Share the love section themed “Rail journeys” in May and June 2020 will take you on an exhilarating experience to see the world in a new way.
Wednesday, June 04
Your younger years are for grand adventures with your besties
It is said that every group of best friends has a thirst for adventures. Whether living far away or close to each other, seeing regularly or just twice a year, we all wish that we can make the most of our youth and travel with our best friends around the world.
[rpi]MAKE MEMORIES AND CHERISH MOMENTS
Travelling with your best friends will make your friendship stronger as you can both experience and explore the world together. You will have someone to relive all those awesome memories with for years to come.
PLANNING IS SO EXCITING
Planning is so exciting when you travel with your best friends. Choosing destinations and balancing your spending with your besties will get you both super excited for the adventures ahead.
STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE TOGETHER
When travelling with your best friends, you can stay true to yourself and dare to do the seemingly impossible.
YOU ARE NEVER TRULY ALONE
There is no such thing as the dead time when you travel with your best friends. You can both share the moments full of laughter during your around-the-world trip.
YOU BOTH BECOME MORE CONFIDENT
You will no longer hesitate to interact with strangers or try adventures because having a friend by your side can make you more confident.
YOU CAN TALK OPENLY ABOUT MONEY
You can easily understand and get along with your best friends when it comes to spending. Hence, you will find it easier to stick to a budget and avoid buying anything unnecessary when travelling with your friends.
YOU UNDERSTAND EACH OTHER ON A MUCH DEEPER LEVEL
You both go through a lot from place to place during the adventures, you really get to know every side of your friend’s personality.
YOU WILL HAVE A LIFELONG PHOTO ALBUM
Travel photo albums will be always an awesome souvenir in your lifetime.
Wanderlust Tips
Railway adventures that will make your heart skip a beat
Sitting on a train for many hours or even a few days can bring endless joy and happiness to your heart. Gazing out of the carriage window, simply watching the world go by really allows you to appreciate the stunning beauty of this vast world and keeps the burning desire for railway adventures alive.
[rpi]DISCOVER THE SPECTACULAR MONGOLIAN STEPPE BY RAILWAY
Known as the world’s greatest railway, running from Moscow to Vladivostok and branching off to the Eurasian continent, the Trans-Siberian Railway will take visitors on an epic journey to explore tremendous destinations. Along the way, it provides remarkable views of the charmingly picturesque landscapes, but the real pièce de résistance is the leg of the journey between Mongolia and Beijing, China. After waving goodbye to Siberia and entering Mongolia, the train offers lush green views of the vast steppes dotted with scarlet-roofed houses.
Catching a glimpse of the immense lakes brings an overwhelming sense of peace and tranquillity. As night falls, cast your eyes over the glimmering surface of the lake, the moonlight dancing across the water will make you feel like you have been transported to another planet. The extraordinary splendour of landscapes in China awaits passengers after a good night’s sleep. The Great Wall of China is most definitely a highlight en route. With views of the seemingly limitless wall, the majestic natural surroundings form a breathtaking picture in the minds and hearts of travellers.
- Departure Point: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
- Terminus: Beijing, China
- Duration: 28 hours and 30 minutes
EUROPEAN BEAUTY THROUGH PANORAMIC WINDOWS
Travelling around ancient and magnificent European countries is a dream for many travel enthusiasts. Striking highlights include the charmingly quintessential United Kingdom, fascinating Germany or romantic Spain. A particularly beautiful journey is from Cannes to Ventimiglia, where you can catch a glimpse of the gloriously picture-perfect views across the beautiful French countryside into the heart of romantic Italy.
This exquisite railway journey provides spectacular scenery, for instance, the Ligurian Sea with sparkling turquoise waters, magnificent Cagnes-sur-Mer, Juan-les-Pins or Antes. The tracks glide through the long rows of trees through idyllic villages, where you can get a view of locals, enjoying the slow pace of everyday life – allow a touch of peaceful Europe to fill your heart. As the train arrives into Nice and Monaco, you will be fascinated by the wide range of yachts and boats gently bobbing off the bay. After a short peek at the stunning waves, the rail line offers views of the undulating hills as it heads across the border into romantic Italy.
- Departure Point: Cannes, France
- Terminus: Ventimiglia, Italy
- Duration: ~ 1 hour and 40 minutes
GLACIER EXPRESS IN EXQUISITE SWITZERLAND
Switzerland, a spellbindingly beautiful country, has always travellers falling head over heels in love with its beguiling landscapes. Instead of travelling by plane or car, hop on the Glacier Express connecting rail stations between the two mountainous resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz via Andermatt in the majestic Swiss Alps and take in the picture-perfect views of Switzerland. The eight-hour railway journey will allow you to gaze out at the breathtakingly beautiful natural surroundings. This extraordinary “express” will take passengers through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges.
The train offers panoramic windows with jaw-droppingly beautiful views of the vast green pastures. Additionally, the train ride climbs steep inclines to the Oberalp Pass at over 2,000m, then glides along the beautiful Landwasser viaduct with six limestone arches before winding its way slowly upwards towards the canyons. Take this rail journey in winter and you can watch the hypnotic snow as gentle flurries blanket the surrounding environment. Fall in love with the magnificent Swiss landscapes as everything is enveloped in ice. As the train heads into the final station, it is the time to hop off the Glacier Express, but the train journey through the Swiss Alps will certainly be an unforgettable experience.
- Departure Point: Zermatt railway station
- Terminus: St. Moritz Railway Station
- Duration: ~ 7 hours
EXPLORE THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER
If you are a big fan of the famous Harry Potter film series, especially the Hogwarts Express that transported Harry and his friends to school, then take the opportunity to fully experience the fascinating wizarding world on the Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland and explore the magical Harry Potter filming locations. The railway journey will allow passengers to admire the picturesque beauty of Scotland and its captivating surroundings. Departing from Glasgow, you will travel through some of the United Kingdom’s most epic destinations.
Coursing through the mighty mountains, the train squeezes between the peaceful green fields and fetching Loch Shiel Lake, allowing passengers to marvel at the glorious views. Along the railway journey, there is a must for fans of the wizarding world. Be sure to pay attention when you cross over the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct – a location made famous by the Harry Potter films. Drawing inspiration from the Harry Potter film series, the train’s interior including tables, seats and doors, conjure a magically nostalgic picture. Taking a trip on the oldest railway in Scotland aboard the Hogwarts Express will definitely bring passengers the most fun-filled and memorable experience.
- Departure Point: Glasgow Central Station
- Terminus: Mallaig Railway Station
- Duration: ~ 5 hours and 30 minutes
DISCOVER THE AFRICAN CONTINENT BY RAILWAY
Explore the African Continent in a different way. It will be definitely an extremely exhilarating experience as you depart from Tanzania to Kapiri Mposhi, a small town in Zambia. The railway journey takes 46 hours to travel about 1,860km, allowing plenty of time to realise that aside from ancient Europe and vibrant Asia, Africa is too home to such astounding beauty and culture. It can be said that there is no place in the world as wild and naturally-friendly as Africa.
The line from Tanzania to Zambia will transport you through the epic forests. Passengers will gain a fleeting but unforgettable insight into the local way of life. This two-day journey is truly fantastic as it provides that vital time for introspection whilst allowing you to appreciate the extraordinarily striking landscapes. This unique adventure will expose you to the beautifully rhythmic chaos that spans the world’s second-largest continent.
- Departure Point: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Terminus: Kapiri Mposhi, Zambia
- Duration: ~ 46 hours
EXPERIENCE “DEATH RAILWAY”
Aside from the Tuk-tuks running around the streets, one of the iconic features in Thailand is the railway. The Death Railway or the Burma Railway not only provides panoramic views of unparalleled natural surroundings but also transports you back to train travel through a heroic history. In order to build the rail line connecting Bangkok, Thailand and Yangon, Myanmar (also known as Burma), many people lost their lives.
Today, a short stretch of the Death Railway is still in operation for visitors to experience the natural beauty of Thailand, where they can catch sights of the legendary bridge over the River Kwai after a long period of wars. The railway line cuts beautifully through the Thai countryside, allowing passengers to hear the murmuring water and listen for every rustle of the trees or the melody of birdsong. The magnificent landscape and great history have always made rail travel in Thailand more thrilling.
- Departure Point: Thon Buri Railway Station, Bangkok, Thailand
- Terminus: Nam Tok, Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand
- Duration: ~ 5 hours
GLIDE PAST THE MAJESTIC MOUNT FUJI
You must not forget to add Japan by train to your travel bucket list. Japan is home to rail networks running all over the country. The high-speed trains have always attracted a large number of visitors, allowing them to catch sights of beautiful scenery. In particular, the Tokaido Shinkansen Railway offers incredible panoramic views of the beautiful scenery around Japan.
The railway journey from Tokyo to Osaka takes visitors through the magnificent landscapes, passing the majestic Mount Fuji en route. You will be extremely impressed by the excellent service of the railway industry in Japan. The trains are extremely clean, tidy, modern and professional. Sitting in a carriage, devouring a bento box with all kinds of delicious dishes, sipping a cup of aromatic tea and keeping your eyes peeled for the spectacular views that can be admired is the pride of Japanese people. Travelling along the Tokaido Shinkansen Railway is an ideal experience for your trip to Japan.
- Departure Point: Tokyo, Japan
- Terminus: Osaka, Japan
- Duration: ~ 2.5 to 3 hours
LEGENDARY RAILWAY TRAVEL IN AMERICA
The Sunset Limited Train is the oldest continuously running train line in America. Since 1894, the route has been taking passengers from flashy Los Angeles to beautiful New Orleans. However, unfortunately, many Americans are unaware of the existence of the train. When visiting America, taking a trip on the Sunset Limited Train will be a unique experience to get a view of America and its modern and idyllic beauty.
On the Sunset Limited Train, bag yourself a window seat where you can marvel at the picturesque natural surroundings. Do not miss the views over peaceful Louisiana Bay, the bare cacti standing out against the vast sky and the spectacular sunset view in Arizona. Aside from the unrivalled scenery, the Sunset Limited Train has appealed to a huge range of passengers due to the rhythm of this two-day train journey. Enjoy the sound of American country music played merrily by amateur singers who might be carpenters, teachers or solo travellers by day.
- Departure Point: Los Angeles, USA
- Terminus: New Orleans, USA
- Duration: ~ 21 hours
Thu Ha | Wanderlust Tips
Ta Dung Lake: ‘Ha Long Bay’ of Vietnam’s Central Highlands
If you are looking for an idyllic piece of nature in Vietnam, Ta Dung Lake, Dak Nong is the ideal destination to add to your bucket list, where you can catch glimpses of stunningly beautiful landscapes and enjoy a wide range of enticing outdoor activities.
[rpi]
Situated between Dak P’lao and Dak Som Communes, Dak Glong District, Dak Nong Province, Ta Dung Lake is a giant freshwater lake, measuring nearly 22,103 hectares. About 45km from the centre of Gia Nghia Town, Ta Dung plays an important role in the biodiversity and geography between the South Central Highlands and Southeast Vietnam. What’s more, Ta Dung Lake is home to an amazing range of islands and islets, making it appear like a miniature version of Ha Long Bay.
If you are planning a trip to Ta Dung, then you should visit in the rainy season between September and December. During this time, these undulating islands have both locals and travellers falling in love with the picturesque natural landscapes carpeted in lush tropical forests, making it suitable for outdoor activities and adventure experiences such as camping or hiking. Boasting an untouched natural beauty and peaceful ambience, Ta Dung Lake is truly the perfect destination for many travellers to the Central Highlands.
Take a trip to Ta Dung Lake, where you can immerse yourself in jaw-dropping natural beauty. When it comes to popular tourist attractions in Ta Dung, Chu Bluk Cave is high up on the list. Featuring more than 100 caves in different sizes, Chu Bluk Cave currently holds the record as the longest volcanic cave in Southeast Asia. Additionally, Dieu Thanh Waterfall, also known as Lieu Nung Waterfall, is also a must to add to your trip.
Comprising a group of 3 different waterfalls, Dieu Thanh Waterfall exudes an incredible majesty yet alluring charm. Apart from the compelling Ta Dung Lake, Krong No District is home to another very beautiful lake, called Ea Sno. With its unspoilt nature, serene ambience and captivating surroundings, Ea Sno Lake will win over your heart and definitely add something more to your trip.
Aside from charming scenery, Ta Dung Lake intrigues both domestic and foreign travellers with delicious local cuisine. Particularly, the famous speciality of Dak Glong Guava boasts a distinctive, mouthwatering taste. Additionally, snakes head, fish and Ruou Can (wine drunk out of a jar through pipes) are all must-tries when travelling to the Central Highlands.
Wanderlust Tips
The best US national parks to visit in winter
When it comes to natural parks, most of us conjure a picture of widely varied environments including arid deserts, rocky mountains, dense forests and glittering lakes. Across America, there is no shortage of scenic national parks which are perfect for a wintry adventure.
[rpi]SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CALIFORNIA
Lying side by side in the southern Sierra Nevada east of the San Joaquin Valley, Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks are the most beautiful places to visit during winter. These national parks are full of breathtaking views, gorgeous valleys, snowy white peaks and the world’s largest sequoia trees. Snow blankets the landscape and creates a magical wonderland of family-friendly activities. To really get a sense for how enormous these giant trees are, you can take a walk through the Giant Forest.
- Where: P.O. Box 89, Sequoia National Park, California
- Best for: hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, rock climbing or horseback riding
- Temperature: -8oC to 3oC
- Tip: Whether you prefer to stay in the national parks themselves or in the surrounding areas, there are plenty of lodging options to choose from.
JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA
Situated at an ecological crossroads, where the high Mojave Desert meets the low Colorado desert spanning 800,000 acres, Joshua Tree National Park is home to an impressive range of plant species, boulders, rugged mountains, gold mining ruins and desert plains dotted with trees. It does not get more magical than seeing freshly fallen flakes gracing the smoothly rounded boulders in winter.
- Where: 74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, California
- Best for: rock climbing, hiking and biking
- Temperature: 10oC
- Tip: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, then you should pay a visit midweek.
YELLOWSTONE IN WYOMING, MONTANA AND IDAHO
Located in the west of the United States in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, Yellowstone, America’s first national park, is a true marvel to behold and home to an amazing combination of natural beauty, rugged wilderness and abundant wildlife. During winter, Yellowstone becomes a spectacular snow-covered wonderland that allows visitors to engage in a variety of enthralling adventures. If you have not seen one of these best national parks in winter, you are missing out on one of the greatest experiences in the world.
- Where: P.O. Box 168 Yellowstone , Wyoming
- Best for: hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, wildlife watching, fishing and camping
- Temperature: -20 to -5° C
- Tip: Winter in the park begins December 15th, so take a snowy jaunt around the Mammoth Hot Springs or Nymph Lake and enjoy the geothermal beauty of this iconic Yellowstone region.
BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK, TEXAS
Located in Southwestern Texas, snuggled up to the Mexican border, Big Bend National Park offers stunning panoramic views, hundreds of species of wildlife and an array of activities for visitors. Spanning an amazing area of 802,541 acres, winter in Big Bend provides a snowy solitude that is hard to replicate in many places. Spend your days strolling up Window View Trail for a photogenic view of the Window or Casa Grande (Big House).
- Where: PO Box 129, Big Bend National Park, Texas
- Best for: hiking, camping, fishing, river rafting, horseback riding and backpacking
- Temperature: 18 to 22oC (in November)
- Tip: No matter when you visit Big Bend, you should bring a sun hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.
EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK, FLORIDA
Only a one-hour drive from the hustle and bustle of Miami, Everglades National Park encompasses 1.5 million acres of tropical and subtropical habitat and is home to one of the largest wetlands in the world. Here, visitors can see many species of birds, alligators, crocodiles or panthers. No Florida exploration is complete without stopping at one of these best national parks and taking an airboat tour to spot wildlife. If you are an adventure seeker, rent a canoe and then explore the mangroves on your own.
- Where: Everglades National Park, 40001 State Road 9336 Homestead, Florida
- Best for: birdwatching, camping and wildlife spotting
- Temperature: 11oC to 25oC
- Tip: The weather conditions in the Everglades can impact availability of certain activities, so check to see if a particular tour is currently running before making the trip.
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, ARIZONA
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Grand Canyon is one of the world’s most renowned scenic national parks. During the winter months, the white snow contrasting with the colourful rocks makes for a powerful and inspiring landscape. Additionally, a winter visit to Arizona’s Grand Canyon is a great way to avoid crowds and enjoy festive activities. Take a stroll through its top attractions such as Yavapai Geology Museum, Bright Angel Trail or Desert View Watchtower for a stunning view.
- Where: Northwestern Arizona
- Best for: hiking, horseback riding, rafting, stargazing, wildlife watching and photography
- Temperature: -6oC to 4oC
- Tip: During winter, the Grand Canyon’s North Rim area is closed to visitors, so you should plan your accommodation and sightseeing outings near the park’s South Rim.
CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK, OREGON
Situated in Southern Oregon, Crater Lake National Park is home to the deepest lake in the United States. With an annual average of 43 feet of snow, Crater Lake is one of the snowiest places in the United States. Here, visitors can marvel at the panoramic views and natural formations of Wizard Island and the Phantom Ship. If you are looking for outdoor adventures in the winter or to simply relax and take in the views, then Crater Lake National Park should be added to your travel bucket list.
- Where: 570 Rim Village Dr Crater Lake, Oregon
- Best for: biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledging and snowmobiling
- Temperature: 0.9°C to -7oC
- Tip: In winter, only the park’s south entrance is open, so travellers from Seattle or Portland must drive south to the Medford/Jacksonville area, then approach the park from the south.
Wanderlust Tips
Morocco: A sense of brilliant magic
When thinking of Morocco, its colourful architecture and aromatic spice souks always spring to my mind. Saint Laurent – a talented designer – found his own creative inspiration for his fashion masterpieces in colourful Morocco. This vibrant country pulses with intense vitality and culture, making it an endless inspiration for those who are passionate about creativity and adventure.
[rpi]MOROCCO – AN INSPIRATIONAL COUNTRY
Morocco conjures a surprisingly tuneful picture and makes my heart flutter with excitement. Fruitful orange trees lining the streets and glowing in the brilliant sunshine, they look like baubles hung on Christmas trees. The Eastern-inspired gardens boast a sun-dappled view with towering cacti interspersed with citrus and palm trees. Marvellous Morocco fascinates travellers with its gorgeous landscapes and laid-back ambience.
Morocco is also home to plenty of precious treasures. Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city – possesses the world’s seventh-largest Hassan II Mosque with the highest minaret at 210m. The sacred mosque is an impressive example of Moroccan architecture that stands on a promontory looking out over the Atlantic Ocean. According to King Hassan II, God’s throne must be built on the water. With a potential capacity of 25.000 worshippers inside the mosque and a large space for another 80,000 in its grounds, this magnificent spiritual landmark truly made my heart skip a beat.
After a few hectic days getting lost in Casablanca, I visited the charming, blue-tinged city of Chefchaouen – a hidden gem in Morocco. The tradition of painting the buildings stems from the Jewish community. It is believed that the breathtaking shades of blue remind them of God’s power. Local residents have regularly repainted their walls, stairs and alleyways. The entire city is vividly bathed in shades of cerulean. Taking a stroll around the cobalt-hued city, you will get an awe-inspiring view of its distinctive architecture and authentic artistic style.
Fes, the second-largest city in Morocco, still has the air of a well-preserved medieval capital, bustling souks and stunning medinas. Fes is famous for its Bab Boujloud, also known as “The Blue Gate of Fes”. The gate is painted with elegant cobalt blue designs on one side while its reverse is green, forming a doorway between two equally colourful and dynamic worlds of Fès el-Jedid and Fès el-Bali. Additionally, Fes is home to an incredible maze of medinas that you can wander through and marvel at the priceless architectural and cultural treasures.
The last destination on my Moroccan travel itinerary is Marrakesh – Morocco’s fourth-largest city. This intoxicating city is known for its 18 traditional souks with a vast array of colourful and eye-catching wares. No Marrakesh trip would be complete without sightseeing, watching the never-ending movement of people and trying street food in hidden corners of the maze-like souks. For instance, try fragrant burgers, stir-fried meat sandwiches, refreshing juices and fresh cactus fruits peeled by enthusiastic vendors. The chaos and traders hawking seemingly add a sense of intense vitality to the fascinating city.
If you travel to Morocco, spending a night in a camp under the sparkling stars is an absolute must when exploring the Sahara Desert. It is worth experiencing the harsh temperatures and embracing your sense of adventure. The ups and downs of riding a camel whilst watching the sunrise and sunset is truly an unforgettable experience. As the sun lit up or went down over the creamy dunes, I felt as if I was basked in a fresh ambience and endless freedom.
ART ON EVERY CORNER
When it comes to ceramics, Moroccan mosaic architecture always springs to mind. The intricate zellige walls (geometric mosaic tilework) are an impressive aesthetic highlight of Moroccan architecture, a quintessential cultural heritage and a rich blend of African, European and Arab civilisation. Although the mosaic art was initiated by ancient Greeks thousands of years ago, Morocco made an awe-inspiring twist of art and architecture. In the past, only riads – Moroccan wealthy mansions or palaces – were designed and decorated with the mosaic technique, but it has gradually become more popular and can be found everywhere such as on the walls, dining tables, fountains, pillars and ceilings.
This is a respectful and honourable reminder for the Muslim community of their Almighty God. The elaborate mosaic artworks and designs are a shining example of Moroccan craftsmanship. A steady and careful touch by expert craftsmen can create masterpieces of ornamental Arabic calligraphy. Therefore, if you are an architecture aficionado and are passionate about exploring this artistic country, then staying in one of the typical riads in Morocco will definitely be an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.
Aside from such excellent mosaic artworks, Morocco is well-known for the striking variety and quality of its ceramic crafts. An amazing diversity of home goods and housewares, such as vases, jars, cans, teapots and trays are completely covered with pure silver and then styled into a specific shape. Once you see the delicate ceramic products, you cannot help but be in awe of the splendour and intricacy of Moroccan design.
Additionally, Morocco is the perfect destination for leather addicts due to its high-quality leather products and traditional tanning techniques. In French, “Maroquin” means Moroccan leather and is used in the word “Maroquinerie” meaning leather goods. Aside from a plethora of leather products displayed in the labyrinth of alleyways, eclectic souks and spotlight-grabbing medinas, you will be surprised and interested in wandering through the ancient Moroccan leather tanneries, which have been preserved for centuries.
The dyeing pits are located side by side and filled with a vast range of natural vegetable dyes and various liquids, such as poppy flowers for red, indigo for blue, mimosa and saffron for yellow. Particularly, saffron is costly, so this dye is applied sparingly to individual skins, which are then laid out to dry under the sun instead of soaking in a stone vessel. Moroccans have developed an excellent technique for dyeing, so their leather products are extremely impressive. For some types of dye, the water-mixed colour is completely different from its original colour. It is said that Morocco is truly a magical country bursting with colour, creativity and inspiration.
MOROCCAN CUISINE
There is a saying that “Fine words butter no parsnips”. If you are travelling to Morocco, you will be in for a delicious gastronomical treat with an amazing variety of gourmet dishes and fresh local ingredients. Tagine is a fascinating dish that can immediately tantalise your tastebuds. Tagine is a famous Moroccan stew slowly cooked in ceramic pots that look like a bell placed on a circular plate. Moroccan Tagine is an excellent mélange of meat (can be beef, chicken, tuna, sardines or lamb) and other healthy vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, sweet peppers and chillies to add more colours and complementary flavours.
Moroccan cuisine bears a very distinctive identity that is a rich blend of Andalusian (Spain) and Berber culture. (The Berbers are a major ethnic group of North African regions, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea). Beautifully and deliciously presented, Tagine is a significant culinary and cultural symbol in Morocco. Take a stroll around the traditional souks, where you can easily find plenty of clay or ceramic cooking vessels and trays. You can also buy smaller models for decoration or souvenirs. Thanks to the unique patterns and designs on traditional cookware, it makes an impressive twist for collectors.
Morocco is a gem in Northern Africa, making it a favourable tourist destination for travel enthusiasts. Morocco has people falling head over heels in love with its colourful beauty. Many travellers find Morocco fascinating and are keen to return to this magical country to once again experience and immerse themselves in its cacophony of hectic sounds and vibrant sights.
W.TIPS TRAVEL TO MOROCCO
VISA
If you are Vietnamese, you must apply for a visa to be able to travel to Morocco.
CURRENCY
In Morocco, the official currency is the Moroccan Dirham. A dirham is currently worth about VND2,350. Euros are accepted in some places.
CLIMATE
The Moroccan climate varies greatly throughout the day from the city to city, so you should pack outer-wears that can be worn alone or layered for cooler weather.
SHOPPING
When shopping at the souks or shops in Morocco, you can definitely find a bargain. You will be spoilt for choice with a huge number of spices, tea, pottery, mosaic or leather products, Argan oil and carpets.
OTHER NOTES
- Do not take photos of people without their permission.
- If you are a female traveller in Morocco, a shawl to cover your head is definitely necessary for a safe and comfortable journey.
Alex Tu | Wanderlust Tips
The best museums in San Francisco, California
Whether you want to take in some culture or simply to elevate your Instagram feed, there is plenty of amazing museums in San Francisco that will take your breath away.
[rpi]DE YOUNG MUSEUM – SAN FRANCISCO
If you are looking for some great art museums in San Francisco, start with the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park. This 125-year-old museum boasts more than 27,000 pieces of art, including American, African and oceanic collections.
Address: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, SF, USA
Must see: Located on the 9th floor, the Hamon observation tower offers a stunning view of Golden Gate Park, downtown San Francisco, the Bay and the Marin headlands.
SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUM OF MODERN ART
As one of the largest modern art museums in America, SFMOMA is home to 33,000 works of art, including painting, photography, architecture & design and media arts.
Address: 151 Third Street, SF, USA
Must see: The light-flooded space features 6 sculpture-decked terraces, as well as the largest living wall in the country with more than 19,000 plants.
CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES
Established in 1853 and considered one of California’s oldest museums, California Academy of Sciences is a must-visit for children and adults alike. The 400,000-square-foot space features an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest and history museum.
Address: 55 Music Concourse Drive, SF, USA
Must see: The museum also has one of the most striking rooftops in the city, covered in seven rolling hills and home to about 1.7 million plants.
EXPLORATORIUM
Located on the waterfront at Pier 15, the Exploratorium intrigues both kids and adults with over 650 exhibits, including hands-on activities, science experiments and interactive galleries.
Address: Pier 15, Embarcadero at Green Street, San Francisco, USA
Must see: Self Made offers playful interactive activities, artworks, artifacts and costumes. There is also a sculpture made from 100,000 toothpicks.
LEGION OF HONOR
Located in Lands End, Legion of Honor is a feat of architecture clad in white limestone, marble and gleaming wood. The museum contains a collection of more than 800 European paintings, sculptures, photography and ancient art.
Address: 100 34th Avenue, San Francisco
Must see: Ancient art from Egypt, Greece and Rome fills the Hall of Antiquities
ASIAN ART MUSEUM
If you are looking for one of the greatest Asian museums in the USA, then the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco should be added to your bucket list. With a collection of more than 18,000 works from India, China, Japan, the museum is a very popular tourist attraction in San Francisco.
Address: 200 Larkin Street, San Francisco
Must see: Make sure to check out the Tattoos in Japanese Prints and Art Recovered From Shipwrecks.
MUSÉE MÉCANIQUE
Found by local legend Edward Galland Zelinsky, the museum houses more than 300 antique carnival games, musical instruments, vintage arcade machines, terrifying clown dolls and many others.
Address: Pier 45 Fisherman’s Wharf at the foot of Taylor Street, San Francisco
Tip: Musée Mécanique offers free admission every day of the week, just bring your coin jar to play the games.
CHILDREN’S CREATIVITY MUSEUM
If you are travelling to San Francisco with kids, the museums are the place to take them. Designed to encourage imagination and creativity, it is full of different labs, workshops and studios.
Address: 221 Fourth Street, San Francisco
Must see: LeRoy King Carousel, a storied relic originally constructed in 1906 would be worth a memorable experience.
CABLE CAR MUSEUM
Run by the Friends of the Cable Car Museum – a nonprofit organisation dedicated to the preservation of cable car history, the museum houses a collection of historic cable cars, photographs, mechanical displays and a gift shop.
Address: 1201 Mason Street, San Francisco
Must see: Check out 3 antique cable cars from the 1870s
MARITIME MUSEUM
Located in the Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building, the ship-shaped museum is a beautiful place to visit for some seafaring knowledge. The interior walls are covered with colourful psychedelic murals depicting the underwater world.
Address: 900 Beach Street, SF, USA
Tip: The museum is open seven days a week and offers free admission
CARTOON ART MUSEUM
If you are a fan of comic art, then take a visit to Cartoon Art Museum, one of these unique museums in San Francisco. Established in 1984, it displays nearly 7,000 works in its permanent collection, including comic books, political cartoons and graphic novels.
Address: 781 Beach Street, Floor 1 San Francisco, USA
Must see: Tables stationed around the space are stocked with drawing utensils for both adults and kids to create their own comic art.
Wanderlust Tips
10 must-do experiences in San Francisco, California
San Francisco is known the world for its fabulous beauty, distinct personality and iconic sites. Check out these top must-do experiences in San Francisco that you will not want to miss out on while visiting this glamorous city.
[rpi]SEE THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE
The Golden Gate Bridge is obviously the most iconic structure in San Francisco. There are so many areas in the city you can get an amazing view of the Golden Gate Bridge, such as Bakers Beach, Land’s End, Crissy Field or the Presidio. You can walk, bike or drive across this red bridge for panoramic vistas of the downtown skyline.
FIND ALL OF THE HEARTS IN SAN FRANCISCO
Inspired by Tony Bennett’s song “I left my heart in San Francisco”, there are 131 giant hearts displayed around the city, each with a distinctive decoration and design. If you want to admire these heart-shaped statues and take pictures, then head to Pier 39, Union Square or AT & T Park, you will fall in love with this city and be ready to leave your heart in San Francisco.
VISIT ALCATRAZ ISLAND
Located 1.25 miles off the shores of San Francisco, Alcatraz Island was an active prison from 1933 to 1963 were housed some of the United States’ most notorious criminals, including George ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly, Al Capone and James ‘Whitey’ Bulger. Taking a tour of Alcatraz Island will be a fun-filled experience to learn about the history of this famous prison.
MARVEL AT FISHERMAN’S WHARF
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the city’s busiest tourist areas on the waterfront. Check out Pier 39 for a chance to see the sea lions and indulge in some of the best seafood in the city. For an unforgettable experience, the place also offers plenty of places to eat, go shopping and entertain.
GOLDEN GATE PARK, SAN FRANCISCO
If you are looking for a great place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist attractions, you need to check out Golden Gate Park. Having an area of 1,017 acres, the park is home to redwoods, green meadows and distinctive pagodas of the Japanese Tea Garden. Additionally, there are free lawn bowling lessons every Wednesday at noon.
HEAD TO CHINATOWN
One of the oldest communities of its kind in the United States, Chinatown in San Francisco provides a wealth of unique things to enjoy, making it a legendary destination for tourists, foodies and artists alike. There are many blocks and streets with restaurants, shops and bakeries.
EXPLORE CITY LIGHTS BOOKSTORE
Opend in 1953 by the famous poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, City Lights Bookstore is one of the top independent bookstores in the US and a favourite of visitors to this fabulous city. Here, you can check out a handful of featured books and recommended titles. Feel free to come in, grab a book and spend some time reading.
VISIT COIT TOWER
Sitting atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is a famous landmark in San Francisco that is easy to spot from any of the nearby districts. Step inside to admire the gorgeous murals on the first floor and then pay to take the elevator to the top floor for bird’s-eye views of the city. The tower is open every day except major holidays.
RIDE A CABLE CAR IN SAN FRANCISCO
If you want a fun way to get around the city, the cable cars in San Francisco are the way to go. Dating back to 1873, the cable cars has currently become a part of the city’s vital public transportation network. There is also a cable car museum that occupies a still-functioning cable-car barn and shows off three historic cable cars. Make sure you take one of these cars down the hilly streets of the city.
TAKE A FOOD WALKING TOUR
San Francisco is known for its fine food with eateries that will complete your San Francisco experience. Along the way, you will get the chance to try some gourmet chocolates, fresh baked breads and others. This tour runs twice a day at 10am and 2pm and covers about 7 to 8 blocks.
Wanderlust Tips
Ascott Vietnam certified with Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label
Nine properties of Ascott Vietnam certified with Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label.
[rpi]CapitaLand’s wholly-owned lodging business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott), one of the leading international lodging owner-operators, has received The Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label at nine of its properties in Vietnam. The Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label is a holistic programme developed in partnership with Ascott by leveraging Bureau Veritas’ health, hygiene and safety expertise of more than 190 years in providing testing, inspection and certification.
Ascott has embarked on the programme as part of its Ascott Cares commitment to continue providing a safe home away from home for its guests and a safe working environment for its staff. Launched in May 2020, Ascott Cares covers nine commitments to enhance Ascott’s existing cleanliness protocols. Bureau Veritas conducted field audits at Ascott properties to ensure that the nine commitments under Ascott Cares meet the stringent requirements of Bureau Veritas’ inspection programme. Bureau Veritas’ auditors have verified that the properties have appropriate health, hygiene and safety procedures and processes in place, and are in line with globally recognised best practices on preventive measures in order to be certified with the Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label. There are nine Ascott’s properties being received the labels:
- Somerset Grand Hanoi
- Somerset Hoa Binh Hanoi
- Somerset West Point Hanoi
- Somerset Central TD Hai Phong City
- Somerset Chancellor Court Ho Chi Minh City
- Somerset Ho Chi Minh City
- Somerset Vista Ho Chi Minh City
- Somerset D1Mension Ho Chi Minh City
- Citadines Central Binh Duong
Ms. Lew Yen Ping, Regional General Manager for Ascott Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar said: “At Ascott, we continue to place the health and well-being of our guests and associates as our top priority. Ascott always comply with Vietnamese government regulation of safety and hygiene and now our partnership with Bureau Veritas offers our guests a greater peace of mind as they book their stay with Ascott. Our guests can continue to place their trust in Ascott to provide a home away from home that is not only comfortable, but also clean, secure and safe. With a safe working environment, our associates are also able to better focus on caring for our guests. We look forward to welcoming new and returning guests back home at Ascott.”
Juliano Cardoso, Executive Vice President, CIF Asia, Pacific and Middle East, Bureau Veritas, commented: “We are very pleased to work with Ascott properties globally. The Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label allows Ascott to attest its commitment to reassure its guests that appropriate health, hygiene and safety standards are met and ensure safe working conditions for its employees through a consistent approach across all its properties. During this current health crisis, ensuring compliance to recommended health, hygiene and safety standards are at the forefront throughout society. We are proud to play our part in Shaping a World of Trust.”
Wanderlust Tips
West Lake, Vietnam at a glance
When it comes to urban cities like Hanoi, lakes are a unique feature. West Lake in Hanoi is not only a beautiful inner-city sight, but like a good friend as it is always there for you no matter what happens. Take a stroll around the lake and appreciate its serenity and tranquillity, which it is hard to find amidst a congested and dusty city.
[rpi]WHEN WAS WEST LAKE ESTABLISHED?
Before it was known as West Lake, this epic site had a variety of quirky names such as Dam Xac Cao (Fox Corpse Swamp), Kim Nguu (Golden Buffalo Lake), Lang Bac, Dam Dam (Foggy Lake), Doai Ho and many others. Each name was closely associated with a mysterious legend which intrigued many people.
A historical book entitled Tay Ho Chi shows that West Lake dates back to the reign of the Hung Kings. At that time, there was a port named Lam Ap Port which was adjacent to the Red River in Lam Ap Cave. During the period of the Trung sisters, West Lake was depicted as a large lake that was surrounded by dense forests and home to many rare species and unique caves. Today, it has changed dramatically with the addition of small villages, peaceful streets and crowded residential areas.
Stretching from the North to the East, West Lake has long been a favourite destination as a resting and sightseeing place for royals. For instance, Thuy Hoa and Tu Hoa Palaces built under Ly Dynasty are known as Kim Lien Pagoda or Ham Nguyen Palace built under Tran Dynasty is now Tran Quoc Pagoda. Over the course of years, West Lake has exuded a refreshing ambience and gentleness, making it a favourite spot for people, who want to take a breather from their modern and busy life.
MORE THAN JUST A LAKE
Many people consider West Lake a sort of quiet friend. The lake boasts a distinctive beauty throughout the day. At the break of dawn, the lake paints a refreshing and alluring picture. When dusk falls, the lake embodies a sort of feminine and emotional view. Over time, West Lake has become the most romantic corner of Hanoi – a very buzzing and crowded city.
The largest inner-city lake is often called “the sea of Hanoi” as it is rare for such an immense lake to exist in the topography of a hectic metropolis. As summer arrives, the lake is akin to a mini-ocean in the heart of the capital. You will find stone benches placed along the path around the lake, throngs of people enjoying the fresh atmosphere, mobile food carts full of flavourful snacks. Some locals sit fishing attentively by the lake while the older generations and children stroll around. West Lake exudes an authentic idyllic ambience that encompasses a closeness between people and nature, making it an adorable place whenever summer comes to Hanoi.
You will regret visiting the capital and not taking in the atmosphere around the stunning lake. West Lake is not particularly unique where lakes are concerned, but this place has locals and foreigners falling head over heels with its peaceful road and the whisper of the breeze rustling the leaves on the trees. There is nothing more fantastic than enjoying the cool breeze whilst wandering around the hassle-free road or sitting down on the concrete steps near the water while sipping a cool drink or enjoying an ice cream.
Whenever the sun sinks slowly below the horizon, West Lake becomes even more beautiful as the sky alights with an amazing array of dazzling colours such as pink, purple and orange. In the afternoon, many photographers usually gather together around the lake to capture Tran Quoc Pagoda at sunset. West Lake will definitely satisfy your wanderlust. In spite of its tranquillity, cosmopolitan glamour and sounds of nature, the fascinating lake always brings an endless sense of bliss and relaxation to visitors.
BEST THINGS TO DO AROUND WEST LAKE
Aside from its peaceful and refreshing atmosphere, West Lake is known as a “green” recreational destination in a bustling city full of concrete roads and high-rise buildings. No matter how busy I am, I have fallen into the habit of taking my motorbike for a spin around West Lake on the weekends with a friend or by myself. The road encircling the lake stretches nearly 20km. When riding around, I feel all of my sorrows and sadness float away. I prefer riding around the lake with my friends as we can chat, enjoy the views and crack jokes together. Many people often think that there is nothing special and appealing about West Lake. However, if you spend your time searching for this lake, you will be surprised that there is whole host of interesting activities:
- Stand up paddle boarding (SUP): Aside from the swan pedalos, the immense lake is a popular venue for SUP enthusiasts. As well as a healthy workout, SUP allows you to unwind and get closer to the water.
- Cycling: If you are a sports enthusiast, West Lake is really a great place for healthy activities. Everyday, you can see people, both the elderly and children, exercising and relaxing on their bikes whilst travelling around the lake.
- Experience the ancient temples around the lake: There are more than 20 famous temples, shrines and pagodas around West Lake. Travel to these religious sites on the 1st days of lunar moths and pray for peace and luck.
- Marvel at splendid flowers: West Lake is a paradise for flower lovers as it is home to a large lotus pond. In season, the lotus flowers radiate a gentle fragrance, creating a staggering natural picture. Additionally, you can visit the famous Quang An flower market and buy some bouquets of beautiful flowers to decorate your house.
- Drink coffee while sightseeing: There are so many lovely coffee shops on the lakeside streets such as Nguyen Dinh Thi, Trich Sai, Quang An and Xuan Dieu. Treat yourself to a coffee house by the lakeside and appreciate its serenity in the heart of the capital.
- Grab some food: Trying shrimp cakes or ice-cream cones is always a must amongst foodies when visiting the lake. Additionally, there are lots of eateries and restaurants, where you can embark on a flavourful culinary journey.
Many people often ask “How long does it take for a stroll along West Lake?” or “Why do you spend time wandering around the streets?”. No matter how far the lake is and how the weather is, you always fall in love with its beauty. A far cry from the hectic pace of metropolitan life, West Lake conjures a laid-back and refreshing energy. Over the course of time, West Lake has intrigued many people with its silent, gentle and nostalgic vibe. Whether it is spring, summer, autumn or winter, Hanoi lovers take their time to travel around West Lake and to appreciate the idyllic charm of this waterside haven.
Wanderlust Tips