HSMAI to Honour Mekong Tourism with Gold Adrian Award for Outstanding Travel Marketing Excellence in 2018 ‘Mekong Mini’s’ Festival Campaign

The Mekong Mini Movie Festival campaign has been recognised with the prestigious HSMAI Gold Adrian Award, one of the world’s most respected awards in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry.

The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) will honour the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) with a Gold Adrian Award for digital marketing excellence displayed in its 2018 Mekong Mini Movie Festival, a social media campaign that has earned a global reach of over 7 million people to date.

Over 300 videos submitted, 220,000 followers, and nearly 800,000 video views are the numbers gathered from the MTCO's latest report on the 2018 festival. These stats earned high praise from industry professionals worldwide including the HSMAI ahead of its 2019 Adrian Awards ceremony set to take place in New York City.

The public contest, conducted by the MTCO in collaboration with the tourism ministries of Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) member countries, had participants post 60-second (or less) videos showcasing one or more GMS countries to their social media accounts. By requiring each video to be posted with the hashtags #Minis, #MekongMoments, and #[subject country], the MTCO had created a searchable and hugely scalable social media community that helped bring attention to the many wonders of the GMS.

“This campaign was unique in that it enabled businesses to get involved to drive business by promoting the campaign on their own behalf,” said Jens Thraenhart, Executive Director of the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office. “Further, we engaged not only our expert Mekong Minis advisory board but also the tourism industry to vote for the winners by hosting film screenings at the Mekong Tourism Forum and other travel trade shows, in partnership with the tourism ministries of the Mekong countries.”

The Mekong Mini Movie Festival campaign is hosted on the MekongMoments.com collaborative social commerce campaign platform, which was executed by a public-private partnership involving GMS tourism ministries as well as travel firms including Inter-Continental Hotels Group, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Yaana Ventures, Odynovo, Tours China, SwissContact, and GIZ.

“What makes this year’s recognition extra special is the fact that festival campaign was a true public-private partnership with collaboration from six tourism ministries, the private sector, as well as the World Wildlife Foundation to highlight conservation and wildlife protection,” said Thraenhart.

A special prize to highlight the best video focusing on conservation was sponsored by WWF and Khiri Travel, and a special luxury award was sponsored by Rosewood Hotels & Resorts.

Recognised globally as the largest and most prestigious global travel marketing competition, The HSMAI Adrian Awards celebrates industry innovators who successfully find and create new ways to influence growth in the hospitality industry as a whole. This is the second HSMAI Adrian Gold Award within the past four years for the Mekong Tourism Working Group and its secretariat the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office. The previous award recognised the 2015 release of its www.mekongtourism.org website, which incorporated a number of innovative features including the popular e-library and the Mekong Tourism Contributor Program.

“The Adrian Awards celebrate travel marketing innovators whose awesome creativity and hard work are integral not only to the success of their companies but to the continued growth of the hospitality industry as a whole,” said Robert A. Gilbert, President and CEO of HSMAI.

The MTCO was officially honoured during the 62nd annual HSMAI Adrian Awards Gala on January 22, 2019, at the New York Marriott Marquis, at which nearly 1,000 hospitality, travel, and tourism marketing executives attended.

Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office
c/o 3rd Floor, Department of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, 154 Rama 1 Road
National Stadium, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Web: www.mekongtourism.org
Tel: +66 2038 5071-1
Mobile: +66 8555 44234, +66 8098 95853

Kyoto to host the World's largest Museum Conference

Kyoto National Museum ©  Kyoto City Tourism Association

This year, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) will hold its general conference for the first time in Japan - and Kyoto was confirmed as the host city! The theme of ICOM 2019, “Museums as Cultural Hubs：The Future of Tradition”, is one that resonates perfectly for Kyoto. 

As the imperial capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years, Kyoto preserves its traditions while embracing innovation in art, design, architecture and lifestyle. 

The Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts

The city is home to more than 200 public and private museums, as well as numerous Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines which hold various national treasures and cultural assets.

Kyoto is reinforcing its position as the “Cultural Capital of Japan” announcing that the citywill be hosting the next ICOM (International Council of Museums) General Conference in 2019.

Held from 1-7 September 2019 at the Kyoto International Conference Centre, the city is expecting to receive some 3,000 museum professionals and enthusiasts from 141 countries to enjoy what is the world’s largest museum conference. As part of the conference, participants will attend debates, round table and panels discussions, networking events and numerous cultural activities.

This year’s focus will explore the topic of “Museums as Cultural Hubs: The Future of Tradition”, a theme that resonates well with Kyoto, the imperial capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years, that has managed to preserve its traditions while embracing innovation in art, design, architecture and lifestyle.

Kyoto International Manga Museum
© Kyoto International Manga Museum

The city is home to more than 200 public and private museums, as well as numerous Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines which hold various national treasures and cultural assets. Art and culture are threads that connect and bind Kyoto as a community, and the city’s museums provide gathering points of reference not only to learn and preserve, but also interact, participate and create.

“We are excited and honoured to have been chosen by ICOM as the hosting city of what is one of the most prestigious cultural conferences in the world” said Alison Roberts-Brown, Director of Tourism Garden, representative of Kyoto City Tourism Association in Australia.

“This presents the perfect opportunity for us to share our strong commitment to culture and education whilst being able to showcase Kyoto’s incredible myriad of cultural assets with this extremely engaged and culturally aware audience of museum professionals” she added.

Kyoto International Manga Museum
© Kyoto International Manga Museum

Some of Kyoto’s most unique museums include: 

- The Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts: This museumshowcases 74 different traditional crafts by not only exhibiting the items, but also hosting live demonstrations by the city’s artisans, as well as encouraging visitors to join various workshops.

- Kyoto International Manga Museum: Open sinceNovember 2006, this is the first comprehensive cultural centre for manga culture in Japan, with collections of manga related materials consisting of more than 300,000 items. The items feature modern Japanese manga, as well as manga-related historical materials from the Meiji period (1868-1912).

- Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art: the second largest public art museum in Japan, open since 1933, has established itself as the leading art museum and to attract further visitors, the museum is currently doing renovation works and expects to reopen in 2019.

- Kyoto National Museum: one of the oldest art museums of Kyoto, the Kyoto National Museum displays the finest in pre-modern Japanese and Asian art and is also known for its spectacular special exhibitions.

For travellers who want genuine travel experiences, the Kyoto Artisan Concierge is a program that organises visits to the ateliers of artisan crafts people across the city.

For more information about ICOM 2019, visit the official event website: http://icom-kyoto-2019.org/

Learn more

Itinerary planning and other information: We are happy to assist in planning your itinerary in Kyoto, please contact our Sydney office on 02 8206 9312 or email alison@tourismgarden.com.au

General Access Information
Tips for Travellers
Accommodations explained and listings

For more detailed information about getting around in Kyoto on foot, by bicycle, bus train or taxi please contact us.

Meetings & Incentives
Have you considered planning an incentive trip in the cultural heart of Japan?

Kyoto offers endless opportunities to gain meaningful hands-on experience of rich Kyoto culture through Tea Ceremony, sake brewing, kimono wearing, swordsmanship, and more. With unique and traditional function venues and superb accommodation options Kyoto is an ideal choice for a high end incentive trip.

Japan is renowned for its safety and the compactness of Kyoto makes for wonderful strolling during free time. From the moment your guests arrive they will be treated to the famous omotenashi (hospitality) and refined service of Kyoto.

The Kyoto Convention Bureau is here to help. Please contact our local office or visit our website.

Visit website

Kyoto is an ICCA Member and we are proud to announce Kyoto as the first Asian city to join the Global Destination Sustainability Index.

Tourism Garden
Our mailing address is:
Tourism Garden Pty Ltd.
Suite 13, 235 Spit Road, Mosman NSW 2088

GOOD DIET = BETTER HEALTH

The aim of this project is to inform people about the critical situation of Asian Elephants in Laos. The elephants need diversity in their diet and access to water free of pollution to maintain their physical condition.

Restaurants around the country and abroad are supporting the Elephant Conservation Center by setting up vegetarian or vegan menus. To create their menus, they use foods that humans and elephants have in common.

By choosing our "Eat Like an Elephant" menu, you can support our species' conservation project.

This is a good way to encourage elephant camps to provide a wider range of natural foods to their elephants. Today, one of the main problems in elephant tourist camps established in semi urban or urban areas is the lack of diversity often leading to obesity or other illnesses.

You want to Eat like an elephant? Go to these restaurants that support us:
- Luang Prabang: L'Elephant, Dexter, Sofitel, Villa 3 Nagas, Indigo, Tamarind, Carpe Diem, Cafe Del Mundo, Pullman, 525, Brother House, The Bamboo Experience.
- Vientiane: Khop Chai Deu, Suntara, Youna.
- France: César & Firmin

The next step is to extend this project to more countries. By doing this, we hope to promote Laos abroad and thus to attract more tourists in this country, as this project was initially set up in Laos by the ECC.

You want to set up this menu in your country? Please contact us elephantconservationcenter@gmail.com
The Elephant Conservation Center 
Nam Tien Lake, Sayaboury district, Lao PDR
Manthatoulat Road (Mekong riverside) Ban Pakham, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR
Tel : +856-20-96590665
Email: marketing@elephantconservationcenter.com
social media (Facebook and Instagram).
Website: https://www.elephantconservationcenter.com/

TTNQ WINS GOLD FOR DESTINATION WEBSITE

Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) along with agency partner Story(ation), takes out two of the most prestigious global content marketing awards. Tropical North Queensland’s destination website www.tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au has picked up Gold for “Best Website” at the illustrious The Content Council Pearl Awards 2018. The site also won gold for ”Most Effective: Travel and Leisure”. The winners were announced in New York Friday evening.

TTNQ beat leading international brands, including Porsche, IBM, Hong Kong and Thailand Tourism to take out the distinguished content marketing awards worldwide.

The Pearl Awards have been celebrating excellence in content marketing since 2004, making The Pearl Awards the longest running and most reputable content marketing awards program globally.

“This year’s Pearl Awards entries represented the best in content marketing from around the globe,” said Jacqueline Loch, Chair of The Content Council. “We are proud to celebrate and honour their excellence in content marketing across a wide variety of industry sectors and media platforms that build the foundation for leading edge content marketing and media strategies.”

Content marketers – small and large; B2B and B2C; representing clients in a wide range of industries; and producing programs across multiple channels make up the categories. The awards are open to both agencies and brand marketers. The Pearl Awards are truly a global competition and receive many entries from around the world.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to see the work that we did with Tourism Tropical North Queensland recognised on the world stage. It’s no mean feat to win against such formidable brands and it goes to show what can be achieved by a small and nimble team who are passionate about the region.” said Lauren Quaintance, Head of Content, Story(ation).

TTNQ Chief Executive Officer Pip Close acknowledged the impressive achievement by our Digital & Content Team by winning these awards. (Pictured above L-R: Chris Jahnsen, Jilara Kuch, Kate Shaw & Rielli Portegys)

“Receiving a Pearl award is the greatest recognition we could receive and to receive two Gold awards is a real honour and a credit to our digital team. It shows our content marketing is on track in a digital-first world and justifies our focus towards digital marketing to provide greater ROI,” she said.

Launching the new website in August 2017, TTNQ teamed up with Australian content creation agency Story(ation) to create an online “shop window” for the destination with editorial content that was vivid, engaging and delivered in a fresh, conversational tone of voice that reflected the regions personality and adventurous spirit. It also provided practical take outs and featured navigation that was made to feel intuitive and natural.

TTNQ’s Digital Strategist, Chris Jahnsen said “We’re incredibly excited to see all the people and teams that contributed so much passion and hard work into this project acknowledged with these awards! Our agency partners Story(ation) absolutely nailed what was a challenging content brief. We’ve seen our online global audience of travellers in nearly double in only twelve months, it’s been rewarding to see the site working as a valuable marketing asset for TNQ.”

The “Best Website” medallists were:
C3, Porsche (Silver Award)
Madison/Miles Media, Flexxray (Bronze)

The “Most Effective: Travel & Leisure” medallists were:
St Joseph Media, Hong Kong & Thailand Tourism (Silver)
MPMI Group Co Ltd, Bangkok Airways Pubic Company Ltd (Bronze)

tourism.tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au

The China-Cambodia Joint Press Communiqué Determines 2019 as the "China-Cambodia Cultural Tourism Year"

According to Xinhua News Agency, on January 23, the "Press News of the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Royal Government of Cambodia" was released.

The communique pointed out that at the invitation of Premier Li Keqiang of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, Prime Minister Hun Sen of the Kingdom of Cambodia paid an official visit to China from January 20 to 23, 2019. During the visit, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Prime Minister Hun Sen. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang held talks with Prime Minister Hun Sen. Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress Li Zhanshu and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Wang Yang met with Prime Minister Hun Sen respectively.

　　The communique stated that the two sides agreed to define 2019 as the "China-Cambodia Cultural Tourism Year" and use this as an opportunity to further expand non-governmental exchanges and enhance the understanding and friendship between the two peoples, especially the younger generation. Support the cultural tourism and trade promotion agencies of the two countries, as well as counterpart friendship associations, think tanks, media, and non-governmental organizations to strengthen exchanges. We will implement the Chinese government scholarship, youth technical talent training, and medical treatment. Continue to carry out the protection and restoration of Angkor monuments, Preah Vihear temples and other cultural heritage.

　　The communique pointed out that the two sides agreed that the traditional friendship between China and Cambodia has a long history and is a valuable asset of the two peoples. In the past year, the two sides took the opportunity of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties to further enhance traditional friendship, deepen the "Belt and Road" cooperation, bring tangible benefits to the two peoples, and make positive contributions to regional and even world peace and prosperity. In the new historical period, the two sides should further strengthen comprehensive strategic cooperation and formulate an action plan for the construction of a strategically important community of destiny in China and Cambodia, focusing on strengthening cooperation in the four major areas of politics, economy, security and humanities, and promoting bilateral relations in the next 60 years. Achieve greater development.

　　The communique also stated that the two sides agreed to speed up the "One Belt, One Road" initiative and the "four-corner strategy" to link and implement the cooperation plan of the two governments on jointly promoting the construction of the "Silk Road Economic Belt" and "21st Century Maritime Silk Road". The two sides agreed to focus on the “five major sections” of transportation, production capacity, energy, trade and people's livelihood, and strengthen pragmatic cooperation under the framework of “One Belt, One Road” in the next stage. The two sides are willing to comprehensively strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure and other fields to enhance the scale and level of economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. During the visit, the two sides signed cooperation documents covering areas such as people's livelihood, transportation, and infrastructure.
Web: http://cnto.org.au/
Source: CNTO (China National Tourism Administration)

LIZARD SPOTTING ON SAFARI IN AUSTRALIA

Perentie wandering across Australia's Red Centre

From Saltwater Crocs to the world’s most venomous snakes, Australia houses more reptile species than any other country on the planet. With more than 600 known species distributed throughout Australia, lizards are the most diverse – and arguably underrated – members of the group.

Everywhere you go in Australia you will find lizards, and your observation might even be important to science,” says Janine Duffy, Co-Founder of Echidna Walkabout, which runs tours to wildlife-rich regions of southeastern Australia. “Lizards are not as popular, well-known or well-studied as birds and mammals, so you could discover a new species.

From giant Goannas to the Top End-dweller immortalised on an Aussie coin, here are some of the most iconic specimens to keep your eyes peeled for on wildlife safaris across the country.

Goannas
Also known as monitors, there are more than 25 species of Goanna – known for their beautifully patterned skins – found across Australia. Growing up to 2.5m long, the perentie is the largest. Found in arid desert areas of WA, the NT, SA and QLD, these huge lizards have strong totemic significance to Red Centre Aboriginal communities, and remain a favourite traditional bush tucker food to this day.

“To watch perenties run is just incredible – they move so fast,” says Monica Foster, Digital Marketing and Sales Manager of SEIT Outback Australia based in Uluru – one of the perentie’s favourite habitats.

Further south, in southern regions of the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria, the Rosenberg’s Goanna is best known for its unique method of incubating its eggs in termite mounds. Although found sparodically across the mainland, the Rosenberg's Goanna is commonly spotted on Kangaroo Island.

“Once egg-laying is completed, the female will stand guard while the termites repair the damage, sealing in the eggs until they hatch, and the baby lizards burrow out,” says says Craig Wickham, Managing Director of Exceptional Kangaroo Island.

Rosenberg's Goanna on Kangaroo Island,
Credit: Craig Wickham

Dragons

They might not breathe fire, but Australia’s dragon lizards are still pretty special. With its head spikes and enlarged cheek scales, Far North Queensland’s Boyd’s Forest Dragon is one of the most rewarding to spot. 

“The best thing about the Boyd’s Forest Dragon is that they like to hide in plain sight,” says James Boettcher, Owner-Operator of FNQ Nature Tours. “That said, they are so well camouflaged that if you’re not looking for them – typically on trees at head height – you won’t see them.”

One of Australia’s most well-known lizards, the Thorny Devil is also a member of the dragon or Agamidae family. Typically seen walking across sandy deserts during Autumn and Spring, these small lizards covered in desert-hued spikes have a particularly unique way of moving around their environment to disguise themselves from predators.

Thorny Devil in front of Uluru

“They almost take one step forward and a couple of steps back to give off a rocking motion,” says Monica from SEIT Outback Australia. “This makes them look like a leaf blowing in the wind.” 

Arguably Australia’s most famous dragon, however, is the Frill-necked Lizard. Famously featured on Australia’s two-cent coin before the denomination was pulled from circulation in 1992, the Frill-necked Lizard is named for the large frill it displays during territorial disputes, to discourage predators, and during courtship. Found mainly in northern Australia, this relatively large lizard (growing to an average of 85cm) is the one to look out for on a Top End safari with the likes of Lord Safaris, which specialises in off-the-beaten-track safaris to Kakadu and Arnhem Land. While most commonly photographed on the ground with their frills on display, frill-necks actually spend most of their time in trees feasting on insects and smaller lizards.

Skinks

While skinks are often thought to be tiny, some of Australia’s fattest lizards actually belong to the skink family. Found in semi-arid areas of southern and western Australia, stumpy, dark brown shinglebacks are covered in hard ‘shingles’ to protect themselves from predators.

“Shinglebacks can live for 50 years and have lifelong partners, too,” says David Doudle, Managing Director of Goin’ Off Safaris, which offers a range of wildlife tours on and around South Australia’s stunning Eyre Peninsula. “Their slow-moving nature means that when discovered, you can usually get quite close,” David adds.

Found along the north, east and southeast coastal regions of Australia – and commonly spotted in suburban backyards – the chunky Blue-tongued Skink, which is typically greyish in colour with broad brown stripes, is distinguished by its cobalt tongue, which it sticks out to scare off predators. “Like shinglebacks, these similarly slow-moving lizards also like to blow themselves up and open their mouths to look aggressive,” says David.

Blue-tongued Skink displaying its famous tongue

Geckos

Barking Gecko

Australia is home to over 100 native species of gecko, a nocturnal lizard often spotted stalking mosquitos and other bugs around outdoor lights. If you’re headed to South Australia’s Flinders Ranges during the summer months, the Barking Gecko is the one to look – or more appropriately listen – out for.

“Weighing in at a mere 20 to 25 grams, this spectacularly patterned gecko has a much bigger bark and attitude,” says Charlie Eager, Lodge Manager at the Arkaba, a luxurious bush lodge nestled in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges. “With a reputation for standing their ground, the tiny geckos emit a unique barking sound when they feel threatened,” adds Charlie. “They will raise themselves up off the ground to enhance their size and even bite even humans if they feel threatened enough.”

BY SARAH REID
Australian Wildlife Journeys

http://www.australianwildlifejourneys.com/

Fly Free to Asia With Wendy Wu Tours

To celebrate the New Year, Wendy Wu Tours has launched our amazing new deal - FLY FREE TO ASIA. China, Japan, India and South East Asia have never been so affordable. Experience extraordinary moments, witness breathtaking landscapes, marvel at ancient architecture and lose yourself in sacred cultures.

With a great range of our bestselling all-inclusive tours available in this limited time offer - don't wait any longer and make this year extraordinary by uncovering Asia.

China's unique culture sets it apart from everywhere else. A land of true contrast, with flourishing metropolises like Beijing and Shanghai; quiet, rural traditional communities such as Yangshuo, Dali, and Lijiang; the Buddhist kingdom of Tibet; the unrivalled beauty of Nine Villages Valley and Zhangjiajie – China keeps you and your senses on your toes. Something for every traveller.

FLY FREE TO CHINA WITH MAJESTIC YANGTZE

14 DAY FULLY INCLUSIVE CLASSIC TOUR FROM $4,480PP TWIN SHARE

A unique blend of iconic scenery and unforgettable moments, this tour takes you on a journey along the Yangtze, between the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, historic Xian and bustling Beijing.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Witness the changing hues of the Yangtze River on a four-night cruise
• Come face-to-face with the legendary Giant Panda's
• Walk along the impressive Great Wall of China
• Wander through the streets of vibrant Shanghai

Japan is a country steeped in history and tradition. Across all aspects of life, respect and efficiency are paramount. From speedy bullet trains to tranquil temples and shrines, delectable cuisine, and traditional customs, Japan will capture your heart and leave you wanting to return time and time again.

FLY FREE TO JAPAN WITH JEWELS OF JAPAN

12 DAY FULLY INCLUSIVE CLASSIC TOUR FROM $7,890PP TWIN SHARE

Bringing together eclectic culture and enchanting scenery, Japan is a kaleidoscope of colour, beauty, cuisine and metropolis. This tour brings together key highlights and unique experiences for a truly first-hand experience.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience the buzz as you step into the future of uber-modern Tokyo
• Unearth Japan's history with a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto
• Appreciate the serenity of Mt Fuji and the spectacular Fuji Five Lakes
• Uncover quintessential Japan as you hot aboard the legendary bullet train

India sparkles with a rare and undeniable energy, enchanting first-time visitors and return travellers alike. A nation full of cultural experiences, diverse landscapes, enigmatic people and grandeur palaces and temples. Coupled with the cloud-piercing peaks of the Himalayas, the Indian Subcontinent is a must-visit destination, as they say you don't find yourself in India, India finds you!

FLY FREE TO INDIA WITH HIGHLIGHTS OF INDIA

18 DAY FULLY INCLUSIVE CLASSIC TOUR FROM $6,180 PP TWIN SHARE

With its diversity of colours, culture and heritage, India is one of the world's most stirring locations. Explore the charm of Delhi, see the Taj Mahal at sunrise, and search for tigers in Ranthambore on this extraordinary itinerary.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the home of the city's royal family as you visit Maharaja's City Palace in Jaipur
• Tantalise your taste buds with a walking tour around Jodhpur's vegetable and spice market
• Appreciate the sprawling Chittor Fort
• Step back in time and immerse yourself in the local culture at Varanasi

South East Asia is made up of thriving Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Uncover this addictive and dreamy region, each country maintaining their own quirky personality, captivating scenery, contrasting cultures and delicious cuisine. Be wowed by the historic temples, special customs and spectacular landscapes. South East Asia will draw you in and keep you coming back for more.

FLY FREE TO VIETNAM WITH ANGKOR TO THE BAY

17 DAY FULLY INCLUSIVE CLASS TOUR FROM $4,990 PP TWIN SHARE

One of our bestsellers, this tour takes you on a journey of discovery, through the mesmerizing temples, across breathtaking natural landscapes and experiencing unique culture experiences.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the spectacular temples of Angkor
• Stroll through UNESCO listed Hoi An
• Experience un-spoilt Halong Bay as you wake to the sunrise on two-day cruise
• Navigate through the exuberant city of Saigon

SNOW LEOPARD – THE GREY GHOST OF THE HIMALAYAS

Snow Leopard

The diversity of the Indian sub-continent is reflected in its intriguing mix of wildlife, which traverses from tropical evergreen forests and coastal swamps to the arid mountains of the extreme North. One such fascinating species is the magnificent and often evasive Snow Leopard, which can be spotted in the rugged hills of the upper Himalayas in Ladakh. For thousands of years, the Snow Leopard was known as the king of the mountains, adapting to some of the harshest conditions on the planet. Its powerful and agile body make it a great leaper and climber, and its majestic fur protects the animal from extreme cold. Their population is now on the decline, which makes the Snow Leopard trek one of the most sought-after experiences in the region today, pulling in animal lovers and enthusiasts from across the globe.

How to spot the Snow Leopard?
Ladakh’s winters are extreme, but they also offer the best time to spot this elusive creature. November to March are the ideal months to traverse the snowy valleys of the region for a spotting of the Snow Leopard. The good news is that we have trained experts who know the area and how to take care of our guests while here. We move at a slow pace, starting early in the morning for expeditions deep into the wilderness of Ladakh. Patience is key to wait out and catch the Snow Leopard in its natural setting.

More About the Region:
Acclimatization: Most of the region of Ladakh is situated above 10,000 feet, which can cause dizziness, headaches or even acute mountain sickness. To prevent these, acclimatization is a must. Snow Leopard expeditions usually go to an elevation of 3500m to about 4900m. Hence, it is imperative that all guests spend at least 2 days in Leh to acclimatize. During this period, you should spend time resting or go out only on short excursions to the city or surrounding villages.

Connectivity: As a border state, Ladakh is an army base where security is always high. Satellite phones thus are not permitted and there is no mobile connectivity in the region of the trek. However, a satellite phone is available in the village of Rumbak, from where emergency calls for rescues can be made in case of any mishap.

Spot the Snow Leopard with Creative
Explore the exceptional wildlife of Ladakh, including the breathtaking Snow Leopard, on a Creative excursion through the Upper Himalayas. This journey offers the chance to immerse into the wilderness of Ladakh while exploring its unique bio diversity, culture and history. Below is a sample itinerary. Or reach out to us for a trip, tailored to your needs and interests.

Some of the best experiences are usually the toughest. The region of Ladakh is no exception. While the extreme weather and altitude can be hard for some to acclimatise to, we take every necessary precaution to ensure you have a smooth trip. Our tour coordinators carry portable oxygen cylinders and medication to tackle onset of AMS. And are always at hand to help further.

Creative Travel
Creative Plaza, 283 Udyog Vihar Phase 2, Gurugram, Haryana – 122016, India
Tel: +91-124 4567777
Email: engage@creative.travel
Web: https://creativelyyours.creative.travel/

Italy to hold Design Day in Ha Noi in March

Chairman of the Ha Noi People’s Committee Nguyen Duc
Chung (R) and Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro
at their meeting on January 15
(Photo: hanoimoi.com.vn)

The Italian Embassy in Ha Noi will organise the Italian Design Day, themed ‘future city’, and a seminar on cultural preservation on March 22, according to Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro.

The ambassador revealed the plan at a meeting with Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Nguyen Duc Chung on January 15.

He asked the city administration to facilitate the organisation of the two events, thus ensuring their success.

The diplomat also proposed both sides boost engagements in the planning of the Phu Xuyen urban complex and the urban railway route No3, as well as in activities within the framework of an investment promotion conference between Ha Noi and Italian firms, which is slated for June.

The ambassador appreciated Ha Noi authorities’ support for the embassy’s operations in the past time and expressed hope for more assistance in the future.

Ha Noi is willing to cooperate with Italy and create best condition possible for bilateral cultural exchange and investment activities, stated Chairman Nguyen Duc Chung.

Chung said he hoped the ambassador will work to enhance ties between Viet Nam and Italy in general and betweeen Ha Noi and Italian localities in particular toward effectiveness and practical outcomes.

The municipal leader assigned the Ha Noi Department of Foreign Affairs to discuss specific cooperation plans with the Italian embassy in the coming time.
Source: VNA

2019 Must Have: Queensland

Queensland has dominated 2019 global ‘must-do’ lists, with a swag of high-profile publications listing Queensland destinations amongst the world’s best to experience in 2019:

• Queensland was named Top Honeymoon Destination (International) at India’s Wedding Sutra Honeymoon Awards in late 2018.
• ‘Google’s Year in Search’ revealed the Gold Coast and Queensland made the Top 10 Google searches for ‘flights to’.
• Canada’s top online travel agency, Flight Network’s ‘2019 World's Best Beaches’ list featured Whitehaven Beach in the world’s Top 2 beaches to visit.
• Conde Nast Traveler included Brisbane and the Whitsundays in their 19 Places to Visit in 2019. The New Zealand Herald also ranked the Whitsundays amongst their top ‘Five Beautiful Islands To Set Sail To’.
• Travel+Leisure named Brisbane as a hot 2019 city to experience, while Expedia announced that in 2018 Brisbane was one of the fastest growing global destinations for Americans. 

Queensland's 2019 must visits

Source: teq.queensland.com

Featured accommodation: Soul Community Planet, Colorado Springs

Soul Community Planet (SCP)

Soul Community Planet (SCP) 

has opened its first sustainable hotel, located in Colorado Springs. 

The new property is positioned for visitors seeking eco and wellness breaks, both within the hotel and when exploring the hundreds of nature trails in close proximity. 

Guests can fuel up ahead of a day in the mountains at the hotel’s Provisions Market, which is stocked with wholesome, locally sourced foods and retreat to eco-conscious bedrooms filled with elements made of raw, green materials and upcycled, preloved furniture pieces, whilst enjoying views of Pikes Peak. 

A fitness centre, SCP Fit, is fully equipped for rock climbing, yoga and spin classes, with indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

www.scphotel.com

ABOUT COLORADO TOURISM OFFICE:

Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) is the official travel and tourism office for the state of Colorado. CTO’s mission is to generate traveller spending by promoting Colorado as a four-season, four-corner, world-class travel destination and to develop compelling, sustainable travel experiences. In 2017, Colorado travellers spent $20.9 billion, generating $1.28 billion in local and state revenues and directly supported 171,000 jobs.

Colorado is a year-round destination offering unparalleled adventure and recreational activities, an abundant arts scene, Western heritage, distinctive cuisine and 28 renowned ski resort areas. The state's diverse landscape boasts natural hot springs, the headwaters of four major rivers, numerous peaceful lakes and reservoirs, 12 national parks and monuments and 58 mountain peaks that top 14,000 feet, known as ‘Fourteeners’. www.colorado.com

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR EXHIBITORS NOW OPEN FOR LUXPERIENCE

Exhibiting at Luxperience will give you access to an exclusive invitation-only community.

Eligible travel suppliers are provided with numerous opportunities to establish new connections with highly targeted and stringently pre-qualified buyers from around the world with a portfolio of high-end clients. Expressions of interest are now open. 

Ensure that your destination, property or experience connects with Australia's and the world’s premium luxury buyers. 

More +

CONTACT LUXPERIENCE
Level 2, 346 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
T: +61 2 9275-9200
General Enquiries luxperience@divcom.net.au
Exhibitor Sales & Partnerships exhibit@luxperience.com.au
Buyers Relations buyer@luxperience.com.au
http://luxperience.com.au/

Where to stay and dine in Cambodia

Explore Cambodia in Secret Retreats style Cambodia is a destination that draws you in with the mysteries of its ancient past then charms you with its smiles and hospitality. A diverse landscape of historical ruins, tropical jungles and white-sand beaches, there is much to explore in this corner of Southeast Asia. Here’s where to discover the country with a local touch from Secret Retreats and Secret Tables.

Maisons Wat Kor Nestled in northwestern Battambang, Maisons Wat Kor is an intimate boutique retreat. In town, discover the heart of Khmer culture then, at the hotel, enjoy your eco-friendly guestroom, traditional massage, fine dining and traditional cooking classes. BOOK NOW Samanea Beach Resort Enjoy stunning seascapes and luxury living at Samanea Beach Resort. Adjacent to a mangrove reserve and botanical garden, these beach villas provide the ultimate comfort and relaxation on your holiday of sand, sea, spa and sightseeing. BOOK NOW

Villa Des Palmes A ten-minute walk from the beach through lush tropical vegetation, these charming villas envelop you in pure luxury. Enjoy contemporary design, saltwater infinity pools, plus views of Bokor Mountain and the Gulf of Siam during your stay here in sunny Kep. BOOK NOW 4 Rivers Floating Lodge Reopening December 2018 Step out of your luxury tented villa and plunge into the refreshing Tatai River. Set against the backdrop of the Cardamom Mountains, 4 Rivers Floating Lodge is an eco-retreat with resort-style amenities and sumptuous Cambodian flair. BOOK NOW

The Jahan Discover the Mekong River onboard The Jahan, an elegant British-Indian colonial vessel, sailing between your choice of Siem Reap or Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Three- to seven-night river cruises offer a different perspective into this fascinating region complete with opulent accommodation including cabins with private balconies, a sundeck, spa, observatory lounge, restaurant, outdoor bar and more. BOOK NOW

Heritage Suites & Heritage Tented Camps Enjoy the romance of the ancient Khmer Kingdom and French Colonial charm in Siem Reap. Stay at the boutique Heritage Suites Hotel, just minutes away from Angkor Wat, or enjoy rustic glamour at Heritage Tented Camp situated in the scenic, mountainous north of town. BOOK NOW Mie Cafe Set in a lovely Khmer wooden house, which belonged to the chef’s grandmother, enjoy Cambodian cuisine elevated through French cooking techniques. Chef Siv Pola presents dishes that reflect his personality: generous, low-profile, sensitive and caring. BOOK A TABLE

The Embassy Helmed by a team of top female chefs, The Embassy is bringing back Cambodia’s culinary heritage, an art nearly lost in years of turmoil. Discover seasonal delights and delicacies from the rotating seven-course tasting menu while enjoying the restaurant’s vibrant energy and eclectic style. BOOK A TABLE Chinese House A stunningly restored heritage home of a wealthy Hokkien trader, Chinese House is a bar and restaurant which marries Eastern and Western influences with romantic flair. Sitting in the UNESCO-listed hall or in the garden, savour contemporary Pan-Asian cuisine, fine wines and exciting cocktails.  BOOK A TABLE

Contact the Concierge

to start planning your Asian journey

To learn more about Secret Retreats or to start planning your own journey, please visit www.secret-retreats.com.

NEED HELP ?
Contact the concierge on dream@secret-retreats.com

BOOK