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Written by Rufus Elliott

Last summer I decided to fulfill a dream of travelling to Indonesia. The motivation was simple; Komodo Dragons. At one of the far reaches of the earth sits the islands of Komodo and Rinca, the two last places on earth that these prehistoric creatures can be found in the wild. The islands are sandwiched between Flores and Sumbawa in the South East of Indonesia.

After days of travel we arrived at the island of Flores, the launch pad for everything in Komodo National Park. We rented a room and hired a boat for the following day. Our destination; Rinca!

After a sleepless night, the excitement was too much; we rose early and set off through the astonishingly beautiful Komodo National Park. The whole environment looks alien because it is so volcanic. After a few hours we reached a rickety wooden jetty and began our trek to the village; a dragon hotspot. It seems these creatures have formed an uneasy truce; if they are fed regularly they remain docile otherwise accidents do happen! Only a few months previously a dragon had entered one of the huts and bitten one of the guides. Now this isn’t to say this can’t happen because you’re free to roam these islands at your leisure, with a guide. There are no cages and no fences so you could say it’s like safari but without the jeep. That’s what makes it even more special, that element of danger, though our guide assured us attacks are beyond rare.

As we made our way past large reptilian footprints, etched in the mud, volcanic mud bubbled all around. This really felt like a land before time. We reached a hut, registered our arrival, paid the obligatory donation to keep these islands protected, and we’re given a guide.

Thirty feet ahead our first dragon came into sight. Peering at us through the bushes it studied us for a minute then seemed to lose interest and walked off. The same can’t be said for us; we were ecstatic! Days upon days of travelling had brought us to their domain but not a single guide could promise we would even see one. Over the next 2 hours we saw 17 which is apparently a record. Either way, if I had just seen one I would have been happy because every single dragon was magnificent. They range from a few feet all the way to the gigantic 7 footers — an awe-inspiring sight, it really is like looking at a living dinosaur and at a creature that wouldn’t look out of place in a natural history museum.

Despite the expense and substantial stress that travelling through Indonesia generates (a two day journey takes four to five days, there is no concept of personal space and people seem more concerned with taking photos of westerners than thousand year old temples), I would do it all again with no hesitation. Indonesia is wonderful place. If you enjoy exploring in the true sense of the word,you enjoy rare creatures and you want to be one of what can only be a few thousand people, if that, to see these creatures in the wild, then this is a trip you cannot afford to miss!

Rufus Elliott is an Event Organiser for Chillisauce. He also runs the travel blog community Epic Traveller.

Written by Kimberly Juchnowski

One of my favorite things about living in Thailand is (you guessed it) Thai food. Known as one of the most distinct, delicious foods in the world, every single meal in Thailand is a culinary delight. I’ve written before about some of the more bizarre dishes I’ve tried out here, and they were strange plates indeed, but what really comes in handy in this climate is something cool and refreshing to drink.

When you come here, you’ll no doubt suck water down like it’s going out of style (as you should), and fruit shakes are every new traveler’s favorite treat — here, you can buy a fruit shake made from just about anything…from pineapple to mango to avocado.

But there are a few other refreshments to check out because, having drunk my share of all, I must confess they are too good to pass up.

1. Cha Yen (Thai Iced Tea)

While it is supposed to be “cha yen,” or cold tea, I find Thais understand me better if I pronounce it “chai yen.” A bright orange drink made from a strong black tea and sweet condensed milk, cha yen is extremely sweet. Just before handing your plastic cup or bag to you, the vendor pours evaporated milk or coconut milk over the top of the drink (as if it wasn’t sweet already).

Mix it up with your straw before you drink it or you’ll get mostly the strong black tea. It’s much like a dessert in a glass, and I admit I’ve been addicted to these Thai iced teas in the past—you can usually find them in Thai restaurants in North America, so you may get a chance to indulge before you come.

2. Chrysanthemum Tea

There’s another drink I loved for years before I figured out what it even was. I asked a few of my Thai friends but they didn’t know how to translate the name into English; all they could tell me is that it was made from flowers and was supposed to be really healthy (I had my doubts about that part because it was so sweet).

I finally did some searching around online and found out that this sweet drink was, indeed, made from flowers — a tea made by steeping chrysanthemums. I’m not sure what the Thais call it, but you will recognize it from the bright yellowish color. It is often served from large buckets, scooped out with a ladle and poured over ice.

And just as I was told, it is good for you — especially great for treating varicose veins, sore throat, and fever. It is also said to clear the liver (good to know in Thailand) and act as a healthy stimulant.

I haven’t tried the hot version yet, but it’s so good cold I can’t imagine it being anything but delicious this way.

3. Roasted Coconut

Coconuts have become one of my favorite drinks since I moved to Thailand, but not all coconuts are made equal. The roasted coconut is apparently cooked for a short period, as the name suggests which gives it an extremely sweet flavor and separates the flesh from the insides of the shell, so it’s easy to pull away and eat after you finish the juice.

To find them, look for the smaller coconuts (as they only roast the young, green ones) with the burn marks on them. I drink one every morning for breakfast. Coconuts are great for your immune system and actually help to burn fat. I’d probably even drink them if they tasted horrible for me – they’re that good. I’ve heard they are best when you roast them yourself and drink the juice while still warm.

4. Sweetened Soy Milk

Soy milk is another sweeter drink I enjoy out here. Sometimes I have one when my stomach is upset, though I haven’t really ascertained whether or not it helps (when you’ve got Bangkok gut, it might be all you can get down). I also drink them late at night sometimes before I settle in with a book.

The soy milk here seems a lot sweeter than the soy milk in North America. If you’re familiar with Mexican food, this drink kind of reminds me of a horchata, but not quite as sweet as that. You can find it in just about any stores, 7/11 or the small mom and pops’, in a glass bottle with red or black lettering.

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Having fell in love with travel back in 2006 when she spent 7 months overseas, Kimberly Juchnowski knew she had to find a way to stay on the road. This prompted her to start her own website, tikikiki.com where she blogs about everything from straightening out the misconception about Thai girls to what it’s like relocating  to the land of smiles and having to learn Thai.

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Now, though, golfers of all abilities are starting to venture further afield to take advantage of some of the best golfing facilities in the world. Tourism officials in Japan are currently going on a charm offensive to entice players to head to a country that has the potential to become a prominent destination for golf holidays.

Japan certainly has impressive credentials for anyone thinking of playing a round or two of golf while exploring this beautiful part of Asia. For starters, there are over 2,400 courses to pick from. Only America has more, to put that statistic into some perspective.

Peter Walton, the chief executive of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), told Travel Daily News:  “Japan is in a very lucky situation. It has a wonderful golf destination, but it’s totally undiscovered.

“It’s great value for money. Some of the best golf you’ll play anywhere in the world and such wonderful combinations with culture and environment and some of the best food and wine and sake you’ll ever have.”

He added: “There is a common perception that golf in Japan is expensive, but in fact, particularly in Hokkaido, the green fees vary enormously and perhaps most interesting of all is that the restaurants, bars and other commodities are reasonably priced and deliver a value for money that will pleasantly surprise many.”

It is thought that an English tea merchant by the name of Arthur Groom first introduced the concept of golf breaks into Japanese culture in the early 1900s with a group of friends.

A boom in popularity of the sport in the 1970s saw over 1,000 courses spring up and four decades later that figure has more than doubled.

It seems there has never been a better time to play golf in Japan.

Written by Suzie Saw

Borneo’s been in the news a lot in recent years – at least if you read articles that cover the line where industry meets ecology. Eco-tourism is increasingly seen as key to protecting endangered species, indigenous tribes and dwindling areas of jungle that might otherwise be chopped down to make room for crops or mass-tourism resorts. Wildlife holidays in Borneo, home to some of Earth’s oldest rainforest and most diverse marine habitats, not to mention those famous orangutans, are widely held up as the ultimate in eco-travel.

But any wildlife-enthusiast worth their salt knows that the “eco” tag is far too trendy to be completely reliable. It’s easy to colour your logo green and talk about how you’re “committed” to the idea of recycling, but that doesn’t mean you’re actually recycling anything yet. Tourism is just as notorious for damaging habitats as it is for protecting them. So is eco-tourism in Borneo really working, or is it just another trend?

The commodities industry and the eco-warriors are still tussling, and there are certainly examples of “animal encounters” being set up that really don’t benefit the animals at all. That said, an encouraging majority of Borneo’s travel industry is dedicated to preserving its habitats and wildlife. Admittedly this does make sense from a business point of view – many will only continue as long as it’s profitable – but this means
that, as travellers, we can vote with our wallets, especially if we choose the operators who pay more than just lip-service to the eco-trend. And with international governments co-operating too – particularly when it comes to protecting the Sea Turtle Marine Biodiversity Conservation Corridor, between Indonesia and Borneo – there’s every reason for hope.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Labuk Bay is a good reminder that Borneo isn’t just about orangutans, as amazing and important as they are. TheSanctuary’s owner originally bought this 400 acre stretch of rainforest for commercial development – it’s right next to an oil palm plantation. Once he learnt more about the area’s endangered Proboscis Monkeys, however, and realised how crucial his patch of land was to their survival, he turned it into a monkey sanctuary instead. It’s now home to a breeding population of around 60 Proboscis Monkeys, alongside numerous other species. Guests have every chance of encountering the monkeys, who visit the centre each day to collect fruit and water left out for them by resident ecologists.

Selingan Island Sea Turtles

Many of the tropical islands off Borneo’s north coast manage to combine luxury accommodation with marine ecology. The diving and snorkeling here is astonishing – amongst the world’s best — with a large, well-protected population of sea turtles and a great deal of attention paid to sustainable diving. Selingan Island errs more towards ecology than most. Accommodation is basic – no pampering here – but it does
boast the largest turtle conservation project of all the islands. Turtles come ashore in their thousands to lay eggs, and while guests are prohibited from accessing the beach while this takes place, you can accompany the rangers to witness an egg laying or a hatching.

Suzie Saw is a freelance travel writer who has totted the globe with her family as a teen and then decided to carry on that adventure as she became an adult. Seeing so many places and experiencing all the wonderful cultures has given Suzie a great outlook on life.

Tanjung Batu Beach in Bintulu, Malaysia © Ken Jordan

One of the most popular destinations in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, the island paradise of Penang attracts travelers from around the globe. With cheap international flights always available to most Asian nations it would be a shame not to take advantage of what Malaysia and Penang, in particular, has to offer.

Here are the top five, in my opinion, Penang attractions and tours.

Kek Lok Si

As the largest Buddhist temple in this part of Asia, Kek Lok Si is one attraction to see on your Penang travels. The temple is a combination of Burmese, Chinese and Thai architecture. Easily recognized by its towering pagoda, the temple continues to amaze travelers.

Snake Temple

If you look for free attractions, add the Snake Temple to your itinerary. The temple is home to a number of pit vipers. The snakes are said to be calmed by the temple’s burning incense. Only for the brave and adventurous.

Bukit Mertajam Recreational Park

Take a scenic tour of Penang’s jungles when you visit Bukit Mertajam Recreational Park. Along the way you will get an up-close look at exotic butterflies, ferns and other natural scenery. Numerous jungle tracks lead to the park’s forest region. Prepare to get exercise.

The Botanical Gardens

This free attraction is a fantastic destination to admire exotic and tropical plants. The Botanical Gardens also offer you the chance to see Rhesus monkeys.

Penang Night Tours

Make your nights even more exciting by taking an after-dark tour. A number of guides offer tours to the best eateries, historical sites and shopping venues. Most tours begin at the Gurney Drive Hawker Centre.

There is beauty underwater all over the world. But there’s only one place that Jacques Cousteau once called an “Untouched Piece of Art.” This place is the island of Sipadan, which has some of the most beautiful, rich and diverse coral and marine life in the world. But it is not heard of by many. However, as many diving experts will tell you, among the diving community, Sipadan is known by everyone. It is so well known and admired among those that explore the ocean’s depths, it is one of the top diving destinations in the world. What might attract you to explore this island are the incredible and unusual marine life sightings. And when you’re not diving below the water, you can enjoy spying one of the most diverse and wondrous bird populations of the world.

Flickr credit by Dave Bluck

Sipadan, an island off the coast of Malaysia in the Sulu Sea, offers divers crystal blue water and visibility depths of between 50 to over 130 feet (15 to over 40 meters). There are thousands of species of fish swimming amongst both hard and soft pristine coral. As the operator of a diving company, it is a joy for me to bring divers down to experience the explosion of color and marine wonderment such as enjoying the abundance of turtles that swim and lounge around the island. There are four species of turtles on the island: the leatherback, the olive ridley, Hawksbill and the Green turtle. The Green turtle can grow to be four feet long and is considered to be a lucky find if sighted on the island.The olive ridley turtle was named for the olive color of its heart-shaped shell and is interesting among the turtles because it is the smallest, only about two feet long and 80 to 110 pounds (35 to 50 kg). All of the turtle species on the island are endangered, yet they appear to be so plentiful in Sipadan. Diving companies will guarantee that you will see a turtle during each dive. Except for the Green turtle, the other turtles seem to always be around. And they are often curious and friendly with divers.

Beneath the crystalline waters, a wide, colorful palette of species swim around the island that is only 0.5 km long, 200 meters wide and can be walked in about 25 minutes. During a diving excursion you might encounter hammerheads, reef sharks, sting rays, the elusive whale shark, trevalys, giant bumphead parrotfish, as well as the plentiful and pretty nudibranchs. Dependable favorites await in schools, such as thousands of trevallies and barracuda. It is a celebratory moment when the rare napoleon wrasse, grouper, or puffer fish are seen because it is testimony to the wishful thinking that not all have been eaten or fished out of the seas. An explosion of color follows schools of tiny fish like the anthias, damselfish, cardinalfish and blennies. A curious and slow-moving diver might spot the many crustaceans, eels, and stonefish that are more on the shy side.

The “Drop Off” dive site by dachalan

Setting a complimentary backdrop to the island’s fish, are the glorious coral, such as the large Gorgonion fans, sea whips and feather stars. Not only are the coral structures fascinating, but the marine caves are equally intriguing. The island is known to have the largest variety of soft coral in the world. Along with this comes beautiful coral fishes. But be careful, sometimes a shark might swim by. Or a barracuda! The much friendlier turtles abound in a place called Turtle Cavern. In order to get to the cavern a diver must go to one of the best beach dive sites in the world, appropriately named “Drop Off.” A mere 20 feet (5 meters) from shore, a wall plunges a dazzling 2,800 ft (850 meters). The wall is encrusted with a wide variety of coral. Living on this wall are plenty of lionfish andsmaller reef fish. The entrance to Turtle Cavern is 70 ft (21 meters) down along the wall. Turtles swim in and out of the cavern and along the wall. The cavern can be difficult to navigate and there is now a rule that all divers must be accompanied by a resort operator in order to explore the cave, assome divers have not made it out. A deep penetration into the cave will reveal a species of fish specifically adapted to low light depths of the ocean.

Soft coral by danielguip

As a diver you need to be aware of your surroundings and not handle the coral. Reckless divers and snorkelers have caused some coral damage. Also, surrounding boats and large diving groups have stirred up silt and sediment. This can actually choke and suffocate coral polyps. The Sipadan reef was also hurt by a powerful tropical storm named Greg which destroyed some shallower parts of the reef. This part of the reef has not recovered, especially with the addition of increased water temperatures from global warming. In 2006 the reef took an even heavier blow when a barge completely wiped out delicate corals between the pier and a popular island dive site called Barracuda Point. These incidents provide a good reminder on how fragile the corals and sealife can be.

As if there isn’t enough beauty below the waves, Sipadan is also known as a wondrous place for bird watching and was even designated a bird sanctuary. Bird watchers can observe 47 different species of birds, including a plentitude of frigates, sea eagles, terns, and kingfishers that glide across the small island. Sipadan also serves as an integral stopover point for migratory birds like the greater sand plover, common sandpiper, wood sandpiper, as well as the Nicobar pigeon which flies from China during the colder times of year. An interesting bird on the island that makes use of its kill in a practical way is the kingfisher which nests in holes. These holes, however, are lined with fish bones which the bird uses after it has eaten. Kingfishers are unique, exotic looking birds that are brightly colored and feature short legs and tails, big heads, and long, powerful beaks. Their diets consist of small vertebrates, insects, and fish. The sound of their cry has been compared to a cackle. Although the island is no longer open to visitors for animal exploration, serious bird watchers might want to take a short boat trip from a nearby island and observe from the designated areas near the Sipadan’s jetty.

Sipadan Water Village by findiver

The Malaysian government is working hard to protect the wildlife and marine life of Sipadan. In the past there had been five resorts along the north side of the island. But in 2002 the government closed the hotels and diving sites to protect the environment. Sipadan was nearly destroyed in the 1990s partly because the diving industry converged too heavily on the tiny island. Visitors cannot stay in Sipadan. So, if you plan to visit, you must stay in nearby Mabul or Semporna and take a minutes-long boat ride to Sipadan. Sipadan sits amongst a group of islands that all provide access. An hours long boat ride can also be taken from Mataking and Pompong. The island is also referred to as Pulau Sipadan. According to locals, the island is pronounced Siparan. Many years ago, it is said, a person named Siparan from Sempurna Island collected green turtle eggs. People began calling the island Siparan after this man. The name has stuck with locals to this day, but the official government name is Sipadan.

If you plan on visiting Sipadan for some diving or bird watching, get ready to be amazed by the pristine marine environment. It takes planning and dedication to make it to Sipadan, but what it has to offer puts it on many a “best-of” list which should then put it on many a “must-do” list. Sipadan might grow in fame throughout the years as it becomes more discovered, but it’s good to know the beautiful coral, fish and birds will always be well protected and ready to enjoy.

Jacob Mojiwat is passionate about sharing the wonders of scuba diving with others. He is the owner of AsiaDivingVacation.com. His dive company takes divers diving in Sipadan as well to other beautiful Asian dive destinations.

The Maldives © Luca Biagiotti

Written By Chic Retreats

The Maldives is a haven for snorkellers and scuba divers, with its abundance of coral and sea life. Its beaches and hotels don’t disappoint either.

Where Is It?

The Maldives is a group of over 1000 coral islands, set in the Indian Ocean, off the south west coast of India. The tiny islands are dotted in a string heading south and they provide a peaceful, if expensive getaway for the traveller in search of quiet relaxation.

Where Can I Stay?

It’s hard to beat the perfect combination of wide, white sandy beaches, perfect blue seas and tropical sun, and most hotels in the Maldives make the most of their surroundings by offering guests access to the beach direct from their rooms, or creating romantic areas for dinner and drinking. Boutique hotels go a step further than this by creating a cool, contemporary feel that makes guests feel right at home, whilst anticipating their every need, so that a simple holiday really does become a paradise for its duration. On the Ari Atoll lies the most exclusive hotel in the island group, the Dhoni Mighili. This stunning hotel sleeps just twelve people and guests arrive either by luxury speedboat, private plane or romantic Dhoni. A butler sees to your every need. Eat, drink and sleep to your own schedule and make the most of every minute. Or, if the North Male Atoll is more to your taste, the Hufaven Fushi is a decadent boutique hotel just 25 minutes by speedboat from the Male’ International Airport. Relax by your private pool, because there’s only your villa and one other on the whole complex. If you want a candlelit dinner on the beach, just say so. Truly indulgent, but worth every penny.

What Can I See?

The islands that make up the Maldives are all small and you can island hop between some of them. Many people come for the diving and snorkelling, but it may be worthwhile taking a trip to Male, the capital city, where markets, mosques and small shops may bring you back to reality. Otherwise, just take in the beauty of the coastlines and the ocean from your boutique retreat and soak up the sun.

How Do I Get Around?

Only some of the islands fall within the heavily regulated tourist zone, which the Government has imposed to prevent destruction of natural landscapes and villages. If you want to move between permitted islands, then you can fly or use a dhoni or speedboat. Most islands, however, are small enough to walk or bike round easily.

The Maldives might be exclusive, but if you have the time and you’re prepared to indulge yourself, then there’s nowhere better to go.

Chic Retreats is a collection of small, sophisticated hotels around the world that offer the traveller a true taste of luxury and service. Visit their website now by clicking on Boutique Hotels.

Article Source: travelarticlelibrary.com

Written by Kimberly Juchnowski

Chiang Mai is certainly one of the most beautiful cities in Thailand. There’s just something about it that makes you never want to leave. Possibly the best time to visit the city is during the magical celebration Loy Krathong, also know as the lantern festival. It takes place from November 1st to November 3rd but you can see lanterns floating in the skies all over Thailand even a couple weeks before it starts. I was in Pai towards the end of October and saw at least a few dozen lanterns floating up into the night’s sky.

Even though it’s one of the most recognized holidays in Thailand it’s a little hard to understand what it’s really about or who it honors. There are a few different theories on the origin but the one thing everyone seems to agree on is that it is about washing away your bad luck and misfortunes. Every year tens of thousands of candles are sent down the rivers in floats and even more lanterns are released into the sky. There is a strong belief that lives are ruled by the power of good and bad luck in Thai culture. When the Thais send these candles down the rivers and lanterns into the sky they believe it will bring them good luck in the new year. Any bad luck from the past year is washed away with the beautiful drifting lights.

The lanterns are made out of paper with a wire that circles around the base. In the center is a good size, donut shaped candle. You unfold the lantern, then hold a lighter to the candle in the middle until it lights, which can take a pretty long time. Once it is lit, you hold the top of the lantern letting it fill up with the hot air from the candle. Once the lantern is good and full you will feel it start to rise and then you release it into the air and hope it flies. I say “hope” because you never know how the wind will shift things. I’ve seen lantern get stuck in power lines, stuck to the side of buildings, and even collide with other lanterns and come down on people. Sometimes the wax drips down from the candle just after its taken off and can sting a bit when it lands on you, nothing too crazy to worry about though. It’s actually pretty funny to see how lax people are about the safety when having 5000 people launching these very flammable objects into the air.

It does get a little hairy though when the fireworks get involved. The Thai people love their fireworks and during Loy Krathong a lot of people seem to think it’s a good idea to attach the fireworks to the lanterns and send them firing off into the sky. Fun to watch. As long as you aren’t anywhere near them. A lot of people actually get injured during the festival due to the lack of concern for safety. You’ll even see locals throwing firecrackers at the feet of the tourists. Of course it’s all in jest and they do not mean any harm, but it is still pretty startling and can make some people feel pretty unwelcome. If you happen to be in Thailand in November try to make your way to Chiang Mai during the festival. It is without a doubt the best place to experience Loy Krathong. The city comes to life with parades, partiers, and families all flooding the streets to participate in a few magical days.

Kimberly Juchnowski first fell in love with travel three years ago when she went on a seven month tour across five countries. She blogs regularly about Thailand packages and is always looking to find the best Thailand travel deals and share them through her site tikikiki.com.

Written by Amy Covington

You’ve seen the Expedia.com commercials with the couple in the beachside bungalow with mosquito nets… and the thought of going on vacation to stay in a tent gives you the creepy crawlies already. Not to worry, you won’t need a sleeping bag and a bottle of Off! for this exotic vacation. When was the last time you stayed in an air-conditioned, 790 square-foot tent with wooden floors, embroidered interior canopies, private gardens, outside deck for sunbathing, king size four-poster bed, freestanding rolltop bath and separate shower? And just to make sure you don’t feel like you’re “roughing it,” your tent comes with a DVD player and minibar.

It’s seems contradictory that the words “luxury” be used to describe a tent but at the Oberoi Vanyavilas, located between the Aravali and the Vindhya mountain ranges in South-Eastern Rajasthan, India, the concept is far from novel. Nestled among 20 acres of landscaped gardens, lemon and mango trees, and lakes and fountains, are 25 tents, bordering on one of the most extraordinary wildlife reserves in the world, Ranthambore National Park and Tiger Reserve, which is home to the majestic Indian tiger, as well as deer, leopard, and crocodile.

Now, before you think that this is an isolated retreat, consider the fine dining options and extensive spa services available. In the Dining Room and Inner Courtyard, Executive Chef Saurav Banerjee and Indian Master Chef Arjun Singh Yadava present an impressive spread of Western, Thai and Indian cuisine from a revolving menu. The exquisitely decorated restaurant features hand painted frescoes of flowers and animals by the celebrated miniaturist Mohan Singh Kumawat. Outside is the walled terrace of the Inner Courtyard which is lit at night by a massive log fire (camp fire songs optional).

As with any quality resort, there is a spa, where you’ll find steam rooms, showers and private therapy suites and a long menu of spa treatments, massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. Try the stimulating Indian Spice Wrap and a delicious Orange Wrap. All the massage and aromatherapy treatments are aimed at relieving stress and promoting a deep sense of relaxation and wellbeing. And for fitness buffs who can’t miss a workout, there is an exercycle, rowing machine, steppers and a treadmill, as well as an outdoor heated pool.

Amy’s passion is writing about the good things in life: food, wine, fashion, and travel. Her writing credits include Downtown San Francisco Magazine, Dining Out San Diego Magazine, among many others, as well as numerous consumer and luxury websites such as www.justluxe.com and www.luxeescapes.com Her guest post was originally published at the travelarticlelibrary.com

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

Written by Lyndsey Biddle

Previously called Calcutta during the days of Britain’s colonization of India, Kolkata is one of the largest cities in India and has a deep and rich history plus a number of worthwhile sites and shows for visitors to enjoy. The city has been the making of many historical figures such as Nobel Laureate, writer and poet Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray who wrote and directed numerous films. The city is also said to be the cultural hub of India with numerous theatre performances, musical programs, art galleries and a variety of other daily cultural events.

If architecture fascinates you, the northern/north central area of the city offers a number of well-preserved British Era style buildings. You can get to this area from the subway. Getting off at Central station will place you right in the center of preserved British Kolkata. You can also plan a walk from Esplanade metro station toward Central station. By going along this route you will go past New Market, which is the largest indoor market in the city, the place to buy virtually anything you might possibly desire from clothes to electronics to puppies.

It is easy to lose yourself at New Market as the aisle-ways lead all over the place, forcing you to constantly guess whether you should turn left or right, go straight, or return to where you came from. Also, the coolies, the local word for porters, could drive you crazy if you don’t remain calm. The coolies will follow you throughout the market, trying to lead the way and help carry your items. If you want their help you can simply offer a small tip when you finish shopping. If you don’t want their help, tell them so and go on about your day. Be prepared though, they will still follow your every step whether you like it or not.

If the buzz of New Market sounds is too much for your tastes, consider visiting some of Kolkata’s many art galleries. You can find a vast assortment of art showrooms and exhibitions in this city including a number of small galleries featuring anything from photography to painting. Take a look at Seagull Gallery on Mukherjee Road, very close to Kalighat metro at the intersection of S.P. Mukherjee Road and Rash Behari Avenue. The gallery is small but offers a good variety of shows and public viewings.

As India’s capital of culture, Kolkata offers something that will inspire and entertain every variety of traveler. If live performances are something you are more interested in, be sure to visit Rabindra Sadan at Rabindra Sadan metro station. There are always new programs going on here, from traditional dancing to music performances to plays.

Lyndsey writes for Briefcases Direct, a website that offers luxury briefcases directly from the manufacturer. Lyndsey is currently living in Kolkata, India and studying the Bengali language in her free time.

Written by Danielle Lanth

The islands of Thailand offer many exotic and entertaining cultural attractions, events and festivals. From family friendly events, to those that primarily cater to adults – there are plenty of attractions located in Thailand to keep travellers entertained for the duration of their stay.

The preferred time of year among travellers to experience Thailand’s islands tends to be late September through to January. During this period, the weather starts out quite hot (but rainy), and ends warm and dry. September-January is also when all the fun and action takes place on the islands.

Travelling to and From the Islands

Since the islands all lie along the Thai coast – that is, there are none out in the open sea – travel between the islets is easily accomplished by ferry or long-tail boat, although a chartered long-tail boat is generally the preferred option as it allows you to negotiate a price with the captain and enjoy reliable transportation to more than one island.

Festivals

No visit to Thailand’s islands would be complete without visiting some of its famed festivals. During the September-January period, some of the festivals you can experience include the Elephant Roundup (a favourite festival of the northeast region), the Vegetarian Festival in the Phuket Province, Buffalo Fighting on Ko Samui, Elephant Trekking in Mu Ko Chang Marine National Park, the Loy Krathong National Festival (focuses on the Thailand waterways), the Phimai Festival in the Phimai Province, and the Birthday of his Majesty the King. And of course, there’s also the infamous Moon Party – an all night beach party that occurs on the first night of every full moon.

Beaches

Once you’ve enjoyed Thai life through its myriad of festivals and events, you’ll definitely want to check out some of the areas pristine beaches. If you have a penchant for diving you should definitely head to the Similan Islands. Located off southern Thailand, Similan Islands National Park offers keen divers some elite diving spots, such as Elephant Head Rock — named as such due to three large boulders that emerge above the water and resemble an elephant. Richelieu Rock is another recommended and popular diving hotspot, and is considered among divers to be the best place in Thailand to witness some of the country’s incredible sea wildlife – Manta Rays and Whale Sharks are a common site to behold here.

Phuket Beach

In addition to the Similian Islands, another favourite destination in the south of Thailand is Pattaya Beach. Be prepared for crowds here, as the Pattaya Bay area is particularly busy, second only to Bangkok for the number of visitors at any one time. Pattaya is also home to The Sanctuary of Truth, a monolith wooden structure dedicated to hand-carved religious art. The Sanctuary focuses on the teachings of Buddha and his message of enlightenment.

There is also a selection of islands to the west of Thailand, some of which are certainly worth checking out. Ko Tao, or “Turtle Island”, offers more diving and snorkelling choices. Less developed than some of the more popular spots, Ko Tao is fast becoming a favourite among outdoor adventurers. In addition to the diving and snorkelling in this area, boulder climbing is also a popular activity.

If you are travelling with your family and would prefer to stay closer to Bangkok, head to Ko Samet. This islet is a popular destination among both residents of Bangkok and its tourists, and allows for a quiet weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. The islet is host to more than one beach, but by far the most popular is Hat Sai Kaeo, also referred to as “Diamond Beach”. If you are looking for a perfect, white-sand beach during your stay in Thailand, then look no further.

Of course, the greatest way to experience the islands of Thailand is to simply discover them for yourself. If you arrive on an island and cannot find what you are looking for, simply head to the next one. Explore the islands and see what you can find!

Danielle Lanth is a freelance writer who enjoys writing for a variety of travel and cooking websites. Danielle’s family first visited Thailand after taking advantage of one of the cheap flights to Bangkok that spring up from time to time, and now makes a point of visiting the country every few years. Her family personally recommends the street food and markets.

Written by Keiya Utsumi

The quintessential eastern capital, Tokyo is overwhelming, and first-time visitors expecting an Asian version of New York City are in for a surprise. There’s a kind of commercial energy and enthusiasm here that you won’t find anywhere else, and it’s best to just surrender yourself to the smash high fashion, neon lights and pop culture that pervade the central districts.

Visitors are subject to the urge to do too much, but there’s a kind of sublime undercurrent in Tokyo for those who slow it down and absorb the entire scene in pieces. You’ll find Shinto down alleys behind your hotel; wood-block prints that hint at modern Manga; and, occasionally, a traditional wooden home stuck sideways into a side-street neighborhood.

A Day in the Life

It’s hard to do justice to this city of 12 million people in a single day. If you’re feeling ambitious, plan on getting up well before sunrise.

Tsukiji Fish Market is a good place to start, in part because it’s teeming with life long before the rest of Tokyo has started the daily commute. Daily auctions start at 04:30. After you’ve seen enough, sample the freshest sushi you’ve ever had at an onsite restaurant like Daiwa Sushi or Sushi Dai.

Later in the morning, you might embark on a Sumida River cruise or take a walk through the traditional neighborhoods of Nakamise Dori. Pick up a few inexpensive gifts at the pedestrian market and then walk on to Sensoji Temple. This 7^th-century temple welcomes 20 million devotees each year.

From here, you’ll need to make use of Tokyo’s brilliant public transportation. You may visit the Imperial Palace or Meiji shrine, or skip the sightseeing altogether and head over to Ginza’s up-market shopping complexes.

Best of the Rest

Spend a few days in Tokyo, and the city really starts to open up. Part of the joy of living here is the occasional glimpse into traditional life. Begin this quest at the Edo-Tokyo Museum, which follows the journey from 16^th-century Edo to 21^st-century Tokyo.

After a day or two in Tokyo, a lot of visitors like to explore the surrounding area by day, retiring to the dining and clubbing districts of downtown Tokyo after dark. Kamakura was capital of feudal Japan the 12^th century, and its beaches, shrines and temples make for a great escape from the city.

Mount Fuji

Another solid daytrip destination is Mt Fuji, looming more than 3,700 meters over the cityscape. Visit Hakone National Park and do some hiking around Fuji, whether it’s a leisurely stroll in the lowlands or an ambitious hike to higher ground.

But you don’t have to scale Mt Fuji for sweeping panoramas of Tokyo. Tokyo Tower is 333 meters tall, and it operates two observation decks. Other buildings like the World Trade Centre have a similar setup.

Hidden Gems

Traditional Japanese bathhouses (sento) were once central to local communities. These days, private apartment units have their own baths, and community sentos have lost a little ground. If you have even the slightest interest in taking a traditional soak in a bathhouse, look around the community where you’re based, or ask the hotel staff. Some sentos separate genders, while a few allow mixed bathing. It’s supposed to be a soak, not a bath, so make sure you’re clean before getting in. You’re likely to need your own towel, too.

Accommodation

Hotels in Tokyo are clean and safe, and nearly all of them offer spot-on service. The trade-off, if one exists, is size. Rooms are necessarily small, especially those that are remotely affordable.

Hotels in Tokyo are also universally new. You won’t find many historic inns housed in 16^th-century houses, though it’s possible to book a room in an atmospheric hotel that at least carries on those old-world traditions. This kind of colloquial atmosphere is available in mid-range hotels throughout the central districts.

The cheapest hotels are in outlying districts and aren’t always convenient. In many cases, the money you save by taking yourself out of the city center isn’t worth the time (or added expense) of commuting to sightseeing districts everyday.

First-time visitors are surprised to learn that ‘budget’ accommodation still costs a hundred dollars or more per night. Any indignation quickly wears off when you see the truly deluxe hotels in key districts like Shinjuku or Shibuya. With lots of space and a full set of five-star amenities, rooms in these giants cost three to four times as much.

View from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Tokyo at Night

If you arrived in Tokyo by day, you’re in for a surprise. What looks to be drab, urban jungle transforms into a wash of colors and neon lights after dark. One of the world’s most talked-about night scenes is here, but it’s not focused in any one district. Choose from every kind of themed bar you could imagine, along with dance clubs, swanky lounges, hostess and geisha clubs and beer gardens.

Roppongi is the rowdiest night scene, popular with tourists and young Japanese. A few expatriate communities are located on the fringes of Roppongi, so there’s plenty of international restaurants and a few quieter pockets of activity where people that live here go for drinks and conversation. Tokyo’s red-light district is north of Shinjuku Station in Kabuki-cho.

The other major night scene is Shibuya, where affordable watering holes attract office workers and students. The really posh scene is in Ginza, with its fine-dining restaurants, executive hostess clubs and sophisticated performance venues.

Retail Therapy

Cats, cats and more cats

If there is anywhere that could truly claim shopping as its ‘national pastime’, then there’s no question Tokyo would be at the helm. Cutting-edge electronics, up-to-the-minute fashions and traditional folk art are favorite purchases. Be advised that, while many of the gadgets you buy at home were conceived in this city, they’re not necessarily any cheaper here. Some of the best purchases for visitors are antiques and handicrafts at the Oriental Bazaar.

Ginza is a dazzling and up-market commercial district. Dozens of department stores and designer boutiques are here. It’s popular with the moneyed and mature, especially on Sunday when the streets are only open to pedestrians. Harajuku caters to teenagers with its colorful, sometimes bizarre, fashions, while nearby Omotesando draws in their parents with designer boutiques.

Getting There & Away

Tokyo’s Narita International Airport is one of the most important transport junctions in the world. It operates two terminals and offers every traveler service imaginable. Haneda Airport is closer to town and only operates domestic services.

Tokyo is connected to other cities in Japan by train. The network of railways and carriers is admittedly daunting for first-time users, but clear English signage takes some of the stress out of traveling. Shinjuku and Shibuya both have major railway stations.

Getting Around

Tokyo’s metro is an attraction in itself, and it covers more ground than any mass transit system in the world. The above-ground Yamanote Line circles the city center, while a labyrinth of subway lines connect to stations across the interior. If you plan to make the most of Tokyo’s excellent public transport, consider purchasing a discount ticket like the ‘Holiday Pass’. It’s only available on weekends and national holidays, but allows unlimited access to practically every mode of transport in the metropolitan area.

Otherwise, passengers buy a prepaid card that can be recharged when needed. If your card runs out of credit while you’re in transit (i.e. the trip costs more than you thought), you can pay the difference when you exit.

Keiya Utsumi works with remedial children in a specially designed school in Tokyo. He believes he and his colleagues make a big difference in the lives of the children and the parents. His spare time is taken up with his family, painting, writing and reading.

This guest post was originally published at Asian Correspondent.