Quick Tips/Suggestions:
When To Go: March to May and October/November are best. Paris can be cold and dark in winter; hot and crowded in Summer, Spring and Autumn provide colour, festivals and vitality away from the tourist hordes.

Accommodation: If you’re staying a while then rent a small apartment. You will be self sufficient, mix it with the locals, and often be able to find a decent studio for around Euro 500 a week. For shorter stays there are excellent budget hotels in wonderful locations where you will get ensuite doubles for under Euro 70 a night.

Language: French is spoken widely around the world and Parisians know it. You will fare much better if you know a little. A few simple phrases will do so you can introduce yourself, get service and ask directions. As anywhere, it shows respect, is a good icebreaker and enriches your experience. And as for those rumours about rude and arrogant Parisians? Well, i found quite the opposity…plenty of rude tourists.

Sightseeing: If you’re planning to sightsee, buy a Museum Pass, it is the best money you will spend. No expiry date and no queuing…you passport to cultural gluttony!

Best Way To Get Around:
Some visitors find it difficult to negotiate the Paris public transport maze. The options are many, so these tips are designed to cut through the fog of confusion and provide the simplest, most cost-effective path around Paris.

Three forms of transport will serve you best; trains, buses and boats.

Trains and Buses: Trains and buses are covered by the Paris Visite travel card. I used a three-zone card to travel anywhere on the Metro, regional trains, bus, tram and funiculaire, except Versailles, the airport and Disneyland. No queuing, no funmbling for charge, no hassle, and they are for good for 1 to 5 days. You can buy them at most stations and a 5-day pass represents the best value at Euro 27. The next best option is carnets of 10 tickets of Euro 10…good for more flexibility over broken or extended periods. Regular buses and trains link both airports for around Euro 8 to 10.

Boats: Boats are a beautiful way to combine the romance of the Seine and sightseeing. Visiting eight major destinations, a Batobus two-day pass is great value at Euro 13 (Euro 11 for one day). Buy one from any tourist office or boat stop.

The name Kluang derives from the Malay word ‘keluang’ which means a type of flying fox or rather a type of fruit bat. These used to be plentiful in the district decades ago. They have almost completely disappeared due to the combination of hunting and destruction of their natural habitat. I was told by a local friend that pictures of bat can still be seen on road signages and boards. Kluang is a town located roughly in the middle of the state of Johor in Malaysia. The population of Kluang district is considered small but has now exceeded 250,000 residents with more than half are centralized in the town itself.

Kluang had a very interesting World War 2 history when the Japanese soldiers once relocated their headquarter from Kuala Lumpur to Kluang in 1942 and later used the airbase to launch air attacks on targets ranging from Singapore to Sumatra.

Me and a worker (maybe the boss) of Kluang RailCoffee

The famous Kluang RailCoffee outlet

Worker preparing the food and drink

Roti bakar, Coffee, etc

The shop and its patrons

Highlights:
Kluang Railway Station
One of the charming places to visit in Kluang is the Kluang Railway station. The railway is surely the main highlight of this town as it cuts the town into two halves when the train passes through Kluang town. This will lead to temporary closure of the road to the town for the the train to pass. It is a common saying among local residents that when the trains approach Kluang Railway station, the entire Kluang town stands still. The station itself withstood the test of time and should be of interest for those who have passion for nostalgic photographs.

Kluang Station Coffee
It is widely claimed that the famous coffee shop at Kluang Railway Station, serves the best coffee in Malaysia (plus the shop’s specialty “Roti Bakar” - toasted bread with half boiled eggs). This local dish is available for breakfast between 7.00am and 12.00noon and for afternoon tea between 2.30pm and 6.00pm. The coffee shop now has expanded into franchise business and more outlets are available in major cities including Kuala Lumpur.

Tong Fong Cafe
Also worth taking note is an authentic coffee shop located in no. 56, Jalan Lambak by the name of Tong Fong Cafe (a.k.a. Eastern Cafe) which was very popular with the British soldiers during the heydays when Malaya was still under British rule. The operator is a second generation descendant of the owner and the coffee shop has been operating since 1954. Good coffee amidst nostalgic environment where orders are still being shouted from patrons to the back of the shop where each cup of beverage is being concocted the old traditional way, retaining the original flavours. Coffee can still be ‘doggie-bagged’ via used milk tins with a raffia string as loop for the dainty finger. It is worth a visit for visitors and regulars.

Gunung Berlumut & Gunung Lambak
Gunung Berlumut and Gunung Lambak are popular with jungle trekkers like me.

Machap
The area of Machap (on the road between Simpang Renggam and Air Hitam) is well known for its pottery and porcelain

Best Way to Get Around:
Car: This is your best option as the town is small and easy to move around.

Taxis: They can be scarce and difficult to locate when you need one. Mind you…you need to bargain with them as they don’t use their metres.

A signboard at Gunung Lambak. Take note of the bat picture on top

Me at Gunung Lambak

One of the smaller ponds found up at Gunung Lambak

One of only two capital cities in the world that have been built to a premeditated design, Canberra is rather eerily symmetrical. Placed about its nice, planned combinations of straight and curving streets are the old and new Parliament Houses, the National Gallery, and the National Museum.

The ACT is 80km (50mi) from north to south and is about 30km (19mi) wide. It is landlocked within the mountainous terrain of southeastern New South Wales, 305km (190mi) from Sydney by road. Canberra and its surrounding suburbs are in the northeast of the territory, while the Namadgi National Park occupies the whole southwestern area. The population grew from 50,000 in 1960 to 100,000 in 1967 and has soared to more than 300,000 today.

Canberra is arranged around the artificial Lake Burley Griffin. In the peculiarly named central business district, Civic, on the northern side of the lake, are the shops, businesses, university and suburbs such as Reid, Braddon, Turner and Acton. Parliamentary and other administrative buildings are located to the south of the lake, surrounded by suburbs such as Parkes, Barton, Forrest, Deakin and Yarralumla (home to the prime minister, when he deigns to tear himself away from Sydney, and the governor-general). Canberra is also surrounded by the satellite towns of Woden, Belconnen and Tuggeranong.

Canberra’s airport is about 7km (4mi) southeast of the city. Interstate buses arrive at the Jolimont Centre, which is in the centre of Civic. The railway station is in Kingston, on the south side of the lake. Most shops and restaurants are in Civic and Manuka, also just south of the lake, with a few cafes sprinkled through the inner suburbs. Each satellite town has its own charming mall. Civic is also the centre of Canberra’s nightlife, which is somewhat more lively than its reputation suggests.

Getting Around
Public transport in Canberra means the ACTION bus service (popular tourist buses covering most sights include Nos 33, 34, 40 and 80), which runs regular routes throughout Canberra and is a relatively cheap way to get around. ACTION’s Flexibus evening service will, incredibly, veer off the set route to go as close to its passenger’s destination as possible. They will also come and collect you if you call (13 17 10). The airport is 7km (4mi) southeast of the city centre. A shuttle minibus runs to the Jolimont Centre in town and to various hotels.

Another good way to see Canberra is by bicycle; Canberra has an excellent network of bike paths.

Don’t let your first impressions of Delhi stick like a sacred cow in a traffic jam: get behind the madcap façade and discover the inner peace of a city rich with culture, architecture and human diversity, deep with history and totally addictive to epicureans.

Both Old and New Delhi exert a beguiling charm on visitors. Lose yourself unwinding the secrets of the city’s Mughal past in the labyrinthine streets of Old Delhi before emerging into the wide open spaces of imperial New Delhi, with its ordered governmental vistas and generous leafy avenues.

Sights
Mix four major religions, thousands of years of history and cultural development, significant movements of different populations, invasions and colonialisation and you get one of the most vibrant and profound cultures in the world. This civilisation is evident in the plentiful historical sites around Delhi.

Where To Stay?
It’s wise to book a room in advance in Delhi as the more salubrious places can fill up in a flash, leaving new arrivals easy prey for the commission sharks. Many places to stay offer airport pick-ups (for a charge) with advance notice. Keep ear plugs handy if you’re a light sleeper.

Entertainment
Delhi’s licensing laws have been relaxed and young Delhiites are making up ground, drinking not just beer and spirits but adventurous cocktails. It’s all still quite expensive (one drink can cost more than a night in a budget hotel), but that doesn’t stop the bright young things with cash to splash.

Getting There, Getting Around
Delhi is India’s flight centre, with international and domestic flights readily available in a range of costs and comforts plus travel agents queuing up to negotiate a deal. Both domestic and international terminals for the Indira Gandhi International Airport are quite a way out of town - domestic 7km (4.5mi) from the city and international 11km (6mi) - so be prepared for the taxi driver ambush upon arrival. The Inter State Bus Terminal at Kashmiri Gate, north of the ‘Old’ Delhi Train Station, has long distance trips south to Rajasthan and north to Chandigarh, and to the hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. The New Delhi Train Station is as user friendly as such a place can be in India, if you ignore the touts who have all sorts of stories aimed at parting tourists with their money. From here you can organise long-distance trips east across the Ganges Plain to Kolkata, and south to Mumbai (Bombay) via Agra.

Delhi’s bus system is not for the faint hearted, or indeed for those who need to get somewhere on time. The network covers most of the city and is dirt cheap, but is also overcrowded and ramshackle - adventure travel you might say. There are plenty of metered yellow-and-black taxis, but don’t expect the existence of a meter to mean they will be used. Learn to negotiate before you get going. Auto-rickshaws are generally speedy over short distances and less expensive - cycle rickshaws are somewhat romantic, but harder to find now they have been removed from the modern parts of the city. Motorcycle rickshaws are a better bet during busy hours. They have set courses and prices and can muscle their way through traffic as well. Trying to cycle through Delhi streets would be a foolish choice for a traveller. Try the metro instead - check out www.delhimetrorail.com for more details.

Highlights
The Lowry gallery

The Imperial War Museum North

Manchester United football club

Theatres

Bars

Accommodation and Shopping
Excellent choice of accommodation in and around the city to suit all but they can be very pricey and not value for money, and shoppers wont be disappointed as many of the leading high street brand names are represented in the city centre.

Food and Dining
Diners wont be short of options as there’s a wide range of international cuisines to choose from.

Best Way To Get Around:
Manchester has an excellent integrated transport network, which includes the Metrolink tram system which services Manchester airport, the city centre and the local boroughs.

My journey this year surprisingly is twice the distance of the previous year and expenses have skyrocketed. Nevertheless, 2007 has been an amazing year for me from losing all the photos taken during my world tour to conquering the highest mountain in South East Asia.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all readers and friends a Happy Healthy and Prosperous New Year.

See you again in 2008.

Greenville is the third largest city in the state of South Carolina. As of the 2006 census, the city had a population of over 1.2 million.

Greenville

Greenville

The famous Liberty Bridge

Highlights:
Falls Park on the Reedy
This is a large regional park in the West End with beautiful gardens and several waterfalls. The park is home to the Liberty Bridge, a pedestrian suspension bridge overlooking the Reedy River.

Greenville County Museum of Art
This museum specializes in American art, frequently with a Southern perspective that dates back to the 1700s. It is noted for its collections of work by Andrew Wyeth and Jasper Johns, as well as a contemporary collection that features such notables as Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keeffe, and others.

Greenville Zoo, in Cleveland Park.

The Furman University
The campus features a prominent Bell Tower housing a 61 Bell Carillon, one of the largest in the southeast. The campus also contains an authentic Japanese Garden.

Downtown
The vibrant downtown won the prestigious 2003 Great American Main Street Award from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. It’s a MUST see if you are in Greenville

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Greenville is a very clean and organized place. People are so friendly here that they are willing to offer their assistance anytime needed. It is recommended to stay at downtown where all the actions will take place. I stayed at this beautiful hotel called Hampton Inn & Suites (http://www.hamptoninnandsuitesgreenville.com/)

Waterfall at Falls Park on the Reedy

Downtown

Hampton Inn and Suites hotel

Best Way to Get Around:
Bus
Public transit in Greenville is handled by the Greenville Transit Authority (GTA). GTA runs a bus system that serves the Greenville area and much of Greenville County.

Foot
Downtown is best seen on foot. Walk and meet friendly people as you enjoy the stroll at downtown.

Capitol Hill

U.S. Supreme Court

Highlights:
KENNEDY CENTER
Located right outside zone one in Washington, the Kennedy Center is a must see. Their website offers not only the full schedule of events but the ability to purchase tickets online. www.kennedy-center.org. Be sure to stop and grab a bite at the KC café and take a walk outside for one of the best views around.

CORCORAN GALLERY OF ART
One of the finest collections of American 19th-century art in the world. It is not confined to that however, it includes photographs, sculptures and other more modern art forms. My favorite is the Viger LeBrun portrait of Madam DuBarry, which is neither American nor 19th century.

RENWICK GALLERY
This museum is part of the Smithsonian Museums. It is a national treasure. If you have ever had any interest in Native Americans the Caitlin Gallery is a fascinating study of the face of the Indian in the 19th century.

PHILLIPS COLLECTION
Located near Dupont Circle this is an amazing museum. Housed in a home with two added wings it has a fine collection of Impressionist works as well as an EL Greco just to mention a few of its treasures.

HILLWOOD HOUSE AND GARDEN
Located beyond the Washington Zoo this is the former home of Marjorie Merriweather Post. Her fascination with all things Russians has led to a collection that will delight and fascinate. The greenhouses and gardens are well worth visiting in their own right.

ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
A must stop for any history buff, the history of the United States from the Civil War to the present can be understood through the brave men and woman who have served our government. A tourmobile tour is a good idea for getting from one site to another since this is a very large cemetery

Library of Congress

Washington Monument

White House

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Washington is an expensive city. Hotel rooms can run anywhere from $100 to $400 depending on where and when. I got my room at the Washington Hilton for $87 on Hotwire. The location of this hotel is perfect and the neighborhood has loads of restaurants and shops.

One benefit of visiting Washington is that many of the sights are free. If you want to visit any of the Smithsonian Museums they are free of charge. The Lincoln Memorial and the Jefferson memorial are also free. You can visit the Kennedy Center for free to enjoy the spectacular view or to catch a bite to eat.

There is no charge to visit the Mall and the Vietnam Memorial. If you want to walk around Arlington National cemetery, that is also free of charge. The Tourmobile however is not free.

Best Way to Get Around:
Washington Flyer
I flew into Washington Dulles International Airport. I then caught a bus from ‘Washington Flyer’ that cost US$9 to take me to the West Falls Church metro stop. I purchased a round trip metro pass for US$6.50 that gave me unlimited access to the public transportation system in Washington. The Metro is fast, efficient and easy to understand.

Airports
Washington is served by two other airports: Reagan National Airport, which is the closest to downtown; and Balitmore International Airport. All major airlines use one or all three of these airports.

Taxi
Within Washington taxis are a very good alternative. Prices are fixed and as long as you stay within the zone you will pay one price. Even if you go into zone 2 it still only cost two people $10. Considering the comfort and speed it was a very good bargain.

If you are considering bringing your car, please don’t. Or if you must, get a hotel in Crystal City, park your car at the hotel, and take the Metro into the downtown. Parking is expensive and hard to find, traffic is heavy, and like any big city it is a nightmare.

Metro

Inside the Metro station

Highlights:
I found the city of Montreal to be unique and unlike any other city I have ever visited. During the day, you can take in beautiful museums or have a latte at a corner cafe, and during the evening, you can dine on exceptional French cuisine, then go carousing at a nightclub or take in the bar scene. Take it all in—just give yourself enough time to be cultured. Here are a few of my “can’t-be-missed” in Montreal.

Old Montreal
There is no place more conducive to a dreamy step back in time than the romantic district of Old Montreal. Its cobblestone streetshave witnessed the passage of time for more than 360 years. Today, art galleries, artisans’ boutiques, terraces and cafes conduct business within walls of these gracious 18th and 19th century buildings. Nearb, in the Old Port cyclists, joggers and in-line skater enthusiasts of all ages should enjoy the generous recreational paths year round.

Basilique Notre Dome
The Basilique Notre Dame is a true gem. The intricate wood work, stunning artwork, and attention to detail make this cathedral one of the most beautiful in the world.

Biodome
Another unique experience in Montreal is the Biodome. This building was used in the 1976 Olympics as the cycling center. It was recreated as an indoor ecosystem—and not just one, but four unbelievable ecosystems. This place is fun for the entire family.

Ice Hockey
Lastly, Montreal is home to the most decorated team in hockey history: the Montreal Canadiens. Montreal bleeds hockey. If you go during the hockey season (if there ever is one again), don’t miss out on this true entertainment experience.

I could go on and on, but these are my top three “can’t-be-missed” experiences in Montreal. I can’t wait to go back.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
When I was in Montreal, I noticed that trying to speak French (for me, about 10 words) was a great way to break the ice with the locals. By at least saying, “Bonjour, how are you today?” you already have gained respect. French is the official language in Montreal, and they appreciate nothing more than Americans (like myself) who at least try. I found that by showing this respect to the locals, I was able to get better service, a smiling face, and make new friends. So do yourself a favor—learn a couple of French words and see how much further you get in Montreal.

Best Way to Get Around:
Metro
The Metro system in Montreal is a very effective and inexpensive way to get around the city. There are four different color-coded lines to make traveling on the Metro less difficult. I recommend spending a couple of bucks and getting a map of the Metro lines.

Bus
If going underground is not your “thing,” try taking the many buses that are located around the city. Make sure you have exact change when getting on any city buses. You can also buy fares in advance at any Metro booth, or if you are going to be in the city for at least a couple of days, maybe you should try a weekly pass.

Foot and Taxi
I always prefer to get around on foot, car, or taxi. Taxis are available in front of almost every hotel in Montreal, and you can also hail one curbside. One trip that was well worth the price of the taxi fare was Ile Notre Dame Casino. The casino was packed, and the line for parking was ridiculous. The taxi pulled right up front with no problem.

Helsinki is a very compact and pleasant city. About a million people live there, and it has a great energy without being too frenetic. What you’ll enjoy most about being in Helsinki are the Finnish people; they have such an excitement and willingness to share their passion for their country with you. As far as European capitals go, there isn’t much travel information on Helsinki, but it’s nice not to feel weighed down by what you think you need to know. Just enjoy having a clean slate and listen to what the people in Helsinki tell you.

Highlights
Sporakoff: Taking a tour of the city is the perfect way to get a clearer picture of which parts of town you’d like to explore. Like a lot of cities, Helsinki has tour buses, but it also has the Sporakoff, which loosely translated means “beer tram.” Koff is a Finnish beer brand, and you can purchase the beer on the tram. Travelers can pick the tram up near the Central Railway Station. The entire journey around the town takes about 45 minutes, and you’ll see most of Helsinki’s notable tourist sites along the way.

Senate Square: Built in the 19th century, Senate Square is the heart of the city. In Senate Square, you’ll find the Lutheran Helsinki Cathedral as well as the government building, the Council of the State. Finland has only been an independent country since 1917; it was ruled first by Sweden and then Russia.

The Sauna: Traveling is most rewarding when you get to truly immerse yourself in a culture, and to do that in Helsinki, you’ve got to take your clothes off. In Finland, the sauna is an active social experience. Swimming suits are actually prohibited. That is, you have to be naked. The Finns go to the saunas first for relaxation, and then for the cleansing. It is a very popular pastime. After steaming themselves like lobsters, true Finns then head out to the sea, where they’ll take a quick dip no matter how cold the water. For the final twist on this Finnish pastime, after cleansing all those toxins, the traditional way to end the sauna experience is with a beer and a sausage.

The Esplanade: The Esplanade is Helsinki’s most picturesque boulevard and a very popular destination for out-of-town visitors. Finnish design institutions Iittala, Marimekko and Artek all have shops along the Esplanade.

The Arabia Factory Shop: You can drop a lot of cash in Iittala, unless you know where the discount factory shop is. Get on the No. 6 tram at the Esplanade, and you’ll be at the impressive Arabia factory shop in six minutes. The Arabia factory shop is home to Iittala and several other Finnish manufacturers’ products at discount prices.

Hotels
Sokos Hotel: When choosing a hotel in Helsinki, it’s important to stay in the city center, as that’s where all the action is. The Sokos Hotel is in a fantastic location, within walking distance of more than 800 restaurants. Sokos Hotels is the biggest hotel chain in Finland, 39 hotels in 26 cities all around the Finland and also one in Tallinn, Estonia. All hotels are located in city centres or at leisure sites, and have good transport connections.
Web site: www.sokoshotels.fi

Food/Restaurants/Bars
The Covered Market: Markets and food tell you a lot about people - their culture, habits and quality of life - and the covered market is the perfect place to discover what the Finns like to eat and drink. The covered market in Helsinki has stood on the banks of the city’s South Harbor since the 1800s; generations of families still own the same stands. Did you know that the Finns drink more coffee per capita than any other group in the world? Their bread of choice is rye, and when it comes to candy, Finns love licorice. As you’d imagine, they eat a lot of fish in Helsinki, because of the city’s location on the Baltic Sea.

Saslik: Finland has been influenced by Russia, as well as her Scandinavian neighbors, and Helsinki boasts many Russian restaurants. Of these, Saslik is the best. A typical Russian meal begins with various starters, like Baltic herring and pickles with honey and sour cream. One entrée highlight is bear wrapped in bacon with an assortment of berries. Saslik has been around for 30 years and, though semi-touristy, is a dining experience like no other.

Eat&Joy Festival: Jari Etelälahti and Aki Arjola, some not-so-typical Finns, started the annual Eat&Joy festival to promote Helsinki’s ever-changing restaurant world. The multi-day food and media event brings together good food, fine wine, fun-loving people and the arts.

Zetor: The Zetor bar and restaurant, described as a “tractor bar,” is decked out in farm machinery, hence the name Zetor, an old tractor manufacturer. You won’t find any honky-tonk music there, but you may be able bust a move to some Finnish tunes. Bands often perform there.

Highlights:
Copenhagen isn’t a large city, but there is so much to do packed into this capital city. Put your walking shoes on because you are going to be busy.

Tivoli Gardens
This is *the* essential Copenhagen thing to do. Spend late afternoon and the evening there. At night, it transforms into a magical light festival.

Stroget
Walking along the pedestrianized shopping area, Stroget, you will find an endless amount of shopping to be done.
The city is full of museums, take in a few of them.

Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid isn’t all its cracked up to be. Don’t plan too much time or go out of your way to see this.

Amalienborg Palace
Changing of the guard at Amalienborg Palace is a must-see event, too. Get there early as it really fills-up.

Churches
Visit some of the amazing churches in Copenhagen. Get up into the tower of one of them to see a view over the city.

Canal Tour
A canal tour is recommended to see the city from a different view. It will take you up and down the canals and through the city’s harbour.

Helsingør
If you have time, take the short train ride up to Helsingør to see Kronborg Castle. Not only is the castle/palace a beauty, so is the town and harbour areas.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
The wonderful Copenhagen Tourist Office is a wealth of information and can book private rooms over the phone, in person, or via its website. It sells the useful Copenhagen Card, which provides free transportation throughout the city and region as well as free or discounted entry to most attractions. Don’t buy the card covering a Monday (when most sights are closed) or a Wednesday (when many museums are free), and be sure to note which attractions are merely discounted.

Eat a pølser or two. It is the Danish version of a hot dog. These things are oh so yummy and very addicting–it is best to take it with everything: remoulade, ketchup, mustard, crispy fried onions, sliced cucumbers. You will find stands around the touristy areas such as Nyhavn.

Bring a light sweater or jacket with you no matter what time of year it is.

Best Way to Get Around:
Train
You will fly into Copenhagen Airport. From here, you simply take the train into Copenhagen. It is about a 30-minute ride into the city. You just purchase your ticket from the ticket booth, and someone will be glad to assist you if you have no idea what to do.

Taxi
You will probably want to take a cab from the train station to your hotel. Cabs line up right in front and are fairly inexpensive. The cab drivers here are pretty honest and not out to rip you off like other places.

Walking and Bike
For the rest of your stay, the best way to get around is either by foot or by bike. You can rent bikes all over and is the preferred method by Danes them selves. Copenhagen is very tiny and pretty even surface. So walking is pretty pleasant here. You get to see a number of wonderful things while walking around. So just plant your feet and go at it!

Itinerary
24 July: Kuala Lumpur/Singapore/Manchester
25-27 July: Manchester
28 July: Manchester to London
28 July: London
29 July: London/Copenhagen/Helsinki
29-30 July: Helsinki
31 July: Helsinki/Frankfurt/Montreal
31 July-4 August: Montreal
5 August: Montreal/Washington/Greenville
5-6 August: Greenville
7 August: Greenville/Charlotte/Houston
7 August: Houston
8 August: Houston/Los Angeles
8-9 August: Los Angeles
10 August: Los Angeles/Singapore/Kuala Lumpur

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Though this Portugese colony has since reverted back to Chinese rule last December, not much has changed. It has had its share of bad press in the time before the handover as local triads (organized crime units) fought for territorial power. There were shootings and car bombs, but all that has died down. I suggest you don’t wander too far away from main sights. Watch out for pickpockets. I’ve never had a problem, but maybe because I’m always with locals. Most people stay on the resorts on Taipa and Coloane and rent mini-Mokes to get around.

Best Way to Get Around:
Taxis: Taxis are convenient. There are many of them in line right outside the boat terminal. This place is very modern these days. I still remember the time when the pier was no more than a small building, basically a mess especially going through customs. I’ve also paid a taxi for a day’s rate (it’s very reasonable, especially compared to US rates) and the driver would just drive and wait. During lunch, I invited him to join us, but of course, that’s not essential.

Buses: There are a lot of buses-locals get around using the efficient public transportation.

Car: I don’t recommend renting a car, as driving tends to be a little crazy here. You could rent a mini-Moke if you are staying on the islands of Taipa and Coloane. These are cute little jeep-like vehicles. They go a bit slow but there is not much traffic on the island so it’s fine.

Highlights:
Mainz has plenty of interesting things you should see, but at the top of the list is visiting St. Stephan’s to experience the majestic stained glass windows of Marc Chagall. Trust me, absolutely do not miss this.

At the Gutenberg Museum, you’ll be taken out of the world of bits and bytes and returned to the Middle Ages to see how Gutenberg revolutionized the world of printing.

Do plan to visit local restaurants such as the fun Eisgrug-Brau, where you’ll be able to feast on a hearty luncheon buffet, as well as wash it down with their very own brew. Ah, the Germans are such great brew masters. Make a point to see the historic section of the city, as well as the Roman ruins in Mainz, especially the boats that were found in the harbor. Also try to plan your visit during one of Mainz’s fabulous festivals, to enjoy this fun-loving party city.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
If you have come to Mainz on a KD cruise, then it will be really easy for you to get around the city because they offer their passengers an outstanding Mainz city map. It’s small and easy to carry around in pocket or purse, yet is large enough to be very easy to read, making it incredibly easy to see the major sites of the city.

Special paragraphs highlight important city sites, and there’s handy information about where the tourist bureau is as well, along with museum addresses and schedules. The map is done in conjunction with Mainz marketing, so you should be able to pick it up at the tourist office (which is at the information center at the train station or at the city hall, Rathaus).

Best Way to Get Around:
On Foot
Whenever possible, I like to see a city on foot because I feel that you really see more. You have greater flexibility, don’t have to waste time looking for a parking space, and, best all, have more opportunity to interact with local people. Sometimes I think that’s why I travel.

Cruise
I came to Mainz via a KD Cruise, and I’d definitely recommend this cruise line as a way to travel along the Romantic Rhine, because you can customize your itinerary to see the cities and villages you want.

London has the greatest concentration of major attractions in Britain and boasts four World Heritage Sites. 238 attractions that are free to enter, so there’s nowhere else in the world where you can see so much for so little.

Take your pick from the top ten below, based on 2004 visitor numbers.

1. National Gallery: The National Gallery houses one of the greatest collections of European painting in the world.

2. British Museum: The imposing British Museum exhibits the works of man from prehistoric to modern times with collections drawn from all around the world.

3. Tate Modern: The impressive Tate Modern is Britain’s national museum of modern art.

4. The London Eye: The British Airways London Eye forms a major feature of London’s skyline. It is the world’s highest observation wheel and offers passengers spectacular views of over 55 of London’s most famous landmarks in just 30 minutes.

5. Natural History Museum: As well as the permanent dinosaur exhibition, the gallery boasts a collection of the biggest, tallest and rarest animals in the world.

6. Science Museum: See, touch and experience the major scientific advances of the last 300 years at the largest museum of its kind in the world.

7. The Tower of London: Take a free guided tour with one of the Yeoman Warders around one of the most famous fortified buildings in the world.

8. The Victoria & Albert Museum: The V&A celebrates all things art and design, and is home to 3000 years worth of amazing artefacts from many of the world’s richest cultures.

9. The National Portrait Gallery: The gallery features portraits in all mediums depicting well known British people.

10. National Maritime Museum: This is the largest maritime museum in the world with a collection of over two million objects relating to seafaring.

Best Way to Get Around:
Underground (The Tube): The London Underground, or ‘the tube’ as it is universally known to Londoners, is normally the quickest and easiest way of getting round London.

Bus: Buses are a quick and convenient way to travel around London, providing plenty of sightseeing opportunities en route.

Highlights:
Atkinson Clock Tower - One of the most enduring landmarks in Kota Kinabalu, which has stood prominently on the bluff along Signal Hill Road, is the Kota Kinabalu Clock Tower. It was built as a memorial to Francis George Atkinson, the popular first District Officer of Kota Kinabalu. This memorial has the distinction of being the oldest standing structure in the whole of Sabah that survived the air raids and blitz of World War II.

Mount Kinabalu - The tallest peak in South East Asia at 4,101 metres. The State Park is 80 km from the city. If you intend on climbing the mountain there are limited climbing permits and accomidation on the mountain available and it is recomended that you book 3 months ahead. Typically whether you create your own package or go with a tour you start your climb in the early morning then stop at the resthouse for the evening. There is one restaurant there with a buffet dinner option or there is some accomidation that has basic cooking facilities available. After spending the evening at the rest stop you get up at about 3 in the morning to finish the climb and hopefully arrive at the summit in time for the sunrise. All climbers must have a guide which you can obtain at the park when you register. There are also many packages available through touring companies however it is far cheaper to create your own plan

Kota Kinabalu City Bird Sanctuary - is a natural site for wildlife and is located in the heart of the city. The Bird Sanctuary has an important natural function and has a feeling ground for many species of birds and also for several migratory species from Northern Asia.

Gaya Street Fair - The Gaya Street Fair is held every Sunday morning and is the place where locals come to buy their goods. You can find almost anything at the Fair. From local handicrafts, souvenirs and clothing to food, drinks, Chinese medicines, delicacies and even animals like chickens and pet dogs, can be purchased for very reasonable prices. It also is a good opportunity to try out your bargaining skills.

Sabah Museum - The Sabah Museum is located at Old Palace Hill (Bukit Istana Lama) only 5 minutes from Kota Kinabalu city centre and is situated on 43.3 acres of lush green natural and planted jungle. This location houses not only the Sabah Museum, but also an Ethno Botanic garden, a Zoological garden and a Heritage Village all in one place!

Shopping - There are 5 major shopping complexes in KK: Centrepoint, Wisma Merdeka, Wawasan Plaza, Karamunsing Complex and KK Plaza. Although most of the shops in these complexes carry fixed priced items the goods sold are all reasonably priced especially during the Mega Sales months of March, August, and December.

Signal Hill - Signal Hill is one of the best places to get a good view of KK. The hill is in a natural area where one can peacefully enjoy the beautiful skyline of the city with a view that extends to the islands.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Islands Park - The Tunku Abdul Rahman Islands Park is located just 3 to 8km. off Kota Kinabalu shore. Only 10 to 20 minutes by boat from Kota Kinabalu city, you can enjoy the beautiful tropical islands and indulged in lots of R&R. Some of the islands are equipped with chalets and food outlets to accommodate your needs. The Park consists of 5 islands, namely Gaya, Mamutik, Manukan, Sapi and Sulug. It is a favourite place to go to for picnickers, divers and nature lovers. The park offers ample space to try water sports and you can also enjoy and adventurous jungle trek to see the flora and fauna at namely, Gaya, Manukan and Sapi islands.

Best Way To Get Around:
Taxi - Taxi fares around town would cost around RM20, at most.

Bus - RM1.50 from Kota Kinabalu International Airport(Petagas) to the city centre. While RM1.00 from Terminal 2 International Airport(Tg.Aru) to City Center.

Nearby Attractions:
Popular daytrips from Tokuyama (via shinkansen, local train or highway bus) include:
Iwakuni, Hiroshima, Hagi, Fukuoka, and Okayama.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Dining
The city has a modest offering of entertainment and dining options. Here is a list of bars/restaurants featuring an English and/or picture menu:

-Ell’s Ditch (Irish pub serving up Irish/British food and European brews)(Downtown)
-Oghiya (yakitori-ya offering a very comprehensive English menu and plenty of drinks) (Downtown)
-WaraWara (izikaya with English/picture menu and plenty of cocktail choices)(Downtown)
-Grazie (Italian restaurant with a set menu in English)(Downtown)
-Ganesh (Indian restaurant; very popular)(Downtown)
-Fracasso (family-style Italian restaurant with unlimited soft-drink bar)(outer Tokuyama)
-Sunday’s Sun (family-style restaurant offering both the drink bar and Western breakfast)(outer Tokuyama)
-Gusto (family-style Japanese restaurant, also with soft-drink bar)(outer Tokuyama)
-Mister Donut (outer Tokuyama)
-McDonald’s (downtown and outer Tokuyama)
-Kentucky Fried Chicken (outer Tokuyama and Kudamatsu Mall)
-Baskin Robbins (outer Tokuyama)
-Dotour Coffee (outer Tokuyama and Kudamatsu Mall)

Yatai
Another dining option that is popular in Tokuyama are the yatai stands that line the sidewalks around Tokuyama Station after dark. They serve up ramen, gyoza, oden, and other Japanese appetizers as well as beer and sake. The prices are low, and the food is delicious. Just go on in and take a seat. The proprietors will understand your broken Japanese. Haha…

Convenient Stores
There’s also the ready-made food at 7-11, if you are in a hurry. The convenience stores Lawson and Poplar also serve up quick eats. They are easily accessible locations throughout Tokuyama. The stores are also handy for paying your bills. Coffee fans can enjoy two great shops to get their fix: CoffeeBoy (on PH street, downtown) and CreamCreme (just off of Old Route 2, behind Jean Paul bakery)

Shopping
Tokuyama has a fair assortment of shopping options. Daiso, the popular 100 Yen chain, has two locations (both outer Tokuyama). Uniqlo offers clothing in sizes and prices that Westerners will appreciate (outer Tokuyama). Tsutaya is a movie/CD rental place with numerous Western offerings (next to Uniqlo). Kintetsu, a modest-sized department store, provides a quality selection of clothing, food, and gift items (downtown). In Kudamatsu (along the #4-5 bus route), you can find Mr. Max (similar to WalMart), Seiyu (which IS WalMart, but more expensive), Thanada Life Create Store (Crate and Barrel-esque store), and SunLive (a modest shopping center).

Entertainment
Entertainment options are fairly limited. The city library offers a modest selection of English books. Live music can be found at a few bars, and the popular Bar Nells offers a nightclub that is very popular with foreigners and Japanese alike. Shidax is a very popular karaoke center (also offers namihodai or “all you can drink” option). There is also a very modest art museum with regularly changing special exhibits and a cafe. Movix, the largest movie theatre, is located at Kudamatsu Mall (movies cost about 1,900 yen).

Festivals
The city has a small offering of festivals throughout the year. The most popular is the Christmas Tree Festival, where the city fills the trees along Miyuki Dori with Christmas lights and plays Christmas carols from 6-10 p.m. each night. On December 23-25, food stalls fill the sidewalks, offering grilled meats, beer, cotton candy, candied fruit, and small-scale carnival games.

Today is my birthday and I just turned 31. I wish to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for visiting my website and leaving your kind and nasty comments :-). Another year gone and another to come. This travelogue will go on as usual in the coming year.

Stay tuned to the next episode of my travelogue

Highlights:
West Lake
The one thing in Hangzhou that struck me most was the tranquility of the famous West Lake, with its fascinating legends and myths that have surpassed time and dynasties. It is the backdrop of all the stories told to me as a little child, including famous legends like “The Lady White Snake” and “The Butterfly Lovers.” Surrounded by vast mountains and lush, misty forests on three sides and the flourishing city on one side, the lake provides an elegant mixture of wilderness, serenity, and modernization.

Song Dynasty Town
Another tourist attraction not to be missed in Hangzhou is the Song Dynasty Town’s singing and dancing performance. Hangzhou, being the capital of the legendary Song Dynasty, pays tribute to this ancient dynasty with traditional dancing, gorgeous, colorful costumes, dazzling laser lights, water displays, stunning backdrops, and a real cannon! The performance was the most memorable Chinese performance I have seen, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it… Definitely a Hangzhou highlight!

Peak Flown from Afar
Other significant places I visited in Hangzhou were the Peak Flown from Afar and the Ling Yin Temple. The Peak Flown from Afar are actually grottoes with hundreds of Buddha statues carved into the stones, which were rather intriguing to me… they are simply ancient works of art.

Ling Yin Temple
The Ling Yin Temple, farther up the mountain from the grottoes, showcases huge gilded Buddhas, beautiful murals, and the highest copper hall in the world! At first I thought it may well be another tourist trap with “the highest in the world” and “the biggest in the universe” catchphrases, but mind you, this temple is worth visiting for its magnificence and grandeur alone.

Overall, Hangzhou can be enjoyed by cruising around the West Lake, strolling on the lakeside at dawn or dusk, hanging out at one of the many bars along the lake, watching the locals play a game of chess in the park, or simply lazing in the gardens. This peaceful city is undoubtedly the Oriental capital of leisure.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
There are things I did not leave Hangzhou without: Sampling the traditional cuisine of Hangzhou, tins of Dragon Well Green Tea (the mother of all teas in China), a silk scarf (Hangzhou is not nicknamed “The City of Silk” for nothing), and a delicately carved sandalwood fan.

Another important note: When in Hangzhou, relax and unwind. Do what the locals do… do nothing.

Best Way to Get Around:
Local Guided Tour
It is best to visit Hangzhou with a guided tour. That way, you can visit all the popular tourist spots and restaurants and don’t have to worry about getting around or not speaking the language.

Buses
If you’d rather stay independent, the buses in Hangzhou are abundant and come in various kinds: common buses, air-conditioned buses, medium-sized buses, double deckers, and tour buses. Stops are reported in both Chinese and English, with prices ranging from RMB1(common) to RMB5(tour).

Taxi
Taxi services are also available in Hangzhou and are charged according to meter. The first 4km costs RMB10.

As in most cities, rush hour is from 7 to 8:30am and 5 to 6:30pm, so try to stay off the extremely crowded buses and limited taxis during these times.

I suppose Suzhou is lovely in every way. It offers the modernity of a contemporary city minus the hustle and bustle of a busy metropolitan life. Being in Suzhou is being able to relax, unwind, and get lost in the midst of the stunning landscaped gardens found all over this pretty little city. It is rather obvious why Shanghaians seem to think Suzhou is a good vacation place to run away from all the troubles of a big city life. Situated in the Jiangsu province, only a 2-hour drive away from the lively Shanghai, this unpolluted city is an apparent contrast to what vacationers and “runaways” have left behind. Everything here is straightforward, simple, and uncomplicated.

Highlights:
People: The people of Suzhou are easygoing and make do with their low costs of living, having pays as low as RMB400 to RMB800 a month. This may seem insufficient, but mind you, the residents here eat well, sleep well, and take extremely good care of their health and well-being. There are almost 100 people aged more than 100 living in Suzhou at the current moment. So, in a city where health is an important issue, what could be more significant than… the FOOD?

Food: It is hard not to notice the restaurants in Suzhou. The restaurants here are simply enormous, brightly illuminated with neon lights and banners. Suzhou people believe that eating is one of life’s greatest gifts, so they love having big meals and dining in huge fancy restaurants. Amazingly, despite the eye-catching lightings, the prices in most of these restaurants are inexpensive and very affordable.

Gardens: And not to be missed is the classical gardens of Suzhou. I loved walking along the pathways of weeping willows and strangely formed rocks. Being in the gardens creates a calm sense of security and serenity… and it really is a perfect place to disappear or lose yourself in.

So when you do run away to Suzhou, leave all your worries behind and get lost in the present moment filled with quaint canals, stunning gardens, hearty food, and beautiful ladies in elegant silk.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
There are an amazing amount of gardens located in Suzhou, but only a few are open to the public. The most popular of the gardens are the Lingering Garden and the Humble Administrator’s Garden. A visit to these two gardens is sufficient enough to understand the extent of the beauty of classical gardens.

Also, do visit the place that gave Suzhou the nickname “Venice of the East,” the Zhou Zhuang water village, with its canals and Chinese “gondolas.”

And don’t forget the famous Gusu silk!

Best Way to Get Around:
Like all small cities in China, it is not easy getting around if you don’t know the language. For taxis, you will need instructions written in Chinese, and as for buses, there are not many around Suzhou to begin with. So I guess it’s best to forgo all the hassle and join a tour!

Highlights:
Main Tower: This is a viewing platform on the top of one of the city’s many skyscrapers. This is a great chance to get some nice panoramic photos of the city, which is just what I did.

Museumsufer: There are plenty of good museums in Frankfurt; many of them are part of the Museumsufer along the south bank of the Main River.

Hauptbahnhof area: The area just east of the Hauptbahnhof (central train station) is colorful but a bit seedy, as the red light district is located here. An amalgam of cheap foreign eateries and stores intermingle with sleazy sex shops.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Weather: A city where everything works and life is quite predictable. One thing that’s not - the weather. No matter what time of year you are visiting, it is best to pack a light raincoat. If you are there during the winter months, when there is always a chance of snow, you will need heavy clothes. Summers are usually warm, but not oppressively so. Nevertheless, beyond the weather elements there are elements in the city that make it enjoyable to visit and perhaps even stay.

Beer: Let’s not forget one thing Germans are famous for - BEER! The regional beer is quite good, and should be ordered with every meal (okay, maybe not breakfast.)

Speed Limit: Some of you may find this surprising…in Germany, there is no speed limit on their “autobahn” (highways). In fact you will be cautioned by police if you drive too slow. Isn’t it great!!

Best Way to Get Around:
Trains: Take the train! Take the train! Take the train! Local, regional, intercity, or international.

Bus: In between take the inexpensive, convenient, and very available city bus service that links with the trains of the inner city.

Metro: Do not forget the subway headquartered in the Main Station, which co-ordinates all parts of the city.

On Feet: When the September sun sparkles in a cobalt blue sky, walking can be the most pleasant and informative way to go. Up close and personal!

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Sex trade and shows are a staple in this country, so if you’re offended by pimps coming up to you, then Thailand is not a country to visit. But it has so much more to offer in way of the smiles and friendliness that these people exude.

Shopping and Bargains:
Bargains are aplenty and haggling is very accepted. If you like something, try to point on another before settling for that something you like at a bargain price and always use a calculator to bargain with them. Cost-wise, it’s a bang-for-your-buck destination. Visit the only Hatyai market located in downtown for cheap clothes and leather goods.

Language:
Sawadee Khab” (Hello, Welcome) if you’re male. “Sawadee Kha” if you’re female.
“Kop Khun Khab” (Thank You) for male. “Kop Khun Kha” for female.

Favourite Spots:
I enjoyed swimming in Samila Beach that located about 20km away from Hatyai downtown.
Book a ‘Tuk Tuk’ for half a day and go to Songkhla. A nice getaway.

Massage:
This is the main attraction for this small town. I have been to so many other countries and i must say Hatyai has the cheapest massage in the world. A traditional Thai massage will cost you as low as Baht 100 per hour or Baht 200 for two hours.

Accommodation:
There are many reasonably priced hotels in Hatyai. Price range can be from as low as Baht 600 to Baht 2,000. It is recommended to stay in the town area which is more convenient.

Hangouts:
You must visit KISS CHANNEL PUB. They have friendly staffs, good live music…and attractive dancers. The best pub to hangout at night in Hatyai

Best Way to Get Around:
Tuk Tuk
Best way is by the local taxi called a “Tuk Tuk” (pronounced Took Took). It’s cheap and they zip you around anywhere in the city. Just hail any of these colourful motorized tricycles and hop on board. Normal price for a ride is Baht 20. Beware of ‘overpriced’ Tuk Tuk.

Walking
Walking is another form of getting to know your bearings. A grid of 4 by 6 streets doesn’t seem much, but there’s always something around the corner that will catch your eye and you would have lost your bearings for a moment…or two.

1. Spanish Steps
2. Trevi Fountain
3. Pantheon
4. Colosseum
5. Vatican City
6. Roman Forum

Perhaps the most awe-inspiring sites in Rome would be Trevi Fountain, Vatican City , and Colosseum. The Colosseum is truly remarkable, ranking alongside the Great Wall as possibly the most spectacular man-made structure I’ve ever seen. Hands down to them.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
WHEN TO GO: Rome is hot and crowded with tourists in summer (June to August). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Winter is peaceful, but cold – it does snow in Rome.

WHERE TO STAY: There are plenty of affordable hotels around Termini train station, which is located in the city centre.

WHERE TO EAT: The markets, specialty shops and groceries (alimentari) are a good source of cheap, fresh food and the guidebooks list authentic, cheaper trattorias and pizzerias for that memorable evening meal.

OTHER TIP: It is certainly the best option to take your food away to one of the nearby attractions (try taking your sandwich at Trevi Fountain) and slowly enjoy your meal while watching the world go by.

Best Way to Get Around:
On foot: The best way to get around the city’s compact historic center is to walk. You will notice that most of the attractions are located near to each other.

Metro: Very basic two line system, easy to use and convenient. My hotel was near the Termini station, where the Metro lines have transfer points, so i could get to just about anything by riding. To be honest, although I bought day passes, I struggled to get value for money from them and merely ended up walking to sights from various bus stops and metro stations. HaHa!

Taxis: Reasonable but only worth it for longer rides. Traffic is so congested that you can cover the shorter distances faster on foot.

Bus: Take bus number 64 running from Termini to the Vatican, to visit all the attractions, and 116 and 117 which run through the center, but it’s also a thieves den for pickpockets- so be extremely careful.

Oh, and those stories about gypsies/itinerants and pickpockets? They’re true, but no more so than any other crowded city. Common sense is the best recommendation.

Highlights:
There are a number of small and independent shops in the town centre as well as the big chains you can find in any town. There is a market on Thursdays and Saturdays as well as a Farmers Market on the First Friday of Every Month.

The Banbury Cross, which is located on a roundabout in the middle of the town, was erected in 1859 to celebrate the wedding of Prince Frederick of Prussia to his bride, the original cross having been pulled down some 250 years earlier.

Banbury Cakes, a special fruit and pastry cake, are still produced. At one time they were being sent as far afield as Australia, India and America.

Best Way to Get Around:
Bicycle: The best way to get around Banbury town will be bicycle.

Highlights:
I’d never forget my visit to Tiananmen Square. It was a bitterly cold day, the wind was ferocious, and the red flags were vigorously flapping, but the square was constantly occupied. I guess you don’t visit Beijing without a walk across this historic square.

Take in a few parks, as Beijing does these really well, and although they were not awash with blossoms, they were still spectacular. I’d heartily recommend an organised trip to a Hutong and try to eat in local restaurants.

The Summer Palace, Forbidden Palace, Great Wall, Beijing Zoo, Tibetan Temple are all synonymous with Beijing? I did them all. I saw snow, high winds, bright blue skies, and heavy rain–what contrasts.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
My first tip is an obvious one - get yourself a decent map and try to orient yourself before embarking on a journey. If you’re clear where you’re going, you will be less likely to be pounced on by the ever-ready art students. They hover round corners waiting for tourists who look unsure, and be sure they will always have a free day, want they opportunity to practice their English, or have a new exhibition that they need people to view to ensure they pass their practical examinations.

The other potential predators are the aspiring official guides who need to practice on you so they can secure a job as games official when the Olympics come to Beijing. I’m a cynic and believe that both groups wanted to sell their knowledge to me as a guide for the day. I’m afraid I gave them little time.

Credit cards are really not accepted nor are traveler’s cheques at merchant stores. The Bank of China seems to be the only bank that exchanges currency and luckily is open on weekends.

Beijing has a few beggars. Avoid eye contact and keep walking. They are a nuisance but soon go away!

My final tip, again obvious, is to carefully plan your time in Beijing. There’s so much to see that you don’t want to waste a minute

Best Way to Get Around:
Metro: Beijing does have an fairly efficient tube station, but I have to confess that i was put off with the thought that many of the stations are not signed in English (or so i was told). The subway has two lines, line one runs from east to west and has a stop right in front of Tiananmen Square. Line two is shaped liked a square and encompasses the major sights like Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Lama Temple and Behai Park. Two more lines running north and south are in progress.

Taxis: Shuttles from the airport don’t start until 8:00am, but a taxi into town is only about Y96 (USD12). My hotel had given me a card with key place names in both English and Chinese. This proved really helpful, as i was always able to head back to our hotel or to a key tourist attraction. Drivers were able to speak a little English, but not enough to rely on. Never accept a taxi-trip off the meter. It will be more expensive than the metered fare.

Buses: Beijing has a comprehensive bus service, but i didn’t really get to grips with it, and it always seemed crammed full.

Highlights:
I’ve been to Bangkok many times, and here are some of the things that continue to hypnotize me - the things i can’t wait to do each time i return:
Hop on a boat, any boat: The public boats that ply the Chao Phraya and smaller khlongs are a cool way to sample Thai life.

Visit “Temple-Town”: The Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Mahathat are just plain awesome. Come and explore these classic monuments to Buddhism.

Go Market Mad: This is the city for markets. They’re everywhere. From tiny flower and local produce markets lining the khlongs to “Market Disneyland” and 9000 stalls at the weekend Chatuchak arm-wrestle.

Chew on a Chilli: Bangkok is foodie heaven. The unmistakable freshness and spice surrounds you with thousands of choices. Cruise the river dining on fresh seafood and their famous “Tom Yam” spicy soup to an encore of gilded temple spires and and orange sunset - all for a few dollars!

People Watch: This one’s free. You can do it anywhere, but the frenzied lanes of Chinatown and relaxed open spaces of Lumphini Park are two of the best locations to observe Thais at work and play.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
WHEN TO GO: Bangkok is hot. At night it just gets dark. Dark and hot. November to May is pretty dry, then the monsoon hits until October. I visit between November and February when the weather is coolest and it’s least humid. At this time the nights are wonderful.

WHERE TO STAY: This is the best tip. Stay by the river. It’s cooler, there’s less pollution, the scenery constantly changes, and you can travel almost anywhere by boat down the river and khlongs. I’ve uncovered a couple of gems for under USD35.

EXPLORING: Bangkok’s climate will sap your energy. Always carry plenty of water. But there are a few other general tips for negotiating the city: Buy Nancy Chandler’s Map, the key to unlocking Bangkok’s hidden treasures. Pace yourself - leave time for relaxing, and check opening times of attractions you plan to visit - they can be as fickle as European churches. Oh, and grab a hotel/guesthouse card with Thai printed directions for those late-night taxi or tuk-tuk drives - not many of these guys speak English.

BUDGET: I manage to live well on around Baht 800 (USD21) a day (for two), everything included.

Best Way to Get Around:
There’s no simple answer to the best way to get around. Here’s some of the options i have used and why:

Boats: Cheap and plentiful, they’ll get you to many of the places you want to visit and are my first choice. Beat the heat, pollution and traffic for the price of a public bus - a few cents.

Tuk-tuks: Use them to cover short distances away from the heat, mayhem and polluted, gridlock traffic of the main roads. Avoid catching tuk-tuks at peak hour, you’ll probably die of lead poisoning. They’re about the same price as a taxi.

Taxi: I’ve used them a few times to travel back to my hotel at night and they’re quite cheap - i’ve never paid more than Baht 150 (USD 4) for a trip anywhere in Bangkok.

Skytrain: If you want to get there in a hurry and grab some great views, this monorail-like transit system is the option for you. Although its purpose is to serve business commuters, some stops are convenient for major attractions.

Walking: No, I haven’t gone crazy. Many of Bangkok’s narrow lanes and riverfront areas are best explored on foot. It can be a walker’s city.

Highlights:
Victoria Peak: Victoria Peak is Hong Kong’s premier visitor attraction, providing magnificent harbour and city views. Arriving late afternoon enables you to experience the dazzling panorama of Hong Kong Island, the harbour, Kowloon and the hills beyond. Later, you can thrill to the neon-dotted skyline by night.

Repulse Bay: The colonial-style, The Repulse Bay, houses designer shops and award-winning restaurants and resembles the luxury hotel that originally occupied the site. This is the ideal place for a romantic dinner under the stars.

Ocean Park: Ocean Park is one of Southeast Asia’s largest oceanariums and theme parks, and tops the itinerary of many visitors to Hong Kong. You’ll need a whole day to see everything. There are funfair rides and dolphin shows, scenic cable cars and sea lions, magnificent shopping, and the two beloved giant pandas Ann Ann and Jia Jia.

Hong Kong Disneyland: This entertainment park invites you into the legendary fairytale kingdom that celebrates the spirit of fantasy. Mickey Mouse will welcome you to the happiest place on Earth complete with attractions exclusively designed for Hong Kong

Open-Air Markets: Hong Kong’s most famous open-air markets open around 2:00pm but really comes to life at dusk, with a bustling array of stalls selling everything from watches and leatherware to clothing and souvenirs. My recommendations for you enthusiastic shoppers; The Ladies’ Market, Temple Street Night Market, Jade Market, Stanley Market.

Aberdeen: Aberdeen Harbour is home to hundreds of people living on fishing junks. Their traditional lifestyle is dramatically juxtaposed against a modern high-rise community that spreads up thr nearby hillsides. To get a close-up look at the Aberdeen way of life, many visitors take a sampan ride.

Shopping: Dubbed as one of the best places to shop in the world, dont leave Hong Kong until you shop til you drop at Mong Kok, Jordan Road, CauseWay Bay and Central. It’s a must for all the shoppers.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Octopus Card: First thing to do if you’re going to use public transport is to buy an Octopus Card. They come with pre-paid travel on them and can be electronically added to at top-up machines. At the end of your journey, you can cash any unused credits and recover the card’s deposit. Some journeys are discounted when you travel on Octopus, and they’re useable for trains, ferries, some buses, and admission to the racetrack.

ATM: No problems in Hong Kong cashing money – the ATM’s took my debit card with no problem, and most places take credit cards.

Street Touts: Avoid the street touts who’ll regularly try to entice you to their warehouse for Rolex watches, tobacco, or suit fittings. After a time, you’ll spot them a mile off and can maneuver your way round them.

Rules: Remember to obey the pedestrian crossings – jaywalking can incur a heavy on-the-spot fine, along with eating or drinking on the subway.

Best Way to Get Around:
Train: In Hong Kong, you are spoilt for choice with means of transport. Hong Kong has a great and easy transport system, and i extensively used the train. It’s fast, efficient, and frequent, and i didn’t think it was expensive.

Taxis: For short journeys or ones that require changes of train, i generally opted for taxis.

Bus: There is a regular bus service, and although these are cheap, they are less immediate than cabs, and with four persons, the price differential was not great.

Star Ferry: The Star ferry is an excellent way to get across to Hong Kong island – much slower than the train, but much more picturesque.

Tram: On Hong Kong Island, pick up the tram – there is only one route with a single fare no matter how far you travel. It’s a tourist thing to do!

Accommodation:
Wang Fat Hostel: Hotels in Hong Kong are generally expensive. If you’re looking for a place which is cheap, highly convenient, friendly, and comfortable, look no further. This hostel has the best deal in Hong Kong. Don’t believe me?? This hostel has been awarded the “Best Hostel” in Hong Kong by travelling guide, Lonely Planet. You can see the certificate hanging on the wall as you enter the hostel. Their website is http://www.wangfathostel.com.hk