Although Thailand is a very familiar destination , tourists have to note the following points to take a full tour of the country's Golden Temple
1 . Not too many people on a tuktuk
Tourists to Thailand are at least an attempt tuktuk , vehicles are featured here . Despite three wheeled vehicle moved by tuktuk but does not create a sense of security . Vehicles often come with high-speed , open cabin , there is no protection for occupants . The force , if visitors are not sticking very easy to fall off the car make . It is best to take a tuktuk only numbers from 2 to 3 people in a car . This way , nobody will fall when the streets are visiting .
2 . Do not step foot on the grass or hairy hands on the spot suspicious
Thailand is the country possesses the largest number of venomous snakes in the world. When to this country , you do not ever go on the lush lawn and place their hands on the suspicious holes in the ground , the bowl is sealed , water pipes ... That is often where snakes can hide lap.Theo statistics , every year thousands of people injured because of snake bites in Thailand . Be careful where you walk through and note where you put your hand up to avoid unfortunate accidents attacked by snakes .
3 . Do not swim in the river
The indigenous people can swim in the river and visit a particular suburb , you can also do like them . But should not imitate that do this because in some countries there are snakes and fish data , you can attack at any time . In some places , the water can not ensure that your toilet is easy to skin disease .
4 . Do not go far away to the deep south of Thailand
In recent years , southern Thailand bomb blasts and shootings by the extremist elements that many people were killed . Places like Hatyai , Yala , Songkhla warned unsafe for tourists and attention you need to stay away .
5 . Be careful with elephant game
Most travelers to Thailand want to give it a try and elephants . However, to ensure safe , you need to follow exactly the instructions of the mahout . More carefully , you should keep in mind that although trained but they are still wild animals . Therefore, our conversation suddenly lost control and ran toward someone that could happen .
6 . Avoid fraud
Thailand as well as any other developed country exist scams . If someone were to begin with you familiar with the proposal so attractive , friendly , need to be wary . Be careful with the car rental counter tutuk , because they are always trying to put a higher price . If you go to the Royal Palace in Thailand that someone " nice " to say that it is closed . Please ignore them and continue their trip because the Royal Palace never closed .
7 . If you see a sea backwards way suspicious , please run emergency
Sad figure of people killed by the tsunami in Thailand , which the world had to be painful . Therefore, if in Thailand , please pay attention to every move abnormality of the sea . The phenomenon of regression to the rear is a suspicious signs of a tsunami , an emergency run to the higher ground , as quickly as possible . This rare but not impossible.
8 . Be careful with the girls in bar
Each year, about 1,000 cases , tourists bring girls from the bar and woke up in a state does not have money , personal papers and other valuables . Do not drink the stuff the strange girl at the bar and do not invite them back to your accommodation . Be careful with these girls , because you do not know what the problem would have occurred .
9 . Do not try the drug,
Do not try stimulants , or medication to places selling drugs banned in Thailand . Law on Drug Prevention and stimulant in Thailand are very strict . Each year , about 1,000 foreigners must confront before Thai courts for cases related to amphetamines . In recent years , in large festivals like Full Moon Festival , the festival of the country Koh Pha Ngan is the police curfew closely the use of this type . Stay away from drugs and stimulants will make your trip safer than ever.
1 . Not too many people on a tuktuk
Tourists to Thailand are at least an attempt tuktuk , vehicles are featured here . Despite three wheeled vehicle moved by tuktuk but does not create a sense of security . Vehicles often come with high-speed , open cabin , there is no protection for occupants . The force , if visitors are not sticking very easy to fall off the car make . It is best to take a tuktuk only numbers from 2 to 3 people in a car . This way , nobody will fall when the streets are visiting .
2 . Do not step foot on the grass or hairy hands on the spot suspicious
Thailand is the country possesses the largest number of venomous snakes in the world. When to this country , you do not ever go on the lush lawn and place their hands on the suspicious holes in the ground , the bowl is sealed , water pipes ... That is often where snakes can hide lap.Theo statistics , every year thousands of people injured because of snake bites in Thailand . Be careful where you walk through and note where you put your hand up to avoid unfortunate accidents attacked by snakes .
3 . Do not swim in the river
The indigenous people can swim in the river and visit a particular suburb , you can also do like them . But should not imitate that do this because in some countries there are snakes and fish data , you can attack at any time . In some places , the water can not ensure that your toilet is easy to skin disease .
4 . Do not go far away to the deep south of Thailand
In recent years , southern Thailand bomb blasts and shootings by the extremist elements that many people were killed . Places like Hatyai , Yala , Songkhla warned unsafe for tourists and attention you need to stay away .
5 . Be careful with elephant game
Most travelers to Thailand want to give it a try and elephants . However, to ensure safe , you need to follow exactly the instructions of the mahout . More carefully , you should keep in mind that although trained but they are still wild animals . Therefore, our conversation suddenly lost control and ran toward someone that could happen .
6 . Avoid fraud
Thailand as well as any other developed country exist scams . If someone were to begin with you familiar with the proposal so attractive , friendly , need to be wary . Be careful with the car rental counter tutuk , because they are always trying to put a higher price . If you go to the Royal Palace in Thailand that someone " nice " to say that it is closed . Please ignore them and continue their trip because the Royal Palace never closed .
7 . If you see a sea backwards way suspicious , please run emergency
Sad figure of people killed by the tsunami in Thailand , which the world had to be painful . Therefore, if in Thailand , please pay attention to every move abnormality of the sea . The phenomenon of regression to the rear is a suspicious signs of a tsunami , an emergency run to the higher ground , as quickly as possible . This rare but not impossible.
8 . Be careful with the girls in bar
Each year, about 1,000 cases , tourists bring girls from the bar and woke up in a state does not have money , personal papers and other valuables . Do not drink the stuff the strange girl at the bar and do not invite them back to your accommodation . Be careful with these girls , because you do not know what the problem would have occurred .
9 . Do not try the drug,
Do not try stimulants , or medication to places selling drugs banned in Thailand . Law on Drug Prevention and stimulant in Thailand are very strict . Each year , about 1,000 foreigners must confront before Thai courts for cases related to amphetamines . In recent years , in large festivals like Full Moon Festival , the festival of the country Koh Pha Ngan is the police curfew closely the use of this type . Stay away from drugs and stimulants will make your trip safer than ever.
Travel Thailand, something be known!
Welcome to historic Angkor Cambodia ... or at least my virtual tour of it!
Angkor consists of dozens of temples and other structures, spread over a wide area, built between the 9th and 13th centuries by the mighty Khmer empire which, at the time, dominated southeast Asia.
Angkor Wat, seen here, is perhaps the largest and most impressive of the temples, but it is far from the only site worth seeing!
Angkor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for buildings a thousand year old, the structures are amazingly well-preserved. The nearest town, only a few minutes away, is Siem Reap. Not surprisingly, the town has plenty of hotels and restaurants, many of which seem to have opened only in the last few years. Perhaps the easiest way to get here is via air. The small but modern Siem Reap airport has direct flights from a number of cities, including, conveniently, Bangkok, a
major regional hub.
major regional hub.
Angkor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for buildings a thousand year old, the structures are amazingly well-preserved. The nearest town, only a few minutes away, is Siem Reap. Not surprisingly, the town has plenty of hotels and restaurants, many of which seem to have opened only in the last few years. Perhaps the easiest way to get here is via air. The small but modern Siem Reap airport has direct flights from a number of cities, including, conveniently, Bangkok, a
major regional hub.
major regional hub.
Most people visit Angkor for 1, 2, or 3 days. Passes to the Archeological Site are available for 1, 3, or 7 days. In one day, you can hit the main highlights. I'd recommend at least two days, though, which lets you see a lot more. There are a number of ways to tour the sites. An awful lot of folks visit here as part of group tours. Better, in my view, is to hire a car and driver for the day and go at your own pace. By Western standards, that option is remarkably cheap here, typically around $25 a day. Most, if not all, hotels can arrange it.
One of the most amazing things about Angkor are the beautiful and intricate carvings, which have survived surprisingly well over the last 1000 years! (I suppose it helps to be surrounded by jungle, not urban pollution.) It's useful to have a guide to point out some of the best carvings and explain the meanings. It costs about $25 a day to hire a guide, and the guides are all government trained and certified. (You can recognize them by their matching shirts with the official patch on the sleeve!) According to my guide, they have to go to school for two years to be certified.
It helps to be in good shape to visit Angkor. Many of the temples have very steep steps, and some of the best sites require a healthy uphill climb. According to my guide, the steps were made deliberately steep and narrow to force worshipers to ascend slowly, with proper respect.
It never hurts to remember to be careful! (I don't know what the health care is like in Angkor, but I wouldn't want to find out!)
The good thing is if you make it to the top of the steps, the views are very impressive. As we will see later, some of the best views at Angkor are not only from the tops of the temples, but also from the tops of hills where some of the temples are located.
Throughout Angkor, one sees many steles and walls covered with ancient writing. I have no idea what they say, but they certainly look impressive.
The temples of Angkor are a mix of Hindu and Buddhist. Every once in awhile you will find a little shrine that is still in use, like this one.
Although the temples today are of plain stone, in some places you can see hints of color, a sign that when they originally were built, these places were a lot more colorful and, thus, even more spectacular to behold.
Many of the carvings give you a good idea at what the Ancient Khmer's wore. If you want an even better idea, around some of the sites you will find entrepreneurial Cambodians dressed in ancient costumes. For a small fee, you can take their picture, or have your photo taken with them.
This is perhaps the most famous view of Angkor Wat, from the front with its reflection in the lotus pond. In the morning, when this was taken, the temple is somewhat backlit. The view is supposed to be even better in the afternoon, but that is also when the largest crowds arrive! Now it's time to leave Angkor Wat and move on to some of Angkor's other highlights.
Welcome to Ankor Wat, Cambodia
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is dominates the city centre of Bandar Seri Begawan. It is one of the most magnificent mosques of South-East Asia, and a symbol of the strong Islamic faith of the people of Brunei.
The mosque was completed in 1958 and is named after the 28th Sultan, Omar Ali Saifuddien, who is still referred to as the architect of modern Brunei. The mosque's design reflects the use of the world's most elegant materials, including marble from Italy, granite from Shanghai, stained glass and chandeliers from England and carpets from Belgium and Saudi Arabia.
Located in a lagoon beside the mosque is a replica of a 16th Century mahligai barge, which was used to stage colourful religious ceremonies such as the Koran reading competitions during the 1960s and early 1970s. You will be required to remove your shoes prior to entering the mosque, and you should also be dressed conservatively.
The mosque is closed to non-muslims on Thursday. Access is restricted to late afternoon on Fridays
Kampung Ayer
Early European visitors to Brunei described Kampong Ayer, or Water Village, as the Venice of the East. Today, visitors continue to be fascinated by these traditional and historic houses built on stilts over the water, spanning the greater part of the Brunei River.
Kampoung Ayer is home to about 30000 people and is accessible by boat or by wooden bridges from Bandar Seri Begawan.
The houses in Kampung Ayer are joined be a maze of interconnecting timber walkways, and visitors are free to roam at their leisure. The government has provided every modern facility for the residents, including schools, clinics, police station and mosques. A visit to Brunei would not be complete without a trip to the this unique and intriguing place.
The Royal Regalia Building
The Royal Regalia Building is located in the heart of Banda Seri Begawan. It was built to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of the Sultan's accession to the throne in 1992. The museum is home to a collection of royal regalia, including the royal chariot, gold and silver ceremonial armoury, the jewel encrusted crowns used during the coronation and a replica of the throne, which is used by the Sultan on state occasions. There is also an exhibition which fully documents the history of the constitution of Brunei.
The building is open to the public every day of the week (on Friday the opening hours are shorter than the rest of the week) Shoes should be removed prior to entering the building.
Brunei History Centre
The Brunei History Centre was established in 1982. It was founded to undertake research into the rich history of Brunei. Among the areas of special interest are the genealogy and history of the Sultans of Brunei and the Royal family.
The centre located next to the Royal Regalia Building. It is closed on Friday.
Lapau and Dewan Majlis
Another magnificent building in the Bandar Seri Begawan is the Royal Ceremonial Hall, better known as the Lapau, where the present Sultan was crwoned on 01 August, 1968. An exquisite golden dome highlights the Lapau's interior. Traditional royal ceremonies are normally held here. Adjoining the Lapau is the Dewan Majlis, or Parliament House.
Tasek Recreational Park
This is one of the oldest recreational parks in the city. It has a natural waterfall and lake, and features a beautiful garden of trees and flowers. For those who want to get away from the noisy traffic of the city, this park is an ideal place to spend some time. It will take about 15 minutes to walk to the park from the Lapau. Brunei Shell, as part of their community work, has also installed an 8 metre high wall for those interested in climbing.
Tamu Kianggeh
The Tamu, or open air market, is situated on the banks of the Kianggeh River in central Bandar Seri Begawan. Here, one can find a wide variety of items including local dishes, fruit and vegetables, flowers and handicraft.
The Tamu is open every day from morning to late evening.
The Istana Nurul and Taman Persiaran Damuan
The most impressive site in Bandar Seri Begawan is the Sultan's Royal Palace, known as the Istana Nurul Iman. It is the largest residential palace in the world, and its golden domes, vaulted roof and riverside setting make it a spectacular subject for photographs. The palsce is open to the public only during Hari Raya, when residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to greet the Sultan and members of the Royal family.
The best view of the Istana is from Persiaran Damuan, which is a park along the river bank off Jalan Tutong. It has walkways, a well-equipped playground and features six outdoor sculptures by ASEAN artists, on the theme of Unity in Diversity. The Persiaran Damuan is popular for jogging and has several foodstalls in the evenings.
Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Complex
Adjacent to the Omar Saifuddien Mosque stands an imposing addition to the skyline and waterfront. It is a commercial and shopping complex, designed to generate revenue for a foundation dedicated to the welfare of the people. It is a personal initiative of the Sultan, and is testament to his abiding concern for the well being of the people of Brunei. The complex is designed with an amalgamation of both the traditional Malay and modern architecture. Its main walkway features excellent views of the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque at one end and Kampung Ayer at the other.
The shopping complex, opened in July 1996, contains the largest selection of shopping facilities in Brunei. With the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Complex, Bandar Seri Begawan has created a completely new image of the city centre, making it a major tourist attraction.
Omar Saifuddien Mosque |
The mosque was completed in 1958 and is named after the 28th Sultan, Omar Ali Saifuddien, who is still referred to as the architect of modern Brunei. The mosque's design reflects the use of the world's most elegant materials, including marble from Italy, granite from Shanghai, stained glass and chandeliers from England and carpets from Belgium and Saudi Arabia.
Located in a lagoon beside the mosque is a replica of a 16th Century mahligai barge, which was used to stage colourful religious ceremonies such as the Koran reading competitions during the 1960s and early 1970s. You will be required to remove your shoes prior to entering the mosque, and you should also be dressed conservatively.
The mosque is closed to non-muslims on Thursday. Access is restricted to late afternoon on Fridays
Kampung Ayer
Kampong Ayr Water Village  |
Kampoung Ayer is home to about 30000 people and is accessible by boat or by wooden bridges from Bandar Seri Begawan.
On the "road" in the Water Village  |
The Royal Regalia Building
Armoury Display in the Royal Regalia  |
The building is open to the public every day of the week (on Friday the opening hours are shorter than the rest of the week) Shoes should be removed prior to entering the building.
Brunei History Centre
The Brunei History Centre was established in 1982. It was founded to undertake research into the rich history of Brunei. Among the areas of special interest are the genealogy and history of the Sultans of Brunei and the Royal family.
The centre located next to the Royal Regalia Building. It is closed on Friday.
Lapau and Dewan Majlis
Another magnificent building in the Bandar Seri Begawan is the Royal Ceremonial Hall, better known as the Lapau, where the present Sultan was crwoned on 01 August, 1968. An exquisite golden dome highlights the Lapau's interior. Traditional royal ceremonies are normally held here. Adjoining the Lapau is the Dewan Majlis, or Parliament House.
Tasek Recreational Park
This is one of the oldest recreational parks in the city. It has a natural waterfall and lake, and features a beautiful garden of trees and flowers. For those who want to get away from the noisy traffic of the city, this park is an ideal place to spend some time. It will take about 15 minutes to walk to the park from the Lapau. Brunei Shell, as part of their community work, has also installed an 8 metre high wall for those interested in climbing.
Tamu Kianggeh
The Tamu, or open air market, is situated on the banks of the Kianggeh River in central Bandar Seri Begawan. Here, one can find a wide variety of items including local dishes, fruit and vegetables, flowers and handicraft.
The Tamu is open every day from morning to late evening.
The Istana Nurul and Taman Persiaran Damuan
The most impressive site in Bandar Seri Begawan is the Sultan's Royal Palace, known as the Istana Nurul Iman. It is the largest residential palace in the world, and its golden domes, vaulted roof and riverside setting make it a spectacular subject for photographs. The palsce is open to the public only during Hari Raya, when residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to greet the Sultan and members of the Royal family.
The Royal Yacht - Tits |
The best view of the Istana is from Persiaran Damuan, which is a park along the river bank off Jalan Tutong. It has walkways, a well-equipped playground and features six outdoor sculptures by ASEAN artists, on the theme of Unity in Diversity. The Persiaran Damuan is popular for jogging and has several foodstalls in the evenings.
Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Complex
Adjacent to the Omar Saifuddien Mosque stands an imposing addition to the skyline and waterfront. It is a commercial and shopping complex, designed to generate revenue for a foundation dedicated to the welfare of the people. It is a personal initiative of the Sultan, and is testament to his abiding concern for the well being of the people of Brunei. The complex is designed with an amalgamation of both the traditional Malay and modern architecture. Its main walkway features excellent views of the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque at one end and Kampung Ayer at the other.
The shopping complex, opened in July 1996, contains the largest selection of shopping facilities in Brunei. With the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Complex, Bandar Seri Begawan has created a completely new image of the city centre, making it a major tourist attraction.
BRUNEI-MUARA DISTRICT
Kalimantan forms the largest part of the island of Borneo is divided into four main regions:
- South Kalimantan (Kalimantan Selatan)
- West Kalimantan (Kalimantan Barat)
- East Kalimantan (Kalimantan Timur) and
- Central Kalimantan (Kalimantan Tengah - often referred to as Kalteng)
Refer to our section on Indonesian Visas for passport and entry visa requirements.Floating Market - Banjarmasin
Monkeys at the Chinese Temple
on Kembang Island
Diamond Mining in Cempaka
Bamboo Rafting on the Amandit River
Kapuas River in PontianakIstana Kadriyah Sultan's Palace
Saham Village Betang
Pasir Panjang Beach at Singkawang
A Black Orchid
Houses on the Mahakam River near Samarinda
Market Scene in Samarinda
A water fall in Tanah Merah Indah
Lamin house - the traditional house of
Dayak near Tenggarong
Houses on Lake Jempang at Tanjung Isuy
Floating Houses on Mahakam River near Melak
Black Orchid found at Kersik Luway
View of Palangkaraya on the Kahayan River
View of Pangkalanbun and the
Kuamai River
MAJESTIC KALIMANTAN
Even though the recession has hampered exotic travel, there are still those intrepid explorers going all out. All this week, our Cambodian embed Claire will share experiences from her trip to Laos. Gentle, quiet Laos exceeds all expectations, from its limestone mountains to meandering rivers and ethnic minority villagers whose outfits are so intricate and lovely they could pass as a winter collection at Fashion Week in Bryant Park. And Laos’ appeal comes without the drawbacks of traveling through its neighbor countries—Vietnam has too many tourists, double goes for Thailand, and the charm of Cambodia’s underdevelopment and unpaved roads wears thin after a 12-hour minibus ride with 18 butts to 10 seats.
Recently I traveled the length of the country, flying to Luang Prabang, then lacing south by bus toward Cambodia, stopping in Vang Vieng, Vientiane, Champasak, and Si Phan Don. This week, I will share tips on how to best explore Indochina's least-visited and loveliest country.
Though Laos remains the region's poorest and least populous country, it manages its tourism industry rather flawlessly. Outside the main tourist track, which extends from Luang Prabang in the north to Si Phan Don in the south, infrastructure deteriorates, but we noticed that national roads are a dream. Long-distance bus rides travel over smooth, paved roads, cost little, and sometimes come with fully horizontal, sleeper beds.
A one-way flight to Luang Prabang from Siem Reap, home to Angkor Wat, costed $150. There are also reasonably priced direct flights to both Luang Prabang, Vientiante, and Sovannakhet in Southern Laos from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Kuala Lumpur’s AirAsia often has bargains to most Southeast Asia destinations, including $37 one-way flights to Vientiane, we discovered by searching for flights in September. We mean, how could we not?
Stay tuned tomorrow as Claire discovers the surprising Euro mood of Luang Prabang.
http://www.jaunted.com/story/2009/8/16/15644/1944/travel/Heading+To+Laos+To+Discover+The+Best+Of+Indochina
Heading To Laos To Discover The Best Of Indochina
(KPL) Luang Prabang, a UNESCO-listed world heritage town in northern Laos, has been ranked as a top-ten of the world?s best city, according to the latest survey of Travel+Leisure magazine.
The American magazine pointed out that Udaipur (a city in India?s Rajasthan state) was rated the first by the survey, and was followed by Cape Town in South Africa, Bangkok, Buenos Aires, Chiang Mai, Florence, Luang Prabang, New York, Rome and San Francisco.
According to the 14th annual World?s Best Awards given by the magazine www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2009/, Luang Prabang, the ancient royal capital of Laos and the jewel of tourism of Laos and the region, is ranked the seventh.
In rating the cities, the survey, conducted during the first quarter of this year, took into consideration factors such as sights, culture/arts, restaurants/food, people, shopping and value.
Udaipur also known as the City of Lakes, is a city, a Municipal Council and the administrative headquarters of, the Udaipur district in the state of Rajasthan in western India. It is the historic capital of the former kingdom of Mewar in Rajputana Agency.
Top Cities Overall
Rank '08 Name Score
1 - Udaipur, India 87.94
2 3 Cape Town 87.69
3 1 Bangkok 86.80
4 2 Buenos Aires 86.22
5 - Chiang Mai , Thailand 86.18
6 5 Florence 85.61
7 - Luang Prabang , Laos 85.45
8 8 New York 84.65
9 7 Rome 84.63
10 10 San Francisco 84.53
11 4 Sydney 84.27
12 - Jaipur 84.14
13 - Oaxaca 84.01
14 9 Istanbul 83.90
15 - Fez 83.82
16 6 Cuzco 83.40
17 - Jerusalem 83.23
18 - Siem Reap 83.17
19 - Quebec City 83.05
20 - Kyoto 83.01
* "-" means that the property was not among the top-ranked in this category last year
Luang Prabang in top 10 world best cities 2009 by American magazine
Welcome to a world where the colours are more vivid, where the landscapes are bolder, the coastline more dramatic, where the history is more compelling, where the tastes are more divine, where life is lived in the fast lane. This world is Vietnam, the latest Asian dragon to awake from its slumber.
Nature has blessed Vietnam with a bountiful harvest of soaring mountains, a killer coastline and radiant rice fields, Vietnam is a cracker. Inland, peasant women in conical hats still tend to their fields, children ride buffalos along country paths and minority people scratch out a living from impossible gradients.
Vietnam is a nation of determined optimists who have weathered war after war, survived colonialism and communism, and are now getting to grips with the wheeler-dealer world of capitalism. Fiercely protective of their independence and sovereignty, the Vietnamese are graciously welcoming of foreigners who come as guests not conquerors.
Don’t believe the hype. Or the propagandist party billboards that are as common as statues of ‘Uncle Ho’. Believe your senses, as you discover one of the most enriching, enlivening and exotic countries on earth.
Vietnam is a nation of determined optimists who have weathered war after war, survived colonialism and communism, and are now getting to grips with the wheeler-dealer world of capitalism. Fiercely protective of their independence and sovereignty, the Vietnamese are graciously welcoming of foreigners who come as guests not conquerors.
Don’t believe the hype. Or the propagandist party billboards that are as common as statues of ‘Uncle Ho’. Believe your senses, as you discover one of the most enriching, enlivening and exotic countries on earth.
To escape the buzz of millions of motorbikes, head west to the watery landscape of green fields and sleepy villages in the Mekong Delta. There’s adventure galore to be had on Phu Quoc Island and stunning white-sand beaches to relax on. Back on the east coast at Mui Ne Beach, you’ll be faced with a similar dilemma: action or inertia?
Hoi An might weigh you down - but in a good way - you’re bound to add kilos of made-to-order clothing to your luggage. With an estimated 300 to 500 tailors working in this beautiful city, this is fashionista heaven.
To feel the intellectual, cultural and spiritual heartbeat of Vietnam, make a stop in the old imperial capital, Hué. Home to palaces and pagodas, tombs and temples, and host of the biennial arts festival, the Festival of Hué (www.huefestival.com), it’s the place to go for historical, cultural and culinary stimulation.
In Hanoi, the country’s captivating capital, rise early to watch the city exercise by Hoan Kiem Lake, then pay your respects in person to Uncle Ho at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (a truly surreal experience). See if you can locate ‘pickled fish street’ in the Old Quarter (it’s somewhere near ‘wooden bowls street’), and cool off with draught beer at ‘bia hoi junction’ (a truly rewarding experience).
Eventually you’ll be enticed out of the city by the stunning offerings of the country’s northern provinces. Nothing can prepare you for the beauty of Halong Bay and its 2000 limestone karsts, nor the experience of trekking around mountainous Sapa.
Vietnam has it all. Go expecting the unexpected, be ready for an adventure as much as a holiday, and Vietnam will deliver.
Introducing Vietnam - Interesting Destinations Travel
Photo: Monks observe the scenery during sunset at Vat Phou Ngoy temple in Champassak province. In Champassak province there are lots of attractive tourist sites including Vat Phou, Khon Phapheng, Tad Fan and Pha Suam waterfalls; apart from these places there are also other mysterious sites that are less well known such as Vat Phou Ngoy.
Only local people know about this temple, which has a relaxing atmosphere and views of the Mekong River and islands.
The temple is included in some package tours, which suggest visitors “spend the night at Vat Phou Ngoy and enjoy the wonderful panoramic views of the sunset over the Mekong.” These tours help promote the temple which sits in the shadow of more popular tourists sites in the province...more
Vat Phou Ngoy is located on Malong hill in the area of Pakhor village, Champassak district. Monk Bounmak Thitipannyo, the temple's first abbot, founded it in the 1930s.
An official at the Champassak Tourism Information Centre, Mr Phonesavanh Chanthalangsy said, “There are lots of attractive sites at this temple. Visitors can walk to the south of the temple where they can enjoy the wonderful panorama of the islands located in the Mekong River. Local people call it the second Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands). It is a place where visitors can relax, especially at sunset during the dry season.”
This viewing point is particularly popular with visitors who love photography because they can capture the natural scenes of the river and the lifestyle of people fishing and working along the bank of the river, which reflects the importance of the Mekong in the way of life of people in the area.
“Walking to the south-west of the temple, visitors can find three mysterious large holes in the ground that are similar to wells,” said Mr Phonesavanh. “They are different sizes, the biggest one has a radius of 40cm and is 85cm deep, the second one is 30cm across and 70cm deep while the smallest one has a radius of 20cm and is 60cm deep.”
Mr Phonesavanh said the elders in the village tell of the temple's very long history and a local legend which says, that before the temple was built, on every full moon a magical light flowed through the air and disappeared into the three holes. The mysterious incident has not happened since the temple was built.
Every full moon in February there is an annual festival at Vat Phou Ngoy and people from around the country flock to the temple to celebrate and give offerings.
Another special element of the temple is its seven cloisters that are made from wood instead of the usual concrete.
For visitors who come during the rainy season, the views of the Mekong are not as spectacular as in the dry season, but they have the chance to see other attractions and a wonderful waterfall located to the west of the temple.
Originally, the path to the temple was made of natural stones collected nearby, but renovations in 2004 saw the stones replaced with concrete and there are now 834 steps climbing the 90m to the top.
With construction underway on a new road that will make it easier for tourist to access the temple, the Champassak Tourism Office, together with provincial and district authorities, is preparing to develop the temple into a natural and cultural tourism site to cater for an increase in visitors which will come once the road has been completed.
Vientianetimes
New cultural tourism site to open soon in Laos
Temburong District
The Temburong District is separated from the rest of Brunei by Brunei Bay and a sliver of Sarawakian territory. Temburong hovers to the northwest of Bandar Seri Begawan, summoning visitors to take the short step into another world.
The Temburong District is rich in unspoiled natural heritage, including the Ulu Temburong National Park (formerly the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve). Here the magnificence of Borneo's lowland rainforests can be truly experienced. Botanically, the area possesses astounding diversity, however the casual visitor in search of birds or mammals is likely to be disappointed by the apparent lack of fauna. In fact the forests teem with wildlife, but these creatures are invariably shy and are quick to avoid human contact. The best time for viewing the wildlife is at dawn or dusk.
On the river trip to Bangar , which is Temburong District's main town, you will see monkeys in the mangroves and monitor lizards basking in the sun at low tide. Some patches of land have been cultivated by resident Murut and Iban Malays, virgin rainforest flourishes across the greater part of Temburong.
Frequent speed boat ferry services are available between Bandar Seri Begawan and Bangar. The river trip takes less than an hour. There is no departure schedule, boats leave when they have collected 12 passengers. The last boat from Bangar to Bandar Seri Begawan departs at 16.00 hrs.
Temuai (dug-out longboat) can be hired in and around Bangar to go up-river and are still the best way of experiencing the jungle waterways of Borneo.
Kuala Belalong Mini Park
This park was opened on 22 July 1993, by the Sultan when he visited the district on his 47th birthday. Kuala Belalong Mini Park's gardens incorporate a number of attractions echoing the renowned Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre (see below)The park is located about 1 kilometre from Bangar, the main town, Bangar. Its features include a pond used for remote-controlled boat racing and six pondok (huts) of similar design to those at the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre. Three pondoks house pictorial records of the sultan's visit to Temburong and the activities of the local people, while the other three house findings made at the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre.
The park is an excellent alternative for those unable to visit the more remotely located Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre.
Batang Duri Park
Batang Duri Park is bordered by towering forest and overlooks the crystal clear waters of the Temburong River. It is located about 16km from Bangar. There are timber walkways for strolling and playgrounds for children, and although swimming is allowed in the river, the current can be very strong.Kuala Belalong Rainforest Field Studies Centre
The famous Rainforest Field Studies Centre is located near Kuala Belalong in the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve. It is a joint venture of Brunei Shell Petroleum and Universiti Brunei Darussalam. The centre was established as a training and research base focusing on the study of Brunei's lowland tropical forests.A streamside complex of seven timber houses, the centre provides field research facilities catering to a range of enquiry levels - from bona fide overseas scientists to parties from universities, secondary schools and government bodies.
The Centre lies on the west bank of the Belalong River nestling in the 'V' of a steep-sided, heavily forested valley, about five kilometres upstream from the roadhead at Batang Duri.
The Centre is surrounded by lowland and ridge Dipterocarp forest with small areas of riverine and heath forest which have never been logged. The terrain is difficult to work in, characterised by steep-sided valleys and sharp ridges. Hunting has been minimal, and the area supports substantial populations of large mammals including Borneon gibbons, langurs, macaques, civets and sun bears. The Centre is situated 50 metres above sea level, but the highest point within the National Park is Gunong Pagon at 1850 metres. The upper reaches of the peak support montane forest but there are some montane plant species closer to the Centre on the upper slopes of Bukit Belalong at an altitude of 995 metres.
You may need to spend up to two and a half hours pushing and pulling a long boat over a series of 23 upriver rapids in order to reach the centre. Aside from the sheer beauty of the site, its importance can be distilled from the experience of just one entomologist who found over 400 species of beetle on a single tree in this area.
The centre also offers limited accommodation and dining facilities.
Bukit Patoi Recreational Park
The Bukit Patoi Recreational Park is about 15km from Bangar, and is Located within the Peradayan Forest Reserve.Walking trail in Peradayan Reserve
The park has many unusual cave and rock formations, and the 1070 ha territory is also home to a variety of readily seen wildlife such as Borneo's native kijang (deer). The reserve encompasses the twin hills of Bukit Peradayan, which rises to 410m (1,225ft), and Bukit Patoi, at 310m (950ft) above sea level. The patch of level stone on Bukit Patoi's summit is used as a helipad, and cooled by a pleasant breeze, it is also a viewing deck from which to enjoy panoramic views of the jungle, sea and villages and fields of neighbouring Sarawak.
It takes about two hours to negotiate the 1.6km-winding trek to the park.
Ulu Temburong National Park
Ulu Temburong National Park occupies approximately 50,000 ha of the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve. The park's locality and steep, swampy terrain have limited human impact on the area and helped preserve its rich biodiversity.Accessing the Canopy Walkway
Established forest trails through the park include 7km of timber boardwalks, which protect ground vegetation and help prevent erosion. A canopy walkway affords visitors an opportunity to observe the rainforest's surprisingly diverse treetop ecosystems. In addition, a series of tree houses some situated 20m above the ground, and linked by hanging bridges, provide excellent observation points. The Ulu Temburong Park Headquarters and Information Centre, is located at the junction of the Temburong and Belalong Rivers. Access to the park is by temuai or longboat, and visitor accommodation within the park consists of some seven guesthouses and three well equipped campsites.
Trekking in Temburong
Short trekking tours through farmlands and virgin forest to the Ulu Temburong National park are ideal for those who enjoy, or would like to try, jungle trekking. See our Temburong tours for ideas.TEMBURONG DISTRICT
(KPL) Laos would be hosting the 2009 World Ecotourism and Exhibition Conference, to be held at Donchan Palace Hotel in Vientiane Capital from 14 to 18 July.
Deputy President of National Tourism Organisation, Mr. Soukasene Phothisane said that during this conference it would also be exhibiting local handicraft products.
Speaking at a press conference on 11 May, Mr Soukasueam also said that this conference is being organised in cooperation with Associations of Hotels, Guesthouse and Restaurants of Laos and added that the conference sponsor is Discovery MICE of Malaysia.
The aims of this conference, he told the journalists, are to share views on ecotourism development and conservation of the environment by means of sustainable participation of local people.
The other topics on the discussion agenda are climate change, natural deterioration of the environment and the impact of tourism, said Mr Soukasueam.
He stressed that Laos can benefit as the host of the conference as it is well placed to advertise its tourist sites to the conference participants and another related implication is that it would enhance the reputation of Laos vis-a-vis the international community.
Local businesses and tourist companies would be setting up 100 booths in this hotel when the conference is in session.
For more information about the conference, visit:
http://www.discoverymice.com/WECO2009LAOS/sponsorship.htm
Laos to host 2009 World Ecotourism and Exhibition Conference
For those who plan to visit Laos via boat, or want to explore the beauty of Laos along the main rivers, you can check out this video clip. Laos is very laid-back and green country. No matter where you go, you will never disappointed.
Mekong boat to explore Laos
The Belait District covers almost half of the whole of Brunei. When oil was first discovered at Seria in 1929, this part of Brunei was only mangroves, peat bogs and forest. The valley of the Belait River was the only spot inhabited by the Punans, the Dusuns and the Ibans who lived in longhouses in large communities of up to one hundred people. The Belait River is the longest river in Brunei.
Kuala Belait, which merges with the oil town of Seria, is 70km from Tutong, and about 120km from Bandar. A few kilometers beyond the town is the border with Sarawak. It is completely self-contained administratively, commercially and in what it offers in sports and leisure facilities. The Belait District, and Seria town in particular, is the heart of the oil and gas industry in Brunei. It has a large expatriate community, including many Dutch people. This is due to the fact that Royal Dutch Shell has a major presence in the region.
There are two onshore oil and gas fields in the district - the large Seria Oil Field discovered in 1929, which is still producing hydrocarbons, even today, and the smaller Rasau Field close to the town of Kuala Belait. The Tali Field, which is an extension of the Seria Field is found in the coastal waters off Seria. Further offshore lies the South-West Ampa, Fairley, Fairley Baram and Egret fields.
The more energetic may care to explore the network of well marked nature trails that wind their way around the park, including a high-level canopy walkway in the treetops. This wonderful facility will give you a totally different perspective on the rainforest.
There are shelters, footpaths and a 200 metre timber walkway which spans most of the lake.
The walk crosses several steep ridges en route to the waterfall, however, once you are there you can enjoy the unspoilt beauty of the jungle and the cool, pure water of the river. This is a reasonably long walk. It is advisable to take some drinking water and sun protection with you.
Kuala Belait, which merges with the oil town of Seria, is 70km from Tutong, and about 120km from Bandar. A few kilometers beyond the town is the border with Sarawak. It is completely self-contained administratively, commercially and in what it offers in sports and leisure facilities. The Belait District, and Seria town in particular, is the heart of the oil and gas industry in Brunei. It has a large expatriate community, including many Dutch people. This is due to the fact that Royal Dutch Shell has a major presence in the region.
There are two onshore oil and gas fields in the district - the large Seria Oil Field discovered in 1929, which is still producing hydrocarbons, even today, and the smaller Rasau Field close to the town of Kuala Belait. The Tali Field, which is an extension of the Seria Field is found in the coastal waters off Seria. Further offshore lies the South-West Ampa, Fairley, Fairley Baram and Egret fields.
The Billionth Barrel Monument at Seria
The majestic Billionth Barrel Monument was constructed in 1991 and possesses its own significance, which is to commemorate the one-billionth barrel of crude oil production from the prolific Seria-1 field well. The monument was built close to Seria-1, which was the first commercially viable oil well to be drilled, in 1929. In fact, the whole country has not looked back since the drilling of Seria-1. The petroleum produced is processed onshore in and around Seria and the majority of it is exported. Some of the oil is refined at the refinery in Seria for local consumption. Natural Gas from the fields is sent to the Brunei Liquefied Natural Gas Plant (BLNG) in Lumut where it is cooled and liquefied. This is exported via tankers - mainly to Japan and Korea. Sungai Liang Forest Recreational Park
Lagoon in Sungai Liang Forest Park
Sungai Liang is about 70 km from Bandar Seri Begawan, and the drive takes about an hour along the coastal highway. The park is 450 metres from the main Sungai Liang junction along the road to Labi. This is one of several parks which have been developed and maintained for public recreation. The park is one of the very few lowland forest areas in South-East Asia and has facilities for general recreational activities, including hiking. It also caters for the natural history devotees, with self-guided or organised group tours of the forest. The main pond, with its shelter platforms and open areas in the central complex, should satisfy visitors looking simply for fresh air and beautiful surroundings. The more energetic may care to explore the network of well marked nature trails that wind their way around the park, including a high-level canopy walkway in the treetops. This wonderful facility will give you a totally different perspective on the rainforest.
Luagan Lalak Recreation Park
Luagan Lalak Recreation Park
Lying about 25 km from Sungai Liang along the Labi Road, this park covers an area of roughly 270 hectares within the Labi Hills Forest Reserve. A rare and interesting place, it features an alluvial freshwater swamp or empran. During rainy periods it fills up like a lake, and in drier spells the waters recede and the valley becomes covered with sedges - mainly of the species Lepironia. There are shelters, footpaths and a 200 metre timber walkway which spans most of the lake.
Wasai Wong Kadir
Wasai Wong Kadir is a 45 minute walk from the Labi Road. It is ideal for those who enjoy, or would like to try, jungle trekking up and down steep ridges. The wasai, or waterfall, is also a popular picnic spot.The walk crosses several steep ridges en route to the waterfall, however, once you are there you can enjoy the unspoilt beauty of the jungle and the cool, pure water of the river. This is a reasonably long walk. It is advisable to take some drinking water and sun protection with you.
Labi Longhouses
Further along the Labi Road, beyond Kampung Labi itself, there are several examples of a form of unique to Borneo - the Longhouse. A village under one roof, longhouses consist of a row of family houses - or doors - with a communal area which runs along the length of the building. This is the social centre of the village.Longhouse at Labi
Rampayoh Longhouse has 16 doors and is the nearest to Labi. Others include Mendaram Besar, Mendaram Kecil, and at the end of the road, Teraja. They are populated by the Ibans - once feared as headhunters but now more given to agricultural activities. Visitors are always warmly welcomed. Etiquette requires that you take some small gifts. Ask permission before entering and remove footwear before doing so. Several trails head off into the jungle along this stretch of road. They are clearly signposted and marked, and lead the walker to scenic waterfalls and hills in the virgin primary forest. They are relatively undemanding and guides are not necessary, but for for your own safety, you are advised to seek local advice before setting off.
BELAIT DISTRICT
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