Sat, 04/28/2012 - 00:00 — Anonymous by Sara HamdanThere are a lot of things
you can't do in the Middle East. Just ask that couple who got caught kissing
on the beach in Dubai a few years ago. Twice. But there are a lot of things
you can do, that you can't do anywhere else. Here are some of the best. 1.
Bash dunes, Dubai There's nothing like blasting music while riding a
four-wheel drive haphazardly up and down sand hills to feel the rush that
comes from dune bashing. So much for slow-paced safaris and quiet dinners in
tents -- this is one way to experience the desert that you can only do in the
Gulf. In Saudi Arabia, dune bashing is most popular in border cities such as
Al-Khararah.read more
Friday, April 27, 2012
Tokyo International Bar Show brimming with world champs
Fri, 04/27/2012 - 11:36 — Anonymous Here's an idea for Golden Week --
spend it recovering from the vast array of superb imbibing on offer at the
Tokyo International Bar Show. The capital's most-celebrated drink
extravaganza takes place May 5 and 6 at Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi and
promises seminars in sake, gin, whiskey and rum, drinks made by top
bartenders from London, New York, Paris and Tokyo, and best of all,
free-flowing alcohol. The TIBS story began 12 years ago with the birth of
"Whisky Magazine Japan." The local publisher, David Croll, threw a
launch party and invited distillers to hand out samples. He called it
"Whisky Magazine Live." The formula (lots of people + lots of alcohol)
proved popular and the event has been repeated every year since.read more
spend it recovering from the vast array of superb imbibing on offer at the
Tokyo International Bar Show. The capital's most-celebrated drink
extravaganza takes place May 5 and 6 at Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi and
promises seminars in sake, gin, whiskey and rum, drinks made by top
bartenders from London, New York, Paris and Tokyo, and best of all,
free-flowing alcohol. The TIBS story began 12 years ago with the birth of
"Whisky Magazine Japan." The local publisher, David Croll, threw a
launch party and invited distillers to hand out samples. He called it
"Whisky Magazine Live." The formula (lots of people + lots of alcohol)
proved popular and the event has been repeated every year since.read more
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Take the edge off at Hong Kong's first craft beer festival, 'Beertopia!'
Wed, 04/25/2012 - 05:30 — Anonymous by Christopher DeWolfThe first Hong
Kong craft beer festival, Beertopia!, will bring together 90 remarkable brews
from around the world to be tasted within century-old Western Market in
Sheung Wan. The emphasis at Beertopia! is on artisanal quality and
diversity, so we can finally discern our Doppelbock from our Lambic. Also
on CNNGo: Best Hong Kong beer purveyors "It's about more than getting
huge mugs of beer to get drunk," says organizer Jonathan So. "There are
so many different types of beer, so many flavors, and this is a way to try a
bunch of them." Like many Hong Kong beer nerds, So got his first taste of
quality brews abroad, when he was living in New York.read more
Kong craft beer festival, Beertopia!, will bring together 90 remarkable brews
from around the world to be tasted within century-old Western Market in
Sheung Wan. The emphasis at Beertopia! is on artisanal quality and
diversity, so we can finally discern our Doppelbock from our Lambic. Also
on CNNGo: Best Hong Kong beer purveyors "It's about more than getting
huge mugs of beer to get drunk," says organizer Jonathan So. "There are
so many different types of beer, so many flavors, and this is a way to try a
bunch of them." Like many Hong Kong beer nerds, So got his first taste of
quality brews abroad, when he was living in New York.read more
Welcome back, Shanghai Tang! Hong Kong flagship biggest in the world
Thu, 04/26/2012 - 14:50 — Anonymous by CNNGoDuddell Street no longer needs
street lamps now that Shanghai Tang Mansion is open. Hong Kong's Shanghai
Tang was kicked out of its Pedder Building home of 17 years last November
when Abercrombie & Fitch won the bid for the lease at HK$7 million. But they
got the last laugh in the face of Hong Kong's property bubble. Shanghai Tang
are now back with a fierce three-story monument to Chinese chicdom on Duddell
Street, just a stone's throw from their old digs. Dubbed the Shanghai
Tang Mansion, the nearly 1,400-square-meter flagship store is the largest
branch of Shanghai Tang in the world. More on CNNGo: Shanghai Tang moves
into Mongolian yurts in Hong Kongread more
street lamps now that Shanghai Tang Mansion is open. Hong Kong's Shanghai
Tang was kicked out of its Pedder Building home of 17 years last November
when Abercrombie & Fitch won the bid for the lease at HK$7 million. But they
got the last laugh in the face of Hong Kong's property bubble. Shanghai Tang
are now back with a fierce three-story monument to Chinese chicdom on Duddell
Street, just a stone's throw from their old digs. Dubbed the Shanghai
Tang Mansion, the nearly 1,400-square-meter flagship store is the largest
branch of Shanghai Tang in the world. More on CNNGo: Shanghai Tang moves
into Mongolian yurts in Hong Kongread more
Exhibitionists only: Visitors strip at Sydney expo
Fri, 04/27/2012 - 03:38 — Anonymous With a forecast high of 22 C this
weekend, most Sydney visitors will be looking forward to some
pretty-much-perfect weather, but there's a select bunch who may find that a
touch chilly. That's because they'll be touring the city's Museum of
Contemporary Art (MCA) completely naked in an event led by Melbourne Artist
Stuart Ringholt. He'll be checking his clothes in at the door too, by the
way. Ringholt's tour is actually billed on the MCA website as a
performance, so that should give some clue as to his motivation here. He says
he aims to address "themes of fear and embarrassment." The event itself
comes with the equally attention-seeking -- not to mention long -- title,
"Preceded by a tour of the show by artist Stuart Ringholt 6-8pm (the artist
will be naked. Those who wish to join the tour must also be naked. Adults
only)."read more
weekend, most Sydney visitors will be looking forward to some
pretty-much-perfect weather, but there's a select bunch who may find that a
touch chilly. That's because they'll be touring the city's Museum of
Contemporary Art (MCA) completely naked in an event led by Melbourne Artist
Stuart Ringholt. He'll be checking his clothes in at the door too, by the
way. Ringholt's tour is actually billed on the MCA website as a
performance, so that should give some clue as to his motivation here. He says
he aims to address "themes of fear and embarrassment." The event itself
comes with the equally attention-seeking -- not to mention long -- title,
"Preceded by a tour of the show by artist Stuart Ringholt 6-8pm (the artist
will be naked. Those who wish to join the tour must also be naked. Adults
only)."read more
Deal of the week: Super-cheap Shinkansen pass
Wed, 04/25/2012 - 08:51 — Anonymous by Gail NakadaWe all know that train
travel in Japan is super-fast, super-efficient and super-expensive. Equally,
the historically strong yen makes it even more costly for visitors looking to
stretch their travel horizons beyond Tokyo's concrete sprawl. Until now.
Following the March 11 earthquake last year, tourism and travel chiefs are
anxious to lure travelers back to Japan and the latest carrot at the end of
the stick is looking pretty tasty -- it's called the JR East Pass. For only
¥10,000 yen (US$123), Japan Rail (JR) East is offering a three-day unlimited
train pass on any of its lines and routes, including the Shinkansen bullet
train, from Tokyo all the way up to Aomori Prefecture in the far north. The
three days can be within a 10-day window, meaning there's no need to
rush. As a point of reference, a single fare from Tokyo to Aomori typically
costs around ¥16,000. Tourism officials are hoping incoming tourists will
head toward the quake-hit Tohoku region and there's a "Destination
Iwate" campaign on the JR website to encourage just that.read more
travel in Japan is super-fast, super-efficient and super-expensive. Equally,
the historically strong yen makes it even more costly for visitors looking to
stretch their travel horizons beyond Tokyo's concrete sprawl. Until now.
Following the March 11 earthquake last year, tourism and travel chiefs are
anxious to lure travelers back to Japan and the latest carrot at the end of
the stick is looking pretty tasty -- it's called the JR East Pass. For only
¥10,000 yen (US$123), Japan Rail (JR) East is offering a three-day unlimited
train pass on any of its lines and routes, including the Shinkansen bullet
train, from Tokyo all the way up to Aomori Prefecture in the far north. The
three days can be within a 10-day window, meaning there's no need to
rush. As a point of reference, a single fare from Tokyo to Aomori typically
costs around ¥16,000. Tourism officials are hoping incoming tourists will
head toward the quake-hit Tohoku region and there's a "Destination
Iwate" campaign on the JR website to encourage just that.read more
How to make a mint at Japan's antique markets
Thu, 04/26/2012 - 02:55 — Anonymous by Lisa JardineIf you've been to an
antiques market in Tokyo or one of the area's many shrine sales in the past
few years, it's likely you've come across Jacqueline Wein -- or Tokyo
Jinja as she's known to her dedicated band of online followers. She often
draws small crowds waiting to see what gem she will pick up and examine.
Selections made, it's not unusual to find her making several trips between
the market and her car, loading up purchases she's made on behalf of her
customers around the globe. Jacqueline Wein runs the numbers at another
sale.Wein's fascination with treasure hunting started at a young age in
flea markets and garage sales in the United States. This fascination led to
Princeton where she studied history and art. From there she went on to deal
in 19th-century silver -- a period directly influenced by the "opening"
of Japan -- and spent several years in the 1990s in Hong Kong studying
Chinese and Japanese antiques. Helping clients integrate the quintessential
piece into their home, regardless of their particular style, is her
specialty. Wein prides herself in finding the one valuable object in a crowd
of junk.read more
antiques market in Tokyo or one of the area's many shrine sales in the past
few years, it's likely you've come across Jacqueline Wein -- or Tokyo
Jinja as she's known to her dedicated band of online followers. She often
draws small crowds waiting to see what gem she will pick up and examine.
Selections made, it's not unusual to find her making several trips between
the market and her car, loading up purchases she's made on behalf of her
customers around the globe. Jacqueline Wein runs the numbers at another
sale.Wein's fascination with treasure hunting started at a young age in
flea markets and garage sales in the United States. This fascination led to
Princeton where she studied history and art. From there she went on to deal
in 19th-century silver -- a period directly influenced by the "opening"
of Japan -- and spent several years in the 1990s in Hong Kong studying
Chinese and Japanese antiques. Helping clients integrate the quintessential
piece into their home, regardless of their particular style, is her
specialty. Wein prides herself in finding the one valuable object in a crowd
of junk.read more
Beyond the duck: 20 best Beijing restaurants
Tue, 04/24/2012 - 23:57 — Anonymous by Tom O'MalleyBeijing hums with the
steam and sizzle of 70,000 restaurants showcasing the country's best regional
cooking. Diners can eat their way through China without leaving the capital
city. Every type of classic Chinese food is represented in Beijing, from
Chongqing-style spicy hot pot joints to holes-in the-wall selling mutton
skewers made by Xinjiang natives. The city's fine dining scene is also
experiencing a boom, attracting celebrity restaurateurs such as Daniel
Boulud, and giving rise to a generation of maverick contemporary chefs.
Here's our list of 20 of Beijing's best eateries to match every budget.
Expensive More than RMB 250 per person, excluding drinks.read more
steam and sizzle of 70,000 restaurants showcasing the country's best regional
cooking. Diners can eat their way through China without leaving the capital
city. Every type of classic Chinese food is represented in Beijing, from
Chongqing-style spicy hot pot joints to holes-in the-wall selling mutton
skewers made by Xinjiang natives. The city's fine dining scene is also
experiencing a boom, attracting celebrity restaurateurs such as Daniel
Boulud, and giving rise to a generation of maverick contemporary chefs.
Here's our list of 20 of Beijing's best eateries to match every budget.
Expensive More than RMB 250 per person, excluding drinks.read more
10 reasons travelers can't keep away from Jeju Island
Fri, 04/27/2012 - 08:00 — Anonymous by Jennifer BarclayJust off the coast
of South Korea, Jeju Island pulls in vacationers and honeymooners by the
thousands. April to June is prime time for school trips. "You get a lot of
students on field trips from April to June," says Kim Mi-ryang, of the Korea
Tourist Organization's Jeju branch. But there is plenty of space for all.
With half a million people spread over an area that's three times as big as
Seoul, there's a lazy feel to the place. Even if you haven't just gotten
married, a vacation here sure can feel like it. Regular direct flights to and
from international cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Beijing and Shanghai (as well
as South Korea's domestic airports) and liberal visa requirements also make
getting here a snap.read more
of South Korea, Jeju Island pulls in vacationers and honeymooners by the
thousands. April to June is prime time for school trips. "You get a lot of
students on field trips from April to June," says Kim Mi-ryang, of the Korea
Tourist Organization's Jeju branch. But there is plenty of space for all.
With half a million people spread over an area that's three times as big as
Seoul, there's a lazy feel to the place. Even if you haven't just gotten
married, a vacation here sure can feel like it. Regular direct flights to and
from international cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Beijing and Shanghai (as well
as South Korea's domestic airports) and liberal visa requirements also make
getting here a snap.read more
iPad-controlled superyacht almost does away with deckhands
Thu, 04/26/2012 - 09:28 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffSailors around the world
have been admiring the US$15-million superyacht, Adastra, which launched in
Zhuhai two weeks ago. Hailed as the first made-in-China superyacht, the
futuristic, three-hulled vessel -- whose name translates as "to the stars" --
belongs to 62-year-old Hong Kong shipping tycoon Antony Marden and is the
brainchild of U.K.-based boat designer John Shuttleworth, who spent more than
five years crafting the design. The 42.5-meter yacht contains one en suite
master cabin, two guest cabins, a lounge area, a dining area, a galley, and a
bar on the aft deck. Adastra can accommodate as many as nine guests and six
crew. Despite the unusual structure and luxury interiors, Adastra's
iPad-control system is what everybody is really talking about. More luxe
yachts to be iPad-controlled Although remote access is by no means news to
the yacht industry, Adastra pushes the tech to a new level.read more
have been admiring the US$15-million superyacht, Adastra, which launched in
Zhuhai two weeks ago. Hailed as the first made-in-China superyacht, the
futuristic, three-hulled vessel -- whose name translates as "to the stars" --
belongs to 62-year-old Hong Kong shipping tycoon Antony Marden and is the
brainchild of U.K.-based boat designer John Shuttleworth, who spent more than
five years crafting the design. The 42.5-meter yacht contains one en suite
master cabin, two guest cabins, a lounge area, a dining area, a galley, and a
bar on the aft deck. Adastra can accommodate as many as nine guests and six
crew. Despite the unusual structure and luxury interiors, Adastra's
iPad-control system is what everybody is really talking about. More luxe
yachts to be iPad-controlled Although remote access is by no means news to
the yacht industry, Adastra pushes the tech to a new level.read more
Turbulence after Victoria Beckham Twitter pic
Wed, 04/25/2012 - 10:18 — Anonymous "Cabin crew prepare for landing!
Welcome to Beijing!!" tweeted Victoria Beckham. Ever been on a flight waiting
for the restroom and decided to park your butt on one of those horribly
uncomfortable looking jump seats the airline attendants sit in when taking
off and landing? If so, you were likely told to move given those seats are
reserved for cabin crew only. Unless your name is Victoria Beckham. The
former Posh Spice/current fashion designer and wife of the planet's second
prettiest soccer player -- after Christiano Ronaldo, of course -- caused a
stir this past week after she posted a Twitter photo of herself sitting with
a Cathay Pacific crew member, apparently pretending to make an announcement
on her Hong Kong to Beijing flight. Some internet users criticized her for
putting the flight at risk, others said people need to lighten up. read more
Welcome to Beijing!!" tweeted Victoria Beckham. Ever been on a flight waiting
for the restroom and decided to park your butt on one of those horribly
uncomfortable looking jump seats the airline attendants sit in when taking
off and landing? If so, you were likely told to move given those seats are
reserved for cabin crew only. Unless your name is Victoria Beckham. The
former Posh Spice/current fashion designer and wife of the planet's second
prettiest soccer player -- after Christiano Ronaldo, of course -- caused a
stir this past week after she posted a Twitter photo of herself sitting with
a Cathay Pacific crew member, apparently pretending to make an announcement
on her Hong Kong to Beijing flight. Some internet users criticized her for
putting the flight at risk, others said people need to lighten up. read more
10 of the best medieval walled cities
Tue, 04/24/2012 - 23:01 — Anonymous by Bruce HolmesFor history buffs,
photographers and anyone who's ever said "Wow!" there's nothing quite
like the sight of a medieval walled city approached from a distance. Then
there are the explorations within, tours of castles, walks along the walls
and shops and restaurants in medieval squares. Many cities still have their
medieval walls predominantly intact in various parts of the world. Did I
mention my obsession? I've visited quite a few. Also on CNNGo: Asia's 10
greatest street food cities 1. Pingyao, China Situated in Shanxi province,
the 14th century Han Chinese city of Pingyao was once China's foremost
financial center with half the country's banks located there.read more
photographers and anyone who's ever said "Wow!" there's nothing quite
like the sight of a medieval walled city approached from a distance. Then
there are the explorations within, tours of castles, walks along the walls
and shops and restaurants in medieval squares. Many cities still have their
medieval walls predominantly intact in various parts of the world. Did I
mention my obsession? I've visited quite a few. Also on CNNGo: Asia's 10
greatest street food cities 1. Pingyao, China Situated in Shanxi province,
the 14th century Han Chinese city of Pingyao was once China's foremost
financial center with half the country's banks located there.read more
Best Hong Kong beer purveyors
Wed, 04/25/2012 - 12:58 — Anonymous by Christopher DeWolfEvery man in Hong
Kong has a drinking problem: two hands and only one mouth.Good news for craft
beer lovers in Hong Kong: there is more quality quaffage than ever before.
Depending on the hops, yeast and malts used in the brewing process, beer can
range from thick, sweet and rich, like the high-alcohol German Doppelbock, to
crisp, citrusy and bitter like an India Pale Ale (IPA). Along the way there
are beers as diverse as Lambic (a dry fruit ale made in Belgium) hefeweizen
(a perfect refreshing summer treat) and stout (like Guinness, but with many
even tastier options). Craft beers are made in small batches with special
attention paid to the quality of ingredients and the nuances of style.
"Craft beer is amazing because it has this awesome array of flavors that
still can surprise and amaze you 20 years after you have had your first,"
says Jeff Boda, a journalist and beer critic whose new company, Hop Leaf,
imports American and Japanese craft brews like Rogue and Baird.read more
Kong has a drinking problem: two hands and only one mouth.Good news for craft
beer lovers in Hong Kong: there is more quality quaffage than ever before.
Depending on the hops, yeast and malts used in the brewing process, beer can
range from thick, sweet and rich, like the high-alcohol German Doppelbock, to
crisp, citrusy and bitter like an India Pale Ale (IPA). Along the way there
are beers as diverse as Lambic (a dry fruit ale made in Belgium) hefeweizen
(a perfect refreshing summer treat) and stout (like Guinness, but with many
even tastier options). Craft beers are made in small batches with special
attention paid to the quality of ingredients and the nuances of style.
"Craft beer is amazing because it has this awesome array of flavors that
still can surprise and amaze you 20 years after you have had your first,"
says Jeff Boda, a journalist and beer critic whose new company, Hop Leaf,
imports American and Japanese craft brews like Rogue and Baird.read more
Jessica Alba's whirlwind tour of Seoul
Wed, 04/25/2012 - 14:30 — Anonymous by CNNGo staff Hundreds of fans mobbed
Incheon Airport today when Jessica Alba flew out of Seoul after a whirlwind
five-day visit to Korea with husband Cash Warren and daughters Honor and
Haven. The star of "Sin City" and "Fantastic Four" was in town for a --
relatively -- low-key family trip which was booked through Cosmojin Tour,
which specializes in VIP tours of Korea. Other patrons have included Woody
Allen, Cindy Crawford and YouTube co-founder Steve Chen. Korean media and
blogs started humming once they realized Alba was in country when she began
tweeting photos at Seoul landmarks. In addition to enjoying a couples'
massage at the Hilton Hotel's Swiss Perfection Spa, Alba was photographed
at the hottest Seoul club of the moment -- Octagon at the Hilltop Hotel --
last Saturday night. We hope the babysitter got a fat tip. After clubbing,
she then headed to a pojangmacha to celebrate her forthcoming 31st birthday
with soju and and fruit.read more
Incheon Airport today when Jessica Alba flew out of Seoul after a whirlwind
five-day visit to Korea with husband Cash Warren and daughters Honor and
Haven. The star of "Sin City" and "Fantastic Four" was in town for a --
relatively -- low-key family trip which was booked through Cosmojin Tour,
which specializes in VIP tours of Korea. Other patrons have included Woody
Allen, Cindy Crawford and YouTube co-founder Steve Chen. Korean media and
blogs started humming once they realized Alba was in country when she began
tweeting photos at Seoul landmarks. In addition to enjoying a couples'
massage at the Hilton Hotel's Swiss Perfection Spa, Alba was photographed
at the hottest Seoul club of the moment -- Octagon at the Hilltop Hotel --
last Saturday night. We hope the babysitter got a fat tip. After clubbing,
she then headed to a pojangmacha to celebrate her forthcoming 31st birthday
with soju and and fruit.read more
Budget carrier Scoot adds Bangkok flights
Wed, 04/25/2012 - 12:29 — Anonymous Singapore Airlines' new low-cost
carrier Scoot just announced it will be operating daily return flights to
Bangkok from July 5. As a promotion, Scoot is selling return tickets for
S$88 (US$70.42). The addition of the Bangkok route means Scoot will be
challenging Singapore Airlines' other budget carrier, Tiger Airways, as well
as Jetstar and AirAsia. Scoot executives previously announced the airline
would be flying between Singapore and Sydney, the Gold Coast in Australia and
Tianjin in northern China. Scoot's inaugural flight out of Singapore will
take off on June 4, to Sydney. To book, visit Flyscoot.com. read more
carrier Scoot just announced it will be operating daily return flights to
Bangkok from July 5. As a promotion, Scoot is selling return tickets for
S$88 (US$70.42). The addition of the Bangkok route means Scoot will be
challenging Singapore Airlines' other budget carrier, Tiger Airways, as well
as Jetstar and AirAsia. Scoot executives previously announced the airline
would be flying between Singapore and Sydney, the Gold Coast in Australia and
Tianjin in northern China. Scoot's inaugural flight out of Singapore will
take off on June 4, to Sydney. To book, visit Flyscoot.com. read more
What do airline CEOs pack when they travel?
Thu, 04/26/2012 - 09:49 — Anonymous by Rachel Sang-hee HanEnough
repurchasing USB adaptors and phone chargers because you keep forgetting to
pack them. The key to packing smart is knowing what you really need. We
asked some of the most frequent fliers in the world -- airline CEOs -- about
their favorite picks to pack. iPad: Temel Kotil, CEO, Turkish Airlines The
ultimate travel, entertainment, business companion. It really depends on the
style of the traveler -- reader, film buff, game addict -- but it can all
come down to the trusty iPad. "Most trips I take are quite long, generally
five hours or more and the two things I make sure I have with me are a book
and my iPad," says Temel Kotil, 53, of Turkish Airlines. "While I enjoy the
in-flight entertainment provided and often watch a number of movies, the
uninterrupted time while in the air provides a quiet period for reading and
listening to music that is found in few other places.read more
repurchasing USB adaptors and phone chargers because you keep forgetting to
pack them. The key to packing smart is knowing what you really need. We
asked some of the most frequent fliers in the world -- airline CEOs -- about
their favorite picks to pack. iPad: Temel Kotil, CEO, Turkish Airlines The
ultimate travel, entertainment, business companion. It really depends on the
style of the traveler -- reader, film buff, game addict -- but it can all
come down to the trusty iPad. "Most trips I take are quite long, generally
five hours or more and the two things I make sure I have with me are a book
and my iPad," says Temel Kotil, 53, of Turkish Airlines. "While I enjoy the
in-flight entertainment provided and often watch a number of movies, the
uninterrupted time while in the air provides a quiet period for reading and
listening to music that is found in few other places.read more
Survey reveals the best airplane seat
Thu, 04/26/2012 - 11:05 — Anonymous by James DurstonIf I were to guess what
airplane seat you preferred on flights, and be correct, that would be
impressive, wouldn't it? Well here I go. 6A. OK that may not have worked.
But had I said a seat in rows one to six, I would have been right for nearly
half the people reading this article. Had I predicted an even number, I would
have been right for nearly two-thirds of you.read more
airplane seat you preferred on flights, and be correct, that would be
impressive, wouldn't it? Well here I go. 6A. OK that may not have worked.
But had I said a seat in rows one to six, I would have been right for nearly
half the people reading this article. Had I predicted an even number, I would
have been right for nearly two-thirds of you.read more
Tune budget hotels set for Sydney, Melbourne
Fri, 04/27/2012 - 03:55 — Anonymous Complaints about the high price of
holidaying in Oz are set to lose a little legitimacy with the news that Tune
Hotels is about to set up shop with new budget hotels in both Melbourne and
Sydney. The no-frills hotel chain -- owned by AirAsia founder Tony Fernandes
-- opened its first property in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 2007 with rooms
selling for as little as US$3 a night. Melbourne will be first Australian
destination to get a Tune hotel, when a Swanson Street branch opens in August
next year. After that, Melbourne appears to be next on a hit list that's
bound to have the established hotels looking over their shoulders. More on
CNNGo: AirAsia boss announces new airline for the super richread more
holidaying in Oz are set to lose a little legitimacy with the news that Tune
Hotels is about to set up shop with new budget hotels in both Melbourne and
Sydney. The no-frills hotel chain -- owned by AirAsia founder Tony Fernandes
-- opened its first property in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 2007 with rooms
selling for as little as US$3 a night. Melbourne will be first Australian
destination to get a Tune hotel, when a Swanson Street branch opens in August
next year. After that, Melbourne appears to be next on a hit list that's
bound to have the established hotels looking over their shoulders. More on
CNNGo: AirAsia boss announces new airline for the super richread more
Legoland Hotel Malaysia set for 2014 launch
Fri, 04/27/2012 - 09:47 — Anonymous by Hiufu WongSo far, only the model of
Legoland Hotel Malaysia has been finished.Tired of the usual cookie-cutter
hotel rooms and safe, neutral colors? Check out Legoland Malaysia as a
potential next holiday. The park has announced plans to open Asia's first
Legoland Hotel in 2014, adjacent to the theme park in Johor. The 249-room
hotel is not built with Lego bricks but visitors can still expect to find the
little plastic cuboids everywhere. Even the fries in the restaurant are
shaped like them. Unusually for a hotel, children were front of mind during
the design phase. Too bad the receptionist isn't dressed up as a Lego
man.read more
Legoland Hotel Malaysia has been finished.Tired of the usual cookie-cutter
hotel rooms and safe, neutral colors? Check out Legoland Malaysia as a
potential next holiday. The park has announced plans to open Asia's first
Legoland Hotel in 2014, adjacent to the theme park in Johor. The 249-room
hotel is not built with Lego bricks but visitors can still expect to find the
little plastic cuboids everywhere. Even the fries in the restaurant are
shaped like them. Unusually for a hotel, children were front of mind during
the design phase. Too bad the receptionist isn't dressed up as a Lego
man.read more
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Stone the crows: It's the Sydney Comedy Festival!
Mon, 04/16/2012 - 04:55 — Anonymous Get ready for three weeks of big yuks
with acts like Charlie Murphy at the Sydney Comedy Festival.Whatever you
think about the Aussies, there's no denying they have a sense of humor --
they pinched most of it from the Brits, after all. Keeping that reputation
alive is the much-loved Sydney Comedy Festival, which hits its eighth edition
later this month. Running from April 24 to May 12, this year's bash
features homegrown and international acts tickling ribs at venues across the
city. Organizers expect the usual inrush of tourists as well as locals keen
on yuks by the bucket load. International appeal "Its fantastic to see the
festival grow year after year," says Festival Director, Jorge Menidis.
"Our audience members fly in from all round Australia to attend, with some
performances bringing in visitors from New Zealand and even Southeast
Asia." The festival opens with its traditional Cracker Night -- American
readers might need an Oz dictionary, lest they get the wrong idea -- on April
24.read more
with acts like Charlie Murphy at the Sydney Comedy Festival.Whatever you
think about the Aussies, there's no denying they have a sense of humor --
they pinched most of it from the Brits, after all. Keeping that reputation
alive is the much-loved Sydney Comedy Festival, which hits its eighth edition
later this month. Running from April 24 to May 12, this year's bash
features homegrown and international acts tickling ribs at venues across the
city. Organizers expect the usual inrush of tourists as well as locals keen
on yuks by the bucket load. International appeal "Its fantastic to see the
festival grow year after year," says Festival Director, Jorge Menidis.
"Our audience members fly in from all round Australia to attend, with some
performances bringing in visitors from New Zealand and even Southeast
Asia." The festival opens with its traditional Cracker Night -- American
readers might need an Oz dictionary, lest they get the wrong idea -- on April
24.read more
Insider Guide: Best of Bangkok
Sun, 04/15/2012 - 23:02 — Anonymous So, you're in Thailand on a mission to
cram the best of Bangkok into a weekend? It's a big ask -- there's no city in
the world like this one -- but it can be done. With incredible street food,
world-class hotels, killer nightlife, packed markets and temples so sparkly
they make your eyes water, there's almost too much to choose from. But you're
in luck. This quick guide to the best of Bangkok ensures you can at least hit
the highlights on your quest for the best of Bangkok. And, yes,
gender-defying lady boys, included. Keep in mind that hotel prices vary
dramatically depending on the time of year. High season runs from October to
April, while the best bargains can be had May to September.read more
cram the best of Bangkok into a weekend? It's a big ask -- there's no city in
the world like this one -- but it can be done. With incredible street food,
world-class hotels, killer nightlife, packed markets and temples so sparkly
they make your eyes water, there's almost too much to choose from. But you're
in luck. This quick guide to the best of Bangkok ensures you can at least hit
the highlights on your quest for the best of Bangkok. And, yes,
gender-defying lady boys, included. Keep in mind that hotel prices vary
dramatically depending on the time of year. High season runs from October to
April, while the best bargains can be had May to September.read more
Southeast Asia travel: A guide to overland border crossings
Sun, 04/15/2012 - 23:12 — Anonymous by Merritt GurleyFlying might be quick,
but to really get a real feel for Southeast Asia, try rolling old-school and
make your way through the region on the ground, where you'll gain a better
understanding of the varying landscapes and cultures across the region. There
is a variety of popular routes. For instance, it's possible to follow the
Mekong River from China's Yunnan province to Vietnam through Burma, Laos,
Thailand and Cambodia. But as with any form of adventuring, there are
drawbacks. When traveling overland you will deal with a whole mess of border
crossings, which can mean smooth sailing or a huge headache, depending on
your level of preparation. Here are a few tips on how to make it across a
land border with as little hassle as possible. Manage your expectations An
overland trip can provide a window into ground-level daily life. That daily
life may include bumpy roads, long lines and unexpected detours.read more
but to really get a real feel for Southeast Asia, try rolling old-school and
make your way through the region on the ground, where you'll gain a better
understanding of the varying landscapes and cultures across the region. There
is a variety of popular routes. For instance, it's possible to follow the
Mekong River from China's Yunnan province to Vietnam through Burma, Laos,
Thailand and Cambodia. But as with any form of adventuring, there are
drawbacks. When traveling overland you will deal with a whole mess of border
crossings, which can mean smooth sailing or a huge headache, depending on
your level of preparation. Here are a few tips on how to make it across a
land border with as little hassle as possible. Manage your expectations An
overland trip can provide a window into ground-level daily life. That daily
life may include bumpy roads, long lines and unexpected detours.read more
10 of the world's weirdest film festivals
Sun, 04/15/2012 - 23:31 — Anonymous by Candice WardWere we to turn a
spotlight on film festivals across the world then stalwarts like Cannes,
Toronto and San Sebastian would surely shine brightest. And that's only
natural. Occupying a darker corner of the stage, however, are scores of
cinematic celebrations that showcase the unorthodox, the weird and the
creepy. If it weren't for these quirky additions to the global festival
calendar, our great storytellers might never have known, for example, the
Kevin Norwood Bacon Achievement Award -- a gong awarded for exemplary
achievement to a filmmaker or actor connected to Kevin Bacon in six films or
fewer. With that taster still lingering in the senses, here are some of the
oddest and most wonderful celebrations of film, all (well, most) screening at
a town near you over the next year or so. Book your tickets now. 1. Mile High
Horror Film Festival (United States) Not sure which one's Dorothy, but The
Emerald City definitely ain't in Denver.read more
spotlight on film festivals across the world then stalwarts like Cannes,
Toronto and San Sebastian would surely shine brightest. And that's only
natural. Occupying a darker corner of the stage, however, are scores of
cinematic celebrations that showcase the unorthodox, the weird and the
creepy. If it weren't for these quirky additions to the global festival
calendar, our great storytellers might never have known, for example, the
Kevin Norwood Bacon Achievement Award -- a gong awarded for exemplary
achievement to a filmmaker or actor connected to Kevin Bacon in six films or
fewer. With that taster still lingering in the senses, here are some of the
oddest and most wonderful celebrations of film, all (well, most) screening at
a town near you over the next year or so. Book your tickets now. 1. Mile High
Horror Film Festival (United States) Not sure which one's Dorothy, but The
Emerald City definitely ain't in Denver.read more
Saturday, April 14, 2012
10 outrageous yachts for hire -- if you're filthy rich enough
Sun, 04/15/2012 - 05:25 — Anonymous by Fiona HarperIf all this talk about
the Titanic centenery has you hankering for an ocean jaunt, check out these
rides. Few things are more indulgent than a private yacht charter. There
are scores of worthy contenders plying the world's best cruising grounds,
but these 10 are guaranteed to make your bank account crawl into a corner and
start weeping. 1. Maltese Falcon What: 88-meter mega sailing yacht Where:
Mediterranean and Caribbean Crew: 16 Sleeps: 12 How much: US$74,000 per day
To charter: www.symaltesefalcon.comBuilt by the innovative Italian
firm Perini Navi, Maltese Falcon's traditional sailing rig belies her
extraordinary state of the art technology and design. Record-breaking speeds,
courtesy of her lightweight sail rigging, make 10-day, trans-Atlantic
crossings commonplace. With head-turning, sleek contemporary styling, Maltese
Falcon is for traditionalists who don't mind a modern twist.read more
the Titanic centenery has you hankering for an ocean jaunt, check out these
rides. Few things are more indulgent than a private yacht charter. There
are scores of worthy contenders plying the world's best cruising grounds,
but these 10 are guaranteed to make your bank account crawl into a corner and
start weeping. 1. Maltese Falcon What: 88-meter mega sailing yacht Where:
Mediterranean and Caribbean Crew: 16 Sleeps: 12 How much: US$74,000 per day
To charter: www.symaltesefalcon.comBuilt by the innovative Italian
firm Perini Navi, Maltese Falcon's traditional sailing rig belies her
extraordinary state of the art technology and design. Record-breaking speeds,
courtesy of her lightweight sail rigging, make 10-day, trans-Atlantic
crossings commonplace. With head-turning, sleek contemporary styling, Maltese
Falcon is for traditionalists who don't mind a modern twist.read more
Friday, April 13, 2012
Gallery: Songkran's water fights, parties and old school traditions
Fri, 04/13/2012 - 13:15 — Anonymous Nationwide water fights, traditional
Buddhist rituals, parties, parades and plenty of alcohol. The Thai new
year, better known as Songkran, is now officially under way. Running from
April 13-16 this year -- some cities stretch the celebrations out for a full
week -- Songkran marks the beginning of the new solar year and the summer
season in Thailand. Though Songkran is more famous for the huge water
fights that rock the streets of Chiang Mai and popular Bangkok tourist zones
like Silom and Khao San Road, there is a traditional side to the event. On
the first day of festivities, families and friends celebrate Songkran by
visiting temples and pouring water on each others' hands as a blessing, to
start the year filled with good luck. People also pour water -- seen as a way
of washing away bad luck -- over Buddha statues. Over the years, those
traditions have evolved into a nationwide water fight, a welcome form of
relief given that April is the hottest month of the year. read more
Buddhist rituals, parties, parades and plenty of alcohol. The Thai new
year, better known as Songkran, is now officially under way. Running from
April 13-16 this year -- some cities stretch the celebrations out for a full
week -- Songkran marks the beginning of the new solar year and the summer
season in Thailand. Though Songkran is more famous for the huge water
fights that rock the streets of Chiang Mai and popular Bangkok tourist zones
like Silom and Khao San Road, there is a traditional side to the event. On
the first day of festivities, families and friends celebrate Songkran by
visiting temples and pouring water on each others' hands as a blessing, to
start the year filled with good luck. People also pour water -- seen as a way
of washing away bad luck -- over Buddha statues. Over the years, those
traditions have evolved into a nationwide water fight, a welcome form of
relief given that April is the hottest month of the year. read more
Mario Batali in Hong Kong, obsessed with century egg
Fri, 04/13/2012 - 11:12 — Anonymous by Zoe Li, Hong Kong EditorMario
Batali: "Century eggs are so beautiful."Mario Batali was really bothered
about the bread at Lupa, his new restaurant in Hong Kong. He took a slice of
the bread they were serving that day and made me smell it, looking at me
expectantly. I detected a nice anise scent and wanted to eat it. "Caraway
seeds! That has no business here!" says Batali, snatching it back. It just
doesn't go with his sauces and meats. I get it. It's like having char kway
teow made with egg noodles. It's practically an insult to a food lover.
Batali came to Hong Kong and discovered a city of kindred spirits. "People
talk about food like religion here," he says. It's his kind of place.read
more
Batali: "Century eggs are so beautiful."Mario Batali was really bothered
about the bread at Lupa, his new restaurant in Hong Kong. He took a slice of
the bread they were serving that day and made me smell it, looking at me
expectantly. I detected a nice anise scent and wanted to eat it. "Caraway
seeds! That has no business here!" says Batali, snatching it back. It just
doesn't go with his sauces and meats. I get it. It's like having char kway
teow made with egg noodles. It's practically an insult to a food lover.
Batali came to Hong Kong and discovered a city of kindred spirits. "People
talk about food like religion here," he says. It's his kind of place.read
more
Thursday, April 12, 2012
World’s 10 rudest countries for travelers
Fri, 04/13/2012 - 08:34 — Anonymous by CNNGo staffTravel search site
Skyscanner recently released a list of the world's rudest nations for
visitors, naming the countries whose smiley and friendly natives are
apparently confined to their promotional videos. The result, which lists 34
countries, is based on Skyscanner's online poll, which received more than
1,200 responses from Europe, North America and Australia. France, the
champion of impoliteness La Belle France was declared the champion of
impoliteness, garnering nearly 20 percent of the total votes. French people
are known for "their abrupt and curt nature," especially while facing
foreign tourists, Edinburgh-based Skyscanner told International Business
Times. Russia took second place with 16.6 percent of the votes, followed by
the United Kingdom (10.4 percent), Germany (9.93 percent) and a puzzingly
labeled "Others" (miscellaneous countries).read more
Skyscanner recently released a list of the world's rudest nations for
visitors, naming the countries whose smiley and friendly natives are
apparently confined to their promotional videos. The result, which lists 34
countries, is based on Skyscanner's online poll, which received more than
1,200 responses from Europe, North America and Australia. France, the
champion of impoliteness La Belle France was declared the champion of
impoliteness, garnering nearly 20 percent of the total votes. French people
are known for "their abrupt and curt nature," especially while facing
foreign tourists, Edinburgh-based Skyscanner told International Business
Times. Russia took second place with 16.6 percent of the votes, followed by
the United Kingdom (10.4 percent), Germany (9.93 percent) and a puzzingly
labeled "Others" (miscellaneous countries).read more
10 Titanic sites for travelers
Fri, 04/13/2012 - 01:00 — Anonymous by Anthea GerrieWhen the
"unsinkable" 52,000-ton RMS Titanic struck an iceberg and slid to the
bottom of the ocean on her maiden voyage on April 15, 1912, you'd think it
would be a night to forget, with the loss of more than 1,500 lives. But not a
bit of it -- the Titanic centennial will be a worldfest of commemorations,
re-enactments, auctions and other special events taking place on both sides
of the Atlantic, plus a couple of less likely sites around the globe.
Here's a rundown on where to see the fixtures, fittings and other artefacts
which survived, relive the voyage of those who didn't and buy into the
atmosphere of the world's most advanced steamship of the times, doomed
forever to the deep by pride, folly and human error. 1. Belfast, Northern
Ireland Even the chippie is getting on board in Belfast. In the city where
the fated liner was built, £90 million (US$143 million) and three years have
been invested to create a "Titanic Experience" on the old Harland and
Wolff ship-building yard. The show -- the world's largest such experience
-- opened on March 31 with full-scale reconstructions, rides and a bevy of
special effects to tell how Titanic was conceived at the dawn of the 20th
century prior to sailing out of Belfast on April 2, 1912.read more
"unsinkable" 52,000-ton RMS Titanic struck an iceberg and slid to the
bottom of the ocean on her maiden voyage on April 15, 1912, you'd think it
would be a night to forget, with the loss of more than 1,500 lives. But not a
bit of it -- the Titanic centennial will be a worldfest of commemorations,
re-enactments, auctions and other special events taking place on both sides
of the Atlantic, plus a couple of less likely sites around the globe.
Here's a rundown on where to see the fixtures, fittings and other artefacts
which survived, relive the voyage of those who didn't and buy into the
atmosphere of the world's most advanced steamship of the times, doomed
forever to the deep by pride, folly and human error. 1. Belfast, Northern
Ireland Even the chippie is getting on board in Belfast. In the city where
the fated liner was built, £90 million (US$143 million) and three years have
been invested to create a "Titanic Experience" on the old Harland and
Wolff ship-building yard. The show -- the world's largest such experience
-- opened on March 31 with full-scale reconstructions, rides and a bevy of
special effects to tell how Titanic was conceived at the dawn of the 20th
century prior to sailing out of Belfast on April 2, 1912.read more
Gallery: A year in the life of a travel photographer
Fri, 04/13/2012 - 00:00 — Anonymous by Frances Cha, Seoul EditorSeoul-based
travel photographer Julie Mayfeng has one of the coolest jobs in the world --
taking pictures for Monocle, the United Kingdom-based lifestyle magazine that
covers everything from politics and business to fashion and travel. At
Monocle's fifth anniversary party in Seoul last year, Mayfeng would interrupt
conversations by pointing her camera and shooting quickly -- without a flash
in what was a very dark bar -- then resume merrily talking and laughing while
barely missing a beat. The photos she took that night turned out to be
stunning. Mayfeng manages to infuse voice and style into the most seemingly
bland of scenes, and it's astonishing to see what she captures at her
favorite shooting spots. After seeing those photos, we knew we needed to
talk. read more
travel photographer Julie Mayfeng has one of the coolest jobs in the world --
taking pictures for Monocle, the United Kingdom-based lifestyle magazine that
covers everything from politics and business to fashion and travel. At
Monocle's fifth anniversary party in Seoul last year, Mayfeng would interrupt
conversations by pointing her camera and shooting quickly -- without a flash
in what was a very dark bar -- then resume merrily talking and laughing while
barely missing a beat. The photos she took that night turned out to be
stunning. Mayfeng manages to infuse voice and style into the most seemingly
bland of scenes, and it's astonishing to see what she captures at her
favorite shooting spots. After seeing those photos, we knew we needed to
talk. read more
Could budget airlines topple Asia's legacy carriers?
Thu, 04/12/2012 - 12:54 — Anonymous by Frances Cha, Seoul EditorTraveling
on budget airlines is a way of life in Europe and North America. But in Asia,
where low-cost carriers have only recently begun cutting into the market
shares of established airlines, their impact on commercial aviation will
likely far surpass anything seen in other markets. Budget operators' share
of the Asian aviation market surged from zero to 25 percent over the past
decade, according to the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation, which estimates
that there will be 50 budget airlines in the region by the end of 2012, with
approximately 1,000 aircraft on order. "Ten years ago, network airlines
almost universally declared that low-cost carrier operations simply
wouldn't work in the Asia Pacific region, but today nearly all full-service
airlines in the region have their own low-cost offshoots," says Tom
Ballantyne, Hong Kong-based chief correspondent for commercial aviation
magazine Orient Aviation. Peaches freshens up Japanese market The latest
quirkily named and brightly colored, low-cost carrier to debut in the region
is Japan's Peach Aviation -- a partnership between All Nippon Airways (ANA)
and an investment group in Hong Kong -- which inaugurated service in March
with a flight from Osaka to Nagasaki.read more
on budget airlines is a way of life in Europe and North America. But in Asia,
where low-cost carriers have only recently begun cutting into the market
shares of established airlines, their impact on commercial aviation will
likely far surpass anything seen in other markets. Budget operators' share
of the Asian aviation market surged from zero to 25 percent over the past
decade, according to the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation, which estimates
that there will be 50 budget airlines in the region by the end of 2012, with
approximately 1,000 aircraft on order. "Ten years ago, network airlines
almost universally declared that low-cost carrier operations simply
wouldn't work in the Asia Pacific region, but today nearly all full-service
airlines in the region have their own low-cost offshoots," says Tom
Ballantyne, Hong Kong-based chief correspondent for commercial aviation
magazine Orient Aviation. Peaches freshens up Japanese market The latest
quirkily named and brightly colored, low-cost carrier to debut in the region
is Japan's Peach Aviation -- a partnership between All Nippon Airways (ANA)
and an investment group in Hong Kong -- which inaugurated service in March
with a flight from Osaka to Nagasaki.read more
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