1. How did Tioman Island first come to be known as a cultural destination?
2. What are some factors that have contributed to the growth of cultural tourism on Tioman Island?3. How has the local community responded to the increase in cultural tourism on Tioman Island?
4. What steps have been taken to preserve and promote the traditional culture and heritage of the island?
5. Can you provide examples of specific cultural activities or attractions that visitors can experience on Tioman Island?
6. What are some challenges that arise with promoting cultural tourism on an island such as Tioman?
7. Have there been any collaborations between the local community and businesses in developing sustainable cultural tourism on Tioman Island?
8. How do you see the future of cultural tourism on Tioman Island evolving?
9. Are there any ongoing initiatives or projects aimed at further developing and promoting cultural tourism on the island?
10. In your opinion, what makes Tioman Island a unique and special destination for cultural travelers?
2. What are the main cultural attractions on Tioman Island, and where can tourists experience them?
Some main cultural attractions on Tioman Island include:
1. Traditional Villages – Visitors can experience the traditional lifestyle of the island’s Malay communities by visiting the villages of Kampung Juara, Kampung Tekek, and Kampung Salang.
2. Coral Reefs – The island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs which are rich in marine life and are considered sacred by the local community. Tourists can go snorkelling or scuba diving to see these beautiful reefs up close.
3. Cultural Performances – Tourists can watch traditional dance performances such as Zapin and Joget at various resorts on the island.
4. Tengku Abdul Rahman Mosque – This mosque, located in Kampong Genting, is a popular spot for tourists to visit and learn about Islamic culture and architecture.
5. Gunung Kajang – The highest peak on the island, Gunung Kajang holds cultural significance for the locals as it is believed to be the resting place of a mythical princess.
6. Local Cuisine – Visitors can experience the unique flavors of traditional Malay cuisine at local restaurants and food stalls throughout the island.
7. Boat Excursions – Tourists can take a boat trip to nearby islands such as Pulau Tulai or Pulau Renggis where they can explore more traditional villages and learn about their culture from the locals.
8. Traditional Crafts – There are a few shops on Tioman Island that sell handmade crafts such as batik paintings, carvings, and woven baskets made by local artisans.
3. Are there any traditional villages or communities on the island that still preserve their cultural heritage?
Yes, there are several traditional villages and communities on the island of New Guinea that still preserve their cultural heritage. These include:
1. The Dani Tribe in Baliem Valley, Papua New Guinea – Known for their unique architectural design, the Dani Tribe lives in traditional houses known as “honi.”
2. The Asmat Tribe in the Asmat Region, Papua Province – This community is renowned for their intricate woodcarvings and sacred ceremonies.
3. The Korowai Tribe in Papua Province – The Korowai is one of the last tribal societies to practice cannibalism and live in treehouses.
4. The Yali Tribe in Wamena, Papua Province – This tribe is known for its distinctive tribal art and customs.
5. The Huli Wigmen in Tari Highlands, Papua New Guinea – These people are identified by their elaborate wigs made from human hair.
6. The Huaorani People in Amazon Rainforest of Papallacta, Ecuador- They are one of the few indigenous groups in South America who continue to live a largely traditional lifestyle.
7. The Mentawai People on Mentawai Islands, West Sumatra Province – This group retains many traditional practices such as tattoos and shamanism.
8. The Baining People on Gazelle Peninsula, East New Britain Province – They are best known for their unique fire dance ceremonies and colorful masks worn during celebrations.
9. The Trobriand Islanders on Trobriand Islands, Milne Bay Province – This matrilineal society has a rich culture with unique music and dance traditions.
10. The Sepik River Tribes in East Sepik Province – This area is home to various tribes with distinctive styles of art and ceremonial rituals that have been passed down for generations.
4. What are some unique cultural practices or customs of the local population on Tioman Island?
1. Bersanding Ceremony: This is a traditional wedding ceremony that involves the couple being seated on a special bridal dais, known as pelamin, and being showered with symbolic gifts and blessings from family and friends.
2. Javanese Traditional Healing: The local population on Tioman Island has a strong connection to Javanese culture, and many still practice traditional healing methods such as massage, herbal remedies, and spiritual healing.
3. Pesta Air Raja Festival: This annual festival celebrates the island’s cultural heritage and includes music, dance performances, traditional games, and food stalls serving traditional dishes.
4. Batik Painting: Batik painting is a popular art form on Tioman Island that combines Javanese-inspired designs with local motifs and vibrant colors. Many villagers still practice this art form as a way to preserve their cultural heritage.
5. Mangrove Planting Rituals: Mangroves are an important part of the island’s ecosystem, and the local community participates in rituals for mangrove planting to show their respect for nature and ensure its sustainability.
6. Traditional Dances: Various types of traditional dances are performed on Tioman Island during special occasions or festivals, such as the Poco-Poco dance (originally from Indonesia) and the Zapin dance (a Malay dance form).
7. Ancestral Shrine Visits: It’s common for locals to visit ancestral shrines around the island during important events or occasions to pay respects to their ancestors.
8. Pantun Singing: Pantun is a traditional form of poetic singing in Malaysia where two or more people take turns singing verses that end with rhyming words.
9. Fishing Practices: With fishing being a major occupation on the island, there are various unique fishing practices observed by the locals such as using handmade traps called bubu and performing special rituals before going out to sea.
10. Traditional Cuisine: The local population on Tioman Island has a distinct cuisine that blends Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. Some popular dishes include rendang (spicy beef curry), sambal belacan (chili shrimp paste), and nasi lemak (coconut rice).
5. How has tourism impacted the traditional way of life on Tioman Island?
The traditional way of life on Tioman Island has been significantly impacted by tourism in several ways:
1. Economic Changes: With the influx of tourists, the economy of Tioman Island has shifted from being primarily agricultural and fishing-based to being heavily dependent on tourism. Many locals have left their traditional occupations to work in the tourist industry, such as hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
2. Cultural Changes: The traditional way of life on Tioman Island is deeply rooted in its indigenous culture and beliefs. However, with the rise of tourism, there has been a dilution of cultural practices as locals adapt to cater to the preferences of tourists.
3. Environmental Impact: The increase in tourist activities such as construction, transportation, waste generation, and water usage have had a negative impact on the environment. This is especially evident in popular tourist spots where overcrowding and environmental degradation have occurred.
4. Changing Landscape: The development of resorts, hotels, and other tourist facilities have led to changes in the island’s landscape. Traditional villages and local markets have been replaced by commercial establishments catering to tourists.
5. Loss of Traditional Skills: As the younger generation gets immersed in the tourism industry, they are losing interest in learning traditional skills such as fishing and boat building that have been passed down for generations.
6. Dependence on Tourism: Due to its heavy reliance on tourism, Tioman Island’s economy is vulnerable to fluctuations in visitor numbers or natural disasters such as weather events or pandemics.
Overall, while tourism has brought economic benefits to local communities on Tioman Island, it has also caused significant changes to their way of life and poses a threat to their cultural identity and environment.
6. What efforts have been made to promote and preserve the island’s cultural heritage?
1. Establishment of cultural institutions: The Puerto Rican government has established several cultural institutions such as the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture and the Puerto Rico Museum of Art to promote and preserve the island’s cultural heritage.
2. Conservation of historical sites: Efforts have been made to protect and restore historical sites, such as the San Felipe del Morro Fortress in Old San Juan, a designated World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
3. Cultural events and festivals: The island hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year that showcase its rich culture and traditions, such as the National Folk Festival of Bomba y Plena, which celebrates traditional Afro-Puerto Rican music and dance.
4. Education initiatives: The Puerto Rican Department of Education has implemented programs to educate students about the island’s history, culture, and traditions through curricula, field trips to museums, and cultural activities.
5. Preservation of indigenous heritage: Several initiatives have been introduced to honor and preserve the heritage of Puerto Rico’s indigenous Taíno people, including archaeological digs, museum exhibits, and educational programs.
6. Cultural tourism: The government has promoted cultural tourism by developing cultural routes that highlight important historical sites and cultural landmarks on the island.
7. Documentation and research: Various organizations have conducted research and documentation projects to gather information about Puerto Rico’s traditional arts, customs, beliefs, rituals, folklore, music, food, clothing styles, dialects, among others.
8. Government support for artists: The Puerto Rican government provides support for local artists through grants and scholarships to help them preserve traditional art forms such as bomba y plena music or handicrafts like vejigante masks.
9. Community initiatives: Local communities have taken up efforts to preserve their unique cultural traditions through initiatives like community festivals or preserving traditional recipes passed down through generations.
10. Digital archives: In recent years there has been an increasing effort to digitize historical documents relating to Puerto Rico’s cultural heritage, making them accessible to a wider audience and safeguarding them for future generations.
7. Can tourists participate in any cultural activities or festivals during their stay on Tioman Island?
Yes, tourists can participate in a variety of cultural activities and festivals on Tioman Island. Some popular events include the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration, Chinese New Year celebrations, and the Tioman Festival which features traditional Malay music, dances, and food. Visitors can also attend local markets and bazaars to experience the island’s unique culture and cuisine. Many resorts and hotels on the island also organize workshops and activities such as batik painting lessons, cooking classes, and traditional games for tourists to participate in.
8. Are there any historic sites or landmarks that hold significance in the island’s cultural history?
Yes, there are several historic sites and landmarks in Barbados that hold significance in the island’s cultural history:
1. St. Nicholas Abbey – Built in the 1650s, it is one of the oldest surviving plantation houses in the Caribbean and offers a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.
2. George Washington House – Now a museum, this is where the first US president stayed during his visit to Barbados in 1751. It also provides insights into life on the island during that time.
3. Garrison Savannah – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic district was once home to British military barracks and still has many well-preserved buildings from that era.
4. Parliament Buildings – These stunning neo-Gothic buildings house the island’s government and have been an important site for political and social events since their completion in 1874.
5. Morgan Lewis Windmill – This restored sugar mill is a reminder of Barbados’ early agriculture industry and its importance in shaping the economy and culture of the island.
6. Nidhe Israel Synagogue – Built in 1654, this is one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere and symbolizes Barbados’ religious diversity.
7. Bridgetown Jewish Cemetery – This cemetery is believed to be one of the oldest Jewish burial grounds in the Western Hemisphere, with some graves dating back to the 1660s.
8. Gun Hill Signal Station – This former military signaling station built in 1818 offers panoramic views of Barbados and showcases its colonial past through exhibits and artifacts.
9. Codrington College – Established as a seminary for Anglican priests in 1745, it is now known as one of the most beautiful campuses on the island with grand architecture and lush gardens.
10. The Statue of Bussa – Located at Emancipation Square, this statue pays tribute to Bussa, one of Barbados’ national heroes who led the island’s largest slave rebellion in 1816.
9. How has modernization affected the traditional arts and crafts industry on Tioman Island?
Modernization has had both positive and negative impacts on the traditional arts and crafts industry on Tioman Island.
Positive impacts:
1. Improved access to markets: With modernization, the traditional arts and crafts industry on Tioman Island has gained access to a wider market through online platforms and increased tourism.
2. Technology advancements: Modern technology has made it easier for artisans to create their products, showcasing their skills and techniques with greater precision and quality.
3. Diversification of products: The incorporation of modern elements in traditional arts and crafts has led to the creation of new, unique products that appeal to a wider audience.
4. Increased income opportunities: As the demand for traditional arts and crafts increases with modernization, artisans can earn higher incomes, which enhances their standard of living.
Negative impacts:
1. Decline in traditional techniques: The use of modern tools and technology may lead to a decline in traditional techniques used by artisans, thus diminishing the uniqueness of their products.
2. Competition from mass-produced goods: The influx of mass-produced goods in the market has led to stiff competition for locally made traditional products, leading to a decrease in demand.
3. Depreciation of cultural values: In some cases, the incorporation of modern elements into traditional arts and crafts may dilute its cultural significance, eroding its authenticity and value.
4. Loss of younger generation’s interest: With increasing opportunities in other industries due to modernization, younger generations may not be interested in learning or continuing traditional arts and crafts practices, leading to a decline in skilled artisans.
5. Environmental impact: The use of modern materials such as plastics or chemicals in creating traditional products can have a negative impact on the environment, affecting the island’s natural resources.
10. What are some popular dishes or cuisines that reflect the island’s cultural fusion?
There are many popular dishes and cuisines that reflect the cultural fusion of the Caribbean islands, such as:1. Jerk Chicken: This dish originated in Jamaica and combines African, European, and indigenous influences. It consists of marinated chicken cooked in a spicy blend of herbs and spices.
2. Roti: Originating in Trinidad and Tobago, roti is a type of flatbread often filled with curried meat or vegetables, reflecting the Indian influence on Caribbean cuisine.
3. Oxtail Stew: This hearty dish is found throughout the Caribbean and reflects the island’s African heritage. It typically includes oxtail pieces slow-cooked with vegetables and spices.
4. Bacalaitos: These deep-fried cod fish fritters are a popular snack in Puerto Rico, showcasing the island’s Spanish influence.
5. Callaloo: Hailing from Trinidad and Tobago, callaloo is a traditional soup made with taro leaves (or sometimes spinach), coconut milk, and various seasonings.
6. Ceviche: A staple in many Caribbean countries, ceviche showcases the influence of Latin American cuisine on the islands. It typically consists of raw fish cured in citrus juices and served with onions, peppers, and spices.
7. Doubles: Another popular dish from Trinidad and Tobago influenced by Indian cuisine, doubles consist of two fried flatbreads filled with curried chickpeas.
8. Conch Fritters: Found throughout the Caribbean but especially popular in The Bahamas, conch fritters are a crispy snack made from minced conch meat mixed with flour and spices.
9. Pastelón de Plátano Maduro: This dish from Puerto Rico reflects the island’s Spanish heritage with its layers of sweet plantains, ground beef or pork filling, cheese, and egg custard topping.
10. Ackee and Saltfish: The national dish of Jamaica features salted cod mixed with ackee, a local fruit that has become a staple in Caribbean cuisine since its introduction from West Africa.
11. Can tourists visit any cultural museums or centers to learn more about the island’s history and culture?
Yes, there are several cultural museums and centers on the island that tourists can visit to learn more about its history and culture. Some popular options include the Bermuda National Gallery, Bermuda Maritime Museum, The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, and The National Museum of Bermuda. These institutions showcase various artifacts, artwork, and exhibits that highlight different aspects of Bermuda’s heritage. Additionally, many historical landmarks such as forts and churches also offer guided tours for visitors to learn more about the island’s past.
12. Is there a specific dress code or etiquette that visitors should follow when interacting with locals or participating in cultural activities on Tioman Island?
There is no specific dress code on Tioman Island, but visitors should dress modestly when interacting with locals or participating in cultural activities out of respect for the local culture. This means avoiding revealing clothing and covering shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or temples. Visitors should also avoid touching or disturbing any religious or cultural items they come across during their stay.When interacting with locals, it is important to be respectful and polite. It is common courtesy to greet people with a smile and a friendly hello. When entering someone’s home, it is customary to remove your shoes before going inside.
If participating in any traditional activities or ceremonies, make sure to follow the instructions of the local guides or hosts and be mindful of any cultural sensitivities. It is also important to ask for permission before taking photos of people or their homes.
Overall, visitors should always be respectful, open-minded, and willing to learn about the local customs and traditions while on Tioman Island.
13. Are there any local traditions or superstitions that should be respected by tourists?
I cannot provide a specific answer as customs and traditions vary greatly from region to region. It is always important for tourists to research and show respect towards local customs and traditions wherever they travel.
14. How do daily routines and lifestyles differ between urban areas and rural communities on Tioman Island?
Rural communities on Tioman Island tend to have a slower and more traditional daily routine compared to urban areas. Most rural residents are involved in traditional livelihood activities such as agriculture, fishing, and small-scale tourism.
In contrast, urban areas on the island have a faster pace of life and are more influenced by modern lifestyles. They have access to better infrastructure and amenities such as electricity, paved roads, and tourist facilities. Residents in urban areas also have more diverse job opportunities in industries such as tourism, hospitality, and retail.
In terms of lifestyle, rural communities typically lead a simpler and more self-sufficient lifestyle with a closer connection to nature. They often grow their own food, use traditional methods for cooking and transportation, and live in wooden or thatched-roof houses.
On the other hand, urban residents may have a more consumer-focused lifestyle with access to modern conveniences such as supermarkets, restaurants, and entertainment options. They may also adopt Westernized habits and fashions.
Additionally, daily routines differ between the two areas due to socio-economic factors. Rural residents may have limited access to education and healthcare facilities compared to those living in urban areas. This can also impact their daily activities.
Overall, lifestyles in rural communities tend to revolve around community activities while urban areas offer more individualistic pursuits. However, both contribute significantly to the preservation of Tioman Island’s unique culture and way of life.
15. Have there been any efforts to preserve endangered indigenous languages spoken by the island’s native population?
Yes, there have been efforts to preserve endangered indigenous languages spoken by the island’s native population. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated the preservation of indigenous languages as an important task in promoting cultural diversity and human rights. In 1992, UNESCO launched the “Endangered Languages Programme” to support the documentation, preservation, and revitalization of endangered languages around the world. In Puerto Rico specifically, there are several organizations working towards preserving and promoting the use of indigenous languages. The Taíno community on the island has made efforts to revive and promote their language, with various groups offering classes and workshops in schools and communities. The Institute of Puerto Rican Culture also offers programs and resources for preserving and promoting Taíno culture and language.
Additionally, universities such as the University of Puerto Rico have established specialized departments focused on studying indigenous cultures and preserving their languages. The university also offers courses in Taino language as part of its curriculum.
There are also ongoing initiatives to document and record indigenous languages through audio recordings, written documents, and digitization projects. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that these languages do not disappear completely and can be passed down to future generations.
16. What role does spirituality play in the culture of Tioman Island, and are there any significant temples, shrines, or religious sites to visit?
Spirituality plays a significant role in the culture of Tioman Island, as the majority of the population is Muslim. The local community places importance on practicing their faith and observing religious customs.
There are several mosques on the island, with the biggest one being Masjid Jamek Tioman located in Kampung Paya. It serves as a gathering place for prayer and various religious activities.
In addition to mosques, there are also small suraus (prayer rooms) scattered around the island for daily prayers. These can be found in villages and near tourist areas.
Apart from Islam, there are also Buddhist and Hindu communities on the island, with a few temples and shrines that can be visited. One notable temple is the Sri Naga Sai Durga Devi Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga and holds annual celebrations during Navaratri.
Visitors are welcome to visit these religious sites, but it is important to dress modestly and show respect while exploring them.
17. Are there opportunities for visitors to engage with local artists or musicians and learn about their traditional forms of expression?
Yes, there are many opportunities for visitors to engage with local artists and learn about their traditional forms of expression in many tourist destinations. For example:
1. Art Galleries and Museums: Many cities and towns have art galleries and museums that feature the works of local artists. Visitors can explore these spaces to view different types of art, learn about the history and meaning behind the pieces, and even meet the artists themselves.
2. Cultural Festivals: Many destinations have annual cultural festivals that celebrate music, art, and other traditional forms of expression. These events often feature live performances, demonstrations, workshops, and exhibitions where visitors can interact with local artists and learn about their craft.
3. Local Markets: In many places around the world, local markets are a hub for traditional arts and crafts. Visitors can browse through stalls selling handmade goods such as pottery, paintings, textiles, jewelry, and more while interacting with the artisans who created them.
4. Workshops: Many destinations offer workshops where visitors can learn how to make traditional crafts or participate in activities that promote cultural understanding. These experiences give travelers an opportunity to engage directly with local artists and gain a deeper appreciation for their work.
5. Street Performers: In some bustling cities, street performers bring life to public spaces by showcasing various forms of music or dance unique to the region. Visitors can watch these performances for free while also learning about the culture through artistic expressions.
6. Traditional Music Venues: Some tourist destinations have dedicated venues where local musicians regularly perform traditional music that represents their culture. These concerts provide a perfect opportunity for visitors to listen to new sounds while getting a glimpse into the cultural traditions of a place.
In conclusion, there are numerous opportunities for visitors to engage with local artists and musicians in various tourist destinations worldwide. It is an excellent way to immerse oneself in a destination’s culture and gain valuable insights into its unique traditions.
18. Have there been any recent developments in promoting ecotourism and responsible travel to protect both natural resources and cultural heritage on Tioman Island?
Yes, there have been several recent developments in promoting ecotourism and responsible travel on Tioman Island. These include:
1. Implementation of Sustainable Tourism Action Plan: The local authorities, in collaboration with various stakeholders, have developed a Sustainable Tourism Action Plan for Tioman Island. This plan aims to promote responsible tourism practices that minimize negative impacts on the environment and cultural heritage.
2. Creation of Marine Parks: The government has designated several areas around Tioman Island as marine parks, which are protected areas meant to conserve the rich biodiversity found in these waters. This initiative not only helps to protect the natural resources but also encourages sustainable diving and snorkeling activities.
3. Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Many resorts and accommodations on Tioman Island have implemented eco-friendly practices such as using renewable energy sources, reducing water consumption, and promoting waste management.
4. Education and Awareness Programs: Local communities, tour operators, and other stakeholders have been organizing education and awareness programs to educate tourists about the importance of preserving the island’s natural resources and cultural heritage.
5. Promotion of Low-Impact Activities: Tour operators on Tioman Island are promoting low-impact activities such as nature walks, mangrove kayaking tours, and responsible diving practices to minimize their impact on the environment.
6. Involvement of Local Communities: The local communities living on Tioman Island play an essential role in protecting its natural resources and cultural heritage. They have been involved in eco-tourism initiatives such as sustainable fishing practices, conservation of coral reefs, and traditional handicraft demonstrations for tourists.
Overall, these efforts aim to promote ecotourism that benefits both visitors and local communities while preserving the island’s unique natural resources and cultural heritage for future generations.
19. How do the traditional beliefs and customs of the indigenous people blend with modern religions and influences on Tioman Island?
The traditional beliefs and customs of the indigenous people on Tioman Island have blended with modern religions and influences in various ways over time. Islam, the predominant religion on the island, has a strong influence on many aspects of daily life and culture.However, traditional animist beliefs and practices are still present among some of the indigenous communities on the island. These beliefs revolve around the worship of spirits that are believed to inhabit the natural environment, such as trees, rocks, and animals. These traditions are often incorporated into daily life, such as offering prayers to these spirits before fishing or farming activities.
Furthermore, there is also a blend of Chinese and Hindu influences on Tioman Island due to the presence of Chinese and Indian communities who have settled on the island over the centuries. This can be seen in various cultural practices and festivals, such as Taoist celebrations honoring deities like Mazu (Goddess of Sea) and Hindu festivals like Thaipusam.
Furthermore, modern influences from tourism and globalisation have also impacted the traditional practices on Tioman Island. For example, many indigenous people have turned to tourism-related activities such as boat rides or selling handicrafts to supplement their income. Some traditional ceremonies may also incorporate modern elements to cater to tourists’ interests.
Overall, while Islam remains the dominant religion and major influence on Tioman Island’s culture, there is a continued blending of traditional beliefs, customs, and rituals with modern religious and cultural influences from Chinese, Indian, Malaysian Malaysians cultures – creating a unique blend that reflects the diversity and harmony of its people.
20. Is there a specific time of year when cultural events or celebrations are held on Tioman Island that visitors should plan their trip around?
There are several cultural events and celebrations that take place on Tioman Island throughout the year. Some of the major ones include:
1. Chinese New Year – This festival is usually held in January or February and is a popular time to visit Tioman as there are parades, performances, and traditional festivities.
2. Hari Raya Aidilfitri – This is a Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan. It typically falls in June or July, and visitors can witness traditional prayers, food preparations, and cultural activities during this time.
3. Mid-Autumn Festival – Also known as the Mooncake Festival, this celebration takes place in September or October and features lanterns, mooncakes, traditional dances, and other activities.
4. Tioman Island Conservation Day – Held in April every year, this event promotes sustainability and conservation efforts on the island through various activities such as beach cleanups, tree-planting sessions, and educational workshops.
5. Tioman Fishermen’s Festivals – These festivals are held throughout the year to celebrate the rich fishing heritage of Tioman Island. Activities include colorful boat races and seafood feasts.
Visitors can plan their trip around these events if they wish to experience the unique culture and traditions of Tioman Island. However, it should be noted that dates may vary from year to year depending on the lunar calendar or local customs. It is best to check with local authorities or tourism offices for exact dates before planning your trip.