Take for example, the country of China, which has always been one of the places that easily come to mind when you think of Asia travel. Must-sees while you're in China are the Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, Great Wall of China, Tiannamen Square, however, these are all just from the Northern part of China, there's still so much to see in the other parts of this huge country, like the futuristic city of Shanghai and the cuddly pandas that abound in the city of Cheng and the wholesale markets in Guangdong where a lot of the fashion accessories that you see in malls may have come from. Visiting China may be fairly cheap - but it does depend on which city you go to, small cities like Dongguan may have a low cost of living as opposed to the bustling city of Shanghai, which is very similar to the very cosmopolitan city of Hong Kong.
Of course, engaging in some Asia travel practically requires you to immerse yourself with the local culture. One great example is China's local food culture, which is definitely a lot different from what people are used to in Chinese restaurants abroad. Some people say that enjoying Chinese cuisine is an acquired taste, especially when it comes to the street food. Expect to see all sorts of animal parts and insects, cut up into little pieces and skewered on sticks - as snacks. Unique treats like fermented tofu and mung bean soup are also something for the more adventurous.
But what about other countries to explore for Asia Travel? Well, if you are the beach bunny type then you might want to check out the lovely beaches of Bali in Indonesia or the relaxing waters of Phuket in Thailand. Both are very budget-friendly Asia travel destinations by the way, from the accommodations down to the food, you will surely get more bang for your buck at these places.
For city slickers however, there is the lovely city of Singapore which is just beside the equally charming Malaysia where tourists can find the city of Kuala Lumpur. It is interesting to note that as neighbors, there are a lot of similarities between these two countries like the huge ferris wheel. As for hotels though, expect Singapore to offer higher rates - even for backpacker hostels. In order to make the most of the great shopping opportunities in both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, schedule your trip starting from May to August wherein there are myriad of shopping sales available.
Of course, there are definitely a lot more places to explore while you are in Asia, like the tropical country of the Philippines and the ever-vibrant city of Tokyo in Japan, among others. While Asia is a continent which is fairly safe to travel to, do keep in mind that you should always be aware of your surroundings and take caution in whatever you do. Do not keep your money in just one place, make sure that you keep your passport in a secure place, and don't just trust strangers - especially the ones who are very eager to take you someplace. Don't forget to bring your credit card in case of emergencies, an updated guide book and map, as well as list of the local emergency numbers - just in case.
Malaysian Tourism Board promotes the country as Truly Asia. The fascinating fusions of tradition and modernity, Malaysian cities' have unique multi-cultural heritage, cuisine, arts and architecture make them ideal cosmopolitan getaways. Malaysia's mix background of Chinese, Malay, Indian and colonial heritages constantly amaze western travelers with the cultural richness and harmony, knitting a truly Asian spectrum of variety on sights and sounds.
Kuala Lumpur City Center
Travel to Kuala Lumpur city and you will be awestruck by the ultra-modern Petronas Twin Towers at the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). The Petronas Twin Towers are 452 meters tall, contain 88 stories, & are the world's tallest twin structures.
Situated on the previous site of the Royal Turf Club in the heart of the capital city, the Kuala Lumpur City Centre is truly a spectacular Architectural sight. Here, the 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers, the world's tallest twin structures, soars to a dizzying height of 452 metres. Cesar_Pelli was the Architect of this masterpiece. Inspired by the Five Pillars of Islam, this gleaming mega-structure was designed by the Argentinian-American architect in earlies 90s. Below the towers, lies a beautifully landscaped fountain park designed by prominent Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx. KLCC is also home to the world-class Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Suria Shopping Centre and Petronas Philharmonic Hall.
Kuala Lumpur Railway station
Take a short taxi ride from KLCC and let yourself be charmed by the classic Moorish-style of the old Railway station. Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is located at Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It is a very beautiful building. It has a Moorish-style which was designed by architect A.B Hubbock. Built in 1910, the building is about 80 years old. I am sure it is built long before you and me were here. In 1986, the station went under extensive renovations, upgraded to have air-conditioned waiting hall, snack kiosks, tourism information booth and many more. In the past, it used be very quiet but since the city commuter service started, it is a very busy station now. All the Intercity train services do not stop here anymore because there is a new railway station opened called KL Sentral, less than 1KM away from the old railway station.
Shopping Extravaganza
Shop in some of world's most luxurious malls at Kuala Lumpur shopping precincts like Bukit Bintang, Damansara Utama, Ampang, Mid valley, Subang Jaya, Sunway City, etc.
Every year, Malaysia has six weeks of great shopping promotions, bargains and discounts of up to 70% on a wide range of products and services at all major shopping precincts, malls and retail outlets nationwide. Check on www.tourism.gov.my for the yearly Malaysia Megasale calendar periods.
Be part of the festivities when you drop-in at your favorite malls and enjoy fantastic prizes as you take part in the fun contests and activities lined-up for you and your family. Get instant redemption and gifts when you charge with Master Card and be in the running to win your dream holiday at Malaysia's premier resort destination, The Four Seasons, Langkawi.
Know that your shopping experience doesn't stop at the malls. Do check out the countless bargains and offers from hotels, travel agents, entertainment outlets, spas and restaurants around town. With the whole of Malaysia celebrating this major sale event, you and your family can shop to your hearts' content and have a great fun time chilling out too.
Malaysian Nightlife
Experience a bargain with a trader in a bustling night market. Whether you sample a succulent stick of satay at a roadside hawker stall or spicy chilli crab at a Chinese restaurant, you will revel in the many alluring attractions. The Night Market is a nice place to visit as the atmosphere at nightfall always makes for a different experience. Here, you will get a chance to dine al fresco under the stars and moon. There are food stalls set up near the main bus terminal. These stalls are open from 6pm onwards till about midnight, serving up some truly delicious dishes. This is your chance to enjoy good Malaysian food, the Malaysian way!
Both Sivakorn Siricharoensataporn & Subert Kiing are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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