Thu, 03/01/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Hwajin ShinAs the last year of the
Visit Korea Campaign, 2012 is looking to be a bright year for tourism in
Korea: More than 10 million tourists are expected to visit Korea this year,
approximately double the amount of 12 years ago. And with the upcoming
Nuclear Security Summit in March, Seoul's accommodations industry is in
overdrive. Hotels are working frantically to keep up, as thousands of new
rooms are being built for this influx of guests, reported the Chosun Ilbo.
But for the individual backpacker's point of view, it doesn't matter how many
thousands of rooms there are. They just need one. And while hosteling hasn't
always enjoyed the best reputation (think dorms, grimy bathrooms and unsavory
roommates), the following new breed of Seoul hostels are definitely not
run-of-the-mill. While they are infinitely cheaper than hotels, travelers
won't have to worry about checking the bed linen for tobacco stains. For
savvy backpackers and families with children seeking unique cultural exchange
experiences, here are the three best youth hostels in Seoul. read more
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
10 best city-centric travel apps
Thu, 03/01/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Tom TiberioThere's a world of
difference between visiting someplace where you have friends, versus a town
where you don't know anyone. Travel apps, at their best, are like
companions who can serve as unofficial tour guides: they can tell you the
city's ins and outs, its points of interest and its pitfalls. With a
growing list of more than 20,000 apps dedicated to travel, there are plenty
to choose from. Here, we've focused on some of the coolest, most useful
city-themed ones -- all designed to make your life easier. 1) Nashville
Live Music Guide Music City is known for being a place where you can discover
the Next Big Thing in the music world on any given night, at any number of
venues. This helps you find them.read more
difference between visiting someplace where you have friends, versus a town
where you don't know anyone. Travel apps, at their best, are like
companions who can serve as unofficial tour guides: they can tell you the
city's ins and outs, its points of interest and its pitfalls. With a
growing list of more than 20,000 apps dedicated to travel, there are plenty
to choose from. Here, we've focused on some of the coolest, most useful
city-themed ones -- all designed to make your life easier. 1) Nashville
Live Music Guide Music City is known for being a place where you can discover
the Next Big Thing in the music world on any given night, at any number of
venues. This helps you find them.read more
A year on: Tourism shudders in quake-hit Japan
Wed, 02/29/2012 - 23:55 — Anonymous by Jessica OcheltreeThe earthquake and
tsunami that struck Japan in March 2011 killed almost 20,000 people and laid
waste vast tracts of land and property. Yet that disaster pales in comparison
with the fact that Tokyo is long overdue for a massive earthquake of its own.
With upward of 35 million residents in the metropolitan area, Tokyo is both
the financial and the political capital of Japan, as well as the home of the
Imperial family. A mega earthquake would not just level the metropolis, but
cripple the country for decades to come. The last time Tokyo was hit by a
major earthquake was in 1923, when more than 100,000 died in the Great Kanto
Earthquake. The government's Earthquake Research Promotion agency has revised
the likelihood of a magnitude-7.0 or higher quake hitting the Kanto region
surrounding Tokyo to 70 percent over the next 30 years. Now, though,
researchers at Tokyo University are saying we could well see that large a
temblor in the next four years -- startling numbers that were picked up by a
number of major news outlets, both in Japan and out.read more
tsunami that struck Japan in March 2011 killed almost 20,000 people and laid
waste vast tracts of land and property. Yet that disaster pales in comparison
with the fact that Tokyo is long overdue for a massive earthquake of its own.
With upward of 35 million residents in the metropolitan area, Tokyo is both
the financial and the political capital of Japan, as well as the home of the
Imperial family. A mega earthquake would not just level the metropolis, but
cripple the country for decades to come. The last time Tokyo was hit by a
major earthquake was in 1923, when more than 100,000 died in the Great Kanto
Earthquake. The government's Earthquake Research Promotion agency has revised
the likelihood of a magnitude-7.0 or higher quake hitting the Kanto region
surrounding Tokyo to 70 percent over the next 30 years. Now, though,
researchers at Tokyo University are saying we could well see that large a
temblor in the next four years -- startling numbers that were picked up by a
number of major news outlets, both in Japan and out.read more
Vang Vieng: Backpacker heaven or hedonistic hell?
Thu, 03/01/2012 - 00:35 — Anonymous by Matthew BennettView over the Nam
Song River in Vang Vieng, Laos. Southeast Asia's newest party spot?Magic
mushroom shake? Opium pizza? Bucket of whiskey anyone? Welcome to Vang
Vieng, former traditional farming village, now hot point of drugs, booze,
techno and partying and Laos' hottest backpacker haunt. The rise -- perhaps
that should be fall -- of this town sitting on the Nam Song River and
surrounded by beautiful karst scenery, has been dramatic, and its notoriety
has spread far. You are more likely to see topless tourists vomiting than you
are local culture and it has been written: "If teenagers ruled the world,
it might resemble Vang Vieng." It has hit the headlines most dramatically
in recent months for the deaths of at least two Australian tourists while
tubing on its river.read more
Song River in Vang Vieng, Laos. Southeast Asia's newest party spot?Magic
mushroom shake? Opium pizza? Bucket of whiskey anyone? Welcome to Vang
Vieng, former traditional farming village, now hot point of drugs, booze,
techno and partying and Laos' hottest backpacker haunt. The rise -- perhaps
that should be fall -- of this town sitting on the Nam Song River and
surrounded by beautiful karst scenery, has been dramatic, and its notoriety
has spread far. You are more likely to see topless tourists vomiting than you
are local culture and it has been written: "If teenagers ruled the world,
it might resemble Vang Vieng." It has hit the headlines most dramatically
in recent months for the deaths of at least two Australian tourists while
tubing on its river.read more
Boing! Singapore Takeout pops up in Sydney
Wed, 02/29/2012 - 10:33 — Anonymous There may be no such thing as a free
lunch, but at least the Sydney leg of the Singapore Takeout world food tour
has a rather splendid gourmet dinner up for grabs this March. Some 30 locals
will get the chance to win a visit to the itinerant pop-up restaurant at
Campbell's Cove on March 14 and tuck into the culinary creations of
Ignatius Chan from Singapore's acclaimed Iggy's restaurant. Competition
details are on the globetrotting venture's Facebook page and the deadline
for throwing your hat into the ring is March 4. Out to impress The usual
superb array of Singaporean dishes that has already tickled the taste buds of
London, Paris and New York -- to name but three stops since the juicy
juggernaut started rolling last summer -- will be on the menu. Winners making
the trip to the shipping-container-turned-kitchen and its attached 30-seat
restaurant will find some of the best regional cuisine served up by the team
from one of the Republic's best-loved restaurants. read more
lunch, but at least the Sydney leg of the Singapore Takeout world food tour
has a rather splendid gourmet dinner up for grabs this March. Some 30 locals
will get the chance to win a visit to the itinerant pop-up restaurant at
Campbell's Cove on March 14 and tuck into the culinary creations of
Ignatius Chan from Singapore's acclaimed Iggy's restaurant. Competition
details are on the globetrotting venture's Facebook page and the deadline
for throwing your hat into the ring is March 4. Out to impress The usual
superb array of Singaporean dishes that has already tickled the taste buds of
London, Paris and New York -- to name but three stops since the juicy
juggernaut started rolling last summer -- will be on the menu. Winners making
the trip to the shipping-container-turned-kitchen and its attached 30-seat
restaurant will find some of the best regional cuisine served up by the team
from one of the Republic's best-loved restaurants. read more
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Be a Taipei Sweet Potato Mama for a day
Wed, 02/29/2012 - 04:57 — Anonymous by Zoe Li, Hong Kong EditorA volunteer
vacation like no other in Taiwan comes in the form of "Live As a Local"
tours. The free day-tour allows visitors to experience a day in the life of a
street vendor in Taipei. Topology Travel takes visitors to meet single
mothers who have been taught by the Genesis Social Welfare Foundation to cook
sweet potatoes in mobile oil drums and sell them to make a living. Visitors
hang out with these "Sweet Potato Mamas," as Taiwanese like to call them, and
get to know a side of Taiwan that isn't promoted in glossy travel ads. "It
isn't just an interesting activity for the visitors," says Peter Lin, the
30-year-old founder of Topology Travel. "Sweet Potato Mamas also get to meet
people from around the world. They want to travel but don't have the
opportunity."read more
vacation like no other in Taiwan comes in the form of "Live As a Local"
tours. The free day-tour allows visitors to experience a day in the life of a
street vendor in Taipei. Topology Travel takes visitors to meet single
mothers who have been taught by the Genesis Social Welfare Foundation to cook
sweet potatoes in mobile oil drums and sell them to make a living. Visitors
hang out with these "Sweet Potato Mamas," as Taiwanese like to call them, and
get to know a side of Taiwan that isn't promoted in glossy travel ads. "It
isn't just an interesting activity for the visitors," says Peter Lin, the
30-year-old founder of Topology Travel. "Sweet Potato Mamas also get to meet
people from around the world. They want to travel but don't have the
opportunity."read more
7 Hainan hotels for 7 types of travelers
Tue, 02/28/2012 - 23:57 — Anonymous by John CoughlanTouted as the
country's only "international tourism destination", tropical Hainan Island
(海南岛) is at the forefront of China's hotel boom. According to
the Hainan Tourist Bureau, the 33,000-square-kilometer island currently
houses more than 209 starred hotels. At Haitang Bay alone, a 42.8-kilometer
beach on the eastern coast, around 30 five-star resorts and 70 luxury
hotels are planned to open over the next few years. When guidebook author
Andrew Dembina first visited Hainan in 1992, the closest beach to Sanya had a
handful of hotels and Yalong Bay had just one resort set back from the long
beach. Now, both beaches are jammed with resorts. "The Sheraton at the
man-made Holiday Beach, just outside Hainan's capital of Haikou further
north, is the only foreign hotel brand to have survived a few years in this
lesser visited vicinity," notes Dembina, who wrote the Hainan chapter for
Insight Guides' "Southern China" guidebook. More on CNNGo: Hainan Island:
Heaven or hell for luxury hotels?read more
country's only "international tourism destination", tropical Hainan Island
(海南岛) is at the forefront of China's hotel boom. According to
the Hainan Tourist Bureau, the 33,000-square-kilometer island currently
houses more than 209 starred hotels. At Haitang Bay alone, a 42.8-kilometer
beach on the eastern coast, around 30 five-star resorts and 70 luxury
hotels are planned to open over the next few years. When guidebook author
Andrew Dembina first visited Hainan in 1992, the closest beach to Sanya had a
handful of hotels and Yalong Bay had just one resort set back from the long
beach. Now, both beaches are jammed with resorts. "The Sheraton at the
man-made Holiday Beach, just outside Hainan's capital of Haikou further
north, is the only foreign hotel brand to have survived a few years in this
lesser visited vicinity," notes Dembina, who wrote the Hainan chapter for
Insight Guides' "Southern China" guidebook. More on CNNGo: Hainan Island:
Heaven or hell for luxury hotels?read more
Biofuel flights: Will 'green' air travel also be cheaper?
Wed, 02/29/2012 - 00:02 — Anonymous by Hiufu WongIt may be impressive that
sustainability in aviation starts with its creative use of fuselage. But it
is downright amazing that it extends to our used cooking oil as well. Etihad
Airways operated its first biofuel-powered delivery flight recently. The
Boeing 777-300ER flew 14 hours from Seattle to Abu Dhabi on a blend of
traditional jet fuel and recycled vegetable cooking oil. It was the first
biofuel-powered flight for Etihad and also the first in the Gulf to be
operated using sustainable biofuel. This year German airline Lufthansa also
completed its six-month trial operating the world's first biofuel-powered
route. Nearly 1,200 flights were completed between Hamburg and Frankfurt,
reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 1,471 tonnes.read more
sustainability in aviation starts with its creative use of fuselage. But it
is downright amazing that it extends to our used cooking oil as well. Etihad
Airways operated its first biofuel-powered delivery flight recently. The
Boeing 777-300ER flew 14 hours from Seattle to Abu Dhabi on a blend of
traditional jet fuel and recycled vegetable cooking oil. It was the first
biofuel-powered flight for Etihad and also the first in the Gulf to be
operated using sustainable biofuel. This year German airline Lufthansa also
completed its six-month trial operating the world's first biofuel-powered
route. Nearly 1,200 flights were completed between Hamburg and Frankfurt,
reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 1,471 tonnes.read more
Geoffrey Norman: If Hemingway was there, give the joint a miss
Tue, 02/28/2012 - 09:56 — Anonymous by Geoffrey NormanIt took a while for
me to establish one of my most firm rules of travel -- 20 years, to be
exact. The length of time between the honeymoon my wife and I took to the
Florida Keys and the second honeymoon we spent in Venice. We stayed in
Islamorada in the Upper Keys on our honeymoon. For the fishing. But we
drove down to Key West one day and went to the usual places and did the usual
things. I had it in my mind that I wanted to go to the saloon where Hemingway
did his drinking and my wife thought that would be interesting. Turned out,
it was wretched. Sloppy Joe's was loud and overdone with Hemingway
memorabilia, including a 119-pound sailfish he'd caught. read more
me to establish one of my most firm rules of travel -- 20 years, to be
exact. The length of time between the honeymoon my wife and I took to the
Florida Keys and the second honeymoon we spent in Venice. We stayed in
Islamorada in the Upper Keys on our honeymoon. For the fishing. But we
drove down to Key West one day and went to the usual places and did the usual
things. I had it in my mind that I wanted to go to the saloon where Hemingway
did his drinking and my wife thought that would be interesting. Turned out,
it was wretched. Sloppy Joe's was loud and overdone with Hemingway
memorabilia, including a 119-pound sailfish he'd caught. read more
Monday, February 27, 2012
Joe Louis Puppet Theater: A new home for Bangkok's masters of puppets
Tue, 02/28/2012 - 10:23 — Anonymous by Aloha LavinaBangkok's Joe Louis
Puppet Theater, also known as "Nattayasala Hun Lakorn Lek," was once one
of Bangkok's top attractions. It was founded by the late master of puppets
Sakorn Yangkhieosod in 2002, whose English name was Joe Louis, and showcased
the remarkable Thai traditional art of puppetry. Sadly, the curtain dropped
permanently for the show in 2010, when its contract with the now demolished
Suan Lum Night Bazaar expired. Many thought that was the end of the
historic Bangkok attraction. But now it's been confirmed that the Joe Louis
puppets will dance again at Asiatique, a new waterfront dining, shopping and
entertainment complex on Charoen Krung Road. According to officials, the new
theater will open in June. Before the curtain dropped at Suan Lum Night
Bazaar, we headed backstage to check out one of the skilled puppeteers' last
performances. For an idea of what to expect when the Joe Louis Puppet Theater
re-opens in its new location in June, check out some of the images
below. read more
Puppet Theater, also known as "Nattayasala Hun Lakorn Lek," was once one
of Bangkok's top attractions. It was founded by the late master of puppets
Sakorn Yangkhieosod in 2002, whose English name was Joe Louis, and showcased
the remarkable Thai traditional art of puppetry. Sadly, the curtain dropped
permanently for the show in 2010, when its contract with the now demolished
Suan Lum Night Bazaar expired. Many thought that was the end of the
historic Bangkok attraction. But now it's been confirmed that the Joe Louis
puppets will dance again at Asiatique, a new waterfront dining, shopping and
entertainment complex on Charoen Krung Road. According to officials, the new
theater will open in June. Before the curtain dropped at Suan Lum Night
Bazaar, we headed backstage to check out one of the skilled puppeteers' last
performances. For an idea of what to expect when the Joe Louis Puppet Theater
re-opens in its new location in June, check out some of the images
below. read more
Korean government swoops in to help ripped-off tourists
Tue, 02/28/2012 - 11:02 — Anonymous by CNNGo staff The Korean government
has leapt into action following nationwide media coverage condemning Korean
vendors who rip off tourists. The Chosun Ilbo ran an exposé earlier this
month on scams at pojangmachas (covered street carts) which was then picked
up and bandied about by scores of media outlets up and down the country. One
of the foreign victims was Japanese tourist Nakamura Haru, who ordered a
single kimchi jeon and two bottles of beer, and was told to pay ₩50,000
(US$44) at a Namdaemun pojangmacha. The standard cost for such fare at most
pojangmacha is around ₩16,000. "I couldn't communicate so I just paid
and left, but I didn't know Korea's standards were so low," Nakamura
told Chosun Ilbo. He said that he had been "nervous" about entering the
pojangmacha, as its menu did not list any prices. Chinese tourist Qu Fui Han,
31, was also being ripped off at a pojangmacha in Dongdaemun, according to
the Korean daily. Qu, who speaks fluent Korean, said the owner yelled at him
for complaining when he asked why he was paying four times as much as a
Korean customer.read more
has leapt into action following nationwide media coverage condemning Korean
vendors who rip off tourists. The Chosun Ilbo ran an exposé earlier this
month on scams at pojangmachas (covered street carts) which was then picked
up and bandied about by scores of media outlets up and down the country. One
of the foreign victims was Japanese tourist Nakamura Haru, who ordered a
single kimchi jeon and two bottles of beer, and was told to pay ₩50,000
(US$44) at a Namdaemun pojangmacha. The standard cost for such fare at most
pojangmacha is around ₩16,000. "I couldn't communicate so I just paid
and left, but I didn't know Korea's standards were so low," Nakamura
told Chosun Ilbo. He said that he had been "nervous" about entering the
pojangmacha, as its menu did not list any prices. Chinese tourist Qu Fui Han,
31, was also being ripped off at a pojangmacha in Dongdaemun, according to
the Korean daily. Qu, who speaks fluent Korean, said the owner yelled at him
for complaining when he asked why he was paying four times as much as a
Korean customer.read more
Come together, right now: Best places for group vacations in the U.S.
Tue, 02/28/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Dana JosephYou're in the United
States for two weeks, with endless friends, family and colleague to meet and
greet. What to do? Instead of running around to try to make all your
obligations, why not gather everyone in one great spot. All you've got to
do is agree on the destination. Here are seven solid possibilities to get
you started. Sundance Resort, Utah The Tree Room at Sundance Resort,
brainchild of the Sundance Kid. read more
States for two weeks, with endless friends, family and colleague to meet and
greet. What to do? Instead of running around to try to make all your
obligations, why not gather everyone in one great spot. All you've got to
do is agree on the destination. Here are seven solid possibilities to get
you started. Sundance Resort, Utah The Tree Room at Sundance Resort,
brainchild of the Sundance Kid. read more
Underground in Vietnam: Caves, tunnels and wine cellars
Tue, 02/28/2012 - 00:00 — Anonymous by Karryn MillerVietnam may be focused
on building upwards, but what's happening underground is perhaps more
exciting than the latest skyscraper -- think hidden caves large enough for
40-story buildings and wartime tunnels traversing the earth beneath your
feet. Here are some of Vietnam's unique sites below the surface.
World's biggest cave A Manhattan city block, buildings included, would fit
quite nicely inside parts of Son Doong cave in central Vietnam's Phong
Nha-Ke Bang National Park. But you won't find anything remotely urban here.
In the world's largest cave passage lofty stalagmites, some shooting as
high as 70 meters, stand in for concrete office blocks while shafts of light
from above have led to wild gardens taking root on the cave's floor. Son
Doong is one of the many caves underneath the 85,754 hectares of park, which
holds UNESCO World Heritage site honors. While the limestone karst landscape
on top is impressive, the system of caves, grottoes and underground rivers
give visitors a distinct "Journey to the Center of the Earth"
experience.read more
on building upwards, but what's happening underground is perhaps more
exciting than the latest skyscraper -- think hidden caves large enough for
40-story buildings and wartime tunnels traversing the earth beneath your
feet. Here are some of Vietnam's unique sites below the surface.
World's biggest cave A Manhattan city block, buildings included, would fit
quite nicely inside parts of Son Doong cave in central Vietnam's Phong
Nha-Ke Bang National Park. But you won't find anything remotely urban here.
In the world's largest cave passage lofty stalagmites, some shooting as
high as 70 meters, stand in for concrete office blocks while shafts of light
from above have led to wild gardens taking root on the cave's floor. Son
Doong is one of the many caves underneath the 85,754 hectares of park, which
holds UNESCO World Heritage site honors. While the limestone karst landscape
on top is impressive, the system of caves, grottoes and underground rivers
give visitors a distinct "Journey to the Center of the Earth"
experience.read more
12 guidebook myths about India
Mon, 02/27/2012 - 23:55 — Anonymous by Hilary Fischer-Groban1. If you see
one thing, see the Taj Mahal No offense to Shah Jahan and Mumtaz, but there
are dozens of sites in India that are guaranteed to mesmerize. If Mughal
architecture is your thing, then definitely make the somehow-always
unpleasant journey to Agra. Otherwise, Udaipur, Ranakpur or even Munnar
should be the highlight of your journey. The art of haggling = don't be a
jerk. 2. Unless you're in a government-run shop, you need to haggle The
first problem with this myth is that it can be confusing how to determine
what is truly a government-run shop, if there even are such official
things.read more
one thing, see the Taj Mahal No offense to Shah Jahan and Mumtaz, but there
are dozens of sites in India that are guaranteed to mesmerize. If Mughal
architecture is your thing, then definitely make the somehow-always
unpleasant journey to Agra. Otherwise, Udaipur, Ranakpur or even Munnar
should be the highlight of your journey. The art of haggling = don't be a
jerk. 2. Unless you're in a government-run shop, you need to haggle The
first problem with this myth is that it can be confusing how to determine
what is truly a government-run shop, if there even are such official
things.read more
Cathay Pacific premium economy class stretches out
Mon, 02/27/2012 - 09:14 — Anonymous by Hiufu WongMarking its foray into the
"enhanced" economy-class trend that's been re-igniting passenger enthusiasm
for long-haul travel, Cathay Pacific accepted delivery of a new Boeing
777-300ER aircraft yesterday. Fitted with the airlines' new "premium economy"
class seating configuration, the aircraft is the first of 87 planes Cathay
plans to offer with the new class of service by the end of 2013. Cathay
Pacific premium economy class will be offered in a dedicated section with 26
to 34 seats. The section will be located between economy and business class
areas. Cathay Pacific premium economy features include more legroom than in
economy class and a dedicated flight attendant for the section. Noting that
the cost of a premium economy ticket will be 50 to 80 percent higher than for
a standard economy ticket, Cathay Pacific Chief Operating Officer Ivan Chu
said that Cathay is stressing the "premium" over "economy."read more
"enhanced" economy-class trend that's been re-igniting passenger enthusiasm
for long-haul travel, Cathay Pacific accepted delivery of a new Boeing
777-300ER aircraft yesterday. Fitted with the airlines' new "premium economy"
class seating configuration, the aircraft is the first of 87 planes Cathay
plans to offer with the new class of service by the end of 2013. Cathay
Pacific premium economy class will be offered in a dedicated section with 26
to 34 seats. The section will be located between economy and business class
areas. Cathay Pacific premium economy features include more legroom than in
economy class and a dedicated flight attendant for the section. Noting that
the cost of a premium economy ticket will be 50 to 80 percent higher than for
a standard economy ticket, Cathay Pacific Chief Operating Officer Ivan Chu
said that Cathay is stressing the "premium" over "economy."read more
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Delta expands network in China
Sun, 02/26/2012 - 16:25 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffAs many as one million
Chinese tourists traveled to the United States in 2011. To transport all of
them from home to the other side of Pacific would have required almost 2,000
A380s, the world's largest civilian aircraft. And those tourist numbers are
expected to increase by up to 40 percent in 2012 due to the new streamlined
U.S. visa policy. No sensible airline would ignore such a market. Which is
probably why Delta Air Lines is expanding its codesharing partnership with
two of China's biggest carriers -- China Eastern and China Southern -- in
order to enhance its China market presence. Bigger and better The new
agreements, which were approved by Civil Aviation Administration of China on
February 15, will allow both Chinese carriers to stick their codes and flight
numbers on Delta-operated flights between Seattle and Beijing. read more
Chinese tourists traveled to the United States in 2011. To transport all of
them from home to the other side of Pacific would have required almost 2,000
A380s, the world's largest civilian aircraft. And those tourist numbers are
expected to increase by up to 40 percent in 2012 due to the new streamlined
U.S. visa policy. No sensible airline would ignore such a market. Which is
probably why Delta Air Lines is expanding its codesharing partnership with
two of China's biggest carriers -- China Eastern and China Southern -- in
order to enhance its China market presence. Bigger and better The new
agreements, which were approved by Civil Aviation Administration of China on
February 15, will allow both Chinese carriers to stick their codes and flight
numbers on Delta-operated flights between Seattle and Beijing. read more
What to do in Bali
Mon, 02/27/2012 - 04:57 — Anonymous by Charlene FangMany would argue that
Bali is a paradise lost. It isn't. It's just evolved. If you want to
know what to do in Bali, remember first that the island has transformed
itself from a laidback surfer hangout into one of the world's most popular
holiday destinations. It now offers as many experiences as the varying hues
of green found in a plot of terraced rice paddy. Whether you're a
hardcore partygoer determined to eat, drink and not sleep your way through
Seminyak; a yoga devotee seeking peace and tranquility in Ubud's tropical
rainforest setting; a die-hard surfer whose only agenda is to paddle out and
catch the monster swells at Padang Padang; or a curious traveler charmed by
Bali's sacred temples in Manggis -- you can do it all (or do nothing at
all) in Bali. read more
Bali is a paradise lost. It isn't. It's just evolved. If you want to
know what to do in Bali, remember first that the island has transformed
itself from a laidback surfer hangout into one of the world's most popular
holiday destinations. It now offers as many experiences as the varying hues
of green found in a plot of terraced rice paddy. Whether you're a
hardcore partygoer determined to eat, drink and not sleep your way through
Seminyak; a yoga devotee seeking peace and tranquility in Ubud's tropical
rainforest setting; a die-hard surfer whose only agenda is to paddle out and
catch the monster swells at Padang Padang; or a curious traveler charmed by
Bali's sacred temples in Manggis -- you can do it all (or do nothing at
all) in Bali. read more
Tuscany down under in the Melbourne suburbs
Mon, 02/27/2012 - 04:55 — Anonymous by Ian Lloyd Neubauer In the mid-19th
century, some 2,000 Swiss-Italians from the cantons of Ticino and Grison
joined the great European migration to the Australian goldfields. Many
settled in Hepburn Shire northwest of Melbourne and home to the largest
concentration of mineral springs in Australia. But, unlike Chinese and other
non-English-speaking migrant groups that moved on when the gold ran out, the
Swiss-Italians remained and prospered in Hepburn in the production of
high-quality wine, cheese, fruits and vegetables. Europe in Oz Built in 1864,
Heritage-listed Villa Parma is arguably one of Hepburn Spring's most
impressive architectural treasures. Reminders of their influence can be found
everywhere in Hepburn -- the Old Macaroni factory on Main Road, the
Bathhouse/Pavilion Café at Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve and at Parma
House -- a stately two-story residence built in 1864 by viticulturist
Fabrizzio Crippa.read more
century, some 2,000 Swiss-Italians from the cantons of Ticino and Grison
joined the great European migration to the Australian goldfields. Many
settled in Hepburn Shire northwest of Melbourne and home to the largest
concentration of mineral springs in Australia. But, unlike Chinese and other
non-English-speaking migrant groups that moved on when the gold ran out, the
Swiss-Italians remained and prospered in Hepburn in the production of
high-quality wine, cheese, fruits and vegetables. Europe in Oz Built in 1864,
Heritage-listed Villa Parma is arguably one of Hepburn Spring's most
impressive architectural treasures. Reminders of their influence can be found
everywhere in Hepburn -- the Old Macaroni factory on Main Road, the
Bathhouse/Pavilion Café at Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve and at Parma
House -- a stately two-story residence built in 1864 by viticulturist
Fabrizzio Crippa.read more
Bangkok's 'Hitler chic' trend annoys tourists, Israeli envoy
Mon, 02/27/2012 - 04:55 — Anonymous by Tibor KrauszA shopper poses with a
large "McHitler" dummy soliciting donations for flood relief. Its head has
since been covered by a Lucha Libre wrestler's mask. Cartoon pandas,
Teletubbies, Ronald McDonald. At first glance they don't seem to have much
in common beyond a certain childlike quality. But during a visit to Bangkok
you may discover another trait these popular cultural icons now share: their
resemblance to Adolf Hitler. In the Thai capital's latest outbreak of Nazi
chic, pandas, Teletubbies and Ronald have metamorphosed into cutesy alter
egos of the Führer, who seems to exert a childlike fascination over some
young Thais. With any luck you can spot trendy young souls strutting around
in T-shirts bearing cartoonish images of the Nazi dictator. In a particularly
popular design, Hitler is transformed into a cartoonish Ronald McDonald, the
fast-food chain's clown mascot, sporting a bouffant cherry-red hairdo and a
stern look. On another T-shirt the Führer is shown in a lovely panda costume
with a Nazi armband. On yet another he appears as a pink Teletubby with doe
eyes, jug ears and a pink swastika for an antenna. He pouts petulantly like a
spoiled brat while flashing the Nazi salute.read more
large "McHitler" dummy soliciting donations for flood relief. Its head has
since been covered by a Lucha Libre wrestler's mask. Cartoon pandas,
Teletubbies, Ronald McDonald. At first glance they don't seem to have much
in common beyond a certain childlike quality. But during a visit to Bangkok
you may discover another trait these popular cultural icons now share: their
resemblance to Adolf Hitler. In the Thai capital's latest outbreak of Nazi
chic, pandas, Teletubbies and Ronald have metamorphosed into cutesy alter
egos of the Führer, who seems to exert a childlike fascination over some
young Thais. With any luck you can spot trendy young souls strutting around
in T-shirts bearing cartoonish images of the Nazi dictator. In a particularly
popular design, Hitler is transformed into a cartoonish Ronald McDonald, the
fast-food chain's clown mascot, sporting a bouffant cherry-red hairdo and a
stern look. On another T-shirt the Führer is shown in a lovely panda costume
with a Nazi armband. On yet another he appears as a pink Teletubby with doe
eyes, jug ears and a pink swastika for an antenna. He pouts petulantly like a
spoiled brat while flashing the Nazi salute.read more
Friday, February 24, 2012
10 reasons we love Singapore
Fri, 02/24/2012 - 12:55 — Anonymous by Aimee ChanEveryone loves to complain
about Singapore -- but you're still here, aren't you? There are some very
positive reasons why many are choosing to stay, rather than leave, the Little
Red Dot. It's not just that Singapore is clean, green and safe. And
positivity doesn't mean a cheesy, clichéd campaign slogan or overstated
accolades. Day-to-day life in Singapore can be pretty good, even if you loath
to admit it.read more
about Singapore -- but you're still here, aren't you? There are some very
positive reasons why many are choosing to stay, rather than leave, the Little
Red Dot. It's not just that Singapore is clean, green and safe. And
positivity doesn't mean a cheesy, clichéd campaign slogan or overstated
accolades. Day-to-day life in Singapore can be pretty good, even if you loath
to admit it.read more
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Aberdeen's best fish ball shop to close
Fri, 02/24/2012 - 11:13 — Anonymous by Joyce ManIf you are a Hong Kong fish
ball connoisseur, you know Tse Kee. And you are probably lining up at their
doors right now for one of its last bowls of fish balls. The family-run
Aberdeen fish ball joint has been dishing out the Chiu Chow snack with soup
noodles for 65 years. Now, Tse Kee is counting down to its March 31 closing
date. Faced with rising fish prices and staffing problems, the eatery has
decided to shut it doors rather than compromise its commitment to fresh
ingredients. "Your fish has to be fresh, it's that simple," says Tse Chan
Wai-fong, the restaurant's matriarch. Tse Kee has become an institution of
Chiu Chow-style fish snacks. Fish balls, fish dumplings, deep-fried fish
cakes and fish skins are all favorites of Tse Kee's regulars. read more
ball connoisseur, you know Tse Kee. And you are probably lining up at their
doors right now for one of its last bowls of fish balls. The family-run
Aberdeen fish ball joint has been dishing out the Chiu Chow snack with soup
noodles for 65 years. Now, Tse Kee is counting down to its March 31 closing
date. Faced with rising fish prices and staffing problems, the eatery has
decided to shut it doors rather than compromise its commitment to fresh
ingredients. "Your fish has to be fresh, it's that simple," says Tse Chan
Wai-fong, the restaurant's matriarch. Tse Kee has become an institution of
Chiu Chow-style fish snacks. Fish balls, fish dumplings, deep-fried fish
cakes and fish skins are all favorites of Tse Kee's regulars. read more
China's next big travel trend: U.S. TV show tours
Fri, 02/24/2012 - 09:59 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffNow that the U.S.
government has started streamlining the visa process for Chinese travelers,
China's fast-growing tourism market has spotted a new way to zip about the
United States: travel with fewer people but more focus. One Shanghai-based
travel agency recently launched a "U.S. TV show tour" on its website,
grabbing the attention of Chinese netizens and U.S. TV series addicts. TV
shows: travelers' window to the U.S. The 10-day cross-country tour is
organized by Yi Xiang Consultancy (逸香高端定制), a travel agency
specializing in high-end customized outbound trips, and is scheduled to take
off on April 2. Priced at RMB 19,800 (US$3,143), the 20-strong group is set
to touch down in Los Angeles, where they can do V-sign poses in and around
the Nokia Theater (where the 2011 Emmy Awards were presented), take in the
Grammy Museum and swing by a certain TV set to catch the crew in action (Yi
Xiang has yet to reveal the name of the TV show). The group will then head to
Las Vegas for the crime lab in "CSI," which wil be followed by a visit to San
Francisco's Alcatraz Island.read more
government has started streamlining the visa process for Chinese travelers,
China's fast-growing tourism market has spotted a new way to zip about the
United States: travel with fewer people but more focus. One Shanghai-based
travel agency recently launched a "U.S. TV show tour" on its website,
grabbing the attention of Chinese netizens and U.S. TV series addicts. TV
shows: travelers' window to the U.S. The 10-day cross-country tour is
organized by Yi Xiang Consultancy (逸香高端定制), a travel agency
specializing in high-end customized outbound trips, and is scheduled to take
off on April 2. Priced at RMB 19,800 (US$3,143), the 20-strong group is set
to touch down in Los Angeles, where they can do V-sign poses in and around
the Nokia Theater (where the 2011 Emmy Awards were presented), take in the
Grammy Museum and swing by a certain TV set to catch the crew in action (Yi
Xiang has yet to reveal the name of the TV show). The group will then head to
Las Vegas for the crime lab in "CSI," which wil be followed by a visit to San
Francisco's Alcatraz Island.read more
Gallery: How to take stunning landscape photographs
Thu, 02/23/2012 - 23:22 — Anonymous by Hark LeeAs a landscape photographer,
I react to weather very differently from most people. A beautiful sunny day
in California without a cloud in the sky would probably cause me to groan,
"Oh please, not again, the weather is terrible." Yes, I am appalled by
clear, sunny days. If there are too many of them, I'm brought down to the
level of chronic depression. The recent three-month long drought caused by La
Niña brought me to the brink of a meltdown. On the other hand, clouds
exhilarate me. And certain kinds of foul weather.read more
I react to weather very differently from most people. A beautiful sunny day
in California without a cloud in the sky would probably cause me to groan,
"Oh please, not again, the weather is terrible." Yes, I am appalled by
clear, sunny days. If there are too many of them, I'm brought down to the
level of chronic depression. The recent three-month long drought caused by La
Niña brought me to the brink of a meltdown. On the other hand, clouds
exhilarate me. And certain kinds of foul weather.read more
10 coolest hotel minibar items
Fri, 02/24/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Hoishan Chan, Hiufu WongWhile the
worst minibar is undoubtedly an empty minibar, there's no escaping the fact
that most, even when bursting with small clinking goods, are over-priced and
underwhelming. But some are worth a lingering look, even if to partake would
mean forgoing the cost of dinner that night. These hotels have reinterpreted
the minibar to provide an alternative (and sometimes very luxurious)
convenience for the discerning hotel guest. Also on CNNGo: World's 15 most
expensive hotel suites 1. Bling H2O bottled water Trump International Hotel &
Tower, Chicago, United Statesread more
worst minibar is undoubtedly an empty minibar, there's no escaping the fact
that most, even when bursting with small clinking goods, are over-priced and
underwhelming. But some are worth a lingering look, even if to partake would
mean forgoing the cost of dinner that night. These hotels have reinterpreted
the minibar to provide an alternative (and sometimes very luxurious)
convenience for the discerning hotel guest. Also on CNNGo: World's 15 most
expensive hotel suites 1. Bling H2O bottled water Trump International Hotel &
Tower, Chicago, United Statesread more
Photo gallery: Sukhothai, Thailand's ancient capital
Wed, 02/22/2012 - 13:50 — Anonymous by Derrick Chang For many tourists,
Thailand's ancient history involves a day trip to Ayutthaya. They see a few
demolished ruins between the crowds of other tourists, and return to the
hotel thankful they got that out the way and can now go into R and R mode.
It's a shame they don't head further north to Sukhothai; it's still the
best place to experience a laidback glimpse of Thailand's pre-Bangkok days.
Sukhothai was the capital of Thailand from 1238 until 1438 and features the
Sukhothai Historical Park, which was unaffected by last year's
floods. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with the ruins of royal
palaces, Buddhist temples and historical monuments. If you get there early
enough you'll enjoy the golden morning light and have the park to yourself,
which makes for an incredible photo opportunity. The best way to tour the
ruins in and outside the city walls is to rent a bicycle or a motorbike,
which also gives you a chance to see the scenic countryside surrounding the
old town. Bike rentals are available at the park gates. getting there Buses
depart from Bangkok's Mochit Bus station daily. The trip takes roughly
five-and-a-half hours. There are no direct trains to Sukhothai but you can
travel as far as Phitsanulok and then take a local bus to Sukhothai, which is
about 50 kilometers away. Bangkok Airways flies twice daily to Sukhothai in
the morning and afternoon. The flight takes approximately one hour. Sukhothai
is divided into the old and new towns, which are 12 kilometers apart. If you
want to get to the Sukhothai Historical Park early in the morning, it's
best to stay in the old town. A full range of hotels, resorts and guest
houses lies adjacent to the park. Public buses ferry guests between the old
and new town every 20 minutes. read more
Thailand's ancient history involves a day trip to Ayutthaya. They see a few
demolished ruins between the crowds of other tourists, and return to the
hotel thankful they got that out the way and can now go into R and R mode.
It's a shame they don't head further north to Sukhothai; it's still the
best place to experience a laidback glimpse of Thailand's pre-Bangkok days.
Sukhothai was the capital of Thailand from 1238 until 1438 and features the
Sukhothai Historical Park, which was unaffected by last year's
floods. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with the ruins of royal
palaces, Buddhist temples and historical monuments. If you get there early
enough you'll enjoy the golden morning light and have the park to yourself,
which makes for an incredible photo opportunity. The best way to tour the
ruins in and outside the city walls is to rent a bicycle or a motorbike,
which also gives you a chance to see the scenic countryside surrounding the
old town. Bike rentals are available at the park gates. getting there Buses
depart from Bangkok's Mochit Bus station daily. The trip takes roughly
five-and-a-half hours. There are no direct trains to Sukhothai but you can
travel as far as Phitsanulok and then take a local bus to Sukhothai, which is
about 50 kilometers away. Bangkok Airways flies twice daily to Sukhothai in
the morning and afternoon. The flight takes approximately one hour. Sukhothai
is divided into the old and new towns, which are 12 kilometers apart. If you
want to get to the Sukhothai Historical Park early in the morning, it's
best to stay in the old town. A full range of hotels, resorts and guest
houses lies adjacent to the park. Public buses ferry guests between the old
and new town every 20 minutes. read more
Japan plans ‘space elevator’ by 2050
Thu, 02/23/2012 - 13:28 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffGoing up -- next stop,
zero-gravity. How would you like to spend a week in an elevator? No, this
isn't David Blaine's latest stunt to survive seven days of Muzak, it's
a plan by one Japanese company to put space onto every traveler's bucket
list. The 36,000-kilometer high, 200-kph lift will be ready by 2050,
according to Obayashi Corporation, and will take passengers a tenth of the
way to the moon. For travelers, it could mean bragging rights over those who
opt for alternative space tourism ventures such as Virgin Galactic and Space
Expedition Curacao, both of which offer sub-orbital flights up to 100
kilometers, well short of Obayashi Corp's 36,000-kilometer high.
Also on CNNGo: Tokyo to London in 90 minutes, via spaceread more
zero-gravity. How would you like to spend a week in an elevator? No, this
isn't David Blaine's latest stunt to survive seven days of Muzak, it's
a plan by one Japanese company to put space onto every traveler's bucket
list. The 36,000-kilometer high, 200-kph lift will be ready by 2050,
according to Obayashi Corporation, and will take passengers a tenth of the
way to the moon. For travelers, it could mean bragging rights over those who
opt for alternative space tourism ventures such as Virgin Galactic and Space
Expedition Curacao, both of which offer sub-orbital flights up to 100
kilometers, well short of Obayashi Corp's 36,000-kilometer high.
Also on CNNGo: Tokyo to London in 90 minutes, via spaceread more
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
The Korean godfather of charcoal-roasted coffee
Thu, 02/23/2012 - 09:07 — Anonymous by Frances Cha, Seoul EditorLocated on
the outskirts of the quirky Heyri Art Village in the Gyeonggi province, Kaldi
Coffee features the high ceilings, beautiful hand-carved wooden tables and
chairs and rows of delicate glass siphon coffeemakers at the bar that would
make it seem like the perfect coffee shop to spend a rainy day. But when
passers-by -- most of whom made the trip to see the various art galleries in
the village -- walk in to order some coffee, they tend to be met with
surprise, rather than the briskly efficient order-taking characteristic of
most coffeeshops. Also on CNNGo: Heyri Art Village: Korea's melting pot of
creativity Despite its appearance, Kaldi Coffee is not really a coffeeshop.
In the coffee-obsessed Korean foodie blogosphere, it is known as "the
factory," and the origin of charcoal-roasted coffee in the country. "The
taste is quite different than coffee made from beans roasted over gas
fire," says owner Seo Duk-sik, 54, of the unique method of roasting beans
over charcoal. "It's subtler, and much more aromatic."read more
the outskirts of the quirky Heyri Art Village in the Gyeonggi province, Kaldi
Coffee features the high ceilings, beautiful hand-carved wooden tables and
chairs and rows of delicate glass siphon coffeemakers at the bar that would
make it seem like the perfect coffee shop to spend a rainy day. But when
passers-by -- most of whom made the trip to see the various art galleries in
the village -- walk in to order some coffee, they tend to be met with
surprise, rather than the briskly efficient order-taking characteristic of
most coffeeshops. Also on CNNGo: Heyri Art Village: Korea's melting pot of
creativity Despite its appearance, Kaldi Coffee is not really a coffeeshop.
In the coffee-obsessed Korean foodie blogosphere, it is known as "the
factory," and the origin of charcoal-roasted coffee in the country. "The
taste is quite different than coffee made from beans roasted over gas
fire," says owner Seo Duk-sik, 54, of the unique method of roasting beans
over charcoal. "It's subtler, and much more aromatic."read more
Why hailing a Singapore taxi is about to get easier
Thu, 02/23/2012 - 09:58 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffSingapore is famous for
its rigid regulations, and taxis are no exception. Think you can just step
off the curb and hail a ride, New York City style? Sorry. If you're a
first-time visitor to Singapore, you might find yourself cursing as you watch
cab after cab ignore your attempts to flag them down, despite their
illuminated green lights. That's because before 10 p.m. in the central
business district (CBD), taxi drivers are only allowed to pick up and drop
off fares at designated stands, where queues can be painfully long during
rush hour, and building driveways. But new rules that come into effect next
month will make it easier for people looking to catch a ride in the CBD.
More on CNNGo: Meet Singapore's most tech-enabled taxiread more
its rigid regulations, and taxis are no exception. Think you can just step
off the curb and hail a ride, New York City style? Sorry. If you're a
first-time visitor to Singapore, you might find yourself cursing as you watch
cab after cab ignore your attempts to flag them down, despite their
illuminated green lights. That's because before 10 p.m. in the central
business district (CBD), taxi drivers are only allowed to pick up and drop
off fares at designated stands, where queues can be painfully long during
rush hour, and building driveways. But new rules that come into effect next
month will make it easier for people looking to catch a ride in the CBD.
More on CNNGo: Meet Singapore's most tech-enabled taxiread more
10 of the best Sydney day trips for children
Thu, 02/23/2012 - 04:55 — Anonymous by Chantal AbitbolSure, Sydney may be a
cosmopolitan place known for its smart eateries, pubs and colorful nightlife,
but don't be totally fooled. By day, this family-friendly city also offers
loads to do to keep its most-demanding residents happy too. Here's our pick
of the top 10 things to do with the kids. And even if you don't have
children, many are still worth a visit. 1. Splash the dugongs at Sydney
Aquarium Set in the heart of Sydney on Darling Harbour, Sydney Aquarium
showcases more than 12,000 marine animals from 650 species in habitat
displays, including platypuses, seahorses, giant turtles, jellyfish and
thousands of tropical fish. But the main drawcard is a series of underwater,
see-through tunnels, where sharks and giant stingrays glide overhead and
alongside visitors. Also on top of the must-see list -- a pair of native
dugongs, or sea cows, called Pig and Wuru, who were taken into captivity
after being found washed up on different beaches in Queensland.read more
cosmopolitan place known for its smart eateries, pubs and colorful nightlife,
but don't be totally fooled. By day, this family-friendly city also offers
loads to do to keep its most-demanding residents happy too. Here's our pick
of the top 10 things to do with the kids. And even if you don't have
children, many are still worth a visit. 1. Splash the dugongs at Sydney
Aquarium Set in the heart of Sydney on Darling Harbour, Sydney Aquarium
showcases more than 12,000 marine animals from 650 species in habitat
displays, including platypuses, seahorses, giant turtles, jellyfish and
thousands of tropical fish. But the main drawcard is a series of underwater,
see-through tunnels, where sharks and giant stingrays glide overhead and
alongside visitors. Also on top of the must-see list -- a pair of native
dugongs, or sea cows, called Pig and Wuru, who were taken into captivity
after being found washed up on different beaches in Queensland.read more
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Tokyo’s classiest café brings back the butler
Tue, 02/21/2012 - 22:41 — Anonymous by Brandi Goode"Yes, my princess!"
These are the first words caressing my ears (more like assaulting, really --
these guys are super-genki) as I enter Butlers Café in Shibuya, a retreat
for young females in search of a relaxing afternoon, an English lesson and
most importantly, the chance to interact with friendly men. Friendly foreign
men. The surroundings call to mind a Victorian grandmother's sitting room,
with classical music, ample accents of lace and more hearts and roses
adorning the furniture than can possibly be counted. Butlers Café is one of
a growing band of similarly themed establishments in Tokyo, but it is the
only one where English is the official language. After interviewing 200 women
on the streets of Shibuya nearly six years ago, owner Yuki Hirohata found
that nearly all of them listed English conversation practice as a leading
goal because they wanted to "communicate with foreigners."read more
These are the first words caressing my ears (more like assaulting, really --
these guys are super-genki) as I enter Butlers Café in Shibuya, a retreat
for young females in search of a relaxing afternoon, an English lesson and
most importantly, the chance to interact with friendly men. Friendly foreign
men. The surroundings call to mind a Victorian grandmother's sitting room,
with classical music, ample accents of lace and more hearts and roses
adorning the furniture than can possibly be counted. Butlers Café is one of
a growing band of similarly themed establishments in Tokyo, but it is the
only one where English is the official language. After interviewing 200 women
on the streets of Shibuya nearly six years ago, owner Yuki Hirohata found
that nearly all of them listed English conversation practice as a leading
goal because they wanted to "communicate with foreigners."read more
How to survive a Chinese drinking frenzy
Wed, 02/22/2012 - 04:57 — Anonymous by Trista BaldwinIf you thought
shotgunning a beer in under five seconds back in uni was the pinnacle of
drinking prowess, you've probably never been properly ganbei'd. China's
version of "down the hatch" is a bit like the Power Hour, which involves
repeated and prolonged shooting of small amounts of alcohol -- red wine if
you're lucky, baijiu if you're not. Though observed in all social
circles, ganbei is particularly prominent in China's formal banquet
culture, where business suits and government officials rub elbows, talk
business and get completely sloshed. Shanghai-based food and wine critic
Lawrence Lo and a few seasoned ganbei-ers, shared the secrets of this
thoroughly intoxicating custom. 1. You're in, or you're out While
you're not obliged to chug the night away, it is tacitly expected at a
business banquet.read more
shotgunning a beer in under five seconds back in uni was the pinnacle of
drinking prowess, you've probably never been properly ganbei'd. China's
version of "down the hatch" is a bit like the Power Hour, which involves
repeated and prolonged shooting of small amounts of alcohol -- red wine if
you're lucky, baijiu if you're not. Though observed in all social
circles, ganbei is particularly prominent in China's formal banquet
culture, where business suits and government officials rub elbows, talk
business and get completely sloshed. Shanghai-based food and wine critic
Lawrence Lo and a few seasoned ganbei-ers, shared the secrets of this
thoroughly intoxicating custom. 1. You're in, or you're out While
you're not obliged to chug the night away, it is tacitly expected at a
business banquet.read more
10 hotel rooms where history happened
Wed, 02/22/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Anthea GerrieThe best hotel rooms
don't just have history, they have stories. At these you get a soft bed, an
oversized tub and a chance to see through the eyes of some of history's
cultural protagonists. Also on CNNGo: Best city hotel rooms with a view 1.
Keith Richards' TV toss: Andaz West Hollywood, United States You'd never
know from the sleek, modern lines that this was formerly the Continental
Hyatt House -- a k a Riot House -- so nicknamed for the hair-raising antics
of out-of-control rockers. This is where Keith Richards threw a TV off his
11th floor balcony in 1975, Jim Morrison hung from a window by his fingertips
and Axl Rose tossed steaks to crowds of adoring fans gathered outside on
Sunset Strip.read more
don't just have history, they have stories. At these you get a soft bed, an
oversized tub and a chance to see through the eyes of some of history's
cultural protagonists. Also on CNNGo: Best city hotel rooms with a view 1.
Keith Richards' TV toss: Andaz West Hollywood, United States You'd never
know from the sleek, modern lines that this was formerly the Continental
Hyatt House -- a k a Riot House -- so nicknamed for the hair-raising antics
of out-of-control rockers. This is where Keith Richards threw a TV off his
11th floor balcony in 1975, Jim Morrison hung from a window by his fingertips
and Axl Rose tossed steaks to crowds of adoring fans gathered outside on
Sunset Strip.read more
Asia's first Snow Polo World Cup
Tue, 02/21/2012 - 12:10 — Anonymous by Peter ShadboltYou could be forgiven
for thinking that last week's Snow Polo World Cup 2012, the first to take
place in Asia, was about sport. A dozen teams charged around a snowy pitch,
with mallets whirring and hooves thundering. Hong Kong's players eventually
took the crown by seven goals to four against a spirited South African team
and there was much sweat, shouting and rippling of muscles. But it was about
much more. Also on CNNGo: How China is falling in love with polo The Tianjin
Goldin Polo Club, the venue for the event, is the main recreational
attraction in a massive development 130 kilometers from the centre of Beijing
being built by Hong Kong-listed property developer Goldin Properties Holdings
Limited.read more
for thinking that last week's Snow Polo World Cup 2012, the first to take
place in Asia, was about sport. A dozen teams charged around a snowy pitch,
with mallets whirring and hooves thundering. Hong Kong's players eventually
took the crown by seven goals to four against a spirited South African team
and there was much sweat, shouting and rippling of muscles. But it was about
much more. Also on CNNGo: How China is falling in love with polo The Tianjin
Goldin Polo Club, the venue for the event, is the main recreational
attraction in a massive development 130 kilometers from the centre of Beijing
being built by Hong Kong-listed property developer Goldin Properties Holdings
Limited.read more
It's official: Korea's 50 most unique hotels
Tue, 02/21/2012 - 11:00 — Anonymous by CNNGo staff Never mind expensive
weekend packages at Seoul's luxury hotels. Korea's more unique
accommodations tend to be much more visually interesting -- and not just a
little campy. Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) announced the publication of
"Korea's most unique accommodations" on Monday. Travel writers and
reporters, as well as high-profile foreign visitors contributed to the
selection of the 50 venues. While the 115-page photograph-filled book will
not be for sale and mostly distributed to the 26 international branches of
KTO, the organization is planning to make it available in an e-book format on
the official Visit Korea website later this month. The roundup includes
lesser known accommodation options such as the Phoenix Island resort, which
features beautiful glass venues designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, as
well as the recently renovated hanok hotel Kundaemunjip (큰대문집) in
Seoul. read more
weekend packages at Seoul's luxury hotels. Korea's more unique
accommodations tend to be much more visually interesting -- and not just a
little campy. Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) announced the publication of
"Korea's most unique accommodations" on Monday. Travel writers and
reporters, as well as high-profile foreign visitors contributed to the
selection of the 50 venues. While the 115-page photograph-filled book will
not be for sale and mostly distributed to the 26 international branches of
KTO, the organization is planning to make it available in an e-book format on
the official Visit Korea website later this month. The roundup includes
lesser known accommodation options such as the Phoenix Island resort, which
features beautiful glass venues designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, as
well as the recently renovated hanok hotel Kundaemunjip (큰대문집) in
Seoul. read more
Need it or not, here's another dose of luxury for Bangkok
Tue, 02/21/2012 - 11:36 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffA graphic rendering of
the Park Hyatt Bangkok, which features a 'twisted coil' exterior design.
Pack your designer luggage. Bangkok is set to get another 222 luxury hotel
rooms, adding to an already vast number of accommodation options for
travelers in search of high thread counts. Global hotel brand Hyatt
confirmed this week it will open its first Park Hyatt -- at a cost of 5
billion baht -- in Thailand in 2014. On the plus side, Bangkok's
embattled travel industry could use some positivity as the news proves
that despite the recent bomb blasts and floods, the city won't go down the
tourism tubes without a fight. Park Hyatt is the American
corporation's top luxury brand, reserved for cities with strong demand for
posh digs. Luxury travelers have long been in love with Bangkok, though one
has to ask who is going to fill all these rooms in an already crowded
market. Rates will start from US$300 a night, putting it up there at the
top end of the luxury field with the likes of the Mandarin Oriental,
Peninsula, Four Seasons, Shangri-La, St. Regis, Banyan Tree, Kempinski and
the soon-to-open W.read more
the Park Hyatt Bangkok, which features a 'twisted coil' exterior design.
Pack your designer luggage. Bangkok is set to get another 222 luxury hotel
rooms, adding to an already vast number of accommodation options for
travelers in search of high thread counts. Global hotel brand Hyatt
confirmed this week it will open its first Park Hyatt -- at a cost of 5
billion baht -- in Thailand in 2014. On the plus side, Bangkok's
embattled travel industry could use some positivity as the news proves
that despite the recent bomb blasts and floods, the city won't go down the
tourism tubes without a fight. Park Hyatt is the American
corporation's top luxury brand, reserved for cities with strong demand for
posh digs. Luxury travelers have long been in love with Bangkok, though one
has to ask who is going to fill all these rooms in an already crowded
market. Rates will start from US$300 a night, putting it up there at the
top end of the luxury field with the likes of the Mandarin Oriental,
Peninsula, Four Seasons, Shangri-La, St. Regis, Banyan Tree, Kempinski and
the soon-to-open W.read more
Monday, February 20, 2012
Cha chaan teng cheat sheet: What to order at the most popular eateries in Hong Kong
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 10:15 — Anonymous by Jason BeermanCha chaan tengs fuel
Hong Kong. These local diners are where Hong Kongers sate their appetite for
almost anything at almost any time. They operate round-the-clock, serving
distinctly indigenous comfort food with no-nonsense service and an atmosphere
of bustling industriousness. Cha chaan teng culture came of age in the 1950s
when Hong Kong's increasingly cosmopolitan and westernized middle classes
began to broaden their palates. The result is a melange of tastes that fuses
the cuisines of the various transient populations of Hong Kong into a new
pastiche cuisine: accidental fusion food. It lacks a singular definition
and there are nearly no parameters. The menu at a typical cha chaan teng is
seemingly endless in scope. Written on paper and taped to the walls, they
extend wall-to-wall like a madman's scrawl.read more
Hong Kong. These local diners are where Hong Kongers sate their appetite for
almost anything at almost any time. They operate round-the-clock, serving
distinctly indigenous comfort food with no-nonsense service and an atmosphere
of bustling industriousness. Cha chaan teng culture came of age in the 1950s
when Hong Kong's increasingly cosmopolitan and westernized middle classes
began to broaden their palates. The result is a melange of tastes that fuses
the cuisines of the various transient populations of Hong Kong into a new
pastiche cuisine: accidental fusion food. It lacks a singular definition
and there are nearly no parameters. The menu at a typical cha chaan teng is
seemingly endless in scope. Written on paper and taped to the walls, they
extend wall-to-wall like a madman's scrawl.read more
iReport: My favorite China travel photos
Tue, 02/21/2012 - 04:57 — Anonymous Few countries around the world can
provide travelers with such a diverse experience as China. Spreading over
approximately 9,600,000 square kilometers, the nation's vista stretches
from the winding lanes of Kashgar's Islamic old city to the surreal
Shanghai Pudong skyline to the palm tree-lined tropical beaches in Hainan. In
our recent iReport assignment, we asked travelers to share their favorite
China photos and we received myriad incredible views and thrilling travel
tales. The gallery above showcases a selection of the best responses. More on
CNNGo: iReport: My favorite Hangzhou travel photoread more
provide travelers with such a diverse experience as China. Spreading over
approximately 9,600,000 square kilometers, the nation's vista stretches
from the winding lanes of Kashgar's Islamic old city to the surreal
Shanghai Pudong skyline to the palm tree-lined tropical beaches in Hainan. In
our recent iReport assignment, we asked travelers to share their favorite
China photos and we received myriad incredible views and thrilling travel
tales. The gallery above showcases a selection of the best responses. More on
CNNGo: iReport: My favorite Hangzhou travel photoread more
10 classic American experiences
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 23:46 — Anonymous by Jennings Brown Afraid of returning
to the States and feeling out of sorts? Arriving on North American shores
for the first time and wondering where to start "experiencing" the United
States? You're in luck -- we know how to get your Yankee Doodle mojo
working. "We can derive great comfort from visiting a state fair or rodeo,
and enjoying traditions not far removed from those of our great
grandparents," says Kurt B. Reighley, author of "United States of
Americana: Backyard Chickens, Burlesque Beauties, and Handmade Bitters -- A
Field Guide to the New Americana Roots Movement." From Reighley's rah-rah
to road trips, rebel yells and roller coasters, here are 10 experiences
guaranteed to connect anyone with the classic American spirit. read more
to the States and feeling out of sorts? Arriving on North American shores
for the first time and wondering where to start "experiencing" the United
States? You're in luck -- we know how to get your Yankee Doodle mojo
working. "We can derive great comfort from visiting a state fair or rodeo,
and enjoying traditions not far removed from those of our great
grandparents," says Kurt B. Reighley, author of "United States of
Americana: Backyard Chickens, Burlesque Beauties, and Handmade Bitters -- A
Field Guide to the New Americana Roots Movement." From Reighley's rah-rah
to road trips, rebel yells and roller coasters, here are 10 experiences
guaranteed to connect anyone with the classic American spirit. read more
Most bike-friendly cities in the U.S.
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 23:16 — Anonymous by Jennings Brown Ernest Hemingway
would love modern Portland. Or Boulder. Or Austin. No, not because of all the
great local beer. Though surely he would have guzzled his fill of that. What
the cranky author really would love about these cities is the biking. "It
is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since
you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them," Hemingway wrote.
"Thus you remember them as they actually are." We asked nationally
recognized bike advocates across the United States, and reviewed information
from the League of American Bicyclists, Alliance for Biking & Walking and the
U.S. Department of Commerce to determine the best U.S. cities to discover by
bike.read more
would love modern Portland. Or Boulder. Or Austin. No, not because of all the
great local beer. Though surely he would have guzzled his fill of that. What
the cranky author really would love about these cities is the biking. "It
is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since
you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them," Hemingway wrote.
"Thus you remember them as they actually are." We asked nationally
recognized bike advocates across the United States, and reviewed information
from the League of American Bicyclists, Alliance for Biking & Walking and the
U.S. Department of Commerce to determine the best U.S. cities to discover by
bike.read more
Show's over: Cirque du Soleil tumbles out of Macau
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 15:17 — Anonymous by Zoe Li, Hong Kong EditorCirque du
Soleil announced earlier this month it is pulling its show "Zaia" out of
Macau due to disappointing ticket sales. The end of "Zaia" is seen as more
proof that Macau is not quite Las Vegas, even as its gambling revenue
consistently surpasses the American city's. Cirque du Soleil's senior
director of public relations, Renée-Claude Ménard, said to The Gazette:
"We knew the (Macau) market was not shifting from 'gaming only' to a
'destination' market ... we knew it would become an issue at some point in
time." "Zaia"'s last show is on February 19, after completing only three
and a half years of its 10-year contract with the Sands Macao. Visitors to
Macau largely focus on gambling and stay for an average of only 1.5 nights, a
short time compared to Las Vegas visitors' 3.6 nights. This affords little
time for Macau visitors to do anything more than gamble. read more
Soleil announced earlier this month it is pulling its show "Zaia" out of
Macau due to disappointing ticket sales. The end of "Zaia" is seen as more
proof that Macau is not quite Las Vegas, even as its gambling revenue
consistently surpasses the American city's. Cirque du Soleil's senior
director of public relations, Renée-Claude Ménard, said to The Gazette:
"We knew the (Macau) market was not shifting from 'gaming only' to a
'destination' market ... we knew it would become an issue at some point in
time." "Zaia"'s last show is on February 19, after completing only three
and a half years of its 10-year contract with the Sands Macao. Visitors to
Macau largely focus on gambling and stay for an average of only 1.5 nights, a
short time compared to Las Vegas visitors' 3.6 nights. This affords little
time for Macau visitors to do anything more than gamble. read more
Ultimate checklist for returning U.S. expats
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 23:28 — Anonymous by Jordan BurchetteDepending on how
long you've been abroad, your transition back to the U.S. could be as
stressful -- perhaps even more so -- as your initial expatriation.When you
arrived in your foreign home, you likely had to undergo an understandable
period of culture adjustment. What you may not expect is the inverse upon
your return; the expectation of the familiar derailed by the degree to which
things have changed.Change isn't a bad thing, it's just something
you'll want to prepare for. After consulting with a number of repats,
here's our checklist for re-Americanization. Setting up the basics You'll
have to satisfy fundamental necessities quickly in order to function as an
adult. Here are the major items to take care of.The show is over for
Blackberry. Cell phones/plansBlackberry is dead. The company can no longer
compete with its chief rivals, the iPhone and Android-based handsets, and it
doesn't even do well anymore what it used to; a new Blackberry works worse
than one from two years ago.Three of the four major carriers -- Sprint,
Verizon, AT&T -- carry the iPhone, and all service providers offer some form
of Android-based phone. Check BillShrink for the plan that best suits you.You
may be able to use your existing phone on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks,
which operate on the GSM standard.FinanceThere are four U.S. banks now:
Chase, Wells Fargo, Bank of America and Citi. And they're looking for any
and every way to disgorge you of the money you keep with them, including a
recent failed attempt to charge monthly for debit card use. So you might want
to check the Internet for places to store your war chest, find where rates
are most favorable and fees are fewer.High-yield savings, which, before the
financial collapse, reached annual rates upwards of five percent, is now
defined as anything above zero. But check Fat Wallet.com for the best of what
still passes for interest.Housing: Buy or rent?It's bottoms up in the housing
market. Interest rates are at their lowest in modern history. Couple that
with a weakened housing market and, if you're returning permanently, you have
good credit and anything together for a down payment, this is a good time to
consider purchasing a new property. Especially since the paradoxically
crowded housing market is driving up rents in many major cities."Even
though in many cities there are very fewer (housing) listings now than in
previous years, it's still a buyer's market," says Brian Brink of Brink
Appraisal in Portland, Ore. "Although some people still believe we
haven't seen the bottom of the real estate market, there are signs
nationally that the market is stabilizing and has seen its low point."
Everyone has less money now, but everything costs more Economic experts
insist that inflationary pressure in the United States is low, but you
wouldn't know it by looking at the prices of some of the most common items.
Since 2008 …read more
long you've been abroad, your transition back to the U.S. could be as
stressful -- perhaps even more so -- as your initial expatriation.When you
arrived in your foreign home, you likely had to undergo an understandable
period of culture adjustment. What you may not expect is the inverse upon
your return; the expectation of the familiar derailed by the degree to which
things have changed.Change isn't a bad thing, it's just something
you'll want to prepare for. After consulting with a number of repats,
here's our checklist for re-Americanization. Setting up the basics You'll
have to satisfy fundamental necessities quickly in order to function as an
adult. Here are the major items to take care of.The show is over for
Blackberry. Cell phones/plansBlackberry is dead. The company can no longer
compete with its chief rivals, the iPhone and Android-based handsets, and it
doesn't even do well anymore what it used to; a new Blackberry works worse
than one from two years ago.Three of the four major carriers -- Sprint,
Verizon, AT&T -- carry the iPhone, and all service providers offer some form
of Android-based phone. Check BillShrink for the plan that best suits you.You
may be able to use your existing phone on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks,
which operate on the GSM standard.FinanceThere are four U.S. banks now:
Chase, Wells Fargo, Bank of America and Citi. And they're looking for any
and every way to disgorge you of the money you keep with them, including a
recent failed attempt to charge monthly for debit card use. So you might want
to check the Internet for places to store your war chest, find where rates
are most favorable and fees are fewer.High-yield savings, which, before the
financial collapse, reached annual rates upwards of five percent, is now
defined as anything above zero. But check Fat Wallet.com for the best of what
still passes for interest.Housing: Buy or rent?It's bottoms up in the housing
market. Interest rates are at their lowest in modern history. Couple that
with a weakened housing market and, if you're returning permanently, you have
good credit and anything together for a down payment, this is a good time to
consider purchasing a new property. Especially since the paradoxically
crowded housing market is driving up rents in many major cities."Even
though in many cities there are very fewer (housing) listings now than in
previous years, it's still a buyer's market," says Brian Brink of Brink
Appraisal in Portland, Ore. "Although some people still believe we
haven't seen the bottom of the real estate market, there are signs
nationally that the market is stabilizing and has seen its low point."
Everyone has less money now, but everything costs more Economic experts
insist that inflationary pressure in the United States is low, but you
wouldn't know it by looking at the prices of some of the most common items.
Since 2008 …read more
8 modern speakeasies: New wave of U.S. bars taps into an old secret
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 23:58 — Anonymous by Jennings Brown These days, every
major American city seems to have a modern rendition of a Prohibition-era
speakeasy -- secret clubs where illegal alcohol was sold during the booze-ban
days of 1920-1933. Speakeasies might not be technically illegal nowadays, but
their dated decor, hard-to-find entrances and innovative cocktails attempt to
recreate an age when flavors were mixed to overpower the repulsive taste of
rotgut hooch. Which begs the question: why try to recapture the Temperance
Movement? "Sure, most [Prohibition era] speakeasies would be pretty
awful," says Christine Sismondo, author of "America Walks into a Bar: A
Spirited History of Taverns and Saloons, Speakeasies and Grog Shops." "Some
of them had dirt floors, they were in dark basements with inadequate lighting
-- complete fire traps."read more
major American city seems to have a modern rendition of a Prohibition-era
speakeasy -- secret clubs where illegal alcohol was sold during the booze-ban
days of 1920-1933. Speakeasies might not be technically illegal nowadays, but
their dated decor, hard-to-find entrances and innovative cocktails attempt to
recreate an age when flavors were mixed to overpower the repulsive taste of
rotgut hooch. Which begs the question: why try to recapture the Temperance
Movement? "Sure, most [Prohibition era] speakeasies would be pretty
awful," says Christine Sismondo, author of "America Walks into a Bar: A
Spirited History of Taverns and Saloons, Speakeasies and Grog Shops." "Some
of them had dirt floors, they were in dark basements with inadequate lighting
-- complete fire traps."read more
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Shanghai's best museums
Fri, 02/17/2012 - 09:34 — Anonymous by Angela DolandShanghai sometimes gets
dismissed as a shallow city, a vortex of shopping, snacking and spending, but
rewarding cultural explorations do exist in China's commercial center. Here
are six of Shanghai's best museums to add to your travel itinerary, from a
comprehensive state-run establishment to a hidden-in-the-basement private
institute. 1. Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆) Impress the ladies with your
knowledge of batik and embroidered textiles.Visitors might be tempted to
avoid the Shanghai Museum, the city's most official temple to Chinese
culture. For starters, it's ugly -- the 1990s construction on People's
Square looks like a massive bathroom sink. Get over that first impression and
you'll find treasures inside. One highlight is the ceramics collection and
its Tang Dynasty (618-907) tomb guardians, including a ferocious beast that
seems part dragon, tiger, horse and goat.read more
dismissed as a shallow city, a vortex of shopping, snacking and spending, but
rewarding cultural explorations do exist in China's commercial center. Here
are six of Shanghai's best museums to add to your travel itinerary, from a
comprehensive state-run establishment to a hidden-in-the-basement private
institute. 1. Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆) Impress the ladies with your
knowledge of batik and embroidered textiles.Visitors might be tempted to
avoid the Shanghai Museum, the city's most official temple to Chinese
culture. For starters, it's ugly -- the 1990s construction on People's
Square looks like a massive bathroom sink. Get over that first impression and
you'll find treasures inside. One highlight is the ceramics collection and
its Tang Dynasty (618-907) tomb guardians, including a ferocious beast that
seems part dragon, tiger, horse and goat.read more
Life and death on the Sydney tourist trail
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 10:26 — Anonymous by Ian Lloyd Neubauer When you buy a
170-year old hotel and start digging around, you're bound to come across a
few surprises. That's what happened to Shlomi Bonet while unearthing an old
landfill at his heritage-listed property in Breadalbane, a small village
southwest of Sydney that just happens to make a fine day trip out of the
city. Standing on the Old South Road -- the first thoroughfare linking Sydney
and Melbourne -- the Breadalbane Hotel was an alehouse, post office and
staging post for Cobb and Co, the legendary 19th-century stagecoach company.
The hotel's license to serve alcohol was temporarily revoked in 1865 after
the then-publican Thomas Lodge was charged with harboring "The Gentleman
Bushranger" Ben Hall, whose gang spent the night there after holding up
another hotel down the road at the town of Collector. What lies beneath?
Thousands of bottles were consumed at the Breadalbane Hotel until it was
converted into a homestead a century ago, most of which were thrown into
landfills that now pockmark the property. Over time, some of this glass has
found its way to the surface, creating a colonial-era hazard for the current
owner's young family.read more
170-year old hotel and start digging around, you're bound to come across a
few surprises. That's what happened to Shlomi Bonet while unearthing an old
landfill at his heritage-listed property in Breadalbane, a small village
southwest of Sydney that just happens to make a fine day trip out of the
city. Standing on the Old South Road -- the first thoroughfare linking Sydney
and Melbourne -- the Breadalbane Hotel was an alehouse, post office and
staging post for Cobb and Co, the legendary 19th-century stagecoach company.
The hotel's license to serve alcohol was temporarily revoked in 1865 after
the then-publican Thomas Lodge was charged with harboring "The Gentleman
Bushranger" Ben Hall, whose gang spent the night there after holding up
another hotel down the road at the town of Collector. What lies beneath?
Thousands of bottles were consumed at the Breadalbane Hotel until it was
converted into a homestead a century ago, most of which were thrown into
landfills that now pockmark the property. Over time, some of this glass has
found its way to the surface, creating a colonial-era hazard for the current
owner's young family.read more
10 ways to get a cheaper holiday
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 10:00 — Anonymous by Hiufu WongWe work all year with nary
a break to speak about, then blow whatever we've saved on 10 days in a motel
some place, somewhere. With just a little extra research, there are ways to
get that dream holiday far cheaper. Also on CNNGo: 10 cities, 100 amazing
free attractions Feel free to watch my TV and feed my cats. 1. Book a home,
not a hotel With accommodation often accounting for a huge chunk out of your
travel budget, it's one of the easiest ways to cut your costs.read more
a break to speak about, then blow whatever we've saved on 10 days in a motel
some place, somewhere. With just a little extra research, there are ways to
get that dream holiday far cheaper. Also on CNNGo: 10 cities, 100 amazing
free attractions Feel free to watch my TV and feed my cats. 1. Book a home,
not a hotel With accommodation often accounting for a huge chunk out of your
travel budget, it's one of the easiest ways to cut your costs.read more
Eating trend: 'Dark dining' shines brightly in Asia
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Clay Hemmerich, with additional
reporting by CNNGo staffAt dine-in-the-dark restaurants, there's need to
worry about whether you're using the right fork. Unless someone is pointing a
creepy night-vision lens at you.Ever taken a bite of something with your eyes
closed -- a carrot, a slice of grapefruit -- then had trouble identifying the
flavor? That surprise you felt at finding out you'd actually bitten into a
peach, not a banana, is behind the increasingly popular "dark dining"
phenomenon. With roots in Europe and North America, the playful concept is
fast spreading across Asia. There's Senses restaurant in Hong Kong, Blind Art
Restaurant in Seoul, Trojan Fairy in Beijinig and Bandung's Blind Cafe and
Restaurant in Indoneisa. This month, Bangkok joins the list with the
opening of Dine in the Dark (DID) in the Ascott Sathorn Hotel. Secret menus,
intensified flavors Roughly following the worldwide script, a meal at DID
goes like this: diners are welcomed by a hostess, who helps them choose the
type of cuisine they'd like to try. Then they're led into a pitch-black room
where visually impaired guides help seat them at a table.read more
reporting by CNNGo staffAt dine-in-the-dark restaurants, there's need to
worry about whether you're using the right fork. Unless someone is pointing a
creepy night-vision lens at you.Ever taken a bite of something with your eyes
closed -- a carrot, a slice of grapefruit -- then had trouble identifying the
flavor? That surprise you felt at finding out you'd actually bitten into a
peach, not a banana, is behind the increasingly popular "dark dining"
phenomenon. With roots in Europe and North America, the playful concept is
fast spreading across Asia. There's Senses restaurant in Hong Kong, Blind Art
Restaurant in Seoul, Trojan Fairy in Beijinig and Bandung's Blind Cafe and
Restaurant in Indoneisa. This month, Bangkok joins the list with the
opening of Dine in the Dark (DID) in the Ascott Sathorn Hotel. Secret menus,
intensified flavors Roughly following the worldwide script, a meal at DID
goes like this: diners are welcomed by a hostess, who helps them choose the
type of cuisine they'd like to try. Then they're led into a pitch-black room
where visually impaired guides help seat them at a table.read more
Best of Rio de Janeiro
Mon, 02/20/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Joe RobinsonTravel fantasies don't
always live up to the reality, but the "marvelous city," as Rio de
Janeiro's citizens call their beloved hometown, can knock even the most jaded
travelers off their seen-it-all perches. Even just walking under the sun
can get sexy in Rio. The marvels range from singular settings -- primo
beaches surrounded by jungled slopes and granite monoliths -- to some of the
best music on the planet, to a lifestyle that invites all to slow down and
sample life at a beachside kiosk, sidewalk bar or juice stand. Famed for
girls from Ipanema and Carnaval, the best of Rio is all that but a lot
more. The party goes on year-round in the cultural heart of Brazil, from
the samba renaissance in the Lapa District, where you can choose from an
array of great clubs, music and restaurants; to Carnaval rehearsals at local
samba schools that redefine the word "celebration." As it prepares for
the Olympics in 2016, the city has launched a massive security program
that's finally addressing long-standing safety concerns. The best of Rio
beaches of the Zona Sul are heavily patrolled and many other areas --
especially those troubled by crime and drugs -- have been cleaned up.read
more
always live up to the reality, but the "marvelous city," as Rio de
Janeiro's citizens call their beloved hometown, can knock even the most jaded
travelers off their seen-it-all perches. Even just walking under the sun
can get sexy in Rio. The marvels range from singular settings -- primo
beaches surrounded by jungled slopes and granite monoliths -- to some of the
best music on the planet, to a lifestyle that invites all to slow down and
sample life at a beachside kiosk, sidewalk bar or juice stand. Famed for
girls from Ipanema and Carnaval, the best of Rio is all that but a lot
more. The party goes on year-round in the cultural heart of Brazil, from
the samba renaissance in the Lapa District, where you can choose from an
array of great clubs, music and restaurants; to Carnaval rehearsals at local
samba schools that redefine the word "celebration." As it prepares for
the Olympics in 2016, the city has launched a massive security program
that's finally addressing long-standing safety concerns. The best of Rio
beaches of the Zona Sul are heavily patrolled and many other areas --
especially those troubled by crime and drugs -- have been cleaned up.read
more
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Most arresting exhibit at the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Biennale
Fri, 02/17/2012 - 16:50 — Anonymous by Christopher DeWolfThe Hong
Kong-Shenzhen Biennale of Urbanism/Architecture opens this week with 50
fascinating exhibits in Kowloon Park. For the riskiest and most surprising
installation of all, pay a visit to the Wan Chai Visual Archive, where Dutch
artist Frank Havermans has created an illegal rooftop structure that pays
homage to the informal urbanism of Hong Kong. "It's a metal creature that
refers to rooftop structures, signboards and those hawker stalls you see
around the city," says Havermans. "They're really haphazardly built,
without any notions of design, but together they're amazing. It's a very
Hong Kong thing." The structure, which was made by a metal shop around the
corner from the Archive, will certainly attract attention. Havermans'
description of it as a "creature" is apt: it looks like a suspension
bridge on the prowl.read more
Kong-Shenzhen Biennale of Urbanism/Architecture opens this week with 50
fascinating exhibits in Kowloon Park. For the riskiest and most surprising
installation of all, pay a visit to the Wan Chai Visual Archive, where Dutch
artist Frank Havermans has created an illegal rooftop structure that pays
homage to the informal urbanism of Hong Kong. "It's a metal creature that
refers to rooftop structures, signboards and those hawker stalls you see
around the city," says Havermans. "They're really haphazardly built,
without any notions of design, but together they're amazing. It's a very
Hong Kong thing." The structure, which was made by a metal shop around the
corner from the Archive, will certainly attract attention. Havermans'
description of it as a "creature" is apt: it looks like a suspension
bridge on the prowl.read more
Which airline serves the best food?
Fri, 02/17/2012 - 13:57 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffAirline food has had a
rough ride over the years, being likened to all manner of barely edible
substances including "pure plastic" and even someone's grandmother.
But recent events suggest things could be changing -- indeed, in some cases
travelers eat better at 30,000 feet than they can on the ground. Celebrity
chefs have recently jumped aboard the in-flight meal trolley, to try to
enhance and improve the state of airline food. Note Heston Blumenthal's
efforts with British Airways and Gordon Ramsay's attempt at Heathrow. And
a survey released in December 2011 suggested airlines are taking note.
Turkish Airlines scored a massive 86 percent for its in-flight meals on a
Skyscanner passenger poll, with restaurant-quality eats including stuffed
eggplant and walnut pear tart. In the same poll Singapore Airlines scored 81
percent and Etihad 80 percent.read more
rough ride over the years, being likened to all manner of barely edible
substances including "pure plastic" and even someone's grandmother.
But recent events suggest things could be changing -- indeed, in some cases
travelers eat better at 30,000 feet than they can on the ground. Celebrity
chefs have recently jumped aboard the in-flight meal trolley, to try to
enhance and improve the state of airline food. Note Heston Blumenthal's
efforts with British Airways and Gordon Ramsay's attempt at Heathrow. And
a survey released in December 2011 suggested airlines are taking note.
Turkish Airlines scored a massive 86 percent for its in-flight meals on a
Skyscanner passenger poll, with restaurant-quality eats including stuffed
eggplant and walnut pear tart. In the same poll Singapore Airlines scored 81
percent and Etihad 80 percent.read more
Can the world handle a billion tourists?
Fri, 02/17/2012 - 10:48 — Anonymous by Karla CrippsStampedes at the Sistine
Chapel; queues for the Great Wall of China as long as the wall itself; menus
dominated by Asian options at international restaurants. That's what you
might expect to be faced with as a traveler in 2012, when you consider the
news from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), that
international tourist arrivals are on track to hit 1 billion this year.
That's a whole lot of suitcases. But is a billion tourists as daunting a
number as it sounds? Actually, the signs are that the world not only can
cope with a billion international travelers, it can do so comfortably. read
more
Chapel; queues for the Great Wall of China as long as the wall itself; menus
dominated by Asian options at international restaurants. That's what you
might expect to be faced with as a traveler in 2012, when you consider the
news from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), that
international tourist arrivals are on track to hit 1 billion this year.
That's a whole lot of suitcases. But is a billion tourists as daunting a
number as it sounds? Actually, the signs are that the world not only can
cope with a billion international travelers, it can do so comfortably. read
more
Bangkok travel warnings follow Valentine's Day blasts
Thu, 02/16/2012 - 10:55 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffDue to a series of
bombings in Bangkok on Tuesday, the United States and United Kingdom are
among several countries urging citizens to be cautious when visiting the Thai
capital. In a statement posted on its website, the U.S. Embassy said:
"This message alerts U.S. citizens in Thailand that a series of explosions
occurred in the vicinity of Sukhumvit Soi 71 in Bangkok on the afternoon of
February 14. "As a reminder we encourage U.S. citizens to maintain a
heightened awareness when in public. Be alert for unattended packages/bags in
public and report any suspicious behavior to the nearest law enforcement
personnel." Read on CNN: Israel, Iran battle over who's behind string of
bombings Government officials have charged two Iranians. A third suspect was
arrested by authorities in Malaysia. Thai officials also have an arrest
warrant for a woman in connection with the blasts in Bangkok, which wounded
at least five people. She is believed to have left Thailand.read more
bombings in Bangkok on Tuesday, the United States and United Kingdom are
among several countries urging citizens to be cautious when visiting the Thai
capital. In a statement posted on its website, the U.S. Embassy said:
"This message alerts U.S. citizens in Thailand that a series of explosions
occurred in the vicinity of Sukhumvit Soi 71 in Bangkok on the afternoon of
February 14. "As a reminder we encourage U.S. citizens to maintain a
heightened awareness when in public. Be alert for unattended packages/bags in
public and report any suspicious behavior to the nearest law enforcement
personnel." Read on CNN: Israel, Iran battle over who's behind string of
bombings Government officials have charged two Iranians. A third suspect was
arrested by authorities in Malaysia. Thai officials also have an arrest
warrant for a woman in connection with the blasts in Bangkok, which wounded
at least five people. She is believed to have left Thailand.read more
Did Jesus Christ live and die in northern Japan?
Thu, 02/16/2012 - 04:55 — Anonymous by Andrew PothecaryMost people would
expect the foundations of a global religion like Christianity to be
undermined only in blockbuster style by secret hidden codes, Vatican
cover-ups, the mysterious Illuminati or the like. Not in the quiet,
understated and actually very peaceful style in which "Christ's Grave"
does it in one of the remotest parts of northern Japan. For if it's true
that Jesus Christ is buried as claimed just outside Shingo Village in Aomori
Prefecture, then he obviously didn't die on the cross, rise again promising
eternal life through his dad and, ultimately, give the world Christianity.
Even if it's not true, it's still a pretty neat story. Tantalizing clues In
fact, Christ chose a very nice spot in which to live and die. (I'll skip
the purportedlys and allegedlys or we'll be here all night.)read more
expect the foundations of a global religion like Christianity to be
undermined only in blockbuster style by secret hidden codes, Vatican
cover-ups, the mysterious Illuminati or the like. Not in the quiet,
understated and actually very peaceful style in which "Christ's Grave"
does it in one of the remotest parts of northern Japan. For if it's true
that Jesus Christ is buried as claimed just outside Shingo Village in Aomori
Prefecture, then he obviously didn't die on the cross, rise again promising
eternal life through his dad and, ultimately, give the world Christianity.
Even if it's not true, it's still a pretty neat story. Tantalizing clues In
fact, Christ chose a very nice spot in which to live and die. (I'll skip
the purportedlys and allegedlys or we'll be here all night.)read more
Tour guides’ picks: 10 city sights you mustn't miss
Fri, 02/17/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Anthea GerrieYou might assume
you've seen a city's best sights when you've ticked off all the stops on
a bus tour. But what things do the locals love best? We asked 10 insider
guides in 10 world-class cities to tell us about their favorite places. Also
on CNNGo: 10 cities, 100 amazing free attractions 1. Miami: Casa Casuarina
Suits you, Sir. Your Miami guide is: Tara Solomon, Discovery Miami Beach
self-guided tours;www.discoverymiamibeach.com"Casa Casuarina, the former
home of Gianni Versace, is one of Miami's most magical places and my favorite
spot on our Discovery Miami Beach tour," says Tara Solomon of Discovery
Miami Beach self-guided tours.read more
you've seen a city's best sights when you've ticked off all the stops on
a bus tour. But what things do the locals love best? We asked 10 insider
guides in 10 world-class cities to tell us about their favorite places. Also
on CNNGo: 10 cities, 100 amazing free attractions 1. Miami: Casa Casuarina
Suits you, Sir. Your Miami guide is: Tara Solomon, Discovery Miami Beach
self-guided tours;www.discoverymiamibeach.com"Casa Casuarina, the former
home of Gianni Versace, is one of Miami's most magical places and my favorite
spot on our Discovery Miami Beach tour," says Tara Solomon of Discovery
Miami Beach self-guided tours.read more
10 great cities, 100 fantastic free attractions
Sat, 02/18/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Bija KnowlesEver noticed how things
always seem better when you don't have to pay for them? Seeing the
world's best bits doesn't have to involve going broke. Here are 10 of the
globe's greatest city destinations, each with 10 amazing attractions, for
free. Click through all the pages at the bottom, or fly directly to your
chosen city by clicking the graphic below. LONDON, ENGLAND 1. Big screen
opera and recitals at the Royal Opera House The Royal Opera House holds free
Monday lunch-time recitals as well as screenings of live opera performances
in Trafalgar Square. Contact the box office to find out about the next free
events. Covent Garden; www.roh.org.uk; +44 (0)20 7304 4000read more
always seem better when you don't have to pay for them? Seeing the
world's best bits doesn't have to involve going broke. Here are 10 of the
globe's greatest city destinations, each with 10 amazing attractions, for
free. Click through all the pages at the bottom, or fly directly to your
chosen city by clicking the graphic below. LONDON, ENGLAND 1. Big screen
opera and recitals at the Royal Opera House The Royal Opera House holds free
Monday lunch-time recitals as well as screenings of live opera performances
in Trafalgar Square. Contact the box office to find out about the next free
events. Covent Garden; www.roh.org.uk; +44 (0)20 7304 4000read more
Thousands stranded as Air Australia enters administration
Fri, 02/17/2012 - 12:30 — Anonymous Around 4,000 Air Australia passengers
are either stranded overseas or missing out on flights after the budget
airline was suddenly placed into administration overnight. The carrier, which
was launched just three months ago, is based out of Brisbane and operated
routes to Hawaii, Phuket and Bali, as well as several domestic Australian
services. A statement from administrators KordaMentha was posted on the Air
Australia website and also handed to passengers awaiting flights. "In the
short term, the fleet will be grounded," it read. "It currently appears
that there are no funds available to meet operational expenses, so flights
will be suspended immediately." The passenger advisory went on to make it
clear that stranded travelers are on their own. "The flight will not take
place. You should make alternate arrangements," it warned.read more
are either stranded overseas or missing out on flights after the budget
airline was suddenly placed into administration overnight. The carrier, which
was launched just three months ago, is based out of Brisbane and operated
routes to Hawaii, Phuket and Bali, as well as several domestic Australian
services. A statement from administrators KordaMentha was posted on the Air
Australia website and also handed to passengers awaiting flights. "In the
short term, the fleet will be grounded," it read. "It currently appears
that there are no funds available to meet operational expenses, so flights
will be suspended immediately." The passenger advisory went on to make it
clear that stranded travelers are on their own. "The flight will not take
place. You should make alternate arrangements," it warned.read more
iReport: After dark at the Sapporo Snow Festival
Wed, 02/15/2012 - 12:35 — Anonymous by Allan CookIn a CNNGo iReport
assignment at the end of January, we asked readers to share their images of
their favorite Asian nighttime travel destinations, as well as the reasons
they picked them. Alan Cook, living in Funabashi, near Tokyo, sent us his
photos along with a word or two on what made him pull out his camera at one
of Japan's most popular after-dark festivals last week. There's no escaping
the mouse, even in Japan's frozen north. iReporter Cook has lived in Japan
for 10 years and he finally made it to the annual Snow Festival in Sapporo,
Hokkaido, this year on the 63rd running of the winter fiesta, which concluded
at the weekend. Taiwan's National Palace Museum somehow looks even better in
ice.read more
assignment at the end of January, we asked readers to share their images of
their favorite Asian nighttime travel destinations, as well as the reasons
they picked them. Alan Cook, living in Funabashi, near Tokyo, sent us his
photos along with a word or two on what made him pull out his camera at one
of Japan's most popular after-dark festivals last week. There's no escaping
the mouse, even in Japan's frozen north. iReporter Cook has lived in Japan
for 10 years and he finally made it to the annual Snow Festival in Sapporo,
Hokkaido, this year on the 63rd running of the winter fiesta, which concluded
at the weekend. Taiwan's National Palace Museum somehow looks even better in
ice.read more
World's best airports announced -- Asia dominates
Wed, 02/15/2012 - 13:36 — Anonymous by CNNGo staff Korea's Incheon
International Airport has maintained its streak with a seventh consecutive
win in the annual Airport Service Quality Awards from Airports Council
International (ACI). Incheon Airport took the title of "Best Airport
Worldwide" of 2011 by ACI on Tuesday, February 14, 2012, for the seventh
year in a row. Singapore's Changi Airport came in second and Beijing Capital
International Airport took third in a top five that was filled entirely by
Asian airports. Full results are below. "For Incheon International
Airport to dominate in this category for seven consecutive years is testament
to the degree to which customer service is intrinsically linked to their
business strategy," said Angela Gittens, the World Director of Airports
Council International (ACI). ACI -- a non-profit organization based in
Montreal -- consists of 580 members operating 1,650 airports in 179 countries
and territories, and is the only global trade representative of airports.read
more
International Airport has maintained its streak with a seventh consecutive
win in the annual Airport Service Quality Awards from Airports Council
International (ACI). Incheon Airport took the title of "Best Airport
Worldwide" of 2011 by ACI on Tuesday, February 14, 2012, for the seventh
year in a row. Singapore's Changi Airport came in second and Beijing Capital
International Airport took third in a top five that was filled entirely by
Asian airports. Full results are below. "For Incheon International
Airport to dominate in this category for seven consecutive years is testament
to the degree to which customer service is intrinsically linked to their
business strategy," said Angela Gittens, the World Director of Airports
Council International (ACI). ACI -- a non-profit organization based in
Montreal -- consists of 580 members operating 1,650 airports in 179 countries
and territories, and is the only global trade representative of airports.read
more
What to tip, how much and where -- Tipping guide for travelers
Thu, 02/16/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Jane LeungTip too little and
you're blacklisted, tip too much and you're a chump. Different cultures
call for different gratuity customs, so here's a comprehensive guide to the
etiquette in seven different big cities. But when in doubt, remember the
golden rule -- always leave 10 percent and you won't get chased down the
street. Probably. Got your tipping tips for lesser known destinations? Let us
hear them in the comments Also on CNNGo: Best places to travel to in 2012
read more
you're blacklisted, tip too much and you're a chump. Different cultures
call for different gratuity customs, so here's a comprehensive guide to the
etiquette in seven different big cities. But when in doubt, remember the
golden rule -- always leave 10 percent and you won't get chased down the
street. Probably. Got your tipping tips for lesser known destinations? Let us
hear them in the comments Also on CNNGo: Best places to travel to in 2012
read more
America’s most sinful cities
Wed, 02/15/2012 - 15:37 — Anonymous by Jordan RaneTalk about a misnomer. If
the "Seven Deadly Sins" are all that deadly, why is it so enlivening to
stuff our faces in Grant Park, admire ourselves in South Beach, bet the house
at Caesars Palace, surf ESPN channels in Indianapolis, hate the Giants at
Eagles games, flip someone the bird on Michigan Avenue and casually copulate
in Oregon? A saintly town neglectful of every sinful habit (is there such a
hell?) is duller than Brussels. So to the following lively U.S. cities --
don't go changing on our behalf. You're imperfect just the way you
are.read more
the "Seven Deadly Sins" are all that deadly, why is it so enlivening to
stuff our faces in Grant Park, admire ourselves in South Beach, bet the house
at Caesars Palace, surf ESPN channels in Indianapolis, hate the Giants at
Eagles games, flip someone the bird on Michigan Avenue and casually copulate
in Oregon? A saintly town neglectful of every sinful habit (is there such a
hell?) is duller than Brussels. So to the following lively U.S. cities --
don't go changing on our behalf. You're imperfect just the way you
are.read more
China Southern slashes cost of Sydney-London return flights
Thu, 02/16/2012 - 16:20 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffHaving raised its profile
by operating China's first Airbus A380 routes, China Southern Airlines (CZ)
is now lowering travel costs with a route that slashes the price of a
Sydney-London return trip by US$400. The Guangzhou-based company has started
taking bookings for its new route between Guangzhou and London Heathrow, due
to inaugurate on June 6. It directly challenges Qantas's iconic
"Kangaroo Route." With the carrier's existing twice-daily flights to
Sydney and Melbourne, this new "Canton Route" (广州之路) provides a
cheaper option for travelers between Australia and the United Kingdom. A
return ticket for an economy class seat between London and Sydney costs RMB
13,491 (US$2,140) on China Southern Airlines, compared to Qantas' RMB 16,084
(US$2,550). More on CNNGo: China's first Airbus A380 takes offread more
by operating China's first Airbus A380 routes, China Southern Airlines (CZ)
is now lowering travel costs with a route that slashes the price of a
Sydney-London return trip by US$400. The Guangzhou-based company has started
taking bookings for its new route between Guangzhou and London Heathrow, due
to inaugurate on June 6. It directly challenges Qantas's iconic
"Kangaroo Route." With the carrier's existing twice-daily flights to
Sydney and Melbourne, this new "Canton Route" (广州之路) provides a
cheaper option for travelers between Australia and the United Kingdom. A
return ticket for an economy class seat between London and Sydney costs RMB
13,491 (US$2,140) on China Southern Airlines, compared to Qantas' RMB 16,084
(US$2,550). More on CNNGo: China's first Airbus A380 takes offread more
CNNGo - HK DiningCity Restaurant Week Contest
Thu, 02/16/2012 - 06:47 — Anonymous To mark this year's Hong Kong
DiningCity Restaurant Week, we're giving away an exclusive meal voucher from
Azure Restaurant Slash Bar to one of our readers. Complete the form below and
then check back on February 27 to see if you're a winner! read more
DiningCity Restaurant Week, we're giving away an exclusive meal voucher from
Azure Restaurant Slash Bar to one of our readers. Complete the form below and
then check back on February 27 to see if you're a winner! read more
Taiwanese travel agents push 'Linsanity' tourism
Thu, 02/16/2012 - 13:05 — Anonymous by Zoe Li, Hong Kong EditorTaiwanese
travel agents have gotten their mitts on some New York Knicks tickets and are
offering them as part of a group tour to the U.S. Capitalizing on the
incredible popularity of the Knicks' number 17, Jeremy Lin, Taiwanese travel
agent Lion Travel is the first to offer the Linsanity tours -- or what they
literally call "going to New York to cheer on Little Hao." (Lin's Chinese
name is Lin Shu Hao.) A representative of Lion Travel says "several groups
have sold out" since the agency began promoting the tours on the afternoon of
February 15. The son of Taiwanese immigrants, Lin has made headlines in his
parents' homeland for being the first Taiwanese-American player to have a big
impact on the NBA. Also on CNN: With Jeremy Lin, of course race mattersread
more
travel agents have gotten their mitts on some New York Knicks tickets and are
offering them as part of a group tour to the U.S. Capitalizing on the
incredible popularity of the Knicks' number 17, Jeremy Lin, Taiwanese travel
agent Lion Travel is the first to offer the Linsanity tours -- or what they
literally call "going to New York to cheer on Little Hao." (Lin's Chinese
name is Lin Shu Hao.) A representative of Lion Travel says "several groups
have sold out" since the agency began promoting the tours on the afternoon of
February 15. The son of Taiwanese immigrants, Lin has made headlines in his
parents' homeland for being the first Taiwanese-American player to have a big
impact on the NBA. Also on CNN: With Jeremy Lin, of course race mattersread
more
The loneliest road in China
Sat, 02/18/2012 - 06:00 — Anonymous by Kit GilletWang Wenxin, my
61-year-old guide, slows to a halt. The midday sun is now high in the sky
and we have already been walking for five hours, sometimes following clear
signs of the 1,000-year-old paved road, at other times carefully trying to
trace the correct route among the trees and streams. It's not an easy task.
Once an important supply route for caravans of mules carrying exotic goods to
and from southwestern China, the ancient trail we have been following for
close to a week through Yunnan's Gaoligong Mountains has long been
superseded by other roads. Now largely abandoned and unkempt, its paving
stones are long overgrown with grass or are missing completely. Trees lie
strewn across the path and few markers can be seen that hint at the rich
history of the road.read more
61-year-old guide, slows to a halt. The midday sun is now high in the sky
and we have already been walking for five hours, sometimes following clear
signs of the 1,000-year-old paved road, at other times carefully trying to
trace the correct route among the trees and streams. It's not an easy task.
Once an important supply route for caravans of mules carrying exotic goods to
and from southwestern China, the ancient trail we have been following for
close to a week through Yunnan's Gaoligong Mountains has long been
superseded by other roads. Now largely abandoned and unkempt, its paving
stones are long overgrown with grass or are missing completely. Trees lie
strewn across the path and few markers can be seen that hint at the rich
history of the road.read more
Korea's self-service pubs: Cheap, simple, hugely popular
Fri, 02/17/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Jean OhIn the Kunguk University
neighborhood of Seoul -- an area peppered with stationery shops, "hangover
stew" restaurants and "DVD rooms" where college students go to make out
in privacy -- a D.I.Y. beer pub has become one of the most popular venues on
the block since it opened last March. At Beer Barket, the set-up is
straightforward. Customers grab a table, which comes with a basket that they
can fill with ice and use to shop from a selection of over 100 brews from a
row of refrigerators. Prices are posted on each fridge. At the end of their
night, when they get up to leave, an employee gathers the bottles and brings
them to the counter, where they are tallied up for the bill. These
self-service watering holes -- often referred to as "beer changgo" or
"beer warehouses" for their stark look and rows of refrigerators -- are
cropping up all over the country, attracting a young clientele with their
wallet-friendly and varied selection of domestic and imported beers.
Student-friendly and wallet-friendly.read more
neighborhood of Seoul -- an area peppered with stationery shops, "hangover
stew" restaurants and "DVD rooms" where college students go to make out
in privacy -- a D.I.Y. beer pub has become one of the most popular venues on
the block since it opened last March. At Beer Barket, the set-up is
straightforward. Customers grab a table, which comes with a basket that they
can fill with ice and use to shop from a selection of over 100 brews from a
row of refrigerators. Prices are posted on each fridge. At the end of their
night, when they get up to leave, an employee gathers the bottles and brings
them to the counter, where they are tallied up for the bill. These
self-service watering holes -- often referred to as "beer changgo" or
"beer warehouses" for their stark look and rows of refrigerators -- are
cropping up all over the country, attracting a young clientele with their
wallet-friendly and varied selection of domestic and imported beers.
Student-friendly and wallet-friendly.read more
Hong Kong's iconic Sunbeam Theatre is not quite dead, yet
Fri, 02/17/2012 - 13:26 — Anonymous by Zoe Li, Hong Kong EditorThe last
permanent stage for Cantonese opera in Hong Kong, Sunbeam Theatre, is to
close on February 19 faced with huge rental increases. A last-minute bid to
save the building offers some hope for its legion of local fans. But if that
doesn't pay off, punters will have to wait till the Yau Ma Tei Theatre opens
later this year for a replacement. Located in North Point, the 40-year-old
Sunbeam Theatre has become synonymous with Cantonese opera in Hong Kong.
Despite its iconic status as the city's last permanent venue for the
traditional artform, Sunbeam Theatre has been losing money.read more
permanent stage for Cantonese opera in Hong Kong, Sunbeam Theatre, is to
close on February 19 faced with huge rental increases. A last-minute bid to
save the building offers some hope for its legion of local fans. But if that
doesn't pay off, punters will have to wait till the Yau Ma Tei Theatre opens
later this year for a replacement. Located in North Point, the 40-year-old
Sunbeam Theatre has become synonymous with Cantonese opera in Hong Kong.
Despite its iconic status as the city's last permanent venue for the
traditional artform, Sunbeam Theatre has been losing money.read more
Thursday, February 2, 2012
World’s 10 toughest endurance challenges
Fri, 02/03/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Jini ReddyThink you're tough? Fit?
Tenacious? If you're the outdoorsy sort, addicted to high-octane pursuits
and like the thought of challenging yourself amid spectacular scenery, you
might want to lace up your trainers, pick up your paddle, get on your bike,
climb into the saddle, step into those skis -- and more -- for one of these
grueling endurance events. 1. Jungle marathon, Brazil If you're a glutton
for punishment, this footrace will be pure delight: it takes place deep in
Brazil's Amazonian rainforest and runners must carry their own supplies,
covering a distance of 240 kilometers over six days. Competitors can expect
to clamber over hills and through swamps, mangrove, and thick jungle foliage,
all while trying not to fall prey to the local wildlife: jaguars, deadly
snakes, scorpions, ticks, electric eels. As if that isn't stomach-churning
enough, there's also the risk of heat stroke. Fortunately there's a crack
medical team on hand, with donkeys on stand-by for emergency evacuations.read
more
Tenacious? If you're the outdoorsy sort, addicted to high-octane pursuits
and like the thought of challenging yourself amid spectacular scenery, you
might want to lace up your trainers, pick up your paddle, get on your bike,
climb into the saddle, step into those skis -- and more -- for one of these
grueling endurance events. 1. Jungle marathon, Brazil If you're a glutton
for punishment, this footrace will be pure delight: it takes place deep in
Brazil's Amazonian rainforest and runners must carry their own supplies,
covering a distance of 240 kilometers over six days. Competitors can expect
to clamber over hills and through swamps, mangrove, and thick jungle foliage,
all while trying not to fall prey to the local wildlife: jaguars, deadly
snakes, scorpions, ticks, electric eels. As if that isn't stomach-churning
enough, there's also the risk of heat stroke. Fortunately there's a crack
medical team on hand, with donkeys on stand-by for emergency evacuations.read
more
Chinese travelers’ race: Around-the-world tour sold out in 13 seconds
Fri, 02/03/2012 - 04:57 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffWe wrote more than a
dozen posts on China's growing appetite for luxury last year. Few things
would seem surprising anymore, until we saw this: a 66-day around-the-world
tour that sold out in China 13 seconds after the reservation hotline opened
-- roughly the time it takes Olympic-champion hurdler Liu Xiang (刘翔) to
cover 110 meters. Did we mention the price? The cost of the whole trip is a
whopping RMB 660,000 (US$104,654), about eight to 10 times the annual salary
of an average Chinese. The Magnificent 11 The tour -- which takes in more
than a dozen countries and both poles -- was organized by Ctrip.com, one of
China's biggest online travel agencies, and the news was confirmed to us
by Jack You (游金章), general manager of Ctrip's high-end package tour
department. He said the eye-catching package was sold last June through
Ctrip's hotline. After a half-year visa application process, the group took
off from Shanghai on January 29. Yet even as the high-fliers' luggage was
being loaded, 30 wanna-be travelers whose names were on the waiting list were
hoping against hope for a last-minute drop-out.read more
dozen posts on China's growing appetite for luxury last year. Few things
would seem surprising anymore, until we saw this: a 66-day around-the-world
tour that sold out in China 13 seconds after the reservation hotline opened
-- roughly the time it takes Olympic-champion hurdler Liu Xiang (刘翔) to
cover 110 meters. Did we mention the price? The cost of the whole trip is a
whopping RMB 660,000 (US$104,654), about eight to 10 times the annual salary
of an average Chinese. The Magnificent 11 The tour -- which takes in more
than a dozen countries and both poles -- was organized by Ctrip.com, one of
China's biggest online travel agencies, and the news was confirmed to us
by Jack You (游金章), general manager of Ctrip's high-end package tour
department. He said the eye-catching package was sold last June through
Ctrip's hotline. After a half-year visa application process, the group took
off from Shanghai on January 29. Yet even as the high-fliers' luggage was
being loaded, 30 wanna-be travelers whose names were on the waiting list were
hoping against hope for a last-minute drop-out.read more
Seven dazzling days in South Korea
Fri, 02/03/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Violet Kim This itinerary is for the
helpless Korea virgins (and despite Korea's burgeoning tourism, we know
you're out there), not been-there-done-that backpackers in search of the
obscure. But the adjective "dazzling" here is no meaningless tag. It's a
nod to the process of aggressive elimination and selection that gave us the
model itinerary for seven days of travel in South Korea. Warning: routes
marked on this map may deviate slightly from actual routes. It's not a
comprehensive list -- being selective tends to make that difficult. But while
you may not be seeing everything, what you're seeing will still be
thrilling. Monday: Good old Seoul Incheon International Airport is the
gateway to Seoul. Numerous taxis, airport limousine buses -- and now, a
specialized railway line -- shuttle passengers to and fro, but the airport
limousine buses offer the best value. Bus 6701 towards the Seoul City Hall
from Gate 4B or 11A will take you straight to the Westin Chosun in downtown
Seoul. The fare is ₩15,000. This five-star business hotel is comfortingly
insular. But more importantly, sights like City Hall, Gwanghwamun Plaza, and
various palaces are within walking distance.read more
helpless Korea virgins (and despite Korea's burgeoning tourism, we know
you're out there), not been-there-done-that backpackers in search of the
obscure. But the adjective "dazzling" here is no meaningless tag. It's a
nod to the process of aggressive elimination and selection that gave us the
model itinerary for seven days of travel in South Korea. Warning: routes
marked on this map may deviate slightly from actual routes. It's not a
comprehensive list -- being selective tends to make that difficult. But while
you may not be seeing everything, what you're seeing will still be
thrilling. Monday: Good old Seoul Incheon International Airport is the
gateway to Seoul. Numerous taxis, airport limousine buses -- and now, a
specialized railway line -- shuttle passengers to and fro, but the airport
limousine buses offer the best value. Bus 6701 towards the Seoul City Hall
from Gate 4B or 11A will take you straight to the Westin Chosun in downtown
Seoul. The fare is ₩15,000. This five-star business hotel is comfortingly
insular. But more importantly, sights like City Hall, Gwanghwamun Plaza, and
various palaces are within walking distance.read more
Old friend, new face at Cathay Pacific's flagship lounge
Thu, 02/02/2012 - 10:35 — Anonymous by Zoe Li, Hong Kong Editor Cathay
Pacific's flagship lounge at Hong Kong International Airport reopened on
January 31 after a major ongoing facelift. Dubbed The Wing, the 14-year-old
Cathay Pacific lounge has completed renovations for its business class
section. Construction for the first class section will be complete by the end
of the year. Covering almost 3,000 square meters, the split-level space has
been redesigned by London-based architects Foster + Partners. Everything is
bigger, plusher and better-looking. "When we first opened in 1998, it wasn't
to universal acclaim," said Alex McGowan, head of products for Cathay
Pacific. "There was a water feature that passengers accidentally went
paddling in and a noodle bar that was once described as a boarding school
dining room. But over the years, The Wing became an old friend to frequent
travelers and there was a real emotional attachment formed with the space. We
want to retain the personality of the original -- to reinvent the old
friend."read more
Pacific's flagship lounge at Hong Kong International Airport reopened on
January 31 after a major ongoing facelift. Dubbed The Wing, the 14-year-old
Cathay Pacific lounge has completed renovations for its business class
section. Construction for the first class section will be complete by the end
of the year. Covering almost 3,000 square meters, the split-level space has
been redesigned by London-based architects Foster + Partners. Everything is
bigger, plusher and better-looking. "When we first opened in 1998, it wasn't
to universal acclaim," said Alex McGowan, head of products for Cathay
Pacific. "There was a water feature that passengers accidentally went
paddling in and a noodle bar that was once described as a boarding school
dining room. But over the years, The Wing became an old friend to frequent
travelers and there was a real emotional attachment formed with the space. We
want to retain the personality of the original -- to reinvent the old
friend."read more
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
How do you change a tire on an Airbus A330?
Thu, 02/02/2012 - 15:51 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffThere are many things
about air travel we take for granted: that drinking whiskey at 10 a.m. is OK;
that moving your feet in small circles counts as "exercise." But some
things are worth explaining. Adam Nelson, manager line maintenance for Cathay
Pacific Airways, told us how to change a tire on an Airbus A330. While you
may swap out that ragged piece of rubber on your Ford only when the rim
starts squealing on the asphalt, with eight main wheels and two nose
wheels, an A330 goes through 25 tire changes a year. That's 1,150 tire
changes for Cathay's A330 fleet each year. A Boeing 747-400 is even
needier. It has 16 main wheels and will get roughly 50 tire changes in a
year. read more
about air travel we take for granted: that drinking whiskey at 10 a.m. is OK;
that moving your feet in small circles counts as "exercise." But some
things are worth explaining. Adam Nelson, manager line maintenance for Cathay
Pacific Airways, told us how to change a tire on an Airbus A330. While you
may swap out that ragged piece of rubber on your Ford only when the rim
starts squealing on the asphalt, with eight main wheels and two nose
wheels, an A330 goes through 25 tire changes a year. That's 1,150 tire
changes for Cathay's A330 fleet each year. A Boeing 747-400 is even
needier. It has 16 main wheels and will get roughly 50 tire changes in a
year. read more
MONA: The world's most far-out museum
Thu, 02/02/2012 - 04:55 — Anonymous by Ian Lloyd Neubauer Chiseled into an
escarpment on the banks of the Derwent River in the northern suburbs of
Hobart is a subterranean fortress housing one of the most confronting and
controversial collections of art in the world. The crowning achievement of
Tasmanian David Walsh, a mathematician and art collector who made millions
perfecting algorithms that let him to beat casinos and bookies at their own
game, MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) has made a name for itself by breaking
every rule in the book since opening its doors in January of last year. The
entrance, for example, casts aside the grand porticos and columns commonly
seen at museums in favor of a synthetic tennis court and unmarked doorway.
"When you go to a conventional museum you are forced to walk up stairs and
past pillars meant to make you feel small and then have academics tell you
it's culture," says research curator Delia Nicholls. "But David wanted
none of that so he built this place underground." Why the tennis court?
"Because he likes tennis," says Nicholls.read more
escarpment on the banks of the Derwent River in the northern suburbs of
Hobart is a subterranean fortress housing one of the most confronting and
controversial collections of art in the world. The crowning achievement of
Tasmanian David Walsh, a mathematician and art collector who made millions
perfecting algorithms that let him to beat casinos and bookies at their own
game, MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) has made a name for itself by breaking
every rule in the book since opening its doors in January of last year. The
entrance, for example, casts aside the grand porticos and columns commonly
seen at museums in favor of a synthetic tennis court and unmarked doorway.
"When you go to a conventional museum you are forced to walk up stairs and
past pillars meant to make you feel small and then have academics tell you
it's culture," says research curator Delia Nicholls. "But David wanted
none of that so he built this place underground." Why the tennis court?
"Because he likes tennis," says Nicholls.read more
5 slices of Asia at Singapore's M1 Fringe Festival 2012
Thu, 02/02/2012 - 05:00 — Anonymous by Elaine Ee A strong platform for
small but high-quality art, Singapore's M1 Fringe Festival 2012 returns to
cast a critical eye on art and faith, while invariably shedding some light on
Asia's modern social fabric. Visitors checking out this year's
Singapore's M1 Fringe Festival 2012 can expect to see performances and
visual art exhibitions that highlight some of these keystones of Asian
society, a region deeply rooted in tradition yet continuously transforming.
Here are five top Fringe acts that focus on some of these diversities and
complexities. Triple Gem Where: Esplanade -- Jendela Visual Arts
SpaceHtein Lin tackles the Buddhism's Law of Nature in his latest
installation piece. When: February 15-26read more
small but high-quality art, Singapore's M1 Fringe Festival 2012 returns to
cast a critical eye on art and faith, while invariably shedding some light on
Asia's modern social fabric. Visitors checking out this year's
Singapore's M1 Fringe Festival 2012 can expect to see performances and
visual art exhibitions that highlight some of these keystones of Asian
society, a region deeply rooted in tradition yet continuously transforming.
Here are five top Fringe acts that focus on some of these diversities and
complexities. Triple Gem Where: Esplanade -- Jendela Visual Arts
SpaceHtein Lin tackles the Buddhism's Law of Nature in his latest
installation piece. When: February 15-26read more
Venti with whip vanilla chai lattes: Starbucks in India
Wed, 02/01/2012 - 13:33 — Anonymous by Zoe Li, Hong Kong Editor Starbucks
is due to open its first store in India through a 50-50 joint venture with
Tata Global Beverages. The first branches will open in Mumbai and New Delhi
in September and about 50 stores will follow within the first 12 months. John
Culver, Starbucks president for China and Asia Pacific, said there could be
as many as 3,000 Starbucks stores in the world's fastest-growing economy
after China. China currently has about 500. Starbucks declined to comment on
the pricing at its future Indian stores. The price of a cup of coffee ranges
widely in India, where consumers can spend Rs 53 rupees on a cappuccino at a
local chain or Rs 400 on a frappé at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, an
international chain that already has a presence in India. Starbucks arrives
at a time when the Indian government is trying to attract more foreign retail
investment, but is slow at loosening restrictions. Strict limits on foreign
ownership in India in the past have kept many international brands from
setting up shop, including Ikea and Walmart. The latter met with stringent
conditions on a recent deal while the Walmart negotiations have been put off
altogether.read more
is due to open its first store in India through a 50-50 joint venture with
Tata Global Beverages. The first branches will open in Mumbai and New Delhi
in September and about 50 stores will follow within the first 12 months. John
Culver, Starbucks president for China and Asia Pacific, said there could be
as many as 3,000 Starbucks stores in the world's fastest-growing economy
after China. China currently has about 500. Starbucks declined to comment on
the pricing at its future Indian stores. The price of a cup of coffee ranges
widely in India, where consumers can spend Rs 53 rupees on a cappuccino at a
local chain or Rs 400 on a frappé at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, an
international chain that already has a presence in India. Starbucks arrives
at a time when the Indian government is trying to attract more foreign retail
investment, but is slow at loosening restrictions. Strict limits on foreign
ownership in India in the past have kept many international brands from
setting up shop, including Ikea and Walmart. The latter met with stringent
conditions on a recent deal while the Walmart negotiations have been put off
altogether.read more
Air con and night shopping at Southeast Asia’s best market
Wed, 02/01/2012 - 13:31 — Anonymous Shoppers at Bangkok's Chatuchak Market,
one of the world's most famous retail zones, could soon be feeling cool
breezes instead of sweltering hot temperatures if a new modernization plan
goes ahead. According to a report in the Bangkok Post, Thai Transport
Minister Jarupong Ruangsuwan wants to upgrade the mega market to meet
international standards. The most notable changes on his reno list are air
conditioning and a night bazaar. The market is now managed by the State
Railway of Thailand, which owns the land, since it took over the lease from
Bangkok City Hall late last year. Though many local fans of the sprawling
142,000-square-meter market will likely object to the plans, saying
Chatuchak's charms lie in its chaos, more than a few of the sweaty tourists
who pass through its gates weekly will likely approve. According to
estimates, Chatuchak -- or JJ for short -- attracts more than 200,000
visitors on weekends. It's one of the top places to go for Thai
handicrafts, artwork, clothing, furniture, decor, plants and even pets.read
more
one of the world's most famous retail zones, could soon be feeling cool
breezes instead of sweltering hot temperatures if a new modernization plan
goes ahead. According to a report in the Bangkok Post, Thai Transport
Minister Jarupong Ruangsuwan wants to upgrade the mega market to meet
international standards. The most notable changes on his reno list are air
conditioning and a night bazaar. The market is now managed by the State
Railway of Thailand, which owns the land, since it took over the lease from
Bangkok City Hall late last year. Though many local fans of the sprawling
142,000-square-meter market will likely object to the plans, saying
Chatuchak's charms lie in its chaos, more than a few of the sweaty tourists
who pass through its gates weekly will likely approve. According to
estimates, Chatuchak -- or JJ for short -- attracts more than 200,000
visitors on weekends. It's one of the top places to go for Thai
handicrafts, artwork, clothing, furniture, decor, plants and even pets.read
more
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