Andaman and Nicobar: a dream view of Nature

By Paawana Poonacha Times New Network

Port Blair: The emerald beauties of the Andaman and Nicobar islands are slowly opening up their territory to international tourists, offering themselves to 'high-value-low-volume' eco-tourism. Floating in splendid isolation, the islands are marching towards becoming one of the most sought-after global tourist destinations, offering a dream view of Nature's endless variety of exotic flora and fauna. International yachties are eying the emerald islands for a perfect world sea rally; starting from hotspot Phuket (Indonesia) to the Haddo harbour at Port Blair. Participants from England, Australia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Canada and the United States have already enrolled for next year's sea rally, after witnessing, tremendous success in the event held last week. Foreign tourists, most of who prefer sailing the shorter distance from Phuket to Port Blair, have been particularly charmed by adventure tourism activities like trekking, island camping, high sea game fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving, skiing and wind surfing. Tourists swear by the near unexplored serenity of the sea, the sun and pristine beauty of forests. "There are hardly any such destinations left for nature freaks across the globe," they say in unison..................."

Courtesy: Times of India, Jan.20th 2004