Wanderlust Tips Team, Author at WANDERLUST TIPS • Page 98 of 195

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

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

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

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

A ROOM WITH A VIEW

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

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

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

DINING IN STYLE

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

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

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

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

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

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

AWAKEN YOUR SENSES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Share the love with travel: Spring in bloom

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

Flowers in bloom on the dining table

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

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Ha Le | Wanderlust Tips

Blogger Ha Truc and her journey to discover mystifying Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What do you think about Sri Lankan cuisine?

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

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

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

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

Wanderlust Tips

Interview with Ms. Shiromal Cooray – Managing Director of Jetwing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wanderlust Tips

Fall in love with peaceful Hunza

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

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MARVELLOUS HUNZA

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

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

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

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

FALL IN LOVE WITH HUNZA – A LAND OF DEEP AFFECTION

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

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

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

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

W.TIPS

GENERAL INFORMATION HUNZA

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

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

ACCOMMODATION IN HUNZA

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

TRANSPORTATION TO HUNZA

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

CUISINE

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

Huong Giang | Wanderlust Tips

A taste of Lunar New Year celebrations overseas

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

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

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

AN OVERSEAS YET FULL LUNAR NEW YEAR EXPERIENCE

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

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

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

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

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

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

PECULIAR FEELINGS ABOUT NEW YEAR

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

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

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

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

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

Alex Tran | Wanderlust Tips

Bask in the beauty of the colourful festivals 2020

After a peaceful and tranquil winter, everything really comes to life in spring. Spring is the time of budding leaves, rebirth, renewal and a vast array of festivals. If you took the chance to get your thrills on these exhilarating festivals, you might indulge in a little nostalgia.

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THE DAZZLING LANTERN FESTIVAL | CHINA

The Lantern Festival is considered one of China’s most exhilarating celebrations, taking place on the 15^th day of the first lunar month of every year. Since ancient times, lanterns have been an iconic symbol of peace, happiness and are used to ward off all evil as well as dispel the darkness and bad luck. Hence, the Lantern Festival is the most outstanding activity to welcome the New Year in China. The shimmering lanterns are designed and decorated beautifully in an amazing variety of colours.

Just picture the magical scene as the light glimmers from more than 1,000 floating lanterns. The festival is also known for an array of thrilling activities, for instance, lion dances, drama performances and the hanging of wish lanterns. It is most unique to launch the lanterns into the sky or onto the water. Cast your eyes up and down and marvel at the illuminated night sky and the magnificent river which looks splendid with full of colourful lanterns. Visitors here will have the opportunity to enjoy fun-filled and unforgettable moments.

>> The Lantern Festival this year will take place on the 8^th February 2020 or the 15^thday of the first lunar month.

>> If you are interested in attending the festival in China, you must plan and book tickets early because it is peak travel season.

MYSTERIOUS MASQUERADERS AT VENICE CARNIVAL | ITALY

Carnival is the most anticipated spring festival, held in February in Venice, Italy. Each year, this festival boasts a different story and theme, but its spiritual ties with the New Year have never changed. The mystifying masks are considered the most outstanding features during the festival. Most of them are traditionally made of leather or paperboard, but people can still produce them in more creative variations with plaster or gold leaf.

Most importantly, these elaborate masks must be painted by hand and decorated with feathers and gems. San Marco Square, theatres, streets and gardens are full of fantastic colours. An amazing variety of extraordinary performances by actors, circus performers, dancers or musicians will leave you feeling as if you are lost in the 17^th century. For local residents, the festival is the perfect opportunity to escape from daily life and become a masquerader.

>> The Carnival this year will take place from 8^th to 25^th February 2020.

>> San Marco Square or St. Mark’s Square is the most crowded tourist venue. Visitors can buy tickets to enter the theatres and attend the spectacular Carnival.

>> Please prepare masks and costumes to attend the festival.

>> Arrive early to find yourself the best spot to watch the entire parade.

LOSE YOURSELF IN THE TULIP FESTIVAL | THE NETHERLANDS

When picturing the land of windmills, colourful tulips are a signature icon that immediately springs to mind. In the spring, people are extremely excited about the Tulip Festival. Known as the biggest event of the year, the festival begins in late March and ends in May every year at Keukenhof Park. During this time, despite the low temperature in the Netherlands, the tulips are in beautiful bloom.

Keukenhof is the world’s largest flower garden located a stone’s throw from the town of Lisse in the southwest of Amsterdam, about 70 million temperate flowers are planted. Mid-April is the best time to view the garden as the tulips are coming into bloom. Aside from being planted in groups, colours or along stretching canals, the glorious flowers are deftly and carefully trimmed to form a typical symbol of the Netherlands that visitors cannot take their eyes off.

>> The Tulip Festival usually takes place from 20^th March to 18^th May every year.

>> The Keukenhof flower garden is located in Lisse, a suburb of Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

>> From Amsterdam, you can catch a bus to get to Lisse. Upon arrival, take a scenic walk through Keukenhof Park to get a beautiful view of the colourful tulips.

RIO CARNIVAL – THE MOST FAMOUS DANCE ON EARTH | BRAZIL

After a long winter, Brazil is always awakened by the festive atmosphere to welcome a glorious spring. Notably, the Rio Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is most famous with Samba being the most vibrant, attractive and colourful form of dancing. For locals, the Rio Carnival is a great opportunity to celebrate and honour the beauty of the body as well as the distinctive culture displayed through traditional dance.

In February every year, Rio de Janerio welcomes millions of visitors from all over the world to celebrate this unique carnival. During the carnival, there will be four parades, notably, the two biggest parades are organised by Samba schools in the city for the championship. Visitors will be in awe of the brilliant costumes, the majestic parades and the enchanting dances.

>> The Rio Carnival this year will take place from 21^st to 29^th February 2020. Rose Monday – the day of the grand parades will take place on 24^th February 2020.

>> The Rio Carnival will be held in Sambadrome Square, located in the centre of Cidade, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

>> Most events within the Rio Carnival require visitors to buy tickets. Book in advance to have the opportunity to experience the most spectacular carnival in the world.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN SPRING FESTIVAL | SINGAPORE

Spring Festival in Singapore coincides with the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. There are three main events including the Lighthouse Festival, Singapore River Hongbao, Chingay Parades and many other activities. The most impressive highlight is the Chingay Parades with an amazing variety of decorated floats in various styles.

Visitors are intrigued by the eye-catching traditional costumes and signature dances performed by ethnic minorities. Notably, Lighthouse Festival held in Chinatown is known as the Lantern Festival for the Chinese living in Singapore. Thousands of shimmering lights illuminate the main avenue, bringing visitors a joyful and exciting New Year’s atmosphere.

>> Singapore River Hongbao takes place from 23^rd January to 1^st February 2020.

>> Chingay Parades take place from 31^st January to 1^st February 2020.

>> NS Square, the Marina Bay Floating Platform is truly a must-see destination on your itinerary.

SPECTACULAR CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL | JAPAN

If someone asks what the most attractive spring festival in the world is, many travellers will not hesitate to talk about Hanami Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan. In March every year, visitors from all over the world can admire the stunningly beautiful cherry blossoms. There is nothing more wonderful than basking in the warm spring weather and watching the pink petals floating in the wind.

When the cherry trees are in full bloom in Japan, offices and schools have an afternoon break for cherry blossom viewing. The parks chosen as the locations for the Hanami Festival are filled with beautiful cherry blossoms such as Ueno, Yoyogi or Inokashira Onshi. Visitors can view and stroll along with the cherry trees or spread out a canvas, sit under the trees and view the cherry blossoms whilst sipping a cup of Sake. The festival marks the beginning of a peaceful and romantic spring.

>> The best time for the most beautiful cherry blossoms usually lasts from late March to early April.

>> The best places for viewing the cherry blossoms are Matsumae Park in Hokkaido and Shinjuku Gyoen National Park in Tokyo.

>> There is an enormous number of visitors during the peak season, so find yourself a nice place for your best view.

Truc Ha | Wanderlust Tips

Top 3 hotels and resorts for a luxurious getaway in nature

Revel in the luxury of a beautiful natural space and make the most of being by the ocean. Get back to nature and enjoy a little peace and quiet whilst watching a flock of storks flying over the tranquil lakes. These opulent accommodation options recommended by Wanderlust Tips not only provide excellent services but also allow visitors to be whisked away for a relaxing retreat amongst nature.

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JETWING LAKE | NATURE AROUND EVERY CORNER

The name itself allows you to picture the spellbinding scenery of Jetwing Lake. Situated in the peaceful city of Dambulla, the hotel is a preeminent destination that allows visitors to enjoy a sense of relaxation and serenity. Jetwing Lake features an unrivalled location where you can catch a glimpse of the peaceful lake with herds of white storks flying freely overhead. The nature in the area is extremely abundant and offers visitors an amazing variety of exclusive experiences during their trip to Sri Lanka. An array of contemporary rooms and suites are available at Jetwing Lake for visitors to choose.

Additionally, Jetwing Lake offers you the finest combination of wellness facilities and state-of-the-art amenities to meet your needs, for instance, outdoor swimming pools, invigorating spa sanctuaries or delectable dishes of signature Sri Lankan cuisine. Especially, Jetwing Lake is set in a prime location where you easily have access to a variety of famous landmarks throughout the city, including the infamous Golden Temple of Dambulla. When travelling to Sri Lanka, be sure to stay at Jetwing Lake to enjoy the splendid natural surroundings. Take a stroll along the alluring lake whilst marvelling at the magnificence and tranquillity of the landscapes. More significantly, an array of regional experiences with friendly Sri Lankan people will bring endless joy to your heart.

Address: Wijaya Kumaratunga Mawatha Yapagama, Dambulla

Tel: (+94) 66 204 0700

Website: jetwinghotels.com/jetwinglake

SUNRISE BY JETWING | ESCAPE TO THE SPECTACULAR SUNRISE

Inspired by the beautiful morning sunrise, Sunrise by Jetwing is excellently positioned at the coastal resort town of Passikudah, captivating visitors with an endless stretch of refreshing waters. Every Jetwing hotel aims to impress visitors with its signature name. Simple but deep in meaning, Sunrise by Jetwing is truly the ideal accommodation to treat yourself to a spectacle at dawn in Eastern Sri Lanka. Situated on the smooth white sandy shores, the hotel comprises a lush green living space with natural architecture. A plush lobby illuminated with natural light, green tree-lined suites, a large swimming pool overlooking the sea and locally-designed rooms in a modern style form an indulgent living area for your pleasure.

Sunrise by Jetwing is a relaxation paradise where travellers can escape and relish the peace and serenity. For added pleasure, Spa treatments are an ideal respite and visitors can make the most of the blissful, wellness facilities, with a plethora of therapies on offer. What’s more, you can indulge in an array of sumptuous restaurants at Sunrise by Jetwing. Aside from savouring a delectable selection of flavourful Sri Lankan delicacies, these restaurants also allow you to immerse yourself in a peaceful, natural space where you can gaze out over the vast sea. A contemporary masterpiece, Sunrise by Jetwing embodies luxury architecture in nature. Wake up in a beautiful early morning in Sri Lanka to a mesmerising sunrise – an experience that will be truly unforgettable!

Address: Passikudah, Sri Lanka

Tel: (+94) 65 205 8866

Website: jetwinghotels.com/sunrisebyjetwing

MÖVENPICK RESORT CAM RANH | A COASTAL CITY WITH A TWIST

Situated in the heart of the alluring Bai Dai Beach of Nha Trang, the five-star Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh takes you on a journey to discover one of the most beautiful beach destinations in Vietnam. Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh is truly an architectural masterpiece, a perfect fusion between stylishly modern and sophisticated design and local traditional culture. The resort comprises a luxurious selection of 118 elegant villas and 250 international-standard rooms. Additionally, Condotel comprises 132 contemporary apartments, allowing the guests to treat themselves to an excellent experience. All well-appointed rooms at Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh offer a variety of state-of-the-art amenities and a breathtaking panoramic view of the azure sea.

Every morning, wake up and take a deep breath of fresh air on Nha Trang Beach and you will have a wonderful day. Not just excellent accommodation is on offer, Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh is truly a shopping paradise. Feel refreshed at the Spa & Beauty Vitality Oasis, enjoy the various slides at the Beach Club, play at the activity zones or stroll around the Swiss village and try a variety of premium beer options. Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh will exceed all of your expectations for a relaxing holiday in the coastal city of Nha Trang. With an array of relaxation services, Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh offers visitors an amazing variety of one-of-kind experiences. If travelling to Nha Trang, you should treat yourself to Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh to enjoy an amazing vacation that will certainly make you want to return.

Address: Plot D12 ABC Cam Hai Dong, Cam Lam, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam | Tel: (+84) 258 3985 999

Wanderlust Tips

Best destinations to welcome 2020

Welcome in the new decade, full of promising beginnings. Pack your suitcase and travel to lesser-known destinations around the world. These best destinations that are growing in popularity on the world’s tourism map will fascinate you with their stunningly unparalleled beauty.

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PEACE AND TRANQUILLITY IN KANDY, SRI LANKA

When thinking of the island nation of Sri Lanka, people often think of the modern capital of Colombo whilst the peaceful city of Kandy remains unbeknown to them. Situated in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, Kandy holds its own charm with an amazing variety of historical monuments and beautiful natural landscapes.

Kandy, a beautiful city will take you on an exhilarating journey. Departing from the bustling center, where Kandy Lake captivates travelers with its peaceful charm and gentle natural surroundings. Take a stroll along the lakeside and stop off at the magnificent Temple of the Buddha Tooth, a must-visit tourist destination on your itinerary. More interestingly, Kandy fascinates travelers with its lush green forests, bustling yet orderly streets and the heartfelt smiles of friendly Sri Lankan people.

COOK ISLANDS: A RETREAT FOR BEACH LOVERS

If you love turquoise waters and smooth white sand but you do not want to go to the ever-popular Maldives, then take a trip to the Cook Islands in 2020. Located in the vast ocean between New Zealand and Hawaii, the Cook Islands are made up of 15 small islands with rich ecosystems and amazing natural scenery. The Cook Islands are home to amazing tropical forests, crystal-clear azure waters and an endless amount of sparkling golden sand.

In particular, you should visit Rarotonga, the main island, which offers state-of-the-art facilities and conveniences for tourists, it has the only international airport, well-furnished hotels, vibrant restaurants and bars and a wide array of eclectic souvenir shops. The Cook Islands fascinate travelers for many reasons, but the star attraction is the whale sanctuary where you can see gigantic humpback whales swimming through the deep ocean.

A THRILLING EXPERIENCE IN LA PAZ, MEXICO

The coastal city of La Paz encapsulates the colorful and iconic beauty of Mexico. Additionally, the glorious city is blessed with charming natural scenery. La Paz is home to an amazing variety of typical Caribbean-style beaches, fascinating historical stories, and exceptionally rich food. There is nothing more wonderful than taking an adventure to La Paz to explore nature and its diverse ecosystems standing out against the dazzling sunshine.

You can swim in the cool azure water, dive to the bottom of the ocean to discover the hidden mysteries or visit legendary museums with exhilarating stories of the locals. If you have a true passion for marine life, then swimming with whale sharks will surely be a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the beautiful city of La Paz.

THE JEWEL OF AZERBAIJAN

Azerbaijan is a perfect fusion of various cultures, but it is still a lesser-known tourist destination. So, start the new decade in a country with a rich history, stunningly pristine nature and unparalleled friendliness of the locals. Azerbaijan is also known as the “Land of Fire” because the locals have worshiped the fire to pray for peace and good luck since ancient times.

In Azerbaijan, every architectural structure is also emblazoned by the flaming fire, for instance, the glamorous Flame Towers and the Yanar Dag which has been burning for the past 4,000 years. Known as the Land of Fire, Azerbaijan still boasts a peaceful and pristine charm. The small houses stretching over the lush green steppe in the Caucasus Mountains, the Caspian Sea – the largest saltwater lake in the world and the unique culture will definitely bring joy to your heart.

ETHIOPIA: EXPERIENCE A SIDE OF AFRICAN LIFE

Have you ever thought of traveling to Ethiopia, a completely different country located in remote East Africa? Different yet thrilling, Ethiopia offers an amazing variety of exhilarating experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. The stunning landscapes are considered the pièce de résistance in Ethiopia.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, the ancient city of Harar is home to a wide range of mysterious myths about the ancient African world blended with fascinating Islamic culture. Northern Ethiopia is mainly inhabited by Christians with a large number of medieval relics. The South will amaze you with a diversity of primitive tribes, for instance, the Hamers, Mursi, Karo, Surma, and Bodi. Ethiopia is truly a vast country and your trip to this beautiful country will certainly be full of fun.

INTERESTING MYSTERIES ABOUT SALTA

Situated in the remote north of Argentina, Salta is a must-visit tourist destination because the place not only impresses travelers by its magnificent scenes but it is also home to numerous stories relating to ancient dinosaurs, the mystifying mummies and even the fascinating nomadic people. Salta really surprises visitors by its rich variety of colorful architecture.

For instance, San Francisco Monastery built in the 1600s, The Hill of Seven Colours – a unique hill made up of seven different natural colors or the great Salinas Grandes salt desert. Additionally, curiosity will get the better of you when you know that dinosaur fossils have been discovered in Salta or you will be fascinated by the mummies on display at Museum of High Altitude Archaeology of Salta. Moreover, travelers are mesmerized by the excellent grape wine and the famous aromatic Empanadas cake.

MARVEL AT THE SPECTACULAR CHERRY BLOSSOMS IN YAMAGATA, JAPAN

If you want to travel to Japan, but you are not drawn to Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka, Yamagata Prefecture is an ideal tourist destination, known as the homeland of cherry blossoms. Here, you will be completely immersed in the glorious streets full of romantic pink-hued flowers. Aside from the brilliant cherry blossoms, Yamagata Prefecture is also famous for its Onsen sanctuary, a traditional Japanese hot spring bath.

After soaking in the hot spring at Ginza Onsen, take a stroll around the ancient Japanese streets and embark on a unique culinary experience with a variety of street food. Notably, Zao town in Yamagata stands out for a stunningly seasonal nature. The autumn brings a blanket of yellow and red leaves. Interestingly, when the winter arrives, the spectacular Zao mountain is covered in fluffy white snow.

LISTEN TO THE MOUNTAINS AND FORESTS IN GIA LAI

If you have a true passion for nature and wildlife, then the mountainous Northern province in the Central Highlands is a must-visit destination when coming to Vietnam. In recent years, Gia Lai has been increasingly developing, but it still preserves and maintains its distinctive cultural identity of the wild Central Highlands.

Gia Lai mountain town captivates visitors with lush green forests, majestic waterfalls and huge architectural structures imbued with the local culture. If you get your thrills and spills through new experiences, then take a ride on a giant elephant and marvel at the spectacular natural surroundings. Gia Lai is also the homeland of many kinds of aromatic coffee and there is nothing better than sipping a cup of coffee in a beautiful afternoon and enjoying the hectic pace of life in this up-and-coming location in Vietnam.

Thu Ha | Wanderlust Tips