There’s A Studio Ghibli Theme Park Coming Soon!

There’s A Studio Ghibli Theme Park Coming Soon! - The fantasy world of Oscar-winning animator Hayao Miyazaki will come to life as a theme park set to open in central Japan in 2022, the regional government said recently. Miyazaki is the co-founder of Studio Ghibli, Japan’s premiere animation studio, and renowned internationally for works including Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away.

Studio Ghibli has released a basic concept for the vast park to be built by 2022 near Nagoya in Japan’s Aichi region. It will feature rides and forest trails based on the master animator’s popular fantasy films, including My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service and Howl’s Moving Castle, according to the Aichi government.

Imaginary landscapes

The park will also be dotted with the European-themed brick towers that appear frequently in Miyazaki’s work, as well as giant installations of spider- and boar-shaped spirits in imaginary landscapes that evoke Japan’s mythical and idyllic past.

It will be built at the Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park in Nagakute city, the local government said. Its construction cost and other details are yet to be decided, an Aichi official told AFP. Miyazaki is among the world’s most acclaimed animators, with huge followings in Japan and abroad.

Spirited Away won the Oscar for best animated feature in 2003, the first Japanese film to do so, and also scooped the Golden Bear prize at the Berlin International Film Festival, among other major gongs.

Studio Ghibli already operates the hugely-popular Ghibli Museum on the outskirts of Tokyo. Tickets for the museum only go on sale at the beginning of each month and regularly sell out within hours.

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Michelin Guide To Expand Beyond Bangkok And Into Phuket

Michelin Guide To Expand Beyond Bangkok And Into Phuket - Michelin has announced plans to expand its coverage of Thailand’s dining landscape beyond Bangkok, and into Phuket and Phang-nga.

Following the debut edition of the first Michelin guide for Thailand last year, the 2019 edition will explore new territories in southern Thailand, popular with tourists.

“In addition to world-famous beaches, the variety of cuisine, dining experiences and exceptional hospitality services are the major attractions of both Andaman cities,” said Segsarn Trai-Ukos, Secretary General of Michelin East Asia and Australia in a statement.

“The local cuisine in Phuket is distinctive and flavourful with a wonderful blend of influences from India, Malaysia, China, and the Peranakan ethnic group. Basically, it truly offers an infinite variety of flavours worth discovering.”

In the inaugural Michelin guide for Bangkok, inspectors bestowed a star to street food vendor Jay Fai, a local institution with a 70-year history, popular for its crab omelettes, curries and dry congee, prepared behind homemade

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Australia Invites Malaysians To Enjoy Even More Of Its Attractions

Australia Invites Malaysians To Enjoy Even More Of Its Attractions - For many years, Australia has been the ideal destination for Malaysians who wish to do just about everything they can on a holiday.

The country’s diverse landscapes, both geographically and culturally, make it the perfect getaway for folks who are looking for wild adventures, new experiences and generally just a whole lot of fun. And let’s not forget the many delicious food that one is bound to find anywhere on the continent.

At the recent Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) 2018 held in Adelaide, South Australia, hundreds of local companies presented their tourism-based products to key buyers from over 30 countries worldwide, as well as the media. From hotels to independent tour operators to restaurants and wineries, these companies showed off their top products in the hopes of enticing more visitors from countries like Malaysia, China and India, as well as continents like Europe and North America.

Incidentally, Australia saw a 6% increase in the number of Malaysian visitors to the country last year (total of 400,800), and an 11% increase of Malaysian tourist expenditure within the country (total AUD$1.4bil/RM4.2bil). In an interview, Tourism Australia managing director John O’Sullivan said that he is confident these numbers will continue to grow, as new partnerships and MoUs with airlines are in their plans.

With its “There’s nothing like Australia” global marketing campaign, Tourism Australia has also started working with key industry players to develop Signature Experiences of Australia. Under this programme, companies are expected to offer specialised tourism experiences within the following seven categories: Great Golf Courses, Great Fishing Adventures, Great Walks, Australian Wildlife Journeys, Ultimate Winery Experiences, Discover Aboriginal Experiences and Luxury Lodges of Australia.

Apart from that, Tourism Australia also cited a few travel trends that are predicted to go on the rise this year, like the five-star “flashpacking”. Flashpacking – backpacking on a bigger budget – is all the rage with young travellers who enjoy communal-style living but don’t necessary want to sleep in basic and/or dingy-looking lodgings. These “posh-tels” (posh hostels) are now becoming prominent in major Australian cities, with many more being developed.

Australia has also positioned itself as one of the world’s newest mountain biking destinations. With its numerous natural trails and beautiful forests, it isn’t hard to see why hardcore mountain bikers are flocking to the continent for some action.

Ever heard of “un-zoo”? It is a cleverly devised wildlife experience in which human visitors are placed in cages or boxes while the animals roam free outside in their barrier-free habitats.

Australia is also hoping to promote its more high-end experience, wine + dine, to travellers. This experience combines a love of art and design with a love of wine. At South Australia’s McLaren Vale wine region, a new architectural wonder called the d’Arenberg Cube was just opened earlier this year and has been getting a lot of praise from both local and international tourists. The avant-garde building stands in the middle of a winery and houses tasting rooms, bars and a restaurant. (Hot tip: If you ever visit the Cube, do check out the restrooms, especially the men’s toilet.)

Key attractions in Australia, by state

Places of interests in New South Wales include Byron Bay, the Blue Mountains and Hunter Valley, while the three-week-long Vivid Sydney remains the biggest event in the state capital this year. There’s also the cage-free wildlife experience that’s scheduled to begin at the end of the year.

Discover Aboriginal culture in the Northern Territory, where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset at Uluru, a giant sandstone rock that holds a deep spiritual meaning to the Anangu people. You can also swim in the Mataranka Thermal Pool or visit the amazing Kakadu National Park, a world heritage park.

In Queensland, fans of the beach can have the time of their life at the Gold Coast or Fraser Island, a world heritate location and the world’s biggest sand island. There’s also the world’s oldest tropical rainforest in this part of Australia called the Daintree. Queensland is also the best starting point for tourists who wish to check out the Great Barrier Reef as many tours are available along the state’s coastline.

Tasmania, meanwhile, is the place to be if you’re dying to see a Tasmanian devil or a penguin. The state is also known for its “convict history”, with Port Arthur – the country’s most notorious convict settlement – being one of its main attractions.

The world’s most livable city, Melbourne, lies in the state of Victoria, and is worth a visit if only for its food and coffee culture alone. From there, head to the Dandenong Ranges for some beautiful sceneries or to Yarra Valley for some wine tasting tours.

Want to dive with the whale sharks? Then put Western Australia on your list, and you may even see some humpback whales and manta rays. Malaysians would perhaps be more familiar with the state’s capital, Perth, which is a great place for bar-hopping nights out with the boys or girls.

There are more than 200 wineries located within South Australia; the ATE host state is known as one of the world’s premiere wine producing areas. There are 18 large winemaking regions including Penfolds Grange, Barossa, Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale. Of course, other than wineries, South Australia also has other attractions like Kangaroo Island and national parks, many of which are located less than two hours’ drive away from the capital city, Adelaide.

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Been There, Haven’t Done That: On The Off-Beaten Path In Indonesia

Been There, Haven’t Done That: On The Off-Beaten Path In Indonesia -  You probably think you’re familiar with Indonesia through an hour of afternoon sinetron. Or perhaps you’ve been there one too many times and feel like you’ve seen and done it all.

But the island archipelago holds many interesting wonders just waiting to be explored including a few which may surprise you.

Jakarta

Escape the infamous Jakarta’s macet to the island of Kepulauan Seribu

If you think traffic in KL is terrible, wait til you experience Jakarta’s notorious macet (traffic jam). But rather than delving into the chaos, we suggest you ditch the blue taxis and hail an ojek(motorcycle taxi) instead to weave your way through traffic to get to your destination on time.

With a population of over 10 million people, Jakarta can be claustrophobic for some. Thankfully though, you can escape the crowd and hop on a boat to Kepulauan Seribu. Contrary to its name however, the island is only a cluster of 108 islands – of which only 11 are inhabited and the other 36 are meant for recreation. A popular local jaunt, go on a tour around the island and sign up for activities such as snorkelling and diving.

Bandung

Who doesn’t love a good bargain? With plenty of outlet stores around, Bandung attracts quite a number of thrifty Malaysian tourists – but there’s more to the Paris of Java than meets the eye.

Characterised by rolling tea plantations, cool climate, and active volcanoes, the stunning nature of Bandung is where it’s at. So take the family up to the mountains and visit the magnificent crater of Kawah Putih or the active Tangkuban Perahu volcano.

Better yet, go glamping and sleep under a blanket of stars at Dusun Bambu. A portmanteau of glamour and camping, it’s a one up of your usual campfire with modern day conveniences (ahem, wifi) provided. While away the hours by having meals in the bird cage dining area and let kids play at the playground or pet furry rabbits at the petting zoo. Likewise, play dress up at the Swiss-chalet style Farmhouse Lembang and pay a visit to the Hobbit House.

Bali

image: http://www1.star2.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Image-4-Hide-in-your-own-nest-and-take-in-the-birds-eye-view-atop-the-jungle-of-Bali..jpg

Hide in your own ‘nest’ and take in the bird’s-eye view atop the jungle of Bali.

Ah yes, the island paradise of Bali. The mere mention of its name exudes an air of romance and eroticism. Taking the crown as the top-rated travel destination in Indonesia, one has to wonder what is there left to discover.

Truth is, there’s much more to be explored. Between the beaches and the rice terraces, Bali is a cultural wonder. Deeply rooted in their Hindu faith, the Balinese adopt and practice unique culture and customs such as the Kecak dance and the Nyepi tradition. Also known as a Day of Silence, it’s a day of introspection from the world where every opinion matters.

Outside the cultural realm, the Bali Swing is the latest attraction in town where you can let your hair down and take stunning #wanderlust photos to make everyone back home turn green with envy.

Pontianak

Cool name. Cooler travel destination. While the name may sound a little eerie, there’s nothing to be spooked out here except for its unparalleled beauty. Gateway to West Kalimantan, Pontianak lies on the Indonesian side of Borneo island and straddles the equator – making it the hottest place to visit in Indonesia. Literally.

No visit here would be complete without a visit to the equator monument. Stand on the line that divides the northern and southern hemisphere and if you’re here during the Spring and Fall equinox, you’ll experience a shadow-less moment at high noon. Pretty vampirey.

In the late afternoon, stroll along the Kapuas River for snacks and souvenirs and join the dinner aboard the river cruise come evening. Spanning 1,143km, Kapuas River is the longest river in Indonesia.

Padang

If you need any reason not to turun Padang, here’s one: food. The culinary institution of Indonesia and the birthplace of Nasi Padang – a rice meal served with a generous spread of side dishes – it is a must that you sample the mouth-watering Minang cuisine here.

If the post heavy meal has got you feeling guilty, burn off those extra calories by participating in water activities at Air Manis beach or on Mentawai Islands. Isolated from much of the world until about the 19th century, the islands are renowned for its strong winds and unpredictable currents – making it ideal for surfing activities.

And if you prefer to jog your mind instead, visit the Museum Adityawarman and the Pagaruyung Palace to learn about the rich history and culture of the Minangkabau people.

Lombok

Often overshadowed by its island neighbour of Bali, Lombok is not without its charm. While the former may be overflowing with crowds, Lombok has attained a well-known reputation among discerning travellers looking for a private getaway.

The three tiny islands of Gili form the trifecta that can give its competitors a run for their money. Located just a boat ride away from Lombok, the azure waters of Gili Islands are the perfect spot to relax, swim, scuba dive and snorkel. Don’t forget to take an Instagram shot over at the sea hammock that screams #travelgoals.

For a break from the ocean, hit a three day hike up the second highest volcano mountain in Indonesia, Mount Rinjani. Recommended for more experienced hikers, you’ll be rewarded with the stunning view of Lake Segara Anak. Alternatively, novice hikers can go for a hike to Bukit Pergasingan for the spectacular view sunrise.

Yogjakarta

The cultural nerve and arts centre of Java Province, the eclectic city of Jogja carries a distinct laid-back and friendly atmosphere. Part of what makes this city exciting also lies in its duality. One minute you find yourself in the ancient temples of Borobudur and Prambanan that dates back to the 9th century, and the next minute, you’re perusing the modern art galleries downtown – Jogja is a city of contrast.

Coffee lovers rejoice! Coffee culture in Jogja is thriving so soak up your surroundings while sipping on artisanal coffee in cafés such as Kopi Klinik (made famous by the Indonesian flick Ada Apa Dengan Cinta 2) and Pawon Luwak Coffee for its offering of civet coffee.

Elsewhere, shop for souvenirs along the 24 hours Malioboro Street or attend art classes like batik and silver jewellery workshops.

Flying to 14 Indonesia destinations over 300 flights weekly, AirAsia now offers you the conveniences to experience each of these wonders via Vidi Deals and BigPay.

Vidi Deals is an online booking platform that allows customers to book on-ground travel activities such as local tours, theme parks, attractions and more.

Vidi Deals has over 13,000 travel activities across Asean and beyond that customers can enjoy, so what are you waiting for? Log on to deals.airasia.com and start planning now.

If you’re on a tight budget, make sure to check out BigPay. BigPay is a cashless ecosystem featuring a mobile money app with an accompanying card that helps users save while travelling.

Travellers will only pay the real exchange rate with no extra fees when you spend abroad, enjoy discounts on pre-booked meals and baggage on airasia.com, while earning BIG points daily on local and international transactions. Download the BigPay app to sign up now!

So how many destinations have you been to? Where is your next destination?

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Get Served By Harry And Meghan On A Royal Marriage Flight!

Get Served By Harry And Meghan On A Royal Marriage Flight! - No invitation to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding? No worries. Here’s the next best thing – getting on a plane served Harrys and Meghans on the day of the royal wedding!

British Airways will operate a special flight on May 19 Saturday from London, England to Toronto, Canada, where their royal romance reportedly took flight. A cabin crew of 10, made up of two Harrys, seven Megan’s and one Meghan, will be your flight attendants. 

The BA93 flight is scheduled to depart Heathrow at 1.10pm, an hour after the real Harry and Meghan are married at Windsor Castle, about 11km from the airport. British Airways customer service manager Megan Horsley said Toronto was an appropriate destination for the event.

“Harry and Meghan’s relationship started across the Atlantic, so it seemed fitting for us to take-off to Toronto on their special day. I’ve flown with another Megan once or twice before, but never seven. We might have to call each other by our surnames during this flight!” she said.

Horsley will lead the namesake crew on the flight.

The celebration doesn’t stop there. Individual lemon and elderflower Victoria sponges – the same flavour as the royal wedding cake – will be given to passengers departing Heathrow.

Extra champagne has also been loaded to the special flight. Passengers will receive a personal bottle of Castelnau Blanc du Blanc along with their individual celebratory cake.

In addition to the commemorative flight, there’s a treat for BA passengers at Heathrow. Anyone departing from Terminal 5 on Saturday who are named Harry, Meghan or Megan and their travel companions will be invited to use the British Airway’s First lounge.

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5 Worst Flight Passengers Include ‘Seatback Kicker’ and ‘Smelly Feet’

5 Worst Flight Passengers Include ‘Seatback Kicker’ and ‘Smelly Feet’ - The results of a new in-flight etiquette survey reveal that it’s never OK to go barefoot on the plane, and that the most annoying passenger is the one who sits behind us.

In Expedia’s latest annual Airplane & Hotel Etiquette Study, the seatback kicker emerged the most annoying in-flight passenger for the fourth year in a row, cited by more than half (51%) of global respondents as the most offending in-flight behaviour.

The poll was conducted among nearly 18,230 respondents across 23 countries. The annual survey serves as a handbook on in-flight etiquette and offers the do’s and don’ts of modern air travel.

After seatback kickers, grabbers and pokers come flyers with poor or pungent hygiene, inattentive parents, flyers with no sense of personal space, and seatmates who blast the volume on their headsets.

Ninety percent of global respondents agree it’s never OK to go barefoot during a flight, a message that will hopefully reach this particularly offender identified as #toegirl by an unfortunate victim to her barefooted wanderings.

“Getting comfy on a long flight is tough, but there is a happy medium to avoid grossing out seatmates. Only remove shoes, and never prop feet up on the seatback or encroach into the next row,” Expedia experts recommend in the report.

The survey also revealed that the majority of US flyers – 90% – aren’t looking to make new friends in-flight, and prefer to keep to themselves. In fact, more than three-quarters (77%) of American respondents said they dread sitting next to flyers who talk too much.

To defend yourself against a chatty seatmate, experts advise plugging in your earplugs to send a not-so-subtle message to them.

In other interesting findings, results of the poll found that South Korean flyers are most likely to get drunk on a flight, followed by Thai and US travellers, while a quarter of Americans believe seat reclining is rude.

Here are the most offensive in-flight behaviours, as well as most obnoxious hotel guests, according to the Expedia report. – AFP Relaxnews

Top ranked list of worst flight passengers:

1. The Seat Kicker/Bumper/Grabber

2. The Aromatic Passenger

3. The Inattentive Parent

4. Personal Space Violators

5. Audio Insensitive

Top ranked list of worst hotel guests:

1. The Inattentive Parents

2. The In-Room Revellers and The Hallway Hellraisers

3. The Complainers

4. The Partygoers and The Bar Boozer

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Bulgari Hotel To Open In Tokyo Station Ultra-Skyscraper

Bulgari Hotel To Open In Tokyo Station Ultra-Skyscraper - Japan will welcome its first Bulgari Hotel by the end of 2022. The Bulgari Hotel Tokyo will occupy the top seven floors – 39th to 45th – of an ultra-skyscraper planned for the Tokyo Station area.

The project is a partnership between Bulgari and leading global real-estate company Mitsui Fudosan. Bulgari CEO Jean Christophe Babin said the opening of the property will be a major milestone for the luxury company.

“Japan is such a strategic market where Bulgari as a brand has been present for 30 years. Jewellery and hospitality combine perfectly to meet Bulgari’s clients expectations of a high level of service not only in our brand stores, but also when staying in our extraordinary properties offering luxury services,” he said.

As with other Bulgari Hotels, the one in Tokyo will be designed by Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. The hotel will offer 98 guest accommodations in a variety of configurations, mainly twin and double rooms, as well as luxury suites.

The hotel will be located within walking distance to some of the best attractions in Tokyo including the Imperial Palace, and the vibrant shopping areas of Nihombashi and Ginza. Its proximity to the Tokyo Station and financial districts of Nihombashi and Marunouchi also makes it an ideal destination for business.

Bulgari Hotels And Resorts is a collection of luxury hotels that includes properties in Milan, London, Bali, Beijing and Dubai.

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What To Do At The Teddyville Museum In Penang

What To Do At The Teddyville Museum In Penang - Teddy bears as historical storytellers? It’s not a fairytale but the actual premise behind the Teddyville Museum in Penang.

The venue features Malaysia’s first and largest collection of teddy bears from various nations and eras. The collection dates back as early as the 1900s. The bears come in a variety of shapes and sizes – from miniatures to human-sized!

Located on the ground floor of the newly opened DoubleTree Resort by Hilton in Batu Ferringhi, the museum offers both kids and adults an immersive educational experience with a fun flair.

Why you should go

Don’t be fooled by the humble exterior. Teddyville Museum is bigger on the inside and well over 836 sq m. Walking into the venue will uncover various fun and colourful exhibition areas, filled to the brim with over 1,000 cute teddys.

Apart from telling the origin of the bear, the displays go to great lengths to showcase and celebrate the rich cultural history of Penang.

The early part of the exhibition shows when Sir Francis Light first set foot on the shores of the island. Of course, “Sir Francis Light” here is in the shape of an oh-so-adorable cream-coloured teddy.

Then there’s the impressive Mini Penang, where miniature bears are dressed and placed in small sets to represent the many attractions in Penang.

The painstaking detail in the Mini Penang exhibit – from quirky costumes worn by participants of the Penang Bridge International Marathon to intricate designs of heritage structures – are commendable and certainly worth the price of admission.

What to do

All the handmade human-sized teddy bears in the museum are made for touching. That means you can squeeze, cuddle and hug them to your heart’s content – just don’t be too rough.

Be sure to take photos with the bears that represent iconic Penangites including Tan Sri P Ramlee, Datuk Jimmy Choo, Datuk Nicol David and Datuk Lee Chong Wei. Photo opportunities are also abundant at the replica of the famous Siam Road char kuew teow and Toh Soon Cafe.

Of course, you can’t discount the wealth of information here. The museum has worked with tourism state agencies and brands to highlight interesting facts and figures.

Plus, if you’re visiting in the late afternoon, you can have some delectable tea time treats at the hotel’s lobby lounge.

Who will like it

Penangites will get a kick out of seeing their beloved state’s heritage and culture portrayed through the various cute teddys. The museum has done a really good job highlighting Penang’s multifarious identity that would do locals proud.

The fun exhibits are an immersive way for students to learn about history, too. Of course, teddy bear lovers will find plenty of joy.

Getting there

Since it’s located in Batu Ferringhi away from the city centre, public transportation might be an issue. Private vehicles, taxis or Grab would be your best bet.

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Are You One Of Thailand’s Ugly Tourists

Are You One Of Thailand’s Ugly Tourists - A motorcycle tour without a helmet. Hard-drinking and drug-taking at moonlit parties. Out in the heat despite heart problems. Smoking weed on the beach. Scrawling something on a picture of the king.

These are some of the dangerous “don’t do” things that can get tourists in a lot of trouble in Thailand.

And yet “some tourists seem to hand in their brains once they have arrived at the airport,” says Olivier Meyer. This Swiss native practices medicine in the Thai beach resort city of Pattaya and says he has seen a lot.

Meyer has treated people for a wide range of illnesses – sunstroke, cardiac problems, diarrhoea, injuries from accidents and sexually-transmitted diseases.

A man who already has had some heart problems who then lies around unprotected in the sun’s heat, imbibes alcohol and then maybe invites a “lady” to his hotel room while taking a pill for some added stimulation – that’s inviting trouble, Meyer says.

“Some of these people have ended up in the emergency room,” he says.

Scenes that can be observed while walking around Pattaya tell a similar story. On the beach at Beach Road, two older men are sound asleep in the sun. The skin on their stomachs, thighs and faces have slowly been broiled to a deep pinkish-red. Next to them, empty bottles of cola and whisky.

Then there is the danger of motorbikes, which poses risks to inexperienced riders. Along the Walking Street stretch of bars and discos, just looking at the dozens of machines ranging from 100cc motorbikes all the way to the “heavyweight” motorcycles of up to 1,000cc will make any biker’s heart race.

The daily rental rates are relatively cheap, but no insurance protection is included. As a rule, this is not offered. Helmets come with the deal, but many riders don’t wear them. The rental companies don’t ask riders if they have a motorcycle license.

Meyer is emphatic: “By no means rent a motorcycle. It is much too dangerous.” And in fact, Thailand is one of the world leaders when it comes to serious traffic accidents, with motorcycle riders especially affected.

And it’s not only the driver’s health that is at risk. If a foreigner causes an accident, it can become very expensive, especially if Thais are injured.

Pattaya and the island of Koh Samui are especially dangerous territory for tourist-bikers. Among other examples, on Koh Samui, two German students were killed last year on their motor scooter when they were struck by an all-terrain vehicle.

But self-inflicted dangers are just the tip of the iceberg. Many tourists show their lack of respect for local customs, which, in Thailand, can mean far more than dirty looks.

For example, there is picture of the beloved late King Bhumipol, who died in 2016, on the temple of Wat Chai Mongkon, and a sign saying “No selfies”. And yet, some tourists ignore the sign, but this can mean trouble.

One might even face time in jail for besmirching the reputation of the late king, for example by stepping on a bank note bearing his face or scribbling on pictures of him.

Then there is Chaweng Beach on Koh Samui, where holidaymakers are lying back and relaxing in upholstered sunbeds by the water – passing a joint around. There is a large red-and-white sign saying “Narcotics are illegal in Thailand” and a warning of jail sentences.

The infamous full-moon parties on Koh Phangan are also not without their danger, with authorities cautioning about a number of alcohol and drug-related deaths as well as sexual assaults among partygoers.

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Cambodia Up Close: Cruise On The Mekong

Cambodia Up Close: Cruise On The Mekong - “Life is not staying still,” Vuthy spoke softly to me, like a kind older brother. “It is moving from one place to the next.”

I followed his rhythmic breathing – in, out – inhaling the lotus air and untangling my own breath from the outside breeze, flowing in through the open temple doors.

“When we let something go, that is the ultimate peace,” Vuthy continued, his eyes half-closed in concentration. Like the monks around us, his head was shaved, but he was dressed in khaki – my guide on the river. He’d been a monk before; his instruction was real. Our morning meditation was a spontaneous detour from the rote tourist path in Oudong, a golden complex of pointed temples and the former capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

All of the monuments and fanfare, the behemoth statues, the many thousands of golden Buddhas sitting silently in unseen rooms – all of it pointed to these moments of serenity. My monk-turned-guide did not want to merely show me the sights; he wanted me to understand them.

Barefoot, we climbed the 400 stone steps to the highest white marble stupa encasing the Buddha’s relics. Bold statues of the mythical three-headed elephant Erawan guard the shrine, and from this highest point, I could see miles across the flat squares of green to the shimmering complexity of the Mekong, an unwinding bundle of twisted rivers.

Brief moment of peace

Our moment of peace ended with a band of long-tailed macaques invading the shrine, snatching up all the holy offerings and shoving the food into their pouty pink mouths. The Buddhist pilgrims only laughed while the smallest baby monkeys licked the sticky rice off their tiny fingers before dashing home into the forest.

We made our way back to the ship, chatting with market vendors along the way, sipping sugarcane and munching palm fruit – Vuthy stepped in to interpret and indulge all my curiosity. He insisted that I touch, taste and smell everything. He wanted me to travel mindfully.

Most people hear “cruise” and think of some high-rise ship crammed with thousands of passengers that drifts away from Florida in the United States for a week of bad buffets and forgettable ports lined with T-shirt shops. My Mekong cruise was the total opposite – unrushed, calm and authentic – an active and intimate discovery of the land, people, nature and culture of Cambodia. Smaller numbers, a flexible itinerary and the right ship make all the difference.

Low and lean, the Aqua Mekong – one of two ships belonging to Aqua Expeditions, a cruise line launched a decade ago on the Amazon River – was custom-built for this specific waterway in South-East Asia. The vessel features just 20 cabins, each with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that reveal every second of scenery you pass.

Every morning on my balcony, sipping my sunrise espresso, I watched the river wake up. Fishermen cast their nets like fireworks, chasing the silver fish that disappeared like sparks beneath the ripples. Little kids rubbed their eyes in their houseboat hammocks, and like a rush-hour highway, the river grew busy with boats, whining and whirring motors ferrying people and animals up and down the mighty Mekong.

Cruising Cambodia

No longer a spectator sport for tourists of a certain age, river cruising can be an immersive, active form of travel – an ideal way to explore the Mekong River.

After breakfast, we tendered to the closest shore and watched our ship vanish upriver. Untethered and independent, we mounted our bikes and took off into pockets of dark jungle, where lofty bamboo and sturdy palms offered a canopy of shade.

Swerving deeper into the countryside, we passed banana groves, fields of pink flowering ginger, and farmers working in their fields.

Pedalling between the emerald rice paddies felt magical. White butterflies floated up from the path, baskets of black sesame seeds dried in the sun and the air carried the scent of wild jasmine. Dodging roosters, sleeping dogs and ox carts, I gazed up into stilt houses painted red and blue and caught a glimpse of another life.

Old men mended their fishing nets an inch at a time. Women dyed cloth and wove sleeping mats from river reeds. Another family shelled soybeans by hand.

“You always see more when you’re biking,” explained Vuthy, and he was right. I had been to Cambodia twice before, but I had missed all of this. Most tourists never leave the major cities, yet the rivers are the heart of the country, swelling up with the seasonal monsoon, feeding the fertile delta. The water extended for miles on either side, and only on my bike did I begin to understand the immensity of the Mekong with its ever-shifting shoreline. Sometimes the bike path ended in water, but we only needed to ring a small brass bell and a ferry arrived to take us across to the other side.

More to see

Travel should never be a spectator sport, and exploring a destination by bike gives you the freedom to stop and see. When we met a man building a fishing boat in his front yard, I stopped and loaded him with questions. Smoothing the wood beams with a plane, he explained how he waterproofed the hull with tarlike pitch – using techniques that seem as old as this river. We saw silk being spun from silkworms, bricks and clay pots being made by hand, palm sugar being tapped from trees.

When a lady summoned us to her lotus fields, we ditched our bikes and trudged out into the knee-deep water where we sniffed the pink blossoms and helped harvest the edible pods. A young farmer gifted me a wood apple from his tree, and when school let out, a band of young students joined us on their bikes until we reached their village and they peeled off for home.

In four days, I clocked 88km by bike. This was my first cruise where I burned more calories than I ate. No matter the amazing fish curry steamed in banana leaf or the tender pork satay and the banana fritters with coconut ice cream – every luxurious meal on board was followed by some active exploration of the surrounding area. If not by bike or on foot, then by kayak.

Paddling in the shallows, I maneuvered my way through a mesh of houseboats at dusk. Tied up into “streets” of watery passageways, these extended floating villages are home to mostly Vietnamese fishermen.

In my solo kayak, I felt like a silent intruder into this utterly different place, dropping into a rarely seen world where people live on boats. Dogs barked at me from floating porches, women dunked their babies into the river for a quick bath and men waved at me politely without breaking their gaze from the soccer game on TV.

The lavender light was fading, with only a few pink dragon clouds left in the sky. Night was near, and so I paddled midriver, letting the faster current pull me back toward my own floating home, where I caught the hull with my hands, boarding the Aqua Mekong just in time for dinner.

This was the kind of cruising I loved, coming and going, ebbing and flowing with the river itself, because like Vuthy told me, life is not staying still.

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Where To Learn Batik-Making And Batik Painting In Kuala Lumpur

Where To Learn Batik-Making And Batik Painting In Kuala Lumpur - If you’re looking for a craft idea or you’re someone who loves to paint, Ainna Artwork may be the place for you.

Located in Central Market shopping complex in Kuala Lumpur, you’ll see batik-style paintings of owls, butterflies, flowers, even the Petronas Twin Towers as you enter the shop.

Ainna Fareha and her husband Nabil Ibrahim, who own the shop, have run art classes there since 2012. They hold workshops for batik-making and batik painting, as well as general batik demonstrations for customers.

You can also buy their batik-themed products.

Why you should go

It’s a good place to learn a few basic points on batik, like how to make batik the easy way with nifty little kits provided in the workshops.

Ainna will be on hand to show you how to do it properly, as well as talk about the history of Malaysian batik. Yes, you can create your own designs but that will cost you extra.

What to do

Paint! And all you need is a bit of creativity.

You can paint pre-set batik drawings or come up with your own design. Ainna’s patterns are made up of Malaysian flora (rafflesia, hibiscus), fauna (cats, turtles) and landmarks (KLCC).

You can buy sheets of fabric in different sizes and various drawn designs for RM20 upwards. Nabil sketches the patterns on the fabric which is then placed on a frame for Ainna to do the “canting” (a pen-like tool used to apply hot liquid wax for the batik-making process). Bring your own design if you have one.

Walk-ins are welcome, but make a booking at least a week in advance for special requests.

Who will like it

Both adults and children are welcome to try their hand at batik painting.

“Some of my regular customers even end up visiting my shop at least two or three times a month. Most of my customers are foreigners as Central Market is full of tourists. But that’s nice, because I get to promote batik to the world,” says Ainna.

Getting there

Take the LRT or MRT to Pasar Seni. There are also lots of other tourist attractions in the area including Merdeka Square and Petaling Street (Chinatown).

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Dutch City Of Leeuwarden Is One Of Europe’s Capitals Of Culture

Dutch City Of Leeuwarden Is One Of Europe’s Capitals Of Culture  - Along with Valletta in Malta, the northern Dutch city of Leeuwarden is one of the 2018 European Capitals of Culture. With a host of cultural events in store, it’s the ideal opportunity to head off the Netherlands’ well-trodden tourist track, often restricted to Amsterdam, to discover the province of Friesland and the Wadden Sea Islands.

How to get there

There are several ways of getting to Leeuwarden. By car, the best option is to take the road running over the Afsluitdijk seawall from Amsterdam. This scenic route offers a taste of what’s to come when visiting the region, with magnificent views of the Wadden Sea on one side and the IJsselmeer lake on the other.

Otherwise, Leeuwarden can be reached by train from Amsterdam Schiphol airport, Rotterdam and The Hague.

Must-see sight

With some 600 monuments, the city has plenty to see, but Leeuwarden’s must-see sight has to be The Oldehove. A kind of Dutch Leaning Tower of Pisa, this unfinished church tower stands 40m tall and is a curious sight.

Construction on what was supposed to be a 120m tower began in 1529 before being halted. As well as leaning, the tower is also crooked and was left unfinished. Visitors can climb the 183 steps to enjoy panoramic views over Leeuwarden. The tower is open daily from April to October.

Take a break

Take a break with a leisurely stroll around Leeuwarden’s museum harbour. The ships docked along Willemskade are historical monuments in their own right, and are several hundred years old. For an onboard experience, grab a bite to eat at the Pannekoekschip, a floating pancake house.

Visit the region

Leeuwarden is the starting point for a spectacular international sporting event called the Elfstedentocht skating tour, also known as the Eleven Cities Tour. This gigantic speed skating race takes in 11 cities in the Friesland region, covering a 200km route.

The event can only be held in the coldest winters when the region’s waterways are frozen solid. The most recent edition took place in 1997 and attracted two million spectators. This out-of-the-ordinary event is a great opportunity to visit the region … if and when it takes place.

For a longer stay

Leeuwarden is the ideal starting point to explore the Wadden Sea and its islands, a Unesco World Heritage Site. There are no fewer than 50 islands in this archipelago, located in shallow waters known for their rich biological diversity. Five islands, where accommodation can easily be booked, are the best choices for visitors.

Note that tourists are not allowed to take cars onto Schiermonnikoog and Vlieland. Head to the island of Ameland for a seal-watching boat excursion. Activities on the Wadden Islands include surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing and waterskiing.

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Go On A Journey And Rediscover Yourself In India

Go On A Journey And Rediscover Yourself In India - Have you ever come to a point in your life where you lost sight of who you are and what you’re doing? Usually when that happens, it’s best to take some time off and re-evaluate the things in your life.

A breather or two can help to put things in perspective again but if you need more time, you might want to consider taking a longer break. Use this opportunity to go on a journey of self-discovery and maybe even learn new things in a different country.

Instead of travelling to the far reaches of South America or Europe, why not consider India instead? When going on this spiritual journey, think Eat, Pray, Love, the movie but only better because this time you’re playing the lead role.

Beside Mumbai and New Delhi, there are plenty of other exciting cities in India to explore.

Meditate and find peace among ancient architecture

Bhubaneswar is an ancient Indian city where you can meditate and find peace while gazing at the ancient architecture.

With temples made from sandstone, it is a truly remarkable archaic ground that will blow you away and certainly give you the peace of mind that you’ve been searching for. But remember to time yourself and focus to be able to meditate the right way.

Some of the places known for meditating in Bhubaneswar are Brahmeswara Temple and Lingaraja Temple. There’s just something about a holy place that makes you appreciate the silence and just relax while you’re away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

If you’re looking for a deep dive in the city’s roots and culture, head on over to the well-known Museum of Tribal Arts and Artifacts.

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Walk along Victoria Memorial Hall’s botanic garden with statues of many famous dignitaries.

Get involved with a local charity in historic Kolkata

Ever wanted to give back and be a part of a bigger community? Formerly known as “Calcutta”, Kolkata is the home to Missionaries of Charity headquarters, an organisation founded by Mother Teresa herself.

There is also Hope Kolkata Foundation where you can start small by educating street children or even volunteering at soup kitchens to feed the poor.

Kolkata is also home to the Victoria Memorial Hall, a large marble building turned museum and tourist attraction dedicated to Queen Victoria. Built in the 1900s, the memorial hall has 25 galleries with a number of portraits illustrating Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s lives.

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Sit by the port and catch the sunset at Fort Kochi.

Connect with the locals for a deeper and meaningful trip

When you’re travelling, having a local help guide you through the area can make a huge difference in your travel experience. While on your journey of self-discovery, consider connecting with some friendly locals.

With their help, you’ll likely learn more about the local culture and get some insider knowledge about the best food or places to visit. With the help of locals, you may even discover beautiful spots to enjoy like Fort Kochi where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and serene tranquillity come sunset.

As the saying goes, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. While you’re at it if the culture is to eat by hand, why not give it a try and learn more about the reason behind it. Only by fully immersing yourself in the local culture will you have a deeper and meaningful trip to look back on.

Take a much-needed break from technology

Home to the world’s tallest monolith of Gautama Buddha, it is also a major centre for the technology industry and many upscale restaurants and shops. However, that doesn’t mean you should spend more time on tech gadgets.

Instead, challenge yourself and go tech-free. In need of directions? Get a map or ask local shopkeepers. Want to know where to get the best food? See where the locals patron. Have somewhere to be? Walk or take an old-school train if it’s far away.

You’ll be surprised what you can see and learn by avoiding technology for a day. It also gives you a different outlook when you’re not seeing life through a smartphone.

Experience nature and wildlife in Visakhapatnam

Have you always dream of visiting a wildlife safari or are you just an animal lover? Everyone should try to experience flora and fauna in their natural habitat at least once in their lifetime. If you’re looking for said experience, you can do just that at the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary.

Located near Indira Gandhi National Zoological Park, it is the perfect place to observe animals in their natural settings.

Marked endangered species like Indian leopards, jackals, tigers and poisonous snakes like vipers and cobras are just some among many animals that you’ll find at the sanctuary.

For the nature lovers, visitors can either trek around with a park ranger or use the boating facilities to get to the majestic waterfall within the sanctuary.

Taste authentic Indian food in Tiruchirappalli

Saving the best for last, it’s time to indulge in some authentic Indian food and taste the awesomeness it comes with. If you’re a fan of Indian food, then you’re in for a real treat as there are some delicacies that aren’t available in Malaysian eateries yet.

Obviously, many are familiar with chicken tikka masala but have you heard of Malai Chicken Tikka? Marinated in creamy cheese sauce then cooked in tandoor, this dish is described as east meets west with its flavour similar to western dishes. Using only the leg part of the chicken, its meat is always tender.

There’s also a different type of samosa called dry fruits samosa. Unlike the samosas in Malaysia with potato filling, this samosa is smaller in size and made with cashews, almonds and sometimes even raisins.

If you love kebabs, then you need to try Kati roll as it is a traditional street food popular across India. Combining the flavours of kebabs, eggs, vegetables, and spices, it will surely blow your mind. However, if that’s not what you’re looking for, you can always opt for a simple yet equally delicious biryani rice.

To explore more of these six cities, check out AirAsia’s direct flights from Kuala Lumpur.

Besides offering low fares and quality in-flight services, AirAsia also aims to provide travellers with a complete travel experience with Vidi Deals and BigPay.

Vidi Deals is an online booking platform that allows customers to book on-ground travel activities such as local tours, theme parks, attractions and more.

Vidi Deals has over 13,000 travel activities across Asean and beyond that customers can enjoy, so what are you waiting for? Log on to deals.airasia.com and start planning now.

If you’re a frugal traveller, make sure to check out BigPay. BigPay is a cashless ecosystem featuring a mobile money ap11:04 AM 5/8/201811:04 AM 5/8/201811:04 AM 5/8/201811:04 AM 5/8/201811:04 AM 5/8/201811:04 AM 5/8/2018p with an accompanying card that helps users save while travelling.

Travellers will only pay the real exchange rate with no extra fees when you spend abroad, enjoy discounts on pre-booked meals and baggage on airasia.com, while earning BIG points daily on local and international transactions. Download the BigPay app to sign up now!

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