Showing posts with label Asia Travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Asia Travel. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

What You May Not Know About China

Great Wall of China
Photo by Hanson Lu 


As China is a gigantic country, it serves as home to countless places which contribute to its tourism industry. There are famous cities and provinces, but there are also some left unknown to many.

China is a vast country, one of the largest in the world. It is home to more than a billion people, the largest population indeed, who take pride in their prevailing history. It is a place where ancient eras beautifully convene with modern times, emphasizing the richness of its heritage. It is a place where the past and present both make a great deal to the development of a future that will continuously let the nation thrive.

With the omnipotent presence of Chinese influence, it is fairly explainable why the world seems to know a lot about the country. But when it comes to the towns, provinces, and cities occupying this enormous piece of land, to what extent is the people’s knowledge? Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and other more famous places are the firsts to pop up in many people’s minds – places which most China tours put focuses on; but how about the other worthwhile locations?


CHANGSHA

Changsha

Photo by yang miao

What was once home to the political dreams of Mao Zedong, Changsha had primarily earned its fame as the first major city that received full defense from the Chinese forces against Japanese occupancy during World War II. But over time, it had developed from an ordinary territory to an impressive allure. In support of its burgeoning economy, this capital of Hunan Province improves to draw in tourists from Singapore and all parts of the world through its unscathed nature, remarkable history, and highly regarded heritage.

Every trip to Changsha should highlight a visit to the famous Hunan University. Where the historical Yuelu Academy of the Golden Song Dynasty once stood, it is now more known for its dramatic mountain sceneries. There is also the Wulingyuan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that takes pride in its glorious natural scenery consisting of sandstone pillars and towering trees the mist consistently kisses. Particularly in the area of Zhangjiajie, giant salamanders can be found.

Changsha proposes an invitation for tourists to delve into its heritage through the west side area of Xiang River where culinary delicacies are served with delight. The place is known for its spicy dishes, similar to Szechuan recipes.


SHENZHEN

Photo by Robert Bye

Almost four years ago, CNN Travel classified Shenzhen as one of the most underrated cities in China. Four years after, it had evolved into one of the most important tourist destinations in the country, enjoying the title of one of UNESCO’s Creative Cities.

A populous city indeed, Shenzhen is located just adjacent to Hong Kong and is thus a common detour destination for many tourists. But it had proven its independent charm worthy of visitors over the years; although admittedly, there are still some people who have minimal knowledge about it.

Shenzhen is a fairly developed city that is greatly known for the creativity of its people. Art galleries, art-themed bars, and restaurants, design districts, and craft markets – these are just some of the usual venues where locals come together to vent out all their creative innuendos.

Many think that Shenzhen is a boring city that puts highlights only its shopping and massage industries. However, photo enthusiasts and nature lovers will surely find themselves pleased with the impact the city intends to impress on its visitors. The lovely parks like the Lianhua Mountain Park, Fairy Lake Botanical Gardens, and Wutong Mountain National Park provide impeccable venues for family and friends bonding moments. The dramatic backdrops of nature in these places are so much worth the trip.

Playing roles in the historical development of China, Shenzhen is also home to some remarkable sites like the Xin’an Ancient City, Dapeng Ancient Fort, and the Chiwan Left Fort.


XIAMEN

Photo by Lavinia Arances

Vibrant and totally alive, these are the two words often used to describe Xiamen. A coastal city in Fujian, it holds an essential role in the economic development of China for being one of the earliest Special Economic Zones. With its name literally translating to ‘door to the house’, it is indeed a portal to the country that has been opened centuries ago.

Tourists are drawn to the stunning combination of tradition and modernity that is Xiamen. Finding solace in its unique heritage are different attractions that captivate people’s attention. Among the most famous destinations are Nanputou Temple, Yundang Lake, Hulishan Fortress, and Xiamen University.

However, the distinction offered by Xiamen is actually found mainly at Gulangyu Island, a famous tourist destination just roughly five minutes of ferry ride away from the harbor of Xiamen. It is a small place one can easily explore on foot. Cars and motorcycles are banned, contributing to their beautiful individuality, although battery-operated golf-cart type taxis are now being used by some people.


There is more than meets the eye indeed; and whether on first-class or cheap flights to China, people are invited to discover the beauty within what is common – to explore what some other people might not know.


Friday, June 28, 2013

Malaysian Nationals with Biometric Passports Allowed for Visa-Free Entry to Japan Beginning July 1, 2013


Japan Mt Fuji

Beginning July 1, 2013, Malaysian nationals holding biometric passports are now allowed to book flights to Japan without hesitation as entrance to the country without a visa is now permitted. This is after the government of Japan had signed the visa waiver agreement in celebration of the 40th ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.


In a press release circulated by the Japan National Tourism Organization, it is said that the biometric passport should have an embedded microchip that complies with ICAO standards. Bearers of this passport may stay in Japan for not more than three months. If exceeding, applying for an appropriate visa is necessary.


Due to this development, the number of Malaysians who travel to Japan is expected to escalate.
Japanese Visa Waived for Thais and Malaysians
Japanese Visa Waived for Thais and Malaysians

Friday, April 5, 2013

Celebrating Songkran Festival

Songkran Festival

On April 13-15, 2013, Thailand will be once again embraced with a festive atmosphere as the world-renowned Songkran Festival gets celebrated. It is an important event that locals and foreigners alike cannot get enough of it. This explains why Singapore to Thailand flights are selling like hotcakes nowadays. Songkran is basically the most fun and exciting festival in Thailand and everybody is invited to partake in this momentous celebration.

During this festival, the whole nation turns literally ‘watery’ and ‘wet’. Buddha images are bathed and young people visit the elders to perform the rod nahm dum hua ceremony wherein the young ones pour scented water on the hands of the elders as homage. 

In courtyards and monasteries, people also build sand replicas of stupas as part of the festival. They also set birds and fishes free.


But the fun begins when the locals and foreigners come out to the streets to splash water on each other. It’s a free-for-all water-throwing and it is customary to get wet. Armed with water guns, water hoses, and pails, people bond with each other in joy and exhilaration.


Songkran Celebration
Photo by Lucas Mellec


Songkran Festival is basically observed in all parts of Thailand. But the best place to celebrate it is in the northern province of Chiang Mai where events are held close to mayhem. Nonetheless, peace is observed and everything is just done for fun. 

Water fun


It is best to book Thailand tours which coincide with Songkran Festival early to avoid hassles. There would be no hesitations for sure. It will only be fun.


Get to know more about how Thailand Celebrates Songkran Festival by checking out these resources:

Friday, March 22, 2013

Hong Kong Ocean Park Milestone

Hong Kong Ocean Park
 
One should not be surprised if Hong Kong tours suddenly become more in demand these days. This is after Ocean Park authorities announced the birth of a king penguin in the park. It is a momentous event since it is the first of its kind to be born in Hong Kong.

Dr. Allan Zeman, Chairman of Ocean Park had recently stated that the newborn animal ambassador is doing well in its environment. It is thought to be highly curious as it goes around its habitat with its parents. Ample foods are given to the family, as well as various vitamins to keep it strong. The baby penguin is to stay in a safe zone where it can avoid constant disturbance from the onlookers. The said zone is also guarded by the team to make sure that the chick is kept safe as it still cannot swim.

Hong Kong Ocean Park's King Penguin
The King penguin after 20 days. 
source: The Guardian

Definitely, the presence of the king penguin will attract travelers from major parts of the globe to Hong Kong. However, the birth of this lovely creature is not the lone reason why tours to Hong Kong are expected to double, and why there is a cause for celebration. Ocean Park has announced that in 2012, it recorded a total of 7.5 million visitors. 50% of which comes from China; 35% comprises local visitors, and the remaining 15% encompasses arrivals from other countries.

These record-high statistics are believed to be because of the completion of the Master Redevelopment Plan (MRP). Meaning, more facilities and attractions are opened to cater to the growing demands and needs of the tourists. 

It is not entirely a secret that Ocean Park Hong Kong is striving hard to provide its guests with the best kind of facilities. It is determined to retain its title as the first-ever Asian winner of the Applause Award, a prestigious recognition given to elite theme parks around the world. The head of the amusement park said that they owe gratitude to the people who have constantly patronized the beauty of Ocean Park.

Indeed, Hong Kong Ocean Park has gone a lot better with the birth of the king penguin, and the completion of its developments. Therefore, Hong Kong air tickets are expected to sell like hotcakes these days. Well, it’s not like it’s not a usual thing, right?

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

70 New Airports for China by 2015

Airport
Photo by Keith Chan 

Within the next three years, China will be establishing 70 new airports as part of a large-scale plan to expand the aviation industry despite the economic slowdown.

As pointed out by Li Jianxiang, the head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), this idea to build more airports in the country is based on its significant increase in the fleet – after settling a plan to buy more than 300 carriers in a span of five years.

Li added during the annual general meeting of IATA that aside from the plan to construct new airports, the old ones will be expanded and improved. This arrangement would give China more than 230 flight hubs by 2015, to cater to the 4,700 planes which are expected to be owned by the nation by then.

This ambitious move was set after IATA head Tony Tyler revealed that the global profits from airlines would most likely decrease due to the skyrocketing oil prices and various crises. Although the industry in the Asia Pacific is expected to receive a total of US$2 billion in gains, it is still less than half of the income received in 2011.

The group did not provide any prognosis to the Chinese market, especially since it has been a constant favorite of travelers and the Chinese people love travelling. However, the slowing economic growth of China (along with India) can be partly blamed.

In the first quarter of 2012, China’s economy raised only 8.1%. It is the slowest pace in three years.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

More Filipinos Travel to Hong Kong and Singapore on 2012

Hong Kong travel
Photo by Simon Zhu 


According to recent surveys, many Filipino tourists still prefer to travel to Hong Kong and Singapore for vacation and leisure. Thanks to the frequency of flights to the city offered by different airline companies, said Tim Tio, sales and outbound marketing manager of Travelite Travel and Tours Philippines.

Hong Kong received a 15.6-percent increase in arrival from the Philippines from January to July 2012. In 2011, it received 659,829 visitors. Singapore, on the other hand, has been visited by 677,681 Filipinos that year; and had served 154 flights, compared to the 148 which landed in Hong Kong.

It is the boosting tourism industries of Singapore and Hong Kong that are held responsible for the statistics. Hong Kong is very much known for its shopping culture which Filipino travelers truly take pleasure in. On the other hand, it is the Singapore attractions - Resorts World Sentosa and Universal Studios Singapore - which immensely contribute to the strong number of arrivals from the Philippines.

This kind of set-up is expected to continue especially with the opening of the Legoland in Johor Bahru (Malaysia), which is easily accessed from Singapore. Some travel agencies in the Philippines have begun to offer tours to the amusement park, which will cover transfers from a hotel in Singapore to Legoland, and back.

But if Singapore and Hong Kong are enjoying a great reception from Philippine tourists, Malaysia seemed to have experienced a drop in 2011. That is why Malaysia has prompted a more aggressive tourism program which includes product seminars in Manila, Clark, Cebu, and Davao. Positive results have been noted in June 2012 though.

Furthermore, new air links have been established by different airline companies originating from the Philippines to Malaysia. Airphil Express, Zest Air, and SEAir offered flights to the country earlier this year; while Cebu Pacific Air is set to launch flights from Cebu to Kuala Lumpur, come December.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

How to Stay on Budget when in Beijing

Beijing, China travel
Photo by Ling Tang 


Contrary to the belief of others, it is definitely not a difficult thing to go around Beijing, China without shedding so much cash. Spending a fortune and making the most out of the experience when in this beautiful city could be rendered as an option as long as you know what to do. And mind you, the list of tips on keeping your trip to Beijing low-budget and worth it does not end after you purchase cheap air tickets.

Here are the top three suggestions to make your flights to Beijing really economical:

      STAY AT BACKPACKERS' INN

Travellers
Photo by zhang kaiyv


If you can go on without too much luxury in terms of accommodation, why not grab the chance? Sure, there are a lot of opulent hotels in Beijing and each offers very tempting packages. But there are also a lot of simple dormitories and inns around the city which provide the same comfort and security. Although it would require more effort in finding nice and cheap places, at least it would save you from paying a lot for a place you would most likely see only during the night.


      SETTLE FOR CHEAPER FOOD

Street food
Photo by zhang kaiyv


First-class restaurants are abundant in Beijing; but if you want to stay on budget, skip those lavish places and resort to the clean canteens and street food stalls around the city. The presentation of the meals may not be as pretty, but the taste of food sold in those smaller establishments could totally rival those in classy ones.


      PLAN AN ITINERARY BEFORE THE TRIP

Holiday trip planning
Photo by Clay Banks



Being impulsive will surely make you spend more money. Thus, you should design an itinerary prior to your tour around the city. Plan ahead and find the places where entrance fees are cheap, if not free; and if possible, categorize these destinations according to their place so you won’t have to pay so much for transportation.



It is easy to stay on a budget as long as you want it. So buy those air tickets and do not hesitate about your trip. Just relax and enjoy.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

TRAVEL NEWS: Banyan Tree in Kerala, India Opens on December

Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts
source: Google Images

Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts will be opening ‘Banyan Tree Kerala’, its first resort in India by December of this year.

Banyan Tree Kerala is situated in Nedithuruthu, midway between Kochi and Alleppey in the southern state of Kerala. It will feature 59 villas and one houseboat for a maximum of four guests. All villas will have two private pools – one lap pool and one regular – in addition to a common outdoor swimming pool.

The resort will also offer four meeting rooms, two F&B outlets, a kid’s club, a gym, and a spa with six treatment rooms.

Assistant Director Key Accounts of Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts, Manas Sinha is quoted saying: “Our focus for Banyan Tree Kerala will be on the domestic luxury market. We are adopting a different business plan from what we practice elsewhere.”

Meanwhile, in order to boost brand recognition in the domestic market, Banyan Tree has organised a series of one-on-one meetings between high-end local tour operators and marketing representatives from its resorts in Asia, starting with one such meeting in Kolkata on March 20.

Banyan Tree opening in India is very welcome, as we now have an option to send our high-end clients to a resort within the country. This will be handy for last minute decision-making by clients, and we will not have to bother about visas as in the case of overseas destinations”, Managing Director of Gainwell Travel Leisure Kolkata, Manoj Saraf said.

Banyan Tree had just acquired a plot of land in Goa for its second property in India which will be a 50 to 60-key resort, scheduled to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2014.

Within this year, the group will be opening a total of four resorts worldwide, including two in China and one in Vietnam while 2013 will see the launch of one Angsana in Vietnam and one Banyan Tree each in China and the Philippines.

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

TRAVEL NEWS: Making the Distance between Seoul and Chuncheon Closer through ITX Cheongchun High Speed Train

Seoul Korea Travel

With the operations having officially begun on February 28, 2012, at 6:00 PM, the ITX Cheongchun High-Speed Train marked the reality of faster travel from Yongsan Station in Seoul to Chuncheon in Gangwon-do Province.

As the train speeds off to 180 km/hour, passengers could expect to cover the distance between the two places in just 73 minutes. A train departs from Yongsan Station every hour, and ten minutes after, one from Chuncheon would leave.

The route intersects four stations: Cheongnyangni, Pyeongnaehopyeong, Gapyeong and Namchuncheon. During rush hours on weekdays though, every train stops at Sangbong Station in Seoul and Sareung and Maseok Stations in Namnyangju.

The double decker-train is provided with facilities assuring every passenger of utmost convenience. There are restrooms and nursing rooms for mothers.

Train tickets are sold through easily-operated ticket vending machines positioned at every station. A trip from Yongsan to Chuncheon, and back, will cost 6,900 won while a trip starting from or to Cheongnyangni will cost 6,000 won.

ITX Cheongchun High-Speed Train operates daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

TRAVEL NEWS: Hainan’s Duty-Free Stores Enjoy Huge Popularity

Image sources: China Daily

Duty-Free Stores in the Hainan province are enjoying huge popularity and profit as off-shore duty-free shops. Sanya and Haiku airport duty-free stores are drawing crowds of cash-rich Chinese who are eager to splurge on branded goods.


Unlike outlets in China international airports which can only offer duty-free goods to Chinese travellers leaving the country, the Hainan stores can sell to local tourists without requiring an outbound ticket.


The tropical island is treated as an off-shore location where Chinese returning to the mainland can buy tax-free branded goods with a wider selection, often available at lower prices.


Launched early last year, this pilot programme exempts Chinese tourists in Hainan from paying import duties which can be as high as 40% for cosmetics.



Branded goods in China are usually more expensive than the same products abroad. Coupled with hefty consumption and value-added taxes, the average total levy can add up to about 60%. This jacks up the prices of luxury goods in China and they end up costing about 70% more than similar goods in France and 50% more than those in the United States.


“Hopefully, more Chinese people will be able to enjoy better prices and convenience offered by off-shore duty-free stores without having to leave the country,” said the Sanya store’s spokesman Ms. Jessica Zhao.



The Sanya store racked up an impressive 800 million yuan (S$159 million) in sales in its first eight months of offering 100-plus brands of luxury items duty-free to Chinese tourists last year.


Experts expect to see more duty-free stores mushrooming across China in the next three to five years.


“The central government had set the trend and the conditions are in place,” said the Central University of Finance and Economics Professor Li Huan, who noted that are applying to become duty-free havens.


China’s southernmost island province hopes to take advantage of its “4S” reputation – sea, sand, sunshine, and now, shopping.


Because of the huge popularity of these duty-free stores, several travel agencies have included duty-free shopping in their Hainan tour schedules.


“We have added duty-free shopping to all our tour packages to Hainan and will arrange regular shopping-themed tours in the future,” said Zhang Lingjie, Deputy Director of the Domestic Tour department at China International Travel Service (CITS) in Beijing.


Hotels nearby the stores are also benefitting from the influx of guests, noting that the number of bookings has increased dramatically since the opening of the Sanya store.


Airline companies, too have added extra flights to meet the growing demand for Sanya flights.

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

TRAVEL NEWS: Myanmar to Introduce E-visas

Myanmar travel
Photo by Cheng Q 
 
Tourists who are planning to visit Myanmar will no longer need to go to the Myanmar embassy to apply for a visa starting in March.

The country’s Ministry of Hotels and Tourism is pushing for a significant liberalisation of the country’s visa regulations and is planning to introduce an electronic visa application system beginning next month.


Myanmar flag


Union Minister, U Tint San said “We are trying to introduce an e-visa system from March, that would allow international visitors to apply for a visa from anywhere via the Internet, before visiting Myanmar”.

The ministry’s efforts to roll out an e-visa system were first unveiled in January. The pilot project will start this month before it is officially launched in March.

U Tint San mentioned that the ministry is also working to attract direct international flights to airports at Bagan and Ngapali “in the near future”.

“We are also in discussions with other ministries to allow tourists to enter or exit the country at a checkpoint by either air or land,” he added. 

Presently, tourists who would like to enter Myanmar by land need to face quite a number of travel restrictions. Only a handful of border crossings are open to foreigners and a regulation introduced in mid-2011 which requires tourists to enter and exit at the same checkpoint are just a few of them.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Travel News: 2011, Busiest-ever year for Changi Airport

Singapore Changi Airport
Image Source: SingaporePictures

Records showed that 2011 is the busiest-ever year for Singapore’s Changi Airport. It handled over 45 million passengers for the first time ever last year.

The airport registered 46.5 million passenger movements and 302,000 aircraft movements in 2011, an increase of 10.7 % and 14.5 % over the year before, respectively.

December 2011 was also recorded as the airport’s busiest ever month with 4.53 million passenger movements which is about 11.4 % more than its succeeding year and 27,700 aircraft movements, showing a 16.0 % increase from last year.

The substantial increase in the airport’s passenger and aircraft movements was attributed to the strong travel demand in Asia-Pacific. South-east Asia and North-east Asia were the two best-performing regions registering double-digit growth, while traffic to and from South Asia and South-west Pacific also enjoyed positive growth.

Jakarta, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and Manila occupied the top five positions among Changi Airport’s top 10 routes. On the other hand Taipei, Manila, New Delhi, Melbourne and Hong Kong registered the strongest percentage growth with at least half a million passengers who travelled to Singapore last year.
 
It should also be noted that seven new carriers joined the airport’s portfolio of airlines in 2011. They are Air Macau, Hong Kong Airlines, Finnair, TransAsia Airways, IndiGo and Lao Airlines.


News Source:

Monday, February 6, 2012

India Plans to Extend VOA Policy to 13 more Countries

Photo by Sylwia Bartyzel 

The Indian government is planning to extend visas on arrival (VOA) to citizens of 13 more countries including Malaysia and Thailand according to a source from India’s Ministry of Tourism.

Based on a report published in India’s “The Economic Times”, other countries which are being touted as potential beneficiaries of the VOA policy extension are Brunei, France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Brazil, and South Africa.

India flag

The report also stated that the VOA facility would be extended within a year to airports in Hyderabad, Kochi, Bangalore, and Goa, adding to the four active airports such as Kolkata, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.

Currently, there are 11 nations that are benefiting from the said policy, namely Luxembourg, Finland, New Zealand, Japan, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Singapore. In 2011, records showed that only slightly more than 10,000 VOA applications from nationals of these countries were granted.

Anju Desai, vice president of Mumbai-based HMA Travel was quoted saying: "The countries earmarked for the VOA are major source markets and will open the floodgates of inbound tourism. We have received complaints about delays in the issuance of Indian visas from our missions abroad. Now, all that will end and seamless travel will begin."

In relevance to the issue, the Indian High Commission in Malaysia released a statement clarifying that the Indian Government had not yet taken any decision to extend VOAs to Malaysian nationals.



News Source:

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Getting To Know Guangzhou China


Guangzhou China
Photo by Lycheeart 

Guangzhou, historically known as Canton or Kwangchow is the capital and largest city of Guangdong province situated in the southern part of China on the Pearl River. It is considered a key national transportation hub and trading port. Although Guangzhou is leading a hectic way of life, there are several tourist spots around the metropolis that offers a relaxing atmosphere and panoramic views that will surely take the stress away caused by the noisy and busy streets of the city.


The outskirt of Guangzhou is a perfect getaway to have a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere away from the busy metropolis. The hilly district in the northeastern part of Guangzhou offers a scenic view of the city. The famous Yuexiu Park can also be found within the district. Yuexiu Park is the largest park in downtown Guangzhou covering an area of 212.5 acres. The park is made of three artificial lakes and seven hills of Yuexiu Mountain, where its name came from. Tourists and locals alike are drawn by its perfect combination of cultural relics and ecological tourism.

Nearby sights can also be enjoyed by climbing the five-storied watch tower which was built during the Ming Dynasty. At present, the tower houses a historic museum which is also worth a visit.
After exiting the park, two large hotels and a market can be seen. Twice every year, traders and customers from all parts of China meet in this particular place for a trade fair. Just nearby is the Orchid Garden where one can see the astonishing sight of 100 orchid species growing on the garden’s 18-hectare territory.

Another place worth exploring which is within the vicinity is the South China Botanical Garden. It is considered one of the largest Botanical Garden in the world boasting a record number of 5000 tropical and sub-tropical plants, grown locally or imported from other countries.

China travel

Moving into the centre of the city, visitors can see the Guangxiao Temple – one of the region’s oldest and grandest temples. The temple possesses a solemn and imposing aura. The key structure of the temple is the Mahavira Hall which sits on a high pedestal with the Bell and Drum tower erected on both sides. Inside this hall are three statues of Buddha, Sakyamuni in the centre, Manjusri on the left, and Visvabhadra Bodhisattva on the right, known as the Three Saints of Huayan. There is also a pagoda built to house Huineng’s hair, Huineng is one of the six founders of Chinese Buddhism who saved his hair in the temple itself when he became a monk. The two oldest iron pagodas which happen to be the oldest of their kind in China can also be found in the Guangxiao Temple.

China travel
The tomb of King Nanyue which is located on the Jeifang Bei Road always attracts a large number of tourists. It is hidden 20 meters underground made up of 750 huge stones with colourful murals. The mausoleum also features more than 1,000 pieces of cultural relics, bronze ware, and terra cotta. The main highlight of the place is the silk-jade garment made up of 2,291 pieces of jade – one of its kind in the whole world. Seeing this fascinating work of art is quite an experience so set aside any hesitation and start looking for cheap air tickets to Guangzhou!

Other exciting places visitors must explore to get the most from their Guangzhou trip are Temple of the Six Banyan Trees which features the giant statue of Guan Yin, the Huaisheng Mosque presenting a good example of Chinese tolerance and shows proof of ancient connections between China and Arabia, Ancestral Temple of the Chen Family and the Culture Park which offers lots exciting activities and attractions.
All these and more waiting for you to explore in the city of Guangzhou, start planning your trip and remember to include all these exciting places in your itinerary for a memorable trip! Several online travel companies offer China tour packages so budget won’t be a hindrance as well.

Monday, January 30, 2012

Exploring New Delhi

Reasons Why You Must Grab The Best Deal in India


India travel

New Delhi is the capital city of India known for its tree-lined boulevards and home to numerous national institutions, museums, and landmarks. It is considered one of the fastest-growing cities in the world with a population nearing three hundred thousand residents. That is why one negative impression of first-time tourists in this city is its tenacious touts and crush of mechanical and human traffic. However, we cannot deny the fact that amidst these negative things, New Delhi is a place rich in history and amazing ancient monuments which made this place worthy of an air ticket to visit India.


Delhi represents two very different worlds, the “old” and the “new”. New Delhi was built as the imperial capital of India by the British while Old Delhi served as the capital of Islamic India. Visitors can easily have a taste of both worlds by immersing themselves in medieval-flavored bazaars of New Delhi or chilling out in the modern cafes and bars in New Delhi.


New Delhi is also home to two UNESCO Heritage Sites namely Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar. These two ancient historical places are must-see places when you book air tickets to New Delhi. Considered two of the most popular tourist destinations in India, these monuments represent the ancient history of India.

India travel
Photo by Rohit Tandon

Humayun’s Tomb was designed by a Persian architect named Mirak Mirza Giyas for Humayun’s widow Hamina Banu Begum. This tomb later established a standard for all Mughal monuments, such as the Taj Mahal which followed its design.


Qutub Minar is a 72.5 meters fluted red sandstone tower covered with intricate carvings and verses of the Qur’an. The construction of this monument signifies the Muslim domination of Delhi and is a minaret for the muezzin to call the faithful to prayer. Qutub Minar is the first monument built by a Muslim ruler in India which began the new style of art and architecture that came to be known as Indo-Islamic style.


Another historical structure worth spending for an air ticket in India is the India Gate located on the ceremonial Rajpath Avenue in New Delhi. This monument is erected in honour of the Indian soldiers who died during the Afghan wars and World War II, names of all those soldiers were inscribed on the walls.
India travel
Photo by Vinit Singh


Aside from these magnificent monuments, New Delhi is the best place to sample authentic Indian cuisine. Have a taste of the meaty Mughlai curries, plump South Indian idlis (rice cakes), wood-fired pizzas, and squishy sashimi to complete your New Delhi experience.

India travel


Don’t let petulant first impressions stop you from visiting India. Create a journey now for wonderful moments to last a lifetime.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Affordable Adventure Travel Destinations in Asia

Budget travel destinations
Photo by Simon Migaj 

Are you the type of traveller who looks for adrenaline-pumping activities during your holiday vacation but is short of budget to afford the trip to popular adventure destinations? Travelling to Asia can be the best alternative as cheap airfares are commonly available for flights bound for different countries in Asia.

Buying online air tickets from established travel companies can be cheaper especially during promotional periods rather than going to the direct website of airline companies. Thus most travellers who are planning a trip to Asia resort to online booking to get the cheapest air ticket. Although most of the famous adventure destinations can be found in expensive-to-travel continents, Asia offers numerous places which guarantee a vacation full of adrenaline rush. Here are some of the places that promise a smashing holiday:



Bali, Indonesia

Budget travel destinations - Bali

Most travellers thought of Bali as a romantic and relaxing place to go because of its spectacular beaches. Aside from being an ideal getaway for sun and sand lovers, Bali offers adrenaline-pumping activities as well. The big waves of its beaches are a big hit for surfers from around the world. Visitors can also try ocean raft sightseeing or snorkelling for more adventures. For those who love the rapids, white water rafting in the Ayung and Unda Rivers can be the highlight of the trip.


Thailand

Budget travel destinations - Thailand

If you are planning to go to Thailand for a holiday trip but still hesitant to do it, forget the hesitation because this country is filled to the core with adventures that will surely make your blood pumping. Inland activities such as jungle treks in the Northern Mountains, mountain climbing, canopy tours and elephant rides will surely make travellers sweat while having a good workout. Other activities worth trying are cave exploration, scuba diving, surfing and kayaking.


Ladakh India

Budget travel destinations - India
Photo by Omendra Singh


Climbing the rugged mountains of the Northern Border of India can be physically demanding however it can also be a lifetime experience for those who crave for adventure. Different forms of Buddhist culture can be seen dotting the region as traveller trek along the steep mountainside of Ladakh. White water rafting is also a popular sport in this part of India. The ultimate test of courage and physical fitness will be conquering the River Azkar known for its wild raging rapids and cold waters.


Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Budget travel destinations - Kota Kinabalu
Photo by Ling Tang 



Climbing the tallest peak in Malaysia which is the Kota Kinabalu is one of the reasons why travellers search for cheap air tickets to Sabah. This activity is commonly popular for those who seek adventure during their trip. Aside from climbing the 13,400-foot peak of Kota Kinabalu adventure lovers can also enjoy camping out in the jungle and have a chance to see untamed wild animals wandering free.



Vietnam

Budget travel destinations - Vietnam
Photo by Jonathan Ouimet 


The country’s national park Cuc Phoung is famous to tourists because of its more than 300 species of tropical birds and a whopping 43 million varieties of flora and fauna. Trekking through the forests of Vietnam can bring each traveller closest to the wildlife and nature at its best.



Bhutan

Budget travel destinations - Bhutan
Photo by Adli Wahid 

Bhutan is one of those destinations waiting to be discovered by adventure lovers. An archaeological paradise, Bhutan is well-known for its magnificent monasteries and fortresses. Travellers can trek through the trails that wind past them or bike through the countryside to explore the area. Other ways of touring this place is through kayaking or rafting which is more of a challenge.


Travellers who crave an adrenaline rush need not spend a lot to have a dose of thrilling activities. With several cheap airfares available for Asian countries, adventure comes at an affordable price.