Travel Trips

Today sketchandtravel.com and bookpleasures.com is pleased to have as our guest Shelley Jiang, editor of LET’S GO CHINA, 6th Edition, one of 57 guidebooks published by the bestselling budget series from LET’S GO PUBLICATIONS.

Norm Goldman, editor of Bookpleasures.com and Sketchandtravel.com, conducted the following interview. Norm is also a regular contributor to lovetripper.com.

Good Day Shelley and thank you for accepting our invitation to be interviewed.

NORM: Please tell our readers something about yourself and your expertise pertaining to China.

SHELLEY: Born in China, I spent the first six years of my life in Beijing, the city that I will always think of as my first home. Though I moved to America and attended school there, I remain deeply connected with China through books, news, movies, family, and spending summers there every two or three years. During these summer trips, I often travel around the country and have visited many of the places in Let’s Go: China.

NORM: Would you consider China a good choice for a romantic getaway or wedding and honeymoon destination? Why?

SHELLEY: China is vast enough to offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a fast-paced weekend in Shanghai, a trip into China’s gorgeous outdoors, or an immersion in centuries of tradition and history. But don’t come expecting Paris or the CaribbeanChina isn’t your average romantic getaway, but a destination for the free-spirited and adventurous. No resorts or pampering herepart of the excitement and romance of a vacation in China is experiencing a new culture and taking in the grit as well as the beauty.

For those willing to ditch the conventional and leave the beaten path, breathtaking natural sights and unique cultural experiences await. Otherworldly landscapes familiar from many a martial arts film (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Hero) can serve as the backdrop for your personal love story as well. Ancient palaces, pagodas, and temples invites travelers to step back into a past that stretches more than 5000 years. Cities like Beijing and Shanghai proudly showcase their past alongside their future, with skyscrapers rising one after another and an urban culture to rival those of any American or European city.

NORM: What is the best time to visit China from the point of view of weather, costs, crowds, and the availability of flights from the USA, Canada and Europe and Australia, etc?

SHELLEY: China’s peak travel times are around Chinese New Year (some time in Jan.-Feb., depending on lunar calendar), May 1st, July-August, and the first week of October. The best time to visit would be from late-April through June, when the weather is warm, students are still in school, and many establishments are still on low season pricing. The fall is also a pleasant time to travel without the crowds (but avoid the Oct. 1st holiday week) and see beautiful foliage, especially in the north.

Airfares to China are most expensive between June and September. Even flying on May 31 instead of Jun. 1st will get you a cheaper flight. Flying September-May will get you much cheaper flights. Plan aheadthe cheapest tickets for summer flights to China sell out by early March.

NORM: Could you give our readers an idea of the costs involved if travel originates from the USA, Canada and Europe and Australia?

SHELLEY: China is a budget traveler’s dream come truewith the exception of the airfare, which can cost anywhere from US$600-1500. It’s cheaper to fly from September-May. The best places to find low-fares are Chinese-run travel agencies in Chinatowncheck the local Chinese newspaper or ask around to find their listings.
The budget-conscious can often spend anywhere from US$2-10 per night for lodgings in a hostel or basic room, depending on destination. Food can cost as little as US$4 per person per day for meals from street vendors and small family-run restaurants.

Of course, splurges and treats are everywhere. A comfortable hotel room will cost around US$25-50 per night, and lavish suites range from US$60-150 per night. For US$8-25, a couple can dine at fancier restaurants serving distinctive, gourmet cuisines.

The cheapest and most convenient way to get around China is via rail. Short journeys can cost around US$5-12 for a one-way ticket, while longer journeys will cost up to US$50. Expect to pay more than US$100, however, for a private sleeper compartment for two people.

The number of domestic flights in China is on the rise. One-way fares range US$90-200; round-trip fares are always double the one-way fare.

NORM: If you had to choose 3-5 unequalled venues in China for a romantic getaway, honeymoon or wedding destination, what would they be and why?

SHELLEY:
Jiuzhaigou: Nestled deep in the mountains of northern Sichuan, the “Valley of the Nine Tibetan Villages” is known for its pristine lakes and waterfalls that sparkle a spectrum of shades under the sunshine. You may remember the impossibly blue lakes from the fight sequence filmed here in Hero. Nature lovers can hike beneath the shadow of snowy peaks, experience local Tibetan culture, and in nearby Songpan, embark upon horse treks into the wild. Convenient tourist services are nearby, offering everything from budget lodgings to five-star hotels.

Hangzhou: Those in love with classical China can head to this graceful city of the south and historic dynastic capital. Willows, gardens, pavilions, and delicately arched bridges dot the shores of the West Lake, the setting for ancient China’s most famous love stories. Sip fragrant Dragon Well tea while dining at one of China’s oldest restaurants that once served emperors. The misty waters and city pleasures are enough to captivate anyone; if not nearby Shanghai promises a plunge back into modernity.

Yunnan: This province on the border with Vietnam and Myanmar is the ideal destination for the adventurous, with its 22 colorful ethnic minority cultures and diverse natural scenery. Its capital, Kunming, “City of Eternal Spring,” enchants travelers with flowers on every street, but the true attractions lie in the countryside. Pack your gear for a trek south into tropical rainforests and rice paddies, dotted by Dai villages and gleaming Buddhist stupas. Northern Yunnan is better known as “Shangri-La,” where red-robed monks walk the streets of mountain villages and snowy peaks beckon in the distance.

Xinjiang: Xinjiang takes romance and writes it large upon vast expanses of deserts and horizons. Experience the exoticism of a nomadic lifestyle with camel rides across the dunes and nights under the stars upon China’s last frontier. Or trek up to the legendary Tianshan Mountains overlooking the “Heavenly Pool.” Friendly Uighur musicians will be happy to play at Uighur-style wedding celebrations, filled with tasty food, fresh grapes and melons, and plenty of singing and dancing.

Hong Kong: Hong Kong offers a vacation as sophisticated and exciting as it is expensive. From luxury malls to teeming street markets, Hong Kong easily combines class and chaos. Dinner cruises on Victoria Harbour, stylish hotels and restaurants, and endless clubs, bars, and entertainment options ensure that you’ll never run out of things to do. Macau lures travelers away with its many casinos and Portuguese-influenced cuisine and architecture, but you’ll find yourself back in Hong Kong before long.

NORM: What should people know about celebrating a wedding in China from the point of view of requirements, experience of the various hotels, etc.

SHELLEY: Large fancy hotels are readily available, with the best and widest selection obviously being in Beijing and Shanghai. Restaurants make another good venue, and Let’s Go: China lists many of the best restaurants in Beijing. Book months in advance for celebrations in June and August, popular wedding months in China.

China also excels in gorgeously done wedding photo shoots, often involving lavish sets and costumes, professional make-up artists, and more. Popular options include traditional Chinese wedding garb, emperor and empress outfits, and turn of the century cheongsam robes. A full set often includes an entire album’s worth of photos, the cost of which averages US125-300.

NORM: How far in advance should a couple prepare themselves for their honeymoon, romantic getaway or wedding in China?

SHELLEY: For the cheapest airfares, it’s best to start planning at least four or five months in advance. Unless you are familiar with the country, it’s best not to leave a trip to China to the last minute.

NORM: What resources are available on the Internet pertaining to weddings and honeymoon vacations in China?

SHELLEY: CTRIP offers a great destination guide, often with photographs. Their flight search is helpful for planning, but only those with Chinese credit cards can make reservations.

CHINA TOUR COM provides a wealth of practical information, from visas to currency to vaccines. They also collect news stories related to travel in China, provide information on organized tours, and offer brief guides on Chinese culture.

TRAVEL CHINA GUIDE is another good resource for destination guides.

TRAVEL INFORMATION GUIDE is a forum for those traveling to China.

Thanks Shelley

Norm Goldman is editor of Bookpleasures.com, a book reviewing and author interviewing site. He is also editor of sketchandtravel.com. The latter site contains all of Norm’s travel articles as well as his wife Lily’s water colors.

They are a unique husband and wife team that meld words with art.

[tags]China, travel to China, romantic getaways in China,[/tags]

If you were born between the end of World War II and the beginning of the Vietnam War, you are a Baby Boomer. Some Boomers have taken early retirement already, and others are on the verge of this new chapter in their lives. ‘Travel’ is at the top of the list for many.

Planning Your Trip

Your travel itinerary should be part of a careful process. Plan a holiday with plenty of ‘you’ time. You should finish every vacation feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Baby Boomers are generally quite fit when compared to our ancestors. However, increasing numbers of obese or overweight adults are plagued with bad backs, high cholesterol levels, and fragile knee joints.

Don’t just pick a cruise and pack your bags. Keep your interests and physical limitations in mind. If you are a swimming fanatic, you might want to try scuba diving. However, asthma would preclude a scuba vacation. You might have to settle for snorkeling instead. If you have a bad back, don’t plan to go hiking in the Andes.

The older you are, the less likely you are to have a comfortable night’s sleep. Try to find a hotel or bed and breakfast with memory foam mattresses and soundproof walls.

When booking your room, ask the reservations desk if they offer discounts for seniors. Some lodging establishments will provide a substantial discount as early as age 55. Don’t consider yourself ‘old’ just because you are 55. Think of some fabulous Baby Boomers like Suzanne Somers, Donald Trump, Sylvester Stallone, and Dolly Parton. They all celebrated 60th birthdays in 2006.

Preparations

Apply for a passport at least 6 months in advance if you don’t already have one. Some countries will not allow you to cross their borders with a passport that is near its expiry date. Contact embassies or do some research online so that you are aware of current regulations.

Check with your physician to see if there are any activities you should avoid. Your doctor can also advise you regarding immunizations, give you prescription refills, and provide photocopies of crucial medical information. Many countries will only allow clearly labeled prescription medications where the name on the bottle matches the passport. If you require supplies like alcohol swabs and other support products, purchase them ahead of time. You may not be able to locate what you need in a foreign country.

Be aware of the coverage provided by your current medical insurance policies. It may be prudent to purchase extra insurance for unexpected (and uncovered) contingencies such as air evacuation.

Packing

Travel activities can cause swollen feet. Sensible, comfortable footwear that is one width wider and 1/2 size larger than usual is advisable. Never pack brand new shoes or boots.

Sleep disturbances become more frequent as we age. Pack some foam earplugs so you won’t have to worry about your partner’s snoring, creaking floorboards, or disturbances in the hallway outside your room.

Many of us find that foods we used to enjoy now cause symptoms like gas, cramps, or constipation. At home, we can compensate by watching what we eat. However, when dining in restaurants, we are often faced with unfamiliar and exotic fare that can wreak havoc with the gastrointestinal system. Pack a bottle of digestive enzymes. They are available in big department stores like Wal-Mart, as well as pharmacies and health food stores.

A small memory foam travel pillow can cradle your head while you nap onboard the plane – or it can provide relief from a sore back if you put it between your knees while you sleep at night.

Keep your hands free when you go on tours. A good backpack is the key. Shop around until you find a comfortable pack that is easy to put on and remove.

Partay!

Each day before you leave the room, check the weather forecast and dress accordingly – in layers. If you get too warm later in the day, you can peel something off and put it in your backpack.

Your backpack can also be used for meds, your travel pillow, a bottle of water, and other essentials. Valuables and important papers should never go in the pack, however. Keep them in a next-to-skin money belt (zipper side in) with only small amounts of cash in another easily accessed wallet or pocket.

Fresh water is crucial. Proper hydration will keep your energy level at optimum and prevent that old travel bane – constipation.

Wherever you go, whatever you do, wear a smile and be polite. A cheerful attitude will be infectious and will transform your time away from home into a truly happy, memorable experience.

Kathy Steinemann writes for several websites, including 1st Rate Articles, 111 Travel Directory, and 1000 Tips 4 Trips – a site with over 1000 travel tips.

[tags]travel,senior,seniors,citizen,citizens,baby,boomer,boomers,article,articles,advice,tip,tips,packing[/tags]

Exotic destinations are plentiful in Asia, and where you have a keen sense of history, and wish to observe a glimpse of the glorious and mystique eras of the past, nothing can be more exciting and informative than the notable ruins of the Ayutthaya kingdom of Thailand.

Thailand, the great land of smiles holds more than great food and sunshine, and perhaps this destination called Ayutthaya is the best kept secret about Thailand.

We are not talking about the beautiful beaches that normally describe Thailand, or the night spots of bawdy entertaintment that hogs the beach scene, not even the exotic meals where you can eat various insects and bugs including crickets, worms and roaches!

We are talking about the notable ruins of the Ayutthaya Kingdom of Thailand.

When I first heard of the Ayutthaya kingdom, this question just struck me: ” Aren’t these almost similar to the Angkor Wat of Kampuchea?”

Be prepared to be surprised!

Having visited the famous Angkor Wat, the Ayutthaya kingdom greatly surprises with its difference.

Set at the conjunction of the Lopburi, Pasak and Chao Phraya Rivers, the beautiful ancient city of Ayutthaya, was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong and was Thailand’s capital for 417 years, of what was then known as Siam.

Over the next 417 years it was ruled by 33 kings of different dynasties and repelled 23 Burmese invasions, before the Burmese finally succeeded in razing it to the ground.

The most important place to visit is the BUDDHA HEAD at Wat Mahatat.

Just in case you do not know, against a backdrop of temples that stood the test of time and the ravages of the weather, the Buddha Head wat or temple has a most intriguing facet of nature intervowing with the partial statue of the Enlightened One – The Buddha.

Why is this place a must to visit?

Here you can see many headless buddha statutes and one particular shrine where a the famous Boddhis tree, with roots seeking to spread over a wall of slate, and mostly exposed yet firmly entrenched, as if telling us a story of peace and stability against a world of uncertainties, interwoving its roots to cover a statutue of the revered Buddha, seeking to leave uncovered the face of the Enlightened One.

What a spectacular sight!

The uncovered face of the Great Buddha radiates a feeling of tremendous peace and warmth, of tranquility and of purpose.

It is a sense of inner calmness that smoothens the unrest within the inner chambers of the heart, so that irregardless of your religion, you will instantly recognises the holiness of the moment, the reverence of the Buddha…and you will leave the place carrying the same sense of wonder and awe that will linger with you forever.

Now, as this is the best kept secret of visiting Thailand, how did I squeeze the most out of a tight budget in terms of money and time to see the most of the Ayutthaya Kingdom?

First, plan your tour. Get a map of the Ayutthaya kingdom and write down your destinations you would like to visit.

Secondly, the first priority is to visit Wat Mahatat – the Buddha Head. This will allow you more time to enjoy the sights and scenes of this great kingdom as you bask in the glorious ruins.

Thirdly,engage the services of your local cab driver. You can get a very decent package that you personally designed. Give him your destinations, and he will fix with you the entire package tour price.

And as a bonus, my local cab driver spoke only a smattering of English. So he took along his college-going daughter to provide the interpretation and who acted as an honorary guide. Be prepared to pay her entrance fee if you do get a guide, but then most sites do not require an interpreter to be along with you.

Now, if you ever think of visiting Thailand, just remember that apart from the beaches, the night live, the entertaintment scence, the good food and the shopping at Paragon Mall, there is a best kept secret, and that is the notable ruins of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. You must not miss this when you travel to Thailand.

YS Koh works hard and believes in making travel and sightseeing a priority in her quest to learn more of the world. With extensive experience in capturing special moments on her camera, she has established the website ” Visit The Notable Ruins of The Ayutthaya Kingdom, Thailand” at http://www.ayutthaya.best-travelogue.info where you can see the Buddha Head, refer to maps and lesser known tourist information that will make your visit a truly memorable one.

[tags]ruins of Ayutthaya Kingdom, Thailand, Wat Mahatat, Buddha Head, headless buddha statutes, Buddha[/tags]

After a great deal of research and carefully consideration you have finally decided that it’s time to try backpacking. You have bought the latest backpacking trail guides and plotted your destination at the ultimate get-away location. But before you take off here are a few common sense tips that will keep you safe and help you along during your journey.

First and foremost, carefully and thoroughly plan your trips before you leave home. This step cannot be emphasized enough! Study maps and other sources of information to prepare for any physical or geographical roadblocks. Careful planning will help you achieve and maintain a healthy and positive attitude about the trip itself.

Next, determine what type of gear you will need to backpack. Beware of the “light gear” merchandise, as it may not always be the best purchasing option. Typically, you will also want to avoid any gear that is “all-in-one” as it may be bulky. Gear that is too large may become a safety concern as it makes people more at risk to falling down while too-small gear may compromise personal security. Give each piece of gear careful consideration and select something that feels safe and comfortable to you. More experienced backpackers generally progress to lighter and more efficient gear.

Once you have finished planning and purchasing items for your trip, the next step is to communicate them to friends and family members. It is highly recommended to print out a daily itinerary that includes a timetable with the corresponding destination and give a copy to friends and family. Include a topographical map with the itinerary and take note on how much time you will spend at each location and when you are planning on returning home. This is an essential tool because it could be your link to survival if you run into trouble in a remote area.

After planning and communicating your backpacking trip you are ready to hit the trails. The first rule of thumb is to listen to your “sixth sense”, know when to turn around and go back. Questionable, dangerous, or even deadly situations can arise if you continually challenge your “sixth sense”. Listening to your body is just as important. Keep hydrated by drinking a lot of fluids and eating on a regular basis. While hiking trails, many backpackers forget to stop and replenish their bodies. Dehydration is a real threat that many backpackers experience. Backpackers need to maintain energy levels high by drinking plenty of water and snacking frequently. Another threat for backpackers is hypothermia and hyperthermia. Hypothermia occurs when the body’s temperature drops below normal and hyperthermia occurs when the body’s temperature is higher than normal and your body can’t cool down. It is essential to learn how to dress before your body becomes chilled and undress before you overheat.

Finally, always carry a compass and know how to read a map. The map is the ultimate tool in preparation and a compass will aid in travel direction. If a situation arises where you become disoriented on the trail, the map will allow you to re-focus and continue onward. Preparation is the best tool to prevent this situation from occurring. By taking into consideration the above tips, backpacking can be a very rewarding passage. Remember, careful trip planning is the key to backpacking along with familiarizing yourself with the area. As always, be aware of the limits of your body and maintain your energy levels. Most importantly, let family and friends know of your where about at all times.

Michael Russell

Your Independent Backpacking guide.

[tags]backpacking[/tags]

Portugal is a European country situated on the Iberian Peninsula in the southwest corner of Europe. The west and south of Portugal are cornered by the Atlantic Ocean, giving it some of the most dramatic coastline in Europe.

Portugal borders only one country, Spain, which makes up the rest of the Iberian Peninsula.

With a coastline running over 500 miles Portugal is bursting with scenic sandy coves and rocky cliffs with a dramatic inland landscape.

Portugal is a very pleasant country to visit – especially for any person in love with seafood. All along the coast are amazing restaurants dedicated to cooking fresh fish. Most restaurants are reasonable priced with generous portions. When you are having food in Portugal don’t forget to sample the excellent local wine. While Portugal is noted for Port, excellent wines are home grown in regions north of Porto and Lisbon.

If you are in some of the more popular tourist spots it’s wise to make a reservation. It’s also standard practice in Portugal to add a 5 – 10 percent tip for waiters who are poorly paid.

English is widely spoken throughout Portugal and the locals are extremely friendly. A large selection of English-written newspapers can be bought in most of the larger newsagents.

Portugal is a country rich in arts and history. The architecture of Portugal differs from region to region. The Romans were the first to leave behind their enhanced structural design. Muslim invaders from North Africa during the eight-century have also enriched the architecture in southern Portugal. Portugal is littered with incredible Churches, temples and old buildings. Some old buildings are restored and turned into great hotels.

Hotels in Portugal are plentiful in tourist areas and cities, but in the countryside they can be rare. If you are travelling through the Portuguese countryside plan your journey well in advance.

Sporting holidays can be had at any time of year. While the Portuguese are mainly into football, most marina sports can be sought along the entire coastline. If you are looking for a golfing holiday Portugal should be top of the list. Most of the best golf courses in Portugal are found in the Algarve region, which has a reputation as one of Europe’s top golfing destinations.

The Algarve region of Portugal, situated in the south of the country, is the perfect spot to visit at any time of year. Its climate stays warm all year round and the scenic coastline offers a large variety of marine activity.

Fishing is a valuable way of life for many in Portugal. Each year during the month of August a massive seafood festival is hosted by one of the ports in the Algarve.

If you are looking for a really special place to visit – try some of the Islands along the Portuguese coast. The Azores lie 800 miles west of Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for the peaceful way of life, the Azores volcanic history has left a truly magical landscape. With easy access from mainland Portugal, the Azores are well worth a visit.

TJ Tierney is an award winning photographer and a freelance writer.
He frequently writes for the Travel site Trovoo.com, Art site Goldprints.com and the Gift ideas site shop-4us.com

[tags]Portugal, travel, Portuguese, holiday, landscape, tourist, Algarve, Porto, Lisbon,[/tags]

Malaysia has many weird food (weird even to some locals) to offer, and most of them can easily be found in Kuala Lumpur. However, each state in Malaysia offers its own special delicacy. For example, budu in Kelantan, keropok lekor in Terengganu, cencaluk in Melaka. However, all of them are easily found in Kuala Lumpur. Be sure to treat yourself with these :

Petai – Green beens from the deep jungle, which some people say smell like methane gas. Its popularly cooked in sambal tumis ikan bilis – which is fried chili with anchovies. However, locals absolutely love them eaten raw as ulams (almost equal to the western salad). Petai is also enjoyable grilled or boiled. A typical dipping with petai is sambal (chili paste), budu (a fish sauce) and tempoyak (a paste made from durian). Budu and tempoyak themselves are also considered ‘weird’ food.

Durian – A fruit as big as a football, covered with tough spiky skin. The pulp is pale yellow, with shape and consistency of raw brains. Smell has been compared to rotting flesh, old gym socks, or sewage. Yet the taste has been called so exquisite that a European explorer of the 1700’s claimed it was worth the journey to experience it; “the King of fruits.” Many believe it aphrodisiac and hold durian-eating parties. Most hotels, and so on, forbid it on the premises.

Keropok Lekor – Its not what you think it is. Its actually fish sausages, normally deep fried and dipped in a sweet chili sauce (tastes almost like plum sauce). The best keropok lekor you can find is available in the state of Terengganu (where many fishing villages are). Fresh caught fish are brought to roadside stalls, where the fish are deboned, cooked and made into fresh keropok lekor you can ever find, made right in front of your eyes.

Otak-otak – Brains anyone? Otak literally means brain. But otak-otak has nothing to do with it. Otak-otak is made by pounding fresh fish into a paste, and mixing it with chilies, coconut milk, and spices, then wrapping the whole thing in a banana leaf and grilling it. When the banana leaf chars, the fish is read to eat.

Some are unique, but not so horrible looking. Make sure you try these:
Lai Chee Kang, ABC (Air Batu Campur/ Mixed Ice), Longan drink, Karipap (curry puffs), cendol (colorful goodies made from starch eaten in cold coconut milk mixed with dark sugar), tapai, pulut, popia, roti canai, teh tarik (literally means – pull tea), char kuey teow, and so many others.

Enjoy!

Faisal Abdullah was born in Malaysia and is a systems engineer by profession. He loves travelling, culture, cooking and making international friends. Faisal has travelled to countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Holland, France, Germany, Belgium, England and USA. Faisal regularly updates travel and leisure related blogs at http://www.dormantbrain.com.

[tags]kuala lumpur, food, weird food malaysia, asia travel, kuala lumpur guide[/tags]

Traveling Asia is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. When you travel to Asia, there are so many things to see and do; make sure that you plan your trip in advance. However, remember to leave some free time in you itinerary, because when you travel Asia, you want to make sure that you have the flexibility for an occasional adventure.

As the largest continent on earth, Asia offers travelers a huge variety of places to visit, things to do and, cultures to see. For first time visitors who travel Asia, we recommend the following:

Island Nations-

Indonesia:

One of the most diverse destinations for travelers to Asia, the Indonesian archipelago can provide enough exciting destinations for a complete trip. Whether you are seeking relaxation, natural beauty, cultural diversity or all of the above, Indonesia will show you an exciting and wonderful Asian travel destination.

Philippines:

Comprised of over 7000 islands, the Philippines has become on of Asia’s forgotten travel destinations. Due to a recent history that includes martial law and economic corruption, the Philippines has lost much of its previous tourist activity to its more stable neighbors. Those who do visit will enjoy beautiful spots like the Boracay beaches and Lake Sebu.

Japan:

For decades, the island nation of Japan has been a favorite destination for travelers to Asia. From amazing Zen temples to kitschy reproductions of western monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Japan has something for every traveler who visits. The hardest thing is fitting it all in.

Southeast Asia

Thailand:

The Kingdom of Thailand is the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia drawing more visitors than its neighbors. With both mountainous regions and a beautiful coastline dotted with amazing islands Thailand is one a must see for those who travel to Asia. The city of Bangkok, the largest in Thailand is one of the most popular in all of Asia, as well.

Vietnam:

A quickly emerging destination among travelers to Asia, Vietnam is reshaping its image among world travel destinations. From the beaches along the coast, to its soaring inland mountains, Vietnam offers travelers to Asia with a sublime experience.

Mainland Asia-

China:

Too vast for words alone, China is rapidly emerging as the top destination for travelers to Asia. As China continues to modernize both economically and socially, it is becoming easier for those who travel to Asia to visit one of the largest and most populous countries in the world. If you travel to China, follow a loose itinerary and try to see as much as you can.

Korea:

South Korea is one of the most westernized of all Asian nations. Travelers to Korea can enjoy the modernity of the capital city, Seoul; or they can try visiting beautiful natural wonders like Songnisan National Park.

India:

Another of Asia’s largest and most heavily populated countries, India is a complex and diverse nation unlike any other you will experience when you travel throughout Asia. Visitors to India will be enchanted by its unpredictability and surprising cultural dramas that exist among its inhabitants.

Before you Travel Asia visit BestTripGuide.com for all your travel needs.

[tags]travel asia[/tags]

Small towns are becoming as extinct as roadside lemonade stands. However, nestled in the valley of Mt. Airy, NC, is Mayberry – where penny candy and lemonade stands are still the norm.

When strolling the sidewalks of Andy Griffith’s hometown, you’re swept back to the peacefulness of the Andy Griffith Show. Mt. Airy, NC, was the inspiration for Mayberry. You’ll see some things the TV show captured. It’s like coming home again. The Atlanta Constitution is quoted as calling Mt. Airy, “America’s favorite Southern town.”

Mt. Airy Visitor’s Center is home to the largest collection of Andy Griffith memorabilia in the country. Andy Griffith’s childhood friend and Mt. Airy resident, Emmett Smith, collected the items in three impressive rooms. The collection contains everything from a Matlock suit to the chair Andy was rocked in as a baby. Andy’s accomplishments range from music and commercials to comedy and drama. Andy originally wanted to be a musician, but when he realized he could make people laugh, he stepped into comedy and we have been laughing with him ever since. He’s best known for The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock.

The Mayberry attractions are many. Floyd’s Barber Shop and the “Wall of Fame” are a must see in Mt. Airy. The walls are filled with a collection of more than 18,000 pictures of many celebrities. The barbershop has been in Mt. Airy for 50 years and boasts: “2 chairs – no waiting.”

Wally’s Service Station has been in Mt. Airy since 1937. It has been restored to a shop for Mayberry souvenirs, collectibles, coffees, candy, etc. When at Wally’s sign up for the Squad Car Tours. Cruise Mayberry in a 1962 Squad Car replica driven by “Andy” or “Goober”, who narrate the history of Mayberry and the many attractions. The cruise is as calming as a Sunday drive. You’ll be surprised at what you can find in a small town.

Displayed in front of the Andy Griffith Playhouse is a bronze statue of Andy and Opie with fishing poles. The statue was dedicated in September 2004 during Mayberry Days where Andy Griffith made a special appearance for the celebration.

The Mayberry Jail is a local re-creation of the courthouse seen in the episodes of the Andy Griffith Show. In the jail there is a checkerboard of bottle caps waiting for Andy and Barney.

Park and walk through the Emporium for a day of shopping or stop at Snappy Lunch for a pork chop sandwich and a bottle of pop. In this small town there are still trading posts, and while you cannot hitch your horse at the posts, there are still plenty of good buys. For a snack, visit Opie’s Candy Store for a variety of penny candy or the Bluebird Diner for the best ice cream in town.

In the Mayberry Motor Inn on Hwy 52 South, there’s a room dedicated to Aunt Bee. The owner began her “Aunt Bee” collection in 1990. She also holds certificates of authenticity for more than 30 of the items, such as gloves, eyeglasses, a dress, a hat and sewing materials. Aunt Bee’s Room is shown by appointment only, but visitors can enjoy a window view.

Known as “Granite City”, Mt. Airy boasts the world’s largest open-faced quarry, which covers 90 acres and ranges to depths of 8,000 feet. Many homes in the area, as well as the Wright Brother’s Memorial in nearby Kitty Hawk, are made from Mt. Airy granite.

Mayberry Days is a celebration of the Andy Griffith Show and is scheduled the last weekend of each September. It is a 3-day festival that begins Thursday and ends on Saturday. There is a parade, crafts, food, and David, “The Mayberry Deputy” Browning, Phil “Ernest T” Lee, and Allan “Floyd” Newsome, the Mayberry Days look-alikes, can be found strolling the sidewalks during the festival.

Driving 52 North toward Winston-Salem, NC, stop at Pilot Mountain State Park. Pilot Mountain was talked about as the “town” of Mt. Pilot in the show. It was the “big city” where Andy and Barney sometimes took their girls for dinner. However, it’s a mountain.

Pilot Mountain rises more than 1400 feet above the rolling countryside. There are many activities available inside the park. There are 13 hiking trails and walking them is the most exciting thing to do in the park. The view is extraordinary and will take your breath away. It could easily be renamed “God’s Country”.

Go to Mt. Airy, NC and take a ride back in time. All life should be this simple.

Author’s Note: Visit Mayberry online at: www.visitmayberry.com

I have a certificate in Creative Writing and am working on another certificate. I wrote for the Young Virginians when I was a teen in Richmond, VA. I had put my writing on hold to raise my two boys and I am just now submitting articles to different resources and working on a novel.

[tags]article submission, articles, writers, writing, publishing, ezine, email marketing, email newsletter, email[/tags]

The islands of southern Thailand are widely known as “Island Paradise”. Their picturesque beaches, moderate tropical climate and unique, extremely relaxing lifestyle account for this reputation. Travelers from all over the world come to these southern Thailand islands to experience the famous transition to another dimension, as they gradually absorb the overwhelming serenity and ephemeral separation from the dynamic and straining modern life style.

In the eyes of the inexperienced traveler at the very first stages of planning his or her trip to Thailand, all “paradise islands” may look exactly the same: all the islands are tropical (in the classic sense and climate wise), picturesque and serene. But in fact, a more thorough perspective would reveal that each island, just like every individual traveler, has its own set of unique qualities. The cost of stay in some islands can turn out to be a surprisingly expensive experience, while visiting other islands can be quite a bargain; some islands are dramatically peaceful while others are loaded with exciting nightlife activities; some islands provide the perfect conditions for divers while others are ideal for backpackers.

After years of intensive research, and after exploring every dark corner on every island in southern Thailand, my final conclusion is that Koh Phangan is no doubt and by far the perfect choice for the perfect vacation. Koh Phangan is the perfect choice because it has this unique ability to adopt itself to the likes and needs of every individual traveler in the limits of being an island (except from providing the ultimate urban environment. But nobody visits the Thai islands to relive his urban daily lifestyle). Here are the five elements that make Koh Phangan the ultimate vacation choice:

1. The best value for your money. Until recently, Koh Phangan had a strong reputation of a backpackers’ island. As a result, the island’s costs of living had been adjusted to the target audience. Food and accommodation on the island cost surprisingly low, so that even a backpacker with a budget of 30$ per day can provide himself or herself with a reasonable, almost western life standard on the island, which includes air conditioned rooms and delicious cuisine. During the last several years, when more spoiled tourists discovered this island, local entrepreneurs began to invest in luxury accommodation. Nevertheless, the best quality accommodation in Koh Phangan is still cheaper, on average, compared to the same standard accommodation offered on other islands.

2. The rare opportunity to experience the “old school” island paradise. Even the sworn lovers of Thailand will agree, that the days when the “paradise islands” were the place in which one can sit on a lonely beach and share his or her thoughts with a single coconut tree, are a thing of the past. Still, in Koh Phangan one can find some “reservations” of remote picturesque beaches with only a limited choice of accommodation, such as Haad Thong Reng, Haad Yao and Haad Sadet. Some of these forgotten venues feature about three dozens bungalows hidden in the midst of the jungle. These “old school” beaches make you fell like merging with a “real” paradise, created by true nature and not by wise and experienced tourism industry entrepreneurs.

3. Breathtaking diving sites. The Gulf of Thailand is considered to be an excellent diving area, due to its clear lucid water and the huge variety of underwater life. Until recently, the consensual opinion stated that the only place for “real” scuba divers in the Gulf of Thailand is Koh Tao Island, next to Koh Phangan. Nowadays, more and more divers are choosing Koh Phangan as a launching ground for their preferable diving sites: a small island Koh Ma, connected to Koh Phangan by a sand bar; the neighboring beaches Haad Salad, Haad Yao & Haad Chaophao, offering a hugevariety of tropical fish and coral reefs; and Ang Thong National Marine Park – a group of 42 islands, protected as a National Park.

4. The Full Moon Party. The full moon party, held in Koh Phangan since 1989, attracts thousands of travelers every month coming from all corners of the globe. Even if you are not the classic partygoer – the full moon party could be a unique and unforgettable opportunity to join thousands of joyful, exhilarated people dancing together in the most beautiful place in the world to the sounds of the best music.

5. To experience radically unique travel activities. Koh Phangan is quite a small sized island (about 170 km2), but it offers a widest variety of activities. You can come on a Sunday, as a backpacker to Sunrise Beach, become a professional diver on Monday in Koh Ma and turn into a seasoned partygoer on Tuesday as you take part in the exhilarating full moon party. If you’re able to wake up on Wednesday morning, you can meet local people in the fishermen’s village Chaloklum learn and experience their traditional way of life. Additionally, you can join forces with your sportsperson alter ego and go trekking on Thursday; and on Friday you’ll have the unique opportunity to pretend being a Mowgli riding an elephant’s back in Phangan Safari. On Saturday, you can try living as a sheikh in a luxury resort with a spaand maybe get the chance to write a novel on the seven most unforgettable days of your life.

Independent researcher, MA in anthropology, and travel enthusiast Ella Evans has spend more than a decade exploring Thailand focusing on the Southern Islands. The fruits of her labor can be found in the Koh Phangan Experience Website: a comprehensive travel guide to Koh Phangan, Thailand, which includes information articles, tips, advice and a message board. To visit Koh Phangan Experience Guide, click here: http://kohphangan.eternaltravel.net/

[tags]Thailand, Thailand Islands, Koh Phangan, Thailand Travel, Kohphangan, Planning Trip to Thailand[/tags]

Traveling in Peru is one of the most worthwhile experiences that you can have in your life. Peru is home to many amazing and exciting destinations. From its lush rainforests to the high peaks of the Andean mountains, Peru certainly has a lot to offer its tourists.

Tourist Spots in Peru

There are so many places that you can visit in Peru. You can check out Cusco, the Land of the Incas. You can visit Puno and Lake Titicaca, Choquequirao Peru, Nazca Lines and the Royal Tombs of Sipan. The Kuelap Fortress, Manu National Park, Paracas National Reserve, and Colca Canyon in Arequipa might interest you. All these travel destinations offer you beautiful sights and activities that you will surely enjoy.

Peru Travel Information

But before traveling to Peru, you have to look into some travel information first. Of course, one thing to consider is visa requirements. If you are from Australia, the European Union, or North America, you do not have to get a visa to visit this country. But if you are not from those regions, you have to go past the immigration office to get a stamp put into your passport that states the number of days allowed for your stay.

Aside from the visa, you should also look for traveling accommodations. Lots of hotels and restaurants can be found all over Peru. Before traveling, it is best to book in advance so that when you arrive, you will not have to look around for a good place to stay. If you want to save there are plenty of inexpensive hotels and restaurants available in Peru.

And lastly, since you are a tourist in the place, you have to know the address of your country’s embassy or consulate in case something happens. If you are planning to stay in Peru for a long amount of time, it will be best if you register with your country’s embassy.

Peru travel can indeed become a worthwhile experience. Just make sure that you keep these important things in mind before traveling in order to have a more hassle-free stay.

Peru provides detailed information on Peru, Peru Travel, Peru Tours, Peru Weather and more. Peru is affiliated with History Of Portugal.

[tags]Peru Travel[/tags]