By Ethan Gelber

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Making squid cages on an Andaman Discoveries tour in Phang Nga, Thailand

Wild Asia has announced the finalists for the 2010 Responsible Tourism Awards. The selection of the trim shortlist of six candidates narrowed the focus to endeavours in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

“We received a selection of high-quality checklists and this proves to show that the network and awareness of RT is building up,” said Deborah Chan, Wild Asia’s Programme Manager. “Travel operators from around the region are truly striving to make a difference for a better and greener future.”

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Posted under Cambodia, General, Indonesia, Malaysia, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand, countries, responsible organisations, responsible travel, responsible travel news

In December 2007, a global call for votes on 440 destinations in 220 countries netted a pared-down list of 77 sites, all vying for one of seven coveted spots as the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Then, on 21 July 2009, a panel of experts announced the even more select list of only 28 finalists.

Cape Town's Table Mountain is one of the finalists in the New Seven Wonders of Nature, as well as a whl.travel destination

It is now time for the world to speak and choose the final seven. Optimistic estimates are that 1 billion votes will be cast starting now, throughout 2010 and into 2011, when the official list will be unveiled.

TO ADD YOUR VOICE TO THE TALLY, START HERE.

whl.travel Destinations in the Mix

whl.travel is delighted to note that, of the 28 finalists, eight are covered by the network:
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Posted under Brazil, General, Indonesia, Jordan, Lebanon, Maldives, Philippines, South Africa, Tanzania, countries

Somewhere along the line we have all heard of the Maldives, renowned for their turquoise waters and year-round idyllic weather. With over 1,000 islets and 26 atolls, the Republic of Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean about 700km southwest of Sri Lanka.

A classic and gentle snorkeller-whale shark encounter

Beauty through purity is one of the things that make the Maldives a premium romantic location targeted by honeymooners. However, unlike the typical visitor, why not jump at the occasion to see the country from a completely different perspective: supporting protection of its underwater world. Enhance your understanding of the atolls and reef islands that offer some of the world’s most exquisite diving by getting involved in a whale shark protection programme.
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Posted under General, Maldives, countries, local tips, responsible organisations, whl.travel newsletter