We have a lot to say about Indonesia and the Philippines, but in this article, we run down the 8 reasons Malaysia should be right at the top of your list of must-visit countries.

1. See Multiculturalism at its best in Kuala Lumpur

Right from its inception, Kuala Lumpur has been a truly multicultural town, where the Malay Muslim population co-exists—and flourishes—alongside large migrant populations from the Indian sub-continent and southern China. Modern Kuala Lumpur, therefore, is an intriguing palimpsest of architectural styles, distinct neighborhoods and cultural influences from all over Asia.

It’s a city that rewards walking, too. In a single day you can easily sample the delicious fusion food of a thriving China Town, marvel at the intricate interior spaces of the National Mosque, or witness a ceremony at Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur’s most revered Hindu Temple which has served as a focal point for Indian migrants to the city for over a century.

I’m not an expert on Malaysian politics, but in this time of many fraught conversations over the efficacy of multiculturalism, it’s certainly encouraging to immerse yourself in a city that seems to do this so well.

2. Marvel at the Petronas Towers

The name Kuala Lumpur translates roughly as something like “muddy convergence between two rivers”, and as late as the mid-nineteenth century Malaysia’s capital city was little more than this—just a small, wooden fishing village where two rivers met.

Look at it now and you’ll be amazed by how quickly it has grown into a global hub of huge significance. The Petronas Towers, the world’s tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004, are testament to Malaysia’s emergence on the world stage. These two towers stand at an impressive 1,500 feet tall and are linked by a navigable bridge on the 42^nd floor.

Time moves on, of course, and the accolade for world’s tallest building now belongs to Dubai, but the impact of the Petronas Towers, as a feat of engineering and a statement of economic power, is still enough to blow you away.

3. Cool off in the Cameron Highlands

For such a huge city Kuala Lumpur actually feels comparatively laid-back and mellow. Still, a few days of exploring the streets in that humidity and you’re going to start dreaming of an escape into the countryside.

Fortunately, the Cameron Highlands in North-Western state of Pahang is the perfect antidote to city life. Here, verdant tea plantations, stunning waterfalls and natural swimming pools nestle alongside fruit orchards and fields bursting with flowers, combining to create a region that feels like one big botanical garden.

Go fruit picking, swim beneath the Thompson Falls or learn about the region’s history in the fabulous Time Tunnel museum. The Cameron Highlands has a hundred ways to help you relax in nature.

4. Hit the beaches

Everyone knows about Thailand’s and Indonesia’s world-famous beaches, but if you think Malaysia can’t compete, then think again.

If you’re in the north of the country then prepare to be amazed by the white sands and coconut trees on the islands of Langkawi, a UNESCO Global Geopark.

If you’re in the south, then the islands that make up Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park might be your best beach choice. The national park is home to a great variety of local fauna, including macaques, proboscis monkeys and monitor lizards, as well as diverse and healthy marine life, making it a great spot for hiking or snorkeling.

Camping is permitted on many of the islands, so why not pitch a tent and wake up to take a swim at sunrise in your private paradise.

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5. Sample the best cuisine and nightlife in vibrant Penang

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Penang is rightly renowned as a mecca for travelers seeking the world’s best street food. Beyond its famous, and often very spicy, Penang curry, there’s a whole lot more stuff to stick in your face. There are more options here than I can list, so why not take a walk down the famous Gurney Street and simply follow your nose?

As a port town with a cosmopolitan vibe, Georgetown, the capital of Penang, has a valid claim to be one of the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Malaysia. Straits Quay is the place to be if you want to soak up the coastal atmosphere with some drinks.

6. Fill your frame with color in Malacca

Giving access to the important trade route of the Malacca Straits, this is one of Malaysia’s most vital economic hubs and has a complex history to boot.

The home of the first Sultanate, all that changed when the European colonialists came calling, and the city later fell into British, Portuguese and Dutch hands. As a result, there is now a wealth of crumbling forts, churches and museums scattered around that are like a goldmine for photographers and history buffs.

The city is also an explosion of color, especially in the area around the bright pink Anglican Christ Church, a hangover from British colonization that stands in central Malacca.

But Malacca isn’t stuck in the past; both the night markets around Jonker Walk and the street art scene are a testament to the creative buzz that keeps this city feeling lively in the modern age. Go and find out why both Forbes and Lonely Planet have rated Malacca as one of Asia (and indeed even the whole world’s) best travel destinations.

7. Get in touch with nature at Taman Negara NP

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It’s hard to pick a single highlight from all Malaysia’s natural havens, but if we were forced then we’d probably opt for this national park. The deciduous forest—one of the world’s oldest—is a perfect spot for trekkers as it’s possible to climb the mountains of Bukit Teresek (easy) or Gunung Tahan (difficult), or take a gentle stroll through the treetops on the Canopy Walkway.

Adrenaline junkies can get their kicks by shooting the rapids in small wooden boats piloted by local river guides, whereas animal lovers who are willing to be patient may be rewarded with the sight of elephants and even tigers.

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8. Visit wild Orangutans in Borneo

If you’re lucky enough, there really is no substitute for seeing animals in their natural environment. When we’re talking about orangutans that means either Malaysia or Indonesia.

Even within Borneo, there are only a handful of places you can see them, but our pick would be to take a tour of the rainforest at Danum Valley Conservation Area in Sabah. While you’re there you may even catch a glimpse of rhinoceros, pygmy elephants, clouded leopards or sun bears.

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General reasons to visit Malaysia

Malaysia is a rapidly developing country that embraces its past and looks forward to a bright future. The infrastructure is excellent and there are loads of options for getting around the country to suit each budget. English is widely spoken, meaning you should find it easy to get chatting with the locals, and most visitors do not require a visa to enter.

Malaysia offers all the highlights of South East Asia—from spectacular wildlife, great beaches, booming cities, fascinating culture and amazing food—all in a single country.

Go and discover your own reasons to visit Malaysia…you won’t be disappointed!

Suggested next reading: 10 Of The Very Best Things To Do In Singapore

The post 8 Serious Reasons To Visit Malaysia appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Being a lot cheaper than Japan, however, this makes Jiufen a no-brainer for anyone wanting to experience Japan on a budget while near Southeast Asia.

About Jiufen, Taiwan

Jiufen is a mountain town in north Taiwan only 2 hours away from Taipei City, which makes it an ideal day trip if you’re in the area.

It was a mining town during the gold rush of the Japanese era up until the 1950s but, far from becoming a ghost town, its stunning view of the Pacific Ocean, tea houses, picturesque winding streets and vintage Japanese feel, made it a popular destination for Taiwanese and travelers.

In fact, the Japanese feel is so strong that its connection with the Japenese film, Spirited Away, cannot be ignored.

But Jiufen Taiwan has more than just one film going for it. The winner of the 1989’s Golden Lion film award, A City of Sadness, was filmed here too.

Jiufen is quite small, with only about 3,000+ inhabitants. Being a mountain town, its roads are narrow, curvy and steep. Some things you might expect to find, such as a bank, you will not find here. So bring essentials with you and don’t rely on finding it within Jiufen.

Why Is Jiufen Cheaper Than Japan?

Japan, as a whole, is quite a bit more expensive than Taiwan.

Transportation Cost

Transportation in Japan is expensive,  with a single train journey alone (e.g. from Tokyo to Osaka) setting you back around $140, whereas in Taiwan the equivalent would only set you back by around $25.

Many of the local trains from Taipei (the capital city) to surrounding areas won’t be much more than $12. Whereas the metro system in Taipei itself is also cheap, with 10 days metro use costing this blogger just $3.60.

To save money traveling around Taiwan use local trains and the metro when in cities like Taipei.

Food Cost

Moreover, food in Japan is generally more expensive than in Taiwan. Not because Japan’s food is particularly expensive, but because Taiwanese street food is so cheap due to the many night markets. We recommend eating Taiwan’s street food over restaurants because, first of all, we find them to be safer (less likely to get food poisoning!), and secondly, because it is SO much cheaper.

Most street food dishes are around $1 or $2, so you can’t go wrong with that price. Best of all, it’s more authentic and what the locals do themselves.

Accommodation Cost

Accommodation usually costs a fair amount in Japan and, even if you are lucky enough to find a budget hotel, in comparison to Taiwan, you’ll be forking out more to spend the night.

You can find some great Airbnbs within Taipei for as low as $25 per night.

How Do I Get To Jiufen From Taipei?

1. Train

Go to Taipei Main Station (台北車站) and take the train north to Ruifang Station (瑞芳) for around NT$60 / $2. Then, exit Riufang Station, facing the “wellcome” supermarket, go straight and turn left onto Mingdeng Road.

Walk about 5 minutes/200 meters looking out for a police station, next to it is a bus stop called Local Residents Plaza (區民廣場) with the Keelung Bus 788 and 827 heading toward Jiufen. It’ll cost you about NT$20 / 50¢ to board. Stay on the bus until the last stop since it’ll drop you off near(ish) to Jiufen’s Old Street.

Once out of Riufang Station go straight and turn left onto the street in front of you. Cross the street and walk down for about 5 minutes or so until you reach a bus station. We were slightly unsure of which bus to take, so we asked the bus driver before we hopped on (I believe it was Keelung Bus 788, but double check the schedule). Stay on the bus until the last stop, which will drop you off a few minutes away from Jiufen Old Street. The train ticket is around NT$60 and the bus ticket is around NT$20.

2. Bus

A direct bus (the 965) leaves Banqiao Bus Station in the Banqiao district of New Taipei City and takes about 80 minutes to get there. One way, this ticket will cost you about NT$90 / $2.90 and leaves 6AM – 9PM on weekdays and 7AM – 9PM on weekends and holidays.

Alternatively, make your way to Zhongxiao Fuxing Station ((忠孝復興) at the intersection of the Brown and Blue line, and leave Exit 2. From outside the Sogo department store, you’ll be able to take the Keelung Bus 1062 to Jinguashin. (It says Junguashin, but it’ll take you to Jiufen, so no need to worry!)

This bus ticket will cost you NT$100 / $3.30 and the bus journey will take about 60 minutes, so get a good seat to spot the views!

3. Car

Of course, if money is less of a concern, you could just rent a car for the day from either IWS Car Rental or Chailease Auto Rental. The drive will take about 45 to 60 minutes.

What Is There To Do In Jiufen?

1. Jiu Fen Old Street

Be transported back into a different world by visiting the bustling old streets of Jiufen. It’ll feel like old Taiwan and old Japan all at once, and is located near Keelung’s coast with gorgeous sea views.

There are 4 streets of notable significance for you to check out: Jishan Street (particularly packed on weekends or holidays), Jianci Road, Cingbian Road, and Ciche Road.

Slow down, people watch, take it all in, and try and snap that perfect photo of hanging lanterns and Japanese-style decorations. It’ll feel like a different world!

There is also great food here too.

On the packed old streets of Jiufen there are vendors offer all kinds of Taiwanese foods such as hot or cold Taro Balls, Green tea balls, Hongzao meatballs, rice cakes, and much more. Definitely try the Taro Balls, which is popular all over Taiwan but was first created here in Jiufen in the 1940s.

Good places to grab a bite include A-Zhu Peanut Ice Cream Roll, Grandma Lai’s Yu Yuan and Ah Gan Yi Yu Yuan.

2. Do A Night Tour

If you’re the sort of person who dislikes crowds then a night tour of Jiufen may be perfect for you. You’ll get to see Jiufen in all its glory during the night and the atmosphere will be different.

Quite a few people think you can complete Jiufen in just one afternoon, but that is a mistake. Sometimes people regret not staying overnight in Jiufen and end up coming back again.

So starting your Jiufen trip with a night tour and then staying at one of the amazing guesthouses (e.g. Shanhaiguan Guesthouse / 九份山海观民宿) overnight so you can wake up bright and early to experience Jiufen in the morning is a fantastic idea!

A night tour with Klook around the night markets of Jiufen, Shifen and Keelung Miaokow would also be a great choice.

3. Visit A Tea House

Throughout the Old Street of Jiufen (though, in turn, its more like an alley) are a scattering of teahouses—squashed, hidden, and delicately placed in the middle of shops and buildings that are well worth the visit.

There is A Mei teahouse decorated with masks reminiscent of Spirited Away. Expect to hear Japenese. The author (Hayao Miyazaki) can deny Jiufen’s inspiration in the Japanese fantasy film all he wants, but this won’t stop the tourists due to the Studio Ghibli memorabilia found throughout the town.

The menu of A Mei teahouse offers a wide selection of beverages, teas and desserts. Pricey but tasty, and worth the experience.

Another teahouse of note is the Skyline teahouse. Offering pristine views of the coast and nearby mountains, this oolong-selling traditional teahouse also sells traditional Taiwanese snacks.

4. Hike Keelung Mountain (基隆山)

If just walking down the twisting, steep roads of Jiufen doesn’t satisfy your hiking needs, then a hike up Keelung Mountain is a must-do. At 588 meters high, it’s quite a challenge for newbies and will take about 2 hours in total for travel times from Jiufen and to complete it.

If you’re looking for how to get to Jiufen from Keelung to do this hike, simply either take a taxi or, alternatively, make your way to Jiu Dao station by taking the 基隆客運 KL bus from Keelung train station, or the 825 bus from Ruifang train station.

5. Check Out Shengping Theater

If movies and Baroque architecture is your thing, you ought to check out Shengping Theater.

Built in the early 1900s the theater is the oldest existing theater in Taiwan. Renovated and reopened in 2011, this theater now gives locals a chance to re-live childhood memories watching classic Taiwanese films and operas.

So go and check out an old Taiwanese movie and connect with the movie-history of Taiwan.

Jiufen Taiwan Map

Here is our interactive map of Jiufen so you can see where some of the most notable places are.

The Best Time To Visit Jiufen

If you’re going just to shop then the best time to visit Jiufen Taiwan is late morning.

If you’re going for the ambiance, experience and mood then this is best in the early morning and evening. (And, like mentioned above, spending the night is highly recommended).

What Should I Buy In Jiufen?

If you’re looking to try Taiwanese delicacies then you definitely should taste the Ah Gan Yee’ Yam Ball (阿甘姨芋圆). A warm soup (which will be nice at this colder mountain altitude anyway). We also recommend asking for the mixed version which is red peppers, yam balls in a green bean soup.

If you’re looking to bring something home with you then good souvenirs include cups, bags, fans, plushy teddies, and lots of silk products—the embroidery on these silks are excellent and will make a great gift.

A recommended tea to order in teahouses would be Jin Xuan Oolong Tea (金宣茶).

A Day Trip To Shifen

Nearby to Jiufen, another day trip worth doing from Taipei is Shifen. You can either spend a few days in Jiufen and go to Shifen as well or do it separately from Jiufen altogether.

Possessing its own Old Street, Shifen also features the broadest waterfall in Taiwan, Shifen Waterfalls.

A Day Trip To Jinguashi

Another worthy day trip is the mining town of Jinguashi, again not far from Jiufen.

Featuring one of the hardest hikes in Northern Taiwan called Teapot Mountain (茶壺山), Jinguashi also contains the Gold Museum which looks at Taiwan’s fascinating gold mining history, and also the Golden Waterfall which, although not flowing in gold, is an extraordinary scene of nature and definitely worth visiting.

Are you going on a trip to Jiufen soon? Tell us how it goes and share your experience and tips in the comment section below!

Suggested next reading: 7 Nerdy Things To Do In Tokyo That Are SO Much Fun

The post Jiufen, Taiwan: The Budget-Friendly Japan Of Taiwan appeared first on Modern Trekker.

In here, I’ve gone for Tavče Gravče, Srpska Salata, Kebapci, Mămăligă, Byrek, Pleskavica, Štruklji, and Mekici. I’ll be explaining more about each one just below! But first…

What Counts As “Balkan”?

The Balkan region itself covers mainly the countries of former Yugoslavia (Serbia, Macedonia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Slovenia) as well as the post-communist countries of Romania, Bulgaria, and Albania. While from a geographic point of view, only parts of Romania, Croatia, or Slovenia are part of the region, many records nonetheless consider these countries as Balkan.

Some records also include Greece and the European part of Turkey (including half of Istanbul) in the Balkan region. From a gastronomic point of view though, Greece’s gastronomy is mostly related to Mediterranean food while Turkey has influences from the Middle East.

This debate of whether somewhere is Balkan or not can be infinitely discussed. For the sake of some common features though, I’ll focus on the traditional Balkan dishes that historically and genuinely represent the essence of the Balkans. This is mainly because, until two hundred years ago, most of the countries in this region were part of the Ottoman Empire. Therefore many traditional dishes in the Balkans have Ottoman influences, use similar types of ingredients, and similar recipes.

The Best Balkan Food

Here are 8 of the most popular and best Balkan foods that you will find throughout the region. Some of them can be found in a variety of forms in multiple countries, whereas some are popular only in a certain region. Make sure you’ve eaten before reading this article!

1. Tavče Gravče

Tavče gravče is oven-cooked white fresh beans, in a sauce flavored with dry red pepper and bay leaves. The dish has a special taste if cooked and served in special earthenware. It’s a classic comfort-food and simply one of the best foods in the Balkans.

Tavče gravče is a national and staple dish in Macedonian cuisine (and popular in the Northern part of Greece too), but it is also a staple of Serbian food and Bosnian cuisine as well.

2. Srpska Salata

Srpska salata is very popular in Serbia and it is made of raw peppers, onions, and tomatoes, dressed with oil, vinegar and sometimes even hot chili.

A similar, more widespread variant is the Šopska salata, which is made of tomatoes, cucumber, and onion, topped with grated or diced white brine cheese (sir or sirinje). This is the traditional Bulgarian salad and also the national Macedonian salad, so you will find it extensively in these two neighboring countries.

Šopska salata is very similar to the traditional Greek salad, but this last one is served with diced feta cheese which gives a slightly different taste.

3. Kebapci, Ćevapčići / Ćevapi

Kebapci, Ćevapčići / Ćevapi are some of the favorite foods in the Balkans. They are spicy minced meatballs of lamb, beef or pork, well grilled. Usually served in groups of five to ten pieces, they can be paired with fried potatoes or simply with bread (in some regions flatbread) and often chopped onions, kajmak (a special type of sour cream), or ajvar (a pepper-based condiment made from red bell peppers and oil).

Kebapci have their origins during the Ottoman period and this is why they are so popular in southeastern Europe (which was under the Turkish rule for quite a long time).

They are easy to find especially in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Macedonia, but can also be ordered on menus in Slovenia, Montenegro and Albania…not to mention this is also a Croatian food too. You can’t miss this food in the Balkans!

In Romania, mici are similar to kebapci, but they are bigger in size and the recipe and taste are slightly different, so you should try both of them to accurately experience the difference. Which one is the best Balkan food? We’ll let you decide!

4. Mămăligă Cu Brânză Şi Smântână

Mămăligă cu brânză și smântână is one of the national Romanian dishes. It is basically polenta or boiled cornmeal mush served with white sheep cheese and fresh sour cream. Polenta is usually hearty and fills your stomach, but just be on the safe side, you can also order it topped with fried eggs and paired with scallions or chopped red onion.

You can find polenta with cheese as a main dish in many restaurants throughout Romania, but simple polenta is also popular as a side dish for other courses. It is also cooked a lot in family homes and, if you hike in the mountains, stop at a sheepfold and ask for their polenta—it has a special flavor when cooked on a wood fire.

Be curious and read more about different variants of serving polenta and other Romanian foods here.

5. Burek / Byrek

Burek or byrek is a delicious filo-pastry pie stuffed with cheese, spinach, potato, minced meat or even mushrooms. Byrek is traditionally prepared in a large pan, then cut into smaller pieces after baking and served as individual pastries (usually they have the form of a triangle).

This ubiquitous snack is mostly served cold or hot with yogurt for breakfast. It’s so hearty that you can eat it for lunch too if you’re in a hurry.

Byrek is originally from Anatolia (a province in current Turkey) and it is widely found in the cuisines of the Balkan countries. In the former Yugoslavian countries, stop at the shops with pekara (this means “bakery” in Slavic languages) written on the street-front and snack cheaply on a burek or two. If you try a burek of each type, you’d have to be very hungry as they are quite filling and nourishing.

Burek can be also found in Albanian cuisine in different variants. It is usually stuffed with cheese, ground meat, spinach and eggs, as well as with tomato and onions, peppers and beans, potato or pumpkin.

6. Pleskavica

Pleskavica is spiced meat patty made of pork, beef or lamb, which is well grilled on both sides. It is a hearty main course, usually served with chopped onions, a big spoon of kajmak (a type of very tasty, clotted milk cream), French fries or simply with bread (in some regions it is popularly paired with a big flatbread, like a hamburger). When stuffed with cheese it’s called pleskavica sharri, and the melted cheese has a special taste that can’t be compared with anything else.

The origin of this Balkan food is Serbia, but this spicy hamburger is easy to find in one form or another throughout the Balkans. You can find it in all of the former Yugoslavian countries, but it’s popular mostly in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, and Kosovo.

It is big enough to fill your stomach for half a day, and sometimes even for a whole day. So keep that in mind when you order it and don’t choose anything for the dessert until you have eaten the big pleskavica in your plate!

7. Štruklji

Štruklji are rolled pastries that are either baked or cooked and, depending on the filling, can be sweet or savory. Particularly popular in Slovenian cuisine, it was once a Balkan food reserved for special occasions but now is one of the most featured foods in Slovenian homes.

Zagorski Štrukli is its traditional Croatian relative since Štruklji itself goes all the way back to the 16^th Century and probably beyond. However, it is in Austria that it first makes its definitive appearance in history in a recipe left behind by a chef in Graz, Austria’s second largest city, in the year 1589.

Fillings that are typical for Štruklji include tarragon (this was actually used in the aforementioned chef’s original recipe), poppy seeds, walnuts, cottage cheese, and apple.

8. Mekici

Mekici are soft, traditional Bulgarian donuts, with the kneaded dough made with deep fried yogurt. In Serbian cuisine they are called mekike. The best way to describe them is perhaps to compare them to a British Yorkshire pudding, although Mekici are usually eaten in the morning, whereas Yorkshire puddings are eaten for lunch or dinner.

The risen dough is torn into pieces, then fried in oil and, once fully fried, powdered with icing sugar. Jam is usually garnished on the top. If you’re looking for the best Balkan food for dessert or a snack, this is a great contender.

They are quite similar to lángos, which is a deep-fried dough popular in Hungarian cuisine. However, lángos are usually served with ketchup or mayonnaise, whereas mekici are not since they tend to be sweet. Despite this, sometimes mekici are garnished with sirene (brined white cheese).

 best Balkan food comes in all shapes and sizes and can be found throughout the whole region…did we miss any on our list? Comment below if you know of other authentic Balkan foods, or want to share your impression of eating these foods with us!

Suggested next reading: 6 Amazing Locations In The Balkans You Might Not Know About

The post 8 Best Balkan Foods That’ll Make Your Mouth Water appeared first on Modern Trekker.

I glimpsed people above me reaching the top, exclamations of surprise and wonder just barely reaching my ears—the sound of the steam was already deafening.

With one last push of energy, I made it up the final steps, greeted by an enormous black pit before me that hissed and thundered from the lava below. After two days of travel and just 1.5 hours of sleep, I’d arrived at Mount Bromo.

This mesmerizing volcano lives on the eastern end of the island of Java, the geographic and economic epicenter of Indonesia. Home to more than half of the Indonesian population, Java is a stunning island almost entirely of volcanic rock—but only one-third of the volcanoes are currently active.

Situated right next to the more well-known island of Bali, the majority of its inhabitants are Muslim and dominantly speak Javanese, in addition to the national language of Indonesian. Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is located on the northwest coast of the island and is the largest city in the nation of islands. (Indonesia is made up of thirteen thousand islands!)

Java is quintessential Indonesia—it boasts major metropolitan cities, lush jungles, incredible volcanoes, tea plantations, and massive temples. While most tourists head to its popular neighbor Bali, Java has flown under the radar and maintained more Indonesian authenticity.

Here are five reasons to skip Bali on your next Southeast Asian adventure and visit Java, Indonesia instead:

1. There’s less tourism, commercialism, and crowds

Java feels like a quiet retreat compared to Bali. While the most frequented areas of Bali are filled with holidaying Australians, partying hipsters, and wealthy yogis, Java feels much more untouched.

As a Westerner in Java, you’re more of an anomaly than a fixture. You can stay in a hostel in a small village in the jungle and dine on delicious local cuisine, like nasi goreng (fried rice) and tempe goreng (fried tempeh)—for half the price of a dish in Bali.

You’re able to meet locals and experience what life is like in Indonesia apart from the influx of tourists on vacation. In a nutshell? You get to see the real Indonesia.

2. Four UNESCO world heritage sites are in Java, Indonesia

Even if you only visited one of these iconic UNESCO sites, it’d be worth the trip. Just north of Yogyakarta is Borobudur Temple, a massive 9th-century Buddhist temple that ranks with Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.

Borobudur is Indonesia’s single most visited tourist attraction, and popular for watching the sunrise. (Take a motorbike from Yogyakarta and get there early, as it tends to be crowded in the early morning hours.) Prambanan Temple is another popular one, the country’s largest Hindu temple compound that originally consisting of 240 temples.

Even if you don’t pay the entrance fee, you can wander the temples and ruins on the outskirts and still get a good feel for the magnitude of it.

Ujung Kulon National Park, located on the westernmost point of Java, is a stunning lowland rainforest that is the last known refuge for the endangered Javan rhinoceros and other threatened plants and species. The park includes the famous Krakatoa reserve, home to the most-studied volcanic eruption that killed 36,000 people in 1883.

Last but not least is Sangiran, an archaeological site located in central Java that is “recognized by scientists to be one of the most important sites in the world for studying fossil man,” according to a UNESCO report. Despite not being well-preserved when it was first discovered, Sangiran now boasts a modern museum.

3. It’s home to Mount Ijen and Mount Bromo

On the eastern side of Java are two of the most stunning volcanoes. Mount Bromo is a popular destination at sunrise, with the option to travel by Jeep to the top of Mount Penanjakan for an incredible view of the volcano. A pink sea of mist envelops the ground as the sun slowly rises, illuminating the billows of steam pouring out of Bromo below.

A bit further east is the Ijen volcano, known for its one-kilometer-wide turquoise-colored crater lake that’s home to a sulfur mining operation. Most popularly, a midnight two-hour hike leads visitors to the infamous “blue fire crater” to see the otherworldly ignited sulfuric gas.

4. Yogyakarta is a cultural hotspot

A highlight of Java, Indonesia is the city of Yogyakarta, or “Yogya” as it’s affectionately known.

Home to a multitude of colleges and universities, Yogya has a large student population and a rich tradition of arts and culture. Batik textiles, traditional cooking classes, Javanese dance, and its proximity to Borobudur and Prambanan temples make it a popular tourism destination, even offering some Western comforts like restaurants serving hamburgers and beer (alcohol is hard to come by in Java, as it’s a mostly Muslim island).

Yogya is the perfect place to wander aimlessly and stumble upon rambling alleyways, bustling markets, and ancient palaces.

5. The train system is a great way to see the island

Unlike Bali, Java’s reputable rail network is a reliable way to explore the 1000-kilometer island.

Away from the Westerners that flood Bali’s buses and ride-shares like Uber and Grab, train rides in Java are easy, comfortable, and affordable. All trains offer air conditioning, power outlets, and dining cars, making a tour of the countryside an enjoyable alternative to flights. (And tickets are easy to purchase.)

You can rumble through Java’s lush green rice fields peacefully, passing volcanoes and rural towns. Trains in Java connect all the major cities and tourist destinations, including Mount Bromo, and you can take a train from Jakarta in the far West all the way to Banyuwangi in the far East, the ferry terminal for Bali.

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While Bali is indeed a gorgeous island of Hindu culture, bohemian art, and deep spirituality, it sometimes steals the spotlight from its equally-as-impressive neighbor. An ancient epicenter of colonialism and resilience, Java, Indonesia deserves more praise—and perhaps a stop on your next Southeast Asia itinerary.

Suggested next reading: How To Go Rogue And See Southeast Asia By Motorbike

The post 5 Reasons To Skip Bali And Visit Java Instead appeared first on Modern Trekker.

From colorful performances, interesting rituals, beguiling festivals to rickshaw rides, this vibrant country has so much to offer. Also, from history to places to visit, and from food to accommodation, must have experiences in India are exceedingly numerous. To put it differently, there are so many things to do in India that’ll mesmerize you.

There are certain unique experiences that you can only have in India. Read on to find out what each one is!

The Most Unique Travel Experiences In India Include:

1. Going Glamping
2. Traveling Aboard Indian Luxury Trains
3. Witnessing The Kumbh Mela
4. Exploring The Forts Of Rajasthan
5. Sailing Across The Kerala Backwaters
6. Attending Wonderful Festivals
7. Trekking In The Himalayas
8. Witnessing Ganga Aarti At Varanasi
9. Gorging On Scrumptious Food
10. Admiring The Beauty Of The Taj Mahal
11. Planning A Bike Trip In Ladakh
12. Staying At A Heritage Hotel
13. Being A Part Of An Indian Wedding
14. Attending Cultural Performances
15. Taking A Rickshaw Ride In Chandni Chowk

1. Going Glamping

Ditch camping and enjoy Glamping in India. Realize your dream of adventure with a twist of lavishness and luxury. This unique activity is slowly becoming one of the latest travel trends. Luxurious tents nestled everywhere, be it in the deserts, along beaches or in the mountains, all offer a memorable stay.

Location: Goa, Ladakh, Jaisalmer, Ranthambore, etc.

2. Traveling Aboard Indian Luxury Trains

From local trains, toy trains to the bullet train, India is the only country which offers a plethora of options for traveling. Standing out amongst the rest are the luxury trains in India that will beguile with a memorable ride. Recreating the magic of the royal era, these trains offer a unique experience in India by pampering you like a king.

Location: Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, South India, etc.

3. Witnessing The Kumbh Mela

Happening after an interval of 12 years at one of the four locations, Kumbh Mela draws millions of visitors. The mass Hindu pilgrimage is one of the most unique festivals in India. Listed in the UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List, the event plays an important part in the soteriology of Hinduism.

Witnessing this ancient festival is bound to be one of the more unique travel experiences in India that a visitor could have.

Location: Haridwar, Ujjain, Allahabad (Prayagraj), Nashik, etc.

4. Exploring The Forts Of Rajasthan

Standing gloriously as a testimony to royal chivalry, the magnificent forts in Rajasthan mesmerize onlookers. Unveil the mysteries, immerse yourself in these cultural treasures and enjoy a time travel back into history. Beautifully lit with lights in the evening, these architectural marvels present a unique spectacle.

Besides the forts, the palaces in Rajasthan are also counted as the best places to visit in India.

Location: Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, etc.

5. Sailing Across The Kerala Backwaters

The Kerala backwaters are the pride of “God’s own country”. Showcasing a perfect confluence of rivers, lakes, sea and other water bodies, the Kerala backwaters are blissful beyond description. Nowhere else other than in India can you delight in an experience of cruising along these scenic wonders.

Staying on the houseboats while slowly gliding on these backwaters must feature on your bucket list to do in India.

Location: Alleppey, Kumarakom, Cochin, Kollam, etc.

6. Attending Wonderful Festivals

Home to various religions, India celebrates a number of exciting festivals. From the Festival of Colours in Vrindavan, Hornbill in Nagaland to the Sunburn Festival in Pune, all of them are unique and memorable in their own way. The culture, age-old customs, and amazing festivities will render you speechless.

A great option would be to venture to Goa in Southwestern India and experience Good Friday or the Feast of the Three Kings. These are rich and vibrant celebrations and showcase the long history of Catholicism within India. A fact that is not known to all. See here for more.

Location: Mathura, Arunachal Pradesh, Mysore, Leh, Goa, etc.

7. Trekking In The Himalayas

Fancy a bit of an otherworldly challenge? Trekking in the Himalayas may be right up your street.

Filled with wonders such as snow leopards, giant butterflies, forests of pine, beautiful lakes, tea estates, and mountain communities, going to the Himalayas in India will present you with all kinds of sights, smells, experiences and—dare to mention—challenges.

There are many challenging hikes on offer including Spiti Valley trek (pictured), the Hemis Festival trek and the Markha Valley trek. But your possibilities are endless, click here for some more hiking options.

Location: The Indian Himalayan Region

8. Witnessing Ganga Aarti At Varanasi

Although this spectacular ceremony also takes place in Haridwar and Rishikesh, Ganga Aarti in Varanasi stands out amongst the rest.

While fascinating innumerable spectators, this ethereal presentation brings countless people to Dashashwamedh Ghat every evening. It’s a great place to people-watch and let the time pass by!

Location: Varanasi

9. Gorging On Scrumptious Food

A haven for foodies, India brings to the table a number of varieties of foods and flavors. Be it the lip-smacking street food to the sumptuous cuisines, authentic delicacies to home-made dishes, everything can make you drool.

If you’ve tried Indian food abroad, you’ve never properly tried it. Indian food MUST be tried in India. It’s authentic, varied and has a rich history. Each region in India offers something unique and different!

For example, the food in Goa is so different from the Punjabi food up North, and there is also Bengal, Gujarat, Ladakh, and much more! See here for more information on food around India.

Location: All over India

10. Admiring The Beauty Of The Taj Mahal

Standing as an epitome of love, the Taj Mahal exudes an unparalleled charm. Witnessing this architectural wonder during sunrise or on a full moon day is surely one of the must have experiences in India. The incredible views will get etched on your mind forever.

Sure, going to see the Taj Mahal may be a bit of a cliché, but experiencing this kind of landmark is one of the things you can only do India. So don’t mind being a tourist for a little while!

Location: Agra

11. Planning A Bike Trip In Ladakh

There’s nothing better than exploring Ladakh on your bike. Riding on the world’s highest roads is every biker’s dream. The sound of your bike reverberating in the valleys is both heart-thumping and fun. Furthermore, passing by the hairpin bends and deep ravines makes for a truly adventurous time.

Location: Magnetic Hill, Khardung La, Pangong Lake, etc.

12. Staying At A Heritage Hotel

Vacations become all the more exciting when coupled with an unforgettable stay. Many heritage hotels in India have been serving their guests since times immemorial, affording them some of the best moments of their life.

Staying at a heritage hotel is one of the most unique things to do in India that can’t really be done elsewhere. The world-class hospitality, excellent services, signature experiences, and elegant rooms are truly praiseworthy.

Location: Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan, etc.

13. Being A Part Of An Indian Wedding

Comprising of many rituals, an Indian wedding is nothing less than an extravaganza. Talking to the people, observing interesting traditions and savoring tasty food offers an unforgettable cultural experience. Dance till you drop, take innumerable selfies and just have lots of fun.

Location: Delhi, Udaipur, Goa, etc.

14. Attending Cultural Performances

Taking place against marvelous backgrounds, the cultural performances in India present a sight to behold. A perfect mélange of emotions, expressions, rhythms and so much more, these performances are worth-witnessing.

Performed by skilled performers, the performances depict exclusive sagas, each special in its own way.

The Madras Music Season is well worth a look to experience classical Indian music and dance. Located in Chennai in Southeastern India, the season occurs from mid-November to January.

Location: Konark, Khajuraho, Rann of Kutch, Rajasthan, etc.

15. Taking A Rickshaw Ride In Chandni Chowk

Quite economical, a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk allows you to traverse the bustling area with ease. Taking you to some of the more inaccessible areas, the journey is something that you will remember for a lifetime.

Board an e-rickshaw or a manual one, moving at a slow pace, these rickshaws will help you tour the area properly with many of the guides very enthusiastic to ensure you have a great time.

Location: Chandni Chowk in Delhi

To truly revel in all these unique travel experiences in India, the country must be visited more than just once!

Do you know of any other must have experiences or crazy things to do in India that you’d like to add to our list? Feel free to comment below.

Suggested next reading: 8 Splendid Things To Do While Traveling To Nepal

The post 15 Incredible Experiences In India You Need To Do Before You Die appeared first on Modern Trekker.

In case you might be asking yourself, Tết is short for “Tet Nguyen Dan” which translates into Sino-Vietnamese as “feast of the first morning on the first day”. For locals, this important period is a time to look forward with hope and leave the troubles of the past behind. As you can imagine, this also means that locals all over the country return home to spend time with their families during the New Year in Vietnam.

But what exactly happens during Tết?

Let’s take a closer look at this vibrant period and what you need to know before traveling to Vietnam for the celebration.

Celebrating Tet & The New Year In Vietnam

Tết follows the very same calendar as China which means that New Year in Vietnam coincides with that of the Chinese New Year. At the same time, there are some unique nuances with celebrations in Vietnam to look out for. For example, hooting owls are considered very unlucky during Tết, while dogs barking is considered a sign of confidence and hence, this is encouraged by locals.

In preparation for Tết, most locals begin cleaning their homes, organizing their finances and picking up new clothing for the celebrations. Simply put, this is a time when Vietnamese people actively try to rid their lives of “bad fortune” and fill this void with hopes of prosperity.

Vietnamese locals also lay on an impressive feast for their friends and family during Tết. You will find that gifts are exchanged during the New Year in Vietnam and everyone will visit a place of worship and possibly one of the many public parades.

As a rule, the first few days are supposed to be spent with family, with friends, and friends of friends being welcomed into the circle as the celebrations progress. Interestingly, locals are often found burning gold leaf paper to “the Kithcen God” as a means of appeasing this god for any of their wrongdoing. This is also a time for locals to pay their respects for their deceased relatives.

But what does this mean to you, the traveler?

What Does New Year In Vietnam Mean For Visitors?

Well, even though Tết is very much a local celebration, visitors are always welcomed to join in with the festivities. You see, at midnight on Tết, the Vietnamese welcome the New Year with some extraordinary firework displays. Meanwhile, drums and chants fill the air as a very vibrant atmosphere takes over the streets.

Also, you must understand that this is a time of grace and giving, as Vietnamese people believe that what happens during Tết is a sign of what will happen in the upcoming year. Similarly, most households also believe that the wealth of the first visitor through their front door on Vietnamese New Year will determine their own wealth in the year to come!

Moral of the story: Vietnamese people will be more than happy to see you during Tết!

Now, here’s a quick overview of the best places to visit for Tết and celebrating the New Year in Vietnam.

Activities & Things To Do During Tet

Hue, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh are the most popular places to visit for New Year in Vietnam and where many events, fireworks and celebrations are common.

1. Hue

As you can imagine, the former capital of Hue is a focal point of celebrations where a “Tet Pole” is raised on the grounds of the Hue Imperial Citadel. This happens on the very first day and interestingly, the “Cay Neu” in Hue Citadel (traditional bamboo plant) is also the largest one you will see during the celebrations.

2. Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Som Temple and Quan Su pagoda are some of the best places to visit during the New Year in Vietnam. Also, many events are held at the Hanoi Opera House and, unless you want to avoid the crowds, this is the best place to witness a huge fireworks display.

3. Ho Chi Minh

Tết is the only time of year when a floating market takes place in Ho Chi Minh—Binh Dong Floating Flower Market in District 8. However, there are many more pleases to join in the festivities around HCMC such as the ornament street in Hai Thuong Lan Ong (Chinatown) or Nguyen Hue Boulevard where the street is lined with endless colorful flowers.

5 Tips For Travelling To Vietnam For Tet

Finally, here are some simple tips for spending the New Year in Vietnam:

1. Hotel Bookings

Each of the above destinations gets incredibly busy during the New Year in Vietnam, so make sure that you book hotels well in advance. Also, expect that prices will be higher during this period.

2. Reserving Transport

Tết is a time when locals are traveling all over the country to return home, so keep in mind that even the transport requires advance reservation.

3. Stores and Supplies

For the first three days of Tết, many stores are closed. With this in mind, remember to pick up shampoo and basic supplies in the days leading up to the celebrations.

4. General Security

Vietnam is generally a very safe place but Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi are places where crowds and unsavory characters can go hand in hand. In other words, watch for pickpocketers and leave your valuables in the hotel whenever possible.

 5. Learn Some Vietnamese

It should go without saying that locals always appreciate when a visitor takes time to learn some of the language. However, this is especially true during Tết when you have the opportunity to greet locals in their own language.

Tết takes place on February 5^th in 2019 and if you want to travel to Vietnam for the celebrations, now would be a good time to get everything booked so that you don’t miss out on all the fun!

Suggested next reading: The Unbelievable Mud Cave In Vietnam You Have To See To Believe

The post Celebrating The New Year In Vietnam: Everything You Need To Know appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Visit the World’s Smallest Park

There are two different versions of how this park came to be. It’s founder, Fagan, claimed he looked out of his office window and to his amazement, saw a leprechaun in the middle of the street. He instantly ran outside to catch it and when he was successful in doing so, the leprechaun grudgingly granted Fagan his wish that a park be named after him.

However, as Fagan hadn’t specified a size, the leprechaun—or Patrick O’Toole as he became known—granted the small, 2-foot circle of land for Fagan.

The other, less fantastical version is that Mill Ends Park was originally intended to be the place for a streetlight but after the hole was dug, no light turned up. Therefore Fagan planted flowers in the hole, named it Mill Ends and announced it to be the World’s Smallest Park. In 1971 the Guinness Book of Records agreed and as a result, the park has been used for many unusual things such as a miniature Ferris Wheel and a swimming pool for butterflies.

The only challenge to its title came from the town of Burntwood who claimed their Prince’s Park should be known as the World’s smallest as it had a fence around it. Mill Ends devotees responded by erecting a tiny fence around the miniscule perimeter and no more was said on the matter.

So if this story doesn’t immediately make you fall in love with Portland, we’re really not sure what will.

2. Visit China

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If after your visit to Mill Ends, you’re more in the mood for an outside space you can actually walk around, then we suggest leaving the USA for a brief period and stepping into China.

Portland is twinned with Suzhou which lies in the beautiful Chinese province of Jiangsu. This region is known for having outstanding Dynasty Gardens and it seems like Portland wanted to echo that reputation in their own city. Therefore they created what is known as the most authentic Chinese Garden outside of China in the Lan Su garden. This loosely translates to the Garden of the Awakening Orchids and is said to be a little piece of Asia right in Oregon.

Nothing is required of you except to appreciate its authentic beauty, so why not take a moment out of hectic city life and experience a small slice of tranquillity?

3. Explore the Shanghai Tunnels

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Portland is currently known for its hippie, quirky vibe but did you know that between 1850 and 1941, it was considered one of the most dangerous places in America? This reputation could be based on the existence of the Old Portland Underground or as its otherwise known, the Shanghai Tunnels.

Built originally to move stock on and off ships, the tunnels were later rumored to be used by members of organized crime. But what they are really famous for was the part they played in “Shanghaiing” or rather kidnapping unsuspecting men in order to make them work for free on board ships. It is said that these unfortunate souls were dropped through trap doors or “Deadfalls” into the underground system and held in cells against their will before being sold to ship captains and made to set sail.

Now there is some evidence to suggest that the stories of the Shanghai Tunnels may not be entirely true or at the very least, have been exaggerated for the tourist trade. But we’re not so sure. Why not book yourself onto an Underground tour and find out for yourself?

4. Glow in the dark mini golf?

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Let’s lighten the mood now, quite literally with the happy knowledge that Glow in the Dark Mini Golf exists. Yes, that’s right. Ever wanted to play Minigolf but just been too blinded by that gosh darn sun? That’s not a problem at the basement located Glowing Greens miniature golf course where you can enjoy 18 holes of pure, neon colored, radiating fun. Go on your birthday and get a free round!

5. Take an ancient selfie

We all love a vintage filter but what if you could get that effect completely authentically? The folks at Ace Hotel have lovingly restored a vintage photobooth, plopped it in their hotel lobby and made it available for anyone to use. The 100-year-old technology means you’ll be stepping back in time in order to preserve the present moment.

Simply pop in $4, strike 4 poses and wait 4 minutes. You’ll have your very own strip of photos just like your recent ancestors would have done. Pro-tip, make sure to smell the photos afterward. Apparently, the rotten smell is a sign of authenticity. That’s what they tell us anyway.

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6. Take a Submarine Tour

Sadly or perhaps thankfully, the submarine on display at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry doesn’t actually go under the water anymore. But apart from that, it’s still a totally authentic navy experience.

Tour highlights include touching a torpedo, looking through a working periscope and visiting a completely restored and fully operational radio room. Although this submarine hasn’t been in active service since 1990, it’s still the closest thing to submarine living that any of us land lovers are likely to get.

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7. Skate your way to a trophy

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Finally, end on a high note and skip down to America’s largest roller skating rink. Oaks Park holds regular events for kids, couples and everyone in between. Even better, you can enter one of their many competitions and obviously it’s dependent on your skill level, but we really think you could win it!

If you somehow don’t manage to snag a prize, you can commiserate yourself by heading to the amusement rides, games and other family-friendly activities available at the park. What a brilliant end to your Portland trip.

Can you think of any more wonderful and weird things to do in Portland? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: 6 Things To Do That’ll Make You Fall In Love With Seattle

The post 7 Wonderful & Weird Things To Do In Portland appeared first on Modern Trekker.

The people of Guanxi Province, in Southern China, have an expression: “I would rather live in Guilin”, they say, “than in heaven”.

 

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Even if you haven’t heard of Guilin until now, there’s a chance you already know a little bit about it. Close your eyes and try to imagine rural China. Are you picturing misty peaks towering above lazy rivers? Cormorants fishing in the twilight? Rice terraces glittering in the sunshine?

Well, you’re really thinking about Guilin.

I was lucky enough to be able to spend two weeks there recently, as part of a longer trip around China. I have always been enchanted by that landscape—mostly from watching nature documentaries as a kid—and for the longest time I’ve wanted to just sit down in those hills and imagine for one fleeting moment that I’m part of that life.

But I also hoped that my time there would reveal something of the local history, culture, and the reality of day-to-day life in this remarkable environment.

I’m not sure how fully I succeeded at that objective, but I did get a small taste of both the reality and the daydream. I’ll try to share some of these experiences with you here, in the hope that it will persuade you to make a trip to this remarkable part of the world.

Arrival

As our plane comes into land, I glance out of the window. In the distance, wreathed in shadow, are the towering karsts that define this region. This is my first glimpse of a landscape we’ve traveled halfway across the world to see and I can’t wait to get out and explore.

These unique limestone structures are created when acids in rainwater slowly dissolve the bedrock, forming tiny cracks and fissures that deepen and expand over time. Eventually, this process culminates in the formation of sheer, isolated and well-defined peaks that rise sharply above the plains below.

There are many places in South East Asia where karst landforms can be seen, but they are arguably at their most spectacular in the area around Guilin.

 

A post shared by Mercier Zeng (@mercierzeng) on Jul 24, 2018 at 1:29am PDT

But before we could get to exploring, we first needed to find our hotel. Guilin doesn’t have a train line from the airport to the city, unfortunately, so instead we jumped in a taxi—an experience in itself. With just one hand on the wheel—the other left free to produce an endless supply of pumpkin seeds—our driver whisked us down the highway and through the city, deftly skirting pedestrians and other vehicles whilst having hurried conversations with his family on the phone.

If you’re a soft Westerner like me then this sort of thing can feel a little chaotic at times. In Guilin, people use megaphones and huge PA systems to try and tempt you into buying fruit. The marketplaces and restaurants are always packed to the rafters and booming with noise. The traffic doesn’t stop, even at crossings, so you just have to dive out into a sea of mopeds and trust the riders to skim around you.

Don’t worry, it’s not their first rodeo.

But the longer you spend in here, the more you realize that there’s actually a sense of order and security underpinning what at first looks like chaos. More than that, the people seem to embody a sense of calmness in the chaos that you really come to admire.

For example, near misses on the roads, which would certainly provoke profanity or even violence in my hometown, here draw barely a second look. Restaurant and shop owners will try and tempt you to dine, but if you say no then you’re offered a smile and left alone, not hectored as you try and walk away, as is the case in some parts of the world.

In the evening the streets come alive with young people, but that doesn’t stop the middle-aged and elderly bringing out their stereos, whacking on the dancing shoes, and joining in the fun in the town’s many underpasses, alleyways, and any other forgotten corners.

So, how much can you tell about a place in just two weeks, especially when you don’t speak the language? Not much, I’d say. Just an impression really. Sometimes those impressions are well-founded, sometimes not.

But our impressions of Guilin were of a place that feels welcoming; a place where the locals genuinely seem happy. Every smile, every kind gesture, every stranger who offered us help—and there were many—they all just kept adding to the strength of this impression.

If Guilin is heaven, you’d expect this to show through in the people who live there. You’d expect those people, for the most part, to be happy, relaxed, tolerant and inclusive.

Well, they really were.

The City

Guilin is a low rise, medium-sized city with a compact, walkable center. At the heart of the town is Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, a busy row of shops, bars and restaurants which is also a great place to sample the excellent local delicacy of beer-cooked catfish.

Walk a little further down this street and you arrive at Guilin Central Square, a popular meeting place and venue for public festivals. A little further still and you’ll find yourself looking out over Shanhu Lake. This is where we ended up on our first night in Guilin, transfixed by the astounding Sun and Moon Pagoda and talking to a local English teacher and part-time tea farmer who had adopted the name “Barry”.

From Barry we learn that the two pagodas, despite being been modeled on two much older structures that stood in the same spot, back in the Tang Dynasty, are relatively recent additions to Guilin. These two modern towers, we learn, are connected by an underwater tunnel with a glass roof. It’s also possible to get views over the city from the tops of either.

Don’t bother with that nonsense, says Barry, just look at them.

And they are a sight to behold, especially lit up at night, their reflections dancing over the water. The Sun Tower seemed to me to express confidence and energy, the Moon Tower, serenity and grace. Maybe I was feeling the effect of a few beers but they seemed like fitting monuments to the chaos and the calm that is life in Guilin.

I’ll be honest, we were already pretty sold on Barry by this point, but then, without prompting or bribing, he announced that he loved football and had always wanted to go to my hometown of Manchester (UK). Instantly recognizing Barry as a man of impeccable taste and virtue, I began to envision a life on the tea plantations as his adopted son. But I didn’t let on. I decided I would play the long game.

Instead, we followed Barry’s suggestion to head back to the Central Square at 8.30pm to see “the waterfall”. Neither I nor my partner really understood his meaning at the time, but he’d long since earned our trust, so we went there, and we waited…

Just as we were beginning to doubt Barry’s integrity, all of a sudden music starts blaring from some hidden speakers, the small crowd that had gathered begins to buzz with enthusiasm, and as if by magic, water starts cascading 50 feet down from the roof of a nearby hotel, streaming over the windows and gathering in fountains on the street.

Oh, Barry! We never doubted you for a minute.

The next day we explore the area across the road from Shanhu Lake and find “Elephant Trunk Hill”, another icon of the city. According to legend, this strange rock formation was created when a Divine Elephant—the steed of the Emperor of Heaven—was wounded in battle and fell to Earth in Guilin. After being nursed back to health by a kindly local couple, the Elephant was said to have fallen in love with Guilin and so opted never to return to its master.

“I would rather live in Guilin”, it said, “than in Heaven”.

And there it remains to this day.

 

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After a short but sweaty walk to the top of the Elephant’s back, I finally got the view of the karsts I had been hoping for, and it was breath-taking. I’m lucky to have done a fair amount of traveling in my time and I can honestly say it was one of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen.

I was beginning to think the Elephant might have had a point after all.

The Caves

Reed Flute Cave is the biggest and most spectacular cave complex in Guilin, arguably in China. Over the years it’s stunning features have been used by the Chinese government to impress all the great and good of world politics, as well as Richard Nixon.

Stepping into those vaulted ceilings it’s easy to see why the place is held in such high esteem. The variety of formations taken by the rock set the mind reeling; the intricacies of the patterns carved by natural forces inspire genuine awe. The use of rainbow-colored light displays, in my mind at least, only add to the ethereal quality of the place.

It was a similar story when we explored the cave at Seven Star Park. Although a little smaller, this cave is no less spectacular. In vast, cathedral-like spaces, stalagmites and stalactites join to form towering columns that rise like plumes of smoke all around us. Lights shimmer across the surface of natural pools; shadows dance on the walls. After several hours spent exploring subterranean wonderlands, it feels disconcerting when we eventually stumble back into the daylight.

On our way out of Seven Star Park we skip past the zoo and the tree-top adventure playground—one more reluctantly than the other—but there’s one last surprise awaiting us before we leave. Crossing the spectacularly misnamed “Flower Bridge”, we notice a crowd has gathered to gawp and point down to the river below.

Two bamboo boats, we discover, have collided and broken up in the water; the deck of one boat is all that remains intact, anchored on the rocks midstream. One bloke stands on top of the deck, another clings desperately to the side. The head of one less fortunate figure can be seen bobbing swiftly downstream, eventually making it to the bank a couple of anxious minutes later.

The police are called, survey the scene, call out to the men, have a brief conversation, then leave. Despite the fact that two men remain stranded in the middle of a river, apparently, it was decided, all was well. Calmness in the chaos.

The Rice Terraces

A bumpy three-hour bus ride takes us to our next destination, the Longji Rice Terraces. Despite my insistence we should hike from the vehicle drop-off point to the top of the hills, we decided instead to take the cable car. About halfway up I remember that I’m pretty unfit, and am thankful to have wiser heads around to remind me of this reality.

It’s a cloudy day, but on the occasions when the sun does break through, the hills seem to sing. The panoramic views of glistening water and lush hillsides are only broken by lone figures toiling in the fields.

 

A post shared by Patrick Kiener (@kienerpatrick) on Jul 24, 2018 at 6:02am PDT

It’s undeniably stunning, but a question plays on my mind of how authentic an experience this really is, and whether that even matters? Unlike cormorant fishing, which is a dying trade nowadays kept alive almost exclusively through tourist dollars, these are still working farms. The people who work here actually are farmers and not just playing dress-up for tourists.

There are crowds, but if you can look past that, then it’s certainly possible to feel some connection with an ancient, agrarian way of life that has endured for centuries, in the process forming the basis for much modern Chinese culture and cuisine.

And yet…a feeling is all it is really, and a fleeting one at that. Am I really any closer to knowing what it’s like to work in those fields, day-in-day-out, year after year? Do I have any genuine understanding of the communities that are forged in that beautiful but harsh environment? I have taken a closer look at the iconography of rural China, but am I any closer to really experiencing the substance of that life?

Not really.

But we must take what we can get. I was glad to be there, in the rural calm that underpins our urban chaos. We jump in our van and are transported back to the modern world, the deep connection to the past we sometimes glimpse, now already beginning to fade in the memory.

Still, it was a privilege to be there, if only for a short time.

Lunch

Lunch, I’m sorry to say, was less of a privilege. A whole chicken, minus the head but with very conspicuous feet, stuffed into a bamboo tube without seasoning or sauce, then flumped onto a plate was not what I’d been longing for if I’m brutally honest.

Still, when in Heaven…

On the positive side, the local style of cooking and serving rice inside a bamboo shoot was pretty great.

“God never hurls a chicken at you”, they say, “without opening a bamboo shoot”.

Yangshuo

The highlight of any trip to the Guilin area is a trip down the gorgeous Li River valley towards the small town of Yangshuo. There are a variety of crafts of different sizes that sail up and down the river, but most people opt for the little 4-seater bamboo rafts. As our boat purrs gently down the river there’s plenty of time to sit back and take in the views. We’d thought the scenery in Guilin was amazing but things really amp up a notch as you get closer to Yangshuo.

(By the way, if you decide to take this journey then try to bring a 20 Yuan note with you if you can. It will become clear why when you’re en route).

Once we’d made it from Yangshuo to our hotel we were able to relax before heading to Yangshuo Cooking School. A small barn surrounded by forest and mountains became our home for the next couple of hours, and possibly the only place on Earth I’ve not been bored by cooking.

Here we learned how to make a variety of simple but tasty dishes, and I found many reasons to be thankful. I was thankful we had another chance to try the gorgeous beer-cooked catfish. I was thankful for our instructor’s patience after I took about 5 days to disassemble an aubergine with a meat cleaver. Most of all I was thankful to make it out with all my fingers still attached.

Becoming A World Famous Moped Rider

After several days near Yangshuo town center, we changed hotel to move deeper into the scenic area. Here we rented mopeds and set off to explore the area. OK, we attempted to rent mopeds, but after 15 minutes of watching me veer recklessly around the car park, the hotel staff politely but firmly regained the moped and handed us a bicycle.

I felt like someone who’s just been booted off American Idol after being told they can’t sing: secretly I knew they were right, but still I rode off with my head held high, vowing to become a world-famous moped rider one day and prove them all wrong.

After some frankly incandescent bike riding we finished our stay in Yangshuo with a climb up Moon Hill. The hillside was steep, it was close to 35 degrees and a thunderstorm raged above us, but we would not be beaten. Step after step we fought on, every muscle in our bodies screaming at us to turn back, but we would not be beaten. Sweat streamed down our bodies, like tears in the rain, and we were being eaten alive by insects, but the summit was in sight.

We. Would. Not. Be. Beaten.

Laughing and panting (mostly panting), we arrived at the summit and were treated to another jaw-dropping view…

…And three very elderly women selling Cola.

They make that trek several times a day, often carrying heavy backpacks, deep into their old age. That sort of thing would take some of the buzz out of summiting Everest I’d imagine.

Back To Guilin

…And a chance to reflect. Are the locals right? Is the elephant right? Is Guilin really better than heaven?

Well, obviously no—it isn’t.

For one thing, I can’t conceive of a heaven that includes so many mosquitoes. Nor was I a fan of scraping the t-shirt from my back with a spatula each night (it’s hot). I’m also not so naïve as to think that once you probe beneath the surface you won’t find the same conflicts, struggles and social divisions that exist in every other city on Earth.

What Guilin really represents, to me, is more a sort of oasis. Despite the encroachments of urbanization and globalization, it remains a region whose natural beauty and cultural life have been preserved: a comparative haven of calm in the chaos that is modern China.

That’s not a criticism of China. Every country is changing fast. Every country needs places like this where we can connect with the past and commune with nature, even if the real action is happening elsewhere. Every country needs cities where we can transcend the madness and try to grasp at something eternal.

Guilin is that. It might not be heaven, but it does a pretty good impression.

 

A post shared by Easyvoyage (@easyvoyage) on Jul 20, 2018 at 9:00am PDT

Everything You Need To Know

How to get there:

Although Guilin is a comparatively small city, it was also the first Chinese city to open to tourism (in 1949), so access is now pretty easy. Cheap flights are available from Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai, as well as a host of smaller cities across China. There are also international flights available from Osaka, Hanoi, Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

A full list of airports connecting to Guilin can be found here.

Train travel, unfortunately, is a little more complex. The best options are to come from Chengdu, Xi’an, or the Guangzhou/Shenzen/Hong Kong urban area in the South. If you decide to come by train then we highly recommend booking tickets through Travel China. We used them to book other rail tickets and they really made the process much smoother than we were expecting.

How to get around:

Guilin is easy enough to walk around providing you base yourself at a hotel that is reasonably central. There is no metro or tram system and the buses are confusing, so public transport is somewhat limited.

However, taxis are abundant and very cheap. Just be sure to have a copy of your hotel address in Mandarin to show to the driver, and download “Didi”—the Chinese equivalent of Uber—if you’re going away from the city center and are worried about getting stranded.

Where to stay:

If you’re looking for super cheap and cheerful accommodation then you could follow our lead and stay at the Cyan Box Hostel near Seven Star Park (roughly a 20-minute walk from town). We paid around 10 USD per night for a private double room, though dorms are available for around 5 USD. The accommodation is pretty basic, but the hostel has a nice vibe, it’s very safe and the staff were great. They can also help book tours to all the places mentioned in the article above.

Accommodation is still very cheap in China so if you’re looking for somewhere to stay that’s a little more upmarket then we’d recommend the Lijiang Waterfall hotel if you want to be very central, or the Sheraton Guilin, which is again fairly central, but just a little quieter.

In Yangshuo we stayed at the Bamboo Leaf Resort just outside town. The amenities and service were probably the best value of anywhere we experienced on our entire trip around Asia and I would recommend it whole-heartedly. Although the location is perhaps not ideal as it’s too far to walk comfortably in town. You’ll probably need to take a taxi to the hotel and then rent bikes/mopeds from their reception if you want to explore the town fully.

We then moved to the Zen Garden Resort in the scenic area. This was quite isolated, very quiet and just a bit strange, in that way that empty country hotels sometimes are. There were lots of frogs but very few people. I sort of felt like I was in a very polished version of The Shining. We spent a little extra on this hotel to get a nice view from our window and it certainly delivered on that, the location is great too. Other than that, though, I wouldn’t say it represents great value for money.

What became of Barry?

We don’t know. He told us where his tea shop was but to our shame we forgot what he’d said and we couldn’t find him again. If you see him, please tell him that we’re sorry and we love him.

Suggested next reading: 9 Gorgeous Locations In China That Will Take Your Breath Away (Part 1)

The post China’s Li River Valley: Better Than Heaven? appeared first on Modern Trekker.

For example, an American saying, “spill the beans” could potentially be taken literally by a Brit, thinking they actually spilled beans on the floor (the American saying means to tell a secret.)

What is the history behind these local sayings? What are the contexts these expressions are used in? We decided to take a closer look at 15 funny and witty local sayings from around the world:

1. “To pace around hot porridge like a cat”

Country: Finland and Sweden

Meaning: Someone is not being direct, they are not saying what they want to say

History: Unclear. Both Finland and Sweden are quite vocal about any issues they have in public but prefer to be less open in their private lives.

2. “Not my circus, not my monkey”

Country: Poland

Meaning: The issue at hand is not my problem

Context: A friend comes to you with an idea and you warn them not to go ahead with the idea. They don’t listen to your advice and continue anyway. They then want help cleaning up the mess they made, but you tell them, “not my circus, not my monkey.”

3. “A hungry stomach has no ears”

Country: France

Meaning: When someone is hungry, there is no point talking with them because they won’t listen

History: The saying was made popular by the famous French poet, Jean de La Fontaine. This saying has been translated and is now used in various English-speaking countries as well.

4. “The devil always takes back his gifts”

Country: Ukraine

Meaning: Enjoy the moment, nothing lasts forever

History: The saying was often said on St. Nicholas Day, which used to be celebrated over Christmas in Ukraine. The day was made for gift giving and the saying was told to many children to help them feel grateful for the gifts they received.

5. “To have a stick in your ear”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by ANDREA „TWM“ (@twinwinmommy) on Oct 22, 2018 at 11:49pm PDT

Country: Denmark

Meaning: To not listen to someone

History: The expression is popular in Denmark and used to be popular around the 1970’s in English. It is now considered rude to say to someone in English.

6. “To ride as a hare”

Country: Russia

Meaning: To travel for free without buying a ticket

History: Russia is a massive country and train travel has always been a cheap way to travel from one end to the other. The saying came about from paying passengers noticing that those who did not pay their fare would shake uncontrollably like a hare whenever a ticket inspector would come into the train cars.

7. “Take ears to the field, take eyes to the farm”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Misha Takanashi (@faces.of.anime) on Sep 6, 2018 at 11:30pm PDT

Country: Thailand

Meaning: Don’t pay attention to what is happening

Context: The Thai have come up with clever local sayings for almost any situation, and this is no different. The saying means to try not paying attention to what is happening around you, even though it is almost impossible not to. A saying within a saying.

8. “To push something with your belly”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by IGatti conquisteranno il Mondo (@gatti_conquisteranno_il_mondo) on Oct 18, 2018 at 9:43am PDT

Country: Portugal

Meaning: To ignore a responsibility, a priority

Context: The more you eat, the sleepier you get, and the more likely you are to ignore something you have to do.

9. “Willing to borrow a cat’s paw”

Country: Japan

Meaning: You have too much going on and you are willing to take any help that anyone will offer

History: Cats play a big role in Japanese society and have for over 1,000 years. There are even entire temples and islands dedicated to cats. The Japanese have many sayings that involve cats. Many of the sayings involve good fortune or trying to obtain it.

10. “Buying something for an apple and an egg”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by J-E-J (@lanipsebcn) on Oct 7, 2017 at 4:05am PDT

Country: Netherlands

Meaning: You bought something for very cheap

History: In Dutch society, it is frowned upon to show off your wealth. The Dutch prefer simplicity and efficiency. Discussing one’s salary is considered rude. A better way to talk about a good price is through items that everyone can understand such as apples and eggs.

11. “To slide in on a shrimp sandwich”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Food Lover (@saudimasterchef) on Jun 29, 2016 at 2:24pm PDT

Country: Sweden

Meaning: Someone who did not have to work hard to get where they are

History: In Sweden, shrimp have always been considered an expensive commodity and food for the wealthy. That explains the shrimp part, but it is not entirely clear why this person is sliding in on a sandwich. I guess we’ll never know!

12. “You have tomatoes on your eyes”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Highline Vision Center (@highlinevisioncenter) on Sep 14, 2018 at 10:09am PDT

Country: Germany

Meaning: You are distracted and not seeing what everyone else can already see

Context: You would say this idiom to one of your good friends and try to make them aware of something they’re blind to. It’s a little bit insulting but in a playful way.

13. “I’ll take a rain check”

Country: America

Meaning: Postponing an invitation or offer that someone has put forth to a more convenient time

History: This saying dates back to the 19th Century when ticket holders for canceled baseball games—canceled due to weather—would be given new tickets to the rescheduled game. Several other American sayings originate from the country’s national sport.

14. “Bob’s your uncle!”

Country: England

Meaning: Used as encouragement. Means, “There you go!”

History: In 1887, Britain Prime Minister Robert Gascoyne-Cecil made his nephew, Arthur James Balfour, the Minister of Ireland. In a speech, Balfour referred to his “Uncle Bob” and the saying was born! It somehow stuck and is one of those local sayings still used to this day.

15. “It doesn’t rain on it”

Country: Italy

Meaning: No doubt about it. You won’t change my mind.

Context: Italians love to talk about the weather when making small talk. This is one of many local sayings that involve weather. Using this idiom means one is extremely confident in what they are saying and they cannot be swayed.

Are there any other local sayings from around the world that you know?

Suggested next reading: 5 Crazy & Delicious Foods I Tried While Traveling

The post 15 Awesome Local Sayings From Around The World appeared first on Modern Trekker.

So you pack your best beret, scroll through your phrasebook and gather up your Euros. But it’s always worth remembering that real life does get in the way sometimes and occasionally, just occasionally, things may not turn out exactly as you expected. It doesn’t mean you won’t have a great time though—especially if you prepare yourself by reading our real life vs expectation in Paris list.

1. Speaking French

Expectation:

You have always wanted to learn another language and now you have a wonderful chance to practice all those phrases you learned in school.

“One baguette please, sir”

“It is lovely weather today!”

“Where is the swimming pool?”

It never really leaves you. Soon you’ll be lounging on a wicker chair on a cobbled street, sipping coffee and conversing with the locals as you wave to ladies riding past on bicycles.

Reality:

Despite your best efforts, everyone speaks better English than you speak French. This crushing realization happens when you ask something in French and once again get an answer in English. Paris is used to visitors and most people are ready and willing to speak your language to help you out.

2. Eat amazing food

Expectations:

The French are known around the world for their delectable cuisine. The wine, the cheese, the meat. There’s a reason why everyone who visits France comes back with a much heavier suitcase than when they arrived. A much rounder girth too, but it is your holiday after all.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris P@RIS #ThisisParis (@paris)

Reality:

After the millionth rich, creamy and indulgent meal, your belly starts to revolt and your heart starts to burn. All you want is something plain, simple and ashamedly unfussy. You finally admit this yourself as you search for a Subway sandwich shop. You’re just not practiced enough in this rich food….yet.

3. Have a romantic night out

Expectation:

The city of love, Paris is known for its romantic atmosphere. The city of love is a well-earned nickname and when staying there it’s hard not to get swept up in the emotions and feel yourself wanting to go with the flow. So grab another oyster, a small glass of champagne and settle in for a good time.

Reality:

Realistically, how romantic can you feel after a full days sightseeing and a stomach full of indulgent food? Maybe that last macaron was a mistake, but it went so well after the slice of chocolate gateaux that realistically, what else could you have done?

Luckily France is also an excellent place to have a quiet lie down and possibly…very possibly…a small cuddle. Aww.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by M_J (@melle_jones)

4. Embrace the continental greeting

Expectation:

How free and laid back the French are will undoubtedly rub off on you. Kissing strangers to greet them immediately breaks down barriers and you feel at one with the country and its people.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris Photographer (@kissinpariscom)

Reality:

Is it one kiss or two? Is it different for men and women? Gaah, don’t get it wrong. The repercussions could be toe itchingly awkward. What’s wrong with a good old-fashioned handshake anyway?

5. Be a fashionista

Expectation:

France equals fashion. As host to Paris fashion week and birthplace of Coco Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior (to name but a few), this is the place to see and be seen. Finally, you can wear your highest end, trendiest and most fashionable outfits and be appreciated for the fashionista superstar you’ve always known you are.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Jessica | Architetto a spasso (@jessicalovivo)

Reality:

Most French people wear the same as everyone else in the world but annoyingly have an air of grace that makes them carry it off all the better. Even in your best outfit, you still quite can’t get that “Je Ne Sais Quoi” that is born into the people of this fine nation. Nevermind, you still look cute.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris Street Styles (@paris_streetstyles)

6. Appreciate French art

Expectation:

Once again France leads the way and boasts a wonderful heritage of world-famous artists. Duchamp, Matisse, Cezanne, Monet. All outstanding visionaries who changed the face of the art world and are celebrated to this day. As a result, it’s capital is brimming with art galleries and famous works.

This means that now is the time to put on those thick-rimmed spectacles, don your best turtleneck sweater and prepare to feed your artistic mind.

Reality:

Turns out lots of visitors go to Paris for the art and you realize this as you stand behind a crowd of people and cameras and peek a quick glimpse at the Mona Lisa. Nevermind, you can always drink a tipple of absinthe at the local bar and relive the experience of many a starving artiste instead.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by deborahlap (@deborahlapebie)

7. Explore Parisian Parks

Expectation:

When people think of Paris they probably think mainly of the architecture, the Lourve, the Arc de Troimphe. All the exciting urban landscapes…

But if they do, they’re missing a trick because tucked away, Paris also has some of the most beautiful parks around. The formal glory of the Jardin Des Tuileries, the flowers at the Parc Floral de Paris. It’s largest, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont even has waterfalls and cliffs to admire. Is there a better way to spend a sunny day?

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Pedro Henrique (@flyer288)

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by PEDRO & PAULI (@moments_of_yugen)

Reality:

These parks may be beautiful, but the local wildlife thinks so too, and you realize that as you reach for another spray of the insect repellent. Still, there aren’t that many more aesthetically pleasing places to get bitten by bugs.

8. Visit the best museums

Expectation:

France is cosmopolitan, cultural, historical and full of learned people. As a result, it prizes it’s museums very highly and it shows. A plethora of learning is available to you, especially in its esteemed capital. What a perfect opportunity to introduce the little ones to the idea that learning can be fun. They’ll be tiny intellectuals before you know it.

Reality:

Turns out children are just as bored by foreign museums as they are by ones at home. Still, all the moaning, running around and stamping of their feet should tire them out nicely and leave you some quiet time to enjoy a nice glass of French wine before bed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris Musées (@parismusees)

Despite any slight differences between expectation and reality, you will undoubtedly still have an amazing time in France. We challenge anyone to visit and not fall in love with its cities, parks, people and ethos. Have you ever been? Tell us about your experiences below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Victor Neviere (@victorneviere)

Can you think of any more real life vs expectation in Paris we should add to our list? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: Italy On Instagram Vs Italy In Real Life

The post Real Life Vs Expectation In Paris appeared first on Modern Trekker.