Visiting Tai Shan, Shandong Province, China

Tai’an is the gateway town to Tai Shan Mountain, one of the oldest places of worship in China. Emperors, ministers, priests and peasants have all made the gruelling trek up to the very top to offer prayers and light candles and incense to honour the gods. One day is not enough for you to see all things the places has to offer.

Climbing Tai Shan Mountain is long and taxing. You can pass the night at Midway Gate to Heaven (about halfway up the mountain) or on the very peak. The God of Wealth Temple is located at the Midway Gate to Heaven. Ahead of it is the Five Pine Pavilion. This area is where first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, took shelter during a storm.

Just near the pavilion is the Path of Eighteen Bends. This path will lead you to the summit. Along the way you will pass by the Opposing Pines Pavilion, Welcoming Pine and the Archway to Immortality. But you will forget how tiring it is when you see the magnificent sunrise or sunset from the top of the mountain. Further on the path is the Path of Eighteen Bends, a gruelling climb which will take you to the summit. To get to the top, you will go through such surveys as Opposing Pines Pavilion, Welcoming Pine and the Archway to Immortality.

One of the most-visited places in Tai’an is the Dai Temple. Surrounded by centuries old trees, it is a long-established pilgrimage spot on the long route up the mountain. At the very top are sacrificial altars to the god of Tai Shan. The temple, the setting and the whole atmosphere seems to transport you back in time when the emperors of different dynasties would climb the peaks with his followers trailing behind in a flurry of incense and silk banners. The Dai Temple can be accessed via the north gate at the south end of Hongmen Lu. If you get into via the southern gate you will travel along the same path millions of pilgrims have taken throughout the long centuries to reach the temple.

There are two beautiful gardens on both sides of the north gate. The nine-bay Hall of Heavenly Blessing is the main hall that dates back to 1009 CE and is graced a 62 meter long fresco from the Song dynasty nestled in a dark area of the hall. It is an awesome and very artistic depiction of Emperor Zhenzong as the god of Tai Shan with an array of elephants, lions and camels. The temple also keeps a seated statue of the god of Tai Shan with an inscription that says "Dongyue Taishan zhi Shen" ('God of the Eastern Peak Tai Shan'). Please be aware that photography is not allowed here.

As a side note, the Emperor Wudi is believed to have planted the cypress trees that can be seen from the Han Bai courtyard. Past the southern gate is the beautiful Daimiao Fang, an adorned arch with illustrations of lions, dragons and phoenixes that have endured the passing of time.

South of the temple is Taocan Pavilion. It keeps a hall dedicated to images of the Old Mother of Taishan (Taishan Laomu), Bixia and the Jade Lady. Bixia is known as the Princess of the Azure Clouds, a Daoist goddess who has been a powerful influence on women in Shangdong. It is said that if you make the trek up Tai Shan and offer her prayers and lit incense in her name you will live up to 100. The Jade Lady has been worshipped on the mountain for centuries and offerings are still made to her today, especially by women praying for fertility.

Accommodation on Tai Shan can become expensive during the first week in May and October, but the rest of the time you can receive discounts on request. Xianju Hotel is located just beyond the South Gate to Heaven and offers decent rooms and the Shenqi Hotel is the only three star hotel on the peak.

Tai Shan has a special place in the hearts and minds of the Chinese people; with a rich mythological past (including the creation myth of Pan Gu), it has spanned the long centuries influencing religions, politics, art and individuals. This is one of the few places in China where you can marvel at each age of Chinese history and religion, making tai Shan unique and extremely special.

Governor Residence Hotel, Yangon, Burma

If it is a taste of the exotic that you are after, then you will be salivating over the Governor Residence Hotel in beautiful Yangon in Burma. If it is history you are after in a hotel, then a taste the colonial charms from the 1920s will have you drooling over the intricate beauty of the Governor Residence Hotel. If it is luxury you are after, then sample everything here. No matter what you are looking for, the Governor Residence Hotel beats every other hotel in Yangon.

Built in the 1920s, the Governor Residence Hotel is a sprawling magnificent teak hotel full of charm and understated sophisticated. Set in a gorgeous setting complete with tranquil lotus ponds, ancient trees and lush green vegetation, this is a taste of the Far East we all imagine in our minds.

Rooms here are a dream. The two storey hotel divides its rooms into several categories – deluxe, deluxe garden view, governor’s room, junior suites and two bedroom junior suite.

Spacious and drenched in sunlight, the deluxe garden view rooms are tastefully decorated in a colonial style. The floors and furniture are all made out of the same heavy teak wood and all come with a couch, writing desk and mini bar. The bathrooms are well appointed and spotless. However, it is the garden views from these rooms which put a smile on your face. With gorgeous views of the peaceful lotus pond, the towering trees and the rest of the grounds, how could it not?

The Mandalay Restaurant is the main dining experience here and what an experience it is. The dining room is casually stylish, again with heavy teak furniture fashioned in a grand colonial style reminiscent from when Burma was part of the British Empire.

The cuisine here, whether you are having breakfast, lunch or dinner, is a feast for your eyes as well as your palette. A fusion style of Burmese, Asian and Western, the skilful chefs artistically prepare some of the most delicious specialities you are ever likely to come across. We recommend the tiger prawns with grilled aubergine and then finish with the flamed banana with star anis caramel sauce for dessert. Delicious.

On those beautiful cool evenings or very early mornings, you can have your meals out in the gorgeous gardens. An evening drink overlooking the lotus ponds relaxes the mind and spirit along with the body.

The Governor Residence Hotel is the perfect place to relax when you want to do something a little more physical, you can indulge yourself in a dip in the hotel’s magnificent swimming pool. At dusk, lanterns are lit making it truly spectacular.

You can enjoy some traditional spa therapies at the Governor Residence Hotel, applied by some of the finest therapists in Burma. Afterwards, you can learn how to cook the perfect Burmese dishes at the cooking classes held in the Mindon Bar. If that wasn’t enough for you, then the genuinely happy staff will help you arrange excursions in Burma so that you can see for yourself the beauty of its people and country.

Contact:

35 Taw Win Road

Dagon Township

Yangon

Myanmar

Tel: (+95-1) 229860

Fax: (+95-1) 228260

E-mail: info@governorsresidence.com.mm

http://www.governorsresidence.com/web/pyan/governors_residence.jsp

Intercontinental Beijing Beichen, China

Combining the best of 21st century with the best of the Oriental past, the InterContinental Beijing Beichen is a magnificent example of modernism that even traditionalists could fall in love with on first glance.

The façade of the hotel may be unassuming, but once you step foot over the threshold, welcome to the future. The lobby is slightly dark, what with the glossy black winding staircase and the dark tan marble walls, but it looks moody and sophisticated at the same time. With subtle pin and spotlight lighting, this is a place that oozes understated modern charm and sophistication.

Standard rooms are among the most luxurious I have ever come across. Stylishly decorated in tones of cream and beige, the beds are as comfortable as a dream, the linen fresh and crisp, plush furnishings and so much space you couldn’t possibly know what to do with it. The rooms are all contemporary in style, but they feature modern Asian motifs which make it warm and give you that sense of tradition.

The hotel offers a series of 42 individually decorated suites, each presenting guests with only the best amenities. With a butler service, a meeting room, huge plasma televisions, valet service, a morning newspaper delivered to your room every morning and traditional Chinese antiques in your suite, how could you possibly leave?

The InterContinental Beijing Beichen offers only the best to their guests and they apply this motto to their restaurants as well. The Di Chinese Restaurant serves the freshest and tastiest authentic Chinese meals from China. The braised duck with beer is simply divine.

Va Piano is class and romance. Taking the best from Italian cuisine and combining it with heavenly romantic elements, this restaurant is the perfect place to wow a date, whether staying at the hotel or not.

Café O2 is the place to go if you are looking for casual sophistication. Stop here to sample only the very best of international fine wines and to try one of the many tasty light snacks and appetisers. They do some great salads, pastries and Oriental meals here.

At night, the Lobby lounge is a great location to sit back and unwind with a glass of wine or cocktail whilst talking with friends. The wall to wall glass windows offers spectacular views of the city and the soft piano music will liven up your soul. Perfect.

Whatever you are looking for in ways of leisure you can find it here. The InterContinental Beijing Beichen offers a great health and fitness centre with a good range of fitness equipment and the spa will make you feel like a king or queen with their range of traditional and modern treatments.

With a sauna, steam room and swimming pool, plus a fully stocked games room, you might never want to leave the hotel, but when you do the tour desk can help you arrange different excursions in Beijing and around the rest of this beautiful country.

For those staying here on business, the InterContinental Beijing Beichen can offer you a businessperson’s dream. The ballroom is magnificently decorated in a dark, sophisticated and professional manner and the equipment, along with the other conference rooms and business staff, is world class.

Contact Details:

8 Beichen West Road

Chaoyang District

Beijing

China

Tel: +86-10-84371188

Fax: +86-10-84371388

http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/beijing-beichen

Jianguo Hotel, China

The first international hotel in Beijing and the only garden hotel in the stylish CBD area, the Jianguo Hotel is a refreshing change from the gaudy five star hotels or the bland budget chain accommodation which is sweeping across the world like a low-cost plague. What you get from the Jianguo Hotel is relaxation, a sense of calmness and genuine warmth.

An oasis in an urban jungle, the Jianguo Hotel evokes memories of ancient China; with lotus filled and bamboo lined ponds bordered by dark wooden guards carved with Chinese designs, this is a truly tranquil and awe-inspiring place to stay in.

450 rooms in a choice of different categories are yours to make. Decide from the garden rooms, the business rooms, the executive rooms, the standard or business suites. The garden rooms offer air conditioning, cable television, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, hair dryers and good sized well stocked bathrooms. Balconies allow guests to experience some wonderful views of the heavenly scented gardens – perfect for romantic getaways.

Enjoy some of the tastiest and artistically prepared dishes at one of the many restaurants at the Jianguo Hotel. Justine’s is a gorgeous French restaurant; you can enjoy the finest French meals in an upscale and elegant atmosphere.

The newly opened Tian Xia Yi Pin Restaurant (or Shang Restaurant) serves the most incredible Imperial Palace and Feudal Official Mansion cuisine. Drawing on the history and culture of the ancient Shang Dynasty as well as the elegance and grace of the imperial palace, you can expect only the best cuisine here.


When you want a light snack or have a sugar craving, try the delightful Justine’s Patisserie where you feel as though you’ve been transported back to Paris; The Café is offers a light hearted Asian and Western breakfast and lunch in a cosy, comfortable setting. The Lobby is great for a spot of afternoon tea and then try Charlie’s Bar for a traditional English pub atmosphere.

Fitness at the Jianguo Hotel has never been more enjoyable. The hotel offers a wide range of the top-of-the-line equipment in an elegant and private setting. With an indoor heated swimming pool and a wonderful sauna, you can relax and keep fit.

Business at the Jianguo Hotel is elegant, graceful and professional, a service that cannot be beaten anywhere else nearby. With a friendly and specialized staff in addition to the latest gadgets and technology, business here is enjoyable and professional.


Contact Details:


5 Jianguo Men Wai Da Jie


Beijing


China


Tel: +86(10) 65002233


Fax: +86(10) 65002871


Email: jianguo@hoteljianguo.com


http://www.hoteljianguo.com/index.html

Beijing Qianyuan International Business Hotel, China

In a fairly convenient location in Dongcheng District, the Beijing Qianyuan International Business Hotel is a comfortable if not bland choice of accommodation in the capital of this colourful country. A good point about this particular hotel is the fact that it is not far from the brilliant night food street - Dongzhimen Street – famous for being the place where every style of Chinese cuisine can be found.
Rooms:
There are 202 rooms and suites placed in different categories – executive suites, deluxe rooms, business rooms as well as standard rooms. At £45 per night for a standard room and much higher rates the further up you go on the upscale ladder, you would expect the rooms to be much better. Sadly, not the case.

Not to say that the rooms are hideously ugly or worse, uncomfortable, but they are fairly featureless. Pale colours on the walls, relatively comfortable bedding, and dim lighting – décor is not the Beijing Qianyuan International Business Hotel’s strong point. In the smarter rooms and suites, there are more amenities and larger windows which make stays more enjoyable.

Dining:

Do not expect fine dining at the Beijing Qianyuan International Business Hotel, but what it does serve is very good. The restaurant is located on the third floor and provides guests with a selection of Western and Chinese meals. The menu may be as boring as the décor, but the food is tasty and after all, that’s what you want from a restaurant.

Leisure and Activities:

It is a good thing that the Beijing Qianyuan International Business Hotel receives marks for its good location otherwise travellers would be disappointed with it. Leisure activities fall a little short in this regards – there is a souvenir shop in the hotel, plus a hair salon and a tour desk, but that’s it. If you are looking for a hotel with a gym, sauna, spa facilities or swimming pool to pamper yourself with after a hard day’s exploration of the city, you won’t find them here.

The tour desk, on the other hand, is fairly decent. The staff here, although who could certainly do with learning how to smile a bit more, provided good information about the various tours in and around Beijing.

Business Facilities:

As a hotel catering primarily to business travellers, this is the area where the hotel shines more brightly than any other aspect of it as a whole. The business centre is comfortable and practical and the equipment just as good.

Contact Details:

No.19 Dongzhimennei Street

Dongcheng District

Beijing

China

qianyuanhotel@gmail.com

http://www.qianyuanhotel-beijing.com/index.html

Budget Travel to Japan

Visiting the land of cherry blossoms, sake and geishas has been a dream of many, however financing such a trip leads travellers to put away the glossy travel brochures to one side and settle for dreams and photos instead.
Japan is undoubtedly one of the most expensive destinations to visit, but there are ways to explore the cherry blossom land on a budget.


Flights:


Flights are probably one of the most expensive costs you will have to pay out to a trip to Japan. You can cut down your flights costs by shopping around for the best deals. An internet search will result in much cheaper options than what a travel agency would. Places like travelsupermarket.com and STA travel for those under 26 or a student (or even not either) will compare a vast range of different airlines for the rest deal.


Another flight option is to turn up at the airport and board a charter plane. Waiting for these can take some time but the costs are cut way down. The best bet is to travel off season when flight prices are cut in half.


Accommodation:


Hotels are the most expensive factor in a holiday; Tokyo’s hotels can cost an arm and a leg. However, you do not need to sell all your worldly possessions on accommodation. Again, an internet search on travelsupermarket.com will compare hotel options for you.


Again, travelling off season is a good option as many hotels will offer a 50% discount on their rooms. Ask whether you could get a free upgrade; you will be amazed how often a hotel will put guests in their luxury suites if there are not a lot of guests.


If you must travel during peak season, a good way to save money is by staying in a hostel. These are the most basic of accommodation; some hostels will have mixed or single-sex dorms, plus single and double rooms if you want a bit of privacy. Do not expect glitz and glam at hostels; popular with backpackers, they offer a cheap alternative for those visiting on a strict budget.


Travelling in Japan:


Whilst it would be nice to hire a car or motorbike, these can be expensive. If touring Japan on a budget, opt to use a free mode of transportation – your legs. As long as you have a good pair of walking shows you can get anywhere with this form of transport.


When your legs can’t carry you any further, invest in a travel card if you are going to be in a particular area for a while. STA Travel gives you the option of buying a travel pass to use on the trains in Japan at half of what it would cost if purchased in Japan on the day.


Food:


Japanese cuisine can be a great way to experience the culture; on the other hand, it can also be a great way of draining your budget. Food is a necessity though. Instead of going to all those fancy high class restaurants, opt to eat at the places everyday Japanese people go. They may look a little rough, but the food is good and is cheap enough for you to try a bit of everything that takes your fancy.


Japan is a very expensive country to visit if you are doing everything in style, but even if you are on a strict budget, you can enjoy yourself immensely and appreciate her for the beautiful country she is.

The Taj Lake Palace Hotel

In a dreamy setting in the middle of Lake Pichola, the Taj Lake Palace Hotel is definitely a romantic choice for couples and honeymooners wanting an exotic, stylish and peaceful getaway to celebrate their love.

A sprawling monument to hospitality, love and beauty, the Taj Lake Palace is nestled between the stunning backdrop of the Aravalli Mountains and the glittering waters of the lake. Since the hotel was once a palace, each guest is treated like royalty.

At night, when the moon is full, the stars twinkling in the black velvet of the sky, the white marble exterior glistens and reminds guests of the Taj Mahal, the epitome of love. Originating from 1746, the Palace was built by Maharana Jagat Singh II, 62nd successor to the royal dynasty of Mewar.

Rooms:

The Taj Lake Palace offers 83 guest rooms and 17 suites, all created in the highest standards of luxury and amenities. The guest rooms come in luxury or palace, and guests get exactly what they pay for –rooms sumptuously decorated. No inch of the rooms goes untouched by exquisite detail, yet they have that understated elegant feel to them. The bathrooms are a delight to immerse oneself in.

The suites are the very highest of luxury. The Sajjan Niwas Suite was the favourite we stayed in, decorated in cool shades of blue-green, over 100 years old and retaining that old Imperial Indian royal charm. The mural of Shiva and his wife behind the bed really comes alive, making you feel as though you are a princess.

Dining:

Dining at the Taj Lake Palace is an experience not to be missed all by itself. The hotel offers a range of smart-casual to fine dining in stunning settings. Bhairo offers out-of-this-world views from its open-air setting. The views of the lake at sunset really enhance the quality of your meals here, especially with the exquisite European delights the chefs lovingly and artistically prepare.

The Neel Kamal is the height of sophistication and elegance, inviting guests to enjoy their meals in a setting reminiscent of a royal banquet hall with marvellous views of the peaceful Lily pond. This is the place to go to for mouth-watering Indian food with innovative touches.

The Amrit Sagar offers a good selection of international fine wines, vintage spirits and cigars to sample in stylish surroundings. With both an indoor and outdoor ambience, the Amrit Sagar offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

Leisure and Activities:

At any palace, guests are treated like royalty and the Taj Lake Palace is no exception. Feel like a king or queen by pampering yourself at the world class spa and health facilities at this beautiful hotel. There are a range of traditional Indian therapies with modern touches, all designed to create a sense of wellness and peacefulness in your body.

The hotel also offers an aerobic workout room, a bookshop where you can then take your purchase and read at your leisure in the Library room, a well equipped game room, a stunning swimming pool and a souvenir shop. The Taj Lake Palace also offers firework displays and traditional local performance acts.

If you need to get out of the Taj Lake Palace, then the hotel can arrange a range of different activities and excursions. The only problem is that the hotel is so beautiful and inviting you may not want to leave!

Business Facilities:

Whatever the time of day, the Taj Lake Palace can arrange any conference for any company; with sit down or theatrical styled seating, business can be concluded with style and class here. The first class staff can also arrange company dinners on a royal barge to make it a business trip to remember.

Contact Details:

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Post Box No. 5

Pichola Lake

Udaipur - 313 001

Rajasthan

India

Tel: (91-294) 2428800

Fax: (0294) 2428700.

Email: lakepalace.udaipur@tajhotels.com

http://www.tajhotels.com/palace/Taj%20Lake%20Palace,Udaipur/default.htm