2 0 1 4

THE BEST IN TRAVEL

THAILANDMALAYSIACHINAKOREAJAPANTAIWANAUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND EUROPEUSA AND MORE

*As voted by our readers

*

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION

WEEKENDER TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE 2014

We are happy to present, here within our pages, the best in travel as recommended by our discerning Weekender readers.

First of all, we give recognition to these top travel agencies in Singapore, recognised for their excellence in service as well as their quality in itineraries for the respective countries and destinations.

The travel agencies and operators were nominated from Weekender’s travel advertisers and partners, and the winners were voted by readers who SMS-ed us their choices.

Have a look at the reputable travel agencies and operators who’ve emerged as the winners.

WEEKENDER WOULD LIKE TO THANK YOU, OUR READERS, FOR BEING A PART OF THE INAUGURAL WEEKENDER TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE, 2014. 03

THAILAND+ MALAYSIA

05KOREA+ JAPAN

04CHINA

06TAIWAN

10EUROPE+ USA

08AUSTRALIA +NEW ZEALAND

12CITYSTATE CRUISES

14COSTA CRUISES

WINNERS OF THE WEEKENDER TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE 2014 READERS’ VOTES

Asia-Euro HolidaysTravel agency for Thailand

ASA Holidays Travel agency for China

ASA Holidays Travel agency for Korea

SingExpress TravelTravel agency for Japan

New Shan Travel ServiceTravel agency for Taiwan

QANTAS HolidaysTravel agency for Australia

JETABOUT HolidaysTravel agency for New Zealand

EU HolidaysTravel agency for Europe

EU HolidaysTravel agency for USA

Citystate CruisesInternational Cruise Travel Agency

Costa Cruises International Cruise Line

Konsortium Express and ToursTravel agency for Malaysia

Apart from the winning travel agencies, we have come up with a guide for travellers on some of the best sights and experiences to be found, some not commonly known, for readers who have yet to travel to various destinations, or who may not have completely explored the various interesting sights and sounds available in that particular country.

We hope you enjoy our Weekender Travellers’ Choice 2014 supplement, and use it as a guide to plan your next travel itineraries. To the path less travelled, and to much more fun and happiness with our loved ones!

The Weekender Editorial Team

03

THREE BEACHES IN MALAYSIA YOU MAY HAVE YET TO SEE

SAWADEE! THAILAND*

SELAMAT DATANG! MALAYSIA*

ADVENTURE JUNKIES, HEADS UP! WE GIVE YOU THREE FANTASTIC REASONS TO VISIT THAILAND

THE LESSER KNOWN BEACHES OF MALAYSIA ARE EQUALLY, IF NOT MORE, BEAUTIFUL THAN THEIR FAMOUS COUNTERPARTS

THAILANDTRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

Asia-Euro HolidaysW I N N E R

MALAYSIATRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

Konsortium Express and Tours

W I N N E R

IT’S A WHOLE lot more than shopping and eating when it comes to Thailand.

The adventures that await you in the Land of a Thousand Smiles are plentiful, and we’ve highlighted our top three adventurous activities in Thailand for you.

RUSH OF A WATERFALLFor those who find regular rock climbing or rappelling to be a bit common, add the force of a waterfall to the equation and now you’re talking adventure.

Many hotels and travel guides have programmes that allow you to abseil, or rappel, down Thailand’s majestic waterfalls.

Feel your adrenaline surge and your heart in your mouth as you lean over the edge of a 35-foot waterfall while the ground slips away beneath your feet. Fear not, your gear and guide will keep you safe. Chiang Mai is a great place for an adventure such as this.

LANGKAWI, TIOMAN AND Golden Beach – these are probably some of the beaches you’ve visited or heard of before. However, how about the lesser known gems that Malaysia houses?

Take the road less travelled and get off the beaten track for a new adventure. Find beautiful sandy beaches in slightly quieter spots in Malaysia.

ADVENTURE IN THAILAND

TERENGGANU’S TREASURE TROVEIn the far North of Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands of Terengganu are an exciting getaway for couples, friends and families.

This is a protected area, so fishing and collecting coral are prohibited. However, the snorkelling and diving experience available is amazing.

There are many great spots for diving and canoeing and, for a wacky-fun time, banana boat riding is also available.

PRECIOUS PANGKOR ISLANDPangkor Island has beaches with nice white sand, coral reefs, and many amazing places for diving and snorkelling. The island is within

CAVES OF WONDERGet into the very heart of Thailand by exploring ancient caves and tremendous caverns like those in the Pang Mapha District of the Mae Hong Son Province.

Venture underground and discover wildlife, history and geology while perhaps trying your hand at spelunking. Expert guides navigate you through geological labyrinths, vertical caves and collapsed caves as you see the beauty of Mother Nature underground.

TWO-WHEEL THRILLTake a break from hiking, walking and trekking in general and experience something with slightly more speed and thrills. Choose from a variety of mountain biking tours but look out for one of the more interesting tours, which takes place at night.

It’s a wonderful country with all sorts of exciting things to do, so saddle up as you prepare for an adventure of a lifetime.

*This is a greeting in Thai, equivalent to “hello”.

an easy drive from Kuala Lumpur, and has great accommodation options.

You can choose between staying at a big hotel or at a rustic kelong; the choice is up to you. It’s also very near to Redang, which is also famous among divers for its stunning coral reef and waters.

TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN MARINE PARKNamed after the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park also offers some amazing beaches. Getting there from the city of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah takes just 15 to 20 minutes by boat.

All five of the islands have shallow waters, amazing white sandy beaches and coral gardens with a great variety of marine life. This is truly paradise not far.

Visitors of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park will have the opportunity to imagine how the first Europeans felt in the rainforests of Malaysia while hiking along 20km long tracks.

*The Malay greeting meaning “welcome”.

Find crystal-clear waters just north of the border

Top: Erawan Waterfall in Kanchanaburi Bottom: Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Thailand

04

the backdrop of the orange sun.These geographic wonders provide

hundreds of caves to explore. The Reed Flute Cave and Fengyu Cave astound with ancient formations set in stone.

Guilin literally means “Forest of Sweet Osmanthus” and in autumn hundreds of these blooms fill the air with their magical fragrance, especially at the many lush parks and hill sites.

With all that trekking and exploring, hunger will lead you to local cuisine, which is a combination of Cantonese and Hunan-ese styles. Braised Lipu Yam and Pork is the traditional dish, while other favourites include stuffed Li River Snails and river fish cooked in beer and mifen (stir-fried Guilin rice noodles).

XIAN - UNLIMITED HISTORY COMES TO LIFEOnce the ancient capital of the Tang Dynasty, Xian in Shaanxi province has more than 3,000 years of history. The sheer number of ancient monuments, heritage architecture and cultural landmarks makes Xian a living, breathing giant museum.

The Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses is a must-visit. This 16,300-sqm archaeological site reveals more than 8,000 life-size soldiers, horses and chariots in battle formation.

It was built by the emperor Qin Shi Huang Di to protect him in the afterlife. He was only 13 when he took the throne in 246BC. Qin’s tomb itself remains unexcavated.

Xian still has the Old City Walls that were built during the Ming Dynasty (1370AD). It is one of the few ancient walls in China still in its complete state with ramparts, battlements and parapets.

The 12m-high structure stretches 14km and you can walk the entire length, which takes four hours.

Dumplings of all kinds similar to a dim sum spread are famous in Shaanxi cuisine. Xian also has a large number of Hui people (ethnic Muslims) since ancient times, so visit Muslim Street for exotic grilled meats, mutton stews and seasonal salads.

You will not soon forget your trip.

*This means “welcome” in Mandarin Chinese.

CHINATRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

ASA HolidaysW I N N E R

AS MORE SINGAPOREANS are becoming sophisticated travellers with a keen interest in art and history, tracing one’s heritage and ancestral roots in China is becoming a high priority on a list of holiday plans.

Although China’s dense metropolis centres such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou draw thousands of visitors every year, cities further afield that offer nature, history, ethnic

culture and good food are rising up the rankings.

CHENGDU – PANDAS & FIERY SICHUAN HOTPOTPanda enthusiasts can head to Chengdu in Sichuan province to ogle the cute animals in their natural habitats. Visit the Giant Panda Breeding and

Research Center, where you can get close to baby pandas and learn all about their natural environment.

Another interesting aspect is the Dujiangyan Irrigation Project, a feat of ancient engineering that was constructed 2,000 years ago and continues to service 40 counties to this day. This irrigation system is the oldest in the world and is a heritage wonder.

Most people love spicy Sichuan cuisine. Based on the mala flavours of Sichuan peppercorns, chillies and other spices simmered in oil, this fiery paste is added to ox tripe hotpots, mapo tofu, gong bao chicken and other local favourites.

Street stalls and secluded tea houses sell hundreds of snacks from dumplings to desserts.

GUILIN – ENCHANTING RIVERS & STUNNING FORMATIONSSo beautiful in nature and natural landscapes, this subtropical city of Guilin in Guangxi province is deemed “Heaven on Earth”. The highlight is a boat ride along the Li River at sunrise, where karst formations rise out of the waters in weird and wonderful shapes against

BY FREDA SAUNDERS

HUANYING! CHINAVAST AND VARIED IN CULTURE AND GEOGRAPHY, CHINA MAY APPEAR MORE LIKE A JIGSAW OF MANY COUNTRIES IN ONE MASSIVE LAND. EXPLORE THREE SITES THAT ARE UNFORGETTABLE

STEP INTO UNFORGETTABLE CHINA

The karst mountain landscape in Guilin, renowned for its natural beauty

Above: An ancient city bell tower in Xian stands guard

Right: The adorable pandas in Chengdu should not be missed

*

KOREATRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

ASA HolidaysW I N N E R

05

BY HARRY TAN

KOREA IS NOT ONLY FAMOUS FOR ITS DRAMA SERIALS AND FOOD BUT FOR FUN AND INTERESTING SITES, AND THE EASE OF GETTING AROUND THEM

THE LAND OF CONVENIENT FUNHWAN-YEONG! KOREA*

SOUTH KOREA’S ROBUST transport system makes touring the country a cinch. Fly into Seoul, ride on rail to Busan and sail to Jeju.

Korea is the place for convenient fun.

SEOUL – MARKETS GALOREPlan your stay in downtown Myeongdong, then shop along the flashy pedestrian streets. But do not ignore the stalls at Namdaemun Market (daily, 6am to 9pm) which sell all kinds of items, street food included.

For fun and thrills, visit Lotte World. Catch the carnival parade of 200 performers jive to the beat, drop by the quaint Folk Museum, or take on the Gyro Swing. You’re sure to be entertained.

Go to Gyeongdong Market at Dongdaemun-gu for your supply of Korean ginseng, that’s great for your health. Or, dine on fresh sashimi at the 24-hour Noryangjin Fish Market by the Han River.

THE BEACHES OF BUSAN & MOREAt Busan, swanky hotels line the beaches

of Haeundae and Gwangli. Spend the day sunbathing at the hotel poolside or by the sandy beach. Or, look up the nearby Busan Aquarium at Haeundae, which houses some 35,000 sea organisms in theme aquariums.

Taejongdae Resort Park complex at

the promontory includes a lighthouse, observatory and national gallery. Enjoy the view and the refreshing sea breeze. Hop on the Danubi tram that goes around the park for other fun spots.

Complete your tour of Busan with an evening waterfront cruise.

THE ROMANCE OF JEJU ISLANDJeju is a honeymooners’ haunt. You won’t miss the ubiquitous “Grandfather Stones” (phallic stone carvings) in the parks; they are believed to promote procreation!

Dormant volcano Hallasan (1,950m) in Hallasan National Park is another interesting attraction that draws hikers to the summit. Start early, follow the well-marked trails and you could complete the climb by sunset! Just in time for a perfect view to end the day.

Here, the island’s roads can be undulating but you can get around with relative ease by renting a car or chartering a taxi.

* This means welcome in Korean.

itinerary, but it surely is a must-visit place.Two of Hiroshima’s main tourist spots

– Shukkeien Garden and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – are reasons enough to justify a visit to the city. Shukkeien Garden (admission ¥250, about S$3) features a sculptured landscape of miniature woods, gentle waterfalls, slopes and valleys, and tea houses.

Shukkeien Garden is modelled after China’s West Lake Garden. A hotspot for bridal photography, you might be able to catch couples posing in traditional costumes.

The sprawling Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park houses the Peace Memorial Museum (admission ¥50, about S$0.60) which displays war relics and relates events leading to that fateful day of Aug 6, 1945, when the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima.

The A-Bomb Dome, in ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage monument. Also in the park is a cenotaph built in memory of the 220,000 victims of the disaster.

This is a poignant and meaningful experience that shouldn’t be missed.

*This means “hello” or “good day” in Japanese.

JAPAN IS NOT JUST TOKYO AND SUSHI. HERE ARE TWO UNCOMMON SITES YOU MAY HAVE YET TO VISIT

UNIQUE SIGHTS IN THE LAND OF THE RISING SUNKON’NICHIWA! JAPAN*

Vendors cooking traditional food for visitors at the Gwangjiang Market in Seoul, which is the nation’s first market

Hiroshima castle along the Otagawa river is reminiscent of a Samurai epic

The imposing Snow Wall at Tateyama

HIROSHIMA AND THE Japan Alps present two contrasting facets of Japan. Each has its own appeal. List them among others in the itinerary, and make your Japan tour a memorable one.

UP ON THE ROOF OF JAPANTaking the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine route, which traverses the Japan Alps, is an adventure in itself. A round-trip ticket of ¥10,500 (about S$130) enables you to explore the Roof of Japan in one day.

Views from the top are stunning. You can opt to stay overnight at Hotel Tateyama (2,450m) to break the journey. En route, snow walls up to 20 metres high line both sides of the road to Murodo – a sight to behold. The route is open to visitors from Apr 16, 2014.

HIROSHIMA: A SOLACE FOR PEACEHiroshima might not be the first place on many people’s

BY HARRY TAN

A stack of Japanese alcohol barrels in the shrine at Itsukusima, Hiroshima

An overview of Busan, Korea

JAPANTRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

SingExpress TravelW I N N E R

Pho

to: q

ing

qin

g

06BY FREDA SAUNDERS

Top: Visitors to Taiwan love to go strawberry-picking Middle: Twin Heart Stone Weir in Penghu, Taiwan Bottom: Dihua Street, the oldest New Year’s Market street in Taipei. One can find all kinds of traditional Chinese food and goods here Photo: Charles Chen

TAIWANTRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

New Shan Travel ServiceW I N N E R

TAIWAN HAS SOME of the friendliest locals in the world, who make your stay both relaxed and enjoyable.

Feast on exciting street food, dive around the islands, romance by the lake, feed cows on farms, and soak tired muscles in hot springs. There’s so much to do in such an exciting country.

FARM STAYSIdeal for family leisure time, you can enjoy lush green pastures, milk cows and chickens, ride horses and tractors, cuddle rabbits and lambs, and see how fruit and vegetables are grown and harvested in Taiwan.

Hike up mountain trails during the night and see hundreds of fireflies twinkling like magic. Farm food is so fresh you’ll have amazing steamboats and barbecue meals Taiwan style with loads of crisp, green vegetables just-plucked and still sugary sweet.

Recreational farms are spread throughout rural Taiwan. A few of the popular ones include Cingjing Farm in Nantou County, Flying Cow Ranch in Miaoli County and Tsoumalai Farm in Tainan County.

SEA LIFE & ISLANDS Surfers from around the world enjoy the ideal conditions during the monsoon season that bring endless ocean swells. Daxi at Honeymoon Bay and Shanyuan Resort Beach are a few hot surf spots.

If you like diving, the coral canyons at Kending have turtle, blue-spotted stingray and many large fish. Green Island and the Penghu Islands are also popular dive spots

with high-visibility waters.

NIGHT MARKETS & FOOD STREETSEverything comes alive at the Night Markets when the sun goes down. It is a typical bustling Taiwan scene packed with shopping, food and social fun.

There are many night markets scattered all over the city and suburbs. Popular ones in central Taiwan are Fengchia Night Market and Liuhr Night Market, and Shihlin Night Market in Taipei.

Try the famous bubble milk teas, oyster omelettes, smelly tofu, sausages in sticky buns, meat braised in herbal tea, fried chicken and the well-known ‘tonic food’ with its medicinal ingredients.

HOT SPRING VILLAGES & MOUNTAINSAching back and tight muscles from hunching at your office desk too long? Unwind and soak in the many geothermal hot springs that are located all over Taiwan.

Different hot springs have different mineral waters and healing benefits, as well as different sceneries. The mineral hot water at Jiaosi is good for rheumatism while the mud hot spring at Guanzihling is excellent for lovely skin.

The Chao Ri hot springs on Green Island offer beautiful coastal views as you soak in the warm sea water pools while those at Lushan unveil spectacular mountain sights to rejuvenate body, mind and soul.

ROMANTIC LAKESun Moon Lake, and its sparkling clear waters against the backdrop of the mountains, attracts honeymooners and nature lovers. It is the largest lake in Taiwan and is situated in Nantou.

Explore old temples in the area including Wen Wu Temple and Ci En Pagoda, built by

LI HO! TAIWAN

*

late president Chan Kai-Shek to honour his father.

The Lake is home to the Thao aboriginal people

who still practise their customs and beliefs, and speak their own Thao language, which is nearly extinct.

Come and experience the broad variety that Taiwan has to offer.

*This is a greeting in the Taiwanese dialect, similar to the Mandarin “ni hao”, roughly translated as “You’re good?”.

TAIWAN HAS A RICH AND VARIED LANDSCAPE OF MOUNTAINS, ISLANDS AND CITY CENTRES THAT ATTRACTS MANY TRAVELLERS, INCLUDING FROM SINGAPORE

TAIWAN FOR EVERYONE

08

LIVE IT UP DOWN UNDER

G’DAY! AUSTRALIA

*

TOP 3 KIWI MUST-SEES

KIA ORA! NEW ZEALAND

*JUST A FEW HOURS FROM SINGAPORE AND WITH SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO, IT’S NO WONDER AUSTRALIA REMAINS A TOP HOLIDAY DESTINATION FOR SINGAPOREANS

WHETHER AS THE PARADISE HOME OF THE MAORI PEOPLE OR THE MAGICAL SETTING OF THE LORD OF THE RINGS FILMS, NEW ZEALAND IS A MUST-VISIT

BY ANTOINETTE TAN

BY ANTOINETTE TAN

FROM SCENIC VIEWS along food and wine trails to the hustle and bustle of city life to the adventure-filled great outdoors, here are just some of the many sights to see and to experience in Australia.

SIP AND SAVOUR Food and wine connoisseurs will delight in the exceptional freshness of the produce found in Tasmania.

This state’s unique locale and cool climate not only ensure that its berries, cheeses, salmon, scallops, oysters and other seafood are the freshest in the country but also pave the way for extremely picturesque road trips from the Coal River Valley near Hobart and Derwent, up the East Coast to the Tamar River.

Another food and wine trail option is the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsular, where you can indulge in some of Australia’s best wines and cruise the idyllic country roads.

In addition to having more than 50 wineries and cellar doors at each of these two regions to sample wines and dine at, these areas are also known for stunning

NEW ZEALAND: RENOWNED for spectacular scenery, exceptional volcanoes and glaciers, intriguing Maori life, expanses of beaches, and of course, the magnificent backdrop of The Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.

Here are just three highlights not to be missed.

MIDDLE EARTH The fantasy world of The Hobbit and The Lord of The Rings is, in fact, a reality in New Zealand.

Not just for elves or wizards, earthlings too can explore the beautiful filming locations of Mordor (Tongariro National Park), Forest River (Pelorus River in Marlborough), Staddles Farm and Trollshaw Forest (Waitomo), Lothlorien, as well as Beorn’s House (Paradise in Glenorchy, Queenstown), and the blockbuster sets of Hobbiton (Matamata), while travelling through the North and South Islands.

THERMAL HOT POOLSThanks to the country’s unique geology, where two tectonic plates meet, New Zealand is famous for its geothermal and volcanic activity. This means it’s the best place to find natural hot springs, hot pools and mud pools, which contain lots of minerals that relax, soothe and heal those tired, achy bodies.

Fortunately, these AUSTRALIA

TRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

QANTAS HolidaysW I N N E R

NEW ZEALANDTRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

JETABOUT HolidaysW I N N E R

hot pools, such as the Hot Water Beach in The Coromandel or Kerosene Creek in Rotorua, are surrounded by impressive views, so you’re in for a visual treat too!

MAORI CULTURE The Maori are not only the indigenous people of New Zealand, but have also grown to become an important and dynamic aspect of Kiwi life and culture.

Immerse in the Maori experience by heading to a marae (Maori meeting grounds) at Auckland, Northland or Canterbury, where the locals will welcome you with a hongi (their special nose-pressing greeting), share their stories through song and dance, and treat you to a hangi (a Maori method of cooking) traditional spread that’s cooked in a pit under the ground.

From dramatic scenery to cultural exchanges and pampering treats, one thing’s for sure: expect to experience the magic of New Zealand.

*A native Maori greeting equivalent to “hello”.

views at vantage points and tranquil spas.

BIG CITY CHARMSoak up Australia’s urban sights, sounds and smells in Melbourne and Sydney, each with its own unique appeal. Melbourne is a melting pot of cultures; it bustles with a chock-full of global cuisines and cafes, talented buskers, interesting tram rides, and brilliant street art.

Sydney is home of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Besides the striking city views, Sydney is also known for a wide range and variety of lavish restaurants, swanky bars and exciting nightlife.

INTO THE WILDFor an unforgettable outback holiday, head over to South Australia. At Coober Pedy, travellers can live in underground hotels and travel in a four-wheel drive vehicle with the postman on the famous Outback Mail Run to Oodnadatta and William Creek.

Or immerse yourself in rugged mountain-scape and wildlife at Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre at the Flinders

Ranges National Park.

With so much to offer, there’s bound to be something for everyone in the land down under.

*A regular Australian greeting which arose from the contraction of “good day”.

A hot spring in a volcanic valley in New Zealand

A Maori warrior at a Haka on Waitangi Day

A hot air balloon flight over the Yarra Valley in Victoria at sunrise

Pho

to: Patricia H

ofm

eester

10

BY LEE LI YING

WHICH OTHER CONTINENT HAS RICH HISTORY, FINE ART AND MANY ARCHITECTURAL MUST-SEES ROLLED INTO AN EASILY-ACCESSIBLE PACKAGE? THE FOLLOWING ARE AMONG SINGAPOREANS’ FAVOURITE DESTINATIONS

ESSENTIAL EUROPE

BIENVENUE! EUROPE

*

WHETHER YOU ARE newlyweds planning a honeymoon, or an undergrad planning to backpack on a budget, Europe is the coveted dream getaway.

Tick off iconic landmarks, visit quaint towns and rolling vineyards, or soak in the dawn

THE USA IS known for its epic proportions – from supersized portions of calorie-clogging fast food goodness to outrageous Hollywood scandals. It seems the “Land of the Free” has the biggest, boldest and baddest.

We pick three stand-out destinations.

LAS VEGASNicknamed “Sin City”, this city of hedonism is the embodiment of America’s superlatives. Head down to The Strip, a 6km thoroughfare of the entertainment capital of the world with many of the largest hotel properties and casinos lined up.

Catch the world-famous Cirque du Soleil in action or spend your afternoon at a Broadway musical. Adrenalin fiends should not miss the rides on top of the 112-floor Stratosphere tower – free fall, sky dive or base jump above the glittering Las Vegas lights.

Those who desire a jolt of another kind can roll the dice at the casinos.

DISNEYLAND“The happiest place on Earth” promises an all-day carnival, high-octane fun and Peter Pan-esque delights. Head down to Disneyland California, the only park to be overseen by Walt Disney himself, for a genuine experience of Disney charm.

Unique attractions such as the Indiana Jones adventure ride and Storybook Land (with miniature replicas of classics from Pinocchio to Alice in Wonderland) cannot be found anywhere else. Meet Mickey and Minnie, and various other characters as they appear for photographs throughout the day.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARKIf you’re tired of cities and lights, Yosemite is truly a great escape, offering natural splendour in the form of thundering waterfalls, alpine valleys with granite peaks and abundant wildlife.

Trek from Yosemite Valley into High Sierra for heart-stopping views of the Tuolumne Meadows. Alternatively, take a forest hike through Yosemite’s other trails and you may just spot black bears, peregrine falcons, golden eagles and bighorn sheep.

This is a paradise unlike any other.

*An informal greeting in the USA, thought to have originated from the contraction of “How do you do?”.

IT’S SURE TO BE ONE FUN RIDE

HOWDY! USA*

THE BIRTHPLACE OF HOLLYWOOD, MCDONALD’S AND DISNEYLAND, THE USA IS KNOWN AS THE HIPPEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD, AND HAS MANY INTERESTING SITES TOO

BY LEE LI YING

UNITED STATESTRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

EU HolidaysW I N N E R

EUROPETRAVEL AGENCY FOR

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

EU HolidaysW I N N E R

light pouring over the pure-white peaks of the Alps. In Europe, there’s something for everyone’s bucket list.

Here are some of the favourite destinations of Singaporean travellers. SWEET SWITZERLANDSwitzerland is best known for cheese, chocolate and some of the world’s most stunning mountain sceneries. Berner Oberland becomes a winter wonderland from December to April, with adrenalin-pumping

activities such as skiing, snowboarding or snowshoe hiking.

For a tamer ride with equally-impressive views, see Matterhorn, the loftiest of all Swiss Alps, via a cable-car journey. Also, explore Zurich’s vibrant restaurant and art scenes.

FAMOUS FRANCE The Louvre Museum in Paris is a must-see, including the world-famous Mona Lisa. Don’t miss the chance for a selfie or to Instagram yourself next to the Eiffel Tower, the icon of Paris and romance.

While renowned, not many have made their way to Mont St Michel, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. There, you will be taken back in time to the Middle Ages in the quaint, historic town and by the Gothic-style architecture of the Benedictine abbey.

The Loire Valley is another favourite, with its fairytale-esque castles and gardens.

GEMS OF GERMANYThe Black Forest is an ancient forest on a mountain range, famous for its legends and black trees. Its mystique and beauty will enthral you.

History buffs will be fascinated by the remnants of the Berlin Wall, and the Dachau Concentration Camp, a sombre reminder of the Nazi era.

End your travels with the ultimate party at the end of September, at the Oktoberfest in Munich. There’s nothing like a mega-party with lots of beer, bratwurst and pork knuckle!

*The word “Bienvenue” is French, spoken in France and Switzerland, and means “welcome”.

El Capitan and Merced River, Yosemite National Park

Top: A view of the Swiss countryside near the Alps

Below: Swiss musicians play during the Folklore Summer Festival, where more than 50 groups and 1,200 Swiss dancers took part

Pho

to: V

ictor To

rres

12

Anti-clockwise from top: Santorini in Greece is one of

the top romantic destinations in the world; on the way to

Huong Pagoda in Hanoi; Alaska is a breathtaking land

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE TRAVEL AGENCY

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

Citystate CruisesW I N N E R

A CRUISE HOLIDAY IS BECOMING MORE AND MORE POPULAR WITH THE NUMBER OF PORT OF CALLS, AND THE STANDARDS OF VESSELS EVER-IMPROVING

TIME TO CRUISE THE WORLD

AHOY! *

BY FREDA SAUNDERS

CRUISE TRAVELLERS ARE increasing in numbers and sophistication, citing the relaxed home-away-from-home experience, sea views and clean air.

Once seen as mainly a senior citizens affair, cruise vacations now attract the young, wealthy and adventurous with exotic destinations and exciting on-board facilities and activities.

Cruising offers something for every taste and interest from food to architecture buffs, art and music, science, nature, city shoppers, history and culture, and beaches as every port of call across the world links to city, village, market streets and cafes, theatre hall, art exhibition, hiking trail, ancient caves or beach.

SOUTHEAST ASIA - MOSAIC OF GEOGRAPHICAL & CULTURAL WONDERS Hanoi, VietnamVietnam’s northern capital evokes its French past and local character seamlessly, while throbbing with motorbikes and pedestrians in the city centre.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and slurp on pho bo (Vietnamese noodles with beef) at the stalls. Escape to Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature, founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong.

Krabi, ThailandAdventure seekers can head for Khao Khanap Nam to climb limestone massifs while beach bums can choose the white sands and crystal waters of Koh Phi Phi.

The Shell Cemetery at Ao Nang reveals 75-million-year-old gastropod fossils, while the night market near Khong Kha Pier offers delicious barbecued seafood.

Penang, MalaysiaThe famed island of Penang is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience lovely food, temple sights and exciting neighbourhoods, as well as the British colonial thumbprints.

Take a trishaw ride along the many alleys, feast at night hawker stalls dotted throughout Georgetown, and admire the architecture of old clan houses such as Khoo Kongsi, built in 1906.

EUROPE & MEDITERRANEAN - OLD WORLD CHARM & THE EXOTICMykonos, GreecePhotograph bright white buildings, suntan on secluded beaches, and check out the stylish night life. Traditional Cycladic architecture in villages with their little streets, art galleries, cafes and high-end boutiques also draw visitors.

Enjoy sea food, meze platters and ice cold ouzo at traditional Greek taverns.

Nice, FranceBathed in sunshine all year round, Old World decadence mingles with the unexpected. This capital of the Cote d’Azur, dazzles with its city seafront round the Bay of Angels.

Take a walking tour in Vieux Nice (Old Town) for heritage, as well as the famed Promenade des Anglais. Sip champagne and enjoy seafood and foie gras at the two-star Michelin restaurant Le Chantecler.

NorwayHome of the Vikings, this Scandinavian country is popular for its Viking culture and its scenic beauty from fjords to ethnic villages. Natural phenomena such as the Northern Lights can be seen between March and September. Sip on fiery aquavit and try traditional salmon dishes.

North AfricaExotic ports of call in this region include Egypt, Tripoli, Algiers, Tunisia and Morocco. Ancient cultures built cities of exquisite beauty in these regions from the pyramids to the mysterious city of Leptis Magna in Tripoli, buried in the desert for hundreds of years. Bargain for saffron in Morocco, laze on the beaches of Tabarka in Tunisia or eat merquez (spicy lamb sausages) at the bazaars in Algiers.

NORTH AMERICA - FAR AWAY & HONEYMOONER’S DELIGHTAlaskaSee giant icy glaciers and kayak at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. Visit Gustavus, a community of 400 citizens of artists, lawyers and other professionals who escaped the rat race to live in the woods.

Gorge on king crab and oysters at waterside eateries. You can also purchase unique handicraft of the Alaskan natives, including Eskimo, Haida and Tlingit. Or, romance in a log cabin.

The possibilities are endless on a cruise journey.

*A call that is used in sailing as a greeting or to hail another ship.

14

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY ON BOARD A CRUISE VESSEL, AND SEE THE MEDITERRANEAN IN A WAY YOU’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE

HAVE A WHALE OF A TIME

BUON VIAGGIO!*

THERE’S A SAYING that goes, “getting there is half the fun”. Well, you can take it literally when it comes to cruise liners, especially the ones by Costa Cruises.

Sure, travelling by air is faster but to travel by cruise is to enjoy and savour every moment of the journey and the amazing facilities on board. Pamper yourself and whoever you’re travelling with Costa Cruises’ Italian hospitality, style, cuisine and beautiful aesthetics. Costa Cruises is known to be the largest Italian travel group.

ADVENTURE FROM THE WESTERN SEASHave a wide selection at your fingertips in terms of where to travel in the Western Mediterranean. It’s all about the sun, sea and sand with these ports of call and you can choose your preferred ports of call according to your package.

Enjoy a longer stopover at vibrant places such Ibiza and Palma de Majorca and really hit the beach party mode at these exotic locations. Be sure to soak in the scenic and exuberant ambience of this island and city respectively and let the calming vibes wash over you when in Ibiza.

Most definitely, you have to check out the charming city of Florence, Italy, the centre of the Renaissance. Here, the revival in art and culture breathed new life into the city, which later inspired the rest of Europe.

The Tapas Tour is perfect for guests craving a real taste of Barcelona. Savour various delectable flavours and explore the Catalonian heritage, including Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces such as the Temple of La Sagrada Familia.

THE EXOTIC EAST BECKONSThe Eastern Mediterranean houses the historically-rich Greek isles alongside Turkey and Croatia as well. Travel the clear waters

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE LINE

VOTED BY WEEKENDER READERS

Costa CruisesW I N N E R

along the Greek isles and take in the sights of these scenic routes. You’ll easily recall what the Greek armada was like in the time of Troy.

At the port of Katakolon, you can visit Olympia, the origin of the Olympic Games. An eye-opening tour will bring you to the stadium housing the athletes’ marble starting blocks and the Temple of Zeus, once one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.

In Santorini, stroll along the picturesque coast and view the famous white houses with blue domes. You can also take a boat trip to Nea Kameni and sail along the volcanic shores where peculiar rock formations can be found.

NORTHERN CHARMDuring the European summer season, Costa Cruises also offers you the opportunity to visit Northern Europe. Bask in the ship’s unique perspective as you experience the charming cities of St. Petersburg in Russia, Stockholm in Sweden and Helsinki in Finland.

This cruise in the Baltics will also showcase the magnificent rolling Norwegian fjords and the breath-taking scenery of the North Cape and Iceland. This is landscape like you have

never seen before in other climes.

The cruise will likely depart from Hamburg. Be sure to be one of the guests on these exclusive cruises to the Nordic lands.

THE CENTRE OF ATTENTIONNot forgetting, the ever-popular “Thousand and One Nights” cruise in the Arab Emirates and Oman is back on its one-week

cruise itinerary. Bask in the glory and luxury of the modern architecture and designs of cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, while taking in the natural beauty of the capital city of Oman, Muscat.

The Arabian culture and colours will also mesmerise you. On board the Costa Fortuna, guests are encouraged to dress up in Arabian costume and accessories, as you party the night away with traditional dance and music. It will be unforgettable.

Costa’s new addition to the fleet, the Costa Diadema, will be christened in October. There’s never been a better time to go on a cruise.

For further details and reservations, please contact the local travel operators: Citystate Holidays, Tel: 6222 9111; Stamford Discovery Cruise Center, Tel: 6225 1322

*Italian for “good journey”.

A sunset panorama of Istanbul including the Hagia Sophia

Centre: The new Costa Diadema to be christened in October

Below: Along the Arno River of Florence

Experience the camels and sand dunes in Dubai

WEEKENDER TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE 201480 Playfair Road, Blk A, #02-03

Singapore 367998

To contact us, call 6493 2001 or E-mail general@weekender.com.sg