List Of The Best Bars In Singapore
 
Aug 17, 2020
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Introduction

Hanging around at a bar with friends while having drinks is definitely one of the best ways to destress after work. But most importantly, the bar itself matters.

If bar hopping is one of your favorite things to do, then look no further! The following features a list of the very top bars in Singapore for you to check them out.

1. Idlewild

Considered one of the most demanded bars in Singapore and visited often by the younger generation, this is one of the bars on the island that serves premium drinks. One of its alluring features is the quiet and welcoming atmosphere, the modern interiors as well as a live band. This bar does not do loud crowds, so its intimate ambiance is ideal for those seeking a quiet place to drink. They also have professional staff and most have deemed this place as the best of both worlds - good drinks, and good music. And for those who prefer unwinding at home, an online liquor store might be the best option for you!

2. Manhattan Bar

If you are the kind of customer who has high standards for their drinks, look no further as Manhattan Bar is known for its top-notch drinks. Although it may be pricey for some, this bar literally offers everything at high quality. From the food to their cocktails, right down to the ambiance provided. It is unsurprising why everyone falls in love with this bar once they have visited. A quirk of this bar is that they serve different foods and drinks every hour, which definitely makes their menu rich in both flavor and style.

3. Smoke & Mirrors

Giving you an overlook of Singapore’s skyline while you sip on your brand of poison while chatting with your friends, Smoke & Mirrors boasts an interesting yet contemporary menu of bites and drinks that will suit every customer’s taste. All drinks in this place are mixed by one of the most well known Spanish bartenders residing in Singapore, Jorge Conda. He comes up with the most intriguing and adventurous drinks you can only experience in this bar, which makes it worth the trip down!

4. The Horse’s Mouth

The Horse’s Mouth does Japanese food so well that it has to be on this list. Although this bar’s capacity is pretty large, it does not feel overwhelming or too squeezy even at the end of the week. It features a calm and quiet crowd that allows you to destress properly after a hard day at work. Being lauded by many customers who found this bar by accident, this bar can be said to be a hidden gem as it is not easy to find at all.

5. Kabuke

Being one of the bars known for both food and cocktails equally, Kabuke is a place where you can go if you have your priorities in order as they close at exactly 12 midnight. This gives you ample time to sleep and prepare for the next day’s work even after drinking. This bar is highly recommended for customers craving for premium Japanese food coupled with a cozy setting.

6. Tipple and Dram

What is different about Tipple and Dram is their wide variety of single malt whiskeys that are not available outside the bar itself, as well as the exclusively curated series of wines by the owner himself. This is a place that every connoisseur and those who are just starting out, should visit. Your experience will be rewarded by the knowledgeable staff and the overall relaxing vibe and atmosphere makes this an ideal place to end your workweek.

7. 1927 Rooftop Bar

Perfect for rooftop parties, the 1927 Rooftop Bar gives you the chance to experience a pool party on one of the most famed hotels in Singapore. The drinks are pricier here due to the downtown view and they especially specialize in rum and Caribbean drinks. The infinity-edged rooftop pool is definitely ideal for Singapore’s all-year-round summer weather, thus making it one of the must-visit bars on this list.

8. IB HQ

One of the most popular bars especially at night, most workers are known to spend their time there after work and this particular place has been featured often in review articles and websites globally. IB HQ also has professional bartenders who definitely know their stuff; offering a whole range of cocktails and sumptuous food to select from. They are also constantly upgrading their menu with new drinks, thus making it a place to visit more than once.

9. Blu Jaz

If your idea of unwinding is partaking in a jamming session with a cocktail in hand, this is the place for you! Featuring multi-levels, they take absolute pride in their range of food and beverages that complement the ambiance entirely.

10. La Maison Du Whisky

The name itself suggests that this is a cavern filled with an extensive deluxe collection of spirits from all over the world. They also boast a fine shelf of other alcoholic drinks such as rum, whiskey, gin, and vodka. If you are looking for a quiet and private time just enjoying your drink alone or with company, this is the place for you.

11. La Terre

Speaking of having an intimate experience with your wine and whiskey, La Terre will bring you that and more. Featuring a seemingly never-ending list of top-grade wine and whiskey among other drinks, this is the model place for you to end the night with drinks. Similar to the La Maison Du Whisky, this particular bar will leave you satisfied with its intimate setting.

12. ZIGGY’S Karaoke & Cocktail Bar

This is for those who enjoy music but wish to listen or even belt out music they especially want to listen to. Being flaunted as one of the best karaoke experiences one can get in Singapore, the karaoke rooms are lavishly decorated yet hidden away from the common eye. ZIGGY’s tips the scale by providing costumes and fancy props to allow their guests to really have an amazing night. This is also the ultimate venue to celebrate a special someone’s birthday, or to hold corporate events

13. The Exciseman Whisky Bar

A bar that was specially opened for the adventurous whiskey-lovers who are always up for a challenge. This bar definitely prides itself on having an extensive selection of not just Whisky, but also literally every other alcoholic beverage. You name it, they have it.

14. Alley Bar

Lastly, the Alley Bar is known for its live band and signature cocktails, as well as mocktails. If you wish to indulge in a fresh shot of martini, this is the place for you! Besides their menu, this bar does their architecture intricately, with an airy ceiling furnished with hanging lamps that will make customers think of vintage houses. This place is both elegant and classy in their drinks AND decor that promises you a wonderful evening ahead.

Conclusion

As seen from the list aforementioned, Singapore has no lack of interesting bars serving quality drinks at more often than not, affordable prices. So be sure to check some out after work today!

 
 
Can Indonesia's New Tourism Plan Ease Mass Tourism In Bali?
 
Sep 06, 2019
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Can Indonesia's New Tourism Plan Ease Mass Tourism In Bali?

Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport saw over 6.5 million arrivals in 2018, which indicates a more than 10% increase from last year’s numbers. Tourists from Australia, China and other countries all over the world are eager to explore one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. This isn’t surprising since you can enjoy a luxurious vacation in Bali but still remain under budget. However, given the risk of over-tourism in Bali, Indonesian President Joko Widodo has announced a new tourism plan called “10 New Bali” that will seek to develop other destinations in the country. Can this ease the mass tourism currently seen in Bali?

Bali As A Premier Boating Destination in Asia

As one of the provinces of Indonesia, Bali has become a premier boating destination because of its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, diverse marine life, world-class diving and best surf spots, among other amazing attractions. Tourists can hire a luxury yacht or cruise charter to explore Bali and its neighboring islands. You can also choose to ride personal watercraft to enjoy different water activities offered in the area. After some fun in the sun, tourists can head inland to visit temples and shrines to immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Balinese people. Many people flock to Bali because it’s possible to enjoy all these experiences while sticking to a budget.

While Bali’s tourism numbers are very good for Indonesia’s economic growth, mass tourism could have ecological, socio-cultural and economic consequences in the area. For example, the Benoa Bay reclamation plan in Nusa Dua, located in the southern part of Bali, could lead to the loss of marine life. A planned mega development could also threaten the livelihood of fishermen and other local businesses in the area.

Can “10 New Bali” Ease The Burden Of Over-Tourism in Bali?

Jokowi’s “10 New Bali” tourism plan aims to promote other amazing destinations in Indonesia. The destinations in this new tourism plan are Borobudur Temple, Toba Lake, Mount Bromo, Labuan Bajo, Mandalika, Wakatobi Islands, Tanjung Lesung Beach, Morotai Island, Thousand Islands and Tanjung Kelayan Beach. Many of these destinations can serve as alternative boating destinations for tourists who want to see more than Bali. Labuan Bajo, in particular, is expected to attract a lot of international tourists. The small fishing town, located on the island of Flores, has a lot of potential due to the idyllic beaches and nearby islands. It also serves as a gateway to the Komodo National Park.

Apart from boosting tourism in the country, this new tourism plan could also help ease the burden of over-tourism in Bali. However, in order to compete with Bali, the “10 New Bali” will have to receive a lot of investment from both the public and private sectors in order to build the infrastructures needed. It remains to be seen whether these new tourist destinations will be able to contribute to Indonesia’s goal of having 20 million tourists by 2020.

Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations not just in Indonesia, but in all of Asia. The province, as well as its neighboring islands, offers a wide variety of activities like boating and diving as well as gastronomic and cultural experiences as you head inland. However, with millions and millions of tourists received each year, over-tourism in Bali could become a massive problem with damaging effects. Thus, the Indonesian government has put forth a new tourism plan that promotes other amazing destinations in the country. With tourism numbers already at 18.2 million, it could be possible for Indonesia to reach its tourism goal in the next couple of years.

 
 
Newly Renovated Hotel Indigo HSP is Now Open for Business in Taiwan’s high-tech hub - Hsinchu
 
Oct 08, 2018
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HSINCHU, TAIWAN – Hsinchu city is better known around the world as Taiwan’s Silicon Valley rather than its chic and trendy hotels. However, the city’s hotel and F&B landscape has just been injected with a shot of coolness, thanks to the recent grand opening of the new Hotel Indigo Hsinchu Science Park (“Hotel Indigo HSP”).

Riant Capital Ltd., and its affiliated company Tech Bright Ltd. worked in conjunction with InterContinental Hotels Group (“IHG”) to bring the first Hotel Indigo to Northern Taiwan. The Hotel Indigo HSP represents a new innovation in Taiwan’s hotel sector focused on lifestyle design and service catered to the global business travelers. Through the close collaboration with the world-renowned lighting consultant, UNOLAI Design and uber stylish furniture designer Stellar Works, Riant Capital brought together a world class team to skillfully create this one of a kind Hotel Indigo.

Riant Capital Ltd.’s chairman Mr. Aaron Chan notes “We are extremely proud to have opened Hotel Indigo HSP in just three months, since we took over the property from the previous operator Miramar Hotel. Not only was the hotel opened in record time, but we have also accomplished the rebranding and repositioning of the property with minimum construction work but with a lot of style.”

Catering to the large demand from international young high-tech professionals, Hotel Indigo HSP represents a new generation of business lifestyle hotel for the millennial traveler. The ground floor’s innovative design features a café, bar, games room and restaurant, all of which are specifically designed for today’s modern young business professionals.

Mr. Aaron Chan further adds “Every detail of this hotel was designed with the needs of our customers in mind and nothing was spared in providing our guests with a memorable stay. The smells, sounds, sights, tastes and textures were all carefully selected to enhance the guest’s overall experience.”

The Hotel Indigo HSP is conveniently located adjacent to the main freeway exit and just a few minutes by car from the Hsinchu Science park. The 140-key hotel features 9 executive suites, 12 studios, 78 superior rooms, and 41 standard rooms, all equipped with Sealy mattresses, AVEDA bath amenities, branded high end Bluetooth speakers, and Nespresso coffee machines. Each room also has its own yoga matt in case you wish to follow the in-room yoga programs available via on-demand television.

CHAR bar & bistro, IHG’s flagship F&B concept offers exceptional western dining experience for guests on the first floor of the Hotel Indigo HSP. The 240 ping 4-in-1 F&B concept including café, bar, lounge, and restaurant is the first of its kind in Taiwan and the fourth in Asia following Shanghai, Beijing and Bangkok. The restaurant is known for its exquisite cuts, cooking methods, and high-equality steak combined with trendy lifestyle décor. Items offered on the menu include (not often to be seen in Hsinchu items) grain fed quality steak, Normandy fresh oysters and Boston lobsters. The bar offers some of finest craft beers from Taiwan.

The Mayor of Hsinchu Mr. Lin Chih-chien noted while attending the grand opening of Hotel Indigo HSP “Hsinchu has traditionally been known as a technology innovation hub. I hope everyone can visit Hotel Indigo HSP so that they can see Hsinchu has the capacity to innovate beyond the technology sector”.

 
 
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting India
 
Apr 24, 2018
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India has long been one of the world’s most loved travel destinations, due to the diversity of the landscape and the colorful cities that don’t stop in high heat. It is a place that enchants many people when they first visit and is somewhere people rarely visit only once. Once you have perfected your chosen route, you can think about what to do when to make it to each stop on your tour. However, to get the most out of your trip, you should follow some essential travel tips that are guaranteed to put your safety and enjoyment above all else.

Follow safety recommendations

As a country with a colorful history, there are a number of dangers you can encounter when you are traveling through India. Whether you are a solo traveler, or you have gone as a group, you should always follow recommended safety advice from travelers that have been before you. For example, you should ensure that you have all the appropriate vaccinations completed before you leave, which will ensure you don’t contract any diseases while you are away. Getting the necessary vaccinations when visiting India is easy when you find the right clinic. Once you are there, you should keep you and your belongings safe by taking out insurance.

Explore the natural world

The bustling cities in India are what draws people to the country, where they can see the culture, food, and poverty in one place. It is a place of extremes, which means alongside such urban landscapes, you can find some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. This ranges from smooth, white beaches to the peaks of the Himalayan Mountains. Not only this, but you will see exciting, exotic wildlife like tigers and elephants when you go on one of many wildlife safaris. If you are a nature lover, you can find an array of locations to explore that will make you want to stay longer than your planned trip.

Indulge in the culture

There will be times when you stay in cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, which are some of the best places to explore the history of the nation and indulge in the rich culture. Here, you can try authentic Indian food delicacies, stroll through the markets, and go on city tours through the busy streets. In any case, you should remember to take a good camera with you so that you can capture all you see along the way.

Go off the beaten track

India is home to many tourist hotspots, such as the Taj Mahal, which see millions of visitors each year. While it is worthwhile to see such impressive monuments, there are many hidden gems which lie off the beaten track, where you may find yourself making some of your best memories. If you would like to see tourist spots with fewer people surrounding you, you can try traveling in shoulder season when crowds are thinner, and prices for flights and hotels are much lower.

Photo by pavan gupta on Unsplash

 
 
Have You Been to Santorini?
 
Jun 07, 2017
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A 4,000-year-old history, an eternal rock that continues to stand, an island whose praises have been sung by fabulous poets – Santorini is all that and more. Robust and majestic in its beauty it rises well above the ground and guards the secret treasures of Atlantis. It is a famous island in not only Greece but the entire world. There are only a few destinations around the world that combine breathtaking scenery, stunning beaches, antediluvian cities, delectable cuisine all in one and Santorini is one of them.

It is an ideal destination that fulfills a range of traveling purposes. Be it a solo expedition, or a romantic getaway or an all-girl gang trip; one can experience a host of emotions when in Santorini. If you need a destination which is an assortment of the old and new, then Santorini is the way to go.

Since it will be your first time in Santorini, here are things you must know before heading out

Flights and Hotels

Santorini is a global tourist destination and sees a massive influx of people every year which amounts close to 1.5 million. If you are looking to travel and save money, make sure you book your flights and hotel in advance to avoid any last-minute hiccups. Visit an online travel portal like Yatra to book hotels and flights. You can even check flight status online on Yatra which can help you zero down on the cheapest flights.

The Magnificent Santorini Beaches

Santorini is famous for its beaches that are spread out on the southern and eastern side of the island. Every beach has a unique character to it which makes traveling to Santorini more enjoyable. The black pebbles toppled with unique land formations in the red, black and white sand makes up for a very different yet appealing view. The beaches are clean and organized with a choice of lounge chairs, water sports and are set up to chill. Beaches on the coastline of Oia will leave you enchanted. On the southern coast, the beaches of Monoliths, Kamari and Avis are frequented by families and is especially liked by children. There are several options for watersports on the Avis beach and is frequented by young’uns.

Perissa and Perivolos are two most famous beaches in Santorini. The two beaches together form the longest black-sanded beach on the island. On the southern side, there’s Vlychada with its beautiful moon shaped carved landscape, which was sculptured by the wind throughout the years.

Walk the Caldera Path – Explore

Walk over the Caldera over to Fira and enjoy the mesmerizing views you discover on your way. Make sure you have a camera by your side because you do not want to miss those picturesque moments. Santorini has a host of places that you can explore, from a sailing trip to sunset cruises, everything can be done with a little research.

A Historical Tale

Santorini has a plethora of archeological sites and is frequented by historians for its significance. From churches to prehistoric sites, one can engulf themselves in the chapter's history. Panagia Episkopi exists since the time of Byzantine Empire. It is carved in marble and combined with wax decoration.

The ancient city at Akrotiri exists since the prehistoric times, and it is often characterized as the ancient Pompeii of the Aegean.

Check out Wineries – Greek it Up!

Agriculture is the second source of income in Santorini, and their wineries are exceptionally famous and delightful. You should visit the Boutari Winery if you are looking to get educated on wines along with the taste sessions. The Santorini Brewing Company is a must-visit place too!

What to Eat – Feast

Santorini has extravagant options for foodies! You can have an entirely different meal every hour of the day, and it will not get boring. Chocolate croissants, Fava me Koukia, Tomato Keftedes, Saganaki, Greek Salad, Roasted Greek Lamb, Moussaka are some of the famous Greek dishes you cannot skip when in Santorini.

Santorini makes up for a perfect destination to unwind and enjoy nature in its magnificence. With so many things to do and places to see, Santorini is highly valuable for its tourism. An odd yet enchanting place, Santorini will leave you mesmerized with its beauty. Make sure you travel to this pristine location at least once, in your lifetime, we are confident you will be coming back.

 
 
China and Japan's Gateway to Worldwide Golf Courses
 
Nov 28, 2016
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Leading Golf Booking Platform golfscape Releases Bookings in Multiple Languages

by golfscape on November 2016

For the first time, golf-enthusiasts from China and Japan can book golf tee times in over 50 golf destinations in their mother-tongue.

Both destinations provide a huge proportion of golf tourism revenue to Western countries year-on-year. As Chinese and Japanese cultures look to spend on tourism experiences, this opens up a great opportunity for golf courses and golf destinations around the world.

This project came about as a reaction to the high demand of Chinese and Japanese golfers arriving to the golfscape platform to book golf in Bali and around the world. It was clear customers wanted a richer experience in a language they understand. golfscape responded by focusing on the concept of making sure Japan and China could book tee times as easily as English speakers.

The platform has been live in Asia as a beta service for the past two weeks. golfscape has generated hundreds of bookings from Asian speakers, and the feedback from both these communities has been tremendous.

About golfscape
golfscape is a leading worldwide golf-travel search platform, a place where people are inspired to plan and book golf direct with hundreds of top golf courses around the world.

For more information visit golfscape at https://golfscape.com
Press Contacts: Keesa O’Dea
keesa@golfscape.com
+971525020815

 
 
How Asia's Top Travel Blogs Cope with Larger Market
 
Oct 05, 2016
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More and more tourism destinations in Asia, the governments behind them and private operators running tour packages and services are realising the importance of online promotion. We’re seeing a large increase of familiarisation trips, designed to attract bloggers and key influencers to promoted destinations across Asia.

What’s interesting is how these bloggers and influencers then act as the main promotional channels for the destinations. Their seemingly personal blogs are garnering lots of traffic – and their social media profiles are flooded with user engagement. How do they cope with a larger, international audience?

The Shift to Cloud Hosting

One of the most apparent trend among Asia’s top travel bloggers is the massive shift to Cloud hosting. Blogging is turning into a serious occupation – and a big business – for these bloggers, which is why they are strengthening their websites to handle more traffic.
Cloud hosting is indeed the right technology for the purpose. More server resources can be allocated for each site, allowing even the most feature-intensive blogs to handle millions of visitors with ease.

Another interesting trend is bloggers moving their sites to foreign servers or using CDNs to reach international viewers. Companies like bestwebhosting.co.uk are reporting an increase in Asia-based travel sites using their servers to penetrate UK and European markets.

More Financial Backings to Match

As mentioned previously, blogging is no longer something these travel bloggers do on the side. There are even American and European bloggers who now specialise in exploring Asia. Nomadic Matt, for instance, is a famous blog about traveling to Asia run by a New York Times Best Seller author born in Boston.

The market is growing rapidly, just as the market for tourism in Asia is growing rapidly. Governments and their programmes are pushing tourism forward. More money is being allocated for online promotions and a large portion of that goes towards building relationships with travel bloggers and popular websites.

The growing business means it is now rewarding to blog fulltime and stick to travel as the primary niche. We haven’t even begun to talk about how private companies and service providers endorse – and pay – travel bloggers to promote their services too.

New Destinations to Explore

One of the challenges of running a big blog is keeping the audience happy. To do that, you need to constantly provide your audience with valuable content. Thanks to the growing tourism industry across Asia, there is no shortage of new destinations to explore.

Indonesia, for instance, is introducing 16 new destinations to visit. Malaysia continues to promote places like Kuala Lumpur as the centre of Asia. Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and other Asian countries are following suit, opening their gates to more international travellers.

The market will only continue to grow. It is interesting to see how blogs that used to be about personal notes and journals are now competing with big publications and becoming more effective ways of promoting tourism in Asia. Soon, we’ll see another shift towards live blogging and videos too, especially now that video is dominating the content market.

 
 
Venue sourcing in a rising market
 
Aug 26, 2016
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The meetings industry continues to thrive which may be good for the economy but creates new challenges for the planner. According to the annual Amex report, meeting spend is rising globally, led by the Asia Pacific region with a 2.1 expected increase, followed by a 1.9 percent rise in North America (2016). What does this mean to planners?

Sourcing venues and hotels in a rising market can create unique challenges. While technology tools may assist planners with the process; they only scratch the surface when it comes to choosing the right venue. Based on a full set of criteria which typically includes location, cost, look and feel, amenities, contractual terms, dates, to name a few, putting together the options in a meaningful way can be daunting. Moreover, as each market encompasses different dynamics how does the planner know they are getting the best venue/value proposition?

According to Smartmeetings.com; these are the top reasons planners choose an event space:

1. Location

A venue in a convenient location can be the difference between a large turnout and an event that flops. If the event is hosting people from out of town, consider a venue near an airport or hotels. Events should be easy and enjoyable for guests, not a hassle.

2. Cost

Before planning any event, it’s crucial to sit down and plan a budget you can stick to. Pay attention to the cost of the venue so that you can ensure you have enough money for food, equipments, decorations, and other expenses for the event. While we all want to book the most glamorous venue, it’s sometimes necessary to compromise and be flexible.

3. Look & feel

While it’s fairly easy to manipulate a space with decorations, there are some things that can’t be changed such as the architecture and overall atmosphere of the venue. Whether you’re planning a social event or a corporate meeting, the venue needs to be able to define the experience your guests have. By choosing the right venue with the right atmosphere, you’ll be more likely to create an unforgettable experience for your guests.

4. Capacity and Availability

How many attendees are you expecting for the event? This would include things like space/room capacity (including lobby and exhibitor space if you are planning a meeting or convention); load in/out amenities; and technical capabilities.

It is always better to have several day / time options in mind (or at least be flexible with the date and time of the event) before start reviewing venues options so you are not immediately limit the number of the venues you can consider.

5. Amenities

Aside from how the venue looks, consider what the venue offers. Is it a one stop shop for all your event planning needs? Consider if the venue has a kitchen and catering staff, seating, a setup/clean up crew, and AV capabilities. These are just a few of the services you should be asking about when choosing a venue.

With all of these factors to consider, how does a planner ensure they are getting the best options in a market? Having sourced programs in over 750 destinations in 150 countries; now is a GREAT time to let Global Cynergies be your advocate and your consultant for your next meeting, anywhere in the world; at no cost to you. With over 100 experienced professionals in 21 countries we are poised to help you save time and money! Let us earn your trust and your business one meeting at a time!

About Global Cynergies
Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Global Cynergies is a hotel and venue selection company comprised of more than 100 industry professionals located in 21 countries. Global Cynergies offers the best solutions in sourcing hotel rooms and meeting space for local, regional, and global meetings at no cost to their clients. For more information, visit www.globalcynergies.com

For further enquiries, please contact:
Elna Vogel
Account Manager, Worldwide Hotel & Venue Selection Specialist
Global Cynergies, LLC
Phone: +1 936-697-3181
Email: evogel@globalcynergies.com

- ASIA TODAY Newswire http://www.AsiaToday.com

 
 
5 Things you should do during your Weekend Getaway in Bangkok
 
Dec 23, 2015
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Bangkok has been in, or around, number one spot as the world's top tourist destination for several years now, and for good reason. This thriving metropolis of more than six million people, which sprawls across more than 1,500 square kilometres, is a vibrant city which successfully displays a rich heritage alongside a thrusting new, modern veneer. Taking the pulse of such a unique place in a weekend is almost impossible, but these top tips will give you a chance – along with a weekend never to forget.

1. The Grand Palace

This dazzling complex of buildings on the banks of the Chao Phraya river was home to the Kings of Siam and, later, Thailand, for almost 150 years, until 1925. Now only used for ceremonial occasions and official events, the palace remains the city's most recognisable landmark, this deeply royalist country's spiritual heart and one of its most visited attractions. It's a must for any visit to Bangkok, and at over 218,000 square metres, there's plenty to see.

Discover Bangkok Attraction - The Grand Palace on eOasia!

The palace complex is comprised of numerous buildings, halls and pavilions set around open lawns, gardens and courtyards. It includes several majestic and eclectic constructions, including the most important temple in the country, Wat Phra Kaew, so named in Thai after the greatly revered Emerald Buddha housed there, which dates back to the 14th century.

The Outer Court of the palace housed government departments, such as the treasury, army and civil administration. The Inner Court was where the King's royal consorts and daughters lived, and this area is still not open to the public. Visitors are allowed inside the spacious European style reception room or Grand Palace Hall. There is also the opulent Dusit Hall, the antique throne room and a museum detailing the palace's history.

2. The Hangover Tour

This tour takes you around some of the locations made famous – as opposed to simply infamous! – by the movie The Hangover Part 2. It also provides a great and safe way to visit the seedier parts of Bangkok (and a cast-iron excuse, too!)

Guided by an experienced 'nightlife specialist', the tour visits featured bars from the movie in the nightlife hotspots of Soi Cowboy, Patpong and Nana. Also included are visits to other venues, such as for Thai boxing bouts and go-go shows. The overall experience can be tailored to suit the particular tastes of the group, and it's good to know that the 'seediness factor' can be turned up or down. The duration of the night can also be adjusted to fit the good sense / wildness of the group, returning you safely to your hotel by midnight, or else to a club to party through the night.

Book Hangover Night Tour in Bangkok on eOasia!

3. Chatuchak Market

With more than 8000 stalls arranged in 27 sections, Chatuchak is certainly Thailand's biggest market and one of the largest in the world. It opens on Friday evening and runs through the whole weekend, and with plenty of great places to dine and snack along the way, as well as the occasional live act to enjoy, Chatuchak is a great day-out.

The market's 27 sections offer a range of goods that are grouped into nine categories: plants, antiques, pets, food and drink, fresh and dry food, ceramics, furniture and home decoration, clothes, and books. There's plenty to see even if you aren’t tempted to buy anything – and most likely, you will be.

Clothing dominates the market, from youth items to those from more sophisticated labels. The home decoration section is a great place for inexpensive Thai ceramics. And many of the plants stalls are also open on weekday afternoons. Thankfully, there's an information centre and maps to find your way around – and your way back out!

4. Tuk Tuk Tour

The tuk tuk is another great symbol of the country and zipping around Bangkok in one is a truly unmissable fun experience. While the vast majority of tuk tuk drivers are reputable, a few will try and take tourists for a ride in more ways than one. With an established tuk tuk tour and English speaking guide, you can't go wrong.

You can take a day tour that takes in such sites as Phra Sumeru Fortress, Thammasart University, where you will learn some of the history of the area, the temple of Wat Pho, birthplace of Thai massage, Phahurat Market in the heart of Little India, and the 'Thieves Market', so named for its now, thankfully, lapsed reputation for dealing in stolen goods. The tour concludes at Wat Saket with its 360 degree view of the surrounding Rattanakosin Island.

A night-time tour affords a different view of the city, its tourist sites quieter and, perhaps, more beautiful, lit up for the evening. This is certainly true of Wat Pho, which at night instead is far calmer and emanates a mystic atmosphere. The flower market wakes up at night and is a riot of colours, and activity, too. The tour also stops for some delicious sampling opportunities of the best in Thai street food.

Book Tuk Tuk Tour in Bangkok on eOasia!

5. Sing Sing Bar and Theatre

For an especially memorable evening out in Bangkok, visit Sing Sing Bar and Theatre in Sukhumvit. New for late 2015, this retro-futuristic venue is described by its designer as "a classy cool sexed up hiso club" set amidst a warren of hidden rooms.

The highly creative design integrates feng shui elements into a concept loosely modelled on a Chinese brothel theme. Here, intricate wrought ironwork features dragon motifs, beautiful lanterns hang from the ceiling, and elegant hostesses complete the look in classic Qipao dresses.

You can see live performances on the stage here, including international recording artists, erotic dance, comedy and martial arts. From midnight onwards, DJs spin hip dance music, including electronica and house, for a cool crowd.

 
 
5 Most Underrated And Extremely Beautiful Tourist Destinations In India
 
Dec 16, 2015
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India is full of surprises. Every nook and corner of this country has something to offer that a traveler can appreciate it in all its grandeur. Imbibing the best of east and west, the resultant India has a plethora of things to offer. Whether it is its distinct lip-smacking cuisines from across states or those breathtakingly beautiful places spanning different cultures, architectural styles and geography. A lifetime is too short to explore it all. With those with a time crunch, it helps to use domestic flight coupons to buy your tickets within India.

Having said that, we present you a few of the underrated and extremely beautiful tourist destinations in India which should probably make it to your bucket-list. Before you check the list though, it may be worth noting that India isn’t for the faint hearted. Even for someone living in India, it is crucial to make sure you prepare for the conditions you’ll face when at your destination on the subcontinent.

1. Roopkund Lake

If you have a flair for thrill and don’t mind going a little extra mile to satisfy your hunger for the unknown, then Roopkund Lake is the destination for you. Having made headlines for the mystery skeleton case, this lake is flanked by misty mountains and the calm Himalayan demeanor which makes it a must visit.

2. Chitrakoot Falls

Claiming to be India’s largest falls, Chitrakoot Falls is situated in Chhattisgarh. Having an enviable 100 feet drop of River Indravati, the sight that this falls makes for is truly one to behold. Its magnificence will leave you awestruck and wishing you’d knew about it earlier!

3. Lambasingi

Located in the Vishakapatnam district in Andhra Pradesh, Lambasingi is probably the only place in the South of India which can boast of snowfall. Intrigued already, aren’t you? The place has a pleasant climate ranging from 0-10 degrees Celsius year round and rightfully dubbed as the ‘Kashmir of India’.

4. Gavi

If wildlife and nature are your go-to words when it comes to traveling, look no further. Gavi situated in Kerala is the place to go. Located in the Pathanamthitta district, on the highway connecting Kollam and Madurai, it is a part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Another fun fact? The only two Gopher trees in India are found in Gavi. Yes, the same tree that Noah used to built his ark!

5. Ziro

To those acquaint with the popular music festivals of India, the name Ziro will definitely ring a bell. Having hosted the festival for almost three years now, Ziro has already gained quite a name for itself. This calm and serene hill-town lets you unwind in the most perfect manner. Named a World Heritage Site for its stunning natural beauty, Ziro Valley, is rich in biological diversity owing to the wide variety of flora and fauna and offers so much more owing to a traveler’s delight!

By Staff Writer