Luxury Travel Secrets

August 24, 2010

Red Sea

Filed under: Beach Escapades, Sightseeing — Tags: — Jean @ 10:16 am

What color would you use to describe a Sea?
? ? ?
In my dictionary, sea used to mean blue, light blue, dark blue, crystal blue… Until I went to Pan Jin, Liao Ning Province, China, I never know sea can be related to such striking color – RED! I was shocked by what in front of me…

In Pan Jin, there is a famous National Nature Reserve called Red Sea. It is one of the greatest and the best-preserved red sea in the world. 

Why & How?
      The sea-blite covers the alkaline beach as millions corals, dyeing the entire beach red. The sea-blite is a wild plant; they will come out the ground in April. In the beginning sea-blite is light red and later get dark red in September and turn to purple in October.

Tickets: RMB$40.00 (for red beach only)
                    RMB$ 80.00 (inclusive other sightseeings around)
Sightseeing: Reed Marshes and Bird Paradise

Accommodation:
      Actually there is no hotel inside the Red Sea scenic spot. But there are some hostels near the site. We stayed in a triple room RMB $103.00 per night. Definitely the environment cannot compare with standard hotel, but least it’s clean and convenient.

Recommendation Foods:
      Water Crab: In September, the water crab is the best around the year. You can find famers selling fresh crab by the wayside. It would be lovely to get them steam several fresh crabs for you. And they definitely tastes better than restaurants’.

“虾爬子””(Braised Shrimp) is a special cuisine in Pan Jin, and you may not find it elsewhere.

How to get there:
     There are special vehicles from Pan Jin to Red Sea Scenic Spot everyday. Also, you can get transfer online or from local agencies.
      Rent a mini bus if you travel in group. And drivers are available if you can’t drive or not familiar with the local road. There is also train service directly to Red Sea Scenic Spot during peak season. It is advised to book your tickets in advance.

Website for Pan Jin Red Sea:
www.honghaitan.com/docc/index.asp

July 23, 2010

Coral’s heaven

Filed under: Beach Escapades, World Heritage — Jean @ 4:01 am

The Great Barrier Reef off the east coast of Australia is so-called one of the natural wonder of the world. And it is also the largest coral reef in the world. For sure it has the distinction of being placed in the World Heritage as well as The National Heritage Lists.
Here more than 600 islands and coral cays, the reef covers more than 300,000 sq. km. There is a huge variety of sea life in the reef due to the Corals make up the several reefs and cays. Such like green turtles, several varieties of whales and dolphins, dugong, about 4000 types of mollusk, 1500 different species of fish as well as a beautiful colored bide life with 200 species.

The Great Reef Marine Park

This park is a huge tourist attraction with more than a couple of million tourists’ vesting the area each year. Here you can scuba diving and reef sailing.

Activities


Scuba diving is a normal activity you can find in this attract place. The under water world should surprise you with the incredible views. The brilliant sea life will full of you eyes and out of you imagine.
Explore this magical coast by boat to enjoy the great scenery. Or maybe select the half concealed in a yacht witch with the glass bottom, thus the unbelievable underwater view will appear in fount of you. If you think neither these two ways you are really no interested then you should try to survey the whole island like a bird. The helicopter can help you make this dream come true.
Follow the local travel guide to stroll in natural, adventure in the rain forest. Dive under the sea to dance with the variety sea life. Lie on the beach to enjoy the sunshine, beach and sea.

How to get there:

In Cairns, Townsville, Port Douglas and Mackay are all provide the exclusive wakeboat to The Great Reef Marine Park. There are experts introduce the great reef and show lots of marina knowledge to you. A little bit like to have an interesting biology class.

July 22, 2010

A Trip to Yalong Bay, Hainan

Filed under: Beach Escapades — Tags: , , — admin @ 9:54 am

Yalong Bay is one of the famous beaches in Hainan, quite near to Sanya. Its reputation also came from the hosting of Ms Universe champion few years back.

Asian Dragon Bay is home to almost all of Sanya’s five star International Hotels and at its premium during Spring Festival.

It has almost all kinds of water sports along the beach from simple floats, paddle boat, jet skis, sailboats, and windsurfers to para-sailing. You will definitely find one to enjoy you happy time along the beach.

Tips: From Sanya and Dadonghai to Yalong Bay
by Double-Decker Tourist Bus / any of the local buses at CNY5.00 / way (about 30 mins)

July 21, 2010

Sanya – “The Hawaii of Asia”

Filed under: Beach Escapades — Tags: , , — admin @ 10:12 am

    A direct flight from Chongqing to Sanya takes about 2hrs. The driver had been waiting at the airport before my arriving. However, the hotel I booked with their agent was far from Sanya airport. It actually requires hours of driving. Fortunately, I came in the low season and the kind driver offered me just to pay the difference and change to a resort that is in Dadonghai area.

    Early morning, I woke up and found my room is filled with bunch of bright sunshine. And it was more exciting to see the wide sea through the window. Even better, the hotel has an open platform in their buffet restaurant for people to view the beautiful sea while having breakfast.

 <The statue of Kwan-yin

    Half hours after breakfast, the tour guide picked me up in the hotel lobby for my 1 day tour. We firstly set for Nanshan Temple that belongs to the Nanshan Culture Tourism Zone which is about 40 km away from downtown Sanya. It is quite famous in China and a must for people of the first time. There were many prayers and the big Golden Jade Kwan-yin Statue was quite impressive. Have to recommend the incredible nice vegetarian lunch we had in the tourism zone, amazing and not costly.

    Tianya Haijiao (edge of the sky, rim of the sea) is beautiful but should be more attractive for young lovers. The guide was nice to accompany me with legends happened here.

 

 < Seafood Snacks

 

     On the way back, I asked the driver to left me at Chun Yuan, which was highly recommended by my friend for the market and superb seafood. However, the market was yet completely open when I arrived. So I walked along the street until arrive the Mingzhu Aquare, a department store.

 

 

    On the way back to Chun Yuan, I found Ming Run, which you can order fresh seafood directly. There were already many people, so I decided to have a try here instead of Chun Yuan, where I have to purchase seafood at nearby market, and then cook them at a Dapaidang.

 

 

    While night was approaching, the weather cooled down and the wind brought salty flavor from the sea. Close to the hotel beach, some people set fireworks that lighted the night of this charming city.   

June 14, 2010

The Little New Bali – Lombok

Filed under: Beach Escapades — Tags: , — admin @ 6:39 am

Have you ever heard about Lombok? It’s an island located east of Bali and just like a little brother of Bali. While Bali is far more famous and easily accessible, Lombok’s unspoiled riches are well worth the effort it takes to get there.

Though the two islands located quite close, the waterways in between separates two completely different ecosystems. Thus, what you have already seen on Bali will not be repeated on Lombok, in terms of the topography and wildlife. Actually, those who find Bali over-crowded will find their heaven in Lombok with the white sandy beaches in quiet setting, breath-taking sunset, friendly locals, unique culture and the simple pleasure of sunshine.

Highlights

Kuta
Don’t confuse it with Kuta in Bali. It’s a place of mystery. Kuta offers plenty for those non-surfers who love a good beach. The locals are friendly while food delicious. And on Tuesday and Saturday nights, everyone heads to Surfer bar, where live music and cheap beer make for a fun night out.

Gili Island
Gili Island is the perfect place for diving and snorkling. Crystal blue-green waters with abundant undersea creatures. Just be careful of the strong currents when snorkling alone.

Mt. Rinjiani
Rinjiani is one of the largest mountains in Indonesia. And it’s not a easy thing to reach the top. But once you make it, you will enjoy a breathtaking view from the summit along with a crater lake, Segara Anak and a natural hot spring. The trek normally takes about three days and it’s advised to go with an experienced guide.

May 31, 2010

Top 5 Beaches in Thailand

Filed under: Beach Escapades — Tags: — admin @ 3:12 am

1.White Sand Beach, Ko Chang

    Nicknamed as the “Elephant Island”, Ko Chang is the 2nd largest island in Thailand. About 180 miles east of Bangkok. One can find most of their fantasies for a beach trip being met in this beautiful island. And it contains lots of other islands which are regarded as the best beaches in Thailand.

2. Hat Sai Kaeo, Ko Sametalso

    Also the “Diamond Beach” or the “Crystal Sand Beach”. Hat Sai Kaeo is about 1/3 of a mile long and is filled with plenty of activities such as swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing and riding with banana boats which is a long, yellow inflated float.

3. Ao Manao, Prachuap Khiri Khan

    It located about 6 miles from Myanmar’s border. This “lemon Beach” was once a battleground for the Thais and the Japanese forces. Today it’s quiet sanctuary, place less travelled and one of Thailand’s secret treasures. Here, visitors can enjoy miles of striking white sand beaches, some of them formed momentarily by sandbars during low tides. This is also the place where the best seafood cuisines are served.

4. Pharanang Bay, Krabi

    It is famous for its unusual rock climbing for both beginners and professional alike. The bay is reached via boat rides and takes about 20 minutes from Ao Nang Beach. After reaching there would be another 15 minutes walk along the base of a sea cliff. Visitors can swim under the suspended limestone karsts, or climb through the small cliffs into the profound emerald green water of the Andaman Sea. The beach is perfect place for families, swimmers, snorkels, and nature explorers.

5. Tonsai Bay, Ko Phi Phi

   Ko Phi Phi is covered with two islands which are the “Don”;the larger island, and the “Leh”; the smaller one. It will take a 2hrs ferry boat ride from Ao Nang Beach to Tonsai and with a reasonable price. Tonsai bay or the Ao Tonsai is on the southern park of Ko Phi Phi Don. The beach is dreadfully beautiful which one would surely love to see.

May 24, 2010

Sawadee Ka, Phuket!

Filed under: Beach Escapades — Tags: , , , , , — maggie @ 3:16 am

  We rushed on this trip to Phuket, simply because of the lower air fare which came as an result of the worsening situation in Bangkok.

Day 1

  Have to admit that I did worry a bit at first, but the cloud above my head completely vanished at the moment we walked out the airport. Outside in the waiting hall, our driver greets us with a big smile and the typical Thai-style “Sawadeekha~ ”. Looking around, I found that we were not the only one who dare to come during this harsh time…

  Actually, there are plenty of taxis outside the airport, so shouldn’t be a problem if you didn’t pre-book a transfer.

  It takes around 300 baht to Phuket. The rate is what displayed on the meter and plus 100 baht airport tax. The meter will start with a 50 baht display. You may stumble upon a freelance taxi driver who will take you from the Airport to Patong for the flat fee of 400 baht. If the driver is pleasant, you may want to ask for his mobile number for the return trip later. The same driver may take you from Patong to Phuket Town for 350 to 400 baht. 

  After about 1 hour’s driving, we reached our hotel –Royal Paradise, a 4 star hotel near Patong Beach. The hotel looks nice compared with other hotels in this area. They have royal wing rooms that face swimming pool and paradise wing that faces hill. 

  We quite enjoy our stay there, except that no bellboy help us with luggage; receptionists ineffective and never smile; little choice for breakfast and; my friend lost her watch in their lady’s room and no one seems to care!!!

  After everything settled down, we went to the nearest shopping center for some daily necessities…My poor friend got her brand-new sunblock lotion confiscated when passing through the custom. This story tells us no need to pack too many things as you can easily buy here.

Around 15:00, we finally managed to Patong beach. As they all say beaches in Thailand are more beautiful than beaches elsewhere, and I think they are right about it.          

  Chair rental normally costs 100 Baht per chair per day, but we got a discount because we came in late afternoon. If you bring your own mat or sit on the sand it’s totally FREE:)

  If you fond of water sports, activities like Parachuting, Banana Boat and Jet Ski are all reasonably charged.

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Day2

  Early morning, we waited at hotel lobby for transfer to catch our ferry for one day Phi Phi Cruise Trip. The trip charges about 1000 Baht / person including land transfer, meal and cruise.

Phi Phi I am coming!!

   On the cruise, we met Paul, a photographer from Boston and, Sato san who comes from Tokyo… And some of these nice pictures are contributed byPaul. Thanks for them, we had a nice talk to get by the long sailing. (I don’t know if we get on the slowest boat in Phuket, but surely we were passed by many boats that left harbor later than ours.)

  Before lunch time, we stopped for snorkeling. The sea is crystal and beautiful. Unfortunately, I forgot my damn swimming suit in hotel!

 P.S: There is a charge of 20Baht for entering Phi Phi.

  After a set lunch in Phi Phi Hotel, we directly headed to the beach. It won’t take long to walk through this small island, but … Oh – My – Lady  Gaga!!!!   The beach in Phi Phi is just BEAUTIFUL! 

  From the beach, I felt like I could view the outline of Maya Bay. If you have ever seen the Hollywood blockbuster The Beach, starring by Leo Decaprio, there is where it was shot. Oh… I do hope he’s still there! 

 

 

  After a full body massage at the “happy life”, we had dinner in the celebrated “Number 6”  (This is one of the highly recommended restaurants in phuket, you can find more from Phuket Travel Guide ;) This restaurant really lives up to its high reputation. We had 6 BBQ oysters, 1 sour spicy fish, a full plate of prawns, fresh vegetables and other side dishes, and it only cost about 1000 Bhat+…oh, I almost forgot the coconuts…

   Around 19.00 pm., we walked along Patong beach road to the night market and bars. While I was walking, I saw souvenir shops, clothes shops, restaurants. Now I understand why many tourists come to Phuket and especially Patong. You can see from the picture on the left.

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Day3

  The last day, we rented a motorcycle and drove to Central festival in Phuket Town. 40 minutes driving from Patong area. For motorcycle is 200 Baht per 24hrs. However, the road is steep and winding, green-handeds are not encourage to risk their life…

  Before leaving we went to “Happy Life” again. Highly recommend this massage house outside hotel Royal Paradise.

  Bye bye, Phuket….I will be back soon:)

April 1, 2010

One Day in Bondi Beach

Filed under: Beach Escapades — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 9:27 am

Bondi Beach is a suburb of Sydney and Sydney is the capital city of the state of New South Wales.

Self-drive to Bondi Beach may be quite lousy when it comes to parking, but the public transport in Sydney is pretty convenient. We took the bus that runs between Bondi Junction and the beach every 10 minutes all day long.

When we arrived, it was raining. So we checked the stores first. You will be surprised by what they have been offering just along this a kilometer long beach, from food courts, souvenir stores to laundries.

Later after lunch, rain start to stop. We eventually walked out on Bondi’s sandy beach and found its well-known modern and trendy coastal resort near where loads of people were surfing.

It is a must to surfing in Bondi.  And it’s easy to rent surf boards and boogie boards from local shops along the beach. They also offered us lockers to keep our belongings safe.

The beach is backed by attractive parkland, where people can chat, play  games or take a little walk around.

Heading towards the southern headland is a fabulous coastal walk which takes you through a number of smaller coves until you reach Coogee, which is well worth it. The views are fantastic, although the journey is a little strenuous in parts, it is also relaxing and enjoyable. In the northern headland is one of Sydney’s Aboriginal sites.

We headed back hotels at about 8, by then the bus service is less frequent. And we waited about 20 minutes for the bus.

February 11, 2010

3Day 2Night Bali

Filed under: Beach Escapades — Tags: , , , , — Jean @ 3:32 am

Bali is a place free of stress, as a local driver told us so.

My friends and I took a night flight , and arrived there almost 11pm. (note: Visa  On Arrival is US$10.00/person as of 2009)

When landed, we at once can smell the special scent of Bali and find ourselves immersed in an airport heavily decorated with the Bali style.

There are counters outside the airport offering taxi service. You simply register there, and they will take care of you from then on.

Our hotel is Furama Villa & Spa, booked from www.luxury.com.sg hotel page. It’s a four start hotel, odd but stylish.

We had a good rest and got us ready for the adventure in Bali!

There are four famous beaches in Bali, namely Kuta, NusaDua, Sanur Beach and Jimbaran Beach.

Nusa Dua is mainly for water sports, such as diving, snorkling, banana boats, ect.

Jimbaran Beach is famous for its breathtaking view of sunset. And a seafood BBQ along the beach is a perfect match for the beautiful view.

Day 1

Kuta area is one of the most famous beaches. However, the sea is not very clean and the wind is too strong. You can enjoy a nice surfing there instead of swimming. 

Don’t worry if you know little about surfing. A quick tutoring is available to send you on board:) even better, you will be rewarded with a certificate after the surfing training:D

After 2 hours surfing we all exhausted and starved to death. Luckily, a small local restaurant – Rumah Makan Bamboo Corner – is not far away. Their food is more than good and the fresh fruit drinks just couldn’t be any better.

After dinner we booked rafting from a local agent. Actually you can easily book a tour from the batch of local agents. One of the most interesting activities in Bali is to bargain. Practice and try harder, you will get a good rate for your tour.

Day 2

2 hours on road from hotel to Ayung River, we arrived safe and sound. The staffs gave us a short breifing and then led us to the rafting boat. Our team leader is Ben, a native who knows this river well.

Strictly followed his instruction, we went rafting for about 1hr. At first, we were afraid of dropping off into the river. After practice some more, our skills improved a bit and we finally came to relax, and began to enjoy the scenery on the way.

After rafting the organizer provided a free buff lunch and transfer for us to Ubud Market – the biggest market for local products, such as traditional handiworks.

SPA was anther highlight in Bali. We went to an average-priced spa center ZEN, in Ubud. Their massage after spa was fantastic. 

Another restaurant worth a special mention called Dirty Duck. It serves local specialties in an international style. The crispy duck is one of their famous dishes and you’d better to make a reservation beforehand. 

Day 3

We rented a car for one day sightseeing. The driver picked us up to Tanah Lot in early morning, a renowned temple on the top of a huge stone overlooking the sea. When the stone was submerged by rising tide, the temple looks like standing on the surface of the sea. 

Afterwards, we headed to Blue Point Hotel, a world celebrated hotel boasts for its church that made of glass and its special-designed outdoor swimming pool. Moreover, the Blue Point Hotel has its own beach.  As Vanessa sings, save the best to the last. This last stop did give a happy ending to our journey in Bali.

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