Pressed for time and wanting to make the most of your Thailand travel? Don’t fret, here are some ideas on how you can spend a week in the Land of Smiles.

Day 1: Bangkok
For international travelers, Bangkok is the ideal starting point to arrive, and terminal point to depart as numerous airlines fly directly to and from the city. Begin your wonderful journey in Bangkok through its famous temples such as the Vinmanek Palace or Royal Palace. Try something new: the generous serving of the street food pad thai, watch the traditional game of kickboxing at Lumpini Stadium or watch cultural shows at the Rose Garden at Nakhon Pathom and take the Damnoen Saduak floating market afterwards.

Day 2: Ayutthaya
Take the bus or train (via Hualamphong Station, now connected to a subway station) to Ayutthaya. This ancient city features some of the ancient ruins as evidence of its rich historical imprint. Don’t miss the Wat Phra Mahathat, which is the most striking of the ruins. You can also enjoy the views of the old city through a short ferry ride. Should you stay for the night, a Hua Raw night market is an option to take your dinner.

Day 3: Phitsanulok and Lopburi
Get up early and take the first trip to Phitsanulok via a short stop at Lopburi. You can catch some of the attractions of Lopburi such as the King Narai’s Palace or Lopburi National Museum. Take the one-hour train travel to Phitsanulok in the afternoon and spend the night there. Note that Phitsanulok is not a well-known tourist destination so the city preserves its natural charm as a traditional big city in Thailand.

Day 4: Sukhothai
Take the bus ride to Sukhothai, but before leaving Phitsanulok, make sure you pay a visit to Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat or the Bronze Casting Foundry. Sukhothai is 58 kilometers from Phitsanulok and takes an hour travel by bus. When you get there, rent a bike and explore the Old Sukhothai, now declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In the new Sukhothai, you can enjoy local food (local noodles is a must-try). There are plenty of motorbikes for rent and allows you to explore the local communities.

Day 5: Chiang Mai
Trip from Sukhothai to Chiang Mai takes 5 hours over 373 kilometers so an extra day would be necessary to cover the basic attractions of the city. Motorbikes are available for a more convenient trip to Thailand’s highest peak at Doi Inthanon or simply wandering about the city. The Night Bazaar offers a variety of souvenir products significantly cheaper than their counterparts in Bangkok.

Day 7: Bangkok
Save yourself some time so taking the plane from Chiang Mai back to Bangkok is a wise choice. Before flying, and if luggage allowance permits, take time to do shopping in Chiang. Upon arrival in Bangkok, try the Chao Praya river cruise and start at Saphan Taksin station. Other options include a visit to Wat Arun, Grand Palace, night market at Patpong or at luxury malls in Central Paragon.

As you travel across the countryside, accommodation will never be a problem, from the high-end luxury Thailand hotels, to modest guesthouses for backpackers.

In a word, Las Vegas is often described as gambling, casino or entertainment. But don’t be fooled of the general perception that the city is now too limited to its Sin City moniker. There are lots of many meaningful things to do on your first Las Vegas travel other than get your poker chips or pretend to taste married life.

Bellagio Fountains
This dancing fountain accompanied with light and sound is one amazing sight to see. No seats required, just secure a good view in front of Bellagio (3600 Las Vegas Blvd South). It’s free and all ages admitted.

Eiffel Tower Replica
There’s a touch of Paris in Las Vegas and you can find it at Eiffel Tower Replica (3645 S. Las Vegas Blvd), which is about half the size of the original one. It is ideal for couples who want to spend a romantic night at The Strip.

Simulated Volcano Eruption at The Mirage Casino and Resort
Similar to the Bellagio Fountains, the volcano eruption presented at the Mirage Hotel (3400 S. Las Vegas Blvd) takes place between 6pm and close to midnight, every 15 minutes. The hotel offers majestic view of the unleashing of nature’s power, only on a controlled environment

Fremont Street Experience
Boasting one of the largest screens – projected in a giant canopy -- in the world, the Fremont Street Experience (425 Fremont Street) is one of the most exciting of the free things to do in Las Vegas. The attraction occupies the five westernmost blocks of Fremont. Free concerts and lively New Year’s Day fireworks are among its highlights.

Gondola Ride at the Venetian
Experience Italy’s famed gondola ride in Venice right at the heart of the Venetian Hotel (3355 S. Las Vegas Blvd). Riding the authentic Venetian gondola, you’ll be serenaded by a gondolier as you go under small bridges and pass by indoor cafes.

Decided to stay in Las Vegas and fully enjoy its nightlife? Las Vegas hotels are scattered all around the Strip and surrounding neighborhoods. They provide not only accommodation, but also in-house entertainment with guest stars, while featuring great buffet meals.

In most cases, flying to Sydney must be a long, tiring journey possibly worsened by an uncooperative seatmate, lack of sleep and appetite, not to mention the obvious jet lag. The good thing is that once you arrive in this popular Australian city, you’ll realize it’s worth the effort after all. Sydney offers some of the most fabulous sights and attractions in the world.



Here are some reasons why one should enjoy your Sydney travel:

Sydney Opera House
Clearly one of the most distinctive structures ever built, Sydney Opera House is probably the most photographed arts venue in the world. Located in the confines of Sydney’s business districts and close to Sydney Harbour bridge, this iconic building would hardly be missed be visitors. The reason being is that a trip to Sydney is incomplete if one fails to catch a glimpse of Sydney Opera House.

Sydney Harbour Bridge
If Sydney Opera House is an amazing sight to behold, Sydney Harbour Bridge takes one step further from that: it’s both an awesome structure to see and feel. Discover Climb or BridgeClimb are both 3 ½ hour guided experiences of Sydney on high altitude. It allows you to climb the bridge and enjoy the exhilarating views of Sydney and beyond.

Bondi Beach
Just minutes away from the Central Business District is the popular Bondi beach. You don’t have to don your favorite bikini and take a splash to enjoy this attraction. From surfing competitions and kite flying to festivals, markets and galleries, Bondi beach is filled with activities all year round.

Darling Harbour
From a small dockside area, Darling Harbour has become a major tourist destination, thanks to its transformation that now includes chic cafes, children’s attractions, convention and exhibition venues. Sydney Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, can be found here.

The Rocks
The Rocks is one of the most frequently visited locations in Sydney for at least a couple of reasons. First, it’s accessible and nestled at the foot of Sydney Harbour Bridge and second, its historic significance to Sydney and the whole of Australia is enormous. Here, you’ll find a wide array of pubs and restaurants with live music that reveal Sydney’s rich cultural diversity. Street concerts and other free entertainment are a common sight during weekends and festival seasons.

While you’re in the city, there are plenty of Sydney hotels within the vicinity of these attractions. Indeed, your stay in Sydney is well worth the effort.

Photo credit: kees straver

To describe London as a major city in the world is a cliché. But that doesn’t stop us from convincing you that a typical London travel is one unforgettable experience you’ll ever have. Here are the reasons why you should consider London as your next vacation destination.



1. You’ll find World Heritage Sites
London is blessed with four World Heritage Sites: the Tower of London, the historic settlement of Greenwich which is referred in Greenwich Mean Time, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, and the site comprising the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey and St Margaret’s Church.

2. London hosts the 2012 Olympics
The city will host the biggest sports spectacle in 2012, it’s third after 1908 and 1948. As such, it will be a privilege to witness the biggest names sports converge and compete to the highest level. You surely want to be part of history, don’t you?

3. Most extensive transport system in the world
London covers the most extensive railway system in the globe. Eleven lines on the London underground carry 3 million people. That means there is no other city that can match London’s reach and that could only mean good news to folks who have always relied at underground transport system to get around and familiarize a new city.

4. Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
For many, many years the Houses of Parliament is the place where laws governing British life are debated and enacted. A typical scenario is that the Queen rides in her State coach to Westminster to open each new session of Parliament, usually in the second week in November. So it is expected that during the active months competition for space to witness the event. But still it’s worth exploring the chance.

5. Buckingham Palace
The Buckingham Palace is the Monarch‘s official London residence since the accession of Queen Victoria. Formerly known as Buckingham House, it began its days in 1702 as the Duke of Buckingham’s city residence. During summer season, visitors can tour the nineteen State Rooms, which form the heart of the Palace.

6. London Eye
At a height of 135 metres (443 ft), the London Eye is the largest Ferris wheel in Europe, and has become the most popular paid tourist attraction in the, visited by over three million people in one year. In over 30 minutes, it will make a full circle and thus give you a splendid view of London.

While you’re away home, many London hotels provide homely accommodation to complement the attractions described above. Truly indeed, your London travel will never be dull and boring at all.

Photo credit: sarfrazh

If you are a businessman trying to connect to the vast and lucrative China market, consider attending the Canton Fair in Guangzhou, China. This event is held during the spring and autumn seasons and has been organized since 1957.

The main purpose has been focused to export trade of mainly Chinese manufactured goods although import businesses are also part of the Fair, which is considered largest trade fair in China. It covers various business activities such as commodity inspection, insurance, transportation, advertising, and consultation, as well as economic cooperation agreements between countries and regions. The event is not only participated by import and export businessmen but also trade missions from over 200 territories.

Be aware that during Canton fair, it is more difficult to book your Guangzhou hotel reservation so booking in advance is always a safe bet. Even without the Canton Fair, there is so much to explore about Guangzhou. The city is one of China’s biggest metropolitan cities.

• Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel – an old structure found in Shamian Island.

• Temple of Six Banyan Trees - The Temple of Six Banyan Trees is a nationally known ancient monastery. There are majestic towers, dense trees, plenty of antiques and valuable heritage from those famous people in the history.

• Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall - a really magnificent building in the shape of octagon. It is not only one of the symbolic constructions in Guangzhou with its majestic appearance and the infused rich Chinese national color.

• Guianxiao Temple – A popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

• Shamian Island – A sandbank island featuring English and French inspired structures

• Boat Tour at Pearl River – Night boat ride experience allows you to a breathtaking views of the city

• Yuexiu Park - named after Yuexiu Mountain, built in 1952, is the biggest comprehensive sight-seeing park in Guangzhou.

There are many other attractions to see in your Guangzhou travel experience. So if you miss the Canton Fair, you’ll never be bored in the city. It is only 182 kilometers and a couple of hours train ride away from Hong Kong.

There is a prevailing myth that says if you were in the Moon, the only landmark visible on Earth is the Great Wall of China. Whether the story is true or not, it showcases the magnitude of the attraction in the global perspective, or even beyond.

Great Wall of China was built during the 5th century BC by various dynasties primarily as a means to defend territories from foreign invaders. It has since been rebuilt and maintained throughout the years. And while many of its sections are in state of disrepair, there are still many others that are amazingly great condition and are suitable for tourists and curious locals.

From Beijing, Great Wall of China is accessible through Badaling and Juyongguan sections. Due to its close proximity from the capital city, this section is obviously more crowded and has potential tourist traps. A bit farther away from Beijing is Mutianyu, also well-maintained but with smaller crowd.

Here are some tips before making a visit:

• Bring in extra clothing during chilly months and plenty of water during summer seasons. Bottled water is readily available on crowded sections of the wall.

• There are buses that take you from your Beijing hotel to the Badaling section. But be warned that there are bus scams that charge more expensive rates. Bus from central Beijing to Badaling costs only about 20 yuan but scam buses charge more than 100 yuan. Be aware also that some organized tours handed out by people at the Forbidden City are also scams and are best avoided.

• If you are a photography enthusiast, it's best to take photos during early in the morning and late afternoon.

• Consider making a visit during weekdays instead of weekends to avoid large crowds that mean longer queues and less photo opportunity.

• When joining tours, make sure that you don't fall for detours to jade shops and souvenir stores that don’t add value to the whole trip.

A visit to Beijing is not complete without taking time to explore the Great Wall of China's Badaling section. By sticking to the points above (plus choosing an appropriate Beijing hotel reservation), hopefully, it will be an exciting and rewarding escape from the city.

Considered a gateway to Asia – it has direct flights from dozens of cities – Bangkok is a mixture of both alluring charm of the East and the inevitable influence of the West. Probably, you may have read a lot of articles highlighting the most popular attractions in the city. So I'll try not to duplicate them in this post. Instead, I'll list down helpful tips for Bangkok travelers especially first time visitors.

1. Plan well ahead. Even before arriving in Bangkok, read about the city, learn its attractions and think of what you’d like to do. Get a comprehensive map and study it. Plan and arrange your itinerary. Get your Bangkok hotel reservation and flight schedules sorted out.

2. Drink lots of water. Bangkok's year-round hot weather is an understatement. So arming yourself with bottled water will be a proven day-saver. Also note that tap water is generally not potable so make sure that unless labeled safe, water supply should not be used for drinking or brushing teeth.

3. Beware of tuk tuk scammers. Thailand is a land of gentle and warm people, but that does not mean that there is an absence of folks who will fool you. Be watchful of tuk tuk drivers who offer a ride to unknown holidays like Lucky Buddha Day and gem shops that sell inferior quality products. In the process these unscrupulous drivers charge you with very expensive fares.

4. Join organized tours. With easy to navigate streets, good transportation links and fairly good English speaking population, the city is great for backpackers to explore. However, joining an organized tour group is recommended for the following reasons: it's cheap, it saves you time, and there are -no chances of getting lost (and getting scammed).

5. Take the Skytrain. Bangkok is notorious for its traffic jams in the past. Now with the BTS Skytrain, you have a faster, easier and more comfortable way to travel around the city.

6. Carry your passport all the time. This tip applies not only to Bangkok, but this reminder warrants its own point. Whether it's a request from a local policeman or proof to a gatekeeper of a swanky bar, presenting your passport should help you get out of troubles. Bringing in a photocopy of your passport is also a good idea.

7. Keep a hotel's business card. Also a universal rule of thumb when staying in a hotel in a city that speaks and writes language other than English. Show the card to a taxi or tuk tuk driver to find your way back to your Bangkok hotel or just about any stranger in case you get lost and looking for guidance.

Happy traveling to Bangkok, Thailand!