Category Archives: Far East

Enjoy Top Travel Experiences on Holidays to Bali

Bali, an Indonesian island, is one of the most beautiful places in the Far East and people travel here from different parts of the world to experience the adventures that this place has to offer.

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Besides being a spectacular coastal location for a splendid holiday, Bali is one of the places where you can indulge in a number of fun and interesting things every single day. Have a look at what Bali has in store for you!

Into the wild

Bali offers amazing opportunities for exploring wildlife. There are a number of zoos and national parks here where you can spot animals in their natural habitat. There is also a night safari at the famous Bali Safari Marine Park, where you can get up close to animals while travelling in a completely safe and covered bus. You should book your tickets beforehand so that you get to experience this ride without any delays.

Adventure in Bali

Bali may be the place for peacefully lounging around on the beaches, but if you are looking for some adventure, there are plenty of options for that too. Right from paragliding to scuba diving and from cliff jumping to rappelling, there are several options to get your adrenaline pumping. The most interesting water sport here is fly boarding and you have to try it if you are looking for the ultimate rush. You can find the time for long walks, and sunbathing and surfing, and spas and rejuvenation therapies too, which will help you relax and unwind completely, so that you go back home fresh and happy.

Learn to cook Balinese food

Bali has amazing food and on your trip you will definitely get to try some of the most authentic cuisines here that include a lot of seafood and lamb and a lot of strong coastal flavours. However, won’t it be extraordinary if you could actually learn how to cook some of these delectable dishes? There are a  number of institutes in various parts of Bali that conduct day classes for teaching tourists how to cook some authentic Balinese food. You can learn how to make Betutu, Babi Guling, Tahu, and Pepes and so on. Not only are these cooking classes a great way to learn how to cook, this will indeed be a great way to spend fun times with your friends or family.

Go to an interesting themed restaurant

There are some really crazy themed restaurants in Bali and you have to try them. There is a Barber Shop restaurant (The Barber), and an abandoned plane themed restaurant (Keramas Aero Park) which is actually situated inside an abandoned aircraft, a Greek themed restaurant (Slippery Stone Bali), a park themed restaurant (Big Garden Corner) and so on. There is also a restaurant that greets its visitors with a giant crocodile right at the entrance!

Watch theatre and attend art festivals

The Devdan Show is one of the most entertaining shows in the region and you should definitely take out some time for this amazing Cirque de Soliel production that has something interesting for people of all age groups. You will be enthralled by the complexity of the acts being performed here. There are also a number of festivals such as the Balinese New year and so on, which you can attend to understand the culture of the place.

Singapore’s Best Festivals and Celebrations

Singapore

Home to numerous tribes and ethnic groups, Singapore’s event calendar is packed with celebrations and festivals. It is these festivities and celebrations that allow visitors to experience the rich culture and the way of life here. For those of you looking to enjoy these festivities, here is the list.

Thaipusam

Thaipusam is a popular Hindu festival. Generally lasting for 2 days, the holiday is celebrated in honour of Lord Subramaniam (also known as Lord Murugan) who represents power and is considered the destroyer of evil. On the festival eve a royal chariot procession starts from Sri Thendayuthapani Temple up till Layan Sithi Vinayagar Temple accompanied by traditional dance and music performances. Performing rituals and pouring milk on the statue of Lord Murugan are the popular traditions of the festival.

Vesak Day

Celebrated by Buddhists throughout the world, Vesak Day is another traditional festival of Singapore. The popular festival marks the birth, enlightenment and the passing away of Buddha. On the day of the festival, Buddhist temples are decorated with flags and flowers. Chanting hymns and prayers, carrying out candlelit processions and offering joysticks on the statue of Buddha are the popular traditions of the festival.

Dragon Boat Festival

Also known as Tuen Ng, Dragon Boat Festival is one of the best loved celebrations in Singapore. Falling on the 5th day of the 5th month of traditional Chinese calendar, the festival commemorates the death of the famous poet and minister – Qu Yuan. Popular festive traditions include beating of the drums, racing dragon boats, offering rice dumplings (zhang) and drinking realgar wine.

Hari Raya Puasa

Known as ‘The Day of Celebration’, Hari Raya Puasa is another important religious festival of Singapore. Falling on the 1st day of the month of Shawwal, the festival symbolizes purification. The festival begins with a trip to the mosque and is followed by other celebrations. On the day, people enjoy delicacies such as rendang, sayur lodeh and sambal along with white rice and ketupat.

Mid-Autumn Festival

Also known as Lantern festival, Mid Autumn Festival is one of the liveliest Chinese festivals celebrated in Singapore. Held on the 15th day of the 8th month of the Lunar Calendar, the festival marks the end of the autumn harvest in the country. Worshipping the moon god and offering prayers to the lunar deity Chang’e are the popular festive traditions.

Pongal

Pongal is a popular harvest festival. Celebrated over a period of 4 days, the festival involves worshipping the Lord Indra on the 1st day. Oil lamps are lit and people wear traditional dresses on this day of the festival. On the 2nd day of Surya Pongal, offerings in the form of rice are made to the Sun god. On the 3rd day of Mattu Pongal, cows and other cattle are honoured and worshipped.  On the last day of the festival, younger members seek blessings and good wishes from the elders in the family.

Chinese New Year

Also known as ‘Spring Festival’ or ‘Lunar New Year’, Chinese New Year is undoubtedly one of the most famous festivals in Singapore. The popular traditional festival is celebrated at the end of lunisolar Chinese calendar. As a part of the tradition, streets and markets are decorated in colour red to drive away the evil spirit ‘Nien’. Colourful processions and parades are the most popular attractions of the festival.

A Look at Some of the Reasons Why You Should Visit Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the most enchanting holiday destinations in the Fareast. The country has a vibrant atmosphere and thrives on its unrivalled amalgamation of the modern ideas and traditional ethos. As a tourist, there is a lot you can do in the country; here is just a fleeting overview of it all.

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Malay Food

The Malaysian cuisine is predominated by seafood and rice. This is the staple food of the locals and there are a number of variations of the same that you can try while you are holidaying in the country. Nasi Lemak (rice dish cooked in coconut milk), Hainanese chicken rice, Wonton Mee (Cantonese noodle dish), fried chicken, fish head curry, chilli crab and black pepper crab are some of the most sought after delicacies in the country. Even for the vegetarians, there are plenty of options, such as soul food, green beans cooked in a typical style, and Chinese Celery.

Malaysian Sightseeing

When it comes to sightseeing, you are going to be spoilt for choice in Malaysia. The world famous PETRONAS towers, one of the tallest buildings in the world, is something you absolutely have to visit. The architectural wonder of the place will leave you mesmerized.

If you are inclined towards nature, you may surely want to visit places such as the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, the Gunung Mulu National Park, the Mount Kinabalu, and Taman Negara Rainforests. You will see how well the flora and fauna of the country are preserved by the people and how tranquil and peaceful these places are.

Islamic Arts Museum, Christ Church Malacca, the Putra Mosque, Penang Hill and Temple, and Cheng Hoon Teng Temple are some of the religious places you may want to visit. The architecture of these temples and mosques is certainly impressive.

Malaysian Shopping

Malaysia is a shopper’s heaven and there is no denying the fact that you can have a blast looking for anything you may want to buy. From bags to clothes, watches to shoes, and jewellery to electronic gadgets, you will find anything and everything here. Some of the best places to shop here are the Gurney Drive, the Surya KLCC, and Bukit Bintang.

There are several other things you can do here such as visit the beaches, the botanical parks, the zoo, museums and the Kuala Lumpur city centre which has a lot of fun and excitement in store for people.

Clarke Quay and Riverside, Singapore: Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

A historical and vibrant quay in Singapore, the Clarke Quay is a tourist spot known for fabulous waterside restaurants, bars, and clubs.

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These amazing venues ensure fun-packed nightlife. Beyond them, there are several other attractions that entice the crowd phenomenally. We have mentioned some hotspots of Clarke Quay and Riverside.

Singapore River

Singapore River plays an important role for Singaporeans as it’s been a lifeline for them for over 150 years. This 3.2 km long river was the centre of economic activity and a waterway for thousands of immigrants. Due its calm nature, the Singapore River served as a harbour for the budding British Settlement. Today, it is more famous for tourism. The spectacular sculptures along the river are not to be missed!

Asian Civilisations Museum

Aimed at conserving the cultural heritage of Asia – particularly the ancestral values of Singaporeans, the Asian Civilisations Museum is the perfect point to learn about the country’s rich history. Displays include Octogonal cup, Jina, Mavered glass jar, Mother-of-pearl casket etc. Lectures are held from time to time.

Hong San See Temple

Hong San See Temple is an impressive Chinese temple built between 1908 and 1913 in the honour of Guang Ze Zun Wang – the God of Fortune. The axial planning, courtyards, walled enclosures, and beam-frame structure here are all conventional features of the Chinese style temples. Furthermore, the granite columns exhibit meticulously-carved dragons, peonies, magpies, and phoenixes.

Lockdown Real Life Escape Game

Lockdown Real Life Escape Game is a first-person adventure game in which players in a locked room must exploit their surroundings to escape. Every person will have only 60 minutes for this! No preparation is required. Each room has a different theme and the playing experience is surprisingly diverse. The participants’ minimum age should be 13 years.

Art-2 Gallery

Set up in 1991, the Art-2 Gallery is an art gallery and art consultancy specialising in modern-day sculpture, paintings, and ceramic works. It encourages an elevated standard of art from the Southeast-Asian region by way of its bold exhibitions and commissions. Skilled artists from Singapore, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam are associated with Art – 2 Gallery. Travellers with an artistic bent of mind should visit this place for sure!

Brief Travel Guide to Chiang Mai, Thailand

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Chiang Mai is the largest and one of the most culturally rich cities in Northern Thailand. The wide range of attractions and warm welcoming hospitality wins one over in no time! Sounds interesting? Perhaps, you would like to know a bit more about the destination. So, here goes.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is between October and April. The weather during these months is cool and pleasant with light breeze flowing simultaneously. This is the peak tourist season! For outdoor activities, the period between November and February is believed to be the ideal time. Monsoon arrives in the month of June and lasts till October.

Food

Many delights await foodies by way of delectable preparations such as Khao Soi, Khan Toke, Sai Oua, Gaeng Hang Lay, Miang Kham, and Gaeng Hoh. They are truly lip-smacking and are created in an interesting manner. People who love to cook must try observing the preparations. They’ll be amazed, undoubtedly! Restaurants that have made a mark here include David’s Kitchen, Favola, Le Grand Lanna, Farang Ses and many others!

Accommodation Options

You can choose your accommodation according to your budget. Dorm rooms and hostels are relatively inexpensive. Most of them are located within the older part of the city. As expected, budget hotels are slightly costlier than hostels. Service apartments are offered by certain commercial brands (Airbnb). Luxury travellers can opt for sophisticated hotels such as Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, Shangri-La Hotel, Rachamankha, and Four Seasons Resort.

Public Transportation

Elaborating on public transportation, the city transport is dominated by red minibuses known as songthaews. They are tourist friendly and found everywhere! Tuk-tuks (tempos) are also available in every vibrant corner. Haggling skills can come in handy, while negotiating fares! Scooters can be hired for discovering places with absolute freedom. You also may want to consider taxis for your trip from the airport to the hotel!

Places of Interest and Activities

Chiang Mai is a precious gem waiting to be explored by countless travellers! Some of its prominent hotspots are Doi Pui, Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, Doi Inthanon, and Chiang Mai Gate Market. Prospective visitors should check out the opening and closing times. Thrill seekers can participate in activities such as morning Buddhist almsgiving, city tours, elephant experience, and sampling the delicious Khantoke dinner.

Top Hotels for a Luxurious Stay in Singapore

Who wouldn’t like to stay in a luxury hotel or resort abroad? If you are planning to visit Singapore and would like to stay in style, you have come to the right place.

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Here, we will introduce you to some sophisticated properties recognized for their comfortable rooms and appreciative service.  In their own way, they have made a mark in the travel industry. Let us get to know them now!

Hotel Vagabond

In the official website, the Hotel Vagabond states itself to be ‘an art and experience-driven luxury boutique hotel housed in a 1950s heritage Art Deco building.’ The rooms and suites are meticulously designed and elegant. The thoughtfully chosen amenities ensure occupants get what their heart truly desires! Hotspots such as Little India, Kampong Glam, and Marina Bay and Raffles Place are not far away.

Conrad Centennial Singapore

The award-winning Conrad Centennial Singapore is a top-notch destination with onsite amenities comprising of four unique restaurants and lounges, a 65-foot/20-metre pool, and luxurious spa facilities. There are 507 guestrooms, 25 suites, and 96 connecting rooms spanning over 31 floors. There are fine gift shops located just outside the Conrad Centennial Singapore.

The St. Regis Singapore

The St. Regis Singapore is an ideal point for tourists searching an opulent sanctuary to enjoy their dream stay. Based on availability, guests can pick from any of the rooms variants such as Executive Deluxe Rooms, Lady Astor Rooms, St. Regis Suites, Specialty Suites, King’s Cole Suite, and Presidential Suite etc. The most spacious amongst all of them is the Presidential Suite. You can admire spectacular vistas from its balcony.

Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore

Consistently voted as one of the best hotels in the world, the Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The legendary Asian hospitality will amaze one and all! Onsite facilities include complimentary Wi-Fi, business centre, butler service in suites, babysitting, and photo processing service. This hotel is also well equipped with all the facilities for corporate travellers!

Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel

Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel presents the perfect amalgamation of comfort, convenience, and lavishness. Apart from the lovely rooms and suites, the hotel has seven eating venues serving a wide range of cuisines, snacks, and beverages. These are Crossroads Cafe (International), Marriott Cafe (International), Pool Grill (Other), Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (Chinese),  Lobby Lounge (Coffee House), Java + (Deli), and Ginza Sushi Ichi (Japanese).

Top Activities to Enjoy in Hong Kong in January

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With the New Year marching in, our calendars are filled with a whole new set of festivals, events, and holiday packages. If you are hunting for a holiday destination, we suggest that you visit Hong Kong in January. It is the driest month of the year in Hong Kong and you will have a whale of a time visiting the local attractions. Also, here are the top activities to indulge in during the winter season in Hong Kong.

Enjoy Winter Food

Food is common to mankind. Just the ingredients and dishes differ from one region to the other. Hong Kong has cuisines and dishes for each season. The famous Hong Kong style barbecue, the exotic snake soup, and clay pot rice are best enjoyed during the winter season. Restaurants offer authentic delicacies across the length and breadth of the city for you to experience the best of everything while on a holiday.

Winter Festivals

An important traditional festival is the Chinese New Year, which involves a series of cultural activities including temple fairs, dragon dances, and lion dances. Be prepared to cut the winter chill with a whole lot of bright and colourful events during winters in Hong Kong. For your next holiday, make sure you witness these events and festivals for an ultimate traditional experience.

Ice-skating in the Snow

The age old ice-skating festival is one of the best ways to enjoy the winter chill in Hong Kong. Numerous artificially snow covered skating rinks are created in different parts of the destination for the residents and tourists to enjoy skating and other water sports. Jump into the frozen ice rink and enjoy some trilling rides under the winter sun. In a city that does not get snowfall, these ice-skating rinks sure do appear surreal.

Local Sightseeing

Be it any season; holidays are incomplete without local sightseeing. Blessed with numerous attractions, the idea of sightseeing in the beautiful city holds utmost importance. For a complete understanding of the destination, you simply have to explore the popular structures and monuments. Just one of the most popular tourist attractions is the Museum of History.

Explore Lantau Island

The largest island in Hong Kong, Lantau Island has numerous parklands and theme parks. Besides regular sightseeing, visitors can enjoy several outdoor adventures. Popular attractions here include the famous Disneyland, Po Lin Monastery, Tai O, and Ngong Ping 360. Also, pay homage to Hong Kong’s best known film stars at the popular Avenue of stars.

Charming Not to be Missed Places in Cebu, Philippines

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Charming Not to be Missed Places in Cebu, Philippines, scuba diving spots, historical attractions, and numerous luxury resorts. It is a very popular destination in the Philippines; let’s take a quick look at some of the most famous places in Cebu.

Bantayan Island and its Beaches

Visit the picturesque Bantayan Island and relax along its sunny tropical beaches. The beaches of Bantayan Island are among some of the most pristine ones. Once there, you can enjoy the hard to find combination of beauty and isolation together. Enjoy a laidback holiday here.

Magellan’s Cross

The Magellan’s Cross is a well-known historical landmark in Cebu. It is a wooden cross that was put in place by the famous explorer Ferdinand Magellan who brought Catholicism to the Philippines. Today, it is part of a chapel located close to Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino on Magallanes Street.

Basilica Minor del Santo Niño

Visit the Basilica Minor del Santo Niño, or the Minor Basilica of the Holy Child, in Cebu. It is said to be the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines. The church was constructed on the site where the image of Santo Niño de Cebu was discovered by Spanish explorers led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi in 1565.

Mactan Island

The Mactan Island is a beautiful coral island, which is known for its scuba diving spots and as a stunning beach retreat. The island is famous with travellers for its pristine beaches and five star beach resorts. A perfect leisure getaway to spend a few relaxing moments!

Olango Wildlife Sanctuary

Avid birdwatchers should not forget to visit the Olango Wildlife Sanctuary at the Olango Island. The island is full of exotic migratory birds from Siberia, Northern China, and Japan. Olango is used by these migratory birds as an important wintering ground. You will definitely spot rare and exotic birds at this bird watcher’s paradise.

Taoist Temple

The Taoist Temple is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Beverly Hills, Cebu. It was constructed by the local Chinese community and is open to ardent devotees as well as tourists. The teachings of a famous Chinese philosopher called Lao-Tse are preserved here. The teachings are said to date back to 600 B.C. You may light joss sticks and worship here but you will need to climb 81 stairs.

The Heritage of Cebu Monument

Visit the Heritage of Cebu Monument to revisit the history of this beautiful island country. The monument is located in the original Plaza Parain and has sculptures depicting the significant and symbolic events that have happened in the history of the province.

Top 10 Draws of A Vacation In Langkawi

Langkawi

Langkawi is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty and offers endless adventure opportunities to travellers. Some of the best attractions here are beaches, sprawling parks, iconic structures, and popular sites for water sports. If you haven’t already been to the island, here are the top 10 draws of a vacation at the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi.

Jet Ski Island Tour

For some travellers, this is the highlight of their vacation in Langkawi. There are a lot of local companies offering Jet Ski rides to as many as 8 islands from local beaches. Travellers can see many notable natural attractions at once during these rides.

Tanjung Rhu Beach

Marvel at the beauty of Tanjung Rhu beach, which is located at the northern tip of the island. This isolated fine sandy beach offers stunning views of the islands in front of it. Its beauty is increased many fold by the surrounding limestone cliffs and rain-forests.

Parasailing

Get a nice dose of adrenaline rush as you indulge in parasailing and also enjoy a bird’s eye view of the natural beauty of the beaches of Langkawi. Enjoy excellent views of the 99 islands that make up Langkawi, the white sandy beaches, and the various shades of blue in its waters.

Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls

Enjoy swimming at the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, which literally means Seven Wells Waterfalls. The Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls is a series of seven linked natural pools, which receive water from seven separate waterfalls in Gunung Mat Cincang.

Langkawi Cable Car

Experience the thrilling vertiginous 15-minute ride on the Langkawi Cable Car, which will transport you to the top of Mount Mat Cincang. The ride is famous for offering awe-inspiring views of surrounding rainforests, islets, and waterfalls.

Pulau Payar Marine Park

Visit the enchanting Pulau Payar Marine Park, which is a popular spot for snorkelling and diving. Get mesmerised by the stunning Coral Garden, an isolated part of the park that is home to colourful corals.

Langkawi Sky Bridge

Langkawi-Sky-Bridge

A must-visit attraction, the Langkawi Sky Bridge is a 125 metre-long curved pedestrian bridge built at heights of around 700 metres above sea level. Enjoy magnificent views of the Gunung Mat Cincang, Telaja Tujuh waterfalls, and numerous islets from the SkyBridge.

Langkawi Arts in Paradise 3D Museum

A great attraction for families, especially with kids, the Langkawi Art in Paradise 3D Museum is an interactive 3D museum containing over 200 almost lifelike artworks. Have fun getting photographed at the museum, which is said to be the biggest 3D art museum in Malaysia and second biggest across the world.

Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise

Another popular hangout for families and animal lovers, visit the Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise to discover more than 2,500 exotic birds belonging to around 150 species. Enjoy spotting canaries, ducks, parakeets, owls, eagles, toucans, hornbills, and flamingos among others.

Underwater World Langkawi

Yet another attraction for families and animal lovers, the Underwater World Langkawi is home to over 500 species of sea creatures. Explore the place to spot harbour seals, rockhopper penguins, seahorses, and mandarin ducks.

Fun-Filled Things to Do in Hoi An – Vietnam

Hoi An, a vibrant city in Vietnam’s central coast, radiates old world charm – something missing in most parts of the world.

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This fascinating destination has been able to maintain its unique character with the support of local authorities and the natural beauty here easily casts its spell upon visitors. Hoi An is a ‘hidden gem’ in the truest sense and you can do many fun-filled things here.

Do a Photo Tour

Avid photographers can take some marvellous shots before 7 AM, when the Hoi An is charmingly calm and serene. On the contrary, the markets are interesting anytime! One can also take snapshots of regular vendors selling fruits and vegetables, customers tasting mouth-watering delicacies, and animals being transported from one spot to another. Handcrafts can be photographed at the carpentry village.

Take a Step into the Spiritual Van Duc Pagoda

If you wish to check out the spiritual side of Hoi Na, the 17th century Van Duc Pagoda is the apt place for you! Locals come here to worship Buddhist deities like Amitabha Buddha, Dia Tang Bodhisattva, and Avalokitecvara Bodhisattva. This temple is home to several monks as well. Best time to visit Van Duc Pagoda is during Lord Buddha’s birthday and other auspicious Buddhist celebrations.

Eat the finger-licking Banh Mi – Vietnam Sandwiches

An item of Vietnam’s colonial past, Banh Mi has a huge and crazy fan following! This sandwich is made up of French-influenced baguette and savoury fillings comprising of vegetables, pork sausage, and loads of other ingredients. This food item can be purchased from any location of the city as prices don’t vary much! They are equally scrumptious everywhere.

Relax at the An Bang Beach

The An Bang Beach is one of the most pleasant beaches of Vietnam. The fine sands of the coast and the views of the vast horizon from here are simply mind-blowing. You may unwind and relax under the sun to your heart’s content. There are a number of restaurants and bars significantly close to the beach. Tourists can hang out with their friends and even interact with the residents to know more about their cultures and traditions.

Go for a Bicycle Ride

A bicycle ride is the best and the most eco-friendly way to enjoy the exquisiteness of Hoi An. You will love the sights of rice paddies along the way and backstreets of the villages. Stop at any location and cherish the uniqueness of the area with complete freedom. To entice visitors, some of the hotels rent out bicycles! Guests can use them as and when required. Wearing a helmet is mandatory.