Top 10 Symbols of Chinese Culture

Each nation has characters or symbols that represent its culture. They may be food, famous people, historical landmarks or a certain fashion that have been associated with a particular country. When we come across pictures of Great Wall, giant panda, red lanterns and dumpling, the very first thing that comes to our mind is China because these things are part of Chinese culture. However nowadays Chinese culture is no longer contained in China primarily because there are so called “China towns” in every successful nations. Here are some of the famous cultural symbols of China that represent the nation’s rich and colorful culture.

The Great Wall of China is undoubtedly one of the famous symbols of China. It reflects the Chinese people’s spirit of courage and persistence. In fact, there is an old saying in Chinese that goes “You are a real man until you climb up the Great Wall” which only shows that courage and persistence are intrinsic values of Chinese culture. The magnificent wall winds up and down across deserts, grassland, mountain and plateaus. It features a remarkable piece of engineering making it one of the greatest wonders of the world.

This giant creature with cuddly features is regarded as one of China’s National Treasure. However it is sad to say that giant panda is on the verge of extinction. At present, there are fewer than 1,000 giant pandas living in the world thus the giant panda also symbolize Eco-environmental conservation. Their cute faces, unusual beauty and grace delight everyone who see them up close. Visitors to China can see this reclusive animal in Sichuan Province's Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

We usually see the massive display of this symbol especially during Chinese New Year. Red lanterns with Chinese characters make China towns’ street alive and full of energy. People who would like to experience the fun and excitement of Chinese New Year need not go to China, they can secure cheap airfare to Singapore to witness how the Chinese folks drive away bad spirits and attract good fortune. Lanterns play an important and irreplaceable role in Chinese long history and symbolize the brilliant culture of China. The art of making Chinese lanterns is part of traditional culture of Chinese which was inherited from their ancient people and passed from generations to generations. The craft work of lantern is still widely used in current society which can be seen in some happy days such as the Lantern Festival, wedding and celebration ceremonies. Besides, lanterns have some other functions in daily life. For example, at ancient time, when there was no electricity, lanterns were used as a tool of illumination, which brought great convenience to everyday life.

An airfare to Beijing is worth it when you visit the place because you will surely be amazed of the costumes and make-ups of the Beijing Opera. Each costume is picked and made through high aesthetic standard signifying the Chinese culture of giving importance to detail and beauty. The costumes are graceful, magnificent, elegant, brilliant and most of them are made in handicraft embroidery. Make-ups on the other hand are rich and various, depicting different characters and remarkable images. Beijing Opera is the quintessence of China. As the largest Chinese opera form, it is extolled as 'Oriental Opera'. Having a history of 160 years, it has created many 'firsts' in Chinese dramas: the abundance of repertoires, the number of artists, opera troupes and spectators.

Chinese cuisine is quite popular with everyone because of its distinct method and excellent taste. Jiaozi or better known as Chinese Dumpling is one of the Chinese food that is greatly appreciated by foreigners, not only because it is easy to eat but most importantly it has such great flavor that appeal to varying taste buds of different nationalities. Dumplings are one of the major foods that you will often see in the table of Chinese folks during Chinese New Year which they believe bring luck and prosperity.

The most significant symbol of every nation is its flag. For the People's Republic of China, it is a red field charged in the canton with five golden stars. The design features one large star, with four smaller stars in a semicircle set off towards the fly. The red represents revolution; the five stars and their relationship represent the unity of the Chinese people under the leadership of Communist Party of China (CPC). Sometimes, the flag is referred to as the "Five Star Red Flag".

The Chinese culture of fashion has evolved through times however it retains its distinct designs. The Chinese “qipao” or “cheongsam” which simply means “long dress” enjoys a growing popularity in the international world of fashion. It appeals to the international market because of its aesthetic value and distinct features. Even those who do not possess Chinese features are keen to wear this kind of clothing but it surely looks better for those who have “chinky” eyes.

The Chinese Decorative Knots can trace its history to the Tang and Song Dynasty during 960 – 1279 AD. It began as a form of Chinese folk art which was popularized later in the Ming and Qing Dynasty. Chinese knots are usually lanyard type arrangements where 2 cords enter from the top of the knot and 2 cords leave from the bottom. The knots are usually double-layered and symmetrical.

Some Chinese figures became popular because of their outstanding skills in Chinese Martial Arts. Some of the names which made it to international knowledge are Bruce Lee, Jacky Chan, Jet Li and many more. Kung Fu and Wushu are examples of martial arts which originated in China. In Chinese, kung fu can be used in contexts completely unrelated to martial arts, and refers colloquially to any individual accomplishment or skill cultivated through long and hard work. In contrast, wushu is a more precise term for general martial activities.

A sedan chair is a human or animal-powered transport vehicle for carrying a person, once popular across China. It has different names like "shoulder carriage", "sleeping sedan" and "warm sedan" etc due to the time, location and structural differences. The sedans familiar to modern people are warm sedans that have been in use since the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The sedan body is fixed in the wooden rectangular frames on the two thin log poles. The top and four sides of the seat are enclosed with curtains, with a chair blind that could be rolled open in the front and a small window on each side. A chair is placed inside the enclosed space.

Cities with Superb Chinese Cuisines

Chinese cuisine reflects the vastness of China's geography and history. Its various characteristics can be distinguish into four types, the northern plains including Beijing, the fertile east watered by the Yangtze River, the south with popular Cantonese way of cooking and the west of excellent Szechwan and Hunan cuisine. Chinese foods can perhaps be available anywhere however the best place to try them will still be the place where they originated. Here’s the list of some famous Chinese cuisine and where is the best place to try them.

If you are looking for the best place to try the roast duck, you better go to Beijing. Although Beijing has accepted the Western cuisine due to the developments in China, most tourists who purchase airfare to Beijing prefer to consume Chinese foods during their stay. Roast duck is on top of the must-try list because it best represents the Chinese cuisine, with a centuries-old history. Its bronzed crispy and tender meat satisfies the hunger and expectations of each tourist who desires to taste an authentic Chinese food. Beijing Imperial Court Food, Beijing Snacks, Imperial Official Food, Medicinal Food and Hot Pot are also worth trying.

If roast duck is Beijing then roast suckling pig is Guangzhou. Cantonese cuisine is the popular cooking method in Guangzhou, having different flavors and styles and using diverse materials, exotic spices and various cooking skills. The popular saying “Except the plane and stool” probably originated in Guangzhou as people in this province eat everything in the sky and on earth. Some of other popular dishes includes Dragon Fighting against the Tiger, Taiye Chicken, Stewed Wild Dog Meat, Shuang Pi Nai, Jidi Zhou, Yuntun Mian, Chang Fenand Guiling Gao.

Goubuli Steamed Stuffed Bun is a traditional snack in Tianjin and an example of Tianjin Dinging cuisine. The charming municipality of Tianjin is well-known for cross-cultural Chinese dishes and traditional famed snacks. Aside from Goubuli Steamed Stuffed Bun, remember to try Ear-Hole Fried Cake, Fried Dough Twist, Chatang Goubacai and Tangdui to make the trip worthwhile.

Shanghai way of cooking is derived from mix cuisines of different neighbouring provinces such as Jiangsu and Zhejiang. It doesn’t have a cuisine of its own but a refined way of cooking reflects the Shanghai cuisine. Actually, Shanghai is not only considered as China’s economic and cultural center but it is also a “Grand View Garden” for dinner of all taste. Its dishes have the characteristics of lightness in flavor and beautiful in decoration, comprising of well-cut raw ingredients and harmoniously arranged colors evident in the famous Da Zha Xie. Other examples of the Dim Sum of Shanghai are the Sheng Jian Mantou, Xiao Long Bao, Four Heavenly Kings and Congshao Crucian Carp.

Chongqing cuisine is known for its richness in flavor with 40 different ways of cooking. It is largely a hybrid of Sichuan cuisine and local specialty dishes, noted for its distinctive spicy and pungent flavors. Chongqing is the birthplace of the Hot Pot in China, originally conceived to protect the food from low temperatures and frigid winds of the winter. Nowadays, this famed dish is widely enjoyed by locals and tourists regardless of seasons and regions.

Touring Foshan is a gastronomical treat, mainly because Chefs in Foshan can turn everything into a delicious dish, whether its meat, vegetable, fish or fruits. Foshan cuisine is influenced by diverse local flavors and specialties and has formed its own unique food culture through hundreds of years and innovation. This distinct taste makes Foshan a favorite destination for rich variety of dishes and snacks. Locals drinking tea in the morning and evening with dim sun is a common sight. This town is also well-known for its Shuangpi Milk, Foshan Manggong Cake, Nine Layers of Milk, Wonton Noodle, Jidi Porridge, Goose Palm with Orange Peel and Sliced Frogs.

A representative of Zhejiang cuisine, Hangzhou cuisine is one of China’s eight original methods of preparing food. It acquired the reputation of freshness, tenderness, softness, smoothness with a subtle fragrance. During the ancient times, a poet of Song Dynasty described the Hangzhou cuisine as something incomparable to other dishes for its excellent taste. Dongpo Pork is one amongst the popular dishes such as with West Lake Sour Fish, Longjing Shrimp Meat, Jiaohua Young Chickens, Steam Rice Flower and Port Wrapped by Lotus Leaves, Braised Bamboo Shoots and Lotus Root Powder.

Nanjing cuisine on the other hand became popular because of its fine cutting techniques and skilful timing resulting into thick flavor of dishes with tastiness of the four directions. It gained the praise of tourist who bought airfare to China specifically for its freshness, fragrance, crispness and tenderness. Nanjing Salty Duck is one of tourists favorite dishes with Baked Duck, Duck Blood and Sweet Potato Starch Noodle Soup, Fried Beer Dumplings, Steamed Dumplings, Soup Dumplings, Sour Vegetable Fish Soup, Crawfish, Return to Sauce Tofu and Stinky Tofu.

Representing one of the eight famous cuisines of China is the Hunan cuisine which is characterized for its delicate use of pepper, resulting to a pungent flavor. Its example is a Changsa cuisine which is well-known for having hot and sour taste, fresh aroma, greasiness, deep color and prominence of the main flavor in each dish. Dishes like Chou Dofu, Spicy Young Chicken, Zuyan’s Sharks Fin, Braised Eel, Chicken, Dove and Sparrow and Changsa Maren Crispy Duck are some of the dishes where one can taste the most authentic Hunan cuisine.

Have you heard the saying that goes “All good foods can be found in Chengdu”? Well, this phrase can be credited from the superb dishes that Sichuan cuisine had made popular not only in China but to various parts of the globe as well. As the priority of the Eight Great Cuisines in China, Sichuan cuisine is characterized by its spicy and pungent flavor accompanied by myriad of taste, highlighting the use of chilli, red hot peppers and garlic. In Chengdu, you can have a taste of different cuisines such as Sichuan, Cantonese, Chaozhou dishes, Northeastern cuisine and even Korean food as various types of restaurants assemble to operate on the same street.

Take note of the name of the Chinese dishes with its corresponding places and don’t forget to try these excellent dishes if you’ll be traveling in China.

Amazing Chinese Architecture

There is no doubt that Chinese architecture is something that fascinates people all over the world because of its characteristics and rich history. It is said that the structural principles of Chinese architecture remains largely unchanged until today with minor changes to its decorative style. There was relative proof that since the Tang Dynasty, Korea, Vietnam and Japan have been greatly influenced by the Chinese architecture.

Chinese architecture is as old as Chinese civilization so it’s quite an experience to see the structures which have been the products of such creative and brilliant minds of Chinese ancestors. Here are some samples of buildings which features the magnificent designs of Chinese architecture.

Located in the middle of Beijing, China, Forbidden City had served as the house of emperors and their household as well as the ceremonial and political center of Chinese government for 500 years. The palace complex which was consisted of 980 buildings exemplifies the Chinese palatial architecture that had influenced the cultural and architectural developments in East Asia. It is also known as the best preserved imperial palace presenting the essence and culmination of traditional Chinese architectural accomplishments.

It is said that airfare to Shanghai won’t be worth paying for without visiting “The Bund” because as they said, you won’t see the “real” China unless you have been to this part of Shanghai. It is the famous waterfront in Shanghai located at the west shore of the Huangpu River. The Bund has been regarded as the symbol of Shanghai for hundreds of years. Its most interesting feature are the 52 various buildings representing different architectural styles such as Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Classicism and the Renaissance. It will be such an awesome sight, to see varying classic designs next to each other.

The City Wall of Xian is one of the interesting places to visit in China which is situated in the capital of the Shaanxi province. It was erected in the 14th century during the period of Ming Dynasty. It is said that the City Wall was built because of the admonition by a hermit named Zhu Sheng to Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang. The wall has a height of 12 meters tall with of 12-14 meters width at the top and 15-18 meters thick at the bottom. It is also the most complete city wall that has survived in China as well as the largest ancient military defensive system in the world.

Experience the tranquil atmosphere at the Potala Palace in Tibet which has been the residence of the Dalai Lamas at the same time the political centre of Tibet since 1645. Tourists will surely marvel at the splendour of the grand buildings, complicated constructions and unique artworks – mainly comprised by the administerial (White Building) and the religious (White Building) structures.

Beauty and serenity are the two things that describe the Suzhou Gardens. The design of this garden is considered as the epitome of landscaping art for private gardens which represents wider range of freedom of art expression. The main characteristic of the ancient garden of Suzhou which set it apart from others is it was designed to be lived in as well as the surrounding houses around it. Visitors can’t help but be captivated with its beauty at every bend, pavilions, gazebos and comfortable seats to savor the picturesque location.

Be sure to include the Confucius Temple in Nanjing in your list of places to visit when you go to China. The followers of the great philosopher and educator of ancient China hold their worship service in this temple which is known for its superb architecture and intricate design. You won’t just learn some insights how ancient China chooses their government officials but you will be rewarded of a beautiful sight of a Chinese architecture.

Another building worth visiting is the Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong. It is a 70-storey building towering in the center of the city with a height of 315 meters. The most interesting feature of this building is the structural expressionism design which resembles the growing bamboo shoots, signifying prosperity and livelihood. This remarkable structure is also the first building outside North America to break the 1000 feet mark.

Remember to pay a visit to the Ruins of St.Paul if you are planning to travel to Macau. It is the remains of the one of the greatest church ever built in the city. You will surely be amazed of the intricately carved stone facade. The carvings include Jesuit images with Oriental themes, founders of the Jesuit Order, the conquest of Death by Jesus and a dove with wings outstretched at the very top of the facade. These carvings were believed to be done by Japanese Christians who were in exile from their homeland and local craftsmen under the direction of Italian Jesuit Carlo Espinola between 1620 and 1627.

Diwang Tower of Shenzhen is a building located in the financial and commercial hub of the area. This building has an installed wind and structural monitoring system used to timely record wind and structural response data. This is significant in determining the wind characteristic f typhoon. The structural characteristics and responses, including the natural frequency, modal damping ratio, translational and torsional displacement and acceleration responses are also provided by the monitoring system.

With the numerous online travel companies offering affordable airfare to Taiwan, traveling to Taiwan to see its different tourist spots such as Taipei 101 need not be expensive. Taipei 101 is a famous landmark skyscraper in Xinyi district. It became the world’s tallest skyscraper in 2004 and was hailed as one of the Seven New Wonders of the World as published in Newsweek Magazine,2006 edition. Taipei 101 was also featured in the Discovery Channel in 2005 as one of the Seven Wonders of Engineering. The fireworks display at this building during international New Year’s Eve is an event that locals and tourists who spent for airfare to Taipei look forward to because of its marvelous and breathtaking sights.

Asia's Wonderful Waterfalls

Asia is indeed blessed with natural wonders, from the pristine white beaches to the exceptionally beautiful nature reserves and parks, thus it is of no wonder why tourists from various part of the globe love to spend vacations and holidays in Asian countries. These natural wonders also include the spectacular and breathtaking waterfalls which are scattered in the continent of Asia. If you are more into nature trips, the following list of famous waterfalls might help you in deciding your next holiday trip.

Jog Falls in India is the largest and the tallest waterfall in the country. It is comprised of four waterfalls named Raja, Roar, Rocket and Rani. The sight of these waterfalls during the monsoon season is just exhilarating, however the hydroelectric developments in the upstream robbed the beauty of these waterfalls during the rest of the season.

Aptly named as the most picturesque waterfall in China, perhaps in the whole Asia, Detian Waterfall is located in the Karst hills of Guangxi Province of China and in the district of Trung Khanh in Vietnam side. It is currently the 4th largest waterfall along a national boarder. It is a multi-tiered waterfall with a 30 meters water drop separated into 3 falls by rocks and trees. Definitely a must-see attraction when you book an airfare to China.

Regarded as Thailand’s largest waterfall, Thi Lo Su Waterfall is a sight to behold with its multi-segmented and multi-tiered water course. It’s famous to its visitors not only because of its scenic beauty but for the certain grace and character it possesses which allows people to swim in some of its tiers.

Unchalli Falls at Karnataka, India is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country. It’s impressive for its reliable flow, its rather unusual flow which seems like vidfoss-like and the dramatic scenery around its lush surroundings. If you’ll visit this waterfall around midday, you can see a rainbow appearing in the waterfall’s rising mist.

With a 74 meters height and 81 meters width, Huangguoshu Waterfall is regarded as one of China’s biggest waterfall. It has a classical squarish shape with a character of thunderous wall of water to graceful parallel watery columns. Most of the tourists who have visited this waterfall cannot help but capture the magnificent sight over and over again with their camera. So check your camera when you check your air ticket to China on your departure date.

Mae Ya Waterfall at the Doi Ithanon National Park is popular to its visitors because of the triangular cascade of its waters. Truly , a postcard-perfect sight that’s why most of the tourists who come to see Mae Ya always bring along a camera to capture the picturesque scenery.

If you love the wonderful view at the Mae Ya Waterfall, you’ll surely appreciate the beauty of Nohkalikai Falls which is located at the forgotten northeast corner of India. Its reliable flow plus the color of the cliff and the bright blue pool at its base entice tourists to come to this place for several times.

The peaceful setting and the laid back atmosphere of the Nachi Falls in Japan provides reason for tourists to purchase an airfare to Japan to see its exceptional beauty and indulge in the tranquility the place offers to its visitors. It is considered as the country’s tallest permanent vertical waterfall having 133 meters height. It is said that this waterfall is among the few where you can see a pagoda or from within a genuine old temple.

The towering 97 meter waterfall of Kegon Falls at Chuzenji –ko, Japan is known for its grandeur and setting. It has a forceful and tall cascade with spectacular sights from the different angle of the waterfall. Sightings of brilliant rainbows during the mornings are usual sights here.

Regarded as the “husband and wife waterfall” of Japan, Ginga and Ryusei Waterfalls is one of the most visited and photographed attraction in the Land of the Rising Sun. It is quite unusual to see two waterfalls tumble side by side being split by a giant rock. The scenery is just extraordinary with the lush surroundings backed by the snowy mountains at the wilderness of the Daisetsuzan’s backcountry.

No doubt, each waterfall possesses unique charm and varied picturesque scenes, just prepare your self to be amazed by the wonders of nature!

Famous Bridges

Taking pictures is one of the things that tourists of every generation enjoy especially when traveling to a place with attractions famous all over the globe for its beauty and historical significance. Bridges with magnificent designs and spectacular views are among the most photographed structures. Here’s the list of the famous bridges all over the world that might help you in planning your holiday.

The Great Belt Bridge in Denmark is one of the famous bridges in the world. It is divided into two sections by the island of Sprogo - the eastern and western part. The eastern bridge is 254 meters (833ft) above sea level making its two pylons the highest points in Denmark. It is also considered as the bridge which has the third longest main span in the world, crossing the deepest part of Storebaelt between the islands of Zealand and Sprogo. On the other hand, West bridge is 6611 meters (21689ft) long rail and road bridge connecting the islands of Sprogo and Funen.

One of Switzerland’s main tourist attractions is the Chapel Bridge in the city of Lucerne. It is a 204 meter long oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. This bridge is believed to be built around 1333 to help protect the city from attacks of its enemies. Paintings from the 17th century depicting the some events from the history of Lucerne can be seen inside the bridge. The bridge and paintings were destroyed by a fire in 1993 but they were quickly rebuilt.

In China Chengyang Bridge, the most famous rain and wind bridge in the region of Dong Minority was built in 1916. It is the largest of all wind and rain bridges measuring 64.4 meters long, 3.4 meters wide and 10.6 meters wide. This bridge which was made up of wood and stone, without nails or rivets stretches across the Linxi River. Until now, the bridge is still in heavy use.

Brooklyn Bridge is one of the tourist attractions in the city of New York. It has become an iconic landmark and every tourist who spends for an airfare to New York includes visiting this bridge as apart of itinerary. This bridge which spans across the East River connects Brooklyn to Manhattan. From the time of its completion in 1883 and for several years, it was named as the longest suspension bridge in the world. One can stroll along the wide pedestrian walkway and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

A bridge that reflects the masterpiece of the ancient Roman bridge building can be found at Alcantara, Spain. Alcantara Bridge was built by an order of a Roman Emperor Trajan around 98 AD. Crossing the Tagus River, the bridge was built with two arches, one in the middle and one at the end to honor the emperor who initiated its construction. Both of the arches were destroyed during the war between the Moors and the Portuguese.

Sydney, Australia takes pride of having the largest bridge in the world. Sydney Harbour Bridge is a steel arch bridge that took eight years to build. It is considered as one among the most photographed iconic landmark in the city. Most of the tourists who purchased airfare to Sydney make it a point to see this magnificent bridge up close and document the moment by taking several pictures.

Crossing the Neretva River in the city of Mostar in Bosnia Herzegovina, Stari Most (“The Old Bridge”) was built by the Ottoman Turks in 1556. It served its purpose for 427 years until the Bosnian War in 1993 when it was destroyed. The bridge was rebuilt and opened to in 2004. It has been a tradition for the young men of the town to jump from the bridge to the river however since the water is very cold it is considered as a risky feat and only skilled divers should attempt to do it.

Another bridge well-known for its magnificent architecture is the Si-o-se Pol Bridge in the city of Isfahan, Iran. Made up of bricks and stones, this bridge is considered as an example of Safavid bridge design having 33 arches. It measures 295 meters long and 13.75 meters wide.

Japan has the longest suspension bridge in the world, the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge also known as the Pearl Bridge. It measures 1,991 meters (6532ft) long spanning the Akashi Strait in Japan connecting Kobe on the mainland and Iwaya on Awayi Island. The construction of the bridge took 12 years and was opened for traffic in 1998.

Tourists who will take a boat ride along the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy will get a chance to see the Rialto Bridge which is the oldest bridge among the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal. This stone bridge was predicted to collapse because of its audacious design however it defied its critics and has been considered as an architectural icon of Venice.

Charles Bridge is a famous stone bridge with a Gothic design spanning across the Vitava River in the city of Prague, Czech Republic. The bridge serves as the significant connection between the Old Town and the area around the Prague Castle because it is the only way to cross the Vitava River. It is one of the most visited sights in the city of Prague.

Tower Bridge is a must-see structure if you will be purchasing airfare to London to spend a holiday. A truly magnificent sight, the bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge across the Thames River. It consists of two towers tied at the upper level by a two horizontal walkways where one can see the panoramic view of the city. It got its name being situated nearby to the Tower of London and has become an iconic symbol of London.

Anyone crossing the Millau Viaduct in Millau, France will surely be captivated by the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape and the bridge itself. Millau Viaduct is the tallest vehicular bridge in the world having a pylon’s summit of 343 meters (1125ft) which is slightly higher than the Eifel’s Tower.

Internationally recognized as the symbol of Los Angeles and California, Golden Gate Bridge is a masterwork of Architect Joseph B. Strauss. It is a suspension bridge spanning the strait of Golden Gate between San Francisco and the Marin County to the north. The bridge was designed to have a red-orange color to make it easily visible through the fog that frequently covers the bridge.

Ponte Vecchio which means Old Bridge is a Medieval bridge across the Arno River in Florence, Italy. It is the only bridge in Florence that survived the World War II. The bridge is popular because of the shops built along the structure consisting of jewelers, art dealers and vendors of souvenir items.

With all the affordable airfare deals available online, seeing all these architectural wonders is not impossible. Just keep on searching and you’ll find one which will surely fit your budget.

Top 10 Destinations for New Year Celebration

It is holiday celebrated by everyone regardless of race and religion, thus every part of the world gets into the festive mood and set exciting activities to celebrate the end of another wonderful year and welcome the New Year. While most people would like to celebrate with families and loved ones, some take advantage of the holiday vacation to travel abroad and see how other countries celebrate New Year. Here are some of the top destinations for a memorable New Year celebration.

Tokyo starts the celebration on the 29th of December until 4th of January, so if you would like to have a longer period of New Year celebration, then Tokyo is the place to be. Although most of the tourist attractions are closed for the holidays, the bustling metropolis is full of fun-filled activities for everyone. Clubs and restaurants are packed with people while the entire city is jumping with loads of fireworks, singing and dancing. Tourists will surely be thrilled to join the locals with their traditional way of welcoming New Year. It is by eating Toshikoshi Soba (New Year Noodle) and listening to Juya No Kane (The Watch-Night Bell). The noodle which is long signifies long and healthy life while the Watch-Night Bell used for countdown rings 108 times at the temples across the country to symbolize getting rid of unhappiness, poorness and the likes. Tourists also get the chance to visit the Imperial Palace which opens to the public only for New Years Greeting celebration and on the birthday of the Emperor.

Celebrate New Year ahead of other countries by going to Sydney Australia because of the time difference. Visitors and locals alike will surely be amazed of the stunning fireworks display with the accompaniment of lively music exploding over the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Every year, more than a million people gather around Sydney Harbour to join the countdown party and watch the spectacular Midnight Fireworks. The sight of exploding fireworks can be seen at its best from one of the boats in the harbour, adding magical moments to a more romantic setting.

Traveling to London is another way to have a wonderful New Year celebration. You will surely be captivated by the sight of astonishing fireworks launched into the sky off the 135 meter London Eye, projecting a light show throughout the city. This spectacular scene can be witness from rooftops and balconies however the Westminster Bridge and the north embankment of the River Thames provide the best views. The fireworks starts exploding in the sky after Big Ben struck 12 midnight and lasts for 15 minutes. River cruise is a romantic option to watch the fireworks while ushering the New Year.

Welcome the New Year in Spanish Style by taking part in Noche Vieja in Barcelona. The lively music of salsa and flamenco soar high in the entire city setting the festive mood for as long as a week. Experience the traditional Spanish way of celebrating New Year and join the locals do the countdown by eating 12 pieces of grapes, one grape following each bell sound. This custom is believed to have originated from the period of Roman Empire which symbolizes the sweet beginnings of a New Year from the sweet flavor of the fruit. Complete the holiday by participating in Cabalgata Delos Reyes Magos (Three Kings Parade) held on the 5th of January.

If you would like to have a romantic New Year celebration, book an airfare to Paris and join the Parisians as they say Bonn Annee. Head to Champ-Elysees and secure a spot along its famous streets early as people start to gather at 9pm to have a nice view in anticipation of the stunning fireworks display exploding at the top of the Eifel Tower. Toast with the locals to a flute of Champagne while watching the spectacular fireworks for an unforgettable holiday. For a magnificent view of the Paris skyline, go to Sacre Coeur in Montmartre to have the best view as you watch the fireworks launched from different parts of the city.

Italy offers exciting activities to its visitors for a splendid New Year celebration. Tourists will sure enjoy the La Festa di San Silvestro (the holiday that is celebrated in Italy on 31st December) and the Il Capodanno (Venetian style on 1st January). Treat your palate with the several course of authentic Italian cuisine in local restaurants complimented by glass of prosecco join the masked crowds in St.Mark’s Square for a countdown, where the bell of the church’s campanile announces the beginning of the new year. Fireworks display is also a part of the celebration with parties lasting until sunrise. It is a common tradition to wear red underwear as Italians believe that it will bring good luck for the coming year.

Have a memorable celebration at the New York’s Time Square as you join hundreds of thousands people gathered around the iconic landmark of New York for a New Year celebration. Millions of people all over the world look forward to see the Waterford Crystal New Year’s Ball descends from the flagpole on the top of One Times Square building. Enjoy the experience of seeing it up close up, dress warmly and be there early to have a good spot as people starts to gather as early as 3pm. The festivities continue after midnight with spectacular fireworks launched all around the city.

Experience a liveliest grand celebration as you witness the tremendous fireworks when you purchased an airfare to Las Vegas to welcome the New Year. Have a party of your life at the Las Vegas strip and be entertained with the best entertainers. If you are into a luxurious celebration, then Las Vegas is the perfect place to be.

Orlando is an ideal place also for a New Year getaway especially for families. Kids and adults alike are guaranteed to have a wonderful time at several tourist attractions such as SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Disney World. All of these theme parks prepared something spectacular for a magical night to usher the New Year. Visitors can enjoy the live entertainment throughout the day and the fireworks display at night.

Toronto also attracts a huge crowd of tourists and locals for its traditional New Year’s Eve Bash at Nathan Phillips Square which features some of the hottest pop artist performing live. People are treated with hundreds of songs from different performers as they await the countdown in midnight. There are also activities for children such as ice-skating, games at the Scarborough Civic Centre and festivities at the theme park in downtown Toronto.

Just take your pick and have a memorable New Year celebration!

The Truth About Philippines

It is not a secret that the Philippines is viewed by many in a negative light. Being a third-world country, many people pessimistically think that this Southeast Asian nation is dangerous, poor, and a bad idea – making it difficult to sell an air ticket to Philippines.

But what these people do not know about the Philippines is that it is much more than the news would report about it. Though there are isolated cases of terrorism attacks, the Philippines is still worth it to book a flight online for.

Factors are the beautiful places in the country, particularly the beach. As the Philippines is an archipelago with more than 7000 islands, it somehow follows that the country flaunts pristine and spectacular beaches. Few of the most acclaimed islands to give home to the most beautiful summer destinations like Boracay, Putipot, La Union, Batangas, and more. Among these, it is Boracay which is deemed as the place for which most people book an airfare to Philippines.

Aside from the beaches, the Philippines is also made spectacular by the different festivals celebrated in the country. The festivals reflect the long-standing and blissful heritage of the Filipino people. Totally colorful and attractive, these festivals are ways of putting the Philippines back to where it really should be; and these act as convincing factors o make one book an air ticket to Philippines online immediately.

To book an air ticket to Philippines online also allows the travelers to immerse themselves to the one-of-a-kind culture of the people. Aside from the festivals, Filipinos’ way of living is definitely worth discovering. Doing so will permit foreigners to answer all questions they have in their minds about the Philippines. Further, it will make them experience the hospitability and cheerfulness of the Filipinos. After all, the locals are very sociable.

The Philippines is not a first-world country. It may not have commercial districts, shopping malls, or entertainment centers that are comparable to other countries’ but it has its own unique charm that comes from the pristine nature and vibrant culture it gives home to.

So foreigners need not to hesitate to book an air ticket to Philippines online. For cheap air tickets, one can obtain an experience that is worth a lifetime.

10 Best Surfing Destinations

Defined as a surface water sport in which the surface rides a surfboard on the crest and face of the wave, surfing is a popular sport for those who enjoy being out in the sun and the sand. There are many variations of surfing such as body surfing, stand up paddle surfing, paipo surfing and the use of boats or canoes to ride the waves. Whatever style it is, the basic requirement for surfing is great waves, here are the best 10 picks which meet the standards of avid surfers:

Gold Coast, Australia

Australia is undoubtedly among the best destinations in the world with beautiful beaches and great waves perfect for surfing. That is why avid surfers are not hesitant to purchase an airfare to Australia because a holiday spent in its sandy beaches means an exciting and thrilling adventure. Gold Coast is the most popular place for surfing in Australia, with its great waves and subtropical climate. Though is quite expensive, surfers keep on coming back to this place to ride the waves and have a fantastic surfing moments.

Mentawai Island Indonesia

If Bali is for relaxation and rejuvenation, then Mentawi Islands are for thrill and adventure. Composed of seventy islands and islets off the western coast of Sumatra Indonesia, Mentawi Islands are among the major destinations of surfers. The four main islands that block the big waves from reaching the mainland of Sumatra are Siberut, Sipora, North Pagi and South Pagi became famous for those who are seeking thrill riding the big waves. Surfers like to book an airfare to Indonesia to visit these islands during the months of June until September as the biggest swells are most likely to occur on this period.

Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa

Surfing enthusiasts flock to Jeffrey’s Bay in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa during the month of July for the annual Billabong Pro WTC surfing event at Super Tubes. Jeffrey’s Bay is one of the most popular surfing spot all over the world because of its spectacular waves perfect for competitions showcasing the heart-stopping stunts of the professional surfers.

Fuerteventura, Spain

Weather condition is what entices the surfers to Fuerteventura in Spain. Temperature in Fuerteventura falls between 18-24 degrees Celsius making it one of the favorite surfing destinations all year round. However best swells usually come during October to March which is considered the best season. Some of the places known for great waves are the Rocky Point, Harbour Wall, Shooting Gallery, Generosa, Suicide, Mejilonas, Majanicho, El Hierro, The Bubble, German Rights, Cotillo and Esqiunzo.

El Salvador

Places like El Zonte, Sunzal and La Libertad in El Salvador are gaining their popularity to tourists because of less crowded surfing sites. The main swell season which is from March to October produces waves up to 10 feet tall which surely excite and thrill people who likes riding the waves. Aside from great waves, El Salvador also offers unexplored spots waiting for tourists to be discovered.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known to avid surfers as legendary surfing spot because of its consistent big swells throughout the year. Bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the south-east, Pacific Ocean to the west and south and Caribbean Sea to the east, its coastlines produces great waves with the major swell season starting from April and ending in October. “Hard core” surfers go for the “country’s best waves” in Playa Naranjo and the quality night river point break at Potrero Grande.

California, North America

Surfers considered California as the best place to surf in North America. Big waves hunters go to the mountains of Maverick to experience the huge winter swells that guarantee a blood-pumping adventure. On the other hand, surfers who would like to enjoy good waves but not necessarily big ones, head to places like Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay. Other places worth are Steamer Lane, Malibu and Rincon.

Bali, Indonesia

Most of the time, tourists buy an airfare to Indonesia to spend a relaxing holiday in the beautiful beaches of Bali, unknown to many people, Bali is a great place for surfing too. The swells coming from Southern Ocean can be as big as 12 feet high during the months of April to November. Some of the best surfing spots include the area around Bukit Peninsular, Kuta Beach, Dreamland, Uluwatu and Padang Padang.

Santa Catarina, Brazil

Santa Catarina is part of the southern part of Brazil known for great number of beach resorts. It features the best thing that Brazil has to offer to the surfers with the good consistency and varieties of waves in Santinho and Mocambique. Other world-class surfing spots in Santa Catarina are the Joaquina Beach, Praia Mole, Campeche and Lagoinha do Leste.

Samoa

Samoa is considered as one the best surfing spots in the world because of its consistent quality waves, rich Polynesian culture and crystal-clear waters. What surfers like most in this island is that South Pacific Ocean ensures plenty swell of waves from every direction which is an essential part of great surfing. The best swells occur from April to October when waves are created by the big lows down near Antarctica. The A’ufaga Village, Salani, Boulders, Coconuts, Salamumu and Tiavea, Laulii, Falea’puna, Fagaloa Bay and Solosolo are some of the best surfing spots.

One of these exciting places will surely meet your expectations for a fantastic surfing adventure.

Celebrating the Significance of Christmas

Christmas is a holiday celebrated in various ways around the globe. It is the season for giving and receiving gifts, gathering of families and relatives and the most enjoyable part – feasting. The spirit of Christmas can be seen and heard everywhere, from the lights of different colours adorning the trees to the Christmas carols being played all day long.

However for those who are devout Catholics who celebrate this festive season with reverence, the highlight of this occasion will be attending mass especially the one held on the midnight of 24th December. These traditional customs for celebrating “Divine Christmas” are more pronounced in the following countries known for having fabulous celebration:

Where could be the better place to celebrate Christmas than in a place where it all begun. Bethlehem and Jerusalem signifies the origin and the importance of the yuletide season. Perhaps Christmas celebration in this place will be the only thing that can surpass the magnitude and intensity of the celebration in the Vatican City. A lot of devout Catholics even go to Vatican just to celebrate Christmas. The mass on the eve of Christmas officiated by no less than the Pope himself at the St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome attracts a huge crowd of followers every year.

The city of Cologne glows with life during the month of December. During this month, seven Christmas Markets light up the old town and the square in front of “The Dom” – a cathedral in cologne famous for its spectacular Gothic architecture. Truly, it is a perfect destination for tourists for shopping and feasting.

Spending Christmas in Copenhagen need not be expensive with numerous online travel companies offering cheap airfare to Europe. Get a chance to treat your palate with the Julefrokost – a Danish Christmas lunch feast served on the 24th of December and have a taste of Glogg and Aebleskiver – a seasonal drink of warm red wine with raisins and spices.

Experience Christmas like nowhere else at Tbilisi , the capital of Georgia. Christmas celebration in this part of Europe is full of Orthodox traditions. Parts of these inherent customs are native sweets, spirits, foods and typical carols not heard anywhere else outside the country.

Situated on the Franco-German border, Strasbourg represents the best of both French and German culture with its cuisine, excellent wines and jovial nature. The town is at its best during the Christmas season as it transforms into a winter wonderland midst a snowy background. Tourist attractions such as the Christmas Market, the great Christmas Tree at the central Strasbourg, the charming neighborhood of La Petite France famous for its gingerbread and the mass held at the Cathedral of Our Lady will definitely make your holiday exciting.

Distinctly Irish – that’s what a Christmas celebration in Dublin can be described. With traditional Celtic music, Christmas ham and goose on the table, lighted candles in every window, festive spirit is felt everywhere.

Spending for an airfare to London to

celebrate Christmas became a yearly practice for those who had been captivated by the charm of this city during the festive season. Attending the famous mass at the Westminster Abbey complete with the angelic voice of the choir had been an annual activity. Probably London has the most fabulous array of midnight masses in all Christendom. In fact the midnight mass at the St. Paul’s Cathedral hosts a record high of more than 2,000 people in attendance.

Being one of the two pre-dominantly Catholic countries in Asia, Philippines celebrate Christmas as one of the biggest holiday in the archipelago. This country earned the distinction of celebrating Christmas for the longest period, starting from the month of September until early January. One of the traditions is attending the nine-day dawn and night masses before the Christmas Day called Simbang Gabi to obtain special graces.

Christmas is also a major holiday in Brazil making Rio De Janeiro the perfect place to celebrate the yuletide season. The famous landmark Christ the Redeemer which can be seen anywhere acts as a reminder for everyone about the significance of Christmas. One of the main attractions for tourist is the “Christmas Festival” which features 50 nativity scenes displayed all over the town. Mass on the eve of Christmas is also a major part of the celebration which attracts a crowd of followers every year.

Celebrating Christmas in other parts of the world can be an exciting and enriching experience. You can learn more about the other country’s tradition and customs, widening your knowledge and understanding of other races. Travelling to other country to spend the holidays is more affordable, now that countless online travel companies compete with each other offering the cheapest airline ticket to the consumers. Christmas comes every year so there will always be next year to execute your travel plans!

Asia Dominates List of Top Airlines in the World

Asians are known for their warm hospitality and genuine friendliness. Isn’t a wonder then that Asian carriers dominate the list of the top airlines in the world? According to the Skytrax’s list, the following airlines made it to the top ten: Asiana Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Thai Airways, and Malaysia Airlines. The rest of the lists are populated by airlines from the Middle East.

Some were surprised to know that U.S. and European airlines didn’t make it to the list. But more and more travelers swear by the quality of the cabins provided by Asian airlines, not to mention the world-class service. The carriers from the Middle East are quick to make the connection and have made the effort to pattern their services just like those in Asian airlines.

The key to the Asian airlines’ dominance in the list is their genuine service culture. The people in Asia are more naturally inclined to give better service to customers. This is not surprising given the quality of hospitality exhibited in Asian countries. Guests are treated as preferentially as possible, so imagine what kind of treatment you would get if you are in first class.

It’s the little things that matters most when it comes to service. For instance, in Cathay Pacific, a passenger can request for a bowl of noodles any time during the flight if he gets hungry. This is apart from the regular meals that he will get during the flight. This is a big deal compared to U.S. airlines, where the flight attendant will only give you peanuts or pretzels when you get hungry.

In Asiana Airlines, you will get down-filled duvets free of charge, which is not the same for U.S. airlines. Also, the leg room in Asiana planes is a lot bigger – you get 34 inches of space before your feet hits the seat in front of you. It may not sound much, but passengers certainly appreciate the extra leg room they get, which is not the standard for U.S. airlines which normally provide only 31 inches of leg room.

Passengers today are getting more discriminating and they demand more money for their buck. U.S. airlines should take notice of this, because Western passengers can book with Asian airlines for their trips for better value and service.

Experience Hong Kong… For Free!!!

Hong Kong is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the world and believe it or not, you can come to this wonderful paradise for free! Through the AirTicketonSale Travel Photo Contest launched by AirTicketonSale.com and C&E Holidays Pte Ltd, you are entitled to win 2 airline tickets to Hong Kong! All you have to do is to capture a photo of yourself while in your most memorable vacation.

To join, here are the contest mechanics:

1. Submit your photo to contest@airticketonsale.com with “AirTicketOnSale Travel Photo Contest” as subject. The message should include the name of the participant, contact number and a short description of the picture. All submissions should be original and the participant should be seen in it. Image size should not exceed 5MB.

2. Deadline for submission will be on August 22, 2011 to September 22, 2011.

3. Confirmation emails will be sent within 48 hours and qualified entries will be posted on the AirTicketOnSale Facebook Page

4. Like the AirTicketonSale Facebook Page and tag yourself on your photo entry.

5. The winner will be determined based on the number of ‘likes’ in the photo. Participants are allowed to share the link of their entry to garner votes. However, only the likes on the official ATOS links will be counted. To do so, people are required to like the ATOS page before proceeding on liking your entry.

6. By the end of the voting period on September 30, 2011, the entry with the most number of likes will be declared the winner and he or she will receive the 2 airline tickets to Hong Kong.

7. The winner will be officially notified through email. It will be officially announced in the ATOS Facebook page on October 03, 2011.

8. All decisions of AirTicketOnSale and C&E Holidays Pte Ltd are irrefutable.

All submissions should be original and the participant should appear in the picture. Participants are allowed to submit only one photo each. In submitting, contest participants are relinquishing their rights over the photo and are allowing ATOS to use, archive, and distribute it without their consents.

The AirTicketonSale Travel Photo Contest is open to Singapore residents only and will have one winner only.

So what are you waiting for? Grab that camera now and start capturing the best moments!