• Souvenir Shopping in Nepal

    July 1, 2016
    Souvenir Shopping in Nepal

    By Bhesh Jung Badal –

    Nepali handicrafts, decorative domestic objects made by hand, are most popular and highly appreciated all over the world. Handicrafts are produced in different parts of the country reflecting local tradition, art and culture. The major handicrafts are – bags , basketry products , ceramics, decoration items , contemporary paintings, craft paintings, ethnic dolls , garments , filigree products , gift items , hand knitwear , handmade paper products , home furnishing , incense , metal crafts , paubha (thanka ) based on Buddhist and Hindu religious scriptures, silver jewellery , stone and wood carving products among others.

    B.J. Badal

    Travellers, apart from visiting and exploring the country, are interested to take photographs and buy some local products. So is the case with Nepal. Nepalese craftsmanship is highly appreciated by tourists since the centuries. Nepal’s handicraft exports amounted to US $ 46 million in the fiscal year 2071/72 BS. There has been an increase in demand for Nepali handicrafts from the US and European markets in recent years. The tourists visiting Nepal are more interested to take the following products as souvenirs from Nepal.

    Carpets

    Nepal’s largest export item is the Tibetan carpet made in Nepal. These are very expensive in the developed countries but cheap here compared to its price in their own country. The techniques used in the manufacture of carpets are traditional Tibetan, where high quality handspun wool of Tibet and New Zealand are woven. Designs range from neo-Tibetan to the modern abstract ones in bold and bright colors. Superior quality European chemical and vegetable dyes are used in making fine carpets. Prices vary according to size, designs and knots. A 100 knots per square inch carpet usually cost more. One must be careful in buying carpets because carpets of inferior quality are also sold which are not color-fast.

    Gems

    The continent of Asia is famous for its precious stones and jewels, but the widest selection of these gems can be bought in Kathmandu at prices which are remarkably low. Name any stone from Topaz to Lapis Lazuli, you can get it here. Tourmaline being Nepal’s highest quality gem.Without proper knowledge of the characteristics of original gems, it is very difficult to assess unless bought from a shop that can be trusted. Nepal does not mine Topaz. The common local name given to the lovely yellow citrine is “Golden Topaz”. Fine deep purple amethysts are produced in Nepal. apart from soft pink sapphires. The inexpensive stones are admitted by the dealer to be artificial.

    Jewellery

    Since the centuries, Nepal has been in the lime-light when it comes to originating or making a replica of a design in gold or silver. Be it an ear-ring, necklace, bracelet, ring or any other item, it is made ready for delivery in a few days time. Silver beads that are traditional are made in Patan. Beads made of glass charms the buyer. A market for beads is found close to the centre of the capital near Indra Chowk. In shops near Buddhist temples a variety of Tibetan jewelry is sold. The honesty of the jeweler with regard to wares sold is remarkable. White gold of international quality is scarce in Kathmandu.

    Metalwork

    The molding of metals such as copper, bronze, brass into statues of Buddhist deities in the Tibetan style and Hindu images is one of Nepal’s oldest and living craft traditions. In a statue, the specific pronunciation of parts such as fingers, eyes which are skillfully painted, attractive pleasant faces and non-existence of pits or spots is formidable.

    Woodcarving

    Woodcarving on temples and houses is a common sight in Kathmandu. The designs carved are traditional and are produced in all sizes. These intricate carvings can be found on doors and windows as well as smaller items such as jewelry boxes, picture frames and wall decorations.

    Handloom and Printed Cloth

    A variety of cloth is produced in different parts of Nepal. Hetauda, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, to name a few, produce cloth for hats, blouses ,daura suruwal and other attires. Dolpo blankets, colourful block-printed handlooms and soft Pashmina woolen shawls are also available.

    Thangkas

    Tibetan scroll paintings of Buddha, mandalas, meditation deities are known as Thangkas. These are hung in the shrine rooms of monasteries and living room of private homes. Thangkas, not of recent times, used vivid colors of grounded mineral pigments which was traditional. The modern ones use modern materials such as pastel colours and are not as expensive as the old ones. The skill endowed in painting the tiniest figures without disfiguring or distorting the faces or hands is the key to its genuineness. Wood smoke is used for ageing Thangkas.

    Masks

    The Nepali people of different community perform ritual dances at festivals wearing masks that are replicas of the image they depict. These masks, made of Nepali paper and wood, are available in markets of Kathmandu valley.

    Other items of interest available in Kathmandu valley are khukuris, incense, handmade paper, prayer wheels, Tibetan souvenirs, silk purses, dolls, filigree items, hand knit sweaters. readymade attires and Nepali tea.

    Cargo Transport

    There are dozens of reliable transport agencies who take care of transporting cargo in different parts of the world. Careful packing before being shipped or airlifted, with contacts to reach its final destination , are some of the services offered to customers.

    Antiques

    Nepalese antiques. part of the country’s rich artistic heritage, belong to its people and is expected to remain in the country. If purchased, such articles are very expensive and are subject to customs restrictions leading up to confiscation. The buyer is advised to get a certificate from the dealer, and if still doubtful, one from the Department of Archeology, to avoid disappointment on departure. Artificial antiques of masks, statues and paintings are other accomplished crafts of Nepal. Craft salespersons of Nepal are generally honest about the originality or age of their wares. Authentic Nepali and Tibetan antiques are increasingly rare and difficult to find.

    Where to Shop

    Some of the places where shopping can be done and items bought are: Basantapur and Thamel for handicrafts and Khukuris, prayer wheels, grotesque masks; the Supermarket for a variety of items; Taleju temple area for thankas and masks; the street from Durbar Square to Indra Chowk  for caps, small rugs, shawls, knit sweaters, sari fabrics, copper and brass pots and curios, Durbar Marg area for jewellery , handicrafts and mandala paintings, and Jawalakhel for  carpets of Tibetan designs.

    Nepal has a good reputation for craftsmanship and the souvenir prices are reasonable in the markets of three cities of the valley – Kathmandu , Patan and Bhaktapur.

    June 31, 2016

    • Connecting you with the world of travel and tourism

      An Opportunity to enter South-East Asian market in 2023

      KAZAKHSTAN International Exhibition “Tourism & Travel” Almaty, Kazakhstan

      CHINA- Beyond your imagination

      UNWTO becomes “UN Tourism” 

      The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) enters a new era  with a new name and brand: UN Tourism. With this new brand, the Organization reaffirms its status as the United Nations specialized agency for tourism and the global leader of tourism for development, driving social and economic change to ensure that “people and planet” are always center stage.

      UN Tourism: Transforming tourism for a better worldTo achieve this goal, UN Tourism engaged the services of Interbrand, the leading global branding agency. Interbrand successfully translated the Organization’s renewed vision for tourism into a new visual identity and brand narrative.

      This involved renaming the Organization, transitioning from UNWTO to UN Tourism. At the same time, a new brand narrative was meticulously crafted, one that seamlessly aligns with UN Tourism’s central mission and priorities. This narrative pivots around three main messages: the UN as a global altruistic organization, the notion of connecting humans around the world, and the concept of proactivity and movement.

      Enhancing the well-being of individuals, safeguarding the natural environment, stimulating economic advancement, and fostering international harmony are key goals that are the fundamental essence of UN Tourism

      By moving away from acronyms, UN Tourism adopts a more approachable stance and capitalizes on its strengths: the “UN”, signifying authority, and tourism, a simple and relatable concept for all. This change has been endorsed by the Organization’s membership, highlighting its united support for the profound transformation and reinvention of UN Tourism in recent years, as it has become more agile, visible, and ever closer to its Member States, partners and the sector as a whole.

      With 160 Member States and hundreds of private sector affiliates, UN Tourism has its headquarters in Madrid, Spain, and Regional Offices in Nara (Japan) covering Asia & Pacific, Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) for the Middle East, as well as forthcoming Regional Offices for the Americas (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and Africa (Morocco). Its priorities center on promoting tourism for sustainable development in line with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Global Goals. UN Tourism promotes quality education, supports decent jobs in the sector, identifies talent and drives innovation and accelerates tourism climate action and sustainability . – UN Tourism Jan. 2024

      TAT launches

      “Thais Always Care” Campaign 

      “The Tourism Authority of Thailand launches ‘Thais Always Care’ campaign in collaboration with other organizations to ensure tourists’ safety and enhance positive image.”

      The “Thais Always Care” online communication campaign was officially launched by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in collaboration with the Tourist Police Bureau, Grab Taxi (Thailand), and Central Pattana (CPN) to ensure the safety and welcome of tourists from around the world. The campaign aims to provide seamless travel experiences for visitors to Thailand while also reinforcing the positive image of the country as a safe destination.

      The campaign reflects Thailand’s renowned hospitality and warmth to visitors, showcasing the country as a desirable destination for tourists. “CARE” stands for Compassion, Assistant, Relief, and Elevate, encompassing the generosity of the Thai people and their commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable travel experience for tourists.

      Partners involved in the campaign have strengthened their safety measures and are utilizing technology to ensure the safety of tourists in Thailand. This includes installing CCTV cameras, implementing strict security checks at department stores, and utilizing technology like the “POLICE I LERT U” application to offer emergency assistance to international visitors. The campaign will also involve working with international KOLs to enhance the positive image of Thailand’s tourism assets and reinforce the country’s reputation as a safe destination. -Tourism Authority of Thailand

      China’s resort island receives

      90 m tourists in 2023

      More than 90 million domestic and overseas tourists visited south China’s tropical island province of Hainan in 2023, up 49.9 percent year on year, local authorities said .

      Hainan’s total tourism revenue surged 71.9 percent year on year to about 181.3 billion yuan (about 25.5 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, according to the provincial department of tourism, culture, radio, television and sports.

      Last year, Hainan experienced rapid development in cruise tourism. Cruises to the Xisha Islands in the South China Sea saw 400 trips, up 277.8 percent year on year, and received 149,400 domestic tourists, up 405.33 percent.

      This year, Hainan aims to receive 99 million tourists and its tourism revenue is expected to reach 207 billion yuan. The province aims to receive more than 1 million inbound tourists in 2024.

      China aims to build Hainan into an international tourism and consumption center by 2025 and a globally influential tourism and consumption destination by 2035. – Xinhua

      Vietnam  to welcome 17-18

      million tourists  this year

      Việt Nam’s tourism industry has set a target to welcome 17-18 million foreign visitors in 2024, approaching the pre-pandemic record in 2019 when COVID-19 had yet to disrupt global travel.

      In 2023, the figure hit 12.6 million, surpassing the initial target set earlier in the year (before China, which accounted for a third of foreign arrivals to Việt Nam pre-pandemic, announced reopening plans) by 57 per cent and achieving the adjusted goal of 12-13 million.

      The number of domestic travellers, meanwhile, stood at 108 million, up 6 per cent compared to the set target. Tourism activities generated about VNĐ678 trillion (US$27.85 billion) in revenue, 4.3 per cent higher than the yearly plan.

      Despite substantial recovery in 2023, the Việt Nam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) said the domestic tourism recovery will still face challenges in the year ahead. This is particularly true in the context of the unpredictable global developments stemming from economic uncertainties, regional conflicts and climate change.

      Việt Nam’s socio-economic conditions remain stable; the economy continues to grow and inflation has been kept in check. But the persistent threat of disease and natural disasters are likely to create uncertainty affecting production, business activities and the daily lives of citizens.

      According to forecasts from the UN World Tourism Organisation and the World Travel and Tourism Council, international travel activities may fully recover by the end of 2024, reaching the levels achieved in 2019. However, the recovery is expected to be uneven across different regions.

      The ever-changing demands of international tourists require higher standards in product quality, diversity and unique experiences. The trends of integrating information technology, artificial intelligence and digital transformation are envisioned to drive the emergence of new forms of tourism.

      Based on these analyses and projections, Việt Nam aims to serve 17-18 million foreign and 110 million domestic visitors this year, with an expected total revenue from tourism nearing VNĐ840 trillion.

      To achieve the stated objectives, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyễn Văn Hùng has instructed the VNAT to continue focusing on advising and improving the institutional framework, policies, reviewing identified deficiencies for adjustment, and international commitments in the field of tourism. Collaboration with other ministries and sectors is emphasised to formulate policies for developing various types of products such as agricultural tourism and digital transformation in tourism. He also noted the need for attention on strengthening tourism statistics and digital transformation to enhance the effectiveness of data collection, providing reliable figures to efficiently support tourism policy planning.

      The ministry also calls for enhanced training for tourism officials and workers to meet requirements of new situations, especially in terms of language proficiency and technology expertise. — VNS

      Global Medical Tourism market 

      USD 136.93 billion in 10 years

      Newark, Jan. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Brainy Insights estimates that the USD 20.07 billion in 2022 global Medical Tourism market will reach USD 136.93 billion by 2032. There is a growing trend towards health and wellness tourism, with individuals seeking medical treatments, preventive care, wellness programs, and holistic health experiences. Medical tourism destinations can capitalize on this trend by offering comprehensive health and wellness packages.

      Furthermore, integrating digital health technologies, including telemedicine, virtual consultations, and electronic health records, can enhance the accessibility and coordination of medical tourism services. Digital platforms can streamline pre-travel consultations, post-treatment follow-ups, and information exchange between healthcare providers and patients. Introducing new and advanced medical treatments, therapies, and procedures can attract medical tourists seeking cutting-edge healthcare solutions. Countries and healthcare providers that stay at the forefront of medical innovation can position themselves as leaders in the industry.

      In addition, customized and personalized medical tourism packages catering to individual patient’s unique needs and preferences present an opportunity for service providers. Tailoring experiences that include cultural activities, recovery retreats, and concierge services can set providers apart in a competitive market.

      Besides, wellness tourism, including genetic testing and personalized health assessments, is gaining traction. Medical tourism destinations can offer specialized wellness packages, including genetic evaluations and preventive health screenings, to attract individuals interested in proactive healthcare.

      China eases visa application for US tourists

      BEIJING: China will simplify visa applications for tourists from the United States from Jan 1, cutting the documents required, according to a notice on Friday (Dec 29) on the website of the Chinese embassy in Washington.

      The move is the latest by China to revive tourism and boost the world’s second-largest economy following a slump during the COVID-19 pandemic.

      Tourist visa applicants in the US will no longer need to submit air ticket bookings, hotel reservations or an invitation letter, the embassy’s notice said.

      Beijing earlier cleared the way for passport holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia to visit the country without visas from Dec 1.Visa-free treatment will run for 12 months, during which tourists from those six countries can visit China for up to 15 days. China also expanded its visa-free transit policy to 54 countries in November.

      The number of inbound tourists to the country plummeted during the pandemic due to the country’s strict COVID-19 control policies.

      China’s visa-free policy facilitates

      travels from 6 countries

      Around 214,000 people from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia entered China in December 2023, an increase of 28.5 percent compared with November, according to the National Immigration Administration (NIA).

      China’s unilateral visa-free policy for ordinary passport holders from these countries took effect on December 1, facilitating inbound travels from there.

      Of these inbound trips, 118,000 were made by ordinary passport holders without a visa, accounting for 55.1 percent of all inbound trips from the six countries during this period. Around 91,000 visa-free entries were made for travel and business.

      Thanks to the visa-free policy, ports in the southern Chinese city of Nanning welcomed many inbound travelers. Data showed that 121 inbound travel groups of nearly 2,800 people entered China through ports in Nanning in December.

      Since the inception of the visa-free policy, ports in Beijing had, by December 31, witnessed more than 12,000 visa-free entries from the relevant countries.

      The NIA pledged more optimized entry-exit management policies for foreigners to facilitate their business, study, work, and life in China.

      International flights to China have picked up since Beijing dropped COVID-19 restrictions a year ago but are still only at 60 per cent of 2019 levels. – Xinhua

      FACTS —

      Tourism helps in:

      👉Reducing poverty

      👉Reducing Inequalities

      👉Promoting gender equality

      👉Fostering decent work and economic growth

      World Tourism Day 2021: ‘Tourism for Inclusive Growth’

      In 2019, Travel & Tourism’s direct, indirect and induced impact accounted for:
      -US$8.9 trillion contribution to the world’s GDP
      -10.3% of global GDP
      -330 million jobs, 1 in 10 jobs around the world
      -US$1.7 trillion visitor exports (6.8% of total exports,
      28.3% of global services exports)
      -US$948 billion capital investment (4.3% of total
      investment)