Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is known for its centuries-old architecture and a rich culture with Southeast Asian, Chinese and French influences. At its heart is the chaotic Old Quarter, where the narrow streets are roughly arranged by trade. There are many little temples, including Bach Ma, honoring a legendary horse, plus Đồng Xuân Market, selling household goods and street food.
The crazy toilets topped our list and gave us an hour of unparalleled laughter and fun! In sharp contrast, is the tea ceremony: Apart from the all-important matcha tea itself, other key aspects of the tea ceremony include those quintessentially Japanese features such as traditional calligraphy on a hanging scroll, flower arranging, and clothing. The many rules and steps involved in chanoyu embodies what today is known as “slow living”: an intensely aesthetic, artful experience where food and drink are savoured slowly, objects and interiors are admired thoughtfully, and people behave respectfully and reverently. There’s no better way to experience classic Japan than by staying in one of the country’s thousands of traditional Japanese inns (ryokan). Shibuya is a sea of childlike pastel clothing and nostalgic toys...bowing is performed when you’re saying hello and goodbye, thanking someone, apologising, congratulating and asking for a favour...not to bow is considered impolite not to return a bow to the person that has bowed to you. A fascinating country....
Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city on the island of Honshu. It's famous for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines and traditional wooden houses. It’s also known for formal traditions such as kaiseki dining, consisting of multiple courses of precise dishes, and geisha, female entertainers often found in the Gion district.
Tokyo, Japan’s busy capital, mixes the ultramodern and the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers to historic temples. The opulent Meiji Shinto Shrine is known for its towering gate and surrounding woods. The Imperial Palace sits amid large public gardens. The city's many museums offer exhibits ranging from classical art (in the Tokyo National Museum) to a reconstructed kabuki theatre. Buzzing Harajuku is renowned for colourful street art and youth fashion, with quirky vintage clothing stores and cosplay shops along Takeshita Street.
Situated in Rasdhoo Atoll , Kuramathi Maldives is 1.8 km in length and tapers to a pristine stretch of white sandbank, lending a dramatic quality to the idyllic surroundings of turquoise lagoons, tropical jungle and flora. Catering to all budgets, 12 distinct choices of villas are on offer, ranging from the individual Beach Villas to the idyllic Water Villas with Pool. A splendid pick for families and friends travelling together is the Two Bedroom Beach house. Savour exquisite dishes from 12 superb restaurants catering to diverse taste buds. Sip exotic cocktails in the 7 bars located in beautiful settings around the island. The island's vast size opens up to a wide range of activities. Immerse in therapeutic healing at Kuramathi Spa as we revive the holiday psyche. Younger guests find thrilling options at Bageecha Kids club, featuring fun and educational experiences. There is something for everyone on this paradisiacal haven that embodies Maldives in a natural setting.
One of the first things that strikes you is the azure blue water, stillness and peace, the tranquility of the islands with the only sound the gentle lapping of the waves on the white sand ... truly a haven for relaxation...
Delhi, India’s capital territory, is a massive metropolitan area in the country’s north. In Old Delhi, a neighborhood dating to the 1600s, stands the imposing Mughal-era Red Fort, a symbol of India, and the sprawling Jama Masjid mosque, whose courtyard accommodates 25,000 people. Nearby is Chandni Chowk, a vibrant bazaar filled with food carts, sweets shops and spice stalls.
Udaipur, formerly the capital of the Mewar Kingdom, is a city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, it’s set around a series of artificial lakes and is known for its lavish royal residences. City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola, is a monumental complex of 11 palaces, courtyards and gardens, famed for its intricate peacock mosaics. It is popularly known as the 'City of Lakes. ' It has many beautiful palaces, forts, museums, gardens, and places of sightseeing. This city is nestled by Aravalli hills and every palace is worth a visit for its stunning architecture and intricate work.
Nepal takes pride in being home to the highest mountain in the world: Mount Everest standing at 8,849m. Kathmandu has a fabulous hippy vibe and everyone should visit the famed Rum Doodle Bar & Restaurant after completing a Trek. We did the Around Annapurna when Trent was 5 years old and every minute was spectacular.
India evokes images of the splendid Taj Mahal and sunsets on the sacred Ganges River and of course spicy food. Arriving in this diverse country results in a splendid assault on all senses: the chaotic sounds of the street, the numerous aromas of animals, people and spices and the colourful sights best manifested in the Holi Festival where only two things are required: Water and Colour! Cricket is the most popular sport and India has one of the best national teams in the world. Mahatma Gandhi lead his country to the independence of India with a non-violent attitude. Tigers are the iconic symbol of Indian wildlife and can be glimpsed in some of the spectacular national parks. From the writhing streets of Mumbai to the idyllic shores of the Andaman Islands, this remarkable country offers a diverse feast for the senses. There’s a quote from the movie The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel that sums it up: “India hits you like a wave. If you resist, you will be knocked down. But if you dive into it, you will be alright.” and my absolute favourite, “Everything will be alright in the end so if it is not alright it is not the end.”
