Asian Destinations - Interesting Facts About Brunei

Brunei is a Southeast Asian country, officially named Negara Brunei Darussalam. The country has an area of 5,765km2, along Borneo's northern coast. Brunei. Constitutional monarchy is their form of government which is ruled by a sultan as the head of the state. Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, is the present sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. He has the complete discretion over the entire country, whom is assisted by his five councils which are the: the Religious Council, the Council of the Ministers or the Cabinet, the Privy Council, the Legislative Council and the Council of Succession. These councils give advice and help the sultan in making decisions for his country.

Brunei nationals are called Bruneians, which today, has around 300,000 populations. The country consists mainly of 64% Malays and 20% with that of the Chinese, being Muslim as the predominant religion with 63% of the country's population, and 14% on Buddhism. Their primary language is Malay, Chinese which consists of different dialects, and also English. The economy is rich with crude oil and natural gases which the country is most likely supported. Though considered as a third-world country, Brunei is proud that it can support the country's medical services, and provides for food and housing funds by its own.

Business in Brunei is like any other businesses in other countries, though they do have some things they want business travelers have to keep in mind, to avoid being thought as rude:

o Business attires must be conservative. Men for example should wear suit and tie while doing business and women on the other hand is advised to wear a business suit or dress with long sleeves and long skirt preferable right below the knee.

o A hand shake is considerable enough during first meetings with business colleagues to show respect between each other.

o Public alcohol drinking is strictly prohibited, so you might want to exclude that from your planner.

o Also, prevent being too loud when you're in public; the country is admired of their being discreet at all times.

o It is considered too in Brunei (and mostly all other Muslim nations) that the head is the most important section of the body, as the feet being the least important, and it is required to remove our shoes whenever we enter someone's house.

o Likewise too, the Bruneians do not allow pointing fingers with the index finger. It is more advised to use the thumb instead.

Other than those, Brunei is a friendly country with friendly people, so if you're friendly enough either, you won't find any difficulty with your visit.

Ms. Pinky is a mom of 3 school children. She is a Systems Engineer, a Technology Researcher and an Independent Medical Billing and Coding Consultant. She and her family is well-traveled all over the world!

Discover the Best Places to Visit in Yangon, Myanmar

Myanmar is famously known for the country's remarkable beauty and elegance. Thousands of travelers from around the world visit here every year to witness Myanmar's wonderful exquisiteness. Being the largest country in mainland Southeast Asia, with 678,500 square kilometers, Myanmar surely has most number of beautiful places in the world. A few days visit in this stunning Asian country is definitely rewarding journey. There are countless places in Myanmar where most travelers love to visit. Yangon, also known as Rangoon which is the country's capital has one of the best places to visit in Myanmar.


Here are some of the Yangon's best places to visit:

o Schwedagon Pagoda - located in Yangon, Myanmar; considered as the most famous building in the city for its unique cone-shaped features. This is thought to be the most sacred Buddhist pagoda for the Burmese people. Its remarkable golden-colored appearance makes it even more fascinating. Constructed way back between 6th and 10th century by the Mons; an ethnic group from Myanmar. Buddhists come here and perform their religious rituals. Tourists come here to witness the outstanding beauty of this one-of-kind structure.

o Dusit Inya Lake - an attractive lake resort located at Kaba Aye, Pagoda road Yangon, just 15 minutes from the city center. A place to relax and relish the magnificent beauty of Myanmar. There are several resorts and hotels around the lake to choose from, where you can spend luxurious and calm relaxation. The sunset by the lake is the most witnessed attraction in Dusit Inya Lake, where people can view the brilliant radiance sundown, which is a perfect place to go after a whole day trip to Yangon.

o Myanmar National Museum - located in Pyay Road, Yangon Myanmar. The museum holds Myanmar's historic collectibles and artifacts, including Myanmar's "Royal Throne", the bronze statues of Myamnar's founders of its kingdom, namely King Bayinnaung; founder of Myanmar's first kingdom, King Anawrahta; founder of Myanmar's second kingdom, and King Alaung Min Tayar founder of Myanmar's third kingdom. Plus, visitiors can take a glimps of Myanmar's national artifacts including their collections of fine art works made from pure gold.

o Chaung Thar Beach - a recently opened beach in Myanmar located just about 6 hours drive from Yangon central. It has a breath-taking view of the Myanmar coastline, with cool relaxing breeze where visitors can relax and unwind. Morning tides here are truly refreshing, which tourists will surely love. In lined with bungalow rentals from around the beach coast where visitors can have a place to stay and rest. There are also shops in a nearby village where people can buy souvenirs and other marine life products such as fancy jewelries made from seashells and ocean pearls.

These are just among he best places to visit in Yangon, Myanmar. Visitors may feel free to discover the wonders and beauty Yangon, Myanmar has to offer.

Ms. Pinky is a mom of 3 school children. She is a Systems Engineer, a Technology Researcher and an Independent Medical Billing and Coding Consultant. She and her family is well-traveled all over the world!

Her blogs and websites focuses on stay-at-home moms, dads and students who wants to work at home, build homebased business http://www.mommyisworkingathome.com.

Visit her Interesting Site on Asian Travels and Destinations. Discover Asia's Culture and Great Food! at http://www.goingplacesinasia.com.

Singapore Tourist Attractions

Singapore is a rather spectacular travel destination and it should definitely be on every tourist's list of places to visit. Singapore is not a typical Asian city as there is a strong British influence which can be seen in everything from architecture to politics. It is definitely a city where the East meets the West. Singapore is also a wonderful holiday destination as there are so many excellent tourist attractions from which tourists can choose.

Singapore is one of the leading travel destinations in Asia and millions of tourists visit this nation island every year. It is also a popular business travel destination as a large number of exhibitions and conferences are organized every month in Singapore. This article however focuses on what makes Singapore such as fantastic destination for tourists which is why we have listed some of the most popular Singapore tourist attractions.

Night Safari

The ever so popular Night Safari can be found on the grounds of the Singapore Zoo. It is in fact the first night safari found anywhere in the world and it allows its visitors to view a large number of nocturnal animals in their natural settings. There are over a hundred species of animals which visitors can see during their visit to the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari. Opening hours of the Night Safari are daily from 19:30 until midnight. Tickets for the Night Safari range from SGD 10.40 until SGD 15.50.

Jurong Bird Park

Another very popular tourist attraction in Singapore is the Jurong Bird Park. Not only tourists enjoy visiting the Jurong Bird Park as also a lot of local Singaporean residents enjoy visiting this lovely and rather stunning wildlife park. Visitors can find nearly ten thousand birds from six hundred species in this twenty hectare bird park. If you would like to visit the Jurong Bird Park then please note that opening hours are daily from 08:00 until 18:00. Entrance fee for children is SGD 4.10 and the entrance fee for adults is SGD 10.20.

Sentosa Island

No visit to Singapore can possibly be complete without a visit to the amazing Sentosa Island. It is an island which is located on the main island of Singapore and it has been developed into a major travel destination. There are a number of wonderful hotels and resorts located on Sentosa Island and a large section of Sentosa Island has also been developed into what seems a major theme park. All types of attractions and activities can be found on Sentosa Island including an underwater world as well as several camping grounds. Please note that the entrance fee for adults to Sentosa Island is SGD 6 and for children it is SGD 4. You will need to buy separately tickets for all the various attractions on Sentosa Island.

James is travel consultant living on Phuket and is working on a number of projects. If you are looking for information about Phuket then be sure to visit his Phuket guide which includes an excellent section with Phuket guesthouse information.

Langkawi Island - The Unforgettable Destination!

Langkawi island is known to be the biggest inhibited island with 478.5 square kilometers. Meanwhile, Kuah is the second with 45,000 human populations and the other one is Tuba Island. Most of the uninhibited ones are commonly rocky surface while some are divided by narrow canals which make them can be crossed by small boats.

Mystery Myths and Legend of the Beautiful Langkawi

Langkawi Island that once was a land of the pirates has many fabulous myths and legends which can attract both local and foreign tourists. Langkawi people boast for old tales about ogres, giant birds, beautiful princesses, great warriors, and romance stories. All of these became their wonderful heritages which are brought down from their ancestors. The islands around the area are also can be proud on their exceptional rock formations and countless caves which rich with stalactites and stalagmites, magnificent scenery and tremendously exotic beaches that offering all year round sunshine to satisfy your tanning cravings. For an example, tourists may go to Cenang Beach or Rhu Bay for a wonderful holiday under the warmly convenient sunshine.

Beach, On Land and Underwater World!

Marvelous white beaches around the island, idyllic crystal-clear water plus captivating marine life will give most tourists especially the scuba-divers irresistible offers to be missed out. Water sports and recreational enthusiast will certainly fall in love with Langkawi Island when their holiday become the most attractive ever as it provides lots of water sport activities throughout every year by both local and international bodies.

On the other side, there still lots of many places of interest in Langkawi Island. It is a must for tourists for visiting Mahsuri Mausoleum, which is the most famous legendary woman in Langkawi Island's history who was sentenced to death for adultery that she did not commit. She was stabbed to death and she bleed white blood as a sign of her innocence. Then, she cursed Langkawi to be desecrated from peace and prosperity for seven generations.

More than 5,000 species of aquatic life are placed in the marine aquarium at the Langkawi's Underwater World. This place also placed a few numbers of mammals and reptile species. However, visitors who want to go to Kuah by ferry will be warmly greeted by the giant eagle statue. This landmark is a really great and nice place to take stroll due to the magnificent scenery and make it a suitable place for taking photos.

Duty-free Shopping - Mean Cheap!

Shopping addicts also can find their heavenly places in Langkawi Island as it offers duty-free shopping on a variety of local and imported goods. You can shop where offers provided for wide range of items from perfume, cosmetics, sport gear, leather products, confectionery, cigarettes and liquor in affordable prices.

Key Tips

Visitors are only allowed to bring back a carton and a bottle of liquor to the mainland after staying at 48 hours in Langkawi Island in order to avoid the items being taken illegally. On the other hand, there are lots of resorts as well as hotels to be chosen depend on your budget. There are also list of accommodations which suit your financial budget, visit Langkawi now!

Langkawi island is known to be the biggest inhibited island with 478.5 square kilometers. Meanwhile, Kuah is the second with 45,000 human populations and the other one is Tuba Island. Most of the uninhibited ones are commonly rocky surface while some are divided by narrow canals which make them can be crossed by small boats.

Phuket Patong Beach - A General Guide

Phuket's most famous beach - Patong - has everything that a beach lover needs. Phuket Patong beach is the most sought-after destination in Thailand for the beautiful beach and array of activities and facilities. The 2-kilometer golden sand beach is always alive with tourists and is rarely empty even during off-season.

While the northeast monsoon is the best time for families due to perfect calm sea, the southwest monsoon brings in slightly choppy sea and adventure seekers. Red flags are seldom seen even during the worst days. This makes Phuket Patong beach a year round tourist destination.

With the tourists thronging the place, the infrastructure has developed manifold to accommodate the visitors. Hotels, restaurant, bars and entertainment options are available in all price ranges to suit tourists of diverse strata and tastes. This makes Patong an ideal holiday destination for luxury to backpacker crowd.

For the lazy beach-goers, there are options like sunbathing and Thai massage. Expert local masseurs line the shaded portions of the beach area and are not very expensive. Reflexology and other kinds of massages are also offered here. Umbrellas and tanning beds are available for hire in the beach itself.

Patong beach has almost all water sport facilities such as jet skiing, windsurfing, kayaking, waterskiing, wakeboarding, snorkeling, banana boat and Hobie Cats. The equipments required for these activities are mostly available for hire in the beach area. Other beach activities include volleyball and soccer. These games are usually played during the evening hours and the local crowd always welcomes tourists.

Beach vendors seen along Phuket Patong beach are a source of amusement for western tourists. They sell everything from eatables to knickknacks that are good as souvenirs of the Thailand holiday. Bargaining is a vital part of the transaction with these vendors. However, this is conducted in a friendly way, enjoyed by both sides.

Paisit Kapilakan owns and operates the website My Phuket Holiday that provides more than just information and reservation for hotels in Thailand. My Phuket Holiday offers a comprehensive travel guide to Koh Phuket, Thailand and the best discount for hotel reservations in Thailand including Bangkok, Koh Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Chiang mai, Hua Hin and Phuket.

All About Bali

Bali is an indonesian island located at the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. It is one of the country's 33 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island.

With a population recorded as 3,551,000 in 2009, the island is home to the vast majority of Indonesia's small Hindu minority. About 93.18% of Bali's population adheres to Balinese Hinduism, while most of the remainder follow Islam. It is also the largest tourist destination in the country and is renowned for its highly developed arts, including dance, sculpture, painting, leather, metalworking and music.lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. It is one of the country's 33 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island.

Browse through any of the well known travel magazines and you're sure to find Bali, Indonesia, listed among the top 10 travel destinations in the world.

With its exotic blend of ancient culture, majestic scenery, the world's finest hotels and the warmth of the tropical oceans surrounding the island paradise, it's hardly surprising.

Bali is located in the Indonesian archipelago only eight degrees south of the Equator. The island measures 90 kilometres (55 miles) from north to south and 140 kilometres (90 miles) from east to west, making it easy to go out for an excursion anywhere in Bali and return to your hotel by nightfall.

Towering volcanic peaks that rise mystically through the clouds, terraced rice paddies carved into the mountainous landscape, iridescent crater lakes, lush tropical rain forests and sandy white beaches lapped by warm ocean currents are only a few of the wonders that draw millions of visitors to this tiny island each year.

Bali Tricks for First Time Travellers

Let's look at some valuable travel tips to help you experience the very best that Bali has to offer:

1. Bali's tropical weather means that travel at any time of the year is suitable, however its best to check when the major Indonesian holiday periods and religious ceremonies occur to avoid the influx of domestic tourists.

2. Bali accommodation offers superb value, particularly if you are travelling on a budget. To ensure you get the best value for money, book ahead.

3. Getting around in Bali can be quite an experience, to say the least! Road rules are nonexistent and traffic can be downright dangerous. Don't assume that traffic will stop for you at a pedestrian crossing if you are on foot. If you are driving, the best piece of advice is to paraphrase a famous saying, "When in Bali, drive like the Balinese."

4. Many of the luxury Bali hotels and villas will organize a driver for you, or you may choose to hire a bicycle if you don't have far to travel.

5. As a tourist, you are bound to be hassled by local drivers shouting "Transport?" wherever you go. If you wish to hire a local driver, make sure he is clear about where you want to go and arrange a fixed price before you get in the car. Drivers are keen to barter with you, so it is customary to bargain until you get a price you are comfortable with.

6. And while we're on the subject of bartering, it's perfectly acceptable to barter in the local markets and stalls, but don't try it in the larger department stores - the sales assistant may be quite offended.

7. Hawkers will descend on you from the moment you step outside your hotel, particularly if you are located in one of the major tourist areas. Although it may seem rude to you, the best advice is to ignore them altogether. Don't make eye contact or slow down to look at the merchandise they are selling unless you are interested in purchasing something, or being distracted for what may seem an eternity trying to get rid of them.

8. Beware of counterfeit goods unless that is what you're looking for. Bali is well known for its knock-offs and you can buy anything from fake Rolex's to fake Rayban's at the local markets.

9. It's likely you may be offered illicit drugs in the highly populated tourist spots. Ecstasy, pot, yabba (crystal meth) and shabu-shabu (methamphetamines) are the most popular drugs on offer in nightclubs and on the beaches, particularly in the Kuta area.

If you don't want to become another high-profile drug case, simply ignore the offers.

10. Bali locals are among the most friendly and relaxed people you will find anywhere in the world, but that doesn't mean you can drop your guard when it comes to scams and rip-offs.

Be wary of moneychangers who offer you amazingly good rates for exchanging foreign currency, touts who offer you the cheapest ride to your destination without confirming a fixed price and anyone who wants the money before handing over the goods.

11. And perhaps the best tip for new travelers to Bali is the one that is bound to be least successful -- don't look like a tourist!

This sage piece of advice is written almost tongue-in-cheek because the diminutive, friendly Balinese bear no resemblance whatsoever to their much larger framed Western neighbours. Not only that, our cultures are vastly different and so is our language. The most you could possibly hope for is to look like an ex-pat from your native country who has chosen to live an idyllic lifestyle on the island.

However, a couple of words of Bahasa will help with that "Oh, I've lived here for years" attitude. Selamat pagi (good morning), tolong (please) and terima kasih (thank you) will take you a long way in East-West relations.

Looking to book holidays to Bali? Then find Bali hotel accommodation, other tourism resources and Bali island tours with Bali Dream Tours. Make online bookings for hotels and villas in Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Tuban, Seminyak, Ubud, Kuta, Sanur and other areas of Bali by visiting Bali Hotels.