World Travel Guide

With two Raffles International properties the Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap and Le Royal Hotel in Phnom Penh, the Amansara, Sofitel Royal Angkor Golf & Spa Resort, Le Meridien Angkor, Hotel de la Paix, the Orient Express hotel La Residence d’Angkor and Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa hotels in Siem Reap it is possible to see the great sights of Cambodia in unabated luxury and in the style and elegance of an era long past.

Nobody leaves Cambodia disappointed. The exotic land of the Angkor Kings lies waiting to be explored.

Source: destination-asia.com

From the very moment you step foot on the ground in Myanmar you are in for a truly unique experience. Now more so than ever people from around the world are beginning to see Myanmar for what it is - a truly fascinating and unique destination filled with the spirituality of Buddhism beliefs and arguably some of the friendliest and most charming people on this planet.

All who have visited Myanmar rejoice their every expectation was exceeded as they experienced a land, culture and race more beautiful, warm and friendly than one could have ever hoped for.

The true feeling one gets from visiting Myanmar was immortalized in the words or Rudyard Kipling and his famous quote:

Being cut off from the rest of the world for so many decades, Myanmar has achieved a unique preservation of culture bounded by a rich, unspoilt landscape. Abundant in natural resources, the landscape of Myanmar ranks amongst the most breathtaking sights anywhere in the world. Each of the destinations within Myanmar; whether it be Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay or Inle Lake have striking features differentiating Myanmar from any other destination within South East Asia.

Myanmar is referred to Amarapura, the Land of Immortality, and Yadanarbon, the Land of the Gems. Today it is known as Suvanabhomi, the Golden Land. Once you have experienced the rich heritage and natural resources of this country, you will see just why these titles are such a true reflection of the land.

Travel to Asia has become of great appeal to the global market in recent times. No longer is Asia considered only for the hardy. A natural flow of travellers to the countries of Indochina. With several very important milestones in the last few years - such as lifting of embargoes, government reforms and the opening of borders - Vietnam is positioned to become a popular tourist destination.

It is a little known fact that Vietnam can cater to a large variety of clients - not just those looking to “rough it on the last frontier”. From it’s natural assets; pristine sandy beaches, the wonder of limestone islands in Halong Bay, the mountainous north, to its historical marvels; Cham ruins from the 14th Century in My Son, the ancient tombs of Hue; bustling cities with an energy driven by a new economy, quiet country villages reliant on rice agriculture as they have been for centuries, ornate Confucian temples, high-rises side by side with splendid French colonial architecture; Vietnam is a country of contrasts. And contrast means a greater variety of Vietnam travel experiences that satisfy a great number of client markets.

It is also largely assumed that infrastructure within Vietnam is poor. Whilst we won’t deny that Vietnam is a third world country, one should not be led to believe that this means third world service! An enormous amount of investment in Vietnam has led to the development of top class hotels, of training schools, of new restaurants, of upgrading and renovating.

And on the subject of service, remember most importantly that Vietnam is Asia - where service is delivered with pride. The Vietnamese people have strong beliefs and values. They are a pragmatic people, with a philosophy to move forward, not to dwell on the past, and a determination to improve the lives of their children. Most of all they are warm and welcoming, and proud to show you their homeland.

For an experience as unique as your clients, look to a destination as unique as Vietnam.

Source: destination-asia.com

While some may have concerns that Laos is still developing and is relatively new to the travel scene when compared with some of its more developed neighbors like Thailand and Vietnam, in the major centers there is a range of accommodation and facilities to suit all tastes. Although it may yet have reached true ‘International’ standards, Laos has something more to offer… a hospitality and warmth that more than make amends.

Source: destination-asia.com

Bali is the jewel in the crown of Indonesia’s 17,000 islands. It is an island where the mystical and magic define everyday life in a paradise framed by sweeping beaches and natural wonders. The rich and intriguing culture is at once enthralling and hypnotic, with the island’s beauty exceeded only by the friendliness of its charming people. Sun drenched beaches and exotic temples, thrilling adventures and world class spas are all within proximity to boutique hotels, resorts and private villas, made famous by their Balinese designs.

Why Indonesia? From the primal jungles of Sumatra to the lavish luxury of Nusa Dua, Indonesia is unique in its diversity. For those of us who are searching for the true exotic, who challenge themselves with experiences that are rare and magical yet appreciate service, quality and an unique insight into a travel destination, Indonesia presents an opportunity to fulfil the ultimate travel experience.

Source: destination-asia.com

Hong Kong is a sophisticated metropolis of more than six million people sharing an area of about 1,100 square kilometres, more mobile phones and pagers than you can imagine, and soaring skyscrapers that draw your eyes ever upwards.

Savour a thousand contrasting tastes, with dining experiences world renowned, or satisfy your hunger for style in the shopping capital of the world. Whether it’s Stanley Markets or the designer boutiques of Nathan Road, on offer is an overwhelming array of goods to suit any budget. With a vibrancy like no other, this is a city driven by the dollar. Hong Kong is the financial centre of Asia and the pursuit of business is central to all facets of life. This business hub has resulted in a distinctive collage of skyscrapers, of daring architecture, that forms a spectacular backdrop for one of the world’s wonders – the cityscape by night, seen from across Victoria Harbour, with Hong Kong’s mountain-perched buildings seemingly forming a curtain of crystal lights.

And also a diversity – from the bustling city centre to a peaceful countryside. Walking trails from the summit of the famous Peak offer a green view of Hong Kong that few are aware even exists. Repulse Bay, on the southern side of Hong Kong island, features picturesque beaches. Aberdeen is a sheltered bay that is home to a fleet of fishing trawlers and to glitzy floating restaurants. Trolley cars, ferries and subway trains are central to an efficient public transport system that assists visitors in discovering the delights of Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay or Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon. (And we still believe you just can’t beat the Star Ferry for one of the most spectacular ‘tours’ in the world!) Portuguese-settled Macau is just a short boat trip away, offering yet another diverse experience.

And of course, Hong Kong continues to grow... yet more investment sees new restaurants, venues, and products released every month as expansion pushes into the outlying islands. Hong Kong is an ever-evolving world class destination, and one that certainly warrants more than one visit. Once, in Hong Kong, is never enough…

Source: destination-asia.com

With three major regions, China stretches from the mountainous west, to the desert plains of the Mongol Plateau to Manchuria in the northeast. The largely low-lying eastern region consists of the valleys and floodplains of the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, through to the coastal plains of the Pearl River in the south.

It is hard to bypass (and one certainly shouldn’t!) the nation’s capital for over 3000 years — Beijing — as China’s premier tourist destination. The architectural masterpiece of the Forbidden City, the equally impressive Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, the Ming Tombs, the Temple of Heaven… and of course, the most famous of all — The Great Wall of China, built during the Ming Dynasty’s reign to fortify China’s northern border and today one of the most visited sites in all the world.

For contrast, Shanghai is one of Asia’s fastest growing and most modern cities. A centre for commercial trade with the west during the 1800s, by the 1930s it was both famous and infamous as a cosmopolitan world city. Today soaring skyscrapers overlooking the Bund are testament to Shanghai’s influential economic position.

And beyond the obvious, there is also Xian, once an ancient capital on the Silk Road. Xian is most famous for the discovery of its Terracotta Warriors – over 7000 warriors and horses have been excavated from a site first discovered by a group of peasants who uncovered some pottery while digging for a well nearby in 1974.

Then there is Guilin, the Yangtze River, Zhouzhuang, Zhengzhou, Xiamen, Lhasa and so much more. A country certainly worthy of more than one visit, and with so much choice perfectly positioned to suit every requirement.

China — a country so vast, a history so rich and a culture so profound… Home to over one billion people, China is a mysterious and fascinating nation with an incredible array of iconic historical sites, traditions and civilisations that date back many thousands of years, breathtaking country landscapes and futuristic cities.

Source: destination-asia.com

Following is an overview of fun loving Brazil for travelers. A nation in South America, Brazil has kilometers of shoreline, fantastic sun, joyful nightlife, rest, types of beaches, historic locations and numerous actions, festivals and a lot more.

Brazil is also known as the land of contrasts. The country has always been a well-liked traveller destination. Among the locations of Brazil, there's Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Salvador, Manaus, Florianópolis, Galinhas, Recife, Buzios, Natal, Brasilia, Belem, Buzios. The Capital of Brazil is Brasilia.

Prior to this, Rio de Janeiro was the capital of Brazil nevertheless due to the position of Brasilia, it is becoming the capital.Brasilia has an architectural spectacle. In Brazil, each metropolis has its own beauty. As with many South American countries, Brazil has seen its good and bad from a political point of view. In 1989, it finally concluded a move to a popularly chosen government when Collor de Mello won the well-known vote. Under three several years later, he was forced to resign beneath the cloud of corruption charges. He is the initial leader from the working class. Brazil covers just under 3.3 million sq . kilometers of South America. The weather in Brazil is mostly exotic, mainly in light of the Amazon River basin.

With a populace beyond 186 million, Brazil is the 5th most populous country in the world and largest in South USA. When you think traffic is bad in your location, keep in mind over 18 million persons live in greater Sao Paulo! The persons of Brazil are known as "Brazilians." The populace is 186 million men and women and growing at a rate of .one percent a year. The official language is Portuguese and also the reading and writing rate is 86 percent. Average life expectancy is 71.3 a long time. São Paulo is Brazil's largest and most cosmopolitan city.

The city is the owner of famed nightlife and offers shopping possibilities. The sunshine with warm climate, fantastic sun call the people towards the planet renowned beaches of Brazil. Brazil's coastal urban centers are well known for their stunning seashores, mostly Rio de Janeiro. The Brazilian Carnival, The Amazon Rainforest, Capoeira are also most pronounced words about Brazil.

As conclusion, you'll see and realise that Brazil is one of the South America's huge with steamy jungles, a amazing land of perfect beaches, and manic metropolises. You will find as many local types in Brazil music as there are shades of individuals, from samba's sensuous rhythms to Bahia's charged beats as Latin music and incredible dancing are as integral here as eating and resting. Brazil is a nation of stretches of unexplored jungle, island destinations with divine exotic seashores, and countless rivers.

By: Ste_Wishaw

India has been home to many dynasties that rose to power and then fell to anonymity, leaving marks of their culture and traditions all over the world. India Tours showcase different centres with their diversified cultures all over India, tied by a thread of perfect unity and camaraderie. With Delhi, the political capital of India, North India holds an important economic and social position in the country and North India Tours are a treat for those who wish to unravel India’s grandeur and royal heritage.

South India tours take you closer to Nature and ancient glory of India. The hold of spirituality, classical dance and music forms, Ayurveda, and temples that are thousands of years old, South India is the wise sage of India. Together, North and South India tours cover most important tourist destinations across India from Himalayas to Indian Ocean – such as frozen lands of Ladakh with its monasteries, forts and palaces of Rajasthan, Taj Mahal in Agra, pilgrimage destinations around River Ganges, Khajuraho Temples of Madhya Pradesh, tropical beaches of Goa and Kerala backwaters.

North India Tours give tourists a spectacular view of the country with myriad options to provide the experience of a lifetime. The treasures hidden in North India are irresistible and are capable of enveloping the hearts of the tourists with joy of have chosen the right place. North India tours are exceptional in terms of facilities they offer and tourist destinations there are full of either vibrant colors or religious fervour of the locals or royal extravagance. You can also see the architectural wonders and lingering influence of the country and traditions from the medieval period here – forts and palaces of Rajputs in Rajasthan, Mughal architectural heritage strewn across Old Delhi and Agra, and the European legacy of New Delhi, which was developed by British.

Hill stations in Himalayas in North India and dotting the Deccan Plateau landscape in South India offer an exuberating and breath-taking view of the beautiful country. Some of the most popular hill stations of India include Shimla, Kullu, Manali, Darjeeling, Ooty, and Munnar. While hill stations of North provide views of snow-covered peaks and valleys of Himalayas and offer more opportunities for adventure activities such as trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and white river rafting, hill stations of Deccan India are known for their tranquillity, Ayurveda packages, and aromatic spice, tea and coffee plantations.

North India and South India both provides ample destinations to cover for pilgrimage tours, adventure tours, and honeymoon tours but their flavours differ. Most of the prominent pilgrimage destinations of Hindus in South India are location high on the hills or along the banks of sacred River Ganga. Pilgrimage destinations of other religions in North India include Dilwara Jain Temples at Ranakpur, Dargah Sharief at Ajmer and Sheikh Chisti Dargah at Fatehpur Sikri for Muslims, Golden Temple at Amritsar and Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Bodhgaya, Sarnath, Sanchi and Dharmshala.

South India too has its fair share of pilgrimage destinations with Rameshwaram, the wealthiest temple trust of Tirupati Balaji, and likes of Meenakshi Temple that represent Dravidian architecture – subdued and unostentatious and yet intricately carved and grand in its presence. South India offers deep sea adventures just like North India offers adventure in mountains. Certainly a match for each other in all terms, North and South India together offer a most delightful India tour experience you can hope for.

By: Aalia

Cancun may be a young city, but it's sure getting overcrowded near accommodation along the best beaches of Mexico that only 30 years ago were a deserted sand spit.

The good news is, you can still find pure white beaches without too many people, despite the brash and always colourful metropolis that's sprung up in this Mexican best beach location.

Cancun is a long, narrow island connected to the mainland by two bridges, with everything you're looking for from five-star accommodation near the beach, to small romantic islands.

And that's the beauty of Cancun. All types of people are attracted by one thing - the beautiful white sandy beaches.

Cancun is Mexico's most popular resort town, gently kissed by the warm crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Cancun best beach holiday near resort accommodation

Most resort and hotel accommodation is located in what's known as The Hotel Zone, which is big and brash and right beside the beautiful beach. The only main thoroughfare through town is Kukulcan Boulevard with all the accommodation near it, but if you want to see how the locals live and keep some weight in your wallet, go to nearby "Cancun Centro", where you can experience the real Mexican way of life.

Cancun Centro is where most of the Mexican workers reside, and it's a happy, vibrant downtown area where you'll be immersed in that wonderful Latin way of life. Arriba!

Now for our best beach holiday in Cancun. Try a rustic, luxury hideaway called the "Maroma Resort and Spa" on one of Cancun's beautiful beaches a little away from the crowded central resort area. Maroma used to be a 500 acre coconut plantation and is built in the traditional Mexican hacienda style, with smiling attentive staff who will happily cater to your every whim.

The unspoiled beach in front of Maroma is really one of the best beaches in the world. You just won't want to leave. Fine, white sandy beaches with swaying palms and warm sunshine guaranteed to de-stress almost anyone within a day.

This yummy Yucatan coastline also has the world's second longest barrier reef with outstanding snorkelling and scuba diving.

For a daytrip, take a boat from near your beachfront accommodation to one of the many small deserted islands just off the Yucatan coast, or take a tour to the many impressive nearby Mayan ruins from centuries ago.

And what's so surreal about Cancun is that just near the beautiful beaches is a small bullring downtown, in Plaza de Toros.

It sounds strange to go from the laidback "maniana" atmosphere on the beach to a bullfight, which takes place every Wednesday afternoon. No bull!

But this is such a diverse beach destination that you can live a Robinson Crusoe way of life without even crossing paths with the other frenetic Mexican lifestyles.

Cancun is one of the world's best beach holidays on what's known as the "Mayan Riviera".

Source: accommodationnear.com

Destination Information:

The beach resort destination of Korcula is the perfect example of a floating slice of heaven situated in Croatia, tantalizing tourists from across the globe to come and visit this paradise. Decorated with pines and forests this beach resort destination of Korcula has all the elements of beauty and serenity wrapped around it. With beautiful and warm weather this place is perfect for that lazy holiday that you have always desired on a secluded beach. Wide sandy beaches punctuated with pebble beaches and plenty of secluded coves is what the beach destination of Korcula offers to the tourists the moment they reach here.

Reaching There:

The Dubrovnik airport provides the tourist community the link to access this beach destination of Korcula.

Beach Locations:

Korcula has since long been voted by the tourists as the best island destination in the entire of Croatia which is made up of thousands of islands. Korcula has to its name plenty of beautiful beaches which showcase the beauty of this destination by providing breath taking views of the beautiful waterfront. The secluded coves attract tourists seeking solace and calmness. The pebble beach located at Orebic is one beautiful spot situated at a short distance from the town of Korcula.

Activities beyond the beach:

A walk through the laid cobble streets of Korcula will allow the tourists to marvel and admire at its beautiful houses decorated with incredible architecture. Also worth visiting is the old part of the town which provides the tourists the opportunity to take in breath taking views of the Peljeski Channel all the way to the far off mountains of the mainland.

Source: travelguide4planet.com

Hailing itself as the American Rivera is the Santa Barbara beach resort destination. With picturesque positioning between the Pacific Ocean and a mountain range, there is no dearth of natural beauty here at Santa Barbara. With beautiful tiled houses bordering palm tree line streets, there is every inch of beauty in this picturesque holiday destination of Santa Barbara. The entire expanse of the Santa Barbara beach resort destination is dotted by beautiful fountains and sculptures resting in the middle of intricately laid cobbled streets. There is this special charm present in the Santa Barbara beach resort destination which reflects old time Spanish and American Indian traces and roots.

Reaching There:

With the Santa Barbara airport very well within its limits it is very easy to access the Santa Barbara beach resort destination.

Beach Locations:

There are several beaches lining the Santa Barbara area. East and Leadbetter are by far the most popular beaches within the tourist community on a vacation to Santa Barbara. These two beaches are located to the south of the commercial centre of Santa Barbara. Most of these beaches are surrounded by paved pathways which are used by people to walk on and enjoy the beautiful views of the waters around the Santa Barbara beach resort destination. Indulging in scuba diving is also a popular option with the tourists who visit Santa Barbara on a holiday.

Activities beyond the Beach:

If you are on the lookout for fun activities beyond the beach then there are several options available to keep you engaged and make your trip to Santa Barbara beach destination worthwhile. This includes walking through the streets of Santa Barbara and taking breaks at its inviting café’s and eateries, visiting the Santa Barbara zoo or going out on biking trips or nature trails.

Source: travelguide4planet.com