The North Vista

By November 14, 2017Archives, Opinion

Travel, Tourism and the ASEAN

 

A travel journal that will give you a pleasant view of people, places, food, culture, history and events from a refreshing perspective

By @SiRVis

THE 31st ASEAN Summit and Related Summits will be held on November 10-14, 2017 here in the Philippines. In attendance are the leaders from twenty (20) countries from the ASEAN Member States, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea (ROK), Russia, United States (US), Canada, European Union (EU), and the United Nations Secretary General.

It is the second of the two ASEAN Summits that the Philippines is hosting this year. The theme is “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.” President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will chair the plenary, where ASEAN leaders discuss the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and the way forward and the appointment of the new Secretary-General of ASEAN. The President will also chair ASEAN’s 40th Anniversary Commemorative Summits with the United States of America, Canada and the European Union; 20th ASEAN Plus Three Commemorative Summit; the 20th ASEAN-China Summit, 19th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Summit; 20th ASEAN-Japan Summit; 12th East Asia Summit; 15th ASEAN-India Summit; and the 9th ASEAN-UN Summit.

Leaders will discuss economic, political-security, socio-cultural pressing regional and international issues as well as travel and tourism cooperation. Southeast Asia is known as “the most diverse, beautiful, enjoyable, and accessible landscapes in the world.” A physically and culturally diverse part of the world, Southeast Asia is memorable for the warmth of its tropical climate, hospitable people, and flavorful cuisine. While there is unity in terms of peaceful cooperation within ASEAN nations, the region is best known for its diversity. The fascinating and unlimited variety this region offers is unique and can only be experienced by visiting Southeast Asia. Countries are not the same but all are united.

Food is yet another attraction of ASEAN. Tourists can sample nasi campur in Brunei Darussalam, pang chiav pancakes in Cambodia, ayam goreng in Indonesia, a spicy laap salad in Lao PDR, nasi lemak in Malaysia, mohinga fish and noodle soup in Myanmar, adobo in the Philippines, char kway teow in Singapore, fiery tom yam kung in Thailand and delicious pho soup in Viet Nam.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) hopes to increase its number of international arrivals by 10 per cent to 121 million. Strengthening travel and tourism (especially sustainable tourism) in the region requires air, land and sea linkages and joint marketing and promotional efforts.  All ASEAN member countries have ratified an Open Skies Agreement and this will mean more flights and more tourists. Cruise tourism is also seen as a growing tourism area which is fit for the Southeast Asian countries.

I’m so excited with what the ASEAN Summits could bring to us! Congratulations Philippines for the wonderful and successful hosting.

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