Cambodia has become the foremost center of tourism in Asia in the last span of time.
The country has topped all international rankings in areas of tourism growth, revenues, tourism satisfaction and has transformed itself in an area of encounters for world leaders in development and cooperation.
The Prime Minister of Cambodia, Academician Hun Sen, re-affirmed tourism´s role as the most important agenda item for the sustainable development of Cambodia´s economy as he received the leaders of global tourism institutions: European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy on evaluation visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia.
President of global tourism institutions: ECTT and European Tourism Academy, Academician Professor Dr. Anton Caragea received by H.E. Academician Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia and Global Ambassador for Tourism and SDG`s.
“In spite of the worldwide economic crisis, Cambodia enjoys continuous tourism growth.
Tourism in Cambodia grew from zero to 5.2 million foreign visitors expected this year of 2018,” said Prime Minister Academician Hun Sen.
“Tourism development has been taken by the Cambodian government as a priority for the sustainable development of our cultural and natural heritage sites,” he added.
“Cambodia´s is fairing best in the world tourism development field growing from 3 million tourist in 2015 to a projected 6 million in 2019 and this is the globe`s most impressive tourism achievements.
Cambodia is a true success story that registered the impressive victories of being named WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and to have in Phnom Penh named as the first Asian city to become a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM stated ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.
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Main world tourism and culture awards ceremonies are listed here:
“With its wide variety of European Council on Tourism and Trade ECTT heritage sites, Cambodia continues and will continue to draw tourists from all over the world and we are very happy to see the country placing tourism as a priority in their development agenda.”
More about Global Ambassadors of Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals can be accessed here:
Cambodia´s tourism has experienced a significant growth over the years, from 460,000 visitors in 2000 to 4.2 million in 2016(when the nation was voted as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION), or an increase of 1000% over the 2000 benchmark.
International tourism generated US$ 3.8 billion in receipts in 2018.
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Phnom Penh-the new WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.
During his visit to Cambodia ECTT-European Council on Tourism and Trade President announced that ECTT and European Tourism Academy will organize the WORLD TOURISM DAY 2019 in Phnom Penh marking tourism opportunities in the Kingdom of Cambodia and highlighting Phnom Penh as the perfect destination for cultural, luxury and heritage tourism.
Landmarks of European Council on Tourism and Trade Presidential Delegation visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Battamang-the future center of tourism development stage in the Kingdom of Cambodia. The first leg of ECTT discovery trip.
Banteay Meanchey: a treasure fountain of culture and heritage.
The Wat Ek Phnom archaeological site
Siem Reap Province. The Bakong Temple. A perfect stop-over for history aficionados.
Kampong Thom Province. Sambor Prey Kuk -UNESCO heritage site. European Tourism Academy shortlisted for World Capital of Culture and Tourism status.
Banteay Chhmar temple- a symbol of ever victorious spirit of Khmer People.
Cambodia under Academician Hun SEN, the most extraordinary Prime Minister that the nation had ever had has become a model for development, an independent and people oriented country and a symbol for tourism and national resurgence-ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea.
President of Djibouti Ismail Omar Guelleh has been named member of European Tourism Academy in recognition of his visionary leadership.
As it is the academic tradition, The Letter destined for World Leaders of Tourism and Development will be presented to H.E. President Ismail Guelleh on the opening day of World Capital of Culture and Tourism festivity by European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.
The European Tourism Academy encompass world leaders who proven themselves as creators of outstanding initiatives related to world development, tourism growth, tourism diplomatic initiatives and in fostering sustainable tourism and developing programs that give back to local and global communities.
European Council On Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea presents the activities of the new academician: H.E. Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti.
President of Romania (1996-2000) Academician Emil Constantinescu attends the ceremony (photo left).
According to the international media, President Ismail Omar Guelleh is being honored for “his developmental policies which lifted Djibouti out of poverty and raised it according to World Bank on no.5 on the top of world fastest growing economies in 2018.
World Bank has placed Djibouti on no.5 on world level on the rate of economic growth.
President Ismail Omar Guelleh is to be commended for a visionary leadership that enacted on national level policies of reconciliation and inter-community dialogue, encouraged sustainable tourism, wildlife conservation, and economic development attracting major hotel investment, resulting in the remarkable turnaround that has led to Djibouti’s rise as one of the leading growing tourism destinations in Africa today (European Council on Tourism and Trade).”
The Press Dossier of an intensive diplomatic activity of a world leader: Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh President of the Republic of Djibouti.
Among other recent recipients of the Letter destined for World Leaders of Tourism and Development and academician title, an eminent place is held by H. E. Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia Hun Sen who enacted policies that made Cambodia to be the first country in tourism development in 2016 and 2017 at world level.
The ECTT Awards for tourism and cultural achievements are the annual celebration that consecrates the best in the tourism industry by crowning, since 2006, the countries and nations excellence and investment in the tourism sector.
European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) had given the start for the 2018 competition for WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS.
The European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards for tourism and travel are the flagship event for the global tourism sector.
World Tourism and Travel Awards for 2018 will be a moment of recognition for tourism and world development: ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.
Since their inception in 2006, these awards seek to highlight the work of countries, nations and regions and cities, recognizing nations and people’s strides for their innovative and determined tourism initiatives.
The WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS are encompassing: THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM for cities and regions and WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for countries, the special category of FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION and marking out outstanding cultural and investment tourism projects. The contribution of the nations and leaders receiving world tourism and travel prizes is adjudged in line with ECTT guidelines for World Capital of Culture and Tourism and World Best Tourist Destination Award. In twelve consecutive editions, the ECTT-European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards recognized and promoted globally the tourism potentials of the most attractive tourist and cultural destinations. President Dr. Anton Caragea and European Council on Tourism and Trade President Office staff will start from 29 January 2018 to receive the candidatures for word tourism accolades celebrated as Nobel`s or Oscar`s of tourism: the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM competitions.
In 2017 European Tourism Academy had received 56 candidatures from cities, regions and countries from across the world and in 2018 this number is expected to expand.
Read more about WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS competition
European Council on Tourism and Trade, Ambassador Dr. Anton Caragea outlines the significance of World Tourism Awards 2018.
World Tourism and Travel Awards of world tourism institutions (European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy) are significant for their track record in fostering growth and development in the decorated countries.
Laos (2013 winner has registered a growth of more than 1,5 million tourists and in total a plus of 3 million visitors for Lao-World Best Tourist Destination), Zimbabwe succeeded to garner a plus of 1 million visitors in 2014/2015 and Ethiopia obtained more than 1 billion in tourism-related receipts and 1,1 million visitors for 2015 as World`s Best Tourist Destination and finally the Kingdom of Cambodia who topped the tourist growth worldwide in 2016 and 2017`s with a whopping 5 million tourists after being named World`s Best Tourist Destination. It is considered that European Council on Tourism and Trade succeeded in creating more than 100.000 jobs in the nations selected as World Best Tourist Destination (2016 survey). European Tourism Academy will start to analyze ongoing the candidatures for World`s Best Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism and will present the selected candidatures files for decision in General Assembly of European Council on Tourism and Trade declared Academician Mircea Constantinescu.
Video collection for WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS
PHNOM PENH: THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM
Pomp, pageantry and a powerful motion of confidence in the future of Kingdom of Cambodia tourism, cultural and development potential where the trademarks of the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM celebration dedicated to Phnom Penh, the booming capital of Cambodia.
On December 9, 2017 in the presence of over 3.000 guests, diplomats, tourism and culture experts, members of the Parliamentary Assembly for the Sustainable Development Goals, members of the Royal Government of Cambodia and of the Royal Parliament of Cambodia and European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates and many others high level guests attended the official ceremony for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM handover for PHNOM PENH has taken place.
In the pomp and ceremony of the event the Director of The EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY, Academician Dr. MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU outlined the reasons and the arguments for the inscription of Phnom Penh as one of the world landmark cities.
Here is the full text of the presentation:
ACADEMICIAN MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU: Phnom Penh – is a city that it embraces with warmth and gentle attention the soul of the travelers and it’s the real gate to Asia and the unique gem that shines over us with the light of culture and distinction.
Your Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN- Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia,
Your Excellency Dr. Thong Khon – Minister of Tourism,
Esteemed members of Royal Government of Cambodia, members of Parliament of Cambodia, distinguished member’s diplomatic corps
Dear guests,
All protocol observed,
Today is a historical day, is the day when we inscribe the name of another model city on the humanity list of WORLD`S CAPITALS OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.
In carving up the World Capital of Culture and Tourism Program 11 years ago, European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) set for themselves the ambitious task of establishing a world list of cities and regions that are encompassing the legacy of humanity, that are harboring traditions and costumes unique or hosting natural treasures considered to be of outstanding and universal value.
We are ensuring their presence in the limelight so that we and the future generations can enjoy the world’s patrimony wealth and it’s variety.
The international community must give much more support to the activities promoting the heritage, which is central to our civilizations and this is the main role of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM designation.
During last year`s THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM program enlarged and enriched his focus becoming a part of THE AGENDA FOR HUMANITY and a part of the Sustainable Development Goals Agenda being part and parcel of the global efforts destined to eradicate inequalities, ensure growth, develop education and cultural opportunities for all and supporting investment and development and integration policies where there are more needed.
The full video of the ACADEMICIAN MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU allocutio for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM: PHNOM PENH!
From an essentially global cultural and tourism program we have evolved in line with the world commitments and concerns onto a world level development program.
On this note I must salute the Government of Kingdom of Cambodia commitment to fulfilling the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations and for ensuring that Phnom Penh it is and continues to be a placed for development, creativity, encouragement of free enterprise and initiative and inclusiveness for all who come to this beautiful city.
Inscribing PHNOM PENH as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM we recognize that culture and history are not resource consumers, but are major economic and development factors, that help countries to develop and enrich themselves in more ways than just simple economic value.
Culture is undoubtedly a fundamental part of our life, is marking our identity and is facilitates our encounter, our dialogue, it helps us to share experiences, to search for unknown territories, to go further and further, is inscribed in our fiber and it defines us, is make us human.
Registering PHNOM PENH as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM we are taking act of the Government of Prime Minister Academician HUN SEN commitments and incredible achievements of the last 30 years in carving cultural and heritage protection programs, in ensuring a permanent growth in the quality of patrimony protection and consolidation, in ensuring the preservation and fostering of religions, traditions and cultural and traditional activities.
We must also remember the salient fact that on this account that this luminary policies has succeeded in inscribing the Kingdom as aWORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.
Today, PHNOM PENH is fulfilling the trademarks of what we are calling the cultural landscape marked by the existence of “mixed properties”, blending natural properties and cultural properties.
It designates areas where there has been a harmonious interaction between man and nature over a long period, linked to a particular culture, and which provides evidence of a traditional way of life in which nature and culture are profoundly interlinked.
Cultural landscapes are described in Article 1 of the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage as representing “the combined works of nature and man”.
PHNOM PENH is such a generous area: encompassing the natural setting provided by the confluence of three rivers: the mighty Mekong, the Bassac and the great Tonle Sap, the world unique river that is flowing upwards the stream for six months a year.
This perfect natural landscape has become the setting of a rich cultural city that encompasses religious monuments and heritage treasures like: Wat Ounalom the 1443 shrine built for a sacred hair of the Buddha and considered the seat of Cambodian Buddhism who will celebrate 575 years of continuously and uninterrupted religious activities.
Another landmark is the famous Wat Phnom, built in 1372 and restored and reconstructed in 1434, 1806, 1894 and 1926 and has become a symbol of the capital city Phnom Penh and regularly used for prayer, small offerings, and meditation.
It is a specially charged place connected with the legendary figure of grandmother Penh and from 15th century King Ponhea Yat built the capital in Phnom Penh around this sacred mountain used for keeping the cremated ash of the King.
The mountain of Wat Phnom has been transformed in the last 700 years in a place that is uniting Buddhist statues of the Angkorean era with art crafts from the medieval and modern area and also a royal necropolis hosting the stupas for keeping cremated ash of the Royal families.
Other religious places and cultural landmarks are Wat Langka who is reputedly one of Phnom Penh’s five original Wats (1422). Established as a sanctuary for the Holy Writings and a meeting place for Cambodian and Sri Lankan monks, the Wat was named in honor of these meetings.
Wat Botum Padei also one of the oldest religious buildings still in use in the city from 1422 and is compound, is crowded with ornate and colorful stupas, including the towering ‘Buddha’s Relic Stupa.
Wat Koh another one of the city’s five original Wats, established in the early 15th century and Wat Neak Kravorn situated in a perfect picturesque skyline of Boeung Kak lake.
PHNOM PENH is not only the seat of rich cultural and religious objectives but is also presenting a long list of tourism centers from the famed Russian Market, Old Market, Central Market, Night Market and a large array of traditional markets, to the incredible riches of the National Museum having on display more than 5,000 works of art, ranging from the 7th to the 13th century. Treasures include sculptures, 19th-century dance costumes, royal barges and palanquins.
I will just note on the lines the incredible cultural potential of Phnom Penh the fact that: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBODIA was voted as a WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM for the incredible treasures encompassing more than 14.000 priceless artifacts and for the perfect ways that are displayed and imbuing the visitors with the message of culture.
Phnom Penh is far from being just a huge open-air repository of temples, stupas, palaces and incredible museums it is also a place where the energy of his peoples is channeled into huge celebrations like Moon Festival, Water Festival, Royal Ploughing Day, Khmer New Year or famed Buddha Day-Visakh Bochea Day.
It is a city that it embraces with warmth and gentle attention the soul of the travelers and it’s the real gate to Asia and the unique gem that shines over us with the light of culture and distinction. I also take this moment to congratulate the Ministry of tourism on the initiative to create a special walking riverine prospect offering for tourists the opportunity to stroll around the banks of the famous Mekong.
Initiatives like this are creating the image of a friendly and traveler welcoming city, an image that Phnom Penh so richly deserves.
We can say that the European Council on Tourism and Trade was confronted with an easy conundrum at the question: IT IS? OR IT IS NOT PHNOM PENH a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM?
The positive answer was clear keeping in mind the impressive history of the city, the enormous cultural and heritage potential of Phnom Penh and the plans put in place by the Government of H.E. Prime Minister HUN SEN in order to carve out an ever better future for the peoples of the city and for those who come to share the life of the gem of Asia: the incredible PHNOM PENH – the city of waters, the gift of Cambodia to the world.
Your Excellency Prime Minister of the Royal Government of Cambodia HUN SEN,
Phnom Penh the recently nominated WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM is known on the world as the Gem of Asia, The city of waters and the capital of The Kingdom of Wonders: Cambodia, all are rightly deserved appellative`s and as academician Mircea Constantinescu pointed out of WORLD TOURISM AWARDS CEREMONY:
Independence Square and Monument: the heart of PHNOM PENH.
It is a city that it embraces with warmth and gentle attention the soul of the travelers and it’s the real gate to Asia and the unique gem that shines over us with the light of culture and distinction. I also take this moment to congratulate the Ministry of tourism on the initiative to create a special walking riverine prospect offering for tourists the opportunity to stroll around the banks of the famous Mekong.
PHNOM PENH is such a generous area: encompassing the natural setting provided by the confluence of three rivers: the mighty Mekong, the Bassac and the great Tonle Sap, the world unique river that is flowing upwards the stream for six months a year.
This perfect natural landscape has becoming the setting of a rich cultural city that encompasses religious monuments and heritage treasures like: Wat Ounalom, the 1443 shrine build for a sacred hair of the Buddha and considered the seat of Cambodian Buddhism who will celebrate 575 of continuously and interrupted religious activities.
Another landmark is the famous Wat Phnom, built in 1372 and restored or reconstructed in 1434, 1806, 1894 and 1926 and has become a symbol of the capital city Phnom Penh and regularly used for prayer, small offerings, and meditation.
It is a specially charged place connected with the legendary figure of grandmother Penh and from 15th century King Ponhea Yat built the capital in Phnom Penh around this sacred mountain used for keeping the cremated ash of the King.
The mountain of Wat Phnom has been transformed in the last 700 years in a place that is uniting Buddhist statues of the Angkorean era with art crafts from the medieval and modern area and also a royal necropolis hosting the stupas for keeping cremated ash of the Royal families.
Other religious places and cultural landmarks are Wat Langka who is reputedly one of Phnom Penh’s five original Wats (1422).
Established as a sanctuary for the Holy Writings and a meeting place for Cambodian and Sri Lankan monks, the Wat was named in honor of these meetings.
Wat Botum Padei also one of the oldest religious buildings still in use in the city from 1422 and is compound is crowded with ornate and colorful stupas, including the towering ‘Buddha’s Relic Stupa.
Wat Koh another one of the city’s five original Wats, established in the early 15th century and Wat Neak Kravorn situated in a perfect picturesque skyline of Boeung Kak lake.
PHNOM PENH is not only the seat of rich cultural and religious objectives but is also presenting a long list of tourism centers from the famed Russian Market, Old Market, Central Market, Night Market and a large array of traditional markets, to the incredible riches of National Museum having on display more than 5,000 works of art, ranging from the 7th to the 13th century.
Treasures include sculptures, 19th-century dance costumes, royal barges and palanquins.
We have to note also in the panorama of the incredible cultural potential of Phnom Penh the fact that: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBODIA was voted as a WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM for the incredible treasures encompassing more than 14.00 priceless artifacts and for the perfect ways that are displayed and imbuing the visitors with the message of culture.
Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is a must see for any Asian traveler as it is the symbol of the imperial power of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the residence of the royal family.
In Khmer language, the full name of Royal Palace of Phnom Penh is Preah Barom Reachea Vaeng Chaktomuk. The modern Royal Palace was designed by a famous French engineer, dating back to the end of the 19th century.
The resplendent and magnificent Royal Palace is the typical Cambodia building, situated in the east of Phnom Penh and facing the confluence of Mekong River and Tonle Sap River.
It is a magnificent building with golden roof and yellow walls surrounding it, consisting of over 20 palaces of various sizes, such as the golden palace, the silver palace and the treasure palace with exquisite reliefs on the winding corridors.
The treasure palace is inside the golden palace, displaying precious treasures.
Among all the buildings in the palace, the silver palace is the most gorgeous one, whose ground is paved with over 4,700 silver bricks.
In the palace, there is also a natural jade Buddha statue with the height of about 60 centimeters, regarding as the national treasure of Cambodia. It is also the holy land for the Buddhist devotions of the successive kings.
Phnom Penh is far from being just a huge open-air repository of temples, stupas, palaces and incredible museums it is also a place where the energy of his peoples is channeled into huge celebrations like Moon Festival, Water Festival, Royal Ploughing Day, Khmer New Year or famed Buddha Day-Visakh Bochea Day.
MEKONG ISLAND (KOH DACH)
If you wish to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh and venture into a world of peace and tranquility, then a visit to Mekong Island about 15km north of the city centre will be just right for you.
Bounded by views of rice paddies, vegetable farms and fruit orchards, Mekong Island not only serves as a venue for an enjoyable day trip or picnic but also enables you to experience the country’s authentic culture at its best.
This island occupies an area of about ten hectares of land and is one of the prominent centers of traditional handicrafts in Cambodia, with artisans engaged in silk weaving, pottery, woodcarving and dyeing in its villages.
Phnom Penh is waiting the travelers, tourists and all those who want to experience the true charm of Asia and the magic of a World Capital of Culture and Tourism with the open doors.
Come and discover the magic of Mekong, come and find your true city of love: Phnom Penh!
The official visit of ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea, marking the opening of Autumn 2016-International Tourism Fair at the ROMEXPO Hall, in Bucharest, has taken place.
President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, Academician Mircea Constantinescu and their retinue had visited the tourism market, cut the ribbon given the offficial start of the activities and presented from the pulpit the main characteristics of the 2017 year in tourism.
The 18 November official tour of the exhibition had taken place under The High Patronage of President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.
On this occasion Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has made the official tour of honour for all the pavilions that promoted outbound and inbound tourism, accompanied by a delegation of members of European Parliaments and the usual retinue of governmental officials.
The Bucharest-International Tourism Fair has garnered the most important tourism companies that outlined special offers for the lovers of cultural tourism, medical tourism and wellness, rural and business related tourism but also presented offers for aficionados of cruises, exotic destinations and adventure tourism.
Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had toured the areas dedicated to the promotion of wine tourism and stressed his office support for wine discovery based tourism programs, that are allowing visitors to familiarized themselves with Europe`s natural beauties but also to taste the incredible European wines.
On the pavilions acknowledged by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, ECTT President and Global Ambassador for Tourism we can count the COTNARI stand that promoted not only the perfection of Cotnari Wines but also Cotnari region as the heartland of Moldova`s tourism.
President Dr. Anton Caragea also visited the pavilions of Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, Hungary, Bulgaria and delivered a speech on Movenpick stand on the opportunities offered by Middle Eastern tourism.
Professor Dr. Anton Caragea visited the Photographic Exhibition ans encouraged the artists present and was received as distinguished guest by the representatives of the transport companies like Air Berlin, Blue Air and made a special stop over to the National Air Transport Company TAROM, where European Council President took his time and attended a photo session with the employees of the national air company.
The open conference held by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea on Middle Eastern tourism opportunities was attended by tourism specialists, mass media and governmental officials.
International Tourism Fair 2016 was a pleasant opportunity to meet the representatives of the tourism and air transport companies and to discuss new methods to improve tourism at world level and more than everything provided us with a rostrum of discussions for the future elections on WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION FOR 2017 and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM IN 2017 stated European Council on Tourism and Trade President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea in the concluding remarks of his visit.
According to World Bank, The Kingdom of Cambodia will enjoy a robust economic growth in 2016 of more than 7%, thanks in no small part to the recent growth in tourism sector.
Prime Minister of Cambodia-Academician Samdech HUN SEN had opted for a development based on tourism growth and obtained an incredible success as the Kingdom was elected as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and obtained a 6,9% growth according to World Bank.
The arrivals in the Kingdom are at a historic high in 2016.
Phnom Penh arrivals, after the country was elected as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION, grow by 7% and Siem Reap arrivals where up by 11% after the previous month.
Luu Meng, president of the Cambodian Hotel Association, said despite the importance of the Chinese market—which airlines have been increasingly tapping into—Cambodia also needs to focus on securing direct flights from other countries as well as promoting destinations outside Angkor Wat.
Cambodian tourism sector perfect development on 2016, has become a World Model on the occasion of World Tourism Day.
A model to be analysed and copied by countries around the world in order to obtain a health tourism industry and a to foster the national development via tourism and international cooperation.
No country in the world had ever registered a growth equally to that of Kingdom of Cambodia, with 26% increase in arrivals numbers in just two months after becoming WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.
If the Kingdom will succeed in keeping the momentum in the next months the tourism sector in the country can be a perfect world success story and example.
Let`s all wish to Cambodia a perfect ending for 2016!
When you are thinking about Cambodia`s tourism the first thing that cross your mind are: the recently awarded title of World Best Tourist Destinationor the scenic spots of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, or the majestic Mekong, or the clear waters of Koh Rong island, but you wouldn’t necessary focus on music and you would be wrong, because Cambodia has started the journey to conquer the tourism world with a song.
The song CAMBODIA IS WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION was performed during the opening and closing ceremonies of the Phnom Penh World Travel and Tourism Awards 2016.
Another million dollars song is the CAMBODIA-FAVOURITE CULTURAL DESTINATION, with Khmer lyrics by Hun Heng, a local star in music creation and benefiting the talented voice of Son Srey Pich, a Khmer music star.
The song rose quickly to fame on the account of the perfect blending of powerful music and enchanted videos showcasing the incredible beauty of Cambodia.
The European Tourism Academy has decided to award the title of ACADEMICIAN-Member of honor to Prime Minister Dr. HUN SEN of Kingdom of Cambodia for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between people’s.
The World Tourism Institute has attached special importance to Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen’s vision of and work for a world based on economic development.
The World Tourism Institute has attached special importance to Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen’s vision of and work for a world based on economic development,poor empowerment and for promoting tourism as a tool for understanding among people’s.
Prime Minister Dr. HUN SEN created a new climate in international development politics.
He supported the inclusion of Millenium Development Goals in Cambodia`s development strategy and advocated the world implementation and adoption of Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. THONG KHON-Cambodia Minister of Tourism outlines his country development strategy.
Culture and tourism based diplomacy has regained a central position, with emphasis on the role that the free travel, open skies policies, and dialogue can play in the development of ASEAN region.
Dialogue and negotiations are Prime Minister Dr. HUN SEN preferred instruments for resolving all potential conflicts.
The vision of a world based on development, education and open circulation of ideas, good, persons across Asia are now implemented thanks to Prime Minister Dr. HUN SEN.
The Director of European Tourism Academy, Academician Professor Mircea Constantinescu announce the world decision to present a new leader on tourism and development-HUN SEN-Prime Minister of Cambodia.
Cambodia is now playing the role of a model in economic development, social revenues distribution and tourism engagement.
H.E. President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea presents to the world stage light the new leader in tourism and development, the newest Academician-Dr. HUN SEN-Prime Minister of Cambodia.
Only very rarely has a person to the same extent as Prime Minister Dr. HUN SEN captured the world’s attention and given its people hope for a better future.
His diplomacy is founded in the concept that culture, historical patrimony, dialogue and inclusiveness are the real basis for country development and those who are to lead the world must do so on the basis of values instilled by culture.
On June 11, 2016, the General Assembly of the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT), has taken under consideration the list of candidates for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2016.
Scrutinizing of the candidature files was made, in the initial stages, by the European Tourism Academy team, who drafted a preliminary report disseminated among the ECTT members.
Academician Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy, presented the list of candidates and the list of reports and accompanying evaluations for each of the 30 countries registered candidatures.
Academician Mircea Constantinescu stressed the need for a strict observance of Chatham House rules of discretion, and also presented the report asking for a candidate country to be disbarred, for not being able to comply with the rules and regulation of World Institution-ECTT.
The motion was adopted and the analysis of remaining 29 countries in competition for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION continued.
ECTT Chairman –Mihai Prundianu stated for the audience the remarkable achievements of the 2015 award winner-The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia who capped 1 million tourists supplementary and derived tourism income in the margin of 2 billion dollars. Addis Ababa became the most rapidly growing city in Africa in the number of tourists.
Ethiopia enjoyed also a large presence in the media with over 120.000 tourism related articles promoting the country as the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION.
Ethiopia has being, surpassing all the countries in the region in terms of tourism, appreciated Academician Mircea Constantinescu.
ECTT President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea marked also the world tourism institution determination to continue a special relation with Ethiopia that we come to know and love and who entered in our hearts forever, concluded Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.
With the acceptance of the report by Chairman Mihai Prundianu on ETHIOPIA, the debate on the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 was declared opened according to the decision of ECTT President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.
ECTT President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea on the rostrum of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2016
The second day (12 June 2016) of the debate for the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2016 saw Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) presenting the main report, encompassing the decision that emerged as the victorious candidate.
The report was titled: CAMBODIA: THE LAND OF MAGIC- THE PLACE WHERE GOD`S AND KINGS BUILD THE WORLD!
He proposed the Kingdom of CAMBODIA as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and as receiver of the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION distinction for 2016.
The report noted the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 PRIZE to CAMBODIA:
Temple of Preah Vihear- the heart of ancient Indochina
The excellent preservation of humanity landmarks such as: the Temple of Preah Vihear- the heart of ancient Indochina.
The temple outstanding history can be traced to the 9th century, when the hermitage was founded.
Today the site is particularly well-preserved and is offering to the visitors an outstanding vision of grandeur, thanks to his exceptional for the quality of its architecture, which is adapted to the natural environment and the religious function of the temple, as well as for the exceptional quality of its carved stone ornamentation.
The Siem Reap province is home to the majestically and unique Angkor Archaeological Park – the residence of the Khmers Kings from 9th to 15th century.
Today this incredible humanity legacy, stretching over some 400 sq.km, including forested area, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century.
They include the famous Temple of Angkor Watt and Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations.
All this sites were recognized as being of world significance and registered as UNESCO World heritage monuments.
Angkor Thom a temple of world significance and registered as UNESCO World heritage monument
The rich cultural and historical legacy of Cambodia is not limited to the previous presented list.
In order to fully grasp the natural potential of Cambodia natural parks and natural reservations we must look at the potential of these regions designated in 1993 Royal Decree on the Protection of Natural Areas.
They are encompassing 23 protected areas, which at the time covered more than 18% of the country’s total land area. The royal decree divides the areas into four distinct categories: natural parks (sometimes described as ‘national parks’), wildlife preserves, protected scenic view areas (sometimes described as ‘protected landscapes’) and multi-purpose areas.
Cambodia is also home to rarely and valuable Ramsar sites rated accordingly to RAMSAR CONVENTION of June 1999:
A stretch along the Mekong River approximately 37 km long and 14,600 hectares in Stung Treng Province
Boeng Chhmar and associated river system and floodplain, 28,000 hectares in Kampong Thom and Siem Reap provinces (part of a designated multiple use area)
Koh Kapik and associated islets, 12,000 hectares in Koh Kong province (part of a designated wildlife sanctuary).
Giving tourists access to outstanding and pristine nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological preservation, and the opportunity to visit extraordinary places.
All these regions and national parks are a model of achieving ecological and green tourism that must be recognized throughout the world.
New prominent landmarks are to be added to UNESCO list such as: Angkor Borei and Phnom Da, the former celebrated as the ancient capital of Kingdom of Cambodia under the name of Vyadhapura and pace at the confluence of Mekong and Stun Sla Ku. This is now home to perfect archaeological treasures like sculptures and stones star-shaped called stelae.
Phnom Da is famous for his caves, the mud tower and the all sought Ashram Maha Rosei, made in long standing stone and celebrated as a model of architectural ingenuity made out of interior monk housing units blending in the exterior wall.
Udong is the former capital of Royal Cambodia in 17th century from 1740 to 1746.
Udong is now a perfect example of a sprawling royal city, but also a royal necropolis gathering the funerary temples of kings that offered to Cambodia a chance of survival in the country darkest times.
Udong is the proof of the resilience and endurance of Khmer spirit in time of peril and dangers.
The project ONE VILLAGE/ONE PRODUCT designed to promote social fair tourism, to sustain rural production and to bring about the rebirth of traditional craftsmanship created and promoted by H.E. Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Cambodia , is a perfect way of sharing revenue, growing income and supporting marginal and rural communities development.
The way in which social-tourism has become the base for local economic development, for empowerment of remote community and supporting educational and vocational projects benefiting the communities, makes social-fair tourism, the lesson that today-the KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA is offering to the world.
The Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations had brought Cambodia on the list of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATIONS
The ongoing development and protection of cultural, religious and historical shrines of the Kingdom of Cambodia, the transformation of Angkor Region into a historical and spiritual center, offering to the visitors a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of people’s of Cambodia.
Angkor must be the world center of religious pilgrimage and cultural tourism offering to world tourists the complex healing experience of cultural legacy, religious special atmosphere and faith imbued air.
The preservation of outstanding historical and cultural heritage in the form of the former capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Angkor cultural complex, an ample palatial complex from the 9th Century, offering an incredible sense of magnificence of one of the Asia greatest empire.
Today, Cambodia offers tourists bound for the country a rich and perfect open air collection with a rare presence of historical and archaeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.
The KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA is also a perfect center for river cruises and adventure tourism, offering large areas suitable for this special kind of tourism, and the necessary infrastructure to welcome the adventure seeker, its safety and peace, makes the country, one of the world’s top adventure river destinations that make the KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA as a perfect cultural class destination.
Cambodia is now proclaimed WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION! Ambassadors are surrounding the European Council on Tourism and Trade leadership.
Mr. Pavel Avramoiu, Director for Hotel Management and Evaluation at European Council on Tourism and Trade, outlined the impressive potential for development that Kingdom of Cambodia is presenting.
Cambodia, now proclaimed WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION, must transform this perfect opportunity and universal limelight in a base for attracting investors in the field of hotels and hospitality to cater for the millions that will find their ways to the KINGDOM OF WONDERS and LAND OF MAGIC!
This is an incredible occasion for all ASEAN regions, an opportunity to place regions cultural and historical patrimony at the fore and to make Cambodia the center for medium and long-term trips that will bring travelers to the magic of Indochina.
With open sky`s policies enacted by Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, the country has become the center of ASEAN future development, concluded his speech World Tourism Institution Director Pavel Avramoiu.
It is appropriate for Europe to express its commitment to, and appreciation for Asia by crowning CAMBODIA as THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 stated the ECTT Director Ioan Matei.
Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, Director of European Parliamentary Committee in the European Council on Tourism and Trade
Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, Director of European Parliamentary Committee in the European Council on Tourism and Trade and Senator of Romanian Parliament stated the opinion of all present at ECTT conference and declared that the KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA is the unique candidate that is offering a perfect blend of cultural record, large historical patrimony and is offering a magisterial lesson to the world: the lesson of creativity and resilience of SROK KHMER-the land of Khmers.
With an outstanding record of promoting social-fair tourism, ecological and poverty reduction strategy based on tourism Cambodia deserves a unanimous vote, appreciated the Senator I. Agrigoroaei.
Taking the floor, President Dr. Anton Caragea asked for a final vote and European Council on Tourism and Trade Assembly unanimously, agreed to bestow the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION STATUS FOR 2016 TO KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA and to declare CAMBODIA- THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2016.
The meeting was also presented with the Official Letter, from the Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia.
The world gathering (including ECTT members and accredited ambassadors and diplomats) was presented with a warm salute and invitation from acting Minister of Tourism Mr. Chea Bora, for a mission of high ranking officials of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Phnom Penh, in person, to His Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, European Academician and outstanding personality in world tourism, today.
The final note of ECTT 2016 Assembly was stroke by Professor Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade who emphasize the importance of the moment: the most important WORLD TOURISM PRIZE was entrusted to peoples of CAMBODIA.
CAMBODIA has arisen from ashes of nefarious time and is today a perfect destination crowned in the diamonds of Mekong, endowed with the beauties of Siem Reap and Battambang and made immortal by the works of Gods and Kings at Angkor.
Leading by example, is always the motto of European Council and Tourism and Trade and the acceptance of the invitation for a familiarization visit of high ranking members of European Council on Tourism and Trade to CAMBODIA is a proof of this enduring truth. CAMBODIA is a perfectly safe and outstanding destination that will forever mark your heart!
Today all world tourism experts expressed their confidence in the potential and future of tourism in CAMBODIA, let`s follow their example and discover THE WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION in 2016- concluded Professor Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade.
On the occasion of European Council on Tourism and Trade General Meeting for 2015 the participants will have the opportunity to watch the best travel documentary of 2014, a production of Laos National Television, presenting the World Best Tourist Destination Award ceremonies, held in May 2013 in Vientiane.
The documentary was broadcasted only in 2014 in 2015 by 28 televisions and watched by more than 20 million viewers.
From 25 june 2015 the documentary will be available (in selections) for the general public to see at European Council on Tourism and Trade channel here.
The art show is presenting the most striking features of Laos-World Best Tourist Destination declared by European Council on Tourism and Trade showcasing the rich history and cultural patrimony of the country, the fashion of past and present Laos people and minorities and different regions of the country, finally culminating with a parade of artists presenting national Lao music and international acclaimed artists.
The European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards, created with the help of European Tourism Academy, are recognised as the flagship awards for the global tourism sector.
The awarded countries, cities and personalities are selected in line with the policies, priorities and programme of work of European Council on Tourism and Trade, including the European Council on Tourism and Trade-Code of Sustainable Tourism and the principle standards set in the European Council on Tourism and Trade development pledge.
This countries and personalities represent some of the best examples of tourism leaders from around the world, that through their exceptional actions and potentials initiatives have placed themselves and their nations on the rostrum of the sector.
European Tourism Academy Director-Academician Mircea Constantinescu, officially announced the closing of competition for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2015.
Academician Mircea Constantinescu receives the final candidature for 2015 World Tourism Awards-World Best Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism.
We have received the final application and we have concluded the peer revision and we will be ready to outline our recommendation for the General Reunion of European Council on Tourism and Trade at the end of June 2015.
We are sure that this year, like the previous year`s, our decision will elicit the enthusiasm of travelers from all around the world and we hope that the winner for 2015 will enjoy the same popularity asLaos: who received more than 3 million tourists in the last period and Zimbabwe, who become the best African destination, surpassing in growth all the heavy weights of tourism in the region, concluded Academician Mircea Constantinescu.
WORLD TOURISM NEWS FROM EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE 
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