Touring Bangkok: Traveling in its Wonderful Temples

A country in the Southeast Asian region, Bangkok, Thailand is known for its distinct cultural history and colorful traditions. What makes Thailand unique is that, Thais pay importance to their history even up to this day and age. Because of these, Bangkok becomes one of the most interesting tourist destinations.

Speaking of striking architecture, one of the most popular tourist spots in Bangkok, Thailand are its finest temples which can be one of the highlights of visit to the city. These places of worship existed in centuries starting from the early Lanna period down to the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods to the current ‘glorious era’ of Rattanakosin.

The Role of Buddhist Temples in Thais’ Spirituality

Buddhism is widely practiced in Thailand as a state religion. As a matter of fact, 95% of the population in Thailand are Buddhists. The main principle of this religion is that, you might have lived upon this earth during a past life but in a different form or status. In other words, the physical form and future life of a newly born will depend on the karma gained or lost in their past life.

If you happen to visit Thailand you will notice that Buddhist temples play an important role in the everyday life of the Thais. People go to temples to seek guidance, for good health and fortune and wealth. Some troubled souls also seek advice from monks. Some believed that if its your first time in a temple, you can pray or wish for once and it will come true. Do you wish to go to these temples? The huge help of some travel agents for a Bangkok tour will let you discover them more.

Wat Traimit

This temple is the home to the world’s largest massive gold-seated Buddha which measures 5 meters in height and weighs 5 and a half tons. In the past, artists made the Buddhas in gold and dress them up from invading armies by putting a huge stucco and plaster. This is located at the end of Chinatown’s Yaowarat Road, near Hualampong Railway Station.

The Buddha at Wat Traimit was discovered by accident. When it was accidentally dropped, it revealed, under a casing of plaster, a beautiful solid gold Sukhothai style Buddha. Therefore, they kept the pieces of the plaster on display.

Wat Pho

By all means, this is considered as one of the leading schools of massage in Thailand. This temple is associated with King Rama I who reestablished the temple complex on an earlier temple site, and became his main temple. Finally, it is one of the largest temple complexes in the city and famed for its giant reclining Buddha that measures 46 meters long and is covered in gold leaf.

In conclusion, touring these temples are really worthwhile especially if you want to find your inner peace. However, when visiting a temple, please always pay attention to the rules and regulation accordingly in order to respect Thailand’s customs and traditions.

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Reasons Why You Should Visit the Philippines

The Philippines is best known for its natural beauty, from white sandy beaches and rich coral reefs to green mountains, perfectly-shaped volcanoes and brightly-colored “Ifugao Rice Terraces that attracted over 4.8 million tourists in 2014, based on the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s Tourism Highlights 2015.

Indeed, Philippines is one of the best tourist destinations that will surely leave you breathless. If you are tired of colossal temples, this country will give you a distinct feeling of joy and so much discovery that can’t be felt elsewhere in Asia. Its natural resources along with its delectable cuisines will attract you more of its rich culture and heritage.

Here are the reasons why you should get in touch with a tour operator in the Philippines and visit the country.

Philippines is very festive at heart

Celebrations like Panagbenga in Baguio City, Maskara Festival in Bacolod, and Ati-Atihan in Aklan make the Philippines a splash of color and diversity. If you are into riotous costumes, odd folklore and street dancing, these festivities will tour you around the memory lane. They truly showcase the heart and soul of the Filipino natives.

Filipinos also pay tribute to their own patron saints and bountiful harvests by remembering their town festivals. With numerous towns and cities to choose from, you will never run out of itinerary in this country, at any time of the year.

Philippines is an English speaking country

English being the universal language is one important aspect that’s why traveling to other countries become a success. Foreigners love to travel in the Philippines because 90% of its people know how to speak English. Unlike most of its neighboring countries in South East Asia, where you’ll find it easy to communicate.

As far as traveling is concerned, the Philippines is a great country for first time travelers because of their language. As a matter of fact, Koreans visit this country to study basic and advanced English lessons for better opportunities abroad and in their country.

Philippines is full of exotic and pristine beaches

With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines proved to many that it is the absolute destination for water sports.

Certainly, there are a lot of reasons to visit this country aside from all of these. If you want a vacation that is truly memorable, try going to this country and experience hospitality at its finest form.

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What is the Best Travel Agency in Manila?

Tourists, both local and foreign alike, asks one but relevant question when it comes to traveling: What is the best travel agency in Manila? Since all of us craves a memorable yet enjoyable travel moment, we will and always will be, find what’s the best for us.

The answer to that question is simple. The best travel agency in Manila is none. Why? It is because travel agencies today provide the best they can offer to satisfy their customer’s needs. With the tourist sector of this country boosting, they will provide many ways, no matter how complicated, just to attract them and to make good memories during their trips.

In the Philippines, travel agencies remain a staple factor in the tourism and traveling sectors for several reasons:

Cheap tour packages

Whether you’re alone or travelling on a group, they are always here to guide what’s best for you. Even you’re on a budget, they can help you spend it in every possible way to ensure you’re going to have a memorable travel moments by means of tour packages.

The Power of Social Media

With the emergence of Social Media that took over the world, advertising is not a problem anymore. Most travel agencies reported that when social media like Facebook and Instagram takes play in attracting customers, their sales performance improved. Blogging sites, for example, promotes a certain location in the Philippines to his/her followers whenever he/she visited it; therefore, encourages more people to go there.

Our Current Generation

Millennials, as they call it, are adventurous and much more curious about things. They are also more multi-ethnic and are value-conscious when spending money especially when it comes to traveling. With Social Media and their views around things, there’s no doubt travel agencies come in handy for planning trips.

Minimal Requirements

As long as you provide some information, identification cards, money and time, you can set a tour on your own with your trusted travel agency. It is really not that hard to travel on your own you know.

All travel agencies want what’s the best for their consumer to satisfy them and build unforgettable memories with wherever their money, time, and effort can take them. All you need to do is ensure that it they offer the important things that you will need during your travel. There really is no best travel agency in Manila.

The main reality is this: Not everybody who is taking a trip needs a travel agent. But the reason that travel agencies remain in this age of information is because they know more about trotting the globe than anyone else.

Furthermore, what may be even more important, having a travel agency in your back provides a safety net in case something goes wrong that even insurance packages can’t offer. Visit www.unotours.com so we can help you plan your next destination and for your other travel needs.

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Traveling Beijing And Its Highlighted Festivals

Beijing, the capital of China, is also the cultural center of China. What makes Beijing unique compare to its neighboring Asian countries is that they have a calendar of festivals and holidays throughout the year. Most of Chinese festivals are scheduled based on the lunar calendar. Hence, dates will differ from year to year. For tourists who would like to experience the Chinese festivals, we got your back.

Below are some of the highlighted and most celebrated festivals throughout the Land of the Red Dragon:

Chinese New Year

Also known as the Spring Festival by the Chinese, is the most important festival in Beijing. It signals the first day if the first month in the lunar calendar and ends with the Lantern Festival on the 15th. Because of its significance to the Chinese, temples host fairs and most businesses close for at least several days. During the festivity, the Dragon Dance and Lion Dance are traditionally performed.

Lantern Festival

On the last day of the Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival will be held. This is the time where Chinese will see the full moon for the first time in the new year. It is traditionally a time for family reunion. Moreover, the displaying of lanterns is a big event on this day. Another important part of the festival is by eating small dumpling balls made of rice flour.

Qingming

During April, every Chinese family pay their respects to their deceased ancestors and to clean and decorate their grave sites. This is the Chinese version of All Souls Day. Kites are seen being flown in the sky during this day and symbolic money being burned. It is because they believed it will help their ancestors in the afterlife.

Duan Wu Jie (Dragon Boat Festival)

This festivity falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. Dragon boat races are the most popular activity during the festival, especially in Southern China. Additionally, a traditional part of the celebration is eating zongzi, which are triangular, glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in banana or other leaves.

Meet in Beijing Arts Festival

This is a month-long festival that showcases dance, theater and music performances. Other than that, it also features art exhibitions from Chinese and international performers as well. Events usually takes place at various locations in Beijing in April and/or May.

National Day

The 1st of October is the National Day of People’s Republic of China that first started in 1949. This is where parades and firework shows take place throughout Beijing.

Mid-Autumn Festival

Also known as the Moon Festival, celebrates the end of the autumn harvest takes place on the 15th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar. Dances, lighting lanterns and eating “moon cakes” are traditional activities along with the main activity: moon watching

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Reach for the Stars with Dubai's Skyscrapers

What comes into your mind when you heard the Dubai? Some would say deserts; some would say its skyscrapers, but unbeknownst to many, Dubai holds the most number of skyscrapers ever built in the world.

AN INTRODUCTION

Dubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai has emerged as a global city and business hub of the Middle East. As of 2012, Dubai is the 22nd most expensive city in the world and the most expensive city in the Middle East. Their skyscrapers and high-rise buildings define how Dubai stands compare to other countries.

This city is the home of the tallest buildings ever built in the planet. In less than ten years since the 90s, the city has amassed one of the largest skylines in the world; it is now home to the world’s tallest building, the world’s tallest residence, and the world’s tallest hotel. With a total number of 911 completed high-rises and 640 active high-rises currently in development, Dubai is the place for architectural junkies.

The Burj Khalifa

The price jewel of Dubai. This 828 meters building and its 163 floors stood as both the tallest building in the world and the tallest man-made structure of any kind in the world. Not just that, the building holds several world records until today including the world’s highest elevator installation, the building with world’s highest occupied floor, and more.

Obviously, its height definitely catches everyone’s eyes compare to other structures. But there are parts of the tower that stands out which become a must-see for tourists. The highest outdoor observation deck in the world is in Burj Khalifa’s 124th floor. When it opened, it offered visitors views from 555 meters above the ground. The Burj Khalifa offers a scenic view of its park along with the Dubai Fountain.

Marina 101

Marina 101 is a 101-storey building in Dubai which is still under construction. It is set to be the tallest residential building in the world as of 2015 having a 5-star Hard Rock hotel with 281 rooms. It also features a club lounge, restaurants and a merchandise store.

Princess Tower

Princess Tower is currently the second tallest building in the ever-expanding metropolis of Dubai, after the Burj Khalifa, and the 20th tallest building in the world. This was the tallest residential building in the world from 2012 to 2015 until it was overtaken by 432 Park Avenue in New York City. The tower stands at 107 storeys and includes basement floors, a ground floor and 100 levels above ground.

23 Marina

23 Marina holds the record for the world’s tallest all-residential building until the completion of the Princess Tower in 2012. The tower is equipped with its own private elevator in each duplex along with 57 swimming pools.

Elite Residence

Comprising 91 floors which contain 695 apartments, 12 elevators and amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and more, Elite Residences earned its place to be the third tallest residential building in the world. The building also overlooks one of the manmade palm islands, Palm Jumeirah.

Dubai has a rich collection of buildings and structures of various architectural styles. Tourism has a very large and important role in boosting Dubai’s economy and its towers and buildings erected everywhere witnessed to that.

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Travelling the Philippines: Affordable and Convenient

Let’s face it. Traveling the Philippines is not as easy as it seems compare other countries. Because of its archipelagic topography, it’s hard to travel from one island to another without spending some expenses which can be a problem to some. But with the right budget and vast knowledge with what you’re visiting, you can make it possible.

The Philippines has 7,107 islands and it is impossible to travel it by yourself. What if you don’t have time to plan because of the limited allotted only for your families and stuffs? Therefore, it is recommended to consult a travel agency.

Travel Agencies are the primary source for travel resources for both normal individuals and tourist service providers. It’s their job to the promote all travel essential for both business and leisure travelers including:  hotels, ferries and airlines among other travel needs. The role of a travel agent is to make the process of designing a trip as stress-free as possible. They provide clients professional, personalized service and expertise to fulfill their travel requests.

But guess what? You can also travel the country on your own because it is affordable, easy and convenient.

WHY AFFORDABLE AND EASY?

Land transportations in the Philippines like buses and jeepneys are not that expensive. They often cost 20 to 100 pesos, depending on your destination. Air and Sea Transportation like ferries and airplanes, on the other hand, might have a problem especially for a budget-friendly. But, air and sea transportation save a lot of travel time compare to land.

Everyone can afford food. It’s not that much of a problem during your stay in the country. The prices range from 50 to 100 pesos per person that will surely everyone’s tummy.

Hotel accommodations is not that much of a trouble too. Hotels and hostels in most visited tourist spots are available around the place. But it is better to book early before your arrival so that you can save time and avoid being rushed.

WHY CONVENIENT?

Visiting the Philippines is very convenient. Boracay Island, also known as one of the world’s famous beaches, is the living example that visiting the country can be convenient. The island alone recorded a number of 1 million tourist arrivals last year and some says that it will continue to expand for the next following years.

The Philippines is a country where the tourism sector is a top priority. Blessed by wonderful natural and man-made places, it is their job to preserve it for the next generations to come. It is also their duty to satisfy the arriving tourists to help them feel at home while being convenient.

Along with the change in technology, the role of travel agencies is changing too. The Internet has provided us regular individuals with all the resources that a travel agent has. Regular individuals like you or me are now able to book tickets, search for hotels and learn your destination’s history. The only difference is that we only have access to the resources available online.

Lastly, if you want to travel Philippines, you can do it on your own which can improve personality development, but it is much different and better with a travel agency because they will surely manage your budget and time which is recommended for people who don’t want to be stressed. If you want a travel agency to help you, visit www.unotours.com so we can help you plan your next destination and for your other traveling needs.

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Top 3 Must – See Places in Coron Palawan

Coron, being the 3rd largest island in Calamian Islands, the northern part of Palawan has an innate natural beauty that will delight the eyes of travelers with its awe-inspiring natural rock formation, aquamarine colored beaches and peaceful vibe that reveals the soul of this island paradise. Showcasing the best of both worlds especially to those who are looking for tranquility or exciting adventures, exploring this place is recommended for local and foreign tourists.

In recent years, Palawan allure many people because of its charm and beauty. The breathtaking land and seascapes of this island equates a lot of activities and many destinations. Take time to read this article as it discusses must-see places in Coron.

Kayangan Lake

Are you up for an adventure and experience of a lifetime? Joining a tour with the help of a reputable travel agent in the Philippines is the first step if you want to explore the Kayangan Lake. This is undoubtedly one of the cleanest lakes in the country which has a mixture of fresh and salt water that makes it distinct from the other bodies of water.

Kayangan Lake is one of the main attractions in Coron. Dive in its crystal clear waters while surrounded by limestone cliffs in this place that you would not wanna miss.

Mount Tapyas

Situated in the town proper, this famous “Palawenos” pride is suited to those who wants to view the sunset overlooking the town of Coron, Coron Island and Coron Bay. If you are a traveler who also happens to be a health buff, you can climb this mountain with more than 700 steps before reaching the top.

Hailed as the 2nd tallest mountain in Coron, Palawan, Mt. Tapyas stands at 210 meters.  The white cross on its summit is lighted at night, so the mountain is easy to recognize like a beacon, whenever and wherever you are in Coron town or at nearby islands.

As has been mentioned, if you are wondering why this place is included as a part of many tour packages in Palawan, the amazing sunrise and sunset will surely seal the deal. Lastly, enjoy the rest and solitude at the northern hut, while the morning breeze cooled you off.

Barracuda Lake

Intimidating name as it sounds, Barracuda Lake showcases mysterious skylines that can pass as an impressive location of a local or foreign film. Moreover, this is one of Coron’s primary attractions with fortress like jungle-clad rocky and steep slope.

This island only takes a 20-minute boat ride from the town of Coron. In other words, its distinct layers of fresh, salt and brackish water will surely capture the interests of divers and water sports enthusiasts.

With the growing number of tourists coming from different parts of the globe in Coron this past few years, the town has been able to adjust with its growing number. But of course, traveling in this place need not to be expensive as long as you know how to use your skills in budgeting. In this case, looking for a travel agent that will help you experience this paradise.

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