Chittagong (চট্টগ্রাম) is Bangladesh‘s main port and second largest city, as well capital of the Chittagong Division in the south east of the country. It’s situated on the banks of the Karnaphuli River, which ends in the Bay of Bengal. As of latest measurement the city has population of 2.6 million people, and is constantly growing as it’s listed 10th on the world fastest growing cities list.
The city of Chittagong is fairly big and spread out, just like the capital city Dhaka the streets are messed up and filled with traffic, motorbikes and rickshaws. Although it does feel the local government puts more efforts in keeping the sidewalks clean. Travelers will notice a increase of beggars and con artists than in other parts of the country. The busiest part of town is the area around Station Road and Jubilee Road, while 2 miles north you find yourself center of the middle to upper class life, with gigantic shopping malls and fancy restaurants.
When visiting Chittagong there’s several sightseeing within city limits worth going by including; Patenga Beach, Foy’s Lake, Adventure Land & Paradise Valley, Shrine of Baizid Bostami, World War II Cemetery, Ethnological Museum, Chittagong Zoo, Baitul Falah, Chandanpura Mosque, Chittagong College, Mohsin College, Court Building and the Red-light district. Not all sightseeing’s are free or charge, some may require entrance fees or a guided tour.
United States citizens do not need a visa, you will receive a three months visa upon arrival after showing your valid passport and return ticket at immigration. In case you would need a visa for your country there’s visa on arrival offices available throughout the Dhaka International Airport for 30-day up to 90-days stay.
Khulna is the capital of the Khulna Division as well the third largest city of Bangladesh. It’s consider the industrial as well commercial center and the gateway to the Sundarbans. It’s located on the banks of the Rupsha and Bhairab rivers in the Khulna District. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 1,4 million people.
Like the other major cities Dhaka and Chittagong in Bangladesh is Khulna is undergoing a large transformation. The city’s population is growing rapidly growing, as well new sights and malls are being built. Because of the strategic location of the city, just 30 miles of port Mongla the city is considered a port city like Chittagong. Nowadays over 25% of all trade in Bangladesh passes through Mongla. Furthermore Khulna is known as the city of Shrimps, as 75% of the all shrimps are exported in the Khulna zone.
The easiest way to travel to Khulna from the capital city Dhaka is by The Rocket Steamer. It departs weekly, the total trip takes from 26 to 30 hours. It includes a few stops such in Barisal. Once in the city you can travel around using the Cycle rickshaws, which are the main method of transport. One of the must see tourist sightseeing’s is St Joseph’s Church located on Babu Khan Rd. A catholic church run by the friendly English speaking Father Jacob. It opens daily at 6AM, anyone interested is welcome.
United States citizens do not need a visa, you will receive a three months visa upon arrival after showing your valid passport and return ticket at immigration. In case you would need a visa for your country there’s visa on arrival offices available throughout the Dhaka International Airport for 30-day up to 90-days stay.
Bali is an Indonesian island located between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. Bali is one the 33 provinces in Indonesia, with the provincial capital Denpasar located south of the island. A small percentage of the population living on the island adheres to Balinese Hinduism, while the most follow the Islam. As of latest measurement Bali has a population of 3,5 million people.
Bali, also known as the Island of the Gods has a varied landscape with hills and mountains, rugged coastlines and white beaches. It’s colorful, unique and spiritual atmosphere takes serious weight in being the most popular tourist destination of Indonesia. It’s beaches are excellent for surfing and diving, while other daytime activities include cultural and historical sightseeing. The exact reason that Bali is such a popular travel destination is that backpackers as well the rich have suitable accommodations. Bali also offers highly developed arts which include; dance, painting, leather, sculpture and metalworking. Although the area is relatively small compared other favorite Indonesian destinations, such as Sumatra and Java, Bali is still the most popular tourist destination for years in row.
When traveling to Bali, most of the time you will have first stop at Jakarta‘s international Soekarno-Hatta Airport. From there you will have connecting flight to Denpasar’s Ngurah Rai international airport. Despite the misleading name, the airport is roughly 30 minutes away from the city Denpasar. From there you can travel all around Bali, several popular destinations on the island include; Candidasa, Kuta, Jimbaran and Lovina.
You are required to get a visa to Indonesia. A tourist visa will allow a stay of up to 30 days. The VISA will be stamped on your passport upon arrival for 7 days (costs $10) or 30 days (costs $25). Only those from ASEAN countries are exempted. Your passport must also be valid for at least six months upon arrival.
Jaipur (जयपुर) also known as Pink City is a architecture rich travel destination and capital of the Indian state Rajasthan. The city of Jaipur is one of the must visit travel destinations within India, as it’s laid-back, photogenic and architecture rich. Some travelers may need to adjust to the state of Rajasthan which is totally different from the always busy Delhi and Bombay with a population of just 3,2 million people.
Ho Chi Minh formerly known as Saigon is the largest city in Vietnam. The city is situated on the banks of the Saigon River, about 37 miles from the South China Sea, and 1090 miles south from Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. It’s metropolitan area covers a population of over 9 million people, while Ho Chi Minh city alone has a population of 7.2 million.
For the regular tourist, Saigon, as it’s still being called by most of the city locals, can seem a mess of crowded and chaotic traffic and clogged roads. Though the majority of the population, and thousand of expats and immigrants tend to disagree. They’ve all been fallen for the hidden charms of the lively city of Ho Chi Minh.
The city of Ho Chi Minh has been going through a financial and economic growth, attracting foreign investors and local contractors to help build and restore the city. These investments has led to a new generation of first class hotels, high end restaurants, modern shopping malls and trendy nightclubs and lounges. Yet it’s history and sightseeing haven’t been forgotten, they are still clearly visible throughout the city and locals are proud to show them with to those who interested.
When arriving in the city for the first time it’s recommended to visit the Tourist Information Center which can be found on Loi Loi Street in District 1 which is in the heart of city center, you can ask further information and pick up a free Ho Chi Minh city map, that’s for anyone who missed the free “VN Trip Map – for travel and coupons” hand out by Vietnamese women wearing the traditional oa dai dress at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
Travelers to Ho Chi Minh need a valid passport and visa. United States and European passport holders must have a valid passport and a visa is required. Travel in Vietnam is generally safe and violent crime is uncommon. Pick-pocketing is rife, and drive-by purse snatching is a common trick. The summer months are between June, July, and August though some rain may be expected.
Da Nang is a major port and city situated on the South Central Coast, on the coast of the South China Sea of Vietnam. It’s one of the five independent municipalities in Vietnam. It used to be called “Tourane” during the French colonization of Vietnam. Da Nang is the third largest city in Vietnam after Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. As of latest measurement Da Nang has a population of 790 thousand people.
Arriving in Da Nang you will most likely land at the smallest international airport in Vietnam, Da Nang International Airport. There’s frequent domestic flights to Da Nang from all over Vietnam. Once arrived, it’s a 2 miles taxi ride to downtown Da Nang, it’s recommended to make use of the regular taxi companies Mai Linh, Taxi Xanh, or Song Han rather than a unscrupulous taxi driver who has a fast meter or tries to haggle you for the jackpot.
The city of Da Nang does not have the ever going hustle from Ho Chi Minh City, yet shares the same sights, and is close to the atmosphere and charms of Hoi An and the imperial capital of Hue. The possible downsides of the laid back, less serious aspects of Da Nang is that even locals complain that there isn’t much to do else than drinking. Though, this is untrue. The city offers plenty sightseeing that can be accessed by tourists as well locals like a zoo, soccer stadium, several spacious parks, plenty pool halls and a water park. Besides the fact, that locals and tourists don’t have to be drinking at home but can go have fun in the many nightclubs, bars and pubs throughout the town. Also, Da Nang offers a beach named Son Tra peninsul which is a popular travel destination in town.
Travelers to Da Nang need a valid passport and visa. US passport holders must have a valid passport and a visa is required. Travel in Vietnam is generally safe and violent crime is uncommon. Pick-pocketing is rife, and drive-by purse snatching is a common trick. The summer months are between June, July, and August though some rain may be expected.
Osaka (大阪市) is Japanese city situated at the mouth of the Yodo River on the Osaka Bay. Osaka is also referred to as “nation’s kitchen” as well “Mecca of gourmet food”. It’s designated city under the Local Autonomy Law and the capital of Osaka Prefecture. In the history, Osaka was the commercial capital of Japan. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 3,7 million people.
When arriving in Osaka, through the Kensai International Airport you should understand the city of Osaka is the complete opposite of Japan’s capital Tokyo. Its a much commercial centric city, also please mind to stand on the right at the escalators instead of left in Tokyo. Also you’re recommended to try to eastern Japanese cuisine when looking for a restaurant to have lunch or dinner. The more you navigate downtown Osaka the more you discover and learn about the city’s history, culture and sightseeing.
The city is known to be friendly and easy going, perhaps Osaka owes most visitors to the city because of its vibrant nightlife and the excellent shopping facilities. The variety of the restaurants is considered best throughout the country. A trip to Osaka is easily combined with nearby areas of Kyoto and Kobe. Kobe for example is a international city with a Chinatown and ethnic restaurants which is defiantly worth a view, while Tokyo is an ancient capital full of historical sightseeing.
Visitors to Osaka need a valid passport and visa. European and American citizens will receive a 90 days visa upon arrival. Generally seen the city is safe for tourists, regular travel rules apply so have a close look after your belongings. The best period to visit Osaka is in the summer months from June till August.
Nagoya (名古屋市) is the third largest incorporated city after Yokohama and Osaka in Japan. The city is situated on the Pacific coast in the Chūbu region on central Honshū. It’s also one of Japan’s main ports along with those from Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe and Yokohama. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 2,3 million people.
Unlike other big Japanese cities the skyline of Nagoya isn’t that filled up yet with big sky scrapers and office buildings, all though the current plans are that in 2012 it’ll look like any other massive Japanese city like Tokyo or Yokohama. That the city doesn’t have a skyline yet doesn’t bother at all, Nagoya has interesting and historical sightseeing available for tourists and locals. One of the main sights include the in 1612 constructed Nagoya Castle, which is famous for the golden dolphins on the rooftop. Nagoya is active building in downtown adding culture and technology together to create a harmonious environment to its locals and visitors.
In the center of the city, downtown Nagoya it’s full of people, bustling and busy yet its enjoyable with good markets and malls for shopping. Look for the Osu and Sakae area’s as they are both great for shopping, you can find many big shopping malls here that provide quality stores, restaurants and facilities as well several history museums. For some relaxation the nearby Hisaya Odori Park which consists of series of parks is often the “secret hideout” where many go to sit, eat and find peace.
Visitors to Nagoya need a valid passport and visa. European and American citizens will receive a 90 days visa upon arrival. Generally seen the city is safe for tourists, regular travel rules apply so have a close look after your belongings. The best period to visit Nagoya is in the summer months from June till August.
Hong Kong (香港) meaning “fragrant harbour” is one of the two Special Administrative Regions in China, with the second one being Macau. Hong Kong consists of 236 islands situated on China’s south coast, enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea. Hong Kong has developed itself to a globe’s top financial center with a capitalist economy. It’s skyline and harbor are breath taking. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 7,1 million people.
Hongkong today is one of the most important and popular travel destinations in China. The city has absorbed people and cultural influences from places all over the world and therefore its also a unique travel destination which is often referred to as a center the city “where east meets the west” which reflects in its daily life, streets, cuisine, music and traditions.
Aside from its chaotic traffic scene, busy streets, gigantic sky scrapers and thousands of bright advertising signs the city of Hong Kong can also be hushed and peaceful with fine dining experiences trying Chinese cuisine, excellent transport network around town, massive and sublime shopping malls, quiet temples and spacious parks and gardens. Another Hong Kong sightseeing include the vantage point at Vicoria Peak overlooking the world’s busiest deep water port which is outstanding and breathtaking.
Getting round in the city, it’s easiest method is the subway system. All of the signs are in English language as well, though metered taxi’s are widely available. According to South Asian standards, not the cheapest of them all though a 20 minute taxi from center Hong Kong to Victoria Peak (20 minutes) cost us about $6 US. Taxi’s are the most expensive (public) transportation available in the city.
Travelers to Hongkong need a valid passport and visa. While the city is relatively safe, the common travel concerns include presence of pickpockets, thieves and thick city smog. The best period to visit Hongkong is between May and September when there’s the best temperature. On average it does rain more in these months than in periods throughout the year.
The island and city of Macau (澳門) also known as Macoa is a Special Administrative Region of China. In total there’s two SAR regions in China, with the second being Hong Kong. Macau is situated on the west side of the Pearl River Delta bordering the Guangdong province in the north, facing the South China Sea in east and south. The city of Macau is driven mainly on tourist industry, but also includes exporting textiles, electronics and toys.
As the city of Macau is located in China but has their own responsibility towards their territory, it can make their own laws and legal system, police force and immigration policy. Allowing the city to turn in any possible direction they are willing go for, giving gambling, prostitution, nightlife and foreign investors a chance to play open card. Some already say it’s the Las Vegas of the Orient.
The reasoning that people call it Las Vegas of Asia is because all the main hotels located on the strip of Vegas are situated in the center of Macau including the Wynn, Venetian, MGM Grand and the Sands mixed in between buzzing night and sex clubs and other gigantic Casino’s which are 24 hours in business. You might wonder yourself, why not just go to Vegas? The answer lies in the history and culture of the Chinese city.
Macau today is still as mysterious as it once was, streets are filled up fortune tellers, Buddhist monks, tea houses and traditional massage parlors. It’s sightseeing includes breathtaking ruins, churches, museums and acient markets. A famous and oldest temple in town is the Á Ma Temple founded in 1488. World class museums like the Museum of Macau, Maritime Museum Grand Prix Museum and Macau Museum of Art are often visited by curious tourists and can break the day nicely. For a visit to the Ruins of St. Paul’s and St. Dominic Church make sure to bring along your camera.
Travelers to Macau need a valid passport and visa. While the city is relatively safe, the common travel concerns include presence of pickpockets and thieves. The best period to visit Macau is between May and September when there’s the best temperature. On average it does rain more in these months than in periods throughout the year.
