Archive for the ‘Travel And Leisure’ Category

• Patan Durbar Square – Medieval Temples, Palaces, Museums – Enlisted As a World Heritage Site

  Date: 2010.03.26 | Category: Travel And Leisure | Response: 0

  
  Patan Durbar Square, which lies in the heart of Patan, is one of the three durbar squares in the Kathmandu valley. Patan Durbar Square was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979. To the southern edge of the Patan Durbar Square, is Mangal Bazaar, Patan’s major commercial district. You will come across a number of shops selling statues of Hindu deities and Lord Buddha, handicrafts and metal and wood carvings, while walking in the Durbar Square. Foreigners and SAARC nationals have to pay a small entry fee to enter the Patan Durbar Square.

  Palace

  Patan Durbar Square

• Bugis Street – Experiencing a Different Side of Singapore

  Date: 2010.03.20 | Category: Travel And Leisure | Response: 0

  
  Bugis Street is one of Singapore’s most colorful areas; following a major government initiative during the 1980’s to clean up the area raunchy image it has been transformed in to an exciting shopping area. During the 1950’s the area was crammed full of traders and small retail outlets making it one of the country’s busiest economic zones. According to legend the area was named after the Buginese people who made a name for themselves as blood thirsty pirates.

  A number of small commercial establishments were set up, including a number of outdoor bars; subsequent to this droves of transvestites were seen seemingly to attract the Western tourists. Business blossomed here in Bugis and it fast became the most popular tourist attraction in Singapore during the 60’s and 70’s and the nightly parade of brightly attired transvestite women used to draw in huge crowds.

  What remains today in Bugis Street is the great street shopping experience, strict government controls have virtually wiped out the shady businesses. The original Bugis street is now a picturesque cobble stoned avenue squashed in between the buildings of Bugis Junction. Also found in this area is the Bugis Square which is an elegantly paved central square, with a dancing water fountain and a collection of shopping outlets and restaurants surrounding it.

  New Bugis Street which can be seen bordering Bugis Street, is a newly created shopping street that was actually developed based on the old Bugis Street. It features a number of narrow alleys lined with stalls selling “pasar malam” or night market goods. This is in fact the only area in Singapore where tourists can experience a bazaar style shopping expedition, bargaining is commonplace here and a number of specialty goods such as traditional clothing, souvenirs and culinary delights can be found.

  For visitors looking for a serviced apartment in Singapore, a comfortable accommodation option is the Somerset Bencoolen.

• One Night In Bangkok – Recommendations For Women Travelers

  Date: 2010.03.13 | Category: Travel And Leisure | Response: 0

  
  Bangkok, or the City of Angels, is a popular stopover destination for many thousands of air travelers every year. It is famed for its historical temples and its male oriented nightlife, as the song from Chess, the musical, implies. But what are the options for women travelers if you find yourself with a day and a night to spare in this vibrant city?

  A lot depends on whether this is your first visit or indeed you first time in Asia. If so then you need to get a real flavor of the city by visiting some if its famed temples, historical sights and shopping opportunities.

  If your time is limited to a 24-48 hour stopover the best way to do this is by taking two half day tours – a morning tour of the Grand Palace with its famed Emerald Buddha and an afternoon boat trip down the Chao Phraya River on a traditional rice barge. There are many similar tours available and can be booked either from your hotel or the plethora of tour operators scattered along the main streets. These tours usually last around 4 hours, giving you time to rest before taking on more of Bangkok’s exciting sights and sounds (and shops.)

  The Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha

  The Grand Palace, a former home of the Thai Royal family has been portrayed in many a Hollywood movie and is breathtakingly beautiful, with its Golden Cheidi, Pantheon of the Chakri Kings and Eight Colored Towers. In the palace grounds is the Wat Phra Kaew temple, which houses the much revered Emerald Buddha, considered to be the protector of the kingdom and is the holiest Buddhist site in the country.

  Make sure you have your camera with you and dress respectfully. You can be refused entry if you are wearing slip on sandals, shorts or sleeveless tops, as the Grand Palace has a strict dress code policy. Should you be refused entry then go across the road to the many tourist shops and they will rent out shoes etc, or you can buy cheap clothing to cover up any offending parts! The same applies for men, no sandals, vests or shorts.

  If you have time, then walk around the corner to Wat Po, Bangkok’s oldest temple with its huge reclining Buddha – a great photo opportunity. It is also the home of the famed Thai massage school, where on a longer stay you can take their course in Thai massage, a Wat Po massage certificate is one of the most widely respected in the world.

  A Rice Barge on the Chao Phraya River

  An afternoon boat trip, setting off from the River City complex on the banks of the Chao Phraya gives you a great chance to see some of Bangkok’s historical monuments in the shortest space of time, whilst giving you an authentic slice of Bangkok life, weaving in between the many houses along the city’s klongs (waterways) and passing some of the amazing temples including the magical Wat Arun – Temple of Dawn, the most photographed temple in Bangkok. The tour will take you up river by long tail boat and you will return on the more sedate rice barge, where you will get the chance to sample some of Thailand’s delicious spicy cuisine. Be warned, the long tail boats can go at quite a pace, especially if your pilot is intent on racing other boats up river!

  Shop Til U Drop

  Following our 24 hour stopover theme this then leaves you plenty of time in the evening to explore Bangkok’s many shopping malls and markets. Shopping in the city can continue until late into the night with most shopping malls closing around 9pm but smaller stores and markets will remain open longer, especially in tourist areas.

  Depending on your taste then a trip to the tourist night market in Patpong is an experience. You might have to run the gauntlet of touts try to entice you into the many girlie bars in this area, but this can be fun if you are a first time visitor to Bangkok, as you get the chance to experience its more infamous side. For a quieter, more sedate VIP night market try the Suan Lam Night Bazaar, near Lumpini Park. There are also many eateries here and if you are lucky you can take in some live music.

  Some of the best of the shopping malls are The Siam Paragon and Central World Shopping Complex. Or, if you prefer a more upmarket choice then Gaysorn Plaza and The Emporium are at the exclusive end, with their world famous fashion house stores. The Siam Paragon also houses a huge aquarium, which is also worth a visit. If it’s Thai silk you are after then visit one of the exclusive Jim Thompson Stores or the popular Thai chain called Naraya Phand, which is famous for Thai handicrafts.

  If you are fortunate enough to have your visit co-incide with a weekend, then the Chauchak weekend market by Mo Chit Skytrain station is a “must see”. With over 15,000 stalls, this market is thought to be the largest in the world. Prices are cheaper here than the shopping malls and this market sells everything imaginable, from simple cotton T-shirt to exotic pets and plants.

  Restaurants and Bars

  After your shopping trip you many want to sample some of the many restaurants and bars. Food is everywhere in Bangkok, all hours of the day and night – eating seems to be the Thai national pastime. Some good eateries can be found around the shopping mall areas of Siam Square (Siam Paragon), Sukhumvit (The Emporium) and Chidlom (Central World) so pick your area and then do a bit of reading up. Famous bars and nightclubs with a more exclusive feel include Sukhumvit’s Bed Supper Club, with, as its name suggests, beds suspended from the walls. This amazing designer lounge has an all white interior and plays funk and techno music. The Q Bar, also in Sukhumvit is themed around a New York style club and plays the latest sounds from the west. Instead, you may be interested in sampling some Thai culture with a formal Dinner and Thai traditional dance show; this can be booked through a tour operator.

  Extra Time

  If you have more time to spare then a visit to Jim Thompson’s House near the National Stadium skytrain stop is a good way to experience some traditional Thai architecture and learn more about the father of the Thai silk industry and his mysterious disappearance in the Malaysian jungle in 1967. There is a lovely quiet caf

• A Day Trip To Cairo From Cyprus

  Date: 2010.03.06 | Category: Travel And Leisure | Response: 0

  
  Dee Lake asked:
  
  
  
  
  I went to Egypt for one day by flying from Paphos to Cairo in August 2007 when on holiday in Cyprus. It took one hour to get there. I booked the trip with a travel agent in Paphos and it cost

• Istanbul at Night – 7 Things to Do After the Sun Goes Down

  Date: 2010.03.06 | Category: Travel And Leisure | Response: 0

  
  You’ve spent the entire day exploring Istanbul’s mosques, monuments and palaces. You’ve walked through the remnants of Constantinople and the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires and you have the sore feet to prove it! You’ve returned to your quiet hotel room, had shower, rest and cup of Turkish tea. Now you’re ready to hit the city again! But where to go in Istanbul after dark? Here are a few ideas on stepping out in Istanbul!

  Bosphorus Cruise

  If sore feet are a priority, enjoy an evening of food, drink and live music while cruising between Europe and Asia on one of the world’s most magnificent waterways. Put your feet up as you cruise by dramatically lit mosques, palaces and under the city’s soaring bridges. Spy on the night activity in the posh Bosphorus neighborhoods of Bebek and Ulus. The price includes a full dinner, drinks, an exciting floorshow with a Turkish belly dancer and round trip transfer from your hotel. Ask a local agency about availability.

  Dinner with a View: Hamdi Restaurant

  If you’re in the mood for something local then head for Hamdi. Located just steps away from the Egyptian Spice Market, this popular place serves typical Turkish fare; hot grilled kebabs, small bowls of colorful mezes, crisp green salads and last, but certainly not least, Baklava! (Dubbed Turkish Viagra buy the locals!) But the real star of Hamdi is the view. Sit on the top terrace and take in views of Galata, the Bosphorus and the magnificent mosques of Eminonu.

  Balik Sokak

  Just steps away from the Marmara Sea, Balik Sokak (Fish Street) comes alive at dusk with lively restaurants serving fresh fish, meze, raki and lots of beer. Expect live music, impromptu singing and dancing performed by tipsy Turkish men with big mustaches!

  Nevizade Sokak

  Just off the Beyoglu Balik Pazari (Beyoglu Fish market) and Cicek Pasaji, Nevizade Sokak is a narrow street chock full of bars and outdoor restaurants. The restaurants offer meze, meals and musicians at your table; the bars offer stools where you can park, people watch and enjoy a chilled Efes beer. Some of the bars have terraces on the roof, of course every waiter will swear blind that his bar’s terrace is more beautiful than the next guy’s! Most places have a fixed-price menu, so ask for prices in advance.

  Turkish Night

  If you’re a fan of music or dance, then a check out an evening “Turkish Night” dinner show, featuring traditional song, dance and costumes from the four corners of Turkey. Favorites include the fast spinning and stomping of the energetic Black Sea Dancers and the mesmerizing whirling of of the famed whirling dervishes. The evening belongs, however, by the lovely belly-dancing ladies who can show you a move or two! Book early at a local agency for good seats. Again, ask at a local agency about shows as they vary in price and program. Full dinner, drinks and transportation to and from your hotel are included in the price.

  Nargile Cafe

  Corlulu Ali Pasa Narghile Cafe was built in 1709, and is a well-known atmospheric water-pipe (nargile) place near Beyazit, (just 2 tramway stops from Sultanahmet stop, or a short stroll along the tramline.) This lovely hidden spot is where you can try a waterpipe or just relax and enjoy the exotic aroma of an apricot Narghile while sipping Turkish tea or coffee. Kittens will play at your feet. Old men will play backgammon. A great place to unwind after a trip to the nearby Grand Bazaar. The cafe serves a variety of tea, soft drinks and Turkish coffee.

  Sultanahmet Hot Spots
  Looking for an after diner drink not too far from your hotel? In Sultanahmet, grab a cocktail, raki, Efes Beer or glass of wine at…

  Sah Bar: Hidden away from the main Tramway Street, this bar is rocking the alley in the summer, and warm and intimate by the fireplace in the winter. Cosy decor and great music.

  Akbayik Street: There are a few bars that go all night long on this street. Check out “Just Bar”, popular with locals and backpackers. Great outdoor seating.

  The North Shield: Located just off the Gulhane tramway station one stop away from Sultanahmet. More expensive than the first two, but a great place to watch a football match.

• Grand Bahamas Island – A Perfect Spring Time Destination!

  Date: 2010.03.01 | Category: Travel And Leisure | Response: 0

  
  Grand Bahamas Island is a perfect getaway destination. This beautiful island is located near the Atlantic Ocean. There are more then seven hundred islands, which make your vacations quite thrilling. The meticulous beaches and adventure sports satiates the senses of both adventurous and romantic people. Few of the must visit islands are; Abaco, Long Island, Grand Bahamas Island and Cat Island. Nassau, the capital is awe-inspiring, its natural beauty compel you to visit this place time and again. The best time to visit this island is spring time. The weather is pleasant, making it comfortable for the stay and other adventurous sports. So, in next spring vacations don’t spend too much time deciding the destination.

  Here, you will find two kinds of beaches, activity beaches and secluded beaches. On activity beaches, as the name suggests offer you many fun filled activities like snorkeling, parasailing and windsurfing. Some of the popular activity beaches are Taino Beach, Lucaya Beach and Xanadu Beach. The spectacular white beaches and the deep sea fishing are the major attractions of this island. Fishing lovers would never like to miss this destination.

  As for the secluded beaches, you will enjoy being their, but you will enjoy more in exploring the treasures hidden in the sands of those beaches. If you really want to enjoy on a secluded island, go towards southeast or southwest of the island. Gold Rock Beach a part of Lucayan National Park is one of the popular secluded.The nightlife offered by Grand Bahamas Island is awesome. There are variety of night clubs and pubs, where life seems to be turned into an ultimate euphoria. You can even enjoy a romantic moon dance on the beaches of these beautiful and meticulous beaches.

  You can even enjoy shopping on the beaches and in the exclusive markets where you can shop exquisite gift items. Port Lucaya Market place and International Bazaar are the two important shopping areas. You can enjoy the taste of local handicrafts and even find the licensed hair braiders.

  Honeymooners find the romance in the cool sea breeze that gushes past them when on a walk. You will always find honeymooners on this exquisite island, enjoying the bliss of each others company. These days many couples even plan their wedding on the exclusive secluded beaches of Grand Bahamas Island. A wedding experience on a beach is unique and quite fun filled.

  Most people dream of going to Bahamas for a vacation, because of the serenity and the closeness to nature. A vacation to Bahamas is surely not very expensive, as there are many discount Bahamas vacation packages available. If not this, you can even go in for loan for a vacation. When you plan your vacation to Grand Bahamas Island, be very careful about the tour operator. Make all the due arrangements well in time, so as to avoid any inconvenience. Specially, if you plan your vacation during spring time, be extra cautious. As during this season, the chance is quite high that you will find no hotel or resort for a comfortable stay. So make all the arrangements beforehand, to enjoy the vacation to its full.