Saturday, November 15, 2008

Amazing Travel in Asia

By Matthew J. Willis

The Philippines has always been denounced as a country that has poverty side by side with wealth. But despite the negative declarations on this beautiful nation, the warmhearted people's welcoming attitudes win out the weary traveler. If you would like to cover antique architecture on your vacation's itinerary, the Philippines is home to beautiful Baroque, Gothic, and other Iberian-style churches. It is also home to beautiful beaches, as well as ingenious handicrafts, and the most delight for Eastern/Western fusion cuisine. Technological facilities are also never out of sight of a wired traveler, as Starbucks cafe's abound in the nation's capital, offering WiFi access. Lesser-known cafe's also dot the provincial cities, also offering Internet connectivity.

Another country that has great beaches is Indonesia. Famous for the beaches in Bali, Indonesia is a country that offers an exotic getaway from modern life. Even up to today, traces of its heritage as a Southeast Asian country with a unique culture still remain. Expect vacations in Indonesia to be filled with the sights and sounds of a growing economy enriched with an intricate cultural heritage.

Malaysia is home to the famed Petronas Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world. Though the tallest building in the world is now the Taipei 101, the Petronas Towers still holds the title for the tallest twin-towered office building in all the earth. Malaysia is a startling contrast of a steadily growing wealth, right alongside a steadily diminishing poor population, a characteristic of of most Southeast Asian nations. Despite these characteristics, Malaysia is a prime tourist spot for its world-class facilities, great beaches, and equally great culture.

Hong Kong is a firmly-entrenched economic powerhouse known throughout the world. But what it is more known for, especially to travelers and those on the lookout for a good vacation place, is its being a prime shopping spot. The best prices could be found in Hong Kong, and merchandise ranging from clothing to tech toys are at their cheapest best in Hong Kong.

Thailand has increasingly reinvented itself from the usual poverty-ridden country to be labeled as one of the top 10 countries to travel to, according to Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards 2007. Thailand is a great mix of Buddhist architecture, mixed tastefully side by side with modern establishments.

Asia is a continent that had been left unconquered by the Roman Empire in centuries past; because of this, Asian culture has remained distinct and intact. To a vacation enthusiast, Asia is a must-see before going on to Heaven, simply because Asia is the one place where you can still see vestiges of unique cultures that have yet to be conquered by globalization.

In all, when one decides to take a vacation to Asia, there is only one thing you need to be: prepared. Asian cultures vary from country to country, so ample research is advised. you also need to have an understanding that you have to set your expectations at a minimum. Some Asian countries are a good mix of the good and the bad, the rich and the poor, but if you come with a prepared heart and mind, you surely won't go wrong.

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