Shanghai
Shanghai is a paradox, both an anachronism and a look towards the future. The Pearl of the Orient has a rich history, replete with multiculturalism and international intrigue. After the Communist takeover, Shanghai hibernated, before beginning to reemerge in the past decade. Since Deng Xiaoping proclaimed Shanghai to be the head of the new Chinese dragon, the city has undergone a complete facelift, with a booming economy that accounts for nearly twenty percent of China's gross national product.
These happy days are reminiscent of Shanghai's past. The city was divided up into small, independent, autonomous concessions, with a British section, a French section, and an American section. While part of Shanghai remained Chinese, many locals chose to interact with the Westerners, and Shanghai became known as the Paris of the East. The Communist Party was born in Shanghai, and after it came to power in 1949, the city closed its doors to the outside world until recently.
Sixteen million people call Shanghai home today. The city is poised to become China's international face of the future, and a construction boom is fueling that feeling. The Pudong New Area is being transformed from farmland into the city's economic center. Shanghai's stock market is found here, along with some of the tallest buildings in the entire world. In just fifteen years, the number of high-rise office buildings has increased tenfold, and that number is still growing. This burgeoning economy has again attracted people from around the world, allowing the old spirit of Shanghai to re-infect people. The city has come full circle.
Hong Kong
Many feared that Hong Kong's incredible rise to prominence would be stunted when Great Britain handed control of the island back to China in 1997. In the years since, however, Hong Kong has continued its meteoric rise to become one of the leading economic centers of the Pacific Rim.
This position of strength could hardly have been anticipated. When England gained control of Hong Kong after the 1841 Opium War, the island was regarded as little more than barren rock. In fact, most of its value came from its strategic trading position, for it stood as a perfect entryway to Canton. Hong Kong started to rise slowly, but exploded only after waves of mainland Chinese came to the island, fleeing the Communist Revolution. Many of the refugees included China's elite businessmen, who came to this small island and transformed it into a wealthy economic hub.
Hong Kong's skyscrapers actually take their name literally. Companies continually strive to outdo each other by building huge edifices, seemingly one on top of the other. But if you can escape Hong Kong Island, you will be enchanted by the less developed islands that surround it. A side trip to the island of Lantau will remind you that there is more to Hong Kong than tall buildings and money.
Hong Kong can be easily divided into three main sections. Hong Kong Island measures only thirty square miles, but this is where you will probably spend most, if not all of your time. Each district on the island has a distinct feel to it, with some more focused on fashion and others concerned with economy and industry. Kowloon is the peninsula that lies across the harbor from Hong Kong Island. Finally, the New Territories cover two hundred square miles of mostly pristine, undeveloped territory.
Bangkok
Amazing Thailand is the name that has been given to the recent tourism movement that is currently underway in Bangkok. This region is certainly living up to this title, and virtually everything about the city is amazing. The gorgeous beaches, fast-paced nightlife, and exquisite Thai cuisine are capturing the hearts and minds of tourists everywhere. It is only in the past few years that travel to Thailand has really exploded. But now that it has, watch out, because there is no stopping the expansion. The transportation and amenities in Bangkok have all been upgraded, and the city has a newfound safe and comfortable feel to it that it did not have before. The atmosphere is exciting and modern, and the shopping facilities are tremendous. The bazaars are as interesting as they are bizarre, and the shows and clubs are fantastic. They are fantastic as long as you exercise certain degree of caution. Prostitution is still heavily promoted in the area, and with prostitution comes sexually transmitted diseases that you can certainly do without. So be safe and say no.
The Thai people came from a province in southern China known as Yunnan about 1,000 years ago when the Mongols invaded the area. During the 12th century, Khmers ruled Thailand, and the real nationalism of the Thai people began in the 13th century when the Thai chieftains started a rebellion against the Khmers. As the Thai alliance began to gain strength and recognition, it expanded mightily. In 1350, the capital of the country was founded at Ayuthaya. A transition of power took place over the next couple of centuries, with many different forces occupying the region at one time or another. A new capital was established at Bangkok in 1783 when the Chakri royal dynasty, ruled by King Rama I, took power. Thai culture and tradition have survived intact throughout the decades. Tourism plays a huge role in the present economy. Without it, Bangkok would really suffer, but thankfully, the enjoyment that travelers from around the world derive from their visits help keep the sightseers coming in droves. While touring Bangkok, you are sure to encounter amazing architectural sites, picturesque terrain, and bustling city life, unique to that found in Western culture.
Ko Samui
Koh means island in Thai, and Samui is the third largest Koh in Thailand. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Ko Samui is the largest of eighty islands that surround it. Around 30,000 people call Ko Samui home, with most concentrated in Na Thon.
Ko Samui was a largely undiscovered paradise until recently. The island had thrived for years as one of the world's leading coconut exporters. Adventurous travelers found their way here, and were absolutely floored by the natural beauty and pristine condition of the island. Word spread fast, of course, and soon, entrepreneurs capitalized on the island's newfound tourism boom.
Even with tourists flocking from all over the world to take in Ko Samui's beauty, the island remains a quieter alternative to Phuket, which is almost completely overrun by commercialism. The quiet beaches of Lamai, on the island's southeastern coast, are sure to afford you the perfect opportunity to relax.
If you would prefer to be a little more active while on Ko Samui, there are plenty of beautiful underwater sights at Coral Cove or Angthong Marine National Park. Dive shops are a dime a dozen on Ko Samui, so you will have plenty of opportunities to explore some of the world's prettiest coral reefs.
Singapore
Singapore is a wonderfully exciting destination that is full of relaxing activities, great architectural sites, and outstanding dining experiences. The shopping is world-class, and the nightlife is vibrant, as well. The abundance of water sports will please all of you looking for a physically challenging activity or two. The islands neighboring Singapore are gorgeous, making them ideal for an afternoon excursion. The protected park areas and nature reservations are beautiful, and there are a number of interesting attractions, especially in the historic district, that are of excellent for sightseeing and exploring.
Singapore may be a small island, geographically speaking, but it is tremendously popular with tourists. The locals are quite pleased with their home, as Singapore features some of the lowest violent crime rates of anywhere in the world. It is a very safe city for the whole family. The numerous religious factions represented in such close proximity in Singapore coexist peacefully and respect one another. This is one of the most visited places in all of Southeast Asia. If an exotic cruise destination with extraordinary scenery and a friendly society sounds good to you, then look no further. Singapore features all this and much more.
The region is so diverse that you will have no problem enjoying a completely different type of cuisine for every meal. The Chinese Opera plays in Singapore, and they are dynamite. In a single neighborhood, you will observe Muslim mosques, Chinese temples, Christian churches, and Hindu worship sites. The government of Singapore runs a tight ship, and this is probably why it is such a thriving, safe community. As a result, be wise and observe all local rules and regulations, because the law is relatively strict.
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is the pride of Malaysia. It is the main port of entry in and out of Malaysia, and it is no wonder that Kuala Lumpur was chosen to be the capital of the country. It is known as a modern capital, because this engaging dreamland was just picked a few decades ago as the country's capital. Combining impressive high-rises with natural beauty, excellent shopping with fascinating museums, Kuala Lumpur is a fantastically diverse and gorgeous place to tour.
The dining is marvelous, and cuisine from all over the world is represented in fine form. From scrumptious Italian to delectable Chinese food, you can tour a different country with every meal. In 1857, Kuala Lumpur was founded as a tiny mining town. In the middle of the city, the sparkling Masjid Jame River flows uninterrupted. The Klang and Gombak rivers meet and seem to encompass the entire city. The abundance of water in and around Kuala Lumpur adds to its allure and beauty. The parks are scenic and tranquil, highlighted by Lake Gardens, the butterfly park, and the bird park. Ornithologists will be in utter disbelief as they marvel at the exquisite diversity of the bird life in Kuala Lumpur. Nature enthusiasts and environmentalists take note: the more fervent your passion for the outdoors, the more likely it is you will stay in Kuala Lumpur and not return home. That being said, it is safe for you to assume that Kuala Lumpur is a phenomenally scenic place that offers something for everyone.
Bombay
Located on the Arabian Sea, Bombay, or Mumbai as it is often called, is one of the main ports of call in India and home to over 10 million people. Geographically, Bombay once consisted of seven separate islands, but through dredging, dikes, and land reclamation, the seven islands have coalesced to form the city of Bombay.
The name Bombay comes from the Portuguese Bom Bahia, meaning Fair Bay. The Portuguese, who controlled much of India in the 16th and 17th centuries, ruled over Bombay until 1661, when it was given to the British. Bombay grew exponentially in size and importance during the latter half of the 17th century, playing a pivotal role in international trade.
Bombay may startle you with its regions of tremendous contrast. The city is home to some of the wealthiest families in India, but it also well known for its sprawling slums and areas of abject poverty. When you stroll through the streets of Bombay, make sure you have a trusty map and a general idea of where you are heading, for a city of this magnitude can easily overwhelm even the most seasoned traveler.
Yet, despite its major metropolitan feel, you will undoubtedly fall in love with the charm that Bombay has to offer you. You will revel in the world-class dining and nightlife opportunities, enjoy an afternoon strolling through the bazaars while shopping for those priceless bargains, and marvel at the glorious museums and art galleries that make Bombay a tourists paradise.
Cape Town
Cape Town is a beautiful and historical location that demands a visit. It is alive with style and has taken the best from other cultures and incorporated them into a unique blend of heritage and excitement. A little bit of Britain, some Moslem traditions, and buildings that bring a touch of the Dutch are all found here.
There is truly an abundance of things to do and places to go in Cape Town. The outdoors welcomes hiking, swimming, sailing, and mountain biking. Cape Town's cultural highlights will convince you to step inside one of its numerous museums and galleries. This is the land of plenty and it wants you to enjoy all of its fruits.
Cape Town is very accommodating to its guests because of its multitude of sights and activities. Some people like the mountains, while others prefer the sea, and Cape Town has both. With the famous Table Mountain as a perfect backdrop, walk under the sky that holds millions of stars and revel in the moon's reflection off the surrounding mountains. These mountains invite you to explore trails during the day and explore beaches when you arrive at their base. If you'd rather stay away from the hiking and the sand, then perhaps wine tasting would be enjoyable. If so, the best place to go is Constantia and the Winelands. Feel the sophistication and witness the wealth of the surrounding estates. This countryside defines relaxation and comfort. There is no sense of time and no pressure to rush, and your only duty is to enjoy the essence of its atmosphere.
Wherever your interests lie, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is also a great place to visit. Here you will find a newly built treasure containing more restaurants and stores than one could possibly imagine. Watch a movie, stroll down the promenades, and view the moon reflecting off the canals. Cape Town is romantic, it is alive, and it never fails to warm its visitors with its radiance.
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