Bangkok
Royal Treatment
In 1782, Rama I founded the new capital, Bangkok, with Rattanakosin as its center. The Grand Palace complex by Wat Pho Pier includes a grand royal residence and Wat Phra Kaeo, home of the Emerald Buddha and Thailand’s holiest shrine.
Chill Feel
Flanking Khao San Road, the low-profi le bars along Phra Athit Road have become a haunt for young foreigners and Thai students from nearby universities. Phra Athit Pier
A Supper to Remember
Dine and be seen lounging in style on Bed Supperclub’s space-age all-white recliners. Then slip back on your heels and glide to the club next door. www.bedsupperclub.com
Take It Lying Down
The oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, Wat Pho houses a 46m-long reclining Buddha. Unwind with a session at its esteemed massage school. Wat Pho Pier
Flower Power
Visit the bustling Pak Klong Market late in the evening and watch trucks of jasmine, orchids, lotuses and roses make their daily delivery. Pak Klong Talaat Pier
Silk/Wood
The late American, Jim Thompson is often credited for reviving Thailand’s silk industry. His legacy lives on through the high-end silk fabric company bearing his name and his abode-turned-museum comprising six teakwood houses. BTS National Stadium, www.jimthompson.com
Roof Tops
Enjoy your favorite cocktail at the Moon Bar at the Banyan Tree Bangkok. Alternatively, head to Sky Bar at the Dome at State Tower for a fantastic view. www.banyantree.com, www.thedomebkk.com
High Fortune
Break your credit limit at the Siam Paragon, Gaysorn and Erawan shopping centers, anchored by the fl agship stores of European fashion houses, near the Erawan Shrine, where hundreds of locals come to pray for good fortune every day. BTS Chit Lom
Patpong
The notorious go-go bar district at BTS Sala Daeng is also home to a thriving night market where almost everything is for sale.
Lumpini Park
Bike, do tai chi or dancercise at the green lung of Bangkok. Silom Subway Station
Fluvial Romance
Book a dinner cruise from one of the luxury hotels on the Chao Phraya River and see the capital’s sights in their evening glory.
Tuk Tuk
Don’t miss a unique ride on Thailand’s most emblematic form of transport, but watch out for scams that drag you to jewelry shops.
Incredible Dusit
Dusit Park is a legacy of the well-beloved King Chulalongkorn. Important sights on its grounds include the Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall and the Victorian Vimanmek Palace.
Further Afield
A hundred miles southwest of the capital is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where vendors paddle through canals to peddle their colorful wares.
Hong kong
Cocktail Hour
Indulge in sundowners atop a giant fl oating restaurant for a unique experience. A little surreal, but relaxing in Top Deck as pleasure junks, small kaidos and fi shing vessels begin to berth in Aberdeen Harbour for the night is a great way to see another side of Hong Kong. Top of Jumbo Floating Restaurant, Shum Wan Pier, tel +852 2552-3331
Dim Sum
Traditional dishes wheel past on trolleys in the sprawling dining room of City Hall Chinese Restaurant. Eat all the dumplings you can, and drink all the tea you like, and the bill won’t be more than PHP660 (HK$100) per person. Open for lunch only. City Hall, Central, tel +852 2521-1303
Lost Late Nights
The bars and clubs found in Central’s Lan Kwai Fong have been buzzing since the mid ’80s. The proximity and diversity of venues mean that if you don’t like one place, just drink up and move on. New joints are continually springing up, so even if you have been before, it’s quite likely there will be a couple of surprises.
Skyscrapers
To get a bird’s eye view of the city, head to the viewing terraces of the Bank of China building in Central, or the Central Plaza in Wanchai. Have a drink at Aqua (One Peking Road, Kowloon) or dine at R66 Revolving Restaurant (Hopewell Tower, Wanchai).
Night Market
Take a ride on the world’s longest escalator network through the Mid-Levels. Hop off anywhere en route to pick up fresh fi sh, fruit and vegetables from market stalls. Hollywood Road and Cat Street are heaven for antique-buyers, and Hong Kong Island’s oldest temple, Man Mo is worth a visit.
Experience life in busy, noisy but always fun Kowloon as you stroll — the crowds won’t let you move much faster! — through the booths and stalls. Keep an eye out for some impromptu Chinese opera.
Race Course Carousing
From September to June, racing fever hits Hong Kong. In Happy Valley, either book a box high up in the stands, or enter the public enclosure to place your bets and enjoy a thoroughly exhilarating equine experience.
Fortune
Get your palm or face read at Wong Tai Sin Temple in northern Kowloon.
Stanley
Once a quiet fi shing village on Hong Kong Island’s south side, Stanley is now a bustling market fi lled with bargain souvenirs and lovely alfresco restaurants (Lucy’s is our top pick). The shopping action centers around a few easily-negotiated narrow lanes.
Local Secrets
Join locals for early morning tai chi at Victoria Park in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Park and Chater Square in Central.
City Escapes
If the city crowds are getting too much, take the one-hour fast ferry to the former Portuguese enclave of Macau. Or hop over to Hong Kong’s largest island, Lantau, where beautiful beaches, old temples, steep mountains, pretty parks and even a town on stilts beckon. A seafood-inspired visit to either Lamma Island or Sai Kung village in the New Territories is equally rewarding.
Shop Shanghai
Virtually the only fashion brand to have successfully sought its fortune overseas, Shanghai Tang’s fl agship store demonstrates why it’s been a success. Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central, tel +852 2525-7333
Designer Paradise
Right in the heart of Central, The Landmark is a shopping paradise connected by a series of corridors, walkways and footbridges, all devoted to every exclusive label you can shake your credit card at. Nearby IFC mall and Pacifi c Place in Admiralty are similarly top drawer, so shopaholics can happily indulge in their favorite pastime.
Magical Eats
Although The Peak Lookout does not quite afford the kind of view its name suggests, the atmospheric and historic surroundings
Jakarta
Grand Nap
Share the moment with your loved one in a romantic dinner under the stars at the most exclusive boutique hotel in Jakarta, The Dharmawangsa on Jl. Brawijaya Raya (www.the-dharmawangsa.com).
Leather Puppets and More
Traditional Indonesian arts and handicrafts are popular souvenirs. Explore the extensive collections of high quality paintings, batik textile, exquisite silver work, rare gems and ceramics at Sarinah Department Store, Jalan Surabaya or Jalan Kemang Raya. For unique woodcrafts, venture into Jalan Jaksa, the tiny alley street that cuts through Jalan Wahid Hasyim. Bargaining is everything: be witty!
Previously known as Sunda Kelapa, the name Jakarta was changed by the Dutch to Batavia. Local people still know it as Betawi. Over centuries, fi ve autonomous municipalities have developed: South, North, East, West and Central Jakarta. The leisure traveler in search of arts and culture will fi nd Central Jakarta to be the perfect choice for a fi ll of museums, historical statues and monuments.
Backpackers and Bodyguards
Jalan Jaksa is where foreign tourists and backpackers on a shoestring budget fl ock for cheap rooms and bars — including a bodyguard service, to boot!
Up to the Sky
Monas — the national monument that sits right in the center of Merdeka Square — has a top covered with pure gold and is the capital’s pride. A beautiful sight at night, enjoy great views of Jakarta’s central business district and its other attractions from the 137m-high observation deck at all times of the day.
Youth Spot
Shop with the cool teens and be seen at Ex — Entertainment Center at Plaza Indonesia or Citos (Cilandak Town Square) where the young, rich and hip Jakartans go to enjoy good food, listen to great music and make some noise.
All that Glitters
Indulge yourself in all the bling at Plaza Indonesia shopping center, Plaza Senayan or Senayan City.
Culinare escapade
Over 17,000 islands have their respective regional cultures and cuisines. For those with an aversion to malls and the trappings of urban consumerism, a more authentic experience can be found in the many local warung (food stalls) that dot the city streets.
Pluit for fish
Seafood-lovers must defi nitely work in a visit to South Jakarta’s Muara Karang in Pluit. Take your pick from an array of seafood restaurants, open until late at night. Pasar Ikan or the Fish Market is a bit further south.
Green Gourmets
Packing on pounds is an undesirable side effect of indulging in the Jakarta lifestyle, with the temptation of so many fi ne restaurants. Go healthy with salad or the mouthwatering “local greens” like gado-gado (steamed vegetables mixed with peanut sauce), or all Indonesian women’s fave — the hot and sour rujak (mixed fresh fruits with brown sugar sauce, peanut
Get pampered at Dapur Babah
This is a hip restaurant on Jalan Veteran, beautifully decorated with Indonesian artwork showing hundred of romantic myths and tales. Aside from an array of delectable dishes, their wide selection of wines is hard to resist.
kuala lumpur
The Height of Fashion
The 412m-high KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur) is one of the most distinct features of the city’s famous skyline. Every year, fi tness junkies happily race up the 2,058 steps. The more languid among us may opt to take the elevator to the revolving restaurant for some spectacular high dining (literally speaking). KL Tower is a beacon of Malaysian Islamic culture when it is used as an observatory for the crescent moon which marks the beginning of Ramadan.
Upbeat Bangsar
Bangsar appears benign during the day, but when the sun goes down, the pace picks up. Young expats and trendy locals prowl the bustling streets of what has become one of the city’s hippest hangouts. Restaurants and bars boast menus and moods that span the globe — from Malaysia to Mexico.
Red Romance
The multi-tiered Thean Hou Temple is rich in Chinese cultural symbolism and a hub of Chinese community activity. Dedicated to the “Heavenly Mother” Goddess, this striking red temple was opened in 1989. An original Thean Hou Temple is believed to have stood in the same place a century ago. About 5,000 couples get married here each year.
Banquet of Bargains
Once a produce market, this Art Deco building is now a handicraft hub, offering clothes and jewelry to crafts and antiques. There are also exhibitions and cultural performances throughout the year.
Natural Retreat
The 92-hectare Lake Garden area was once the residence of British elite and is now home to fl ower gardens, a butterfl y park, various animal parks and Southeast Asia’s largest Bird Park. Admire over 3,000 birds in the impressive walk-in aviary; rub shoulders with locals along the jogging tracks; or enjoy some time out with tai chi near the lake.
Extreme Exploration
Just 15km north of Kuala Lumpur, the cavernous limestone Batu Caves are one of the city’s prime attractions. This is the site of the annual Thaipusam festival,
Colonial Commute
Be transported to another world while you wait for a train at Kuala Lumpur railway station. Built by British architect AB Hubbock in 1911, this colonial fantasy is embellished with Moorish fl ourishes of minarets, arches and cupolas. This Raj-era station is so resplendent and houses the six-star Heritage Station Hotel (tel +60 (3) 2273-5588). It is worth a visit even if you are not going anywhere.
Old-Style Worship
The oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur, Masjid Jamek is situated at the tranquil meeting point of two rivers, marking the place where the city’s founders fi rst settled in. The pink bricks, white domes and looming minarets of this mosque are splendid at sunset.
Singapore
Symbol of the city
The Lion City is symbolised by the exotic Merlion opposite the Fullerton Hotel. The 70 tonnes of neatly sculptured concrete is an impressive sight. Its head represents the lion that was spotted by Prince Sang Nila Utama who “rediscovered” Singapore in 11AD, while the fi sh tail is a reminder of the city’s roots as a humble fi shing village.
Shopping orchard
Besides eating, Singaporeans’ other favorite pastime is shopping. Nothing compares to Orchard Road’s blend of designer and high street fashions, sprinkled with numerous restaurants and upmarket fast food joints. Try Tang’s for classy browsing, Wisma Atria for mid-range eclecticism, and for a bit of everything, Takashimaya is the place to go.
Hawking
The city’s hawker centers are some of the best in the world. The basic rule is to head to the stall with the longest queue. Hokkein mee, roti prata, laksa and fi sh-head curry have to be tried to be understood. Laksa, in particular, becomes addictive the more you eat, a mix of coconut milk, noodles, seafood and spices. Top ones to try are Newton Hawker Center, Chinatown Food Street or the East Coast.
River Rolling
Clark Quay and Boat Quay celebrate the beauty of the Singapore River with a number of waterfront bars and restaurants. Boat Quay was the original strip of activity, with Harry’s Bar made infamous as rogue trader Nick Leeson’s preferred venue. Clarke Quay has also stepped up its act. Hit Indochine for reliable food and great ambience, while the newest hotspot is Hed Kandi’s Kandi Bar.
MOS
Since its beginnings as one of the UK’s fi rst superclubs, the Singapore Ministry of Sound has a selection of rooms, each featuring different music for different clientele. Slip on your party pants and groove on down. The dress code is snappy, so strictly no fl ip-fl ops.
Botanical Beulty
These peaceful Botanical Gardens (almost 150 years old) are an oasis in the city. Take an evening stroll around Swan Lake, the National Orchid Gardens and the Ginger Garden. Halia Restaurant is a perfect lunch spot, while Au Jardin Les Amis is delicious for romance.
Hip to Hang
Exemplifying what Singapore does best, hangout@mt.emily is located in the heart of Singapore, and provides stylish and affordable accommodation. www.hangouthotels.com
Chinatown
Soak in authentic Chinese culture in this arena, including festivals, food and shops, which blend seamlessly with a funky mix of bars.
Sentosa
This is Singapore’s “entertainment island”, where you can spend a day basking on the beach. See marine life up close at Underwater World aquarium; relive history at Fort Siloso; indulge in a massage at Spa Botanica; or see Southeast Asia’s largest four-dimensional theater. www.sentosa4dmagix.com.sg
River Taxi
Glide from A to B on the authentic river taxis that shuttle passengers between Clark and Boat Quays.
East coast Park
Rent a bike, put on your rollerblades, pack a picnic basket for a beachside barbecue, sunbathe, water-ski, eat and make merry… no wonder East Coast Park is the city’s most popular family park. It’s also situated on the seafront, offering views with your activities, and making it a prime spot for a great family outing or just to hang out with good friends.
Chijmes
This is a hidden little enclave that looks like a church from the outside. Get inside the white walls, and you’ll fi nd two levels of happening bars and quaint restaurants arranged around a green square and an open courtyard below. The building itself is a beautiful example of classical architecture and a popular wedding destination all year round.
seoul
Historic Seoul
The Blue House and surrounding complex is the offi cial residence of the President of the Republic of South Korea. A tour of the city’s fi ve palaces should include Chang-deokgung Palace and Biwon (Secret Gardens) within the magnifi cent Changdeokgung Palace. www lifeinkorea.com/Travel2/76
Jewel of Seoul
Gyeongbokgung — or Gyeongbok Palace — was the main residence of the royal family during the Korean Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). It is walkable via Insadong, also known as Mary’s Alley.
Art Action
The Insadong Junction area has countless antique shops and art galleries as well as traditional tea houses. Open daily from 10am to 10pm. Insadong Junction, Jongno-gu. Insadong Tourist Information Desk, tel +82 (2) 731-1621
Scaling Great Heights
The World Trade Center and the Coex Mall are a shopper’s delight. Seoul Tower stands atop Mount Namsan, with views of the Blue House, the World Cup Stadium and Olympic Park. Take the Namsan cable car from Myeong-dong (tel +82 (2) 3455-9277/9288, www.nseoultower.co.kr/english/).
Live It Up
For a trendy drink, head to Hongik University area, Sangsu-dong or Mapo-gu. Since it started in 2001, “Clubbers and Harmony” Club Day offers free access to 13 clubs. Doors open between 8pm and 9pm, but the peak party time starts around 11pm.
Ginseng
Korean Ginseng Center on Ganghwado Island is the largest wholesale market for Ginseng products sold by the farmers.
Korean Folk Village
This area contains architectural styles from different regions, including a farmhouse, amansion and a government offi ce. There are gymnastic displays, and this village is often used as a background for Korean movies.
Outward Bound
The northeastern mountains are famed for their therapeutic hot springs, said to benefi t skin, eye problems, neuralgia and gynecological diseases.
Percussion
Nanta Cookin’ Theater is a percussion performance played on kitchen instruments!It’s funny, entertaining and Asia’s answer to Stomp!. Tel +82 (2) 739-8288, email ticketmaster@nanta.co.kr, www.nanta.co.kr
Potty for Ceramics
The Pottery Villages and Insadong Streetshops showcase Korea’s ceramic styles. Visit the Incheon Ceramics Village, the Hwanghakdong Flea Market and Yeoju Pottery Village.
The National Folk Museum
The museum features fascinating Korean folk culture. Catch free performances every Saturday at 3pm. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Sejong-ro 1-1, Jongro-gu, Seoul, tel +82 (2) 3704-3114, www.nfm.go.k
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