unearthing asia issue 05

Culture, Lifestyle and Attractions

SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY ISSUE - FREE 2011 CALENDAR

Vol 05 - Issue 05

Vol 05 - Issue 05

www.unearthingasia.com

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+ Macau’s Historic Treats+ Delhi, the Immortal City+ Auckland, City of Sails+ Great Malaysian Adventures+ Korean Festival Showcase+ Wellington’s Capital Adventures

Trim size: 460mmW x 270mmHBleed size: 470mmW x 280mmH

Xmas 2010 UnearthingAsia Mag DPS V1FA.ai 12nov10Xmas 2010 Unearthing Asia Mag DPS

THE GUIDE FESTIVE ASIA

56 Holi Spring The magic of India shines through in one of its most colourful festival – the Holi Spring Festival

68 Lunar Beijing The chamrs of Beijing truly come alive during the festive celebration of Chinese New Year

80 Sunny Christmas Enjoy the New Year festivities at the youngest country on Earth, New Zealand

56

80 68

On the cover – Holi Spring celebration © Scott Sporleder

SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY ISSUE - FREE 2011 CALENDAR

CONTENTS

www.unearthingasia.com6

16-24 BUZZWORTHY! Singapore Ku De Ta; Pullman Expansion, Grand Park Hotel Reopening, and more!

30 SPOTLIGHT City of Sails 24 hour in the City of Sails, Auckland

34-46 INSIGHTS Malaysian Adventures; Korean Festivals; Wellington Capital, and more

90 STYLE GUIDE Mandaring Chic

112-120 TRAVEL PERSONALITY

3090

38 34

CONTENTS


and is not intent on arriving– Lao Tzu Quotes

EDITOR’S NOTES

Don’t we all love Decembers? The holidays, celebrations, parties and a time

the year that has gone by, and to plan for the future and what could be. For us at Unearthing Asia, this December

we are one year old! We would like to thank all our readers for your support, encouragements and feedback over the year. The team will continue to embark on new journeys in unearthing more of the world to you. So keep a lookout!

© Singapore Tourism Board

As a gesture of appreciation to all

calendar along with this issue of the magazine. The photos are stunning, and we hope they can ignite a sense of wonder and adventure for you everyday. As part of our anniversary celebrations, we have also launched an Anniversary

be won, including trips to Routora in New Zealand, Bali in Indonesia, Hong Kong, Saigon in Vietnam, Phuket in Thailand and Borocay in the Philippines. A winner will be announced each week, so do check out the rules for the competition on

We look forward new adventures in 2011. On behalf of the team at UA, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year ahead!

Nikolas TjhinEditor-in-Chief


BEHIND THE SCENES

CommissionersHusein VP

ConsultantKicky AlexanderAchmad Sobari

Editor in ChiefNikolas Tjhin

EditorsMichelle LeeCarrie Kellenberger

MarketingNadia VeronikaAlexander Alvin

ContributorsCarrie KellenbergerMarie TeatherMegan EavesDebbie Reyes-ColomaPhilippe RoyScott SporlederVannara PutraJoanne Tay

PublisherPT Tanindo Multi Media

DistributorPansing Pte LtdPT Surya Wahana Sentosa

Media RepresentativeMedia Link Pte LtdPT Dinamika Media

Legal ConsultantDr F. X. Arsin, SH

All rights in this publication and the name are owned and licensed to PT Tanindo Multi Media. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the permission of PT Tanindo Multimedia. All rights reserved. All opinions are of the writers’ and not necessarily endorsed by PT Tanindo Multi Media, and we accept no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies, or other materials.

Media RepresentativeSingapore & MalaysiaDawn KhooMedia Link Pte Ltd(65) 6336 1725, (65) 6336 6116

Media RepresentativeIndonesia & BaliBella LiemPT Dinamika Media+62 21 9879 5659+62 21 6600 476+62 817 808 [email protected]

For editorial and media enquiries, please contact

Nikolas [email protected] 889826Singapore 919191

Join us online at www.unearthingasia.com

or follow us on Twitter @unearthingasia

Culture, Lifestyle and Attractions Vol 01 Dec/Jan/Feb 2010

Raja Ampat Phuket Puerto PrincesaKoh Pha Ngan Bali

THE INAUGURAL ISSUE WIN HOTEL STAYS IN BALI, HK AND MORE!

New Zealand’s Splashing Lake Taupo + A Guide to Middle

Eastern Cuisine + Heeding the Call of Asia in Taiwan +

Singapore Stopover + Spotlight on Jakarta + Flashpacking

Essentials + A Tropical Affair

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Culture, Lifestyle and Attractions Vol 02 Mar/Apr/May 2010

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05 Megan EavesMegan Eaves is an avid traveler, writer, musician, explorer, teacher and free spirit. Her extensive background and travel experience over the years led her to begin writing and publishing freelance travel

length work, This Is China: A Guidebook for Teachers, Backpackers and Other Lunatics, is available now at www.meganeaveswriting.com.

06 Debbie Reyes-ColomaSingapore-based Debbie Reyes-Coloma is a freelance feature and lifestyle writer for various publications in the region. In this issue, she uncovers her personal paradise in two of New Zealand’s many attractions.

07 Marie TeatherMarie Teather is a freelance journalist and editor who has worked on travel and lifestyle publications in London and Tokyo. When not trying to hit deadlines Marie became something of an expert on Japanese food through nights spent in hundreds of izakayas, bars, and restaurants as well as traveling throughout Japan’s islands. Marie has spent considerable time traveling throughout Asia and beyond. Feeding into this love of travel and international living, she specializes in travel, food, women’s travel, culture, and international and local city news.

CONTRIBUTORS

01 Carrie KellenbergerCanadian expat Carrie Kellenberger has lived in Asia since 2003. A nomad at heart, Carrie’s deep love for travel, cultures, and photography have led her on frequent travels over the past eight years. She works as a full-time professional writer and editor in Taipei, Taiwan. View her professional portfolio at www.carriekellenberger.com

02 Joanne TayJoanne is an independent theatre practitioner based in Singapore and Melbourne, Australia. She is passionate about intercultural communication and

peace building.

03 Philippe RoyPhilippe Roy is an experienced commercial photographer with more than a decade of experience

international experience where he have managed, produced and executed photo-shoots in North America, Latin America, India, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Vietnam and Australia.

04 Scott SporlederSince graduating from San Diego State University four years ago, Scott sets aside three months each year to travel and photograph the world’s unique cultures. Scott sells his art and photography at the Sawdust Festival in Laguna Beach, California each year. Visit his personal photography web site at www.scottsporleder.com to view more of his stunning images from around the world.

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Culture, Lifestyle and Attractions Vol 03 - Issue 03

Vol 03 - Issue 03


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Leh Ladakh New Zealand Yunnan

+ Puerto Princesa Island Life+ Hong Kong - More than Shopping

+ Singapore Shopping Hotspots+ Kuta Beach, Bali + Unusual Festivals

+ Ride Like a Khan+ A Sense of Touch

Unearthing Asia Turns One This December!

And to celebrate this, we have got a host of excellent prizes to be won. We have a 4D3N stay in Rotorua, New Zealand, a 4D3N stay in Bali, Indonesia, a 4D3N stay in Hong Kong, and more!

Turn to page 48 for more information

BUZZWORTHY!WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND THE REGION

LOUNGE KU DE TAA stunning new entertainment complex at the top of Marina Bay Sands is now open. Ku De Ta Singapore is spread over 14,500 square feet and features three different venues to cater to its hip clientele – a restaurant and Sky Bar, a poolside terrace

as a Club Lounge and Vue Terrace. The original Bali establishment of Ku De Ta is internationally famed not only for its food and parties but also for its choice of music. Party revelers in Singapore will surely do well to check out Ku De Ta’s two party spaces – Club Lounge and Vue Terrace. ML.

© Ku De Ta Singapore


HOTEL PULLMAN EXPANSIONAccor, the largest international hotel operator in Vietnam, has recently announced two new developments for the Pullman hotel brand for the country – Pullman Danang Beach and Pullman Hai Phong Flamboyant Island Resort. With this, Accor has commitments to develop

which are scheduled to open in 2011. They are Pullman Danang Beach, Pullman Vung Tau and Pullman Hanoi Horison. NT.

BUZZWORTHY!© Pullman Hotels International


GOURMET FESTIVE FULLERTONThe Fullerton Hotel Singapore will be featuring a tempting array of delights in the upcoming festive season in a sumptuous ambience of luxury and elegance. The hotel’s esteemed culinary team has handcrafted a variety of lavish gastronomic festive offerings at the Town Restaurant, Jade, or The Lighthouse and Christmas Takeaways at The Fullerton Shop. New Year revellers can also ring in the New Year at the Post Bar. Experience The

and watch the lobby transform into

10,000 balloons drop from 100 feet

New Year. ML.

GUIDE BUDGET BOUTIQUEStylish stays don’t have to break the bank, which is why weekend-away experts Mr & Mrs Smith have launched a new Budget Boutique collection. Hotels wearing the Budget Boutique badge have all the hip hallmarks you’d expect from the Mr & Mrs Smith collection, with the added luxe-for-less appeal. The ever-expanding category features some 84 hotels from around the world, all with a seductive price tag of S$360 or less per couple per night. (http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/budget-boutique-hotels) NT.

BUZZWORTHY!

© Fullerton Hotel SIngapore

festive asia 19

FASHION ALLEIRA BATIKThe prestigious Alleira Batik has opened two exclusive boutiques to better serve the growing market of Indonesian fashion-lovers from all walks of life. Situated at Gandaria City and at Central Park, both recently opened malls that are sure to please fashionistas in West and South Jakarta. BL.

BUZZWORTHY!

© Alleira Batik Indonesia

VILLA LAGUNA LUXURYThe Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua Bali, are excited to announce the new and luxurious Laguna Pool Villas, which will now debut early on 15 December 2010. The ten new luxurious private pool villas are in addition to the current 271 rooms and suites and each offer a unique tropical residence set apart from the crowd with an expansive garden area and a lavish private pool with a minimum 48sqm size. NT.

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GOURMET TABLE8Hotel Mulia Senayan is proud to announce the prestigious interior design award achieved by its latest Chinese restaurant, TABLE8 (Pa Sian Cuo, meaning “table of 8 Goddesses”). TABLE8 has been awarded the “Winner in Fine Dining Restaurant” category in the 2010 Hospitality Design Awards, New York City, USA. The interior theme of the restaurant is Chinoiserie with a series of 24 pagodas as the centerpiece of this uniquely designed restaurant. TABLE8 offers a myrid of mouth-watering delicacies, ranging from ala carte to seven types of exclusive set menus as well as the town’s one and only etensive authentic Chinese buffet. BL.

BUZZWORTHY!

© Hotel Mulia Jakarta


BUZZWORTHY!

HOTEL GRAND REOPENINGThe Park Hotel Group celebrated the grand opening of its crown jewel – Grand Park Orchard Hotel in October 10th, 2010. The hotel, previously known as Park Hotel Orchard, recently went through a SGD80 million dollar makeover and now offers luxurious comfort and modern conveniences to both business and leisure travellers.

From its herringbone design glass facade to the fashion inspired wall murals in each room, the Hotel is dressed up to look its “fashionably best”. The Grand Park Orchard has 308 stylishly furnished rooms and suites that offer luxurious comfort and modern

to-ceiling windows that showcases Orchard Road at its glittering best. VP.

© Grand Park Orhcard Hotel, Singapore

HOTEL BANGKOK NOVOTELAccor, the largest international hotel operator in Thailand, has expanded further in Bangkok with the opening of Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom on September 15, 2010. Conveniently located in Silom Road, the hotel will open after a complete building transformation from basement up to the rooftop.

“The property has undergone an extensive change, and its prime location near the business and leisure districts make it an ideal accommodation for all types of travellers,” boasts Paul Stevens, Director of Operations – Accor Thailand. The 20-story high hotel features 216 guest rooms, The Square (a 122-seat all-day dining restaurant), and a 1,740 square metres shopping arcade. NT.

EVENT SUN FESTIVALBack for the fourth year, Asia’s premium lifestyle festival – the Singapore Sun Festivalrevealed its 2010 programme today

presenting sponsor of this year’s Festival. The programme this year is set to dazzle with an array of star-

will take place from October 29th to November 7th, 2010. ML.

BUZZWORTHY!

© Novotel Bangkok

© Singapore Sun Festival


Macau is a city with two faces. On one hand, it is the famed Las Vegas of the East, where the thrill of beating the dealer at the blackjack table lures wealthy tourists from mainland China and neighboring Hong Kong to try their luck. But on the other hand, there is a side of Macau rarely explored. A

churches and culture of its former colonial master, Portugal. One such site is The Historic Centre of Macau, which spans eight historic squares

buildings. Unearthing Asia explores the notable highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Macau’s Historic Treats

Barra SquareThe Barra Square faces the Inner Harbour, and its front part is constructed from famed Portugese mosaic. The tiles are laid in a wavy pattern to mirror the

is A-Ma Temple, the oldest and longest surviving building in Macau. When the

century and asked for the name of the place, they were told “A-Ma Gau”, the name of the temple instead. This was then transcribed by the settlers into the Portugese Macau.

Lilau SquareLilau in Portugese means “mountain spring”, and this used to be the principal source of water in Macau. Within the Lilau Square are the Mandarin’s House and Moorish Barracks. The Mandarin’s House was the residence of the famed Chinese thinker Zheng Guanying. The Moorish Barracks nearby was built by the Italian architect Cassuto, but curiously

Ruins of St Paul’s


St Augustine’s SquareThis square brings together several notable sites, including St Augustine’s Church, the Dom Pedro V Theatre, St Joseph’s Seminary and Church, and the Sir Robert Ho Tung Library. The Dom Pedro V Theatre was the earliest western-styled theatre in China, and was originally built to commemorate Kind Pedro V.

Senado SquareThe Senado Square has been the centre of Macau since the beginning, and plays host to many public events and festivities. Within the square are several notable architectures, such as Sam Kai Vui Kun (Kuan Tai Temple), Leal Senado Building and Holy House of Mercy. The Kuan Tai Temple is situated on the site of the old Macau bazaar, a very important trading centre during the Chinese commercial period in Macau. After the decline of the bazaar, the temple rose to importance in the area.

Ruins of St Paul’sThe Ruins of St Paul refers to the facade of what was originally the Church of Mater Dei built in 1602-1640.

refer to the ruins of St Paul’s College, which stood adjacent to the Church. As a whole, the old Church of Mater Dei, St Paul’s College and Mount Fortress were perceived as Macau’s “acropolis”. Today, the Ruins of St Paul are one of Macau’s most famous landmarks, and in 2005

UNESCO World Heritage Site.

ADVERTORIAL

Sedona Square, Macau

Cathedral of St Paul

festive asia 27

The Immortal CityDelhi Delhi, the capital of India, presents a vast panorama of fascinating images. It is a city where forts, tombs and ruins share the same skyline with high-rise buildings and stately homes. The wide tree-lined avenues of New Delhi give way to the crowded narrow lanes of Old Delhi, and along with this change comes a diametrically different culture and lifestyle. The presence of contrasts is a historical legacy of the city.

Delhi is a metropolitan city in the truest sense of the word. For centuries, it has attracted rulers, invaders, businessmen, builders, poets, painters and intellectuals from all over the world. Today, Delhi encloses many older cities and its stone walls have seen countless empires rise and fall.

Modern India’s history is synonymous with Delhi. It was from the

Today, as India’s capital and the seat of its parliament, the city hosts world leaders, diplomats, international missions, sports meets, cultural festivals and conferences.

Delhi, a major point of entry for foreign travellers to India, boosts of a tourism infractructure which compares with the best in the worldfrom international hotels with extensive facilities to gourmet restaurants, air conditioned limousines, luxury coaches, bargain shopping and much more. Delhi has everything going, and it is the ultimate travel experience.


ADVERTORIAL

Clockwise, from left – India Gate; The Red Fort of Delhi; Qutab Minar; Jama Mosque

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SPOTLIGHT AUCKLAND

Auckland is interesting and energising © Kieran Scott

The beautiful Waitemata Harbour is Auckland’s greatest natural asset © Gareth Eyres


Auckland A day in Auckland begins as the sun rises and ends way after it sets. With a million of its people residing in the vicinity – one-third of New Zealand’s population – Auckland is undoubtedly one of the most gregarious areas in the country. Michelle Lee

07:00AMStart your day fresh and crisp at the Otara morning market, a 20-minute drive from the city centre where things really start to bustle early on Saturday morning. Lauded as the largest Polynesian market in the world,

produce and other delectable treats to daily essentials such as clothing and accessories. This place is a favourite amongst the locals and is open only on Saturdays from 7am to noon, so be sure you make your way there bright and early in the morning to catch the action.

09:00AMWhile the sun is still mild in the morning, take a drive south of the city centre to Mt Eden, the highest natural point in Auckland. Embark on a short trek around the mountain, enjoy the air and admire the beautiful view of the city from up high. By now, your stomachs must be calling, so walk along the shops on Mt Eden and pop into any of the cafes for a hearty breakfast.

never fail to lure people in.

11:00AMWondering why is Auckland known as the “City of Sails”? Head to the harbour and you will see why. Almost one in three people owns a yacht in Auckland and the harbour is usually jam packed with beautiful boats with their sails up in the air. Take your time to explore the harbour. If you are there in March, you may witness the “Auckland Sailing Festival” which is the biggest sailing event of the

harbour swamped with people who are there for the event.

City of Sails

31

The sea provides a quick escape from the buzz of the city © Fay Looney

festive asia 31

SPOTLIGHT AUCKLAND

05:00PMVisiting Auckland’s iconic structure, the Sky Tower, is likened to visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris! Standing at 328 meters tall, the tower offers a panoramic view of the entire city. A world-class entertainment hub, the Sky City houses restaurants, bars, shops and a casino – all under a roof. For dare-devils, get on the SkyJump, and leap off the building at a speed of 85km/h - attached to a cable of course.

01:00PMEmbark on a harbour cruise to see more of Auckland beyond the city. You can easily book a lunch cruise at the harbour. These 90-minute cruises will bring you to places such as the Bean Rock Lighthouse, Rangitoto Island, Devonport Naval Base, Auckland Harbour Bridge for a panoramic view of the city’s skyline, Chelsea Sugar

The Viaduct.

03:00PMSpend the afternoon exploring Auckland itself. Though it is the most populous area in the country, Auckland has a laidback and soothing charcter which is completely unlike other cities which move at a frantic pace. Visit some of its colonial sites such as the Ferry Terminal and the Auckland War Memorial Museum and soak in its rich European heritage. For art lovers, the Auckland Art Gallery is a beauty on the outside and even more alluring inside showcasing European and New Zealand art works from different eras. Afterward, take a stroll down Queen Street and enjoy the simplicity of Auckland City.

Auckland’s North Shore beaches look across to mysterious Rangitoto Island © Kieran Scott

Auckland Bridge Bungy © AJ Hackett


06:00PMHead to the Orbit Revolving Restaurant where it offers a 360 degree view of the city at 190 meters above ground. As the sky starts to darken, the view of Auckland City at night reveals another side of itself, which is absolutely breathtaking. With an array of tantalizing Western cuisine to choose from, stunning view and romantic ambience, it is hard not to feel like you are in love.

08:00PMWhile the night is still young, you can head to the Sky Lounge for a drink, relax and chill. But be sure to keep the drinks in check if you are aiming to head to the Sky Casino afterwards!

09:30PMTry your luck at the Sky City Casino. The casino is open 24 hours a day. With over 100 tables of games such as roulette and blackjack, and more than 1,500 gaming machines, this is probably the one place in Auckland that truly never sleeps.

SPOTLIGHT AUCKLAND

The ultimate Sky Tower experience is a trip up to the crow’s nest © Ken Hansen

festive asia 33

Malaysia It is hard to say which area deserves the title of Crown Jewel of Malaysia – Peninsular Malaysia, which is home to the ultra-modern city of Kuala Lumpur or Malaysian Borneo with its untamed landscapes, wildlife, spectacular diving sites and diverse cultural heritage. The two regions of this Southeast Asian country may be separated by the South China Sea, but they share a treasure trove of timeless tropical rainforests, national parks and rugged mountain terrain. There is much to explore and experience in this melting pot of world cultures.

INSIGHTS ADVENTURE

Great MalaysianAdventures

MOUNT KINABALUYou don’t need to be an experienced mountain climber to climb Mount Kinabalu. You just need to have a little courage to climb the world’s highest Via Ferrata. This iron road, as it is known in Italian, consists of a series of cables, rungs and rails that extend 1.2 kilometers up the face of Malysia’s most famous mountain. Its routes of

of all abilities from beginner to expert. Using this, hikers can go on routes previously only accessible to more experienced rock climbers.

Kinabalu’s Via Ferrata starts at a whopping 3,411 meters and takes you all the way up to 3,776 meters, making it one of the world’s highest iron roads. If it’s an exhilarating, adrenalin-charged experience that you’re after, you can opt for the challenging four-hour hike up to Mount Kinabalu’s highest point, Low’s Peak, at 4,095 meters. From this vantage point, you’ll not only see some truly awe-inspiring views and hidden corners of the mountain plateau, but you’ll also be able to walk across a 22 meter footbridge suspended at 3,600 meters above sea level!

Right – St. John’s peak at Mount Kinabalu

Bottom – Descending Mount Kinabalu


KLIAS WETLANDSLocated approximately 120 kilometer south of Sabah’s capital city of Kota Kinabalu, the Klias Wetlands is a haven of natural paradise. With its lush mangrove forests, a myriad of birds, reptiles, mammals and insects, and a deep winding river that winds through the heart of it, the best way to experience the Klias Wetlands is on a guided tour down the river.

The long tail macaque, the elusive proboscis monkey, and other endangered species are just a few examples of local wildlife in the area. The Klias river cruise typically starts at 3 pm and continues into the evening. Come nightfall, the forest comes alive with the sound of nocturnal animals and insects, but the highlight of the evening cruise has to be the breathtaking sight

riverbanks, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed.

REDANG MARINE PARKRedang Marine Park, a world-class dive site located 45 kilometers off the coast of Kuala Terengganu in the South China Sea, is bound to satisfy even the most jaded diver. With turquoise blue waters and an abundance of spectacular marine life, this little jewel is a popular destination for both diving enthusiasts and beginners. The Marine Park covers all nine islands in the Redang Archipelago, but the most popular destinations are Redang Island and Perhentian Island.

Redang has an upscale image with more than half a dozen plush resorts, while Perhentian Island has retained its charm as a haven for backpackers. Snorkeling and diving are the more popular activities here, and rightly so as the coral reefs are spectacular. Redang is a popular place to complete a beginner’s diving course, but some of the sites further out have strong currents, and are more suitable for experienced divers. Redang is also the site of two historic shipwrecks, which were sunk at the beginning of World War II.

LABUAN ISLANDLabuan is a group of one large and six smaller islands off Sabah in East Malaysia. The waters surrounding these seven idyllic islands are home to some of Malaysia’s richest coral and

for marine lovers and scuba-diving devoteers. Apart from the colorful underwater coral reefs and a dazzling variety of marine life, Labuan is also the site of four wrecks, including two from World War II. The four wrecks, locally known as the Australian Wreck, the American Wreck, the Blue Water Wreck and the Cement Wreck, are some of the best wreck diving sites in Asia, ranging in dives that are suitable for both novices and experienced wreck divers. Local dive schools provide various wreck diving training courses that include everything from introductory courses to a full PADI Wreck Diver Specialty rating and TDI Advanced Wreck Diving course.

Klias Wetlands

Redang Island

festive asia 35

KOTA KINABALU NATIONAL PARK

Heritage Site, Kinabalu National Park ranks amongst the most popular tourist spots in the whole of Malaysia. Established in 1964, this national park

four climate zones, making it one of the most important biological sites in the world. Apart from many carnivorous plants, the park is also home to many endemic animal species, including the Kinabalu giant red leech and the giant earthworm.

The national park is located on the west coast of Sabah and covers some 754 sq kilometers surrounding Mount Kinabalu. The park headquarters is the main point of entry for most visitors and is easily accessible from via highways and roads. Accommodations are available in the park near the park headquarters.

SIPADAN ISLANDThe Sipadan Island claims to be the world’s best dive site. While this is a big claim, the diving here is certainly world class, with more than 3,000 species of

Resorts around the island were closed in 2002 to protect the environment. Visitors to Sipadan Island must now stay on nearby islands such as Mabil or Semporna.

Only 120 dives are allowed daily as Sipadan is now a protected site, so it’s best to dive as early as possible to beat the crowds and increase your chances of getting on the dive roster. Be sure to check with your dive operator that the dives are done with permits, as some companies have been caught diving without permits. Sipadan is surrounded by very rich reef life with sea turtles and white tip reef sharks seen on almost every dive with visibility ranging from 10 to 30 meters and above.

INSIGHTS ADVENTURE

Gibbon monkeys at Kota Kinabalu

Crocodile Fish at Sipadan Island


GUNUNG MULU NATIONAL PARKA must-visit for the intrepid traveler, the Mulu Caves National Park is where

of limestone caves in the world. Lubang Nasib Bagus (Good Luck Cave) is one of the biggest caves here, containing the Sarawak Chamber, world’s largest underground cavity. Deer Cave, the world’s longest cave passage, is also located in this system of caves. Clearwater Cave, meanwhile, contains an extensive river system that winds its way underground for over 30 miles. Those who prefer their activities above ground can test their endurance by conquering the Pinnacles, the serrated limestone peaks dominating the park’s high country. Climbers require stamina and several days of rigorous trekking to make their way to the top.

TAMAN NEGARA NATIONAL PARKThe Taman Negara National Park is Malaysia’s largest park, which crosses the state boundaries of Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu. It is home to one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests and it is blessed with a stunningly diverse ecosystem. There is plenty to see and do in Taman Negara National Park from white-water rafting to trekking the various trails within the park, with the latter an obvious choice to experience jungle life. The Teresek trail leads right up to the world-famous Taman Negara canopy walkways that are 510 meters long and suspended some 45 meters above ground, giving trekkers a mesmerizing bird’s eye view of the jungle.

INSIGHTS ADVENTURE

Taman negara in Malaysia Mulu Caves, Borneo, Malaysia

Taman Negara, Malaysia

festive asia 37

South Korea The Land of Ginseng is one that thoroughly understands the importance of preserving its rich history and culture. As such, numerous festivals are held throughout Korea each year to showcase the beauty of the country and to foster an understanding of its rich history and culture. Some of these festivals have become tourist attractions in their own

your trip around.

INSIGHTS CULTURE

Korean Festival Showcase


Ginseng FestivalSeptember in Geumsan Countywww.geumsan.go.krThe Ginseng Festival, locally known as the Geumsan Insam Festival, is the leading festival of Geumsan County in Chuncheongnam-do province. The county, being the largest producer of ginseng in Korea, holds a festival

effects of Geumsan ginseng. There are various exhibits on everything related to ginseng, as well as traditional folk performances, singing and dance contests. There is also a special fair for international ginseng trade and various programs for international tourists.

INSIGHTS CULTURE

Boryeong Mud FestivalJuly at Daecheon Beachwww.mudfestival.or.krDuring the festival period, tourists from

Beach to experience a unique festival

of Boryeong mud. Visitors can partake in a number of exciting activities that include mud wrestling, mud sliding, and swimming in a tub of mud. In the evening, the party carries on towards

making the festival a delightful, family-friendly event.

Muju Firefly FestivalJune at the Namdaecheon Stream

event held near the Namdaecheon Stream in a mountainous area of Muju.

reside. Indigenenous to the area’s

are featured prominently in the traditional folklore of the region. The festival celebrates these whimsical creatures

also educate visitors on the important connection between man and nature. Be sure to stay until evening falls when the night sky blossoms in the golden light

Hyoseok Culture FestivalSeptember at the Bongpyeong VillageThe Hyoseok Culture Festival is a unique festival combining literature with tourism. It is held to celebrate Bongpyeong – the birthplace of Lee Hyo-Seok, a leading Korean novelist. The Festival focuses on Hyo-Seok’s most famous short stories, including The Buckwheat Blossoms, which is set in Bongpyeong. The festival includes tours to various places mentioned in the story. Although international visitors may not be able to fully enjoy the historical and cultural

beauty and charm of this area make it worth a visit.

festive asia 41

Gwacheon Hanmadang FestivalOctober in Gwacheon Citywww.gcfest.co.krHeld every fall at Gwacheon City, the Gwacheon Hanmadang Festival is a celebration of the unique spirit of street art culture. Hanmadang literally means “a place where everybody can gather together”, and the festival coordinators aims to do just that. There is a wide range of performances that include street theater, Madang plays, circus acts, street dance and much more.

Andong Mask Dance FestivalLate September at Hahoewww.maskdance.comThe Andong Mask Dance Festival is the biggest event at Hahoe. The festival showcases various Korean and international dance troupes paying homage to local folklore. The masked dance performances are thought to appease restless spirits around the area. Today, the event has grown to become a showcase not only for traditional Korean mask dance, but also for various traditional dances from countries around the world.

Jinju Namgang Lantern FestivalOctober at Namgang Riverside Areawww.yudeung.comThis is an extravagant parade of colorful

Namgang Waterfronts. The festival originated from the Jinjuseong battles and has evolved through time to become the current iteration of the Lantern Festival. The spectacular view of the

must-see attraction that is renowned across the country.

INSIGHTS CULTURE


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Wellington Travellers in the know agree that Wellington, the capital city

to be missed. With a combination of cosmopolitan attractions and a laid back atmosphere, what’s not to like? Here are some top tips for your next visit!

INSIGHTS ADVENTURE

Capital AdventuresTAKE THE CABLE CAR TO THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENShttp://www.wellingtoncablecar.co.nz/

The cable car is one of those old relics ticking along very nicely thanks to the tourist trade. It may be a cheesy tourist attraction, but after clinking and clanking your way to the top you’ll be at the Royal Botanic Gardens, and your reward is a wonderful view over the city. The gardens are huge and have a number of gorgeous old buildings which add a lot of heart and soul to the

CHILL OUT IN KELBURNJust west of the gardens is Kelburn Village, Wellington’s most European neighbourhood. The main street is lined with coy cafes, one-of-a-kind shops, and antique shops, amongst other retail gems. This is the best place in town to linger over a coffee or enjoy a meal. Be sure to wander around The Glen (which connects the village to the Botanics) and have a look at the old Pohutakawa trees near Saint Michael’s Church.

Wellington City is compact, intimate and walkable © Ian Trafford


STEP INTO ANCIENT HISTORY AT THE KARORI SANCTUARYhttp://www.sanctuary.org.nz/

You’d never guess you’re still in Wellington when you enter the Karori Sanctuary. Its main goal is to “restore a corner of New Zealand as closely as possible to the way it was the day before humans arrived,” and most agree they do their job pretty well! The island, located in the heart of this beautiful property, is home to a number of endangered plants and animals. Even if you’re on a guided tour, Karori still feels extremely peaceful and rural even though it is in the city.

BE ENTERTAINED AT TE PAPAhttp://www.tepapa.govt.nz/pages/default.aspx

Te Papa is Wellington’s national museum, but its wide spectrum of exhibits make it more than just a national museum. Visitors can not only view the exhibits and beautiful artwork, but they can also learn about the geological forces that shaped the island and the oral traditions of the

even an entertaining junk shop that is sure to delight every member of the family. Te Papa is a must-see attraction, especially if you have children.

SAIL OUT TO MATIU-SOMES ISLANDYou might not think an island that was once an internment camp and a quarantine zone would be a tourist highlight, but Matiu-Somes Island in Wellington Harbour is worth a visit. You can catch a ferry from Queen’s Wharf, but before you board, be sure to ask them to stop at the Island. Matiu-Somes is a great place to wander and explore. Just make sure you know what time your ferry leaves. You don’t want to spend the night out there!

At Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington, history is highly entertaining © Te Papa Musuem

The Boulevard Gallery at Te Papa © Te Papa Musuem

Tui drinking nectar © Ian Trafford

festive asia 45

OTHER LOOKOUT POINTSWe’ve mentioned the views you can get from Kelburn or the top of the cable car, but here are a few other places where you can check out the view.

Mount Victoria – Probably the most well known lookout point in New Zealand, Mount Victoria offers a 360-degree view that will take your breath away. Catch the bus in town, or if you’re feeling spry, you can walk from town in about an hour.

Wrights Hill – Admire the view and explore a World War II tunnel at the same time. Wrights Hill promises to be an adventure. Be sure to plan ahead. Opening days and times are never consistent so be sure to check the web site at http://www.whfrs.org.nz/ before you go.

Brooklyn Windmill – The view from Brooklyn Windmill is amazing. But just so you know, wind mills in New Zealand look nothing like the famous wind mills of Holland.

City view of Wellington © Duxton Hotels

Alfresco dining in Wellington © Wellington Tourism

The famous Kelburn Hill Cable Car © Ian Trafford


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56 Holi SpringThe magic of India shines through in one of its most colorful festival – the Holi Spring Festival

68 Lunar BeijingThe charms of Beijing truly come alive during the festive celebration of Chinese New Year

80 Sunny Christmas Enjoy the New Year festivities at the youngest country on Earth, New Zealand!

THE GUIDE

HOLI SPRING LUNAR BEIJING SUNNY XMAS

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THE GUIDE


The boy’s eyes lit up like the headlights on a truck. He smiled with excitement as he reached into his small bag of gulal (colored powder) and smeared a generous helping of green powder across my entire forehead. I had been marked, no longer was I a novice tourist staring in at the action from the sidelines.

After letting out an innocent giggle, he shouted “Happy Holiiiiiiiii”. Then he turned and ran off into the growing crowd of people. I turned to continue walking with the stream of people headed towards the center of Barsana when the true reality of

The magic of India shines through in one of its most colorful festival – the Holi Spring Festival Scott Sporleder

“May I play Holi?” These were the words I heard softly spoken to me by a young boy who was utterly delighted to see the blank canvas of an “un-holied” foreigner’s face pass in front of him. Such a sight is like a gift on Basanta-Utsav, the Spring Festival, or as most people around the world know it... “Holi.”

“Sure!” I eagerly responded back to him, so fervently that the boy was forced to take a small step back out of fear. This was it, Holi, an Indian celebration unlike any other in the world. I had read about the color, the festivities and the outright chaos that ensues during these days. After arriving in India only hours before and planning for this moment for months,

I felt the snap of a rubber band crack my cheek as a water balloon broke against my face, leaving me drenched from head to toe. The scene was right out of a war movie. I looked like a solider being shot

my face in surprise, dropped my bag and turned in a shell-shocked fog in the direction of my attackers. Then the three teenagers rushed me like infantrymen. They pelted me with color from all sides,

off by lobbing another three or four purple water balloons at my head. The boys all laughed hysterically, screaming “Happy Holi” as they rushed off leaving me to fend for myself. A quick brush of the back of my hand to clear my eyes left my hand looking more like a painter’s palette than my normal skin, and it reminded me of the jollity of the entire situation.

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THE GUIDE


THE GUIDE

Lathmaar Holi is a special Holi celebration that takes place well before

the suburban town of Barsana near Mathura to see this special form of the

traditional festivity celebration.

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THE GUIDE

Thousands gather to see women mockingly beating up men with sticks,

while onlookers become increasingly excited. They sing Holi songs and shout

out the name of Sri Radhey or Sri Krishna.


This particular Holi was not the ordinary Holi. Instead, I had arrived just in time for Lathmaar Holi, a Holi festival that is celebrated in the small town of Barsana in Utter Pradesh. It’s a special time in this city, because this is where Krishna came to tease his beloved Radha on this very day, thousands of years ago. It is said that Krishna rubbed a dark color on the cheeks of Radha because she had a lighter complexion than he. The women of Barsana, upset at his actions, chased Krishna out of town.

Thus the ritual of Holi was born. Krishna spent the early years of his life in the neighboring town of Nandgaon and every year the men of this town rush through the streets of Barsana as Krishna once did. The women of Barsana don’t welcome them with colorful powder. Instead, the men are welcomed with a two-meter long stick called lathis, which the women pretend to beat the men with as they rush through the streets. The women of Barsana don’t hold back as they hurl their lathis towards the men whose only defense are their small rubber shields.

To better understand this excitement and visual display of color, one has to understand what Holi is. The celebration of Holi marks the start of Spring for Hindus, Sikhs and other religions around the world. It is intended to welcome bountiful crops for the land’s upcoming harvest and bring about good blessings from the gods. Depending on the Hindu calendar for that year, the date of Holi is generally in March or April and is celebrated primarily in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and other countries where there is a high Indian diaspora. The colors of Holi

other natural elements and were thought to have a medicinal value when thrown on others, because spring was known as a time of many illnesses. In recent years however, synthetic powders and materials

ingest the powders or allow them to come in contact with their eyes.

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THE GUIDE

The entire event was absolutely incredible and I had no clue what I had gotten myself into. Everywhere I turned there were

the air, water guns spraying at every angle and smiles and laughter echoing out of every doorstep. There was a mugginess

infusions, chemicals, brewing chai, a medley of scents that only India can offer and the reason why part of me of me will always long to return.

The anticipation of the locals continued to grow throughout the day as the streets and alleys of Barsana started

whatever space they could. Everyone was waiting for the women and their sticks to arrive. The main event doesn’t take place until later in the afternoon, after the participants have loosened up with a few Bhang Lassis (a yogurt drink made with a derivative of Cannabis). That’s when the women take to the streets. Suddenly the crowded sea of people parts down the middle and men run in every direction as an army of women march behind them, yielding sticks in the air. Impromptu circles begin to form all over town and in the middle of each one is a Nandgaon man kneeling, his shield shaking over his head and bracing for the impact of a two-meter long bamboo stick.

Whack! Thwack! As the women swing their sticks down upon the men a

entire day my eyes succumbed to the colors and the radiance of Holi, truly one of the special festivals in all of Asia if not the entire world.

Then as soon as it started, it was over. The women disappear back into their homes and the wounded and belittled men stumble back to the roads leading out of Barsana. For the rest of the year, Barsana will be another sleepy desert town. Its citizens will tend to their crops, children will play and life will continue on as it has for centuries...until that one day of the year, every year, when Barsana rises from its dusty soil like a mythical creature

dazzling way possible...Holi! and perfume. Rose petals and coloured powder rained on the pilgrims as they celebrate the legend of Lord Khrisna.


THE GUIDE


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THE GUIDE


GENERAL TRAVEL TIPS » INDIA

Carry proper maps of the places you intend to visit as signboards are often absent. If traveling solo, try to reach your destination during the daytime, and always use the tourist assistance desks for proper advice.

Most sites give a good discount for students from all over the world. Bring your valid school identity card to take advantage of these discounts.

When checking out of the hotel, pay attention to your charges as some hotels have been known to overcharge their guests in the hopes that they are in too much of a rush to take a proper look at the bill.

Ivory and wildlife items are not for sale. Avoid them at all costs, as well as antiques more than 100 years old. Selling and buying these items are against the law.

Only buy at genuine shops. Bargaining is a popular and

displays “Fixed Price” signs.

Temples, mosques, tombs and other religious sites are sacred and should be treated with respect. Shoes cannot be worn inside and visitors must wear appropriate attire.

Tap water in India, much like anywhere else in the region, is not safe for drinking. Only drink bottled water. Be careful of contamination of your water and food.

Always eat with your right hand, and take only as much

annoyance, and best avoided. Always be sensitive to cultural and social traditions of the regions.

THE GUIDE

The charms of Beijing truly come alive during the festive celebration of Chinese New Year Carrie Kellenberger

Combine the wonders of this exotic Asian destination with one of the biggest celebrations on earth and you’ve got yourself a trip of epic proportions. No one does Chinese New Year better than Beijing, China.

food and history, Chinese New Year in Beijing hosts a number of fascinating local events to make your journey truly unique and unforgettable. Unearthing Asia offers you the essential 2011 guide to the best attractions, activities and restaurants in Beijing during Chinese New Year.

THE GUIDE


Nightlife » Houhai Lake DistrictIf it’s Chinese culture that you’re looking for, start your night off with a rickshaw tour of Houhai Bar Street and its surrounding area. There are an ample number of bars and boutiques situated alongside a picturesque manmade lake and the entire district is dotted with gardens, ponds, traditional Chinese courtyards

exploring, warm up with a hot beverage or a nightcap at the nearby Drum & Bell Bar. Overlooking the courtyard between the Drum Tower and Bell Tower, this rooftop bar provides a great view of the lake, and in recent years the bar has

point for numerous Chinese New Year

Another local favorite, the East Shore Jazz Café, comes highly recommended as the most authentic jazz in town. The café’s rooftop terrace also offers views overlooking Houhai Lake.

Nightlife » Sanlitun Bar StreetSanlitun Bar Street boasts some of the best nightlife activities in Beijing. Known as the entertainment district in Beijing, Sanlitun has a wide variety of venues, which include nightclubs, sports bars, pubs, coffee houses, and cafés.As one of the most popular nightclubs in Beijing, Mix Club is the perfect place to dance the night away. The ultra modern 2-story nightclub regularly features international DJs who spin the latest music in a trendy setting that resembles some of the hottest clubs in LA.

Attractions » The Bird’s NestHome to the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the National Stadium, also known as the Bird’s Nest, hosts several celebrations in honor of Chinese New Year. During the Spring Festival, visitors can enjoy an

skating rinks and mini ski slopes.

See » FireworksBeijing’s skyline erupts each year in a

across the city during daylight hours. The resulting cacophony is deafening and the city literally reverberates for days on end.

The most popular venues for setting

pandemonium that ensues - are around the Drum and Bell Towers in the Houhai Lake district. During the day, this Beijing neighborhood is a perfect place for visitors who want to learn about traditional hutong lifestyles.

Open-air cafe art in Sanlitun Bar Street

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THE GUIDE

Chinese Lunar New Decorations, Ditan Park, Beijing China. vAt Lunar

New Year time, there are temple fairs throughout Beijing and this is one of

them.


festive asia 71

Do » Skiing and SnowboardingIf you are tired of sleepless nights in a city that sounds like it’s under siege, try hitting the slopes for a day or two. Just 30 minutes outside of Beijing, Nanshan Ski Village has one of the best snowboarding

mini half-pipe, and over 12 boxes and rails. This winter playground also boasts some of the best man-made snow in the world. Experience it for yourself on any of Nanshan’s 12 ski trails, or try your hand at tobogganing or snowmobiling.

Less than a 4-hour drive from Beijing, Wanlong Ski Resort boasts a snowboarding park and 22 ski trails of man-made snow. As China’s largest ski mountain, Wanlong sees over 1000 skiers every weekend.

Try » A Traditional CelebrationThis tour, hosted by the China Culture Center, takes visitors into the suburbs of Beijing to experience Chinese New Year in a traditional village, where lively street entertainers, folk dancers, puppet shows, sword swallowers, story tellers and magicians spin their magic and showcase their mesmerizing skills. Visit a conventional Chinese home and learn how

will also learn how to make dumplings and steamed buns. The tour even includes a visit with a local artisan who makes life-size paper replicas of horses and carts for Chinese funerals! Please see sidebar for more details.


Try » Temple FairsChinese New Year in Beijing is a noisy, colorful and busy occasion. If you’ve never experienced the temple fairs of Beijing, then this should be at the top of your travel itinerary during Chinese New Year.

to around 1000 AD. Vendors set up shop outside of the temples where pilgrims came to pay tribute to the gods during traditional festival periods such as Chinese New Year.

Today, Beijing’s temple fairs attract thousands of visitors from all over the world. Each year, organizers invite hundreds of performers and artisans from all over China to participate in the Chinese New Year temple fairs that are held near the temples and in the parks of Beijing. These lively carnivals offer an opportunity to appreciate traditional artwork and local delicacies, spectacular variety shows from rural areas of China, dragon and lion dances, boys and girls on stilts, life-size puppets, waist drum dancing, lotus blossom fairy dances, Peking opera, acrobatics, and tea culture displays. If all that entertainment makes you hungry,

of snacks and Chinese delicacies to sink your teeth into!

The China Culture Center offers a temple fair tour in Beijing each Chinese New Year. Visitors learn about the history of Beijing temple fairs and then they are taken to two or three temple fairs where they will get a chance to sample local snacks, purchase traditional handicrafts and view various folk performances and traditional handicrafts. Please see sidebar for more details.

THE GUIDE

NIGHTLIFEDrum & Bell Bar#41 Zhonglouwan HutongTelephone: 86-010-8403-3600

East Shore Live Jazz CaféHouhai, 2nd Floor, 2 Shichahai Nanyan Telephone: 86-010-8403-2131

MIX Club: Workers Stadium,North Gate, Chaoyang District, Beijing Open 8pm to 6amwww.mixclub.sohu.comTelephone: 86-010-6530-2889

RESTAURANTSDin Tai Fung Beijing#24, Xinyuan Xili Zhongjie www.dintaifung.com.cn Telephone: +86-010-6462-4502

Donglaishun Dongcheng Branch Xin Dongan Plaza, 5F, Wangfujing, DongchengTelephone: 010-6528-0932

Quanjude Jinsong Branch#826, Jingsong Eight District,Guangming BridgeTelephone: 010-67711211

Quanjude Hepingmen Branch#14, Qianmen West StreetTelephone: 010-63023062

Quanjude Qianmen Branch# 32, Qianmen DajieTelephone: 010-6701-1379

ACTIVITIESThe Bird’s Nest National Stadium Olympic Green Village, Chaoyang District

Nanshan Ski Village Shengshuitou Village, Henanzhai Town www.nanshanski.comTelephone: 010-8909-1909

Wanlong Ski ResortHonghualiang, Chongli Xian, Hebei Province www.wiski.com Telephone: 031-3478 5111

CHINA CULTURE CENTERKent Centre A 101, Anjialou, No.29,Liangmaqiao Road, Chaoyang [email protected] www.chinaculturecenter.orgTelephone: +86–010-6432-9341 Fax: +86–010-6432-0145

CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW YEAR IN A VILLAGEFebruary 5, 2011. RMB 350 per person. The bus leaves the China Culture Center at 9am and returns at 4pm. Call 86-10-6432-9431 to reserve your spot. Book early because tickets sell out fast!

February 4, 2011. Tour price (RMB 200 per person) includes admission tickets, lunch, and transportation. The bus leaves from the China Culture Center at 9:30am and returns at 4pm. Call 86-10-6432-9431 to reserve your spot.

if they will be open during Chinese New Year’s Eve 2011.

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Xiao Long Bao, delicious Chinese dumplings ready for serving


EATChinese New Year celebrations generally begin with a family feast at home, but many families are breaking away from this traditional custom in lieu of eating out. Hu Zhifu, the Secretary General of the Beijing Food and Catering Association, states that having Chinese New Year’s

fashionable in 2003. The number of families that host their New Year’s dinner at restaurants is growing annually.

Dumplings » Din Tai FungWhen food is renowned as much for its

true work of art, you know you’ve attained perfection in the culinary world. Din Tai Fung got its start in Taiwan in the 1980s, but since then it has expanded to 42 locations in nine countries worldwide. The Beijing restaurant does a brisk business, and many people say that they offer some of the best dumplings in China.Visitors come for the paper-thin xiao long bao, (steamed dumplings) which are stuffed with vegetables and meat or mashed red beans. Beijing does not have a high concentration of xiao long bao restaurants, and food critics have claimed

bao in Beijing makes their high prices worth it.

outer-skin of each dumpling is thin as tissue. Each skin is then stuffed with

and a soy-based dipping sauce, the end result is sheer art. The tiny bundles bulging with a delightful combination of

Mongolian Hot Pot » DonglaishunAfter a evening out in the cold Beijing winter air, warm up with a hearty meal of Mongolian Hot Pot at Beijing’s most popular hot pot restaurant, Donglaishun. This northern style hot pot restaurant has been serving Chinese Muslim fare since 1903, and the restaurant is thought to have some of the best shuanyangrou, (instant-boiled mutton) in town. An integral part of northern Chinese cuisine, hot pot

with soup broth. Meat, frozen bean curd,

into a sesame butter sauce gives the meal

famous hotpot restaurant, Donglaishun may be a little pricey, but its 40 locations throughout the city attest to its popularity.

Peking Duck » QuanjudeNo visit to Beijing is complete without dining on glazed and roasted Peking duck. Crispy skin and tender, juicy duck meat is wrapped in paper-thin pancakes and topped with a thick, sweet hoisin sauce, scallions, and radishes. Locals may argue vehemently about their picks for the best roasted duck in town, but there’s no denying the popularity of Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant, a seven-story building at #32 Qianmen Dajie. The unique presentation of the food and the traditional interior design at Quanjude has been attracting roast duck lovers for more 146 years.

12 Tips for Enjoying Chinese New Year in Beijing1. Book your hotel well in advance of Chinese New Year.

2. Avoid traveling by rail during the Spring Festival.

3. Find out where the local performances are being held before you set out on your journey.

4. Bring warm clothing. The weather is bitterly cold in Northern China.

5. Call ahead if you’re planning on visiting any major tourist attractions. Many places close down for a few days during Chinese New Year.

6. Catch a lion or dragon dance at one of Beijing’s many temple fairs.

7. Firework displays are de rigueur in China during Chinese New Year. Go somewhere special to enjoy the show!

8. Buy some chunlian. These temporary decorations are embossed with happy and hopeful messages for the coming year.

9. Buy a Chinese-style coat, or purchase some rabbit-head hats and shoes for the kids to usher in the Year of the Rabbit.

10. Visit a temple on Chinese New Year’s Eve to pray for a prosperous New Year. Don’t forget to light some incense to send your prayers to the skies.

11. Travel a few days before Chinese New Year to avoid getting stuck among the crushing millions of people who are traveling home to be with their loved ones.

12. Since many popular Beijing restaurants are booked months in advance, many restaurants recommend that customers book a lunchtime meal instead.

THE GUIDE

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Peking Duck, served with steamed vegetables on a plate

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Hunt for bargains and antiques in some of Beijing’s famous antique markets.


SHOPShopping in Beijing is a veritable paradise for bargain hunters. Add Spring Festival

looking for deals of the century. Many shops and vendors hold sales to celebrate the New Year, so shop to your heart’s content and don’t forget to bargain!

Hong Qiao Market One of the best places in China to buy pearls, coral, turquoise and other semi-precious stones lies a short distance from the Temple of Heaven’s main east gate. Prices at Hong Qiao Market are very reasonable owing to a number of vendors selling the same goods, so smile, have fun and bargain hard for your Chinese souvenirs.

GuWanCheng (Curio City) This four-storey building on the 3rd Ring Road behind Pan Jia Yuan harbors treasures waiting to be discovered. The store offers upscale Chinese antiques with prices to match. The management makes every effort to avoid selling fakes and low quality goods, but please remember the rule that applies to all antique shopping in China: Let the buyer beware.

79

THE GUIDE

The extinct volcanic cone known as Mauao puts a dramatic full stop on the Mount Maunganui peninsula, a sandspit that houses one of New Zealand’s premier beach resorts © Chris McLennan


Enjoy the New Year festivities at the youngest country on Earth, New Zealand! Debbie Reyes-Coloma

Mention Christmas and it conjures up images of kids frolicking in the snow, shopping malls that have been decorated in festive tinsel displays, people wrapped in thick winter clothes dashing along icy roads in a mad rush to complete their shopping list and, of course, Santa Claus as he shimmies up and down chimneys bearing gifts for all the good little boys and girls of the world

Now, picture yourself in sun-drenched New Zealand experiencing a Yuletide holiday the Kiwi way: kids romping around the beach, relaxed barbecue

summer in Kiwi country from December to February, where average temperatures range from 20-30ºC.

Christmas and New Year celebrations in New Zealand offer a summer twist on the traditional festive season. As temperatures begin to rise, December starts the countdown to the holiday period, which is marked by barbeques, outdoor music festivals, summer sports and an en masse migration to the beach. The festive focus is on the outdoors as Kiwis wind up business for the year to enjoy Christmas holidays of long, hot sunny days, when the summer days don’t often end until 9:30 at night.

THE GUIDE

On weekends and public holidays, New Zealand’s small towns love to have fun © Chris McLennan

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JOYFUL CHEERIn the build-up to Christmas, cities and towns partake in a range of local celebrations, which include Christmas carols in public parks, Santa parades and Christmas light festivals involving local icons and celebrities.

Auckland’s most festive street is Ponsonby’s Franklin Road. Ross Thorby, a resident on Franklin Road, started decorating his home with Christmas lights several years ago. Since then, it has evolved into a modern-day tradition with his neighbors lighting up their own residences to make Franklin Road the most illuminated city attraction this time of year. Over 100,000 people visit the street each year to soak up the

December.

THE GUIDE Bellini Bar at The Hilton © Hilton Hotel

82

Although some shops do put up a few decorations, there’s nothing commercialized about Christmas in New Zealand. Even good old Santa Claus, who can be spotted from time to time wandering around the malls, looks out of place—not to mention uncomfortably hot in his red suit and white beard. It is during the late 18th century that the concept of Father Christmas (Santa Claus) was introduced to New Zealand by the early English settlers.

The statutory holiday consists only of Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Thus, the festivities are quickly over, but the holiday lasts for up to three weeks. December also sees the end of the school year, and the major urban areas empty out as families relocate to bachs (pronounced batch) and cribs, or camping grounds in smaller coastal and lakeside towns.

Christmas Day itself is much more low-key than traditional overseas celebrations. Presents are generally opened around mid-morning followed by a large meal of traditional Christmas fare with some Kiwi twists such as salads, a barbeque, fresh seafood and Pavlova (Kiwi dessert). While many families decorate a traditional pine tree, New Zealanders regard the native

tree owing to its scarlet blooms.

Beyond the town of Colville, the drive to the tip of Coromandel Pensinula is slow, but extremely scenic © Bob McCree

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THE GUIDE

The cheerful red blooms of the Pohutukawa tree appear just before Christmas © Elite Images

The Sky Tower provides a point of focus for Auckland by night © Julian Apse


NEW YEAR PARTIES

places in the world to welcome the New Year. Auckland’s Sky Tower traditionally

doesn’t disappoint.

New Year’s Eve is party time in New Zealand and many of the country’s premier music festivals are held at popular coastal settlements. The best-known event is Rhythm & Vines, a three-day outdoor festival set in a vineyard in Gisborne on the east coast of the North

see the sun each day. More than 20,000 people gather to hear bands from all over the world and see the New Year in at a typically Kiwi outdoor event.

This year Waiheke Island (30 mins by ferry from Auckland) has a huge party called HighLife NYE right in the sprawling Stony Ridge Vineyard. Many popular New Zealand music artists and bands also team up and spend the Christmas and New Year period touring local pubs and bars across the country. Touring information is usually available at the bars or in local newspapers.

CRIMSON TREE

in the wind, the Pohutukawa tree has become an established part of the New Zealand Christmas tradition. This iconic tree, unique to the New Zealand’s demographic, has become an important symbol for Kiwis at home and abroad, and are often featured on greeting cards and in poems and songs.

Renowned for its vibrant colour and its ability to survive rough terrain, the Pohutukawa is important not only to modern New Zealanders, but also to the Maoris who venerated the tree for its spirituality, strength and beauty. The Pohutukawa is considered one of the

Upon death, the Maori believe that the spirit travels to the Pohutukawa tree which sits on the very tip of Cape Reinga, at the top of the North Island. The spirit then slides deep underground into the roots of the Pohutukawa, before

farewell before rejoining the ancestors.

The ultimate Sky Tower experience is a trip up to the crow’s nest © Ken Hansen

festive asia

SUNNY HOLIDAY OPTIONSDo something different this year. Pack light and head to New Zealand’s many gorgeous beaches and outdoor hot spots. It’s a perfect time to go diving,

trip around the vineyards, fruit orchards and olive grove. If you’re still looking for adventure, try your hand at any number of adventure sports around the country.

Websites such as Bachcare, Holiday Homes, Holiday Houses and New Zealand Holiday Homes provide a network of holiday rentals, while Top 10 Holiday Parks (www.top10.co.nz) coordinate 48 camping grounds across the country. The Department of Conservation manages over 250 vehicle accessible camping grounds, providing access to more remote camping locations.

A popular holiday option for many New Zealand families and groups of friends is to rent a house or pitch a tent in a camping spot. Bachs, found in the southern part of New Zealand, refers to structures akin to small, often very modest holiday homes or beach houses. They are an iconic part of New Zealand’s history and culture, especially in the middle of the 20th century, where they symbolized the beach holiday lifestyle that was becoming more accessible to the middle class.

Moke Lake Reserve © Ben Crawford


Matariki – Traditional Maori New Year

Matariki is the Maori name for the small cluster of stars that can be seen low on New Zealand’s northeastern horizon just before dawn in the

appearance of these stars, which are also known as the Pleiades or the Seven Sisters, heralds the beginning of Maori New Year celebrations.

All Iwi (Maori Tribes) celebrate Matariki, although they may celebrate at different times. Some tribe

the dawn sky, while others celebrate after the full moon rises or at the dawn of the next new moon.

Traditionally, Matariki was an opportunity to honor the past and plan for the future. The coming season’s crop is thought to be determined by the visibility of Matariki. Many people believe that the brighter the stars, the warmer the season will be, thus ensuring a more productive crop. Today all of New Zealand celebrates Matariki. It has become a time to rejoice in the remarkable country they live in; share kai (food), stories and songs; create art and enjoy cultural entertainment.

The next Matariki Maori New Year celebration will be on 04 June 2011.

For more information: www.newzealand.com

THE GUIDE

Rugby is New Zealand’s national sport © Arno Gasteiger

In Auckland, nearly everyone lives within minutes of a beach © Kieran Scott

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Unearthing Asia observes through the collective styles of Shanghai Tang, Asia’s leading luxury fashion brand

STYLE GUIDE

Photos & Styling by Shanghai Tang

Mandarin

Chic


The Ingots print is a simple, 2-dimentional depiction of the shoe-shaped Yoan Bao, the

the Han Dynasty. Yuan is

resources” and so ingots are regularly featured as an auspicious symbol for welath

STYLE GUIDE


Styled with a contemporary twist that is distinctive of Shanghai Tang,

these designs are inspired by and drawn from the enduring traditions of heritage menswear fabrics.Plaid

and checks are paired together with iconic items such as the

Mao Jacket, as well as a vibrant colourful palette to refresh the

classic corduroy jackets.

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STYLE GUIDE


The universal emotion of passionate love and romance balanced by the Chinese

cultural characteristic of personal restraint is the essence of Shanghai Tang’s Love

Restraint collection. The sensual collection draws its inspiration from the majestic

mountainous landscape of China, the bold optical art movement during the nostalgic

60s era in Hong Kong and the lavishly intricate patterns on Peranakan ceramics.

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STYLE GUIDE


Chinese Shan Shui paintings of majestic mountains has inspired illustrations of misty mountainous silhouettes on elegant cheongsam and cotton satin jackets. The nostalgic era of Hong Kong in the 1960s was both a period of chaotic energy and an era of restrained sensual feminity.

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STYLE GUIDE

The Luck Mosaic is a quilt-like pattern that combines various luck symbols including Cloud (phonetically similar

to Yun), Double Happiness, Six (symbolixing prosperity, in form of

hexagons, Lotus, Peony (nobility and prosperity) and Chinese Knots (unity)

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STYLE GUIDE

In the spirit of restraint, Shanghai Tang has also distilled from the rich art of Peranakan ceramics distinguished by its psychedelic

and bold vibrant colours, an elegantly balanced range of linen tops and skirts with bright colours and striking foliage motif aptly named ‘Porcelain leaves’.

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STYLE GUIDE


As the global ambassador of contemporary Chinese chic, Shanghai Tang celebrates the optimistic spirit and resilient nautre of China’s people, nature and enviroment.

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STYLE GUIDE


Shanghai Tang brings one of the most unique and ubiquitous elements of Chinese culture to the global fashion scene. The Luck collection combines uniquely whimsical print patterns with

cultural elements of Chinese Luck into modern, wearable and distinctively Shanghai Tang pieces.

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TRAVEL PERSONALITY

Macau, the Las Vegas of the East! How do you like it in Macau? Any tips and or suggestions for potential tourists?

work for the Macau Government Tourism

handling their Marketing and PR campaigns for almost two years. I really enjoy Macau’s unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese cultures. They’ve done an excellent job of preserving their unique heritage through various UNESCO World Heritage Sites. I’d highly recommend checking out these sites when you visit Macau.

I love walking in Macau. One of my favorite routes winds around Senado Square and all the way up to the Ruins of St. Paul. I love looking at the architecture and doing some window shopping. Macau is also a modern city, and the nightlife is excellent. There is a revolving restaurant called 360 degree.

Tower. The view is not only sublime, but thrill seekers can also enjoy a rush of adrenalin

Normal people (like me) can simply opt for a stroll through the SkyWalk.

Share with us your love of travel. How often do you travel and where to usually?I joined the travel industry in 1990, and since then I have been obsessed with developing my knowledge, skills, and ability to network. I am very much focused on building Indonesia’s tourism industry into an organization that can offer viable competition for other countries within Asia. Indonesia is blessed with natural beauty, but it pains my heart to see our lack of promotion, organization, and infrastructure.

Due to the nature of my work I have traveled quite a bit internationally and domestically. This was especially true when I was in charge of Public Relations for the Indonesia Tourism Promotion

had the chance to see for myself the natural beauty of Indonesia’s varied demographics, which further strengthen my belief that we have got what it takes to be an internationally renowned tourist destination. Recently, I’ve spent a lot of time in Macau.

Martiningsih Agung Chandra, or

in the Indonesia’s Tourism Industry, having held posts in the Mandarin Oriental Hote, Hotel Nikko Jakarta and Indonesia Tourism Promotion Board. Unearthing Asia catches up with this well traveled lady to chat about her current involvement with Macau Tourism.

Please tell us about yourself. What do you do?My name is Ningsih, and I have been working in the hospitality and tourism

the industry was as a Public Relations Manager at Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Jakarta, from there I’ve moved on and tried various different positions in the industry with Indonesia Travel, Indonesia Tourism Board and many others. Currently, I run a Public Relations Consultancy that focuses on travel and tourism and its related sectors as well as education.


How about back home in Indonesia, how do you feel Jakarta compares to Macau? Will it be possible to achieve similar strides?In all honesty, I don’t believe that the two are comparable, nor do I think it is possible for Jakarta tourism industry to match that of Macau’s. Macau’s cultural heritage is very appealing to tourists. This helps to explain why Macau receives 28 million visitors annually as opposed to Jakarta’s 1.5 million visitors. Personally, I feel that Jakarta is more of a business city. It’s a place where entrepreneurs and industry leaders meet to get things done. Jakarta, of course, also has a rich cultural heritage, but we need the right infrastructure to boost and promote the industry.

What are your thoughts on Bali?Bali is wonderful. I travel there quite a bit because I have a ton of relatives there (my parents are Balinese). Bali is different because it is blessed with natural attractions that simply can’t be beat. From sandy beaches and an exciting nightlife to mountain-side retreats and luxurious spas, Bali really does have it all. The island is full of romance and beauty. I particularly love Bali’s sunsets. From any vantage point on the

enjoy. Another thing I love about Bali are the various local and international restaurants. Bali has got a really engaging food culture, and the various gourmet treats that are on offer there will make anyone drool in delight and anticipation of a marvelous feast!

Unearthing Asia Turns One This December!

And to celebrate this, we have got a host of excellent prizes to be won. We have a 4D3N stay in Rotorua, New Zealand, a 4D3N stay in Bali, Indonesia, a 4D3N stay in Hong Kong, and more!

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TRAVEL PERSONALITY

Welcome to Unearthing Asia! Let’s start our interview with a brief introduction.I specialize in offbeat–adventure travel, covering interesting destinations that are off the tourist radar. My passion undoubtedly lies in travel; I particularly enjoy spending long periods of time slowly uncovering a country and discovering it bit by bit. Instead of going on short weekend trips, I prefer to spend months on end in a destination and immersing in its culture and heritage. I’m also quite a wildlife buff - I absolutely enjoy observing animals from the distance, surrounded by silence and nature.

Being a travel writer is a dream job for many people. How did you get started on this career track?I started writing to document my travels as a mean to share my travel stories with friends and family. My blog slowly became very popular among travel readers and that gave me the motivation to start writing for other online publications and magazines. It’s been two years since I started writing and I’m extremely happy about being able to combine my lifetime passion with work. I’m very grateful that I can now get paid to travel! I only write about travel, focusing mainly on destination-focused pieces. I also do copywriting, and hotel and spa reviews on assignment basis.

home. How did you make the decision to move halfway around the world?Since spending a summer on a study exchange program in Miami, I knew I wanted to live abroad and experience different cultures and lifestyle. In the last

Tanzania and now Granada, Southern Spain. I’ve become a modern nomad, having the itchy feet to move every other year. I’m really happy in Spain now and think I might stay here for awhile. I still miss Singapore from time to time, so I’ll return home for a visit at least once a year.

Tell us a little bit more about your travels. I used to go on a 3-month long trip to travel to a continent or country each year. Since I’ve become a travel writer, I travel more often although they are usually shorter trips. This summer alone, I’ve been to Ireland, India, Alaska and Wales. I’m really grateful for the travel opportunities that come with my job.

Singaporean freelance travel writer and blogger Nellie Huang has seen parts of the world that many of us are only able to dream about. Residing in Spain (for now), Nellie is a regular contributor for Singapore’s leading newspaper Today. She also writes for other travel sites and publications such as CNN Go, Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia, and Jet-


What was your most memorable travel experience?

memorable travel experiences. I was onboard a cruise ship, and when I saw the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) I was simply blown away by the sheer beauty of it all.

Do you have a favorite travel destination?I could never used to pick out a favorite travel destination, until I went to the Galapagos Islands in 2008. The islands are a paradise for nature lovers, and they are well-known for being home to a number of rare, endemic species of wildlife that show no fear of humans. You can play with the mischievous sealions underwater, or walk with giant land lizards and pat enormous tortoises. It’s nothing like anywhere else I’d been to. In general,

outstanding natural sites and authentic culture.

2011 is nearing. How did you celebrate the last New Year and any plans for the upcoming New Year?Last New Year, I spent it in Spain, drinking cava and having an enormous feast with my partner’s family. New Year’s celebrations in Spain are grand affairs and usually involve plenty of food, drinks and merry-making. This upcoming New Year, I’ll be at home in Singapore with my own family. I will probably be having a family dinner at home before painting the town red with some friends.

Join us online at www.unearthingasia.com

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TRAVEL PERSONALITY

Hi Scott, how’s life as a photographer/designer in Laguna Beach?The town I live in, Laguna Beach, is a small artists colony with many different arts festivals. Every summer there is one called the Sawdust festival with over 200 local artists selling their work. At the Sawdust Festival I have a booth where I sell my travel photography, specializing in “Buddhas and Beaches”. I display various images from my travels throughout Asia as well as different wave/surf photography. I earn a living through my photography and graphic

Can you tell us about your wave and surf photography?I have a real passion for the water, and the majority of things that I photograph, create or design are usually centered around the ocean. I love the ocean, whether I’m swimming or just watching the tide come in. I surfed every since I was a kid, but about four years ago, I was paddling out into the water, and I watched the most amazing wave slide by me, and I thought, “Man, I would love to have a picture of that!” Since then, I’ve been shooting empty waves and other ocean scenes.

How did you get started in photography? Do you focus mainly on travel photography or do you also like to dabble in other genres?I discovered photography while studying abroad in college. From there, my curiosity continued to grow and I learned a variety of things from being a photography assistant and through basic trial and error. Eventually, I was able to charge people for my images. I love traveling and travel photography is a natural extension for me. In an ideal world, that would be the only thing that I’d want to do. In order to pay for the next plane ticket, however, I need to take on other jobs. Like I said earlier, other than travel photography, I also really enjoy surf photography and landscape images.

Photographer/designer Scott Sporleder grew up in Laguna Beach, California with a strong interest in the Arts, but he didn’t discover his love for photography until his college years. In this interview, Unearthing Asia chats with Scott about his love for travel photography and

around the world.


Tell us about your travels. I try to take one or two personal photography trips each year, but those kinds of trips are never easy on the wallet. On the other hand, these trips are invaluable because they offer a creative outlet that isn’t always there on a work assignment. When I wake up and there

to strain my eyes as much and those impromptu magical moments come to me a bit easier.

I don’t have any set destinations that I travel to frequently, but between 2006-2009, I spent a lot of time in Asia. I have a friend in Shanghai, so I went and lived there for four months after college. The trip culminated in a journey to Tibet, and it ignited my love for travel in Asia.

What’s your favorite travel destination?I don’t have a favorite travel destination.

mind is a small village somewhere in the Himalayas: a place where you can smell the incense burning and where you can come around a small corner and hear the soft chants of Buddhist mantras.

I’m sure our readers would be interested to learn about your plans for celebrating the New Year. Care to share?Last year I spent the New Year camping in Yosemite National Park with a few friends in Northern California. It was a great weekend! We went to a small music festival up in the forest on New Year’s Eve, which was a great way to bring in the new year. This year I don’t have any big plans, more than likely I will be packing because I am going to be traveling to Panama on January 2nd for a trip.

I love those towns in Ladakh, Nepal and especially in Tibet. It’s just the feeling of being so far away from your comfort zone and yet, in some strange way, you actually feel like you’re home. I can’t quite explain the feeling, but it’s soothing.

The second would be a classic tropical paradise, with a palm tree swaying over turquoise water and a slight breeze that keeps you feeling refreshed. I’m a beach boy at heart. I know it’s a bit of a cliche, but there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.

TRAVEL PERSONALITY


TRAVEL PERSONALITY

Ronny Soo has a job that makes many people feel green with envy. As an air

another and he gets to meet people from all over the world.

Hello Ronny. How have you enjoyed the past two years working as an air steward.It’s a lot of fun, and it’s certainly different from most of the other jobs out there. Being an air steward is often deemed as a dream job for many, there are also some cons that most people probably don’t even think about. The most negative aspect for me is how it will impact my health. Experiencing jet lag and rapid changes in the climate can be trying on my body.

What are some of the challenges you faced in your job?

prove to be challenging as it takes a lot

I also meet passengers from all over the world and have to constantly be mindful of what’s appropriate in their culture and be alert at all times. Lastly… it can get challenging to think of how I can maximize my time to shop and sightsee in the different countries I’ve been to! Haha, just kidding for the last one…

Can you share a memorable overseas (good or bad) experience?Sure. I remember one destination in particular that I had both a good and bad

Vancouver. It was winter and we drove out to Mt Whistler to ski! The crew was friendly and spontaneous, which plays a big part

the gentle slope and ended up crashing into a tree, a group of guide tour skiers and a small kid. Despite that, I went up to the peak and tried my luck skiing down the mountain! After two steep slopes, my friend and I had phobia skiing further. I almost fell off the side of the cliff as I lost control of myself on the slope! Nonetheless, i survived and it was a fun experience on the whole.

What’s your favorite Asian country? Can you share a few of your favorite travel tips with our readers?Taiwan. I have been there about ten times in the last two years, but I still look forward to visiting Taipei every time I am a scheduled

mainly the shopping and food! They do have a wide variety of food and a lot of night markets too.

What are three things you

when you travel? My universal adapter, camera and a cookpot!

Where are you aiming to go next, for holiday?Perhaps a holiday in New Zealand. It is one of my dream destinations because of the amazing sceneries they have over there.


unearthing asia issue 05

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immortal city auckland

new year festivities

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