Mcburn's Travelogue

When and Time To Go To Vietnam

2011-06-14T06:54:00.000-07:00

Traveling to Vietnam and when you go depends on where you want to go. The climate in Vietnam is completely subject to the tropical monsoons, which are unpredictable, especially on the coast. Northwesterly t and southeasterly monsoons are seasonal; travelers will be delighted to know that additional, unscheduled tropical storms can wreak havoc at any time. Monsoons on the northern coast are most likely to occur between July and November, while from Hu\ south they hit earlier, in April and May. And it is always humid, and almost everywhere in the country.

Timing and character of Vietnam’s seasons vary substantially from north to south. In the south, temperatures remain reasonably constant, but precipitation is seasonal, with the dry season from November to March and the wet season from May to October. The farther north you go, the more the temperature varies between winter and summer, hitting punishing spikes in the northwestern highlands (40˚C in the summer; the odd snowfall during January and February). Just to complicate matters, dry and wet seasons are inverted along the central coast, where the dry season occurs from March to August—but beware that on the coast, “dry season” is an admittedly optimistic term.

So, travelers destined for the north should time their visit between October and December or March and April, the months between the summer’s heat and humidity and the cold, misty drizzle of the winter. During the summer, lower temperatures make Hà Nÿi somewhat more bearable than the rural areas of the Red River Delta. Along the Northern Coast, September through December and March through April are the most advisable periods during which to visit, as errant tropical storms are less likely after October. Farther down the coast, especially from Hu\ south, visits are most pleasant between February and May, due to the reversal of the wet season. The Central Highlands are best visited during the dry season between December and April, although the later you go, the hotter it gets; the same applies to H· Chí Minh City (HCMC) and the Mekong Delta, where summer torrents prove particularly disruptive to regional transportation. On the bright side, there’s usually somewhere in the country that’s sunny and dry at any given time. But if you’re traveling throughout the country, do what everyone else does: bring a durable raincoat, and expect to get wet anyway.

Viet Nam - Overview

2011-06-01T20:19:00.000-07:00

Viet Nam is flanked by the South China Sea to the east and shares borders with the People’s Republic of China in the north, and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Kingdom of Cambodia to the west. Over 85 million people from 54 different ethnic groups live on its narrow “s-shaped” 331,000 km2 and along its more than 3,000 km of coastline. Three-quarters of this land is hilly and mountainous, and arable land accounts for only 28.4 %

Ho Chin Min City View.

In 1986, after decades of conflict and struggling to speed up its economic recovery and reconstruction efforts, Viet Nam restructured its economy through the doi moi (renovation) reforms, shifting from a centrally-planned economy to a “socialist market economy.” And over the past decade it has had one of the best-performing economies in the world. Vietnam is one of the fast-rising GDP and per capita income rates. Vietnamese men, women, and children are now living longer, they are healthier, have higher incomes, and generally are better off than they were 25 years ago. Even during the recent economic slowdown and despite high inflation rates, the economic growth rate continued to grow and was at 6.78% in 2010.

Contributed by this impressive economic growth backed by investment in social programs, Viet Nam has now reached lower middle-income status and will achieve nearly all of the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals at the national level by the deadline year of 2015.

But drill down further to the provincial and regional levels and despite these overall improvements, Viet Nam’s over 26 million children, about 30 per cent of the population, are not benefiting equally from this new prosperity. Gaps between the rich and the poor, between male and female, and between ethnic Kinh Vietnamese and the country’s many minority populations are clear.

Ho Chin Min Old City Area

Economic disparities, gender inequality and massive inequity between rural and hard-to-reach mountainous areas and the more affluent urban areas of the country are substantial. Access to adequate water and sanitation, to health services and to education, especially secondary education, are major issues. Ethnic minorities continue to be among the poorest and have benefited least from the country’s economic growth.

Even as the general poverty rate fell from 58 per cent in 1993 to 14.5 per cent in 2008, rural and ethnic minority populations are emerging from poverty at a much slower pace. In 2008, nearly 50 per cent of the country’s ethnic minorities were living in poverty, compared to 8.5 per cent of majority Kinh people.

Just that, about the general economic and ethnics overview of Vietnam. However, Vietnam is one the most travel destination to Asia. What you pay in time, sweat, and energy in Vietnam, you get back a thousand fold. The natural beauty of the country is legendary and spectacularly varied, with brilliant white beaches and lonely mountain passes that pierce the clouds. Jagged monoliths shoot up from mirror-bright bays in the far north; intricate lattices of canals run under mangrove canopies in the far south. The landscape resonates, too, with a history both chaotic and profound via faded, millennial-old relics of fallen dynasties and abandoned tanks and bunkers rusting under new grass. The country’s architecture echoes the same contorted past, from eye-bending Chàm ruins and bucolic French villas to glass-and-steel monuments to globalization.

Old Remnant of Hanoi.

Inevitably, you will be blown away by Vietnamese cuisine. Masterfully subtle, in the debt of kitchens from Szechuan Province to Marseille, meals considered prosaic by everyday Vietnamese are nonetheless revered by epicures the world over. And no meal better expresses the country’s culinary genius than ph—tender rice noodles under thin sheets of beef, floating in amber broth with ginger, star anise, mint, basil, and lime. It’s the national food, the street food, the breakfast-lunch-and-dinner food of both the urban poor and the five-star kitchens. It’s that good.

The people of Vietnam are stubborn, demanding, and intensely proud of their country. To travelers unused to constant bargaining and zero personal space, they can be extremely frustrating; they can also be what make your visit more meaningful than you ever would have expected. The fundamental good nature and sincere extra version of the Vietnamese are overwhelming. You’ll be invited to play pick-up football with kids in the street, celebrate T\t in the living rooms of joyful families, and coach English at every available opportunity. But best of all is their contagious, undying optimism; in the face of warfare, poverty, and hunger, there persists in Vietnam the belief that things will get better—much better—fueled by the tireless will to make them so. Today’s Vietnam is modernizing with a vengeance, and the atmosphere is thick with hope and breathless anticipation.

Yes, Vietnam is tough. But you didn’t pick up this review for “easy.” You chose Vietnam because you want travel to thrill and amaze you—because you want stories that will last you the rest of your life. You chose it for the dizzying diversity of landscapes, tastes, and ethnicity that make traveling to Vietnam, dare we say, the greatest adventure on the planet. So go. And take us with you.

Go Tour Hong Kong - Mongkok Ladies Shopping Paradise

2011-06-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

Bargains and Bargaining

The best place for you to demonstrate those bargaining skills, as bargaining at the Mongkok Ladies Market is important and at time a real fun. How low you can go or they can let you. All prices of things at the Ladies Market are negotiable, and the sellers will waste no time in trying to fleece naïve tourists. To them volume sales for the day must be achieved.
Assuming almost everything is at least 10% overpriced, if not 20%. Start at a low price and bargain with the stall holder until you reach a price you think is fair, if they won’t budge, take your business down the road, as the same or similar product shouldn’t be far away. Be firmed in your bargaining way, Hong Kong market sellers are old veterans and can appear aggressive, but the bargaining is just part of the game, and if you get a good price, they will often offer you a compliment afterwards. Find more about tips and trick shopping in Hong Kong. Gather information on shopping Tips for more knowledge on how to get the best out of shopping in the city, especially in Mongkok.

The best place for rock-bottom deals on anything from fashion to mobile phones and electrical appliances. Take the MTR E2 exit and walk into Yau Shing Commercial Centre on your left. There are six floors selling cameras, digital videos, DVD players and other appliances and many more.

Walk along Nelson Street, and the first street parallel to Sai Yeung Choi is the Ladies Market where you’ll find bargain clothes, bags, toys, VCDs, fake Rolex watches and so on. The next parallel street is Fa Yuen Street South, which specializes in sports shoes and sportswear. From fake Adidas, Umbro and many more, you say it you have it.

Langham Place on Shanghai Street is a humungous hi-tech mall hosting over 100 trendy boutique stores

Mongkok is the place on earth where you can buy almost everything.

The best place which is less expensive than average, great deals to be had in HK, but be wary and do check look around for the best buy.

Generally if you have been to Hong Kong for about a week you may have already been to Mongkok 4 times! At least. Mongkok is a shoppers paradise! Everywhere you look there are bargains to be made, and have anything a person needs! Thousands of shops everywhere and the market are simply amazing.

Extremely good bargains for shoe lovers, if you look carefully there are tons of shops offering the latest and trendy boots for only 100HK (around 13~14 AUD). The market also offers great casual shoes with great designs for a low price also, but ensure you bargain to get an even better deal!

If any ladies are looking for quality make up and quality service, just off Nathan Rd is the place to go! You will be warmly welcome and comfortable! Great Place!

You will probably go back today again the next day and the day after next.

Mongkok Ladies Paradise

Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay seem to get most of the press when it comes to recommendations for great places to visit in Hong Kong, but Mong Kok is as good as it is, if not better than, these areas - depending on what you're looking for and your bargaining skill.

Mong Kok is home to the famous Tung Choi Street, more commonly known as Ladies Market. This is where you really get to enjoy the atmosphere of Hong Kong and the personalities of its people, as you work your way through this crowded thoroughfare, haggling as you go. Don't forget that there are also shops on each side of the street, behind the market stalls, and there are bargains to be found here too.

The Mong Kok Computer Centre is also well worth a visit for techno-addicts.

And for the ladies, there is a fabulous Wedding Mall containing hundreds of wedding-related stores, which is well worth a visit, even if only to experience the interesting differences between Hong Kong weddings and those we're used to in the west. Did you know that most Hong Kong brides hire their wedding dress? And the bride and groom will generally have their wedding photos taken before the wedding day?

Don't be afraid to venture beyond the obvious and well-known attractions, into some of the smaller malls and arcades. Often you can't even tell that a building has stores in it until you enter it and find a directory next to the lifts.

MongKok A Place Never Sleep - Hong Kong

2011-06-01T07:51:00.000-07:00

Mongkok - The Busiest Place on the Planet.

Hong Kong is heavily populated, with 6 million crammed into a city that mostly sits on a piece of real estate no bigger than Manhattan. Mongkok is not only Hong Kong’s most populated area, but I presumed in the world’s. According to the Guinness Book of Records Mongkok is the most densely populated place on the planet, squeezing in over 130,000 people per km2.

Mongkok means busy corner in Cantonese and Mongkok is just that. Once the headquarters for the notorious Hong Kong Triads, this is now one of Hong Kong’s liveliest districts 24/7, full of shops, street side stalls as well as Hong Kong’s famous Mongkok Ladies Market. Take our tour of Mongkok Ladies Market to get a slice of the real Hong Kong, and many of these "attractions" listed here are really the same - Nathan Road runs through Mongkok, which also is home to other attractions like the ladies market and temple street market. So in general is that this whole area is bustling with activity at all hours, brighten with neon light glowing all night long, lots to see and watch at all times. Every step is a small noodle bar to step into for a bite to eat, or many shop or something to look at. It's a nice area to stroll and just be - after a couple hours, you're exhausted from over stimulation of all your eyes and senses.

Another good thing about Mongkok is the bargain center for anything you want to buy under the sun.

Mongkok Noodle Stall everywhere...

Mongkok Ladies Lingerie..

Mongkok Ladies Market Tour

The city’s most famous market, and still one of the best, the Mongkok Ladies Market sells everything and anything you say it you have it here, for tourist to buy, from fake handbags, and from branded world known name, is not only aimed at women shopper but also for men. While clothing is the markets the major product on display for sale, others such as Chinese themed gifts, toys and electronics are also available.

In the showcase you see Macy’s selection of goods, Gucci ,Louis Vuitton and while many of the stalls stock similar items, there is still a wide selection available. You can find the Ladies Market between Boundary Street and Dundas Street on Tung Choi Street.

Visiting Kunming - China

2011-05-21T08:12:00.000-07:00

iGolden Temple (Jin Dian) Kunming
A Kunming city tours is not complete without a visit to the Golden Temple (Jin Dian). The Golden Temple (Jin Dian) is located 11 km north of Kunming in a lovely pine forest at the top of Phoenix Song Mountain. The original shrine was dedicated to Zhen Wu and was made from gold. (Hence the name: Golden Temple). In 1604 the original shrine was brought to Jizu Shan where it was lost during the Cultural Revolution. The present Zhen Wu shrine is made of bronze. Apart from the lovely Zhen Wu Taoist Shrine, there is the 14 ton bell from 1423 and the colossal, original bronze sword said to be used in battle by Zhen Wu.

Jin Dai Golden Temple - Kun Ming

Western Mountains & Dian Chi Lake Kunming
Located a 30 Minutes drive outside Kunming, the Western Mountains (Xi Shan) offer spectacular views over the “Spring City” of Kunming and Dian Chi Lake. For those who like it comfortable, there is a chair lift going to the top. There are some nice walking trails leading to the top. Along the path are several Temples and Pavilions like the Huating Temple, Taihua Temple and the Sanqing Pavilion, which all are worth visiting. On the way back to from the Western Mountains to Kunming stop at the hidden Bamboo Temple (Qiong Zhu Si) dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The lovely Bamboo Temple (Qiong Zhu Si) is famous for its 500 almost life sized clay statues of former “arhats” or sages. The Western Mountains, Bamboo Temple and Dian Chi Lake can easily be reached within a half day trip from Kunming.

Dai Chi Lake - Kun Ming - Yunnan.

Green Lake Park (Cui Hu Gong Yuan)
Green Lake Park (Cui Hu Gong Yuan) is a popular gathering point for the locals. It is worth a visit early in the morning to see the locals engaged in their morning workouts, practice Tai Chi, show off their birds and enjoy social dancing. From November to March, the Green Lake serves as winter refuge for large flocks of black-headed gulls flying in from the cold north. During this time bird-feeding is a popular pastime for the Kunming people. Opposite the western entrance to the park is the colossal building of the old French Legation, one of the few reminders of the French presence in Yunnan during the late 19 and early 20 century.

Green Park Lake - Kun ming

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Visiting China-Kunming City

2011-05-21T07:06:00.000-07:00

Visiting Kunming is a dream for any tourists who wish to visit China. Kunming is the capital city for the Province of Yunnan. Yunnan is located towards the farthest southwest of China

The capital of the Yunnan province is located on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau on 1900 meters above sea level. Because of the all year round pleasant, spring like climate Kunming was nicknamed “The Spring City”.

Kunming City Road.

Whether exploring the city by bus, taxi, by bicycle or on foot, visitors will find Kunming a rather easy and pleasant city to get around. An early morning visit to the Green Lake Park (Cui Hu) is a good opportunity to observe the locals engaged in all sorts of morning workouts and physical exercises. During the winter months, the Green Lake Park (Cui Hu) serves as migration place for thousands of seagulls escaping the cold further north. Within walking distance from Green Lake Park (Cui Hu) lies the Buddhist temple Yuantong Si. Located on small hills, Yuantong Si was founded in the 8th century and later enlarged under the Mongols.

In recent years Yuantong Si became once again an important worship place for Buddhists in Kunming. The two, 13-storey high towers of the East and West Pagodas date back to the Tang Dynasty are located near the commercial district in the centre of town. Destroyed during the Muslim revolt, the East and West Pagodas were rebuilt in the 19th century. An early morning visit to the Dou Nan flower market should be part of every trip to Kunming. From Dou Nan flower market, flowers are shipped every morning all over China, Japan, Russia and even to Europe.

Modern Kunming City Scape.

The colourful and bustling Dou Nan flower market is held every morning. Despite the modernisation Kunming remains a city with a laid back atmosphere and lots of street markets, snack-stalls, parks, and old temples waiting to be explored. Kunming is the partner city of Zurich in Switzerland. For more information about the Spring City of Kunming visit also www.mcburntravelogue.com

Since China is a very interesting place to visit in the world thus to give the best review of China and her provinces will requires a rather lengthy write up. Wait for further review of my visit to Kunming.

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Visiting Thailand - Pattaya

2011-05-21T06:41:00.000-07:00

Visiting Thailand will not be complete if you don't go to this most exciting place in Thailand - Pattaya. Pattaya is Thailand's largest seaside resort. It is best known for its vibrant night life and the city hosts over 1000 bars, around 70 go-go bars plus many high quality night clubs, restaurants and hotels. It is popular with both Thai and foreign visitors. Over four million people visit Pattaya every year.

There are direct buses from Swarnabhumi airport to Pattaya that reach you within 2 hours to 2.5 hours. The fare is 124 Baht for good air-conditioned bus.I had recently(8 Dec 2009) been to Pattaya on my Honeymoon. A well arranged trip by tour agency, especially those in Thailand you will be accorded to whatever the promise or outline in their brochures. Right to say what they commit to you is exactly what you get. That is what visiting Thailand really what you can expect and of course a hassle free one.

Sandy beach and clear water of Pattaya Beach.

Pattaya is just 2 hours drive from Bangkok. You choose to stay at All Seasons Pattaya. The location of this hotel is a major positive aspect, i.e. walkable to the beach and market places. Complementary buffet breakfast at the hotel is just awesome, the staff is bit slow in response though. There are a lot of tourist attractions in and around the city. While in the city, one can cover most of the places by walk, or one can board the shared-taxis which cover the main roads. The driver will charge more if you reserve the taxi, otherwise it’s 10 to 20 Bahts only for any distance within the city. For boat/ferry rides strictly pay what is written on the charts.

Pattaya is a heaven for non-vegetarians, you get all kinds of sea food, chicken and pork at the road side eateries. Good things is that you also get Indian food at many places, one special mention is The Great India Indian restaurant by road near the beach, where the quantity, quality and prices are reasonably affordable about (300-400Bahts for 2 people on an average). We would advise you only buy the food items/water from the super markets only, outside the prices are usually higher. If you have the opportunity don't forget to try the tender cooling coconut water... it’s so different from what we get in other part of the world.

Aerial view of Pattaya beach..Thailand

On the other hand you may have full list of places for tourist attractions, there is a tiger zoo, elephant zoo,Ripley’s museums, The Underwater World... all are worth a visit.The most amazing things are Snorkeling (Under water walk) and the Coral Islands. Snorkeling charges is 1200 Bahts per person and if you wish to take your photos and videos underwater then 350 Bahts more. They will make you wear oxygen helmets and take you to some 30 feet under the see where you can see the corals and feed marine fishes.

Follow the instructions and you are sure to enjoy the ride.Coral Islands is the kinda beach we see in our movies, white sand, crystal clear water and perfectly clean. It’s a paradise for the water sports enthusiasts. Pattaya city has many good malls and shopping places. However,if you are going with your family then better avoid the beach road after the evening as prostitution is an obvious affair in Pattaya. Generally in Pattaya you will ensure to have an amazing experience, we bet you will be looking forward to explore more beaches in amazing Thailand!!

Overall, it was an amazing experience, looking forward to explore more beaches in amazing Thailand!! If this is your first ever trip abroad and visiting Thailand will amaze you more if you go to Pattaya.

For further info about Thailand: Click Here

Lahore - Pakistan

2011-05-07T23:23:00.000-07:00

Lahore is the capital city of the state of Punjab. It occupies a central position, and is generally called 'The Heart of Pakistan'. Lahore is situated on the banks of the river Ravi . Lahore is a city of gardens, and has the reputation of being the 'Green City'. It occupies a choice site in the midst of fertile alluvial plains. Visiting Lahore is a worthwhile experience it is the city of poets, artists and the center of film industry.

Brief History

Ptolemy's "Geographia", written about 150 AD, refers to it as "Labokla" and locates it with reference to the Indus, the Ravi, the Jhelum and the Chenab rivers. Another place revealed that it was founded by Loh the son of Rama Chandra.

However the accorded history of Lahore dates back to 850 AD., conquered by Mahmood Gaznavi in 1021 AD, it was made the capital of the Ghaznavid east of Indus and later captital of entire Ghaznavid Empire by Masud, son of Mahmood.

Visiting Lahore is one place in getting to know the heritage of Pakistan became the center of social, cultural and educational activities reaching the pinnacle of its glory under the Mughals who gave it its famous architecture including the magnificent fort, gardens, tombs, mosques and pavilions. Some of the old names of Lahore can be observed as:

Laha-noor

Loh-pur

Mahmood-pur

Samandpal Nagiri

Lohar-pur

Area and Population

With a population of more than 6,563,000 people, Lahore is Pakistan's second largest city. The city is built in the form of a parallelogram, the area within the walls (central Lahore or Old Lahore), being about 461 acres. The district lies at 31-34' North latitude and 74-20' East longitude.

Climate

There are two main seasons, namely the winter and the summer. The monsoons are at their peak during July and August, and during these two months there is more than half of the annual rainfall. October and November are the driest months and average rain fall during these months is about one third of an inch only. There are Winter rains during December - February, the average rainfall during these months being 3 inches.

Historical Architectures

The city as we know it today, reached its peak of glory during the Moghul rulers, especially in the reign of Akbar the Great. His son, Jehangir, is buried in its outskirts and his mausoleum is one of the places frequented by tourists and Lahorites alike. Close by is the mausoleum of the famous Moghul Empress, Noor Jehan, who is known for introducing the rose plant and for initiating several cultural movements in the Sub-Continent.

Lahore Badshahi Mosque

Architecture

Lahore Fort

Shalamar Gardens

Badshahi Mosque

Shish Mahal

Mausoleum of Jahangir

12 Gates of Old Lahore

Akbar the Great built the Lahore Fort, as well as the city walls which had 12 gates. Some of these still survive. Jehangir and Shah Jehan, the builders of the Taj Mahal in Agra and the Shalamar Gardens in Srinagar and Lahore, built palaces and tombs. The last great Moghul Emperor, Aurangzeb built Lahore's most famous monument, the great Badshahi Mosque.

At that time the river Ravi, which now lies a few miles away from Lahore , touched the ramparts of the Fort and the Mosque.

The British during their reign compensated Lahore, by harmoniously combining Mughal, Gothic and Victorian styles of architecture. Victorian heritage is only next to Mughal monuments.

They built some important buildings, like the GPO, High Court, Government College, Museums, National College of Arts, Montgomery Hall, Tollinton Market, Punjab University (Old Campus) and the Provincial Assembly.

Education

It has the largest number of educational institutions in the country. Many colleges and schools which found Lahore's reputation as education center of Pakistan par excellence. Most notable are Government College- first in prestige in the country, and of which Allama Iqbal, founding father of Pakistan's Independence, was distinguished alumnus; added in 1950; the Kinnaired College for Woman and Aitcheson College, still the most expensive educational establishment in the country.

Punjab University is the largest center of education in Asia. It has a splendid old campus in the Old Lahore and built a new Campus in the quieter environments on the Canal Bank, but the old University buildings are still functioning. King Edward Medical College is the country's largest medical institution, founded in 1870. The National College of Arts, has separate departments in Architecture, Fine Arts & design, on the competition entry basis 450 students receives from all over the country.

Culture

To know Pakistan and getting the best from your travel investment, visiting Lahore because it is the center for cultural, intellectual and artistic center of the nation. Its faded elegance, busy streets and bazaars, and wide variety of Islamic and British architecture make it a city full of atmosphere, contrast and surprise. The warm and receptive people of Lahore are known for their traditional hospitality.

This is a city of vivid differences, of haunting nuances; where bustling bazaars, frenetic streets, glorious fading elegance, architecture and echoing atmosphere of city's many mosques merge together into a history that is both dramatic and fascinating.

The Fort and mosque reflect the high value architecture from the 16th to 19th century

Bazaars and market places are much sort after while visiting Lahore. Lahore is of course legendary - the Kashmiri, Suha, Chatta, Dabbi, Anarkali of the old city, and Liberty and Gulberg main market in modern Lahore. These markets supply everything that could possibly or impossibly want; from cloth to copper, brass and silver-ware; watches and bangles to carpets, chapatis and chai.

All is color, all variety, all abundance, and all displayed to entice. Lahore is country's undisputed center of cultural life.

Communication

There is a network of metaled roads in the district. It is connected other major cities and towns with a very sophisticated network of roads. It is also connected with the capital of Pakistan and other major cities through the M2 Motorway link.

In your intinenary of visiting Lahore, don't you forget stop "The Lahore Railway Station" is one of the oldest station in the country, and serves as the main connecting point for rail services to many cities and routes. The station building is another example of the magnificent architectural beauty of the city.

There is an International Airport in the cantonment area, P.I.A. and other international airlines have routes to all major destinations of the world. Lahore airport is one of the busiest airport of the country after Karachi international terminal. A newly built international terminal, Allama Iqbal International Terminal, helps in the locomotion of passengers to other countries. It greatly facilitate and improves the air transits to and from the Lahore city.

LAHORE RENDEVOUS - REMNANT OF BRITISH COLONY

2011-05-04T01:40:00.000-07:00

The modern look of Lahore City...

Mcd in Lahore Pakistan - Big Mac turn to invade Lahore!!

Ptolemy, the celebrated astronomer and geographer mentions a city called Labokla in his Geographia, situated on the route between the river Indus and Palibothra, or Pataliputra (Patna), in a tract of country called Kasperia (Kashmir), described as extending along the rivers Bidastes (Jhelum), Sandabal or Chandra Bhaga (Chenab), and Adris (Ravi). This city may be modern Lahore.

Another legend based on oral traditions lacking in authenticity states that Lahore was named after Lava, son of the Hindu god Rama, who supposedly founded the city. To this day, the Lahore Fort has a vacant temple dedicated to Lava. Likewise, the Ravi River that flows through northern Lahore was named for the Hindu goddess Durga.

The oldest written authentic document about Lahore was written by an anonymous writer in AD 982 and is called Hudud-i-Alam. It was translated by V. Minorsky into English and published in Lahore in 1927. In this document, Lahore is referred to as a small 'shahr' (City) with "impressive temples, large markets and huge orchards". It points out to "two major markets around which dwellings exist", and it also points out to "the mud walls that enclose these two dwellings to make it one". The original document can be currently found in the British Museum.

Old City Skyline - early morning sunrise from backyard balcony of Hotel Mirage.

A new high rise apartment in the new section of Lahore city.

Old habit never die, Lahore's Tut-Tut version, motorcycle and Japan toyota invasion.

Night Life and Bazaar in the center of Lahore old City

Beautiful morning pic-scape - sunrise , of Badshah Mosque in Lahor Old City

The Hotel that we stay while in Lahore-Pakistan

The best briyani we ever taste- look simple but absolutely delicious.

Nice dishes to go along with briyani chicken -

Visiting Lahore - Overview

2011-05-04T01:13:00.000-07:00

Cityscape of Lahore - Pakistan

Traveled to Lahore in June 2010. I was here in early 90's a brief stop by before we when to the northernmost city of Penshawar. Lahore change drastically over the years, about two decades since I made a brief passing then,way back in early 90's. Still vividly remember the well known red city building, the original location of British colonial residency. However, now only a few landmarks exist to memorize the British colonialisation. Now, this border city of Pakistan has transformed tremendously over the years. However I still managed to glimpse the traditional features of Lahore. such as horse cart plying the street of the old city area of Lahore, peddlers and so with typical street scene of Lahore of yesteryear.
I think a good part of development, where the need to preserve traditonal and old way of doing thing.
Lahore is second-largest city in Pakistan, is now a bustling metropolis with great historic and architectural sights, monuments and old gardens. It is also the cultural and artistic capital of Pakistan with Islamic mysticism and famous singers, as well as excellent local food and trendy shopping areas. Although unfortunately plagued with political violence creating safety concerns, Lahore is known as the Heart of Pakistan or the City of Gardens.

An old trade center located in South Asia in Central Pakistan, Lahore is a city with thousands years of history. It is also the capital of Punjab Province. Lahore has a very rich Islamic culture with many famous historic artists and traditions, monuments, and dishes inherited from the rule of Mughal and Afghan emperors or from Central Asia. Traditional religious and family values are still highly regarded in Lahore. The city does not receive much tourism because of the political instability in Pakistan, but has plenty of potential for attracting people interested in history, architecture and local culture.

Visiting Hong Kong - Places of Interest

2011-05-04T00:35:00.000-07:00

Hong Kong Places of Interest

World of Choice and selection - Hong Kong at Hollywood Street

Victoria Peak is the highest peak in Hong Kong Island with an altitude of 554 meters and has been considered as a landmark of the island.It is the best spot to have a bird's eye view of the Victoria Harbor and the whole thriving island. Viewed from the peak, the scenes are different between day time and night. At day time, you can see high and crowded buildings and the busy Victoria Harbor. At night, lit up by colorful lights, the whole scene is dazzling as a fairly-tale world. The best spot to enjoy the scene is the Peak Tower and the Lion Kiosk beside the peak tram terminal.To reach the Victoria Peak, you can take the peak tram which was put into service in 1888. Its steepest point has an angle of 27 degree which definitely can give you an unforgettable experience. Visiting Hong Kong is not complete without going up the peak.

Hill Tramp near Victoria Peak - Hong Kong

Hollywood Road is an antique lover's paradise. The street is filled with curio and antique shops of all kinds: from Chinese furniture to porcelain ware, from Buddha sculptures to oriental rugs, from Japanese netsukes to Coromandel screens. Aside from all the antique shops, it has numerous small specialty shops that sell unique home accessories and handmade products. Many of them are inside buildings on upper floors, so always remember to look above street level so as not to miss them.

Must see: Man Mo Temple
Situated on Hollywood Road, the temple is one of the oldest and the largest of its kind in the territory. It is dedicated to Kwan Kung, the god of war, and Man Cheong, the god of literature.

Temple Mount in Hong Kong.


Hollywood Road - Hong Kong, Kowloon City

The inauguration of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre marked a new era in the development of the performing arts in Hong Kong. The foundation stone was laid in 1979, construction work started in 1984 and the building completed in 1989. Since its grand opening on 8 November 1989, the Cultural Centre has remained the premier cultural venue offering a stimulating environment for the arts and quality programmes to the public.
The centre is located on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, the Cultural Centre is designed to cater for all the performing arts. There are three major performing halls in the centre, namely the Concert Hall, the Grand Theatre and the Studio Theatre. There is also an Exhibition Gallery which has four foyer exhibition areas. Other ancillary facilities include eleven rehearsal and practice rooms and two conference rooms

The Best Time Visiting Hong Kong

2011-05-04T00:07:00.000-07:00

Hong Kong City Scape - Weather in April..

Climate - Temperature
Hong Kong has a sub-tropical climate, being temperate for nearly half the year, with cool, dry winters and hot, humid summers.
Winter lasts from January to March with January and February more cloudy, with occasional cold fronts followed by dry northerly winds. It is not uncommon for temperatures to drop below 10 °C in urban areas. Visiting Hong Kong in the month of February is the coldest, when the temperature averages 16°C. March and April are very pleasant however, there are occasional spells of high humidity, fog and drizzle can be particularly troublesome. May to August are hot and humid with occasional showers and thunderstorms, and the highest temperatures often exceed 31°C. July to September are the months during which Hong Kong is most likely to be affected by tropical cyclones.

Annual rainfall ranges from around 1300 millimetres to more than 3000 millimetres. About 80 percent of the rain falls between May and September. The wettest month is August, when rain occurs about four days out of seven and the average monthly rainfall at the Observatory is 391.4 millimetres. The driest month is January, when the monthly average is only 23.4 millimetres and rain falls only about six days a month. Visiting Hong Kong in January will be a best choice where the weather is dry and a bit cold.

Hong Kong       Jan     Feb     Mar     Apr     May     Jun     Jul     Aug     Sep     Oct     Nov     Dec
Rainfall (mm)        27     44     75     140     298     399     371     377     297     119     38     25
Rainfall (inches)     1.1     1.7     2.9     5.5     11.7     15.7     14.6     14.8     11.7     4.7     1.5     1.0
Min Temp (°C)     14     14     16     20     24     26     27     26     25     23     19     15    15      14
Max Temp (°C)      19     19     21     25     29     30     31     31     30     28     24     20    19      19
Min Temp (°F)       56     57     62     68     75     79     80     79     78     74     67     60    58      57
Max Temp (°F)       65     65     70     77     84     86     89     88     86     82     76     69   68      67

The Best Time to Travel
However, visiting Hong Kong is an all-year-round destination. The most popular time to visit is from the middle of September to the end of February, when the weather is cooler. At its coolest (mid-December to February), the temperature may fall to 10oC (50oF); at its warmest (late May to mid-September), it averages 28oC (82oF) but may reach 33oC (91oF).

Visiting Hong Kong - Overview

2011-05-03T23:03:00.000-07:00

Visiting Hongkong, is an extraordinary experience,where all the complexes of a territory blends with the traditional China and western culture. So, it means different things to different people. For some of us it is simple dazzling, with the view of sky-scrappered harbor the most stunning urban landscape with flush neon rainbows at night. To others it is a paradise lined with busy streets and myriad malls where one can indulge in shopping like crazy. But these are not all when visiting Hong Kong have to offers. There are still a surprising number of inviting beaches, rewarding hiking trails and some beautiful countryside scenery.
Taste the bite-sized dim sum or dine a multi-dished banquet with the help of China Tour Hub. Visiting Hong Kong you may choose from many offers by travel operators for Hong Kong holiday detsination, including ready-made vacations, customized Hong Kong tours, short or day trip in Hong Kong, transfer & tickets booking service and extension tours to Macau, Xiamen and Guangdong.
In your itinenary of visiting Hong Kong do not miss the neon-lit skyscrapers and mirrored towers line Hong Kong's waterfront, but there's plenty of variety in this never-say-sleep city. Visiting Hong Kong you must not forget to visit the traditional Chinese pharmacies in Sheung Wan where they sell dried seahorses and ginseng, and a short Star Ferry ride away you can dine on sunny afternoon tea at the hotel lobby cafe. You can find your own pace in this speedy city, from the well lit Big Buddha statue at Po Lin Monastery, to haggling for handicrafts at vibrant Temple Street Night Market.
Things to Do
Visiting Hong Kong you may able to observe the famous Star Ferry glides across tanker-filled Victoria Harbour, then take a tram a steep 1,200 feet up to Victoria Peak for panoramic views. The double-decker tram rumbles across Hong Kong island to neon-lit Causeway Bay's department stores. Office-goers crowd the sidewalks en route to work in gleaming Admiralty district, but find the city's spiritual side in Wong Tai Sin Temple, where locals light smoky incense coils and learn their fortune. After a busy day, a traditional foot massage or reflexology session around Central district will refresh you for an evening out.
Shopping
Visiting Hong Kong will amaze you with consumerist culture where it is revered in Hong Kong, from jade chopsticks in Mong Kok's traditional street markets, to Chinese designer jackets in boutiques in Mid Levels. Gallery-hop along Hollywood Road for Balinese carving or traditional Indian art, and in nearby Cat Street market, haggle for old movie posters and kitschy Mao memorabilia. Techno gadget crazy will love the gadget-crammed malls in Wan Chai and Sham Shui Po where shopping around is key. Every well-dressed man will want a custom-made suit from Sam's Tailor in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Nightlife and Entertainment

The Stunning Waterfront of Hong Kong!!

Suprisingly in your rendevous of visiting Hong Kong, the Hong Kees know how to let off steam. At Central's bustling nightlife street Lan Kwai Fong, party-going locals teeter down the cobbles to catch happy hour at tucked-away cocktail bars. You might get lucky at Happy Valley Racecourse's Wednesday evening races, along with the other well-worn local punters; ascend to the grandstand's top floor for the best views of the spot-lit track. You can try to follow traditional Chinese opera's convoluted plots at Hong Kong Cultural Centre's dazzling performances.
Restaurants and Dining
Don't ever miss when visiting Hong Kong to enjoy lunch of traditional dim sum (dumplings and steamed buns) from City Hall Maxim's Palace -- it's worth the wait. World cuisines come together in Central, where you can sample local favorite barbecued pork in noisy diners, or whisper sweet nothings over fresh oysters in romantic French bistros. Choose live lobster from tanks, served with garlicky pak choi at a waterfront table on Cheung Chau island.

The Best Time Visiting Thailand

2011-05-03T20:08:00.000-07:00

What is the best time visiting Thailand? Wherever you travel in the world, it is important to get the timing right. As far as visiting Thailand is concerned, there are no absolute extremes in temperature. If you can avoid the rainy season (July to October), it would probably be best, but if you can't, the rain isn't permanent - it comes in bursts and cools things down after it has gone! Even some even enjoy this sudden rainfall when visiting Thailand.
The weather in Thailand is reasonable most times of year, although it certainly gets hot during the summer! November through February is the coolest times of year and there is certainly less rain then than at other times in the year. However, Thailand is a big country with a diverse landscape. There is somewhere to visit whatever time of the year you visit the kingdom. Visiting Thailand in actual fact is easy and you may do it at any time of the year. I would say Thailand is the friendliest nation in the world.
Visiting Thailand – Thailand’s Seasons

Thailand's seasons are reasonably uniform through the country, but there are some regional differences. Basically, when visiting Thailand you may only has three seasons to choose at: summer, rainy and winter. The southern part of Thailand however does not have a winter. What follows is a summary of the seasons as they impact the kingdom's various regions:

Visiting Thailand – Central and the East

In central Thailand and the eastern provinces, the hot summer weather starts around mid February and goes on to April. In April, the extreme temperatures can go up to the 40 degrees centigrade mark. The winter months are from mid November to mid February. There may really be only a few days of genuinely cold weather during these months, but the period leading up to the New Year are a welcome respite from the heat throughout the rest of the year. Aside from these days, visitors from Europe still may feel the temperatures as being a bit warm during Thailand's winter, although not uncomfortably so. The rainy season kicks in around May and goes on until October. The rain is frequent and sometimes fierce. Usually rainstorms go on for around 30 minutes or so. If you're visiting the beach destinations in the east (Pattaya, Rayong, Koh Chang), the best time is from December to May.

Visiting Thailand - Northern Thailand and the Northeast

Northern Thailand and the Northeast have the same basic seasons as those in the central and eastern regions. The winters are though significantly cooler. Mountainous regions can get particularly cold, on some occasions down to 0 degrees centigrade. In these parts, winter starts in November and goes on to February. Without doubt these are the best months for a visit to the North and Northeast - flowers are in bloom, it is dry and cool, and in the mountains' mists and fogs often form making what is already wonderful scenery quite exquisite. However, although hot, April is also a great month - during the Songkran Festival people will most likely throw water at you… You will be drenched so that will keep you cool!

Visiting Thailand - Southern Thailand

Visiting Thailand on the Southern part where seasons are less distinct and really there are only two proper seasons - summer and the rainy season. The Gulf of Thailand lies to the east of the Thai peninsula while the Andaman Sea lies to the west. Visiting Thailand on areas west of the peninsula (Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi) is best done between mid-November and April to avoid the monsoons that occur during other months - monsoons obviously make visiting islands by boat difficult and sometimes dangerous. Clearly they are best to be avoided. Areas east of the peninsula (Koh Samui, Hat Yai) are best visited from December to June. However, visiting the Gulf of Thailand region is possible throughout the year but those going to this region should check the current weather situation to avoid rain. If you are planning visiting Thailand on both sides of the coast during your stay, December to April would be best period.
Visiting Thailand - Average Temperatures
C°   F°     BANGKOK/
CENTRAL/EAST    SOUTH    NORTH    NORTHEAST
SUMMER (mid Feb to Apr)    27-36    27-34    22-37    25-37
RAINY (May to Oct)    25-33     26-32    24-31    25-33
WINTER (Nov to mid Feb)    22-32    25-32    15-28    17-30

For further info about Thailand; click here.

Visiting Thailand - Tours For Budget Overseas Vacations

2011-05-03T07:46:00.000-07:00

Visiting Thailand, to a country with scintillating atmosphere and the beautiful people. One of the few places in the world that everyone longs to be. It is the country where fun and entertainments never takes break and offers tourists to enjoy happy time with families, friends and beloved round the clock. Come to Thailand and experience it glory in all forms of attractions and experience the magnetizing tourism attraction of this country Thailand lovingly called Land of Smiles. Bangkok is also known as the city of angels.

Visiting Thailand, to a country with scintillating atmosphere and the beautiful people. One of the few places in the world that everyone longs to be. It is the country where fun and entertainments never takes break and offers tourists to enjoy happy time with families, friends and beloved round the clock. Come to Thailand and experience it glory in all forms of attractions and experience the magnetizing tourism attraction of this country Thailand lovingly called Land of Smiles. Bangkok is also known as the city of angels. Visiting Thailand is a must thing to do for those who choose to travel. Tourism has been big source of revenue for the nation. observing tourists arrival in a huge number from across the world come or plan for Thailand tour to experience its magnetizing charm and attractions. Here you will have wonderful time exploring its scenic and pristine beaches, limestone island, breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, warm hospitality, delicious cuisines of all continents among which Thai is irresistible and many alike. Thailand is one such country that caters the needs of all categories of tourists and makes their visit to this country truly an affair of lifetime, more cherish able and remarkable. In additional, tours and travels in Thailand is more economical and fits to all budgets. Here one can make the tour really memorable by just spending according to their limits. So no need to worry lot about as it is the destinations for one and all and so it is visited by tourists of all categories. Here one can see and explore some of the top tourism attractions and destinations that depict the glory and charm of the scintillating natural attractions that never fails to impress the heart of visitors who come from across the world for holidays. Some of the top tourism destinations and attractions that are worth to visit and covered by Thailand tour packages are, the famous Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Ko Sumai, Nakhon Pathom, Ko Si Chang, Mae Sat, Koh Chang, Hua Hin, Koh Samet. These are some of the top holiday destinations in Thailand which are worth to visit and explore. In additional tourists can also enjoy sightseeing tours to some of the major travel and tours attractions that include the famous The Grand Palace, Night Bazaar, Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Victory Monument, Sanam Luang, Siam Park, Butterful Parks and Aquarium, Democracy Monument, Karon Beach, Patong Beach, Khao Sok National Park, Kata Beach, Phang Nga Bay, etc. Well according to your choice and budget you can choose the destination of your choice and enjoy vacation in this beautiful country of Thailand in a delightful and memorable way. Well, visiting Thailand package tours offer lot more then what is expected and surely make the tour and travel an experience to treasure and cherish for lifetime. So instead of wasting time looking for more budget holiday destinations, plan for Thailand tours and take back home lots of memorable experiences to relish in the memories of overseas vacation as the most affordable budgets. Welcome to Thailand the land of true astonishment, magnificence and splendor that never fails to impress the heart of tourists. Truly speaking Thailand tour will leave one and all pleasantly surprised who come here to enjoy holiday with friend, families and dear ones. Visiting Thailand is a must thing to do for those who choose to travel. Tourism has been big source of revenue for the nation. observing tourists arrival in a huge number from across the world come or plan for Thailand tour to experience its magnetizing charm and attractions. Here you will have wonderful time exploring its scenic and pristine beaches, limestone island, breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, warm hospitality, delicious cuisines of all continents among which Thai is irresistible and many alike. Thailand is one such country that caters the needs of all categories of tourists and makes their visit to this country truly an affair of lifetime, more cherish able and remarkable.

In additional, tours and travels in Thailand is more economical and fits to all budgets. Here one can make the tour really memorable by just spending according to their limits. So no need to worry lot about as it is the destinations for one and all and so it is visited by tourists of all categories. Here one can see and explore some of the top tourism attractions and destinations that depict the glory and charm of the scintillating natural attractions that never fails to impress the heart of visitors who come from across the world for holidays.

Some of the top tourism destinations and attractions that are worth to visit and covered by Thailand tour packages are, the famous Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Ko Sumai, Nakhon Pathom, Ko Si Chang, Mae Sat, Koh Chang, Hua Hin, Koh Samet. These are some of the top holiday destinations in Thailand which are worth to visit and explore. In additional tourists can also enjoy sightseeing tours to some of the major travel and tours attractions that include the famous The Grand Palace, Night Bazaar, Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Victory Monument, Sanam Luang, Siam Park, Butterful Parks and Aquarium, Democracy Monument, Karon Beach, Patong Beach, Khao Sok National Park, Kata Beach, Phang Nga Bay, etc. Well according to your choice and budget you can choose the destination of your choice and enjoy vacation in this beautiful country of Thailand in a delightful and memorable way.

The Famous Floating Market in Bangkok.

Well, visiting Thailand package tours offer lot more then what is expected and surely make the tour and travel an experience to treasure and cherish for lifetime. So instead of wasting time looking for more budget holiday destinations, plan for Thailand tours and take back home lots of memorable experiences to relish in the memories of overseas vacation as the most affordable budgets.

Welcome to Thailand the land of true astonishment, magnificence and splendor that never fails to impress the heart of tourists. Truly speaking Thailand tour will leave one and all pleasantly surprised who come here to enjoy holiday with friend, families and dear ones.

Visiting Thailand - Thailand is Quite Restrictive with Tobacco Law but not Alcohol.

2011-05-03T07:20:00.000-07:00

Visiting Thailand and upon arrival as a tourist in Bangkok, you may initially be puzzled as to where to find cigarettes or tobacco. The reason is that tobacco wares are not allowed to be displayed in public and no advertising is allowed. Smaller shops will usually sell cigarettes (which are not expensive, even the imported ones). Cigarette are now allow to display openly. Most convenient places to buy tobacco are the 7-Eleven convenience stores scattered around Bangkok. The cigarettes are located just behind the counter, but as I mentioned, you will not actually see them displayed and must aks for them.
Not quite sure why anyone would want to smoke cigarettes, but for the more serious smokers you will find tobacco wares (cigars, pipe tobacco) at Siam Paragon and Emporium. The shops that sell tobacco are called Bangkok Wine Cellar (they mostly sell wine and spirits). There is one located on the 5th floor (next to the Gourmet Market) at Emporium Shopping Center, and another one (a bit larger, maybe somewhat more choice) in the corridor left of Gourmet Market at Siam Paragon (located at the basement level floor). The pipe tobacco and cigars are not openly visible, so you have to ask to see the wares.
Visiting Thailand should not confine yourself in the hotel room take to visit the store at Siam Paragon, we just recently realized there was another cigar shop on the second floor (take the stairs inside the Bangkok Wine Market, off Gourmet Market). This after we noticed its website by good fortune. The tobacco shop on the second floor is called Divan@Siam Paragon, and sells a good selection of Havana cigars. There are no pipes, pipe tobacco or accessories on sale. The cigars are not openly priced, which is a bit of a turn-off to us. Branches of the same company that runs Divan@Siam Paragon can be found at Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Cigar Shop at J.W. Marriott Hotel (Phloenchit road), at Pattaya Mariott Resort and Spa. Its Cigars can also be enjoyed at bars at the Conrad Hotel and Grand Hyatt Erawan.

In visiting Thailand it is a good alternative to the shops mentioned above is the Siam Havana Cigars shop at the Dusit Thani hotel. The Dusit Thani hotel is a five-star hotel located very close to the Silom MRT (subway) station. Just turn left as you exit the subway, and walk to the entrance of the hotel, the tobacco shop is right there. As the name suggests, it has a selection of Havana cigars. There is also a reasonable selection of pipe tobacco and smoking accessories. Savinelli pipes are on sale. We do not know about the prices of the Cuban cigars or the pipes on sale, but the pipe tobacco here is not more expensive than the pipe tobacco at Siam Paragon or Emporium. The tobacco wares at Dusit Thani hotel are not covered up, but openly displayed, as they should be.

One should not be overly worried because most the five star hotels actually will have a small shop where you can also buy tobacco wares. I noticed that these shops are allowed to display tobacco for sale. Smoking is prohibited in restaurants and public places in Bangkok. Smoking is allowed outside buildings. For example, if you are a smoker and visit a Starbucks for your morning coffee, you may want to select one that has an outdoors section (although nowadays it seems Starbucks itself seems to disallow smoking even in its outdoor areas).
When you visited bars before, well you would have sees the reason why smoking has been banned in most places, and gets such a bad press. The bars were filled with smoke, and any visit may have had you coughing for the next few days. In our opinion, if smokers would have been more self-restraining, things would not have developed as far as they have now, with smokers being treated almost as bad as plain criminals. As of February 2008, there is a smoking ban in airconditioned bars and night clubs. Up to then, bars and nightlife entertainment venues had been exempted. Most bars and pubs implement the new anti-smoking rules, but not all.

Somewhere in the middle of 2010 the anti-smoking laws became more stringent, although just reading the new measures in the press we failed to see any significant changes.

When taking an international flight out of Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport, you can smoke in a smokers' room. Apparently there are no less than 18 smoking rooms in the airport, most likely all in the lounges for first class and business class passengers. We never manage to locate more than just one smoking room for economy class passengers. It is a real disgrace, too small, and almost not ventilated at all. The regulators, and Suvarnabhumi's Airport management should be more concerned about passengers's well being, and provide a large, well ventilated area with proper seating arrangements. It could even be located in an outside area. The way it is now, arrangements are not becoming an airport, that claims to be one of the best in the world.

The domestic section of the airport has no smoking rooms!

Drinking and Buying Alcohol

Visiting Thailand should not be worried of their alcohol or beer booze because it is still allowed in Thailand. However, you can not buy alcohol at all times of day. Shops like supermarkets and 7-Elevens are not allowed to sell alcohol between 2.00-5.00 P.M. and after midnight. Sometime in the morning (the time escapes me) sales are permitted again. As far as we know, you can drink alcohol all day though in restaurants and bars.
On some days (religious and national holidays, election days) alcohol sales are banned altogether, and drinks can not be served even in restaurants and bars (which usually close on these days anyway).
Wines are invariably priced high. Even table wines that would be sold at less than 100 baht a bottle in Europe, cost 400 baht and upwards. Stronger drinks like whisk(e)y, gin, vodka are quite cheap altogether. A bottle of good whisky such as Grant's or Ballantines can be had at around 600-700 baht a bottle (about 20-25 US $). Most supermarkets will sell wines and spirits. Beers and mostly local brand alcohol is available at 7-Elevens (prices are about 20% higher than at supermarkets though). By the way, Thai brandy (sometimes called whisky or rum) is actually quite tasty and very cheap.

Drinking beer or other alcoholic beverages in bars and pubs in Thailand is not cheap. Often you will need to pay in excess of 100 baht for just a standard local beer. This does not apply for smaller non-airconditioned bars and streetside restaurants. Nightlife venues charge around 150 baht for a drink.

Drunk driving is a major problem in Thailand, and thousands of people are killed each year because of it. Most victims (and perpetrators) are 'low-class' motorcycle drivers, and little is done to enforce existing laws, and/or to improve drivers' conduct. Invariably, each year around New Year and with Songkran (the Thai New Year) there will be temporary campaigns to limit the number of road deaths. Unfortunately, the value of life in Thailand is rather low, and therefore little is done to preserve it.
Prior to Songkran 2009 there was a strong movement to ban the sale of alcohol altogether during the holiday period. Surveys (as published in local newspapers) suggested wide support for such a ban. Just a week before Songkran it was eventually decided by the ad hoc government commission not to go ahead with the scheme, because it would unfavorably affect tourism. The laws to curb drunk driving are actually there, more effort is necessary to implement them, together with an educational campaign to suggest to the young Thai males that driving drunk is not cool or virile. However, visiting Thailand should be of no problem to those arrival. with regards to food and drink. Food is in abundant in Thailand.

Travel Asia - Hong Kong

2011-04-28T21:29:00.000-07:00

Hong Kong will not be missed to those traveling Asia and Far East. Hong Kong is back to China for almost two decades now. However, the charms and pragmatism remain. Hong Kong is all about money, money and the pursuit and the pleasure of spending is all about Hong Kong. Business is flourishing as though nothing happen which change of political landscape. To China, Hong Kong is just another small part of her. No significant change in Hong Kong business or politic landscape. Still, a pragmatic Hong Kong. As eloquently captured Hong Kong’s character “a borrowed place living on borrowed time but no more now. Traveling Asia without going to Hong Kong is not complete.

Hong Kong also is an exciting place, an economic dream come true. Hong Kong remains to be one of the world’s most unique happenings. It’s a fascinating story of success against all odds, of pirates, missionaries, mercenaries, traders, bankers, entrepreneurs, refugees, taipans, and tai tais. It’s where the East met West and decided the two could work quite well together. It’s where the Chinese and expatriates worked together in teaching the British lesson in successful capitalism.

You must experience Hong Kong to understand what this is all about. You must walks the street of Hong Kong, wonder along the many lanes, climb the low hill of Hong Kong, enjoy the never ending of seascape, mountain scape and viewing the China mainland. Experience the ferries, the hovercraft and visits it factories. Walk into shopping complexes, hotel, towns, villages, and the islands. If you are not able to control your shopping addiction you may shop till you drop. Hong Kong undoubtedly one of the world most fabulous cities for merchants, traders, tourist, and seasoned shoppers. If you don’t learn to like this place, something may be not in place for traveling in South Asia and Far East.

Hong Kong may be considered a city with no heart, but it has lots of character and a keen sense of where it is going. Everything about it shouts, unique and exotic. Known as the “Queen of Exotic Cities” and also known as the “Pearl of the orient”

Hong Kong is a city of many delights. Its serve as a major entry point to all Asia. Most tours to China, enter and exit from Hong Kong.

Sawa Dhikap - Amazing Thailand

2011-04-24T21:06:00.000-07:00

Sawa ..Dhikap...I have been in Thailand late last year, and I also come over annually when time permit.I love the people, the culture and the food and now I'm beginning to see and understand a little more about this magnificent country.

Thailand is stress free place, especially the countryside and the beautiful beaches.Even the capital is fun with its heat, exotic sights and sounds, and good-matured touts and street stalls.

The first experience is varied, but if tourist numbers are anything to go by then it will be Bangkok, Pattaya or Phuket.Phuket lives up to its nickname - "Pearl of the Andaman."

Like a pearl it is highly polished, very expensive and has throngs of admirers bidding its value up. It also increases in price every year. Tsunami is long forgotten now.

There are some nice beaches, but if you want an over-developed island there are plenty of other options. Pattaya is a lot less expensive but no less developed. Sin city on the beach is a magnet for men seeking instant relationships, cheap beer and daily, if not hourly thrills. For me the visit here is not for that sincerely, the nature and the cool breeze from the Andaman Sea.

Great if you want to make love, not war but hardly an insight into Amazing Thailand. Bangkok I would not argue with.This mega-metropolis has wormed its way into my heart and remains my favorite capital.The sights, sounds, tastes and buzz make it an exciting and pulse-quickening place to visit, and the value is undeniable.

Rows of halal restaurant in Midst of Chiang Mai City

Galore of choice in Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

Chiang Mai City Scape from my hotel room.

My most favorite place, I would suggest after heading to the capital for a week, to make your way North to the hills and cultural center of the country. Here you will really the essence of Thailand naturally. Chiang Mai is the main center of the North and is a little more laid back than the capital.Industries and crafts include silk, lacquer and hill tribe products as well as Kings Project items which are quite exceptional.Many years ago the hill-people grew opium, and Thailand's revered King took an interest in their welfare and became patron of a project to teach these subjects how to grow sustainable crops for the benefit of the community.

This took off and now Chiang Mai has a plethora of agricultural products that grace the world's finest menus.Because I am pretty much "Joe Street", I tend to focus on the immediate benefits to me. Coffee! and halal Tom Yam. You may go to the bazaar area in midst of Chiang Mai,there you will find Thai muslim food, even Pakistani or Arabian gourmet.

All over Thailand there are small street stands offering "Doi Chang" and "Doi tung" coffee which is an exceptional tasting bean made into a big cup of iced coffee for around 25 baht ($1)

Chiang Mai is the gateway to the North, and the people are gracefully Thai.Unlike Phuket, there is a distinct lack of Tuk Tuk mafias, jet-ski scams, irritating and persistent Nepali tailor touts and in-your-face sex shows.This city is your first major glimpse of real Thailand and is situated amongst rolling hills and majestic mountains.

Further North (actually VERY North at the top of the country) is Chiang Rai, a very Thai town situated in the Golden Triangle - a tri border city sitting on the junction of Laos, Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand.

Kok Krung Krap...that's Thailand.

Free and Easy Thailand

2011-04-24T07:07:00.000-07:00

Visiting Thailand early last year was probably one of the best decisions I have ever made. If checking out the amazing pictures on free and easy's trip (which still don't do Thailand justice) doesn't convince you to go, just talk to anyone who's traveled with me. Free and easy is the perfect balance for someone who's not quite confident to plan every aspect of their traveling on their own but doesn’t want to be babysat the entire time. The major factors that are the least fun to plan are taken care of for you.....the places you stay are booked, transportation is taken care of, and best of all, you've always got someone to help you out when those little unexpected issues pop up once you arrive

A street in Bangkok night market

Near the hotel lobby area in Bangkok City

Thailand is an amazing country, where visiting Thailand will not be regrettable trip and Thailand has a ton to offer no matter what kind of traveler you are. If you want 40 days of relaxation, the beaches are beautiful, the hammocks are comfortable, and the food is delicious and fantastically cheap! If you’re into partying, you can basically do that 24 hours a day for the entire trip.....and trust me, I've see it done! If you love taking in new cultures, there's cooking classes, massage classes, yoga lessons, temples, an opportunity to learn a new language, exotic food, and a bazillion people who live a lot differently than we do. If you're adventurous you can try scuba diving, snorkeling, rock climbing, bungee jumping, sea kayaking...its probably safe to say that some of the food could fall under this adventure category too!!

My favorite aspect of my entire experience with free and easy tour was the people I've met. I had the opportunity to hang out with some absolutely phenomenal people in Thailand. The Thai people are fantastic, cordial, and generally love to help you get the complete Thailand experience. The free and easy guys are super knowledgeable, helpful, and a blessing to have around. Most importantly, I met 23 other people in my group who have become amazing friends....our little "Thailand reunions" seem to happen every other week!! If anyone wants to email me with any questions, you are more than welcome to. Visiting Thailand is a must for those who love amazement, enchanting and nature.

Thailand City of Angels

2011-04-24T06:18:00.000-07:00

The ‘City of Angels’ is Thailand’s showcase, and it boasts many of the most important, not to mention beautiful, buildings and temples in the country. It should be your first stop on any Thailand visit, with endless curious sights. There really is plenty to see and do in this vibrant city, so it’s worth spending a few days in the capital as a tourist.Bangkok offers a wealth of culture, interest and sightseeing. Most Bangkok tourist guidebooks dedicate a large chunk to its many impressive sites, activities and numerous exotic characters. From the glittering Grand Palace, to giant gold Buddhas and busy night markets, Bangkok really is a tourist magnet. Find out more on the options and attractions in this section.

The stunning and intricately decorated temples that are all over Bangkok range from the exquisite to the magnificent – Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho being top of most tourist lists. But there are many more besides, and you’ll be in danger of becoming ‘templed out’ if you’re not careful. While in Bangkok a guide is recommended to help you navigate your way and maximise your time.Although the city is relatively young compared to other centres in Thailand, it has benefited as the capital of a wealthy kingdom that developed a rich legacy of cultural architecture during the 18th and 19th centuries. These have been left largely untouched in the historic Rattanakosin district where you will find the magnificent Grand Palace, Golden Mount, Giant Swing and numerous temples that are several centuries old.

A Night Life Scene in the street of Bangkok

A scenery along a canal in the country side.

A beautiful river flowing in the country side.

A Floating river market in Bangkok

The leafy, low-rise Dusit district nearby is a world away from the chaotic collection of skyscrapers across town, and here you’ll find the marvellous Vimanmek Teak Palace, neo-renaissance Abhisek Throne and eclectic styles of Government House and other administrative properties. The zoo and royal family’s residences are here too.While in the area, an altogether different experience can be had by wandering down the ultra-bohemian backpacker centre of Khao San Road, where the people themselves become the attraction. A popular route from here is to catch a riverboat down the Chao Praya where you get the best views of the striking pagodas of the Temple of Dawn and other landmarks along the river banks.The teak mansion of Jim Thomson’s museum house (near Siam Square), along with the canals of Thonburi and bustling lanes of Chinatown, are all recommended in every Bangkok guidebook as great examples of the people’s Bangkok. In addition are the modern attractions of shopping centres, markets, and entertainment complexes of Ratchaprasong and Sukhumwit, which all pull the crowds.Beyond Bangkok are more popular tourist favourites, and most guide trips invariably head for the famous Floating Market, one hour away. It’s an early start, but with some proper planning you might manage to see the best bits of Ayuthaya, to the north. This World Heritage site was the former capital in the 17th Century and is now in ruins.

Don’t miss the famous evening entertainment, including the go go bars, lively pubs, plush restaurants and night markets. Don’t stay out too late, though, as there’s plenty to be seen during a short stay in Bangkok.

There’s quite a bit more to see in the central region if you have the time. Using Bangkok as an ideal base you can visit some rewarding cultural and historic sites as day trips or overnight stops, and you’ll get a more thorough experience of Thailand, too.Ayuthaya is the former capital; a fantastic set of ruins on an island of the Chao Praya, half a day upstream by luxury converted rice barges. It’s popular to take a tour that combines this with a trip west to Kanchanburi amid the hills of the Burmese border. Here, you get a tragic history lesson on the Death Railway and the River Kwai Bridge during Japanese WWII occupation, but there’s also plenty of soft adventure in this lovely landscape.Heading south, you soon arrive at the first of the Gulf coast’s beachside towns, Hua Hin, which is the weekend getaway choice of Bangkokians. Don’t forget to stop and visit the largest pagoda in the world at Nakhon Pathom, reckoned to be Thailand’s oldest inhabited town. Two good national parks are located near Hua Hin.

On the other side of Bangkok, and much more accessible from Suvarnabhumi Airport, is the lively, if somewhat salubrious, resort city of Pattaya. It was Thailand’s original resort town, and though there are better beaches in the country, the naughty nightlife, golf courses, and family amusement parks attract the crowds. Several other seaside towns here cater to a Thai market, but venture a bit further and you can experience some gorgeous beach scenery on the tiny island of Koh SametNortheast of Bangkok, on the fringe of the great escarpment that is the gateway to the Isaan region, is Khao Yai National Park. It was Thailand’s first designated park and is considered one of the best in Asia, boasting abundant wildlife, lovely nature trails and some great waterfalls. Vineyards have also been established nearby, providing a good place to stay. In the same area is Lop Buri, where you can see Khmer ruins that are among the oldest such sites in the country.

Chiang Mai - Travel to the Cultural City of Thailand

2011-04-18T23:18:00.000-07:00

The Cultural City of Thailand

The ‘culture capital’ of Thailand is a charming and laidback 700-year-old town famous for sightseeing, trekking, soft adventure, shopping, spas and mountain resorts. It’s no wonder Chiang Mai was runner-up favourite city in the 2010 Travel + Leisure readers’ poll.
The people of Northern Thailand pride themselves on their warm hospitality and unique culture. When you travel to Chiang Mai expect to see hotel staff wearing traditional costume, and stay in rooms decorated in classic Lanna styles from centuries ago. Even the humble backpacker guesthouses are a particularly social experience, not to mention great value. Then there’s the casual atmosphere of the city bars and some of the best value dining in Thailand. Even Chiang Mai’s numerous spas have become famous!
The ancient city of Chiang Mai is a travel guide favourite, mainly because it oozes culture and history with its pretty moat, crumbling bastions and ruined pagodas at every turn. Staying among the old town lanes offers an authentic taste of provincial Thailand, with centuries-old temples, bustling street markets and cosy guesthouses and coffee shops on every corner. Then there’s soft adventure trips to mountain national parks and waterfalls nearby, trekking, elephant riding, family attractions and more. Shopping is another notable advantage in Chiang Mai, along with very affordable hotels and restaurants.

The mouthwatering authentic Thai dishes.

Metro Chiang Mai

Although traditionally a quiet town of northern Thailand in a valley ringed by mountains, Chiang Mai has become a cosmopolitan hangout boasting quality restaurants plus many hip bars, hotels and clubs. While not on the scale of Bangkok in this regard, it has the benefit of being much more subdued and laidback.
The best thing is that Chiang Mai is only a few kilometres across and so most of it can be done on foot. The other major plus is that everything here is so much cheaper than in Bangkok, as well as the beach resort islands of Phuket and Koh Samui.
There are loads of options for drinking out and anyone who says Chiang Mai is staid either hasn’t given the place a chance or doesn’t really know what they’re talking about. There are oodles of relaxed hangouts and restaurant-bars, along with a couple of noted go-go strips, tucked away karaoke lounges and pumping discos.

The area around Thapae Gate – the cultural heart of Chiang Mai – has the lion’s share of bars. Namely, up and down Moon Muang Road, farther east around Nawarat Bridge, and along the girlie bar road of Loi Kroh, which connects the moat with the popular tourist hangout of the Night Bazaar. More on the Night Bazaar.

The Night Bazaar doubles as a shopping and entertainment area. It runs nightly and is stuffed to the gussets with street vendors and lively bars and restaurants. Perennial favourites include the revamped Galare Centre, for food and complimentary shows; the cluster of restaurants, bars, coffee houses and fast food joints around McDonalds, farther south; and the burgeoning Anusarn Market area, farther south again. The latter is known for its seafood restaurants and expat bars.

At one of the beautiful resort cum spa in Chang Mai.

Those looking purely for girlie-bar action should head for Loi Kroh Road. Although there are only a few traditional go-go bars along here, there are plenty of places to hangout and enjoy conversation with the girls. One of the hippest in the area is the Number 1 Bar, which is just off a side street of Loi Kroh.

The fascinating traditional dance from Cheng Mai Cultural dance troupe.

Travel Thailand Top Destination

2011-04-18T22:51:00.000-07:00

Traveling to South East Asia is not complete without going to Thailand. The land of many smiles. Despite the less English speaking Thai people you will never be left alone. You maybe able to come across new experiences especially with regards to nature, beautiful beaches, lush green tropical rain forest and not to forget the Thai girl. Nightlife in Thailand will take you to a new dimension of entertainment that you might experience in your entire life.

A Night Entertainment in Thailand..

There are several sights to see and surprises to offer, Thailand could be one of the best locations you should not miss to visit. Culture, beaches, people, and heritage sites are some of the things you can expect when you travel to Thailand.

The beach you may love and dream of.

Bangkok - Traveling Thailand wound not be complete without visiting Bangkok. As the nation's capital with an estimated population of over 10 million (including the neighboring provinces), this city is by far the largest in the country. The city is divided into 50 districts or khet but for tourists and those who are new in the place, 6 divisions would be more useful. These are Ratchadaphisek in the northeast section of the city, Sukhamvit in the southeast, Silom in the south, Thonburi in the west, Rattanakosin in the central north, and Phahanyothin in the north. The whole Bangkok district would give you a diverse taste of culture, history, religion, modernity, and fast-phase life. You can actually witness how all these blend together to comprise the whole Bangkok package. Buddhist temples, historical museums, towering buildings, contemporary restaurants and hotels, shopping centers, canals and rivers, and food make Bangkok a one of a kind city in Southeast Asia.

Phuket - Down south, Phuket features magnificent beaches, tropical sunsets, white sands, blue seas, and breathtaking sceneries. No wonder it is the most popular vacation destination in Asia beating every beaches of the neighboring countries. It has several beaches like Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Patong Beach, Kamala Beach, and Surin Beach. The island showcases several water sports and activities including parasailing, jet-skiing, and scuba diving. By day, Phuket is alive with beachgoers and shoppers and by night, lights, sounds, and party people dominate the whole island.

Chiang Mai - The second largest city in Thailand with an estimated population of more than 200,000. This city located in the northern part of the country offers greener and quieter city. Chiang Mai's tourism is becoming more and more popular and permanently settling at this city is very common. When you travel Thailand and visit Chiang Mai, you surely would want to see museums such as Hilltribe Research Institute Museum and the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center. With religion and history enriching the city, you can see several Buddhist temples such as Wat Chiang Mun, Wat Chiang Mun, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Oo-Mong, Wat Phra Jao Mengrai, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, and Wat Chedi Luang. The oldest temple dates back in the 11th century. Chiang Mai features attractions such as Chiang Mai Flower Festival in February, Bo Sang Umbrella & Sankampang Handicrafts Festival in January, The 2nd Orchid Fair also in January, and the Loi Krathong Festival usually falls in November.

Pattaya - Located 150 km. north of Bangkok, Pattaya is one of the most popular tourist destinations, which offers great beaches, beer and go-go bars, and a wide array of sport activities. Visit Pattaya when you travel Thailand is a must. Although it is the most overdeveloped part of the country in terms of tourism, prices in Pattaya still remains with reach. In fact, prices of foods, accommodation, and transportations are very affordable.

Krabi - In a small province of Krabi lies a small town with the same name. Paying a visit Krabi town when you travel Thailand is worth the time. Located south of Bangkok near Phuket and Phi Phi island, the town features great beaches along with high end hotels and not so expensive hotel that cater tourists of different classes.

Lahore -City of Garden -Pakistan

2011-04-04T06:23:00.000-07:00

Traveled to Lahore in June 2010. I was here in early 90's a brief stop by before we when to the northernmost city of Peshawar.Lahore change drastically over the years, about two decades since I made a brief passing then,way back in early 90's. Still vividly remember the well known red city building, the original location of British colonial residency. However, now only a few landmarks exist to memorize the British colonizations. Now, this border city of Pakistan has transformed remendously over the years. However I still managed to glimpse the traditional features of Lahore. such as horse cart plying the street of the old city area of Lahore, peddlers and so with typical street scene of Lahore of yesteryear.

I think a good part of development, where the need to preserve traditional and old way of doing thing.

Lahore is second-largest city in Pakistan, is now a bustling metropolis with great historic and architectural sights, monuments and old gardens. It is also the cultural and artistic capital of Pakistan with Islamic mysticism and famous singers, as well as excellent local food and trendy shopping areas. Although unfortunately plagued with political violence creating safety concerns, Lahore is known as the Heart of Pakistan or the City of Gardens.


The traditional Tri-Car something similar to the Thailand Tut-Tut, with motorcycle and latest Toyota model plying the city street of Lahore.

An old trade center located in South Asia in Central Pakistan, Lahore is a city with thousands years of history. It is also the capital of Punjab Province. Lahore has a very rich Islamic culture with many famous historic artists and traditions, monuments, and dishes inherited from the rule of Mughal and Afghan emperors or from Central Asia. Traditional religious and family values are still highly regarded in Lahore. The city does not receive much tourism because of the political instability in Pakistan, but has plenty of potential for attracting people interested in history, architecture and local culture.

Tourist attractions in Lahore: historic sites, shopping & lively culture

Buzzing Night Bazaar in Lahore City

Another section of the Night Bazaar and shopping location of Lahore City.

The walled Inner City is the historical center and densely populated heart of Lahore. Over thousand years old, it is full of historic attractions such as the World Heritage -listed Lahore Fort, a masterpiece of architecture of the Mughal civilization, the Badshahi Mosque, and several palaces and shrines. The Gurdwara Mall is lined with British colonial buildings, and the terraced Shalamar Gardens near the city are home to beautiful lodges, waterfalls, and ponds. Old mausoleums of Jehangir and Nur Jehan are also popular sights in Lahore.

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From the Backyard Hotel Mirage Balcony - the old city skyline view during the early morning sunrise.

The place where we stay, Hotel Mirage within the Old City center of Lahore.

One of the better briyani you would ever taste, the chicken masala another delicious dish.

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Museums & bazaars. The Mall Road area in Central Lahore hosts interesting museums as well as more historic buildings and a zoo. The rich suburbs of Gulberg and Defence have large mansions and modern shopping areas. Shopping in Lahore can be done also in the old Inner City bazaars. Lahore also offers a family-oriented amusement park called Jallo Park that includes a zoo and a water park.


Pepsi a better choice and pick of Lahore City residents. I think taste differ from one place to another, here is much sweeter. Maybe sugar is readily available and cheap ingredient.

Entertainment options. Restaurants in Lahore are famous for their local quality cuisine. The city is also a center for Islamic qawwali singing and mystic Sufism with regular gatherings at the shrine of Shah Jamal. Lahore has an 18-hole golf course and another one is about to open. Cricket and polo
games can also be watched. The ruins of the ancient city of Harappa are situated southwest of Lahore.

Lahore travel information and practical tips
The climate in Lahore is monsoonal with extremely hot summers and cool winters from November to February. The best times to visit Lahore are situated somewhere between these two extremes. There is a rainy season in Lahore during the south-westerly monsoon, usually starting in August. Heavy rains during the monsoon season can cause flooding along the river plains.
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Traveling to Lahore can be done by air, by rail, or by road.
There is an international airport with direct flights to Lahore from many cities in Asia, as well as from many cities in Pakistan. There are train connections to Lahore from India, as well as from other parts of Pakistan, and buses and minibuses from other Pakistani cities and the Indian border. A modern motorway connects Lahore to Islamabad and Faisalabad.

Local transport in Lahore is handled by trains, buses, minivans, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. There are also plans for building a Mass Rapid Transit System. Lahore has a main railway station and seven local train stations for commuting traffic. Auto-rickshaws are cheap motorized rickshaws that are handy to use for small distances and safer than minivans. Taxis are also plentiful, but they are not metered, so you need to haggle about the price. Car rental in Lahore is possible, but only recommended with a local driver.

Visitor services. There is a great amount of hotels in Lahore with both high quality and very cheap options available. Restaurants in Lahore are plentiful and the city is known for its local cuisine. Local dishes as well as Asian and European choices of cuisine can be found. Lahore does not have nightlife in the Western sense of the word. English is an official language in Pakistan, and the educated people in Lahore speak it. However, in the poorer areas of the city it is not too common to find people who can speak English.

Safety concerns. As all big cities, Lahore has its share of crime, mainly in form of pick-pocketing. Women traveling alone are likely to be harassed. Political violence and terrorism are major threats in Lahore, where there was a series of suicide bomb attacks in 2008. Visitors should exercise caution at all times and avoid large gatherings and political demonstrations. Avoid also traveling at night. In general, local people are hospitable and welcoming, but they are also conservative, so it is very important to respect their traditions and religion and to dress appropriately