Ecotourism is increasing in popularity across the world, but has significant practical value in developing countries where the needs of impoverished communities may conflict directly with the need to capitalise on the growing tourism industry

Ecotourism is a move to counter this. It aims to create viable and sustainable tourism opportunities, and limit the impact that all related activities will have on the environment, while improving the lives of the local people living in the area. According to Ecotourism.org, the concept consists of a number of core principles, including:

• Minimising industrial impact on the environment

• Building environmental and cultural awareness

• Empowering local communities

• Raising awareness of the political, environmental and social issues of the country concerned, and

• Ensuring that the experience is positive for all parties, including visitors and hosts

The aim is to achieve sustainable and responsible tourism practices to the benefit of all and the detriment of none. One of the most important factors in the success of any ecotourism venture is knowledge. Those proposing the project must gain intimate knowledge of the area, the fauna, the flora and the communities living there. They must understand how they impact on each other and how a change in one will affect the rest. They must understand the culture governing the people’s relationship with the environment, and how they view concepts such as territory, hunting, farming and gathering materials for personal use.

It’s vital to include the local communities in the project, not merely as grateful beneficiaries of charity, but as empowered and informed team members. Their input is to be valued, as chances are that they understand the area and complex ecosystems better than anyone else involved in the project.

The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable resource that protects both the people and the nature involved. Over 20 years ago, in 1987, the World Commission on Environment and Development stated that sustained development implied, “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” This sentiment is just as applicable now as it was then.

The Greater Mekong Region is emerging as one of the world’s most famous travel destinations. The region has many features that make it very attractive to tourists. These include unspoiled natural beauty and magnificent attractions. A variety of ethnic peoples with unique languages and customs together with a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Laos make the region most attractive to tourists, particularly since parts of the region have been inaccessible for years.

The Mekong River flows from the Himalayan Mountains in China through Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. These five countries form the Greater Mekong Region.

As the largest country in the region, Thailand is more than just a gateway – often referred to as the most exotic country in Southeast Asia. A visit to the Grand Palace in Bangkok for sure. Trips to a floating market or to the Bridge on the River Kwai. From pristine beaches in the Southern Islands to the Northern mountains with its waterfalls, elephants bathing in mountain streams, and Hill Tribe villages.

Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar – Four small countries neighboring Thailand. Each opens a different world of exploration. Cambodia – the highlight is visiting Angkor Wat, an architectural masterpiece constructed in the jungle in the early 12th century. Vietnam – is a varied country, offering beaches, mountains and hundreds of years of history from the ancient Cham Towers to remnants from the Vietnam War. Laos – savor the crafts, culture and hospitality of Laos with a river trip, visits to ancient temples, gorgeous palaces, and traditional villages. Myanmar – journey the length of this enchanting land on the mighty Ayeyarwady River, and discover the treasures of over two millennia of civilisation including exquisite Buddhist art and magnificent temple architecture.

If you are planning a vacation for the Greater Mekong Region countries, just visit the website of Azure Travel which is the Bangkok-based tour operator and travel agent. Azure Travel provides package tours in Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, hotels reservation, vacation throughout Thailand and South East Asia. Azure Travel is entering the hospitality business with valuable experience. This enables it to provide the best services for clients. The staff has many years of experience behind them.

You can sign up for one of the popular package tours or work with Azure Travel to design a tour to your own specifications. Either way, Azure Travel guarantees your satisfied vacation.