GALANG ISLAND INDONESIA

GALANG ISLAND

INDONESIA

Galang Island belongs to the Riau Group of Islands of Indonesia and is connected by a bridge to Batam Island. Getting from Batam island to Galang requires crossing of six bridges, starting with Barelang Bridge. It is its history what makes Galang Island famous. 

For a number of years, from 1976 to late 1980s Galang Island was home to Vietnamese refuges. They arrived in boats, just like today refugees arrive in Australia or Europe.

Now Galang Island is full on memories and it has a Museum preserving the history of life in Galang while the refugees waited to be taken to a new country. Many migrated to the Philippines, Australia and other parts of Indonesia.

They tried to live a normal life during the years of waiting while Galang was their home. They built temples and churches that now still stand as monuments to humanity.

Although this is history for the refugees from Vietnam going back to 1970's, the refugee problem still exists. 

If anything, it is more pronounced now everywhere in the world and involves more countries which refugees come from and where they are heading. One can only hope that their lives in waiting are as memorable as Galang Island history.

PULAU BATAM INDONESIA

PULAU BATAM

INDONESIA

Pulau Batam is just one of many islands of Kepulauan Riau, Riau Archipelago of

Indonesia. Due to its proximity to Malaysia it can be reached by ferry from Stulang Laut Johor Bahru as well as from Singapore. 

Pulau Batam is proud of several Mosques, Buddhist Temples and Churches with Tua Pek Kong Temple, Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple Batam Grand Mosque being main attractions.

Yet another attraction are the six bridges connecting Pulau Batam with other nearby islands of Riau Archipelago.

Jembatan Barelang, Barelang Bridge, is two kilometers long and connects Batam with other islands, Rempang, Galang, Tonton, Nipah, Setotok. It is the prelude to six bridges crossing.

A nearby Bintan Island is larger than Batam and has rich trading history going back to the 3^rd century, being on route between China and India. Now it is a holiday destination and can be reached by ferry from Sekupang Terminal.

There are a number of ferry terminals in Batam, the island is big, just over 700 square kilometers, almost as big as Singapore. One can choose between Batam Centre and Harbour Bay terminals to limit traveling time to their destination.

Duty free shopping is available in both areas with Nagoya Hill great shopping area in between.

There is also a terminal at Nongsa Point with resorts and beaches, restaurants and cafes, away from traffic.  

Batam Island is only one of some 13 000 islands of Indonesia and is a good example of the beauty of Indonesian islands, its culture, history and taste.

QUEENSLAND AUSTRALIA

QUEENSLAND

AUSTRALIA

Queensland is the next biggest state in Australia, after Western Australia. It has been visited by Dutch explorers before Captain Cook arrived back in 1770.

Western Australia's Pelsart group of Islands has a tragic history of a Dutch ship back in 1630 on its way to Batavia, Dutch East Indies, ending its existence on a reef. Not so Queensland though. Captain Cook climbed the hill of settlement, currently called 1770, to honor the Captain, had a good bird's eye view of the reefs and safely took his ship through the passage.

Queensland is famous for its coastline. There are only a few inland centres based on mineral resources giving jobs and some stations inhabited by farmers. The majority of the population is hugging the coast and coastal cities.

Sailing is popular and sailing grounds fabulous. In fact, early April a procession of yachts escapes winter in Victoria and NSW and is sailing up the Queensland Coast in search of sunshine and warmth. Well, with plenty of sunshine there are also numerous storms. However, those pass fast and enhance sunsets.

The coastline is scenic and can be dramatic. Stretches of long sandy beaches are tourist free, true nature at its best of scarcely inhabited Far North Queensland. Just beware of crocodiles in vicinity of mangroves. It is their territory. There is also plenty of harmless wildlife to admire.

The advantage of cruising up the Queensland coast is access to islands and bays that cannot be visited by road. There are no roads in the bush, rainforest and wilderness.

Cruising the Queensland coast is the best form of transport, it is also most enjoyable way to travel. A company of man's best friend, alerting one to dolphins swimming of the bow wave, makes cruising that much more enjoyable.

To ponder on the beauty of nature while observing spectacular sunsets accompanied by sundowners on deck is another attraction of cruising the Queensland Coast.

PULAU TIOMAN MALAYSIA

PULAU TIOMAN

MALAYSIA

Pulau Tioman can be accessed by ferry from Mersing. A breath taking view of Gunung Nenek Semukut welcomes visitors on the approach to the southern coast of Tioman.

Pulau Tioman is nature in its true word. Miles of sandy beaches surround the island occasionally broken up by scenic rock formations. Most of the island is jungle and rain forest with plentiful wildlife and birds. There are jungle tracks and only eight kilometers of roads usually tackled by motor bikes but the main transport is boats. In fact, main transport is jalan jalan which means walking. The distances are short and walking one can came across monitor lizards, monkeys squirrels and birds. 

Tioman can be proud of its underwater world. Diving and snorkeling is a true adventure. There are a number of offshore islands that offer coral reefs to explore. Colorful fish is plentiful.

The fact that Tioman is a duty free port is just an additional attraction. Sampling duty free drinks while enjoying a scenic sunset just adds to the charm of Tioman.

KRAKOW POLAND

KRAKOW

POLAND

Krakow, once a medieval city on the banks of Wisla River, is now a thriving modern city. However, its history is well preserved. It shows its history at every step. There are castles, churches and architecture that go back centuries. Even the World War II could not destroy the beauty of this enchanting city.

The Old Town is enclosed in the medieval walls with Kosciol Mariacki, St Mary's Basilica, towering over Market Square, Rynek Glowny and Sukiennice, Cloth Hall.

Medieval history and architecture dominates Krakow. It was home of Polish kings and now reflects the atmosphere of the past as well as a modern city. The mythical legend brings visitors to Wavel upon Wisla river where Krakow was established, as the legend goes, when a brave prince defeated a dragon.

Wawel Hill is the place to listen to the folklore story of Smok Wawelski. Also a river cruise depicts that important legend.

A stroll through cobblestone streets of the Old Town brings one easily to the days gone by. Sampling delicious cuisine in many restaurants and cafes, a visit to markets or a concert in a church can be a memorable event.

MYSTERIOUS MOROCCO

MYSTERIOUS MOROCCO

The Kingdom of Morocco, the furthest west, Maghreb-el-Aksa in Arabic, is located on the north western corner of the African continent. It is only a couple of hours away from Europe by ferry.

Atlas Mountains and Rif Mountains ranges separate a conglomerate of modern cities from Sahara Desert. Cities like Rabat or Fes are both modern and historical holding castles and casbahs so typical to Morocco.

 Casablanca, famous from the Bogart movie, is a port and a busy city. Marrakech famous for its market square, Jamna el-Fna where authentic souvenirs can be purchased and green mint tea can be sampled, is a must to visit.

Sahara Desert is still home to Berber Tribes. 

The customs and Berber dances can be seen during dinner and show evenings. Berber Tea Ceremony is a very special event. They are the original inhabitants of Morocco that were invaded by Arabs in the 680s. Many mosques were built then and now represent architectural delights of the country.

 France and Spain ruled Morocco until it became an independent kingdom in 1956. Now a modern country preserving its history and riches, Morocco is a superb tourist destination.

Morocco has access to both Atlantic and the Mediterranean coasts. Its highest mountain is Djebel Toubkal stands over 4000 meter tall. The summers are hot and winters mild, perfect climate to visit and maybe explore the desert on a camel, best transport in Morocco's terrain. 

JOHOR BAHRU MALAYSIA

JOHOR BAHRU

MALAYSIA

Johor Bahru is famous for its proximity to Singapore. Many Singaporeans travel here to do their shopping, with a Singaporean dollar getting three Ringett on the currency exchange, everything is so much cheaper in JB.

However, JB is tired of being treated as a poor cousin and is trying to become equal. The development is visible at every step and soon JB is going to be a Rover City of Southern Malaysia.

JB used to be a River City back in 1950s. Sungai Seggat was flowing freely through the city. The development progresses fast but there is still a lot of work to be done.

At the moment the region of Stulang Laut serves as the waterfront recreational area with duty free, The Zone and many restaurants.

It is located on the shores of Johor Straits. There is also a ferry terminal here and regular ferry services to Pulau Batam, Indonesia. 

The sunsets here are spectacular and the night entertainment enchanting. It is joy to be part of this exciting city.

JB is a 5 minute train ride away from Singapore. Another option is a causeway drive, that could take an hour or longer depending on the traffic although the causeway is only 1 km long. Visiting JB is worthwhile even if one does not intend to do any shopping.

 

PULAU SINGA BESAR LANGKAWI MALAYSIA

PULAU SINGA BESAR

LANGKAWI

MALAYSIA

Pulau Singa Besar is just one of the 99 islands surrounding Langkawi. It is, like all of Langkawi islands, scenic and full of wildlife. Eagles, kingfishers, monitor lizards and magnitude of monkeys are ever present. The island has a sandy beach offering a pleasant nature discovery stroll. However, the most scenic island is Pulau Singa Kechil, picturesque and enjoyable to look at but wild and not accessible. However, birdsong can be heard and colorful kingfishers and horn-bills can be seen.

Pulau Singa Besar is an eagle sanctuary. Langkawi is a natural habitat for sea eagles. A great number of eagles is attracted to Singa Besar during feeding time to please the tourists. The island is also known for jam sessions organised by yachting community of Langkawi. Easily accessible from Kuah, Pulau Rebak and Telaga Harbor this great anchorage attracts many yachts.

Great music in company of friends in natural surrounds with fabulous backdrop of colorful sunsets is a memory forever.

The Geopark, natural beauty and warm climate makes Langkawi a treasure among islands of Malaysia. Visiting outer islands, accessible only by boat, brings a world of natural beauty so much closer.

KO LANTA THAILAND'S BEST KEPT SECRET

KO LANTA

THAILAND'S BEST KEPT SECRET

The Kingdom of Thailand has become a very popular tourist destination. In fact, the amount of tourists visiting is spoiling its natural beauty by overcrowding. However, Ko Lanta is an island that has a resonable numbers of visitors and thus is an absolute paradise. How long can Ko Lanta survive its image of serene and not crowded island? A bridge is being built. The limited access by car ferry is coming to an end and increased traffic may ruin Ko Lanta's image.

Its calm waters invite for a boat trip to discover secluded beaches. A bike trip around and across the island shows amazing natural scenery and rewards with a stop to rest and swim in crystal clear waters.

 

Lanta Old Town offers great restaurants, delicious cuisine and some shopping.Ko Lanta is a scenic island, the people are friendly and speak some English. Its main attraction though is tranqulity that many tourist destinations lack.

There are islands around Ko Lanta accessible by local boats or just pleasing the eye during bike trips. There are also chicky monkeys trying to find food left in a bike or trying to take a bike for a spin.

Ko Lanta has a few local villages but its beauty is in undisturbed visual pleasure of its landscape.

Thailand with its culture, people, cuisine and natural beauty is a fabulous destination. Ko Lanta is one of the best spots to enjoy.

BARCELONA MARAVILLOSA Y ROMANTICA

BARCELONA

MARAVILLOSA Y ROMANTICA

Barcelona, a capital of Catalonia is one of the most impressive cities of Spain. Its Gothic Quarter, full of narrow streets, squares, amazing shops and above all churches and cathedrals, boasts architecture and history.

Plaza de Catalonia is good starting point to exploration of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter and famous Las Ramblas. The night scene of Las Ramblas decorated with stylish street lamps, souvenir stalls, bars and restaurants is unforgettable.

Barcelona is also known as the city of Gaudi, famous architect and artist. His masterpiece is Sagrada Familia Church but many buildings hold elements of his art.

There is a modern side to Barcelona as well. La Boqueria, the markets where delicious foods and fruits are presented by local stallholders. The beach invites for a stroll and a swim. The port is a gateway to Balleric Islands. Barcelona is a thriving and unforgettable city.

VIENNA the PRIDE of AUSTRIA

VIENNA

the

PRIDE of AUSTRIA

Vienna, glamorous capital of Austria, is a paradise for lovers of classical music. Schubert, Strauss, Mozart, Bethoven can be heard at Vienna State Opera. Some concerts are performed in the original Mozart style period costumes. Sounds of Vienna can be heard in Houses of Music, Museums, Cathedrals. Many churches have frequent organ recitals. Also a number of restaurants offer concert and dinner packages. Vienna Boys' Choir can be heard in the Hofburg Chapel. A visit to Vienna is not just an ear please. It is an absolute joy for eyes as well. Its architecture astonishes at every step.  

The Belvedere, Baroque Palaces, surrounded by gardens, fountains and sculptures are now opened to visitors but used to be inhabited by royalty, Prince Eugene of Savoy and later Maria Theresa, Queen of Hungary in early 1700s.

A visit to Schonbrunn Palace shows a picture of the rule of Habsburg Dynasty.

Albertina presents famous paintings, Imperial Carriage Museum and Spanish Riding School show history and the old grandiose days, even City Hall is a masterpiece of architecture.

Above all, Vienna represents composers, imperial history and the grand era gone by.

However, Vienna has a special present day charm as well and many taverns that offer authentic cuisine and delicious wines. A Danube River Cruise is a way to relax after strenuous sightseeing and museums visits.

VIVA ESPANA

VIVA ESPANA

Spain dominates Iberian Peninsula. It shares the Atlantic Ocean with Portugal and extends its ownership to Canary Islands located in the south, of the African Coast. Its Mediterranean Coast from Costa del Sol to Costa Brava is not only full of beach resorts but boasts grand cities from Malaga to Barcelona. It also has easy ferry access to Baleric Islands.

Madrid, Spain's capital, is centrally located within the Iberian Peninsula, away from the oceans and the seas. Madrid boasts museums, Museo del Pradobeing an absolute must to see. Royal Palace – Palacio Real, numerous catherdals and parks with Parque del Retiro being the biggest and located in the centre of this fabulous city. 

Another must see and experience is Plaza Mayor. It offers delicious cuisine, restaurants and bars and markets.Just strolling along Grand Via is a joy. A visit to Madrid would not be complete without seeing a bullring, Las Ventas Bullring being popular, or the Cervantes Monument at the Plaza de Espana.

Spain has so much to offer, its history presents itself in Toledo and Avila, famous for Santa Teresa relics, its churches and cathedrals enclosed in the 11^th century old city walls.

Seville boasts its 15^th century Cathedral with its bell tower built in the minaret of a former Great Mosque.

The city has Andalusian flavor and a flamenco dance evening is enchanting. Granada is famous for its Alhambra Palace. Build by Moors in the 13^th century it shows stone cut lace architecture and is surrounded by gardens and fountains.

Spanish Mediterranean Coast, Costa del Sol with Malaga been a representative of architecture and history is lined up with resorts and superb views of Gibraltar.

Spain is a fascinating country, rich in history, architecture and diverse scenery. It offers delicious wines and cuisine and unforgettable guitars and dance of Flamenco.