Travel Maldives Guide: The Idyllic Island Destinations

Located southwest of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives comprises more than a thousand islets, around two hundred of which are inhabited. Formed from coral atolls that jut from the sea, these islands are fringed with white sand and surrounded by warm equatorial waters teeming with marine life. In other words, the Maldives are an idyllic island destination where many people have dream of.

There were 3 choices when you are thinking of traveling to Maldives. One is for comfy travellers by just choosing your preferred travel package and let the tour organiser arrange all details - air ticket, resorts/hotels, airport transfer and other add-on services you may require e.g. special meals/dishes upgrades or hiring a domestic guide service for private explorer or what we call "Excursions". Two, still choosing your preferred travel package and also let them arrange all details except the air ticket where you might be able to find some seasonal promotions and special bargains. Three is for the savers, who will arrange all details by yourself which, of course, you can get the best from your pocket.

The most favorite island "Kani" would be something you shouldn't miss. This romantic island offers every sense of happiness you can imagine. From sporting to leisure activities, you can surf, kite boarding, dive, kayak or even seaplane where you can enjoy the top views. You might also be interested to take a one day trip around the city. This sightseeing trip to Male will help you get to know better about people and their life. Don't forget to stop by the Male fish market as well. It's just traditional!!

Please remember that the best period to travel to Maldives would be between December to April. During this period, you certainly can enjoy all activities you have dream of in this idyllic island without any worries about bad weather. So, enjoy your trip in Maldives.

Travel India Guide : Mumbai Festval in the Indian Ways

Even though the city faced one of the most horrific terrorist attacks in the nation’s history from November 2008, but I still personally believe that Mumbai is still worth to travel and experience, at least once in your lifetime. Not only because being as the India’s capital city, but Mumbai has a centuries old history and many sites of tourist interest. This city could be the only place in the world to give you most of the ideas about Indian culture, Indian foods, people and their lifestyle.

Although the city has gathered almost every interesting point about the Indian community already, but it will even be more sweet and fun if you could book a trip to Mumbai on during Mid-Jan. During the mid of the first month every year, the Mumbai Festival is on the show. This annual festival covers theater, sports, fashion, food, and shopping. Remember that there are 14 million people in this city!! I guess you can imagine how amazing the atmosphere will be felt like.

Then back to some recommendations on the tourist sites. As you could easily find on the internet, there many tourist sites that have been recommended by many different sources in Mumbai. For example, the Gateway of India (built as a triumphal arch to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in December 1911), the Rajabai Clock Tower, the Marine Drive in Nariman Point area (the main business district in the city which claiming the world’s highest commercial real estate rental space in 1995) and the Juhu Beach (the most popular beach in the city stretching 5 kilometers long and will be very crowded in weekend). Just to name a few…

Apart from those mentioned, if you’ve been in Hollywood and been exciting to see how luxury lifestyles of American’s big famous stars were about, Mumbai can give you the same feeling by visiting the Film City. Of course, you might have some opportunities to meet some “Slumdog Millionaire” leading actors/actress. Although, in case you want to find out more on the secrets of Bollywood film production industry, there are some areas in this site which cannot be accessed by people without prior permission from the concerned authorities. But believe me, this area is definitely worth to drop by still.

For this year, the Mumbai Festival 2010 was scheduled on Jan 15th - Jan 31st. For more information about travel Mumbai Festival and the city's information, check on http://www.incredibleindia.org/

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Travel Laos Guide: Welcome to Vientiane, Welcome to SEA Games 2009

It’s about a week to go for the SEA Games 2009 – the biggest sports tournament in South East Asia region. This could make all people in Laos become more and more exciting as it will be the first time in history for their nation to be the host of this major regional event which has been established for 50 years this time around. I believed that they’re now more than ready to greet and welcome everyone to the tournament already and now I guess it’s time for ourselves to get prepared.

The final test-run of the opening and closing ceremony was held last weekend (28th Nov). Everything seemed to go well with more than 20,000 spectators took their seats at the National Stadium in Vientiane. Most of the games are also planned to take place in the capital city. Although, due to the lack of financial resources and limited sports facilities, there will be less number of sports playing in the tourment e.g. from 43 games from last tournament in Bangkok to 28 games, but all the major ones will certainly be included in the list such as golf, soccer, swimming, badminton, tennis, boxing and Sepak Takraw.So this can be a good opportunity for someone who failed to reserve their holidays during Christmas break. South East Asia will always welcome you.

Vientiane is now changing a lot (in case you've been there before). With the financial injection and collabolations from their good neighbors like Thailand, China and Vietnam. Many restructuring projects on the basic infrastructure like roads have been introduced to this city in the past recent years. So Let’s book your trip to Vientaine now!! The 25th SEA Games and this little country is waiting to welcome you all. The games start from December 9 - December 18, 2009.

For more information about travel in Laos, check out http://www.tourismlaos.org or find more information about the 25th SEA Games at Vientaine, Laos from http://www.laoseagames2009.com

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/

Travel Malaysia Guide : Seeing Kuala Lumpur City from the Petronas Twin Towers

Every tourist who had a chance to visit Kuala Lumpur would certainly be amazed by unique and remarkable architectural features of the “Petronas Twin Towers” or the “Twin Towers”. After holding the world's tallest buildings record for almost 6 years (from 1998 to 2004), before being surpassed by Taipei 101, the towers are still the tallest twin buildings in the world. It beats the Sears Tower in Chicago, United States by 10m height (Although the Sears Tower has more floors with occupied office space at a higher level).

The stunning silver centerpiece(s) of Kuala Lumpur rise 1482 feet above the capital city, casting long shadows over this increasingly popular Asian destination. A culturally diverse city, Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its food, nightlife, shopping and of course, those towers. The city's extensive mix of cultures and ethnicities create the best of Malaysian, Chinese, Indian and Pakistani flavors (just to name a few). Shopaholics salivate at the choices available on Bintang Walk (in Bukit Bintang), an uber-cool area loaded with shops, restaurants and chic cafes.

The two towers are connected by a sky bridge. When you want to visit the towers, then the sky bridge is the highest point you can get. Situated on the 41st floor at a dizzying height of 170m above the ground, the bridge provides the best views of Kuala Lumpur City Center and definitely is regarding as one of the big tourist attractions. You can grab a free ticket at the ticket counter but with limited 1,300 tickets distribution per day, you will probably need to stand in line 30-60 minutes especially during weekends.

If you fancy some nightlife activities, you can certainly enjoy this area. At night, Kuala Lumpur lights up, mostly due to the two massive glowing Petronas spires and the buzzing nightlife of the Golden Triangle. The Golden Triangle is becoming legendary in South East Asia for its trendy bars and pubs, offering great choices for nonstop parties. It's true the towers lure in the tourists, but it's the amazing culture and excitement of Kuala Lumpur that keeps them coming back.

Travel Australia Guide: Tram Trip in Melbourne

Please don’t tell anyone that you’ve already been in Melbourne without hopping on its city's tram network. The Melbourne tram network is regarded as the largest tram network in the world. This public transport service was firstly introduced on 1885 and has become an icon, a part of Melbourne’s character ever since. The Melbourne trams can take you from the downtown’s busiest areas to most of the inner suburbs. Well, a tram trip in Melbourne can considerably be one of the best and easiest ways for you to feel people, roads, buildings and the lives of this gorgeous city.

However, working out routes, stops and timetables isn't always straightforward if you're from other countries. Try Tramroute.com where you can find further information on the Melbourne trams service from Google Maps with its timetable information. This website is also allowing you to enter an address, identify the nearest tram stops, and then view timetable and real-time running information for that route. There's also a feature to find trams near popular attractions such as national parks, famous beaches, historical buildings and lots more.

In fact, you can simply use the information on Tramroute.com to plan your trip, select place to stay or find where to visit and choose destination to spend time in each travel moment.

It’s easy to travel on Melbourne’s extensive transport network. Just get a ticket called Metcards, validate it and travel. With this one ticket you can flexible travel between trains, trams and buses. Starting with a Zone 1 daily ticket and you will be able to spend the entire day seeing tourist attractions with unlimited train, tram and bus travel for a day within the entire city center.

Travel Japan Guide: Cherry Blossom Festival

If you’re seeking somewhere to travel and spend your holidays for this month (March), Japan can be a decent choice as the cherry blossom viewing season, draws near. A huge event throughout Japan, the festival celebrates the blooming of cherry trees at around the end of March and generally lasts until early April. Even though, for this year, because temperatures in February were above average in most parts of Japan and similarly mild temperatures are forecast for March, the cherry blossoms are expected to open a few days ahead of their average schedule.

Cherry blossoms, also known as Sakura, bloom simultaneously in the spring for one week. Recognized as Japan’s unofficial national flower, Sakura have frequently been used to establish diplomatic ties between Japan and other countries. The flowers reach full bloom and flutter to the ground gracefully during their final stage. The Japanese believe that these blossoms symbolize human life, transience and nobility. The blossoms begin in the southernmost island of Japan, Okinawa, in January and reach Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka in late March with Peak Bloom Period is predicted for April 3 - April 9, 2009.

Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka are the most popular cities to witness this spectacular natural event and to ensure everyone gets a chance to view the delicate pink and white blossoms. Tokyo’s busy Ueno Park, with 1,500 cherry trees, can be one of the best places to view Sakura. Cherry blossoms in Kyoto and Osaka tend to bloom several days later. The Arashiyama Mountain, with the Togetsukyo Wood Bridge, and Kyoto’s Imperial Palace provide beautifully picturesque scenes. Four thousand Sakura trees around Osaka Castle are illuminated at night for one week at the end of March and beginning of April, while Osaka Expo Park with over 5,500 cherry trees is a great place to have a picnic while viewing the cherry blossoms.

Find special deals on hotels throughout Japan for this Cherry Blossom Festival, check out - http://rewards.agoda.com/info/special_offers.html#specialoffers

Travel Australia Guide: Romantic days in Sydney

If you’ll be in Sydney during the upcoming Valentine’s day this weekend, you might be in the right place. This famous city certainly provides a perfect romantic tourist destination for every couple. There are a lot of wise recommendations for couple to do such as a coastal walk in Bondi Beach or an open air cinema in Royal Botanic Garden. But what will there be when stay in one of the most romantic spot in the world on the day that supposed to be one of the most romantic day in a year.

Be sure to take your lover to Sydney Harbour Bridge. One of the most significant monuments for Australians, Sydney's beautiful steel arch bridge features a dramatic view from the top (bridge climb tours are available). The bridge, harbor and the nearby Sydney Opera House make it a magical memorable location. Sydney Opera House can be admired from the outside at almost any angle, or inside by either a guided tour or catching a live performance of Ballet or the Sydney Symphony. The area provides a romantic backdrop for the grand gesture, especially when the sun sets and evening lights illuminate the city.

But if you would like to extend the romantic moment with an overnight stay, the Shangri-la Hotel Sydney would be a very good choice. With an excellent location, sitting between the Sydney Opera House and the Darling Harbor Bridge on either side, the Shangri-la is a great place to be with your lover. The hotel also offers exquisite wedding packages for your grand occasion. In case you want to get everything right start from this special night…:)

Travel China Guide: Happy Chinese New Year 2009

The Chinese New Year is usually celebrated in January/February with visits to friends and family, the wearing of new clothes, and the offering of food. Lots of food, Firecrackers can be heard in Chinese communities and lion dances are performed in the streets. The day will be determined by the Chinese calendar or also called the Chinese Lunar calendar. And for the Year of the Ox, the Chinese Lunar Year Festival would start from 26th of January.

The celebration festival for this one moment in a year will be last as long as fifteen days especially in mainland China. The whole nation feels united as they can imagine each other's enjoyment. As everyone is aware of its significance, working people in the country can take weeks of holidays so that they can accompany with their near and dear ones or a feast with their family members during those times. Therefore, tourists would be required to arrange everything beforehand if planning to travel to China during the Chinese New Year because most of travel agency companies will be closed and there will be full of local tourists in all over places.

Moreover, while not always an official holiday, Chinese New Year is widely celebrated among Chinese communities and particularly across Asian countries with dense Chinese populations. Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand are buzzing with activity during this time and visitors can enjoy the many lion dances, street parades, firecracker explosions and - of course - abundance of food available in each country's respective Chinatown. Although with the changing times and increasing mobility of the people the celebration of Chinese New Year Festival has undergone some changes, everybody still very fervently follow all the customs that their elders have taught them.

Travel Australia Guide : When the Bay of Fires is on the top of the list

Regarding as the hottest tourist destination for the year 2009 in “LONELY PLANET’S BEST IN TRAVEL 2009”, Bay of Fires is a place of tranquil beauty, full of clean white beaches and rocky bays. This could be a very first time for many people to hear about the name but this unique place from the east coast of Tasmania has made all Australians to be proud of.

It was the first time in many years that a place from the Oceania region occupied top of recommended lists recognized by some well-known tourist institutions. The Bay of Fires is a very special place which provide remarkable site for wide range of activities including camping, beach activities, boating, bird watching, fishing, swimming, surfing and walking. On top of all that, kayaking down a river to the sea will also give an ideal way to see the forests, and even a sea eagle.

However, it is a four-day guided hike that actually the real highlight. This tour would be something you shouldn’t miss as it was considered as the best way to experience scenic views of the bay which captured tourist’s most impressions. In such a pristine environment, the cares of everyday life disappear and it’s easy to imagine how this incredible place would have looked thousands of years ago.

Travel Thailand Guide: Thailand is Back for Christmas

Just in time that all the problems now have been resolved and they now got new good-looking government, Thailand is now back to the top list for Christmas and travel destinations. This unique country has always provided amazing scenery and hospitality and has already been regarded as a great choice anytime for winter holidays. With colorful countdown activities occuring throughout the country ready to welcome 2009, it is the perfect time to visit the "Land of Smiles".

'Hands Bangkok Countdown 2009' is the city's biggest celebration. Held on the Rajaprasong shopping street, the event is a massive street-party where Thais and foreigners ring in the new year together. Attractions include a live concert featuring Thailand's top singers, celebrities and superstars together with many other entertainment activities and fireworks.

Getting around the country will also give different feelings and funs. Just south of Bangkok, Pattaya Countdown 2009 welcomes tourists with live concerts featuring various famous recording artists and is capped with a huge fireworks display at midnight. In the cooler north, Chiang Mai showcases various musical and entertainment acts, stretching throughout Tha Phae road and Tha Phae gate. The beaches of Samui and Krabi offer southern, more relaxed fair, as locals and tourists alike welcome 2009 on Thailand's famous sands.

Moreover, all tourists are promised to be served very special this year. A lot of accommodations in Thailand have currently on the best deals ever as they are all agreed to initiate tourism campaigns to encourage tourists to return to Thailand as quickly as possible. This suddenly turns to be a great chance to take Thailand journey for everyone. So, why wait…

Let's find Thailand's best deals on hotels, tours, flights and everything from the official Tourism Authority of Thailand website at http://amazingthailand.tourismthailand.org/

Travel Hong Kong Guide : Everything is great in the WinterFest 2008

Already regarded as one of the most famous travel destinations in Asia region, Hong Kong is great anytime for enjoyable holidays and vacations. However, it’s during ‘WinterFest’ that Hong Kong really lights up. Great food, fantastic shopping, amazing sights and sounds, and a moderate climate will make this city an ideal destination for travelers on these special days from November 28, 2008 to January 4, 2009.

A magnificent festival of sights and sounds encapsulates Victoria Harbor in a stunning Christmas light spectacular next to the Avenue of Stars Wishing Parade of Tsim Sha Tsui’s waterfront promenade. Hong Kong gets into the spirit by decorating the entire city in full Christmas regalia, including an antique Christmas Tram, themed trucks with carol singers, a multimedia Christmas tree display at Ocean Park’s ice skating extravaganza, and the huge Christmas Tree of Statue Square.

World also renowned as a premiere shopping destination, Hong Kong is ideal for shopaholics. ‘WinterFest’ promotions in a festive atmosphere create a shopping haven throughout the city. The magnificent malls of Causeway Bay and countless shops of Mongkok’s Nathan Road light up with decorations and deals galore, helping you to easily fulfill those gift lists in an enjoyable manner.

The festivities stretch throughout Hong Kong and into Lantau where visitors can create Christmas memories with family and friends at Hong Kong Disneyland’s Sparkling Christmas. Shatin in the New Territories will be hosting the 43rd Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo while Music Sunday’s at the Peak, Hong Kong’s famous vantage point is a popular spot to relax and take in the views on the weekend. For nightlife, the famous Christmas Parties of Lan Kwai Fong bring the crowds in droves, all to celebrate the holidays and Hong Kong’s ‘WinterFest 2008’.

Travel Thailand Guide: Grab your lucks with Loy Krathong Festival

There are a few festivals from Thailand which reasonably well-known to people outside the countries. Talking about those festivals, “Loy Kratong” festival would be included on the top famous lists. Talking about “Loy Kratong” festival, today (12th November) is the day that the festival take place for this year which seems like everyone is ready for this traditional and wonderful event.

Originating as a Brahmanical festival adopted by Thai Buddhists during the reign of Rama IV in1863, “Loy Kratong” is a ceremony that venerates the Lord Buddha by offering floating trays laden with flowers, candles and incense. Loy translates to "float" in Thai, while Kratong pertains to a tray made from banana leaves. The light from the candle honors Lord Buddha, while the act of floating symbolizes the release of anger, resentment or any tarnishing of one's character. It is a way for a person to make amends and start afresh.

In addition to this, most Thais also float their kratong to honor the goddess of the rivers and waterways, Mae Nam, who they believe will bring good luck. This ties in with the romantic element of Loy Kratong which stems from a legend about Nang Nopamas, who was a royal consort to King Ramkhamhaeng (founder of Sukhothai).

As mention in the beginning, the Loi Krathong Festival is not only celebrated nationwide in Thailand, but also international places. There are many “Loy Krathong” festivals set up by Thai communities in some major cities around the world such as Melbourne, Sydney or London which you can enjoy respectful floating Krathong ceremony along with "The Noppamas Queen Contest", Thai foods exhibition and exotic mix of Thai culture shows throughout the day.

Travel Thailand Guide: Sails up for The 2008 Phuket King’s Cup Regatta

Sailing or Yachting might not be one of the most popular sports in Asia, but everyone in the world would know that Asia is one of the most splendid spot for sailing or yachting. There are sailing or yachting club in many countries in the region that have set up group’s event or tournament throughout a calendar year. For this ending year’s period, it’s time for the King's Cup Regatta in Phuket.

Inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the King of Thailand, the event has been held every year since and normally take place during the first week of December. And for this year, the race will begin on the Monday 1 December to Saturday 6 December 2008 from 5 racing days and 1 reserve day.

Sails billow up from emerald waters against a dramatic backdrop of limestone karsts. Schooners of regal proportion glide pass islands with pristine white-sanded beaches and crystal clear shallows. And that's what makes this King's Cup Regatta in Phuket the most popular of the Asian yachting races, with this year poised to attract over 100 sailing participants and thousands more spectators.

Nothing could prevent you to join the

King's Cup Regatta 2008 when the entry fee is only 17,600 Baht (8,800 Baht for Sports Boats and Ocean Rovers), but this payment together with the Entry Form must be received by 1 November 2008. Otherwise, the entry fee will increase to 25,000 Baht (12,500 Baht for Sports Boats and Ocean Rovers) for late entries. So, do not waste any more times, the temperate weather, friendly atmosphere and parties are all certainly waiting for you to enjoy now.