Exotissimo Travel has been selected for inclusion in the Mekong Responsible Tourism E-Guide publication following their commitment to provide responsible and sustainable tours. The exclusive E-Guide is designed to give worldwide exposure to industry leaders working sympathetically in the areas they operate.

Developed with funds from France’s Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, it has become a valuable reference for responsible tourism in the Mekong region. Only featuring responsible tour operators that function within the seven destinations spanned by the Mekong, Exotissimo were noted for their extensive coverage of the region and commitment to work within the positive criteria looked for by Mekong Tourism.

The selection process takes into account factors such as; providing more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people and a greater understanding of cultural, social and environmental issues; minimizing negative economic, environmental and social impacts; generating greater economic benefits for local people; involving local people in decisions that affect their lives and making positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage.

These are core values noted by Exotissimo Travel in their development of any tour and have been paramount in their establishment of Exo Foundation, a charitable foundation established as a supplementary branch of Exotissimo.

This month saw the start of planning for our latest project – a village library in Maung Shwe Lay, Myanmar. The fishing village of Maung Shwe Lay, south of Ngapali Beach, is a typical living environment for many rural communities in Myanmar. The village is self-sufficient yet lacks a consistent education system. Although villagers are eager to continue with their education, the nature of their lifestyles (relying on fishing and farming as a means to survival) often deem further study is an unrealistic prospect for most.
Maung Shwe Lay village has one primary school attended by approximately 200 students and a secondary school for 250 students. For higher education people have to leave the village for Thandwe or Yangon. A couple of years ago the village committee collected funds for the construction of a library building, which was successfully completed. Unfortunately, the library was never opened and operated due to a lack of funds for purchasing books. Having discovered this, Exo Foundation made the decision to consult with the villagers on the continuation of this initiative.
After a meeting with the village committee and an initial inspection of the site, Exo Foundation offered financial support for the establishment and running of the library. Opening a library is a great way to supplement formal education that is given to the villagers. And, moreover, providing free access to books gives the opportunity for further education and self-study to students and adults alike. To learn more about this exciting new project please, click here.

We are pleased to announce that we have been nominated in the ‘Best Asian Tour Operator’ category at the 2011 World Travel Awards. Hailed as the “Oscars” of the travel industry, the awards seek to raise the standards of customer service and overall business performance throughout the international industry. Now In their 18^th year of operation the World Travel Awards have evolved to represent a global search for the very best travel and tourism brands.

After a rigorous selection procedure, Exo emerged with a ‘Best Tour Operator’ nomination for the third year in a row, thus confirming its position as a leader within the Asian tour industry. As a company Exotissimo have contributed significantly to the benchmarking of ‘experiential’ touring within Southeast Asia. In sharing their intricate knowledge of the region they have helped create the ultimate Asia travel experience, establishing a unique style of insightful and rewarding tourism.

CEO Olivier Colomés said “Once again to be recognized as a leading force within the industry is both an honor and a great achievement. Our 18 years of experience in the region, has left us with a great deal of knowledge to share with clients who wish to see Asia through unique and intriguing perspective. To be nominated by such a prestigious committee is testament to the innovative product we create and the dedicated team who drive it.” Vote for Exo now by clicking, here.

EXO CAMBODIA – Khmer New YearExotissimo Cambodia will close its office during the Khmer New Year from 14-16 April. For any emergencies during the national holiday please contact Mr. Sida NGET – Operations Supervisor in Phnom Penh office – (855 12) 908 097 and Siem Reap office Mr. Ol Vanda – Operations Supervisor – (855 12) 907 097 or Mr. David KING (Operations Manager – (855 12) 940 898.

EXO MYANMAR- Thingyan Celebrations
Exotissimo Myanmar will be closed for the New Year from 13-16 April inclusive. During this time, for any emergencies please contact Mr. Richard Moreau (G.M) 95-9 519 9580 or Ms.Thida (Sales & Operations) 95-9 99 26597 . Please note the official government closures are 12-21 April so many restaurants, shops and businesses may be closed during this time

EXO THAILAND– Songkran Celebrations
Exotissimo Thailand will close its office during Thai New Year from 13-16 April. During this time, for any emergencies please contact the Operations Department on +66 (0) 81 867 2806.

EXO LAOS– Bpee Mai
Exo Laos will be closed for New Year from the 14-16 April. During this time, for any emergencies please contact Mr. Henry Fenner (General Manager): +856 (0) 20 55 71 313 When in Laos dial: 020 55 71 313. Mr. Viengamphone Xongmixay (Vientiane Planning Supervisor): +856 (0) 20 5503 782 When in Laos dial: 020 5503 782 Mr. Bounmark Phimmasene (Vientiane Operations Manager): +856 (0) 20 2244 506 When in Laos dial: 020 2244 506.

We are excited to announce the launch of the charitable arm of Exotissimo, the Exo-Foundation. During our 18 years of operation we have played an active part across their destinations in supporting and contributing to charitable causes; through ongoing donations to local initiatives, reactive support to crises in the region such as the floods in Vietnam and Cambodia in 1999, corporations with NGOs and helping to sustain charitable enterprises through visits within programs.
The Exo Foundation seeks to shape sustainable development in Asia, in order to ensure the preservation of the incredible natural and cultural heritage shared by the region. Making use of our extensive network of travelers and partners, the Foundations outlined objective is to raise awareness for and channel support to charitable projects in the region. Apart from generating support for established projects, the Foundation will also support new grassroots initiatives focusing on the improvement of livelihoods, the empowerment of disadvantaged and the conservation of the environment. To link directly through to the website please, click here or for more information contact info@exofoundation.com

We are pleased to announce that our annual 2011 Agent Familiarization trips are open for registration and are as action packed and insightful as previous years. The perfect way to learn more about our destinations and products, each program blends innovative touring with hotel inspections to give agents a thorough introduction to Exotissimo’s Asia.

Showcasing the highlights and more of each of our destinations, programs have been designed to treat participants to a myriad of experiences that range from cultural to culinary alongside sensational sceneries. As is customary with all Exo tours will be lead by one of our local expert guides and a member of the Exotissimo team.

The Thailand FAM goes from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, taking in some of our favorite destinations and experiences to be had in the Kingdom, some on, some off the trodden path. Highlights include: The amazing railway market in Samut Songkram, exploring the temples of Ayutthaya by ‘kermit tuk–tuk’, rice planting in Sukhothai and biking the national park near Chiang Mai.

Sign up now as places tend to fill up quickly. This year we are offering a mix of classic itineraries as well as some lesser known destinations that have proven popular with clients, each comprising our signature style of experiential travel that is all the more enhanced by a unique Exo touch. To read more about our 2011 FAMs please, click here.

We are excited to announce our newest destination, Exotissimo Japan, is to open in March. Adding to our existing network of six destinations, the official opening of Exo Japan will see Exotissimo continue to grow our portfolio of destinations across Asia. Heading up the Japan team as Managing Director is former Vietnam Travel Agency Manager, Ines Zand, who will be working alongside Jarrod Stenhouse in the role of Product Manager. Our first venture outside of Southeast Asia marks a significant move for the Exotissimo Group. CEO Oliver Colomés’ said, “Japan is a sophisticated destination that offers everything we believe an Exotissimo travel experience should be, and more. We have started to invest and will continue investing in Product Development here, to come up with innovational touring options and offer new exciting products, Exo Touches and unique travel experiences to every market segment that we serve: FIT, Luxury, Adventure Travel and MICE.
Japan, an archipelago of more than 6,000 islands, is home to ancient traditions, unparallel natural beauty and one of the world’s most distinctive cultures. From the deep-set culture of Kyoto and tech-savvy Tokyo, to the rich artistic heritage that runs through out the archipelago – the opportunities for discovery and unique experiences are endless.

We are happy to announce that Exo has been named as the official Mekong Sessions travel partner for the Leonard Cohen Live in Phnom Penh benefit concert and all upcoming concerts.
In cooperation with the Mekong Sessions, Exotissimo Travel will, in the very near future, be offering special Leonard Cohen concert and tour packages for fans eager to experience the concert of a lifetime in the Kingdom of Wonder. Leonard Cohen fans travelling from anywhere around the world can purchase tickets, flights, accommodation and tours in a single package designed to ensure first time visitors, Southeast Asia lovers or expatriates maximise their enjoyment of this momentous event.

We are very excited to announce that Exo has received a nomination from the World Travel Awards, under the category of ‘Best Tour Operator’. Would you agree? If so please take the time to cast your vote for us. You can do this through, clicking here.

Set for August and September this year, our popular Agent Familiarization trips are the perfect way for you to learn more about our destinations and best products. Each program mixes innovative touring with hotel inspections to give you a thorough introduction to Exotissimo’s Asia. This year we are offering a mix of classic itineraries as well as some off-the-beaten-track destinations that are quickly emerging as traveler favorites. Each itinerary is uniquely Exo with our signature excursions and Exo Touches filling the programs. For more information please, click here.