The blog for you to GETAWAY FROM YOUR EVERYDAY!!!!!
We’ll feature up to 3 destinations every two weeks. If you don’t want to do a package deal then have no fear because we can do most independently for you or what used to be call an ON YOUR OWN package.
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We're out to visit conurties iout the orient, Japan and Thailand. Both are popular destinations, with their exotic culture and foods. Jaoan is the most western of the two, but Thailand the most tropical in its climate. Besides touring, cruising around the islands is now possible with several cruise lines offering serveral options.
Japan
It is only comparatively recently that Japan came out of the shell of its isolation, but the country of pink cherry blossoms and genteel geisha girls has made up for lost time. There are few people in the western world who have not driven a Japanese car, eaten sushi or played on a Nintendo or Sony game console.
The nation of Japan consists of an island archipelago stretching from northeast to southwest off the coast of mainland China, Russia and Korea, separated from its Asian neighbors by the Sea of Japan. Between 1639 and 1859 Japan elected to cut itself off from trade or traffic with the rest of the world, except for some marginal contact through the southern Kyushu island ports. Since opening up its doors once more, about 150 years ago, the densely populated islands have developed in leaps and bounds and much of the country is now covered by sprawling neon-lit cities and the world's most sophisticated public transport networks.
Modern it may be, but Japan still retains plenty of its mystical oriental charm. From the intricacies of etiquette demanded in social situations, to the minimalist décor behind rice paper screens, Japanese culture is alive and well and cannot be ignored, which makes a visit to Japan a fascinating experience.
The modern metropolises are dotted with numerous ancient shrines and temples; the countryside is riddled with hundreds of volcanoes and hot springs overlooking pastoral paddy fields; parks are festooned with rigidly raked white gravel Zen gardens or coated with layers of lilac and cherry blossom.
Japan's islands are mountainous in the interior - 75 percent of the country's landmass is made up of mountains - and most of the people are tightly packed within the limitations of the coastal plains, particularly on the main island of Honshu. Tokyo, the capital and largest city, situated on Honshu's east coast, has a population of 12 million. Despite this seething mass of humanity Japan is well ordered. Everything runs on time, and crime levels are almost non-existent. It is still possible to find beautiful vistas and wide empty spaces in the countryside, and when you are forced to mingle with the urban throngs you will find the Japanese to be charming, courteous and friendly to foreign faces.
Key Facts
Language: Japanese is the official language. Most Japanese people will have studied English at school, but few can speak it well or understand exactly what is said to them in English.
Passport/Visa: All foreign passengers to Japan must hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country, return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Currency: The currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Major credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and stores, but most Japanese operate with cash. Money can be exchanged in banks, post offices and currency exchange bureau. Banks are usually open Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm. The best foreign currency to take to exchange are US dollars. ATMs are common but do not accept all credit and debit cards; only the international ATMs in post offices, airports and some major stores will accept foreign cards.
Electricity: Electrical current is 100 volts, 60Hz in the west (Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Hiroshima); 100 volts, 50Hz in eastern Japan (Tokyo, Sapporo, Yokohoma). Flat two- and three-pin plugs are used.
Travel to Japan
The fascinating land of pink cherry blossoms, sushi and Manga comics, Japan is a cultural explosion of historic attractions, neon-lit cities and exquisite mountainous landscapes. Thankfully this mystical country retains plenty of its ancient charm resulting in an 'East meets West' experience of a lifetime for visitors.
Head to the capital of Tokyo for a spot of shopping, sample authentic Japanese sushi and maybe even enjoy a little karaoke. Although famous for its glitz and neon glam this ultra impressive modern metropolis also has ancient shrines and temples round just about every corner, making the sightseeing a wonderful combination of old and new.
Head south to the city of Hiroshima, the country's most famous tourist attraction, where thousands of visitors make a pilgrimage to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, taking in the museums and lively city that has emerged triumphantly from the horror of the atomic bomb dropped during World War II. Hiroshima is a must for anybody interested in modern history and is a deeply moving place to visit.
Once you have had enough of Japan's cities, visit the countryside and marvel at the picturesque volcanoes, take a dip in the hot springs and explore the mountainous interior of the islands. Japan is a beautiful country and even in the cities the parks are punctuated with cherry blossom trees and mathematically correct Zen gardens which never cease to amaze foreigners.
Climate in Japan
The weather throughout the four main islands that make up Japan is generally temperate, with four distinct seasons. The climate varies according to island and terrain, so visitors should be sure to check the weather for the region they are visiting. The weather can get very hot during the summer months - June, July and August - which can also be humid. In the south, winters are cool but sunny, as one moves further north temperatures drop and snow falls. The island of Hokkaido in the far north of Japan is bitterly cold in the winter, with snow guaranteed. The rainy season runs from June to early August and August, September and October are typhoon season in Japan.
The best time to visit Japan varies depending on desired activities and regions, but April is a wonderful month to visit as the cherry blossoms are usually adorning the trees making it the prettiest time of year in the country. September, October and November - the autumn months - are also a pleasant time to visit, although it is typhoon season. Japan is popular year-round as a travel destination because it attracts winter sports enthusiasts in the cold months and sightseers the rest of the year, but spring and autumn are the most comfortable weather-wise.
Health Notes
No vaccination certificates are required for entry to Japan. Long-term travelers, staying for more than a month in rural areas, should consider getting a Japanese encephalitis vaccination if they are travelling between the months of June and September. Medical facilities are very good in Japan, but medical assistance can be very expensive and visitors have to pay the whole cost upfront. Travelers should ensure that they have adequate medical insurance before travelling. Vicks inhalers and other common medications used for allergies and sinus problems are banned under the strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law, and visitors are advised to check with the Japanese embassy if in doubt. It is always best to take prescribed medications with you when you travel, in the original packaging and with a signed and dated letter from your doctor detailing what the medication is and why you need it.
Safety Notes
The vast majority of visits to Japan are trouble-free. It is generally a very safe country with low levels of common crime and is stable, highly developed and modern. Travelers should, however, still be vigilant about personal safety and belongings. Typhoons are common, particularly from August to October, and travelers should take note of storm warnings along the coastal regions if travelling during this period. Japan is in a major earthquake zone, and earthquakes of varying sizes occur very frequently.
Customs in Japan
The Japanese are formal and reserved and visitors are expected to behave politely. Their system of etiquette is one of the most complex in the world, with a strict code of conduct for almost every situation. It is important to avoid causing 'loss of face' by insulting or criticizing someone
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Land of the Rising Sun |
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Some cool cruising options:
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Cruising Japan |
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Thailand
From idyllic beaches with turquoise seas and white sands, to bustling cities sporting exotic markets, and a vibrant, colorful nightlife, it is easy to see why Thailand has become one of the most popular tourist destinations for the adventurous and young at heart.
A turbulent, bloody history spanning several millennia has left Thailand scattered with ruins, forgotten temples and deserted cities, revealing a rich tableau of past eras that contrasts sharply with the more modern aspects of the nation's contemporary face.
As Thailand's tourist industry has boomed, helped to some extent by Hollywood's influence (the country has been the setting for movies like The Man with the Golden Gun, The Bridge over River Kwai, and Alex Garland's The Beach), numerous large and luxurious resorts have been developed. Yet, for those with a smaller budget, many cheap, comfortable but more basic accommodation options are still readily available on the islands and beaches.
The size and geographical diversity of Thailand provides for a variety of activities: snorkeling, diving and a host of watersports are very popular around the islands, while inland enthusiasts can trek into the mountains or cycle along the flat river areas of the northeast. Bustling, crowded cities like Bangkok display the wilder urban side of Thailand, ensuring the country has something to offer everyone who visits.
Key Facts
Language: Thai is the official language, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Passport/Visa: Travelers entering Thailand are required to prove they have sufficient funds to cover the length of their stay, and are recommended to hold documentation for return/onward travel. As of February 2017, if visitors are using the 30 day visa exemption, they can only enter Thailand through a land border twice per calendar year. To cross more frequently, travelers must obtain a visa in advance of travelling. It is highly recommended that passports are valid for six months beyond travel.
Currency: The unit of currency is the Baht (THB), which is divided into 100 satang. Currency can be exchanged at the airport, banks, hotels, and bureau de change. Banks are open Monday to Friday. ATMs are available in most cities and tourist resorts, but there is a surcharge for each withdrawal. Most major credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger businesses.
Electricity: 220 volts, 50Hz. Both flat and round two-pin plugs are used.
Travel to Thailand
There is so much to see and do in Thailand that few visitors can resist returning. With an expansive coast line and gorgeous tropical islands, Thailand is justly famed for its wonderful beaches and laid-back lifestyle. Inland, there are the iconic sights of lush jungles, rolling hills and rice paddies. As a country of Buddhists, there is also an abundance of golden temples and beautiful, spiritually-inspired architecture. One word of caution though: to avoid the common fate of temple fatigue, don't try to see too much. Rather concentrate on a few key attractions and spend some quality time in each of them. In contrast is the buzzing atmosphere of Bangkok, whose neon lights and smoggy streets blend with gardens and floating markets to create a unique hybrid of old and new - at a frenetic pace.
One reason why Thailand is such a rewarding sightseeing destination is that it has retained its distinctive identity in the face of significant western influence. That makes visiting here an exciting and exotic experience, whether you are a resort loving beach bum or an adrenaline junky exploring hill tribes and river rapids. More good news is that Thailand is blessed with year-round temperate weather so you visit at any time, although in the months from June-October rough sea conditions may make some islands unreachable via the ferry system.
Getting around is fairly easy and remarkably safe. An excellent bus network connects even far-flung towns with the major cities, while a comfortable sleeper train connects Chiang Mai in the far north with the capital Bangkok. Many people prefer to see the sights via organized tours and air-conditioned buses, but by doing so you risk missing out on the fun of getting between attractions, where you will encounter local people in unexpected ways.
Climate in Thailand
The climate in Thailand experiences high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year. The hottest months in Thailand are between March and May, and monsoon season runs from June to October. In September and October much of the country suffers from flooding, particularly in the north, northeastern and central regions. The cool season is the best time to visit Thailand, running from November to February. Temperatures are fairly consistent throughout the year, especially in southern regions, ranging between 74°F (23°C) and 86°F (30°C).
Health Notes
As a health precaution, travelers should take medical advice at least three weeks before travelling to Thailand. There is no malaria risk in major tourist resorts or in the cities of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pattaya, Ko Samui, and Ko Phangan. But in rural, forested areas that border Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, and Laos, preventions against malaria are recommended and immunization against hepatitis A and typhoid fever is also advised. Yellow fever vaccination certificates are required for travelers from infected areas. There has been an increase in reported cases of dengue fever, particularly in the south, and vaccination against Japanese encephalitis is also recommended. Outbreaks of leptospirosis occur during the rainy season and after flooding. There have been outbreaks of waterborne diseases in the Provinces of Khon Kaen, Lop Buri, Phitsanulok and Prachin Buri. Outbreaks of cholera have also been reported. You should drink or use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. If you suffer from diarrhoea during your visit you should seek immediate medical attention. HIV/AIDS is prevalent in the major cities and resorts. Medical facilities are good in major cities, but good medical insurance is vital - without insurance, or cash/credit card, travelers will not be treated. Bangkok has excellent international hospitals.
Safety Notes
Although the political situation in Thailand is currently more stable than before, there have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok in recent months accompanied by outbreaks of violence. Tourists have not been targeted during the protests, but travelers are advised to avoid all political gatherings and marches and to stay well-informed about the situation in the country. Travelers should check out the official travel alerts for Thailand before visiting, and should be careful to abide by any curfews or other rules imposed by the Thai government.
There is a threat from terrorism throughout South East Asia and travelers should be particularly vigilant in public places, including tourist resorts. Avoid the border areas and don't camp in undesignated areas in national parks. The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and travel to Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla is to be avoided.
Visitors to major cities are advised to secure their passports and credit cards and not carry too much money or jewelry. In Bangkok visitors should be aware of scams, often involving gems recommended by kind strangers. In tourist areas, particularly at the Full Moon Party on Ko Phan Ngan, be careful about accepting drinks from strangers as there have been reports of drinks being drugged. Incidents of sexual assault do occur and female travelers should be cautious.
The monsoon season in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north, northeast and central regions, causing mudslides and flash floods; visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving.
Customs in Thailand
Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Dress is informal, although beachwear should be confined to the beach. Drugs are illegal and travelers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment, and that drug traffickers risk the death penalty. Avoid touching others hair or head (rubbing a child's hair, for example), as this is a disrespectful gesture. Taking off one's shoes when entering a home is customary. Do not put your feet on table or chairs, as lifting a foot toward someone, especially the underside of the foot is considered a disrespectful gesture. Although haggling is common when buying items, especially at markets, Thais are generally very calm and soft spoken people. Arguing loudly or raising one's voice when haggling is deemed disrespectful in Thai culture.
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Wander Thailand |
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City Spotlight
Singapore
Beguiling Singapore is a modern city-state embracing economic progress against the backdrop of age-old tradition. The customs that underpin community life are created out of an ethnic mix that includes predominantly Chinese, Indian and Malay groups.
Singapore is an island off the southern tip of Malaysia, linked to it by a causeway. It evolved from a sleepy fishing village in the early 1900s to become one of Asia's economic leaders. Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles landed on Singapore's northern bank in 1819 and felt that its location made it ideal as a trading station. From here Singapore's landscape was transformed by British colonial rule, Japanese occupation, communist insurrection and finally, independence. Since becoming a republic in 1965 the island has experienced increased prosperity and exponential economic growth. Shimmering skyscrapers tower above the slick financial districts and elegant colonial buildings preserve a lingering old-world charm.
The core of downtown Singapore is formed by the Colonial District, embellished by cathedrals and cricket lawns. The notable sites of the area include the Empress Place Building and the luxurious Raffles Hotel. Although most of old Singapore has been demolished to make way for the modern city, many major landmarks within the Colonial District have been preserved. The surrounding ethnic enclaves of Little India, Chinatown and the Arab Quarter also provide glimpses into the traditions that have sustained their respective communities through the centuries.
Key Facts
Language: Singapores official languages are English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil. A patois called Singlish, or Singaporean English is widely spoken. It is the by-product of mixing English, Chinese and Malay syntax and idiom.
Passport/Visa: Travelers should hold confirmed documents and tickets for onward or return travel and enough funds to cover their stay. Male travelers with long hair are advised to tie their hair back on arrival. Women who are six months pregnant or more may be refused entry. All nationals, regardless of visa requirements, may be issued with a Social Visitor's Pass on arrival allowing for a stay of 14 or 30 days provided their visit is for touristic or business purposes. Extensions are possible for S$40, but the initial Pass is free. Passports must be valid for at least six months from date of arrival. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Currency: Singapore's currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD), which is divided into 100 cents. The US and Australian Dollars, Yen, and British Pound are also accepted in the larger shopping centers. Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants. ATMs are widely distributed and banks advance cash against the major credit cards. Banks are open daily, but some do not do foreign exchange on Saturdays.
Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Three-pin, square-shaped plugs are in use.
Travel to Singapore
Singapore's sightseeing attractions reflect the diverse population which calls the country home. In downtown Singapore, the communities of Little India and the Arab District give an exotic cultural spice to a country ultimately known more for urban planning and a high-tech economy than its history. Similarly, Chinatown stands out with its traditions and vibrant decorations in contrast to a very modern city. The creative achievements of this modernity can be viewed at the Red Dot Design Museum, the many shopping malls and the Gardens by the Bay, a fascinating marriage of technology and nature.
To escape the urban rat race tourists can enjoy numerous stunning gardens and parks, including the Singapore Botanical Gardens, the Chinese and Japanese Gardens, the Jurong Bird Park and the Singapore Zoo. Probably the best way to experience nature within the city limits is a visit to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, where swathes of tropical rainforest have been preserved. For others ferrying between islands can be the best escape. Sentosa Island is a fun theme park with myriad attractions, including beaches, aquariums and amusement parks like Universal Studios Singapore. The more relaxing Palau Ubin island is interesting for its Malay culture and is an ideal spot to go cycling or hiking along unspoiled beaches and through the forested interior.
Visitors planning a lot of travel around Singapore should consider purchasing the Singapore Tourist Pass, which allows unlimited transport on the bus and train systems.
Climate in Singapore
Situated only one degree north of the equator, it is not surprising that Singapore has a tropical climate, meaning that it is hot and humid all year round with hardly any variation in temperature between seasons; in fact, Singapore doesn't really have seasons. Travelers to Singapore would be wise to take an umbrella, because rain is abundant and possible all year round, usually falling in heavy downpours. The wettest months are between November and January, which is the monsoon period. There is generally more rain in the west of the island than in the east. Average temperatures range between 79°F (26°C) and 86°F (30°C) during the day, with cooler temperatures at night. April and May are the hottest months. Temperatures in Singapore can reach as high as 95°F (35°C) and the lowest recorded temperature in the country was 67°F (19°C) in 1934. The air-conditioning in most buildings provides a welcome escape from the heat and humidity, but is sometimes so cool that visitors will require light sweaters indoors. Between June and September Singapore may suffer from air pollution due to forest fires in Indonesia. There is no concrete best time to visit Singapore weather-wise, and it is best to time holidays to coincide with festivals and events that are of interest.
Health Notes
Travelers from countries where yellow fever occurs need to present vaccination records on arrival in Singapore to prove they are not infected. No other vaccinations are required but vaccinations are recommended for hepatitis A and hepatitis B. A Japanese encephalitis vaccination is recommended for travelers spending a month or more in rural areas or for those spending substantial time outdoors in rural areas, but as the country is highly urbanized this is seldom necessary. There is a high risk of dengue fever and there have been outbreaks of chikungunya fever in recent years as well - both are mosquito-borne diseases and measures should be taken to avoid mosquito bites. Visitors should also avoid poorly cooked food, particularly seafood, and be cautious of certain types of fish that contain bio-toxins even if cooked. Health care is excellent in Singapore but also very expensive and comprehensive medical insurance is advised. Pharmacies are well stocked in Singapore but it is still advisable to take along all required medication, in its original packaging, accompanied by a signed and dated letter from a doctor detailing what it is and why it is needed.
Safety Notes
Singapore is a very safe travel destination with crime generally limited to occasional petty theft. The Singaporean government has stepped up security measures due to increase risk of terror attacks in the region and is committed to maintaining Singapore's reputation as a safe destination.
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Singapore, a "fine" city |
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