Bangkok, Thailand

This destination is best done as a stop over on the way to or from somewhere. this is the best way to get the most out of Bangkok whilst enjoying other, more tailored parts of your holiday.

"TukTuk?"
The most popular mode of transport for tourists is the infamous tuk tuk. Equally interesting as they can be scarey, this is something you HAVE to experience before pressing on. There is a slight chance you might need to close your eyes and hope for the best but none the less it's a ride that disneyland just can't replicate. The best advice I have for this is two things. Firstly, make sure you arrange a price with your driver for your destination BEFORE getting in the tuk tuk. It is much easier to negotiate before you owe someone money. And secondly.. brace yourself. Knees at right angles, feet shoulder width a part and hang on.

Markets to Market.
if it is Gucci Bags your after or a nice new Louis Vitton watch then Bangkok has what you need. On every street corner... and a few more times in between. The key to do any serious shopping here is knowledge. Know what merchandise is around you and what prices others stalls are willing to offer, this will give you an idea of how much money is in your item for the seller. Secondly, know your exchange rate! Some currencies sound very cheap but when you start using up those notes you find you have spend much more than, ironically, you bargained for. It's also good to know how much goods are worth to you personally. Occasionally it can be easy to be swept up in the excitement of market shopping and end up with a bunch of trinkets and dust collectors. Expert bargainers advise to bargain with a smile but I say bargain with a back up plan. You need to be prepared to walk away and miss out on your item before delving too deeply into the bargaining game. Last but not least, don't loose something you really want for 5 extra cents and a bunch of pride.

Once Upon A Time Restaurant.
http://www.onceuponatimeinthailand.com/restuarant_index.htm
This may seem like a little whole in the wall Oasis, and I can tell you it is, but it is also one of the best restaurants around! When you first walk down the street towards it I am sure that you'll be in two minds whether or not you have found the right place or are simply about the trespass into someones beautiful backyard but in a city where foliage is few an far between I am assure you, your in the right place. The food here is absolutely amazing and very cheap considering what your getting. Although there are two or three beautifully unique wooden houses you can dine in, I whole heatedly recommend pulling up a chair in the connecting gardens. There is a magical air about this place that will make you not want to leave. In fact you'll be hard pressed to not want to come back at least a few times before you leave!
"once upon a time" Traditional Thai Food
32 soi Petchaburi 17 (opp.Phantip Plaza) Petchaburi Rd. Pratunam BKK.
Tel. 0-2252-8629 Fax 0-2251-5975 Mobile 0-1833-8336
OPEN DAILY 11.00 AM.-11.00 PM.

Get to know Buddha.
Whether your into it or not, the historical background to the Buddhist religion, the statues and the temples is nothing short or fascinating. Take a bus, train, private car or tuk tuk around the city and visit some of the different temples an sites, it is truly amazing and will exceed any mediocre expectation you might harbour. When doing this make sure you get an early start from your hotel as these are popular tourist sites and with the walking involved plus the heat, the less people the better. Men and women need to be covered. Woman need to be wearing long pants or a long skirt and a top that covers your arms. I strongly recommend that you take a light, even sheer, wrap around top that can be stuffed in a bag since this is policed and the alternative is wearing a slightly skanky sack made into clothes and worn by millions of people before you. Men with short sleeves are fine but shorts (pants) won't cut it either.
http://www.thailand.com/travel/historical/historical_bangkok_watphrakaew.htm

Outback Steakhouse Bangkok.
If you have been to this place then you know it can get very very hot and whats the best way to cool down from that terrible heat that you just can't shake even at 10pm? Margaritas. And the best place to get them in Thailand is believe it or not, the Outback Stakehouse. They are wonderful and almost the same size as your head. This pleases me so.

I can't say much for the ridiculous menu this restaurant chain carries with their "bonza" burgers and Chilli Fries as I don't think anyone is Australia knows what they are as we don't say Bonza. "Reckon!".... spare me. However, credit where credit is due these chaps can make a mean drink the way the cocktail gods intended.


Thailand OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE
2nd Floor
Siam Discovery Center
Rama 1 Road
Patumwan
Bangkok 10110
Thailand

Phone: +662-658-0202
Fax: +662-658-0204
Email: ajayvermaobs@yahoo.com
Drinks Menu PDF

Fried Grasshoppers... Yum.
Ok so maybe not so much with the yum part. Either try them so you can say you have or don't and pretend you did. Either way be prepared as fried bugs and insects are something you may see fairly commonly in your travels and while you are eyeing them off in curiosity or disgust, locals will come around and buy them in mass quantity and maybe even eat them right there in front of you. I am sure they are lovely but watching is not for the faint hearted.

Hobart, Tasmania - Australia *In a Weekend*

Saturday:
Salamanca Markets
Tasmania is a beautiful place to visit and between the untouched beauty and the realestate prices it guarentees to have you considering a move the whole way home.

Salamanca Place is one of Hobart's important historical areas. During your visit, take some time to wander through St David's Park and read the inscriptions on the headstones. They give an impression of Hobart's colourful history.

The streetscape is famous for its historic Georgian warehouses, dating back to the 1830s. Many of these warehouses have been converted into galleries, theatres, cafes, craft shops and restaurants. The market highlights the creative skills of the local craftspeople in a atmosphere that is inspiring, innovative and entertaining.

Salamanca Market, operated by the Hobart City Council, has become something of an institution in Hobart. It began with humble beginnings in 1972 with just 10 stalls occupying a small section of historic Salamanca Place.

While strolling through the market take a look at Kelly's Steps. These were built 1839 by the legendary adventurer, sealer, and whaler James Kelly to link Salamanca Place with historic Battery Point.

Salamanca Market is held every Saturday. The market operates from 8.30am - 3pm.
www.totaltravel.com.au/.../guide/salamanca-place

The Cadbury Factory Tour

Claremont Tasmania

A tour of the famous Claremont Chocolate Factory is a rewarding experience. You’ll see our delicious chocolates being made – and enjoy free samples.

The Factory Tour includes entry to the Visitor’s Centre. You will encounter fascinating insights into the history of Cadbury Claremont - and some of the characters and products that have made Cadbury a part of growing up in Australia.

On the tour, you will see how some of your favourite Cadbury products are created, and learn the secret of ‘that great Cadbury taste’.

As well as being a modern facility with computerised and robotic production lines, the Cadbury Claremont Factory has 18 heritage-listed buildings.

The historic Conching Machines, featuring solid granite rollers, were installed sixty years ago and still

operate daily.

Chocolate at factory prices

After the tour, rush into the Cadbury Chocolate Shop. We offer exclusive factory discounts on a huge range of Cadbury Schweppes products.

Café and gift shop

After the tour you can relax in our café. We also offer a great range of gifts, t-shirts and souvenirs.

This is a tour of a working factory, so numbers are strictly limited. Advance bookings are a must!

Tours operate from 8am Monday to Friday.

Call Toll Free 1800 627 367

Cadbury Schweppes Chocolate Factory
Cadbury Road
Claremont, Tasmania, 7011.

http://www.cadbury.com.au/sites/cadbury/index.php?pageId=55

For dinner, take your pick of one fo the beautiful resturants along the Harbourside or in Salamanca Place. Saturday night might be fairly populated to do ring in advance and book your table. Click the link below for a Hobar resturant guide.
http://www.sullivanscove.com/food.htm




Sunday:
Although this tourist development has changed the area, it is still a popular place to picnic in one of the many shelters or tables, while cooking lunch on a gas barbecue.

Beyond Tahune (*gates) is the Warra Long Term Ecological Research site. This area is part of a worldwide forest monitoring and research network established under the United Nations Environment Program. More details can be read on the Huon Trail sign located in the picnic area, near the start of the Huon Pine Walk. This 20 minute loop walk is easily managed by most people and is the easiest place in Tasmania to see young and mature Huon pines growing in their natural riverine rainforest environment.

Visitor Centre
As the main entrance to Tahune you can buy your AirWalk tickets here, as well as local crafts and wood products. The bistro serves local fare, hot meals and great coffee. For those who prefer to have a barbecue, the Bluestone Shelter and barbecue sites are close by. A new attraction at the Centre is Southern Forest Threads, a spectacular hand-made quilt, presented to Forestry Tasmania as a memento of its strong ties with the Huon Valley community. Twenty-two women took part in the project, including the Southern Spinners and Craft group and the Huon Valley Quilters, contributing more than 700 hours of labour.

Tahune Forest AirWalk
This 597m walk amongst the trees gets you 20m above the ground. The highlight is the cantilever that is 48m above the river level, providing fantastic views of the forests and the junction of the Picton and Huon Rivers.

Admission fees:
Adults - $17.00
Children - $9.00 (5-16 years old)
Family $38.00
Concession: Student & Senior Cards $15.00
Ph 03 6297 0068
Fax 03 6297 0042
Take a picnic or pic up some fresh food in a near by town and set yourself up in a beautiful spot for some lunch. the small resturant located on site is quite nice but on weekends can be very packed with people. Click the link below for more information on other activities.
http://www.tasforestrytourism.com.au/pages/site_s_tahune.html

From here make your way back to Hobart on one of the more scenic roads. The best advice I can provide from here forth is simply to stop and get a map, then choose your own adventure. Go for a drive and explore some of the coastal lines or inner beauty of Tasmania's south. Keep your eyes open on the side of the road for secluded Stawberry fields or apple orchids. Whether buying or dining, make some of the most unbelieveable little dishes, perfect for a Sunday afternoon.

Queenstown - New Zealand

You've seen the Lord of the Rings ... and the sequels AND the tours AND the behind the scenes..

Now, it is time to discover one of New Zealands worst kept secrets. (People just can't stop raving about it!)

Queenstown is a hub for all the beautiful aspects of New Zealand Rolled into one. Fantastic resturants, 3 ski resorts, family activity and beautiful places to stay, all surrounded by the tranquil lake and the rolling mountain side.

There is so much to be said for New Zealand that is often over looked past it's picturesque views. Queenstown has one of those quaint, fresh atmospheres that makes you feel right at home as soon as you arrive.

Seven Things You MUST Do!

Mini Golf Queenstown:
If your after some fun for the kids or even just a break from the slopes visit the Mini Golf centre up on the hill. It features a full 18 hole mini golf coarse with some amazing obstacles. Each one is themed differently and involves creative contraptions and ingenius tricks that will have your family mesmerized for hours on end.


Skiing
You won't ever get snow like this again anywhere else in the world. It may not be the best, but it's certainly an experience to remember. Whether you've never seen snow before or were one of us who were born on skis.. it doens't matter, there is no better place to hit the slopes for the right money, views, snow and people. Cardrona and The Remarkables are the best for beginers followed by Coronet Peak and Tribble Cone for the more experienced skiiers and boarders.
Visit http://www.nzski.com/ For more information.


Float to the top!
Said to be the steepest lift in the Southern Hemisphere, the gondola carries visitors high above Queenstown to the Skyline complex located on Bob's Peak.

Situated an easy five minute walk from central Queenstown, the gondola is an all weather tourist attraction in its own right. Sit back and relax as the views from the gondola unfold while you journey to the Skyline complex.

The best vistas in the region are found here, spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama.
Numerous observation decks around the complex offer breathtaking views of Coronet Peak & The Remarkables, over Queenstown and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks. Truly magnificent and awe-inspiring.

Gondola Quick Stats

• Bottom Terminal Elevation: 340m
• Top Terminal: 790m
• Vertical Rise: 450m
• Total Length: 730m
• Incline Angle: average of 37.1 degrees
• Average Speed: Variable to 3.5m/sec
• Capacity: 700 people/hour in twenty one 4 person cabins
• Operating Hours: Open daily from 9.00am until late

http://www.skyline.co.nz/queenstown/gondola/


Bungy Jumping:
You name it, you can jump off it. Now even if you are not in the market for thrill seeking, take a bit of time and go and watch someone else do it. It's almost as good and absolutly mesmerizing to play audience to.

http://www.everythingqueenstown.com/category/Bungy+Jumping

Milford Sound
Milford Sound is simply stunning. In Maori legend, the fiords were created not by rivers of ice, but by Tu Te Raki Whanoa, a godly figure who came wielding a magical adze and uttering incantations. Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) is without doubt his finest sculpture. Whatever the fiord’s mood, teeming with rain or with sun glistening on deep water, it will inspire you. Real Journeys offers a range of daytime and overnight cruises on Milford Sound as well as coach and flight connections .

http://www.realjourneys.co.nz/index.cfm

Shotover Jet:

It's an adrenaline rush you'll never forget! We call it Thrill Therapy, and it's actually good for you too! From the moment the accelerator hits the floor, your adrenaline hits the roof as you power through the Shotover River and deep into the Shotover River canyons!

It's an amazing ride, as the Shotover Canyon walls tower over you, and your driver skillfully whips the boat past rocky outcrops, and skims around crags and boulders.

Rock faces blur in your peripheral vision, the opaque water sprays into myriads of white crystals with every turn, and you grip the safety rail for comfort and reassuranc

e and then let out a whoop of excitement as the driver spins the boat around in its own boat length — wow, you've just experienced the 'trademark' Shotover Jet 360 degree spin! You'll stop briefly while your driver points out interesting landmarks or points of interest.

http://www.shotoverjet.com/index.htm


Winery Tours:

Each winery in the Queenstown region is a unique reflection of the pioneering spirit and passion for wine common to the local winemakers and viticulturalists. There are several vineyards in the Queenstown region. We choose the best vineyard combinations to provide an unhurried tour for each group on any given day.

A knowledgeable, fun and friendly guide will escort you from Queenstown into the wine country of the scenic Wakatipu region. At each vineyard you’ll meet a member of the vineyard for a close up perspective of the local wine. Whether your palate is well developed or simply enthusiastic, as long as you love wine, our tours will delight.

www.zqn.co.nz/winetrail/

http://www.queenstown-vacation.com/queenstown/wine/

Phuket - Thailand

Phuket - Thailand

Most people know Phuket and other coastal Thai islands from the coverage of the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami that made headlines around the world. The small communities of the islands have jumped back on their feet and started rebuilding their tourism industry better than ever. This is just one of many beautiful places Thailand has to offer but definatly a "must do" on the list for any serious traveller.

This island is located about an hours flight south of Bangkok and Phuket has a range of beautiful coastal shorelines to stay on. Many of them rebuilt from the 2004 disaster more stunning than before and although the air of recovery still lingers this is a holiday destination not lacking in stamina or natural beauty.

One of the most popular tourist spots is Patong Beach and surrounding areas located on the East side of the island and although it looks small don't be fooled. Patong is only a short scooter ride from the centre of town.

Where to Stay:

Le Meridian
This beautiful resort has been rebuild from one of the worst disaster areas in Phuket. The hotel is situated in part of a secluded bay called Relax Bay, and what a fitting name it is. The restaurants here are spectacular and although a little more on the expensive side, the architecture of the place is worth the extra money.

Visit http://www.phuket.com/meridien/index.htm For more information and room rates.

Gracelands Resort
It doesn't get better than this. This Graclands resort is a U shaped structure with most of the inward facing rooms providing balconies overlooking their stunning crystal clear pool. If you ask me there is something about walking out of your room and being a certain amount of steps from the pool in one direction and the beach in the other.

Grab a deck chair or explore the local area, Gracelands Resort will keep you right in the heart of Patong and is well situated for some good restaurants, great shopping and picturesque views for those romantic walks along the beach.

And if you are lost for something to do? swim up to the pool bar and have a drink.

Visit http://www.thailand-hotel.net/phuket-graceland-resort-and-spa-thailand/ for a room pricing guide.


What to do?
Never a dull moment in Phuket. From night markets to Day tours, Snorkeling to water adventures, there is a lot to do in this town. And if the hussle and bussle of the local nightlife doesn't take your fancy, book a table in one of the restaurants in the local resorts and treat yourself to some spectacular food.

Markets in Patong:
Markets can be fabulous for your wallet and detrimental to your suitcase! This bargaining banter fest excites your senses as your barter for that last 5 cents of the price tag. If you are staying in any of the main tourist spots there will be markets everywhere once the sun goes down. Just be mindful of how much you want to spend as it is easy to get carried away with the minimal pricing and end up with an extra room full of impulse buy knick knacks.

Scoot around the island:
There are a hundred and one outlets to hire everything from cars, bike bikes to little scooters all over the island. The little scooters may be tough up the hills but there is something fitting about them. Putt your way around the coast and get acquainted with the non touristy beauty the island has to offer. In fact if you turn north from Patong beach and head up the coast line, up the hill and at the bottom of the other side there is a very cool little roadside bar that makes some fabulous drinks on a hot day.
http://www.boontarika.com/bikerent.htm

Sun, Sand, and Islands Oh My!
There are many companies around the place offering tons of water adventures, snorkeling and diving trips as well as Island tours for fairly decent pricing. Do some research and find something that's good for you as this can be one of the best way to see some of the most beautiful places.
http://www.phi-phi.com/

Las Vegas - USA

Las Vegas

Somewhere that I have been many times and let me tell you this city is all about how you do it. There are things you can't miss and things to GIVE a miss but it depends how long you are staying.

Things To Do
Get out of the cabs and walk. Although the strip might seem like a long way, once your out there it's awesome, and the best way to see the sights as well. The best thing about Vegas is that it never sleeps, so you won't find yourself on creepy deserted streets in the middle of the night. Plus you'll burn enough calories to enjoy fantastic food while your there.

Take a cab out to one of four fashion outlet centres in the area. They are all relatively close by and you can get some amazing Bargains. If visiting Premium fashion outlets, go to their website before hand and download a coupon book!

If you have the time and the money, Book a helicopter tour of the strip and the Grand Canyon, there are some excellent packages and you can get good deals if you do research in advance.

Take time out from gambling and get back to basics. Grab someone your with and head to Conney Island, a games centre located in New York New York. For a little bit of money you can have a whirlwind of fun even if you don't fancy the plastic finger puppet prize at the end. The sing a long piano bar at the bottom of the stairs never hurt anyone either!


Things to skip

If you have heard rave reviews from people who were in Vegas a few years ago and were told to go and see the treasure Island Pirate show, it was good advice. The free show out the from of Treasure Island used to be excellent and good for kids to watch, however, what once was, is no more. There is still a free show however it is now filled with scarcely clad women running around with little cover. I'd give this a miss if your pressed for time. It doesn't compare and is not worth the wait.

M&M's factory sounds good and exciting doesn't it? Well, it is for a few minutes then, not so much, expensive and once you get over the pretty colours there is not much going on there. Plus it is designed to filter you through to the games zone next door, which I resented.

Margaritaville
Go to the Paris casino and follow your nose. Best Frozen Margarita on the strip is in a little Bar in the middle of the Paris casino.

Five Restaurants You Can't Miss!

Peppermill

This is an strange place to be and if you don't get there early, you'll be waiting for a table, but don't worry there is a cute little cheap store next door where you can occupy your time buying plastic gambling visors and dice keyrings all day long. The Peppermill has a bizarre interior, sporting a lovely bright Purple and Hot Pink decor. Best bet is to visit them here for breakfast, but be hungry, meals are gigantic. And if you have ever been inclined to have a bloody Mary for Breakfast, this is your place.


Mon Ami Gabi - Paris Hotel

This restaurant actually has the best steak anyone I know has ever had. It is situated in the Paris Hotel on the strip and has an outdoor section which looks out from a balcony (under the Eiffel tower replica) towards the Bellagio fountains and here the atmosphere is electric. If you do dine here then defiantly book the balcony for dinner, a combination of the fountains, the lights, the music and the elegance of the restaurant itself make for an amazing experience.

Jasmine - Bellagio Hotel

Jasmine is a Cantonese resturant located inside the Bellagio hotel that sits on the waters edge of the lake containing the famous Bellagio fountains. Ask for a table near the windows and you will get a personal show of the water display so close you can't describe it. This is such an elegant and romantic restaurant. Their food is amazing and a good opporunity to try something new. This place has an air of class to it so a good chance to put your best frock on and feel special.

Rainforest Cafe - MGM Grand Hotel

Rainforest Cafe has now made a standing all over the world but I have to say there is something about this one. In the city of unrealistic and other worldly scenery, replicas, rides and adventure, there is something that gives this one an edge on the rest. It's a fun little place and excellent for midnight refreshing cocktails at the mushroom bar. Great place to bring kids with lots to see and do with an excellent yet simple menu. Meals are again quite large here but there do have a couple of salads that are just awesome. You can not book here but waiting is not hard when there is so much to see. It's a world within a world and not something you should miss.

Canaletto - Venetian Hotel


This is another one that has the whole experience. Book a table and sit in the replica of St Marks square while you dine. The food is wonderful, especially the Squid Ink Pasta, sounds gross but is amazing. While you eat in this town square by the canal where people in Gondolas are headed up and down the water, occasionally some Renaissance dressed singers will come past and serenade you on their way through the hotel. This is another fantastic restaurant and the walk through the venetian streets to get there doesn't hurt either!