Hope you will enjoy reading this quick info one page with useful links about Jumeirah Road.
Trip ila Dubai
Trip ila Dubai
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7 days itinerary in Korea : Part 2
This November 2011 will mark my third time going to South Korea as I love autumn and you should know this fact by now ^^, right? Ohh..and I have recently been enlightened that Malaysia also has the 90 days visa exception for North Korea. :O..hmm..going to North Korea might be a distant but yummy idea right?
I will be going with another two friends. They will arrive a day ahead of me while I will be travelling to Korea the next day. The goal is to explore places that I have not been before, however one of them is a first timer to Korea so I have to include those MUST visit places in the itinerary.
A sample itinerary
Day 1
9.45pm- arrived at Incheon Airport by Air Asia
10.30pm - ride AREX + subway to Seoul
11.30pm - check in guesthouse, explore Myeongdong by foot
Day 2
7.00am - breakfast, check out guesthouse, leave the luggage at guesthouse
8.00am - Namdaemun
10.30am - Chandeok palace
12.30pm - Insadong and lunch
2.00pm - Cheongyecheon stream
4.00pm- Namsan tower, teddy bear museum
7.00pm- Myeongdong , dinner
10.00pm - my friends will go to Incheon Airport or they can opt for another night stay at the guesthouse and leave early morning the next day to Gimpo Airport but I will stay at Incheon Airport and take the earliest train to Gimpo Airport the next day.
Day 3
8.30am - flight to Jeju Island from Gimpo Airport *susceptible to the weather and flight delay*
10.00am -arrived at Jeju Island-tour the airport, breakfast
11.00am -check in Guesthouse
11.30am-rent scooter and check out Jeju Island until night
Day 4
7.00am-checkout guesthouse
9.00am - 6.00pm-tour Jeju Island
8.00pm-fly to Busan
9.00pm-arrived at Busan and check out the city
11.00pm-check in jjimjilbang at Gwangalli/Haeundae
Day 5
7.00am-breakfast, checkout from jjimjilbang
8.00am- Yonggungsa
11.00am-Busan Mosque - lunch at Busan Mosque-Busan Tower-Jagalchi Market-40 Gyedan-Gwangalli Beach
4.00pm - if decide to take free shuttle bus from Busan to Seoul; free bus from Paradise Hotel, Haeundae Beach 16.00hrs arrived at Seoul 20:00 hours
12.00pm-if decide to take midnight train to Seoul
Day 6
6.00am -arrive at Seoul Station, leave the luggage at the station
8.00am - Nami Island by subway and train
2.00pm-check in guesthouse, ewha,sinchon,hongdae, shopping
6.00pm-Sindangdong tteokpokki and Dongdaemun
Day 7
7.00am-Itaewon-Itaewon Mosque-Namsangol Hanok Village
12.00 noon-DMZ
6.00pm-Yeoido Park,63 building, shopping at Myeongdong
Day 8
5.30am - take the first subway to Incheon Airport ; checkout Seoul subway schedule here.
8.25am - fly back to Malaysia
Estimated budget ~ RM1,800 / 600,000 won excluding flight ticket and shopping
Note:
I will be going with another two friends. They will arrive a day ahead of me while I will be travelling to Korea the next day. The goal is to explore places that I have not been before, however one of them is a first timer to Korea so I have to include those MUST visit places in the itinerary.
A sample itinerary
Day 1
9.45pm- arrived at Incheon Airport by Air Asia
10.30pm - ride AREX + subway to Seoul
11.30pm - check in guesthouse, explore Myeongdong by foot
Day 2
7.00am - breakfast, check out guesthouse, leave the luggage at guesthouse
8.00am - Namdaemun
10.30am - Chandeok palace
12.30pm - Insadong and lunch
2.00pm - Cheongyecheon stream
4.00pm- Namsan tower, teddy bear museum
7.00pm- Myeongdong , dinner
10.00pm - my friends will go to Incheon Airport or they can opt for another night stay at the guesthouse and leave early morning the next day to Gimpo Airport but I will stay at Incheon Airport and take the earliest train to Gimpo Airport the next day.
Day 3
8.30am - flight to Jeju Island from Gimpo Airport *susceptible to the weather and flight delay*
10.00am -arrived at Jeju Island-tour the airport, breakfast
11.00am -check in Guesthouse
11.30am-rent scooter and check out Jeju Island until night
Day 4
7.00am-checkout guesthouse
9.00am - 6.00pm-tour Jeju Island
8.00pm-fly to Busan
9.00pm-arrived at Busan and check out the city
11.00pm-check in jjimjilbang at Gwangalli/Haeundae
Day 5
7.00am-breakfast, checkout from jjimjilbang
8.00am- Yonggungsa
11.00am-Busan Mosque - lunch at Busan Mosque-Busan Tower-Jagalchi Market-40 Gyedan-Gwangalli Beach
4.00pm - if decide to take free shuttle bus from Busan to Seoul; free bus from Paradise Hotel, Haeundae Beach 16.00hrs arrived at Seoul 20:00 hours
12.00pm-if decide to take midnight train to Seoul
Day 6
6.00am -arrive at Seoul Station, leave the luggage at the station
8.00am - Nami Island by subway and train
2.00pm-check in guesthouse, ewha,sinchon,hongdae, shopping
6.00pm-Sindangdong tteokpokki and Dongdaemun
Day 7
7.00am-Itaewon-Itaewon Mosque-Namsangol Hanok Village
12.00 noon-DMZ
6.00pm-Yeoido Park,63 building, shopping at Myeongdong
Day 8
5.30am - take the first subway to Incheon Airport ; checkout Seoul subway schedule here.
8.25am - fly back to Malaysia
Estimated budget ~ RM1,800 / 600,000 won excluding flight ticket and shopping
Note:
- Total actual days in Korea are 6 days
- This itinerary might not be suitable for those with children or elders.
- Time may not be accurate and just for estimation.
- Jjimjilbang is optional; the cheapest stay for about 12,000 won per night but may not be the most comfortable.
- Always have Plan B if your flight or scheduled get delayed or changed.
- Bring muscle pain reliever as the schedule is harsh, definitely if you're traveling with me. Hehehe.
Anyone has better ideas to reduce the budget and any unbeaten paths to explore with this kinda time limit?
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Dubai Summer Surprises
Dubai Summer Surprises is one of the strategy to keep Dubai as the most prefer city to visit event during the warm hot season.As there many promotions and children activities this event proof to be successful over the years. Instead number of visitors decreased during the summer, it increases and hotels are once more booked again though still you can get for a cheaper summer room rate. All
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Dialing Guide in Indonesia
Indonesia Country Code : 62
Jakarta Area Code : 21
Dialing Guides to Call to Jakarta, Indonesia:
1. From your Cell
To Land line
Dial: + 62 + 21 + Number you wish to call.
To Cell phone (e.g you are about to call 0811234567 or 08189101112)
Dial: +62 + 81 + the rest of numbers or +62 + 85 + the rest of number
2. From Land Line to Land Line
E.g If you and the person you want to call is live in the same area (code) just dial the phone number, but if you are in Jakarta and need to establish a call to Bandung
Dial : 022 + Number you wish to call
3. From Land Line to Cell Phone
Dial precisely to the numbers that you are given without area code, don't forget to start dial with zero
Below are other cities in Indonesia area Codes :
Balikpapan 54
Garut 26
Palembang 71
Bandar Lampung 72
Jakarta 21
Pekanbaru 76
Bandung 22
Jambi 74
Pontianak 56
Banjarmasin 51
Malang 34
Samarinda 54
Bogor 25
Manado 43
Semarang 24
Cilacap 28
Mataram 37
Surabaya 31
Cirebon 23
Medan 61
Surakarta 27
Denpasar 36
Padang 75
Ujung Pandang 41
If the city you are looking for is not stated above, please call 24/7 Indonesia information service at 108.
From land line : 108; Cell phone : 021-108. Indonesia information service will help you if you find any difficulties on dialing guides or you can ask for company's address or phone number to the operator.
Read More …
History of Jakarta on the island of Onrust
By Famega Syavira Princess. Jakarta History not only be learned from the mainland, but also the Thousand Islands. One way is to visit the island of Onrust, which is the center of the hustle and bustle of the past. Remnants of its glory can be enjoyed by the boating fifteen minutes from the coast of Jakarta.
Onrust Island
Named after the Dutch word which means without a break, Onrust Island plays an important role in the history of Batavia. In the 16th century, this island is the resting place of the kings of Banten. Once the Dutch arrived, the island is used as an asset in order to strengthen their occupation.
The function of the island is constantly changing according to political conditions Jakarta - which also constantly changing. Noted, the island was once a wharf, fort, ammunition dump, to the sawmills and workshops for damaged ships.
Photo: Famega Syavira
Pulau Onrust island is not really friendly to the explorers. Hot tropical weather and the condition of heavily wooded island is one of the reasons. Not surprisingly, there is a myth that the inhabitants of this island will die young.
A medical book written by Thomas and George Underwood in 1827 describes the expedition of the British royal troops to Batavia in August 1800. Mentioned, there are 12 army regiments (127 personnel) who landed on the island of Onrust in good health. Due to a mysterious illness, only 62 were returned. The rest were killed without a chance to fight.
Myths die young is also strengthened by the ruins of the Dutch cemetery at the end of the island. Some graves are still intact show, the residents died before the age of 30 years. In Johanna's gravestone Kalf, wife of the ruler, instead writing that he died at the age of 25 years.
Since the 16th century, the island was built, destroyed, rebuilt, then destroyed uninhabited. At the time of independence, the island was used as a quarantine infectious disease. Since the 1970's, the island was neglected. The building was dismantled and the remaining debris.
Now there's only remaining foundations of the ancient fortress, as well as dormitories pilgrimage of late occupation of the Netherlands.
Tombs, ruins and shadows of the trees that grow fast to make this island appeared dark atmosphere. History is full of twists that ultimately stored in the silence of the ruins and trees.
Aka Island Cipir Kuiper
When you visit the island of Onrust, do not forget to stop by the Island Cipir located next to it. Both the island was connected with a floating bridge - whose ruins can still be seen in Cipir while at Onrust was completely destroyed.
Photo: Famega Syavira
Most of the island contains the ruins of a dormitory Cipir pilgrimage. Although only the walls and floors, the condition of the ruins are still better than the island of Onrust.
Cipir island is very small and can be surrounded in just a few minutes.
Onrust Island
Named after the Dutch word which means without a break, Onrust Island plays an important role in the history of Batavia. In the 16th century, this island is the resting place of the kings of Banten. Once the Dutch arrived, the island is used as an asset in order to strengthen their occupation.
The function of the island is constantly changing according to political conditions Jakarta - which also constantly changing. Noted, the island was once a wharf, fort, ammunition dump, to the sawmills and workshops for damaged ships.
Pulau Onrust island is not really friendly to the explorers. Hot tropical weather and the condition of heavily wooded island is one of the reasons. Not surprisingly, there is a myth that the inhabitants of this island will die young.
A medical book written by Thomas and George Underwood in 1827 describes the expedition of the British royal troops to Batavia in August 1800. Mentioned, there are 12 army regiments (127 personnel) who landed on the island of Onrust in good health. Due to a mysterious illness, only 62 were returned. The rest were killed without a chance to fight.
Myths die young is also strengthened by the ruins of the Dutch cemetery at the end of the island. Some graves are still intact show, the residents died before the age of 30 years. In Johanna's gravestone Kalf, wife of the ruler, instead writing that he died at the age of 25 years.
Since the 16th century, the island was built, destroyed, rebuilt, then destroyed uninhabited. At the time of independence, the island was used as a quarantine infectious disease. Since the 1970's, the island was neglected. The building was dismantled and the remaining debris.
Now there's only remaining foundations of the ancient fortress, as well as dormitories pilgrimage of late occupation of the Netherlands.
Tombs, ruins and shadows of the trees that grow fast to make this island appeared dark atmosphere. History is full of twists that ultimately stored in the silence of the ruins and trees.
Aka Island Cipir Kuiper
When you visit the island of Onrust, do not forget to stop by the Island Cipir located next to it. Both the island was connected with a floating bridge - whose ruins can still be seen in Cipir while at Onrust was completely destroyed.
Most of the island contains the ruins of a dormitory Cipir pilgrimage. Although only the walls and floors, the condition of the ruins are still better than the island of Onrust.
Cipir island is very small and can be surrounded in just a few minutes.
Read More …
Travels Cheap When Pregnant? No Problem!
By Olenka Priyadarsani. My husband and I love to walk around aka cheap backpacking. And when he learned I was pregnant, we decided to keep traveling - with a record of when health allows. Because after all, our priority fetal health.
Our first trip was not so much. We spent the Christmas holidays in Green Canyon and Batu Karas Beach, West Java. At that time I was pregnant three-four months. Driving a car for about five hours from Jakarta, we passed a pleasant journey.
The problem is coming because we lost about 20 km in the forest. No gas stations (no problem, because our car gasoline enough) and there are no public toilets (the bush was so way out).
I was not able to explore caves in the Green Canyon because there are very slippery rocks. But we are quite satisfied with the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and seafood are tempting.
Week ahead, New Year holidays, we also did not go far, just to Ciater (West Java). My husband and our baby and garden to enjoy the fresh tea, milk and bananas bandrek grilled cheese.
In early January 2011, then we traveled the farthest: India. We are left only with a backpack on the back of each. We flew two hours to Kuala Lumpur, and then proceeded to fly five hours to New Delhi.
Although many people advised me to postpone the trip (my uterus was 4.5 months and India are not known for its clean), we remain firmly off because the doctor said that I was healthy.
Peak winter in India, with temperatures between 4-15 ° C, we are having with winter jackets, socks, and balaclava (hats skullcaps).
This time we, out of habit, book a hotel in advance. Luckily our hotel is very clean though Paharganj is located in low-cost travelers (backpackers). Indeed according to unwind after a struggle with a dirty and shabby Delhi.
The journey from Delhi to Agra is quite tiring. Train journey that should only take 2 hours, stretched up to seven hours due to thick fog. But the trip was not in vain. We are very pleased to see the Taj Mahal, the world's heritage, magnificent stands. It was indescribable, could see a building proof of love with husband and baby - although still in the stomach.
The trip home was worse. The train should arrive at Agra Station at 20:30 the night turned out to newly arrived at 06.00 am. As a result, we stay overnight in a rundown station, sitting on the floor lined with newspapers, piles with hundreds of other passengers. Though the air temperature around 4 ° C. Really thankful when the train finally came, although the journey back to Delhi to take seven hours.
The next three days we spent visiting the historical relics in the area of Purana Qila Delhi, Red Fort or Lal Qila, Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb and India Gate.
Overall we are very pleased with the trip to India. Once in Indonesia, we immediately checked the content to the doctor (faster than a monthly schedule control). And the brother is fine. Stay healthy and start kicking with excitement. Apparently he had wanted to walk again!
We actually have a plan to cross overland from Thailand to Cambodia but the situation is heating up between the two countries forced us to cancel it. We also divert holiday to Phuket, when the content was seven months.
Phuket was a wonderful experience. In addition to the famous beach, we also visited the small beaches such as Yes Nui (not far from Cape Promthep) and Diamond Beach are rocky north Kalim Beach. With motorcycles, we also went to the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, Cape Promthep Cape, but also follow a day trip to Koh Phi Phi.
A few days after coming home from Phuket, we had the opportunity to fly to Kuala Lumpur. There we went to several places including the Petronas Twin Towers, Masjid Jamek, and of course shopping.
Currently my pregnancy was more than eight months, it's time to seek alternative tourism on the island of Java, so I do not need to air travel. When you buff the streets of cheap, do not worry, as long as you are healthy can still walk when pregnant!
Ways of walking during pregnancy
1. Check with the health of mothers and babies health previously and obtain a letter from your doctor. In anticipation, I asked for a letter from the doctor since the age of three months of pregnancy.
2. When traveling by plane, make sure you know the airline regulations about the pregnancy. Regulation is different. I always carry a printed proof of airline regulation in order to show if the workers are terrestrial doubt it.
3. If you are familiar with the style of the streets heavyweights cheap, do not force yourself during pregnancy. Choose the hotel is clean because pregnant women need adequate rest after a weary walk during the day.
4. Bring plenty of wet tissue and water.
5. Eating fruit in the course very helpful stamina pregnant women. Besides fruits also serve to overcome nausea when winding or bumpy roads. Prepare biscuits as well (except at the Taj Mahal because the officer did not allow visitors to bring food).
6. Still eating regularly.
7. Taking vitamins regularly.
8. If necessary, bring the foot sprays are usually available in stores, to prevent leg swelling due to too tired.
Read More …
Graves on the island Kelor
By Famega Syavira. As the name implies, the island is just as wide Kelor Moringa leaf. The extent of no more than two acres. Small uninhabited mainland consists of only mini-beach and buildings selarik Martello Castle.
Martello fort was a round brick fort made by imitating the fort Mortella in Corsica (an island in the Mediterranean). First, the island is Kelor Batavia front guard to defend against enemy naval attack from the ocean. Guardians of the island will monitor the sea area in front of him and preach in Batavia if the enemy ship appeared on the horizon.
Construction on the Island Kelor Martello Castle, Thousand Islands. Photo: Famega Syavira
The community is also called the island as the Island cemetery. It is said that some rebels are buried around the castle. One is a rebel against the Dutch from the ship Zeven Provincien in February 1933. Unfortunately, half of the outside of the fort is now covered with bushes so it was easy to navigate.
The original fort building is actually much broader than can be witnessed today. The fort was left just inside. Most of the fortress collapsed and submerged in water due to abrasion that erode the island.
These three islands can be reached from the Kamal Muara Port, Muara Angke and Marina, Ancol. Two that I call the first port is a port of the muddy and dirty people.
Sea? Do not ask again. To reach the islands, the ship must pass through the sea foul smelling, thick black due to pollution. Several times the boat had to stop in the middle of the sea as trash stuck to the blades. When I was there, the propellers turned his attention to such long strings are difficult to remove.
After a half hour drive, black color gradually disappeared while the water remained blue. Island Kelor within 15 minutes from the coast of Jakarta, sea water still looked dirty so it is not advisable to bathe here.
Blue sea in the Bay of Jakarta at least a new will appear around the island of Scouting. However, the Thousand Islands can be an alternative choice that a short and pleasant trip for people in Jakarta.
Martello fort was a round brick fort made by imitating the fort Mortella in Corsica (an island in the Mediterranean). First, the island is Kelor Batavia front guard to defend against enemy naval attack from the ocean. Guardians of the island will monitor the sea area in front of him and preach in Batavia if the enemy ship appeared on the horizon.
The community is also called the island as the Island cemetery. It is said that some rebels are buried around the castle. One is a rebel against the Dutch from the ship Zeven Provincien in February 1933. Unfortunately, half of the outside of the fort is now covered with bushes so it was easy to navigate.
The original fort building is actually much broader than can be witnessed today. The fort was left just inside. Most of the fortress collapsed and submerged in water due to abrasion that erode the island.
These three islands can be reached from the Kamal Muara Port, Muara Angke and Marina, Ancol. Two that I call the first port is a port of the muddy and dirty people.
Sea? Do not ask again. To reach the islands, the ship must pass through the sea foul smelling, thick black due to pollution. Several times the boat had to stop in the middle of the sea as trash stuck to the blades. When I was there, the propellers turned his attention to such long strings are difficult to remove.
After a half hour drive, black color gradually disappeared while the water remained blue. Island Kelor within 15 minutes from the coast of Jakarta, sea water still looked dirty so it is not advisable to bathe here.
Blue sea in the Bay of Jakarta at least a new will appear around the island of Scouting. However, the Thousand Islands can be an alternative choice that a short and pleasant trip for people in Jakarta.
Read More …
Halong Bay sail the Romantic and Mysterious
By Olenka Priyadarsani. Romantic and mysterious. That's two words in my mind when thinking about Halong Bay in Vietnam. Line of karst rocks combined with the blue sea and the morning mist has not lifted to make the atmosphere was mysterious, almost mystical. And extraordinarily beautiful.
Halong Bay is a natural tourist attraction of the most famous in Vietnam. The word literally means Ha Long Bay "the bay where the dragon descent". According to legend, when Vietnam was at war with China, the dragon family down to earth and help the Vietnamese.
Located in the north, Halong Bay is bordered by the waters of China. This place is pretty cool with a subtropical climate. If you have the opportunity visit there, time to stay one night on junk boat or timber ship.
Views of Halong Bay. Photo credit: Olenka Priyadarsani
Tourists usually stay in Hanoi for later toured Halong Bay which is about 178 km, which can be reached within 3.5 hours by car. If you live in the Old Quarter around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, you will find a variety of tour operators.
Seleksilah, and see where the cheapest before you decide. Try to go to Ma May St. in the Old Quarter, where there are several tour operators that can be relied upon by a variety of tour options in accordance with the desires and your pocket.
I myself use the Indochina Sails. We depart from the Old Quarter at 08.00 local time with the bus. Besides my husband and I, the other tour participants are Westerners. Along the way, the tour guide explains about Vietnam in general, the history and of course tourism.
Before arriving at the dock, we passed the town of Halong is very different from my imagination about the city on the shores of the bay. The city is looking not so crowded, but everywhere looks high-rise buildings are not finished. The soil tends to dry, his city was not tidy.
On the pier, each ship has its own foyer. Shortly before noon, we were preparing to board the ship, escorted a small lifeboat. When it arrived in our room was spellbound. Timber ship that has facilities that are not inferior to a five star hotel. After all the passengers go up, the ship began to sail.
Shortly after sailing, we began to enjoy the beauty of karst islands in a sea of blue-green and bright blue sky. Many tourists choose to bask in the top deck. Afternoon was concluded with a delicious meal.
After that, the ship went to Titop, an island which is part of UNESCO world heritage national park. In Titop, tourists can climb the stairs up to the top of the hill (approximately 15 minutes) and watch the scenery of Halong Bay. Thousands lined the mist shrouded karst islands in the middle of the ocean blue.
One of the ships operating in Halong Bay. Photo Credit: ThinkStock
The journey continues to the Bat Cave. Here, tourists can enjoy kayaking adventure ride into the cave, or visit the floating villages around the place.
Floating village in Halong Bay is much nicer than I've ever seen in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Thailand, or Cambodia. Here the villages are more natural, and far from land. In addition, the village is also equipped with schools, health centers such clinics, and shops. Children younger than five years had been accustomed to using their own boat.
By evening, no less beautiful scenery. From the ship looks sunset. Golden tinge in contrast with the atmosphere surrounding the dominant color of blue. At times like this, Halong Bay was mysterious.
The first day was concluded with throw nets in the region Luon Bo. We also enjoy the seafood as much. Crabs, fish, squid, mussels are all burned and ready to eat.
After the morning came, lifted the anchor and the ship continued on to Surprise Cave, a small fishing village. We came down to enjoy this place.
By noon, the ship sailed back to shore. When noon came, we arrived at Bai Chai or Halong Pier.
Choosing a tour Halong Bay
There are many operators who provide tours of Halong Bay. If you have the time in Hanoi, you can gather information with a visit from one operator to another. If not, you can order directly via the Internet at higher prices. But not to worry, if not the holiday season, chances are you got a promotional price.
Choose the tour that you see fit, and more importantly with the funds you have. Tour operators will offer packages ranging from a full day without a stay, two days to four days. Usually the day of the 3rd and 4th will be filled with a kayak tour to Halong Bay areas more remote.
Account the funds you have for staying in the timber ship is certainly more expensive than the hotel. Halong Bay package prices vary between $ 25 to $ 250.
My advice is to spend at least one night in the wooden boat, having to sleep on the boat in the middle of the mysterious Halong Bay is an unforgettable experience. If you have more time, you can take a longer package. What is important, lest you run out of time to mengelililingi Hanoi city which is also very beautiful!
Halong Bay is a natural tourist attraction of the most famous in Vietnam. The word literally means Ha Long Bay "the bay where the dragon descent". According to legend, when Vietnam was at war with China, the dragon family down to earth and help the Vietnamese.
Located in the north, Halong Bay is bordered by the waters of China. This place is pretty cool with a subtropical climate. If you have the opportunity visit there, time to stay one night on junk boat or timber ship.
Tourists usually stay in Hanoi for later toured Halong Bay which is about 178 km, which can be reached within 3.5 hours by car. If you live in the Old Quarter around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, you will find a variety of tour operators.
Seleksilah, and see where the cheapest before you decide. Try to go to Ma May St. in the Old Quarter, where there are several tour operators that can be relied upon by a variety of tour options in accordance with the desires and your pocket.
I myself use the Indochina Sails. We depart from the Old Quarter at 08.00 local time with the bus. Besides my husband and I, the other tour participants are Westerners. Along the way, the tour guide explains about Vietnam in general, the history and of course tourism.
Before arriving at the dock, we passed the town of Halong is very different from my imagination about the city on the shores of the bay. The city is looking not so crowded, but everywhere looks high-rise buildings are not finished. The soil tends to dry, his city was not tidy.
On the pier, each ship has its own foyer. Shortly before noon, we were preparing to board the ship, escorted a small lifeboat. When it arrived in our room was spellbound. Timber ship that has facilities that are not inferior to a five star hotel. After all the passengers go up, the ship began to sail.
Shortly after sailing, we began to enjoy the beauty of karst islands in a sea of blue-green and bright blue sky. Many tourists choose to bask in the top deck. Afternoon was concluded with a delicious meal.
After that, the ship went to Titop, an island which is part of UNESCO world heritage national park. In Titop, tourists can climb the stairs up to the top of the hill (approximately 15 minutes) and watch the scenery of Halong Bay. Thousands lined the mist shrouded karst islands in the middle of the ocean blue.
The journey continues to the Bat Cave. Here, tourists can enjoy kayaking adventure ride into the cave, or visit the floating villages around the place.
Floating village in Halong Bay is much nicer than I've ever seen in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Thailand, or Cambodia. Here the villages are more natural, and far from land. In addition, the village is also equipped with schools, health centers such clinics, and shops. Children younger than five years had been accustomed to using their own boat.
By evening, no less beautiful scenery. From the ship looks sunset. Golden tinge in contrast with the atmosphere surrounding the dominant color of blue. At times like this, Halong Bay was mysterious.
The first day was concluded with throw nets in the region Luon Bo. We also enjoy the seafood as much. Crabs, fish, squid, mussels are all burned and ready to eat.
After the morning came, lifted the anchor and the ship continued on to Surprise Cave, a small fishing village. We came down to enjoy this place.
By noon, the ship sailed back to shore. When noon came, we arrived at Bai Chai or Halong Pier.
Choosing a tour Halong Bay
There are many operators who provide tours of Halong Bay. If you have the time in Hanoi, you can gather information with a visit from one operator to another. If not, you can order directly via the Internet at higher prices. But not to worry, if not the holiday season, chances are you got a promotional price.
Choose the tour that you see fit, and more importantly with the funds you have. Tour operators will offer packages ranging from a full day without a stay, two days to four days. Usually the day of the 3rd and 4th will be filled with a kayak tour to Halong Bay areas more remote.
Account the funds you have for staying in the timber ship is certainly more expensive than the hotel. Halong Bay package prices vary between $ 25 to $ 250.
My advice is to spend at least one night in the wooden boat, having to sleep on the boat in the middle of the mysterious Halong Bay is an unforgettable experience. If you have more time, you can take a longer package. What is important, lest you run out of time to mengelililingi Hanoi city which is also very beautiful!
Read More …
Enjoy the beauty of Langkawi from Cable Car
By Olenka Priyadarsani. If you have the opportunity to visit the island of Langkawi in Malaysia, never missing an opportunity to ride the cable car (cable car) that exist on this island. Langkawi cable car at the Oriental Village, about 30 km from Kuah Town or 15 minutes from Langkawi International Airport.
With the cost of RM 30, the cable car will take you to the summit of Mount Machincang, the highest mountain on the island of Langkawi, as high as 708 meters above sea level. From the summit will be seen throughout the island, various tourist attractions on the island, even the southern part of Thailand!
The bridge splitting the cliffs on the island of Langkawi. Photo: Olenka Priyadarsani
When I had the opportunity to try this cable car, the line is not too much, probably because at that time not a holiday. I am sure that on a weekend or holiday season, this place will become a favorite of tourists. The Malaysian government is actively promoting tourism, besides the island of Langkawi is famous for its beauty. 360 degrees and see the beauty of something that must be done.
After entering the gondola is enough for six people, the gondola door closes automatically. When quiet, you can just get a gondola for two. We were brought up to the second stop (middle-base) as far as 1700 meters. You can see from the panoramic gondola forest around the site, including waterfalls Lake Seven, one of the island's tourist icons. Growing up, visibility is increasingly widespread. Blue sea surrounding the island even more apparent.
At the second stop with an altitude of 650 masl, passenger gondola can go down to watch the scene more clearly. One of the favorite sights here is the formation of ancient rocks that formed 500 million years ago in the Cambrian period.
Because of its altitude, on the second stop is the wind blowing pretty fresh. I took time to walk around and take photos of the substation, the substation of view available. Everything is built in a modern way. Local and foreign tourists are also busy enjoying the scenery and perpetuate the island of Langkawi from the top.
Now it's time again to continue the trip up the gondola to the top Machincang. This time not too far, only about 450 meters, but the scenery offered by the more extraordinary. At the top station, you can go up the stairs to the viewing post. From there you can see the whole island, Kedah to Thailand. Langkawi is a tropical rain forest surrounding the cliffs, ravines and caves.
The view from the summit of Mount Machincang. Photo: Olenka Priyadarsani
If you are the adventurous who like trekking, there is another way to reach the summit of Mount Machincang. Seven of the lake, you can do trekking along the 2.5 kilometers to the second stop.
There is a safe path to ensure the safety and convenience of tourists. After that, you can continue to walk about 20 minutes to peak. Maybe it's more tiring, but very appropriate for those who do not mind sweating while watching the beauty of tropical forests more closely.
Other information about Langkawi
Langkawi is famous for its beaches, among others, Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah, Pantai Kok and Tanjung Rhu. In addition there are also Garden Birds, Mashuri's Tomb and a few waterfalls like Seven and Durian Perangin Lake.
Langkawi Island is not too big so it can be surrounded with a motor vehicle in a day. The most convenient is to rent a motorcycle at a price of about RM 30 per day. You will be asked to show driver's license and passport to leave the rented motorbike. Unlike in large cities, the streets in Langkawi is very safe and comfortable, free of traffic jams and pollution. Happy holiday!
With the cost of RM 30, the cable car will take you to the summit of Mount Machincang, the highest mountain on the island of Langkawi, as high as 708 meters above sea level. From the summit will be seen throughout the island, various tourist attractions on the island, even the southern part of Thailand!
When I had the opportunity to try this cable car, the line is not too much, probably because at that time not a holiday. I am sure that on a weekend or holiday season, this place will become a favorite of tourists. The Malaysian government is actively promoting tourism, besides the island of Langkawi is famous for its beauty. 360 degrees and see the beauty of something that must be done.
After entering the gondola is enough for six people, the gondola door closes automatically. When quiet, you can just get a gondola for two. We were brought up to the second stop (middle-base) as far as 1700 meters. You can see from the panoramic gondola forest around the site, including waterfalls Lake Seven, one of the island's tourist icons. Growing up, visibility is increasingly widespread. Blue sea surrounding the island even more apparent.
At the second stop with an altitude of 650 masl, passenger gondola can go down to watch the scene more clearly. One of the favorite sights here is the formation of ancient rocks that formed 500 million years ago in the Cambrian period.
Because of its altitude, on the second stop is the wind blowing pretty fresh. I took time to walk around and take photos of the substation, the substation of view available. Everything is built in a modern way. Local and foreign tourists are also busy enjoying the scenery and perpetuate the island of Langkawi from the top.
Now it's time again to continue the trip up the gondola to the top Machincang. This time not too far, only about 450 meters, but the scenery offered by the more extraordinary. At the top station, you can go up the stairs to the viewing post. From there you can see the whole island, Kedah to Thailand. Langkawi is a tropical rain forest surrounding the cliffs, ravines and caves.
If you are the adventurous who like trekking, there is another way to reach the summit of Mount Machincang. Seven of the lake, you can do trekking along the 2.5 kilometers to the second stop.
There is a safe path to ensure the safety and convenience of tourists. After that, you can continue to walk about 20 minutes to peak. Maybe it's more tiring, but very appropriate for those who do not mind sweating while watching the beauty of tropical forests more closely.
Other information about Langkawi
Langkawi is famous for its beaches, among others, Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah, Pantai Kok and Tanjung Rhu. In addition there are also Garden Birds, Mashuri's Tomb and a few waterfalls like Seven and Durian Perangin Lake.
Langkawi Island is not too big so it can be surrounded with a motor vehicle in a day. The most convenient is to rent a motorcycle at a price of about RM 30 per day. You will be asked to show driver's license and passport to leave the rented motorbike. Unlike in large cities, the streets in Langkawi is very safe and comfortable, free of traffic jams and pollution. Happy holiday!
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Variety Festival in Korea
State Ginseng appreciate the importance of maintaining durability of rich culture and history through various festivals held throughout the year. Festival-this festival featuring a Korean beauty well aware of the value of historical and cultural heritage. These festivals became a tourist attraction and is very worthy of your visit on the way to Korea.
Photo credits - Stinkie Pinkie
Boryeong Mud Festival - July, Coast Daecheon
During the festival, tourists from around the world come to Daecheon Beach to watch a unique festival, celebrating the Boryeong mud properties. Visitors can participate in several activities such as mud wrestling, mud sliding on, swim in large ponds containing mud, and have fun! At night, the crowd moved toward the coast. Complete with music and fireworks, making it a fun and family friendly festival.
Photo credits - zionorbi
Ginseng Festival - September, in the District Goumsan
Ginseng Festival, or Geumsan Insam, are the main festivals in the District Geumsan, Chuncheongnam-do Province. This district is the largest manufacturer of ginseng in Korea, and the festival is deliberately organized to promote the benefits of ginseng Geumsan. There are also several exhibitions associated with ginseng, the appearance of folk music, singing and dancing contests, and special exhibitions to international ginseng trade and foreign tourists.
Photo credits - WSTAY.com
Fireflies Festival of Muju - June, on the River Namdaecheon
Fireflies Muju Festival is a festival to remember the existence of environmentally friendly fireflies. Muju, venue for the festival, is a beautiful mountainous area. In Korea, fireflies only comes from the river Namdaecheon in Muju. Their presence is important not only as a measure of environmental sustainability, but also a part of folklore in the area around the river Namdaecheon. Various events with the theme firefly festival enliven and educate visitors about the importance of the relationship between man and nature.
Photo credits - waegook cook
Cultural Festival Hyoseok - September, at the Cultural Village Bongpyeong
Hyoseok Cultural Festival combines literature and tourism. The festival is held to commemorate the birthplace Bongpyeong as Lee Hyo-seok, an important novelist from Korea. The series of the festival focuses on one short story Hyo-seok's most famous, when flowers bloom Bongpyeong buckwheat. There are also tours to various places mentioned in the short story. Maybe foreigners will not fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of this festival, although it remains viable so the festival was visited to enjoy the natural beauty of Bongpyeong.
Photo credits - WSTAY.com
Gwacheon Festival Hanmadang - September to October, in Gwacheon City
Every autumn in Gwacheon City, this festival is a celebration of the spirit of street art. Hanmadang means "where people can gather," and indeed that is what is shown in the festival, various appearance options in public spaces like the main street, open stage, and more. Kind of looks that you can enjoy include street theater, drama Madang, circus attractions, and street dance.
Jinju Lantern Festival Namgang
October, in the riverside Namgang
Parade of lanterns with extraordinary colors meet Namgang river, just across the Fort Jinjuseong and Chokseongnu Pavilion. This festival originated from the battle Jinjuseong suffered most during the Japanese invasion, before later turned into the Lantern Festival. Spectacular scenery floating lanterns that lined along the river and attractions make the festival fireworks popular throughout the country.
Photo credits - Julie Facine
Andong Mask Dance Festival - the end of September, in Hahoe
Andong Mask Dance Festival is the largest in Hahoe, usually held in late September or early October. The festival featured a variety of dance performances from Korean or international groups that the theme of traditional folklore. The theme of the festival centers on the dance-dance masks that aim to calm restless creatures around Hahoe. Now, this festival not only displays a variety of traditional Korean mask dance, but also traditional dances from around the world.
Boryeong Mud Festival - July, Coast Daecheon
During the festival, tourists from around the world come to Daecheon Beach to watch a unique festival, celebrating the Boryeong mud properties. Visitors can participate in several activities such as mud wrestling, mud sliding on, swim in large ponds containing mud, and have fun! At night, the crowd moved toward the coast. Complete with music and fireworks, making it a fun and family friendly festival.
Ginseng Festival - September, in the District Goumsan
Ginseng Festival, or Geumsan Insam, are the main festivals in the District Geumsan, Chuncheongnam-do Province. This district is the largest manufacturer of ginseng in Korea, and the festival is deliberately organized to promote the benefits of ginseng Geumsan. There are also several exhibitions associated with ginseng, the appearance of folk music, singing and dancing contests, and special exhibitions to international ginseng trade and foreign tourists.
Fireflies Festival of Muju - June, on the River Namdaecheon
Fireflies Muju Festival is a festival to remember the existence of environmentally friendly fireflies. Muju, venue for the festival, is a beautiful mountainous area. In Korea, fireflies only comes from the river Namdaecheon in Muju. Their presence is important not only as a measure of environmental sustainability, but also a part of folklore in the area around the river Namdaecheon. Various events with the theme firefly festival enliven and educate visitors about the importance of the relationship between man and nature.
Cultural Festival Hyoseok - September, at the Cultural Village Bongpyeong
Hyoseok Cultural Festival combines literature and tourism. The festival is held to commemorate the birthplace Bongpyeong as Lee Hyo-seok, an important novelist from Korea. The series of the festival focuses on one short story Hyo-seok's most famous, when flowers bloom Bongpyeong buckwheat. There are also tours to various places mentioned in the short story. Maybe foreigners will not fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of this festival, although it remains viable so the festival was visited to enjoy the natural beauty of Bongpyeong.
Gwacheon Festival Hanmadang - September to October, in Gwacheon City
Every autumn in Gwacheon City, this festival is a celebration of the spirit of street art. Hanmadang means "where people can gather," and indeed that is what is shown in the festival, various appearance options in public spaces like the main street, open stage, and more. Kind of looks that you can enjoy include street theater, drama Madang, circus attractions, and street dance.
Jinju Lantern Festival Namgang
October, in the riverside Namgang
Parade of lanterns with extraordinary colors meet Namgang river, just across the Fort Jinjuseong and Chokseongnu Pavilion. This festival originated from the battle Jinjuseong suffered most during the Japanese invasion, before later turned into the Lantern Festival. Spectacular scenery floating lanterns that lined along the river and attractions make the festival fireworks popular throughout the country.
Andong Mask Dance Festival - the end of September, in Hahoe
Andong Mask Dance Festival is the largest in Hahoe, usually held in late September or early October. The festival featured a variety of dance performances from Korean or international groups that the theme of traditional folklore. The theme of the festival centers on the dance-dance masks that aim to calm restless creatures around Hahoe. Now, this festival not only displays a variety of traditional Korean mask dance, but also traditional dances from around the world.
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Married in Old Town Intramuros
By Syanne Susita
When invited friends to visit Manila, I only know a little information about the tourist sites there. Based on information from the rover site CouchSurfing, I chose Intramuros as a destination.
Intramuros, which literally means "inside wall" (meaning walled city), situated on the banks of the Pasig River in the south. Reportedly, the stone wall along about 5 km in the city was built to prevent the entry of Chinese into the area where live the people of Spain.
Since it was built in 1571 until the end of Spanish occupation in 1898, known as Intramuros Manila. Inside the city was later built schools, churches, and mansions. However, the war in 1945 between the United States, Japan and the Philippines to destroy this city.
Now, Intramuros become its own administrative regions and is known as the old city of Manila. In addition to the museum (Casa Manila), school (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila), and the walls black, Intramuros appeal lies in the church rubble and a few sites that go unpunished.
The time is right to explore Intramuros should be after 15:00, when the sun Manila (which is not much different York) was not too overpowering. Surrounding the town did not take long, about two and a half hours.
However, tourists are advised not around Intramuros at night to avoid possible bad things such as pickpocketing. Why, a few locations in this area was dark and seedy - for example the ruins of old buildings at the site.
Location weddings
Unlike the old city of Jakarta which mostly contains the museum, Intramuros residents an ideal location to host a wedding celebration. Many luxury homes there and rented out as a location transformed the garden party or wedding reception. Bridal couples can try to ride Calesa (a unique horse-drawn carriage) to get around the city.
Incidentally, there are some beautiful churches located in Intramuros, such as San Agustin and Manila Cathedral (better known as the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception). That said, couples who want to get married in one of these churches must be booked a year in advance!
The interior of the church of San Agustin was more colorful than the Manila Cathedral. Statue of the Virgin Mary and other ornaments in the San Agustin also display more detail meticulous. The ceiling is dominated by the color of gold - make this Baroque-style church was magnificent.
Meanwhile, outside the walls of San Agustin is orange instead give a modern impression. This Church is one of UNESCO's choice of heritage sites.
Casa Manila, a museum that holds the picture of luxury homes of the nobility of old Spain, is located not far from the church of San Agustin.
Although the interior is more modest, the exterior of the Cathedral of Manila was most remarkable. Carvings on the stone arch at the front of the church is very detailed. New Roman style building also features five saint statues that are considered important in the development of Roman Catholicism in Asia - including St. Francis Xavier's most deserving to bring Catholicism to the countries in the Indian Ocean.
Funeral of former President Corazon Aquino held in Manila Cathedral.
Pollution views
Intramuros has many other ancient buildings are no less exciting to enjoy. When down the high walls of the city, I suddenly ambushed romantic feeling of seeing the ranks of European-style street lights along the road.
Palacio del Gobernador Building (now a Philippine election commission office) has an interesting architecture. In front of this building there is a courtyard, complete with a fountain. This area, called the Plaza de Roma, quite comfortable to unwind for a while.
However, given its proximity to the electoral commission, there is always a poster campaign that pollute the landscape.
Among the old buildings, there are also shops that sell handicrafts from various regions in the Philippines. One of the largest - as well as tourist information center - is Silahis store.
Initially I was lazy to look around the shop three floors because he thought the price of stuff in there is expensive. I was wrong: there is quite affordable prices. A variety of souvenirs ranging from woven fabric, books, crafts to toiletries and beer is sold for USD $ 10-100 thousand.
Sadly, I will return to Indonesia with a budget airline without baggage. Otherwise, I'd go crazy buying souvenirs from the shop this funny.
When invited friends to visit Manila, I only know a little information about the tourist sites there. Based on information from the rover site CouchSurfing, I chose Intramuros as a destination.
Intramuros, which literally means "inside wall" (meaning walled city), situated on the banks of the Pasig River in the south. Reportedly, the stone wall along about 5 km in the city was built to prevent the entry of Chinese into the area where live the people of Spain.
Since it was built in 1571 until the end of Spanish occupation in 1898, known as Intramuros Manila. Inside the city was later built schools, churches, and mansions. However, the war in 1945 between the United States, Japan and the Philippines to destroy this city.
Now, Intramuros become its own administrative regions and is known as the old city of Manila. In addition to the museum (Casa Manila), school (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila), and the walls black, Intramuros appeal lies in the church rubble and a few sites that go unpunished.
The time is right to explore Intramuros should be after 15:00, when the sun Manila (which is not much different York) was not too overpowering. Surrounding the town did not take long, about two and a half hours.
However, tourists are advised not around Intramuros at night to avoid possible bad things such as pickpocketing. Why, a few locations in this area was dark and seedy - for example the ruins of old buildings at the site.
Location weddings
Unlike the old city of Jakarta which mostly contains the museum, Intramuros residents an ideal location to host a wedding celebration. Many luxury homes there and rented out as a location transformed the garden party or wedding reception. Bridal couples can try to ride Calesa (a unique horse-drawn carriage) to get around the city.
Incidentally, there are some beautiful churches located in Intramuros, such as San Agustin and Manila Cathedral (better known as the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception). That said, couples who want to get married in one of these churches must be booked a year in advance!
The interior of the church of San Agustin was more colorful than the Manila Cathedral. Statue of the Virgin Mary and other ornaments in the San Agustin also display more detail meticulous. The ceiling is dominated by the color of gold - make this Baroque-style church was magnificent.
Meanwhile, outside the walls of San Agustin is orange instead give a modern impression. This Church is one of UNESCO's choice of heritage sites.
Casa Manila, a museum that holds the picture of luxury homes of the nobility of old Spain, is located not far from the church of San Agustin.
Although the interior is more modest, the exterior of the Cathedral of Manila was most remarkable. Carvings on the stone arch at the front of the church is very detailed. New Roman style building also features five saint statues that are considered important in the development of Roman Catholicism in Asia - including St. Francis Xavier's most deserving to bring Catholicism to the countries in the Indian Ocean.
Funeral of former President Corazon Aquino held in Manila Cathedral.
Pollution views
Intramuros has many other ancient buildings are no less exciting to enjoy. When down the high walls of the city, I suddenly ambushed romantic feeling of seeing the ranks of European-style street lights along the road.
Palacio del Gobernador Building (now a Philippine election commission office) has an interesting architecture. In front of this building there is a courtyard, complete with a fountain. This area, called the Plaza de Roma, quite comfortable to unwind for a while.
However, given its proximity to the electoral commission, there is always a poster campaign that pollute the landscape.
Among the old buildings, there are also shops that sell handicrafts from various regions in the Philippines. One of the largest - as well as tourist information center - is Silahis store.
Initially I was lazy to look around the shop three floors because he thought the price of stuff in there is expensive. I was wrong: there is quite affordable prices. A variety of souvenirs ranging from woven fabric, books, crafts to toiletries and beer is sold for USD $ 10-100 thousand.
Sadly, I will return to Indonesia with a budget airline without baggage. Otherwise, I'd go crazy buying souvenirs from the shop this funny.
Read More …