Wanderlust Tips Team – Page 106

Wanderlust Tips magazine | Discover beautiful destinations with best friends

Discover beautiful destinations with friends

Holidaying with our best friends is always such a meaningful and inspirational trip. Pack your suitcase and travel around dreamy destinations that will take you back to your childhood whilst allowing you to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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ENJOY THE ANCIENT CITY OF TAIPEI

Taipei – a dynamic city that is the ideal beautiful destination for a friendmoon. The city impresses travellers not only because of its trendy and hectic charm but also thanks to its peaceful and nostalgic beauty.

You and your friends can take a meander around Taipei 101 Tower, the iconic symbol of a modern and ambitious Taipei, visit the peaceful village of Shifen and then stroll around National Palace Museum and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall to get a better understanding of its history and culture. Additionally, there is an array of luxury shopping malls and local night markets that you must add to your Taiwan bucket list.

Time zone: GMT +8

Currency: TWD 10 = VND7,637

Language: Mandarin Chinese

Best food: Bubble milk tea, fish ball soup, beef noodles, stinky tofu, pineapple cakes and blood soup.

Must-see attractions: Taipei 101 Tower, Shifen Old Street, Sisi Nan Cun Village, Shilin Night Market, Ximending Shopping District, Tamsui Old Street and National Palace Museum.

MAGNIFICENT LOS ANGELES IN AMERICA

America, a prosperous and state-of-the-art country, is home to a vast array of interesting surprises for you to discover with your friends. The beautiful city of Los Angeles will certainly provide you with a beautiful and emotional experience. There is nothing better than enjoying the vibrant life of the most magnificent city in the world with your soulmate. Hollywood blockbuster movies supply loads of fun and laughter. Take some time to chill with a visit to the classical opera or relax and sip your bubbly on a gorgeous beach. Los Angeles will fill your heart with its magical charm.

Time zone: GMT -8

Currency: USD1 = VND23,162

Language: English

Best food: Hamburger, pizza, American breakfast, sandwiches and doughnuts.

Must-see attractions: Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland, Venice Beach and Dolby Theatre.

AN IDYLLIC FRIENDMOON IN TOKYO

Japan, an amazing country famed for many reasons in Asia, is always an attractive destination for a perfect holiday with friends. Every Japanese city possesses its own distinctive beauty, but Tokyo is considered the ideal city to enjoy a one-on-one holiday with your friends. Tokyo is renowned for its ultra-modern skyline and shimmering beauty that will leave both you and your friends mesmerised. Aside from outstanding architectural skyscrapers, Tokyo has people falling head over heels in love with its wide range of ancient architectural structures nestled in its small streets. Thus, Tokyo is truly a fantastic destination for your travels.

Time zone: GMT +9

Currency: JPY100 = VND21,250

Language: Japanese

Best food: Ramen noodles, Chanko Nabe hot pot, Yakitori skewered chicken, Sushi and Gyoza dumplings.

Must-see attractions: Tokyo Tower, Sensoji Temple, Yanaka Old Town, Akihabara Electric Town, Shibuya and Harajuku Fashion Walk.

SPECTACULAR REYKJAVÍK IN ICELAND

Iceland is an island country that captivates visitors with its stunningly unrivalled beauty. Dating back more than one thousand years, Reykjavík is inhabited by more than half of the country’s population. In Reykjavík, take a stroll through the colourful streets and appreciate the tranquil surroundings, watch the full moon at night or welcome the break of dawn. Most interestingly, you will have the chance to catch a glimpse of the mesmerising aurora borealis illuminating the sky. With so many beautiful experiences, Reykjavík will bring you and your closest friends the best memories.

Time zone: GMT 0

Currency: ISK100 = VND18,950

Language: Icelandic

Best food: Hákarl fermented shark, Skate fermented fish, roasted lamb, Skyr Icelandic Yogurt, dark rye bread and ice cream.

Must-see attractions: Hallgrimskirkja Church, Oskjuhlid Hill, Blue Lagoon, Harpa Concert and Conference Centre and Perlan Museum.

HELSINKI: THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CITY IN NORTHERN EUROPE

Located on the edge of the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki is crowded and dynamic, yet somewhat nostalgic and dreamy. In Helsinki, visitors can admire eye-catching performances from the oldest architectural structures in Europe. Additionally, visitors will be awestruck by the cultural diversity oozing from every street corner and overwhelmed by the gentleness of the locals. Helsinki is dubbed “the twilight city” as when summer arrives, the sun forgets to leave. Hence, instead of a dark night, Helsinki bears a fanciful beauty into the night. There is nothing better than enjoying a magical moment in Finland with your friends.

Time zone: GMT +2 (Summer: GMT +3)

Currency: FIM10 = VND43,068. Additionally, visitors can use Euros in Helsinki.

Language: Finnish

Best food: Blood sausage, Lohikeitto Salmon Soup, Kalakukko (a fish pie baked in a rye bread crust), Poronkaristys (reindeer meat) and Glögi.

Must-see attractions: Suomenlinna Fortress, Toolonlahti Bay, Hietaniemi Beach, Linnanmäk Amusement Park and Helsinki Cathedral.

GUATEMALA – HOME TO THE MAYA CIVILISATION

Guatemala, an extraordinary country, is one of the best destinations for your group of friends to experience and explore together. Located on the Pacific coast and on the shores of the captivating Caribbean Sea, Guatemala attracts a large number of visitors due to the ancient Maya civilisation that developed and flourished here. Your journey will begin in El Mirador where you can witness the flourishing period of Mayan society. Afterwards, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tikal National Park with 3,000 remains scattered throughout Peten Forest. With so many mountains and hills, Guatemala will awaken your endless passion for exploring and travelling.

Time zone: GMT -6

Currency: GTQ10 = VND30,234

Language: Spanish

Best food: Pupusas, Chicken Pepian, Kak’ik soup, Empanadas and noodle Tostadas.

Must-see attractions: The ancient city of Tikal, Lake Atitlán, Semuc Champey, Pacaya Volcano, Santa Catalina Arch and Chichicastenango Market.

CAPPADOCIA: A DREAMY FAIRY-TALE REGION

Cappadocia is famous for the breathtaking sight of many multi-coloured balloons floating in the air in Turkey. Close your eyes and imagine that you are sitting in the hot air balloon with your best friends whilst admiring the blue sky and strikingly unparalleled natural surroundings. It could be a completely unforgettable experience. Additionally, the Underground City in Cappadocia is a must-visit destination for your Central Turkey itinerary as you will have the opportunity to discover the most unique culture in the world. Whilst you are young, you should visit Cappadocia at least once to immerse yourself in a dreamy fairyland.

Time zone: GMT +3

Currency: EUR1 = VND25,720

Language: Cappadocian Greek

Best food: Kebab bread, Corba soup, Pide bread, Baklava and Kofte meatballs.

Must-see attractions: Red Valley, Pasabag Mushroom Valley, Göreme Open Air Museum, Uchisar Castle and Kaymakli Underground City.

PHU YEN: THE LAND OF YELLOW FLOWERS AND LUSH GREEN GRASS

Since the movie “I saw the yellow flowers on the green grass” premiered, Phu Yen has made a really good impression on people thanks to its peaceful beauty and memorable childhood experiences. The rich land stands out with its picturesque tranquil landscapes, making it a true escape for the young who are looking for a little peace amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. The place is home to crystal-clear turquoise beaches, a gentle breeze and lush green fields endlessly stretching to the skyline. As the sky fills with dazzling stars, sit on the sand whilst devouring delicious seafood and enjoying time with your friends.

Time zone: GMT +7

Language: Vietnamese

Best food: Fresh seafood, anchovy porridge, rice noodle soup, fern-shaped cake and steamed rice rolls served with pig’s tripes.

Must-see attractions: Mon Beach – Dien Cape, Da Dia Rapids, Bai Xep Beach, Tam Giang Dam, Vung Ro Bay, O Loan Lagoon and Xuan Dai Bay.

EXPERIENCE HA GIANG FOR A WONDERFUL YOUTH

Ha Giang, the northernmost province of Vietnam, intrigues a large number of adventurers thanks to its majestic rocky highlands and hair-raising passes. Aside from a vast array of magnificent mountains and lush forests, the warmth and friendliness of the locals have travellers falling head over heels in love with Ha Giang. It would be no exaggeration to say that Ha Giang boasts a distinctive beauty in every season. For instance, Ha Giang is covered with the vibrant yellow of mustard blossoms, purple of buckwheat flowers, white of plum blossoms and the natural green of the endless terraced fields. Be ready to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Ha Giang with your friends.

Time zone: GMT +7

Language: Vietnamese

Best food: Thang Co, smoked buffalo meat, carried-under-arm pork, five-coloured sticky rice and buckwheat cake.

Must-see attractions: Yen Minh Pine Forest, Sung La Valley, Hoang Su Phi, Ma Pi Leng Pass, Dong Van Stone Plateau and H’mong King’s Palace.

A RETREAT TO TAY NINH

Tay Ninh is perhaps an extraordinary destination for your bucket list, but the place is truly home to exhilarating mysteries for a holiday with friends. Located in the southwest of the Southeast region, Tay Ninh attracts visitors with its unique culture and diversity of popular attractions. After hard-working days, there is nothing better than taking a trip to Tay Ninh with your closest friends. As well as getting rid of your troubles, you could learn about the regional culture. Plan for a trip to Tay Ninh and enjoy fun-filled and unforgettable experiences with your friends.

Time zone: GMT +7

Language: Vietnamese

Best food: Trang Bang rice noodle soup, rice paper, Black Lady Mountain snails and grapefruit rolls.

Must-see attractions: Black Lady Mountain, Tay Ninh Holy Tower, Dau Tieng Lake, Ma Thien Lanh Tourist Site, Binh Thanh Ancient Tower, Tay Ninh Bamboo Stream and Thien Lam Go Ken Pagoda.

Le Ha | Wanderlust Tips

Hallstatt: A real-life fairy-tale village

I took a 19-day trip through 5 European countries and 8 beautiful cities, but it was only when I found myself in the fairy-tale village of Hallstatt that I was truly flabbergasted. It is a delightful village, peaceful and elegant yet magnificent and grand.

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My 19-day trip to Europe this time was not enough for me to really explore and indulge in the ancient European charm. I departed from the magnificent capital of Paris, France and then travelled across Switzerland soaking up its alluring landscapes. Afterwards, I visited Italy and the striking white and blue rooftops of Santorini, Greece. Amongst these wonderful cities, I fell head over heels for the ancient Austrian village of Hallstatt.

RUMOURS ABOUT THIS “SURREAL” VILLAGE

After waving goodbye to Switzerland, I continued travelling to the ancient lakeside village of Hallstatt in Austria. I had heard that the village was stunningly beautiful and something of a “dreamlike” land. One morning in November, I tried to get up early to enjoy the chill in the air and the peaceful environment. I say I got up early, but in fact, it was nearly 10 am because the winter in Austria is extremely cold and locals tend to wake later than in other seasons.

Every visitor to Hallstatt is seduced by its splendid beauty and many have revealed that: “You travel to Austria without visiting Hallstatt then you are really missing out”. My curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to visit the beautiful land. After further research and questioning some of the locals, I hopped on tram 4 to the transfer station, where the journey to the village of Hallstatt is just over an hour by bus.

Hallstatt is entirely picturesque and genuinely left me speechless. It would not be an exaggeration to say that the fairy-tale village is even more beautiful than people say. I was truly captivated and overwhelmed by the abundance of beautiful roadside vistas. Roads winding through the lush green grass stretching as far as the eye can see, pastures with rich greenery and the pleasant atmosphere generated by the changing of the seasons. My heart skipped a beat as I walked quickly towards the village of Hallstatt where I had my first glimpse of the legendary scenery.

I opted to travel around Hallstatt by public transport, which I soon realised was one of the best decisions of my trip. After the bus had stopped at the bus station, I jumped on the train. The 30-minute train journey allowed me to admire the surrounding scenery through the window. The morning sunlight danced through the stunning landscapes, bouncing through the lush forests and undulating mountains. I got a flutter of excitement and my heart melted while marvelling at this magnificent scenery.

CHARMING AND MESMERISING

The train suddenly stopped in front of Hallstätter See (Lake Hallstatter) as a signal that the next destination would be the fairy-tale village of Hallstatt itself. I hopped on the train, bought a ticket on the spot and then found myself a seat where I could make the most of the surrounding scenery. At this time, the lake was so still and peaceful, surrounded by towering mountains and pine forests. The surroundings resembled a colourful natural masterpiece.

As I reached the port, I caught sight of an array of signature wooden Holzhaus-styled houses leaning against the mountains and the sloping roofs overlooking the spectacular lake. Located between Salzburg and Graz in the north of Austria, Hallstatt is a small village on the Lake Hallstatt, sandwiched between an array of majestic mountains, the temperature is often lower than that in the city. The chill in the air intertwined with the wintry ambience made the surrounding landscape a bit gloomy and quiet. A wave of nostalgia quickly filled my mind and soul.

I crossed a small stone-paved path and stopped in front of Hallstatt Museum on Seetrasse Street. The museum is a conservation venue of ancient artefacts found in Salt Mines. Interestingly, the village of Hallstatt is home to the world’s oldest salt mine dating back more than 7,000 years. After strolling a few hundred metres further, I reached the central square of Old Town, Hallstatt which was surrounded by numerous colourful houses, oozing with quintessential charm.

Further along the road, I saw one of the traditional handicraft stalls. Souvenir shops shimmered with the warm yellow light whilst the smoky bakeries fascinated visitors with a variety of delicious cakes and fragrant pastries. Additionally, there are a few cafes and restaurants with lovely balconies and entryways adorned with colourful climbers on the well-painted walls. The blooming flowers form a captivating picture for people toing and froing.

After a leisurely meander around the town centre, I headed in the opposite direction, climbed the stairs, followed the mossy wooden staircase railings and entered a small alley, where the houses nestled against the cliff. From here, I could easily observe the splendid town below. Dachstein Mountain is exceptionally striking from a distance, blanketed in the snow all year round. The Lake Hallstatter is located peacefully in the beautiful valley. Sometimes, a gentle breeze stirred the fluffy white clouds in the sky.

The village of Hallstatt looked magical shrouded in mist and silhouetted against the mystifying lake. The striking mountains surrounding the lake made me feel as if I was lost in a fairy tale. Whilst wandering around the town, I got lost in St. Michael’s Catholic Church located in the middle of Hallstatt. From the outside, it looked like a garden, but if you enter and take a closer look, it is actually a cemetery. The location is home to the Bone House – Beinhaus which preserves about 1,200 skulls decorated with patterns and engraved with the deceased’s name. Perhaps it is a hallmark of Hallstatt, where the living or the dead, the past or the present, still exist naturally and familiarly.

MY ENDLESS LOVE FOR HALLSTATT

Only when visiting Hallstatt, did I really understand how peaceful it is. It was just perfect to indulge at the moment, sipping a cup of hot coffee on a small balcony whilst observing the bustle of the streets with people toing and froing. Strolling along the lake, inhaling the fresh air and watching the swans frolicking as happily as couples in love. I can clearly remember walking along the riverside road to enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Hallstatt. I felt as if I had been transported back in time, this fairy-tale village nestled in a modern world. Despite many ups and downs throughout history, Hallstatt has always kept its inherent beauty and has been dubbed the precious pearl of Austria.

Having fallen in love with this delightfully charming village, I begin to wonder whether I will feel the same if one day I return. I won’t know whether my love for the village is stronger or not. However, I can definitely say that the ancient village of Hallstatt in particular and Austria, in general, has brought me a sense of peace. The beautiful village filled me with nostalgia. It is so picture-perfect and poetic and left me with a strong realisation of how beautiful and delicate life truly is.

W.TIPS

WEATHER IN HALLSTATT

Hallstatt boasts a unique beauty in every season. I visited the village in late November, it was cold and the sun sank early, so I was a little bit hasty in strolling around.

ACCOMMODATION IN HALLSTATT

When travelling to Hallstatt, you should rent a private apartment as they are well-appointed with a kitchen, living room, bedroom and toilet. You have the opportunity to experience a comfortable living space at a very reasonable price. For an adaptable person like me, I find that self-cooking is ideal to ensure health and taste as well as saving costs significantly.

TRANSPORTATION TO HALLSTATT

From Salzburg in Austria, there is a variety of transportation whatever your preference. However, I recommend you use public transport. From Salzburg, you can take the 150 bus to Bad Ischl, then travel from Bad Ischl to Hallstatt station by train and take a ferry to Hallstatt. Alternatively, you could also take a train from Salzburg to Attnang Puchheim, then take the next train to Hallstatt and take a ferry to enter the village.

HALLSTATT CUISINE

Seafood is a must-try culinary experience for those travelling to Hallstatt. The fresh white fish caught from the lake and cooked in a traditional Austrian style is truly unforgettable. Additionally, please note that Austrian cuisine can be a little bit salty, so if your taste is quite the opposite, you could prepare your own food, better suited to your preference.

Ha Autumn | Wanderlust Tips

Mövenpick opens new international five-star resort on Phu Quoc Island

Featuring 713 rooms, apartments and villas, Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc & Mövenpick Residences Phu Quoc has officially opened to guests on Phu Quoc – the largest tourist island in Vietnam.

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The first international premium resort to open along Phu Quoc’s idyllic Ong Lang Beach on the west coast, Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc is poised to become the destination of choice to host family adventures, company trips, dream weddings and romantic honeymoons. While the hotel’s service excellence draws from Mövenpick’s Swiss heritage, the heart-felt hospitality delivered by its staff is very much a reflection of the warmth and friendly nature of the delightful local culture.

Designed in a tropical style, Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc harmoniously blends modern and traditional touches with plenty of natural light streaming through full-length windows. Contemporary style rooms feature an elegant interior decorated in a soothing neutral colour palette. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead to private balconies in each hotel room, offering sweeping views across the shimmering sea or verdant mountains on Phu Quoc Island.

Families and guests staying for a longer period can also book a stay in one of the 329 studios and family rooms in the Mövenpick Residences Phu Quoc, each equipped with a refrigerator and fully equipped kitchenette. The resort complex also features 66 two- and three-bedroom pool villas nestled around the lake for the epitome of tropical living.

Moreover, there are 12 three-bedroom pool villas and one Presidential Villa taking prime position on the beachfront. All are well-appointed with a private pool, open concept living room, kitchen and dining room. The villas are truly a place for those who seek privacy and luxury for their holiday.

Mövenpick’s rich culinary legacy has been translated into extraordinary food and beverage experiences in the onsite restaurants and bars including a beach club perched on the golden sands of Ong Lang Beach. Open for both in-house and outside guests with separate and direct access, Aura Beach Club features a sunken pool bar, a delectable Asian Tapas menu, creative mixology, daily sunset ritual and fun entertainment.

Other culinary delights at the hotel include international cuisine, a live cooking station at The Islander Restaurant; Vietnamese favourites and seafood at Lang Chai; local craft beer at Lang Chai Bar and Vietnamese tea, coffee & chocolate hour at Waverly Lounge.

The family-friendly hotel promises to create moments for both parents and junior travellers with our Little Birds Club and M Lounge teen club. A Mövenpick Family program ensures the needs of younger guests are met, including age-specific bath amenities and Power’s Bite menu. Moreover, relaxation and wellness therapies are hosted with attention to detail at the Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc.

Guests are encouraged to take a dip in one of the resort’s six swimming pools, other wellness facilities include the Elements Fitness Centre with state-of-the-art facilities and a yoga studio, Elements Spa & Salon which features 15 treatment rooms, sauna, Jacuzzi, as well as foot massage, hair and nail treatment areas.

Additionally, guests at the Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc can embark on a delicious food tour through the night market, a visit to the pepper farm, pearl farm or fish sauce factory – all offer a unique glimpse into the local island way of life.

Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc is offering an exclusive opening offer with rates starting at VND2.000.000 (85USD) per night and receive a voucher credit of VND1.000.000 (43USD) daily to be used for food, beverages or spa service. The offer is valid until 31^st October 2020.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

The perfect Valentine’s date at InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort

With the start of a new year, comes new beginnings – whether it be striking up a new romance, or rekindling and nurturing special bonds. InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort celebrates the Valentine month of February with our Island Romance offers.

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February is a beautiful time of the year to be on Phu Quoc Island. The weather is ideal with the gentle cool breeze, calm seas and clear blue skies, making a perfect setting for soaking in the sun, long idyllic walks on the beach and sharing special moments with your perfect someone.

This year, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort celebrates the Valentine month of February with our Island Romance offer which is tailor-made to create moments, memories and magic to last for a lifetime. This offer features an escape to our elegantly appointed accommodation, breakfast for two with our compliments in Sora & Umi, watch the sunset with a burst of orange and a round of welcome cocktails at INK360 – the highest sky bar in Phu Quoc, celebrate the evening with a romantic dinner at LAVA – our signature grill restaurant and a rejuvenating couples Spa Bamboo signature package at the award-winning HARNN Heritage Spa; along with return airport transfers.

A ROOM WITH A VIEW

A room with a view is a key ingredient to set the mood – and each accommodation at InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort features stunning views of the alluring ocean horizon, vivid green mountains, gardens or lagoons. Perhaps it is the unknown of the beyond which brings a romantic element to the big blue, representing endless possibilities.

Combining modern comfort with island charm, inspiration is taken from the local environment, with custom made linens, accented with sublime Vietnamese silk accessories, exquisite amenities and spaciousness to do as your heart pleases.

Starting from the luxurious Resort Classic Ocean View Room, to the ultra-spacious and romantic Panoramic Suite with a sprawling balcony picturesquely positioned directly in front of the white sand beaches and azure oceans, both with oversized walk-in closets, large bathrooms with separate deep-soaking bathtubs and rain shower, floor-to-ceiling windows, and numerous benefits including nightly turndown service.

DINING IN STYLE

Perhaps one of the most romantic spots on Long Beach is LAVA, the resort’s signature restaurant set right by the beach and featuring an eclectic bamboo design.

Taking “wine and dine” to the next level, there is a certain ambience at LAVA that is hard to describe. From the blue fossilized coral bar and delicate lighting to Phu Quoc’s colourful and enchanting sunset, LAVA is the place to fall in love – and feast on the best of the best.

LAVA’s Chef will treat the couples to a special menu using the freshest and finest local and international seafood and prime cuts of meat cooked to perfection based on guests’ preferences, and a variety of fine wines.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort features the island’s highest rooftop bar – INK 360– decked out in contemporary designs by Ashley Sutton, and a 360-degree panoramic view of the ocean and sprawling resort below. INK 360 lets guests feel as if they are on top of the world, with a chic and glamorous environment.

Couples can dance the night away to the coolest DJ beats, toast to Champagne and signature cocktails designed by a talented team of mixologists, dare to surprise their loved one with a marriage proposal as the sun sets and the blood-orange hues of the sky fade to a dark canvas lit up by twinkling stars – a truly quixotic backdrop to embark upon the next journey of your love story.

AWAKEN YOUR SENSES

Among the many local and oriental-inspired treatments that HARNN Heritage Spa is famous for, the Bamboo Therapy treatment is a must-try. A good choice for couples seeking to relieve some tension, Bamboo Therapy is designed to soothe and relax using the combination of hot bamboo therapy oil to nourish and strengthen the skin, bamboo sticks rolling on the muscles to relieve tension and knots, and holistic therapy to release stress and exhaustion.

HARNN Heritage Spa seeks to restore the connection and balance between human and nature – mirroring the deep connection between couples. Inspired by the practice of traditional Asian medicine and naturopathy, each HARNN treatment uses only the finest botanical ingredients to create and complete harmony between the guest and Mother Nature.

Couples at InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort will find an array of fun and engaging activities and recreational facilities on their Valentine’s day, from its four outdoor swimming pools, a 24-hour fitness gym, to non-motorized water sports including kayaking or basket boating. Lovebirds will have to work as a team to row the kayak across the shore, manoeuvring light waves and being in sync motion.

This February, give that special someone the attention they deserve with an unforgettable Valentine’s date to the sought-after gem of Phu Quoc Island and celebrate your special bond in style.

The Island Romance Package for lovebirds on Valentine’s day starts from VND 9,700,000++ including the following offers:

2-way airport transfers
Daily buffet breakfast at Sora & Umi
Romantic three-course dinner for the couple at LAVA
60-minute couple spa treatments at HARNN Heritage Spa
Welcome cocktails at INK 360

Applicable on Classic Ocean View Room and above (rooms and suites that accommodate 2 adults) with a minimum length of stay of two nights.

For more information, please visit: https://phuquoc.intercontinental.com/zh/Island_romance

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Share the love with travel: Spring in bloom

With warm sunshine and a gentle breeze, spring is a fabulous time for an outdoor journey to appreciate this living planet. With the theme “Spring in bloom”, Share the love section in January 2020 will share an array of inspirational stories with readers on New Year 2020.

Flowers in bloom on the dining table

The delicate petals of beautiful flowers are not only brightly colored in the garden, but can also be a staple on the dining table. This array of dishes featuring delicate floral aromas will bring you an extremely unique culinary experience in spring.

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Ha Le | Wanderlust Tips

Blogger Ha Truc and her journey to discover mystifying Sri Lanka

[Wanderlust Tips January 2020] With amazing trips and off-the-beaten-path wanders, Blogger Ha Truc shared inspiring highlights from her trip to Sri Lanka.

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Hi Ha Truc. How do you feel after your trip to Sri Lanka – the jewel of the Indian Ocean?

The Sri Lanka trip gave me a very new travel experience. The three things that I liked the most about Sri Lanka were the landscapes that are imbued with signature local features, the beautiful and peaceful Buddhist faith and the fact that curry is available everywhere.

Your stunning photos always impress your followers, so how did you prepare before travelling to Sri Lanka?

As you might know, I am a blogger specialising in photography and lifestyle, so it is very important to prepare concepts, clothes and accessories. Before this trip, I carefully reviewed the information and photos of each location on my itinerary. I also opted for bright yet discreet outfits. Most importantly, I kept myself in a good mood to really get the most out of each destination.

Many people still have concerns about travelling to Sri Lanka because of its political instability. You visited many destinations in Sri Lanka, so could you share more about your experience?

After returning from my trip to Sri Lanka, my biggest impression of the country was the beaming smiles of the locals. At first, I was a little apprehensive because of the different culture and meeting people for the first time. But I need not have worried, they were extremely approachable and hospitable. Especially, the strangers who I met on the road, greeted me with a very friendly smile.

It is true that there are positive and negative sides to every country. Depending on your perspective, you can decide whether the country suits you or not. A lot of South Asian countries are considered politically unstable, so you should research carefully before your trip. There are two important things that people need to be aware of before travelling to Sri Lanka, especially for women. Firstly, you must wear discreet outfits and secondly, you must not go out alone after 7 pm.

Being a part of Hello World #6 Voyage, you discovered a lot of interesting places in Sri Lanka, which place left the greatest impression on you?

I was really impressed with Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Kandy City. Dambulla is a beautiful and sacred temple located in a mountain cave. If you visit the temple in the afternoon, you can see the brilliant rays of sunshine shining through the charming passageway. Kandy has a lake located in the heart of the city and many houses nestled on the hillside. Everywhere you go, you can hear the birds singing. I stayed in a hilltop hotel. When dusk fell, the city was illuminated with an array of colourful lights, making it one of the best moments of my trip.

What do you think about Sri Lankan cuisine?

Sri Lankan people are very proud of their cuisine and I can see that Western tourists are extremely excited about it. Personally, I found it a little difficult to adapt because Sri Lankan’s taste is a far cry from my taste. Their dishes, especially the curry, has a strong and spicy flavour.

If you were to return to Sri Lanka, where would you like to visit?

During this trip, I mainly visited the big cities, so next time I would definitely travel to the South and explore the wilderness of Sri Lanka, the area that many travel enthusiasts desire to experience at least once in their life.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience after your Sri Lanka trip.

Wanderlust Tips

Interview with Ms. Shiromal Cooray – Managing Director of Jetwing

Sri Lanka has enormous potential for tourism development and promises to offer great experiences for visitors in 2020. Ms Shiromal Cooray – Managing Director of Jetwing shared her story with us to help you better understand the tourism industry in Sri Lanka.

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Hello, Ms Shiromal Cooray. As you work in the tourism industry, you must have travelled to many different destinations around the world?

Yes, travelling is my passion, so I love travelling around the world. I do not remember exactly, but I think I have travelled to about 50 countries so far.

Your family has been operating in the Sri Lankan tourism industry for many years, so could you share more about Jetwing?

Jetwing is a family-owned hospitality company established in 1973. My father was a building contractor and he was building other people’s hotels until he started building his own hotel. Afterwards, we gradually entered into the travel agency business to develop and expand the Jetwing Brand. Currently, my brother and I run the family company and we have about 4,000 people working with us now in Sri Lanka. Additionally, Jetwing has made a name for itself in the global travel market with offices in the Maldives, Hungary and a motel in New Zealand. We also have representatives in different countries to promote the Jetwing Brand. Moreover, we also represent airlines.

Jetwing’s motto is to work professionally and do its best, we always try to create and nurture a hospitality culture that is wholly Sri Lankan. We do not conform to the international hotel style, instead, we develop to suit the area. In Kandy, for instance, we built hotels that have a distinctive local identity. Our hotels are designed to blend with the surrounding environment and local culture. Most importantly, our teams are very passionate about the hospitality industry and we always make sure to provide the best services to our customers.

What are Jetwing’s strengths with respect to tourism in Sri Lanka?

Jetwing has many strengths. First and foremost is that we have our own hotels and a destination management company. We provide our customers with the best travel services from the time they arrive in Sri Lanka until they return home. We can pick them up from the airport and provide a guide to take them to all the beautiful destinations around Sri Lanka. Additionally, Jetwing stands out from other tourism operators as we have many specialised areas. Jetwing Adventures concentrates on adventure travel, for instance, hiking, bicycle tours, climbing mountains, white water rafting and safari. All the activities are led by experienced guides.

Moreover, Jetwing Holidays is dedicated to offering our customers an amazing variety of outbound tours to Vietnam, Cambodia or the Maldives. Aside from the luxurious Jetwing hotels, we also have a budget brand called Hotel J aimed at young travellers. In spite of being a big private hotelier, we stay true to our role as a destination management company and work with all the hotels in Sri Lanka. Depending on the customer’s needs, we will give them the best services. Our mission is to provide a perfect holiday with distinguished services, Jetwing always makes a huge effort to leave a lasting impression on travellers.

Currently, Sri Lanka is growing in popularity as a tourist destination, so what are Jetwing’s plans to attract tourists to Sri Lanka?

Currently, we are focusing on media advertising via Television, influencers and travel bloggers. We hope more media companies will visit Sri Lanka so that Jetwing can show you just how beautiful our country truly is. Jetwing is also working with airlines to open direct flights to and from Sri Lanka with the offer of special packages and combined tours, for instance, between Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

What do you think about the development potential of Vietnamese tourism in Sri Lanka?

I think Vietnam is a potential market because regional traffic will be improved significantly in the future. In particular, Vietnam and Sri Lanka bear cultural similarities with the Buddhist background. Thus, there is potential for Vietnamese tourists to be extremely interested in visiting famous temples in Sri Lanka such as the Golden Temple of Dambulla or Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Sri Lanka will surely be an ideal destination for those interested in Buddhism.

Could you share some useful tips and travel information about Sri Lanka with Wanderlust Tips readers?

Sri Lanka is a tropical country with a mild climate, so you can wear casual clothes. However, I recommend that everyone should wear discreet outfits when they are going to visit temples or shrines. Travelling around Sri Lanka is very easy. You can use public transportation such as buses. Alternatively, you could hire a tuk-tuk or a car for a very reasonable price. What’s more, I believe that Sri Lankan cuisine will fascinate visitors as there is an amazing variety of rich delicacies, with dishes incorporating seafood, meat and vegetables. Additionally, the Sri Lankan people are extremely friendly and hospitable, so do not hesitate to ask anything.

Thank you very much for sharing your story about Jetwing and beautiful Sri Lanka.

Wanderlust Tips

Fall in love with peaceful Hunza

People always have one place that leaves their heart full of nostalgia and Hunza is mine. I was madly in love with this place, a love that I have not shared with other lands that I have visited.

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MARVELLOUS HUNZA

When thinking of Pakistan, most people think of riots, wars and continuous gunfire, but these dangers are more limited to the South and the West. Arriving in Gilgit after a flight that seemed to touch the tops of the snowy mountains, it became apparent that the Northern region is in fact safe for tourists to visit, especially the Hunza Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan. Pakistan is a spectacular country blessed by Mother Nature as it is home to more than 108 mountain peaks that stand above 7000m and an enormous number of mountain peaks standing above 5000m.

Most of the highest peaks in Pakistan lie in the Karakoram mountain range of Gilgit-Baltistan, including K2 which is known as the second-highest peak in the world and is more difficult to conquer than Mount Everest. It is here that I began my voyage through the valleys between the snowy peaks. From Gilgit, I followed the Karakoram highway along the Hunza River for 100km, I finally reached the Hunza Valley. Perfectly situated on the Central Asian Silk Road, Hunza boasts picture-perfect natural landscapes. This rich land is home to a variety of peaceful turquoise lakes, vast glaciers and verdant valleys full of apricots, apples and many other fruits.

In the last days of March into early April, when spring still lingers in the air, the whole valley is blanketed in a beautifully unprecedented charm. The apricot, cherry, apple and peach blossoms burst into enchanting hues of pure white and pastel shades. The trees are in full bloom along the way passing from Karimabad to Nagar, Hopar and even along the roads running through the beautiful villages in Upper HunzaGulmit, Ghulkin, Kamaris, Passu and Hussaini. The Hunza Valley is marvellous and I was mesmerised by its unparalleled beauty. No matter how many photos I took here, I still cannot describe my feelings while I was in Hunza.

Aside from the rich natural landscapes, Hunza is truly home to a vast array of long-standing attractions that are imbued with local cultural identity. When entering the heartland of the valley, I felt as if I was getting lost in an ancient world of historical relics, for instance, the thousand-year-old Altit Fort and even the 700-year-old Baltit Fort. Magnificent and mighty, these towering walls have stood over the course of centuries. The Baltit Fort has been perfectly preserved and even inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative list in 2004.

FALL IN LOVE WITH HUNZA – A LAND OF DEEP AFFECTION

Taking a meander through the peaceful valleys in the spring made me feel like I was lost in a paradise on Earth. I was overwhelmed by the hospitality and warmth of the local people. Along the stone fences, the blooming flowers were brightly coloured and plumes of smoke billowed from the roofs in the distance. Traversing the small path in the valley filled with blooming flowers, I was welcomed warmly by friendly smiles and intrigue of the locals.

They invited me to enjoy their tea, fruits, dried apricots and dried almonds which are all famous in Hunza. The heartfelt actions of the local people imprinted on my mind throughout my trip, I will always remember their warm smiles. Hunza really enchanted me, I felt as though I missed it before I had even left. The warmth in Hunza comes not only from the gentle sunshine but also from the sincere people, they really did bring endless joy and warmth to my heart and soul.

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched but must be felt with the heart”. Pay a visit to the Hunza Valley once to experience the bland scent of weed in the early morning, to hear the beautiful birdsong that breaks the silence of the mountains and forests. Listen to the sound of ice cracking and watch as the first or last rays of sunlight shimmer over the top of the snowy mountains. Take it all in and marvel at the most magnificent moments that arrive with the changing of seasons.

Everyone should take a few days away from the comforts of their own home to come to the Hunza Valley. Surrounded by a vast array of snowy mountains, the valley is an ideal destination for you to feel at peace in your mind. Bear in mind that the roads are remote and the domestic flights are often cancelled when clouds completely cover the Nanga Parbat mountain. When you come here, you will not want to leave and the striking landscapes will fill your heart and captivate your thoughts.

W.TIPS

GENERAL INFORMATION HUNZA

Hunza is a mountainous valley in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, situated in the Northern part of Pakistan and surrounded by the Himalayas, Karakoram and the Hindu Kush. Hunza is blessed with four seasons. Spring begins from late March to late April. Apricot, apple and cherry blossoms come into bloom from the lowlands to the highlands, blanketing the valley with a charmingly-hued beauty. Summer beginning from May to September is the climbing season.

During this time, an array of trekking roads will open to tourists, for instance, Fairy Meadows, Nanga Parbat, Rakaposhi and Lake Rush. Autumn starts in September, but it is not until mid-October that the leaves begin to change their colour from the highlands to the lowlands. Winter starts in December, but you can experience early snowfall in November. In winter, Hunza is quite cold with an average temperature of approximately 10°C, but there are times when the temperature has dropped to -40^oC.

ACCOMMODATION IN HUNZA

There is an amazing variety of hotels from budget to four-star or five-star in Hunza. Currently, Hunza is only provided six-hour electricity access and then people are required to use electricity from generators. Most local hotels offer Wi-Fi and some places have 4G mobile phone connection with relatively stable speed.

TRANSPORTATION TO HUNZA

From Vietnam, you have to fly to Islamabad then take the road to reach Hunza. It is about 600km from the Babusar Pass or 700km via Besham-Chilas. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight to Gilgit and then take the 100-kilometre road from Gilgit to Hunza. There are two airlines with convenient routes to Islamabad including Thai Airways and Qatar Airways. Note that the Qatar Airways flight time is usually longer and the tickets are more expensive than Thai Airways.

CUISINE

There are a variety of traditional bread in Hunza, for instance, Naan and Chapati that are served with curry. Notably, regional curries are not too strong and easy to enjoy. Hunza is also home to a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Huong Giang | Wanderlust Tips

A taste of Lunar New Year celebrations overseas

Until the Lunar Calendar 2020, it has been almost a full decade since I moved to live and settle down abroad. I spent about five years living in Melbourne, where there is a Vietnamese expat community living and working as much as that in California. I also spent the Lunar New Year travelling to Hong Kong and even Japan. In recent years, I have celebrated the New Year in New Zealand.

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The Vietnamese communities overseas are huge with millions of people living in sunny California and a few hundred thousand people living in beautiful Melbourne. Meanwhile, there are fewer Vietnamese people scattered across New Zealand and the large number of Vietnamese students overseas are not included in the statistics. If you have not had the chance to travel to New Zealand yet, the Land of the Kiwi bird, I can introduce you to this beautiful country.

Situated in the southern hemisphere, while Vietnam enjoys a warm climate in the spring, New Zealand is heading into late summer. Although the weather is not as scorching hot as that in Melbourne, New Zealand has a warm climate that is affected by an ocean breeze from the Pacific. Thanks to that, I still felt the Tet atmosphere of Southern Vietnam and the only thing lacking was the branches of yellow apricot blossoms.

AN OVERSEAS YET FULL LUNAR NEW YEAR EXPERIENCE

Even in California, dubbed the capital of Vietnamese expat communities or in Australia having a total of more than a million Vietnamese people, Tet is not an official holiday and people just celebrate Tet in their communities. If Tet falls on weekends or public holidays, Vietnamese communities will celebrate the Lunar New Year generously. Children will be absent from school and adults do not have to go to work, thus the Tet markets are more crowded and the Tet dining table becomes more attractive with an amazing variety of delectable dishes. If Tet falls on a regular day, we will prepare a cozy New Year’s Eve dinner that evening and then enjoy the Lunar New Year on the following weekend.

I spent the Lunar New Year in San Jose, Northern California once. It was a bit cold in late winter, but the crystal-clear blue sky was beautiful with the brilliant sunshine. The Vietnamese pagodas were extremely crowded with people toing and froing. In front of the shopping malls, people let off fireworks for Tet. One by one the firecrackers were thrown away and replaced with new ones as soon as it was over. The sound of the firecrackers in the distance made me feel nostalgic for my childhood. The children were extremely excited about seeing the road full of red firecrackers on the first day of the Lunar New Year.

For Lunar New Year 2019, the celebrations were big. The first day of the Lunar New Year matched with Waitangi Day, so the whole of New Zealand was on holiday. As a result, my roommates and I organised a big Tet banquet. Most of us come from the Northern provinces, so my dishes were cooked in the Tonkin style, but I also cooked several signature Southern delicacies, for instance, braised pork, bitter melon soup and even a vegan dish that my parents often make every year to worship Buddha.

The pig trotter stewed with dried bamboo shoots took a lot of preparation because I had to boil the bamboo shoots many times to ensure it was delicious and pungent. Vegetable soup with pork skin is the most sophisticated dish because the pig skin was not easy to buy. I also prepared mustard cabbage and bean sprout pickles all by myself just one week before Tet.

Unfortunately, I could not find a boiled chicken with the head, instead it had a shiny yellow-hued skin, making our Tet banquet more eye-catching. At noon, all the Tet dishes were displayed on the ancestral altar, we gathered around to pray and invited our ancestors to enjoy the hot dishes. I also prepared a sweetened gruel to worship the Kitchen Gods on New Year’s Eve. Additionally, we went first-footing and savoured cups of tea together. Two years ago, I spent the Lunar New Year alone in New Zealand for the first time. I had never thought of living in a Vietnamese expat community, so I did not care too much about where I was living. However, I still threw a small Tet banquet.

I cooked an array of traditional dishes that my parents had been cooking for thirty years, a small pot of braised pork, a pot of mushroom and bitter melon soup, a plate of stir-fried mustard cabbage and a pot of dumpling sweet soup with the warm aroma of grated ginger. It was also the first time I packed Tet cake – the cylindrical glutinous rice cake by myself. Before New Year’s Eve, four little Tet cakes were being dangled in the kitchen and my house was filled with the signature aroma of incense, ginger and braised pork. In a small yet cozy space on the upcoming New Year, I was alone learning how to pack the cakes carefully. On New Year’s Eve, there was the sound of fireworks in the distance. Perhaps some Chinese or Vietnamese families were celebrating a happy new year together.

PECULIAR FEELINGS ABOUT NEW YEAR

Lunar New Year is familiar, luxurious and symbolic for Vietnamese communities in foreign countries. In the early years living away from home, I did not pay much attention to Tet. I just celebrated the Lunar New Year by visiting the Tet fairs, Vietnamese markets or Chinese markets to buy some jam or cake. However, the longer I lived away from home and the older I became, the more I felt that there was something appealing and nostalgic about previous New Year celebrations and I began to feel a little joy for the upcoming New Year. Hearing beautiful homeland melodies again filled expatriates like me with endless nostalgia.

It has been six or seven years since my grandmother on my mother’s side passed away before Tet. Although I knew that she might leave me soon, the deep sorrow over her death gnawed at my heart. On New Year’s Eve, I strolled around central Melbourne, ate a bowl of delicious noodles and then followed the unicorn parades in Chinatown. In Melbourne, Chinatown is quite small with only a few streets connected together and is characterised by colourful gates with stone lions as guardians.

There are an amazing variety of restaurants in Chinatown. Dancers often perform, people play with firecrackers and receive lucky money in front of the restaurants, just like in Vietnam. I followed the unicorn parades for an hour to watch the thrilling performances, to inhale the signature smell of the firecrackers unique to the ancient Lunar New Year and to forget the troubles in my mind.

It had been about an hour before New Year’s Eve began, I hurried to the supermarket to buy two grapefruits and some biscuits. On New Year’s Eve that year, in a cramped 12^th-storey apartment in the Carlton Suburb, I knelt in front of the small altar placed next to the window where the smoke alarm was stuffed with nylon pads and then prayed for a peaceful New Year.

In spite of celebrating the Lunar New Year abroad, we still had the chance to enjoy many happy moments. Sometimes, people are busy with their work, but once the countdown to New Year’s Eve has begun, people feel at peace and indulge in the signature smell of incense and firecrackers and eat pieces of cake or play old spring music from their childhood. Despite celebrating far away from home, the Lunar New Year still upholds traditional Vietnamese customs and flavours.

Alex Tran | Wanderlust Tips