Tokyo is a fascinating city. In spite of being one of the most developed cities in the world, it still preserves Japan’s ancient traditions and culture. There is a ton of things to do ranging from modern – some might say bizarre – experiences to closely...
Tag: Far East
An alternate geographical term for East Asia, the Far East encompasses the captivating countries of China, South Korea and Japan, and is home to impressive temples, mighty palaces, stunning landscapes and awe-inspiring man-made marvels. From the Great Wall near Beijing to the ancient grottoes of Gyeongju and the beautiful gardens of Kyoto, there’s no end to wonderful things you can see in the Far East.
Xi’an Muslim Quarter – A Feast For The Senses
Sometimes it’s not the main attractions on your tour that provides your most vivid memories. Don’t get me wrong – on my recent On The Go Tour of China (Great Wall & Warriors), I was wowed by the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors – they...
World’s Greatest Lakes (You Might Not Have Heard Of)
Who doesn’t like a lake? They are invariably surrounded by picturesque landscapes of quaint countryside or dramatic mountains. The water is generally calm and, good weather assumed, the expansive vistas are usually quite stunning. Coupled together, this invites a state of meditative contemplation that appeals to...
Portrait of Japan
Japan is many things. It baffles and excites the senses. It is an intriguing mixture of ancient traditions and cutting edge technology. It has glaring neon skyscrapers and peaceful beautiful landscapes. It turns any preconceptions you may have of the country on its head and, as the...
Top 10 Alternative Road Trips
Nothing beats the excitement of a road trip. Stocking a car with supplies, choosing the appropriate rousing soundtrack and heading out on the open road. And you’ve no doubt heard of the world’s classic choices – America’s Route 66 and South Africa’s Garden Route to name just two....
Experience a Whirlwind Look at Life in Shanghai
With its sprawling urban landscape of neon skyscrapers, and an intoxicating energy that permeates the busy streets, visiting Shanghai is a whirlwind experience. Home to over 24 million people, China’s most populated city is full of stories waiting to be told. Created for National Geographic’s Short Film Showcase,...
Visiting the Longsheng Rice Terraces in China
Located two hours northwest of Guilin in a remarkably scenic region, the county of Longsheng is home to some of the most impressive rice terraces found in China. Built into the hillside by local ethnic tribes and known as the ‘Dragon’s Backbone’, these agricultural features have...
Rooms With A View From Around The World
If your ideal hotel stay includes an unforgettable view without even needing to step outside your guestroom, consider splurging out on these top picks. We’ve scoured the corners of the globe looking for unique hotels in various destinations from Africa to Asia, South America to the...
Instagrams of the month: Spotlight on Harbin Ice Festival
While it is said about many places, there really is nowhere in the world quite like the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival with 10 to 15 million people visiting each year to marvel at the miraculous constructions. Held from January through to mid-March, Harbin’s December conditions...
The Temples, Shrines and Castles of Japan
Japan is known for many things but one of the most prolific is its temples, shrines and castles. On my recent visit to Japan on our Land of the Samurai tour, I was surprised at just how many there were and finally got to learn the difference between...