TRAVERSE 108
EAST & SOUTHEAST ASIA: A Mix of Established Players and Rising Stars
East Asia presents a diverse landscape of adventure tourism destinations, with Thailand at the forefront. Its well-developed infrastructure, positive image, and excellent transportation networks make it a prime choice for adventure travellers. However, to maintain its position and ensure long-term success, Thailand must prioritise sustainable development practices. According to Alex Nikonov of Rusmototravel, Thailand is a country that is“ all good”. By that, Alex means Thailand is“ easy and relaxed” making it an almost perfect destination for adventure riding.
“ In the north there are excellent roads with little or no traffic”, Alex suggests.“ There’ s few people asking for money, nor beggars offering you services.
“ It is also a safe place to leave a motorcycle unattended without fear or it or your gear being stolen.”
Similarly, Malaysia, with its thriving entrepreneurial spirit and supportive business environment, needs to further embrace sustainability to secure its future in adventure tourism.
China, already a strong contender with its rich cultural heritage and robust infrastructure, has the potential to attract more adventure travellers by enhancing its global image and improving health services. In the area of motorcycle travel, China is let down greatly by archaic and draconian laws that mostly prevent free travel. Riders must secure the services of guides, often at prohibitive costs, and are generally only allowed to ride through the country as a transit route.
Another issue to travellers, as pointed out by Alex of Rusmoto is that China is limited in services that have English as a language, it is compounded by many United States based internet services being blocked or outright banned, Google as an example.
Meanwhile, Mongolia, with its pristine landscapes and unique nomadic culture, shows strong potential in natural and cultural resources. It is fast becoming a favourite with international adventure or overland riders. However, Mongolia is a signatory to the 1968 Vienna Convention to Road Traffic meaning it excludes many citizens of nations that are signatories to the earlier Geneva Convention on International Road Traffic of 1949, your International Drivers Permit, and even national licence might not be recognised in Mongolia. Often this can mean that riders are doing so illegally in Mongolia and might not be covered for insurance.
Both Vietnam and Indonesia also hold promise but need to focus on improving their adventure tourism offerings to become more competitive in the region.
TRAVERSE 108