December 1st, 2011 | by admin | published in featured, places, remembering...
The old city of Pingyao is simply enchanting – well it certainly was when I visited there during 2001 and 2002.
As with most towns and cities the best time to be out and about with a camera was from 6am onwards as this was the best time to catch a real glimpse of local life.
Bursting [...]
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 [...]
July 15th, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, places
The sheer contrasts of Macau make it an intriguing and picturesque destination with a unique mish-mash of cultures. Not only does the city continue to grow economically due to its burgeoning gambling industry, but it has physically increased its size by around 170% from land reclamation.
A gambler’s mecca with glitzy, shiny, mega dollar structures that [...]
May 30th, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, things to do & see
The focus of Shanghai in 2010 is clearly on the World Expo and if you are anywhere in its vicinity during the next few months then a visit is mandatory, if only to see what all the fuss is about.
My initial idea that I would pop in for a few hours, take a quick look [...]
January 1st, 2010 | by admin | published in latest posts, places
It has been 10 years since I last visited Hanoi and I must say it was great to be back.
The city seems to retain a traditional vitality and wonderful atmosphere in the old quarter with so many street vendors carting colourful baskets of fruit and flowers amongst the rustic French colonial architecture lining the labyrinth [...]
December 9th, 2009 | by admin | published in latest posts, places, things to do & see
Another new project that caught my attention in Beijing was the redevelopment and refurbishment of the ancient Qianmen street. Located at the southern end of Tiananmen Square the street even boasts a tram car which occasionally whizzes past.
Now this refurbishment actually caused me to sit back and ponder a question which disturbs me a little [...]
December 6th, 2009 | by admin | published in latest posts, places, things to do & see
Beijing has developed into such a cosmopolitan city over the past 12 years, so much so it is barely recognizable.
One of the latest developments I am really enjoying is The Village in Sanlitun. So often these types of developments remain half filled or are full of useless shops that I would never go near but [...]
