Neuigkeiten aus der Touristik


08.08.2017
Taj Mahal

Das Taj Mahal strahlt in neuem Glanz! Seit dem Wochenende sind die Gerüste an den vier Minaretten und der Frontseite entfernt. Die Säuberungsarbeiten haben drei Jahre gedauert. Aber jetzt steht dem Fotografieren nichts mehr im Wege.
Quelle: Go India Journeys

16.05.2017
Seilbahn Lantau

The Ngong Ping 360 cable car, one of Hong Kong’s most popular tourist attractions, is on track to reopen in June after a five-month closure for rope replacement work.

The 5.7km aerial tramway on Lantau Island has been shut since January to replace the cables, which reached the end of their lifespan after a decade of operation.

Weller Chan, project manager for the work, said it had not exceeded its initial budget of HK$80 million despite weather challenges and limited space for workers due to the location in a country park. He said the project must be completed before the typhoon season hits the city in the summer to ensure the safety of workers.

The project included replacing a 10km haul rope, which pulls the cabins, and a 14km track rope which supports their weight. Construction work for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge also added to difficulties with the project, Chan said. Work on the bridge occupied a site near the airport that could have been used for a rope pulley for the cable car. A boat had to be deployed instead to position the machinery.

“If the weather conditions remain stable, the project is expected to be completed in late May,” Chan said. Dozens of experts from overseas were drafted in from Switzerland, Germany, Italy and Australia to help with the cable replacement project. All of them are staying in nearby hotels.

During the construction period, visitors who wish to see the city’s famed Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery on Lantau have to take a bus or taxi from Tung Chung.

Quelle: Tourasia Hong Kong

10.04.2017
E-Visa Indien

As part of the ongoing efforts to improve the e-Tourist Visa process for clients, we are pleased to update you that we have secured the following improvements that have been implemented with effect from 1st April 2017.

Here are some key highlights of the upgrade:

The e-Visa is now applicable for 163 countries (full list given on the website).
e-Visa has 3 sub-categories i.e., e-Tourist visa, e-Business Visa and e-Medical visa and visitors will be permitted to club these categories.
The validity of e-Visa will be 60 days from the date of arrival in India.
e-Visa can be availed for maximum of two times in a calendar year i.e. between January to December.
e-Visa is now valid for entry through 24 designated airports but visitors have the flexibility to depart/exit from any of the authorized Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) in India.

For more details on the process, other highlights and key points on both the e-visa and revised fees for the regular visa process, please visit the official website of the Ministry of Home Affairs at
https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

Quelle: LPTI

21.03.2017
Regenfälle in Peru

Die touristische Route im Süden des Landes, darunter Cusco, Arequipa, Puno und Madre Dios, ist nicht betroffen, ebenso wenig wie die nordöstlichen Landesteile mit San Martín, Amazonas und Loreto. In den Hotels, touristischen Einrichtungen. Flughäfen und Sehenswürdigkeiten in diesen Regionen findet touristischer Normalbetrieb statt.

Auch die Sehenswürdigkeiten der Hauptstadt Lima sind geöffnet und können besucht werden.

Die Nordregion, darunter die Moche-Route in La Libertad und Lambayeque, die Strände in Piura und Tumbes sowie die Bergregion Áncash sind von den Regenfällen betroffen. Die Regierung arbeitet gemeinsam mit der Bevölkerung daran, die Geschädigten zu unterstützen, die Straßen zu reparieren und zukünftige Unfälle zu vermeiden.

Quelle: PromPerú c/o fame creative lab

02.03.2017
Update Chile

In San Pedro de Atacama, im Norden Chiles, kommt es aktuell aufgrund starker Regenfälle zu Einschränkungen im Verkehr und dem Zugang zu verschiedenen Touristenattraktionen. In den Dörfern Catarpe und Cuchabrache sind aktuell 19 Personen durch die Überflutung von Straßen isoliert. Die Route B-207 nach Río Grande ist momentan aufgrund eines Erdrutsches unterbrochen. Vereinzelte touristische Attraktionen können je nach tagesaktueller Situation leider nicht oder nur unter besonderer Vorsicht besucht werden. Sofern nötig, werden wir den Reiseverlauf Ihrer Gäste anpassen und Sie informieren.

Quelle: travelArt Chile

15.02.2017
Update Waldbrände in Chile

Unterstützung aus aller Welt hat Chile bei der Bekämpfung der Waldbrände geholfen und große Fortschritte erzielt. Internationale Hilfskräfte wurden unter tosendem Beifall und mit großer Dankbarkeit am Flughafen verabschiedet und traten die Reise in ihre jeweiligen Heimatländer an. Nach 20 Tagen konnte das Löschflugzeug „Supertanker“ zu seiner Basis nach Colorado (USA) zurückkehren.
Momentan gibt es nach Informationen der CONAF (chilenische Forstbehörde) noch 50 Brände, von denen 33 unter Kontrolle, 10 in Bekämpfung und 7 gelöscht sind.
Betroffene Regionen erholen sich langsam von den Bränden. Die Krisenzonen werden begutachtet und Projektpläne für einen nachhaltigen Wiederaufbau der geschädigten Ökosysteme erstellt. Außerdem haben sich verschiedene Institutionen, wie die Intendencia Metropolitana, CONAF, MOP (Ministerium öffentlicher Bauprojekte) und das Notfallkomitee getroffen, um neue Zugangsstraßen zu den höhergelegenen Stadtteilen Valparaisos zu planen, die von den Feuern betroffen waren. Bis zu zehn neue Straßen sollen Hilfskräften im Notfall besseren Zugang und neue Evakuationsrouten ermöglichen.

Quelle: travelArt Chile

23.01.2017
Waldbrände in Chile

Momentan wüten zahlreiche Waldbrände in der chilenischen Zentralregion und die Katastrophenschutzbehörde ONEMI hat in der Region um Santiago, Valparaíso, Maule und O'Higgins die Alarmstufe Rot bekanntgegeben. Die Gebiete Cardenal Caro und Colchagua sowie die Kommunen Vichuquén und Cauquenes in der Region El Maule wurden zu Katastrophengebieten erklärt. Alle Nationalparks zwischen Coquimbo und Biobío wurden bis auf Weiteres geschlossen. Feuerwehr und Polizei arbeiten zusammen mit lokalen Helfern und internationaler Unterstützung an der Bekämpfung der Brände. Bisher gibt es etliche Sachschäden.

Das Stadtgebiet von Santiago ist derzeit durch die Rauchentwicklung betroffen und es wird davon abgeraten, Sport im Freien auszuüben. Momentan haben die Brände keinen Einfluss auf den Reiseverlauf der Gäste, allerdings kann es durch Löschfahrzeuge und Hilfskräfte zu Verkehrsbehinderungen und Verzögerungen im Programm kommen.

Quelle: travelArt Chile

17.01.2017
Kasachstan öffnet die Grenzen

Seit 01.01.2017 gibt es für die Einreise nach Kasachstan keine Visumpflicht mehr. Bürger von 45 Ländern, darunter Deutschland, dürfen Kasachstan bis zu einem Aufenthalt von 30 Tagen ohne Visum bereisen.

07.01.2017
Regen auf Koh Samui

Due to the heavy rain weather condition Samui experiences flooding and delays in flight arrivals and departures. At the moment all the tours are being postponed or cancelled. We assist the affected clients accordingly and monitor the situation.

Quelle: Asia World Enterprise

23.12.2016
Putao

Unfortunately we just got the below information from the Ministry of Hotel and Tourism in Myanmar. Please be informed that we have no current booking for this area in the north at the moment.

We will monitor the situation carefully and will update you accordingly. But please keep in mind that all the other tourist routes in Myanmar are still safe and not affected!

Today Ministry of Hotel and Tourism has instructed that they no longer issue travel permits traveling outside Putao town due to security reason. Even Putao is still a safe place to visit, but due to ongoing conflict with ethnic minority the President office dictated that travel to most of the restricted area temporarily ban for security reason.

Quelle: Focus Asia

12.12.2016
Visum Usbekistan

Der usbekische Präsident hat als Maßnahme zur Entwicklung des Tourismus im Lande zum 01.04.2017 die Visumpflicht für einige Länder aufgehoben. Dazu zählen neben Deutschland auch Österreich und die Schweiz. Der Aufenthalt ist auf 30 Tage begrenzt. Bei Einreise ist eine Gebühr in Höhe von USD 50 pro Person zu zahlen. Die Visumgebühren der Botschaft waren ähnlich hoch, aber man spart sich das Versenden des Reisepasses.

01.12.2016
Geld in Indien - update

You are well aware of the sudden decision of the Indian Government on November 08, 2016 on demonetisation in the larger interest of the country. Since the implementation was immediate everyone concerned including the tourists travelling through India or arriving in India were immediately affected. In cases guests faced inconvenience in exchanging the old Indian currency during the tour or exchanging enough foreign currency at hotels and banks due to queues at the banks and shortage of new currency at other exchange outlets. However, we as an organisation extended all possible assistance to help your valued clients to exchange the money as far as possible and as per the applicable law.

We would like to further update you on the situation as on date. Following the initial confusion for exchanging the currency by the local citizens and certain key measures taken by the Indian Government things have settled by now to the larger extent. The queues at the banks have thinned down considerably making it much easier for people to exchange money. All foreigners arriving into India can exchange currency up to a maximum value of INR 5000 per person per week at banks in the city or at the airport on arrival or at the hotel of stay. They can also make payments by their credit cards without any limit or restriction on the amount. Though it will take a little more for the situation to be back to absolute normal, things are much smoother and not as inconvenient as it was in the initial phase.

We as an organisation are in touch with all our clients travelling through India presently and will be doing so with our clients arriving in the near future as well to ensure that they are extended with full assistance in case they face any difficulty on this issue at any time. Please, kindly brief your clients accordingly and let us know in case of any further questions.

Quelle: Le Passage to India

09.11.2016
Geld in Indien

As you must have heard our Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi took a stand against corruption last night. In an unannounced move, he informed the Nation in a live televised address that starting Wednesday, 9 November 2016 all INR 500 and INR 1,000 have been demonetized.

This announcement caught everyone by surprise and no one had time to prepare for it. It is undoubtedly a good step by the Government with a positive long term impact. But for the immediate future there are many logistical challenges - all ATMs and Banks are shut today and are expected to open tomorrow - that have been thrown up as a result of this announcement.

Naturally, this impacted our clients currently traveling in India.

After some initial disruption earlier in the day things were managed at many monuments in each city involved to a larger extent, however it is now confirmed that all monuments will continue to accept INR 500 and INR 1,000 currency notes until 11 November. By then, we will have a working solution in place. The guides, local offices and escorts are all briefed and in constant touch with us. The goal is to make the transition seamless for clients.

Credit cards and currency in lower denominations like INR 100, INR 50 and INR 20 etc. are still legal tender and in circulation.

Finally, with reference to the cash that clients have converted for their visit to India, they can redeem it at the airport.

Please rest assured that we are monitoring every development as information gets clearer and is made available to us by the Government and the Reserve Bank.

We shall keep you updated and do feel free to contact us for any and all other questions you might have.

Quelle: Le Passage to India

18.10.2016
Thailand

Es gab keine Beeinträchtigungen am Wochenende und alle Guides und Fahrer waren im Dienst; Züge und Flüge operierten normal.

Hier sind einige Änderungen / Anpassungen die es im Auge zu behalten gilt:

Der Große Palast und der Smaragd-Buddha-Tempel sind bis mindestens Donnerstag, den 20. Oktober 2016 geschlossen. Wir werden diese beiden Besuche durch folgende Alternativen ersetzen und die Gäste können dies vor Ort noch einmal mit dem Guide besprechen: Wat Traimit, Wat Mangkorn, Wat Saket, Wat Benjamopit, Wat Khaek, Jim Thompson Haus, Suan Pakkard, Mr. Kukrit Haus, Khlong Bootstour oder Chinatown.

Bitte beachten Sie auch die folgenden Schließungen / Updates:

- Die Vimanmek Mansion in Bangkok ist bis auf Weiteres geschlossen.

- Das Sampran Riverside Restaurant in der Nähe von Bangkok ist geöffnet aber es finden zur Zeit keine Show statt.

- Das Khum Khan Toke Dinner und die Shows finden aktuell nicht statt.

- Das Yi Peng Lantern Festival (Vollmondfest) in Chiang Mai, vom 13. – 15. November ist abgesagt. Es gibt derzeit keine Informationen über die Massenlaternenfreigabe bei Mae Jo, welche oft mit dem Yi Peng Festival verwechselt wird. Updates folgen.

- Der Terminplan für das Muay Thai Boxing ist sowohl am Rachadamnoen Stadion und Ram-Indra Stadion für einen Monat abgesagt (vom 14.10.-14.11.2016).

- Restaurants, Cafés, Bars, lokale Märkte, Einkaufzentren, Kinos, Dinner Cruises und Nachtmärkte sind weitestgehend geöffnet, aber es gibt ein paar Einschränkungen bis zum 14.11.2016 wie z.B. das Abspielen von lauter Musik oder Live Musik.

- Die meisten Thai Leute tragen schwarze oder weiße Kleidung, sowie schwarze Bänder, als Zeichen der Trauer. Dies ist nicht von Touristen erforderlich, aber es wird empfohlen sich während der 30 tägigen Trauerzeit angemessen zu kleiden und sich sorgfältig und respektvoll in der Öffentlichkeit zu verhalten.

Quelle: Exo Travel

17.10.2016
Taifun Sarika

Typhoon Sarika (also known as ‘Karen’), which passed over The Philippines during the weekend, is now tracking towards Northern Vietnam and we expect it to hit the coast in the coming days. At this stage the storm is a category 1 typhoon and on course to impact the areas of Halong Bay, Hanoi, the Red River Delta and northern mountainous areas from early Wednesday.

The storm is expected to bring torrential rainfall along with heavy winds and rough seas. This will affect all Halong Bay cruises and we expect the Bay to be closed as early as the evening of Tuesday October 18th. Hanoi’s Noi Bai airport may also be affected and depending on conditions, some flights may be delayed or cancelled. We are closely monitoring this situation and our Operations teams are making all necessary arrangements to divert and rebook travellers as necessary.

Quelle: Exo Travel

11.10.2016
Taj Mahal

According to sources, restoration work on the Taj's minarets has apparently been coming along for many months now and is nearly complete - the current proposition is to now begin with the cleaning of the main dome structure, in keeping with the conservation plan for the monument.
The restoration process however, will take a long time to complete and will require iron scaffolding encircling the dome to be set up. This would mean that tourists visiting the Taj Mahal would not be able to have a clear view of the entire monument.
As of now, plans indicate the approximate date of commencement of work as spring 2017 but no firm timetable has been shared regarding the restoration schedule.
We, as well as other industry bodies, are in constant touch with concerned parties to receive immediate updates/confirmation on the situation - we want to ensure that we have absolute clarity on this so as to guarantee minimum interruption and inconvenience for overseas travellers, with regard to their experience at the iconic Taj Mahal.

Quelle: LPTI, New Delhi

26.09.2016
Mount Bromo

Due to increasing volcanic activity at Mount Bromo this morning, the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, Indonesia is temporarily closed to visitors. The safe zone is 2.5 km from the volcanic crater.
Mount Bromo tours are only possible from the Penanjakan/Metigen/Seruni or Kingkong view points. Climbing the stairs to the rim of the crater is officialy forbidden, and no visitors are allowed to go down to, or drive across, the Sea of Sand.

Quelle: ICS Travel Group

24.08.2016
Erdbeben Myanmar

Today at around 5pm local time we experienced an earthquake in Myanmar. It was centred close to the Bagan temple area, at 6.8 on the Richter scale. Our local team in Bagan has contacted the hotels and all our guests to make sure all is well.

Here is the latest information:

Some of the ancient temples in Old Bagan have been damaged, including some often visited by tourists.

No personal injuries have been reported, including those guests travelling with us.

No hotels or other buildings have been reported damaged.

Other areas further away, like Mandalay, have reported no damage to buildings.

Although not frequent, earthquakes can happen in Myanmar and with damage as a result.

We will keep monitoring the situation, which is stable now, and will continue operations as usual if nothing changes. If certain temples close temporarily, then we will adjust our route to ensure a safe and beautiful Bagan visit.

Quelle: Exo Travel, Bangkok

12.08.2016
Situation Thailand

We are deeply saddened by the news of multiple explosions in Thailand from the evening of Thursday, 11 August until the morning of Friday, 12 August. Incidents have been reported in multiple locations around southern Thailand. Local media are reporting at least 3 fatalities and more than 30 injured.

HUA HIN
Thursday, 10:15pm - Two explosions outside a neighbourhood bar.
Friday, 9:10am - Two explosions near the Hua Hin clock tower. Officiers destroyed a third bomb found nearby Wat Hua Hin.

SURAT THANI
Friday, 8:00am - Two explosions occurred near the main police station.

PHUKET
Friday, 8:00am - Patong reported one explosion in front of a police booth, one explosion in front of Loma Park, and one explosion in front of Coconut Village hotel.

PHANG NGA
Friday, 9:15am - One bomb exploded in Ban Nang Niang village in Khuek Khak and two bombs went off in Khao Lak.

TRANG
Thursday, 3:00pm - A bomb exploded at Centre Point market.

CHUMPHON
Friday, 8:00am - A bomb exploded near the governor's residence in Muang district.

Our thoughts are with the victims and families who were affected by these tragic events. The motive for the attacks remains unknown, and there have been no claims of responsibility. Our customer’s safety is our highest priority and we are in close contact with our representatives on the spot. All scheduled tours are operating currently as as planned, and will keep you updated on any changes in the situation.

Quelle: ICS Travel Group

15.07.2016
Inlandsflüge Myanmar

Effective immediately all passengers traveling on Domestic flights in Myanmar will be required to provide their passport details.

Please forward through your clients passport details whenever making domestic flight bookings for Myanmar. For existing bookings please ensure details are forwarded to us prior to departure.
Please feel free to contact us should you have any queries or require further clarification.

Quelle: ICS Travel Group

28.06.2017
Visa Vietnam

Wir möchten Sie heute darüber informieren, dass die vietnamesischen Behörden sich entschieden haben, die Visabestimmungen für Spanien, Italien, Frankreich, Vereinigtes Königreich und Deutschland um ein weiteres Jahr bis zum 30.06.2017 zu verlängern.
In den letzten zwei Monaten haben wir den Reisenden der o.g. Ländern empfohlen sich vor der Reise um ein Visum zu kümmern, da die Bestätigung der vietnamesischen Behörden, über die Visabestimmungen fehlte.
Bei Anreise nach Vietnam ab dem 1. Juli, wo wir bereits vorab ein Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) organisiert haben, ist es nicht notwendig vor Ort etwas bei der Ankunft zu zahlen.

Das Vietnam Visum erlaubt einen Aufenthalt bis zu 15 Tagen. Der Reisepass muss noch 6 Monate nach Einreise gueltig sein.

Quelle: Exo Travel

02.06.2016
Tiger Tempel Thailand

Thailands Behörden schließen Tiger-Tempel
Die Polizei räumt die als Streichelzoo beliebte Touristenattraktion bei Kanchanaburi nahe Bangkok, knapp 140 Tiere müssen umziehen. Bei der Aktion fanden die thailändischen Beamten zudem 40 tote Tigerbabys in einer Tiefkühltruhe. Die buddhistischen Mönche der Anlage stehen seit langem unter Verdacht, illegalen Handel und Aufzucht der geschützten Tiger zu betreiben.

Quelle: Süddeutsche Zeitung

10.05.2016
Visumbefreiung Indonesien

The Republic of Indonesia has extended the accessibility of visa-free entry for tourists.
All international airports are now covered with visa-free facilities easing travel into the country.
Visa-free entry is now available at 124 immigration points: 29 airports, 88 seaports and 7 other border points. Indonesia may now be visited visa-free by a total of 168 nationalities.

The maximum period of stay is 30 days, and the visa cannot be extended or converted into another class of visa.
Travellers who would like to reserve the option of a 30-day visa extension while in the country will need to pre-purchase a 30-day Visa-On-Arrival, which is available for 35 USD payable in cash.
Note that passports must be valid for at least 6 months at the day of exit, and should contain at least one empty page on the day of arrival.
Nationalities that are not covered under the visa-free facility, may be either covered under visa-on-arrival or may need to arrange a visa prior to their arrival with the nearest Indonesian embassy.

Quelle: Exo Travel

07.05.2016
El Nino in Südostasien

One of the most intense heat waves ever observed has hit Southeast Asia during the last 6-7 weeks. The heatwave has been accompanied by severe droughts affecting many countries in the region and several Thai provinces.

Meteorologists forecast in 2016 that the strong influence of El Niño would result in droughts and high temperatures in Southeast Asia. However at this time all national heat records have been broken in Cambodia and Laos, as well as currently coming very close to breaking the heat records in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam.

This heat wave, caused by the El Niño Phenomenon, is exceptional, both by its extension and intensity, but even more by its ferocity. In the past other heat waves raged in early spring in India. In April 2010, the temperature had reached 45°C.

For all practical purposes, we invite you to alert your travellers in those regions of the world, regarding particular weather conditions this month.

Quelle: Focus Asia

27.04.2016
Wetter in Myanmar

We want to inform you of the recent extreme weather conditions in Myanmar. For the last few weeks, temperatures have been extremely high (around 40 degrees C, and even higher than this in some very dry areas).

3-4 days ago this weather pattern has changed, mostly in the central norther areas such as Mandalay and Sagaing, and the extreme north such as Kachin State and the northern Shan state in particular. In these areas there have been heavy gusts of wind coupled with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, including some with significant hailstones which have cause some disruption and minor damages.

On 22nd April Kakku was hit by heavy rain and extreme winds, toppling some of the upper parts of chedis and causing some general damage to a number of the site's monuments. Several houses in the area were also damaged. This area has been temporarily closed and thus will not be accessible to visitors for several days.
We are pleased to report that all Focus Asia clients are safe and accounted for, however we will continue to monitor the weather conditions and forcasts closely, along with the closure of this region. If you have any questions or would like any more detailed information, please do not hestiate to contact your Sales Manager in charge.

Quelle: Focus Asia

31.03.2016
Nepal - Tibet auf dem Landweg

After the deadly earthquake on 25th April 2015 and some more subsequent aftershocks later Kodari-Zhangmu, the main gateway to China and Tibet is completely damaged and till date it is not open and it is unlikely to re-open any time in future. Both Nepal and China governments subsequently decided to open an older route Kerung-Rasuwagadhi as an alternate point for trade and tourist movement. We expect the border to open in June this year.

Quelle: Malla Travel, Kathmandu

30.03.2016
Brücke in Südvietnam eingebrochen

We are writing to inform you of the collapse of the Ghenh Bridge in Dong Nai, Vietnam. The collapse of the bridge has temporarily immobilized all trains running to and from southern provinces from Dong Nai downwards.

According to Dao Anh Tuan, General Director of Saigon Railways, the company has halted all departures from Saigon Railway Station.

All trains have to stop at Bien Hoa railways station, it affects all transfers by train from Northern and Central parts of the country to Saigon and vice versa. Saigon Railways will arrange buses to transit passengers from Bien Hoa to Saigon station and from Saigon to Bien Hoa until the bridge is fixed. The estimated time for repairs is around 3-5 months. The travel time from Bien Hoa to Saigon railway station is 45-60 minutes.

Focus Asia is recommending that you let us pick up your clients upon arrival at Bien Hoa station and transfer them directly to their final destination in the South or if your clients want to travel north we will bring them directly to Bien Hoa station.

Please note, the trains from North to Central Vietnam and further to Nha Trang are not affected.

Quelle: Focus Asia, Saigon

29.03.2016
Nepal ist zurück

The Government of Nepal and the many organisations including Nepal Tourism Board responsible for tourism management have been actively offering exemplary assistance to all the stakeholders in this important industry for the proper rehabilitation of our cultural heritage. All the 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites that were partially damaged by the earthquake of April 25, 2015 have been declared safe by UNESCO and the Government of Nepal. They are now open to the general public. Cautionary travel advisories of the tourist generating countries on Nepal in place since the earthquake have been lifted; the U.S. advisory on cautionary travel has now been lifted since February 29, 2016. Other tourist generating countries have followed suit. Nepal Tourism Board is actively supporting all the tourism related associations including Nepal Association of Tour Operators (NATO) to which we belong by conducting travel fairs, roadshows, educational trips, media presentations and other related activities to bring back tourists to Nepal.

Miamoto International the world’s renowned structural engineers with its head office in Sacramento, California was employed by the Government of Nepal to review the famous trekking trails of Nepal and green signal was given to Everest and Annapurna region for safe trekking in autumn 2015 itself. Trekking and mountaineering tourism is now in full swing.

International Governmental and Non-governmental Organisations have been putting a lot of effort on relief and rehabilitation of earthquake victims that has gained valuable publicity for Nepal with a roll call of famous celebrities visiting Nepal. Luminaries such as Susan Sarandon, Joanna Lumley, Jackie Chan, Michelle Yeoh, David Beckham and Prince Harry of the U.K. have in the recent past visited Nepal and given us their support. Hollywood productions such as the recent ‘Everest’ shot in IMAX 3D has brought back Nepal in the public consciousness and grossed over US$ 203 million. A Marvel Comics epic ‘Dr. Strange' has been shot in Nepal and eagerly awaits release this coming November and it is projected to be one of the biggest film of 2016. ‘Highway to Dhampus’ is another U.S.-Nepal co-produced romantic drama slated for release soon. BBC Holiday has pronounced Nepal, ‘One of the 50 places to see before you die’. National Geographic Adventure Magazine announces Nepal as one of the best adventure destinations in the world.

Quelle: Le Passage to India

05.03.2016
Neues Visum für Shanghai

Ab sofort können sich deutsche Staatsangehörige visumfrei bis zu 144 Stunden in der Yangtze-Delta-Region (Stadt Shanghai und die Provinzen Jiangsu und Zhejiang) aufhalten, wenn sie ein Anschlussticket in ein Drittland vorweisen können. Ein direkter Hin- und Rückflug kann nur mit einem gültigen Visum erfolgen.

Bisher haben ca. 2.000 ausländische Reisende diesen neuen 144 Stunden "Visa-Free Transit" Aufenthalt in Anspruch genommen.
Die Abwicklung ist ähnlich wie beim 72-Stunden Transit Visum. Der große Vorteil ist, dass die Gäste nun auch Ausflüge z. B. nach Suzhou, Wuxi, Nanjing, Wuzhen, Hangzhou, Ningbo machen können. Das war bisher mit dem 72-Stunden Visum nicht möglich.
Zusätzlich gilt es auch für Ankunft Shanghai Pier und Ningbo Pier mit dem Kreuzfahrtschiff (das 72-Stunden Visum ist nur am Flughafen Pudong erhältlich).

Quelle: Tourasia Hong Kong

02.02.2016
Flughafen Tbilissi

Die Direktion des Flughafens in Tbilissi (Tiflis), Georgien, hat mitgeteilt, dass vom 01.04. - 01.07.2016 der Flughafen wegen Instandsetzungsarbeiten an der Start- und Landebahn zwischen 07:00-22:00 Uhr geschlossen wird.

29.01.2016
Zika Virus Südamerika

Much has been said, lately, about the Zika Virus, and some countries even issued alerts warning pregnant women against traveling to Brazil and other Latin American countries. We would like to address the circumstances and give you some important information to answer your passengers’ doubts.

The US Center for Disease Control (CDC) explains: “Zika virus is spread to people through mosquito bites. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week. Severe disease requiring hospitalization is uncommon.”

Zika is a virus in the same family as dengue fever, which Brazil has been battling for quite some time, and cases of international tourists infected with dengue are rare, due to the short time they stay in the country, cities visited, and the fact that they sleep in closed air-conditioned rooms. Even those who go to wildlife areas are in less risk than Brazilians, as they come prepared to avoid mosquito bites by using long sleeve shirts and pants, and apply repellent frequently. In 2014, year we had a bigger influx of tourists, because of the World Cup, only 92 cases of dengue were registered in the US, out of 650.000 travelers who had returned from Brazil, according to a research from the Harvard School of Public Health. Less than 20% of people who become infected with dengue will ever know it, and the symptoms of Zika are even milder, much like a cold.

Still, the alerts followed reports of Brazilian babies being born with microcephaly linked to the mothers suffering from Zika while pregnant. The outbreak is more severe in the North and Northeast, although cases have been reported in the central and Southern regions, as well. Expecting women, or those planning to get pregnant, should not travel to Brazil and other Latin American countries, at this time.

Hotels are working tirelessly to avoid mosquitoes by fumigating their premises, using electric repellent in rooms and public areas, and keeping bug spray at guests reach. We have had no notification of any case of Zika Virus among our passengers and we hope to remain this way. We did not receive any kind of cancellations as well.

Brazilian health authorities enlisted 220 thousand soldiers to visit every single household by the end of February in attempt to combat the mosquito which spreads the illness. Educational campaigns have also been intensified so the population can help eliminate occurrence of stagnant water sources where mosquitoes can breed. Other precautionary measures that are being tested are the release of genetically modified Aedes, whose offspring do not reach reproductive age, thus extinguishing the mosquitoes, and insects infected with a bacteria that prevents them from transmitting tropical diseases.

Mr. Castro, Brazil’s Health Minister said that in the coming weeks, Brazil will develop and distribute a rapid diagnostic test for the three viruses (Zika, dengue, chikungunya), and that it is compulsory to notify health authorities of all Zika cases.

As of now, there isn’t a vaccine against Zika, many laboratories are working on it, using whatever they already learned from creating the vaccine against dengue fever. For precaution, we advise all passengers to apply repellent four times a day, wear protective, appropriate clothing, stay and sleep in screened-in or air-conditioned rooms.

Blumar DMC, Brazil

05.01.2016
Erdbeben in Manipur

We would like to inform you that a moderate intensity earthquake of 6.7 magnitude on Richter scale struck city of Manipur in the North-Eastern State of India in the early hours of Monday. Nine persons reported killed and around hundred injured. Some buildings collapsed or developed cracks in Tamenglong, where the earthquake was epicentred.

All our clients are safe and were not in that region. We are keeping a close watch on the situation and will update you in case of any further development.

Please note that due to security reasons, authorities have banned entries of visitors to the following airports till further information. As such our airport rep will only be able to see off the clients from outside the terminal building.

Goa
Cochin
Jaipur

We shall keep you informed of any further updates.

Quelle: Le Passage to India

07.12.2015
Bike for Dad

On Friday 11th December 2015 there will be a “Bike for Dad” event taking place in Bangkok with thousands of cyclists, led by the Crown Prince, riding through the city in honour of His Majesty the King’s birthday.

As such, many major roads will be completely closed for traffic between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m., mostly in the Silom and Sathorn areas.

All Asia World transfers and sightseeing tours will be provided as per the published itineraries as much as possible. However for some earlier activities it might be necessary for clients to take a short walk or use the mass transit BTS / MRT systems in order to complete their programs. Our guides will monitor the situation and any necessary changes will be on case by case basis.

Quelle: Asia World Enterprise

04.12.2015
Heftige Regenfälle in Tamil Nadu

Heavy rains have battered several areas of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai. After going through heavy rains for a month, Chennai had four days of respite after which heavy rains resumed overnight from this week.
Chennai is drenched in record breaking rains; it has been termed as the heaviest in over 100 years. Torrential downpour hit several parts of Chennai and its suburbs and Puducherry triggering a deluge. The death toll in the rain related incidents has risen to 188. Daily life has been crippled in the city with flooding in numerous roads, neighbourhoods, train tracks and airport runways, along with lack of power supply and transport services.
The Army has been deployed in two suburban areas to undertake rescue on a war footing. Many sewage drains gave in under the relentless water logging.
The Chennai City Corporation has set up emergency control rooms across the city.
The weather department has warned of heavy rains in Chennai and northern Tamil Nadu over the next three days. The government has declared a holiday for schools in Chennai.
All flight operations at Chennai airport have been partially suspended until further notice.

20.10.2015
Visa on Arrival Vietnam

Vietnam will cut visa fees for a number of international passport holders and overseas Vietnamese next month.

As of November 23 there will be changes to Vietnam visa fees. The single–entry visa will cost US25 instead of the current $45, and multiple–entry visas with validity of less than three months will cost $50 reduced from $95.

For multi–entry visa with validity between three and six months the cost will remain at $95, and $135 for validities between six months and one year. The fee for a visa valid for between one and two years is $145, and from two to five years, $155.

If foreigners enter Vietnam and continue traveling to Laos and Cambodia, then return to Vietnam for onward travel, the visa fee is $5 instead of $45 as currently charged.

Vietnam currently applies a one–sided free–visa policy to eight countries, including Japan, South Korea, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, and Belarus. In addition, Vietnam also has a visa–free policy for nine Southeast Asian countries, including Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and the Philippines.

Quelle: ICS Travelgroup

09.10.2015
Rauchwolke über Phuket

The annual forest fires in Indonesia, where local farmers clear forests, has created a dense haze over the country which has spread over neighbouring countries, including Southern Thailand.

Our Phuket team has reported that the cloud of haze remains but that the visibility throughout the island is getting better. Some flights have been delayed but are still operating, as well as all of our Asia World tours and services there. We are monitoring the situation and we will keep you informed of any developments.

Quelle: Asia World Enterprise, Bangkok

06.10.2015
Situation in Jerusalem

We would like to update you about the current situation in Jerusalem since we understand that some of your clients may have concerns regarding travel to Jerusalem due to reports that have been published by the media.

Jerusalem is a safe tourist destination and people are going about their business as usual. Entrance to all Holy Sites and attractions is facilitated and no restrictions apply.

Amiel Tours is in constant contact with our guides and groups to make sure that all is well, and we hear that they are having a marvelous time and feel completely safe throughout the tour. Our guides and bus drivers are receiving regular updates from relevant security authorities advising them of any possible locations to avoid; at present, tourists are visiting all sites listed in their programs.

Amiel Tours' primary concern is the safety of our guests and you may rest assured that we are doing our utmost to make sure that all runs smoothly while they are touring the Holy Land and the Holy City of Jerusalem. We would be happy to address any further questions or concerns you may have.

Quelle: Amiel Tours, Tel Aviv

12.08.2015
Beeinträchtigungen in China

"On 03 Sep there will be a big celebration of the 70th anniversary of the victory in World War II in Beijing on the Tiananmen Square.
The Chinese Government has invited militaries of other countries to participate in a parade at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing on 03Sep.
It's the first time that foreign troops have been invited to participate the Chinese military parade.

Because of the celebration on 03Sep, and because of the training for the military parade,
- >From 01Aug Tiananmen Tower will be closed for renovations;
From 01Aug there will be partial closure at Tiananmen Square for renovations and rehearsals, but in general will remain opened for visits except on 22,23Aug and 02,03Sep

- On 22,23Aug and 02,03Sep Tiananmen Square, Wangfujing Street and the Qianmen area will be completely closed. Serious traffic problem in the city is expected.
- On 03Sep the Beijing Airport will be closed at least for the period 09h30 to 12h30

- In the whole month of August, the air traffic at the following 12 airports will be heavily affected due to the air force and military movement:
Shanghai Hongqiao, Shanghai Pudong, Zhengzhou, Wuhan, Hanzhou, Nanjing, Hefei, Jinan, Wuxi, Ningbo, Qingdao, Lianyungang"

Quelle: Tourasia, Hong Kong

04.08.2015
Überschwemmung Myanmar

At present 11 out of 14 States/Provinces of the country are flooded except the Yangon Region, Tanintaryi Region (Mergui, Kawthaung, Dawei) and Kayah State.

The following areas have been designated as Disaster Zones: Sagaing Region (Kalaymyo, also Tamu), Magwe Region (Saku, Pwint Phyu, Satuttara), Rakhine State including Sittwe & Mrauk Oo, Chin State (Hakha, Falam, Tidim, Rih Lake region and Matupi).

Also in Karen State, Hpa An and Mon State (Kyaikhto, Belin and Mawlamyaing) are flooded.

The following travel routes cannot be accessed at this time due to flooding:

· Chin State (including Mt. Victoria)
· Kalaymyo and Tamu
· Monywa
· Salay
· Hsipaw-Lashio (by train)
· Bhamaw-Katha (by car)
· Mawlamyaing
· Sittwe and Mrauk Oo
· Magwe Region
· Irrawaddy Region

We are in contact with clients on all affected bookings, and we will keep you up to date on the situation.

Quelle: ICS Travel Group

24.06.2015
Visabefreiung Vietnam

Die Behörden haben nun weitere Details bekannt gegeben. So muss zwischen Ausreise aus Vietnam und Wiedereinreise ein Zeitraum von 30 Tagen liegen. Sonst muss für den zweiten Aufenthalt, auch wenn es weniger als 15 Tage in Vietnam sind, ein Visum beantragt werden.

18.06.2015
Visabefreiung für Vietnam

Der vietnamesische Tourismus-Direktor Nguyen Van Tuan hat heute Morgen angekündigt, dass für fünf europäische Staaten versuchsweise für ein Jahr vom 01.07.2015 bis 30.06.2016 die Visumpflicht entfällt. Die Bürger Großbritanniens, Frankreichs, Deutschlands, Italiens und Spaniens werden in diesen Genuss kommen.

09.06.2015
Update aus Nepal

Hier wieder ein aktueller Bericht aus Nepal.

28.05.2015
Aktualisierter Bericht aus Nepal

Hier ein Bericht unseres Partners in Nepal!

20.05.2015
Aktueller Bericht aus Nepal

AIRPORT/ AIRLINES
The International Airport of Nepal is fully functional. All the international flights are operating as per schedule.
All the domestic airports are also fully operational. Domestic airlines are also operating as per schedule. Mountain flights are operational for groups.

ROADS AND HIGHWAYS Main roads and inner roads of Kathmandu are fully functional. Local/public transportation, tourist vehicles have resumed operations. As a precautionary measure, some of the inner alleys are closed for larger vehicles passing by considering the safety of cracked houses.
Major highways are fully operational. Movement in Mugling – Narayanghat section was blocked after the highway was blocked by landslide on 25 April 2015. The landslide was cleared on the same day.
Arniko highway which leads to the China border (Tibet) is operational once again. Many houses and shops have been affected in that area. We do not suggest driving through this highway at the moment, since there is a risk of landslide.

HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS
Most of the hotels in Kathmandu and other tourist destinations remain unaffected, some have sustained minor cracks but the authorities have given them a green signal since they are already carrying out maintenance activities.
Most of the city restaurants are operating, yet some of the restaurants within Durbar Square have been damaged and are at potential risk. However, there are enough eating options in and around Kathmandu to make up for this loss.

MAJOR TOURIST DESTINATIONS
Destinations such as Lumbini, Pokhara, Chitwan, Barida, Bandipur remain unaffected. However, we are unable to provide you an update on Nuwakot and Gorkha at present.

Quelle: Sita India

12.05.2015
Weiteres Erdbeben in Nepal

Another earthquake has struck eastern Nepal; two weeks after the first devastating quake.

The latest earthquake hit near the town of Namche Bazaar, near Mount Everest at 12:35 in the afternoon.
The quake’s epicentre was close to the Everest base camp.
Strong tremors were felt in the capital of Kathmandu.
The US Geological Survey said it had a magnitude of 7.4.
Aftershocks were felt after the earthquake.

Tremors were felt across North India including Delhi, as well as Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh.

Quelle: SITA India

27.04.2015
Erdbeben in Nepal

The tiny Himalayan country of Nepal bore the brunt of nature's fury when a colossal earth quake measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale rocked the region on Saturday April 25th 2015 and caused massive destruction in Nepal and a small extant in India. The epicentre of the quake was Lamjung which is 75 km northwest of Nepal's capital Kathmandu and has flattened sections of the city's historic and iconic structures. As per the reports that last came in around 2000 people have lost their lives in this very tragic incident. This massive quake has been followed by various aftershocks and the latest one was 6.7 on Richter scale with an epicentre again in Nepal.
Le Passage to India has been in touch with our Nepalese colleagues who have been untiringly ensuring that all are guests are kept safe and made comfortable till they are given safe passage. We on our part are supporting this effort through our constant monitoring and contacts in India. We are also constantly monitoring the situation on ground by keeping in touch with all our partners who have guests travelling across Nepal at this point in time.

However, considering the magnitude of the disaster and the risk involved to our guests who wish to visit Nepal, we would not recommend any of our guests to travel to Nepal for a minimum period for two weeks. Safety of our guests is at the heart of whatever we do and we will ensure that we will resume our operations to the destination the moment it is safe for tourists to travel again. We will constantly update you on a regular basis as the situation changes.

We stand together with the people of Nepal and pray that their ordeal ends soon. As a responsible and the No 1 DMC in the country we pledge our support to rebuilding the travel industry in Nepal as soon as it becomes possible.

Quelle: Le Passage to India, Delhi

19.03.2015
Michelle Obama besucht Siem Reap

Two years after Barack Obama's tense visit to Phnom Penh, Michelle Obama and their two teenage daughters are to visit Siem Reap next week (21st-22nd March) to promote the First Lady's 'Let Girls Learn' initiative.
Many Cambodian residents hope that the US First Lady will speak publicly and visit the Angkor Wat temples - two things that the US President did not do during his visit to the country.

Siem Reap residents are bracing for roadblocks, increased safety checks and government-mandated clearing of street children and cleaning of garbage. Note, some of the temples may be closed temporarily to tourists during the First Lady's visit, guides will be flexible on these dates with alternative sightseeing opportunities for guests.

Quelle: Focus Asia

26.02.2015
Artikel in "Die Presse" vom 21.02.

Auf Nostalgie-Trip durch Nordkorea

19.02.2015
Kokang Region in Myanmar

Following clashes between ethnic Kokang and the Army, on Tues 17 Feb 2015 the Myanmar government declared a 90-day state of emergency in the Kokang region, an area situated on the China - Myanmar border in the North Shan State. Due to this action, ICS has taken the precaution of temporarily suspending overland tours crossing from China into Myanmar via the Muse border crossing until further notice. ICS has been in contact with clients with affected bookings to arrange alternative travel plans.

The Kokang region is a very isolated area which sees few tourists. Other areas in the North Shan State are accessible and safe - trips to the tourist areas of Pyin Oo Lwin and Hsipaw can be operated as normal.

It is important to note that owing to its remote location, this conflict in no way affects travel to other destinations in Myanmar, which remains a very safe country for travel.

Quelle: ICS Travelgroup

27.01.2015
Bonsai River Cruise

In an unfortunate accident with a foreign cruise liner, 2 parked boats from Bonsai River Cruise sustained damage. Thankfully, no staff were injured in the accident, and there were no guests on board at the time.
Due to this, the boats will not be able to operate in 2015 and Bonsai has had to cancel bookings. ICS has been in contact with all partners who have affected bookings to book alternative dinner cruises - either the Lady Hau or the Indochina Junk.

Quelle: ICS Travelgroup

30.12.2014
Feuer im Inle Princess Resort

Last evening a fire broke out at the popular Inle Princess Resort in Myanmar damaging 10 of its chalets. We are pleased to report that no guests were injured.
We will be in contact with agents who have affected bookings, as well as pay a site visit and stay in close contact with the hotel to determine their readiness for bookings.

Quelle: ICS Travelgroup

19.12.2014
Visum Vietnam

In observation of the TET holidays, the Immigration Department of Vietnam will be closed for 9 days - tentatively from 16 Feb 2015 until 24 Feb 2015. Should you have clients traveling to Vietnam in late January or early February who require visa approval numbers or invitation letters, we kindly ask that you submit their passport details to us by 30 January 2015 to avoid any potential issues.

Thank you,
Quelle: ICS Travel Group

27.11.2014
Visum Indien

"Wir freuen uns Ihnen mitteilen zu dürfen, dass ab heutigen Tag dem 27. November 2014, das Touristenvisum bei Ankunft (TVoA)
in Neu-Delhi mit dem Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Schema aktiviert wird und Deutschland einer der 43 Staaten ist,
die diese Möglichkeit nutzen können.

Wir hoffen, dass wir gemeinsam mehr Tourismus nach Indien aus dem deutschen Markt fördern können.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen / Yours sincerely
Roma Singh
Regional Director
(Europe, UK, CIS & Israel)
India Tourism"

09.10.2014
Vietnam Airlines

Vietnam Airlines to launch direct flights from Siem Reap to Phu Quoc

From 18th December 2014, Vietnam Airlines will launch a direct flight Phu Quoc/Siem Reap/Phu Quoc.

There will be 3 flights per week: Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday
PQC-REP: depart 1220 - arrive 1345
REP-PQC: depart 1430 - arrive 1555

Quelle: Focus Asia

17.09.2014
Halong Bucht

This morning (17 September) Typhoon Kalmaegi (Luis) has weakened to a tropical depression after passing through the northern mountainous areas of Vietnam. However, its circulation is still affecting the Gulf of Tonkin which continues to cause strong winds and rough seas. Halong Bay has also been affected, and as a safety precaution, all single day boat trips and overnight cruises have continued to suspend their services today. Affected bookings have been contacted and offered alternative programmes.

Quelle: Indochina Services Travelgroup

15.09.2014
Halong Bucht

Due to the increasing strength of Typhoon Luis (Kalmaegi), Halong authorities have requested all Halong cruises to temporarily suspend services. No cruises will be operating from 12pm today till the end of 16 September. Our local office in Vietnam is contacting affected clients and offering alternative programmes wherever necessary. We will keep you informed as the situation changes and operations return to normal.

Quelle: Indochina Services Travelgroup

19.08.2014
Visakosten Kambodscha

Das kambodschanische Außenministerium hat bekannt gegeben, dass ab dem 01.10. die Visagebühren von USD 20 auf dann USD 30 pro Person erhöht werden.

18.08.2014
E-Visa Myanmar

After years of development, Myanmar’s new e-visa online system will be available from 1st September 2014.

The key points of the new system;

• Initially the system will only be available for tourists costing USD $50 (this fee may change in the future).
• Payment is submitted online using either MasterCard or Visa.
• It will take one week to process visas, and the visa must be used within three months of issuance.
• The e-visa will be for a single-entry and is valid for 28 days after entering the country.
• Yangon is the only entry point for the e-visa.
• After approval, the approval letter must be printed as it will be needed to board international flights.
• The approval letter needs to be submitted to immigration upon arrival.
• Applications can be submitted at http://www.myanmarevisa.gov.mm/
• Below is a list of nationalities which can apply for e-visa. This list will be expanded in the future.

Quelle: Exotissimo Myanmar

07.08.2014
Hurricane Warnung Hawaii

The Central Pacific Hurricane Center has issued a Hurricane Warning for Hawai'i Island and a Tropical Storm Warning for Maui County (Maui, Lana'i and Moloka'i). The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, large surf and coastal surge as early as Thursday afternoon.

O'ahu is currently under a tropical storm watch and is expected to be affected by the storm as early as Thursday night.

We continue to advise visitors currently in the Hawaiian Islands or coming to the Hawaiian Islands to monitor information from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center (http://www.prh.noaa.gov/cphc/) and Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (http://www.scd.hawaii.gov/).

American Airlines has cancelled two flights for Thursday, August 7 – Flight #161 from LAX to Kahului and Flight #14 from Kahului to LAX. Passengers are instructed to call the American Reservations Office (1-800-433-7300) to rebook and only go to the airport AFTER they have called and changed their reservation. We are also aware that some airlines and hotels are waiving cancellation and change fees and we advise visitors to contact their airlines and accommodations directly with questions or to confirm reservations. Sun Islands Hawaii, Inc. passenger service staff is monitoring client travel while in resort for all bookings 7-9 August and accessible via our emergency numbers.

Quelle: Sun Islands, Oahu

17.07.2014
Taifun Rammasun

Typhoon Rammasun hit the Philippines, South Manila yesterday and is expected to enter the East Vietnam Sea today. It is expected that Rammasun will move North-West and hit North Vietnam mainland (Quang Ninh, Thai Binh provinces) on 19 July with winds from 103 to 133 km/h.

Rammasun will cause rough sea in the Gulf of Tonkin and pouring rain in North-East Vietnam, including in Hanoi. Although the weather in Halong Bay is currently sunny with no wind or rain, cruising boats were ordered to return to the pier by 3pm today; overnight cruising is not permitted tonight as a safety precaution. It is highly likely that the Halong Authorities will not permit cruising tomorrow or the day after (18& 19 July). Haiphong and Hanoi airports may also close on 19 July.

Quelle: Focus Asia, Hanoi

04.07.2014
Mandalay

Following two consecutive nights of violence in Mandalay between Buddhists and Muslims, the authorities in Mandalay have imposed a curfew between 9pm and 5am beginning Thursday evening. Sightseeing tours during the day are continuing as normal. We will continue to monitor the situation and will notify you if there are any changes.

Quelle: ICS Travel Group

28.05.2014
Bangkok

We would like to inform you about the current situation for tourists in Thailand as per Wednesday, 28 May, 2014, 10 a.m.

The daily life of visitors and residents is not affected by the political situation and there is no limitation of sightseeing and travelling. All sightseeing venues and shopping centres are open and running as normal. The beach side destinations are quiet and safe and can be visited as normal.

With a nationwide curfew (only from 00.00 – 04.00 hours) currently being the only implication on people’s everyday lives, life goes on as per normal in Bangkok and throughout Thailand. The curfew is observed in Bangkok, but at the beach destinations the restaurants and bars are open as normal.

Transport
Air passengers with arrival and departure flights scheduled during curfew are allowed to travel to and from the airports at any time as usual.

All airports throughout Thailand, including at key international gateways – Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang), Phuket, Ko Samui, Hat Yai and Chiang Mai – are operating as per normal. Airlines also continue to operate incoming and outgoing flights as per normal, but flight schedule times may be adjusted. Travellers are advised to check with their respective airlines before travelling.

Other modes of transport, by road, rail and waterway, are also operating as per normal throughout Thailand, including at key tourist destinations, such as, Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Ko Samui, Chiang Mai and Hat Yai (operating hours have been adjusted to comply with the curfew).

Tourism-related businesses and services
Hotels, resorts, spas, restaurants, entertainment venues, cinemas, convention centres, shopping malls, superstores, convenient stores, as well as banks, petrol and gas stations, are open and operating as per normal.

Hospitals and medical personnel are permitted to carry on with their normal operating hours.

Telephone both landline and mobile and Internet services are available 24/7 as per normal.

In popular Thai beach destinations including Ko Samui, Phuket, Pattya, Hua Hin and Krabi, all tourism-related businesses and services are operating as per normal during the day.

In key administrative and political strongholds including Bangkok and Chiang Mai, all tourism-related businesses and services are also operating as per normal during the day. Curfew has been widely observed at nighttime. Nevertheless, tourists are advised to be vigilant and check travel routing before travelling to avoid being inconvenienced by movements of security officers and the anti-coup groups.

Info for international visitors entering the Bangkok Metropolitan Area

The following measures are prepared for travellers travelling to Bangkok and the immediate vicinity:

Individual travellers – both tourists and foreign residents – are advised to keep their passports and other travel documents handy at all times, in case they are required for inspection by security officers.
Group travellers on tour coaches, accompanied by a tour guide or tour leader, are allowed to pass through the checkpoints without any worry.
Taxi services at Suvarnabhumi Airport are available 24 hours at the Platform of the Passenger Terminal on the 1st Floor, Gates 4 and 7. There are 6,000 – 7,000 authorised taxis with Suvarnabhumi Airport stickers displayed on the front windscreen. Security checkpoint officers will allow access for these vehicles.
Any passenger who cannot find a mean of transport out of Suvarnabhumi Airport during curfew may use the facilities available at the CIP Lounges 1-4, located on the 3rd floor of the Passenger Terminal.
The shuttle bus service between Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang International Airports are operating as per normal.

Visa and checkpoints
Tourists can continue to apply for visa as usual.

All international checkpoints – airports, border checkpoints and sea ports – are open and operating as per normal.

Holidays in Thailand are as beautiful as always!

Quelle: Royal Silk Holidays, Bangkok