people arriving in Belarus by plane from Russia, as well as planning to fly to Russian airports (these flights are domestic and have no border controls). The decree comes into effect one month after it is published officially.

CHINA: Guangzhou Internatinal Flights Improve Travel To China

The first direct flight of China to Reunion Island, which opened on February 12, is conducted twice a week aboard an Airbus A340-300. As an overseas territory of France, Reunion Island is a relatively new tourist destination in the South Indian Ocean.

Activities include hiking on a volcano, exploring in a lava tunnel and observing whales and dolphins. The Reunion Island Tourism Board has unveiled a 15-day one-time conditional visa-free policy to Chinese tourists.

Benefiting from the rapid growth of Guangzhou's economy, more and more local residents get rich and choose to travel abroad. To cater to the new surge of travelers, several direct international flights were added this year to the city's some 30 existent routes to foreign destinations on five continents.

The flight, opened on January 21, departs from Guangzhou at 4:30 a.m. and flies back to Guangzhou at 9:40 p.m. Koh Samui, the third-largest island in Thailand, is famous for its long, clean beaches. It still retains its original flavor due to inadequate development.

This flight began on January 24 and takes less than two hours to reach Ða Nang, the fourth-largest city in Vietnam. Famous tourist spots in or near the city include Son Tra Peninsula, well-known for its vast primary forests and rare animals, as well as Hoi'an, home to small local boutiques, artwork shops, bars and well-preserved Chinese and Japanese architecture.

Vietnam provides a visa-on-arrival service to Chinese. All you need are your passport and two color photos with white background.

This flight, to open on April 10, will fly every Monday, Thursday and Saturday. It is cheaper than the previous Guangzhou-Los Angeles-Mexico City flight, according to China Southern Airlines. Besides, tourists with Canadian visas can also enter Mexico.

The 2017 Guangzhou International Travel Fair (GITF), which ran from February 23-25 at the China Import and Export Fair complex in Pazhou, featured new travel programs to the Middle East and exotic islands.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, GITF attracted nearly 980 exhibitors from 51 countries and regions within a display area of 28,600 square meters.

International exhibitors accounted for 66 percent of the booths, and professional buyers totaled 800, an increase of 2.56 percent over last year.

Middle East tours are becoming popular for Chinese travelers due to more relaxed visa policies in Tunisia and Dubai. Many travel agencies have launched tourism products such as trips to Dubai, Egypt and Tunisia for less than 10,000 yuan.

New island tours also generated attention. Reunion Island and the Italian islands of Sicily and Sardinia are becoming more popular than the traditional leisure islands of Phuket and Bali.

According to Vincent Cong of the Reunion Island Tourism Board China, Reunion Island did not enter the Chinese market until the end of 2014, and by 2016 around 5,000 Chinese tourists had visited Reunion. In order to attract more Chinese visitors, the island has launched a 15-day conditional visa-free policy.

Guangzhou is the first Chinese city to open direct flights to the island. It is predicted that about 8,000 Chinese tourists will visit Reunion in 2017, Cong said.

Reunion Island, as an overseas territory of France, is famous for three ice cirques and has a series of spectacular landforms which are great spots for hiking and other outdoor activities.

From July to September, Reunion Island is a great spot for whale watching as they swim back from the Antarctic.

SOUTH KOREA: THAAD Anti-missiles,China Orders Travel Agencies To Stop Selling Trips To South Korea

South Korea suffered a 40% plunge in Chinese visitors last month, according to the Korea Tourism Organization.

Chinese tour groups have been canceling trips because of anger over the deployment of a controversial U.S.-built missile defense system in South Korea.

Chinese authorities are believed to have told travel agencies last month to stop selling trips to South Korea.

The outlook is bleak, too. Bookings for stays of four to eight nights by Chinese visitors are down 28% in the second quarter of 2017 compared with a year earlier.

China has vigorously opposed the stationing of the THAAD anti-missile system in South Korea, complaining that it threatens security and fuels tensions in the region.

The South Korean government says the system is designed to reduce the threat from North Korean missiles.

South Korean businesses that rely on foreign tourists are feeling the chill. Chinese citizens accounted for eight million of the roughly 17 million people who visited South Korea last year and are big spenders.

There's been a big reduction in the number of groups of Chinese tourists in Seoul since the THAAD missile crisis, said Kil Ki-yon, the director of Seoul Tiger Bus, a company that takes Chinese visitors on tours of the city.

South Korean conglomerate Lotte said its duty free stores have taken a huge hit, too.

Sales to Chinese customers between mid-March and mid-April plunged 40% from a year earlier, according to a spokesman for the group.

Chinese tourists tend to account for as much as 80% of duty free sales, he added.

The difficulties come at a time when outbound travel by China's burgeoning middle class is surging. The Chinese spent $261 billion traveling abroad last year, according to the World Tourism Organization, a 12% increase compared with the previous year.

ForwardKeys said Southeast Asian countries are the most likely to benefit from South Korea's problems with China.

The tensions between Beijing and Seoul over THAAD show little sign of easing.

South Korea is pushing ahead with the system, parts of which have now arrived at the planned deployment site, the South Korean Defense Ministry said Wednesday.

In response, the Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated its opposition, warning that "China will firmly take necessary measures to safeguard its own interests."

THAILAND: Chinese Tourists Enter Kingdom Via Mekong River

The first group of Chinese tourists to visit Thailand on a cruise along the Mekong River arrived at Chiang Rai's Chiang Saen Pier on Monday evening.

The tourists travelled aboard two Chinese boats (“Yenta 7” and “Yenta 8”) and one Thai boat (“Kasalongkham”) that departed the Guan Lei port in China's Yunnan province.

They are mostly from the lowlands of Xishuangbanna and included 180 Chinese media members.

Company executive Chu Xuan Xu, who led the tour group, said this was the first time Chinese tourists had visited Thailand via the Mekong River, which linked China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand and was usually used for cargo transport.

Chu said the group was impressed by the beautiful natural riverside sceneries.

He said as many Chinese tourists were keen on travelling to the Golden Triangle, this colourful river cruise route had high tourism potential.

The Chinese tourists are scheduled to stay in Thailand for three days and will visit Chiang Rai attractions including the Doi Tung development project, Baandum Museum (Thawan Duchanee) and Wat Rong Khun, as well as attractions on Myanmar's Tha Chilek side.

Meanwhile, Mekong River Commission (MRC) will hold their second Regional Stakeholder Forum under the Prior Consultation procedure for the Pak Beng dam, the third hydropower project proposed for the lower Mekong River mainstem

From China to Vietnam, the Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia and offers a glimpse into the long history and diverse cultures of the region. The 12th longest river in the world and the 7th longest in Asia, it flows through six countries: China, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

As home to roughly 1,000 species of fish, 20,000 plant species, and hundreds of bird, reptile, and mammal species, the Mekong is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world—second only to the Amazon River. See daily life come alive as you pass traditional villages, experience glorious sunsets, and learn about the activities, history, and cultures along this amazing river.

Fast Facts

Countries: China, Myanmar (Burma), Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam
Source: Lasagongma Spring, Mt. Guozhongmucha, Qinghai Province, China
Mouth: South China Sea
Length: 3,050 miles

The Mekong River connects six countries in Southeast Asia and flows through six distinct geographical regions, each with characteristic features of elevation, topography, and land cover. It originates on the Tibetan Plateau and flows down to the mountainous area through the Yunnan Province in the Hengduan Mountains.

After leaving China, it forms the border between Laos and Myanmar (Burma) for roughly 62 miles. It then creates the border between Thailand and Laos, and flows east and south into Laos for roughly 250 miles. This stretch through Laos is characterized by gorges, rapids, and shallow depths during the dry season.

It then marks the border between Thailand and Laos again before it passes through the capital of Laos. This is followed by a short stretch through Laos alone, including the region above Khone Falls, which are mostly too treacherous for river traffic.

Below Laos, it becomes much wider and before it crosses into Cambodia, the Mekong comes together with the Mun River. In Cambodia, it receives the Sap River and flows through the capital of Cambodia. As it goes into Vietnam, the Mekong slows and splits into smaller channels of the Mekong Delta. It finally discharges into the South China Sea.

The Mekong River is steeped in a long history, and for thousands of years, it has been the lifeline of the populations that depend on it for survival. The earliest settlements along the river date to 2100 BC with the first recorded civilization—the Indianised-Khmer culture of Funan—dating to the 1st century. Excavations have uncovered coins from as far away as the Roman Empire.

In the 5th century, the Khmer culture Chenla existed along the Mekong, and the Khmer empire of Angkor was the last great Indianized state in the region. Roughly 700 years ago, the Thai people escaped from South China across the Mekong to form the kingdom of Siam (now Thailand), and the Mekong protected Siam from invasions. The same ethnic group also settled in Laos.

In 1540, the Portuguese Antonio de Faria was the first European to discover the Mekong. Although Europeans showed only some interest in the Mekong, the Spaniards and Portuguese did launch some missionary and trade expeditions to the area, and the Dutch led an expedition up the Mekong in 1641-42.

In the mid-19th century, the French led an exploration on the river between 1866 to 1868 and discovered that the Mekong had too many rapids and waterfalls to ever be useful for navigation. From 1893, the French enlarged their control of the river into Laos until the First and Second Indochina Wars ended French involvement in the region.

During the Vietnam War, the west bank of the Mekong provided a basis for raids against the advance of the communist armies in Laos. After the war, anti-communist forces fled west across the Mekong to refugee camps in northern Thailand. The tensions between the U.S.-backed Thai government and the new Communist governments in the other countries prohibited cooperation on the river's use.

The Mekong has long been regarded as the foundation of Southeast Asia's economic growth and prosperity—necessitating cooperation between the countries. In 1995, the "Agreement on the Cooperation for the Sustainable Development of the Mekong River Basin" signed by the governments of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam formed the Mekong River Commission (MRC). The MRC facilitates joint management of the shared water resources and collaboration on development issues. In 1996, China and Burma became Dialogue Partners of the MRC.

Today, peace has returned to the Mekong, and much of it remains undeveloped and even unexplored. It is closely tied to the daily lives and culture of over 60 million people—people who depend on it for transportation as well as for water for cooking, irrigation, cleaning, and sanitation.

For these 60 million—many of whom live in poverty—the fish and other resources in the river account for most of the protein in their diets and for their survival. However, life along the river is changing, as China has already constructed large dams on the river with plans for many more.

In Vietnam, cruise the massive Mekong Delta that covers an area of some 15,000 square miles. This picturesque area is dotted by rice paddies, fish farms, fruit orchards, and more. The rice produced in the delta accounts for over half of Vietnam's rice production, so it's no surprise that it is commonly referred to as the "rice bowl" of the country.

In the delta are , Cai Be and Vinh Long, best known for traditional candy making. Nearby is Cu Lao Gieng, where a local family makes small sampans by hand.

Chau Doc, situated near the Cambodian border, is one of Vietnam's most multicultural cities with large Cham, Chinese, Khmer, and Vietnamese communities. The influence of these communities can be seen in their places of worship—mosques, temples, and churches—making it an interesting town to visit.

See nearby Sam Mountain, with its beautiful views and numerous pagodas and temples. Also close to the border is Long Khong A, a small traditional village where locals weave cotton in their home.

In Cambodia, visit Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital and largest city. The capital since the French colonized Cambodia, Phnom Penh has retained its French charm and is the center of politics, economics, and heritage. Here, learn about the sobering Khmer Rouge regime. Other highlights include the Killing Fields, National Museum, Royal Palace, and Silver Pagoda.

The quaint and charming town of Angkor Ban is home to a local school where the school children are happy to welcome you into their classroom. Nearby is Wat Hanchey, a temple dating back to the 8th century, where you can enjoy spectacular views and participate in a water blessing.

Tonle Sap (Great Lake) is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and has been designated as a UNESCO biosphere. After the rainy season, the Tonle Sap backs up to form a huge lake, which provides the perfect breeding ground for fish, providing food for the people living in the floating villages on the lake.

The Mekong River offers an opportunity for travelers to learn about new cultures and experience a different way of life. From ancient temples to modern palaces and from traditional villages to bustling cities, the Mekong boasts an experience like no other.

Explorers will delight in the mix of new languages, traditions, and lifestyles as they cruise down this mighty river, while nature lovers are sure to enjoy the sunsets and scenery offered along the way. At the end of the journey, travelers will have an in-depth understanding of life along the river and the people who depend on it.

Did You Know?

In China, the Mekong River is called the Lancang Jiang, meaning "Turbulent River."
The name derives from the Thai language's Mae Nam, meaning "Mother of Water."
In 2009, 145 new species were described from the Mekong Region, including two new bird species, five mammals, 96 plants, six new amphibians, and 29 fish species previously unknown to science.
The Mekong has more large fish—including the Mekong giant catfish, which can weigh up to 660 lbs. and grow to be almost 10 ft.—than any other river.
The Mekong River Basin is almost the size of France and Germany put together.
It would take 48 hours of driving at roughly 62 MPH to drive the same distance as the length of the Mekong River.

CAMBODIA: China To Surpus Vietnam In Supplying Tourists To Cambodia

Cambodia Association of Travel Agents says China will soon overtake Vietnam as the main source of the country’s tourists.

But there are major concerns over capacity management and how the country’s tourist industry will cope with the shortage of Chinese speaking guides.

The association president, Chhay Sivlin, says that the strengthening of relations between Cambodia and China and the government’s strategy to promote more Chinese tourist arrivals, will accelerate tourist arrivals over the next two years.

A flood of cheap Chinese tours could swamp popular tourist destinations especially in Siem Reap, the main tourist destinations, famed for Angkor Wat a World Heritage site.

But the dominant thread in tourism announcements, made by the private sector and government, is the underlying pressure to reach numerical targets that could compromise the quality of the travel experience and the environment.

The preoccupation is with expansion and catching up with neighbors. The main drivers are airlines that serve the destination from China, many of them offering cheap charter flights that bring in low-revenue package tours.

“Ministry of Tourism still needs to increase direct flights in order to reach the country’s target of welcoming 7 million tourists by 2020, including 2 million Chinese visitors,” he said.

Meanwhile, China came in second with 830,003 visits increasing 19.5% from 694,712 visits, according to Ministry of Tourism’s Statistics and Tourist Information Department figure.

In 2016, 13 airlines launched direct flights from different destinations in the region to Cambodia. The majority of the airlines are from China followed by Japan and Thailand.

Chinese airlines increasing flights, last year, included Hainan Airlines, Lucky Air, Tianjin Airlines, Spring Airlines and Beijing Capital Airlines.

Many opportunities for Cambodian tourism companies, more and more Chinese spend their holiday in their country, and they are becoming more and more rich and like to spend their money.

In 2013, China has overtaken South Korea to become the 2nd largest tourist source to Cambodia, with 305 500 visitors, up 47%, up according to the data from the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism.

Vietnam remained topped the chart among the top ten tourist arrivals to Cambodia with 584,800 tourists during the January-August period this year, up 12 percent year-on- year.

It added that during the first 8months of 2013, Cambodia has received a total of 2.77 million foreign tourists, up 19 % every year.

The minister said the country has set a target to attract between 1.5 million and 2 million Chinese tourists by 2020.

Chinese are rich now, more and more Chinese have been visiting abroad every year.

Close ties between Cambodia and China is an essential base to attract more Chinese to Cambodia.

Excellent ties between the two countries and improving Cambodian tourism quality and services will encourage more Chinese to this Southeast Asia nation in coming years.

Cambodian Minister of Tourism Thong Khon attributed the rise of Chinese traveller to attractive sites such as the Angkor Wat temple, a World Heritage Site, the beautiful coastline, like one of the top most Beautiful Bays.

Cambodia’s Angkor Wat temples, one of the world heritage sites. This Buddhist temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world and attracted 1.57 million foreign travellers in the first nine of the year, +6% compared with the same period in a year earlier.

During the January-September period this year, the monument welcomed 201,000 Chinese, +60 %.

“China is leading the growth of tourists to the site this year thanks to Cambodia-China excellent ties, broader promotion of the Angkor to the world, and more direct flight connection between Cambodia and China,” Chhoeuy Chhorn, administration chief of the Siem Reap provincial tourism department said.

Last year, the temples attracted 2.06 million foreign visitors, up 28 percent year-on-year.

Shopping

Chinese tourists use to do a lot of Shopping and purchase gifts, and local products.

Entertainement

They also like entertainement and will eat local food, sing in KTV and go to bars. They enjoy massage, and local SPA beauty services.

Hotels
You still have a lot of travellers with low budget, but more and more rich Chinese Business men travel in Cambodia and like nice hotels.

Internet
80% of Chinese people will search information online before their travel , and 66% will use Internet to book flight, hotel and prepare their trip.

You will find a lot of usefull information on many websites about Cambodia, and users’ experiences.
Look this for example

About 830,000 Chinese tourists visited Cambodia in 2016, a 19.5-percent rise year-on-year, according to a Cambodian Tourism Ministry report on Thursday.

Chinese holidaymakers accounted for 16.6 percent of the 5 million international tourists traveling to the Southeast Asian country last year, the report said.

It added that China ranked the second largest source of tourists to Cambodia after Vietnam, whose 959,600 people visited the kingdom last year, down 2.8 percent year-on-year.

Cambodia targets 2 million Chinese tourists by 2020.

Last year, the country launched a white paper which listed steps to be taken by tourism authorities to facilitate visits by Chinese tourists, such as providing Chinese signage and documents for visa processing, encouraging local use of the Chinese yuan currency, encouraging the use of Chinese language, and ensuring that food and accommodation facilities are suited to Chinese tastes.

Cambodia is famous for the 12th century Angkor Archeological Park in northwestern Siem Reap province. Besides, it has a 450-km pristine coastline stretching across four provinces in the country's southwestern part.

Tourism Minister Thong Khon estimated last month that tourism industry earned gross revenue of more than 3 billion U.S. dollars in 2016, accounting for 13 percent of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).