Vietnam’s Best Beaches
March 21, 2012 in Travel Tips, Vietnam by Sachin
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Inventions Created in India
February 4, 2012 in India by Guestblogger
From the time we get up in the morning until we go to bed at night, almost everything we touch or use can in some part trace its roots back to India. Did you sleep on cotton sheets or pull on a cotton tee shirt? Did you make a cup of coffee? Did you use a computer or make a phone call? Do you wear a diamond wedding ring? Have you or a family member had surgery? Have you ever played chess? If so, you have India to thank. Read on for just a few of the well-known inventions made in India or by natives of India.
Zero
The number zero as we know it was invented in 500 AD by Aryabhata. However, the concept for zero had been around much longer. Between 2000 and 1500 BC, the Hindu numeral system was developed in India. The use of a blank space and then later by a dot were its first representations before finally settling on the “0” that we still use today. The use of mathematics, currency, telephones, and even modern day computing would be virtually impossible without the zero.
Additional Indian mathematic inventions include: Algebraic abbreviations, the Law of Signs in multiplication, the decimal system, and Pi among many others.
Cataract Surgery
In 6th century BCE, Indian physician Sushruta performed the first cataract surgery by loosening the lens with a curved needle and pushing the cataract out of the visual field. Cataract surgery is still widely performed today, though with modern surgical equipment and techniques.
Sushruta was the “Father of Surgery” and contributed much to the field, including surgical techniques, classification of eye diseases and the recommendation of the use of inspection, palpation and auscultation for diagnosis of disease. Sushruta takes credit for advances in plastic surgery, as well.
Additional Indian contributions to the field of medicine include: Inoculation and variolation of smallpox as well as treatments for lithiasis and visceral leishmaniasis.
Cotton Cultivation
Somewhere between the 5th and 4th millennium BCE the inhabitants of the Indus Valley Civilization cultivated cotton. Some of the methods of cotton spinning and fabrication were popular until the modern industrialization of India. The single-roller cotton gin comes from India with evidence in the Ajanta caves dating use back to the 5th century.
Today, cotton is used for an extremely large variety of textile products including a wide range of different types of fabric and clothing including denim for jeans, terrycloth for robes and towels, and seersucker, corduroy, and cotton twill. Cotton’s most common use is for making tee shirts, underwear, and socks. Bedding made with cotton is popular and many other products utilize cotton, such as coffee filters, book binding, and fishing nets.
Cotton fabric has been decorated with a related Indian invention called palampore, the style of painted fabric used to make a bed cover or quilt. To this day, the style, though genuine palampore from that time is extremely rare and quite valuable, is still used.
Additional Indian contributions to agriculture include: Cashmere wool, Indigo dye, jute cultivation, and sugar refinement.
Diamonds
It is estimated that diamonds were first mined in India about 5000 years ago, found along the Penner, Krishna, and Godavari rivers. India was the world’s only source of diamonds until the 18th century when diamonds were found in Brazil. References to diamonds are present in Buddhist texts as far back as 4th century BCE. Diamonds were exported to China where they were used as tools.
Today, diamonds are highly prized as gemstones for jewelry, but industry uses include cutting and grinding tools.
Additionally, Indians used zinc for medical purposes as far back as 300 BCE. Today zinc is as a dietary supplement and found in sunscreen, as well as in batteries and many other industrial uses.
Chess
Known as chaturanga in Old Persian and shatranj in Arabic, the game that would become today’s version of chess came to be in India circa 280-550 CE during the Gupta dynasty. The ancient word for chess literally translates as, “army of four divisions.” The game spread around the globe before finally taking on its modern form when Muslims brought chess to Spain in the 10th century.
Both recreationally and competitively, chess is still extremely popular on a global scale.
Additionally, playing cards and the game now known as “Chutes and Ladders” originally derived in India. At the time, the game was “snakes and ladders” and intended as a morality based game.
From ancient times to the modern day, India has been the birthplace of many inventions and innovations that have greatly affected life as we know it the world over. India has contributed to an incredibly diverse range of areas from mathematics and medicine to agriculture and science, and much more.
This guest post article was written and provided by Erica Gustafson who is an avid Australia traveler, freelance writer and digital media consultant for Expedia. She helps people book cheap hotel reservations at many locations around the world.
Thanks to Ruth L for the photo from Flickr!
by Guestblogger
Partying in India: A Tourist’s Guide to the Best Nightlife
February 2, 2012 in India, Travel Tips by Guestblogger
If you’re traveling to India, you’re probably going for the culture and the sights, not necessarily to party. After a long day of sightseeing, though, you might want to get out and let your hair down for a while, or at least have a cold mug of beer.
India is not famous for its nightlife, but it is possible to find a good time, especially in the cities. Whether you prefer a casual bar with pitchers of beer and rock music or a trendy club scene with colorful cocktails, there’s plenty of fun for everyone in India.
Drinking Age in India
While partying with alcohol might be accepted – and even encouraged – in some destinations, alcohol is never the focus of a night out in India. In fact, if you’re in the state of Gujurat, you probably won’t find any booze, since it’s illegal without a permit.
That’s not to say that you can’t get a drink at all – if you’re of legal age. In Goa, known as a party destination, the drinking age is 18. In Delhi, you have to be at least 25 years old to get a drink. Throughout most of the rest of India, the legal drinking age is 21. Keep in mind that the age restrictions aren’t heavily enforced, especially in the smaller cities and towns.
Where to Go
If you’re looking for a place to spend the evening, the major cities are your best bet for upscale clubs and dance venues.
The hottest clubs are usually found in large hotels and shopping plazas in the major cities like Mumbai and Delhi. These clubs charge astronomically high cover charges (up to $35 per person), and the drinks aren’t cheap either. The atmosphere is trendy and classy, though, and you can expect regular displays of Bollywood-style dancing throughout the night from the Indian patrons.
If your budget doesn’t allow for one of the upscale clubs, you still have plenty of options. Goa is filled with bars and clubs, many featuring traditional Western-style music and entertainment. Goa also has several casinos. Mumbai has plenty of bars and clubs to visit, as do the tourist areas south of Mumbai. Mumbai and Bangalore also offer many clubs and bars that cater to visitors. You can often find these traveler hangouts packed with expatriates and tourists from all over the world.
When you visit Indian cities and towns, you’ll find establishments called “resto-bars,” which are restaurants that have a bar or drinking area and sometimes offer dancing as well. Most restaurants in India do not serve alcohol, so if you’d like a drink with your meal, try one of these establishments.
In the smaller towns and villages, and even in the city, you’ll come across a number of small, seedy, cheap bars. Local men are the main frequenters of these dives, and they might not be the friendliest or safest places for visitors, especially women.
In Goa and several of the northern states, outdoor, psychedelic trance parties are popular – if you can find them. The parties are usually held in remote locations and promoted through an underground network – and often quickly shut down by the police.
Curfews
In the U.S. and Europe, the club scene might not get going until nearly midnight and go on into the wee hours of the morning. That’s not the case in India, where most of the action ends around midnight. Each state has its own curfew, meaning that the party starts early. In Mumbai and Delhi, most bars and clubs close at 1:30 am; in Bangalore and Chennai, everything is closed by 11:30 pm. Goa has strict noise restrictions, so parties usually end by 10 pm. The latest nights can be found in Kolkata (Calcutta), where bars can stay open until 2 am.
When planning your nighttime activities, check on the closing times so that you don’t show up just as the party ends. Most of the pubs and smaller bars open in the late afternoon, while the more upscale clubs open around 7 or 8 pm.
If you’re looking for a place to go, check your guidebook or ask your hotel concierge or the locals you meet for recommendations. Locals can tell you the best places for the ambience you want, and they might even let you in on some hidden gems that are off the tourist radar.
Wherever you go to have a good time in India, use common sense and stay safe. Keep your alcohol consumption in check, travel in a pair or group and stay aware of your surroundings. It’s easy for criminals – both locals and other travelers – to take advantage of an inebriated, unsuspecting tourist. If a party or club feels sketchy, it’s best to avoid it and find somewhere else to enjoy your evening.
This guest post article was written and provided by Erica Gustafson who is a freelance writer, avid traveler to India and online media consultant for Expedia. When visiting India she enjoys staying at the Estrela Do Mar Beach Resort.
Thanks to worldwind0 for the photo from Flickr!
by Guestblogger
Tips for Staying Safe and Secure in India
February 1, 2012 in India by Guestblogger
If you’re traveling to another country, it’s very important to be informed about possible risks and dangers that you may encounter and want to avoid. Some risks, warnings and hazards apply to international travel in general, but beyond those, every country has its own particular health and security threats of which to be aware. Here is some advice for staying safe and secure while visiting India.
Terrorism
Terrorists in India can strike with little or no warning and target public places, such as hotels, restaurants and markets. Other possible targets include means of transportation like trains and buses. Currently, there is a high terrorism risk throughout India. In fact, the Indian Department of State issued a warning in October 2011 to take extra precautionary steps to ensure your personal security. Watch for security warnings, and avoid any area identified as a potential terrorist target.
Theft and Personal Security
Wherever you travel, theft is a common risk, and India is no different. Traveler’s checks are always a good idea since they are replaceable, and make sure to keep your credit and debit cards in a safe location. Another good idea is to keep copies of your passport, your Indian visa, your flight information, records of your traveler’s checks and any other important documents in a separate place from the originals. Never leave your luggage unattended when riding a bus, and padlock the luggage to the racks provided if possible. Never leave valuables of any kind (including documents) in your hotel room, and anything you do leave in your room should be locked up tightly. Finally, be sure to purchase a good travel insurance policy before you leave for India.
Women should pay particular attention to personal safety. Rape is on the rise in India. Try not to travel alone (this is a good rule for anyone who is traveling). Don’t skimp on the accommodations during you stay in India; lower room rates could mean a bigger risk. Do not accept drinks or food from anyone you don’t know. There have been quite a few cases when a traveler’s drink was “spiked” with a drug, thus giving the predator an opportunity to rob or sexually assault an unsuspecting victim. Try not to travel at night, and avoid being in crowded places alone.
Food, Drink and Health
There are a lot of opportunities to sample delicious food throughout India, and trying to avoid getting sick could mean that you miss some great things. However, there are a few basic rules that can help you to enjoy the good stuff with minimal risk. Pack a diarrhea remedy like Imodium, Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate just in case. Always make sure that your food is cooked thoroughly and that hot food is piping hot. Always drink bottled water (pack some in your suitcase if you want to), and make sure that the cap is sealed before you open it. Keep yourself well-hydrated. Lastly, don’t forget to wash your hands; bring some hand sanitizer along with you for hiking trips and the like.
Before you leave for India, make sure that you see your doctor for a checkup and get caught up on all your vaccines. Try to get a list of vaccines that are specific to India and get those as well.
Location
You can take all necessary precautions for your financial and physical health, but no amount of that is going to matter if you choose a place to go in India that is not safe. Do some research and heed any legitimate warnings of certain areas and cities in India that have proven to be unsafe. Demonstrations and protests are common throughout India; take care to stay away from those areas. In addition, there are entire regions in India that are just plain unsafe; avoid them at all costs.
The advice in this article is not intended to scare you away from India — by all means, go, and have a wonderful time! Just remember to pay attention to your surroundings and yourself. In general, exercise extreme caution when traveling in India. Make sure you take extra care of your personal security, and keep an eye on the Indian media for current security warnings. Monitor the threat levels of places you want to visit, make sure there is sufficient security where you stay in India and above all, use the most important thing you have to stay safe: your common sense.
This guest post article was written and provided by Erica Gustafson who is a freelance writer, avid traveler and online media consultant for
Expedia. When in India she loves to stay at the Hotel Savera in Chennai.
Thanks to mckaysavage for the photo from Flickr!
5 Off the Beaten Path Places in Laos
December 13, 2011 in Laos by TravelReflex Team
As one of the lesser known countries in Asia, Laos is often overlooked as a tourist destination. As a result, it has remained an unspoilt wonderland that’s rich in culture and natural beauty. Here are five of the best off the beaten path places to visit for a truly memorable getaway in Laos.
1. Luang Nam Tha
If you’re tired of the usual tourist trail, head to the dusty town of Luang Nam Tha for a truly off the beaten path experience. Situated in the north of the country close to the Chinese border, this little town has managed to stay largely untouched by the clammy hand of tourism. Adventurous sorts can try a spot of river rafting or kayaking to get closer to nature. If you’re not a fan of the more thrilling activities you can always take a boat trip along the Nam Tha River to enjoy a more laid back experience. Culture vultures can venture back into town to explore the ethnic museum, which showcases a number of anthropological artefacts including locally made ceramics and clothing. Pick up a gift for a friend back home at one of the handicraft stalls nearby.
2. Phonsavan and the Plain of Jars
Situated in the small town of Phonsavan is a mysterious site known as the Plain of Jars. Scattered across the fields are a number of gigantic stone jars that are believed to have been created around 2,000 years ago. Historians aren’t entirely sure what the jars are, but locals speculate that they may be relics from an ancient form of water storage or drink fermentation. The jars are littered in such a haphazard fashion that they look as though they could have been dropped by a careless giant. Take a look and see what you think!
3. Tham Kong Lo Cave
Hidden away in the vast wilderness of Phu Hin Bun is the magical Tham Kong Lo Cave. With stalactites dangling from 300ft tall ceilings and craggy limestone formations rising ominously from the darkness, the Tham Kong Lo Cave is truly a sight to behold. With the Nam Hin Bun River flowing through it, the cave is only accessible by boat. The nearby Ban Kong Lo Village is home to some highly experienced boatmen who know the waters of the river like the back of their hand. In narrow boats they navigate the nooks and crannies of Tham Kong Lo, allowing their passengers to stop and explore the cave at certain points.
4. Phou Khao Kway National Park
Situated close to the buzzing capital city of Vientiane, this park is the perfect pit-stop on the way to the international airport. Phou Khao Kway National Park is a haven for natural beauty. Magnificent mountains tower overhead, delicate waterfalls cascade over rugged cliffs and jagged gorges threaten to plunge you into darkness. If this isn’t enough to entice you, perhaps you should know that the park is home to over 50% of the country’s wild orchid species. Take a trek to discover more about these fascinating flowers that have flourished in Phou Khao Kway’s nourishing terrain.
5. The whisky village near Pak Ou Caves
On the way to the beautiful Pak Ou Caves, pay a visit to the little whisky village nearby and try a cup of the local lao-lao drink. Made from a heady mixture of fermented rice, flour and water, this ‘whisky’ is the alcoholic beverage of choice for many villagers in Laos. The alcoholic content is a woozy 55%, so lao-lao is definitely not a drink for the faint of heart! There are plenty of bottles to buy if you fancy taking some for your friends back home, but be warned that there might be a preserved snake curled up inside!
Image from Flickr user Miran Rijavec
Becky is a passionate traveller who blogs about her adventures in London. She currently writes for Enjoybedandbreakfast.com, a company that showcases the unique, the unusual and the truly special bed and breakfasts from South Africa and across the world.
How to Fully Enjoy Backpacking in Laos
November 30, 2011 in Laos by TravelReflex Team
Laos is one of the best places for budget travellers to visit in South East Asia. Backpacking in this mountainous country is a truly wonderful experience, something that every traveller should experience at least once.
In order to ensure you do not spend too much during a backpacking trip in Laos, learning about the currency and its equivalent is of the utmost importance. The currency of the country is the kip or Lao Kip (LAK) which is divided into 100att. One US dollar is equivalent to about 8,015 LAK, depending on the current exchange rate. On a typical day, around 7 USD are needed for food and travel expenses although more will naturally be needed for those who eat and drink more than the average person. There are ATMs around Laos where you can withdraw cash although these are mostly located in the cities so when traveling deeper into the villages, make sure that you have enough with you.
Traveling around Laos will not cost much although if you are working to a budget, there are several ways you can keep the costs down even further. One way of doing this is to research the areas in the North of the country that are of interest as the North tends to be cheaper than the South. In fact there are many areas where commodity prices have remained pretty much the same over the past three years so it works out great for budget travellers.
Instead of dining in big restaurants and cafes, it is wiser to eat at food stalls and noodle shops which tend to be way cheaper. In addition the food is often more tasty and delicious than many proper establishments. For those who are fond of hitting the bars for a few beers, however, this is definitely one country where it is not recommended as beer is relatively expensive in Laos, costing about K5000 which can eat up most of your daily budget.
Laos is a great draw for those backpackers who like to trek as the deep forests which separate different villages offer a rewarding challenge especially for those who want to experience the way native Loa live, a lifestyle which has not changed much over the decades. The following are some must visit towns and villages for all would be budget travellers:
1. One of the best destinations in the North is Phongsali which is a remote town. The town is quite different from other Laos towns as there is a heavy influence of Chinese culture mixed with the laid-back attitude and friendliness of the Lao.
2. Meanwhile in Muang Sing, you can find the most beautiful natural attractions and a very traditional way of life.
3. Luang Prabang is one of the most famous attractions in the whole country and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. The town has several temples where you can join the Lao in their worshiping activities whilst admiring the spectacular waterfalls and other stunning sites.
4. Si Phan Don is one of the most beautiful sites in the whole of Asia and is a favorite among travellers. Also called the 4,000 Islands, you will find a plethora of fishing villages, waterfalls, colonial buildings and a lot more besides.
When travelling around Laos, it is best to avoid rainy days as many of the roads are not yet fully developed and can be both messy and treacherous when there is continuous rain. As such it’s best to head there during the early summer months as you will have a better time exploring the forests and other locations in general. In general you should avoid the months of July to October for this very reason. Caution should also be exercised when visiting certain areas as the drug business exerts an influence in many areas so heed the latest Foreign Office advice before travel.
Backpacking in Laos is a fun and fulfilling experience that any traveller will love. Instead of the usual shopping and dining, trek deep into the forests and visit distant villages so that you can experience the traditions and a way of life that is rooted in hundreds of years of history.
About the Author
Josh and Mulan run the travel blog www.londonlaunchpad.com which deals with their adventures around London and the world beyond as well as the site Backpacks City. Connect with them at any time for travel chat, tips and advice.
Thanks to Houston Marsh for the photo from Flickr!
Where to Stay in Laos
November 27, 2011 in Laos by TravelReflex Team
Laos is a small country that has managed to stay somewhat off of the mainstream backpacker circuit of Southeast Asia. The country mainly consists of forested mountains, valleys, and rivers, making it an ideal vacation destination for adventure seekers or those looking for a laid-back vacation. There are plenty of activates for the adventurous traveler to enjoy including trekking to temple ruins among the Mekong Valley, kayaking to limestone caves in Vang Vieng, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang, among many other things. Laos is full of stunning natural beauty and has an enchanting Buddhist culture. Below are some unique eco lodges and boutique hotels perfect for both adventure seekers and lounging vacationers.
3 Nagas is located in the heart of Luang Prabang, the ancient former capital of Laos. This boutique hotel hosts 3 buildings that are more than a century old. With just 15 rooms and suites spread among 2 separate houses, the hotel offers an intimate setting. There are 8 rooms in the Khamboua House, which was built in 1903 in traditional Lao style and opens onto a magnificent garden on the edge of the Nam Khan River. There are seven rooms in the Lamache House, which was built in 1898 for the royal family. It has recently been restored using traditional materials and construction techniques. All rooms have a spacious private porch overlooking the street or garden. There are 3 suites, where guests can enjoy added luxuries including a private entrance hall, spacious living room, and a dining area. Each room has wireless internet access.
Luang Say Cruise and Lodge: Mekong River,Laos
Enjoy a slow river journey on the Mekong through Northern Laos. You’ll pass through remote mountainous stretches of the Mekong between the northern Thai border at Houeisay and Luang Prabang. You’ll see pristine forests, hill tribe villages, and the magical Tham Thing Caves of a Thousand Buddhas on your journey along the Mekong River. Luang Prabang sits on the banks of the Mekong and is considered one of Asia’s best preserved ancient capitals. You will have time to wander through the city, enjoying the architecture and serenity. In between the 2 days on the river, travelers will stay at the Luang Say Lodge at Pakbeng, a charming riverside eco lodge situated among unspoiled scenery.
Kingfisher eco lodge is in Champasak Province, the southernmost province of Laos. The lodge is a family run business owned and managed by Massimo from Italy and Bangon, a Lao native. There are six double room stilt wooden bungalows, that each has a spacious veranda overlooking the fields where you can spot elephants grazing and a freestanding hammock. The wooden bungalows were constructed using traditional building materials and furnished in traditional Laotian style. The shower is solar powered and the bungalow’s lighting is supplied by an individual solar system. The lodge has a restaurant that offers traditional Laos cuisine and a bar, perfect for enjoying a drink while looking out at the scenic countryside. The lodge owners work closely with the local villages to help promote ecotourism in the area. Activities offered include cycling, hiking, bird watching, and elephant trekking.
Grand Luang Prabang Hotel: Luang Prabang, Laos
The Grand Luang Prabang Hotel is located on the grounds of the Xiengkeo Palace, and offers incredible views of the Mekong River and the surrounding mountains. The hotel consists of 78 luxury rooms and suites designed to represent Luang Prabang’s colonial past. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast in the restaurant that overlooks the Mekong. The restaurant serves delicious international cuisine, including western, Thai and Lao. There is also a Sunset Bar that is ideal for an evening drink. The lounge bar features live music and karaoke. The hotel’s business center offers state of the art equipment and services for any type of meetings, conferences, and exhibitions.
Global Basecamps is a specialty travel company that helps independent travelers research and book locally owned boutique hotels, off-the-beaten path lodges and multi-day excursions all over the world.
Partake in a Dragon Boat Race in Hong Kong
November 10, 2011 in China by TravelReflex Team
Hong Kong is a unique city that blends some of the most interesting aspects of Chinese tradition with Western customs. A modern city boasting a massive economy and a large population of expat residents, Hong Kong is truly one of the wonders of Asia. By blending together both the old and new, the city has fashioned its own culture that is an incredible melting pot of cultures, customs, foods, and ideas. One perfect example of this blending of the old and new is the dragon boat races that are one of the most popular activities in Hong Kong.
Dragons are the symbol of male virility, and play an influential role in several different arenas of Chinese tradition. Dragon boats have long been manufactured in Guangdong Province, in southern China. Competition in one form or another has taken place in China for more than 2000 years, in ceremonies that were often religious in nature, with the Chinese worshiping the deities of the ocean. Dragon boats also play an important role in the ushering in of a new agricultural season, with races signaling the start of the summer rice planting.
Modern dragon boat racing was born in Hong Kong in 1976. Since that time, the sport has distanced itself from the more traditional Chinese customs behind the activity, instead embracing the activity as a competitor arena for talented athletes to show their skills. While women were forbid from participating in the racing in ancient times, today athletes of both genders take part in the popular races. Globally, more than 50 million take part in dragon boat racing annually.
The introduction of the modern sport in Hong Kong brought competing athletes from all corners of the globe to the city. Races take place from March-October, meaning visitors have plenty of opportunities to witness the action firsthand. Depending on the particular race in question, several different sizes of boating vessels are used. The biggest dragon boat holds at least 50 individuals, and can accommodate more than 120 if needed. The most commonly used dragon boat holds a 22 member team.
Visitors to Hong Kong won’t want to miss this exciting competitive display. Information about upcoming events can easily be found online, and several different festivals and races ensure that you won’t miss the chance to watch one of these incredible events. The international event is the most popular festival during the year, and the fisherman’s races in April and May are also exciting events that pull in many visitors.
If you are interested in attending one of these iconic races on your next trip to Hong Kong, be certain to schedule your trip according to the racing schedules. The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Association is a helpful resource for determining when certain races will be on throughout the year. Be sure to bring your camera along for the day, and join the thousands of spectators cheering on teams as they race to the finish line!
An article is written by Wendy J. Radabaugh who likes traveling to Asia, antivirus software, android, luxury, pc antivirus, networking and music.
Thanks to countries in colors for the photo from Flickr!
Travelling to Nepal on a budget
November 10, 2011 in Nepal by TravelReflex Team
Nepal is recognized as one of the most beautiful and exotic countries in the world – amazing scenery, rich religious traditions and a unique cultural experience await any visitor to this landlocked state deep in the Himalayas. It is ideal for those who want a different kind of holiday, one in which integration into local life and meaningful moments are more important than flash hotels and shopping opportunities. Nepal is a mountainous, tough landscape that tests travellers on a regular basis, but one that offers tremendous rewards to those who are brave enough to take on this spectacular country. The country itself is not economically strong, so travelling is very cheap, which is an alluring feature that tends to attract backpackers and spiritual travellers seeking out meaning in the amazing spirituality of this tiny country. If this sounds like the kind of holiday that you want, then here are a few tips that can help you to explore this magical country on a budget.
Backpacking and Travel
Due to the fact that Nepal is in the Himalayas, travelling to and from the mountain kingdom requires significant planning. Most flights arrive via bigger Asian countries like South Korea, China, Bangladesh and India, which means that you can easily include Nepal on a bigger Asian tour. This means that travel costs are low, because you will be able to organize a really competitive deal through Asian travel agents. Once in Nepal, your best bet in terms of accommodation is the hotels – cheap hotels are very safe and basic and give the wary traveller all of the necessary amenities. Backpacking is a great way to catch a glimpse of the unique beauty of the mountainous regions, with bus tours providing the cheapest, most meaningful glimpses into life in Nepal.
Average Budget
The currency of Nepal is the Rupee (like in India), which means that you can eat and live really well for minimal cost. Including transport, food, accommodation and entrance fees, you can budget on anything from $15 to $50 a day depending on the kind of experience you wish to have. You can get meals for as cheap as Rp. 20, which converts to about $0.45, but to be safe you should set aside a little more. An extravagant meal with wine is about Rp. 2000, so it might work out cheapest to really get into the spirit of the local culture and eat the local food, with occasional meals out.
This guest post was written by freelance writer Victoria. She is currently learning about Canada FAQ and the Canadian Economy.
Thanks to No Lands Too Foreign for the photo from Flickr!
Things to Do in Mongolia
October 31, 2011 in Mongolia by TravelReflex Team
Mongolia is an intriguing country, situated as it is between China and Russia, influenced as it is by Tibetan Buddhism, and shaped as it is with a history rich with Genghis Khan’s conquests. In an arid landscape best adapted to the nomadic way of life, Mongolia offers treasures of perception perhaps not first noticed by the visitor.
Take a tour through the Gobi Desert
And take this trip the way the Mongolians would: on camel or on horseback. This seemingly desolate desertscape hosts an exhilarating blend of wildlife. If you get the chance, spend the night in a ger, a Mongolian fur- and felt-construction home. Sip salted yak’s milk tea with your host for a true immersion into local culture.
Sample two thousand years of history
Visit the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with evidence of over two thousand years of nomadic presence found along the Orkhon River.
Enjoy the splendor of a Tibetan-style temple in the capital of Ulaanbaatar
In the Stalinesque purges of the 1930′s, many monasteries in Mongolia were destroyed. The Choijin Lama Temple, however, was turned into a museum in 1938, which would preserve it into the future. The Main Temple is home to an 18th-century statue of Buddha Shayaryamuni.
Ulaanbaatar is also home to the Gandan Monastery, which functioned even through a decades-long communist stint. Visitors are welcome at mid-morning services.
Step back in time
At Ulaanbaatar’s Museum of National History, you’ll find a wide range of Mongolian history dating from the Stone Age up to the modern era. Highlights include steppe nomad culture, traditional jewelry, as well as artifacts and weapons of warriors serving under Genghis Khan.
Shop for traditional clothing
You can bet that most stores back home don’t carry camel hair waistcoats… Pick up a Mongolian “deel,” or traditional clothing, too, or buy felt or leather boots, at markets in Ulaanbaatar. Silverwork and decorative wooden saddles are also available, too.
Outdoor enthusiasts, rejoice!
Visotors to the Terelj National Park can enjoy wildflower meadows, streams and rock formations set against mountainscapes. Only 80 km away from Ulaanbaatar, this beautiful setting allows for such outdoor sports as bike riding, skiing, rafting, hiking, horse back riding, and camping. The Khagiin Khar Lake, some 20 meters deep, is formed by glaciers; the Yestii Hot Springs are also here.
Also located near the capital but to the south, Bogd Khan Mountain National Park dates back to 300 years ago. This site is home to rock carvings and mountains sacred to the Mongolians. With a highly varied plant life, and a fine assortment of animals, the park is also home to the Manzushir Khid Monastery. This monastery was started in 1733, and 300 monks once lived here. Try out the traditional nomad’s drink of “airag,” or fermented horse’s milk; or head off on a backpacking journey.
Sixty miles to the southwest of the capital is Hustai National Park, where the Przewalski horses–the only naturally surviving wild horses in the world–dwell. (The Mongolians call this horse “takhi.”)
Have you got a ticket to ride?
One way to approach Mongolia is with the Trans-Mongolia train, which runs from Moscow to Beijing, and which stops in Ulaanbaatar. As a segment of the Trans-Siberian Railway, this span of railroad gives the traveler a comfortable seat from which to enjoy the views of Mongolia.
Nicole Rodgers has been blogging in the travel, finance, and fitness industries for three years. When Nicole went traveling last year, she made sure to check online for villas she could rent in order to save money. Whenever Nicole travels she likes to blog about her experience. She makes sure to use a jquery wordpress plugin to blog effectively about her travels.
Thanks to <smee> for the photo from Flickr!
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