Minggu, 26 Mei 2013

10 Shopping Areas in Tokyo, Japan

In Tokyo, shopping is so fun that even Tokyo tour packages include time for a quick shopping spree in its itineraries. Why not though? There are so many interesting things sold in the malls, markets and stalls in Tokyo � from food to gadgets. When it comes to fashion, stores in Tokyo sell apparels and accessories which basically start trends in the fashion world. Therefore, it is really worth it to try shopping when in the city.

But the question is: Where to go to shop? Here are some suggestions:

1. Akihabara




As Japan is known for its advanced technology, it is no wonder why people come to the district of Akihabara. Most stalls there sell electronic gadgets and computer games; although recently, it is becoming a hub for otaku fans as stalls selling anime items like mangas and souvenirs came sprawling.

2. Ameyoko Arcade
 Photo from TripAdvisor
The famous Ameyoko Arcade is an old open-air market that majestically exudes the Shitamachi (low city) aura. It is the place to find fresh fishes, fruits and vegetables, second hand clothing, and more. Souvenir items in Ginza may be found here for cheaper prices. However, it is recently recognized as a blackmarket district. It is parallel the JR Yamanote Line.


3. Nakamise-dori





One of the most interesting shopping areas in Tokyo is the Nakamise-dori. The long line of stalls selling mostly souvenirs and local delicacies leads to the famed Senso-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan.


4. Marunouchi


Known as the financial district of Tokyo, it is not a surprise why many of the world�s leading brands in fashion can be found in Marunouchi. Most stalls are seen in Nihombashi; as well as in malls like Oazu and Marinouchi Building by Tokyo Station. Furthermore, the district is home to impressive architectures so one can do sightseeing while shopping.

5. Hachiman-dori

Many are attracted with the unique fashion sense of Japanese people so they come to Tokyo to find these attires. Most of which can be spotted in Hachiman-dori then. It is a shopping hub where flares of local designs can be found. It is an interesting shopping destination because most items found here can only be found in Japan.

6. Kappabashi

Between Ueno and Asakusa is an interesting street where stalls sell food, which cannot be eaten. Also known as the Kitchen Town, stores sell plastic food models which many restaurants use as display. In addition to that, the stores in Kappabashi make available almost everything that has to do with starting a restaurant business.

7. Takeshita

In the heart of Harajuku can be found Takeshita, a pedestrian street which features fashion and souvenir stores, caf�s, and restaurants. It is a favorite hub for many teenagers as boutiques mostly cater to them. There are many international brands here as well.

8. Omote Sando

As the center of Tokyo�s haute couture, Omote Sando is another favorite for many fashion enthusiasts who come to Japan. It is where independent fashion designers sell their creations. Second hand stores can be found there.

9. MISC
Japanese furniture had always been a point of interest anywhere in the world and in MISC, people can actually buy it. The area has more than 60 shops selling vintage furniture and antiques.

10. Ginza

Probably the most upscale area in Tokyo, Ginza is the home to major department stores. Tourists will find international luxury brands here and is a good place for some chic shopping experiences.

There are many reasons to buy cheap tickets to Tokyo but no one can deny that shopping is one of the major purposes. It is, after all, an essential part of the exciting culture of the beautiful nation that is Japan.

Selasa, 14 Mei 2013

Top 10 Singapore Attractions to Visit

There is no denying that Singapore is a very stunning country. Clean, disciplined, and brimming with beautiful places, the nation is definitely a favorite destination by many jetsetters. There are lots to do when there and below are some suggestions (most required to buy Singapore attraction tickets for admission).


1) Universal Studios Singapore



A premier attraction in the country is the Universal Studios Singapore. A first-class amusement park, it is sure to be enjoyed by the whole family. Thrill rides and fun adventures await you! Each area transports guests to a new world where all the excitement are within reach. When visiting the place, it is best to buy tickets online to avoid the long queues.

Universal Studios Tickets
Adult One-Day Pass: S$74.00
Child (Ages 4 to 12) One-Day Pass: S$54.00S
Senior Citizen (Ages 60 & above) One Day Pass : S$36


2) Singapore Zoo

 

One of the most spectacular zoos in the world is the Singapore Zoo. Perched on a heavily forested area that covers up to 28 hectares, it serves as a natural habitat to almost 500 species of animals including pandas, white tigers, monkeys, guanacos, and pink flamingoes.

Singapore Zoo Tickets
Adult: S$22.00
Child (Ages 3 - 12): S$14.00
Senior Citizen (Ages 60 & above): S$11.00
* Admission for child below 3 years old is free
** Senior Citizen admission only applicable for Singaporean or Singapore PR aged 60 and above. Senior citizens are required to present proof of identification.


3) Singapore Flyer

No tour is complete without trying Singapore Flyer. Similar to London�s Eye, it is a huge Ferris Wheel which provides people who ride it with an unblocked and spectacular view of Singapore�s cityscape.

Singapore Flyer Tickets
Adult (Ages 13 & above): S$33.00
Child (Ages 3-12): S$21.00
Senior Citizen (Ages 60 & above): S$24.00
* Children below the age of 3 are allowed to ride for free


4) Merlion in Sentosa

There are numerous Merlion statues in Singapore and the one in Sentosa Island probably offers the best experience. Inside, learn about the history of the iconic Merlion and know more about the legendary sea dragons and mermaids. It also has an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of Sentosa Island and the country�s southern islands.

Merlion Admission Tickets (Observation Deck)
Adult (Ages 13 & above): S$8.00
Child  (Ages 3 - 12): S$5.00
*Free for Merlion Walk


5) Gardens by the Bay

A new spectacle in Singapore is the Gardens by the Bay. Located at the Marina Bay area, it is a huge complex that features various plants and trees which are not often seen in Asia. It has two major attractions: Cloud Forest and Flower Dome.

Gardens by the Bay Admission Rates:








*Sightseeing outside the 2 domes is FREE


6) Jurong Bird Park

Tagged as Asia�s largest of its kind, Jurong Bird Park is a primary tourist destination in Singapore. It is a vast landscaped park perched on Jurong Hill that gives home to almost 5,000 birds from 380 species. The aviary is open and birds can fly freely around. Interacting with the birds is also possible, with all the bird shows prepared for guests.

Jurong Bird Park Tickets
Adult (Ages 13 & above): S$ 20.00
Child (Ages 3 - 12): S$13.00
Senior Citizen (Ages 60 & above): S$10.00
* Admission for child below 3 years old is free


** Senior Citizen admission only applicable for Singaporean or Singapore PR aged 60 and above. Senior citizens are required to present proof of identification.

 


7) Night Safari

If you are looking for a unique experience, go to Night Safari. Located close to the Singapore Zoo, it is a good place to continue your �animal� trip. It is the first nocturnal zoo in Asia and gives home to animals normally found in safaris, as well as night creatures like flying bats, tarsiers, and more.

Night Safari Tickets
Adult: S$35.00
Child (Ages 3 - 12): S$23.00
Senior Citizen (Ages 60 & above): S$17.50
* Admission for child below 3 years old is free
** Senior Citizen admission only applicable for Singaporean or Singapore PR aged 60 and above. Senior citizens are required to present proof of identification.


8) Underwater World

Located at Sentosa Island, Underwater World is a stunning oceanarium which features more than 2,500 animals from 250 species. It features a 252 feet-long tunnel that would allow you to see the beautiful marine ecology. Tickets to this attraction also cover entrance to the Dolphin Lagoon at Palawan Beach.

Underwater World Tickets
Adult : S$25.90
Child: S$17.60


9) Marina Bay Sands Hotel

Definitely one of the most beautiful hotels in Asia and in the world, the Marina Bay Sands Hotel is a 5-star lodging establishment that has become an icon of Singapore. It features three buildings, connected by a ship-like structure on top. Aside from its luxurious amenities and services, it features a casino, theaters, museum and a huge shopping complex, including the largest Louis Vuitton store.

*Sightseeing is free :D


10) Marina Bay Sands Sky Park

Located at the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands hotel is the spectacular Marina Bay Sands Sky Park. It is a favorite destination for many guests and plain tourists as it provides a spectacular view of Singapore. It is also famed for its outdoor infinity pool.

Marina Bay Sands Sky Park (Observation Deck) Tickets
Adults: S$20.00
Child (Ages 2 - 12): S$14.00
Senior Citizen (Ages 65 & above): S$17.00
*Children under 2 years may enter for free


RESOURCES

Jumat, 10 Mei 2013

10 Best Diving Sites in Bali, Indonesia

Most of the travelers who avail flight deals are scuba divers looking for the perfect venue for their hobbies. They tend to look for cheaper transportation costs because scuba diving could be a little expensive. There are a lot of preferences when it comes to destinations; but definitely, Bali is one of the most famous choices.

As Bali is hailed as a paradise in Indonesia, it is home to a marvelous underwater ecology which scuba divers definitely love. For first timers, here are some of the best diving sites in the island:


1) USAT Liberty


USAT Liberty was actually a steamship that sank after getting torpedoed by the Japanese troops in 1942. After a few decades, it has become an artificial reef where many underwater attractions have flourished. Known as the Liberty Shipwreck, it is now hailed as Bali�s most popular diving site. Aside from the corals and sponges, the area is also home to schools of big-eyed jacks, emperors, batfish, and parrotfish.


2) Tulamben drop-off


Located close to the shipwreck, the Tulamben drop-off is a typical diving site for many professional scuba divers. It is quite deep but the underwater scenery in the area is truly breathtaking. Whale sharks and sunfishes are usually spotted here. Tulamben is located in the northeast coast of Bali.


3) Amed





At the southeastern part of Bali lies Amed. It has beautifully retained the relaxed ambience of the salt-panning and fishing village that it used to be � which greatly contributes to the relaxing appeal of the place. Scuba divers would definitely love the drift dive at Gili Selang which is the easternmost point of the island.


4) Lipah Shipwreck




A part of Amed, the Lipah Shipwreck is another exciting artificial reef in Bali, Indonesia. The wreck is located in the north end of Lipah Bay and may be reached easily by divers. The area is considered home to copper sweepers, school of batfish, hard corals and other marine species. This is preferred by many professionals as the current can be a little strong in the area.


5) Gili Tepekong


The interesting thing about Gili Tepekong is that it�s a place where divers can feel like they are seeing a lot of Medusa heads underwater. These are actually sea fans, tunicates and sponges resting on a huge volcanic hump. The environment deep there is incredible, especially when the schools of jacks, tuna, sharks, and mola mola are there.


6) Blue Lagoon
 



For amateurs, the Blue Lagoon near Padang Bai is the perfect diving spot. As the coral reefs can already be seen after a 3-meter dive, it is a good introduction to many. There are a lot of leather corals and anemones to be seen there. Underwater photographers would surely love it here.


7) Napoleon Reef

Near Pamuteran is the Napoleon Reef. It was called that way after a large Napoleon wrasse was seen here. Professional and amateur divers will surely enjoy it here because it boasts of beautiful deep and shallow areas. The cotton-candy corals are a sight to see!


8) Menjangan Island
 

The drop-off is definitely an exciting place. Divers will be greeted by schools of batfish and colorful coral reefs. Small underwater caves are also possible to be explored.


9) Crystal Bay

One of the safest places to dive for many professionals and amateurs is the Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida. However, the current can be very strong so divers are still advised to take and observe necessary precautions.


10) Manta Point


As how the name suggests, this area is a hub for many manta rays, including a purely white one that seems like a heavenly creature. Coming to Manta Point is not exactly easy; but it�s surely worth it.


Whether just learning how to dive or looking for a real thrill, people should visit Bali for these spots. As said, the underwater ecology in the island is definitely spectacular. There should be no room for hesitations.




Relevant Travel Links:

Senin, 18 Maret 2013

Top 10 Galilean Destinations for Christian Tours

As the Holy Week fast approaches, more and more people are going on Christian tours to be one with the whole faith in observing the religious tradition. Pilgrimages are often the most preferred activity of many as it combines professing of faith with travel and discovery.


Of course, the first place to come to mind is Jerusalem. But if you wish to avert from the usual, maybe you can consider these places in Galilee, another major venue for Christ�s teachings:

1.  The Gospel Trail

Also known as the �Jesus Trail�, the Gospel Trail is basically a �walk of faith� within Galilee. It begins in Nazareth and passes through Cana, Arbel National Park, Tabgha, and the Mount of Beatitudes. The venue is often located in itineraries of Christian tours.


2. Tabgha

Believed to be the place where Jesus once fed 5,000 people with five loaves and two fishes, Tabgha is now transformed into a beautiful garden complemented with a church with intricately designed mosaic floors. In Tabgha, there is also the Church of St. Peter�s Primacy, where the apostles saw Jesus after resurrection.


3.  Mount of Beatitudes

Remembering one of the most important scenes in Christian history, you might want to go to the Mount of Beatitudes. There, a church built by the Franciscan Order stands. It is perched on a low hilltop near Tabgha.


4. Mount Tabor

Believed to be the mount where the Transfiguration occurred, Mount Tabor is one of the most favorite pilgrim stations of Christian tours. Now, it is home to the Church of Transfiguration which is quite unique for having a wing for Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic respectively.


5. Kursi National Park

 At the east of Galilee is the Kursi National Park. It is believed to be where Jesus exorcised the demons on two men. A huge monastery and church from the sixth century was excavated on the site, leading to the declaration of the place as a national park.


6. Bethsaida

Bethsaida is quite prominent in the bible as the venue where Jesus performed several miracles. It is located north of the Sea of Galilee and is a favorite destination for pilgrimages.

Image source: Bible Places

7. Yardenit

 It is the junction of Jordan River and Sea of Galilee towards the Dead Sea, and is believed to be the spot where John the Baptist baptized Jesus Christ. Nowadays, pilgrims come to the place to be baptized in the same spot as well.


8. Cana

Remember when Jesus transformed water into wine at a wedding? It happened in Cana. Today, the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George stands there and is home to six vessels which is said to be the ones used by Jesus in performing His miracle.

Image source:
St. George's Church in Cana Photo by Mordagan, Israel Ministry of Tourism


9.    Mary�s Well

A symbol of Nazareth, Mary�s Well is known to be the well where Mary used to bathe Jesus in. Nearby is the St. Gabriel Church of Annunciation (Greek Orthodox) and the Basilica of Annunciation, which Catholics believe to be where Jesus and Mary resided.


10.  Capernaum National Park

Discovered in 1838, the now-Capernaum National Park was basically restored by the Franciscans in the 1960s. It is where the �House of Peter� is located (in which a church have been built), along with many reinstated temples and synagogues.

Lent is the time for thinking and renewing our faith with the Lord. Going on Christian tours will somehow help in fortifying our relationship with the Holy Creator.

Selasa, 26 Februari 2013

Places to Discover this 2013

As the new year begins, there are many people who are plotting their schedules well � trying to figure out when they could go on trips with families, friends, or special someones. Cheap tickets are booked as early as now to avoid hassles and annoyances which last-minute flight booking can give. But the question is "Which is the best place to visit this 2013?" Here are some exciting suggestions:


1. New Zealand
Be fascinated by the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves in New Zealand!


With its stunning natural glory, it is not a question why New Zealand made it to the list of places to visit on 2013. It is a land where mountains, beaches, and volcanic zones come in perfect harmony with buildings and monuments that symbolize the nation�s economic surge. It is a good tourist destination because there are lots of attractions in the country. Those who are in for some leisure trip will surely enjoy it here.



2. Greenland
 
A non-continental island located in the Arctic region, it can be expected that Greenland is more of cold than humid. It is a nice destination for people who wish to isolate themselves from too much crowd. The nation, which is actually part of the Kingdom of Denmark, is home to arctic mountains, fjords, and remote villages. Glaciers are usual sights in the place - complementing well the beauty of nature that is in there.

Image source: National Geographic: Photo by James Balog


3. Chile

 Artful hanging cars? Only in Chile!

What seemed to be a long stretch of island in the west coast of South America is actually a beautiful destination for a memorable experience. The Republic of Chile, as how it is officially known, is home to loads of street arts which enthusiasts will surely take pleasure on seeing. Furthermore, Chile has a very commendable heritage and is home to very hospitable and respectful people. It is generally a safe place to be in so touring will be doubly fun in there.

Image sources:
*Fresh Bump (by fashionmag): Colorful Art Cars Hanging Out in Chile
*Ginkopress: Street Art Chile


4. France

A renowned European city, France will never leave the list of top destinations in every year. Home to global icons spearheaded by the Eiffel Tower, this nation is surely one of the most romantic places to visit. It is a great place to start when going on a European escapade.

Image source: InternationalLiving


5. Costa Rica

Travelers who are into ecotourism will surely find Costa Rica a serene paradise. As a Caribbean nation, it boasts of a spectacular nature which mainly features the wildlife. There is a wide variety of flora and fauna in its parks and mountains. Nature photographers and enthusiasts will surely have an unforgettable experience here.

Image source: Tripbnb - Visiting Costa Rica


6. Kazakhstan

This 2013, it will be great to travel to the ninth biggest country in the world, Kazakhstan. Bordered by Russia, China and other Central Asian countries, this nation does not have any significant historical spots or imposing structures; however, its charm lies on the mysteriousness and emptiness of the place.

Image source: The Planetd - Kazakhstan a Country of Contrasts


7. Madagascar

If not contented with the film, then people should plan a trip to the real thing! Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world and is located off the coast of Africa. It is a majorly tropical island that gives home to a widely varied wildlife. Lots of nature parks are perched in mountainous regions, fascinating trekkers and nature lovers undoubtedly.

Image source: Earth Island - Madagascar's Baobab Trees


8. Bhutan

Perched in the Himalayas region between Tibet and India, people can travel to Bhutan to find the perfect destination to experience something unique. Culturally and environmentally gorgeous, this small country flaunts an immaculate nature and astounding harmony among the kingdom. It is the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the world so even religion, itself, is unquestionably unique. With its imposing splendor, it is known as the �Last Shangri-La�.

Image source: C & E Holidays - Kurjey Tsechu in Bhutan


9. Peru

The main attraction in Peru is the Machu Picchu, the most imposing set of ruins in the world which is from the Incan Empire. It is perched on a mountain top, and therefore requires a bit of trekking to be reached. Nonetheless, it is a lovely destination that brings glory to Peru. Aside from this, there are more historical places to visit in the nation. A trip will surely be worth it.

Image source: Peru Machu Picchu


10. Tasmania

Yes, Tasmania is home to the Tasmania Devil; but that isn�t just the thing to look forward to about this Australian state. The unique lifestyle of the people and the stunning nature should also be anticipated. Historic edifices are in the island as well, providing people with some interesting pieces of information about the community�s past.

Image source: Outravel - Maria Tasmania Island



Listed above are just some of the top destinations to visit this 2013. There are more options � places which people can readily visit with cheap tickets available online.