How to Plan a First-Timer Trip to China - Guidelines on Organising a Trip to China for the First Time

 As the single most fascinating destination in the East, a tour of China is a dream come true for most travel enthusiasts. The Chinese Republic is not only a vast country but a culturally-rich landscape that first-time visitors may find intimidating and overwhelming, especially during the planning of a trip. Here are some practical tips on how to create a travel itinerary for China that first-timers can enjoy and use to explore this fascinating corner of the world.

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Select the Right Time to Travel

As with any vacation hub, there is a certain time of the year when travelling to China can not only be unpleasant but pointless as the weather conditions in the country can be quite extreme during certain months. Every first-time visitor must strive to visit China when it is at its climatic best so that they can experience all the outdoor activities and excursions that would be deemed impossible in poor weather conditions. The fall or autumn season is the best time to tour China as the climate in most major cities is ideal and conducive to exploration. The spring season from April to May is equally comfortable but the months of September and October are especially picturesque while the conditions are not too warm or too cold.

Narrow down the Duration and Main Destinations

Those who are heading to China for the first time must consider spending at least a week in the country as less than seven days is hardly sufficient to even scratch the surface of what China has to offer. Eight to ten days are considered the ideal duration for the first visit as that will leave one time to spend 3-4 days in the capital Beijing, 2 days in Shanghai and 2 more in Gulin and perhaps even venture down to Xi'an for a few days. Cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Guilin and Xi'an should be part of any trip to China and should take precedence over other destinations.

Plan Your Entry from a Gateway City

When choosing flights and an entry point into China, those who are hailing from the East and the West should select a gateway city that offers not only direct flights from other major cities but also a path to some of China's most popular points of interest. Travelling via Hong Kong is a popular option as it will allow one access to China from London or New York City and the possibility of travelling to Beijing and then on to Xi'an. Most international flights bound for China land in Beijing or Shanghai although there are several visa-free cities from which travellers can enter the country; however, a multi-city tourist visa is required if you wish to see more than one city.

Don't Forget Off-the Beaten Path Highlights in Xi'an and Chengdu

Although it is tempting to stick to well-known attractions such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall when including items into a sightseeing itinerary, there are several other venues that first-timers should visit. The terracotta soldiers in Xi'an are reason enough to head to this historic area apart from the Xian hotel deals available for accommodation hubs such as Grand Park Xian. Popping by Chengdu to catch a glimpse of the giant pandas is another rite of passage for first-timers.

Sign up for Group Tours

One of the best ways to see the country and enjoy an informed experience of China is to sign up for group tours where first-time visitors can avoid the pitfalls of navigating such a vast destination on their own. Apart from cultural tours, some of the best tour options for travellers visiting China for the first time include food tours and shopping tours as wining and dining as well as retail therapy are essential to any holiday in the country.

How to Spend 3 Days in Sydney - Best Things to Do on a 3-Day Getaway in Sydney

As one of Australia's most dynamic holiday hotspots, Sydney is ideal for short-stay visitors in search of fun and adventure. Although three days are not nearly sufficient to experience all that the city has to offer, there are certain activities and highlights that should not be missed. From exploring cultural hotspots to wining and dining like a local, here are some of the best things to see and do during a 3-day tour of Sydney.

image via https://www.flickr.com/

1. Secure a Convenient Base

Those who are visiting Sydney for a limited number of days must first and foremost stay at a conveniently located base. The advantage of a strategic base cannot be overstated when it comes to a bustling metropolis the size of Sydney as getting around and travelling to and from attractions will take quite a bit of time. Tourists who secure a hotel near some of the most popular landmarks and highlights, however, are likely to cover more ground as venues such as PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney, and other similar Darling Harbour hotels offer easier access to the main landmarks. Travellers who are unable to reserve a well-situated hotel room should instead aim to stay close to MRT or subway train stations and other public transport hotspots in Sydney.

2. Day One

Kick start your stay in Sydney with a tour of Sydney Harbour and the countless points of interest and famous landmarks in the area. Spend your morning walking around the port area and touring iconic attractions including the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Those who wish to climb up to the bridge to catch a bird's-eye view of the city should instead head up to Pylon Lookout as it is a more affordable way to gaze upon the same panoramic vista. After taking in the sights, head over to The Rocks where one can shop for souvenirs and local treats at the popular street market. Hop on a ferry and head to Manly Beach for lunch and a post-lunch swim. As one of the prime surfing hubs in Sydney, Manly Beach is also ideal for wave riding, while afternoon strolls and shopping are other activities that are available to visitors.

3. Day Two

Your second day in Sydney should be devoted to exploring Bondi Beach and enjoying the Coogee coastal walk. Offering visitors a glimpse at one of Sydney's coastal neighbourhoods, a trip to Bondi Beach is an invitation to splash around and hit the Bondi Icebergs Club. Walking to Bondi along the Coogee Coastal Walk is a great way to work up an appetite as the 6km walk connects these two neighbouring regions in Sydney. The saltwater pool called Bronte is also found near Bondi and is ideal for those who would rather not tackle the waves. The Berry Patch is one of the best locations to wine and dine while enjoying Bondi Beach. There are plenty of boutiques where tourists can stock up on gifts and keepsakes. Head back to the Sydney Harbour area to experience the Open Bar and dig into an authentic Chinese meal in the area's Chinatown before calling it a night on your second day in the city.

4. Day Three

Depending on how much time you have before it is necessary to check out of the hotel and head to the airport, it is best to spend your last day in the confines of the Blue Mountains National Park. Away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Sydney, this nature reserve is lined with hiking trails where one may come across wild kangaroos. Marvel at Wentworth Falls and other natural wonders within the park where several lookout points offer epic views. Although a full day is not enough time to discover all the attributes of the national park, don't forget to enjoy a barbeque meal at restaurants nearby before bidding adieu to Sydney. 

How to Spend 3 Days in Singapore - Your Guide to Enjoying a 3-Day Holiday in Singapore

 As one of the most strait-laced vacation hubs in Asia, Singapore is a visa-free holiday destination for the masses. Home to some of the region's most iconic theme parks and recreational attractions, the cultural points of interest also set Singapore apart from other similar holiday hotspots in Asia. From exploring the island nation's key highlight to wining and dining like a resident, here are some guidelines on spending 3 glorious days in the Lion City.

image via https://www.flickr.com/

1. Stay at a Strategic Base

Similar to other vacation destinations in Asia, securing a convenient base can have many perks for those who are visiting Singapore for the first time. Although the island nation is quite small from a geographical perspective, the sheer number of attractions and activity bases crammed into its landscapes means that one must stay at a central location. Whether you are staying at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore, or a property offering the best hotel deals in Singapore, it is crucial to calculate the distance between your accommodation provider and major landmarks in the city. Those who are unable to find a strategically situated resort or hotel can stay near an MRT or LRT station as these public transport links will cut down your travel time significantly.

2. Day One

Kick-start your first day in Singapore with a tour of Marina Park and The Quays. The Gardens by the Bay should be your first pitstop as this futuristic garden with Supertrees and a Flower Dome is among the most iconic attractions in Lion City. The Cloud Forest and the Children's Garden are among the most popular areas of this extensive garden, which takes several hours to explore in full. Next up, head to Merlion Park nearby and relax in this public park where the statue of Singapore's Merlion is found. Grab lunch at a hawker centre or head to Universal Studios Singapore to enjoy a meal and then ride some of the fastest rollercoasters in the country. The movie-themed zones of Universal Studios will also keep you engaged for hours until it's time to head to Clarke Quay to wine and dine.

3. Day Two

Begin the second day in Lion City with a tour of Sentosa Island, the country's oldest leisure hotspot. The easiest way to reach the island is via a cable car ride from Mount Faber Park. Head to the S.E.A Aquarium and Adventure Cove Water Park and experience the man-made beaches on Sentosa named Siloso Beach and Palawan Beach. Don't forget to snap shots with celebrities at the Singapore instalment of Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum before hopping on a cable car back to the mainland's Harbourfront Station. Spend the evening hours roaming the streets of Chinatown and enjoying local delicacies and retail stores located in this area.

4. Day Three

No trip to Singapore would be complete without exploring its countless shopping compounds and your last day on the island is the perfect time to stock up on souvenirs. Start with the plush malls and department stores down fashionable Orchard Road before heading to the Singapore Botanical Gardens to relax and unwind. Head down to Little India to savour a Biryani lunch before shopping in some of the area's top retail hubs including the Mustafa Centre. Little India is a bargain hunter's paradise and the perfect location to purchase gifts as there are street stalls occupying every inch of the pavement in this thriving and colourful Indian community stronghold.

5. Extras

Those who have time to spare can work on a tour of the National Museum and the Singapore Art Museum while the Trick Eye Museum and the Singapore Zoo are worthy of a place on your itinerary.

How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Trip to Kuala Lumpur - Tips for Budget Travellers Planning a Getaway to KL

As one of the most popular holiday hotspots in Asia, the Malaysian capital is a dynamic metropolis full of touristic possibilities. Home to some of the country's top retail outlets and recreational attractions, KL is not only the financial and commercial capital of Malaysia but also its cultural epicentre. Although KL is not a luxury vacation destination, it can be costly. Here are some money-saving tips for budget travellers who are planning to travel to Kuala Lumpur in the near future.

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1. Book Hotels and Flights Early

Globetrotters and frequent travellers are well aware of the advantages of advanced bookings as it applies to both flights and hotels. Airlines will often offer discounts for those who purchase their tickets months before the departure date while online flight booking sites are also known to run similar promotions. Once the dates of your trip are narrowed down, find and book a flight at your earliest convenience and look for hotel deals simultaneously. Even a 5-star hotel in Kuala Lumpur that belongs to the PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur provides discounts and rate reductions for early reservations and seasonal offers. Use prime comparison websites when booking flights and hotels to make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck. Explore budget airline rates even if the baggage allowances are lower while transit flights with several stops on the route are also less expensive than direct flights.

2. Wine and Dine like a Resident

One of the easiest ways to cut down on expenses during a trip to Kuala Lumpur is to dine like a local. Forget the high-end restaurants and the eateries and cafes across the city serving Western and continental meals and head to the nearest street food hub or Chinese coffee shop to savour the experience of enjoying a meal at a Kopitiam. Mamak stalls, which are operational around the clock, are also indispensable for those on a budget as one can enjoy a South Indian treat such as Roti Canai and fresh coffee at any hour. Those travelling as groups or families may want to check out the food courts of local malls where cheap eats can be found.

3. Use Public Transport

Kuala Lumpur is a walker-friendly city and those who need to watch their wallets would be wise to stick to walking and using public transport options such as the bus or the MRT during a stay in KL. Not only is the public transport network in the city clean and efficient but it is also affordable as there are trains and buses to nearly every major attraction and area in the city. The GO KL City Bus is also a great way to see the sights while you are in Kuala Lumpur as this free bus service allows passengers to hop on and off at notable highlights, shopping hubs, and well-known attractions.

4. Get a KL Pass

A KL Pass is another necessity for budget visitors as it allows one to skip queues and enter prominent attractions all around the city without hassle. The passes, which can be valid for one, three, or six days also include discounts and other benefits for penny pinchers when wining and dining or even shopping at certain stores. Everyone who purchases a KL Pass will be given a guidebook as to how to make the most of their pass when sightseeing around the city.

5. Look for Free Attractions

Kuala Lumpur is also home to dozens of free attractions and activity bases where tourists can enjoy museums, galleries, and other points of interest for no cost. The KL Forest Eco Park, Batu Caves, Thean Hou Temple, and the Perdana Botanical Gardens are all accessible for free while a tour of the National Art Gallery and the Chocolate Museum is also free.

How to Spend Your Weekend in Yangon – Experiencing an Enthralling City

The charming nation of Myanmar will always be an interesting country to experience. Naturally, its most popular destination would be Yangon, the commercial capital and foremost city. You will see that this is a captivating destination, featuring old yet still picturesque colonial buildings and narrow lanes filled with quaint teashops and the trishaws of vendors. If you have a weekend to spend in Yangon, you will have the opportunity to experience its major attractions, as described below.

Thar Lun Naing, Yangon downtown at night, CC BY-SA 4.0

Visit Shwedagon Pagoda and 19^th Street

On Friday evening, you could take the chance to visit Shwedagon Pagoda which happens to be the focal point for the Buddhists of Myanmar. Shwedagon always looks impressive, but you will find that up close it presents a mystical and alluring sight. The fragrance of incense wafting through the air and the sound of prayers will also add to the spiritual atmosphere. You will see the local devotees lighting candles, pouring water over religious icons and murmuring prayers while sitting cross-legged. To truly experience the attractions of Yangon you should undertake a longer stay in the city. In this regard, a hotel near Shwedagon Pagoda to consider from which you could easily visit this attraction would be Pan Pacific Yangon. For a hearty dinner, make your way to 19^th Street in the city’s Chinatown and enjoy some barbecued meats washed down with local beer.

Experience Seikgyi Island

You could commence Saturday morning with a tasty breakfast at the well-reputed Pansuriya restaurant, a stylish and tasteful venue where you could enjoy some fine Burmese dishes. Your destination for the day would be Seikgyi Island which you could reach by catching a boat at Wadan jetty. When you reach this scenic island, you will immediately notice that there are dirt tracks rather than roads filled with traffic, and small farmsteads instead of modern office towers. You will also have the chance to hire a bicycle and explore this island on your own.

Enjoy a fine cocktail and delicious dinner

After your cycling exertions, you will probably be in the mood for a relaxed sunset cocktail at a pleasant bar. There could hardly be a better place for this than the appealing Yangon Yangon which you will find at Sakura Tower. From here, you will be able to enjoy striking views over the city as well.

For a memorable dinner, make your way to House of Memories. This distinctive establishment happens to be housed in the building that was once the headquarters of Bogyoke Aung San, the well-known Burmese nationalist leader. Between the courses of your meal, you could visit the leader’s office too.

Undertake a street food tour and train ride

On Sunday, your breakfast, as well as lunch, would be covered if you take the opportunity to join a Sa Ba Street Food Tour. On one of these tours, you could experience the history and diversity of the culinary establishments of Yangon as you make stops at charming teahouses and vibrant markets.

Another not-to-be-missed experience would be riding the Yangon circle train. This train ride will take you to many interesting places across the city, providing you with the chance to gain a genuine insight into the way of life of the locals.

Admire Kandawgyi Lake and dine at Pansodan

From the train station, you could easily visit the picturesque Kandawgyi Lake, which may be regarded as one of Myanmar’s most romantic locations. During an early evening stroll in this park, you will notice canoodling couples and other city residents strolling along the boardwalks.

You could round off your unforgettable weekend in Yangon by enjoying a delightful dinner at Pansodan which may be counted among the city’s most admired restaurants. You will find that this fine brasserie serves unpretentious fusion dishes including Burmese, Chinese and Indian fare.  

How to Get Around in Toronto – Your Options for Traversing a Dynamic City

 There will be many good ways to get around the charming city of Toronto in Canada. To use the surface public transportation – including streetcars and buses – you will need either a Presto Card, a ticket, a token or the exact fare in change. You will enjoy several benefits by availing yourself of a Presto Card for your travels as well. The basic options for getting around Toronto are described below.

Aaron Davis, Toronto Skyline Summer 2020, CC BY-SA 4.0

By Subway

You will find that the Toronto subway would be a great means of getting around the city, as it happens to be clean and easy to use. The two principal subway lines would be the Bloor-Danforth line and the Yonge-University-Spadina line; there also are two lesser lines, namely Sheppard in the city’s northern region and Scarborough in the city’s north-eastern area. You will find that the subway functions from 6 am to 1:30 am Monday through Saturday and from 8 am to 1:30 am on Sunday. Additionally, the Blue Night Network service runs on the basic routes from 1 am to 5 am.

By Bus / Streetcar

Travelling by bus or streetcar will also be a good choice in the city. You will find that these services run on the north-south and east-west axes along the arteries of the city. An accommodation choice to consider that you could easily reach by bus, as well as subway, would be Pan Pacific Toronto which may be regarded as one of the conveniently located hotels in North York, Toronto. As you pay the fare for the subway, bus or streetcar you should always take care to obtain a transfer to avoid paying again when switching to another transportation mode. You will find that taking a streetcar would be an interesting experience as you explore the attractions of the city as well.

By Taxi and Rideshare

As you might expect, travelling by taxi would be a convenient and comfortable way of getting about in Toronto, but will be expensive just as it would be in many other cities. When riding a taxi, you will be obliged to pay the base fare as well as an added charge for additional distances. It would be possible to hail taxis on the roads, find them near large hotels and obtain them by calling the major taxi companies. Alternatively, you may also use Uber or Lyft to hail rides in Toronto.

By Ferry

Many people opt to take day trip excursions to the Toronto Islands by ferry to enjoy the striking city views and various outdoor pursuits. Keep in mind that the ferries would depart from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal; you will find that ferries to the Toronto Island Park happen to be run by the Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation Division.

By Car

Although Toronto happens to be an expansive city, travelling by rental car will not always be the best option. You may experience traffic jams during rush hours and roadwork in the warmer months, while parking could be expensive. However, if you still desire to rent a car to get about, making arrangements ahead of time would be prudent; you will find that several car rental firms have outlets at the international airport. It would also be advisable to make sure that you will have adequate insurance before renting a car. Naturally, you will be expected to follow the relevant traffic rules when driving in Toronto.

By Bicycle

As Toronto is a rather flat city, exploring it by bicycle will be a reasonably good option that is eco-friendly too. In recent years, the cycling culture has caught on, with separate bicycle lanes on some main roads. Cycling enthusiasts could also make use of the mixed-use trails which extend through the city. Cyclists will additionally have the chance to easily explore the Toronto Islands, a locality where cars are prohibited. 

How to Eat Like a Local in Melbourne – Delectable and Affordable Delights for the Visitor

Melbourne is often regarded as Australia’s finest city for food lovers as it offers a wonderful selection of culinary options. This would be because the city boasts many immigrant communities originating from different parts of Europe as well as Asia. Accordingly, you will have the opportunity to enjoy cuisine from many different regions of the world in Victoria’s capital. Provided below are some suggestions for dining like a local would in the city of Melbourne.

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Venture into the suburbs

Although you will find plenty of culinary options in the central parts of Melbourne, you could also venture into the suburbs to make the most of the splendid gastronomic delights to be found there. Should you happen to find yourself in the neighbourhood of Brunswick, take the opportunity to visit A1 Lebanese Bakery which has a reputation for quality and value. All the pizzas and flatbreads available here are affordably priced making this establishment one of the city’s finest for delicious and economical dining.

Visit Victoria Market

There is no doubt that the remarkable Queen Victoria Market would be regarded as one of the major hubs of the food scene in Melbourne. This market happens to be reputed for its extensive selection of meat, produce and seafood, in addition to a myriad of vendors selling delectable and moderately priced dishes. Perhaps, the best-known stall at Victoria Market would be Bratwurst Shop & Co. where, as you might expect, you will be able to choose from many kinds of bratwurst. Another highlight at this market would be the Borek Shop where for a modest sum you could choose from their collection of huge boreks; these happen to be Turkish rolled flatbreads with a filling of lamb, spinach and cheese or spicy vegetables.

Explore Chinatown

Your experience of Melbourne’s culinary highlights would be incomplete without sampling the delicious and inexpensive foods on offer at the city’s Chinatown. This locale has always lured a steady stream of diners seeking the exotic foods on offer here. At Chinatown, you will have the opportunity to experience cuisines from many different parts of Asia making it well worth a visit for foodies. For great taste and good value, make your way to Shanghai Village, a pleasant and very popular dumpling house. This establishment is well-known for its superb dumplings and spring onion pancakes which will be a delight for food lovers. As you experience the top restaurants in Melbourne, an accommodation choice to consider from which you could easily visit Chinatown would be Pan Pacific Melbourne.

Try vegetarian foods

In Melbourne, you will also find a good selection of vegetarian restaurants that serve up a hearty fare. Take the opportunity to try out Om Vegetarian, a popular dining venue that is often frequented by backpackers and local students. Another interesting vegetarian restaurant would be Home.one which serves up a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian foods, as well as delicious bagels. Additionally, look to also head to Vege2go which happens to be a popular kitchen that serves up tasty gourmet vegetarian specialities such as vegan lasagne.

Savour Vietnamese delights

Melbourne happens to be reputed for featuring a selection of the finest Vietnamese dishes to be found away from Saigon or Hanoi. You will find that Melbourne’s vast Vietnamese community is mainly based in the localities of Richmond and Footscray; accordingly, these two neighbourhoods would be the places to go to for authentic Vietnamese foods. Here, you will have the opportunity to feast on delicacies like pho, banh mi and bun bo hue. An attractive establishment to check out for Vietnamese foods would be Nhu Lan Bakery which has outlets in both the above neighbourhoods.