The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is promoting six experiential and artistic travel themes to encourage multi-country trips across Southeast Asia. The themed promotions are component to the implementation of the ASEAN Tourism Business plan 2012-2015.
The themes include: “The Tastes of Southeast Asia,” “ASEAN, a Tropical Paradise,” “World Class Cities,” “Experience Diverse Traditions,” “Sport and Relaxation,” and “Diverse Contemporary Creativity.”
An initial list of 20 tour operators offering the topics in multi-country itineraries at the moment are at the new look ASEAN travel website, www.aseantourism.travel, the official website of ASEAN Tourism. More trips are being added. Website enhancements are underway.
“Our new focus is on experiential and artistic tourism that respects environment and culture,” said Mr. Aung Zaw Win, Director General, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism Myanmar, who’s also Chairman of the ASEAN Tourism Product Development Working Group. “An authentic travel experience involves meaningful engagement with the heritage, arts and special character of our ASEAN destinations,” he said.
Mr Aung Zaw Win urged tour operators in ASEAN countries to develop more multi-country packages highlighting experiential and artistic tourism, which he spoke of was a rising trend among consumers who want ‘authentic’ travel.
“Today’s travellers are more sophisticated and eager about unique experiences with immersion in local ways of life,” he said. “Our role is to therefore support multi-country experiential travel within ASEAN member states.”
To inspire travellers, ASEAN has compiled a chain of features about themes akin to beach, nature and wildlife; cruise tour and rail; culture and heritage; education and volunteering; food and nightlife; fun and leisure; health and spa; outdoor and water sports; and pilgrimage tourism.
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