Chiang Mai, Thailand

U Bein Bridge, built in the mid 19th century using reclaimed teak from dismantled buildings, is a glorious sight especially in early evening as it becomes silhouetted against the vivid sunsets. http://tourism.gov.mm/en_US/attractions/destinations/mandalay/

When King Mindon Min founded Mandalay in 1857 he ordered the construction of a new Royal Palace. This was the last palace built by Burmese royals. The king located it in a square citadel surrounded by four 2km-long walls with a total of 48 turrets and 12 gates, one for each sign of the zodiac. http://tourism.gov.mm/en_US/attractions/destinations/mandalay/

Mandalay Hill lies north of downtown Mandalay and is 230m high. It is dotted with pagodas and Buddhist temples. The fabulous panoramic view of the city, especially at sunrise or sunset, is worth the effort of the barefooted climb on the covered stairway on the hill’s southern slope. http://tourism.gov.mm/en_US/attractions/destinations/mandalay/

The charm of ancient city of Ayutthaya Thailand continues to gain tourists’ attention as a historic attraction. Not only the old moments but also the new things that shine. When it comes to historical buildings, Ayutthaya travel is well known for temples and palaces. But in addition to that, a variety of food is also another magnet. You can find fresh river prawns, fish, noodles, and even the never-miss dessert like cotton candy wrap. So, remember to plan your eating trip whenever you visit Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s historical and majestic highlights. The capital of Thailand, then known as the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was a glorified as one of the biggest cities in Southeast Asia and a regional power for 417 years. https://au.tourismthailand.org/About-Thailand/Destination/Ayutthaya

You may think you’ve visited some pretty amazing markets in your lifetime, but we’re fairly sure that none will come close to beating the sheer size and variety found at Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market. It really is a sight to behold, and it’s arguably the best place in the whole city to buy souvenirs and all manner of other things. But beware; the size, heat, and crowds of thousands of people are not for the faint hearted though our guide to Chatuchak weekend market in Bangkok should help you navigate and survive this awesome place! https://bangkokattractions.com/chatuchak-market-bangkok/

Khao San Road - The popular book 'The Beach' famously described Khao San Road as "the centre of the backpacking universe". Judging by the truth-seeking travellers who converge here it's a phrase that sums it up pretty much perfectly. On Khao San itself and the streets either side, you can shop, exchange tales and prepare for you next stint on the backpacker trail. Packed into a 1 km-long strip are budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels, internet cafes, bars, restaurants, massage parlours, travel agents, bookshops, market stalls, tattoo shops and much more. So much, in fact, that the people, peddlers and party spirit have spilt over into nearby Soi Rambuttri. With its carefree, anything-goes vibe, it's quite unlike anywhere else in Bangkok. http://www.bangkok.com/area-khao-san-road/

Несколько зарисовок из вечернего Бангкока. Street food, вот это во всё ... Просто бродили по городу, глазели на местных, ели trash типа шашлычков, который продают на улицах Интересный город. Много необычной кухни на улице, такой что нигде в других местах не встречал

The dazzling, spectacular Grand Palace is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Bangkok. It’s one must-see sight that no visit to the city would be complete without. It was built in 1782 and for 150 years was the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government. The Grand Palace of Bangkok is a grand old dame indeed, that continues to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail, all of which is a proud salute to the creativity and craftsmanship of the Thai people. Within its walls were also the Thai war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom. http://www.bangkok.com/attraction-palace/grand-palace.htm

Wat Saket in Bangkok Old Town is an Ayutthaya-era shrine with a gleaming gold chedi in Bangkok. Also called the Golden Mount, it occupies an 80-metre-tall man made hill that was built during the reign of King Rama III. The temple welcomes worshippers year-round, though it’s busiest during its annual temple fair in November, during Loy Krathong. The temple grounds have mature trees and typical Buddhist structures such as a main prayer hall, ordination hall and library. Wat Saket was the capital's crematorium and the dumping ground for some 60,000 plague victims in the late-18th century. At the base of the Golden Mount, you’ll find an unusual cemetery covered in vines and overgrown trees. It emits a rather spooky out-of-era vibe. Once you arrive at the top of Wat Saket, you’ll be surrounded by a wall of bells and panoramas of Bangkok Old Town. http://www.bangkok.com/attraction-temple/wat-saket.htm

Downtown

Wat Arun, locally known as Wat Chaeng, is situated on the west (Thonburi) bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is easily one of the most stunning temples in Bangkok, not only because of its riverside location, but also because the design is very different to the other temples you can visit in Bangkok. Wat Arun (or temple of the dawn) is partly made up of colourfully decorated spires and stands majestically over the water. Wat Arun is almost directly opposite Wat Pho, so it’s very easy to get to. From Saphan Taksin boat pier you can take a riverboat that stops at Pier 8. From here, a small shuttle boat takes you from one side of the river to the other. http://www.bangkok.com/attraction-temple/wat-arun.htm

The Artist's House (The Artist's House) is a centuries-old house turned gallery in Thonburi, across the Chao Phraya River. Owned by Khun Chumpol Akkapantanon, it’s an excellent spot to escape from the city’s modern buildings and hectic traffic for a day. Baan Silapin (and its neighbourhood) dates back to the 1800s. A boardwalk leading to the gallery is lined with shops, cafes, local restaurants, and a temple. You can also spot many unusual and human-sized statues painted in white, red and black sitting by the water. The Artist's House has a tall, white stupa dating back to the Ayutthaya period standing in the backyard. You can see plenty of traditional paintings, masks and, puppets throughout the building. It’s most popular for hosting traditional Thai puppet shows, where intricately-made puppets are manipulated by artists dressed in black. Shows take place on a small wooden stage every day at 2pm, except Wednesdays. It’s a good idea to call in advance as the theatre sometimes performs in other parts of the city, usually during special events. http://www.bangkok.com/magazine/artist-house.htm

Гуляя по Бангкоку обнаружили случайно очень интересный ресторан куриных супчиков Они полностью отделяют мясо и подают его отдельно с рисом. Но самое вкусное это суп! Он подается с костями, которые можно обгладать, если есть желание. Супчики просто объеденье. Очень всем рекомендую, и сам вернусь, если судьба снова занесет в Бангкок

MBK Center is probably Bangkok's most legendary shopping mall, popular with both tourists and locals, and busy with shoppers every day. There are eight floors packed with 2,000 shops that sell everything from clothing, fashion accessories, handbags, leather products and luggage to furniture, mobile phones, electric appliances, cameras, stationery and DVDs. Launched in 1986, MBK Center is a beehive of activity, especially on weekends, when half of Bangkok converges to shop for bargains. It's not as up-market or stylish as neighbouring Siam Discovery, Siam Centre and the glitzy Siam Paragon, but it offers a mind-boggling range of goods spread over 89,000 square metres and is considerably less expensive. On the ground floor of MBK, you will find lines of stalls selling fashion, shoes and handbags, fast food outlets and a Tops Supermarket, with an open space dedicated to sales offering prices discounted by 30% to 50%. As you move up the levels you’ll find enclaves of products almost randomly placed. Part of the fun of MBK is exploring the long straight paths looking out for things that take your fancy. As a rough guide, fashion is mostly on the lower floors, a mass of electronics on the 3rd and 4th floors, with home furnishings and souvenirs on the 5th and 6th. http://www.bangkok.com/shopping-mall/mbk.htm

The 'Venice of the East' nickname in fact predate Besso's scribblings by hundreds of years. However, though it is unclear when exactly the phrase was born, it is clear that no tourist guide since (book, person or website) has been able to resist this captivating cliche. Like Burma's 'Mandalay', it evokes the romance of the Orient, only Bangkok-style: of languid sampans drifting down tree-lined canals, of stoic locals living next to them in floating wooden shophouses, of city life before the advent of tuk-tuks and traffic jams. But does the Venice of the East still exist? Yes and no. Many canals were drained or filled because of the risk of cholera they posed, or to make way for badly needed roads. Unlike the city's Chao Phraya River, little or no trade passes along those that remain. However it's not a tale of total stagnation. In places remaining khlongs are, though pungent, still picturesque. Old bridges survive, crooked houses still crowd the waters edge. For a few measly baht you can whiz past them, engulfed in noise and heat and fumes, rancid water flying toward you as the boat surges forwards (for speed and sheer exhilaration they put Venice's gondolas to shame!). Or take a gentle stroll along canal paths, peeking with every few steps into a new home, stepping as you go over shoes or passed elderly ladies watering potted plants. http://www.bangkok.com/attraction-waterway/khlongs.htm

Lumpini Park (or Lumphini Park) is one of the largest green spaces in central Bangkok. Founded in the 1920s, this inner-city park spans over 500,000 sq m and is home to various flora and fauna. Over the years, it's become a popular gathering spot for Bangkok residents, who would gather for a round of jogging, light workouts, aerobics, and leisure activities throughout the day. Lumpini Park appeals to just about everyone – you'll often find the elderly practising tai chi and couples lounging by the lakeside, as well as 9-to-5 workers relaxing on benches and enjoying exercise in the evenings. On weekends, this green space is often populated by families and the cheery sounds of children. Lumpini Park's onsite facilities include paddle boats, playgrounds, and an outdoor gym. Before sunset, you can sweat it out at Lumphini Park's free aerobics sessions and high-energy techno tunes. There's also a basketball court if you want to shoot some hoops. Local jazz outfits (sometimes a classical orchestra) often perform during late Sunday afternoons. http://www.bangkok.com/sport-parks---activities/lumpini-park.htm

Nestled in the northwest of Vietnam, Moc Chau is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse cultural heritage. With its cool climate, rolling hills, and tea plantations, Moc Chau has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years.Top destinations:Moc Chau Plateau: The Moc Chau Plateau is one of the most beautiful destinations in Moc Chau. The area is home to vast green tea plantations and colorful flower gardens, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy the fresh air and cool climate while strolling through the vast open fields.Dai Yem Waterfall: Located in the middle of a dense forest, Dai Yem Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder that attracts many visitors each year. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and can be accessed via a scenic trek through the forest.Bat Cave: The Bat Cave is an underground cave system that is home to thousands of bats. Visitors can explore the caves and witness the mesmerizing sight of the bats as they fly out in search of food. Activities in Moc Chau:Trekking and hiking: Moc Chau is a hiker's paradise, with several scenic trekking routes that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the popular trekking routes in Moc Chau include the Moc Chau to Pa Phach trek, the Moc Chau to Ban Giang trek, and the Moc Chau to Phieng Canh trek.Visiting tea plantations: Moc Chau is famous for its green tea plantations, and visitors can take a tour of the tea factories and learn about the tea-making process. Visitors can also sample different types of tea and purchase some to take home as souvenirs.Camping and stargazing: Moc Chau's serene environment makes it an ideal spot for camping and stargazing. Visitors can set up their tents amidst the vast tea plantations and spend the night admiring the starry night sky.Weather:Moc Chau has a temperate climate, with cool temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit Moc Chau is from February to April when the weather is cool and dry, and the flowers are in full bloom. The summer months from May to August can be quite hot, while the winter months from December to January can be cold and misty.Moc Chau definitely is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Moc Chau has it all.

Asiatique successfully combines 2 of the most popular shopping experiences in the city: a night bazaar and a mall. Around 10 minutes downriver from Saphan Taksin BTS station, this once-bustling international trade port transformed into a huge replica warehouse complex with over 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants. Open from 5pm, spending an evening here is no problem: you’ll have good fun browsing the boutiques, picking up gifts or something for yourself. You’re also guaranteed to find something you’d like to eat and if this isn’t enough entertainment, nightly highlights range from Calypso ladyboy cabarets to classic Thai puppet shows. http://www.bangkok.com/shopping-mall/asiatique.htm

Sapa - a destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike, is a charming town nestled in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range in northern Vietnam. Here are some of the highlights of this breathtaking destination:Top destinationsSapa is famous for its stunning natural beauty. Here are some things you can expect while visiting this beautiful town: Majestic mountain, terraced rice fields, and cascading waterfalls.Fansipan: It is known as the "Roof of Indochina" and stands at an impressive height of 3,143 meters (10,312 feet). At the top of Fansipan, visitors are greeted with panoramic views of the surrounding mountain range and lush green valleys. On a clear day, it is even possible to see all the way to the neighboring countries of Laos and China. The summit is also home to a small temple and a bronze statue of the Buddha, providing a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.The terraced rice fields of Muong Hoa valley boast breathtaking views of magnificent rice terraces that are sculpted into the mountainside, especially during the harvest season when the fields turn golden yellow.In addition to its natural beauty, Sapa is known for its cultural diversity and the unique traditions of its ethnic minority groups. Some of the top cultural destinations in Sapa include Cat Cat Village, where you can learn about the daily life and traditions of the Hmong people, and Ta Phin Village, where you can visit the traditional home of the Red Dao people.Other destinations: Ta Phin Village, O Quy Ho Pass, Tram Ton Pass, Silver Waterfall, Love Waterfall, Hill tribe markets around Sapa, Hoang Lien Son Mountain…Activities in SapaSapa offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature lovers, including trekking, hiking, exploring, and cycling.For those looking for a more relaxed experience, you can take a leisurely stroll around the town, explore the local markets, or enjoy a traditional herbal bath. Weather in SapaSapa's climate is relatively cool year-round, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit Sapa is from September to November or from March to May when the weather is dry and cool.Getting to SapaThe easiest way to get to Sapa is by train from Hanoi. There are also buses available, but the journey can be quite long and uncomfortable.Sapa is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to northern Vietnam. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural diversity, and endless outdoor activities make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.https://www.saigontourist.net/

Ba Vi National Park is one of Vietnam’s most famous areas of outstanding natural beauty and is centred around a three-peaked mountain jutting steeply out of the landscape. The national park offers a great escape from the city with cool fresh mountain air in a mystical atmospheric backdrop of clouds, jungle and tropical rainforest. There is also a spa resort nestled at the foot of the mountain offering a host of natural therapies in an absolutely stunning setting. The three mountain summits are Dinh Vua which is the highest at 1,296m, Tan Vien which is 1,226m and Ngoc Hoa the smallest at 1,131m. Together they form a three humped crest which is often obscured by clouds at the highest point due to the varied climate at the park. Pilgrims and tourists alike usually make the walk to the summit of the Tan Vien peak where an 11th sacred century shrine stands in memory of the Mountain God. There are also superb tropical forest views and vistas all the way to Hanoi to be enjoyed from this peak. The fast-flowing Da River is located on one side of the national park; there are also several streams running through the park. http://www.vietnam-guide.com/hanoi/ba-vi-national-park.htm

Bangkok’s Sukhumvit Road and the surrounding district is one of the best known localities in the Thai capital. Unlike some districts in the city you won’t find beautiful temples or palaces here; Sukhumvit Bangkok is better known for its Westernised feel and consists of bars, restaurants and shopping malls that you’ll find alongside sois that are filled with even more bars (salubrious and otherwise) and massage parlours. The sex trade is difficult to ignore with prostitutes almost everywhere you look, and you wouldn’t come to Sukhumvit Road for the traditional Thai culture, but even so, it’s one of the most visited neighbourhoods in the city. So why the interest? Read on to discover our recommendations for amazing places to visit on Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok. https://bangkokattractions.com/sukhumvit-road-bangkok/

The Perfume Pagoda, known locally as Chua Huong or ‘inner temple’, is at the centre of a very revered and sacred site featuring a maze of mainly Buddhist temples built into the limestone cliffs of Huong Tich. At the heart of this complex lies the Perfume Temple or Perfume Pagoda in the Huong Tich Cave. It is believed that the first temple was built here in the 15th century, although legend declares that the site was actually discovered over 2,000 years ago by a Buddhist monk who was meditating nearby. The mountain foothills are an area of great natural and spiritual beauty filled with streams, tropical plants and temples. There are many pagodas to visit, each offering a different shrine, most of which are Buddhist although one or two are animist. The Perfume Pagoda attracts pilgrims and tourists seeking good luck from the stalagmites and stalactites inside the cave which have been named according to the individual blessing they can bestow. Dun Tien offers prosperity and Nui Co offers the chance of giving birth to a girl whilst Dun Gao translates as a ‘rice stack’ to those hoping for a bountiful harvest. http://www.vietnam-guide.com/hanoi/perfume-pagoda.htm

Located within South of Hanoi, Ninh Binh town is peppered with natural beauty, cultural attractions and the Cuc Phuong National Park nearby- Highlights include boat trips amid karst landscapes at Tam Coc and the Unesco World Heritage-listed Trang An Grottoes. Ninh Binh has been on bucket list of backpackers for ages as one of the best alternatives to ever busy , tourist packages Halong Bay. https://www.vietnameseprivatetours.com/ninh-binh-vietnam

Ninh Binh - a city steeped in history.A long time ago, Ninh Binh was once the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties. This city is not only known for its historical significance but is also considered a cradle of Vietnamese culture. The beauty of Ninh Binh's natural landscape is truly awe-inspiring, which is why it has been recognized as a natural and cultural world heritage site.Ninh Binh is home to stunning natural landscapes that are sure to leave you in awe. The province is famous for its karst limestone formations, caves, rivers, and lush greenery that make for a postcard-perfect scene.The best way to explore these natural wonders is by taking a boat ride through the Tam Coc-Bich Dong, where you can immerse yourself in the magnificent landscape and visit some highlight destinations: Mua Cave, Hoa Lu ancient capital, Bich Dong temple... Another route is the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which also boasts an intricate system of limestone caves, temples, and valleys.When it comes to accommodation, Ninh Binh offers a variety of options, from budget-friendly homestays to luxurious resorts. The homestays are a great way to experience the local culture and hospitality, while the resorts offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.Join us to explore Ninh Binh your way:https://www.saigontourist.net/

To West Lake (Ha Noi), visitors can admire the charming scenery and have the opportunity to join Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding – a water sport originated from Hawaii and imported into Viet Nam for about 3 years. http://hanoi.tourism.vn/english/index.php/item/133

The Temple of Literature is often cited as one of Hanoi’s most picturesque tourist attractions. Originally built as a university in 1070 dedicated to Confucius, scholars and sages, the building is extremely well preserved and is a superb example of traditional-style Vietnamese architecture. This ancient site offers a lake of literature, the Well of Heavenly Clarity, turtle steles, pavilions, courtyards and passageways that were once used by royalty. Visiting the Temple of Literature you will discover historic buildings from the Ly and Tran dynasties in a revered place that has seen thousands of doctors’ graduate in what has now become a memorial to education and literature. Originally the university only accepted aristocrats, the elite and royal family members as students before eventually opening its doors to brighter ‘commoners’. Successful graduates had their names engraved on a stone stele which can be found on top of the stone turtles. http://www.vietnam-guide.com/hanoi/temple-of-literature.htm

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square is one of the most visited attractions in Hanoi. It is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the most iconic and popular leader of Vietnam, known to his people as ‘Uncle Ho’. His body is preserved here in a glass case at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in central Hanoi (albeit against his wishes). For visitors, a trip to Uncle Ho’s final resting place can be an extraordinary experience as it is not just an average attraction; it’s a part of a unique history. Started in 1973, the construction of the mausoleum was modelled on Lenin's mausoleum in Russia and was first open to the public in 1975. The granite building meant a great deal for many locals as it ensures that their beloved leader ‘lives on forever’. Security is tight and visitors should dress with respect (no shorts, sleeveless shirts and miniskirts) and everyone has to deposit their bags and cameras before getting in. Visitors are not allowed to stop and hold the constant queue up as the place is constantly busy. Uncle Ho’s remains are sent yearly to Russia for maintenance therefore the mausoleum is closed usually from October onwards. It’s best to recheck with your hotel tour desk before visiting. Admission is free but donations are accepted. http://www.vietnam-guide.com/hanoi/hochiminh-mausoleum.htm

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, is an intriguing relic of Vietnam’s history and, signifying its historical and cultural importance, was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. Also known as the Hanoi Citadel, many artefacts and items dating back to between the 6th and 20th centuries were excavated in 2004, including foundations of old palaces, ancient roads, ponds and wells. On top of these discoveries, archaeologists also found bronze coins, ceramics and pottery from China and many places in Asia, all of which demonstrate a close trading relationship in the area. Visitors should head for the display room that features interesting excavated items and mock-ups of the citadel itself. http://www.vietnam-guide.com/hanoi/imperial-citadel.htm

Maison Centrale in Hanoi, also known as Hoa Lo Prison and the ‘Hanoi Hilton’ housed Vietnamese revolutionaries and American POW during the Vietnam War. The fortress was once a vast colonial-style prison, most of which was torn down in the 1990s. Visiting today you will find the small southern section resting alongside a hotel and office complex. The prison is still a popular tourist attraction for those on the war history trail. Official records claim inmates numbered in their hundreds although it was not unknown for up to 2,000 prisoners to be crammed into a space reserved for 600 inmates. Around 200-300 inmates were captured American pilots brought to Maison Centrale for interrogation and torture, it was the American prisoners who sarcastically gave the jail its nickname ‘Hanoi Hilton’. Hoa Lo Prison today portrays a different side of the horror stories told by former inmates despite the prominently displayed shackles hanging on the walls. Much of the emphasis is on the Vietnamese revolutionaries some of whom were executed at the prison. The American POWs have well documented their own experiences, little of which is available at Maison Centrale today. http://www.vietnam-guide.com/hanoi/hanoi-maison-centrale.htm

Held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Hanoi Weekend Night Market is a busy, bustling gathering of roadside stalls and local food vendors that brings huge crowds of locals and tourists. It runs through the Old Quarter district from 19:00 onwards, starting from Hang Dao Street and running north to the edge of Dong Xuan Market. Pedestrian streets and historical sites within the area are illuminated with decorative lights, making this a popular spot for travelling photographers. Shopping-wise, the fashion items on sale won’t turn many heads as you will find the usual array of inexpensive t-shirts, handicrafts, accessories, shoes, sunglasses and souvenirs at Hanoi Weekend Night Market. However, the overall environment is very lively and bargaining is a way of life here - a good start is to offer about 75 per cent off the opening price. http://www.vietnam-guide.com/hanoi/shopping/hanoi-weekend-night-market.htm

Established in 1889, Dong Xuan Market is housed within a four-storey Soviet-style building on the northern edge of Hanoi Old Quarter. It’s also known as Hanoi’s largest indoor market, offering a wide range of goods such as fresh produce, souvenirs, accessories and clothing, as well as electronic and household appliances. Similar to most markets in Southeast Asia, Dong Xuan Market has a bustling wet market section on the ground floor, where locals shop for seafood, meat, and vegetables while the back section sells an array of pets (cats, dogs, and fish) and fresh flowers from all across Vietnam. If you’re looking to shop for souvenirs, head to the upper levels, where you can find numerous stalls selling tee shirts, fabrics, school uniforms, handbags, handicrafts, all of which are sold at wholesale prices. http://www.vietnam-guide.com/hanoi/shopping/dong-xuan-market.htm