Dubai: A Captivating Saga raises the curtain on a city that has always been a bustling cosmopolitan center of trade and cultural exchange…reports Asian Lite News
Dubai Tourism’s ‘Period Drama’ trailer is next in the Dubai Presents series of blockbuster videos starring Jessica Alba and Zac Efron. The latest trailer takes viewers back to Dubai in the 1950s and centers around the story of a young aviation pioneer at a crossroads in search of the conviction and answers she needs to beat the odds.
Through stunning cinematography and art direction, Dubai: A Captivating Saga raises the curtain on a city that has always been a bustling cosmopolitan center of trade and cultural exchange. The trailer hints at an itinerary packed with hidden gems – from uncovering the city’s rich history dating back to the Iron Age to a perfect day spent on a desert oasis; indulging in a delectable Emirati meal over a campfire and learning about Bedouin traditions from falconry to astronomy and more.
Filmed by Director’s Guild award-winning director Craig Gillespie, the ‘Period Drama’ trailer pays homage to the city’s multicultural roots and identity as we gear up to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee and welcome the world at Expo 2020
As Oman announced its reopening to vaccinated visitors this September, guests looking for luxury and a peaceful getaway can explore The Chedi Muscat, a mountainous haven of wellness and tranquillity in the Gulf…reports Asian Lite News
CMU – Architectural Detail
1. Explore sophisticated and symmetrical surroundings
Located by the Al Hajar Mountains with its own private beach, The Chedi Muscat’s serenity is created by the imaginative design of its pristine buildings and manicured grounds. A superb confluence of elegant touches of traditional Omani architecture and Asian-inspired motif envelopes the property with an aura of elegant simplicity.
The symmetry of the gardens and ordered pools provide a peaceful backdrop that fashions an air of restful, sophisticated style. The hotel’s entrance is an enchanting white stucco building of arches and domes resembling a grand Omani palace.
The resort was designed by Jean-Micheal Gathy, celebrated for creating harmony between the architecture, interior, and landscape that incorporates local style into a stunning contemporary design. The 21 acres of gardens and water features were designed in a simple restful Zen-ordered style by renowned landscape architect Karl Princic.
Starting at OMR 90, GCC guests can take advantage of the”SAtay 3 Pay 2 GCC Residents Offer” which provides three nights stay for the price of two so they can take the time to relax and explore Muscat!
2. Savour traditional and international flavours
CMU-Dining-The Restaurant
Dining at The Chedi Muscat resonates understated elegance and commitment to superior service. From the electrifying ambience of entertaining show kitchens, the romance of a moonlit dinner on a private beach, the stylish surroundings of a private dining room or a picturesque courtyard, one can select a scene to fit every mood.
Guests can enjoy expertly prepared meals at the award-winning, The Restaurant as its outstanding chefs dazzle and delight with their cooking skills in the venue. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an elegant chandelier-lit indoor dining area, on a spacious outdoor terrace or in one of the chic private rooms, and offers live piano music late into the evening.
CMU-Dining-The Beach Restaurant
From October to April, epicureans can feast on seafood at The Beach Restaurant whilst The Arabian Courtyard serves Arabic mezze, Shawarma and Kebabs to the tune of gentle music, al fresco.
For more relaxed dining, the Shisha Lounge with its comfortable divans and traditional water pipes completes the experience. Guests can also take shade at the poolside cabanas, enjoying Japanese cuisine at The Long Pool Cabana, and light International dishes at The Serai Pool Cabana or The Chedi Pool Cabana.
3. Retreat into a world of understated peace
CMU – The Spa
The Spa at The Chedi Muscat offers an extensive variety of beauty rituals based on the holistic principles of aromatherapy, Ayurveda and herbalism. Visitors can retreat into a world of understated elegance, enveloped by a soothing peacefulness, as they relax under the healing touch of trained therapists in one of the 13 meditative spa suites, that combine dramatic Omani architecture with calming Asian interiors.
The Spa embraces eastern philosophy with Asian oriental rituals, and also offers an extensive variety of beauty rituals based on the holistic principles of aromatherapy, Ayurveda, and herbalism by Ren, Voya, Ila, and Tiyya.
Guests can select from an incredible array of treatments from tip to toe. The Indulgent Oriental Rituals uplift and soothe the body, the Reviving Body Polishing Rituals rejuvenate the skin and the Rejuvenating Beauty Rituals offer an array of finishing touches such as deluxe facials, waxing, manicures, and pedicures. Couples can unwind and relax with the Romantic Bathing Ritual in the spa’s deluxe double suites starting with a private steam shower and then enjoying one of the exceptional bath and aromatherapy options.
4. Unwind and restore energy at the longest pool
CMU – The Long Pool Cabana
Another unique design feature including the 103-meter infinity The Long Pool, the longest in the Arabian Peninsula, and the 800 sqm Asian-style spa, one of the largest in Muscat. Guests can relax and recharge as they escape into the luxurious world of The Chedi Muscat. With a special daycation offer, they can enjoy day access to all facilities and an OMR 20 hotel credit to spend on F&B and Spa, wander around refreshing gardens, and relax in one of the three stunning swimming pools.
5. Explore the exceptional heritage of Oman
Muscat
The Chedi Muscat offers exceptional experiences to explore the destination and dive into its culture. Whether guests choose to take in frenetic souks scented by coffee and frankincense, timeless fortresses, vast deserts, soaring dunes, or romantic seascapes, The Sultanate of Oman inspires a diversity of exceptional natural and manmade experiences. On the outskirts of Muscat, it’s possible to sniff the world’s most expensive perfume by Amouage, to view turtles at the Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve, or capture the colours and characters at the weekly livestock market at Nizwa.
Those looking for adventure can head into the rolling Wahiba Sand dunes, summit Oman’s highest peak Jebel Shams in a 4×4, or hike to the Sultanate’s remote mountain villages where artisans still craft traditional pottery by hand. Alternatively, travelers can watch the equally skilled craftsmen build dhows at the harbour in Sur and visit the Corniche at dusk when the lights come on around Muttrah’s souk, a hive of Omani social activity late into the Arabian night.
The Museums Commission of Saudi Arabia has outlined a strategy to upgrade the sector of museums in the country…reports Asian Lite News
The existing museums in capital Riyadh, including the National Museum and the Masmak Fort Museum that witnessed the birth of the Kingdom, will be remodelled and reshaped, Xinhua news agency quoted the Commission as saying in a statement on Sunday.
It aims to expand the number and category of museums to attract more visitors, the statement said.
KSA sets out roadmap to boost museum sector
The plan will see Saudi Arabia’s museums focus on its cultural identity.
Stefano Carboni, CEO of the Museums Commission, said that the strategy will bring about best-practice international-standard advancement in this vital cultural sector.
“Our strategy will enrich the lives of all who reside in and visit the Kingdom. We will develop the sector through inspiring displays and programs, training the first true generation of museum sector experts,” he added.
The first new museum will be a smaller version of the Saudi Arabian Museum of Contemporary Art in Ad Diriyah district.
The Black Gold museum in Riyadh, a permanent museum dedicated to artists’ interpretation of the history of oil, will open soon in partnership with the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre.
In addition, teamLab Borderless Jeddah, an immersive digital art space, is planned to open in 2022.
A number of significant institutions such as the Royal Art Complex Museum, the Digital Art Museum, and the Museum of Prince Mohammad bin Salman International Centre for Arabic Calligraphy will open in the medium run.
The country’s cultural vision is built around energising 16 unique cultural sub-sectors which will facilitate a contribution of more than $23 billion, or about 3 per cent of its GDP by 2030, and create more than 100,000 jobs.
Reviving Jeddah
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had earlier this month announced the launch of a project to revive historic city of Jeddah.
The project aims to develop the site into a hub for business, cultural projects and a destination for entrepreneurs.
Saudia-Arabias-Crown-Prince-Mohammed-Bin-Salman
The area contains more than 600 heritage buildings, 36 old mosques, five markets and ancient corridors and squares, reports Xinhua news agency.
The 2.5 square km project will be developed over the next 15 years and the renovation process would be carried out per international standards.
The site that was a route for pilgrims will include waterfronts, green spaces and open gardens covering 15 per cent of the total area.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture announced in its 2018 plans to transform Jeddah’s old city into an open-air museum by creating a pedestrian route across the area.
The area, dates back to the 7th century, was declared a Unesco World Heritage site in 2014.
Jeddah’s, the Kingdom’s second largest city, is the principal gateway to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, located just 65 km to the east, while Medina, the second-holiest city, is located 360 km to the north.
The country will also see the launch of external tourism promotional campaigns with the aim of opening new markets to attract tourists to the country…reports Asian Lite News
The UAE’s tourism sector recorded 62% occupancy rate in H1-2021, outperforming 10 other major global tourism destinations including China (54%), United States of America (45%), Mexico (38%), the United Kingdom (37%), and Turkey (36%).
The country’s hotel and tourism establishments attracted nearly 8.3 million guests during this period, recording 15% growth compared to that of H1-2020. During the reference period, guests spent nearly 35 million nights in the UAE hotels reflecting a growth of 30%, while the average length of their stay increased to 4.1 nights at a 12.5% growth.
This is accompanied by a 31% growth in hotel establishments’ revenues to reach AED11.3 billion. Domestic tourism accounted for 30% of the total number of guests at these hotel establishments.
Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and SMEs, and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, noted that the latest achievement is a result of concerted government efforts aimed at developing domestic tourism to attract larger numbers of domestic and foreign tourists.
He pointed out that these results are of great relevance in light of the tightening of travel restrictions in some major tourism markets around the world due to the impact of COVID-19.
It reflects guests’ trust in the national tourism products, and their competitiveness in establishing themselves as preferred choices for the country’s citizens and residents, compared to other foreign tourist destinations.
He explained that the qualitative development witnessed by the UAE’s domestic tourism landscape and the growing demand for tourism destinations and hotel facilities within the country confirm the effectiveness of government initiatives to boost domestic tourism.
Furthermore, the minister underlined that the high vaccination rates in the country, which is at 80% now, is one of the highest in the world, which has contributed to raising the level of safety and confidence in the UAE’s tourism sector.
He further explained that the authorities concerned with tourism development in the country continue their joint efforts and coordination to increase the growth of UAE tourism in the next phase through qualitative projects and initiatives, including preparation for the internal tourism campaign during the next session.
It will also see the launch of external tourism promotional campaigns with the aim of opening new markets to attract tourists to the country.
In addition, he highlighted the importance of hosting the global event Expo 2020 Dubai in October and world delegations from more than 192 countries, which will give a great boost to the country’s tourism sector, leading to further progress in hotel sector growth indicators, hotel occupancy rates and tourism activity in general.
The exciting competition is part of the ‘Time is Now’ campaign, initiated by DCT Abu Dhabi to showcase the capital’s spectacular landmarks and diverse tourist attractions and encourage people to visit and enjoy its ideal weather at this time of the year…reports Asian Lite News
A brand new competition has been launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) giving the emirate’s residents the opportunity to win flights and accommodation for their friends and family to come and visit them in the UAE capital.
The exciting competition is part of the ‘Time is Now’ campaign, initiated by DCT Abu Dhabi to showcase the capital’s spectacular landmarks and diverse tourist attractions and encourage people to visit and enjoy its ideal weather at this time of the year. The activation also aligns with Abu Dhabi’s recent decision to welcome fully vaccinated tourists from around the world without quarantine.
Time is Now – Competition- Abu Dhabi- 1
The competition will run until 1 October and challenges the emirate’s residents to share their exceptional experiences in the UAE capital on their social pages, tagging two of their family and friends abroad in order for the chance to win the free trip to visit Abu Dhabi.
The prize, for four lucky winners, includes airline tickets and a five-day stay in one of the emirate’s spectacular hotels, which offer authentic experiences that distinguish Abu Dhabi and attract many visitors from all over the world. One winner will be announced live on Stories on @VisitAbuDhabi’s social media accounts every four days starting Monday 20th September until 2 October.
Time is Now – Competition- Abu Dhabi- 1
Abu Dhabi offers an incredible calendar of high-profile entertainment events such as Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, Abu Dhabi T10 League, and many, many more. Abu Dhabi is also at the forefront of world-class safety procedures for tourism, ensuring it is one of the safest places to visit.
To participate in the competition, entrants should share their favourite photos that capture key tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi on their Facebook or Instagram accounts, and tag @VisitAbuDhabi and use the #InAbuDhabi #TimeIsNow hashtags, along with the names or handles of two family members or friends who they want to bring to the Emirate.
Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is all set to welcome visitors from GCC and western countries…reports Asian Lite News
Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is now ready and eager to welcome travellers and visitors from GCC and western countries, backing on the Supreme Committee’s decision to permit anyone holding an approved vaccine certificate to enter the country from September 1.
The Sultanate has eased its travel restrictions, lifting flight prohibition for people travelling from previously banned countries with reference to a statement issued by the Omani Supreme Committee, that is in charge of examining the mechanism of dealing with developments resulting from the spread of the Coronavirus (Covid_19) on August 19, 2021, and the circular issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Sultanate.
Castle Al Dakheleyah – Jabreen Castle (62)
All Omani citizens, residents, those who don’t require a visa to travel to Oman, and those who can obtain a visa on arrival are allowed into the country in accordance with the pre-COVID-19 protocols. Visitors will be required to present a vaccine certificate containing a QR code that states they have received two doses of a vaccine that is approved in Oman which are – Pfizer Biontech, Oxford AstraZeneca, Sputnik, Sinovac, Moderna, Sinopharm, Cofshield AstraZeneca, or one dose of Johnson’s vaccine. The last dose of the vaccine needs to have been received not less than 14 days before the arrival date.
Commenting on the foregoing, Haitham bin Mohammed Al Ghassani, Director General of Tourism Promotion at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, said, “The decisions issued by the concerned authorities in the Sultanate regarding easing travel restrictions will contribute to the return of the tourist movement to the Sultanate of Oman. This is a perfect opportunity for visitors to explore the splendour and magnificence of Oman, as well as get a chance to enjoy the experiences on offer. “
According to the circular issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Sultanate of Oman, a few guidelines have been outlined that will contribute to the protection of all visitors coming to the Sultanate and enhance the Sultanate’s commitment towards the security and safety of visitors. These measures are already in place in different countries of the world, including submission of a negative PCR test result prior to travel, which must be performed within 96 hours prior to the scheduled arrival time for international flights more than eight hours and 72 hours for shorter flights.
Experts believe that the poorly managed tourism sector has left a negative impact on the environment in Kashmir and constant recklessness can result in a situation they call “tourism destroys tourism”…writes Mukhtar Dar
Kashmir, famed for its breathtaking views, beautiful landscapes and magnificent lakes/water bodies, attracts tourists from all over the world. The tourism sector of Kashmir provides ample opportunities for employment generation and is a beacon of hope for around half a million people who are associated, directly or indirectly, with the sector. However, the booming non-eco-friendly tourism sector is having a serious and potentially damaging impact on the environment. The poorly managed sector has led to the depletion of natural resources and spoliation of tourist resorts.
Hazardous and non-eco-friendly tourism has become a threat to biodiversity and ecology. The central, as well as local government, should encourage the adoption of sustainable or eco-friendly rural tourism to tackle the constant environmental concerns and offer direct employment opportunities to rural populations in Kashmir.
What is eco-friendly rural tourism?
Rural tourism is an umbrella term that covers agri-tourism, ecotourism, and heritage tourism, unlike conventional tourism. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) defines rural tourism as “a type of tourism activity in which the visitor’s experience is related to a wide range of products generally linked to nature-based activities, agriculture, rural lifestyle/culture, angling and sightseeing”.
Rural tourism activities, according to the UNWTO, take place in non-urban (rural) areas with the following characteristics: i) low population density ii) landscape and land-use dominated by agriculture and forestry and iii) traditional social structure and lifestyle.
The Ministry of Tourism Government of India (2011) defines rural tourism as “any form of tourism that showcases the rural life, art, culture and heritage at rural locations, thereby benefiting the local community economically and socially as well as enabling interaction between the tourists and the locals for a more enriching tourism experience”. Thus, rural tourism provides a break from hectic and expeditious life enslaved by modern technologies and urban ways of living. Besides, it can be harnessed as a strategy for Rural Development.
Non-eco-friendly tourism raises serious concerns on account of its environmental impacts. If the threat is not taken seriously, it can lead to drastic and irreversible environmental degradation.
In 2002’s National Tourism Policy, Rural Tourism was recognized as a focus area for employment generation and sustainable livelihoods. In the said policy, it was clearly mentioned that “Special thrust should be imparted to rural tourism and tourism in small settlements, where sizable assets of our culture and natural wealth exist.”
The first regions to adopt the concept of developing and promoting rural tourism were Rajasthan and Kerala. Pertinently, Kerala is one of the most famed eco destinations. For example, the Kumarakom Rural Tourism Project in Kerala has shown the country how to provide benefits to the local community while ensuring eco-friendly practices and care for nature. Under this project, the Kerala Tourism has made an agreement with Kudumbashree to sell fruits and vegetables, bought from the local community, to visitors in kiosks and supply them to hotels and restaurants. Kerala for this eco-friendly tourism model received the best award for rural tourism. Similarly, Rajasthan is setting an example for how to reduce the impact of tourism on the environment and help the ruler communities to earn their livelihood through sustainable means. There are several villages like Nimaj, Tordi, Nawalgarh etc where tourists assist the local communities to indulge in eco-friendly tourism. In these tourist villages, different projects were initiated with a motive to get the villagers involved in ecotourism projects, empower disadvantaged women of Rajasthan by helping them to learn skills and involving people in several causes that include afforestation and water resources conservation.
Non-eco-friendly tourism in Kashmir
The experts believe that the poorly managed tourism sector has left a negative impact on the environment in Kashmir. They fear that constant recklessness can result in a situation they call “tourism destroys tourism”. For instance, the data of Dal Lake tracked by the Centre for Science and Environment mentions that the Lake covered an area of 75 sq km in 1200 AD. By the 1980s, the area was reduced to 25 sq. km, and today it has drastically reduced to 12 sq. km. The depth has also reduced from 45 feet to 4 feet.
Pir Panjal range as seen from Banihal, Jammu and Kashmir (Wikipedia)
The “inability and lackadaisical attitude” of lakes and Water development authorities (LAWDA) in preserving the famed Dal lake raised questions about their sincerity and credibility. Reports claim that funds sanctioned for the maintenance and preservation of the lakes were not properly used. As per the reply submitted by the J&K government on September 18, 2018 to J&K high court, since 2002, 759 crores of rupees were spent on the preservation of the Dal Lake but the situation didn’t improve. Dr A Majeed Kak, who conducts extensive surveys on lakes of valley claimed that the unscientific method adopted by LAWDA to clean the lake has proved counterproductive.
Similarly, Wular which is one of Asia’s biggest freshwater lakes has also witnessed extensive degradation in recent decades as the concerned agencies have failed to stop the silting and encroachment. A case study conducted by Wetland International on famous Wular Lake found that during 1911-2008, the overall water spread and marsh areas shrunk by over half, reducing one-fifth of the area’s water storage capacity.
The preventive measures initiated by authorities to save these water bodies from getting depleted remain ineffective. If the situation of the aforementioned water bodies continues to worsen at the same galloping rate it has been in recent years, it will affect the tourism sector of Kashmir badly together with affecting the people’s livelihood.
If one looks at famous forest tourist destinations of Kashmir, the picture is not different. The Scroll reported in 2018, “How Kashmir’s famed tourist resorts are being turned into heavily polluted concrete Jungles.” While quoting the Center of Research for Development’s report of 2015, the Scroll wrote that in Sonamarg, “57.5 hectares of land has already been brought under the built-up area when the total area proposed to be under built-up by 2025 is about 60 hectares.” The report depicted that 96% of the built-up area had already been covered in 2015, even though the accommodation related construction, which was envisaged to get accommodated in the built-up area, is lagging far behind. This means there is no scope for further construction as it will damage the fragile ecosystem of the area, probably beyond repair. The report further said that 5.66 tonnes of solid waste is generated per day in Sonamarg and there is no proper waste management mechanism in place, resulting in the waste being dumped at multiple sites, and liquid waste from 46 hotels directly goes into the Sindh stream. The situation became far worse after 2018, the year when this report was published by the Scroll.
Kashmir-Kids enjoys at mustard filed on the outskirts of Srinagar-Umar Ganie
The devastating effect of the poorly managed tourism sector can be witnessed in the famous tourist resorts of Pahalgam and Gulmarg too. In Pahalgam, 1500 illegal structures have been installed in the forest and wildlife zones. The study titled “study on sustainable tourism in Kashmir” found that the number of tourists visiting Pahalgam in July 2015 was four times higher than the carrying capacity of the area and the destination is also facing a severe problem of waste management. Gulmarg, a world-famous tourism resort is witnessing similar ecological degradation. The increasing influx of people and unplanned construction is quite noticeable. Environmentalists are of opinion that illegal construction and inadequate waste disposal are demolishing the flora and fauna of Gulmarg.
In the last few decades, a few more places have come on the list of tourist destinations including Doodhpathri, Yusmarg and Bangus Valley, etc. Although the places have not witnessed any major concrete constructions, they are witnessing a huge rush of people, resulting in the accumulation of huge plastic and other solid waste. These environmentally fragile places need to be thrown up for tourists under proper environmental planning and consultation while taking into consideration their sustainability, carrying capacity and waste management.
Eco-friendly rural tourism in Kashmir
Climate change has necessitated the world governments to step up their well-informed and environmentally conscious and environmentally committed efforts towards the development and promotion of ecotourism, sustainable tourist destinations. It involves ensuring responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the environment, and improving the well-being of the local people. This applies to Jammu and Kashmir, too, home to an ecosystem rich in biodiversity.
Most of the famous tourist resorts in Kashmir are located in rural areas; however, the opportunity is not used by the government to shift from non-eco-friendly tourism to eco-friendly rural tourism. The policies drafted for the promotion of sustainable eco-friendly rural tourism have failed to yield any concrete results. The government drafts its tourism policy every year, but it has so far remained confined to paper only.
Factually, the tourism sector of J&K has not been developed, under proper planning and a vision. There are multiple agencies that are controlling and regulating the numerous lakes, tourism resorts, famed gardens. Different departments including the department of fisheries, the department of ecology, the department of wildlife, department of floriculture are exercising control over different tourist places. There is no single entity that can be held accountable for the protection of these destinations. The existence of different agencies only complicates the problem.
The Draft Tourism Policy demands to make tourist spots sustainable, dynamic, and improving livelihood opportunities for local people. This was stated by Director Tourism J&K, Dr. GN Ittoo, in an official statement.
“The administration believes J&K has a lot of scope in the rural tourism sector and the government requires to evaluate on the spot feasibility and tourism potential of these areas. The government maintained that the rural areas need to be selected as new sites of attraction for the tourists so that the rural people are benefited from the process of tourism. Rural tourism is one of the important options before us to strengthen the rural economy. The tourism department delved upon the officers that under rural tourism, villages to be decorated in such a way that would be eco friendly and tourist can be attracted from outside by showcasing the art and culture of the villages,” reads the statement.
However, the Tourism Department has made such claims in the past too but those failed to materialise.
Earlier, the government identified 33 villages of Kashmir and Ladakh division for their development as tourist villages under the Prime Minister’s reconstruction plan. Out of 33 villages, 30 tourist villages have been identified in Kashmir by the Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India. Years have passed and these destinations continue to remain underdeveloped. These destinations lack infrastructure, waste mismanagement mechanisms and funds sanctioned for their beatification remain unspent by departments, which are then clawed back by the treasury. For instance, in 2018, the government sanctioned Rs 43.5 crore for building infrastructure and tourist facilities in villages of Khag (Budgam), identified by the government as rural tourism destinations, but the funds still remain unspent. Similarly, for Poshkar villages of Budgam, the government sanctioned Rs 58 lakhs for their adornment, however, only a single building was constructed.
In Jammu and Kashmir, around 80% of the population lives in villages and rural tourism can emerge as a big source of employment. It is then imperative that the government should adopt a sustainable and participatory approach for the economic and social wellbeing of villagers and the conservation of the environment. Non-eco-friendly tourism raises serious concerns on account of its environmental impacts. If the threat is not taken seriously, it can lead to drastic and irreversible environmental degradation. It is high time Jammu and Kashmir adopts eco-friendly tourism practices through the promotion of rural tourism to lay the first step to create a climate-resilient green economy.
Recommendations
Ecotourism can be promoted and encouraged in several ways in the valley. For starters, the sale of single-use plastic drink bottles, straws, confectionery wrappers, chip packets, plastic bags should be banned in tourist destinations. Strict rules should be implemented to ensure hotels and restaurants do not violate waste management regulations, with environmental inspectors monitoring their waste disposal mechanisms. Also, only low-emission public transport should be allowed to operate at tourist destinations.
The government should conduct site assessments to determine how to mitigate threats to the environment and therefore develop long term eco-friendly policies for the management of tourist destinations.
The government should make mandatory the preliminary environmental impact assessment before any development activity is initiated at tourist destinations. It should do away with the single-window clearance policy.
An unsustainable pattern that exceeds the carrying capacity of a tourist destination, particularly of a small one, can largely degrade the natural and built environment. The government should take concrete steps to keep the ecological footprint under check.
The government should ensure facilities like guest houses, transport, communication, shopping complexes, health care, security and safety arrangements, parking and sanitation in the villages.
The tourists should be encouraged to explore village cuisine, handicrafts, and other locally made products.
The government has already identified rural tourist destinations, however, they are poorly managed. Besides developing them, it is important to organize awareness programmes at such destinations to attract tourists and introduce them to the locals.
The Tourism Department should involve local businessmen/businesswomen in the development of tourism enterprises in the villages.
(The author is Data Officer at Jammu and Kashmir Policy Institute)
Along with the tourism places, efforts were also made for the development of pilgrim places, reports Asian Lite News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday while unveiling three projects connected to the Somnath temple said that India moved up from the 65th position in the world tourism and travels competitive index to the 34th position from 2013 to 2019.
“In the last seven years, many policy decisions have been taken for the development of tourism in the country. We have moved forward with the e-visa and visa on arrival. We have even reduced the Visa fees. We have exempted the GST on the tourism and hospitality sector, providing a boost to it. This will also help in reducing the Covid-19 effects,” said the PM.
The PM said many efforts were made for the visiting tourists. “Tourists, when they visit, want adventure and want to get thrilled by it. Keeping this in mind, 120 mountain peaks have been opened up for trekking. Guides are being provided training through special programmes so that there are no inconveniences to the tourists. This will also provide job opportunities,” added the PM.
Along with the tourism places, efforts were also made for the development of pilgrim places.
“We are reviving the glories of the past. The Ramayana Circuit is right in front of us. People are getting to know newer places associated with the Lord Ram. Today, we have that opportunity to experience that by visiting these places and knowing how Lord Ram is for everyone living across the entire country,” said the PM.
“Similarly, the Buddhist Circuit is providing facilities for tourism to Buddha followers from all over the world to come to India and travel. Equally, our tourism ministry is developing 15 destinations on different themes under the ‘Swadesh Darshan’ scheme. Through these, development opportunities will be provided to many of the disregarded places of the country,” added the PM.
“Our forefathers had the farsightedness to associate far-flung and remote areas of our country with our faith. They worked on giving a feeling of oneness with those places. But when we were capable and had modern techniques and resources, we just left them thinking them as out of reach. Our hilly regions are a big example of that. But now, the country is dividing the gap between these holy pilgrimages. Whether it be the development of Baba Kedarnath, the construction of highways and tunnels in hilly terrains of Uttarakhand for Char Dham Yatra, development around the ‘Vaishno Devi temple’ or the high tech infrastructure reaching the northeast, today there is a reduction in distances between our own,” said the PM.
“Similarly, in 2014, to develop the pilgrim places in the country, we had announced the ‘PRASAD’ scheme where forty pilgrimages were to be developed. Out of which works on 15 have been completed. In Gujarat also, work for three projects under this scheme worth Rs 100 crore is ongoing. We are making an emphasis on increasing the connectivity between such places and cities. Efforts are that when tourists visit one place, they are attracted towards a nearby tourism place as well,” informed the PM.
“We have identified 19 iconic tourist destinations in the country which are being developed. All these projects will provide a new energy in the tourism sector in the coming times. Through tourism, the country today is not only connecting the common man but is also itself moving forward,” said the PM.
“The traditions of our country are inspiring us to forget the difficulties and move forward despite the tough times. We have seen that in the Corona times, tourism is a ray of hope for people. So we have to constantly expand our nature for tourism and culture.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple projects in Somnath, Gujarat via video conferencing. The projects includes the Somnath Promenade, Somnath Exhibition Centre and reconstructed temple precinct of Old (Juna) Somnath.
The Somnath Promenade has been developed under PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme at a total cost of over Rs 47 crore.
The Somnath Exhibition Centre, developed on the premises of ‘Tourist Facilitation Centre’, displays the exhibits from dismantled parts of the old Somnath temple and its sculptures having Nagar style temple architecture of old Somnath.
The reconstructed temple precinct of Old (Juna) Somnath has been completed by Shree Somnath Trust with a total outlay of Rs 3.5 crore.
The PM also laid the foundation stone of the Parvati Temple. The Parvati Temple is proposed to be constructed with a total outlay of Rs 30 crore. This will include temple construction in Sompura Salats Style, development of Garbha Griha and Nritya Mandap.
While it is rich in wildlife, Madagascar’s layers of history and a blend of cultures as well as its beautiful beaches are surprisingly diverse…N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe
All of us are waiting for the end of pandemic era to chill out in the outer world. Following a massive dip in cases after the second wave, travellers are all set to pack their bags and get back to travel in the coming months. The travel industry has witnessed a surge in bookings and queries recently, with people keen on resuming their travel plans after being cooped up in their homes for over a year.
The rise in travel and tourism over the years has made a lot of destinations popular, however, travellers always yearn to discover new places as the thrill of exploring an unknown, undiscovered destination is unparalleled. In addition to this, consumer behavioural change is expected as travellers are likely to opt for unexplored destinations to avoid massive crowds amid the pandemic.Check out this list of least explored places across the world curated by EaseMyTrip.com :
Faroe Islands, Denmark
The Faroe Islands, located in the chilling waters of the North Atlantic Ocean sandwiched between Scotland and Iceland is an unexplored paradise. The untouched archipelago along with the striking views of mountains stretching in every direction brings the wilder side of the Danish kingdom to the fore. With its rugged coastlines and pristine waterfalls, Faroe Islands is also home to natural wonders that could truly be explored on an old fishing boat. The capital city of Tershavn is picturesque with eighteenth-century churches, museums, and rows of brightly painted houses. The Island also houses some good spots from where travellers can view the Northern Lights in all their glory.
Dominica Island
A hidden island country in the Caribbean, the Commonwealth of Dominica is adorned by lush greenery and scenic beauty. The topside landscape is perfectly complemented by the beautiful oceans and striking reef formations, which makes it an exciting diving spot. Nicknamed as ‘Nature Island of the Caribbean’, Dominica is home to the second-largest hot spring in the world, the Boiling Lake. The Morne Trois Piton National Park and Emerald Pool Waterfall are some of the other key spots where people can indulge in adventure activities such as trekking and rappelling. The island is also rich in marine diversity with several species of Cetaceans, making the island an ideal destination for whale-watching.
Madagascar
Madagascar is truly one of the most unique islands and is considered to be the most bio-diverse place on earth. Floating off the coast of Mozambique, this one of its kind islands is renowned for its vibrant wildlife, lush forests and vibrant coral reefs. An estimated 80-90 percent of Madagascar’s wildlife and fauna is so unique that it cannot be found anywhere else in the world. From lemurs and rare bird species to colourful chameleons and humpback whales, the country is a wildlife paradise like no other. While it is rich in wildlife, Madagascar’s layers of history and a blend of cultures as well as its beautiful beaches are surprisingly diverse. The island’s unique landscape enables travellers to indulge in adventure activities such as diving, surfing and rock climbing. Since the past few years, there has been a growth in airline routes to the region resulting in swifter travelling options. So, make sure that you figure out your travel options from EaseMyTrip.com before you decide your itinerary in this serene island.
Matera, Italy
Renowned for its ancient cave dwellings inhabited since the Paleolithic period, Sassi di Matera is fascinating as its history dates back more than 30,000 years. The “Sassi” is considered as one of the most unique landscapes in Europe and was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Referred to as the second Bethlehem, the charming city was the setting for Mel Gibson’s movie The Passion of the Christ. The stunning churches of Matera, which dates back to the Middle Ages, are carved out from calcarenite rock and filled with vibrant and delicate murals. Most of the hotels and restaurants in the city are made from refurbished caves, and the city also provides travellers with a unique experience of staying in a cave hotel.
Boa Vista, Cape Verde
Although a majority of Africa is covered with the Sahara desert, the continent has some hidden gems in the form of a small archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. One such island country is Cape Verde, a group of ten islands. One of the islands here, Boa Vista, is an untouched gem with its pristine landscape, dreamy beaches, sea turtles, and villages surrounded by the magnificent Atlantic waters. The Parque Nacional do Monte Roraima is a national park in the city that has unique monuments and sights, in addition to hiking trails. The region is also known for its sand dunes and moon-like landscapes in the Viana desert. The city is diverse as it has a few low mountain ranges as well, however, the city is primarily for travellers who wish to take a break from their busy lives and enjoy the sun, sea and serenity.
Magnificent architecture, scintillating beaches, lush green forests the world hasn’t fallen short of destinations that remain to be explored. Curiosity is the only thing that will drive you away from the hustle of the cities to broaden the horizon of inquisitiveness. More importantly, as we look to recoup from the second wave of the deadly pandemic, it is imperative to prioritize one’s health.
The three water villa projects will come up at Minicoy at a cost of Rs 319 crore, Suheli islands at a cost of Rs 247 crore and Kadamat at Rs 240 crore…reports Asian Lite News.
The Lakshadweep administration is engaged in the development of high-end eco-tourism projects at Kadamat, Suheli, and Minicoy Islands, officials said on Sunday.
A statement from the Lakshadweep administration said that it has proposed high-end eco-tourism projects in order to establish a robust base for maritime economic growth with tourism development as its core.
The projects are to be implemented under the aegis of NITI Aayog and taking into account the protection of the fragile coral’s ecosystem. Three water villa projects which are of the first in the country will be opened in the Islands.
The three water villa projects will come up at Minicoy at a cost of Rs 319 crore, Suheli islands at a cost of Rs 247 crore and Kadamat at Rs 240 crore.
National Centre for Sustainable Social Management (NCSCM), MoEF&CC and NITI Aayog have conducted a joint survey during November 2018 for site assessment and confirmation.
Lakshadweep administrator, S. Asker Ali, (IAS), told IANS: “All the mandatory clearances are given for the projects are given upfront including the CRZ clearances.”
He also said that National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) was engaged to prepare the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report which is required for CRZ clearance.
The administrator said that before finalizing the projects, the administration has conducted meaningful consultations with all the concerned stakeholders including public representatives and the concerned panchayats of Kadamat, Kavaratti and Minicoy. The local panchayats concerned have issued NOC for the proposed eco-tourism projects at Kadamat, Minicoy and Suheli islands in totality even for bar license in the project.
The administrator said that Global tenders for the three projects have been floated and can be downloaded with effect from August 1, 2021.
