Eight Reasons Why Eastern Hokkaido Should Be Your Next Photography Destination This visit to Hokkaido is my third over a four-year span but the beautiful island never fails to fascinate me each time. Perhaps the different season and travel theme conspired to maintain that novelty feel. Indeed, Hokkaido has been so successful in establishing herself as a winter holiday destination that the notion winter is the best time to visit sticks in the mind of most visitors. But I beg to differ, the island has so much to offer to anyone and everyone all year round beyond the powdery snow ...

1st-Timer New Zealand South Island Self-Drive Road Trip To many who have yet to visit New Zealand, the impression of the country invariably conjures up imagery of sheep (tons of them), rolling wide vista of mountain ranges with wispy white clouds, the famed All Blacks Rugby team and tattoed wide-eyed Maori warriors sticking their tongues out in a Haka dance. Yes, New Zealand has all this but much much more. As a travel photographer, I can say with conviction that this is one immensely beautiful country that will have you yearning to come back for more. South Island carries the ...

Whenever Australia is mentioned, images of wildlife, clean air, delicious big portion meals made with fresh local produces, friendly laidback Aussies always come to my mind. Indeed, Australia is a popular travel destination for vacationers the world over with Sydney and Melbourne taking the top two ranking as the country's most visited cities. My trips to various parts of the beautiful country showed me how spectacular the country is. So it was surprising to me that the immensely picturesque Northern Territory, was only in the 10th position. The Northern Territory is simply amazing in her ways and should be on ...

Sabah - Ecotourism Hub of Southeast Asia Having travelled a fair bit in my travel blogging assignments, it's my conviction that some of my best travel experiences are those that are least planned. I had the opportunity sometime back for a photography project for three nature lodges that are owned or co-owned by my former classmate, Alexander Yee, a socio-eco entrepreneur with a diverse portfolio of tourism-related business. Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and the largest in Asia. Also nicknamed Negeri Di Bawah Bayu -"Land beneath the wind", Borneo is blessed with some of the world's most biodiverse equatorial rainforests that ...

RSAF50 Centennial Celebration - Medevac Demonstration at Sembawang As part of a suite of activities to mark her 50th Anniversary through 2018 in the heartlands, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) held an inaugural Search and Rescue (SAR) demo at an open field close to the Sembawang MRT on the 31st March and 1st April. Medical officers performed a “casualty” evacuation on a stretcher to the helicopter under its whirring blades. The display was a simulation by the RSAF 125 Squadron and 1 Medical Squadron personnel.  Video of the event compiled by © Tedd Jong Wei. Part of the spectators at the event ...

Kompong Khleang - the largest lakeside community on Tonle Sap To most visitors in Siem Reap, after visiting the main temples in the Angkor heritage sites, the natural option is to check out the floating villages at the Tonle Sap. There are three main villages that travel guides will bring to your attention - Chong Kneas, Kompong Pluk and Kompong Khleang. My message in this short blog is to highlight why Kompong Khleang is the ONLY village that's worth your time and money. Location of the 3 main lakeside villages on Tonle Sap  Kompong Khleang is the furthest from Siem ...

For readers who have yet to visit Cambodia's renowned archaeological treasure, Angkor, I am pretty certain they would have heard some dismal sentiments from their friends who have been- "After a few temples, they all looked alike", "somewhat boring", "beware of scams", "doubt I will want to visit the place again" and so the list goes on. I can understand why they have such negative experience, which I believe stemmed from lack of sound advice compounded by not being served by a competent guide or simply a mismatch in expectations. In this article, I like to share 5 tips on how to better ...

Singapore Airshow 2018 - Asia's Largest Aviation Event The much-anticipated biennial airshow dubbed as "Asia's Largest Aerospace and Defence event", was held at Changi Exhibition Center from the 6th-11th February 2018. The first four days were reserved for trade which provided valuable networking opportunities for the global aerospace community, industry movers and shakers, government and military delegations. Likewise, the airshow is the best launch-pad for start-ups to showcase their latest technologies and products to potential investors and customers. It also presents a choice avenue for fledgeling companies with access to the TOP 100 aerospace and defence companies, major airlines and ...

First-timer Road Trip to Okinawa - Part 2 This blog is a continuation of my earlier Okinawa travelogue which detailed the highlights from my coastal phase of the road trip and marks the transition from the relaxing beachside and laidback ambience of the northern part of the island to the hustle-bustle of Naha city in the south. These itineraries flow from the north to south is the ideal way to go as the airport is located at Naha in the south. Starting a vacation from the south and ending in the north would mean long drive back to the city on departure day ...

First-timer Road-Trip to Okinawa To most travellers, a trip to Japan usually involves the "mainstream" cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto or even the paradisiacal island of Hokkaido. Unlike the mainland cities, Okinawa is admittedly less on the radar of most travellers heading to Japan. It is not known for its developed economy nor is it like Hokkaido and Kyoto which are popular for its unique charm. Nonetheless, the little island of Okinawa still received almost ten million tourists in 2015 alone. Personally, my interest in Okinawa was roused rather by pictures of  Whale Sharks at its renowned Churaumi Aquarium. And also being a military ...

Be enthralled by the beauty of New South Wales, Australia If you love long road trips with scenic view, then this is one of the best there is. Just about an hour drive from Sydney, this route is known as the Grand Pacific Drive and is one of Australia most spectacular driving routes.  Most visitors are familiar with the metropolitan capital city of Sydney or iconic Gold Coast, so where is New South Wales located? New South Wales (abbreviated as NSW) is a state on the east coast of Australia. It borders Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Its coast borders the Tasman Sea to the east.The Australian ...

Vintage Biplane Aerial Adventure in New South Wales, Australia As a kid, I was particularly fascinated by all the things that fly, from birds to aeroplanes. I always wondered, how would I be, if I were a bird. I used to look with awe at aircrafts marking contrails and cruising high in the blue sky, I wondered if I could fly the same. But as life would have it, my aerial ambition would remain a childhood dream. Most of our encounter with aeroplanes are usually with the airliners we took on an overseas vacation. It gets you in comfort to your ...

Hahndorf - Australia's Oldest Surviving German Village During my last trip to South Australia, I "stumbled" on a little piece of gem. Due to inclement weather, my travel mate and I chose to explore Hahndorf instead of the Pink Lake, as the dark overcast skies were threatening to open up. What we lost in our aborted plan, we gained by the visit to this little charming village that is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement which celebrated its 179 years as this year. Hahndorf is a small town in the Adelaide Hills region of South Australia. With tourism gaining importance, it has previously been a centre for ...

Adelaide Central Market - A must-visit when in Adelaide In most of my travel overseas, a visit to the city or town main market is a must as it's the best place to get a feel and dynamism of the locale.  A market tells a lot about the country that you are visiting. In Adelaide, a visit to the Central Market is a definite must-do. It has been described as a "multicultural hub with fresh produce, gourmet goods and lots of heart" in the South Australia Travel Idea Travel Ideas webpage. Other than "lots of heart", I can attest this market ...

Why Kangaroo Island Deserves a Longer Stay Beautiful coastal views, fabulous scenic drive routes, great dining and adventure pit-stops are some 'ingredients' necessary for a memorable road trip. Kangaroo Island in South Australia has all the attributes for a perfect laid-back yet exciting vacation. So it comes as a surprise to me that most people would think of this beautiful island as a day-trip or a 1-night stopover destination. I hope my blog based on my recent travel there will encourage more visitors to stay longer and explore this gem of an island. Kangaroo Island Location & History Source: http://southaustralia.com/places-to-go/kangaroo-island/brochures-and-maps ...

Swim with Tuna at Victor Harbour, South Australia We have all probably heard of or even experienced swimming with dolphins in a marine-themed park, whale sharks perhaps in Ningaloo, caged shark diving in South Africa or even swim with jellyfish in Palau. But swim with tuna? Now that's new. This is Oceanic Victor, the latest marine-themed attraction at Victor Harbour, South Australia. The facility is located within a Habitat Protection Zone of the Encounter Marine Park. The facility opened to the public on 2nd September 2017. Oceanic Victor is an Australian privately owned company established by Mick Dyer and his wife, Yasmin ...

Tasmania Convoy Adventure September 2017 This 8D7N self-drive convoy adventure was organised by Jetabout Holidays and held from the 21-28 September 2017. To ensure a better trip experience, participants and cars were kept to a manageable amount. In total, we had seven attendees with Cindy Loo (trip guide and facilitator) and myself included. Chasing the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) was one of the trip objectives. However, nature being what it is, we were rewarded with Milky Way rather than the aurora on the last night of our trip. But along the way, we got to experience a fair bit of the Tasmanian magic ...

This visit to the amazing Soneva Jani completed my visit to all three land-based properties in the Soneva chain of resorts, the other two being Soneva Fushi at Kunfunadhoo in Baa Atoll, Maldives and Soneva Kiri in Koh Kood, South Thailand. In comparison with six other Maldivian resorts that I recently experienced, I can attest that Soneva Jani is certainly at the apex of luxury resorts not just in Maldives but worldwide. Visitors looking to enjoy the Maldivian paradise can be overwhelmed by the wide range of premium accommodation as each resort seeks to distinguish itself with unique features and no–holds–barred services ...

The new Rod Fai Market in the Ratchada area of Bangkok is an amazing venue for the avid photographer. This article is intended for shutterbugs looking to shoot the top view of the night market, which is making the rounds in the internet. The following photography and travel tips will be helpful for all who may be thinking of capturing that angle, visit the place or both. Photographing Bangkok New Rod Fai Night Market at Ratchada To shoot this top view of the market, take the lift to Level 4 at the Esplanade Mall (just beside the night market) and walk to the ...

Soneva Fushi is one of the earliest Maldivian luxury resorts (established 1995) and one of the most distinctive too, with its early emphasis on environmental sustainability and barefoot luxury. This visit marked my second visit to a Soneva resort, the first being Soneva Kiri in Koh Hood, Thailand. With similar interior styling and "Robinson Crusoe" concept, great memories from the previous visit resumed 'seamlessly' at this lovely resort but even better with views of the beautiful Baa Atoll. The resort Soneva Fushi is located on the island of Kunfunadhoo in Baa Atoll, one of the largest islands in the Maldives ...

In my second resorts exploratory trip to Maldives this year, I had the opportunity to fly with Sri Lanka Airlines, for the very first time. Changi International Airport offers a wide selection of airlines but I usually stick to my 'comfort zone' of carriers that I am comfortable with, based on branding, experience and perception of value. That said, my first flight with Sri Lanka Airlines was a pleasantly good affair. My positive review are based on three main criteria - price, service level and flight experience. From a price perspective, the full service round-trip ticket from Singapore to Velana ...

The very mention of Maldives always evolves an image of coconut palms on a tiny island, of azure crystal clear water, of postcard perfect scenery be it land or underwater. Yes, I can't imagine anyone not falling in love with this tropical paradise. But just as true, are the pricey premium resorts that many would dream about and consider a vacation here "a trip of a lifetime" or something on their bucket list. Thus, as a travel blogger with Jetabout Holidays, I had the luck to experience more than half a dozen high-end resorts over a short period of time ...

The U Inchantree Resort Kanchanaburi is definitely one of the best option for visitors looking for a cosy resort conveniently located near the River Kwai Bridge should they planned a vacation in this beautiful town. This is my 2nd stay at the resort which I visited five years ago and the resort have since gained a new wing making it a 50 rooms set up. Service is still as commendable, brisk and the resort retains a peaceful ambience. Incidentally, you might be pleased to know it garnered Thailand's 'Most Romantic Resort 2011/12' accolade by World Travel Award. The resort U ...

This 'Escape to Paradise in Fiji Islands' travelogue touches on the island of South Viti Levu, Sigatoka town and Kuata island, is a continuation from my earlier article on my Fiji Islands adventure, where I explore the town of Savusavu in North Fiji, which many considered to be Fiji Islands' best-kept secret. The beauty of Fiji Islands has a timeless and natural beauty quite unlike anywhere else in the world. Any vacationers, particularly those with interest in photography, will doubly enjoy the exotic and picture perfect islands. SOUTH VITI LEVU ISLAND Pure Fuji My 1st stop on arriving on the ...

The thought of visiting Fiji should make anyone feels exhilarated with all that sun, sand and sea. Blessed with 333 tropical islands and home to some of the happiest people on Earth, nothing prepared me for the charm and warmth of the Fijians, much less the gorgeous sights and sound of the truly spectacular islands located in the heart of the South Pacific. My itineraries included islands exploration – Savusavu, South Viti Levu Island, Sigotaka and Kuata Island. In this article, I’ve put together some brilliant places you could explore for your trip to Savusavu, considered to be Fiji Islands' best-kept ...

According The Telegraph (UK) , Sydney is one of the top 20 most expensive cities in the world to visit, having fallen from 5th position in 2014. While that sounds like good news for travellers on a budget, there is no denying this is still an expensive city to visit, right up there with London, Zurich and Paris. What each traveller spend on and does during the vacation will have will effect on the best experience. The following are 5 ways to save money for those on free and easy arrangements but still enjoy a fabulous vacay. You just need ...

Kanchanaburi offers something for everyone and in my humble opinion, is certainly one of Thailand's most underrated destinations. Blessed with natural and historical attractions, this laid-back town features many sightseeing opportunities that would please nature lovers and history buffs alike. World War II memories dominate a large portion of the town, with a number of museums and war memorials dedicated to the many lives lost during the Japanese occupation, while nature parks and its surrounding area offer visitors welcomed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The following are some of the activities you can enjoy when you vacation ...

X2 (pronounced Cross To) chain of resorts are fast gaining a reputation as a high-design, boutique range of holiday destination properties across Asia and Australia.  Since their introduction to the market they have risen to be among the most famous of boutique resorts in Thailand and across South East Asia, winning numerous awards and accolades. I was especially impressed by the resort's chain mantra - "to have a very unique and unequivocal persona that is embraced by all elements of the resort. Whether it be design, service, location" for as a travel photographer, a destination uniqueness and resort character help plenty ...

Sydney’s a gorgeous city to visit with plenty to do and see. But when you have just 72 hours to burn here, I like to suggest 6 must-do activities in early winter for a memorable trip that will have you plan future visits again. So come along and join me on my quick trip Down Under. Must Do #1 - Visit the Sydney Opera House No trip to Sydney is complete without a visit to the iconic Sydney Opera House. Missing it would be like visiting Paris without seeing Eiffel Tower. A fusion of ancient with modernist influences , the immense beauty of the ...

International tourist arrivals in Thailand reached a record high in 2016 and is projected to continue doing well in 2017 with more than 30 million foreigners arrivals annually. Tourism accounts for about 10 percent of Thailand's GDP and is one of the few bright spots for an economy that under performed peers in Southeast Asia. So it not surprising to see many new hotels being built. But amid the wide offering, the recently opened (February 2017) 137 Pillars Suites and Residences is one hotel to watch. Reason #01 - Great location Located at the heart of Bangkok’s upscale Emquartier & Emporium Shopping area and ...

In my travel assignments to date, I had the privilege to enjoy many resorts, each extolling to impart the "ultimate" experience. At Soneva Kiri, I can finally attest I found that one resort that "rules them all". Located on the secluded island of Koh Kood, Soneva Kiri offers an unparalleled level of luxurious and memorable experience, cocooning its guests with impeccable service that any stay feels too short, however long. In this blog, I am pleased to list twelve reasons why this resort, in my humble opinion, is the best resort in Thailand. So before the accolades sounded like hyperbole, do join me ...

During Australia’s spring season, Aussie Specialist, Cindy Loo and myself , headed for a 2 weeks self-drive trip around Sydney and Tasmania that totalled some 3000km. Here are 10 amazing locations that have been shortlisted into this travel guide. Get to know which places in Australia I will recommend anyone planning a Sydney or Tasmania road trip. Rev up your engines and get ready for an epic trip Down Under! 1. Tasmania : Lake Pedder (Southern Lights) The Aurora Australis at Lake Pedder Most people heard about Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, which are visible from places such as Norway, Iceland ...

The Avani Riverside Bangkok is owned by the Minor Hotels Group that owns and manages, among diverse businesses, the famous Anantara chain of hotels. The Avani Riverside is a departure from the “conservative slick” set up of the Anantara resort and having opened in April 2016, is equipped with the latest technologies and of course, you can expect similar top-notch service. Overlooking the Chao Phraya River, this upmarket hotel is just about 8 km from both the Wat Arun temple and the Grand Palace. It’s also 13 km from Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World. Guests will especially love the rooftop infinity pool ...

Whenever the subject of Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights crops up, most people think of Norway, Iceland or the Arctic.  But with the sun’s 11-year solar cycle coming to an end, these nature wonders are fading and may not be seen as often for another decade.  Fortunately for us in Asia, the Southern Hemisphere has its own light show – the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights. The Southern Lights is deemed a fairly 'recent discovery' as one of the pioneer spotters - Margaret Sonnemann, only saw the phenomenon slightly more than 15 years ago. Today her Facebook group, Aurora Australis Tasmania, ...

One of the key consideration when selecting resorts in the Maldives is its location. Other than extra transfer cost, the loss of precious vacation time is another bugbear for far-flung resorts. But Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort is conveniently located very near the Velana International Airport, so that mean that guests at this resort can start enjoying paradise much faster on arrival. Located on the private Furanafushi Island (North Male Atoll), this luxurious resort will appeal to couples or families alike. Reason No. 1  - Quick access from Malé Airport Just 15-20 min speedboat ride from the Velana International Airport, this ...

Bangkok is widely visited for many things, especially for it's food and shopping. Local food in this vibrant city provides convenient, delicious and pocket-friendly meals while being one of the best ways to connect with the local culture. But it can be bewildering especially for new or the infrequent visitors, when they chose to "go local" without a guide. That’s why I put together this guide to ten great eating spots easily accessible via the Bangkok Train System (BTS). The blog also comes with the shops facade picture and map link for easier reference. Bangkok BTS map Prachak - Roasted duck and meat diner Roast duck ...

Having last visited the Maldives some 15 years back, I was elated when the chance to go on an inspection trip to three resorts with Jetabout Holidays came in March. Centara Grand Island Resort and Spa was one of the resorts on the list. The Centara brand name is familiar to me as it is one of Thailand's leading hotel group, which is highly regarded for its excellent service.  Having inspected another resort, the Lux* South Ari Atoll just a two days prior to arriving at this resort, I was naturally in a "comparison" mindset as I seek out the differences between resorts so that ...

The very mention of Maldives always conjures up image of a tropical paradise - crystal clear turquoise water, coconut palms on white sandy beaches, amazing marine life and luxury resorts. Many of my friends even have the perception that these fabled atolls are basically romantic vacation places for honeymooners with little else to do except sun, sand and sea. They could not be more wrong. Sure, there are no theme park or megamall at any of the 1200 atolls but a trip to the Maldives will certainly brings a smile to anyone looking for vacation with a difference, to destress and reconnect ...

A recent short media inspection trip to the lovely Club Med Bintan reminded me why this renowned vacation lifestyle chain can still command a premium and a veritable mecca of fun after all these years. Fond memories of my last Club Med holiday in Bali vacation decades ago returned and tell me I just had to include the chain's various other resorts around the world in my bucket list. Who can resist a resort where everything is taken care of ? From meals, activities , transfers to and from the resort, accommodation and entertainment, everything had been planned for, you just need to bring ...

My short vacation to Phuket (a popular beach side resort island) after a gap of more than 15 years. During those years, much of the island has transformed and it's no longer the 'cheap, cheap' vacation paradise anymore. The beach scene have been cleaned up - you can now bring your own mat, rest on the beach without being harassed to rent one of those beach chair plus parasol and seems the jet-ski or time-share scams are no more. Every morning, waves of cleaners scout the beach and clear the litters. Even the touts are more gentle and they are "licensed" with ...

Bangkok Update December 2016 - 3 months after King Bhumibol Adulyadej passing. The Land of Smiles occupies a special place in many people's heart. To many Asians, it's the quintessential food, massage, shopping and adventure capital of Asia. Vibrant, exotic, chaotic and fun, it's a city that never quite sleeps. This trip in mid-Dec 2016 was organised by Jetabout Holidays to gain first hand experience if Bangkok has lost any of its fun quotient following the unfortunate demise of the country revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej on the 13 Oct 2016. The government announcement of an official  30 days mourning, closing of many ...

Tasmania Self Drive Holiday - Discover Tasmania This photographic road trip was organised by Jetabout Holidays (Holiday Tours and Travel) in collaboration with Tourism Australia covering both Sydney and Tasmania, which totalled 2 weeks from 2-18 Nov (2 Nov being a departure date with 8 hours direct flight to Sydney via Qantas), with an estimated driving mileage of some 3000km. This travelogue is in continuation from the Sydney and NSW leg, with the Tasmania phase which commenced on 10 Nov 2016, as we landed at 2100hrs in Hobart on the 9 Nov 2016.  The Tasmania segment presented a more laid-back ...

Australia Road Trip 2016- Phase Sydney (New South Wales) If there's a road trip that qualifies being termed epic, this is it ! This photographic project in November 2016 was my longest ever overseas assignment to date. Organised by Jetabout Holidays, in collaboration with Tourism Australia covering both New South Wales (NSW) and Tasmania.  The trip was preceded by an invitation from Qantas on departure day to experience the expansive and lavish Qantas Lounge at Singapore Changi International Airport Terminal 1. The lounge is managed by The Sofitel hospitality group with a host of luxurious features like one of renowned Australian's ...

Qantas Singapore Lounge  On a photographic assignment organised in November 2016 by Jetabout Holidays (Holiday Tours and Travel) in collaboration with Tourism Australia covering both Sydney and Tasmania,  I had the most fortunate opportunity to be invited to experience the expansive and lavish Qantas Lounge located in Singapore Changi International Airport Terminal 1. If you feel as if you are in a hotel ambience , you are spot on. The lounge is managed by The Sofitel hospitality group with a host of high-end pampering including a Neil Perry Rockpool menu, hawker centre-inspired open grill station, a cocktail bar plus a valet service.  ...

Mekong Delta, the very mention of this exotic location evokes a sense of adventure and mysteries that is reminiscence of an old world charm, quietly waiting for all its visitors to uncover and discover her secrets.  And what better way to explore this amazing “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam other than with a photography trip? Life at the Mekong River A trip to the Mekong Delta invariably involves a cruise on the Mekong River in one of the traditional riverboats made from native bamboo, wood and rattan. Boats like these are an essential mode of transport in swampy areas and rural roads ...

Enjoy Hokkaido Food Tourism When one mentioned Hokkaido, images of snow-capped mountains, breathtaking natural scenery, fresh seafood and gorgeous hot springs start to flood the mind. Such is the impression that most visitors tend to miss other gems that this enchanting island has to offer. I hope through my travelogue, readers (especially those on self-drive vacation in the western region comprising Sapporo, Kuriyama, Ishikari and Niseko) will be able to tailor a more balanced trip. And yes, Hokkaido offers much more than a ski vacation. It is a foodie adventure wonderland too. Other than skiing down powdery snow slopes and ...

For nature lovers keen in watching wild dolphins in their natural habitat in South East Asia, Lovina at north Bali, presents the best option. This town is a laid back 12 km stretch of coastline to the West of Singaraja. It is a welcome respite from the bustle of the mainstream enclaves like Kuta in the south. One thing that strikes you first is the black volcanic ash sand at Lovina beach. From a distance, the calm water looks dirty but is in fact crystal clear and safe for swimming. As with other parts of Bali, this sleepy town quickly ...

Hidaka, Hokkaido’s Hidden Gem (2015) When travelling, sometimes it’s the unplanned  itineraries that reward us with the best memories. Such is my experience with Hidaka, a coastal town in Southern Hokkaido, just about 130km or a 2.5 hours drive from the Chitose New Airport . Hidaka is Japan’s largest horse breeding hub accounting for nearly 80% of all horses bred in Japan. In 2011, out of about 7,000 thoroughbred horses bred in Japan, 5,600 came from Hidaka. So it’s no surprise the town revolves around horses. But beyond horses,  over just 2 very short days stay (the sun starts setting about ...

Taiwan Travelogue - Hualien, Keelung and Taipei  In Part 2 of my Taiwan blog, we had a look at some famous Taichung eateries - Lai Lai Soya Bean Milk, Chun Sui Tang and Ding Wang. The amazing Miyaharu (Gong Yang Yan Ke) - a delightful local specialty and snack heaven,  Mushroom Garden and Lavender Cottage at Sinshe county. The gorgeous Sun Moon Lake, Rainbow Village, Qing Jing Highlands and the fabulous mountain scenery of Taroko National Park.  This final blog marked our descend from the peaks of Mt.Hehuan to the coastal city of  Hualien, then up north to the seaport town of Keelung and end destination ...

Taiwan Travelogue 2013 - Taichung attractions In the previous Taiwan Travelogue (part 1/3)  we explored Taiwan's Da Hu Strawberry Farms, Central Market, Sheng Xing Old Railway, the Gao Mei  Wetland and Feng Jia Night Market.  In this segment,  I'll like to share with you Miyaharu, Sinshe, Rainbow Village, Formosa Aboriginal Culture Village, Wen Wu Temple  and finally the ascent to the mountains of He Hehuan Shan in the Taroko National Park.  We also had  a great meal at Chun Sui Tang, where the original Bubble Tea was founded . Lai Lai Soya Bean Milk Shop Our guide Ah Hui, always ...

"Travel broadens the mind". A wise saying I'm sure we've all heard before. But do you know Albert Einstein also once also said "I love to travel but I hate to arrive"? With my family in Taichung, Taiwan.  Visiting Taiwan again after a long time (the last being some 25 years ago during National Service army training) was certainly an eye-opener and a sense of nostalgia. I was single then and now with my family, visiting Taiwan is certainly a special occasion. I am sure many a Singaporean male who went through the same path, would agree and share mutual ...