Travel Korea Guide : Seoul Grand Sale 2009

In be honest, I have to admit that I have been enjoyed watching some K-POP music videos from time to time in recent years, especially from a group of pretty girls – “Girls’ Generation”. I also have to admit that I’ve been enjoyed watching some Korean series/movies as well because of their good movie plots, good acting skills from the star actors/actresses and stunning filming locations.

Apparently, about 10 years ago, I’d found some articles on newspaper about the South Korea government had set one of their ultimate goals by marketing the Korean cultures and traditions across Asia and let the world knows everything more about Korean. A few years later there were followed by wide-range of products having Korean Brand Name with modern designs and good qualities in the markets like Hyundai, LG, SAMSUNG and so on. Then I began to see Korean series on the public TV channels, then music videos and followed by many Korean barbeque restaurants open here in Thailand. So I guess the Korean government has done something right on what they’ve planned so far.

And just to remind anyone who might be interested to know more about Korea, this could be a very good time for you to take a trip to this beautiful country because it’s time for Seoul Grand Sale 2009. This annual sale festival has begun since September 26 but still have another month to go as it will end on November 25. So, let’s be there everyone, as the Korean was promised to make this year very special with the designation of '2010: The Year to Visit Korea’.

You’ll be guaranteed to enjoy with wide range of activities provided in the downtown area in Seoul from tourism to shopping,food, beauty salons and a lot more on entertainments. Also make sure that you visit Hongdae, Cheongdam-dong, and tourist sites such as Myeong-dong, Namdaemun and Itaewon, there are about 500 businesses and 800 shops which are ready to offer you some great deal with discounts from 5-50%, free entrance, thank you gifts and many more.

Find more information on Seoulgrandsale.com. Enjoy..

Travel India Guide : Diwali Festival 2009

Well, the lucky number day 09/09/09 had already been passed for someone who believe in it, and they would need to wait for another 100 year for these numbers to circle back on the calendar, but for most of the people in India, their great lucky days are just about to arrive - the Diwali festival.

Diwali (or Deepawali) is known as the "Festival of Lights" and is celebrated in October/November by Hindus who mostly live across many parts of India and Nepal. Essentially the festival marks the victory of good over evil, the light illuminating the dark, and it is also a celebration of the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. The exact Diwali date for each year will be featured on the Diwali Calendar and for this year - 2009, the day falls to the October 17.

As it has been regarded as one of the most popular festival in India, the Diwali festival will celebrate over five days in total where the third days is celebrated as the main Diwali festival or 'Festival of lights'. Clay lamps will be lit and placed in all rooms of the home on the night and will be the only chance in a year to see the entire country sparkling with beautiful lights. There are many more activities to enjoy with including religious ceremonies, family gatherings, and also some fireworks. Every people will enjoy dancing with happiness and also encouraging for exchanging gifts with their near and dear ones. So don’t forget to prepare yours!!

Remember that even the Diwali date is featured on the October 17th but the Diwali festival 2009 will begin from October 15th to October 19th so if you don’t want to miss any part of these celebrations, be there from the first day. You will be enjoyed yourself from the great enthusiasm and happiness sharing among people in every parts of India as it was one of their biggest days in a year.

Travel Thailand Guide : The Beauty of Phi Phi Island

Regarding as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand's Andaman Sea, the Phi Phi Island or “Koh Phi Phi” in Thais, is part of Krabi province. With 1.20 hours by modern ferry or 2.30 hours by tourist boat from Phuket port, tourists will arrive to the island with huge impression on its magnificent landscape. Although this little paradise island from Thailand was one of the most damaged spots from the tragedy tsunami strikes in 2004, but all the happiness had now been re-built and everything seems to be reformed back strongly.

Koh Phi Phi is composed of 6 islands with 2 main rockies, tree-covered islets, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. The Phi Phi Don is the largest island of the group, and is the great site where several long white powdery beaches attracted millions of visitors for their sun-bathe and swim each year. It is also the main and the only island in the group to find accommodations, foods, drinks, entertainments and every other thing needed for your stay and vacation.

While another is the rocky Phi Phi Leh, a smaller island to the south, has shallow coral gardens, teeming with fish and perfect for snorkelling. It is also an excellent site for a day-trip. And if you do, don’t forget to take a look at the Viking cave. This historic site reputedly contains ancient wall pictures painted by Viking or seafaring people. It’s definitely a worth site to visit.

After all day long with beach activities, it’s time for you to get wild and free. Heading to Ton Sai Bay for a wonderful evening out, you’ll find that this area is so special to have parties and to meet some new friends from friendly locals to foreign tourists from different part of the world. The area is also filled with incredible fire shows on the beach, Thai kick boxing and cabaret nights which can keep you amazed and fun all night long.

Find further information from any in-bound tour operators who organizing day trips and packages in Thailand. I’m sure they all will be able to provide you suggestions on the Phi Phi Island trip.

Travel Singapore Guide : Fast and Furious at Singapore F1 Grand Prix 2009

There was big headline a few weeks ago about Michael Schumacher, The seven-times world champion, had an idea of returning to the Ferrari cockpit. But days later were followed by disappointment for everybody as he’s fail to pass the fitness test which were caused by the damages on his back and neck during a motorbike test in Spain in February.

But even with or without Michael Schumacher on the tournament, the 2009 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is something that should be recommended to everyone to get involved. This tournament in Singapore has been regarding as the first-ever evening Grand Prix in F1 history and the chequered flag will be raised and guns spark off from this 25 September to 29 September 2009.

The race is held at the Marina Bay Street Circuit and will be packed with top Formula One drivers & F1 Racing teams in action including Fernando Alonso and his Renault team – The Winner from last year. Tickets are now on sale with the price from S$38 for a Single Day – Walkabout Ticket to S$1,488 for a Season Pass – Pit Grandstand Ticket. For more information, check on the official website - http://www.singaporegp.sg/

Moreover, F1 aficionados can also witness the high octane action from several vantage points in the city including the exclusive ‘Singapore Flyer,’ the world’s largest observation wheel. As this US$ 175 million Singapore Flyer has embodied an entire entertainment complex, including a retail mall, amusement hall as well as food and beverage outlets, there would be a lot more fun for you to enjoy apart from the rare ultimate Formula 1 racing experience in South East Asia.

Travel Hong Kong Guide: Hong Kong Disneyland This Summer

It might not be that highly popularities on the recent news as the Neverland Ranch of our losing pop star – Michael Jackson, but the Hong Kong Disneyland certainly could bring everyone the totally opposite emotion this summer. Huge of fun will be in place with parties in the stitch style, and yes, they will all happen in this one of the biggest amusement parks in Asia.

For anyone who have never been to this fifth Disneyland-styled theme park in the world, but might had been to some of the other Disneyland theme parks, you could find that Hong Kong Disneyland was pretty much smaller than the Paris Disneyland, Orlando Disneyworld or Disneyland Los Angeles. But with the Disneyland trademark, you still can be ensured that the place is obviously packed with all the excitement and attractions, especially, for your kids.

Beginning from the hotel, the Disney's Hollywood Hotel has its beautifully manicured lawns in the shapes of Disney characters to the wall paintings and murals of your favorite characters which really makes one's anticipation of fun filled times to come more exciting.

Then down to the park, the Space Mountain promises to have some the park's longest lines and could be good enough for a starting point. ... Also, for this summer, prepare yourself to laugh and dance non-stop with Stitch and his friends from U.S. such as Mr. Incredible, Goofy, Ariel and many more. And, if possible stay until late evening to see the fireworks show. It’s truly magical.

The Hong Kong Disneyland is located on Lantau Island. The easiest way to get there is by taking train from the MTR Tung Chung line to Sunny Bay Station, then to the Disneyland Resort Station. Tickets are available at the front gate and also at the Hong Kong Disneyland Ticket Express, from the MTR Hong Kong Station's Tung Chung Line Concourse. Even though I heard some people complained about the expensive fares, but believe me, you would never be regret to get a chance to release yourself free in this amazing place. For information about the Hong Kong Disneyland, visit http://www.hongkongdisneyland.com/

Travel Indonesia Guide: The Bali Arts Festival 2009

There are many places of interest for visitors in Bali apart from its beautiful beaches along the coastline which offers every possible water activities including surfing, snorkeling, diving, cruises and sailing. When it comes to the mid-year period, the Bali Arts Festival is something that anyone shouldn’t miss.

Lasting for about four weeks from mid-Jun, the Bali Arts Festival is a wonderful spectacle and a great introduction to Balinese artistic traditions and culture. The Festival is a full month of daily performances, handicraft exhibitions and other related cultural and commercial activities during which literally the whole of Bali comes to the city to present its offerings of dance, music and beauty.

For this year, the 31st Annual Bali Arts Festival is being held from 13 June until 11 July in Denpasar. This month long revelry is unique as perhaps no other place in the world can put up on such a low budget as the Balinese. Not only is their traditional culture alive and well, but they have a tremendous pride in it.

During this year’s occasion, the festival will feature 180 art performances from 12 provinces in Indonesia and eight foreign countries - South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand, India, China and Mexico and the United States. The five main agenda items of the Bali Arts Festival will remain unchanged to include the cultural parade, stage performances, competitions, meetings and seminars, and a handicraft exhibition of small industry and handicraft items. And of course, all the funs and great experiences will always be there.. Enjoy..

Travel Singapore Guide : The Great Singapore Sale 2009

During this economic recession, every shopper will always eye for a real cheap item which come with big discount and special promotion. And if you’re one of the real bargain hunters, you won’t afford to miss - The Great Singapore Sale 2009 - the annual event in the Lion-city where you could look out for some 70% discounts from the usual prices on everything including designer apparel, beauty treatments, IT gear and many more.

Stretching from the main shopping belts of Orchard Road and Marina Bay to the suburban malls, the sale involves an impressive number of retail outlets. Exclusive tourist-only specials are on offer in addition to the normal promotions – in fact, tourists are presented with a “Tourist Privilege Card” affording them more discounts on selected retail and lifestyle purchases. Other visitor benefits include VAT refunds and extra tax rebates with brands such as high fashion chain Club 21 (who represent Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and Mulberry).

Among all the funs and excitements, The Great Singapore Shopping Challenge will be one of the highlight events. This big attraction will boast a cash prize of US $10,000 for the best bargain hunter, tourists and locals will battle it out in an intense shopping spree that lasts 3 hours. With US $1,000 in their pocket, teams of two are charged with the task of finding the best items available at the least amount of money. On top of that, there will also be attractive dining offers islandwide during the season to keep you and your companions thoroughly contented even when you’re not shopping. Also if you have sometimes, don't forget to a bus ride around the Singapore Island. It will be another good experiences.

Check all these out yourself on The Great Singapore Sale 2009 from May 29 to July 26, 09. For more information, visit http://www.greatsingaporesale.com.sg/