Travel Articles

  • Travel Articles,  TRAVEL/HOLIDAYS

    Exploring The Beauty of Mykonos

    Every single view on the paradise island of Mykonos can be considered picture-perfect. Mykonos is a stunning island in the Mediterranean Sea that’s become a powerhouse of a tourist destination, and it’s natural or manmade beauty is a huge part of it. There are so many spots that are impossibly beautiful that it’d take you a lot of time to explore the entire island and its nooks and crannies.

    Little Venice
    Italy has had a huge influence on the development of Greece and Mykonos in general. They were a huge deal just a couple of centuries ago, in the 16th and 17th century, which was the time when Little Venice was constructed and developed by Venetian sea merchants. It feels like it’s a spot ripped straight from Venice, and the entire beachfront with its restaurants and hotels is an amazing romantic spot that you’ll never want to leave. It has a unique artistic charm that’s been recreated in paintings and other artworks, so make sure to spend as much time as possible.

    Kato Mili
    If you prefer to have a good mix of perfect views and history, then Kato Mili, or the Lower Windmills, is the perfect spot for that. They’ve been constructed several centuries ago by the Venetians in the town of Chora. Some of them stand on the top of the famous spot called Chora Hill, which is where you’ll find some of the finest panoramic views on the island.

    Ornos
    The beauty of Ornos is more calm and quiet than anything else. It’s a small village on the southwestern part of the island, and it’s an interesting mixture between a fishing village and a bustling resort. Its whitewashed villas are some of the most unique ones in the entire wider region, and the beach is considered one of the cleanest and picturesque ones around. Staying at the Adorno Suites right beside the beach is definitely the best way to experience Ornos.

    Ano Mera
    Mykonos has much more history than merely the Venetians. The village of Ano Mera is a colorful little place in the heart of the island, and it’s one that known for its historic and cultural heritage. It’s also the spot of a famous local church by the name of Panagia Tourliani, which is not only a prime example of local architecture but also the home of several Byzantine relics and artifacts.

    Matogianni Street
    Exploring the most unique street on the entire island is always a treat. Matogianni Street is a fine example of how culture, history, and shopping can come together to form one beautiful whole. Filled with shops of varying sizes, most of who sell handmade arts and crafts, as well as cosy taverns offering food and drink, make for one fantastic setting to spend an entire day exploring.

    Mykonos is a destination that has so much to offer. Its beauty is practically unparalleled in the entire Mediterranean, and it’s such a rich destination that you’ll never feel like you’ve seen enough so as to stop exploring more and more of the island.

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  • Travel Articles,  TRAVEL/HOLIDAYS

    What to Pack for a Hiking Vacation

    Selecting the right hiking gear is vital if you want to have an enjoyable hiking trip. In order to have a safe and refreshing hike, you need to pack enough supplies and make sure you have suitable clothing for the trip. Thankfully, packing for a hacking trip doesn’t have to be a tricky task to tackle. These next three tips will help you prepare for your next adventure.

    hiking

    Pack Layers of Clothes

    The best way to dress for a hiking trip is to wear layered clothes. If there’s one thing unpredictable about this type of adventure, it’s the weather. The weather in the mountains can shift from hot and sunny to absolutely freezing in a matter of minutes, especially when the sun sets or rises.

    Wearing layers of clothes when hiking can help you adapt to changes in weather conditions quickly. You can add more to stay warm, or simply remove some layers if the day gets a bit warm. Be sure to consider these layers when packing your clothes.

    The outmost layer is the most important. Even when you’re expecting a hot day during the trip, you must always pack a windbreaker or a waterproof jacket. A pair of waterproof trousers is a good idea too.

    Hiking Boots

    You’ll be walking most of the time, so choose a pair of hiking boots that fits you perfectly. Women’s walking boots are easy to find these days, so finding a pair that fits you like a glove – well, like a good pair of shoes – is very easy. Be sure to select hiking boots that are light and comfortable; comfort should be your priority.

    Some hiking boots have more features. You can, for instance, choose a pair that’s waterproof and dirt-proof. These features will help make the entire trip so much better since you can keep your feet dry and protected.

    A Backpack for the Job

    Many hikers – especially beginners – focus most of their attention on accessories and hiking gear. These items are indeed essential, but you should never forget the backpack that will carry them throughout the trip. Never – and I do mean NEVER – settle for a cheap backpack, especially when you have a lot to carry or you’re going on a long hiking trip. The last thing you want to happen is for the bag to fail you in the middle of your adventure.

    When it comes to backpacks for hiking trips, I usually suggest carrying two backpacks: a 45-litre one and an 18-litre daypack. The larger backpack is for storing clothes and all of the hiking essentials. The daypack, on the other hand, is useful for carrying items that you will use frequently during the trip, such as sunglasses and your medications.

    Of course, these are just the basics. You can add more items to your packing list according to your needs and personal preferences. Check your bags before you embark on the adventure and be sure to carry extras of essential items to ensure an enjoyable and truly satisfying hiking trip.

  • Travel Articles,  TRAVEL/HOLIDAYS

    Croatian Holiday Bookings Rise Following Return of Game of Thrones Series

    New research has revealed that the return of the Game of Thrones series to UK televisions has led to more people searching for holidays to Croatia, where the series was filmed. Season 6 started airing on Monday, 25 April 2016, since when holiday bookings to Croatia have also seen a sharp rise. It was also revealed that specific areas, including Dubrovnik, were particularly popular holiday searches and that many people have booked a trip to these locations. The spike started some two weeks before the series became aired and has not yet slowed down.

    dubrovnikDubrovnik, Croatia.

    The popular HBO series Game of Thrones seems to have had an impressive positive impact on tourism in Croatia. The series is, in part, filmed in this country. According to UK based online travel agency Sunshine.co.uk, the number of searches and bookings for holidays in this Mediterranean country have increased significantly. The travel agency is conducting a piece of research into the travel behaviors of British holiday makers, and they are trying to uncover whether the fantastical television series and travel trends are correlated.

    In the two weeks before the next series of Game of Thrones returned, which was due to air on Monday, 25 April 2016, Sunshine noticed that some 3,100 individual searches were registered for ‘King’s Landing’ holidays. This was interesting because King’s Landing is a fictional place that only exists in the series. Part of this series was actually filmed in the Croatian medieval city of Dubrovnik.

    Not all interested holiday makers searched for King’s Landing, however. In fact, many seemed to be well aware of where the series was filmed, because searches for Dubrovnik in particular were also up. In fact, there was a 71% increase in the number of searches for this city compared to the month before. Additionally, there was a 26% rise in the number of bookings that were made.

    When looking specifically at searches for Croatia, it was found that there had been an 85% increase compared to the previous month. Furthermore, all Croatian destinations and resorts saw an increase of 31% in bookings compared to the previous month. This was specifically for bookings and searches made through sunshine.co.uk.

    There were a number of other searches that were noted on sunshine.co.uk that are likely to be related to the new series. These included ‘Game of Thrones tours’ and ‘Game of Thrones Filming locations’. It seems, therefore, that the series has actually made a significant impact on the minds of people.

    Additionally, Croatia has welcomed the increase in tourism. The country prides itself on its ancient history and beautiful geography and is happy to see that more people will be able to enjoy it. Now that the series has been aired, it seems that searches and bookings continue to rise, so the overall impact could be even more significant.

    Chris Clarkson, Managing Director of sunshine.co.uk, said the following:

    “Croatia is a really beautiful destination which is within easy reach of the UK. I’d say it’s very much still an up and coming holiday location, because it still retains a somewhat undiscovered status. There are so many small islands to explore and so much culture and history to soak up, as well as the year-round sunshine, so it’s not difficult to see what the appeal is.

    “With all of this to offer and the fact the country has been thrown in to the limelight somewhat thanks to Game of Thrones and the TV show’s cult following, it isn’t going to remain undiscovered for very long. People wanting to visit should do so now!”

  • Travel Articles,  TRAVEL/HOLIDAYS

    5 Best Emerging Travel Destinations

    Similar to clothing, restaurants, haircuts and London boroughs, the travel industry sees emerging trends every year. From city breaks to gap years to package holidays – there is always a hot new destination to check out. Indulge in gourmet delights with our expert yacht chef in Dubai. And if you are wondering what to do in Houston, TX, with kids there is really a lot from parks to museums and all! So enjoy and have the best fun! Besides Hawaiian tours, here is a list of the top five hot spots to visit in summer 2016.

    1. Marrakech, Morrocco

    Guests enter a haze of swirling patterns, bustling souks and spicy scents on a trip to Marrakech. Top sites to visit include Musee de Marrakech, Djemaa El-Fna square, Marrakech Medina and Jardin Majorelle. You might by now have guessed that French is commonly spoken throughout the city! Be sure to take a wander around the markets to be part of the distinctive scents, sounds and movement.

    marakech

    2. Siem Reap, Cambodia

    South East Asia is a must for most travellers looking for a life changing experience. This city is a gateway into one of the largest religious sites in the world – perfect for those looking to get spiritual. Discover the ruins of Angkor Wat, get a monk water blessing at Bayon Temple and make your way through Angkor Night Market. Nearby, the 12th century Angkor Thom royal city is another highlight.

    3. Dubrovnik, Croatia

    Dubrovnik hosts a bit of a fairytale landscape, with gothic churches and spires punctuate the skyline. This is a city soaked in fascinating European history and culture, often overlooked for Paris and London. Take a walk around the UNESCO listed Old Town, explore the palaces, discover the old city walls and – most importantly – call in at a restaurant for some delicious Croatian wine.

    dubrovnik

    4. Buenos Aires, Argentina

    For some South American flavour, head to Argentina’s confident capital city that has a European twist. This is home of the tango, so expect a lively night life with lots of dancing. It has also built a reputation for being a bit of a shopping mecca, so this is an ideal destination for those looking to splash some cash on indulgences. Be sure to call in at the city’s oldest bar, Cafe Tortoni, built in 1858.

    5. Nalaguraidhoo Island, Maldives

    One of the most compelling reasons to visit the Maldives is its tropical climate, which is stable and warm throughout the year. Whether you’re lounging on a beach, exploring the local culture, or taking a sunset cruise, the Maldivian weather will complement every experience.

    In essence, the Maldives offers something for everyone – from the ultimate relaxation getaway at an Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, heart-stopping adventure sports, to immersive cultural experiences. Its distinctive charm, natural beauty, and warm hospitality make it a destination that definitely deserves a spot on your travel checklist.

    6. New York, America

    The concrete jungle that needs no introduction, New York sells itself to travellers everyday through TV, song and film. Williamsburg in Brooklyn is on the rise an up and coming trendy area, so swing on by for a cool cocktail in an arcade game themed bar. There are always new exhibitions on at the galleries an museums and the National History Museum never fails to impress visitors of all ages.

    Of course, nothing quite beats the classics like a sunny beach in Marbella or booking a luxury Turkey tour at https://madeinturkeytours.com/.

    Images by Martin Fisch and Ivan Ivankovic used under the Creative Commons license.

  • Travel Articles

    Fit in more, hand baggage now 7kg

    MASbaggage

    Last February, Malaysia Airlines increased its checked baggage allowance by 10kg. Now, the weight limit for hand baggage is also up, from 5kg to 7kg. You are allowed to carry on board one piece of hand baggage for Economy Class, and two pieces for First and Business Class. Please take note that the size of each piece should not exceed 56cm x 36cm x 23cm.

    In addition to the 7kg hand baggage, you may also bring either one of the following items:
    • notebook/laptop briefcase
    • camera bag
    • binoculars bag

    You are also allowed one small handbag and walking stick.

    If you are travelling with an infant below 24 months old, you are allowed an additional:
    • bag containing baby food and nappies, weighing not more than 5kg
    • carry-cot

    Source credit: Malaysia Airlines (with permission)

  • line drawing,  mixed media,  pen & ink,  Travel Articles,  Travel illo,  watercolor

    Travel illustrations: Lombok

    Cover illustrations I did recently for next issue of Gaya Travel Magazine. Will be out soon and will let you know if I will be getting some free copies. I did a line work concept and colored only the traveller part in watercolor. Took me accumulatively one day to complete.

    I have never been to Lombok but got the reference photos from the team. So yeah, hope to go someday. Lombok looks gorgeous!

    gaya82Pen and watercolor on acrylic paper.

  • Japan,  Travel Articles,  TRAVEL/HOLIDAYS

    Discover the spirit of Japan

    My mother-in-law, her sister and husband (Bak Cu and Pak Cu) and my sister-in-law is now holidaying in Japan to visit Udin (Bak Cu and Pak Cu’s son) who is studying Mechanical Engineering in Shibaura Institute of Technology, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Udin is having his convocation there, that’s the main reason they are there. They went a week ago and will be coming back in few days time. They seem to enjoy it there, they went shopping, they went to Nippori (textile town), they went for spa, they went to Yokohama port and many more. My sister-in-law posted great photos from Japan and one if it being interviewed by Fuji TV!

    Udin and family in JapanUdin being interviewed by Fuji TV in Akihabara, the so-called Electric Town in Tokyo, Japan. Photo credit: Nurzulali Mohd Tahet (my sis-in-law).

    yokohama port
    From left: my sis-in-law, mom-in-law, Pak Cu and Bak Cu posing in front of Yokohama Port. Photo credit: Udin (my cousin-in-law).

    I could not help but feeling envy; envy in a good way as it really makes me want to visit Japan and this has triggered me to find out more about Japan. I came about this interesting video about Japan ‘Discover the Spirit of Japan’ on YouTube, thought I share it with here. Jom, let’s discover Japan! Japan is so on my travel bucket list now.

    And as for Udin, he will be working there after having been graduated from Shibaura Institute of Technology last March 16. He will start working this coming April 1 with KAO Co. Ltd. for few years. He has been staying there for 4 years now and can speak Japanese fluently as he took 5 years course learning Japanese language; 3 years with UNISEL and 2 years in Japan.

    When asked about the people in Japan, Udin told me they are very helpful people and willing to help the best they can provided that we can speak their language. They love it when foreigner can speak their language. So this is a good tip for us if we want to visit Japan.

    Good luck Udin, all the best from Malaysia! I will definitely find you if I have the chance to visit Japan.