EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

TOURISM NEWS

WE RESTART TOURISM! GLOBAL TOURISM INSTITUTION GUIDE TO CERTIFICATION AND TOURISM RE-OPENING

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on September 25, 2020 at 7:45 AM

The European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) and the European Tourism Academy ETA) have published a set of recommendations for the certification and safely re-opening of the tourism and travel industry in the age of disruption of COVID-19. 

 


The guidance and certification for hotels and destinations were released as part of a virtual meeting between ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and ETA Director-General Academician Mircea Constantinescu.






During the meeting, both leaders responsible for the development of travel and tourism sector will need to implement new measures, such as the ECTT Certification, fortify knowledge sharing and institute careful plans, to ensure that governments and tourism industries can operate safely in the age of COVID-19.



The Global Tourism Institutions (European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy) ECTT alongside members states, governments, experts, diplomats, tourism developers and other industry associations are working together to achieve effective tourism recovery certifications by developing meaningful action plans and activities that will allow for speedy and global recovery for tourism.

 



Part of our certification efforts includes offering the public & private sectors with the insights & toolkits for interaction & implementation to ensure that people are and feel safe however ECTT, our members and no-one in the travel sector can not guarantee absolute and 100% safety.

 

 

 

 





The Hotel GOOD PRACTICES IN COMBATING COVID-19/SARS COV-2 CERTIFICATION Seal and Plaque will give confidence to your tourists and guests and will restart tourism.





The certification is destined to create a future for the travel industry and tourists alike that is safe, secure, seamless and provides an authentic and meaningful experience to the travelers across their journey`s;

The global tourism certification will support the livelihoods of millions and will contribute to sustainable tourism and economic growth.

 


The certifications are destined to align the private sector behind common standards to ensure the safety of its hospitality workforce and travelers as the sector shifts to normality.

 

 

 


In its first stage, the programme has registered 500 hotels and tourism entities across the globe that are trained and directed towards the completion and obtaining GOOD PRACTICES IN COMBATING COVID-19/SARS COV-2 CERTIFICATION-COVID-19 FREE HOTEL DESIGNATION.

 






Benefits to Certification for Hotels and Destinations-COVID-19 FREE DESIGNATION



The GOOD PRACTICES IN COMBATING COVID-19/SARS COV-2 CERTIFICATION (COVID-19 FREE HOTEL DESIGNATION) is a conformity assessment by one of our premier accredited auditors to show that your hotel or resort or destination meets the requirements of the GOOD PRACTICES IN COMBATING COVID-19/SARS COV-2 CERTIFICATION Standards on disaster and climate resilience.

 



The COVID-19 FREE HOTEL DESIGNATION is based on European Council on Tourism and Trade policies for restarting global tourism, on European Tourism Academy guidelines for combating COVID-19 and on World Health Organization tenents for hotels and tourism destinations in combating COVID-19 and SARS-COV-2.

 



Obtain The GOOD PRACTICES IN COMBATING COVID-19/SARS COV-2 CERTIFICATION and use the Hotel GOOD PRACTICES IN COMBATING COVID-19/SARS COV-2 CERTIFICATION Seal and Plaque and eMarketing material to demonstrate that you ensure guests, regulators and other stakeholders that the highest safety conditions are met.

 



Show your guests or the tourist visiting your country and destination you have gone the extra mile to enhance safety at your destination or hotel to the impacts of COVID-19, climate change, natural disasters, pandemics, and technological hazards.






Solidify your hotel’s or destination presence in the safe travel market and secure your reputation with tour operators, insurers and investors and regulators demonstrating to them in a measurable way that the highest disaster and climate resilience conditions are met.


We will enhance the marketing activities and increase the visibility of our member hotels and destination to better serve the market for safe travel. 

 


Through our partnerships with leading tourism associations and promotional campaigns together with national governments and international organizations, we reach a wide audience interested in safer and more secure travel.

WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020 THEME AND NATIONS CELEBRATED BY EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on September 24, 2019 at 4:15 AM

The official celebrations of World Tourism Day 2020 will be held in Djibouti and Addis Ababa, as decided by the European Council on Tourism and Trade Executive Board.



The event will be structured around a high-level think tank with the aim of opening the debate on the potential of the sector to enhance global cooperation based on tourism and fostering mutual understanding.






 

 

Brussels, Belgium, September 21, 2019-- World Tourism Day 2020 celebrations, held on 27 September, will be focused on Tourism: Building Peace! Fostering Knowledge! stated European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) marking also the fact that: the Day will be dedicated to exploring the contribution of tourism to fostering peace and bringing nations together.


The Autumn 2019 Meeting of European Council on Tourism and Trade and the official celebrations of world tourism had taken place at the headquarters of global tourism institution.



The events had taken place under the leadership of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President and a string of key decisions for tourism and culture future in 2020 had been taken.



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List of world-wide events for celebration of WORLD TOURISM 2020 at European Council on Tourism and Trade:


WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020


BUILDING PEACE! FOSTERING KNOWLEDGE!-WORLD TOURISM DAY THEME


WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020 ON FACEBOOK


DJIBOUTI&ADDIS ABABA MODELS FOR WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020

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The main issues debated where the selection of the 2020 host cities for World Tourism Day at European Council on Tourism and Trade, and the announcement of official theme of the next year tourism celebration for European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade.


This theme will be instrumental also in the selection of new candidates for hosting world tourism awards ceremonies in 2020.



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Main world tourism and culture awards ceremonies slated for 2020:


World Capital of Culture and Tourism


World`s Best Tourist Destination Award


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Addis Ababa, the capital of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and Djibouti city, the capital of The Republic of Djibouti were selected as the official model cities for World Tourism Day celebrations and official hosts of global tourism events.


Both Djibouti and Addis Ababa were in previous years selected as World`s Capital of Culture and Tourism and globally recognized as centers of heritage, tourism and culture.


The city of Addis Ababa had also obtained WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION status in 2015 and hosted the World Tourism Awards ceremonies the same year establishing himself as a powerful tourism and cultural center of Africa.

 

 



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More information on ADDIS ABABA as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM are available here:

ADDIS ABABA-THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM


CEREMONIES FOR ADDIS ABABA-THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM


EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY CONFERENCE FOR ADDIS ABABA


WORLD TOURISM DAY HOST ADDIS ABABA


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Addis Ababa and Djibouti have won the honor to be global examples in the tourism and cultural world for 2020.


On the venue of the same world tourism gathering the WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020 theme was decided to be Tourism: Building Peace! Fostering knowledge!


The theme is destined not only to enliven tourism during 2020, but also to emphasize that tourism must be used as a base for fostering friendship among nations, building peace and supporting cross-border cooperation and development of tourism projects.



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Tourism must be used as a tool to bring peoples and cultures and religions together in building prosperity and development and giving nations a way to rebuild bridges of friendship, in fostering common knowledge and appreciation of cultural and tourism potential and in offering cooperation opportunities in large tourism projects ( Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-ECTT President).



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More information on Djibouti tourism potential and strategy can be extracted from these sources:


DJIBOUTI: WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM


SIX ARGUMENTS THAT BODE WELL FOR DJIBOUTI`S TOURISM FUTURE


WHAT YOU DIDN`T KNOW ABOUT DJIBOUTI


AFRICAN TOURISM ON THE RISE


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Tourism must also be organized in such a manner to foster cultural values to be preserved and knowledge about history and culture, to support raising awareness on historical monuments and to help to acquire the financial support necessary for historical preservation activities situated in disputed lands and borders.

 


Tourism and peace are inseparable, are growing from the same tree: the sapling of culture and civilization.


Peace and safety are at the root of tourism development and tourism must feed and nurture peace and cooperation as leaves are feeding the tree, said Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-global tourism president.


The next year celebration for World Tourism Day will take place in 27/28 September 2020, placing under the spotlight the peace and knowledge as an integral part of tourism growth and role in the sustainable development goals agenda.

 



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The European Council on Tourism and Trade was established as the voice of global tourism and culture for European nations and has gradually evolved since 2005 in the main driver of world tourism development.


It is focused on member countries’ politics and statal agenda in terms of tourism and trade and produces strategies, research and studies on tourism and cultural development implemented worldwide.


Its membership includes state actors, private sector, educational institutions, tourism associations and local tourism authorities.



Official posters for WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020 (European Council on Tourism and Trade)



DJIBOUTI-WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM and host of 2020 WORLD TOURISM DAY

 





ADDIS ABABA -WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM and host of 2020 WORLD TOURISM DAY



 

WORLD TOURISM DAY 2019 DECIDED BY GLOBAL TOURISM INSTITUTIONS

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on November 19, 2018 at 10:40 AM

The global tourism institutions; EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE and EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY had decided the theme, logo and dates and host nations for WORLD TOURISM DAY 2019.


The winners are: Djibouti and Cambodia who seen their capitals: Phnom Penh and Djibouti city nominated as hists of WORLD TOURISM DAY 2019 official celebrations.





The Autumn 2018 Meeting of European Council on Tourism and Trade and the official celebrations for WORLD TOURISM DAY 2018 had taken place at the headquarters of global tourism institution.

 


The events had taken place under the leadership of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President and a string of key decisions for tourism and culture future in 2019 had being taken.

 

 


The main issues debated where the selection of the 2019 host cities for World Tourism Day, and the announcement of official theme of the next year tourism celebration for European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade.


This theme will be instrumental also in the selection of new candidates for hosting world tourism awards ceremonies in 2019.

 



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Main world tourism and culture awards ceremonies slated for 2019:


World Capital of Culture and Tourism


World`s Best Tourist Destination Award

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Phnom Penh, the capital of Kingdom of Cambodia and Djibouti city, the capital of The Republic of Djibouti were selected as the official model cities for World Tourism Day celebrations and official hosts of global tourism events.

 






Both Djibouti and Phnom Penh where in previous years selected as World`s Capital of Culture and Tourism and globally recognized as centers of heritage, tourism and culture.


The city of Phnom Penh has also obtained WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION status in 2016 and hosted the World Tourism Awards ceremonies the same year establishing himself as a powerful tourism and cultural center of Indochina.


 



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Phnom Penh-the new WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

Read more:


THE GUIDE AROUND PHNOM PENH


PHNOM PENH: THE CITY OF WATERS!


A VISIT TO PHNOM PENH! HIGHLIGHT OF A PERFECT CITY!


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Cambodia and Djibouti have won the honor to be global examples in the tourism and cultural world for 2019.

 

 






On the venue of the same event the WORLD TOURISM DAY 2019 theme was decided to be History and Tourism: A symbiotic relation!


The theme is destined not only to enliven tourism during 2019, but also to emphasize that tourism is inextricably linked with historical legacy.


History is the main attraction that is creating tourism demand and visitors expectation is linked with the existence of historical and cultural heritage.

 



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More information on Djibouti tourism potential and strategy can be extracted from these sources:


DJIBOUTI: WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM


SIX ARGUMENTS THAT BODE WELL FOR DJIBOUTI`S TOURISM FUTURE


WHAT YOU DIDN`T KNOW ABOUT DJIBOUTI


AFRICAN TOURISM ON THE RISE

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Tourism must also be organized in such a manner to not impede conservation efforts, to support raising awareness on historical monuments and to help to acquire the financial support necessary for historical preservation activities.





 

Tourism and history are inseparable, are growing from the same tree: the sapling of culture and civilization.

 


History is the root of tourism development and tourism must feed and nurture historical preservation as leaves are feeding the tree said Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-global tourism president.




The next year celebration for World Tourism Day will take place in 27 September 2019, placing under the spotlight the culture and civilization as an integral part of tourism growth and role in the sustainable development goals agenda.

 

 


About GLOBAL TOURISM INSTITUTION


The European Council on Tourism and Trade was established as the voice of global tourism and culture for European nations and has gradually evolved since 2005 in the main driver of world tourism development.


It is focused on member countries’ politics and statal agenda in terms of tourism and trade and produces strategies, research and studies on tourism and cultural development implemented worldwide.


Its membership includes state actors, private sector, educational institutions, tourism associations and local tourism authorities.

PRESIDENT PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA SIGNED THE NEW CHARTA FOR GLOBAL AMBASSADORS ON TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on November 19, 2017 at 10:55 AM

WORLD TOURISM DAY 2018 celebration was decided to be held universally on September 27 2018 and the official theme will be TOURISM: PROTECTING CULTURE AND HERITAGE!


Another decision was to continue until 2030 the world level program of GLOBAL AMBASSADORS FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.


These where the executive decisions taken by European Council on Tourism and Trade leadership on the Word Tourism Day celebrations.

 


Celebrated worldwide since 1980, World Tourism Day at European Council on Tourism and Trade is commemorated usually at the end of September each year and hosted in the capital of the country crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION OF THE YEAR.

 


The official ceremonies for WORLD TOURISM DAY have taken place in the presence of President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and having in observance members of European Council on Tourism (ECTT) and Trade, European Tourism Academy, diplomatic corps accredited to ECTT and members of PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDG).





In the opening ceremonies for the World Tourism Day Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has made the long-awaited announcement: The Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals programme will continue in the next year.





ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea signs the decree to continue to the Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals programme onto the next period.




As a result of the demands coming from leaders, statesman`s and peerless world personalities involved in the carving of new development strategies and in implementing United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda we have taken the decision to further implement the program and to entrust the European Council on Tourism and Trade and PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS SDG to continue the implementation of the program in the years to come.

 




The new logo of a Parliamentary Assembly for Sustainable Development Goals.





On the same occasion Professor Dr. Anton Caragea announced the good news that: the international Campaign for the implementation of 2030 Agenda of United Nations, known worldwide as SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AGENDA, in the work of parliaments across the world has reached a first milestone, only after a year of existence, with the support of 262 parliamentarians from 22 national parliaments.

 


Now with this threshold passed, the Parliamentary Assembly for SDG`s, is now endorsed across party lines, ideologies and national agenda`s by more than 262 current members of parliament from over 22 countries.

 


The creation of a Parliamentary Assembly for SDG`s in the UN framework for world cooperation in the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals that was signed by the lawmakers calls for “a gradual implementation of Sustainable Development Goals in all national and local parliaments and elected assemblies agenda creating a global synergy for world level campaign aimed at bringing to life the SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AGENDA”



The role of Parliamentary Assembly for SDG`s is “to ensure international cooperation, secure the acceptance and to enhance the legitimacy of the United Nations SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AGENDA and strengthen the elected representatives ( parliamentarians) capacity to act and to be more effectively and directly included into the activities of implementing and financing the programs related to SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AGENDA.”



“This is an important milestone,” remarked Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, the Parliamentary Assembly for SDG`s Executive President and campaign’s coordinator.

 


“The support of a UN Parliamentary Assembly for SDG`s by such a broad group of parliamentarians from all the world’s regions shows once again that it is high time for the SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AGENDA to be recognized as paramount for world development,” he concluded.

 


“If it comes to democratizing the SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AGENDA and to insure global cooperation, than the Parliamentary Assembly for SDG`s is the venue for a technical and democratic debate, said Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 


“The SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AGENDA would benefit from involving elected representatives in its deliberations. After all, in many cases it’s them who are needed to help implement UN policy at the national level, especially if it comes to the Agenda 2030,” said Mr. Catalin Nechifor from Parliamentary Assembly for SDG`s .

 


On this momentous occasion the new logo of the Parliamentary Assembly for SDG`s was unveiled by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, the Executive President.



We must note that: apart from members of parliaments, the campaign has also been endorsed by numerous former members of parliaments, distinguished scholars, cultural innovators, representatives of civil society organizations, and many committed citizens from all walks of life.

 


European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy had created and pioneered the PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS SDG`s uniting world parliaments in the efforts to implement in their work and legislation measures dedicated to bring to life SDG in every nation.

 


European Tourism Academy is the only world academy that is offering SDG based courses and curriculum based on role of culture and development in carving a new and better future for as all.

 


More information’s about the Parliamentarian Assembly for Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals can be read out on UN-SDG site here:

 


Supplementary information regarding the World Lectures on SDG can be obtained from official website

GRANDIOSE CELEBRATION OF EUROPE DAY

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on May 17, 2017 at 5:15 AM

Building on a successful cooperation on last year’s Europe Day, the European Tourism Academy supported the EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE(ECTT) to organize the Europe Day on Tuesday , 9 May 2017.



2017 EUROPE DAY reception has enjoyed a massive participation and the launch of new partnerships for European Council on Tourism and Trade with DALI HAUTE PARFUMERIE.



The reception was attended by over 1000 people from including prominent guests such as government representatives, diplomatic corps in Bucharest, business leaders, academia, and the media.


The celebration started with the Europe anthem “Ode to Joy”. H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , the Head of ECTT/ Ambassador welcomed the attendees with a brief speech followed by European Tourism Academy Director , Academician Mircea Constantinescu.

 



Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , the Head of ECTT/ Ambassador welcomes Korean delegation to EUROPE DAY festivities.


 

The ceremony was officially opened with the traditional cake-cutting by President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea together with Academician Mircea Constantinescu, and High Commissioner for Tourism, Mr. Mark Doda as well as all ECTT accredited ambassadors in Bucharest.


EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE(ECTT ) and European Tourism Academy , in cooperation with its partners would like to thank all the sponsors and European embassies by giving a great contribution to make Europe Day Reception as a memorable celebration of Europe and ECTT accomplishments.



Welcoming the guests for EUROPE DAY 2017


On the fringes of the celebrations and reception was launched the BEST OF EUROPE/BEST OF THE WORLD program promoting the best products and lifestyle goods from across Europe and the world.


The first company to be enrolled in the product promotion and universal recognition of value was COFINLUXE and DALI HAUTE PERFUMERIE, the creator of WORLD FAVORITE PERFUME for 2017.


Others followed suit like: wine and champagne and sparkling wine producers registered in the fallowing days (European Diplomatic Wine`s partners like HOUSE OF PANCIU who unveiled for you the best European sparkling wines and HOUSE OF WINES COTNARI).



EUROPE at 60! A GOOD YEAR TO CELEBRATE!


The European Council on Tourism and Trade had hosted the formal reception at European Tourism Academy Headquarters on May 9 from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.


Invitees lists included ministers, members of Parliament, justices, senior officials, members of the diplomatic crop, representatives of international and regional organizations and of the civil society, media, development partners and representatives of the private sector.







More Pr about EUROPE DAY EVENT can be found here:


PHOTO JOURNAL OF EUROPE DAY


DALI HAUTE PARFUMERIE-OFFICIAL PARTENER


DALI HAUTE PARFUMERIE-WORLD FAVORITE PERFUME

TABACALERA PALMA RECEIVES THE PRIZE FOR TOURISM AND WORLD FAVORITE CIGARS PRODUCER FOR 2017

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on May 11, 2017 at 6:35 AM

European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) hosted on May 10, 2017 the first ever European Cigars Exhibition in Brussels with the aim of bringing together the European cigars lovers with world top cigar producers.




 

La Galera 80th Anniversary Limited Edition was declared WORLD FAVORITE CIGAR FOR 2017.




As Europe emerges out of the crisis, we must not forget that our continent is the main consumer of cigars in the world and cigar is part of the lifestyle and joie de vivre that is representative of our continent.


Europe must influence, educate and leverage his financial and taste on world cigars community.


Be spoke in a word! (Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-ECTT President opening speech).





TABACALERA PALMA representative receives the FAVORITE CIGAR IN THE WORLD from Mrs. Ruxandra Leonte, Director of European Cigar Exhibition.



On the meeting agenda was also on the most sought after moment: tasting of world’s best cigars deemed as representative for a cigars aficionados paradise.


The winner was unanimously branded as La Galera 80 years anniversary limited edition crowned as Favorite Cigar for 2017 and Tabacalera Palma from Dominican Republic.



Dominican Republic cigars and tobacco product arouse a strong interests being labeled as powerful and interesting and eliciting also interest from tour operators interested in carving tourism and cigar tasting programmes.


If Dominican Republic took the podium with Tabacalera Palma and La Galera as World Favorite Cigar, Nicaraguan products also fired up the world’s attention followed closely by Cuban and a host of small Mexico and Brazil producers.




The Director of European Cigars Exhibition in Brussels, Mrs. Ruxandra Leonte stated: We hope to make the Cigars Exhibition a yearly event representative for world producers and European consumers and also support a tourism products based on tobacco discovery as we already have at world level well established and running wine tourism tours.


I congratulate the winners of this year edition of World’s Favorite Cigar producer Tabacalera La Palma and wish everybody to taste the magic La Galera cigars blended by talented and energetic Jochy- José Arnaldo Blanco III and his team.





Pavel Avramoiu, hotel and hospitality delegate also praised the initiative: representing a chain of 80 luxury hotels across the world, the opportunity to meet in one place the most important representatives of cigar industry is priceless. I also concur to the strong showing of Palma Tabacalera and Dominican Republic cigars and I hope we will soon have La Galera collection in our hotels.



About TABACALERA PALMA



 


Tabacalera Palma’s emergence predates to the mid 19th century, when a Spaniard named José Manuel Blanco Lozada moves to the Dominican Republic and pursues the trade of tropical fruits and tobacco.


José Arnaldo Blanco II established Tabacalera Palma back in 1925 and filed for industrial registration in 1936, becoming one of the first cigar manufacturers in the Dominican Republic. By 1960, ‘La Palma’ had developed to have around 200 full time rollers generating cigars for the local market.


Today the family business is lead into a new adventure by José Arnaldo Blanco III, affectionately known to all as “Jochy”, who is the current owner and CEO of Tabacalera Palma.


Tabacalera Palma is a vibrant enterprise with a positive impact to the community. Not only does the company contribute with the direct employment of many citizens, but commits with society by supporting existing charities like the Firemen Patronage, the Orphanage of Tamboril, several sports organizations, amongst others.

 

The company employs more than 350 persons on site, more than 70% of them being women, indirectly employing more than 1,500 with all of the operations.



JOSE Jochy BLANCO – owner of TABACALERA PALMA and the man who put Dominican cigars on world map.


Jochy devotes unconditional support towards small and independent growers in the communities where Tabacalera Palma operates, as well as portraying a partnership in the state of the art tobacco farm “Estancia Flor de Palma”, with the world-renowned cigar maker Litto Gomez from La Flor Dominicana.


Some of the finest tobacco in the world is produced here, from the flavorful fillers and the delightful binders, to the exquisite wrappers of the uttermost quality.


Ever since Mr. Blanco assumed the role of CEO in Tabacalera Palma, the company has developed numerous private labels for some of the leading cigar companies in the world.


Additionally, Tabacalera Palma. has developed and improved tobacco growing, harvesting, curing and processing techniques, ideal factors that compliment the high performance of the cigars.


To order the WORLD FAVORITE CIGARS FROM TABACALERA PALMA you can contact the factory here:



WINE AND TOURISM PROGRAM BY ECTT LAUNCHED ON WINE TOURISM DAY

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on May 2, 2017 at 6:30 AM

For 18000 years, wine grapes have been cultivated in Europe this is how European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea started the ceremonies for Wine Tourism Day.


 

Europe is marked down by historians and archaeologists alike together with the Middle East in the greater the Mediterranean region under the sobriquet of “Cradle of Wine”,

 


From immemorial times wine tourism has being recognized as a center of tourism and tourist attractions.

 

The first recollection of wine as a driving force for tourism comes from Roman Republic and later Roman Empire when roman citizens where regularly heading towards Campagna province and Naples to taste the wine and discover the regions.


 

In today world wine is recognized as an essential segment of the tourism industry.

 

 

 




Authorities and companies from wine regions and tourism destinations have realized that the benefits of wine tourism extend well beyond the cellar door to all areas of the regional economy.


 

In a new concept carved-out by European Council on Tourism and Trade we blended history, wine, food, tourism and the arts in order to create the core elements of the wine tourism product experience.

 


This program was presented as a lifestyle package for world-wide wine tourists in the framework of EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE IIIrd BUCHAREST WINE EXHIBITION (29 March April 3rd 2017).

 


The Bucharest held WINE EXHIBITION presented a perfect occasion for wine lovers and tourism wine aficionados to meet the best of what world and European wine industry has to offer.

 




The first day of the conference was destined to the presentation of tourism packages and tourism destinations from across the world and in the second day the heart of the tourism wine: wine itself was appreciated and tasted.


 

On the second day of the International Wine Fair, the diplomats accredited to European Council on Tourism and Trade, representing countries well branded as wine importers, had made a stop over to the diplomatic partner stand: DOMENIILE PANCIU, the creator of European flagship wines: EUROPEAN DIPLOMATIC WINE.

 




On the spot, the foreign dignitaries were greeted not only with good wine but also with sparkling wine that open the appetite for discussions and made the guest inquire more about the legendary land of Vrancea, a Romanian Champagne look a like.


 

PANCIU DOMAINS (DOMENIILE PANCIU) is the new name under which the Vrancea winemaker`s from CASA PANCIU (HOUSE OF PANCIU) has decided to conquer the world with the new phenomenon of sparkling wines.

 


The new names highlighted on the international sparkling wines market are: Blanc de Blancs and Cuvée Prestige, both commercialized on limited editions, available only on HORECA and specialized wine stores.

 


The diplomats on the venue requested an opening of the tasting with the famous Cuvée Prestige and the PANCIU DOMAINS representative acknowledge the request and started a detailed presentation of the new and enticing sparkling wine.

 




To achieve a perfect balanced and special sparkling wine: Domeniile Panciu Cuvée Prestige, the winemaker`s blended in the perfect XVII century tradition of Dom Perignon wines from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and for a touch of modernity added some Fetească Regală (Royal Girl).


 

The sparkling wine is fully complying with the world known classic recipe of Dom Perignon, the friar who invented the perfect fizzy wine.

 


The magnificent beverage is the result of bottled secondary fermentation coupled with special cave maturation during 18 months and disgorging „à la volée” (without bottle refrigeration) that is fully preserving the exceptional flavor and created a sparkling wine of amazing quality and benefiting the uniqueness of Panciu area terroir.

 


The colour is yellowish and with pastry flavour that is transforming slowly in a after-taste of honey and dried fruits.

 


The specialized tasters are describing the palate as profound and rich with aromas of dried apricot, roasted nuts and a pinch of tropical fruits that evolves in a after-taste long-lasting and reinvigorating that is making us day dreaming on fines french pastry.

 


The second beverage on the tasting list, a result of the legendary Vrancioaia son`s ability, was Blanc de Blancs (the french for: White of Whites).

 




Here also, the spokesperson for DOMENIILE PANCIU has quite some stories to tell with good measure to do so as Blanc de Blancs is considered the most refined of all the sparkling wines ever created with classic methods.


 

 

On the account of the specificity of the land (terroir) of Panciu vineyard, the wine used to make the sparkling wine has developed unique capabilities unmatched in the world, specific to the high acidity lands.

 


The bottle fermentation and ageing process, in special conditions for a period of over 18 months, are bringing to the glasses a special aromatic sparkling wine, full of palates ranging from of lily of the valley, white flower fields and lime, all surrounded in discrete mineral aroma and flavour of freshly baked bread out of the oven.

 


The specialized tasters are describing the taste as fresh and balanced with a mixed of green apples, asian pear, roasted nuts and pomelo.

 


The Royal Vineyard of DOMENIILE PANCIU by HOUSE OF PANCIU are heading towards a bright future and the new creations outlined for 2017: Blanc de Blancs and Cuvée Prestige are entering in the highest luxury category of sparkling wines.

 


This by tacking into account factors like: aroma, classic methods used in creating them, incomparable craftmanship of Panciu winemaker`s and incredible aroma of the wines used.

 




Joyful atmosphere and pleasant wine tasting at diplomatic visit to DOMENIILE PANCIU (PANCIU DOMAINS stand).



 

Concluding the tasting session, the diplomats present on the venue stated in one voice that: sparkling and still wines of DOMENIILE PANCIU (PANCIU DOMAINS) are an illustration of all that is best in European wine-making, on equal footing with once famous French sparkling wines.

 

The event convened over 2000 participants, including representatives from the Ministries, Destination Management Organizations (DMOS), Destination Marketing Organizations, National Tourism Organizations (NTOS), and wine and tourism experts from 20 countries.


 

More PR and news about EUROPEAN DIPLOMATIC WINE can be read out here:

 


EUROPEAN DIPLOMATIC WINE


 

HOW IS MADE EUROPEAN DIPLOMATIC WINE-VIDEO


 

TOURISM AND WINE


 

WINE TASTING


 

EUROPEAN TOURISM COUNCIL SELECTS BEST EUROPEAN WINES

EUROPE DAY RECEPTION HOSTED BY ECTT PRESIDENT

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on May 2, 2017 at 6:20 AM

Europe Day is the EU’s official day to celebrate peace and unity in Europe.



The date marks the anniversary of the historical ‘Schuman declaration’, which set out the French foreign minister’s idea for a new form of political cooperation in Europe.

 


It is considered to be the beginning of what is now the European Union.

 


To celebrate this day, the European Council on Tourism and Trade organize an elegant and high-profile evening reception, which brings together the members from the German, Spanish, Dutch, Finnish, Swedish, Danish, French and Italian European Council on Tourism and Trade delegations.

 


Building on a successful cooperation on last year’s Europe Day, the European Council on Tourism and Trade teamed up once again with the European Tourism Academy, European Council on International Relations to organize the Europe Day Reception 2017 at the EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY headquarter on Tuesday, 9 May 2017.

 

 



European Council on Tourism and Trade Europe`s Day reception in 2016 was a perfect networking event.


 


This event was followed by a diverse two-weeks programme of social-cultural activities for all ages, taking place throughout the same weeks in the city.


 

On the occasion of the 9 May celebration a new program to support European companies promotion and awareness building across the world will be unveiled, the program named BEST OF EUROPE will highlight the main products made in Europe that are unmatched across the world and can be used as real vectors of image for Europe incredible potential.

 


The program will be presented for the diplomatic corps accredited to European Council on Tourism and Trade by the Council President, Professor Dr.Anton Caragea.

 


The Europe Day Reception is a celebration but also a perfect opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the European community comprising EU and non-EU member countries, giving the opportunity to all guests to celebrate the deep commercial, cultural, political and historical links between the countries of European continent.

EUROPEAN COUNCIL FOR TOURISM WILL CONTRIBUTE TO A NEW WORLD DIRECTION OF DEVELOPMENT

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on October 11, 2016 at 2:55 PM

European Council on Tourism and Trade had started working in garnering the National Parliaments and National Assemblies across the world in a functional assembly dedicated to fostering international cooperation for the completion of Agenda for Development 2030, universally known as Sustainable Development Goals.


  

In the end of 2015 United Nations announced the new world objectives for development and growth for all nations by 2030 under the name of Sustainable Development Goals.

 


17 Objectives aims to make a better world and parliamentarians across the world are invited to place their voice in the balance.


 

 

The new 17-odd goals are aiming to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all, as part of a new world development agenda.

 


In order to fulfil this objectives, Parliaments across the world are called upon to bring their support and to enact legislation encouraging nations in the fulfilment of the 17 SDG`s.

 

 


The European Council on Tourism and Trade as a world institution is deeply involved and decided to act responsabile in constructing the Parliamentarian Assembly for Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (Parliaments Assembly).


 

 

The Parliamentarian Assembly for Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals will garner support from national parliaments across the world, interested in bringing world agenda for development in their national legislations and contribute to the international and global development and fulfilling the United Nations Agenda.

 

 


The first reunion of Parliamentarian Assembly for Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals will be held in at European Council on Tourism and Trade Bucharest Headquarter in December 2017, and will bring together, under the message of bringing to life the vaunted SDG Platform, the leaders of Parliaments and National Assemblies across the world.

 

 




European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had stated for UN Sustainable Development publication that: he accepted the task to coordinate in the first five years the initiative, benefiting from his long-established role and expertise in uniting and engaging national legislators and make them involved in the implementation of development issues.


 

After the five years preparatory phase, will be created a Governing Body of advisors that includes MPs from National Parliaments and other experts to guide and effectively implement the programmes, concluded Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-ECTT President.

 

 


In another statement for WORLD TOURISM Magazine, ECTT President announced that his top priority will be to garner a high level team of MP`s, Prime Ministers and President`s dedicated to world development and implementation of Sustainable Development Goals to lead the humanity in the right direction.


 

 

Supplimentary information`s on the work started by European Council on Tourism and Trade in offering to the world a direction for development you can discover here:

 

 


More information’s about the Parliamentarian Assembly for Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals can be read out on UN-SDG site accessible here:

PRESIDENT PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA NOMINATED AS GOODWILL AMBASSADOR FOR KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on September 5, 2016 at 3:45 PM

A new recognition of paragon and polymath role of H.E. President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had come upon his appointment as Goodwill Ambassador for Kingdom of Cambodia.


THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE has announced that H.E. President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had graciously accepted the charge of GOODWILL AMBASSADOR OF KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA, encharged with the promotion of Kingdom rich cultural and historical heritage in the world.


 

This will not be the only appointment of this kind, by the end of 2017, President Dr. ANTON CARAGEA will become also ambassador of diverse countries representing each continent of the world.



 


Embarking in his new activity as WORLD TOURISM PROMOTER AND CULTURAL AMBASSADOR, H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea accepted his appointment as Ambassador for Kingdom of Cambodia and will accept similar positions from a host of countries from Asia, Africa, South and North America and Europe in order to achieve a universal coverage of the most impressive countries in terms of cultural heritage, tourism potential and give tourism a world wide span and in order to insure the perfect neutrality of his high office as President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

 



Professor Dr. Anton Caragea receives the official appointment news from H.E. Academician HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia (to the left of the image, the Credential`s letter of the Kingdom Global Ambassador-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea).


 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had agreed to accept the role of Global Ambassador for Kingdom of Cambodia and will start the activities on the occasion of WORLD TOURISM DAY on 27 September 2016.


 

On July 15th 2016, the Royal Government of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia had proclaimed that on: the virtue of his constitutional prerogatives had approved the appointment of His Excellency Professor Dr. Anton Caragea as Kingdom first global ambassador.

 


The role of the Ambassador office will be to contribute to the promotion of the cultural and tourism profile of the Kingdom, with all the rights, prerogatives and obligations conferred upon the role of Ambassador.

 


The appointment come in well deserved recognition of the cultural and tourism world level promotion activities implemented with outstanding success by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.


 

On August 30, 2016 , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had announced that he accepted the task to internationally represent the Kingdom of Cambodia.

 


The Kingdom of Cambodia represents a world example for cultural protection of a patrimony vital for humanity: the heritage of Khmer Empire.

 


On the point of view of importance and significance of historical patrimony Cambodia is part of a very selective circle that encompass no more than 10 nations on world level from the point of view of cultural significance.Cambodia is also benefiting from an impressive natural patrimony, that come as a completion of my mandate, started in 2011, as World Ambassador for World Protected Areas and National Parks, so the two actions can be competed together, stated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 


Amongst the first actions toping the agenda of the new Ambassador we can highlight: the launch a world-wide campaign to promote the paragon role of Cambodia`s cultural and historical heritage, giving a new impetus of economic, tourism and cultural connections between European countries and the Kingdom of Cambodia and carving a program of cultural and ecological investments in sustainable agricultural projects in silk and rice farms in Cambodia.


 


KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA IS UNIVERSALLY RECOGNIZED AS FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on September 1, 2016 at 7:15 AM

On 22 June 2016, the world tourism community had celebrated the world level achievers in tourism and culture in a glittering display hosted by the Peace Palace, in Phnom Penh.


On this felicitous momentum for world tourism, the Kingdom of Cambodia was officially crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and universally acclaimed as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016.


The ceremony reunited the alph and omega of world tourism and offered renewed expectation for the tourism development in the next years.


The event had concluded the official visit of World Tourism Institutes delegations in the country.

 



The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, had led an official delegation representing the World Tourism Institutes: European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade to a tour of Kingdom of Cambodia cultural and historical patrimony, in order to evaluate the country destiny as a tourism power house in Indochina region.

 

 


Prime Minister of The Kingodm of Cambodia, Academician Dr. HUN SEN held up high the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION certificate.

 

For all the world to see !


 

The visit of the world tourism representatives had taken place between 15 and 25 June 2016, offering them the possibility to evaluate the tourism and cultural potential of the Kingdom of Cambodia – country declared FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016.


 

The representatives of World Tourism Institution – European Council on Tourism and Trade started their familiarization trip in the country, in the famous province of Siem Reap, home of famous Angkor temples and palaces.


 


 

The head of European Council on Tourism and Ttrade, President Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea and his delegates receiving a replica of Jayavarman the VII-Emperor of Angkor statue from Chairman of Siem Reap Province Mr. Nou Phalla.


 

The visit of European high level delegates to Siem Reap was accompanied by the diligent staff of Minister of Tourism of Cambodia and the Chairman of Siem Reap Province Mr. Nou Phalla.


 

A dense and perfectly carved cultural program presented the main attractions of the regions like: the world-famous architectural treasures of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the incredible magnificent construction of Bayon temple, the rich views of the red temple of Banteay Srei and the cosmic images of a vegetation invaded temple at Ta Prohm.

 



 

The magnificent Temple of TA PROHM.

 

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- President of European Council on Tourism and Trade had voiced his enthusiasm for the province cultural and historical potential in no uncertain terms: Angkor is the place where God`s and Kings, together, build not only a powerful kingdom, not only a long-lost way of life, but another understanding of the role and potential of human civilization.


 

The builders of Angkor proved to us, that the humanity knows no boundaries, no limitation in constructing kingdoms with no equal under the sun.

 


Siem Reap is the house of every person who appreciates civilization and a must see in a life time, concluded his press statement ECTT President. 




President Dr. Anton Caragea outlines the simple truth: Siem Reap is the house of all who love culture!

 

 

On 17 June, a special dinner was offered to the delegates by the office of Governor of Siem Reap Province.


 

During the celebratory feast, an ample array of music, cultural tradition and costumes from the region was displayed for the high guests.

 


The next leg of the journey in the magic Kingdom of Cambodia was the familiarization trip around Phnom Penh. 


The Cambodia`s capital meet the delegates with a perfect sky line, with the astonishing atmosphere of a bustling Southern Asian city and with incredible aroma, mixing monsoon air with mango and jasmine flowers, a secret aroma that only Phnom Penh has the mastery off.

 


The visit included a tour of the Wat Phnom, a discovery trip to the hustle and bustle of Central Market, a must stop at Phsar Tuol Tom Pong better known as Russian Market and a bird’s eye view of the awe-inspiring city monuments like: Independence Monument, the new governmental quarter of Peace Palace etc.

 




Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. A stand-alone point in the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visit to Cambodia`s Capital.



 

Phnom Penh also presented to the enchanted visitors, the gem of the city: the Royal Palace, a long lay over where the European delegates took the time to admire the Audience room, the palace grounds, the palace gardens, the ballet and concert hall, the administration rooms, the museum of royal regalia and paid respects to the funerary stupa`s of former Kings of Cambodia.


 

 

A moment of silence was observed for the stupa of the latest king of Cambodia, Norodom Sihanuk, the king who was in the same time: cineaste, prime minister, party leader, king, prince, television and show man and has put his imprint on Cambodia`s XX century story.

 



H.E. Pak Sokhom, Deputy Minister of Tourism warmly welcomes European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation at Phnom Penh Airport.

 

 

The former capital of XVII to XIX century Cambodia, the city of Udong, has also received the world tourism high delegates, who took time to explore the Buddha Temple, the stupa`s of King Monivong and the ensemble of temples and Buddhist learning institutes on the ground and admired the ample view from Udong mountain.

 


The European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates also attended a host of important meeting with the government staff, with an ample dialogue at Minister of Tourism of Cambodia together with H.E. Minister Dr. Thong Khon.

 


An ample program of exchanges and continuous support was established with specialists from European Council on Tourism and Trade offering expertise for a development master plan, for an eco-system protection area law and to establish a tourism institute and tourism training facilities on the Kingdom in order to meet the ever-increasing needs of tourism and hospitality expertise for the tourism industry of the Kingdom.

 


Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, in his capacity of World Ambassador for Natural Protected Areas was also requested to assist the Kingdom in drafting a natural areas and natural parks conservation law at international standards.

 


The meeting, with the able and competent personal of Minister of Tourism was especially a pleasurable one.


 

Dr. Thong Khon, Tourism Minister of Cambodia was specially praised by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea for his vision and astute policies and devotion to the country development, under the glowing leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN. 




 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade is congratulating Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Kingdom of Cambodia for long-standing efforts in promoting the country tourism potential.



 

The most important political moment, in European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia, was the meeting of the delegates headed by H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea with H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo – Dr. HUN SEN.


 

 

During the leaders conversation, the long history of Cambodia renaissance in XXI century, under the able leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN was warmly evoked.

 



Discussing the future of Cambodia and world tourism: leaders of world tourism at the same table: H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and H.E. Minister Thong Khon and their teams.

 

 

President Anton Caragea remarked that we are in the presence of a historical leader, of a person who rebuild it Cambodia from zero to hero status, and was always a symbol of the country resistance.


 

On 22 June 2016, the official ceremonies of handover of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD insignia to the highest representative of people and government of Cambodia: H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN has taken place on the venue of Peace Palace in Phnom Penh.

 



Cambodia is FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016 announces H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea.



 

Congratulatory speeches were presented by Minister of Tourism of Cambodia-Dr. Thong Khon, ECTT President- Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, and European Tourism Academy-Academician Mircea Constantinescu.


 

The official acceptance allocution was delivered, on behalf of people of Cambodia by H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN.

 




 

Cambodia is entrusted with WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION title for a year.


 

The first part of ceremonies concluded with the official world recognition of Dr. HUN SEN, for his life work for the people of Cambodia and for international community as a WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT and the official handover of the ACADEMICIAN status regalia to Samdech HUN SEN by the Academician Mircea Constantinescu.

 




A new world leader in tourism and development: H.E. Academician Dr. HUN SEN- Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo-Prime Minister of Cambodia.


 

The second part of the ceremonies dedicated to enfeoffment of Cambodia as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016, took place in the presence of the Royal Government of Cambodia, on 22 June 2016 and offered a magical display of the kingdom bounty of cultural and artistic treasures.


 

Tourism presentation movies, highlighting Cambodia`s unrivalled riches were interspersed with modern music and with universal values dances like: ASPARA dances (UNESCO immaterial heritage), Rice harvest dance, magic flowers dance etc, that put at the fore the riches and plentifulness of Cambodia srok Khmer, Khmer nation potential.

 



APSARA dances for FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION and WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION 2016 awards ceremonies.


 

President Dr. Anton Caragea remarked in his speech that: In our decision to crown the diamond of Asia: Cambodia as World Best Tourist Destination, we did not forget for a moment that we are not encouraging people to go in strange and un-familiar place.


 

No, we are just telling them to discover a people, world-renowned for his hospitality, familiarity and openness to strangers: the Khmer people!

 


They will make you feel that you are rediscovering your home, that you are finding long-lost friends and families, that you are visiting you abode-Cambodia.

 



European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates together with Cambodia`s Minister of Tourism team on the stage of WORLD BEST TOURISM AWARDS ceremony.



 

The visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates offered, to the Kingdom of Cambodia, a perfect occasion to display to the world community the cultural values, the historical patrimony, the traditions and costumes of the Khmer people, placing the country among the nation’s most endowed with a perfect touristic and human potential that must be the base for a future development of Cambodia: The KINGDOM OF WONDERS – WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION FOR 2016. 




Apsara dance for Cambodia-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 

(Phnom Penh-22 June 2016)

 



Cambodia-World Favorite Cultural Destination 2016

 

ROYAL CAMBODIAN BALET enthralled viewers attending WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARDS for 2016.



 

ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea on the platform of Cambodia-Favorite Cultural Destination with Royal Opera from Phnom Penh

 

President Dr. Anton Caragea and Minister Thong Khon are offering congratulations to the outstanding performers on WORLD TOURISM AWARDS show.



  

World Tourism Institution President and Prime Minister of Cambodia-Dr. HUN SEN

 

Prime Minister of Cambodia: Academician HUN SEN, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei techo and President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-European Council on Tourism and Trade.

 



 

H.E. Pak Sokhom – Deputy Minister of Tourism takes a photo with actors and singers on the stage of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION for 2016: Kingdom of Cambodia.

 



 

H.E. Tourism Minister Thong Khong on the venue of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for 2016.



 

World Tourism Institution President-Professor Dr. Anton on the venue of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION ceremony

 

H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea on the venue of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for 2016.


VIDEOS AND MUSIC OF WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY 2016-PHNOM PENH


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DISCOVER EUROPE SUMMER 2016 PROGRAM BY EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on August 25, 2016 at 3:25 PM

A group of diplomats from nine countries, officialy accredited to European Council on Tourism and Trade, travelled from Bucharest to Tulcea and from there to Danube Delta from August 20-25 to explore the rich natural patrimony of the grassland during the Europe Cultural Discovery Tour initiated by H.E. President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 



H.E. President Anton Caragea welcomed by Mr. Mihai Puflene Chairman of PUFLENE RESORT and Danube Delta expert.

 

The 2016 Summer Diplomatic Trip has brought together diplomats officialy accredited to European Council on Tourism and Trade.

 

The Summer Trip for Diplomats, a yearly event, hosted by The European Council on Tourism and Trade has taken place between 20-25 August 2015, in the framework of DISCOVER EUROPE program.

 



PUFLENE RESORT Complex was the generous host of 2016 Summer Diplomatic Trip


 

The DISCOVER EUROPE program is aimed at giving an opportunity for diplomats posted in Europe to get acquainted with new areas of our continent, to familiarize themselves with the rich customs and traditions of diverse regions of Europe and to also enjoy themselves in a few days of active relaxation.


 


Diplomats preparing for Danube Delta trip


This year our main destination and that of the nine ambassadors and their families, invited for the cruise, was Danube Delta, tell us Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade and we have many reasons for our decision to select Danube Delta as our destination.

 



 The magic of Danube Delta and PUFLENE RESORT

 

We have previously organized a similar discovery trip during 2011 and I was remembering, with pleasure, the enthusiasm that ambassadors put in the discovery of the area and we want also to place in our program new and new destinations of Danube Delta. 



 The backwater channels of DANUBE DELTA


 

Another argument weight in was the opening of an extraordinary resort and hospitality complex in the area: PUFLENE RESORT.

 

This resort was to become the gravity center of our activities, to discover Danube Delta, and also our night base for a wonderful meal and recuperation after travel.

 



 Water Lilly Sea in the center of DANUBE DELTA

 

The diplomats program was coined, with the help of PUFENE RESORT Director, Mr Mihai Puflene, a man in loved with the Danube and passionate about Danube Delta.


 


The tour guide for diplomats


The program encompassed, during day time, regular trips, that allowed diplomats to discover magnificent areas like: Murighiol Danube front, the lake Uzlina, the largest lake and a perfect fish reserve, the boats rolled also to the Lake Isac and Lake Isac 2, natural reserve of mangrove and typical vegetation, Litcov Channel and famous Crisan village, bedecked with traditional houses painted in blue and home to Russian minority in the Danube Delta.


 

Diplomats also enjoyed the trips to Sulina arm of Danube and finally, to the Letea Forest, UNESCO natural preserve, unique in the world. 


The five days journey of discovery and travel where crowned also by relaxation time. 



This is the magic of DANUBE DELTA as diplomats have seen it.


 

Ambassadors took full advantage of this time enjoying the PUFLENE RESORT many facilities like gym, wading pool and massage therapy and most of all, indulge in the culinary creation of the master chef of the complex.

 



Stuffed Pike


 Perch with Almonds


 Carp brine

 

Mr. Mihai Puflene carved out a culinary discovery menu, including the fish broth, carp brine and the incredible stuffed pike.



 

Carving out the 2016 Summer Diplomatic Trip Program(l-r): Mr. Mihai Puflene the Manager of PUFLENE RESORT complex and H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, ECTT President (second line Mr. Mark Doda-Balkan Tourism Organization CEO).


 

The diplomatic trip to Danube Delta was a new success of the DISCOVERY EUROPE program, started in 2008 by The European Council on Tourism and Trade and will be followed this autumn by a discovery trip to Republic of Moldova, stated H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 


More informations about PUFLENE RESORT can be read out here:

 


WORLD CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS ARE WITNESSING ACADEMICIAN DR. HUN SEN ACCEPTANCE SPEECH FOR EUROPEAN ACADEMY

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on July 10, 2016 at 6:40 AM

The Office of The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade together with Office of the Director of The European Tourism Academy announced the selection of H.E. HUN SEN- SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO, Prime Minister of Cambodia as the newest member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY.


This international recognitions come in recognition of his role in promoting fair tourism, cultural legacy heritage, hosting 2015 World Tourism and Culture conference and for his decision to uphold the principles of European Tourism Academy: to support education, to foster education, to encourage global action and citizenship via education development, to uphold the system of higher education, to advance peace, sustainability and development on world arena.

The official handover of the academician baton had taken place on 22 June 2016 on the venue of the WORLD TOURISM AWARDS CEREMONY for 2016.


On this occasion the new world academician had outlined his vision on tourism future and on Cambodia`s continous growth and development.

 


SPEECH

 

By

 

Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN

 

Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia

 

At the

 

Celebration of Cambodia’s winning of World Best Tourist Destination

 

Award for 2016 and the Declaration of Cambodia as “a Favorite Cultural Destination in 2016”


 



Academician Dr. HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Cambodia, surrounded with love and respect on the platform of WORD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY for 2016.


 

Peace Palace, June 22, 2016, Phnom Penh



 

– H.E. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade

 

– Distinguished National and International Guests!


 

Today, I am delighted to participate in the ceremony to celebrate Cambodia being awarded “World Best Tourist Destination 2016 Award” and the Inauguration of “Cambodia as a Favorite Cultural Destination in 2016”, along with the first Competition on “First Good Hospitality”.

 


At the outset, I would like to extend a very warm welcome the delegation of the European Council on Tourism and Trade to this event.

 


I would like to also express my gratitude and appreciation to H.E. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade and his colleagues for creating this highly important award which will help promote Cambodia tourism.

 


I also thank the European Council on Tourism and Trade for electing me as an honorary member of the European Tourism Academy.

 


On behalf of the Royal Government and People of Cambodia, I am really proud that the Kingdom of Cambodia has been awarded the World Best Tourist Destination 2016 Award along with the declaration of “Cambodia as a Popular Cultural Destination in 2016”.

 




 

Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN is entrusted with CRISTAL TROPHY, sign of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for 2016 by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President.



 

This result indeed attests to real situation of Cambodia and the wonder of Cambodia as “Culture and Nature” tourist destination which is now a major tourist destination in Asia and Southeast Asia, a region that is enjoying high tourism growth thanks to richness of culture, history and nature.


 

Cambodia has indeed been playing a key role in connecting this regional and highly attractive tourism network.

 


Overall, the temple of Angkor which is the heritage of humanity and the wonder of the world, the temple of Preah Vihear which is of outstanding universal value, the temple of Sambor Prei Kuk and thousands of other temples within the country and vast natural resources along Cambodia’s Beaches that have been awarded the world most beautiful beaches, Mekong River which has freshwater dolphins, eco-tourism region in the northeastern and southeastern Cambodia, Tonle Sap Lake, traditions and customs and the friendliness of the people, couples with security and safety factors within the country are the great magnet for tourists.

 


Those factors help Cambodia live up to its international recognition as “Kingdom of Wonder”.

 



 

Academician Dr. HUN SEN raises high n the air the HONORARY ACADEMICIAN CERTIFICATE to be observed by the audience of WORLD TOURISM AWARDS ceremonies.


 


As raised by H.E. Dr. Anton Caragea that Cambodia deserves the reputation of “The Kingdom of Wonder” and this reputation has noticeably contributed to the development of tourism sector in Cambodia within this last two decades. In fact, the revenue that comes from tourism sector is a significant contribution to Cambodia’s macroeconomic stability and socio-economic progress and help promote the growth of some supporting sectors such as agriculture, trade, infrastructure and SMEs.


 

Furthermore, the development of tourism sector has generated revenue that support culture conservation and protection of environment and natural resource in effective and responsible way.

 


With this, I would like to thank the European Council on Tourism and Trade for considering “Cambodia: A Global Role Model of Equitable Distribution of Income from Tourism Development”.

 



Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN delivers the enlighten declaration for WORLD TOURISM AWARDS ceremony in 2016.



 

 

With this spirit, Cambodia is committed to developing its tourism sector in a sustainable, responsible and equitable manner that contributes to economic growth and poverty reduction and responds to climate change.


 

This “Green Gold” will pay an important role in accomplishing the UN’s sustainable development goals 2030.

 


On its part, Cambodia will be active and pro-active in grabbing opportunities arising from its wonder as the world tourist destination.

 


This helps ensure not only socio-economic benefits, high income for the people and sustainable development, but also the protection of cultural and natural resources, in short “Cambodia’s wonder serves tourism, tourism serves Cambodia’s wonder”.

 



Excellencies, Ladies, Gentlemen!

 


It is undeniable that although the government has strived hard as stated above, the success of tourism sector would have never been achieved without active participation from private sector and Cambodian people. In this regards, we can say that this positive result is mainly attributed to our concerted effort, unity and ownership.

 


Hence, to continue promoting tourism sector in Cambodia to become the “World Best Tourist Destination” and “Tourist Destination with Warm Hospitality”, on behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia, I would like to give some recommendations as follows:

 



Business community is called to support Prime Minister Hun Sen vision and World Best Tourist Destination status.

 

Cambodia economy is booming and they are requested to add their intake.



 

 

1st. I am of the view that today’s success in tourism development, especially Cambodia’s attractiveness proclaimed as the world‘s best tourist destination rely on smiling and friendly faces of those at the front ranging from flight services, international border checkpoints, accommodation, food, entertainment and so on.


 

Therefore, the contest “Good Hospitality” is a new national agenda, and we need to understand that “Hospitality is our obligation” and hospitality is what we can do immediately with our requiring any means.

 


Furthermore, to make Cambodia the world tourist destination that welcomes 7 million international tourists by 2020 and hosts SEA Game in 2023, I wish to urge all the relevant parties to participate actively in the contest “Good Hospitality”, including (1). Good hospitality in tourism services, (2). Good hospitality in public service in clean city and (3). Good hospitality of migration official at international border checkpoints.

 



Cambodia Royal Army attends WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 2016 CEREMONIES.



 

 

2nd. At this moment, I would like to announce the campaign “Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder” along with slogan “providing warmth to tourists” to become a highly attractive advertisement to the world as well as an important message to increase the number of returning tourists to Cambodia.


 

3rd. The Royal Government of Cambodia is committed to further conserving natural and cultural resources as well as developing better tourist products and services in response to the context of regional and global integration.

 


In this regards, I request that relevant ministries and institutions pay attention to protecting invaluable cultural and natural resources.




 

International Community express support for World Best Tourist Destination-Cambodia

 

Hundreds of international diplomats are witnessing the crowning of Cambodia as a world symbol: WOLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2016.


 

 

Furthermore, they also have to ensure that every tourism-related development and construction in the conservation, heritage and protected areas as well as coastal areas must comply with the principles of sustainability, culture and tradition, and certain regulation while responding to environmental and climate change issues.


 

4th. On top of the protection of natural and cultural resources together with this friendliness, I suggest all relevant parties to continue their active participation in the campaign “Clean Cambodia, Green Cambodia” by actively supporting the movement contest “Clean City, Clean Resort, Good Service, Good Hospitality”.

 


5th. To contribute to the promotion of tourism competitiveness in Cambodia, the Ministry of Tourism must strive to cooperate with relevant institutions to further develop creative and innovative tourist products and create more package tours to make Cambodia become the “center of regional tourism”.

 

 




Win Win policies of Prime Minister HUN SEN attracted international acclamation and support

 

The win -win policy of Academician Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN is regarded as a world model of diplomacy by all international diplomats present on the venue of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION ceremony.



 

 

In this regard, I would like to request the European Council on Tourism and Trade and private partners to continue supporting Cambodia in the advertisement of tourism development and attract more European and international investors and tourists to Cambodia.

 


6th. To transform Cambodia into the world’s tourist destination, it is required to take into account the quality of tourism services and green standard of each service, coupled with sufficient and skilled human resources.

 


In this sense, I would like to request H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and H.E. Mircea Constantinescu, Head of European Tourism Academy, to cooperate and support Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism to further study and develop tourism standards, strengthen and develop human resources in tourism sector, as well as to conduct tourism study and research more comprehensively while the sector rapidly develops in globalization context.

 


Once again, I strongly believe that Cambodia, with this invaluable award, would become a warm and attractive tourist destination with good welfare provided to tourists and people.





Young people of Cambodia are the main beneficiaries of Prime Minister Hun Sen policies and of World Best Tourist Destination status.

The youth of Cambodia are at the center of Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN policies and vision.


 

 

Moreover, it would also become an attractive green tourist destination with friendly and smiling faces, which can be named as “Cambodia: the Kingdom of Smiles”, and this helps raise Cambodia’s reputation and prestige as “Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder” in international arena.


 

Finally, along with the award celebration of “Cambodia: the World’s Best Tourist Destination for 2016”, coupled with the announcement of “Cambodia: Favorite Cultural Destination for 2016” and the movement contest of “First Good Hospitality”, I wish H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and senior delegation of the European Council on Tourism and Trade happiness, prosperity and success in every undertaking.

 




Academician HUN SEN express his gratitude for European Council on Tourism and Trade

 

Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, World Tourism and Development Leader, is marking the opening of WORLD TOURISM AWARDS ceremonies for 2016.



 

 

At the same time, I also wish Excellencies, ladies, gentlemen and all participants the four gems of Buddha’s blessings: Longevity, Nobility, Health and Strength.


CAMBODIA CULTRAL HYMN FOR FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION DESIGNATION FOR 2016


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HIS EXCELLENCY ANTON CARAGEA, ECTT PRESIDENT ANNOUNCES TO THE WORLD THE VICTOR IN 2016 TOURISM COMPETITION: CAMBODIA

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on July 9, 2016 at 10:05 AM

European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea attended the General meeting of world tourism community had celebrated the world level achievers in tourism and culture in a glittering display on 22 june 2016, hosted by the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh.


 

President Dr. Anton Caragea officiated over the important moment for world tourism when the Kingdom of Cambodia was officially crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and universally acclaimed as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016.


 

The full text of the powerful speech delivered by World Tourism Institution-ECTT President can be read out here:



 

WORD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016-CAMBODIA

 

OFFICIAL STATEMENT

 

WORLD TOURISM INSTITUTION

ECTT President-Professor Dr. ANTON CARAGEA


 

 


Your Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. HUN SEN- Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia,

 

Your Excellency Mr. Thong Khon – Minister of Tourism,

 

Esteemed members of Royal Government of Cambodia, of Parliament of Cambodia, distinguished member’s diplomatic corps

 

Dear guests,

 

All protocol observed,


 

We are all assembled here, on the venue of the most important global cultural event: WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARDS, to celebrate the country and the personalities that had contributed outstandingly to humanity evolution.

 


Humanity, a word that must encompass our greatest achievement: culture, history, development and tourism.

 


This year theme of world community is concentrated around the role of CULTURE AND HISTORY in shaping our life`s and destinies.


 

Culture is the bedrock of societies, nations and civilizations.

 


We have to put the world at the right hour: the hour of culture, of history, of civilization!

 

Culture and history must be recognized not as resource consuming, but as major economic factors, that helps countries to develop and enrich themselves in more ways than just simple economic value.

 


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Countries and peoples are rediscovering themselves by tourism, cultures are resurrected, history is re-lived and people are creating new opportunities by tourism development.


 

What is a country that is having all of the industrial and technical riches of the world but does not have the cultural contribution, civilization achievements and a history to look after and preserve?

 


The answer is: nothing!


 

Industrial patrimony is becoming obsolete, technology goes yearly outdated: while the history and patrimony are enriching and are becoming more valuable day after day.

 

Everything fears time, but time fears history, says a valuable proverb!

 


This is the answer why rich countries are spending billions in preserving what little history they have, in creating a tradition and a civilization out of nothing!

 

Because they realize, that by material values alone they will count for little!

 



ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea declares Cambodia-World Best Tourist Destination in 2016.



History and culture are the true indicators of a country and a people values and standing in the world.

 


Today, in XXI century, culture, tourism and historical patrimony are humanity tools of choice for building bridges of information, understanding and cooperation in the world.

 

In this new world, when tourism is the center of the economy, culture is the heart of a nation and traveling is the new diplomacy that is shaping peoples and nations destiny, there is no more important moment, as the moment when world tourism is choosing his World Best Tourist Destination.


 

We are fully aware of the importance of our choice, as we have in some years to support tourism as a vector for economic development, others when we have to privilege tourism as factor of unity in the world, but some time we are fortunate to select our winner on the fundamental base: that TOURISM IS WORLD EDUCATOR.

 



ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea on the platform of Cambodia-Favorite Cultural Destination with Royal Opera from Phnom Penh.


This, on the account that our decision must lead the way for tourists to discover and rediscover new horizons , to open themselves to new cultures, to immerse in the understanding of new ways of life and creeds.


 

Our presence here: must be a signal of re-emphasizing our commitment to place history, patrimony and cultural legacy on the world spotlight.


 

We must never let us forget, the simple truth that: our main duty as a world institution is to make tourism a bridge toward culture, a pathway to understanding the world.

 


In a time when many are preaching dogmatism and narrow mindedness we must insure that by simple act of tourism we touch the soul and the imagination of the traveler.

 


This is the rationale, the powerful driving force that etched our decision to universally proclaim THE KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA as World Best Tourist Destination for 2016.

 


We could not think at any country more suitable, to teach the world, the real value of culture, the significance of historical patrimony in the resurgence of a nation and in creating a new scale of values in the world.

 


On the real scale of values, we seldom find a civilization more originally, more splendid and sending a more powerful sentiment of desire to live, to aim the beauty and to never stop striding for happiness and pride as the KHMER CIVILIZATION.

 


Travelers that will select, this kingdom of wonders and wisdom-Cambodia, as their destination of choice will have the chance of immersing themselves in a magic land, from where humanity learned the values of greatness of ancient Khmer kings, the spirit of beauty of magic Apsaras, carved in the temples of Angkor Watt and Angkor Thom.

 


Here is where the magic never stop`s, the wonder never ceased to astonish us. Mekong is becoming part of the magic that is Cambodia and the rich waters of the river flow to the plain and by magic they stop their normal course to the Sea and the turn inlands, creating one of the world larges lakes: Tonle Sap, covering1/10 of the territory of Cambodia.

 


Where can you see such magic: a river that flows upwards?

 

Only in the land of wonders: THE MAGIC KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA.

 


Here, in Cambodia, tourists can find themselves and their inner peace and reconnect with God and the world in the magic and wonder of the celebrated WATT of Cambodia.

 

Here Buddhism will teach you not necessary to become a Buddhist, but to become BETTER: Better Christian, better Free Thinker.


 

Whatever your religion and creed, Cambodia will educate you, to search for the better in side you and outside: in the world.

 

This is the wonder of Cambodia!

 


The striking power of Khmer people, mirrored in the temples of Angkor is a testimony to the ingenuity and prowess of people of Cambodia enshrined forever in the stoned Watt`s of the Siem Reap province.

 


Astonished travelers of XX century, made up stories of extraterrestrial civilizations coming to build them and as a tourist will see that: these all powerful beings still have a name, a face and an address: is the face of Khmer people, the name of Khmers who labored for ancient kings and the address is only one: Cambodia.

 


We, in XXI century, we forgot the all conquering power of humans to build, to snatch from nature the materials needed and construct all conquering monuments, that fear neither time, neither decay.

 


Khmer people and history are here to teach us this valuable lesson: that humanity can do whatever is ambitioning to create!

 

See Angkor and you will believe!

 


Today, when we need to be taught also the lesson of humility, of moderation, in our economic and practical goals, the lesson of ecological preservation: Cambodia is also the open book that we need.

 




When all powerful, and all mighty, Kings of Angkor conquer all that their ambitions has sought after, they started under the influence of Buddhist Theravada to moderate their desire, slowly abandoning their cities and create for them a kingdom to conquer, inside their hearts and minds.


 

When they finish conquering the world, they started to conquer their souls and inner peace!

 

When nothing in the world tempts them, they started bettering themselves and making the Khmer people in the most splendid of the temples.

 

I cannot find another civilization, in the realm of history, capable of such a radical change.


 

Another wonder in the Kingdom of Wonders: Cambodia!

 


This is making Cambodia the ideal destination for peoples searching their connection with their inner fillings, in quest for their peace of mind and soul; you can never have better allies that Khmer wisdom.

 


Because thus is Cambodia today: an educator to the world, a provider of wonder, in a century that stopped believing in them, a classical spiritual adventure, a discovery trip in times and places, that is a must see and is richly deserving the appellative of World Best Tourist Destination.

 


I will not restart the detailed description of all the UNESCO heritage sites existing in Cambodia or perusing the long list of region and cities awaiting their inscription on world heritage list.

 

I will just emphasize how rare is country that is offering such a diversity of landscapes, climates, cultural and historical beauties as Cambodia.

 


Educator of humanity, cradle of culture! This is CAMBODIA of today!

 


We must also mark down Cambodia as a world example in building tourism fair revenue distribution and with H.E. Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Cambodia, support to the program: ONE VILLAGE/ ONE PRODUCT encourage tourist, travelers or just prospective tourists to invest in local artisans creations.

 


These revenues are helping community to develop, are helping people restarting their lives, protecting cultural landscape and historical legacy.

 

Coming as a tourist in Cambodia, is not just a self rewarding adventure, but is also an opportunity to make a responsible tourism, fair trade tourism, supporting local communities and poor rural areas.

 


We are hailing Cambodia as The Favorite Cultural Destination for 2016 and with good measure also, as we just inscribed as intangible cultural and tourism patrimony heritage the concept of SROK KHMER – the specific Khmer concept of carving a national space and an integrated community of peoples.

 


The concept of SROK KHMER, offering a special mark of inter-community dialogue and acceptance, of tolerance and friendship, that explains in full how Cambodia can unite peoples and religions, can give them the sense of historical unity and bind them together, in love for a nation and a country.

 


This concept is also a fundament of Cambodia history and development, a secret to ingratiate in a polite and correct manner, that makes tourist feel at home in this wonderful country.

 


Cambodia is in itself a World Lecturer in history and civilization, and I could go one for hours, underlining the many reasons why crowning Cambodia today as World Best Tourist Destination, it is just a normal act of recognition of a country so rich in culture and promises of tomorrow that it becomes the embodiment of the tourism for the future, of the tourism for knowledge and experiences, of tourism that is letting us richer in conscience and soul.

 


The story of SROK KHMER continues and is writing today a new and remarkable page: the page of development, tourism and cultural world recognition, the page of CAMBODIA as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016.

 



ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea declares Cambodia-World Best Tourist Destination in 2016.


 

Your Excellency Mr. Prime Minister and European Academician,


 

It is with great honor and privilege that I hand over this title, as an international recognition for all the people of Cambodia, all united in the service of protecting and preserving historical and civilization patrimony of your country, in fostering tourism and culture.

 


I repeat myself in the desire and trust that: This title must be regarded as a challenge to conquer new barriers, as we are expecting Cambodia future contribution for the development of the world culture and tourism.

 


I am confident that: our world platform will be transformed in a growing support for the international recognition of THE KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA, as an open air, open to the world museum of humanity and in a base for further success for A WORLD MIRACLE: THE KINGDOM OF WONDERS- CAMBODIA.

 


It is my privilege to handover to Your Excellency, as the most representative leader of people and tourism of KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA the award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016.


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ACADEMICIAN MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU ANNOUNCES THE SELECTION OF A NEW WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM-PRIME MINISTER OF CAMBODIA

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on June 14, 2016 at 9:25 AM

The Office of The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade together with Office of the Director of The European Tourism Academy announced the selection of H.E. HUN SEN- SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO, Prime Minister of Cambodia as the newest member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY.


The Board of European Tourism Academy announces that H.E. HUN SEN- SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO, Prime Minister of Cambodia is a new WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT part of EUROPEAN ACADEMY


This international recognitions come for his role in promoting fair tourism, cultural legacy heritage, hosting 2015 World Tourism and Culture conference and for decision to uphold the principles of European Tourism Academy: to support education, to foster education, to encourage global action and citizenship via education development, to uphold the system of higher education, to advance peace, sustainability and development on world arena.


2015 WORLD TOURISM AND CULTURE CONFERENCE OF UNESCO and UNWTO had brought Cambodia to the fore of  world heritage cultural preservation. 


The full text of the EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY leaders can be read here:


Your Excellency,

It is with pleasure and clear sense of proud that we inform you that: in full unanimity, the Academic Board of the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) has elected you as a Honorary Member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY, in your capacity as a WORLD LEADER IN TOURISM DEVELOPMENT in clear appreciation of your influential vision in carving cultural and heritage of Cambodia as conducive instruments in building tourism and in insuring development for your people.


This outstanding vision has being transformed in a general politic and enacted under your leadership as a world instrument for development during 2015- World Conference on Tourism and Culture.


In 2015, Your acumen and diplomatic astuteness made it possible for the international community, in the World Conference on Tourism and Culture forum of UNESCO and UNWTO to carve out the first world level instruments in developing tourism, creating the bases of sustainable tourism on the pillars of cultural richness, religious tolerance and historical platform.

 


In the new millennium Cultural and Historical Tourism becomes the beacon on which the life of billions of peoples is improved and enriched.


Cultural tourism is today a part of nation building and an intricate part of the nation’s international image.


In today`s world, a nation cannot project his external dimension, and cannot imagine his diplomatic activity in the absence of promoting his historic patrimony and boost his cultural prowess.


Promoting Khmer national costumes on international stage with US President Barack Obama.

In the center: H.E. HUN SEN- SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO, Prime Minister of Cambodia


All this policies being transformed in every day dimensions of international activity are fundamentally linked to your visions, your thoughts and your actions.

 


Tourism, Travel, Trade and Investments are interconnected and are uniting today`s countries, in a globalized world and unified market.


Today, the presence of historical patrimony and cultural dimension in the world are entitling all the persons in the world to have access to double citizenships: one generated by the simple birth and the second one growing form the love other nation`s cultures and history, this one by free choice.

 


The world recognizes that Trade, Travel and Tourism are part of the international life and each and every one of our citizens became a world ambassador and a central actor on world stage.


Nations that wish to attain their full potential and reach the picks of development, international recognition, economic growth and a prosperous life for his citizens can’t remove themselves from the international tourism and trade arena.


 

Trade and Tourism are the key pillars for countries and billions of people, worldwide, in their efforts to achieve fully their live potential.


European Council on Tourism and Trade had become, and strides to remain, the driving force in the international promotion of culture, and patrimony and encapsulate tourism as the main vector in development and international cooperation.


Our world encompassing achievements and activities would not have being possible without the decisive contribution, in our tireless efforts, by the world leaders, ready to become a part of our world tourism institution and able to firmly raise their voices in the spirit of culture, international cooperation and advancing the position of tourism on global world agenda.


Under Your Excellency leadership, the Government of Kingdom of Cambodia has for a long time recognized and abated the importance of culture and tourism as key facilitators for the country development and international promotion.


Your leadership has succeeded in creating an exemplary and powerful poverty reduction strategy- Royal Government’s Rectangular Strategy which focuses on promoting Economic Growth, Employment, Equity and Efficiency.


The Cambodia-Diamond of the Mekong development activities, investment protection and facilitation, economic growth and wealth spreading to the nation is the creation of your life long experience and devotion to your people.


Open sky policies related to easy visa access, unifying ASEAN travel space and tourism integration had benefited the peoples and nations of the regions and have proven once more that: tourism is a tool for dialogue and understanding in the world, for promoting peace and engagement worldwide.


As a true leader of the people, devoted father of the nation, you have carved, exemplary structures as the “One village- One product” for Siem Reap region and your government has being heavily investing in infrastructure and capacity building, protecting the cultural, natural and historical patrimony of the country.


You have succeeded in engraving your name on the golden list of cultural protectors, offering a special attention to historical patrimony of your country and use it, and preserve it for the benefit of the future generation.


Your Excellency is part of the special HUMANITY PROTECTORS.


Leaders that are grasping the importance of tourism as the most important part of diplomacy, international relations and raising national profile on world arena.

These leaders must be supported and commanded and offered as a general example.


Your Excellency stated: “Let me reassure that the Kingdom of Cambodia a country with independence, neutrality, peace, freedom, democracy and human rights as you all have seen, shall be existing with no end.”


Your Excellency has being true to his word and commitment and by protecting and promoting the incredible legacy left to us by the Khmer Kings of Angkor had helped the incredible resurgence of the Khmer people in XXI century.


Cambodia was lifted from the brink of extinction to another horizon of hope and future development and Khmer people is building today the new temples of Phnom Penh: a steel and glass city that will echo the buildings of the past.


This statement of confidence in the bright future of Khmer nation and practical measures put in place, made your country succeeding in the 2016- WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD competition and be accepted as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for your nations incredible weight of culture, history prowess and contribution to humanity legacy.


This is a new momentous achievement for CAMBODIA, a moment that is due to your exertions.


Your Excellency,


In your new capacity, as the representative of CAMBODIA on world tourism and on international cultural stage, we hope that the World will benefit now from your public exertions and support, in creating a new world community, based on peace, development and tourism as the pillars of international cooperation.


 

Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, MA, FINS, ETA

PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

 

Academician Mircea Constantinescu PhD, Phil Dr.ETA

DIRECTOR EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY


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10-11 JUNE 2016: EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE GENERAL MEETING

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on May 31, 2016 at 6:30 AM

European Council on Tourism and Trade will held his regular yearly meeting between 10 and 11 june 2016.


The summit will bring together all tourism leaders and stakeholders from the whole region to discuss and push forward an agenda for regional collaboration in tourism as a key sector for coming out of the economic crisis and enhancement of competitiveness of each country and the whole region.




 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea is signing the European Council on Tourism and Trade meeting call

 

 


Invitees are tourism related Ministers/Ministries, Embassies, National Tourism Organizations, Associations, leading businesses and donors.


On the occasion of the tourism organization assembly will be tabled: increased regional cooperation, visa facilitation and the better promotion of European tourism.


These are some of the topics in focus at the 9th Meeting of the European Tourism organization-ECTT to be held in Bucharest, Romania, 10-11 June 2016.


Europe is the world’s most visited region and is the main source of outbound tourism to other destination, accounting for more than half of the world’s international travelers.



 

The luxurious and world renowned Palace of Parliament is preparing to host European Tourism Organization meeting.


In 2014, international tourism in Europe had registered a major contribution to the economic recovery in the region: international tourist arrivals grew by 3% to reach a record 584 million, while international tourism receipts increased by 4% contributing US$ 509 billion (383 billion euro) to the European economies.




 

European tourism delegates will partake in a week-end of discovery of the Babadag Lake region and Enisala (art and strategic medieval fortification).


 

The 9th Meeting of the European Tourism organization-European Council on Tourism and Trade will be held at the Romanian parliament.



ROYAL HOTEL will host the european tourism delegates in full comfort and leisure.

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President Director general of IRICE and President-elect of European Tourism will play host to representatives from 28 European countries and other tourism stakeholders in the region to discuss policy priorities and set the agenda for European and world tourism in 2016-2017.


European tourism leaders will tour also the only recommended hotels for diplomatic events in Bucharest: Mariott Hotel and Royal Hotel.


On 12 and 13 June 2016, the delegates will be invited to a familiarization trip in Lake District of Romania and will visit the famous Enisala fortress in Dobrogea having thus the opportunity to discover Romanian touristic landscapes.


The main priorities for European tourism identified by the European national tourism organizations will include the development of cultural destinations and carving transnational products, in order to enhance regional and inter-nations travel cooperation, declared President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

AMBASSADORS MEETING FOR FIRST WORLD TOURISM SEANCE IN 2016

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on February 9, 2016 at 4:50 AM

The World Ambassadors Meeting and Working Lunch on Tourism and Hospitality has taken place on 9th of February 2016 at the world tourism institution headquarters of European Council on Tourism and Trade.


 


 

European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Dr. Anton Caragea receives accredited ambassadors for World Ambassadors Meeting and Working Lunch on 9 February 2016.


 

The first ambassadorial meeting on tourism reunited European members states parliamentarians, representatives of European tourism organizations and members of the diplomatic corps.


 

The World Ambassadors Working Lunch on Tourism was generously hosted by the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) and has benefited the presence of the ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.


 

Bolivarian Ambassador of Venezuela (photo up) and United States Charge d`affairs are expresing their gratitude towards European Council on Tourism and Trade role as a leading world tourism institution (photo down). 

 





 

The Diplomatic corps gathering, is taken place on an annual basis and is representing a great opportunity for networking and also for keeping the Embassies informed on what the World Lectures on Sustainable Development Goals Programs of European Tourism Academy will try to achieve during the year and also to provide an outlook for the coming year 2016 in terms of tourism in Europe and the world.


 

The event received a very high representation of accredited diplomatic corps, parliament representatives, European Tourism Academy, European Council on Tourism and Trade.

 


On this occasion Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had officially entrusted insignias and diplomas for the representative of the hospitality industry of Europe and recognized ROYAL HOTELS in Bucharest and Constanta as official diplomatic partners and entrusted the HIGH QUALITY PRIZES for the two hotels.

 


Other points of discussions included an update on International and European Tourism trends in 2015 and a presentation of a list of most successfully tourism driven economies in the last year (Ethiopia, Laos) and the latest publications emanating from European Tourism Academy members.

 


Academician Walter Mzembi-Minister of Tourism of Zimbabwe took the limelight, with his articles and interviews series on combating tourism and mass media manipulation in tourism industry.

 


Ambassadors from United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Syria, Macedonia, Albania, South Africa, Venezuela, Nigeria, Danemark, Sweden had taken the floor highlighting their countries plans for tourism development and hopes pinned on winning World Best Tourist Destination Award or World Capital of Culture and Tourism designations.

 


The names of the ambassadors who will be invited for Spring 2016 DISCOVER EUROPE PROGRAM will be announced in March 2016 and the trip will start in April and will showcase Republic of Moldavia beauties announced European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Dr. Anton Caragea.

 


The meeting concluded with an introduction of the main activities of the diplomatic calendar for the first quarter of 2016, a presentation on the upcoming February 2016 Tourism Fair and International food and Beverage Exhibition-Goodwine April 2016.

 


The photos from World Ambassadors Meeting and Working Lunch on Tourism can be observed here:

WORLD TOURISM AND CULTURE AWARD COMPETITION FOR 2016 IS LAUNCHED

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on December 16, 2015 at 2:40 PM

 

The ECTT Awards for tourism and cultural achievements are crowning, since 2008, the countries and nations excellence and investment in the tourism sector, putting under the world limelight the exceptional leadership and nation prowess in the framework of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM and WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and the category of FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION and marking out outstanding cultural and investment tourism projects.




Starting their creation from 2006, the European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards have recognised nations and peoples strides for their innovative and determined tourism initiatives.


The contribution of the nations and leaders receiving world tourism and travel prizes is in line with ECTT guidelines for World Capital of Culture and Tourism and World Best Tourist Destination Award.

 


For the tenth consecutive time, the ECTT-European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards will recognize the tourism potentials of the most attractive tourist and cultural destinations.




President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea participated in the inauguration ceremony of the first edition of the Embassy Tourism Festival -World Best Tourist Destination at the “Romanian Athenaeum ” Opera and Musical Theatre.

 


President Dr. Anton Caragea and Academician Mircea Constantinescu are opening the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM competitions.

  


This event has taken place on December 15, 2015 and has marked the opening of the international contests for WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM for 2016.

 


Held under the patronage of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, the World Best Tourist Destination -Embassy Tourism Festival is an element of novelty in the European cultural space, consisting in a series of projects meant to promote the cultural diversity of the countries that outlined candidatures to World Best Tourist Destination, under the “Open your culture” slogan. 




Peoples Republic of China present`s his national treasures for World Best Tourism Destination.

 


The inauguration ceremony, started with the message of the European Council on Tourism and Trade President, who highlighted the potential of the European culture, and the contribution of such public and cultural diplomacy initiatives to the dialogue between cultures, between generations, between the diplomatic community and civil society.



World Tourism, Travel and Cultural Awards Festival presents 54 countries candidatures for World Best Tourism Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism in 2016.


 

President Dr. Anton Caragea expressed satisfaction that the World Best Tourism Destination-Embassy Festival takes place concurrently with the Annual Meeting of the European Tourism and is marking lavishly the start of World Best Tourist Destination competition. 



Korean dances capture the imaginations of the world public.

 

The celebration continued with a music and theater a new mixture of archaic music and contemporary dance. 



 Korean fan dances are highly appreciated by H.E. President ECTT Anton Caragea


 

World Best Tourism Destination -Embassy Tourism Festival will continue until 5 February 2016, having a diverse agenda and over 50 embassies, cultural institutes and international organizations as participants, representing 6 continents.


Further readings are available here:


WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM


WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD  


THE PERFECT WORLD FAVORITE MUSEUM IN 2015

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on December 15, 2015 at 4:40 AM

 

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ETHIOPIA, located in Addis Ababa, is a perfect resource for palaeontology and prehistory, the museum being filled with incredible historical findings, Ethnography and modern art.

We must also mention that the museum is placed in Ethiopia, a country who was selected as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015.



National Museum of Ethiopia: a most stop for every world tourist.


 

The collection at the national museum is as varied as it is large; visitors have the opportunity to see fossilised remains of early humans, regalia and other memorabilia from former Ethiopian rulers, traditional and ceremonial costumes, modern paintings and sculptures and pre-Axumite findings.


No other museum succeeded in making on the list of WORLD FAVORITE MUSEUMS in 2015, but ETHIOPIA NATIONAL MUSEUM form Addis Ababa made it.


 

On the arguments that put the Museum on the right track in the cultural world where the refurbishing of a new wing destined to conserve their countries priceless artifacts and cultural patrimony.

 


The judges did not escape the fact that: the museum received during 2015 landmarks visits like European Council delegations and United States delegations, a moment that was not achieved by any other cultural institution during this year.

 


Uniting Europe, America and Africa around Lucy-the skeleton of the first hominid, is a success that only Ethiopian National Museum registered, during 2015.



  

United States President Barack Obama made a visit to Lucy together with Ato Amin Abdulkadir - Minister of Tourism and Culture and ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea meeting with Lucy-the oldes woman in the world joined also by Ato Amin Abdulkadir - Ethiopian Minister of Tourism and Culture.


 

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ETHIOPIA is the only world museum that received the visit of American and European delegations during the same year. All around Lucy-the first human skeleton.

 

 

On December 15, 2015, on the function of the official opening of the 2016 World Tourism, Culture and Travel Awards, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea announced the Ethiopian National Museum of Addis Ababa is recognized as a WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM for his priceless artefacts and outstanding contribution to the human civilization understanding.

 


The Ethiopia National Museum made it on the list of WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM on the account of garnering the most relevant artefacts of the incredible history of Ethiopia.

 


The Museum is having in his exhibitions an outstanding treasure of crowns and objects pertaining to the long list of emperors of Ethiopia, coronation artefacts, imperial insignia and memorabilia.

 



Selam-the body of the second most old hominide child-male.


 

The museum has also prided himself with impressive collections of weaponry, agricultural and everyday life objects from all the national groups and minorities from the territory of today Ethiopia, this makes it one of the largest ethnographic collection in the world and spawning for two millennia.


 

Of course, the crowning jewels of the permanent exhibitions at the Ethiopian National Museum are the outstandingly preserved bodies of Lucy and Salem (the oldest human remains in the world). 


 

If Ethiopia is proudly named the “cradle of the civilisation” and “the place where it all begins” than a visit to the WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM-the place where the forefathers of humanity are placed is a must for any human being.


 

In 2015 the Ethiopian National Museum received the visits of the United States delegates led by President Barack Obama, who praised the outstanding humanity’s legacy of Ethiopia and of the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates led by President Anton Caragea.

 



Religious art of Ethiopia: a must see and enjoy!


 

This visits where a proof that: the Ethiopian National Museum has become a lynchpin of culture and a most see stop over for all the citizens of the world. 

 


Incredible ethnographic artifacts hosted by Ethiopian National Museum



Emperors of Ethiopia coronation crowns and weaponry (Emperor Tewodros II ceremonial weapons-in the left)


 

 

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD IS BRINGING PROSPERITY, INVESTMENT AND DEVELOPMENT

Posted by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE on August 29, 2015 at 5:15 AM

The status of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION continues to add value and dramatically improve tourism recipes, draw international investors and bring development and economic prowess.

The latest countries to register the benefits of tourism related development, are Zimbabwe and Laos, nations that top the world tourism growth in the last years.



President Robert Gabriel Mugabe of Zimbabwe is expressing his gratitude for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION status for his country.



Zimbabwe tourism has registered an outstanding change of fortune after being selected WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2014 by the world tourism institution-European Council on Tourism and Trade.


We have registered an increase in annual earnings to $1,5 billion after an improvement in international sentiment, said. Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, chief executive Karikoga Kaseke.


This is coming from tourism bringing only $827 million to the state revenues which is almost an 80% increase in tourism related revenues.


Visitors are flocking to Victoria Falls in record numbers, after the visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade President and his retinue and this is a sure sign that Zimbabwe tourism is turning a corner, an industry leader says.




 

President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and his retinue visiting Victoria Falls, now the center of tourism rebirth of Zimbabwe.


Latest figures reveal hotel occupancy rates at Victoria Falls are hitting an all time high, sitting at 77.6 per cent last month, compared to 62.6 per cent during August last year.


Ross Kennedy said the boom in tourists had impacted across all sectors, from 2 star to 5 star accommodation, and big hotels to exclusive boutique properties.


Most performance benchmarks, including revenue earned and visitor numbers, had been smashed during the month of August.


The figures are based on industry data across ten Victoria Falls hotels, including the Elephant Hills Hotel, Kingdom Hotel, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls Hotel and the A’Zambezi.


Bookings for 2014 and 2015 were very healthy and the number of different countries where visitors are coming from is steadily growing, further enhancing demand and reputation, he said.


The data showed most visitors to the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge were from the United States, followed by Australia, the United Kingdom and Zimbabwe. “It all adds up to a bright picture ahead,” Mr Kennedy said.


“In comparison to current world tourism trends, these statistics are simply staggering, and a powerful reminder of the positive impact that a strong tourism industry can have on an economy.”




Laos has become WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013-Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong and President Dr. Anton Caragea.

 


After being elected WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 and Favorite Cultural Destination in 2013 Laos has become a beacon of tourism in the Indochina region.


Already 40 hotels, including five international chains, are scheduled to open in Laos over the next five years as the country becomes a more popular tourist destination.


Yang Fu Ning, general manager of Don Chan Palace, a luxury hotel in Vientiane, said international brands Ramada, InterContinental, Crown Plaza, Sofitel and Marriott were set to open hotels in the capital by 2019.

Three global brands – Mercure, Ibis and Best Western – have already opened their doors in Vientiane, and one regional brand has entered the World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang to cash in the World Best Tourist Destination status of the country.


Furthermore, 25-30 three- and four-star hotels are set to open in the capital, with some in other tourist cities.


In the first year after receiving World`s Favorite Cultural Destination ” we registered 3.7 million arrivals last year, generating income of US$600 million.


The government aims for 3.9 million tourists this year. The number of arrivals should reach 10 million within five years but we need another success in WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION to consolidate our status.



Celebrating LAOS – WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013

 


The number of American and European tourists has significantly increased in recent years.


Currently, seven foreign airlines, including Thai Airways International, AirAsia and Bangkok Airways, and two local carriers are operating in and out Laos. Some of these airlines run charter flights during high season.


Two years ago, the European Council on Tourism and Trade named Laos the “World’s Best Tourist Destination for 2013”, which put the country on the global tourism map especially for its rich history, culture, traditions and natural beauty.


PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS