Wanderlust Tips Team, Author at WANDERLUST TIPS • Page 137 of 197

8 reasons why you should go to Gangwon-do: The wonderland of the winter

[Wanderlust Tips December 2017] Magnificent natural landscape, fresh air, world-class ski resorts and countless attractions for all ages, Gangwon-do has all the reasons to keep visitors coming back for more when the winter is knocking on the door of South Korea.

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1. TAEBAEKSAN NATIONAL PARK – STUNNING PARADISE LIKE SCENERY

The sacred mountain of Taebaek (Thai Bach) attracts tourists with fantastic views of hoar frost as well as azaleas blooming in the spring. When the winter comes, visitors are also overwhelmed by the sight of a yew forest with 2,800 trees covered in pure white snowflakes, including the 500-year-old yew tree that symbolizes the stability and longevity of the mountain. The end of December is a perfect time to admire the breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan from the top of the mountain or to enjoy the excitement when sliding down the 30-metre long ski tube. There is also a Snow Festival that takes place every year around this time with many giant sculptures displayed on Danggol Square such as Russian palaces, guardian deities of the zodiac, and pumpkin carriages.

Add: 168 Cheonjedan-gil, Taebaek-si
Tel: +82-33-550-0000
Website: taebaek.knps.or.kr

2. YONGPYONG – THE MOST LONG-STANDING SKI RESORT IN SOUTH KOREA

Yongpyong Resort, which was opened in 1975, is one of the largest ski resorts in South Korea with 28 slopes, 14 lifts, and the longest slope called Rainbow Paradise with the length of 5,600 metres, offering utmost experiences. Equipped with outstanding facilities, Yongpyong resort has successfully hosted many international events, and it is currently preparing to host the upcoming PyeongChang Winter Olympics in 2018. Those who have never skied do not need to worry because there are 10 easy slopes for beginners and 7 average slopes. In addition, visitors will find countless other ski resorts in Gangwon-do such as High 1 Resort, Apensia Resort, Vivaldi Park, Oak Valley, and Elysian Gangchon, which are all featured with excellent facilities and picturesque scenery.

Add: 715 Olympic-ro, Daegwanryeong- myeon, Pyeongchang-gun
Tel: +82-33-335-5757/+82-2-3270-1230~1233 for foreigners
Website: www.yongpyong.co.kr

3. DAEGWALLYEONG SAMYANG – THE LARGEST RANCH IN ASIA

This vast ranch with an area of over 60 million square metres is home to countless cows (in the winter), sheep, rabbits, and African ostriches. On clear days, from the ranch’s observatory, visitors can admire the magnificent views of the beautiful sea of Japan beyond the sparkling snow.

Add: 708-9 Kkotbat yangji-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun
Tel: +82-33-335-5044
Website: www.samyangranch.co.kr
Entrance fee: 3-18 years old: KRW7,000/19-64 years old: KRW9,000/65 years old and over: KRW5,000.

4. WOLJEONGSA – THE 1,000 YEAR OLD SACRED TEMPLE

Following the most beautiful trail in the pine forest of South Korea, crossing the road with brilliant lanterns, you will arrive at the 1,000-year-old Woljeongsa temple on Mount Odaesan, surrounded by an evergreen forest in the natural environment of the mountain. This is also the location of the Seongbo Museum that displays the artifacts and treasures inherited from Buddhist culture in the Goryeo Dynasty. Not only admiring the 9-storey stone tower and beautiful turquoise sculpture of the temple, visitors can also experience the life of a monk, practice yoga, witness the Buddhist rituals and practicewalking meditation through the forest to purify the body and the soul.

Add: 374-8 Odaesan-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun
Tel: +82-33- 339-6800
Website: www.woljeongsa.org
Ticket price: KRW3,000 per adult/KRW1,500 per teenager/KRW500 per children.

5. NAMI ISLAND – WINTER SONATA

It was not surprising that the romantic scenes of South Korean drama Winter Sonata were filmed on this island. The best time to visit Nami is when the ginkgo tree canopies begin to change colors. The center of the island is a mesmerizing green lawn surrounded by chestnuts and birch trees. In addition, a zoo, a botanical garden, a large lake with small wooden boats and other amusement parks will bring you sweet and delightful moments with your loved ones.

Add: 1 Namiseom-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si
Tel: +82-31-580-8114
Website: www.namisum.com

6. SAMTAN ART MINE – A MUSEUM ON THE RUINS

The coal mine which had been abandoned since 2001 has now been restored to a cultural and arts center where artists can develop their passion. There are more than 100,000 works collected from over 150 countries, along with equipment and tools used by miners.

Add: 1445-44 Hambaeksan-ro, Gohan-eup, Jeongseon-gun
Tel: +82-33-591-3001
Website: www.samtanartmine.com
Ticket price: Adult: KRW13,000/high school students: KRW12,000/Elementary students: KRW12,000/Elderly people aged 65 and over: KRW11,000.

7. GANGWON-DO CUISINE – INDULGE IN THE FLAVOUR OF THE KIMCHI LAND

Sancheoneo Raw Cherry Salmon

There is an extremely unique winter festival in South Korea, which is called the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival. The cherry salmon raised in the Hwacheon area is the freshest, softest and tastiest, so the raw cherry salmon dish is really good; especially, it tastes the best from December to February next year, after the spawning season.

Ogolgye – Marinated silkie chicken cooked over an open flame

Under the fluffy feathers, the black, sweet and fragrant chicken tastes the most delicious after being thoroughly marinated and grilled on hot coals. Eating this 20-year-old dish with wild vegetables and enjoying hot soup cooked from chicken bones will help you re-energize quickly.

Sundubu Spicy Soft Tofu Stew

The spicy soft tofu stew has been a very popular traditional dish in Gangwon-do since the 14th century. Being cooked in ark clam broth, the dish has a sweet taste and melts in the mouth with the spice of chili pepper and attractive aromas.

Dakgalbi – Spicy stir-fried chicken with vegetables

Boneless chicken is marinated in soy sauce, salt, and pepper. The vegetables including cabbages, carrots, sweet potatoes, onions, radishes and perilla leaves are arranged in the pan. Then a special kind of spicy sauce made from finely ground garlic, ginger, hot chili, soy sauce, sugar is put on top. The chicken is cooked until it is soft and the vegetables are full of flavor oil. The taste of this dish will definitely make it impossible for you to stop eating. When there is a little sauce and vegetables left in the pan, you can mix it with rice and enjoy.

8. UNIQUE WINTER FESTIVALS

Daegwallyeong Snow Festival

It is considered the biggest snow festival in South Korea with countless interesting activities for families. Not only can you admire sculptures on the snow but also participate in a singing contest, semi-naked marathon contest, hiking, music and literature events, as well as some sports events such as snow skiing or ski motor driving.
Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

Add: 135-6, Daegwallyeong-ro, Pyeongchang-gun
Time: The 21st Daegwallyeong Snow Festival is held from January 19th to February 5th at Dagwallyeong

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival

It is considered one of the biggest winter festivals in the in South Korea. Sancheoneo, a species of salmon, is an endemic fish kind in Gangwon-do province. This fish can only live in fresh and clean water with an average temperature of under 20°C. After buying tickets, each visitor will be given a fishing rod to find an available ice hole and set the hook. In addition, visitors can also take part in fun activities such as noodling, ice-skating or playing soccer on ice.

Add: Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun
Time: This festival will take place from 6thto 28th, January 2018.
Ticket price: The fishing cost ranges from KRW8,000 to KRW12,000.

W.TIPS

VISA

To apply for a visa to South Korea, you need to prepare some important documents such as passport, visa application in Korean or English, proof of employment and financial capacity (such as Certificates of land use rights with you as the owner, a minimum savings account of USD5,000 or VND100 million), and some other personal identification including your ID card.

FEES

– USD20 for visa application with a under-90-day period (usually in tourist visa form). USD50 with single entry visa application for a more-than-90-day period. The processing time is usually about 8 working days from the date of application.
– Note: From February to April of 2018, Vietnamese, Indonesian, and Filipinos tourists entering South Korea through Yangyang Airport, Gangwon-do Province near the site of the 2018 Pyeong Chang Winter Olympic Games will be temporarily allowed visa-free entry.
– Where to apply for visa:
+ Hanoi: the Embassy of Korea (Republic) in Hanoi at 7th floor, Charmvit Building, 117 Tran Duy Hung.
+ HCMC: South Korean Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City at 107 Nguyen Du Street, District 1.

WEATHER

Gangwon-do has the heaviest snowfall in South Korea, so the best time to travel to Gangwon-do is in the autumn and winter. The summer is from May to September with the highest temperature being around 21°C, the weather is very pleasant but particularly wet in July. When coming in winter from October to February, you can admire the forest changing leaves or covered in snow, and experience the fascinating winter sports here. The lowest temperature is in January, about -10°C at night.

VEHICLE

From Vietnam, the most popular choice is to take a flight to Seoul airport for an airfare of VND5 million, and then take another one from Incheon Seoul airport to Yang Yang airport in Gangwon-do province. Or from Incheon, you can take a train or a fast intercity bus to Gangwon-do (it takes from 1 hour to more than 3 hours depending on the type of transportation); it is more time-saving to take the fast intercity bus. For Elysian Gangchon Resort, you can get there by subway.

Hong Nhung | Wanderlust Tips

Taiwan: A different journey

[Wanderlust Tips December 2017] When mentioning Taiwan, we often think of Yehliu Park, Jiufen Old Street, Sun Moon Lake or the National Palace Museum. However, there is a different Taiwan which brings you pleasant yet impressive experiences.

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TAKE IN TROLL IN NEW TAIPEI CITY

When just arriving in Taiwan, with inexhaustible energy and full of eagerness, you should stay away from the centre of Taipei and go to Dadaocheng in New Taipei city to travel through time and return to Taiwan 150 years ago. In 1709, Taipei began to develop and attract immigrants from Southern Taiwan and Mainland China. The first development was concentrated on Bangka, a trade spot on the waterway on Tamsui River, connecting all cities in Northern Taiwan. In 1853, due to the internal territorial disputes, some people left the Bangka area to settle in Dadaocheng, about 1.5 kilometres to the north of Bangka. And then the story of Dadaocheng began.

From the 19th century, during the period of Japanese rule (1895-1945), Dadaocheng was still the most populated commercial port in Taiwan, where many rich merchants gathered and settled. Many merchants built their houses, which were also their own shops, following Japanese and Europe architectural details. In the post-war period (after 1945), Taipei entered a period of rapid population growth and the enormous expansion of the city in all directions. Though still being the wholesale trade area of tea, dried goods, and Chinese herbs, Dadaocheng at this time was no longer the center of the city.

The name of Dadaocheng means “a big rice-drying field”. Over years, Dadaocheng has become an ancient long-standing urban area that has many ancient architectural works such as tube houses, offices, and religious works. To discover the whole area, you should prepare a good pair of shoes and take a stroll. You can pass by shops selling all sorts of eye-catching items like dry goods, candy, clothing, and souvenirs; crossing the old street corner full of hot food aromas, and going over the Taipei Xia Hai City God temple with clouds of incense from swinging censers. Dadaocheng appears more diverse with the mixed culture of Chinese, European and Japanese. Each building on the streets will have its own architectural style such as Southern Fujian style, Western style, Baroque style and modern style.

EAT IN MIAOLI

After many hours of walking, you can spend time exploring the Taiwanese cuisine. Besides famous and familiar Taiwanese food such as stinky tofu, egg oyster omelet, bubble tea, you can travel by car to Miaoli to experience Hakka’s food flavours which is also a part of Taiwanese cuisine.

On the island of Taiwan, Hakka people migrated to Taiwan from the 17th century and occupied only about 15% of the population. Particularly in Miaoli district, Hakka is the main group of people here. Therefore, Miaoli is an ideal place to discover dishes which feature Hakka’s flavour and culture.Playing an important role in Hakka’s cuisine are dried foods and pickles. In the past, in order to adapt to the frequent migration resulting from wars or other circumstances, Hakka people focused on drying or souring agricultural products such as Chinese radish, monochoria, mustard, bamboo shoots, wax gourd to preserve food.

Hakka dishes are always featured by three elements including rich, greasy and aromatic. It could be the attractive stewed pork in soy sauce, soft and aromatic tofu, fried duck with luscious leek, or fried pork with spicy ginger. Most of the food is greasy, but tthe guests can still enjoy it because the Hakka has artfully combined greasy food with pickles. The mild sour taste of vegetables helps to balance the taste of fish and meat so that tourists can enjoy the meal with a maximum satisfaction of taste.

“Ban”, which is the name for all cakes made from rice, is also an important feature of the cuisine there. Rice cakes are often prepared by the Hakka on the New Year or special holidays. Besides keeping the traditional flavor, in recent years, the Hakkas have creatively added more interesting ingredients such as taro, sweet potato, pork, lotus, and squash into the cakes, making it extremely good for health with low fat, low sugar and salt.

SHOPPING IN TAIPEI

After eating and visiting famous places in Taiwan, you should take time to explore the shopping paradise in Taipei. There are always shopping activities from luxury commercial centers to colorful night markets.

Do not leave yourself exhausted while strolling around flashy shopping centers because Taiwan also has famous shopping streets (Zhongxiao East, Ximending) or colorful night markets (Shilin Night Market, night market of Raohe street). There you can take a walk and look at a series of shops that sell items such as souvenirs, bonsai trees, books, phone accessories, and of course fashion items like clothing, footwear or handbags. Although the products are not of famous make, their quality is quite good and the style follows latest trends; and the prices are very cheap. After shopping leaves you with countless bags, you can stop along the way to enjoy delicious food or drink a cool glass of sweet bubble milk tea.

Besides fashion items, visitors also favour cosmetic products. Cosmetics chain stores such as Watsons, Cosmed, and Sa Sa sell products from cheap to luxury brands, or from imported to Taiwanese products. In general, Taiwanese are very fond of Japanese products, so you can easily find cosmetics imported from Japan. However, the most popular products are still “made in Taiwan” because the quality is as excellent as any famous brands, and the prices are very reasonable.

Visitors to Taiwan can also buy traditional biscuits or famous hot roasted tea as gifts. Supermarkets are always the ideal place to choose these items, and Taiwan’s supermarket chains are open 24/7 so you can shop at any time. Besides, candy stores or tea shops on the streets and in the night markets are also an interesting choice to buy more unique and high-quality items.

ATTRACTIONS

1. Dadaocheng Harbor: This harbor marks the golden age of Dadaocheng in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with bustling trading activities taking place day and night.

2. Taipei Xiahai City God Temple : Located in Dihua Street, the temple was built in 1859 with its ancient Chinese architecture. People and tourists often come here to burn incense and pray for love.

3. Taiyuan Asian Puppet Theater Museum: It is home to a large collection of unique puppets from Taiwan and Asia. Coming here, you can learn and enjoy the extremely interesting art of puppetry.

4. Wang-tea: Located in Chongqing N. Road, Wang Tea is a tea shop which has existed for a century. This place sells the famous roasted tea of Taiwan.

RESTAURANTS AND SHOPS

1. Crescent Phoenix: It serves dishes featuring Hakka style, and especially prioritizes the experiment of new dishes. In addition, the restaurant also hascooking class area for students who love cuisine.
Add: No. 1-3, Shengxing, Sanyi Township, Miaoli County.
Tel: +886 3 787 5570

2. New Sun Restaurant: The 50-year-old restaurant specializes in serving traditional Hakka cuisine, and use local ingredients only to make dishes with natural flavour.
Add: No. 101, Lot 9, New Village, Shitan Township, Miaoli District.
Tel: +886 3 793 1338

3. Shitan Peanut Ginger Candy Shop: This small grocery store is famous for crunchy peanuts. Over the past three decades, the shop owner has preserved the most traditional processing method to create the unique flavor of crunchy peanuts.
Add: No. 354, Shitan Township, Miaoli District.
Tel: +886 3 793 1308

4. Shokolake: Within 7 years, this brand has built up its reputation as the chocolate manufacturing facility with the best taste. There is also a small museum where you can learn everything about chocolate as well as how it is made.
Add: No. 49/2 Shuimei, Fuxing Village, Dahu Township, Miaoli District.

SHOPPING PLACES

1. Bellavita Shopping Mall: Bellavita is home to the most luxurious brands such as Gucci, Bvlgari, Bottega Veneta, Tiffany, Tod’s, and many high-class restaurants.
Add: No.28, Songren Road, Xinyi District, Taipei.
Open time: 10.30am – 10pm
Tel: + 886 2 8729 2271

2. ATT 4 Fun Shopping Center: This is an 11-storey shopping mall that brings together affordable brands like Forever21, H & M, Bershka, Gap, Gu.

Add: No. 12, Songshou Road, Xinyi District, Taipei.
Open time: 11am – 10pm
Tel: +886 80 006 588

3. Ximending Walking Street: This street is considered an outdoor shopping center with countless shops shops located close together , from fashion brands such as H&M, Gu, The Face Shop to small shops along the road, and stalls selling all kinds of delicious Taiwanese food.
Add: Wanhua District, Taipei.

4. Guanghua Electronic Center: This is the largest electronics supplier in Taiwan. In addition to electronic devices, visitors can easily find components with reasonable prices.
Add: No. 8, Section 3, Civic Blvd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei.
Open time: 10am – 9pm
Tel: +886 2 2391 7105

Van Ly | Wanderlust Tips

Family travel with Ford Everest

[Wanderlust Tips December 2017] In the graceful weather and warm sunshine of late autumn, the delighted laughter of children beneath the green canopy fully brings a relaxing and joyful day for everyone to enjoy with their beloved family. Just by preparing a canvas tent and some food, you can leave behind the city life to light up your little family with an exciting picnic.

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The latest Ford Everest Titanium 2017 – a premium 7-seat SUV segment helps Phan Anh, his wife and their 3 little angels have a more pleasant journey than ever. Passing through challenging terrains with steep hills and deep rivers, the family enjoys good and safe fun on the move.

The Ford Everest is equipped with a lot of new innovative technologies such as, Cruise Control, Auto Rain Sensor, Auto Headlamp, SYNC 3, Blind Spot Information System. With a strong and dynamic exterior design, alongside smart and modern features, this outstanding SUV is being widely favoured by many young families nowadays.

After the long yet comfortable ride thanks to the Ford Everest and its fuel-efficient 2.2L Diesel Engine, the family is still full of energy to enjoy various fun outdoor activities such as walking, blowing bubbles, spraying water or playing with dogs.

By the flickering fire, little girls and boys with sparkling eyes telling the stories of the day with excitement, those will be priceless moments of a journey in which the whole family goes on a trip, experiences things and grows together.

Producer: MINH HIEU, PHUONG CHI
Photographer: GIANG VU
Make-up: CHERRY PHAM
Model: MC PHAN ANH & FAMILY
Costume: GAP
Stylist: TRAN TRUNG
Location: VINH PHUC, VIETNAM

Wanderlust Tips

Wanderlust Tips travel magazine’s December issue 2017: Family voyages

Wanderlust Tips magazine’s December issue 2017 will be about family travel, they travel together to explore the land of dreams and create unforgettable memories.

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You do not have to become a solo traveller to successfully pursue your passion for travel. In December, when the winter is knocking on the doors of many countries in the planet and snow is falling on many lands, we can still hold warm hands of our beloved ones to create exciting vacations together.

Whether your companions are your parents or children, Taiwan is always a great destination. Experience a different Taiwan with the unique culture and cuisine of Hakka people with the article TAIWAN – A DIFFERENT JOURNEY at Destination Category.

Kim Ngan’s 154 DAYS CYCLING THROUGH EIGHT SOUTHEAST ASIAN COUNTRIES with her partner would be a special honeymoon for two young people with the shared dream of creating a small family. Find the Discovery category to share their excitement and passion on each journey.

Asia always has amazing things to offer. If you have missed the golden autumn of South Korea, do not be discouraged because a land of snow is waiting for you to discover in Gangwon-do with countless interesting entertainment activities. The article 8 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD GO TO GANGWON-DO – THE WONDERLAND OF THE WINTER in Destination category will be a helpful guide for you to make plan for your upcoming Korean vacation.

If you are planning for a trip to the tropical sea area, do not miss the 1,300-kilometre journey with a stylish scooter of journalist Tran Giap with article SCOOTERING ALONG THE COASTLINE (Transportation Category).

The First Lady of the United States George W. Bush said that togetherness is a very important ingredient to family life. And the most amazing thing is that in those warm-hearted moments of being together, you are free to explore the vast world around you.

Wanderlust Tips

Johnny Ward: Man who’s just visited all 197 countries

Travelling around the world is the dream of many people. On this interview, we had the opportunity to talk with travel blogger Johnny Ward about his impressive journeys. From a student living on a tight budget in Ireland, now he has earned a total of USD1.5 million from online business and travelled to 197 countries on the planet.

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Can you tell about yourself a little too? Where are you from? When were you born? Where did you study? What are your parents doing? What dreams do you have besides travelling?

I was born in Ireland, near Galway. Grew up in Northern Ireland until I was 18, most of my childhood we were poor, on welfare payments, with no father. I was happy but we were broke. My mum then got a job as a social worker, and the last couple of years were a bit easier. I went to university in England from 18-22 years old, and the day I finished University, I left the country, I have been traveling ever since.

From 2006 to 2012, traveling on a super tight budget, working jobs in USA, Thailand, South Korea, medical research testing in Ireland, so I could travel. Then from 2012 onwards I made good money online with my blog (onestep4ward.com), since then I have started my charity, the givebackgiveaway.com where we build schools for poor communities, and everything seems to be on the right track, until the next time I do something crazy – hopefully the north pole marathon in April.

What inspired you to travel around the world?

Growing up in Ireland, we couldn’t afford to go on holidays much, I think I went on 2 trips outside Ireland my whole childhood, from being born to 18. Watching my friends and their families going to USA, Spain, Italy on holidays made me feel so trapped. I remember deeply feeling than when I was old enough to be free, I’d make sure to use that freedom as much as possible, and I feel I’ve done just that.

You said that money was not that important. Did you mean between determination and money, the determination is more important?

I know the media loves to use my money making as part of my story, it’s sexy, it gains readers, I get it. And to be fair it is a big part of my story now, but for 29 years of my 33 years I was broke and still traveling all the time. Money isn’t a must, not at all. The choice is to be free or not, once you make that choice, with the courage that takes, the opportunities are endless.

Did you have a budget, a certain amount of money while traveling the world? How much did you spend a day on average? Or did you travel with no money at all?

It took me 10 years to visit every country in the world, averaging around 15 days per country. The first 5 years I was very poor, so my budget was USD10-USD20 per day max. Roughly USD5,000 per year! The last 4, 5 years have changed, as my profile and blog have grown, I’m more free. I’m always careful with my money, investing most of what I earn. I’m not a flash guy so I don’t need to worry about budget but generally speaking I spend as little as possible. When I first set out to travel, I had nothing. I taught English in Thailand then Korea to fund my trips. Now things are a little different.

Did you travel by leaving everything behind? Did you just pack your home one day, leave and never come back?

Kinda yes. But I didn’t really have anything to leave behind, only my family. I was single, I had just graduated from university, I had no job, no debts other than student debt, so that was the best time. But yes, I never moved back.

What kind of a plan did you come with before travelling the world? How was your route?

I worked in continents – 1 year in East Africa, 1 year in South America, 1 year in Central Asia/Middle East. The first 5 years I couldn’t afford to fly much so I had to work in regions like that so I could use public transport. For example I went from South Africa to Syria by public buses, also from China to Ireland by public transport too.

Did you always go travelling by yourself?

I also set out alone, but I love it when my close friends/family can join for little sections. I travel 9-12 months per year, so most people can only join for 2 weeks here or there, but it’s a nice break for us both when they come.

You have your mother with you in some of the photos. Which countries did you travel together? Did she come visit your or is she a traveller herself?

I have a goal to take my mum to 50 countries, and since I started this new lifestyle, I’ve taken her to 44! She supported me emotionally so much when I started this, when I had no money, so now I’ve been more successful I’m proud that I can give her all these amazing experiences. I’ve taken her to crazy places, she loves it from Uzbekistan to Afghanistan, Togo, South Korea, Ecuador, Tibet, all over the globe!

In which country you stayed the shortest and the longest? How long did you stay there?

Shortest was probably the Vatican city, just 1 day. For the longest, I have spent 3,4,5,6+ months in China, Thailand, Australia, USA, South Africa, South Korea, lots of places I’ve stayed a month too. I ran out of money in 2009 and flew to Australia to find a job and make some cash. I stayed there for a year.

How did you travel to dangerous countries such as Central African Republic, Somali?

With a lot of difficulty! Car was a scary place, and Mogadishu, with mortar bombs flying in the city, was really terrifying. But I had my goal, so I had to suck it up and deal with it.

What was your biggest misfortune?

I’m quite a careless person, so I’ve been in hospitals in more than 10 countries! Broken shoulder and knee in Thailand, broken foot in Korea, skin graft in Australia, some African stomach thing in Burkina Faso, so many places! I have been mugged in Ecuador and Paraguay too, arrested in India, Ivory Coast and Ukraine, but it’s all part of the adventure and all’s well than ends well.

In which country you had the best memory?

So difficult to say, travel isn’t a trip for me, it’s my whole life. Of course I love my memories of finishing my 197th country, but finally reaching Yemen on an indian cargo ship was something truly special. It took me 6 attempts and 6 months to get to Yemen, thousands of dollars, so much time, and finally I got there, it was my 2nd last country and I knew finally I was almost there.

Did anyone support you after you started, as a sponsor?

Nope, it’s all self-funded from my blog and online business. I guess you could say some of that is ‘sponsored’; now I have a lot of readers and followers so hotels invite me etc, but that’s only been quite a recent thing.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Party like a Parisian at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

The luxurious Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi played host to a ‘chic soirée’ that echoes the best of the Parisian nightlife. Party like a Parisian was the night’s motto, with the hotel’s signature ballrooms converted into high energy nightlife venues complete with dazzling lights and stage setups.

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The show started with Love Songs – a private concert by the “Queen of Vietnamese showbiz” Ho Ngoc Ha. In the concert, the songtress was accompanied by pianist Hoai Sa and saxophonist Hoang Tung to perform her 20 hit songs, all rearranged in a more laid-back and intimate tone.

The evening’s highlights include a multi-sensory party at Angelina Lounge & Bar with trendy tunes from the top DJ in town and a sophisticated mixology experience featuring special La Nuit cocktails inspired by popular Parisian nightlife venues such as Champs Elysees, Bastille and Pigalle.

“Beyond the party is the experience. We hope La Nuit by Sofitel will set tone for Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi to become the city’s most iconic venue for the ever growing nightlife of Hanoi”, said the Metropole’s General Manager, William J. Haandrikman.

With trendy party concept, magnifique glamour and innovative cocktail creations, the event has been organized and become a signature party of Sofitel Luxury Hotels & Resorts all over the world, from Los Angeles, Rio, Paris, Dubai to Marrakech.

Sofitel is the only French luxury hotel brand with a presence on five continents with 120 addresses, in almost 40 countries (more than 30,000 rooms). Sofitel offers contemporary hotels and resorts adapted to today’s more demanding and more versatile consumers who expect and appreciate beauty, quality and excellence. Whether situated in the heart of a major city like Paris, London, New York, Shanghai or Beijing, or nestled away in a country landscape in Morocco, Egypt, French Polynesia or Thailand, each Sofitel property offers a genuine experience of the French “art de vivre”.

SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI

Address: 15 Ngo Quyen – Hoan Kiem – Hà Nội
Tel: +84 24 3826 6919
Website: www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com

Ascott celebrates 20th anniversary of Somerset Grand Hanoi and Somerset HCMC

On 8^th December 2017, in Hanoi, CapitaLand’s wholly-owned serviced residence business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott) today celebrates the 20^th anniversary of its two serviced residences, Somerset Ho Chi Minh City and Somerset Grand Hanoi.

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Since 1997, Somerset Grand Hanoi and Somerset Ho Chi Minh City have been accommodating worldwide travellers and residents, establishing their names as the top international standard serviced residences in the country. This year, the two properties celebrate 20 in style, with a series of activities honouring their rich past and bright future.

“It gives me great pride in joining our employees, clients and business partners in celebrating the 20th anniversary of Somerset Grand Hanoi and Somerset Ho Chi Minh City. We have come a long way since the business was started in 1997 and are very excited about our future.” said Lew Yen Ping, Country General Manager, Vietnam.

“As the leader of serviced residences in Vietnam with more than 4,800 units across seven cities and provinces, today is the perfect opportunity to thank all those who have worked hard to achieve what we have accomplished. To celebrate this remarkable milestone, we would like to reward our customers and continue to give back to the communities as we look forward to the next 20 years and more”, Lew added.

Mukaichi Hiroaki, one of the Somerset Grand Hanoi’s longest residents shared: “The leadership team presents a high hospitality standard that flows through all levels of staff at Somerset Grand Hanoi. Thank you to the wonderful staff, security guards, guest service, housekeeping staff and gym attendant, who have made my years spent with you so enjoyable”.

Quang Trung, engineering staff at Somerset Ho Chi Minh City proudly said: “I am very proud of working at Ascott’s organization for 20 years now. I believe that the management cares about employees as the family’s members – not just employees. Being a part of such a great team motivates me to go extra mile and stop at nothing to ensure that no request goes unanswered.”

Crowned for ‘Leading Serviced Apartments’ by World Travel Awards for four consecutive years since 2014, Somerset Grand Hanoi and Somerset Ho Chi Minh City have been recognized internationally in setting industry’s standards. Both properties have also been an active player in Sustainability Initiatives, which are about meeting current needs while at the same time preserving and contributing to the future for generations to come. The efforts include essential projects like preserving water, recycling and managing waste, as well as calling on guests and residents to donate food, clothing and educational supplies to help local communities in need.

The two residences also support, organize and facilitate charity events that raise funds for a number of good causes, such as Annual Somerset Charity Bazaar, Car Wash, Eco-bag campaigns, just to name a few. So far, over 800 underprivileged school children in remote areas in Binh Phuoc, Nam Dinh and most recently Hoa Binh have been aided.

THE ASCOTT LIMITED

Addess: No.49, Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City, Vietnam
Tel:(84-24) 3934 2342
Fax:(84-24) 3934 2343
Website: www.the-ascott.com

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Palm Garden Resort wins the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2017

On the 2^nd December 2017 in Switzerland, Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa was announced to win two categories “Luxury Family Beach Resort” as a Country Winner (Vietnam) and “Luxury Beach Retreat” as a Regional Winner (South East Asia) by the World Luxury Hotel Awards.

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This is the great honor for Palm Garden Resort to be the winner in 04 years and the first time to win two categories in one year. This reward strengthens Palm Garden Resort’s leading position in Vietnamese hospitality. Apart from the above award, Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa has received the Certificate of Excellent Resort of the Year from The Guide Awards, Excellent Certificate of Tripadvisor, HolidayCheck, ALTA Awards, Booking.com, Agoda, etc. in the year of 2017.

Offering a touch of Hoi An’s traditional architectural design combined with a taste of modern luxury, Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa Hoi An is one of the most luxurious and pampering places to stay The resort’s unparalleled high service standards have evidently attracted international & local events, especially the 2017 APEC Ministers’ Meeting and related meetings.

The World Luxury Hotel Awards was established in 2006 to recognize the worldwide luxury hotel industry and legendary hotels with respect to overall service excellence. They are the world’s most prestigious & exclusive awards recognizing the best facilities and service excellence the hotel industry has to offer. This award is voted by tour operators, travel agents and guests who get the opportunity to cast their valuable votes annually. Over 1,000 hotels from many countries were nominated to participant in these awards.

PALM GARDEN RESORT

Address: Lac Long Quan, Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province.
Tel: +84 235 3927 927
Fax: +84 235 3927 928
Email: info@pgr.com.vn
Website: www.palmgardenresort.com.vn

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

The heart of tourism beat at Travel Turkey Izmir

The 11^th Travel Turkey Izmir Tourism Fair, one of the most important organizations of tourism sector, opened its doors on Thursday, 7^th December, with the Partner Province Nevşehir and the Partner Country Ukraine.

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The Fair in which prominent representatives of the sector and exhibitors, numerous countries and provinces famous with their natural beauty took place, continued until Sunday, 10^th December. The 3^rd International Gastronomic Tourism Congress also presented a delicious program until 9^th December.

11^th Travel Turkey Izmir Tourism Fair and Congress that is the meeting of the world and national tourism in Izmir were held between 7^th and 10^th December 2017 in Fuar İzmir. The fair hosted by Izmir Metropolitan Municipality and organized by partnership of İZFAŞ and TÜRSAB and under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Republic of Turkey, with the participations of the Partner Province Nevşehir and the Partner Country Ukraine.

1,284 EXHIBITORS TOOK PART

1,284 exhibitors from 36 countries and 54 provinces took part in the Fair in which 1,179 exhibitors from 36 different countries and 60 provinces took part last year. Algeria, Austria, Bahrain, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Ethiopia, France, Ghana, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Indonesia, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Macedonia, Malaysia, Morocco, Namibia, Palestine, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, TRNC, Tunisia, Turkey, Uganda, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Uzbekistan and Vietnam opened their booths at the Fair to which Thailand with its worldwide known tourism island Phuket as well as People’s Republic of China and Kyrgyzstan exhibited for the first time.

UKRAINE AND NEVŞEHIR WAS PROMOTED AT TRAVEL TURKEY IZMIR

The synergy has become even more important due to the fact that there is passport-free travel opportunity between Turkey and Ukraine, the partner country of the Travel Turkey Izmir. Travel Turkey Izmir plays an important role in enhancing the tourism potential. 657 thousand people came to Turkey from Ukraine in 2014, this number raised to 706 thousand 551 in 2015; in 2016, the number of tourists was one million 45 thousand. With the Travel Turkey Izmir Fair, it was expected that the number of tourists would increase further in 2018. It is also aimed to develop commercial agreements by bilateral negotiations to be performed between the exhibitors.

The Partner Province Nevşehir promotes the hotels and agencies and the tourism alternatives in its region to professionals. At the Fair, it was aimed to make new tourism agreements, negotiations and to contribute in the tourism of the region. Nevşehir hosting Göreme National Park and Cappadocia considered as the 8^th wonders, is one of the most important touristic regions of Turkey.

Cappadocia Region with Göreme National Park which was included in 1985 in UNESCO World Heritage List both as cultural and natural heritage hosts a great number of historical monuments. Göreme National Park, Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı Underground Cities, Karain Columbaries, Karlık Church, Yeşilöz Theodoro Church and Soğanlı Archeological Site are included in UNESCO World Heritage List.

SPECIAL SECTIONS WAS CREATED

A special section was created at Travel Turkey Izmir for the hotel sector coming to prominence as one of significant components of tourism. At the area that was created under the name of “Hotel Equipment Special Section”, exhibitors and visitors coming to the fair had the opportunity to view the options that satisfied their demands.

Within the scope of the Fair, at the Tourism Transportation Special Section that was realized at Hall B of fuarizmir, a great number of automotive companies exhibited their new and most attractive models intended to tourism transportation.

EVENTS OF ‘2018 – THE YEAR OF TROİA’ AT THE TRAVEL TURKEY IZMIR

The event was organized in ‘Travel Turkey Izmir’ for the promotion of ‘2018 – The Year of Troia’ declared by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism due to the 20^th anniversary of the inclusion of Troia on UNESCO World Heritage List.

The ancient city of Troia, being one of the most important ancient settlements of the world with its beauties, is one of the most important touristic and historical values of not only Turkey but also the World by its history of five thousands year.

WHAT TOOK PLACE?

Municipalities, Development Agencies, Provincial Directorates of Culture took place in Hall A of the fair that was held in fuarizmir, while agencies, hotels, tour operators, international destinations and professional exhibitors was in the Hall B.

Travel Agencies, Tour Operators, Business and Congress Tourism, Ministries, Health Tourism, Consulates, Hotels, Chain Hotels, Holiday Villages, Yacht and Cruise Tourism, Marinas, International Tourism Authorities and Stock Exchanges, Cafes and Restaurants, Active and Adventure Tourism, Municipalities, Banking and Insurance Companies, Cultural Tourism, Governorates and Provincial Directorates of Culture and Tourism, Diving Schools, Sport and Golf Tourism, Development Agencies, Airlines, Tourism Technology, Tourism Societies and Associations, Cafe, Bar, Hotel Equipment Companies, Tourism Transport, Tourism Media, Education Tourism, Information and Information Technologies, Medical Organizations and Healthcare Organizations took part at the Fair.

HOSTED BUYERS WAS HOSTED AT THE FAIR

The Fair hosted by Izmir Metropolitan Municipality with partnership of İZFAŞ and TÜRSAB promoted new products and services and constituted a ground for new agreements of cooperation. Travel Turkey Izmir continued this year also to bring the representatives and hosted buyers of tourism sector coming from the four corners of the world with exhibitor companies with the Hosted Buyers Program realized every year.

The foreign buyers brought in the framework of Hosted Buyer Program organized by the support of Turkish Airlines and the exhibitors are expected to perform business negotiations. At 10th Travel Turkey Izmir Tourism Fair and Congress, 179 foreign buyers from 52 countries and 518 domestic buyers – participant companies performed 7,160 face-to-face meetings during the fair.

3^RD INTERNATIONAL GASTRONOMIC TOURISM CONGRESS STARTED

The 3^rd International Gastronomic Tourism Congress was held on 7^th-9^th December 2017 in fuarizmir. The world’s leading gastronomy and tourism experts and educators got together at the congress organized by İZFAŞ, TÜRSAB, Dokuz Eylül University (DEÜ) and Izmir Economy University (İEÜ).

5 STORIES, 5 SENSES, 5 CREATIVE EVENTS

The 3^rd International Gastronomic Tourism Congress brought gourmets and experts together with the theme “5 stories, 5 senses, 5 creative events”. The international tasting event namely “Tasting Story” seeking food culture and taste on the basis of 5 senses was held in the training program prepared and performed in the moderation of Sırma Güven, the Agent of Delice Network in Izmir. Expert chefs and researchers provided a delicious journey by sharing their inspiring stories. Entrepreneurship stories of Turkish and foreign chefs, demo works and trainings took part in the section “Cooking Testing”.

CERTIFICATE WAS GRANTED

“Tasting Story” last for 2 days. On 8^th December, the Odor Specialist Vedat Ozan met with attendants with “Taste and Odor” while the Coffee Specialist Hakan İme met with attendants with “Qualified Coffee Tasting”. On 9th December, certificates was granted attendants in workshops of “A Sensory Experiance in our Cuisine Heritage” by the Odor Experience Designer Cansu Şekular, “The Story of Tea” by the Tasting Specialist Selçuk Azman and “Olive Oil Tasting” by the Olive Oil Sommalier Emmanuelle Dechelette.

Worldwide known chefs Manolis Hiras from Greece, Wilco van Herpen from Netherlands, Hector Cabello from Spain, Ippei Uemura from Japan and Yunus Emre Akkor realizeed delicious workshops in “Cooking Story”. The place and importance of Gastronomic Tourism was discussed in panels which was realized with participation of tourism agency owners, corporate general managers, guides, journalists and authors and trainers. The subjects such Basic Package Forming, Planning and Costing in ‘Gastronomic Tourism” as well as Working Conditions was discussed in the ‘Training Seminar of Gastronomic Tourism for Agencies’ in which the Trainer Ferhan Kırman participated as speaker.

DELICIOUS COMPETITIONS

Together with Travel Turkey Izmir Fair and Gastronomic Tourism Congress, tasty competitions were realized on 7^th-9^th December with the support of Turkish Culinary Federation (TAFED) and Izmir Culinary Association. Boutique Pastry Competition, Free Individual Cooking Competition, Team Competitions of Professionals was realized on 7^thDecember, Individual Students Competition, Free Individual Cooking Competition, Best Team Competitions of University Students were realized on 8^th December and the High School Team Competition was held on 9th December.

LOCAL TASTES WITH DESTINATION SPONSORS

Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality, Edirne Municipality ve Kastamonu Municipality, Hatay Metropolitan Municipality through their destination sponsorships brought their local tastes together with exhibitors at the 3rd International Gastronomy Congress. Visitors had the opportunity to taste original delicacies such as lahmacun, baklava and kebab varieties of Gaziantep, kunafah and lambkebab in curl paper of Hatay, liver of Edirne, candy halvah and rubbed noddle soup of Kastamonu at the Congress.

TURIN CAME

Turin, one of the most important taste points of Italy and the international center of Slow Food and Slow City movements, also took its place in the Congress as guest city. The guest city Turin made a presentation at opening of congress. Along with the presentation with subject of Turin’s Introduction and Gastronomy Promotion Strategies of Turin, the tasting was performed during the congress.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

AccorHotels honor everyday heroes on its 50th anniversary

On 19th November 2017, AccorHotels honoured everyday heroes – men and women, such as social workers, volunteers, firefighters, nurses and teachers – who work each day to serve their communities, by inviting them in more than 2,000 establishments around the world, including over 500 hotels in Asia Pacific and 147 in Upper Southeast and Northeast Asia.

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This global event is an opportunity for the Group and its more than 250,000 employees to thank the people who are committed to serving their communities by sharing a moment with them around a breakfast, a barbecue, a concert, or even by inviting them to stay the night as our guests.

In Thailand, Hotel Muse Bangkok Langsuan MGallery opened up its doors to the local community by inviting police officers, fire-fighters and teachers for a traditional Thai buffet lunch at Babette’s The Steakhouse restaurant.

In the Philippines, Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila invited fifty members from the police force, fire-fighters, and emergency personnel for a lunch at its flagship restaurant. Raffles Makati organised a sumptuous buffet spread of afternoon snacks at the all-day dining restaurant Spectrum for fifty traffic and police enforcers as well as “Barangay” town leaders. A special raffle draw was also held for the guests of honour.

In Vietnam, Pullman Hanoi Hotel held a BBQ dinner cocktail by the pool with fifty invitees, including policemen, fire-fighters, university students, gardeners, and pest control personnel. In Myanmar, Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min also organised a similar celebration over a BBQ lunch at Terrace Restaurant with fifty heroes.

This was an opportunity for hotel staff to showcase their establishments, which are deeply rooted in the life of their neighbourhood, and to encourage local residents to go through their doors more often, without actually having to book a room.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet