May 23rd, 2011 | by admin | published in latest posts, middle kingdom life
Having been in China for quite some time now I think I might have become almost immune to the unexpected or unusual sights. One afternoon recently when strolling across a bridge over the Pearl River, duly accompanied by cars and buses whizzing past I saw this guy pushing his fully laden bicycle along the far [...]
May 23rd, 2011 | by admin | published in latest posts, things to do & see
Recently I was asked to share my favourite part of Guangzhou and without doubt it has to be the old Liwan area. The sheer diversity and extremes remind me of why I love to travel as well as really being in many ways a great glimpse into the old and new China.
As soon as you [...]
December 3rd, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, things to do & see
I have literally passed through Guangzhou dozens of times but have been yet to discover any real charm amongst its mammoth sized urban sprawl.
This all changed when I stumbled upon a few classic streets in the city’s old quarter which have thoroughly revived my interest. The stunning qilou that line the peaceful En Ning Street [...]
December 3rd, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, things to do & see
Stretching some 450 metres into the sky on the banks of the Pearl River is Guangzhou’s newest icon. Nicknamed the “Supermodel”, the tower is said to mimic the body of a sexy woman.
The elevator to the top is a special ride that brings dizzying but intermittent views across the city as you whizz your way [...]
November 28th, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, places, things to do & see
Shamian Island is known in Guangzhou for its beautiful old architecture. This former UK & French concession area is a great place to enjoy an atmospheric stroll amongst colonial styled structures from a bygone era.
It also means this picturesque little spot is a draw-card for photographers adding a layer of vibrancy and interest that truly [...]
November 28th, 2010 | by admin | published in featured, latest posts, things to do & see
A Qing dynasty relic of Lingnan culture which seems to have survived the cultural revolution relatively unscathed now houses the Guangdong Museum of Folk Art in a few of its many halls.
Elaborately carved Chaozhou styled wooden doors depict classic Chinese scenes while mythological characters feature in the colourful, intricate lime sculptures that grace the eaves [...]
August 7th, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, other stuff
Slated as Vietnam’s premiere luxury resort, The Nam Hai certainly has pretty much attained the right formula.
The grounds and rooms are both beautifully designed and practically laid out taking advantage of both classic Vietnamese architecture and the stunning beachfront location. Each unit is stylishly appointed enjoying ocean views with attentive, well trained staff to cater [...]
August 7th, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, where am i
What a fantastic month!
Yes, the posts have been a little thin on the ground this year…. sorry about that!
Too, too much to do.
Finished up in Shanghai after a wonderful 5 months, unfortunately I ended being so busy for a lot of the time it really impacted on everything and is part of the reason for [...]
August 5th, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, things to do & see
How times change! A few years ago you would not have been able to drag me near this place. For me traveling was about chasing the so-called truly authentic experience where these types of tourism sights just don’t feature.
Nowadays though it is a different story. I haven’t totally lost my traveling roots and I still [...]
July 28th, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, other stuff
Being absolutely fascinated with the elongated earlobes of the Kelabit people meant I had a very difficult time drawing my gaze away from the real thing! Sitting around the fireplace, enjoying a cup of tea while sucking on one of the famous super juicy and sweet Bario pineapples was an amazing opportunity to ask all [...]
