John Reality
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John Reality
John is a Cambodia-based writer and photographer who, since a long age, has spent most of his time traveling and living abroad. Through a mix of his work in journalism, photography, and blogging, he hopes to encourage readers to explore the splendors of the worlds cultures, while maintaining the integrity of its vast beauties and shortfalls.
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May252012
Exploring Jaisalmer Fort in India
Travel Recommendation
Location: India
My Recommendation Tip:
Home to the last “living fort” in India, Jaisalmer is an excellent jumping off point for desert safaris heading out into the Thar Desert and other camel-based excursions.
May252012
Singapore’s Chinatown
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Singapore’s Chinatown is the go-to destination for travelers looking for a dose of cultural stimulation. Dating, as it does, at least as far back as the 13th century, the district is one of the world’s oldest and largest Chinatowns. Despite a history that is steeped in bloody conflict (multicultural, modern Singapore emerged out of a series of clashes between Malays and Chinese immigrants), the district has long been one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the city.
May242012
Free Things to Do in Budapest
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
Budapest has long been a proud cultural staple of Europe, and these days, you would be pressed not to find at least some arts and music events to attend around the city.
May242012
Travel the Via Dolorosa
Travel Recommendation
Location: Jerusalem
My Recommendation Tip:
In attempting a journey along the Via Dolorosa (or the Stations of the Cross, as Catholics describe it), it is important to get your priorities in order. Depending on the nature of your visit, a stroll along the route that Jesus is believed to have trudged laden with his cross to the place of his crucifixion is best undertaken in a variety of ways, and at different times. If you’re chiefly interested in observing the architecture, culture, and general hustle and bustle of the Old City of Jerusalem, virtually any time during business hours will do. Just be aware that the streets are clogged with sightseers, pilgrims, monks, nuns, and local residents hoping to capitalize on the monetary benefits of the tourist trade.
May232012
Shanghai’s Happy Valley Amusement Park
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
Located roughly 25 miles (40.2 kilometers) from downtown Shanghai, Happy Valley Shanghai is an amusement park of epic proportions. Designed to service the most populace city in China, the grounds sprawl over more than 200 acres. Over 100 attractions are housed in seven themed zones (Sunshine Beach, Happy Times, Typhoon Bay, Gold Mine Town, Ant Kingdom, Shanghai Beach and Shangri-la Woods).
May232012
Mozart Sights in Vienna, Austria
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart came to prominence early on in Vienna and lived and composed there for much of his life.
May222012
Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Although the city of Kota Kinabalu and the surrounding region has been growing in popularity with native and foreign tourists for many years, it remains far enough off the beaten track to escape the notice of many travelers planning a trip to Malaysia. Don’t allow yourself to be counted among their number.
May222012
June in Japan: Traditional Annual Events
Travel Recommendation
Location: Japan
My Recommendation Tip:
Travel in Japan is considerably enriched by attending one or more of the many cultural and religious events and festivals that take place throughout the year. The following is a sampling of what’s available during the month of June.
May222012
Heidiland: Heidi Attractions Near Zurich
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
The tours and tourist destinations in the Bündner Herrschaft area are known collectively as Heidiland, travelers with children and/or the young at heart won’t want to miss the pleasures of one of the many guided day trips that are based out of Zurich.
May212012
Zhouzhuang: the Venice of China
Travel Recommendation
Location: China
My Recommendation Tip:
A day trip to Zhouzhuang (located less than 20 miles [32.2 kilometers] from Suzhou) is an advisable activity for anyone who travels to the region in search of canals and other related Chinese architectural marvels. The profusion of beautiful bridges, canals, temples and pavilions that are perched above the water are definitely a sight to be seen.
May172012
Bangkok's Most Beautiful Temples
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
Of the very many beautiful temples in Thailand’s capital city, two stand out as far and away the most enigmatic and worth visiting. If you have a limited amount of time in the city and need to prioritize, look no further than Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaeo.
May152012
How to Get Around Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
As one of the most prosperous and modern countries in the world, finding your way around Singapore is not much of a problem. It is also affordable and therefore there is little need for extravagance in hiring your own car, unless you want to of course.
May152012
The Spanish Riding School in Vienna, Austria
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
If Vienna was not beautiful enough on its own merits, take it to a new level with the classy and wondrous Spanische Hofreitschule, better known as the Spanish Riding School.
May142012
Experience Koh Samet: Thailand’s Magic Crystal Island
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
The underappreciated island of Koh Samet is located off the east coast of Thailand, approximately 150 miles (241.4 kilometers) southeast of Bangkok. While popular with vacationing Thais, Koh Samet (known colloquially as Magic Crystal Island) has escaped the excessive construction that has plagued islands like Koh Samui or even Koh Chang. There are plenty of accommodations and places to eat on the island, but the aesthetic remains dominated by white-sand beaches rather than by the byproducts of tourism.
May112012
Hiking the Simplon Pass in Switzerland
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
Wending its way through the Alps between the villages of Brig and Valais, the Simplon Pass is home to stunning mountain views and historical structures offering both public and private residences.
May112012
How to Get Around Penang
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Penang is a lovely place filled to the brim with diverse cultural landmarks from its many inhabitants. Chinese, Indian, Malaysian or British, Penang’s history stands strong on each corner and is easily accessible via a very visitor-friendly public transportation system composed of comfortable and sizable buses.
May102012
Evergreen Mountain
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Often referred to as the “evergreen mountain”, Mount Carmel is actually more of a mountain range than a single peak. Though it is decidedly lacking in altitude (its summit is a mere 1,724 feet above sea level), this verdant geological feature is 24 miles in length, 5 miles across at its widest point, and home to a variety of oak and pine stands and olive groves, as well as more than 600 other species of flora and fauna that flourish in the region thanks to the near constant sunshine paired with high levels of precipitation. This all makes it one of the prettiest places to hike in Israel.
May102012
Annual Festivals in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Any trip to Singapore should take the many festivals and festivities that take place in the city into consideration. The following is a list of the most popular and widely attended events.
May082012
Three Free Things to Do in Zurich
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Zurich is rich in culture and natural beauty, but if there is one thing Zurich generally is not, is a low-cost affair.
May082012
Border Crossing Tips: From Thailand to its Neighboring Countries
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
There are dozens of physical border crossings from Thailand into Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia and Laos; each with their own distinct charms, characteristics and potential complications.
May082012
Running a Marathon on the Great Wall of China
Travel Recommendation
Location: China
My Recommendation Tip:
It is one thing to aspire to taking a hike to the Great Wall of China, it is quite another to run a full on marathon across it. For those looking to do a little traveling, but also put that physique to the test, this is definitely the opportunity to do it. Starting on May 15, you can choose to run in many types of races including the full- and half-marathon, as part of a larger tour of the wall and Beijing.
May032012
Meteora Rock-Tower Monasteries
Travel Recommendation
Location: Greece
My Recommendation Tip:
One of the absolutely spectacular adventures in pursuing Greece’s vast and historical landmarks, the monasteries atop the rock-towers of Meteora is sure to impress. Located in Thessaly in central Greece, a hike to the top of the rock-towers gets you to some of the most important Orthodox structures in the country, the 24 monasteries of the Meteora. Of the largest of the six monasteries, the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron, built in the 14th century, is the largest and now serves as a terrific museum surrounded by decorations now more than 500 years old.
May022012
Bali's Blanjong Pillar
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bali
My Recommendation Tip:
Bali’s oldest known artifact is a small stone pillar housed in Blanjong Temple at Jl Danau Poso in the town of Sanur. Sound underwhelming? It isn’t. At least, not in terms of its historical significance. An inscription on the pillar tells the tale of a Javanese king who visited Bali in the 10th century and installed what was probably Bali's first formal government. The amazing things is that, unlike the gospels or other ancient recollections of historical events, this account seems to have been inscribed by primary participants at the time the events took place. The temple itself is the most important temple in the area, and there are a number of other ancient artifacts for you to peruse and wonder at as well. If the pillar alone isn’t reason enough to attract your attention, the pleasures of greater Sanur should augment your enthusiasm. Sanur has an assortment of spas, resorts, and other tourist attractions. The Museum Le Mayeur is worth visiting if you find yourself in the area. It houses more than 90 paintings by the Belgian artist Adrien Jean Le Mayeur de Merpes, as well as a guidebook in English and a collection of historical photographs. If you’re looking to stretch your legs after communing with history and art, take a stroll along one of two boardwalks that wind through the 1,500-acre mangrove forest on the edge of Sanur that is known as Suwung Kauh. It is also worth pointing out that the swimming at the main beach is great for children, as a protective coral reef just offshore reduces the size and force of the waves.
May012012
3 Popular Sports in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
As is well known, rock climbing, cliff jumping, swimming, snorkeling, spelunking, trekking, kayaking, scuba diving and countless other sporting activities are all popular in different parts of Thailand. The following is a short course on some of the most prestigious pursuits that newcomers to the country might be either unfamiliar with or unaware of the opportunities that exist for them in Thailand.
May012012
Riding the Kuranda Scenic Railway
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cairns & the Tropical North
My Recommendation Tip:
One of the great rides of Cairns, the Kuranda Scenic Railway is a relaxing and most impressive way to experience the history and beauty of the area.
Apr302012
Sound of Music Sights in Austria
Travel Recommendation
Location: Salzburg
My Recommendation Tip:
The Sound of Music is the seminal Julie Andrews musical that set the hills alive with music on this amazing adventure in Salzburg.
Apr272012
Singapore’s Best Islands
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
The pleasures of island hopping amid Singapore’s southern islands are just the thing for travelers seeking beautiful sunsets, nature reserves, temples, bungalows and beaches. The following are a few of the finer points of call among the more than 50 islands that make up the country.
Apr272012
How to Get Around Mumbai
Travel Recommendation
Location: Mumbai
My Recommendation Tip:
As with India’s other major metropolises, Mumbai is often swarming with traffic and moving around can be a lengthy if not a tedious process. The good news is that there are several modes of transportation that will get you where you need to go. Locals in Mumbai heavily depend on public transportation since convenient parking spaces are far and few, so getting around might be a little less scenic and a little more crowded than desired.
Apr272012
First 3 Things to See in Tel Aviv
Travel Recommendation
Location: Tel Aviv
My Recommendation Tip:
Just getting into Tel Aviv, Israel’s second most populace city, is an experience in and of itself — the airport is one of the most secure in the world, with all the searches, delays, and inspections that goes along with that — but it’s definitely worth the effort. Among the most interesting sights in the city are the numerous opportunities for indulging in shopping, architectural ingenuity, and restorative port-side refreshments and views. The following suggestions should help get you started.
Apr262012
Strolling from Roosevelt to Liberty
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
Situated at the foot of the beautiful Chain Bridge, Roosevelt Square (named in honor of the former American president in 1947, and recently renamed in honor of Széchenyi István) offers some of the best views of Castle Hill in Pest.
Apr252012
Shanghai’s Yuyuan Gardens
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
Have you ever shopped until you’ve dropped and could quite possibly implode at the site of another market place full of millions of items you want but can’t pack with you? Then it’s time for you to hit up Shanghai’s Yuyuan Gardens for a bit of rest and relaxation.
Apr252012
Grabbing in Graben
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Graben (German for “ditch”) is a famous street in central Vienna that is one of the most popular and alluring shopping areas in Europe.
Apr242012
Adventure and Solitude on Malaysia’s Mount Trus Madi
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
While the popular Mount Kinabalu is the highest point in the Malay Archipelago, Mount Trus Madi poses a considerably more serious challenge to trekkers looking for a memorable climbing experience. Though located roughly 25 miles southeast of its taller and more high-profile sister peak, Trus Madi is a great place to take in dawn views of Kinabalu and the surrounding region.
Apr232012
China’s Suzhou Canals
Travel Recommendation
Location: China
My Recommendation Tip:
The city of Suzhou in Eastern China is one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting the world’s most-populous country. Among the most magnetic draws is the ancient system of canals in the area.
Apr192012
Festival Calendar in Bangkok
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
Thailand’s capital city is teeming with cultural activities and interesting events. Even if you show up in Bangkok and strike out on your own in pretty much any direction, you’re likely to happen upon something that will entertain you. However, the experienced traveler knows that preparation is your watchword. The following annual events should help you select the ideal time to plan your visit.
Apr172012
How to Dine at Singapore’s Hawker Centers
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Singapore’s hawker centers (collections of independently owned and operated food stalls) are justifiably famous. It is practically a cliché for visitors to tout these cheap, abundant, vibrant, and eclectic assemblages of eateries as some of the very best phenomena that the region has to offer. Whether it’s a cliché or not, it’s certainly true. While Singapore is one of the most expensive travel destinations in Southeast Asia, the high cost of goods and services can be offset considerably by treating yourself to a steady diet of Chinese-influenced and other pan-Asian dishes featuring: grilled, roasted, barbecued, and steamed meats, chilies, fermented shrimp paste and other exotic condiments, and mountains of noodles. The majority of these dishes are available around the city for as little five dollars.
Apr162012
St. Philip's Night in Austria
Travel Recommendation
Location: Salzburg
My Recommendation Tip:
For those of you who are not familiar with the occasion, St. Philip’s Night, or “Philippinacht” is one of the more interesting traditions in Europe.
Apr162012
Top Travel Tips for Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Beautiful, exotic, affordable, and accessible: Thailand is the preferred travel destination for millions of people from all over the world. Travelers new to the country may find certain aspects of daily life in the Southeast Asian country surprising (both pleasantly and unpleasantly). Here are a few tips to help you acclimate and make the most of your visit.
Apr132012
Jonker Night Market in Malaysia
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Although it’s the capital of the third-smallest state in Malaysia, Malacca has been a regional destination of choice for foreign visitors since its founding in the 15th century. Intermittently bustling and sleepy, the city has a distinctive vibe that is all its own. Among the most popular tourist activities in the area are sightseeing strolls around the Porta de Santiago and up the steep steps to St. Paul’s Church, as well as evenings spent drinking and listening to live music at the aptly-named Honky Tonk Haven.
Apr132012
Traveling by Train in Switzerland
Travel Recommendation
Location: Geneva
My Recommendation Tip:
The public transport system in Switzerland is one of the great added perks of visiting the country.
Apr122012
Visit the White City
Travel Recommendation
Location: Tel Aviv
My Recommendation Tip:
The largest single gathering of Bauhaus and/or International-style architecture in the world, the so-called “White City” neighborhood in Tel Aviv earned UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 2003. It’s easy to see why. Located in the heart of the modern city, the neighborhood consists of more than a thousand square white buildings with rounded terraces and pillars, and austere, geometrical roof-lines and facades intended to complement each other in a sort of muted, asymmetrical interplay.
Apr122012
Singapore Flyer – the World’s Tallest Ferris Wheel
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Perhaps Singapore’s best known attraction: the Singapore Flyer. Standing at 165 meters (540 feet) it is the world’s largest observation wheel and a wonderful way to become acquainted with Singapore’s amazing landscape. Enjoy a full 360-degree, panoramic view of one of Asia’s most triumphant cities for one of the best opportunities to take a great photo of the town.
Apr112012
Literary Prague
Travel Recommendation
Location: Prague
My Recommendation Tip:
The Czech Republic’s magical capital city has a small but vibrant English-language literary scene.
Apr102012
Celebrating the Thai New Year with Songkran
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
The Songkran Festival that coincides annually with the Thai New Year is, among other things, a no holds barred water fight that has left many an unsuspecting tourist scrambling to find a towel. Traditionally, young Thais have long celebrated the lunar new year by seeking the blessing of their elders by pouring scented water over their hands (and bathing images of the Buddha), after which all bets are off and a good-natured aquatic battle ensues.
Apr052012
Stress-free Guide to Visiting Athens
Travel Recommendation
Location: Athens
My Recommendation Tip:
Sure, Athens is home to the Acropolis and many other exciting and significant sites and attractions, but let’s be honest: It’s hot (particularly during the high season), it’s dirty, and it’s expensive. I typically advise first time visitors to Greece to hit the Acropolis (at least once), and then hurry to other more enjoyable destinations on the mainland, or, even better, for Piraeus, and the many magnificent islands and island chains beyond. However, there is much to see and do in the ancient metropolis. If you decide to make a go of it, the following tips and suggestions should help you make the most of your time in the ancient metropolis.
Apr052012
Golfing in Bali
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bali
My Recommendation Tip:
The list of quality golf courses in Bali is a notoriously short one, but it’s a prestigious one nonetheless. It’s true that the majority of courses are either exclusive country clubs or affiliated with luxury resorts or both. In other words, it’s not a pursuit for enthusiasts on a budget, but if you can afford it, hitting the links in the sun is well worth the expense. The following are the best that the Indonesian island destination has to offer. 1). Club Nusa Dua. For golfers just off the plane, the Nusa Dua golf course at the Bali Golf and Country Club in an obvious choice. Thanks to its close proximity to the island’s main airport, you’ll be basking in the glow of the sun reflecting off the Indian Ocean and gazing at Mount Agung in no time. 2). Handara Kosaido. Located at little further afield than Nusa Dua (approximately two hours by car from the airport, and roughly an hour from Ubud), Bali Handara combines the pleasures of relaxing in the mountains of Bedulga with a world class course designed by Peter Thompson and Michael Wolferidge. 3). Nirawana. Owned and maintained by the world's largest sports marketing and management company, Nirawana is another opportunity to stretch your legs and test your skills within view of the ocean (one hole even requires competitors to pitch across an ocean inlet). A full 18 holes will set you back nearly $200, or you can opt for a cheaper (and shorter) sunset session starting at 4 p.m. daily.
Apr032012
White Water Rafting in Cairns
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cairns & the Tropical North
My Recommendation Tip:
Though it’s known as the “Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef,” the Australian city of Cairns is also a great base for day trips and extended excursions into the surrounding rainforest, parks, rivers, streams and gorges. One of the most exciting ways to explore the interior is via a Cairns white water rafting tour.
Apr032012
When and Where to Sail in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
One of the best ways to enjoy the hot / dry season that reigns in Thailand from March to May is amid the water, beaches, and trade winds on the deck of a sailboat off the coastlines of the various islands and island groups in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Though they were once activities reserved exclusively for the rich, yachting and chartered cruises are now within the reach of the average traveler (not the backpacker crowd, say, but ‘budget motel’ and above).
Apr022012
Top Annual Spring Events in Vienna
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Austria’s capital city is nearly always bustling with cultural activity. Whether it’s because of the famous Vienna International Film Festival (October 20-November 2), which attracts more than 90,000 cineastes to the city every year, or any of the other theatre, music, food, film, and holiday festivals that take place annually, it’s well worth checking the calendar before visiting Vienna. For travelers with impending travel plans, the following events should prove of particular interest.
Mar292012
Balinese Butterfly Park - Taman Kupu Kupu
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bali
My Recommendation Tip:
For travelers accompanied by children (or those simply possessed of a
childlike sense of wonder), the Taman Kupu Kupu (Balinese Butterfly
Park) is an enchanting option for a day trip from Tabanan in the West
of the island. Upon entering the net-covered gardens at Wanasari on
the road to Penebel, visitors are immediately confronted with
thousands of vibrantly colored and brilliantly patterned butterflies
of various species, fluttering around you in a mesmerizing flurry.
Mar292012
Lake Activities in Switzerland
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
Switzerland is known for breathtaking views, and Lake Hallwil and its surrounds have a lot to offer tourists looking to soak up some stunning scenery, Swiss culture, and recreation at prices that can be relatively affordable. Zoning restrictions have prevented construction along the banks of the lake, leaving it, and the lovely countryside around it, unmarred by entrepreneurs more interested in turning a profit than preserving the views. Many couples in search of a romantic setting come to Meisterschwanden on the lake's eastern shore for no other reason than to take in the sunset. That said, there is a great deal more to do and see in and around the lake. The following are a few that come highly recommended.
Mar292012
Masada Ruins
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Easily the most iconic historic site in Israel, the ruined stronghold known simply as Masada is located atop an isolated pinnacle of rock overlooking the Dead Sea at the western end of the Judean Desert. It’s easy to grasp the Israeli attachment to the legend and historicity of this incredible destination. There can be no better metaphor for, or signifier of the hopes and intentions of generations of Jews to exist and persist with a degree of security and sovereignty in the holy land than the very place where their ancestors made a last stand against Roman oppression so long ago.
Mar292012
Soviet Statue Park
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
Like many denizens of former Soviet satellites, the citizens of Hungary were anxious to bring down the figurative symbols of communist rule as well as their military and political apparatus after the fall of the Iron Curtain. Unlike other recently liberated populaces, however, Hungarians stole their former overlords’ symbolic thunder by removing, relocating, and re-appropriating the many statues, sculptures and public art installations depicting Soviet leaders, mythology, and propagandistic slogans that once littered the fair city of Budapest.
Mar282012
English-language Live Theatre in Vienna
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
The state of English-language live theatre in Vienna is and has historically been very strong indeed. As with most big cities, there is a profusion of impromptu, independent, and experimental theatrical productions playing at various times throughout the year in the Austrian capital, but the two main players are Vienna’s English Theatre (VET) and the International Theatre Vienna (IT). The former is the oldest and most established English-language theatre in continental Europe and the latter, while smaller and decidedly less prestigious, is well respected in theatrical circles and has been mounting full-scale productions since 1974.
Mar282012
Beijing Day Trips to the Great Wall of China
Travel Recommendation
Location: Beijing
My Recommendation Tip:
No visit to China would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall of China. Luckily, just such an achievement is an easy hop, step and a jump from beautiful Beijing in China’s north. The best way to see this world-famous site is to jump on a Great Wall guided tour.
Mar282012
Cairns Outback: Explore the Depths of the Chillagoe Caves
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cairns & the Tropical North
My Recommendation Tip:
Danger, adventure, and raw beauty abound in the great Down Under and naturally, no visit is complete without experiencing first hand one of the greatest wonders of the world – the Great Barrier Reef. However, all the surf and sand can send you a little salty, so why not step away from the beach and step into the nearby outback in Cairns, Northern Queensland.
Mar272012
Top 4 Attractions in Chiang Rai
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
The northernmost province in Thailand, Chiang Rai, has much to offer. The following is a list of Chiang Rai’s top 4 attractions to help you start exploring this intriguing area.
Mar272012
Lounging in the Letten Neighborhood of Zurich
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Situated along the banks of the northern stretch of the River Limmat in Zurich, the area known as Letten is currently flourishing after years of rampant crime, drug use, homelessness, and destitution. Once a virtual open market for drugs sales and use (as well as a semi-permanent dwelling) for addicts and criminals from all over Switzerland and indeed the rest of Europe, Letten has been the beneficiary of public works projects and spirited efforts at drug intervention and treatment. The results have been so successful that you likely wouldn’t guess at its troubled past.
Mar262012
2012 Peach Blossom Festival in Shanghai
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
As with previous years, the 2012 Peach Blossom Festival will be held daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from late March to early April (March 25-April 20) at the Nanhui Peach Blossom Village in Shanghai. The peach blossom has long been considered a symbol of life, prosperity, and luck in love by the Chinese; and this festival is as much a local celebration of the aforementioned bloom as it is an opportunity to introduce newcomers and tourists to its beauty and significance.
Mar232012
Wildlife at India’s Chilka Lake
Travel Recommendation
Location: India
My Recommendation Tip:
As the second-largest coastal lagoon in the world, Chilka Lake is very wide and very shallow. With a depth of just 14 feet at its deepest point, Chilka is, among other things, an ideal stopping-off point for many species of migratory birds. Fans of flamingos and the more than 150 other species of aquatic and semi-aquatic birds will revel in this unrivaled opportunity to observe mind-bogglingly large flocks throughout the area.
Mar232012
Swim, Ski and Soak in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
While not as established (or as cheap) as other spa destinations in Southeast Asia (Thailand and Indonesia, for example), the Singaporean spa scene is definitely up-and-coming. There are virtually no traditional, Asian-styled spas in the city-state. The order of the day is hip, inventive, and new age, with everything from Ayurveda to green tea hydrotherapy. If you can afford to treat yourself at one of Singapore’s better hotels, you won’t be disappointed.
Mar222012
Things to do in Gythio
Travel Recommendation
Location: Greece
My Recommendation Tip:
Situated in the southern Peloponnese, the port city of Gythio is the largest and most important city in the region (with a population of just under 8,000). It is also one of the most pleasant. Gythio’s long history has been, shall we say, seismic. Originally the main seaport of Sparta (which is located roughly 25 miles to the north), the majority of the port was completely destroyed in a massive earthquake in the 4th century. Sizable portions of the ruins of ancient Gythio are submerged in the Laconian Gulf. Since that time is has gone through intermittent periods of growth and almost total abandonment.
Mar212012
Shanghai’s Top 2 Beaches
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
Strictly speaking, residents and tourists trapped in Shanghai during the hotter months are more or less limited to nearby Jinshan City Beach if they are looking to beat the heat by gaining access to nearby sand and surf.
Mar202012
Top 3 National Parks in Austria
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
The powers that be generally designate national recreation areas or areas of significance for good reasons, and this certainly holds true in Austria. The country’s parks are great places to enjoy the outdoors and revel in the splendors of the natural world. The following should help the uninitiated begin to familiarize themselves with some of the better scenic areas in the country. 1) Hohe Tauern Hohe Tauern National Park covers an area of nearly 700 square miles, making it far and away the largest of its kind in central Europe. The region features pristine evergreen forests, alpine meadows, striking rock faces, cliffs, peaks, and glacial ice fields and floes. On the northern edge of the park is the spa town of Bad Gastein, which dates back to the 15th century, and recently played host to the snowboarding and boarder-cross world cup.
Mar162012
Augusta Raurica
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
For six centuries, Switzerland was part of the Roman Empire and several ruins from Roman settlements still remain today. Along with an accompanying Roman castle, the restored ruins and open-air theatre/museum of Augusta Raurica are listed on the Swiss Inventory of Cultural Property of National and Regional Significance. Situated on the south bank of the Rhine near the villages of Augst and Kaiseraugst, Augusta is the oldest known Roman settlement in the region. Visitors interested in taking in the former colony should set aside a full day at a minimum, as the site consists of a full scale Roman theatre (home to an annual summer festival that is attended by tens of thousands), a museum with a collection including more than a million artifacts, an animal park wherein ancient Roman practices of animal husbandry are still practiced, and a fully restored example of a working Roman home complete with period-specific décor.
Mar152012
Ginosar and Beyond
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Accessible by bus from the much larger (and far less interesting) town of Tiberias, Israel, is the tiny kibbutz on the banks of the Sea of Galilee known as Ginosar. Founded in 1937 by socialist settlers, Ginosar is primarily famous for two things: It was the home of Israeli politician and general Yigal Allon, and, of considerably greater interest to foreign visitors, the so-called “Jesus Boat”. The latter is a wooden boat less than 30 feet long that dates to the 1st century (ostensibly the time of Christ). It was discovered by amateur archeologists in 1986 after three years of drought left it partially exposed in the mud. Today, it is displayed in the Yigal Allon Museum
Mar132012
Clubbing Zurich
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Zurich is Switzerland‘s largest city and is home to the largest number of dance clubs per capita in Europe. Many visitors migrate to the city expressly to dance and imbibe. Whether you’re dedicated to nightlife, or are traveling to the area for other reasons, it’s worth picking up a copy of 20 Minuten (this local publication contains the most authoritative and up-to-date arts and culture listings available) and investigating what’s happening on any given evening. Some of the best clubs include Kaufleuten (easily Zurich’s most famous dance club), Club Indochine, Labor Bar (home to the city’s best gay nights), and Rohstofflager (which also presents live music events). Most of these and many other of the most popular establishments are located in Old Town along the banks of the Limmat River and in the city’s trendy western quarter.
Mar132012
3 Attractions to Tour of Old Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Despite the astonishing modernity of Singapore’s skyline and astonishing urban planning efforts, remnants of years past still exist, and it can be very pleasant indeed to make a day out of touring some its finest examples. Make it a point to visit the following.
Mar092012
The Stage is Set for English-Language Theatre in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
English-language accessible theatre in Singapore is currently a solo act—namely, the Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT). This state of affairs may change, as there is coursework being taught on the subject at the National University of Singapore and there are several books by Singaporean authors; but for now, the only game in town is SRT.
Mar082012
Harpa For the Long, Dark, Winter Nights
Travel Recommendation
Location: Reykjavik
My Recommendation Tip:
Harpa, Iceland’s new concert hall on the waterfront in Reykjavik, has been open less than a year and is already garnering praise for its stunning architecture, its views, and its program of events. If you are visiting Iceland in winter, it’s the perfect place to spend at least one of the long, cold dark, evenings, in the warmth of good music and fine performances.
Mar082012
Top 5 Beaches Near Athens
Travel Recommendation
Location: Athens
My Recommendation Tip:
The smart money typically seeks the sandy shores of the storied Greek isles, but there are also numerous lovely beaches in and around Athens. The following are few of my favorite destinations along the Apollo Coast. 1. Astir. For travelers willing to drop a little coin, the beach at Astir has everything a sun-worshiper could hope for...
Mar062012
Craziness on Koh Phangan – The Full Moon Party
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Famous with the backpacker set since the mid-1980s, the monthly Full Moon Party held on the island of Koh Phangan in Thailand is the stuff of legend. Begun by an impromptu group of less than 50 revelers, this gathering has grown to include more than 20,000 people on the evening of every full moon like clockwork twelve months out of the year. Is it a tourist trap of epic proportions? Yes. Is it amazing and worth checking out nonetheless? You bet.
Mar052012
Best Things to do in Vorarlberg
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
The westernmost state in Austria, Vorarlberg has been described as home to some of the most progressive new architecture found anywhere in the world. It also boasts a striking natural landscape that is the rival of any alpine destination in the region. Vorarlberg is not for the budget traveler (it is easily the wealthiest region in the country outside of Vienna). But, whether you’re interested in architectural tourism, or looking for charming villages, arresting mountainous landscapes, and world famous cultural festivals, Vorarlberg is well worth a visit. Virtually the entire state is interesting enough to attract travelers, but the following attractions and destinations are not to be missed.
Mar022012
Riding the Centovalli Railway
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
Situated on the Swiss-Italian border, the so-called “hundred valleys” train line known as the Centovalli Railway is an excellent bet for a day trip or weekend excursion. The trip to Locarno on Lake Maggiore from Domodossola in Italy is among the most memorable and picturesque means of entering Switzerland. During the trip (a minimum of two hours each way), you’ll see beautiful chestnut forests, jagged cliffs and gorges, rushing waterfalls, vineyards, monasteries and quaint villages. What you won’t see are the spectacular bridges that make passage along the vertiginous route possible, but then, you can’t have everything.
Mar012012
Spas and Spelunking in Budapest
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
Hungary’s capital city is world renowned as a destination blessed with a profusion of restorative spas. Whether it’s the famous Gellért or Széchenyi baths that draw you to Budapest, or public baths at Margaret Island (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), or any of the dozens of other aquatic options, you won’t be disappointed. What far fewer prospective visitors to this beautiful city are fully aware of are the nearly 170 caves and cave systems that are available for tours and exploration. The same thermal activities that explain the larger number of natural baths, springs, and wading pools are responsible for the extraordinary network of caves in the region.
Feb282012
VIDEO: Old Hutongs Tour by Rickshaw
Travel Recommendation
Location: Beijing
My Recommendation Tip:
Hop on for a majestic 3-hour tour of one of Asia’s most popular travel destinations: Beijing. With the Old Hutongs Tour, you are whisked to the gardens of Prince Gong’s Mansion, the largest and best preserved royal mansion of the Qing Dynasty, by traditional rickshaw. In one of the most underrated cultural experiences you can have, you will also be welcomed into the home of a local family, where you will meet and greet your oriental counterpart.
Feb272012
Seeing Samut Songkhram
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Situated southwest of Bangkok on the Gulf of Thailand, the small province of Samut Songkhram is a popular destination for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital. Guided tours or private guides are well worth the expense if you’re looking to get off the beaten path – without getting lost or turned around.
Feb242012
VIDEO: Bay of Islands Scenic Helicopter Tour
Travel Recommendation
Location: New Zealand
My Recommendation Tip:
Take to the exotic and natural beauty of New Zealand, via Paihia, for an adventure of a lifetime. With the Bay of Islands and Hole in the Rock Scenic Helicopter Tour, you will soar over Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock by helicopter for the most scenic tour of your life.
Feb232012
Day Trip to Bintan Island
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Though not technically among the holdings of the Singaporean city-state, the Indonesian island of Bintan is less than an hour away by boat, and makes an excellent destination for adventurous day-trippers. The following suggestions for a trip to Bintan cover some of the most popular activities and sites available to tourists.
Feb222012
Suzhou Creek – By Bike and Boat
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
There are many ways to explore the Suzhou Creek (although it may be more fitting to call it a river) and its surroundings as it cuts through central Shanghai on its way from Lake Tai to the Huangpu River. You can easily stroll along its banks, particularly if you’re interested in exploring the trendy artist colony that is home to more than a 100 working artists in the formerly vacant warehouses along the banks of the Suzhou.
Feb222012
Journey into Sarawak
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
The Malaysian melting pot of Kuala Lumpur is the very definition of fusion. The cross-pollination of countless cultures and ethnicities combined with a massive economic boom has rendered modern Malaysia an almost psychedelic assemblage of humanity. If you want to explore the real roots of regional culture, however, it pays to leave the bright lights of the big city behind and head out into the jungle. There are few better places to undertake such a journey than the state of Sarawak in the Malaysian section of the Island of Borneo.
Feb222012
Sifnos
Travel Recommendation
Location: Greece
My Recommendation Tip:
Although it’s common for travelers to the Greek islands to tour entire island groups via ferry or private yacht, I’m an advocate for choosing carefully in advance and confining your stay to one location in order to really get to know it and see what it has to offer. The island of Sifnos is up near the top of my own list of recommendations in Greece. With its charming, Cycladic villages, beautiful beaches, churches, and a pleasant combination of peaceful recreation and vibrant nightlife, Sifnos really does have it all.
Feb212012
Breaking Into Bregenz
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
This capital of the westernmost state in Austria has roots that date back to Roman times. The city’s year-round population is a modest 28,000, but the charming lakeside community is a considerable tourist draw. Situated on the shores of Lake Constance (one of the largest lakes in Europe), Bregenz is a lovely place to settle in for a relaxing weekend of strolling along the popular promenade, peering across the lake at sunset, or taking a day trip by bicycle to neighboring Germany and/or Switzerland. Also noteworthy are the variety of scenic lake cruises offered from April to October.
Feb162012
Zichron Ya’akov
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Settled in 1882, Zichron Ya’akov is a great place to spend a weekend of shopping, eating, and sipping wines from the famous Carmel Winery. Named in honor of Baron Edmond de Rothschild’s father, the town is not far from the equally laudable Haifa (just 20 miles south, to be precise). Many visitors make a day trip out of a visit to Zichon from the aforementioned largest city in northern Israel.
Feb162012
Lounging in Lumphini Park
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
For a city with such a staggering population (more than 8 million people as of 2010), Bangkok, Thailand has surprisingly few public parks. Situated in the center of the city, Lumphini Park is one of the best and the biggest. Named for the birthplace of the Buddha in Nepal, Lumphini was constructed on royal property in the early 20th century at the behest of King Rama VI. Within the grounds, a man-made lake provides recreational enthusiasts with opportunities for row boating and communing with the considerable population of turtles that flock like waterfowl to the lakeshore in pursuit of breadcrumbs and other snacks.
Feb142012
Zurich's Best Walk
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Unlike a walk along the busier arteries that run through central Zurich (such as the Bahnhofstrasse or the Limmatquai), a stroll along the Schanzengraben Canal is both relaxing and rewarding, with an emphasis on relaxing. Whether you’re a resident of Zurich or a first time visitor fresh off the train, the pleasant waterway running from the lake to the Limmat is a great away to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without actually leaving it.
Feb142012
Best Places to Camp in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Though a relatively recent development, it is now possible to camp at any number of parks and beaches in Singapore. This phenomenon is a considerably cheaper option than even the most affordable budget hotels (though you may want to invest in affordable gear before traveling), and it can also be much more pleasant. Note: although cooking pits and barbecues abound, it is necessary to pay a fee to use them legally.
Feb132012
Top 4 Spots to Soak in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai
My Recommendation Tip:
Thailand has dozens of popular hot springs frequented by locals and tourists alike. Though mainly in the north of the country, these idyllic settings for rest and relaxation are worth traveling for. Whether the steaming mineral water and mud found at these destinations are actually healing is a matter of speculation, but that they are restorative is beyond doubt. The following are some of the country’s best.
Feb102012
Exploring the Cameron Highlands
Travel Recommendation
Location: Kuala Lumpur
My Recommendation Tip:
Trekkers and nature lovers would be remiss to pass up the many opportunities for hiking and encountering lush flora and fauna found in one of Malaysia’s most extensive and expansive hill stations.
Feb102012
Top Japanese Winter Events
Travel Recommendation
Location: Tokyo
My Recommendation Tip:
With Lantern Festivals, Naked Festivals, and Snow Festivals, there is truly something for everyone in Japan this month. Here is a guide to finding good luck and happiness among Japan's most colorful people.
Feb092012
Las Vegas Night Strip Helicopter Tour
Travel Recommendation
Location: Las Vegas
My Recommendation Tip:
Sin City, Las Vegas. Known by all as the largest and most notorious adult playground in the world, this city takes the meaning of luxury to a whole new level. Money and entertainment are the names of the games in this famous city – and who wouldn’t want their chance to rise about the rest? Well, with the Las Vegas Night Strip Helicopter Tour you will, quite literally, be on top.
Feb092012
Art Galleries in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
For a city renowned for its modernity and opulence, it should come as no surprise that Singapore is home to some excellent art galleries and art institutions. In a country where spraying graffiti can get you a serious prison sentence and even corporal punishment, even the street artists bring their work indoors. The following are just a few of the galleries that the city has to offer.
Feb082012
Cairns Day Trip to Kuranda
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cairns & the Tropical North
My Recommendation Tip:
While Cairns is most famous – and rightly so! – for its location to beautiful Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, there are myriad other tourist options for the adventurous and curious traveler. Just outside of Cairns is the beautiful small town of Kuranda, which borders the Barron Gorge National Park. Editor’s Note: This recommendation was taken from our Cairns Things to Do blog. Visit the original post to continue reading the full post and to learn more about things to do in Cairns.
Feb072012
Top 3 Scuba Diving Spots in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Phuket
My Recommendation Tip:
Scuba enthusiasts will be well aware of the delights of diving in Thailand. Whether you’re an experienced practitioner or an aspiring underwater tourist, this Southeast Asian paradise is an excellent destination. The following spots are just a few of the best places to suit up and get wet.
My Photos:
Feb032012
Winterthur: A Good Day Trip from Zurich
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
The sixth-largest city in Switzerland, Winterthur is also one of the country’s most culturally sophisticated. Art tourists in particular will find themselves in bliss, wending their way amid the many lovely parks and gardens in the city as they visit some of Europe’s most important collections of art, as well as attending shows and plays at the handful of theaters and cabarets (the Sulzerareal auditorium is the largest indoor venue in Europe).
Feb022012
Acre (Akko) Attractions
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
One of the oldest continuously occupied areas in Israel, Akko (or Acre) contains the structural remnants of a tumultuous past. The annals of history may include nearly continuous conflicts, occupations, resettlements, and destabilization, but the upshot is an astonishing collection of Jewish, Greek, Roman, Arab, Ottoman, Crusader, and British colonial artifacts and architecture. Akko is also considered the holiest city in the world by practitioners of the Bahá'í faith (owing to the existence of the Shrine of Baha'u'llah, which houses the tomb of the faith's prophet and founder).
Feb022012
Best Bridges in Budapest
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
Including rail bridges, a title="Budapest Tours" href="http://www.viator.com/Budapest/d499-ttd"Budapest/a boasts a total of 10 structures spanning the historic stretch of the a title="Danube River Tours" href="http://www.viator.com/Budapest-attractions/Danube-River-tours-tickets/d499-a662"River Danube/a. Whether you take an organized tour, rent a bicycle (easy to do), rent a car, or simply stroll, the city’s famous bridges are well worth exploring. The following are a few of the most iconic.
Feb012012
3 Museums in Vienna
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
It would be impossible to pay proper attention to all the odd and wonderful museums contained within the confines of Vienna in a single burst of words. The following are some of the most peculiar, and, possibly, for the right kind of tourist, the most interesting.
Feb012012
Family Friendly Bali
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bali
My Recommendation Tip:
Bali is well known as an adult wonderland for tourists seeking fun in the sun. Happily, this Indonesian island is also a great destination for travelers with children as well. While it is obviously advisable to research the calendar of activities scheduled in the specific areas you’d like to visit (as well as the seasonal weather patterns), there are plenty of destinations that the whole family will enjoy. The following are among the most popular and dependable family-oriented destinations in Bali. 1). Waterbom Bali. Located in beautiful Kuta, this extraordinary water park has something for all ages. Amid the carefully landscaped gardens is a network of leisure pools (including a man-made river that visitors can drift down on tube rafts, shaded by tropical foliage), swim-up bars, and nine other massive water slides and rides (many of which, though quite safe, are not for the faint of heart). 2). Sacred Monkey Park. Known as the Ubud Monkey House and/or the Enchanted Monkey House, this is one nature reserve and temple complex at which children will positively marvel. The park presents a singular opportunity for visitors interested in an interactive experience with the community of 300 hundred crab-eating macaque monkeys who reside within its walls. If you don’t want to be swarmed by greedy primates (granted, these are primates renowned for their charm), take care to conceal any bananas you might purchase to tempt them with, as the monkeys are famous for climbing visitors’ legs and prying into bags and packages. Keep an eye on your little ones.
Jan312012
Day Trip to Rapperswil from Zurich
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Located on the opposite end of the lake from Zurich (and accessible via S-Bahn rail link), Rapperswil, the famed City of Roses, makes an excellent spring or summer day trip from Switzerland’s largest city. The town owes its nickname to its famous rose gardens, but also on hand are the Rapperswil Castle, the deer park on the Lindenhof and the picturesque Old Town perched atop a rocky hill at the bay of Kempraten.
Jan302012
Theater in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
A long history of theater exists in Thailand, and its modern-day manifestations can be more varied than one might presume. In addition to traditional dramatic forms, Thailand is also home to puppet theaters, cabarets, and other, western-inspired entertainment.
Jan272012
Spelunking in the Greek Islands
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cyclades Islands
My Recommendation Tip:
There is a wide array of explored and unexplored caves and cave systems throughout the Greek Islands and Greece’s mainland. Whether you’re a first-time spelunker or a seasoned explorer, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the fair Mediterranean. The following are a few of the most popular and rewarding sites.
Jan272012
3 Great Restaurants in Delhi
Travel Recommendation
Location: New Delhi
My Recommendation Tip:
Eating out in India is an experience best enjoyed following a bit of research. This is never truer than in the country’s second-largest metropolis. Below, I’ve listed a few tried and true recommendations for eating out in Delhi.
Jan252012
Shopping in Shanghai
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
While staying in China’s most cosmopolitan city, it is an absolute must to indulge in some shopping! And there is no other place to do it than Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s main shopping street that was named one of the world’s Seven Great Roads in the 1930′s, and maintains a robust reputation today.
Jan232012
Tour Vienna One Cemetery at a Time
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
ome might consider a walking tour of Vienna cemeteries eerie way to spend a vacation, but there are few more restive and intriguing ways to pass an afternoon than strolling amid the stately headstones of a European graveyard. Though possessed of a somewhat artless moniker, Vienna’s Central Cemetery (or Zentralfriedhof) is one of the most fascinating in Europe.
Jan232012
Tips for Travelling in Malaysia: What Not to Do
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Malaysia is a beautiful and rewarding place to visit, but it’s a very different culture than what most westerners are accustomed to. The following are a few general tips to keep in mind when planning your visit.
Jan202012
A perfect place for hiking in Switzerland
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
Hikers, cyclists, rafters, and other nature-lovers have long appreciated the Ruinaulta Ravine in the Vorderrhein River Valley of Switzerland. Formed ten millennia ago when 350,000 cubic feet of rock and debris poured into the valley after a colossal rock slide (the largest known incident of its kind in the Alps
Jan192012
Bangkok by Boat
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
Cruising the Chao Phraya River is one of the most entertaining and diverting touristic activities on order amid the hustle and bustle of modern day Bangkok. Many of the original canals in this Byzantine system were filled as part of various efforts to combat the scourge of cholera during the last century, but life afloat on the city’s “khlongs” and along its banks is a welcome relief from Bangkok’s notoriously congested roadways.
Jan192012
What to See in Bethlehem
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Revered as the hometown of King David, the site of the Muslim prophet Al Khider's teachings, and the supposed birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem has long been a tourist attraction for Jews, Muslims, Christians, and the culturally curious from all over the world.
Jan192012
Zurich's Music Scene at the Red Factory
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Housed in an abandoned silk factory just on the bank of Lake Zurich sits the Rote Fabrik, or Red Factory. Opened in the 1980s, the Rote Fabrik has come to represent the heart of experimental theater, film, and music in Zurich. The factory, distinctive for its titular red bricks, was reclaimed by young members of the social democratic party in 1977. The Rote Fabrik was a site of a veritable culture war...
Jan182012
River Hongbao 2012
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Beginning January 21st and running through the 29th, the Chinese New Year festivities known locally as River Hongbao 2012 will grace Marina Bay in Singapore. Usher in the Year of the Dragon with a vibrant, traditional Chinese festival carried out with typical Singaporean pomp and circumstance
Jan132012
Malaysian Cuisine
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
While Chinese and Indian influences are strong in Malaysian kitchens, a distinctly Malaysian cuisine persists and is plentiful. If you’re looking for a truly Malaysian experience, there are plenty of places to turn. Many regions and villages have their own specialties, so pay attention to what locals are eating and suggesting.
Jan122012
Raising the Titanic in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, a special exhibit is currently running at ArtScience Museum at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
Jan102012
R and R, Thai style
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Much attention is paid to the excitement of trekking and island hopping in Thailand, and the merits of Thai massage are famous the world over, but there’s nothing quite like devoting an entire vacation to rest and relaxation in the Southeast Asian paradise. It’s easy to mythologize certain aspects of foreign cultures, but spa culture in Thailand really doesn’t disappoint.
Jan092012
Seeing the Terracotta Warriors in China
Travel Recommendation
Location: China
My Recommendation Tip:
Magnificent and magical China is the world’s third most visited country, and with the vast variety of attractions on offer, it is no wonder the East’s mega house of culture is only increasing in popularity.
Jan062012
The Best Villages of Switzerland
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
If you’ve got the time and inclination to do a little touring, some of the most richly rewarding destinations in Switzerland are its many beautiful and historic villages. The following are some of the most authentic and picturesque.
Jan052012
Best Views in Budapest
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
Beautiful views of the Buda Hills, Pest and the Danube River are easily accessible from various locations in and around the city of Budapest. The following are a few of the best places to peruse the sights of Hungary’s capital city.
Jan052012
Monkeys and Le Mayeur
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bali
My Recommendation Tip:
For an excursion that is equal parts chaos and culture, a day trip from up-and-coming Ubud to the established resort area at Sanur comes highly recommended.
Jan042012
Street Food in Vienna
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Visitors to Vienna should all take care to sample the delightful street fare that is ubiquitous throughout the city. Travelers on a budget should make it their religion. Street food throughout Europe tends to be pretty good, but in Vienna they break the mold.
Jan032012
Day Trip to the Reef from Cairns
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cairns & the Tropical North
My Recommendation Tip:
This is a bit of a no-brainer when out in stunning Cairns, but you must, must, must, take at least a day-trip to the reef where you can engage in snorkeling, or just lay out on the white sandy beaches and catch a tan in the balmy tropical climate.
Jan032012
Beijing’s Forbidden City
Travel Recommendation
Location: Beijing
My Recommendation Tip:
China’s capital, and one of the most populous cities in the world, Beijing is simply brimming with cultural experiences and sights. The ancient city is China’s political and cultural center, and one of the Four Great Ancient Cities of China.
Jan032012
Visiting the Big and Small in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Visitors to Pattaya (roughly 100 miles southeast of Bangkok) can experience a real juxtaposition in scale with two quirky destinations in and around the city.
Dec282011
Racing Malaysia
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Formula One racing at the Sepang International Circuit outside of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is fast, furious, and incredibly popular.
Dec282011
Pearls of Yunnan Province
Travel Recommendation
Location: China
My Recommendation Tip:
Home to the headwaters of the Yangtze, Mekong, and Salween rivers, Yunnan Province is among the southernmost regions of China, and contains some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country.
Dec212011
Eating and Drinking in Bali
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bali
My Recommendation Tip:
Bali is an affordable and rewarding destination, especially for travelers already in the hemisphere. The beaches and recreational activities are world famous, but its cuisine is far less well known. However, the food and drink of this island destination are as memorable as any scuba diving excursion. The following should help get you started.
Dec212011
Movie Night in Prague
Travel Recommendation
Location: Prague
My Recommendation Tip:
Prague is an excellent city for spending an affordable evening taking in the proverbial (and literal) dinner and a movie. The city has a profusion of reasonably priced eateries located near (or on the way to) technologically advanced and/or exceedingly atmospheric cinemas. The following combos come highly recommended.
Dec202011
Markets in Beijing
Travel Recommendation
Location: Beijing
My Recommendation Tip:
Shopping in Beijing is a vibrant affair, but notoriously tricky from a practical point of view. Westerners can find themselves bewildered and befuddled without some careful consideration.
Dec202011
Cairns Adventures to the Daintree Rainforests
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cairns & the Tropical North
My Recommendation Tip:
Australia’s Tropical North is home to one of the natural wonders of the world – the Great Barrier Reef – but a trip to Cairns offers a multitude of adventure that doesn’t all involve donning goggles and flippers!
Dec192011
Thailand Train Tips
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Every country has its own distinctive flavor of train service. The Thai variety is decidedly affordable, comfortable, and memorable. Even if you have the means to arrange for private transportation when you visit the Thailand, joining the hoi polloi and riding the rails comes highly recommended.
Dec162011
Hurray for Bollywood
Travel Recommendation
Location: India
My Recommendation Tip:
To say that Bombay (I won’t say Mumbai) is a world class film town would be a considerable understatement. In fact, the largely Hindi-centric film industry in this spirited, vibrant, bustling metropolis of India is a good deal larger and more productive than its Tinseltown counterpart.
Dec162011
Christmas and New Year in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Christmas in Singapore is unsurprisingly glitzy and commercial, and it’s a spectacle that is well worth witnessing. In fact, the entire holiday season (from early November to mid-January) is a nonstop explosion of lights, consumerism, and hedonistic celebration.
Dec142011
Take a Bund Huangpu River Cruise
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
Shanghai stands unparalleled as the largest city in the world. Following its rapid development over the last two decades it has become a leading global city, with significant influence in commerce, culture, finance, media, fashion, technology and transport and is the busiest container port in the world.
Dec132011
Fireflies, Fawns, and Felines
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Nature-lovers in Malaysia have many options to choose from, whether it’s forest adventures at the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia, spelunking in the Batu Cave Complex, or diving off the coast of one of the country’s beautiful beaches. For travelers with little ones or physically limited individuals, the following three destinations offer low-impact, intimate interactions with local flora and fauna.
Dec122011
Macau
Travel Recommendation
Location: China
My Recommendation Tip:
There is simply nothing comparable to the cultural fusion of Macau. Officially titled “The Historic Centre of Macau”, the former Portuguese colony is an extremely unique colonial legacy in China and the perfect adventure for daring travelers.
Dec082011
Budapest Holocaust Memorial Center
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
The Budapest Holocaust Memorial Center was erected to shine a light on this disgraceful and horrifying historical period, honor the victims, examine the changes that the Jewish community underwent in Hungary as a result of the genocide, and help prevent similar atrocities from ever happening again in the future.
Dec082011
The Mighty Makhtesh Ramon
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Possibly the grandest and most awe-inspiring natural site in the whole of Israel, the Makhtesh Ramon is a giant geological feature at the peak of Mount Negev roughly 50 miles south of Beersheba near the tiny settlement of Mitzpe Ramon.
Dec082011
Queen Saovabha Snake Farm in Bangkok
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
Originating in 1912 as a facility for the manufacture and distribution of the rabies vaccine after Princess Banlusirisarn died from the disease, the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute (QSMI) is now a famous center in Bangkok for snake husbandry and the extraction and study of snake venom.
Dec062011
Gambling in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Sports betting and traditional gambling are incredibly popular in Singapore. Locals tend to favor speculation over football and horse racing, as well as a specifically Singaporean variation of Mahjong. Tourists and high rollers, on the other hand, come to the city-state in droves to avail themselves of the glitzy, Vegas-style casinos recently erected along the banks of the Singapore River.
Dec062011
Loping up Lindenhof
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
This hill in the heart of Zurich’s old town is the city’s crowning jewel. The view from the top (once the site of Roman fortifications) is impossible to beat. A geological formation carved out during the last glacial period, the now largely flat summit of the hill is home to a beautiful public square situated roughly 100 feet above the Limmat River.
Dec052011
Sporting Events in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Serious sportsman the world over probably don’t need to be told about the following international events taking place in Thailand, but travelers to the area would be remiss if they vacationed in the region without spectating any or all of the following (if their visits happen to coincide with their respective schedules).
Dec022011
Eating and Drinking in Greece
Travel Recommendation
Location: Greece
My Recommendation Tip:
Eating and drinking in Greece is wonderful, to be sure, but it is not without its pitfalls. The following warnings and recommendations should help you survive the Mediterranean in high style and comfort.
1). Ouch, Ouzo (and Retsina). Greek drink, whether it is local wines or Metaxa (a cunning blend of brandy and locally produced, sun-dried grapes), is world famous for its dicey nature.
Dec022011
Backpacking in Bako, Sarawak
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
The oldest national park in the province of Sarawak, Bako National Park contains cliff-side views of the South China Sea, pristine coves and headlands, inland waterfalls that empty into freshwater pools that are perfect for swimming, and a network of trails through dense jungle terrain that make the park an ideal place for hiking and camping.
Dec012011
International Cuisine in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
It stands to reason that any place as multicultural and populous as Singapore would have a lot to offer in the way of international cuisine, and this city doesn’t disappoint. Sample regional fare from the four corners of the earth with the following suggestions.
Nov292011
Waterfalls in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Not surprisingly, the best time to head out in pursuit of Thailand’s profusion of beautiful waterfalls is during the wet season (June-October). The following are some of the country’s finest.
Nov282011
Seeing Schloss Hof
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
Long overlooked for a combination of reasons, the recently refurbished summer palace Schloss Hof is not only one of Austria‘s largest, it is also one of the grandest. Owned by the state and sustained by the proceeds of a now bustling tourist trade, the palace is currently in fine fettle. The main building is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture anywhere in the world, and the extraordinary period furnishings and art contained within (many of which were only recently returned to the palace) are a convincing reminder of the power and wealth enjoyed by the Hapsburg royals. Suffice it to say that the surrounding gardens, orangerie, manor farm, fountains and sculptures are a collective treasure as well.
Nov282011
5 Ways to Enjoy a Relaxing Day in Chengdu, Sichuan, China
Travel Recommendation
Location: China
My Recommendation Tip:
Located in southwest China, Sichuan is known for being a sleepy place to do some quiet tourism. Similarly, in its largest city, Chengdu, having a laid-back day is at the forefront of most visitors’ agendas. Here are a few ways to do that most effectively:
Nov232011
David Cerny's Prague
Travel Recommendation
Location: Prague
My Recommendation Tip:
Controversial Czech artist David Černý gained international fame when he was arrested for painting a Soviet tank pink, an act of civil disobedience that carried particular significance, as the tank was located in the heart of central Prague and was a national cultural monument dedicated to Soviet tank crews. Today, Černý is a cultural icon, and his work can be found in prominent public spaces throughout Prague.
Nov232011
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cambodia
My Recommendation Tip:
The gateway to Angkor Wat, or Siem Reap as we know it, is a pocket-sized well-groomed town, filled with tons of restaurants, bars, shops and modern hotels. Though it is jam-packed with backpackers and tourists, it is considered a relaxed place with tons of activity to keep you busy.
Nov222011
Cairns Tropical Zoo
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cairns & the Tropical North
My Recommendation Tip:
Sprawling across approximately 15 acres, the Cairns Tropical Zoo is the largest such facility in North Queensland. Home to a wide array of exotic wildlife, the zoo also features a tight schedule of animal shows and presentations, including kangaroo and pelican feeding, koala and snake handling presentations, bird shows, guided walks, and lessons in wildlife photography.
Nov222011
Golden Resources Mall in Beijing
Travel Recommendation
Location: Beijing
My Recommendation Tip:
The second largest mall in all of Asia, at the Golden Resources Mall you can buy almost anything from cars to tables to diapers. As a consumer mall, it has less of the cultural allure of some of Asia’s more primitive bargaining malls, but none-the-less, covering more than 6 million square feet (557,000 sq m), more than a 1,000 stores and with more than 200 escalators taking customers up and down and all around, this place exemplifies China’s fast-paced and hugely populated culture.
Nov212011
Seeing Si Satchanalai -Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Not far from the better known ancient architectural wonder that is Sukhothai (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the city of Si Satchanalai in Thailand has much to recommend it, not least of which is the arresting complex of ancient ruins bearing the same name of the municipality.
Nov182011
Dining in India
Travel Recommendation
Location: India
My Recommendation Tip:
The gastrointestinal dangers of dining in India are well known, but with some care and preparation, eating out is one of the highlights of a trip to the world’s most populous democracy.
Nov182011
Exploring Singapore’s Little India
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip: Singapore is home to a sizable Indian community, and Little India is where they congregate, worship and sell their wares.
Nov162011
Dining in Shanghai
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
Shanghai is famous for many reasons, but the bounty and affordability of its cuisine is the stuff of legend. It’s possible to stumble blindly into the streets of the city and find delicious food, but the following suggestions should help guide the budget-conscious strike pay dirt without a hitch.
Nov152011
Spectacular Spelunking in Malaysia
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Malaysia has a lot to offer adventurous travelers, but none so exhilarating as the incredible cave systems maintained by both public and private organizations, many of which have received special designations as culturally significant sites. The following are a few of the best.
Nov142011
Stops Along China's Silk Road
Travel Recommendation
Location: China
My Recommendation Tip:
Of inestimable cultural and historic value, the famous Silk Road once connected ancient China to the outside world, and in some instances it still functions as a commercial trade route today. Along its path, you'll discover numerous sites of particular interest. The following are just a few:
Nov142011
Klosterneuburg
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
Rather like Buda and Pest, the towns of Klosterneuburg and Korneuburg have been separated by the Danube since the river changed course in the Middle Ages. The former is a very attractive town with a number of sites that are worth making the short trip north from Vienna.
Nov112011
Bern
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
Long recognized as one of the world’s most desirable places to live, the regional capital of Bern in Switzerland is also a delightful place to visit. The historic old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The following three spots are not to be missed.
Nov102011
Classical Music in Budapest
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
Classical music is widely and expertly presented throughout Europe, but there are few better places than Budapest for indulging in some diverting and inspiring concerts. Travelers new to the city can be easily misled by the profusion of seemingly similar venues and performance spaces, but the following are the best that Budapest has to offer:
Nov102011
The Best Beaches in Israel
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
There are few places where it is more imperative to beat the heat than the Middle East. Luckily there are a number of beautiful beaches along the Red Sea coastline and elsewhere in Israel. The following are a few of the better places to take to the water.
Nov092011
Wiener Festwochen (Vienna Festival)
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Easily one of the world’s most well-known and reputable cultural festivals, the Wiener Festwochen has been under the direction of Luc Bondy since 2002. Visited by nearly 200,000 revelers every year, the festival included dozens of film and video productions, hundreds of live performances, and more than 50 concerts.
Nov082011
Opernhaus Zurich
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Home to the Zurich Opera for pushing on 50 years now, Opernhaus Zurich is known and respected the world over as an elite institution that serves as a springboard for first rate opera, ballet, recitals, and concerts. It is also the central performance venue for the annual Zurich Festival, which, since 1996, has been a dependable celebration of the best ballet, classical music, and opera that Switzerland has to offer.
Nov082011
How to Travel in Cairns on the Cheap
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cairns & the Tropical North
My Recommendation Tip:
As most experienced travelers will tell you, running around Australia is expensive. With the ever-growing value of the Australian dollar and an expanding economy, moderate fiscal spending here during your well-deserved vacation isn’t what it used to be, but just because you have to cut corners doesn’t mean you still can’t have a blast. Here are a few things to do in Cairns on the cheap.
Nov082011
Daytrip from Singapore to Johore Bahru
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
The capital of Johor in southern Malaysia, Johor Bahru, is located just an hour by bus from Singapore. A bustling metropolis in its own right, Johor Bahru may seem a strange place to seek respite from the skyscrapers and congestion of Singapore, but it’s primed and ready to become a cosmopolitan giant and shouldn’t be written off.
Nov072011
4 Best Campgrounds in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Natural beauty and affordability combine to make tent camping in Thailand a popular recreation with native schoolchildren, families, and international backpackers alike. With more than 70 national parks, the country is very accessible for those inclined to rough it REI style. The following four campgrounds are absolute gems.
Nov042011
The Mount Pelion Peninsula
Travel Recommendation
Location: Greece
My Recommendation Tip:
It is true that the beauty of many coastal and interior destinations are unfairly overlooked by tourists hustling off to the islands. This can work to your advantage, however, if you forgo the ferries for, say, a rental car or tour package. One of the most striking areas of Greece for travelers in search of beautiful scenery, trekking, and unspoiled beaches is the Mount Pelion Peninsula in Magnesia.
Nov042011
Ko Tarutao Marine National Park
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Thailand is famous for its splendid beaches. There are plenty to choose from, to be sure, but the islands comprising the Tarutao Archipelago in the far south of the country are arguably the best of the best.
Nov032011
Seeing the Singapore River
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
The lanes and quays of the Singapore River have been crowded with European and Chinese merchants since the mid-19th century. Today, the waterway that first attracted colonial settlement serves as the city-state’s central natural tourist attraction. Though no longer much use in the way of international trade (ocean-going ships have taken to docking to the west of the island), it generates considerable tourist traffic (and for good reason).
Nov022011
Top 4 Sights in Malacca
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Malacca (Melaka), the third-smallest state in Malaysia, has been a sought-after destination for foreign visitors since its founding in the 15th century. Modern Malacca has been rising with the general economic tide that has benefited much of Malaysia since the 1990s, with the accompanying development and land reclamation projects commingling with ancient structures and cultural heritage sites. The following destinations come highly recommended.
Oct312011
The Judenburg Sternenturm
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
One of the most modern and technologically advanced virtual stargazing spots in Europe is located in Austria. The Sternenturm planetarium in Judenburg is a striking combination of old and new. Reputedly the highest planetarium in the world, the Sternenturm is amazingly located in the belfry of the centuries-old city castle tower, a structure that has long been one Judenburg’s most recognizable landmarks.
Oct312011
Missing Home? 5 Tasty American Restaurants in China
Travel Recommendation
Location: China
My Recommendation Tip:
It’s not uncommon that during a long trip abroad that you might want to eat something your body is already used to. Chinese food is known around the world as being particularly delicious, but there is nothing wrong with wanting to settle your gut with some good ol’ fashioned American comfort food. So, when you find yourself in some of China‘s more notorious stops, give these places a try.
Oct282011
Eating out in Switzerland
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
To attempt to recommend just four restaurants of note for an entire country may be stretching any practical sense of scale to its breaking point, but Switzerland is relatively small, and the following four establishments are in fact contained to just two cities. At any rate, all four are seriously good.
Oct282011
Cracking Koh Phuket: 4 Must-See Attractions
Travel Recommendation
Location: Phuket
My Recommendation Tip:
Thailand’s largest island, Phuket (the so-called “Pearl of the Andaman”) is also its most popular. As you might imagine, this has drawbacks as well as advantages. If you’re willing to brave the crowds, however, there are some justifiably famous destinations worth visiting. The following are just a few of them.
Oct282011
National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing
Travel Recommendation
Location: Beijing
My Recommendation Tip:
An obvious choice, perhaps, but the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing, otherwise known affectionately as “the egg” (because of its shape) is a masterful structure made of titanium and glass, housing a plethora of world class opera, concerts and theatre.
Oct252011
Zurich's Red Light District
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Beginning somewhat surprisingly near the district courts in central Zurich, the Langstrasse (or “long street”) is a red light district that stretches lengthwise to the Hauptbahnhof and widthwise in an uneven perimeter radiating out into the surrounding streets.
Oct252011
Bird watching in Bali
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bali
My Recommendation Tip: The art of bird watching has come close to perfection in the countryside around Ubud in the heart of Bali. Amateur and professional groups meet daily at various locations around the city and surrounding villages and venture out into the rice fields and river gorges where hundreds of native species flourish.
Oct212011
Singapore Art Museum
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Happily, the collection at the blandly named Singapore Art Museum (SAM) is anything but. Opened in 1996, the museum boasts the largest public collection of modern and contemporary Southeast Asian artwork found anywhere in the world. It’s almost as though the museum was a portrait of the ambitious city-state itself, only in microcosm.
Oct212011
Darjeeling unlimited
Travel Recommendation
Location: India
My Recommendation Tip:
An ideal spot to catch your breath and recover from the heat that plagues much of India, the town of Darjeeling has a lot to offer trekkers and travelers new to the country and residents of the region looking to beat the sweltering summers. It is also an ideal jumping-off point from which to adventure into Sikkim.
Oct192011
Karaoke Time in Shanghai!
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
As it is huge in most of Asia, karaoke night is no time to mess around. When you are out with your friends or are just looking to meet some new ones, make sure you go out on the town with the knowledge of places with the best English-language tunes, drink specials and venue appeal. Here are a few that are sure-fire.
Oct172011
Four Fantastic Austrian Spas
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
If there’s one downside to choosing among legendary spas in Austria, it’s that there are just so many of them. To help get you started, here are four destinations that come highly recommended.
Oct142011
Switzerland’s Lake Constance
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
Though slightly smaller and less famous than Lake Geneva to the southeast, Lake Constance is a destination equally as laudable as its noteworthy neighbor. With a shoreline shared by Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, Constance is home to restful vistas, marine recreation, beautiful beaches, and surrounding hills replete with vineyards, orchards, and farmland.
Oct142011
The chaos of Khao San in Bangkok
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
It’s difficult to fathom the concurrence of fecundity and foulness that flourishes in the small but extraordinarily dense and colorful tourist district that is the short stretch of Khao San Road in central Bangkok.
Oct132011
A Day Trip to Jericho
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Located in the Israeli-occupied West Bank near the northern end of the Dead Sea, Jericho is both the lowest permanently inhabited site on earth and the oldest continuously occupied city known to man.
Oct132011
Open-air outings in Budapest
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
Like many other cities in the region, the capital of Hungary is decidedly lacking in air-conditioning (for shame!). The following suggestions may help visitors beat the heat or simply enjoy the outdoors in an urban environment.
Oct112011
Cycling in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
For obvious reasons, cycling around Singapore is an ideal way for both tourists and residents to experience the city-state. There are extensive loops and routes throughout the city designed to promote alternatives to automobile traffic, and many of them offer rewarding recreational activity.
Oct102011
Sangkhlaburi
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Situated off the beaten path in a corner of Kanchanaburi Province near Myanmar, the sights in and around Sangkhlaburi are under-appreciated as far as Thai destinations go. One reason for this may be the grueling seven-hour bus ride from Bangkok, but if you can afford luxury transportation or are possessed of a sufficiently hearty constitution, this charming district is well worth the journey.
Oct072011
Seeing the Seven Islands of Greece
Travel Recommendation
Location: Greece
My Recommendation Tip:
The so-called “Seven Islands” (there are actually many more than seven in the chain) off the west coast of Greece are a popular destination for European travelers hoping to take advantage of the balmy climes without surrendering the pubs, sporting events, and creature comforts to which they are accustomed. As a result, the Ionian islands (as they are now known) are a peculiar mix of cultures unlike anyplace else in Greece.
Oct072011
Seeing the central plains of Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Known as Thailand‘s “Great Rice Bowl” (owing to its agricultural abundance), the central plains of Thailand are an excellent destination for visitors to the country who are more interested in the history and culture than its sparkling beaches and nefarious nightlife.
Oct062011
Haunting Singaporean cemeteries
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Of the many ways to escape the concrete jungle that is modern Singapore, a daytime skulk through one of the city’s cemeteries is one of the more intriguing.
Oct052011
Mixing it up in Miri, Malaysia
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Miri has been a bustling economic hub since oil was discovered there in the early 20th century. Today, it is part of a regional economic explosion in Malaysia. Since being designated a city in 2005, it has invested a considerable amount in local tourism. Such efforts have paid off, and modern Miri is an excellent place to visit for travelers seeking some cosmopolitan fun.
Oct032011
Five tips for eating fondue in Switzerland
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
Ever since the fondue craze in US popular culture began in the 1960s, the habit of eating melted cheese served in a communal pot has come to seem slightly silly to many Americans. But let me assure you, fondue is no laughing matter (it was promoted to the status of a Swiss national dish as early as the 1930s). In fact, properly served fondue is seriously delicious, and no one has perfected this culinary art better than the Swiss. Here are a few recommendations and points of etiquette to keep in mind while pursuing the perfect pot (or, to use the proper terminology, the perfect caquelon).
Oct032011
Salzburg’s House Mountains
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
Owing to their proximity to Salzburg, the iconic peaks of Gaisberg and Untersberg are some of the most accessible in the alps. Located just a short bus ride from the city center, the so-called “house mountains” are a regular feature of life for Austrians, and a tourist destination of particular fascination for visitors to the region.
Oct032011
The Best of Krabi Town
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
A significant hub for travel in southern Thailand, Krabi Town makes an excellent gateway to a profusion of exotic islands and national parks, and is an underappreciated destination in its own right.
Oct032011
Three in Galilee
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
There is much too much to recommend in one sitting amid the lush landscape of Upper Galilee in Israel, but the following are a few of my personal favorites.
Sep292011
Private Tour: Angkor Wat and The Royal Temples Full-Day Tour from Siem Reap
Tour / Activity
My Rating: 
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
My Review: So if you were only planning on staying a few days in Siem Reap, you’ll want to get the best out of your trip, or face imminent regret over what you have missed. Viator’s private full-day tour gives you the opportunity to see the great Angkor and equips you with the knowledge you’ll need to have a fulfilling trip, while effectively seeing exactly what it is you came to see.
Note from Viator: This review was written by Phil, who wrote a complete Angkor Wat and The Royal Temples Full-Day Tour summary (with Video!) on our Viator Travel Blog.
My Photos:
Sep282011
Top 5 Prague Insider Tips
Travel Recommendation
Location: Prague
My Recommendation Tip:
Prague is one of the most rewarding cities in Europe, possessed as it is of glorious architecture dating to the 10th century that escaped both world wars without experiencing significant bombing. The following advice should clue the uninitiated into what the city’s considerable population of expats already knows.
Sep282011
Top 4 Outdoor Activities in Bali
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bali
My Recommendation Tip:
It's tempting to reduce the allure of the Indonesian island paradise of Bali to the sheer magnetic appeal of the natural landscape. Obviously, the culture and people of Bali have many meretricious qualities and attributes, but it is true that the beaches, rivers, jungles and mountains are the starred attractions. The following four suggestions are noteworthy methods of making the most of what's on offer.
Sep272011
Zurich Zoo
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Travelers visiting Zurich with little ones in tow (or just the young at heart) should make it a point to visit the city’s wonderful zoo, which is one of the most pleasant in Europe. Visitors of any age and parental status are welcome as well, of course, and the grounds are rumored to be a sought after destination for young Swiss couples out on a date.
Sep232011
Religious sites in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Modern Singapore is a decidedly secular place. It is, however, also a vibrantly diverse city with a mix of ethnicities and cultural influences, and there are rich pockets of religiosity worth visiting for tourists in search of the spiritual.
Sep232011
Top 4 Sights in Delhi for First-Time Visitors
Travel Recommendation
Location: India
My Recommendation Tip:
As the second most populated area in India, the city of Delhi can be a daunting target for travelers unfamiliar with the subcontinent. The following four suggestions should help get you started.
Sep212011
Diving in Sipadan and Layang Layang, Malaysia
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
Malaysia‘s only oceanic island, Sipadan, is one of the most famous scuba diving destinations in the world. Located in the Celebes Sea off the coast of the state of Sabah, the island is surprisingly difficult to visit despite (or perhaps because of) its international appeal. It is nonetheless more than worth the effort.
Sep192011
Inside Innsbruck
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
Innsbruck is arguably one of the most beautiful towns in Austria, situated as it is against the sheer cliffs of the Alps that rise from its northern edge. The town is a famous center for winter sports (it hosted the Winter Olympics twice), and is home to a number of charming museums dedicated to Tyrolean history and culture, as well as some brilliant examples of decorative baroque architecture. Older still is the peculiar but beautiful Golden Roof, built in 1500 for Maximilian I so that Archduke Friedrich IV and other Tyrolean sovereigns could have an appropriately regal spot from which to observe tournaments and festivals in the square it faces.
Sep162011
Château de Chillon, the Most Famous Castle in Switzerland
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
The Château de Chillon is far and away the most famous castle in Switzerland. It’s easy to see why. Situated on the eastern edge of Lake Geneva, this iconic structure dates back to the 11th century and was never taken by siege at any point in its history. Located near Monteux (home to the justly famous Monteux Jazz Festival), the site borrows much of its grandeur from its proximity to the lake and backdrop of the Dents du Midi (translation: Teeth of the South) Mountains.
Sep162011
Temple of Dawn
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
Despite having a name that translates as Temple of Dawn, the beautiful Buddhist temple Wat Arun may be the best spot in Bangkok to take in the golden hues of dusk as they reflect off the Chao Phraya River.
Sep152011
Mount Tabor
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Located 11 miles west of the Sea of Galilee, Mount Tabor is believed by many Christians to be the site of the transfiguration of Jesus. Whatever the truth of such claims, the area has certainly got a rich history. The summit has seen the carnage of many historical conflicts, including the battle of Barak and the army of Jabin in the 14th century, and a French force of just 3,000 soldiers commanded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1799 that fought off a Mamluk force of more than 20,000 soldiers.
Sep152011
Explore Budapest's Margaret Island
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
As is well known, the Hungarian capital city is the convergence of two formerly separate cities on the east and west banks of the River Danube. To get at the georgraphical and figurative heart of both banks (Buda and Pest) simultaneously, the obvious choice is Margaret Island (Margit-sziget).
Sep142011
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Crowned with a palatial octagonal dome, Kunsthistorisches Museum is one of the finest and most important museum buildings constructed in Europe during the 19th century. It’s sandstone façade, marble, stucco, and gold-leaf adornments were commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph I as part of his expansion of Vienna in 1858.
Sep132011
Promenading Singapore’s Southern Ridges
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Highlighting the vivid contrast between the dense urbanity of modern Singapore and the lush natural beauty that exists within and around it, the extended trail that follows the band of jungle-covered ridges that stretch across the western half of the city is a great way for visitors to access the natural world quickly and easily.
Sep132011
The Centre Le Corbusier
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
The Centre Le Corbusier and Heidi Weber Museum stand as the final architectural project designed by the titular artist, and together they serve as gallery, museum, embassy, and archive for the multifaceted gifts of the celebrated Swiss artist and architect.
Sep122011
Video Blog: London Eye Champagne Experience
Travel Recommendation
Location: London
My Recommendation Tip:
The London Eye: a miraculous feat of engineering. Standing at 443 feet tall (135 meters), this giant Ferris wheel encapsulates one of the greatest views in all of London. Located right on the banks of the River Thames, one you are sky-high, you will get a view of all of London’s top landmarks, but with 3.5 million annual visitors, simply showing up may not be the personal experience you were looking for, unless of course you book the London Eye Champagne Experience.
Sep122011
Top 4 Museums in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Thailand has an extensive national museum system, as well as a litany of independent museums and private collections worth visiting. To get you started, here is one noteworthy institution selected from each of the country’s respective geographical regions.
Sep092011
Exploring the Island of Crete
Travel Recommendation
Location: Greece
My Recommendation Tip:
The sheer size and beauty of the island of Crete makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to log some time hiking in the Mediterranean. By far the largest islands in Greece, Crete is home to more than half a million people, but it is easy and advisable to enjoy the many wild places that the island has to offer. It stands to reason that an island that is more than 160 miles long (and nearly 40 miles across) offers some varied terrain, and Crete doesn’t disappoint in this regard.
Sep092011
Video Blog: Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas
Travel Recommendation
Location: Las Vegas
My Recommendation Tip:
What better way to explore Nevada’s famous Red Rock Canyon than under the wing of an experienced local guide? It stands to reason that the uninitiated would do well to seek assistance when unlocking the wonders (and avoiding the dangers) of the Mohave Valley, and those who do are justly rewarded.
Sep092011
Soak up nature in Erawan National Park
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Accessible by a short bus ride from Kanchanaburi, Erawan National Park in Thailand features 200 square-miles of limestone hills, forests, steams, flora and fauna. Founded in 1975, its most famous feature (and justifiably so) is the seven-tiered waterfall from which the park derives its name. The waterfall itself is named after a mythological three-headed white elephant that the falls and pools are said to resemble. In any case, the waterfall is truly spectacular and the various pools into which it spills (perhaps gushes is a better word) are great for swimming.
Sep082011
Modern Architecture Along the Waterfront
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Much has been made lately of Singapore reputedly letting its figurative hair down. This supposed trend may be greatly exaggerated (the city-state is still a far cry from other southeast Asian destinations when it comes to excitement), but the hyper-modern architecture that sprouts up in the city at such an incredible rate is enough to inspire a unique degree of man-made awe. One of the most recent additions to the city in this vein is a pedestrian-accessible waterfront loop that extends over a little more than two full miles of riverfront property.
Sep072011
A Backpacker’s Paradise: The Perhentian Islands
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
For travelers in pursuit of (or are immune to) the combination of affordability, adventure and occasional inconveniences that persist at destinations popular among the backpacker set, the Perhentian Islands off the coast of northeastern Malaysia near the Thai border are an excellent option. Lodging and food are cheap (though the latter is markedly more expensive than the mainland, as everything has to be imported), and the nightlife is straight from the happier moments in 2000′s The Beach.
Sep012011
French Wine Tasting In Paris
Travel Recommendation
Location: Paris
My Recommendation Tip:
Have you ever gone to a restaurant with a girlfriend, been given a wine menu and sat reading through it as if it were in a foreign language? Well, fair enough, sometimes it is, but it is still a little embarrassing none-the-less. It is never too late to remedy the problem, and what better place to do it than in beautiful Paris. With the French Wine Tasting in Paris package you will have your choice of four wonderful options that will send you on your way to becoming a connoisseur of French wines.
Sep012011
VIDEO BLOG: Whiskey Tour in Scotland
Travel Recommendation
Location: Scotland
My Recommendation Tip:
If you’re a fan of Scotland’s signature amber restorative, the 4-day Islay Whisky Tour from Glasgow come highly recommended. If you’re not (and here one is tempted to admonish the skeptical), then by all means leave the glorious casks of blessed liquid to the rest of us. Veterans of the tour will tell you that a large part of the pleasure in partaking in a version of the following itinerary is the distinctive scenery (including sweeping seaside vistas and arresting castle ruins), and bracing environs that punctuate a tour of the island’s distilleries. Along the way, you’ll pass the town of Inveraray, Loch Lomond and Loch Fyne. You’ll pass sandy strips of beach and indulge in pleasant strolls down coastal paths. You’ll sample the wares at a local oyster farm, and mix up the parade of imbibing by stopping off for a flight of ales at one of the island’s better breweries.
Sep012011
Konark: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Travel Recommendation
Location: India
My Recommendation Tip:
Konark (also known as Konaditya) is a small village in India 20 miles north of Puri in the coastal region of the Bay of Bengal. It is famous─it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in fact─for being home to a sun temple of the same name which is widely regarded as both the culmination of Orissan architecture and one of the most stunning examples of religious architecture of any kind to be found anywhere in the world. The massive structure sits a little more than a mile from the sea, but the sand that surrounds it testifies to the fact that the ocean originally came right up to its base. Not long ago, in fact, the Konark remained close enough to the shore to be employed as a navigational marker by European sailors, who reputedly dubbed the structure “The Black Pagoda”.
Aug312011
Top 5 Tallest Buildings in Shanghai
Travel Recommendation
Location: Shanghai
My Recommendation Tip:
One of the most fascinating things in the city of Shanghai is quite simply the buildings. With almost a thousand high-rises completed, Shanghai is one of the world's fastest growing cities and with numerous architectural gems to gander, its tallest are a feat of engineering on a global scale, why not take a closer look? (List is in height order starting from tallest.)
Aug292011
Walking Tour of Significant Austrian Houses
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
Tourists looking to stretch their legs while taking in the sites of Vienna can easily plot a course from one home or “haus” that was once the residence of a noteworthy figure from history or fiction to another (these structures are often home to relevant museums or honorific plaques, inscriptions, and other memorials). The following suggestions should help get you started.
Aug262011
Thai Kick Boxing
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip: The sheer spectacle of physicality and pomp (complete with wild musical accompaniment) that is the phenomenon of Muay Thai is something that must be witnessed to be believed. Even travelers who aren't ordinarily interested in combat sports should go out on a limb and count themselves among the frenzied crowds of enthusiasts and gamblers (most attendees are both) that fill the stadiums all over Thailand.
Aug262011
Lake Zurich by Steamer
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
Mountain railways, cable cars, funiculars, and chair lifts abound in Switzerland, but one of the best ways to pass a fair weather afternoon is aboard one the fleet of paddle steamers that depart for cruising and commerce between Zurich and other points of interest along the shores of Zürichsee (Lake Zurich).
Aug242011
Prague Cuisine: A Savory and Intense Affair
Travel Recommendation
Location: Prague
My Recommendation Tip:
Traditional Czech cuisine is not for the faint of heart; it consists mostly of a wide variety of roasted meats and sausages, dumplings, fried potato pancakes (Bramboráky), and other intensely savory dishes, all of it washed down with famed local beers (the Czechs consume more beer per capita than any other nationality), fine Moravian wines, and higher-proof refreshments like Fernet Stock and Becherovka. Veggies and fish are rarely featured as main courses, with the exception of the traditional Christmas carp, which is typically purchased on the street and kept live in the bathtub. While outdoor carp vendors only operate in the weeks leading up to Christmas, the street is nonetheless an excellent (and affordable) place to sample the regional fare (particularly in Prague). Food carts of virtually uniform quality and pricing are dotted throughout the center of Prague and the more popular tourist districts. The menu is limited, but what these carts lack in variety, they make up for in quantity and, well, intensity of flavor.
Aug232011
Zurich – A First Class Museum City
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
As the home of both the E.G. Bührle Collection (containing one of the most famous collections of French Impressionism and Post-Impressionism anywhere in the world) and the Swiss National Museum, Zurich is a first class museum city. Apart from the aforementioned heavy hitters, however, there are also some smaller, more specified curiosities for visitors looking to branch out and scale down. 1. The Johann Jacobs Museum for the Cultural History of Coffee. Though currently closed for renovation, the Jacobs is scheduled to reopen later this year. Contained within its walls is a permanent exhibition dedicated to promoting the cultural significance of what the museum claims has been the second most important commodity (after oil) in the world from the 17th century to the modern day.
Aug192011
Escape Into Nature In and Around Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Though Singapore is known the world over for its architectural splendor and ambitious city planning, the modern urban landscape of Singapore can be a little overwhelming. Luckily, there are a wide array of opportunities to escape the steel, glass and concrete jungle and commune with the natural one.
Aug182011
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
The largest market in Thailand, the Chatuchak weekend market (commonly known as the J.J.) in Bangkok covers more than 35 acres. Thousands of stalls offer a variety of merchandise that defies description. The market is equally popular with Thais and tourists alike, and anyone interested in picking up anything from trinkets to wholesale goods will doubtless have already added this destination to their agenda. If you are, and you haven’t, suffice it to say you’d be wise to do so.
Aug172011
Taiping Zoo, Malaysia
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
The oldest zoo in Malaysia, Zoo Taiping, is a major zoological park located in the state of Perak in northern Malaysia, a district once considered among the most valuable colonial possessions of first the Dutch and then the British empires, mainly for its rich veins of precious metals. Situated on 34 acres, the zoo is home to exhibits featuring various amphibians, mammals and reptiles, numbering in excess of 1,300 animals of more than 180 species. Of all the odd things to boast, the zoo trumpets its position as home to the largest number of Stump-tailed Macaques in Malaysia (13, incidentally, which is better than Zoo Negara's six and Zoo Malacca's five).
Aug152011
Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
If it's unmitigated alpine beauty you're after, the wide and varied expanses of Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria is a sure bet. Covering an area of nearly 700 square miles, Hohe is by far the largest of its kind in central Europe. Natural features in the region include evergreen forests, alpine meadows, striking rock features, cliffs, peaks, and glacial ice fields and floes. Among the better-peopled destinations on the northern rim of the park is the spa town of Bad Gastein, which dates back to the 15th century, and recently played host to the snowboarding and boardercross world cup.
Aug122011
Mt. Pilatus – Switzerland’s Most Majestic Mountain
Travel Recommendation
Location: Switzerland
My Recommendation Tip:
Accessible from Alpnachstad from May to November by way of the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, the summit of Pilatus is an iconic alpine destination that has few rivals anywhere in the world. Located near Lucerne, Pilatus is named for a local legend that alleges that Pontius Pilate was buried there.
Aug122011
Santichaiprakarn Park and Fort Phra Sumen
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
One of the most visitor-friendly cities in Asia, Bangkok has a staggering array of attractions for travelers of all stripes. Widely reckoned by meteorologists to be the world’s hottest city, Bangkok is also an easy place to get dehydrated and thoroughly worn out.
Aug112011
Budapest Puppet Theatre
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
The largest puppet theatre in all of central Europe (and that’s saying something), the Budapest Puppet Theatre (BPT) in Budapest, Hungary is a shining example of an art form beloved the world over. Located on the famous Andrássy Avenue (designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002), the company is one of the most talented troupes of its kind on the continent, and the only organized company in Hungary.
Aug112011
Dead Sea – Unusual Treasure of Health and Beauty
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Easily one of the world’s very oldest natural health spas (frequented by noteworthy figures from Herod the Great on down), The Dead Sea (also known as the Salt Sea) is a legendary salt lake in Israel bordering Jordan and the West Bank.
Aug102011
Third Man Museum
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Cinephiles the world over will stop and take notice upon learning of this privately operated Vienna museum dedicated solely to the celebration of director Carol Reed's 1949 noir classic, The Third Man. Reed's film is universally renowned. The conventional wisdom that holds that there is no accounting for taste simply doesn't apply here (or, if you like, is proven by exception). Among its many honors (the Grand Prix at Cannes, Best Film at the British Academy Awards, an Oscar for Best Cinematography, etc.), the film was selected as the best British film of the 20th century by the British Film Institute in 1999.
Aug092011
Top 5 Destinations in Singapore
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
1. Skyscraper Infinity Pool
If it’s true that the city-state of Singapore is what you’d get if Los Angeles had been financed by the Chinese and designed by the Swedes, then the infinity pool atop the Marina Bay Sands is its little touch of Las Vegas. Reputedly the most expensive casino in the world and featuring the world’s largest public cantilevered platform, the Sands was built by an American company (hailing from Vegas, in fact). The views are fantastic and the opulence extreme, making this a must-see destination for visitors to the city.
Aug092011
The E.G. Bührle Collection
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Founded in the 1960s by the family of late, famous arts patron Emil Georg Bührle in Zurich, and Sammlung E. G. Bührle established the, Foundation E.G. Bührle Collection in order to open up one of the most important collections of European sculpture and painting in the world to the general public. Located in a Zurich villa adjoining Bührle's former home, the foundation contains works by old masters and towering figures in modern art (Pierre Bonnard, Henri Matisse, and Pablo Picasso, just to name a few examples), but the most significant schools represented are French Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. Bührle procured works by Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, Paul Gauguin, Édouard Manet, Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Georges Seurat, Alfred Sisley, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Vincent van Gogh and others. Anyone who fancies themselves an art aficionado will not want to miss the Bührle, and many art lovers travel to Zurich for the sole purpose of visiting the foundation.
Aug082011
Golfing in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
The sport of golf has deep roots in the Kingdom of Thailand, dating back to the reign of Rama V (1853-1910). Originally played exclusively by nobles and other elites, golf is now played in Thailand by as many as half a million visitors a year. The sport is also popular with Thais from all levels of society. Nicknamed “The Golf Capital of Asia”, Thailand offers countless courses in beautiful and exotic settings, many of them designed by some of the top names in the game (Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, Greg Norman, etc.). Below are enough recommendations to get the uninitiated started.
Aug052011
Saronic Gulf Islands
Travel Recommendation
Location: Greece
My Recommendation Tip:
Many travelers heading to Greece make a major production out of touring Greek Islands further afield and more luxurious than the islands nearest to Athens in the Saronic Gulf, but, ironically, the closer you get to the capital, the more laid back and authentically Greek the islands get.
Aug052011
Koh Samui
Travel Recommendation
Location: Koh Samui
My Recommendation Tip:
Long the closely kept secret of lucky backpackers in search of an affordable escape, the 95 square miles of Koh Samui have been evolving into a playground of the rich since the early 1990s. If you find yourself among their number (lucky you), then by all means relax and add this island paradise to your list of future getaways. The budget-minded among you, on the other hand, would do well to hurry on down to the southern end of the Gulf of Thailand and get while the getting’s good.
Aug042011
Eating Out At Hawker Centers
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Founded as a British trading colony in 1819, the city-state of Singapore has developed into one of the most prosperous metropolises and one of the busiest ports in Southeast Asia. Due to its notoriously strict legal system, it has also developed a reputation for bland sterility and predictability (the author William Gibson famously referred to it as “Disneyland with the death penalty”). One aspect of Singaporean culture that is decidedly not bland, however, is its food, and one of the best and most memorable ways to sample the regional cuisine is by visiting one of its many legendary, bustling hawker centers.
Aug032011
Pursuing the Spirit of James Joyce
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
Though first and foremost a Dubliner, the novelist James Joyce lived and died in Zürich and both adopted and was adopted by the city. For a portrait of the artist as an older man, as it were, Switzerland's largest city is the place to go.
Aug032011
Batu Caves
Travel Recommendation
Location: Malaysia
My Recommendation Tip:
An iconic and popular tourist attraction in Selangor, the Batu Caves are visited by religious pilgrims, cultural enthusiasts and, more recently, rock climbers interested in the more than 160 routes scattered around the side of the 400 million-year-old cave complex. Taking its name from the Batu River, which flows past the massive limestone hill containing the series of caves and cave temples, the area’s most noteworthy feature is the large golden statue of a Hindu god at the entrance, besides which a steep climb up its steps offers stunning views of the skyline in the city center. Monkeys are said to frolic in the cave complex, and vendors sell bananas to tourists to facilitate their feeding.
Aug012011
Cycling in Austria
Travel Recommendation
Location: Austria
My Recommendation Tip:
Travelers familiar with Austria's mountainous geography might not immediately think of the country as one of the best destinations for cycling tours in Europe, but the routes along Austria's larger rivers are flat (or even gently slope downhill). Large numbers of enthusiasts from all around the world flock to Austria each summer to enjoy this popular pastime.
Jul292011
The Death Railway
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Railroad enthusiasts and war buffs will revel in the profusion of daylong guided tours that lead visitors from Bangkok down the Khwae Yai section of the Mae Klong River to a notorious spot from song and legend known colloquially as The Bridge over the River Kwai, popularized by Pierre Boulle’s novel of the Second World War and its subsequent film adaptation.
Jul282011
Riding Indonesia’s Best Breaks
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bali
My Recommendation Tip:
Diehard surfers don’t need to be told that Bali is a Mecca for the sport, but the point bears repeating nonetheless. It’s difficult to overstate the quality, accessibility and affordability to be had on the beaches of this Indonesian island paradise and its nearby neighbors.
Jul282011
The Jesus Trail
Travel Recommendation
Location: Israel
My Recommendation Tip:
Established in 2007, the none-too-subtly-named Jesus Trail in Israel is a series of hiking trails and pilgrimage sites beginning in Nazareth in the Galilee region. The 85-mile route links together Sepphoris, Cana, the Horns of Hattin, the Arbel Cliffs, the Sea of Galilee, Capernaum, Tabgha, the Mount of Beatitudes, the Jordan River and Mount Tabor.
Jul262011
Swiss National Museum
Travel Recommendation
Location: Zurich
My Recommendation Tip:
The largest and most popular Swiss history museum in the world, the Swiss National Museum (or Landesmuseum) is the go-to culturally educational stopover for first-time visitors to Zurich (or otherwise curious souls) before they decamp for the Alps or other Swiss cities and destinations.
Jul222011
Top 5 Destinations in Goa
Travel Recommendation
Location: India
My Recommendation Tip:
Located in the west of India, the state of Goa is a former Portuguese colony as well as a region possessed of rich and diverse cultural and recreational attractions. The following five recommendations should give the uninitiated someplace to start experiencing some of what Goa has to offer.
Jul222011
The Mandai Zoo
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Open 365 days a year, the Singapore Zoo (commonly known as the Mandai Zoo) is a favorite among locals in Singapore and international travelers alike. Famous for its signature night safaris and its controversial “croc coaching” shows, the zoo has a great deal to offer.
Jul202011
Poring Hot Springs, Malaysia
Travel Recommendation
Location: Sabah
My Recommendation Tip:
The tiny town of Poring in the Malaysian state of Sabah isn't known for offering a wide variety of attractions to tourists. To the contrary, the area is known almost exclusively for the Poring Hot Spring and Nature Reserve, which offers pools and tubs of steaming, sulfurous water to visitors seeking rest, relaxation and recuperation.
Jul182011
Taling Chan Floating Market
Travel Recommendation
Location: Bangkok
My Recommendation Tip:
The best of the three floating markets in Bangkok, Taling Chan is worth a visit for practical and phenomenological reasons, as well as the many culinary temptations on display at cut-rate prices. Established in 1987 to honor King Bhumibol’s 60th birthday, the market has grown from just five interconnected bamboo rafts to a bustling nexus of platforms kept afloat by metal pontoons on the Thonburi bank of the Chao Phraya River.
Jul182011
Vienna International Film Festival
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Easily the most important annual film festival in Austria, and arguably one of the most significant of its kind anywhere in the world, the Vienna International Film Festival, otherwise known as the Viennale, is a worthwhile reason to visit the Imperial City all on its own.
Jul122011
5 Noteworthy Temples
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
Though possessed of a considerable population of citizens who describe themselves as nonreligious, Singapore is predominantly Buddhist, with sizable percentages of Taoists and Hindus as well. The following five temples are a good place to start for tourists looking to sample a smattering of each.
Jul112011
Rai Leh
Travel Recommendation
Location: Krabi
My Recommendation Tip:
The towering limestone cliffs of the Rai Leh Peninsula on the Andaman Coast of Krabi Province in Thailand attract climbers from all over the world and will be familiar to anyone even vaguely familiar with the sport. Unlike many heavily trafficked tourist destinations, however, the requisite skill level and subsequent respectful attitudes of the typical visitor have left the charms of Rai Leh relatively unspoiled.
Jul012011
Cavenagh Bridge – Walk Singapore’s First and Only Suspension Bridge!
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip: Connecting Singapore’s cultural and commercial districts, the Cavenagh Bridge is one of the city’s oldest bridges as well as its first suspension bridge. At first glance, the smallish structure (currently accessible to pedestrians and cyclists only) may appear underwhelming, but no visit to the city-state is complete without a pilgrimage to the Cavenagh.
Jun282011
Singapore Science Centre
Travel Recommendation
Location: Singapore
My Recommendation Tip:
A pop culture driven celebration of science and technology, the Singapore Science Centre contains an observatory, an OMNIMAX theater, and over 850 exhibits in eight different exhibition galleries. Since opening in 1977, the centre has seen as more than 10 million visitors annually, many of them students and children.
Jun232011
Scenic Lavaux
Travel Recommendation
Location: Geneva
My Recommendation Tip:
The beautiful sweeps of steeply sloping land along the shores of Lake
Geneva between Lausanne and Montreux are home to terraced vineyards
that have earned the admiration of wine aficionados and lovers of
picturesque landscape the world over.
Jun212011
Exhibitions at the HNG
Travel Recommendation
Location: Budapest
My Recommendation Tip:
Two installations of particular interest will grace the illustrious halls of the Hungarian National Gallery in Budapest from May to October of 2011.
Jun172011
Sedlec Ossuary
Travel Recommendation
Location: Prague
My Recommendation Tip:
Prague and the Czech Republic are virtually blanketed with macabre religious relics and architecture inspired by the violent and the bizarre, but it’s difficult to conceive of a more perfect example of the peculiar historic Czech tendency to embrace iconography informed by death than the Sedlec Ossuary. Housed in a small Roman Catholic chapel in a small suburb of the Czech city of Kutná Hora, the so-called “bone chapel” is filled with jaw dropping decorations, altars, coat-of-arms, etc., all constructed primarily with human skeletons.
Jun162011
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Travel Recommendation
Location: Cambodia
My Recommendation Tip:
For serious-minded visitors to the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh, a trip to The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a command performance. Situated in a former high school, the site was used as a notorious prison by the murderous Khmer Rouge from its rise to power until its demise in 1979. The high school was originally named in honor of a Royal ancestor of King Norodom Sihanouk, but the name it now bears translates as "Hill of the Poisonous Trees" or "Strychnine Hill". It's an apt moniker. The scenes of misery and agony that took place on an industrial scale within its walls stand apart in the annals of human cruelty.
Jun102011
Svandovo Divadlo
Travel Recommendation
Location: Prague
My Recommendation Tip:
Numbered among the best established repertory theatre troupes featuring English-language accessible performances in Prague are the dedicated players at Svandovo Divadlo in the city's Smichov district. The company presents mainly Czech-language productions featuring English subtitles in two well appointed performance spaces: the main hall, which seats 300, and a smaller studio space that seats approximately 60. The offerings at Svandovo include an ongoing repertoire of previously established productions, as well as the occasional premiere (numbering from two to five new full-length plays each season).
Jun082011
Hydra
Travel Recommendation
Location: Greece
My Recommendation Tip:
Located just 37 nautical miles from the chaotic cosmopolitanism of Athens, the picturesque island of Hydra is everything the bustling ancient metropolis is not. In contrast to the hectic traffic, bustling crowds and sprawling modernity found elsewhere, life on Hydra unfolds much as it has for hundreds of years: slowly, leisurely, and above all quietly.
Jun072011
Top 5 Beaches in Thailand
Travel Recommendation
Location: Thailand
My Recommendation Tip:
Thailand is justly famous for its many beautiful beaches, but the sheer scope and variety of options can be daunting. It’s hard to go wrong if you’re after sun and sand in this beautiful country, but the following five recommendations should help to break down the number of possible choices into bite-sized chunks.
Jun072011
Vienna Schubert Festival - Schubertiade Schwarzenberg
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Intimacy meets integrity at Schubertiade Schwarzenberg, the most
important and engaging Schubert festival in the world today. Dedicated
to the music of Franz Schubert, the Viennese composer whose only
conceivable rivals in the annals of Romantic era music are Mozart and
Beethoven, this seasonal program of Strauss, Brahms, Mahler (and
Schubert, naturally) and others is a must for classical music
enthusiasts.
Jun062011
Hiking the Austrian Alps
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
For the uninitiated, the efficiency, collectivity, and organizational
panache with which the vast network of trails and mountain huts in the
Austrian Alps are maintained can be positively mind-boggling.
Jun032011
Israel Museum
Travel Recommendation
Location: Jerusalem
My Recommendation Tip:
Widely renowned as being one the leading art and archaeological museums in the world today, the Israel Museum, Jerusalem was the brainchild of former Jerusalem mayor Teddy Kollek and houses impressive collections of biblical archeology, Judaica, ethnography, fine art, artifacts from Africa, both North and South America, Oceania, and the Far East, as well as rare manuscripts, ancient glass and sculpture. One specially designed building on the museum grounds known as the “Shrine of the Book” houses the Dead Sea Scrolls and other famous artifacts discovered at Masada in the 1940s, many of which date back as far as between 150 B.C. and 70 A.D.
Jun022011
Freud Museum
Travel Recommendation
Location: Vienna
My Recommendation Tip:
Located in Vienna's ninth district, the Sigmund Freud Museum occupies the former workplace and residence of the famous Austrian neurologist. The exhibits document the life and work of the founder of psychoanalysis in the house in which he was based from 1891 until 1938, when he was forced by the Nazis to flee to England with his family.
