bangkok
Country Code: +66 (2)
Currency: Thai Baht
From the Airport: Take the free shuttle to the airport’s Public Transportation Center. Here, you can rent a car, hail a taxi, or hop on a bus downtown. Taxis cost THB200 (PHP271.30), plus the THB50 (PHP67.80) toll. The cheaper but longer Bus No. 552 ends at BTS On Nut Station.
Getting Around: Travel around town via BTS Skytrains. Stored value cards start at THB200 (US$5.50). Tuk tuks are recommended only for short distances.
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.
Take It Lying Down
The oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, Wat Pho houses a 46m-long reclining Buddha. Weekenders can unwind with a session at its esteemed massage school, or book a course of treatments if they are staying longer. Wat Pho 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
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.
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.
Kitchen Confidence
Add some spice in your cooking by signing up for a class at The Oriental or the Blue Elephant cooking schools. Sessions include a visit to the market. www.mandarinoriental. com, www.blueelephant.com/school
Backpacker Central
Phra Athit Pier is where Khao San Road’s cheap rooms and beer have long been a magnet to backpackers.
Chill Feel
Flanking Khao San Road, the low-profile bars along Phra Athit Road have become a haunt for young foreigners and Thai students from nearby universities. Phra Athit Pier
Irwin Cruz
Local Life
Lorina Aigner
Volunteer
Best breakfast…
Ricky’s Coffee Shop on Pra Athit.
Famous visitors…
Former Secretary General KofiAnnan visited Bangkok in 2006 to present Thailand’s beloved King with a lifetime achievement award for development.
Best night out…
Cocktails on the open-air rooftop of Vertigo Bar in Silom, 61 floors above.
Exclusive hotel…
The Oriental Hotel.
hong kong
Country Code: +852
Currency: Hong Kong Dollar
From the Airport: Airport Express to Kowloon or Hong Kong Island in 30 minutes is HK$180 (PHP1,163) return.
Getting around: Buses are frequent and can transport you to every corner of the territory. Taxi fares from the airport cost at least HK$300 (PHP2,000) to Kowloon, but around the island they are cheap and plentiful. The MTR is fast and well-priced. Trams chug along the island’s main streets for only HK$2 (PHP13).
Dim Sum
Traditional dishes wheel past on trolleys in the sprawling dining room of City Hall Chinese Restaurant. Eat as many dumplings as you can, and drink as much tea as you like and the bill won’t come to more than HK$100 (PHP660) per person. Open for lunch and early afternoons only. City Hall, Central, tel +852 2521-1303
Skyscrapers
There is no shortage of high-rise buildings here. 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. Stop for a drink at Aqua (One Peking Road, Kowloon) or have dinner at the R66 Revolving Restaurant (Hopewell Tower, Wanchai).
Escalating Success
Take a ride on the world’s longest escalator network through the Mid-Levels. Hop off anywhere en route to pick up fresh fish, fruit and vegetables from market stalls along the way. Hollywood Road and the adjoining Cat Street are heaven for antique-buyers. A quick visit to Hong Kong Island’s oldest temple, Man Mo will prove fascinating as well.
Fortune
Get your palm or face read at Wong Tai Sin Temple in northern Kowloon.
Stanley
Once a quiet fishing village on Hong Kong Island’s south side, Stanley is now a bustling market filled with bargain souvenirs and lovely alfresco restaurants (Lucy’s is our top pick). The shopping action centers around a few easily-negotiated narrow lanes.
James Moore
Local Life
Mark Rodrigues
Banker
Best breakfast…
The Flying Pan, in the tradition of ol’ American truck stop cafés. The French toast and sausage is a must-try.
Best night out…
Philia Café’s Shanghai-theme on Saturdays.
Insiders’ tip…
If you see taxis with a “no service” sign on Hong Kong Island, it’s a signal that they want to go to Kowloon side.
Local recreation…
Hiking in Hong Kong is a well-kept secret.
jakarta
Country Code: +62 (21)
Currency: Rupiah (US$1 = IDR9,119)
From the Airport: You can hail a taxi (choose Blue Bird, one of the more reliable taxi services) — taxis (new tarriff) from the airport to downtown cost around IDR98,000 (PHP520), plus the IDR15,000 (PHP80) toll, depending on distance. The cheaper alternative is to take the DAMRI bus, which takes you to any bus station in the city for just IDR15,000.
Getting Around: Travel around town with the air-conditioned TransJakarta buses for IDR3,000-5,000 (PHP16-27), or taxis (old tariff taxis are cheaper but less safe than Blue Bird or Express taxis). Have fun traveling cheaply with the three-wheeled Bajaj if you are only going a short distance.
Centered
Previously known as Sunda Kelapa, the name Jakarta was changed by the Dutch to Batavia. The traveler in search of arts and culture will find Central Jakarta to be the perfect choice for a fill of museums, statues and monuments.
Up to the Sky
Monas — the national monument that sits in the center of Merdeka Square — has a top covered with pure gold and is a beautiful sight at night. Enjoy great views of Jakarta’s central business district and its attractions from the 137m-high observation deck.
Culinary Escapade
Over 17,000 islands have their respective regional cultures and cuisines. An authentic experience can be found in the many local warung (food stalls) that dot the city streets.
Green Gourmets
Go healthy with salad or the mouthwatering “local greens” like gado-gado (steamedzz vegetables mixed with peanut sauce), or the hot and sour rujak (mixed fresh fruits with brown sugar sauce, peanut and chili). Warung Daun or Gado-Gado Boplo in Kebayoran Baru, Dapur Sunda (www.dapursunda.net) or Sari Kuring do serve some of the best greens.
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.
Backpackers and Bodyguards
Jalan Jaksa is where those on a shoestring budget flock for cheap rooms and bars — including a bodyguard service, to boot!
Youth Spot
Be seen at Ex — Entertainment Center at Plaza Indonesia, or Citos (Cilandak Town Square) where young, rich and hip Jakartans go to enjoy good food and listen to great music.
All that Glitters
Indulge yourself in all the bling at Plaza Indonesia shopping center, Plaza Senayan.
Ramzy
Local Life
Jeremy Development
Program Manager
Famous visitors…
Chaka Khan and Presidents Ahmadinajad and Bush, all within the last 6 months!
I love Jakarta because…
Of the warmth of everything.
At night…
Hang at a warung – a roadside food stall.
If Jakarta was a color it would be…
Orange. The colour of the best sunsets I’ve seen, and all things associated with the city.
kuala lumpur
Country Code: + 60 (3)
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (RM)
From the Airport: A bus will take you from Kuala Lumpur International Airport into the heart of town for around RM10. A train will get you there across that 75km distance in half the time.
Getting Around: Kuala Lumpur’s public transport system has become slick in recent years. Expressways keep the traffic moving, and trains and air-conditioned buses have the city covered. Taxis are fast and affordable (if they use the meter). The Light Rail system offers the best view of the city.
The Height of Fashion
The 451.9m-high Petronas Towers are the centerpiece of the glitzy Golden Triangle district. Below the two 88-story towers (“8” being an auspicious Chinese number) is shopping haven, Suria KLCC. Enjoy the view from the bridge that links the two towers on the 41st floor. Open from 9am to 5pm except Monday. Tickets are free.
Banquet of Bargains
Once a produce market, this Art Deco building is now a handicraft hub, offering clothes and jewelry, crafts and antiques. There are also exhibitions and cultural performances throughout the year.
Authentic Asian Flavor
Chinatown and Little India showcase the city’s cultural and culinary diversity. Indulge in dim sum under dangling red lanterns, or dip Hokkien delicacies into a steamboat at a frantic food hall. Sink your teeth (and fingers) into the spices of Little India — try South Indian thali (rice plate), North Indian tandoori chicken (cooked in a clay oven) or Muslim Indian biryani (basmati curried rice).
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 flourishes 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’re not going anywhere.
Old-Style Worship
The oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur, Masjid Jamek is situated at the tranquil meeting point of two rivers. It marks the place where the city’s founders first settled in. The proud pink bricks, smooth white domes and two looming minarets of this Indian-inspired mosque are splendid at sunset.
Marika McAdam
Local Life
Juliana Thor
Sales & Marketing Executive, Izzi LifeStyle Holdings
Unusual fact…
We love to create world records! The biggest moon cake, the longest mee….
Local recreation…
People go to cafes anytime for yum cha.
Best night out…
Shopping until 11.30pm. Go to the Golden Triangle area to hang out with KL people until the early hours.
I love KL because…
It’s so multi-cultural.
singapore
Country Code: +65
Currency: Singapore Dollar
From the Airport: Take a taxi to the center of town for approximately SG$12 (PHP390). Or get the MRT underground train within fifteen minutes for SG$1.70 (PHP55.35).
Getting around: Buses are frequent and cover most of the island; check the signs before boarding. Taxis are well priced, but not always plentiful. Check with your hotel, as you may have to book in advance for an additional fee. The fast, modern MRT is good for the popular shopping areas. Ask your hotel for information about the SIA hop-on bus and the Singapore trolley.
Symbol of the City
The Lion City, as it is known, is symbolised by the exotic Merlion that sits proudly adjacent to 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 fish tail is a reminder of the city’s roots as a humble fishing 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 sozme 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 fish 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. While Boat Quay has gone more downmarket, Clarke Quay has stepped up its act. Hit Indochine for reliable food and great ambience, while Baize l’China One is a funky bar to chill and have fun.
MOS
Since its beginnings as one of the UK’s first superclubs, the Singapore Ministry of Sound has a seemingly never-ending selection of rooms, each featuring different music and themes for different clientele. Slip on your party pants and groove on down. The dress code is snappy, so strictly no flip-flops.
Botanical Beauty
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.
Jayne Kennedy
Local Life
Dawn Pereira
Jewelry Designer
Best breakfast…
Killiney Road Kopitiam for kaya toast, half-boiled eggs and coffee
Best night out…
Eating and partying from Boat Quay to Clarke Quay to Robertson Quay
Most exclusive hotel…
Fullerton Hotel z
Favorite local festival…
The Great Singapore Sale!
Insiders’ tip…
There’s 24hr shopping at Mustafa’s where one can find almost anything under the sun for a bargain!
Local recreational activity…
Soccer
taipei
New ROUTE
Country Code: +886
Currency: New Taiwan Dollar
From the Airport: The fastest way into the city is taxi about NT$1,100 (PHP1.5). Private bus companies also run from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Tickets cost between NT$110-$140 (PHP160-206). The trip takes 40 mins to an hour.
Getting Around: Most travel via MRT. Get a stored value ticket (Easy Card) at the station for transfers between MRT and buses (NT$15 per section).
Oyster Omelette
The made-to-order oyster omelette captures the taste of Taiwan with its fresh oysters and vegetables fried in a blanket of a chewy egg and starch batter.
Bird’s Eye View — Taipei 101
Speed up air-pressure-controlled elevators to the observation deck on the 89th floor and enjoy a 360-degree view of Taipei.
Guiltfree Shopping
Local fashion houses Y.A.P., Bread and Butter and Iroo Moderato satisfy this city’s hunger for haute couture with its European- and Japanese-inspired clothing.
Designer Paradise
Breeze is one of the newest shopping malls in Taipei with big international labels such as Tod’s, Burberry, Bally, Georg Jensen and more. Also popular are its six-theatre movie complex and the supermarket with one of the most extensive selections.
Magical Eats
The Shin Yeh Japanese Buffet is one of the best dining deals in Taipei. Locals flock here for fresh all-you-can-eat sushi, steak, imported oysters on the half shell, grilled fish and much more. 12 Guan Cian Street, Sec. 1, 6F, tel +886 (2) 2371-3311
Mingling
A place to be for dinner and long afterwards, Ziga Zaga, in the Grand Hyatt Regency, is popular amongst the executive crowd for its top-rate Italian food, nightclub and live entertainment. 2, Sung Shou Road, tel +886 (2) 2720-1234
Nana Chen
Local Life
Cédric Alviani
Director of Infine-Art, an international PR company specialising in art/culture events
Best breakfast…
Traditional soymilk breakfast served under neon-lit eateries in the Yonghe area.
Exclusive hotel…
Far Eastern Hotel. It’s a stylish tower where there’s a VIP swimming pool on the rooftop.
Favorite local festival…
Go to the riverbank of Tamshui (last stop of the MRT red line) during Lantern Festival to see people fly giant lanterns for good luck.
Unusual fact…
Taipei has few western residents and tourists. It’s one of the few cities in Asia where young children are still amazed to see a foreigner’s face.
Best night out…
Start with the hot springs in Peitou. Then eat a hotpot at the Shilin night-market.
seoul
Country Code: +822
Currency: South Korean Won
From the Airport: 52km via the Expressway to Seoul. The airport has a post office, mobile phone hire, Internet access, medical center, chemist and laundry.
Getting around: Taxis: Look for “Foreign Language Service” stickers. It is normal in Korea to share taxis — except in black cabs with a yellow top. Subway: Eight lines serve all the main areas of interest. Station signs are written in English and Korean, and most have English announcements.
Historic Seoul
The Blue House and surrounding complex is the official residence of the President of the Republic of South Korea. A tour of the city’s five palaces should include Chang-deokgung Palace and Biwon (Secret Gardens) within Changdeokgung Palace. www.lifeinkorea.com/Travel2/76
Jewel of Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Gyeongbokgung — or Gyeongbok Palace — was the main residence of the royal family during the Korean Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). It is walkable via Insadong (Mary’s Alley).
Art Action
Known to visitors as “Mary’s Alley”, the Insadong Junction area has over 100 antique shops and countless art galleries, quaint stores with Chinese pottery and jewellery, not to mention restaurants, taverns and traditional tea houses too. Open daily from 10am to 10pm. Insadong Junction, Jongno-gu. Insadong Tourist Information Desk, tel +82 (2) 731-1621
Scaling Great Heights
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
Live It Up
For a trendy drink, head to Hongik University area, Sangsu-dong, or Mapo-gu. Since it started in 2001, “Clubbers & Harmony” Club Day offers free access to 13 clubs. Clubs open between 8pm and 9pm. The peak party time is around 11pm.
Ginseng
Korean Ginseng Center on Ganghwado Island is the largest wholesale market for all kinds of Ginseng products sold directly by the farmers.
Korean Folk Village
This area contains architectural styles from different regions, including a farmhouse, a noble mansion and a provincial government office. There are gymnastic displays, and it is often used as a background for Korean movies.
Outward Bound
The northeastern mountains are famed for their therapeutic hot springs, said to benefit skin, eye problems, neuralgia and gynaecological diseases.
Percussion
Nanta Cookin’ Theatre is a non-spoken action-packed 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
MP Beale
Local Life
Rachel Askham
Teacher
Best breakfast…
Suji’s, Itaewon. The breakfast menu’s got dishes like eggs benedict and full English.
Best night out…
Dinner at the artsy area of Hyewha, at one of the traditional Korean restaurants. Share bbq pork ribs and kimchi jigae.
For European, go to Grand Ciel Italian restaurant in Apgujong, followed by Comfort Zone in Hyewha or Abbey Road in Apugujong for drinks.
Most exclusive hotel…
The W hotel is popular with the glitterati, but the Park Hyatt is definitely the most exclusive with it’s understated, contemporary design.
Best at night…
Go to the night markets like Dongdaemun and see weird and wonderful things to buy at cheap prices….
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