Top 10 Things to Know About Bhutan

When we travel, we always look for the unique things. After all, to find new discoveries and try new things are the main objectives of going to places. While there are many destinations around the world to serve the purpose, there is one place in Asia which extravagantly fulfills such aims.

Ladies and gentlemen, the Kingdom of Bhutan.

True enough, Bhutan is one of the most unique countries in the world. Here are some reasons why many adventure-seekers/culture-curious travelers are taking opportunities to take a tour to Bhutan:

1. Bhutan is the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the world. The locals regard its faith with utmost reverence; and there are many sacred dzongs in the country, including the Tiger’s Monastery which is distinctly perched on a mountain cliff.

Photo by: Buddhistmonksbhutan.com

Tiger's Monastery / Taktsang Monastery

2. The currency used in Bhutan is Ngultrum (Nu.) but Indian Rupees are accepted as local tender, except the 500 and 1000 denominations.

3. It is in the constitution of Bhutan to keep 60% of the country forested. This is why high-rise buildings and industrial developments do not exist in the country. There aren’t any traffic lights in the country either.

4. Bhutan takes pride in being a carbon neutral country. Meaning, the air is completely unpopulated and is totally fresh.

5. The Bhutanese women run the family and business; while the men remain at home, maintaining the household.

Photo by: BhutanRebirth

6. Every first Sunday of the month, Bhutan holds the ‘Pedestrian Day’. On this day, no one is allowed to use private vehicles.

Pedestrian Day in Bhutan | Photo by: BBS

7. The use of plastic bags and selling of tobacco are strictly forbidden in Bhutan.

8. It is only on 1999 when Bhutan experiences television and internet connection. However, the latter doesn’t seem to have improved in time as fast connection cannot be expected even in hotels.

Buddhist monks during a computer class in Thimpu, Bhutan | Photo by: Stasiareport.com

9. English is taught in Bhutan schools and is used as the second language in the nation. Most people can then speak the tongue comfortably.

10. Only in 1974 when this conservative country decided to open its doors to tourism.




Basically, there are more things to discover about Bhutan; and these things can only be known when you go there yourself. So do not miss the opportunity and find the reasons. Savor the fun of being in a really exotic travel experience and create unforgettable memories.


----------
References:
[1] A Brief Historical Background of the Religious Institutions of Bhutan. Digital Library & Museum of Buddhist Studies. 1990.  Web. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[3] 11. Community Forestry: Supporting Bhutan’s National and MDG Goals While Protecting Forests. Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific. Fao Corporate Document Repository. Web. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[4] Bhutan looks to become world’s first 100% organic country. Daily Mirror. Web. 24 October 2013. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[6] Pedestrian Day on first Sunday of every month. BBS. Web. 13 November 2012. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[8] A Bhutan tech primer: early signs of startups and e-commerce. Tech In Asia. Web. 02 September 2013. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[10] Tourism for Development in Bhutan. Global Education. Web. Accessed 08 April 2014.

Top 10 Destinations in Indonesia

Where to Go in Indonesia?
It is a common knowledge that each Asian country possesses unique characteristics and heritage which appeals even to Asians themselves. That is why many find cheap tickets to travel to different nations, and one of the most popular destinations is Indonesia.

As the largest archipelago in the world, Indonesia is home to so many attractions in which travelers can experience what good life is. Here are the top 10:

1. Lombok Island

Photo Credit: Marie-Ange Ostré (source: Discover Lombok)

Travelers who are into the beach will surely find solace in Lombok Island. Tagged as one of the many paradises in Indonesia, it is a good venue not just for swimming but also for diving. The marine ecology composed mainly of colorful coral reefs and schools of unique fishes are spectacular to see.


2. Komodo Island

Image Source: Phoebettmh Travel

With its magnificent environment and marine ecology, it is hard to let pass an opportunity to visit the Komodo Island. But it doesn’t end there; because this Indonesian isle has more than just unspoiled nature:  the Komodo Dragon, an endemic creature in Indonesia which is believed to be the closest specie to actual dragons.


3. Jakarta

Photo Credit: Indonesia Tourism Website

What trip to Indonesia will be complete without stopping by the capital city of Jakarta? As the political, financial and commercial center of the country, it plays hosts to so many modern buildings and attractions which will thrill everyone. Shopping malls, entertainment hubs, amusement parks, and many other establishments can be found there.


4. Borobodur

Photo Credit: Indonesia Tourism Website

Exuding the loveliest charm from thousands of years ago is the Mahayana Buddhist temple of Borobudur in Magelang, Central Java. It is the biggest Buddhist temple in the world, and constantly draws tourists for its intricate design which features more than 2000 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


5. Mt. Kelimutu

 

 Photo Credit: All Indonesia Travel

To those intending to take things into extremes, a trek to the craters of Mt. Kelimutu is recommended. It is a volcano which has three unique craters – unique because of its varying colors. Originally, the craters are said to be blue green, fiery green and red. But then it changed to different shades. Today, the craters are dark brown, red-brown, and turquoise.


6. Bangka Belitung Island

Photo Credit: Indonesia Tourism Website

Off the coast of Sumatra, it is a great alternative for people who wish to escape the crowd in Bali. It is a beach island, renowned for its white shore. Furthermore, it has a spectacular nature, making island hopping, diving and snorkeling great activities to do. As it is a commercialized island already, accommodation, dining and shopping facilities are available.


7. Yogyakarta

Indonesia has a very interesting culture; and for those who wish to explore it more, a visit to Yogyakarta is necessary. As one of the oldest cities in the country, it is home to cultural attractions detailing how unique Indonesian heritage is. Start the tour with a visit to Taman Sari, the renowned water castle.


8. Bunaken Marine Park

Photo Credit: The Travel Word

Marine ecology in Indonesia is definitely fantastic! It is proven true by the Bunaken Marine Park in Sulawesi Island. It is home to almost 400 species of unique coral reefs, as well as different schools of marine creatures. It is a national park, and is highly regarded among nature lovers.


9. Raja Ampat, Papua

Photo Credit: Indonesia'd

Proving further that the marine ecology of Indonesia is one of a kind is the Raja Ampat in Papua. Marine biodiversity is truly superb with its colorful and unspoiled reefs. With its name taken from a local mythology story, the place sure feels like created, designed and maintained with magic.


10. Bali

When we talk about Indonesia, Bali often comes to mind first. Why not? It is the most popular beach island in Indonesia, and is a favorite destination for many tourists. It is densely commercialized yet preservation of its nature and heritage are evident. Aside from the beaches, cultural and historical places may be found here.


Indonesia is one exciting country which will surely satiate travelers’ needs for good experience. It is the perfect getaway as it is easily accessed from most parts of Asia. Thus, people need not to hesitate in coming there. It is a nice place, a paradise even.


Related story:
Top Hotels in Indonesia

Ten Best Travel Advices and Quotes from Travel Bloggers (Batch 1)

Need some travel inspiration?

Here's my chosen 10 of the "Best Travel Advices/Quotes" from fellow travel bloggers around the world. No particular order :)

"You don’t need much to live and enjoy life."
- Nico Prins (A Travellers Journey)
Twitter: atravellersday

Excerpt from Three Simple Steps to Save Money for World Travel

"Every place holds huge memories, and mundane life becomes special.  The reasons we ended up where we did, how we found it and how much we paid; if we enjoyed the neighborhood, where we ate and played; whether we were able to work effectively all become part of our story of that place. But more often than not, each place is better defined by the people we meet."
- Mark (The Next Road)
Twitter: theNextRoad

Excerpt from Slow Travel

"Traveling solo does not always mean you’re alone. Most often, you meet marvelous people along the way and make connections that last a lifetime..."
- Jacqueline Boone (6 Months to Live)
Twitter: 6monthstolive

Excerpt from Why Women Should Travel

"The important thing is that you go out and experience something completely new. Being able to travel is more attainable than you think, if you just put your mind to it. Once you have had that first amazing experience, you will be hooked for life."
-Jana Irving (Fall Into Yesterday)
Twitter: wandering_jana

Excerpt from 6 Tips for Saving Up For Your Big Trip

"You don’t need to be rich and you don’t need to speak a dozen languages. You just need a passport."
- Peter Kenfield (Peter Travels)
Twitter: PeterKenfield

Excerpt from Change your life and travel the world – 5 easy steps to make it happen

"The happiness others have found in a stable life, I have found in travelling."
- Tiffany (World Meets Girl)
Twitter: tiffanywuest

Excerpt from Feeling at Home in Cape Town

"It’s an important part of the travel experience to understand what a country has gone through and how they trying to overcome their past problems."
- Marco Allegri (Thinking Nomads)
Twitter: thinkingnomads

Excerpt from What are you going to Cambodia for?

"I really enjoy getting of the beaten path, and finding the hard to get to destinations. There’s a certain adventure to it that cant be beat!"
- Jonny (Backpackingman)
Twitter: backpackingman

Excerpt from Backpackingman

"If you are planning that trip of a lifetime, longing to see the world. Don’t let things delay or stop you. For me the number one reason for travel is that you may not get the chance again."
- The Guy (Flights and Frustration)
Twitter: TheGuy37796972

Excerpt from The Number One Reason To Travel

"Traveling is about discovery, part of that is meeting new people, one of the biggest parts actually. No amount of Facebook or twitter in the lobby can replace real human interaction and having a shared new experience."
- Stephen Bischoff (Shameless Traveler)
Twitter: ShamelssTravelr

Excerpt from Travel Advice: Leave Your Ego at Home and Remember You’re Mortal

Thank you for reading.

Hope these quotes inspire you, the way it inspired me! :)

World Events to Attend This October

October is one of the months when travelers take chance to unwind and rejuvenate as they travel to explore different places and indulge on various cultures. And as if as one to support this ideal, cities from all over the world hold colorful and spectacular festivals which travelers will surely enjoy. Some are as follows:


1. Haunted Pumpkin Garden (New York, USA)

[1] Source

Running all month long, travelers can experience a different kind of art at the Haunted Pumpkin Garden at New York City. The Botanical Garden is transformed into a spooky place as different pumpkin sculptures from master carver Ray Villafane are displayed for everyone’s amusement.


2. Auckland Diwali Festival (New Zealand)

[2] Source

Happening on October 19-20, the largest city of New Zealand turns into a huge bazaar as Indian residents celebrate the return from exile of Hindu God Rama. Streets are decorated with vibrant stalls selling crafts and Indian sweets. Bollywood dance performances and fireworks displays are also held.


3. Phuket Vegetarian Festival (Thailand)

[3] Source

One of the highlights of most Phuket Thailand tours, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival is actually a period of ritual cleansing done by locals to ensure good health. During the festival which is happening on October 5-13, people abstain by meat. Other practices then include extreme body piercing, walking on coals barefooted, and climbing sword ladders.


4.  CowalFest (Scotland)

[4] Source

Aside from the rolling hills, witness the extravagant CowelFest when you visit the Scottish Highlands on October 4-13. The said event is a 10-day festival which allows trekkers to venture through 80 themed walking tours led by professionals. It’s a total of 56 miles to walk on!


5. Arts Crush (Seattle, WA)

[5] Source

 In Seattle, the month of October is exciting for the communities around the Puget Sound. Art events from music video shoots to kids’ art workshops are sponsored by these communities just to promote art to everyone.


6. International Guitar Festival of Seville (Spain)

[6] Source

People are serenaded on October 15-19 at Andalusia, Spain as the city celebrates the International Guitar Festival of Seville. Romantic tunes are performed on concerts and classes in this city where folk music originated.


7. Baltic Herring Fair (Helsinki, Finland)

[7] Source

On October 6-12, fly to Helsinki and visit the Market Square to take part in the Baltic Herring Fair. It marks the end of the fishing season since 1743 and it has been a tradition to celebrate the festival with songs, friendly cooking competitions and other festive activities.


8. Lords of Miracles (Peru)

[8] Source

In Lima, one of the biggest processions in the world is held from October 18-28. It is the Lords of Miracles, where a two-ton mural depicting Christ on the cross is paraded. This mural appeared after an earthquake almost destroyed the city on 1746. Many devotees then come to the capital of Peru to see this ‘miracle’ every October.


9. Times Cheltenham Literature Festival (London)

[9] Source

Paying tribute to the world of Literature, people who are into novels can fly to this city south of London to meet famous authors from October 4-13. It’s really a nice event held in a charming town!


10. Marwar Festival (India)

[10] Source

See camels with tattoos at the Marwar Festival in Jodhpur. Witness the festival from October 17-18 and enjoy different activities including polo tournaments and folk dancing.


Listed above are just ten of the most famous festivals held on October. So what should you do? Check out the flight promos now and book for your tours. Don’t let the opportunity pass!


Sources:
[1] 2012 Giant Pumpkin Carving Weekend. 2012. The New York Botanical Garden. NYBG.org. Web. Oct 2013.
[2] Interesting Facts About Diwali Celebrations in 2013. 2013. Happy Diwali Wallpapers. Happydiwaliwallpapers.com. Web. Oct 2013.
[3] AsiaWebDirect. Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013. 2013. Phuket Hotels & Travel Guide. Phuket.com. Web. Oct 2013.
[4] Cowal Fest Walkers. 2013. The Cowal Way. Cowalway.co.uk. Web. Oct 2013.
[5] Arts Crush Kick Off Fair 2013. 2013. Arts Crush. Artscrush.org. Web. Oct 2013.
[6] Seville International Guitar Competition. 2013. Zap Travel. Zaptravel.com. Web. Oct 2013.
[7] Helsinki Baltic Herring Fair 2013. 2013. Port of Helsinki. Portofhelsinki.fi. Web. Oct 2013.
[8] Castro-Mendivil, Enrique. The “Lord of the Miracles” procession in Lima. 18 Oct 2010. Peruvian Faithful Pay Homage to Lord of Miracles. Blogs.reuters.com. Web. Oct 2013.
[9] The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival Gallery. Cheltenham Festivals. Cheltenhamfestivals.com. Web. Oct 2013.
[10] The Colorful Marwar festival in Jodhpur. 2013. Travel Trance. Traveltrance.com. Web. Oct 2013.

Top 10 Beautiful Beaches in Asia

Below are Top Ten most beautiful beaches in Asia. Each possessing unique and stunning charms, these destinations will certainly take your breaths away.


1) Sipadan Beach Island (Malaysia)

A spectacular diving destination, Sipadan Beach is renowned for its clear waters. The marine life is amazingly gorgeous that every diver should witness even just once in their diving careers. The island doesn’t feature hotels since 2004 though, to take care of the environment. Nearest accommodations are located in Mabul Island which is just minutes away.

Image sources:
Frog + Princess
CNN Travel


2) Lang Co Beach (Vietnam)

Situated between Da Nang and Hue, Lang Co Beach in Vietnam is an amazing stretch of peninsula that features white sand beach and lines of palm trees. It also boasts of a turquoise blue lagoon that assures a pleasant surprise to those who will travel to Vietnam for this summer destination. The beach fronts the Pacific Ocean.

Image source: Macs London


3) Koh Tao (Koh Samui, Thailand)

One of the most relaxing beaches in Koh Samui, Thailand is the Koh Tao. Home to a pristine nature that features a bed of soft white sand, turquoise water, and a spectacular underwater environment, it is definitely a perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate.

Image source: Asia Divers


4) The Maldives

It is not impossible not to love The Maldives. The nation is composed of so many atolls which give home to stunning beaches. Sandbars are also common sight in the country, providing more touristic opportunities to people. Islands can be rented for private occasions.

Image source: Sheraton Full Moon Resort


5) Tubkaak Beach (Krabi, Thailand)

Tukbaak Beach is certainly a nice reason to visit Thailand. Located on a corner
of the province, this beach boasts of a bed of white sand. The beach is also famous among snorkelers; and earns so much praises for the stunning sunset view it offers.

Image source: Beach Thailand


6) El Nido Beach (Palawan, Philippines)

Famed for its blue waters and white sand, El Nido Beach defines luxury vacation best. For many locals and tourists, it is a perfect destination to escape the tiring environment of the urban. Aside from swimming and snorkeling, you can also visit the caves around the area for some historical and cultural adventures.

Image source: Wow Islands


7) White Beach (Boracay, Philippines)

One of the most beautiful beaches in the world, you should never hesitate to visit White Beach in Boracay Island, Philippines. Aside from the luxurious vacations it offers, the area also guarantees extravagant nightlife courtesy of the beachfront commercial establishments.

Photo by: visayandreams @ Flickr.com - Patrick Payne


8) Padang Padang Beach (Bali, Indonesia)

You are guaranteed a very relaxing summer vacation in Padang Padang Beach. Located at the south of Bukit Peninsula, it has an environment perfect for some laid-back experiences. Amateur surfers also love the place because of the calm waves.

Image source: Bali Surf Advisor


9) TanjungRhu Beach (Langkawi, Malaysia)

A secluded beach, the spectacular TanjungRhu Beach in Langkawi is a perfect destination for those who wish to get away from the crowd. Fronting the Indian Ocean, it features shallow water which the whole family will greatly love. It also flaunts a scenic view, thanks to the impressive rock formations in the area.

Image source: Best of Langkawi


10) PhuQuoc Beach (Vietnam)

Located at Vietnam’s largest island, revealing the breathtaking Gulf of Thailand, the PhuQuoc Beach is a spectacle. The white sand is almost as white as sugar and the waters are crystal clear. It surely makes up a perfect destination for a real summer vacation in a tropical place.

Image source: Tours Vietnam