Travel

Munich

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Munich is also one of Germany’s most popular holiday destinations. Located in the breathtaking Bavarian Alps, the city offers up cultural and historical attractions in a postcard-like setting. From old museums and theatres to the incredible New Town Hall in Marienplatz and Nyphemburg Palace, there’s enough sightseeing in Munich to make any history lover go weak at the knees.

In addition to the architecture, it’s hard to escape the stunning nature that surrounds Munich’s city centre. So, why not take advantage of being in one of the most picturesque destinations on the planet by taking a river raft through the Isar Valley? Nestled between lush greenery, the Isar River runs through the city and offers one of the most serene travel experiences.

 

The traditional river log raft trip takes you down the Isar, making a lunch stop at a traditional Bavarian restaurant and beer garden.

But for party peeps looking to experience Munich’s buzzing nightlife, there are a host of cool venues ranging from live music bars to all-out electro clubs. Backstage Bar is the city’s most popular concert venue, which has an awesome beer garden for that truly Bavarian experience.

While you’re there…

Hit the zoo

Created in 1911, Munich’s Zoo Hellabrunn is the first geo-zoo in the world and is home to over 460 species. For animal lovers or those looking to experience one of the world’s most amazing nature preserves, Hellabrunn is the perfect destination.

Market day

Marketplaces are a must in any European city, and Munich is no exception. The Viktualienmarkt is one of the city’s oldest landmarks and at 22,000 square metres, it’s one of the largest markets in the nation, selling everything from fresh food to local delicacies.

Munich on wheels

The Segway Tour Munich is the most unique and enjoyable way to see the German city. The emission-free vehicles are the convenient and fun, and with a guide that takes you to over 20 landmarks around the city, you won’t need to worry about your feet getting tired!

 

Bali 

 Noted for its innate peacefulness, the lush green holiday island of Bali inspires a feeling of calm and relaxation as soon as you step off the plane, thanks to the beautifully fertile volcanic landscape and warm climate.

With delicious cuisine, serene hotels and gracefully charming locals, there’s plenty of down-time to be had, if it’s pure relaxation you’re after. Equally, adrenaline-junkies are spoilt for choice too, with excellent hiking, diving and surfing on offer.

 

To discover the real charm of island, escape the tourist-trodden resort of Kuta and head inland to explore stunning temples and emerald paddy fields. Don’t miss Tirtagangga Water Palace – a royal watergarden built around natural springs – or the spiritual carved stone temple Pura Meduwe Karang in Kubutambahan.

After a tour of the lively Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud, lunch at Ibu Oka’s Warung food stall, where you can sample authentic Balinese fare. Then hunt down fab arty finds, like handcrafted furniture and silver trinkets in the nearby market.

Come sundown, head to the glam beachfront Ku De Ta in Seminyak, serving up awesome fusion food and top tunes by the in-house DJ.

While you’re there…

Hang in the gardens

Ubud Hanging Gardens offer a taste of luxury high above the rugged rainforest, with a lauded Asian-French restaurant and amazing spa, along with cookery, painting and yoga classes.

Bike it

There’s no better way to see the Balinese countryside than on a mountain bike tour. Start at Mount Batur volcano and wind your way down through Balinese villages, lush rice fields and ancient temples.

Enjoy an elephant safari

Set in two hectares of exotic landscaped botanical gardens, surrounded by national forest, the Elephant Safari Park is a must-visit, where you can get up-close and personal with the incredible animals.

Kenya 

Enjoy a soft landing in East Africa with a city stopover in the five-star Laico Regency Hotel in the capital Nairobi. Boasting 196 rooms with stunning views over the beautiful atrium garden, plus a lush outdoor pool, it’s the perfect pampering treat before your wildlife adventure begins.

Next up, head to Masai Mara – Kenya’s most famous game reserve – to spot lions, cheetahs and wildebeests in their natural habitat on a mud-splattered game drive. After sunset, enjoy delicious food washed down with the local tipple dawa (vodka, honey and lime) around the campfire back at your canvas-tented base.

The following day, get a taste of pure Kenya as you enjoy endless green vistas, pick up authentic Kenyan crafts (must-buys include ethnic jewellery and fabulous lamps) and see robed Masai warriors, as your sun-soaked outback adventure continues. You can also opt for a horse-riding safari, or to explore the wilds with a camel and a Masai warrior tour guide.

Next up, hit the stunning beaches of Watamu, where you can enjoy workouts and yoga on the sand or indulge in some pampering at one of the many luxe spas. While water babies and diving pros should head to Watamu Marine National Park.

While you’re there…

Go up, up and away!

A hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara is well worth the early start, thanks to awesome aerial views of zebra and antelope grazing in the buttery first morning light.

Escape to the beach

Hit one of the glorious private beaches south of Mombasa for a well-earned sun-lounger break, after your adventures in the bush. Infinity pools, free massages and sunset cocktails await.

Be inspiredIn Nairobi, don’t miss a visit to the home of Karen Blixen, whose life inspired the movie Out of Africa, starring Meryl Streep.

 

Malaysia

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Asteamy, languid tropical paradise, the islands of Malaysia are a fave amongst loved-up honeymooners looking for a taste of the exotic on their romantic escape. However, with budget-busting shopping, luxury spas and awesome wildlife, there’s plenty on offer to entice single ladies too.

Start your trip in the vibrant capital Kuala Lumpur. A shopping hot spot, come prepared to flex some serious plastic in the city’s many malls. Stacked full of designer labels, there’s enough retail action to keep even the most fervent fashionista happy! Don’t miss home-grown label Lewre for shoes – the celeb foot candy du jour, it’s created by Jimmy Choo’s bestie Lewre Lew.

 

For a retail fix that won’t blow the holiday budget, head to the night markets (‘pasar malam’) for cute trinkets, local handicrafts and authentic Malaysian foods.

Once you’ve shopped up an appetite, stop by the quaint street café Wong Ah Wah, on the bustling Jalan Alor. Famed for its chicken wings, even the Malaysian Prime Minister’s been spotted here. Alternatively, head to local Malaysian fave Bijan for spicy beef, spring rolls and huge meaty prawns – and don’t miss the chocolate sponge served with coconut ice-cream for dessert.

After a couple of days shopping, escape the buzz of the city and experience the true beauty of Malaysia on the stunning islands.

Head to Kota Kinabalu for the most awesome sunsets, or jump on a boat to one of the deserted islands nearby for unrivalled snorkelling.

If you’re looking for some serious pampering, check out Rasa Ria Resort, where the heavenly spa boasts its own orang-utan sanctuary!

Love birds should migrate to Langkawi – so scenic, the Malaysian government have recently used it in their ‘Second Honeymoon’ programme, offering troubled couples a free two-night island escape to mend their marriage. And, with powdery sand beaches dotted with swaying coconut trees and casuarinas, the island’s sure to work its magic on you and your man.

If it’s adventure you’re after, Borneo is an absolute must. The best way to take in the truly amazing wildlife – including the bizarre Proboscis monkey – is with a west-to-east coast safari. Take in the natural wonders like the Poring Hot Springs, Kinabatagan River (a monkey haven) and Danum ‘The Lost World’ Valley – one of the most exotic and remote places on earth. Bliss.

While you’re there…

Go green
A tiny, private island off the west coast, the crescent-shaped beach at Emerald Bay – with calm, green waters – is regarded as the cleanest beach in the country. Enjoy some peace and quiet on the uber-exclusive island, or head inland for a mini jungle trek.

Chase waterfalls
Endau-Rompin National Park is home to a huge variety of wildlife, including rare Sumatran rhinoceros, tigers and dragonfish. Don’t miss out on a hike through the park’s stunning rainforests and waterfalls

Take the high road
The winding roads up to the Cameron Highlands may induce a little motion-dizziness, but the steep and weaving climb is well worth the views. Highlights along the way include scones and jam at strawberry farms, tea plantations and Tudor-inspired architecture.

Source: Ahlan.com