Eco Travel :: Spotting New Species in Vietnam
Last week some brainy scientists announced they had discovered 11 new species in the wilds of Vietnam, including a snake (above), two types of butterflies and five types of orchids. Given that no one had ever seen these things before, we're not suggesting you could jog over and find them in a snap. But Vietnam does offer some great, if "rustic," ecotourism opportunities.
The World Wildlife Fund, which helped dig up the new critters, is working with locals in A Luoi to promote the "Green Corridor" as a travel destination. You can't book trips with the WWF per se, but suggested itineraries for independent travelers include stops in local villages, trekking with local guides and seeing war sites like Hamburger Hill.
It all sounds pretty good to us, though we're a little unsure about some of the cuisine on offer. As the WWF describes it, you should expect:
Overnight stays at Ta Oi communal houses, Vietnamese and vegetarian food service, crap food and mosquitoes.
Well, at least you'll have the chance to see some rare wildlife.
Related Stories:
· 11 New Species Found in Central Vietnam [AP, via Google]
· Discover A Luoi with the WWF [Official Site]
· Ecotourism coverage [Jaunted]
[Photo: WWF, via the Telegraph]
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