#Vietnam named among world’s fastest growing travel destinations

American tourists walk on Bui Vien Street, a popular backpacker precinct in Saigon. 

Vietnam is the only Southeast Asian country among 10 world's fastest growing travel destinations, according to a United Nations report.

The country's tourism industry is moving in the right direction, and its 2018 visitor numbers rose at one of the fastest rates in the world, the 2019 Tourism Highlight report released by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) early this week said.

"In Southeast Asia, most destinations posted strong growth, particularly Vietnam. Outbound tourism from China and India fuelled growth in many destinations in the region."

Vietnam's foreign visitor numbers rose 19.9 percent to a record 15 million last year, putting it 10th in the list of fastest growers, which was topped by Ecuador with 51 percent. Iran was second with 49.9 percent and Egypt, third with 36.8 percent.

The rest of the top 10 were Uganda (31.9 percent), Comoros (28.2 percent), Nepal (24.8 percent), Slovenia (23.4 percent), Turkey (21.7 percent), and Palestine (20.5 percent).

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  The report said France was the most visited country in 2018 with 89 million, followed by Spain and the U.S.

Thailand remained the region’s largest destination attracting around 38.2 million foreign arrivals.

The Asia-Pacific region had the second highest market share of 25 percent after Europe’s 51 percent. The Americas were third with 15 percent.

In the Asia-Pacific, growth was significant in Southeast and South Asia. Southeast Asia received 128.7 million visitors, a 7.8 percent increase, the highest rate in Asia.

"Growth in international tourist arrivals and receipts continues to outpace the world economy and both emerging and advanced economies are benefiting from rising tourism income," said Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary general of the UNWTO.

Tourism last year contributed 8.39 percent to Vietnam’s GDP. The government seeks to make the industry an economic spearhead.

 With visa waivers for several countries in Asia and Europe, the government expected to see around 20 million foreign visitors in 2020 and earn $35 billion in annual revenues by then, equivalent to 10 percent of GDP, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT).

Vietnam will become a leading travel destination in the next five years, the latest Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts report released by the Pacific Asia Travel Association said.

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Source - VN Express

 

#Booking.com offers options for a ‘sneeze-free’ vacation

 Booking.com, a global leader in connecting travellers to a wide choice of places to stay, is delving into its more than 29 million listings in over 153,000 destinations to come up with six destinations where people can have a “sneeze-free” vacation.

 Gran Canaria in Spain, which enjoys sunshine all year round, is a haven for travellers who suffer from hay fever as it has a very low pollen count. You can book a stay at B’SLOW San Agustin aparthotel, which offers picturesque views of the nearby Las Burras Beach.

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 Or you can go for a cooler option and a breath of fresh air at Coronet Peak in New Zealand. Pollen cannot survive in snowy weather. One of the nicest places to stay is the Canyons B&B, which boasts sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, the Shotover River and Coronet Peak.

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 If you plan to go to the US, you might consider Colorado Springs. In the summer and autumn months, especially July and October, the dry, desert-like surroundings contain few plants, allowing you to clear your head and give your itchy eyes a break. Breathe in crisp mountain air as you embark on a hike and take in popular sites and surroundings such as Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak and the Broadmoor Seven Falls.
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Offering stunning views of the Cheyenne Mountain, Cheyenne Mountain Resort Colorado Springs, A Dolce Resort boasts five swimming pools, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a 25-acre lake for sailing and a full-service spa.
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 For fresh Alpine air, you can head north to Whistler, British Columbia – a paradise for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts and home to Whistler Blackcombe, one of the largest ski resorts in North America.

Whistler Mountain typically stays open for skiing and snowboarding until late May. If you’re looking to swap your snow boots for hiking boots, popular hiking trails include Lakeside Park, Cheakamus Lake and the Ancient Cedars Trail.

The place to stay is Whistler Lodge Hostel, which offers affordable accommodation in an ideal location.

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 Meanwhile, the heavy rainfall, short pollen season and few trees in the Scottish Highlands can provide a retreat for travellers suffering from hay fever. The surrounding moorlands and mountain terrain also provide respite as the vegetation is relatively free of allergens.
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  The place to stay is the Air an Oir – Skye Self Catering holiday home in Portree, which offers stunning sea views and a revitalising breeze of salty fresh air. During your stay visit the quaint Portree Harbour and marvel at the famed rugged landscapes with a hike across Lealt Falls.
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Source - The Nation

Thai government introduces new TM30T, to keep track of Thais

One of the new test shopping centre locations for the new Waer Areuw program

The Thai government is introducing a new method of cracking down on home-made criminals.

In a reversal of its former policy “Good guys in, bad guys in”, the government’s criminal enhancement department is phasing in the new laws that will require Thai to report their location every time they stay overnight in a different location.

Spokesperson Phaec Than says the new policy will be called the TM30T, alluding to the highly successful TM30 form that has rid the Kingdom of foreigners.

“99% of crime in Thailand is by Thais so we believe that keeping a track of our population is vital,” says Phaec.

The new TM30T form will require Thais to report to the new Waer Areuw shops that will be set up in each province and some shopping centres. Locals will be required to report in their location within 24 hours if they have moved from their registered address. Workers, who travel more than one kilometre to work, and stay overnight, will be required to report their new location within 24 hours. And then on return.

Along with the new Waer Areuw reporting locations, there will also be a new App so people can conveniently report their new location.

“The App is safe and convenient and will be able to scan and send the 96 pages of documentation for your 24 hour reporting.”

“If you are staying with a foreigner, they will have to lodge the paperwork for you. We don’t think this should take any longer than 2-3 hours.”

Minister for criminal enhancement, Thelmee Ware Uah, says that if the new TM30T reporting is successful in reducing crime they may take the next step and issue all Thais with a convenient electronic ankle bracelet so the government can track their whereabouts, 24/7.

“We have seen some of these new wearable electronic ankle monitors. They come in a range of colours and styles and have a selection of matching handbags and umbrellas to turn ‘big brother surveillance’ into day-to-day fashion.”

The new TM30T form is a complete fabrication invented by The Thaiger.

#Vietnam - Pure Land pagoda’s unique bamboo gate

Also known as Hien Mat Pagoda, it is in Long Khanh Town and adheres to Pure Land Buddhism. This branch of Buddhism is characterized by the teachings of Amida Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Light. The pagoda attracts many pilgrims.

A small bridge created entirely out of bamboo crosses over a stream at the entrance, and its railings and arch are all made of bamboo, making it stand out from other pagodas in Vietnam. On both sides of the gate are sal trees, which are associated with the symbol of the Buddha.

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 In Buddhism in Vietnam, bamboo trees growing in lumps symbolize the gathering of believers. Having one bamboo node after another resembles a ladder to the sky.

According to the monks there, before the pagoda was built, the path leading to its location had many large bamboo fields, which inspired the creation of the gate.

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At the top of the pagoda gate is an idol of a Bodhisattva sitting on a lotus throne, surrounded by apricot and sal trees.

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On entering the gate, two bell towers set in concrete pillars come into view. At their top are two bottle gourds representing vases of fairy wine for the bodhisattvas. 

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Behind the two towers is the octagonal-shaped main hall with red tiles in the middle of a large garden. The pagoda monks said the octagon represents the eight-fold path leading to liberation from human suffering.

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The main hall is about 30 square meters with small idols and paintings of bodhisattvas.

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Hien Mat Pagoda has no stupas or large idols like other pagodas in Vietnam. It sits on a large lush area with many gardens that represent Buddhist concepts. One of them is the deer garden, which represents the place where the Buddha gave his first sermon under the Bodhi tree.

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This pond recreates the Anoma River in southern Nepal, where the Buddha cut his hair and turned ascetic.

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An idol with porcelain pieces. There are a few that look like this out of the many idols in various shapes and sizes.

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The pagoda also has many rocks. According to the monks here, the rocks were mainly found and donated by local farmers. Some were given as donations by Buddhists from other regions.

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Work on the 10,000 square meter pagoda complex, which sits next to rice fields, began in 1984, but it is not clear how long it took to finish. 

Source - VN Express

This Tiny, but Mighty, Asian Island is Seriously Under-Hyped

Yes, Taiwan is a wallet-friendly destination, but so is Southeast Asia at large. And while most travelers crowd into Thailand and Bali, this island sitting just off China’s eastern coast remains seriously overlooked.

Amateur move, frankly. If you’re looking to boost your travel street cred, you need to put Taiwan on your hitlist.

Think: A culinary scene defined by Michelin Stars and street food in equal measure. A geographical profile that ranges from mountainous to beachy with a whopping nine national parks. Locals who haven’t yet been burned out by an influx of tourists (the nation is regularly ranked among the friendliest countries in the world). If there’s a defining keyword here, it would be “opportunity.” To surf. To explore. To experience a multi-faceted culture that hasn’t already been hashtagged to death. 

Of course, it also doesn’t hurt that Taiwan, from city to countryside, is straight-up beautiful. While no list is exhaustive, here’s a few of the island nation’s finest features to get you going.

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Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

To the untrained eye, the sheer number of pagodas in Taiwan can be difficult to keep straight. However, you’ll never forget a visit to the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas of Zuoying District, Kaohsiung. Situated on the banks of the man-made Lotus Pond, the staircases and walls of the twin seven-story towers depict stories about heaven and hell, among other prominent figures in local lore. Once inside, spiral staircases deposit you in an overlook above the lotus-covered water. Best practices suggest entering via the dragon’s mouth (dragons are a symbol of power and independence) and out the tiger (a symbol of courage and nobility) to maximize your good fortune.

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Ho Ping Island

Take the Ho Ping Bridge (Taiwan’s first reinforced concrete bridge) to Ho Ping Island for a first-hand lesson at just how cool erosion can be. Here, the land is a series of jagged cliffs, rugged coastlines, and crazy-cool geological patterns. Pairs perfectly with an island sunset and romantic view.

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Taipei 101

If Blade Runner was set in Taiwan, Taipei 101, the 10th tallest building in the world, would be where all the action takes place. Sure, you could skyrocket up to the observation deck on the 91st floor and be rewarded with crazy views of the city (at least on a clear day). But the real prize here is a view of the building itself. For the best vantage point, hike the nearby Elephant Mountain. Brace yourself -- those stairs are steep, but you’ll be well-rewarded for your effort with a sweeping sight of the futuristic district and Taiwan’s most iconic landmark.

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Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

Located in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum opened in 2011 as a home for one of the most prized relics in Buddhism, one of the Buddha’s teeth. Open and free to everyone, its visually stunning grounds include one of the largest Buddha statues in Asia (seated on a black platform to look like it’s floating at night), and eight large, multi-story pagodas. Even for non-practitioners, walking the grounds is a calming (dare-we-say) zen-like experience.

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 Jiufen’s Shuqi Road

Spirited Away wasn’t a documentary, but you’d be forgiven for thinking so after visiting Jiufen, Hayao Miyazaki's inspiration for the iconic 2001 film. Along the Shuqi Road, the former gold rush town’s main drag, you’ll find colorful food stalls, red lanterns, and winding staircases that led Chihiro on her epic journey.

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 Xiaoliuqiu

You’re going to want to visit this beach in the south of Taiwan for Flower Vase Rock, a large, floral-shaped outcropping just offshore. But if you’re eager for more geological adventuring, swing by Black Dwarf Cave after your swim. The limestone cave is thought to be haunted -- but even if you don’t spot a specter there’s always coal growths, scuttling crabs, and even an exhibition of wooden sculptures to enjoy.

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Taroko National Park

With its dramatically sharp cliffs and the emerald-colored water of Taroko Gorge, this national park gives you a true sense of Taiwan’s tropical side. And if the area’s abundant greenery leads you to cracking jokes about Jurassic Park, know that you’re not alone. Take in the breezes at Qingshui Cliff, or take in the bucolic scene at Eternal Spring Shrine, a memorial built over a waterfall dedicated to those who died during the local highway’s construction.

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Source -  Laura Studarus a Thrillist contributor

#Vietnam - Festival to offer paragliders views of northern terrace fields

Mu Cang Chai, a rural district in Yen Bai Province with iconic rice terraces, will host a paragliding festival from September 20-22.

The annual festival, organized by VietWings Hanoi Paragliding Club since 2013, has become the largest such event in the country.

Its timing makes the festival more popular: it coincides with the rice harvest season in Mu Cang Chai, which is said to be at its most beautiful from late September to early October, when the fields are dyed yellow.

This year around 200 local and foreign competitors are expected to take part in the festival, six times the number in its inaugural year.

The paragliders will take off from Khau Pha Mountain, one of the four most dangerous passes in Vietnam due to its foggy winding roads and steep terrain.

Khau Pha rises 1,200 meters, and will provide the contestants with the best views of the golden carpet stretching over 500 hectares in the Mu Cang Chai valley.

Visitors who love adventure can join the paragliders as passengers and ride tandem over the terrace fields, voted as one of "the most colorful places" on the planet by U.S.magazine Condé Nast Traveler.

Mu Cang Chai, around seven hours by road to the northwest of Hanoi, is at the foot of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range.

The H’Mong ethnic group started carving rice terraces into the mountains centuries ago and continue to plant the crop today.

In 2017 the terraced fields were named one of the 19 most picturesque peaks on earth by U.S. travel site Insider.

Source VN Express

Thailand - Mae Hong Son to open new nature trek route with waterfalls to tourists

The Mae Hong Son Tourism Office is planning to launch a new trekking route to allow tourists to walk through a fertile forest to visit two beautiful waterfalls, an official said.

 

The nature trek route along Mae Sakued creek in Tambon Pha Bong in Muang district was on Tuesday visited by Yothin Taptimthong, director of the Mae Hong Son office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and his deputy, Atthapol Thaweesunthorn.

Yothin said the visit was made for his office to prepare a package for tourists who love nature, forests and waterfalls, to take the Huay Mae Sakued Trek.

According to Yothin, the trek is about 1,860 metres long, running along the creek and through a fertile forest with big trees.

He said the highlights of the trek are two medium-sized waterfalls, Kued Luang Waterfall and Mae Sakued Waterfall. The two waterfalls should be visited during the rainy and winter seasons, when there is an abundant cascade of water.

The nature-study trek is under the supervision of the Mae Surin Waterfall National Park and the area is protected by the third protection unit of the national park.

The entrance to the trek and the unit’s office is about 9 kilometres from Mae Hong Son’s provincial seat, with the road to the office another three kilometres along the entrance road.

Tourists can call the Mae Surin Waterfall National Park office at 053-061-073 to learn more about the trek.

Source - The Nation