www.villa-maly.com
Villa Maly, once a royal residence, now is a 33-boutique hotel is a perfect choice for couples to explore a Luang Prabang rich in culture and history.
Geo Travel deals with Inbound and Outbound and Domestic tours handling.
It offers comprehensive travel services with in Pushkar- Rajasthan, Geo Travel is Rajasthan leading independent Tour Handling company offering an extensive range of services to suit every traveller – especially those who enjoy the independence and flexibility of planning their own holiday experience.
Italia! Magazine, Travel Guide to Southern Italy, Off the Beaten Track, Hidde...jgeditorial
GourmetTravel Guide to Southern Italy, Off the Beaten Track in Puglia, Conversano, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Altamura, Gravina in Puglia, Molfetta, Trani - Words and Photographs Copyright Jane Gifford 2014
Northern vietnam adventure tour - VIETNAM TOURS khachsanmyhoa
The Northeast Vietnam attached with French - war period. Driving through provinces near China border, you will have chance to see the biggest natural Ba Be Lake, the most beautiful Ban Gioc waterfall, the old battlefield along Highway No 4 and different type of hill tribe people. This area offers breathtaking views and interesting subcultures.
Geo Travel deals with Inbound and Outbound and Domestic tours handling.
It offers comprehensive travel services with in Pushkar- Rajasthan, Geo Travel is Rajasthan leading independent Tour Handling company offering an extensive range of services to suit every traveller – especially those who enjoy the independence and flexibility of planning their own holiday experience.
Italia! Magazine, Travel Guide to Southern Italy, Off the Beaten Track, Hidde...jgeditorial
GourmetTravel Guide to Southern Italy, Off the Beaten Track in Puglia, Conversano, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Altamura, Gravina in Puglia, Molfetta, Trani - Words and Photographs Copyright Jane Gifford 2014
Northern vietnam adventure tour - VIETNAM TOURS khachsanmyhoa
The Northeast Vietnam attached with French - war period. Driving through provinces near China border, you will have chance to see the biggest natural Ba Be Lake, the most beautiful Ban Gioc waterfall, the old battlefield along Highway No 4 and different type of hill tribe people. This area offers breathtaking views and interesting subcultures.
Go Asia Travel (GAT Travel) is one of the best tour operators in Vietnam offering personal travel services and private tours in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. The Indochina tailor-made tours and private tours include cruises, day trips and insider guides to the best sightseeing spots. “We care about your trip” in a professional, yet personally sensitive manner, providing the highest quality of services and best values possible always delivering our promises and acting responsibly for the integrity of the natural environment and local communities.
10 day charter vacation from langkawi in malaysia to phuket in thailandSunreef Yachts Charters
Thailand and Malaysia are mystical cruising grounds for all charter
guests wishing to explore beyond the most popular charter zones.
They are rapidly gaining charter aficionados who admire the region’s
robust beauty, excellent sailing conditions, perfect crystalline waters
for swimming and diving, friendly locals and fabulous fare. DAMRAK II
will take you on an unforgettable cruise from Langkawi in Malaysia to
Phuket in Thailand.
Cambodia Vietnam 16 days tours, Vietnam Cambodia Luxury Tours Cruise, You can discovery Cambodia & Vietnam country. 16 days tour to visit Vietnam & Cambodia
Simons Holidays is India's premier leisure travel service provider with PAN India presence. We offer our customers the International and Domestic through our tailor made packages.
Along with exploring new cultures, one of the greatest joys of travel is the discovery of new sceneries. From Hanoi and Halong Bay to the historical charms of Hue and Hoi An, and on to the buzzing streets of Saigon - only a visit to Vietnam can truly reveal the country’s beauty.
Vietnam Cambodia Customized tours 22 days. You can discovery Vietnam & Cambodia by group tours or private tour. You can choose option 3 star or 4, 5 star.
The Lebanese Canadian University – LCU is :
A Lebanese institution of Higher Education
Recognized by the presidential degrees Nº 3585/2000, Nº 778/2007 and Nº 8395/2012
All the diplomas issued by LCU are officially accredited
by the Lebanese Ministry of Higher Education
Go Asia Travel (GAT Travel) is one of the best tour operators in Vietnam offering personal travel services and private tours in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. The Indochina tailor-made tours and private tours include cruises, day trips and insider guides to the best sightseeing spots. “We care about your trip” in a professional, yet personally sensitive manner, providing the highest quality of services and best values possible always delivering our promises and acting responsibly for the integrity of the natural environment and local communities.
10 day charter vacation from langkawi in malaysia to phuket in thailandSunreef Yachts Charters
Thailand and Malaysia are mystical cruising grounds for all charter
guests wishing to explore beyond the most popular charter zones.
They are rapidly gaining charter aficionados who admire the region’s
robust beauty, excellent sailing conditions, perfect crystalline waters
for swimming and diving, friendly locals and fabulous fare. DAMRAK II
will take you on an unforgettable cruise from Langkawi in Malaysia to
Phuket in Thailand.
Cambodia Vietnam 16 days tours, Vietnam Cambodia Luxury Tours Cruise, You can discovery Cambodia & Vietnam country. 16 days tour to visit Vietnam & Cambodia
Simons Holidays is India's premier leisure travel service provider with PAN India presence. We offer our customers the International and Domestic through our tailor made packages.
Along with exploring new cultures, one of the greatest joys of travel is the discovery of new sceneries. From Hanoi and Halong Bay to the historical charms of Hue and Hoi An, and on to the buzzing streets of Saigon - only a visit to Vietnam can truly reveal the country’s beauty.
Vietnam Cambodia Customized tours 22 days. You can discovery Vietnam & Cambodia by group tours or private tour. You can choose option 3 star or 4, 5 star.
The Lebanese Canadian University – LCU is :
A Lebanese institution of Higher Education
Recognized by the presidential degrees Nº 3585/2000, Nº 778/2007 and Nº 8395/2012
All the diplomas issued by LCU are officially accredited
by the Lebanese Ministry of Higher Education
Azure IoT Hub is a PaaS scalable and multi-tenant platform that allows developers to easely build features like device registration, secure bidirectional communication between their core platform and their devices in the field, and at the same time be the hub for all the massive amount of data being generated by all those sensors that needs to be processed and stored, and with all that has become a core piece of a IoT solution that you want to build. On this session you will get to know the Azure IoT hub pretty well, getting introduced to the main features and seeing it in action and how fast you can deploy a solution with it and take the most out of Azure and your sensors to start making the most out of those sensors and their data.
There is more to Malaysia than what vibrant cities and popular tourist destinations meet. Venture off the beaten path, and you will discover hidden gems that reveal the country’s diverse landscapes, rich culture and beauty that are not mentioned in this blog we embark on a journey to discover Malaysia’s treasures a some of the most unknown.
Come with us on a journey to the South East Asian gem – Malaysia. Explore the untouched forests, exotic marine life and the hidden archaeological treasures. Welcome to the land of water sports, bio-diverse terra and amazing adventures.
Visit it here: http://cnk.com/Malaysia
Go on a first-class river cruising journey with Avalon Waterways along the legendary rivers of Asia for an unforgettable fusion of distinctive sights, colorful cultures, and ancient traditions.
Why do you need a tour guide?
In short, a tour guide gives a better experience to understand from places, history to people, save your time in searching, you feel comfortable with the surroundings and it is actually a worth trip you will not regret.
Tour guide is the most important window for our tour company, is the one who makes you leave Cambodia with meaningful and memorable experience. Significantly, for your trip, we reserve a local tour guide that has long-year experienced with at least 5 years in friendly leading international tourists to explore the wonders in Cambodia, he/she has friendly attitude, informative, knowledgeable and advisable. In short, it truly means that you will travel with free worry, free hassle and free independent.
Make essential booking with us in advance and we guarantee to reserve a good one for your trip to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
Vietnam is attracted by the overwhelming beauty of scenery and long-standing culture imbued with national identity. You can see a green fruit and rice fields from the mountains to the coast.
Inspiring Asia - A journey with Avalon Waterways along the legendary rivers of Asia is an unforgettable fusion of distrinctive sights, colourful cultures and ancient traditions. http://www.avalonwaterways.com.au/
Take in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, ancient capital of Angkor Thom and other famous Siem Reap’s temples
Embark on a boat trip to visit the fascinating stilted village on Tonle Sap Lake
Visit the lesser known Sambor Prei Kuk pre-Angkorian ruins
Glittering Royal Palace & The National Museum which contains many Angkorian artifacts by Cyclo, an original Phnom Penh mean of transportation
Enjoy 1 hour evening boat cruise along Mekong River to view the spectacular sunset
Eco-tourism adventures amongst the waterfalls and trails at Kirirom National Park is a fun way to lean of the authentic Cambodian country life
Relax amongst the rivers and mangroves of the unique 4 Rivers Floating Lodge
Relax at the end of a Cambodian journey with a 3 night stay in Sihanoukville
Similar to Holidays For Couples Introduces 10 Asian Sensation Destination With An Inclusion of Luang Prabang and Villa Maly Boutique Hotel (20)
www.villa-maly.com
THREE YEARS IN A ROW: Villa Maly continues to be recognised for its excellence with the latest win in 'TOP 20 HOTELS IN ASIA' at the Condé Nast Traveler's 2019 Readers' Choice Awards. #2019RCA
Luang Prabang has drawn up the project the Elephant Caravan to celebrate Luang Prabang's 20 years as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 2015. Check out for details.
Luxury hotel in Luang Prabang, Villa Maly, is proud to be an active member in activities of the Luang Prabang Film Festival including supporting accommodations to writers and reports to the event.
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How To Talk To a Live Person at American Airlinesflyn goo
This page by FlynGoo can become your ultimate guide to connecting with a live person at American Airlines. Have you ever felt lost in the automated maze of customer service menus? FlynGoo is here to rescue you from endless phone trees and automated responses. With just a click or a call to a specific number, we ensure you get the human touch you deserve. No more frustration, no more waiting on hold - we simplify the process, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.
BTW UK Visa Application Process, Uk Visa complete guide, Uk Visa fees, requirements and application process. Know all about uk visa and best way to apply for the uk visa. Get to know about the requirements that allows you for the faster visa appliaction. BTW UK Visa Application Process, Uk Visa complete guide, Uk Visa fees, requirements and application process. Know all about uk visa and best way to apply for the uk visa. Get to know about the requirements that allows you for the faster visa appliaction. BTW UK Visa Application Process, Uk Visa complete guide, Uk Visa fees, requirements and application process. Know all about uk visa and best way to apply for the uk visa. Get to know about the requirements that allows you for the faster visa appliaction. BTW UK Visa Application Process, Uk Visa complete guide, Uk Visa fees, requirements and application process. Know all about uk visa and best way to apply for the uk visa. Get to know about the requirements that allows you for the faster visa appliaction. BTW UK Visa Application Process, Uk Visa complete guide, Uk Visa fees, requirements and application process. Know all about uk visa and best way to apply for the uk visa. Get to know about the requirements that allows you for the faster visa appliaction. BTW UK Visa Application Process, Uk Visa complete guide, Uk Visa fees, requirements and application process. Know all about uk visa and best way to apply for the uk visa. Get to know about the requirements that allows you for the faster visa appliaction. BTW UK Visa Application Process, Uk Visa complete guide, Uk Visa fees, requirements and application process. Know all about uk visa and best way to apply for the uk visa. Get to know about the requirements that allows you for the faster visa appliaction. BTW UK Visa Application Process, Uk Visa complete guide, Uk Visa fees, requirements and application process. Know all about uk visa and best way to apply for the uk visa. Get to know about the requirements that allows you for the faster visa appliaction. Get information in this PDF and simplyfy your visa process.
Hidden Gems of Europe - DISCOVERING THE CONTINENT'S BEST-KEPT SECRETSKamil Uğraş TÜRKOĞLU
Europe, continent rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, is often synonymous with famous cities like Paris, Rome, and London. These iconic destinations attract millions of tourists every year, captivating them with their renowned landmarks, vibrant culture, and bustling urban life. However, beyond these well-trodden paths lie countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These lesser-known destinations offer unique experiences, authentic encounters, and breathtaking landscapes that often surpass the allure of their famous counterparts.
In "Hidden Gems of Europe," we embark on a journey to uncover these secret spots, exploring the heart and soul of Europe through its quaint villages, charming towns, and secluded natural wonders. This book aims to inspire travelers to look beyond the obvious and venture into the lesser-explored corners of the continent, where true adventure and discovery await.
During the coldest months, Italy transforms into a winter wonderland, providing visitors with a very unique experience. From the Settimana Bianca ski event to the lively Carnevale celebrations, Italy's winter festivities provide something for everyone. Enjoy hot cocoa, eat hearty comfort foods, and buy during winter deals. Explore the country's rich cultural past by participating in Settimana Bianca, and Carnevale, sipping hot chocolate, shopping during winter deals, and indulging in winter comfort foods. Visit our website https://timeforsicily.com/ for more information.
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In this presentation, we delve into the captivating realm of Antarctica, Earth's southernmost continent. This icy wilderness stands as a testament to extremes, with record-breaking cold temperatures and vast expanses of pristine ice. Antarctica's landscape is dominated by towering glaciers, colossal icebergs, and expansive ice shelves. Yet, amidst this frozen expanse, a rich tapestry of unique wildlife thrives, including penguins, seals, and seabirds, all finely attuned to survive in this harsh environment. Beyond its natural wonders, Antarctica also serves as a vital hub for scientific exploration, providing invaluable insights into climate change and the Earth's history
Holidays For Couples Introduces 10 Asian Sensation Destination With An Inclusion of Luang Prabang and Villa Maly Boutique Hotel
1. Apr-Sept2016
AUD/NZ$8.80
®
in Macao
(and what)(and what)
Bali
BridesWhere to tie the
knot on the Island
of the Gods
MOZART&
MARIAINMARIAIN
Salzburg
SIAMGLAM
Old-school style in Bangkok
LETITSNOW
Hit the slopes in France & Australia
SRILANKA
Trains, taxis & tuk-tuks for two
The 5 hottest resorts in
MALAYSIA
The1010placesyou
havetosee
in2016
ASIAN SENSATIONS
SECRETPARIS
Romantic spots
you've never
heard of
9 771445 410006
01
ISSN 1445-4106
PP424022/1524
Where to eat
2. WORDS Gemma Price
Easily accessible information
and convenient travel mean
we’re spoilt for choice when
planning a trip. Not only are
new flight routes putting
hard-to-reach destinations
within our grasp, some
previously inaccessible
countries are opening their
borders and relaxing visa
regulations, emerging as
potential holiday spots in the
process. Here are 10 Asian
holiday destinations worth
considering in 2016.
Asian
SensationsGorgeous destinations to visit in 2016
holidaysforcouples.travel 21
ASIA-------.
3. Palawan,
PhilippinesThe Philippines checks all the boxes for a
romantic tropical getaway, but the Province
of Palawan – comprising Palawan island and
its reef-ringed neighbours – goes above and
beyond. Not only is it visually spectacular
(in 2014 Condé Nast Traveller readers voted
the island the most beautiful in the world
for its aquamarine waters, jungle-carpeted
emerald green mountains and idyllic,
multi-hued fishing villages backed by
limestone cliffs), but there’s plenty to see
and do, too. Foodie hub, Puerto Princesa is
home to a UNESCO-inscribed subterranean
river, voted one of the New 7 Wonders of
Nature. You’ll find great places to sail and
dive as you hop from islet to island, and may
even sight rare species such as the Philippine
pangolin or tiny mouse deer. Palawan isn’t
short on luxe resorts – Amanpulo offers
beach, hillside and canopy accommodation,
while each of the El Nido properties is more
gorgeous than the last – and as you can get
there by boat or a 90-minute flight from
Manila, it probably won’t be long before the
madding crowds roll up.
Amanpulo.
22
4. Nestled at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong rivers,
this former royal capital – and UNESCO World Heritage Site – is
a heady mix of well-preserved cultural tradition and colonial and
Laotian architecture. Colourfully garbed hill tribe women and
Mahayana monks clutching burnt sienna parasols walk along
bougainvillea-flanked roads, passing homespun eateries, little shops
and boutique hotels housed within gabled, timbered or
brick-and-stucco mansions. Villa Maly, a 33-room hotel anchored by
the 1938 home of Princess Khampieng and Prince Khamtan, embodies
the elegance of Indochinese-era living. Compared with neighbouring
Southeast Asian hubs, Luang Prabang is not that easy to get to – only
a couple of flights a day depart nearby Hanoi – although improving
connections may see that change. For now, though, you can enjoy the
300-step climb to Wat That Chom Si on the top of Mount Pousi Wat
and step beneath the low sleeping roof of 16th-century Wat Xieng
Thong to admire its vivid glass mosaics of Buddhist teachings and
King Sisavang Vong’s seven naga-headed funeral chariot, without
having to elbow through busloads of tourists.
2CambodiaLaidback provincial town Siem Reap is
arguably best-known as Cambodia’s
gateway to the ancient Angkorian temple
complex, but its sophisticated restaurants,
boutiques and luxurious, pool-fringed
accommodation will keep you lingering
long after you’ve had your temple fix.
I love Belmond La Residence d’Angkor,
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor and taking
time out to enjoy Wat Damnak’s local
produce-focused degustation menu.
Cambodia has lots more for couples to
explore – you can cruise up the Mekong,
go jungle trekking in Ratanakiri and
wander through gilded wats and striking
examples of 1960s New Khmer
architecture in the French colonial capital,
Phnom Penh. From here it’s a 35-minute
flight (or 3.5-hour drive) to the southern
beach resort of Sihanoukville, named for
Cambodia’s former king. Song Saa Private
Island is the perfect setting for couples
looking to escape, and when the
Kenzo-designed Arovada by Akaryn – the
first private island wellness retreat on Koh
Krabey – opens later this year, it’ll be one
more good reason to go.
3Luang
Prabang, Laos
Angkor Wat.
holidaysforcouples.travel 23
ASIA
•
•l
,I
I,
5. Danang,Vietnam
Historically, Vietnam’s central coast
has been the seat of kings, emperors,
colonial administrators and war heroes
from both sides. Today, Danang’s
48-kilometre sandy shoreline (formerly
known as China Beach) – from hilly
Son Tra peninsular in the north to the
historic ancient town of Hoi An – is fast
becoming as famous for its sun, sand and
sea as its unique history: developers are
even tipping Danang as the next Phuket.
After the lull following 2008’s downturn,
things are starting to pick up again.
The Meliá Danang held its soft opening
there in 2015, while JW Marriott, Hilton
and Sheraton will be online within the
next few years, and flights are gradually
being added from hubs all over Asia. For
now, though, the vibe is not too hectic, the
resorts are gorgeous (the all-villa Nam Hai
and high-style InterContinental Danang
Sun Peninsula Resort are my favourite
places to stay on the beach), and local
attractions – from cooking classes to
beach bars tucked away in small bays – are
myriad. At ancient UNESCO-listed
merchant town, Hoi An you can wander
charming museums, temples and eateries
set within 15th-century houses by day, and
eat at tiny eateries along lantern-lit streets
by night – don’t miss the chocolate duck
and mango shrimp at Mango Rooms or
a nightcap at opium den-inspired Q Bar.
The Nam Hai.
24
ASIA
•
. ~ . . ... . ..........-~.;... : ......-~..;.~' -"' .... ~--~
' IA•' , • ;'.•;. •.., / lll. : . : . • • • , -- ~ ' ' . . . • •
6. BaliWhile Bali’s charms may seem thoroughly documented (thanks,
Eat, Pray, Love) and regular visitors may grumble that it’s not the
untouched paradise they remember, the truth is that this Indonesian
jewel has been evolving since celebs such as Noel Coward and
Charlie Chaplin vacationed here in the Twenties and Thirties.
The upside is that no matter how many times you’ve visited Bali,
next time around there will be new places to check out – and check
in to. Last year, the 60-villa Ritz-Carlton Mandapa opened on the
banks of the Ayung River in Ubud, and Alila launched its fourth
Bali property in fashionable Seminyak; this year’s hotly anticipated
newcomers include Philippe Starck’s 12-villa property, The Stairs,
and all-suite hotel, The Katamama (run by the folks behind hip
Seminyak beach club, Potato Head). New restaurants pop up
every season, many from already successful Bali restaurateurs
– last year I loved Pirate Beach Club and Indonesian eatery,
Bambu Restaurant from the team behind popular La Lucciola.
The island’s well-established eateries also introduce new chefs
and new menus to complement their high-concept interiors
(check out the British colonial-era Shanghai vibe at Mama San
and rice-paddy vistas at Sardine).
And in addition to captivating visitors with its jungles, beaches and
spiritual sanctuaries, the Island of Dreams also inspires entrepreneurs
from all over the world to up sticks and try new ventures on its
shores. When not opening new boutiques or launching craft
cooperatives, designers – including those behind Australian brands
Ebony Eve, Shakuhachi and Nastasha – spend most, if not all, of their
time in Bali previewing new collections or releasing samples through
local shops. This means you’ll often snag one-off pieces for an
absolute steal.
And once you’ve had your fill of Bali’s social scene, ancient centres
of tranquillity such as Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and Uluwutu
temple, still hold new secrets to be discovered.
MyanmarEver since Aung San Suu Kyi was released from house
arrest, Myanmar’s star has been in the ascendant and
many travellers will tell you its top of their list. Historically,
Myanmar (formerly Burma) has been a popular
destination, particularly during its British colonial past (and
visitors can experience the luxurious accommodations of
that bygone era), but years of more recent isolation mean
that Myanmar still feels relatively untouched by the
fast-paced modern development characteristic of
neighbouring countries. Yangon, especially, is a beguiling
mix of European-influenced history and Myanmar
tradition. Victorian features at The Strand Hotel –
sweeping marble staircases; an ancient elevator – have
been well maintained, while rooms at the two-storey
1920s home of Myanmar’s former British governor, now
the Belmond Governor’s Residence Yangon, feature
canopy beds bordered by silk-panelled walls and views
over leafy treetops. But things are changing quickly and
new developments are mushrooming up everywhere.
Luxurious, safari camp-inspired Bagan Lodge opened in
2013 to give well-heeled visitors a place to stay just a few
kilometres from Bagan’s 11th-century plain of temples.
In recent years, several river cruisers have been launched
along the Ayeyarwady, including Belmond’s Orcaella and
Sanctuary Ananda, while Inle Lake and Ngapali Beach are
both hotbeds of development.
5
6 holidaysforcouples.travel 27
ASIA
7. MaldivesIn 2009, then-Maldives President, Mohamed Nasheed and his officials donned scuba gear and hel
an underwater cabinet meeting aimed at drawing attention to climate change. For locals of this
Indian Ocean Republic, the issue cuts close to home. The Maldives’ highest point stands only
2.4 metres, and its 1,200 gorgeous reef- and beach-fringed islands and atolls are threatened by rising
sea levels associated with global warming. Researchers have warned there will be no coral left in
30 years and that the Maldives will disappear completely by 2100, so local authorities and resorts
have taken a stand. For every island being developed into a resort area, another island is being
preserved. All Maldives resorts are eco-resorts; the “biodegradable” Six Senses’ Soneva Fushi even
produces its own fresh water by desalinating ocean and lagoon water, and removes carbon dioxide
from the atmosphere rather than adding it. Many couples staying in the Maldives have been actively
helping to support the local economy and save the islands. And boy, are they worth saving. Go now.
va Fushi even
arbon dioxide
28
8. As Krabi province is a little tricky to get to – the only
international flights serving Krabi airport are from
Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Darwin – it’s one of
Thailand’s more laid-back destinations. And compared
with Ao Nang and Phi Phi, Koh Lanta is even more
low-key. That’s not to say that there’s nowhere for
couples to stay (of Lanta’s five-star resorts,
we love the deliciously secluded mountain retreat,
Pimalai Resort & Spa), but it does mean that the island
experience feels both relaxing and more authentic.
Lanta’s ethnically diverse inhabitants, comprising Muslim,
Thai-Chinese and Urak Lawoi sea gypsy communities,
are more likely to make their living from fishing,
prawn-farming and rubber-tapping rather than tourism.
Along the 25-kilometre west coast from northern Klong
Dao to Bamboo Bay in the south, you’ll find deserted
stretches of sand interspersed with day-into-night beach
bars frequented by locals and visitors alike. The action,
such as it is, happens around the concentration of bars,
shops and stilt-house seafood restaurants in the main
village of Baan Saladan, and there’s also great diving to be
had. Ko Ha Yai is known for its submerged caverns and
you can spot whale sharks, manta rays, and schools of
barracuda around the deep drops-offs of submerged
pinnacles, Hin Daeng and Hin Muang.
Koh Lanta,
Thailand8
Pimalai Resort & Spa.
holidaysforcouples.travel 29
ASIA
•
9. Once the capital of the 10th-century Indonesian Srivijaya Empire,
Surat Thani city is the hopping-off point for its eponymous province
and some of Thailand’s best-known islands, each of which has built
a reputation on offering either great diving, a castaway lifestyle, or a
party from dawn to dawn – and sometimes all three. Koh Tao is
credited as having the best diving in the Gulf of Thailand, and
gorgeous places to stay are legion. Koh Samui – part of the
protected Ang Thong National Marine Park’s 42-island archipelago
– is known for its high-end resorts and spas, but you can also find
nightlife along Chaweng’s main street and a more tranquil vibe in
north coast fishing hamlet, Bo Phut. And while Koh Pha Ngnan is
best known for its infamous full-moon parties and less-raucous
half-moon parties, it has a lot more to offer beyond the Hat Rin
debauchery. As 90 per cent of the island is covered in jungle and
40 per cent is protected by national park, wildlife abounds; if you
hike up Khao Ra, the island’s highest point, your pulse will likely be
raised by the jaw-dropping vistas as much as the incline.
You might not realise it, but Iran is also in Asia. It’s also set to be one of the must-go frontier
destinations for 2016. Most of the country is now considered safe: Australia has an embassy in
Tehran and after re-establishing its embassy there last summer, the UK is launching non-stop flights
from London this July – Iranian officials are hoping to welcome 20 million annual tourists by 2025.
But those going now will be among the first to experience the Islamic Republic’s diverse landscapes
and cultural treasures. You can hit the beach or go skiing (yes, you heard correctly). You can explore
19 UNESCO World Heritage sites, the most of any Middle-Eastern country (Persian capital,
Persepolis was founded by Darius The Great in 518BC), and wander ancient Islamic prayer halls
illuminated by kaleidoscopic shafts of light lancing down from stained-glass windows. And after
a day’s sightseeing, you can turn your attention to Iran’s fabulous cuisine to the sound of Persian
pop or classical poetry – walnut pomegranate stew or hot and sour shrimp, anyone?
Surat Thani,
Thailand
Iran
9
10
Chehel Sotoun Palace
in Isfahan, Iran.
30
PHOTOS:AMANPULO;TANYAJOSLIN;ISTOCK;THENAMHAI;DREAMSTIME;
DANBANNISTER;PIMALAIRESORT&SPA
ASIA
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