Night Markets In Asia Are Worth A Visit

A Ttrip to any Asian destination is not complete without a visit to its many night markets. Food stalls of local cuisine and delicacies are sure to be aplenty.

A sprinkling of mats full of local handicrafts and products can be all over the market place and there's also a remarkable profusion of luxury good rip-offs as well. I don't personally promote the latter, but if it's your thing you are sure to find a great bargain.

These markets in Asia are a melting-pot of culture, cuisine, fashion and handicraft. If you want to be in the middle of it all when visiting an Asian city, head to the nearest market and get pleasantly lost in the ordered chaos of commerce, culture and art.

Temple Street Night Market, Hong Kong

Located in the Yau Ma Tei area in Kowloon, Temple Street is the busiest and most visited of all open-air night markets in Hong Kong. Tourists and locals alike flock to this night market from dusk until the wee hours of the morning. Cheap ready-to-wear items for all ages as well as toys, watches, electronic gizmos and knick knacks of all kinds are all available for sale within the market's vicinity.

You can even buy a glimpse of your future from the many fortune tellers - that is, if you trust their clairvoyance enough to pay good money for it. You are bound to find a number of opera singers in your exploration of the night market and be treated to the delightful sound of traditional Chinese folk songs.

Huaxi Night Market, Taipei

Located between Xiyuan and Huan roads near Longshan Temple, Huaxi is one of the smaller markets that comprise the vast network of markets of Guangzhou, Wuzhou and Xichang streets. Previously famous as a red light district, Huaxi St. reinvented itself to promote legitimate commercial activities after the local government of Taipei prohibited prostitution.

Now, a tourist favorite, this night market is sought for its exotic cuisine offerings such as snake-based dishes and fresh water turtle fare. It also offers tourists a more picturesque and historical alternative to other Taipei night markets.

Suan Lum Night Bazaar, Bangkok

Located in Pathum Wan District opposite Lumphini Park, Suan Lum is a haven for budget-shopping enthusiasts who do not want to brave the sweaty crowd of a typical night market. Suan Lum is housed in a complex of covered walkways with a Khmer-inspired façade.

Merchandise of all kinds, like shoes, clothes, jewelry, kitchenware, beachwear and tapestries among a plethora of many others, are readily available here. A mere stone's throw away from the shopping area is a big open-air beer garden with a decent selection of Thai restaurants and other bistros specializing in various cuisines such as Italian, German and Japanese.

Visitors to Suan Lum can also enjoy a rare pampering of fishes exfoliating their feet in the various fish spas or a luxurious massage in the many massage parlors located in the area. Those who want a quick look at the Indian epic of Ramayana, also known as Ramakien in Thai, should find time to watch the performance at Joe Louis Puppet Theatre nearby.

China's Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army is called one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century and to be honest, it is one very impressive piece of ancient history. Where else in the world can you find a life size army of terracotta warriors over 2240 years old??? I'll tell you. NO WHERE!!! Like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army is one of the places in China you must see before you go back home.

Background - The first emperor of China, Ying Zheng united China, created the first version of the great wall, standardized the written language, killed a lot of people and lived a pretty violent and impressive life. The terracotta army was a part of an underground mausoleum built for him.

Work began on the mausoleum in 246 BC soon after Ying Zheng took to the throne as king and took 11 years to complete by 700,000 workers. The mausoleum was put to use later in 210 BC at Ying Zheng's death.

The army itself is estimated to be over 8000 warriors, horses and chariots and is buried in a series of four pits. Precise estimates are still not possible because excavation of the pits is not complete. The purpose of the army was to accompany Ying Zheng in the afterlife.

You can see from the pictures below that many of the actual statues are in pieces and putting them back together again is a long and painstaking task.

The pits holding the army are 1.5 kilometers east of the actual tomb of the emperor which remains unexcavated because archaeologists fear that excavating the tomb will damage or destroy its priceless contents.

Getting There - The Terracotta Army is near city of Xian in Shaanxin province south west of Beijing in the centre of China. The best way to get there is by catching an over night train from Beijing West train station. There are at least 3 trains leaving Beijing each evening and the train trip takes about 12 hours. Depending on the train you catch, you'll have a choice of a seat (no, no, no), hard sleeper (my favourite), soft sleeper (too pampered) and a deluxe soft sleeper (no comment).

Look for a train with the sign in the photo below and make sure you are in Beijing West train station not Beijing train station. To many hapless foreigners and locals have ended up at the wrong station.

You'll arrive in Xian in the morning so head of to your hotel, dump your bags and prepare yourself for a great day. I stayed at the Xian City hotel which was not the best but good enough. You'll need at least half a day to see the Terracotta Army and mausoleum. There are public buses leaving from different parts of the town that will take you all the way to the Terracotta Army. Ask your hotel staff for directions to the nearest bus stop. The bus trip will take about an hour.

Stay over night and catch an evening train the next day back to Beijing. Going back to Beijing there is also at least 3 trains in the evening. Xian is a great place and you'll find that even two days there is not quiet enough.

Trivia - The Chinese for Terracotta Army is bing ma yong which means soldier horse funeral statues. Tell your Chinese friends and travel companions you've been to see the bing ma yong and they will be impressed.

This article is Written by Brendon Lang from China Travel Go, an expert blog on travel and life in China.

Prague - Bohemian Rhapsody

Prague, being located in the center of Bohemia, is the capital of Czech Republic. During its long history, city was a part of many countries and played one of the main roles in European history. Nowadays, this lovely city with population of more than 1-million persons is one of the biggest touristic sites in the world.

It doesn't matter if you are an experienced tourist or a backpacker who hasn't moved out of hometown. The city upon Vltava River welcomes each and everyone. After you have landed in one of the airports that surround Prague, you'd better buy public transport tickets and city map. All buses, trams, metro and ferries set up one network which is quite comfortable. You should only keep an eye on distances, because, for example, in metro, you will pay for each station. For those who violate the rules there are strict fines. Taxis are not working on the same scheme.

On arrival, you can easily find a place to stay. There are hotels and guesthouses for all budgets, but it is strongly recommended to book your rooms in advance, especially in high season (April-October, winter holidays). Don't forget that Czechs' capital occupies the 5th position in world touristic rating. And remember about a fact that number of stars doesn't always are obligatory for service level. The situation when owners put stars by themselves is quite frequent. Many hostels, private apartments and campings are available as well.

For sure, the hotel choice is up to you and your own tastes, but better look for a place where you can simply spend a night and have a breakfast. It is so for several reasons. First of all, distances. It may look like the city is not far too big, but its historical part was claimed as UNESCO World Heritage Site quite reasonably. You will find a lot of interesting sites (look below) and spend much time. So far, you won't be able to get back to your hotel for lunch or dinner.

Otherwise, you'll miss a lot of impressions. Secondly, there is a really great quantity of restaurants and cafés all over the place where you can easily find some snacks. You can choose between all imaginable cuisines, but better try to find Czech one and you won't regret about it. Another popular thing in here is beer tours. This 'liquid gold' is very popular amongst Czechs and tourists and there are special beer restaurants. Visit them and try as many sorts of this drink, as it is possible.

Going to Prague in spring or autumn, don't forget your umbrella, because weather changes all the time. The only permanent thing is snow during the Christmas time.

As it was mentioned, Prague is a really beautiful city and has a lot of places of interest. Previously, there were several cities that became one and gave their names to districts of Prague.

The most popular site is Prague Castle which is the biggest building of a kind in the world. Its history starts in 9th century as a wooden fortification and later became an impressive military point. It is hard to identify one specific style of this building, because rulers made their additions through years, but its classical view was established in 18th century when Maria Theresa ruled the country. For years this castle was the residence of monarchs, but nowadays it is occupied by tourists and President of Czech Republic. When you're planning your trip, leave at least one day for this place.

Hradcany, district that surrounds castle, includes such places as Chapel of the Holy Cross, Picture Gallery of Prague Castle, Imperial Stables, The Spanish Hall, Rudolf Gallery, St Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, Mihulka Powder Tower, Convent of St George, Basilika of St George, Royal Garden, Ball-Game House, Summer Palace, Riding School, Golden Lane, White Tower, Daliborka Tower, Lobkowicz Palace, Toy Museum, Schwarzenberg Palace, Archbishop's Palace, Sternberg Palace, The Loreta, Capuchin Monastery and Strahov Monastery. From that list we should outline St. Vitus Cathedral. It is one of the symbols of Prague founded in 10th century as a Roman Rotunda. After a little time, in 1026 it became a Basilica and only from the year of 1344 - Cathedral in gothic style. Its construction was finished only in 1929. Cathedral's length is 124 m and 34 m of height. Towers are 100 m height.

Strahov Monastery was founded by Wenceslas II in 1140 and rebuilt several times. Nowadays it is a little bit eclectic building and a memorial of Czech written language.

The second interesting district of Prague is The Lesser Town. The most popular way to it lies through famous Charles Bridge (Karlov most) built in gothic style. This bridge, covered with brick, has many statues of various historical persons and is the main place for wish-making. Other interesting places in here that can be visited are Nerudova Street, Lesser Town Square, St Nicholas Church, Wallenstein Palace, Church of St Thomas, Vrtba Garden, Church of Our Lady Victorious, Maltese Square, Kampa Island and Vojan Park. Building #10 "Golden Lion" at Lesser Town Square is famous because of its tavern founded in times of Rudolf II reign.

The next interesting place is Josefov or Prague Jewish Quarter. It was named after Emperor Franz Joseph II who equalized Jews rights with all other people of the country. The two most known things connected to this district of the city are person of Franz Kafka and homunculus Golem created by Rabi Lew. Nevertheless, it is the most mysterious part of Prague with many legends and stories. When you enter the Josefov from Paris Street, the first spiritual building will be Maisel Synagogue built in 1592. Pinkas Synagogue, built in 1479, is located on hand. The most famous one is Old-New Synagogue. The Jewish Town Hall is located nearby and has two clocks. Upper one goes directly and another goes in reverse, due to the old Jewish tradition. Other interesting places there are Old Jewish Cemetery, Klausen Synagogue, High Synagogue, and Church of the Holy Ghost, Spanish Synagogue, St Agnes's Convent and The Rudolfinum.

Prague Old Town stands separately. The most comfortable place to start is Celetna Street. It is very beautiful road where kings went themselves. And Francesco Petrarch and Johann Faust lived in house #2 as well as 5-year old Franz Kafka.

If you are looking for breathtaking places, then go to Old Town Square. It has uncountable number of interesting sites. Church of Our Lady before Tyn is one of the major signs and for some time was the main place of Hussites. That was the reason why it was given to Jesuits order later. Ungelt Yard, residence of foreign traders, is located few steps away and for years played a role of stock exchange of a kind. Golz-Kinskych Palace is interesting not only because of its architecture, but also, because of mysterious history of construction. It was hidden for ten (!) years. Church of St. Nicholas makes atmosphere of the square cozy and heart-warming.

Old Town Hall is very popular because of its 750-year old clock. The building itself is eclectic, because there was no concrete plan of its construction. The point of interest is serpentine Charles Street (Karlova ulice). The most distinguishable place in here is Clam-Gallas Palace. New City Hall is the residence of Prague city council. Clementinum, the State Library, is located across the road. Krzhyzhovnits Square is a lovely place that includes Church of St. Frantisek Assisi. The oldest street brick of Prague can be found in the corner of the square, near the monument of St. Welceslas.

Just an easy stroll along riverbank, few turns and you're admiring Bethlehem Chapel built in 1391. Jan Huss and Thomas Muller served here at their time. Church of St Martin in the Wall, built in the 12th century, can be found near the Coal Market. The last is not a market to be true. Its name originated due to the building that was located on a place of nowadays fountain. This house had a couple of tasks, one of which was coal keeping.

The last part of Old Town is Fruit Market. While going there, take a visit to Church of St Gall which has baroque exterior and gothic interior. On the square you'll find Carolinum - the main building of Prague University. Try to find picture of green man. It gives luck. Estates Theatre is the oldest one in Prague. This classicism style building should be the most elegant theatre in all EU.

Prague New Town was founded in 1348 as a connecting link between Vyshegrad and Old Town. It includes many interesting sites. If you're looking for shopping places, it is better to go to Porzhichi (Porici) Street where locals buy goods for themselves. The dominant building on the Republic Square is brothel done as exceptional example of art nouveau. Continue your trip going to Hay Market. There is an interesting Church of St. Jindrich (built in the XIV century). Its belfry is located in one quarter. It is separated, because builders though that church wouldn't be able to hold bells.

Wenceslas Square is a meeting place for touristic groups. If you count your money, it is better to visit the office of mobile operator located there and buy a sim-card. The main monument on this square, logically, is St. Wenceslas with supporters. At his back there is an elegant and great National Museum. The latter has an interesting sculpture group as well. It depicts three main lands of Czech Republic and the two biggest rivers.

Those travelers who have heard about parody on can visit Lucerna passage and find foam plastic horse hanged upside down and the saint on it. Going through Svetozor passage, you'll find yourself in the Franciscan Garden and Church of Our Lady of the Snows. After, go along Peoples Avenue to the bank of Vltava. There you'll find Old and New buildings of National Theatre that looks very similar to National Museum. Have a little walk and visit Orthodox Church of St Cyril and St Methodius.

Totally green Charles Square is interesting because of its New City Hall (Novomestska). Originally it was built in gothic style, but later reconstructed into renaissance. Its fame is caused by the fact that officials were thrown off from its tower. In the middle of the square there is another site - Church of St Ignatius. Faust House is located at the south end. In New Town you can also find such places as State Opera, Jesuit College, Slavonic Monastery, Church of St Stephen and Church of St Ursula.

As you can see, even short description takes a lot of space. IN such a situation, plan as much time, as it is possible when you're going to visit capital of Czech Republic.

Houseboat in Backwater Offers the Lifetime Experience to the Vacationers

Welcome to the green paradise, which is synonymous with greenery and natural bounties, the place which is blessed with unmatched attractions and expressions of nature that is none other than Kerala. In this summer you will be definitely planning for holidays and if you wish to have peaceful vacations in the soothing surroundings of nature then you must move to this place which is often referred as God's Own Country. This beautiful state is located at south-western region of the India which is blessed with unbelievable attractions including enchanting hill stations, immaculate beaches, exotic wildlife and many alike which are extremely unique and stunning.Apart from these attractions, backwaters of Kerala are very popular which are globally acclaimed for its immaculate beauty, which has not any comparison in the world and plays an important role in Kerala Tourism. These exclusive backwater sites are the perfect combination of brackish lagoons, lakes, inlets, deltas, and myriad rivers which forms the perfect surroundings which really deserves the attention of vacationers. Whenever you think about Kerala you have a vivid picture of maze of meandering backwaters lined by palm trees, coconut grooves, golden beaches, tea states picturesque natural harbors. Backwaters of this state have something for anyone, right from providing a unique holidaying experience to providing attractive spice trade opportunities for businessmen. The magnificence of these backwaters fascinates tourists and entices them to visit this place from across the world all the year round.



Along the backwaters people can catch the glimpse of traditional lifestyle of the locals. The giant country crafts called Kettuvallams/houseboats ply along the rivers. Earlier houseboats were meant for the trade and transportation purposes by the locals, which used to carry goods from one place to another place. Today houseboats come with all amenities which never fail to lure the heart of vacationers and add their charm during touring to this beautiful place. Houseboats in Backwater offers all the facilities to the vacationers includes rooms, Kitchen, hygienic toilets, deck, lounge including cook and guide which will assist you during your backwater tours.



This state is blessed with numerous backwater destinations such as Kochi, Alappuzha, Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvallam, Kozhikode and Kumarakom. Kumarakom is one of the most popular backwater destinations in Kerala which is adorned with picturesque landscapes, coir villages, spectacular world heritage attractions and wide varieties of flora and fauna. Cruise in Kumarakom Houseboats offers you a memorable holiday experience. As you cruise the houseboat over the sparkling backwater, you will come to see the simplicity of the age old world, village life and many other heart grabbing attractions of the region. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is other attraction of this place which offers you a wonderful opportunity to experience the wide species of birds and animals.



One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of the backwater and bird sanctuary is scheduling houseboat in Kumarakom backwaters. If you wish to experience the backwaters in its real form then you can go for several water activities such as waterskiing, windsurfing, wind skiing and fishing. All these wonderful attractions and the amiable climatic conditions make Kumarakom the most beautiful backwater destinations in Kerala.

Why Kenya Is A Unique Safari Destination With A Lot Of Potential

Kenya is arguably one of the best countries in Africa to go on safari. There are several extraordinary ranges of a Kenya Safari allowing you a close experience viewing animals in their natural environment which means you won't have to catch a glimpse of elephants via high-powered binoculars.

During Kenya safaris, travelers have a chance to see thunderous herds of wildebeests running too as rhinos playfully splashing in a local river below a very hot African sun. The safari isn't only thrilling and exhilarating but quite educational as well. You might even wish to get a bird's eye see of all the natural wildlife participating in a very hot air balloon experience over the plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Though this can be an extra expense to most Kenya safari choices, it is however fairly a common one.

Kenya boasts some of the best modern amenities throughout the continent of Africa offering world-class accommodations making your visit towards the continent and your Safari Holidays enjoyable in first-class comfort. You can use these accommodations as your base for outings towards the country's national parks for instance the Tsavo National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Mount Elgon National Park, Amboseli National Park and Lake Nakuru National Park.

Experience excellent family fun taking a holiday in Kenya Safari that offers some of the best African Safari experiences found anywhere around the continent. You can combine your wildlife sightseeing tours with a relaxing seaside break at one of the luxurious resorts on the Indian Ocean at both Lamu and Mombasa. You will be able to consider the family to see most of a well-known wildlife park in Kenya like Masai Mara since it can be significantly more compact than the neighboring Tanzania parks and has a higher focus of animal populations.

It is plausible to consult an expert safari operator about itinerary packages including children-friendly activities like visiting wildlife orphanages, meeting nearby tribes learning about tradition at the same time as activities strictly geared for adults.
Before going on a safari to Kenya, it's important to know what to expect and how you should prepare for your vacation.

A Guide to Buddhist Temples in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, Thailand, should be your prime destination if you are a traveler looking to experience Thai culture to the full: not only is it a city that retains much of its pre-modernization charm and shows minimal influences of industrialization, it is also home to over three hundred Buddhist temples. Most of these temples are centuries old, dating back to the early days of the Kingdom of Lanna, which was founded in 1292 and became part of Thailand in 1774. More than religious centers, the wat are sites of culture that have accumulated different architecture styles, relics, and artworks over hundreds of years. You may find yourself overwhelmed, however, by the sheer number of temples (also known as wat in Thai) to see in Chiang Mai; the following guide gives you a starting point of which ones you shouldn't miss.

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is located on the mountain Doi Suthep and is one of the most prominent historical sites in the province; as such it is a must-see in any traveler's trip to Chiang Mai. Roughly 15 kilometers from the city center, it consists of a beautiful gold-plated chedi (pagoda), the famous white elephant shrine, countless murals, and an exquisitely made naga stairway-with 309 steps-leading you up to the top (though you can always opt to take the cable instead for a small fee, 60 bht at the time of writing). At the lofty height of 1,053 meters above sea level, it also offers a fantastic and panoramic view of Chiang Mai that'd be perfect on any postcard. Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep began in 1371 as a single chedi, but was expanded several times by various Chiang Mai monarchs and is still being added to today. The most recent addition, a glass tip for the golden lotus on one of the pagodas, was donated by the current king of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Wat Chedi Luang presents a different style of architecture, being of a purely Lanna origin. Built in the late 14th century to enshrine a king's remains, Wat Chedi Luang had the distinction of being the tallest structure in all of Chiang Mai for five centuries until an earthquake in the 16th century reduced its former height of ninety meters to the present-day sixty. Its compound encompasses the Mahamakut Buddhist University, a monks' campus. This temple is located in the Old City area, near the Thapae Gate. From here, many other temples can be reached within walking distance, among them the famous Wat Phra Singh.

Wat Chaimongkol is a riverside temple located on Chareon Prathet Road in the city center, north of the Night Bazaar. The temple is over six centuries old and quite remarkable for its shrines and collection of relics; the style of its architecture shows influences from ancient Lanna as well as those of Myanmar and Laos. One of the most popular temples in Chiang Mai for Loy Krathong (Lantern Festival) and the Buddhist tradition of freeing animals into the Mae Ping River, Wat Chaimongkol perfectly complements a sightseeing stroll through the city.

Wat Suan Dok distinguishes itself by having a dedicated "Monk Chat" center (technically that hosts lectures and talks for English-speaking foreigners who are interested in Buddhism and/or conversion to Buddhism. Monks also make themselves available for less formal dialogue and discussions; there are also courses provided by the University of Chiang Mai. Even apart from this feature, however, the temple is set in a large compound that houses many pagodas, one of which is said to contain one half of the relic that founded Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. Wat Suan Dok is located on Suthep Road to the west of the Old City, close to the Chiang Mai Neurological Hospital.

Visting Devon

Devon is in the south-west of England and along with its neighboring county Cornwall to the west, a major vacation spot. Most of the wealth in this region comes from the tourist trade and can often be financially hit hard thanks to the hopelessly unreliable British summer.

Devon's climate is dictated by the westerly winds that blow up from the Atlantic and by the Gulfstream ocean current which brings warm water up from the Gulf of Mexico, giving Devon and Cornwall winter temperatures that are on average a few degrees warmer than those counties in the east of the country. In fact it is for this reason that you will hardly ever see snow in this part of the world, even though it lies on the same latitude as Canada.

The administrative center of Devon is the roman city of Exeter. A point to note that in Europe, a city by definition has a cathedral. Exeter cathedral is not as impressive as those of Wells and Salisbury, but is well worth a visit if you happen to be in this area.

The other major city in Devon is Plymouth which has a long naval history and is most famously known for being the port where Sir Francis Drake sailed from in 1588 to defeat the Spanish Armada, after he had finished his game of bowls, and for being the place where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail in 1620 to the New World.

As a vacation spot Devon has something for most people. For walkers and backpackers, there is Dartmoor. This is a national park of roughly 368 square miles. It is characterized by its outcrops of granite known as tors and its Dartmoor ponies that roam around, together with the local sheep. Be careful if you are driving in the national park as these animals tend to wonder on the roads. However, there are plenty of stopping points and these animals are very tame and partial to children's sandwiches!
If you are into sailing, there are plenty of opportunities. Dartmouth and Salcombe are the sailing towns of Devon and are bursting with shops that only sailing folks can afford.

On the north coast you will find a number of spectacular golden sandy beaches including Ilfracombe, Woolacombe and Saunton Sands. The tide reach on these beaches is enormous. When the tide is fully out, prepare for a long walk to get your feet wet. Surfers should head to Croyde Bay. Its not as well known in the surf world as Fistral beach in Cornwall, but it is as equally as good.

When in Devon, an absolute must is to find a little tea shop and sample a Devonshire Cream Tea served with locally produced clotted cream. Only here will you be able to sample proper clotted cream that hasn't succumb to tastelessness, thanks to zany European laws that have interfered with how it should be produced.

High season is in August during the school holidays, but Devon is a holiday resort you can visit any time of year.