asiaexoticplaces

My Short Trip to Hanoi , Vietnam

2012-07-10T08:57:00.001-07:00

My 3 Nights in Hanoi, Vietnam

It’s the end of June and I am now spending 2 nights in the city of Hanoi, Vietnam – a city that is still trapped with the nostalgic feeling and reminders of the yester years.

My 2 nights stay was in Crown Plaza, West Hanoi, a very good hotel at the price of USD 91 that comes with breakfast. The breakfast was good, a mix of the Asian with the west and of course, the Vietnamese. It is not exactly in the center of the City, for it is near to where I need to spend my time.

The room is superb, thrown in with WIFI, although I did not manage to make it to use although I managed to sign on the network. I was told subsequently that perhaps using the cable to connect direct to the port, I would be able to use it.

Opposite is the supermarket, house in the ThienSon Plaza, and over the other end, a couple of food court where you can try out the local food.

For dinner, I was lucky and been able to savour the local flavours at the Restaurant Spectacle hidden with the lanes of the city where local and western food flows along with wine and liquor. Service was good with the waitresses trying to explain what the dishes are and how to savour them with their hard to understand accent. There were plenty of the variety starters to go with the main course. I chose the Lobster which was well served, my all time favorite.

In between time, I managed to squeeze in some time to wander off to a place the local call the Old Quarter with its adjacent “Hoan Kiem Lake …”, another amazing maze of back lanes of shop houses, shops selling all sorts of branded product, shoes, handbags, luggages, etc…

The 2^nd night dinner was at a Vegetarian Restaurant, again a small outfit tugged into the narrow maze of lanes of the city center… they called it the Kim Ma area. The food was good, and for all 9 our us hugh guys, the bill came to about USD50. What more do you ask for?

Venetian Resort, Macau

2012-04-28T22:13:00.000-07:00

My Trip to Venetian , Macau Uploaded with ImageShack.us Macau, a place well known for its casinos, its good food, beautiful girls and a gateway into China. No wonder, it is appropriately know as the Casino City in Asia. Like they say, a place to wine, dine and entertainment. Uploaded with ImageShack.us Today Macau is a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, and, like Hong Kong, benefits from the principle of "one country, two systems". The tiny SAR is growing in size - with more buildings on reclaimed land - and in the number and diversity of its attractions. The greatest of these continues to be Macau's unique society, with communities from the East and West complementing each other, and the many people who come to visit. Uploaded with ImageShack.us As someone might put it “I don't think that is possible to stay in better and bigger room for such a price anywhere in the world. The whole hotel is breathtaking. I wish I can go there again soon” Uploaded with ImageShack.us Another extreme would put it “Worst hotel experience I've ever had from check-in to check-out. Bottom line is there are too many people here, and the management and staff are unable to accommodate the needs of the individual traveler. This is an assembly line factory experience. From check in you are forced to check in your bags first then stand in line at another check” I would agree with both of these comments, as both my wife and I were caught in similar situations like this. The hotel resort is superb, 5 star amenities with very beautiful and extremely spacious room. My wife and I were very excited as we landed on their international airport, and eagerly find our way to their Coach service just short walking distance from the terminal exit. It was sort of a holiday season. And so, when we reached the hotel we were disappointed to find out that we need to follow a long line to get checked in. Greeted by a crowded reception instead of a warm welcome, we made our way to the concierge to leave our luggage so that we do not have to wait around. Instead, we can start to move around and come back to check-in at a later time. We couldn't complain though with our room. It was very big, more of like one bedroom apartment split level with large sitting room, and a clear view towards Hard Rock hotel.. It has all the amenities that you would need (very comfortable lounge, TV, Fridge, Coffee Maker, Fax), the huge bathroom with your own bathtub, sala set, dining table, etc and etc. We love the environment and our room. The food selection during breakfast (which by the way was included in the room rate that we have paid) was great! For USD300 a night with breakfast thrown in plus the theatre show for 2, who would complained. For breakfast, we had 3 different restaurants to choose from. Uploaded with ImageShack.us The resort hotel provides a free shuttle bus to the heart of the city (airport and other areas in Macau) and we took advantage on this to drop us at the SANDS Hotel and casino and from there, took the cab to the city center which is only a short distance anyway. Uploaded with ImageShack.us So our trip to the Venetian Hotel, is actually a trip to all other Hotel/Casinos in Macau as well. As we went to the SANDS, Hard Rock, Grand, Palace the LISBOA, the WYNN and others. Uploaded with ImageShack.us Then, there is this Saint Paul Ruin, the icon of the Macau city. Macau is quite a small city if I can call it one, but it is really a Casino City so after this trip, it would probably be a long long time before I would come this way again. Uploaded with ImageShack.us All in all, it is a very good, enjoyable trip and money well spent for me and my wife.

Stone Forest Shilin, Yunnan China

2012-04-04T06:52:00.006-07:00

My Visit to the Stone Forest in Yunnan, China

Stone Forest Icon
It has always marvel me to go on a trip to China, a country that has so much to offer. My trip to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, brought me to the infamous World Natural Heritage : Stone Forest of Yunnan, China.

The Stone Forest of Yunnan has been inscribed upon the World Hertitage List of the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. Inscription on this List confirms the outstanding universal value of a cultural or natural property which deserves protection for the benefit of all humanity.

The Stone Forest is known as "One of Earth's Natural Wonders". All visitors to Kunming from home and abroad never hesitate to come here to admire the unique scenes formed by the stones. The Stone Forest is located in Shilin County, 85 kilometres southeast of Kunming. Covering a few hundred square kilometres, stone peaks rise abruptly from the ground in numerous layers like bamboo shoots, forests and pagodas.

The Stone Forest enjoys great fame among tourists all over, not only because the region features a consistently warm climate, but also thanks to its wonderful scenic vistas and landscapes. Among the most dramatic of these attractions is the Stone Forest (Shilin), known since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 A.D.) as the 'First Wonder of the World.'

.The Stone Forest is in Lunan Yi Nationality Autonomous County, which is about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Kunming and requires only a three-hour drive. It covers an area of 400 square kilometers (96,000 acres) and includes both large and small stone forests, as well as many other scenic spots. An old local saying says that 'If you have visited Kunming without seeing the Stone Forest, you have wasted your time.' Truly, the Stone Forest is one of the most important attractions of Yunnan.
It is refreshing to walk through the Stone Forest, and marvel at the natural stone masterpieces and are bewitched by the intricate formations. The magnificent, strange and steep landscape creates countless labyrinthine vistas, unique formations.

Among all the scenic spots in the Stone Forest, the rock of Ashima in the Small Stone Forest is the most famous. The rock of Ashima resembles a girl of the Sani people, a branch of the Yi ethnic group, with a kerchief on her head, and a bamboo basket on her back. The shape and expression are both surprisingly lifelike. Ashima was a beautiful girl in a Sani folk tale. She is a symbol of the hope for freedom to choose who to marry, and a happy life for the Sani people. This is a story of a young couple who fall in love, but cannot marry each other. It was first written down in the 1940s and performed in Kunming. It has been published several times, and was filmed in the 1960s. The national dance drama "Ashima" is on the list of the top Chinese dances in the 20th century

Admission Fee: CNY 140 (including Major Stone Forest, Minor Stone Forest, Naigu Stone Forest, Wannianlingzhi Scenic Area, Bushao Mountain and Liziyuanqing Scenic Area)

Allowed for 2 to3 hours for a Visit

Opening Hours: 08:30 to 18:00

Transportation: Kunming East Coach Station (at the East 3rd Ring Road area) has regular buses to Stone Forest. The frequency is 20-30 minutes in peak season and about 40 minutes in low season.
Beside the entrance of Stone Forest, there are regular buses to Naigu Stone Forest Scenic Area every 40 minutes.

Front Scenery of Stone Forest: As soon as one enters the Stone Forest scenic area, a crystal-clear lake comes into focus. By the east lakeside, rise from the water a good array of fantastic stone pinnacles, pillars, shoots, and stalactites, resembling a natural potted scenery. A few hundred steps beyond the lake, there is a pool with a huge boulder in the shape of a squatting lion. Hence it's given the name of "Lion Pool". Further on, a couple of tall limestones block the way like a green screen.

Greater Stone Forest: Inside the sea of Stone Forest, one feels as if were in a bizarre fairyland. The stone formations standing still resemble a variety of things such as ancient fortresses, birds, beasts, flowers, trees, human beings, and whatever else one can imagine.

Lesser Stone Forest: It adjoins the Greater Stone Forest, and has large lawns, lush growth of bamboos and trees as well as mountain flowers in Spring and Autumn. Most fantastic are "The Cluster of Pinnacles Propping up the Sky" and "The Stone Singing Praises of Plums".

Outer Stone Forest: It's gifted with myriad of stone peaks of various shapes. The Lion Hill resembles a squatting male lion on a height.

Posted by : Ivan

My Weekend at TITI ECO Farm

2010-05-30T07:08:00.000-07:00

A One Day Trip at an ECO Farm

Over the weekend, my wife & I joined some of my colleagues to visit an ECO Farm Resort at the TIT ECO Farm, some 150 KM from Kuala Lumpur. You can approach it from either the Hulu Langat way or via Seremban town.

I started the trip at 7.15 am, and reaching Seremban was easy via the Seremban Highway, and more so on a Sunday morning, traffic was a breeze. From Seremban town to this TITI ECO Farm via the Kuala Pilah route and turning into the Kuala Kelawang, Jelebu way for another about 45 Km and finally reaching the place almost 10.00 am.

Posted by:
Ivan

Vacation at the Land below the Wind

2009-12-31T08:23:00.000-08:00

My Weekend Vacation at the Sutera Harbour, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Recently, I had the opportunity to stay the weekend over at the Sutera Harbour Hotel, Kota Kinabalu. The place is fantastic for a quiet weekend with love ones, plus the abundance of many good and fresh seafood.

Sabah is the 2nd largest state in Malaysia, situated at the northern part of the island of Borneo, the 3rd largest island in the world. Known as "The Land Below the Wind", the state is rich in natural beauty and resources and also the cultural diversity and heritage of its people.

a) 5 star accommodation at the Pacific Sutera Hotel. Recommended, although the Magellan Sutera would seemed a better choice.

There is a beautify golf course just fronting the hotel. Good for golf enthusiast to play a round.

For the night, it is better to walk a short distance over to the lounge at the Magellan Sutera Harbour hotel where the ambience and music by 3 young local men is much better to the crowd.

The Pool facilities are also excellent, just next to the harbour.

The beautiful harbour was filled with many yatch, perhaps reflecting many rich locals.

b) Shopping is very convenient, just hopping onto the hourly shuttle from the hotel to the business center in less than 5 minutes.

Beachfront at the town centre.

Shopping Malls are big and plenty to shop. Good amenities at shopping malls, crowded at most places.

At the Central Market, one can find a lot of the local product at cheap prices.

After a tiring long walk and shopping, this is an appropriate place to stop to relax the body and your leg. A good massage at reasonable price.

C) When it comes to food, there is so much of fresh seafood to choose from. There are also many restaurants, apart from local ones, quite a number are branded eateries brought to the local.

A good restaurant to find fresh seafood

Cultural performance is also provided in one of the better class restaurant

Hope you can experience some of the above.

Posted by
Ivan

Beautiful Scenes in China

2009-09-11T22:11:00.000-07:00

Holiday in China - Wuzhen, Henan and Shanghai

Wuzhen is a scenic town, part of Thongxiang in northern Zhejiang Province, China. It lies within the triangle formed by Hanzhou, Suzhou and Shanghai.

In Chinese, wu means crow or dark, and zhen means a small town. Wuzhen's population is 6,000 and its area is 46.5 square kilometers.

Located in the center of the six ancient towns south of Yangtze River, 17 kilometers (10.56 miles) north of the city of Tongxiang, Wuzhen displays its two thousand year history in its ancient stone bridges floating on mild water, its stone pathways between the mottled walls and its delicate wood cravings. Also, setting it apart from other towns, it gives a unique experience through its profound cultural background.

Wuzhen's uniqueness lies in its layout, being 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) long and divided into six districts - i.e Traditional Workshops District, Traditional Local-Styled Dwelling Houses District, Traditional Culture District, Traditional Food and Beverage District, Traditional Shops and Stores District, and Water Township Customs and Life District. Wandering along the east-west-east circuit created by these 6 districts, tourisst can enjoy the atmosphere of the traditional cultures and the original ancient features of the town that have been preserved intact.

Henan, is a province of the China, located in the central part of the country. The name Henan means "south of the Yellow River".

With nearly 100 million people, Henan is the most populous province of China by residency. It borders Hebei to the north, Shandong to the northeast, Anhui to the souteast. Hubei to the south, Shaanxi to the west, and Shanxi to the northwest.

Henan is often called Zhongyuan or Zhongzhou, literally "central plains" or "midland", this name is also broadly applied to the entire North China Plain. Henan is traditinally regarded as the cradle of Chinese civilization.

Shanghai is the largest city in China in terms of population and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, with over 20 million people. Located on China's central eastern coast at the mouth of the Yangtze River, the city is administered as a municipality of the People's Republic of China with province level status.

Originally a fishing and textile town, Shanghai grew to importance in the 19th century due to its favourable port location and as one of the cities opened to foreign trade by the 1842 Treaty of Nanking. The city flourished as a center of commerce between east and west, and became a multinational buy of finance and business by the 1930s. However, Shanghai's prosperity was interrupted after the 1949 Communist takeover and the subsequent cessation of foreign investment. Economic reforms in 1990 resulted in intense development and financing in Shanghai, and in 2005 Shanghai became the world's largest cargo port.

The city is an emerging tourist destination renowned for its historical landmarks such as the Bund and Xintiandi, its modern and ever-expanding Pudong skyline including the Oriental Pearl Tower, and its new reputation as a cosmopolitan center of culture and design. Today, Shanghai is the largest center of commerce and finance in mainland China, and has been described as the "showpiece" of the world's fastest growing economy.

Posted by
Ivan

Genting Highland Resorts

2009-05-09T01:47:00.000-07:00

Genting Highland Holiday is where excitement is at its Peak.
How aptly put, this tagline by Genting Highland is truly reflection of what one will get while holidaying in the Genting Highland Resort.

It is sometimes informally known as the Las Vegas of Malaysia, dubbed the "City of Entertainment" as it is the only legal land-based casino in Malaysia, run by Resorts World Bhd, a sub-company of Genting Group. The resort, Genting Highlands Resort, also features many hotels owned by Genting subsidiaries including Awana Genting, First World Hotel, Genting Hotel, Highlands Hotel, Resort Hotel and Theme Park Hotel. Facilities in this resort include two theme parks, a Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum, a wind-turbine sky diving simulator, golf courses and shopping malls.

Recently, I went up to stay a couple of nights over the weekend. The Genting Highland Resorts have developed and advanced so much that it truly has everything to meet the taste of everyone, the old , young and the kids. The in-door games as well as the outdoor theme park, rides are those that rank in par with the world's best. Come when there is holdiay or festival season, the highland holiday resorts is packed all the way from the ride from downhill until you reach the top.

The resort is extremely big, but the crowd is equally swarming, and that one has to queue and rush for everything, the food, the rides and machine games.

Pack into the casino, the casino is really big, that span across a wide area and down elevators.

If you are in Malaysia, you must set aside some time to visit this highland resort. Try to avoid the festival season, that is when there are local public holiday for festival season. My advice is to avoid the clash, come on different day and enjoy the weather, the hotel, the food and the excitement.

Genting Highlands enjoys a spring-like climate, with temperatures no higher than 25°C and rarely falling below 14°C yearly. The temperature in Genting Highlands ranges from 16°C to 24°C all year round.

For me, it truly meets its tagline, where Excitement is at its Peak.

Posted by
Ivan

To Ho Chi Minh City

2009-03-23T01:05:00.000-07:00

Sightseeing Ho Chi Minh City

My recent 2 days stop-over at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam has also uncover many interest spots. Unlike Hanoi, landing into Saigon is liked stepping back into history, maybe 10 – 20 years although the city center is very much modern and with the highest building Saigon Trade Center rising some 33 floors. Similarly, the City has many things to offer, the sites, the food and the entertainment.

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam. Under the name Saigon (Vietnamese: Sài Gòn; it was the capital of the French colony of Cochinchina and later of the independent state of South Vietnam from 1954 to 1975. In 1976, Saigon merged with the surrounding province of Gia Định and was officially renamed Hồ Chí Minh City (although the name Sài Gòn - formally known as District 1 - is still commonly used.
The city center is situated on the banks of the Saigon River, 60 kilometers from the South China Sea.

The metropolitan area, which consists of Hồ Chí Minh City metro area, and surrounding towns, is populated by more than 9 million people, making it the most populous metropolitan area in Vietnam. The Greater Ho Chi Minh city Metropolitan Area have an area of 30,000 square kilometers will have a population of 20 million inhabitants by 2020.

11040 – Somerset Chancellor Court, quite near to city center and convenient to get around with Cab.

11039/41 – Busy Day-time Traffic rush

11045/47 – Lunch at Quan An Ngan, lots of variety from the well organised stalls

11048/49/50/53/55 – View of Saigon City from the 33rd Floor , Saigon Trade Center, present tallest building in Vietnam

11056 – Bar Area for Dine/Wine – PANORAMA 33 at 334d Floor

11064 – Saigon City by night

11065 – Top Brand and Fine Shopping, a favourite for the ladies.

11066 – Wine /Dine and light entertainment & variety of restaurants/accommodations

11067 – High Class Sheraton Saigon right in city center

11062 – Tu yet Lan, Dong Khoi St – A boutique ship with massage at the top floor

11063 Plenty of quality shopping along the brightly lit streets

11069 – Another spot for dining seafood, Ngoc Suong Seafood Restaurent at Le Quy Don-Quam 3

Posted by
Ivan

Vietnamese Hanoi

2009-03-23T01:03:00.000-07:00

Moving around Hanoi city

Recently, I made a short business trip to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. When I landed, it is liked stepping back into history, set back some 20 to 30 years back, albeit with many of today’s technology and comfort. Nevertheless, the City has many things to offer, the sites, the food and the nostalgic feeling it gives one.
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam. The native name of Vietnam is Viet Nam.

The city is located on the right bank of the Red River. Hanoi is located at 1760 km north of Ho Chi Minh City formerly called Saigon.
Hanoi's total area is roughly 334,470 hectares and divided into 29 subdivisions with a population of 6,232,940. October 2010 will officially mark 1000 years of the establishment of the city.

Ha Noi, was the name given to the city by King Minh Mang in 1831. Ha means river and Noi means within - Ha Noi means within the river.

Somerset Grand Hanoi, very good value for money accommodation in the city center. Somerset Grand Hanoi by night

SDC 11002 – Somerset Grand Hanoi – Surrounding View

SDC 11005 – Pho Vuong, Ngo Thi Nham Road , for a late night about 10.00 pmdinner/supper. Restaurant closed earlier, and got turned away from others at 9.30 pm

11014 – Downtown morning traffic rush hour

11018 – Scene by the lakeside. There are many lakes within the city as you travelled by

11025 – Le Thai To surrounding

11026 – San Ho Seafood & Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, Ly Thuong Kiet Street A very good place to Dine/Wine,

LE Tonkin, a good Vietnamese lunch hangout for the foreigners

11037 – An imposing Entrance site, common to many Government buildings

Posted by
Ivan

Cameron Highlands Malaysia

2009-03-03T19:30:00.000-08:00

Take a Cool and refreshing vacation at Cameron Highland, Malaysia

Over a short two day weekend trip, Cameron Highland in Malaysia is a good vacation spots for both the family and a larger group for a peaceful weekend as well as enjoyment and bonding.

A totally refreshing and cool retreat is what most people who visited it has to say. Some say this is the biggest hill holiday resort.

Traveling by car from Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, it will take about 2 hours very easy drive along the North-South Highway before reaching the foothill. There are 2 routes uphill, one from Tapah Town and the other route detour out from the Highway at Simpang Pulai.

Travel from the Tapah way is slow and winding, but with more view and sites along the way, but may cause travel sickness to those unable to stand the winding road, take about 45 minutes. Travel via Simpang Pulai is easier via wider and much less winding roads but faster. Travel via whichever way will take about 3 hours.

Few major towns along the way that worth stopping, walking around and buying souvenirs as well as taking your food are Ringlet, Tanah Rata, Brinchang.

On the way up, you may stop at the Tea Plantation and enjoy a cup of the Cameron Tea together with the Scone, something left behind by the British and still very much practice and appreciate by the discerning few.
For those who hold a nostalgia for the colonial times, can opt to stay at the Smokehouse. Built and left by the colonial days, the Smokehouse remain a very popular place to stay and have your English breakfast.

Smokehouse. Is located between Tanah Rata and Brinchang just below the Casa Dela Rosa Hotel and separated by the road junction.

Directly opposite the Casa Dela Rosa is the the Golf Course… For those who like a game of golf, you may have to count on your luck as the weather is a bit unpredictable, as it rain on both days of my staff.

For my staff, it was pre-arrange at a holiday bungalow know as Bintang Falim. Again, the bungalow is located on a very large area, some maybe 20,000 sq feet. The bungalow is a bit run-down but have lots of space for activity.

The large open compound overlook the Golf Course owned and managed by YTL.
Further up to Brinchang, there is Equatorial Hotel.

With the arrival of many tourist, shopping at the makeshift markets for foodstuff, flowers, vegetables, fruits and souvenir is a real bargain.

Afterall, Cameron Highland is known for its agricultural produce such as the variety of vegetables, flowers, fruits and known to export down to Singapore daily.

Cameron Highland is definitely a choice to consider for a holiday at a hill holiday resort.

Posted by
Ivan

Brisbane and Gold Coast

2009-02-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

More photographs of places covered in the last post.

1) Brisbane by night is a hive of activity especially during festive season. Conrad Casino is conveniently located in the center of Brisbane, frequented by many tourist and locals alike. Beautiful sight especially when the night lights shining on it are switched on.

a) Conrad Treasury Casino night view

b) Another view of Conrad Treasury Casino

2) Beautiful long sandy beaches of Surfer's Paradise. A favorite of the tourists and the locals alike. Jam packed especially during festive season. 4 different views

a) Sandy beaches

b) Surfers Paradise from Q1 Observatory Deck

c) Another view of Surfer's Paradise from Q1 Observatory Deck

d) Another view of inner part of Gold Coast from Observatory Deck

3) Popular theme parks along the Motorway between Brisbane and Gold Coast. Movie World and Wet World are 2 popular attractions.

a) Movie World

b) Wet World

4) Finally, a good resting place at the serene setting at St Lucia suburb in the vicinity of the University of Queensland.

Posted by
Ivan

Summer Holiday Driving North towards Sunshine Coast, Australia

2008-12-12T14:06:00.000-08:00

Driving north and out of Brisbane some 90 KM brings you to yet another holiday coatal location, the Sunshine Coast. While, it lacks the crowd that the Gold Coast offers, this stretch of beautiful beaches is yet another holiday stretch that attracts many.

Driving along the coast, takes you from Caloundra to Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Marcoola and Noosa Heads. One thing that caught my attention, is the older group of people around, perhaps this is a place for retirement, good peaceful with amenities suited for the old age.

A good place to detour is the Glass House Mountain, a bit long winding up to the Outlook.

Further up the way, another good stop is the Australia Zoo

Upon reaching Mooloolaba, checked in a Pacific Beach Resort, a beachfront Hotel right in the center of Mooloolaba

The Unit is a 2 bedroom holiday apartment, a bit pricey, but very good location

Very good view from the wide balcony of hotel

Beach Front is bit quiet on this weekday, I believe it's different for weekend as the rooms appear heavily booked for the season

Driving further north along the coast, a short distance is Coolum, beach is very good for surfing.

After a while further north is Noosa Heads. Very nice place but pricey

On way back to brisbane, a detour towards inland via another route brought us to Montville

Specialty Shops lining up the main streets, good leisurely stroll under shades of trees lining the streets during a very hot afternoon

Seemed like a good landmark

A good short trip up the Sunshine Coast.

Posted by
Ivan

Summer Holiday- Great Spots down Australia Gold Coast

2008-12-11T05:48:00.001-08:00

Located some 90 kilometers south of Brisbane, and driving down south the Pacific Motorway towards one of Australia greatest holidays locations, brings you to a number of different vacation spots that will appeal to both the young and adult.

Renting a car would provide you the convenience of moving around to the many places that are interesting and exciting requiring you to stop.

First, the car is economical for a holiday that requires to move around frequently and more importantly at your leisure pace.
A small car comes handy

Along the HighWay, there are various spots that one can visit, the Wet n Wild Water World, The Australian Outback, Movie World.

Wet Wet World of Excitement

Entrance to Wet World of Excitement

The Outback Spectacular

And then you can have some good and leisure shopping at very reasonable prices at Harbour Town Surburb just before entering into Gold Coast

Shopping leisure pace

When you finally arrived at the Gold Coast, the Surfers Paradise is right at the strategic location where all the action is. It is important that you pick a hotel that is convenient for moving around late at night.

Fo accommodation, Holiday Inn was quite value for money considering the Summer Holiday season. Furthermore, located just at the center of the Surfers Paradise, it is at the right spot, within short walking distance to shopping, food both day and night as well as the central front to the Surfers Paradise beach.

GoldCoast Skyline from Balcony of Hotel

Few good food outlets and restaurants are strongly recommended as they are really value for money for the food they served. Various types ranging from western, to asian food such as chinese, japanese, korean, vietnamese and middle eastern are all readily available.

A Good Place for Japanese food

A night out for western dinner at the Captain Table

The Captain Table

An extremely good and value for money spot for chinese food, just across the hotel

China House-Just Opposite Hotel

Whole big Lobster served with other seafood, yummy

Whole Lobster

Planet Hollywood is convenient

Planet Hollywood

A Good Mix

The Surfer's Paradise beachfront

Beach Center Crossing

And for Swimming and lazing around

For Shopping and dining

And by night time

Safe Walking About

It is just wonderful, with the day time temperature rising to about 30 deg centigrade daytime and dropping to about 20 deg night time. It's a wonderful part of Australia, no wonder they claim to offer the greatest holiday ever. Any experience to share?

Posted by
Ivan

Leisure Vacation - Down Brisbane Queensland Australia

2008-12-04T05:11:00.000-08:00

Taking a holiday down under, visiting the city of Brisbane in Queensland, Australia leisurely and better still drive around.

My 1st day driving around came up with few surprising spots. Never expected to find such gathering of so many Asian flavors all together in such spots.

I am not talking about China town but Sunnybank surburb and Toowong.

Sunnybank just a few kilometers down south driving along the Highway to Gold Coast, just turned off the KLump and Main inter-sections brings you to a potpourri of the Asian culture and food outlets.

SunnyBank - Here, one can find supermarkets and stores that sells you a host of things that are asian and availble back home.

One can buy a lot of ingredient to cook their home food, or better still dine in from the variety of food outlets that serve chinese, thai, vietnamese, indian, and many others

On can choose a variety of asian food to suit your appetite. The portion is hugh and cost is very reasonable.

One can find Little HongKong, one that serve good roasted meat and duck. You must try this, very big portion and reasonable price. Suggest the portion be shared by 2 person.

Yet another Little Singapore and Little who knows what!

Just short distance outside west of Brisbane, one comes into the Toowong area where one can see again few food outlets serving asian food.

Just around the corner of the Toowong Center where one can do shopping at ease.

Wanna try some noodles done Asian styles?

One can even get to taste Laksa from Laksa Hut

Posted by
Ivan

China Olympics - Opens up new exotic places

2008-11-18T01:16:00.000-08:00

With the recent conclusion of the Olympic in China, no one can deny China has done much effort to ensuring the success of the games. Is China really ready for the Olympics and the resulting influx of English speaking tourists.

Well let's see, the following was captured and they do seem exotic though;

a) Which is one step up from just lovely

b)But taste like cat

c) Here, crippie, take my seat.

d) Great with flied lice

e) A separate entrance for Hos....

f) Go over there to die, please

g)Thank you. Good to know

h)Not nice. Some of my best friends are liquor heads

i) Look up and down the aisle twice before proceeding..

j) Starbuck should be afraid!

k) I wouldn't tickle this one

l) Weird, because horsebeans sound delicious.

m) Where every fashion afficionado in China shops!!!

n) I knew it!! < B>What? If there's one thing we don't need help with...

o)'See you after the flight, Should be in front of half the hotels in town.

p)So this is where all they all end up...

Well, one never knows, but certainly a lot more needs to be done.

Posted by
Ivan

Your Flight Travel – Several Tips & Tricks For A More Enjoyable Vacation/Business Travel

2008-11-03T02:22:00.000-08:00

Many plan for holiday and travel invariably calls for understanding and knowledge peculiar to the medium of travel. And each medium of travel, as you travel on them, you will realise that each has it unique idiosyncrasies and tricks. Today, I would like to share some insights into travelling on an airplane, drawing from my exposure and experiences. Air travel is so common and it has us feel that the world has gone so much smaller and some fore-sight and planning is essential be it travelling on holiday, leisure or business. Here are some advices and tips;

- Choose Your Airline. Especially so, if it is an extremely long distance flight, choosing the right Airline is important. Apart from service, ability to watch TV and other programs comes in handy. So choose wisely apart from just cost. Sometimes the cost may seem cheaper, but one has to consider whether it is a morning flight or evening flight. Arriving a day later in the morning may seem slightly more expensive but then there is savings of the hotel room charges for arriving late the previous evening..

- Packing Your Luggage – It is important to know the maximum weight of the luggage that the airline allows for your check-in luggage. Make sure that your luggage are not over-weight. I have seen many cases where because of excesses, travellers have to open up and re- pack his luggage at the check-in counter in full view of others. You can of course hand-carried some items, but what if your hand luggage is already filled up. I did not realise this until once when my luggage was overweight and that an additional 1 Kg cost me RM185. Who in right mind would pay for that?

- Pick the right Hand luggage Bag for use - Ensure you carry the right size, and don’t hope for luck. The security will not allow you to get pass, but to check in your luggage first. . The airport security personnel sometimes are very strict and insist on check-in. So , always carry extra pad-locks readily hanging on the zip will come in handy. Always carry a loose hand luggage, and not one that is already filled up to the brim. Over the years, I have gone accustom to carry a very light bag, even if there’s no need for it, as this may come handy to put any other things that come along. An extra light clothing and sweater with overnight necessity may come in handy if your check-in luggage happen to get lost. If your luggage is one of those common one where every other people also use, try to tie something conspicuous so that you can identify it easily from far. Someone else may take it mistakenly.

- Exchange your currency while you are in town and not do it at the airport. The rates are better in town than in the airport. If you are unable to do it at town, then exchange it at the airport before flying, and not do this at arrival. The rates will be better in town than the airport. Exchange rates at your destination will always be higher and cost more when compare to your home country..

- Avoiding carrying certain prohibited things – Current travel requirements have very stringent Dos and Don’ts and it make sense to get acquainted with these rules, and avoid carrying them in the hand luggage. It is always safer to check-in the items.

- Make a Photostat copy of your passport/visa, airline ticket, hotel reservation and keep them separate. These will come in handy when your original copies are lost.

- Asking for seats along the Aisle – This is essential if you are travelling long distance. For long distance, asking for an aisle seat will make it easier for you to get up and walk around without having to bother others when you were seated inside. So always asked for aisle seat.. Avoid seats at the back, it would be preferable to be at front especially those that offer much room for leg movement.

- Going to the Washroom – Again for long distance flight, taking care of nature call needs to be plan especially if you are seated inside and cannot moved without bothering others. Here, it is best that you make 1 trip after the food has been served and completed. It is common that after the food trays have been cleared, the lights are dimmed down, and people will prepare to sleep, and maybe for couple of hours. And it maybe inconvenience for you to wake up the other person if you need to get out in the midst of this. So avoid this, and make your trip just about when the lights are dimmed for siesta.

- Going through the X-ray Check-In and Body Check – Do not leave sight of your belongings on the conveyor belt even though it is just a short distance. Ensure your belonging has moved along into the conveyor belt and gone into the scanner before you move in for body check. Especially when you empty out your pockets, your purse and everything – don’t forget this is being done in full view of others. I have seen cases where elderly ladies have lost and couldn’t find their belongings immediately after the body search in some big airports in Europe. And these security people were that helpful, except to say that they didn’t see anything There are just too many passengers, coming and going.

- Upon arrival, stay with your luggage all the time, and ensure someone keep a close watch. Do check your luggage to ensure the luggage has not be tampered with.. The arrival section of the airport is always busy, and at many airports, there are people preying on newly arrival who would be tired and tendency to neglect this. So do be careful.

- Be prepare for lost luggage – A precaution that I take is to always take a snapshot of your check-in luggage at the start of the journey. In the unlikely event that your luggage is lost, at least you can show the luggage when filling up the Lost Report Form at the airport.

Do be prepared and add on to your own experiences and preparation to be made to ensure that you have a problem free travel.

Posted by
Ivan

Greetings !

2008-10-03T23:10:00.001-07:00

Greetings to You, and welcome to this site - Asiaexoticplaces.blogspot.com. As the Blog name suggests, this is the site to share about interesting and exotic location and places within Asia that holiday-makers can visit. In today's world, things are ocurring and happening at a frenzid pace, where people are easily and quickly tired out arising from prolong and hectic work schedule and a work stressed life-style.

The world is getting smaller as time goes by, and given the rapid advancement in technology that has kept every corner of the earth well-informed of news, events, happenings as well as the multi-array of transportation that provides easy, convenient, fast, safe and comfortable means of travel.

It has now become a critical part of family life as well as the individual to plan for a vacation break as frequently as possible to enable the person, both physically and mentally to rest and re-energised.

This site is dedicated for the discussion and sharing of ideas as well as interesting, exotic and exciting vacation spots within Asia that will appeal to holiday makers.

Feel free to leave behind your comments and feedback, and if you so prefer, help to contribute some worthwhile articles on good vacation spots to improve this site as it grows.

Hope you will enjoy this site, and Happy Blogging.

Yours truly,
Ivan

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