Part 2. Osaka, Kyoto & Nara – a spectrum of ancient and modern Japan
In this second part of our tour of Honshu, Japan, we experience the extreme contrasts of sculpted modern architecture and rampant consumerism with simple aesthetics and spiritual reward. Travel with us to Osaka, Kyoto & Nara. In our first article we explored the lesser known west coast of Honshu. Now we head back to the southern side, to the cities of Osaka and Kyoto along with the ancient capital of Nara, as you can see on the...
Arusha – Tanzania’s coffee gateway to the wild
On your way to or from your dream safari in Tanzania why not linger a while longer in Arusha where a couple of lodges we’ve found, in the middle of coffee plantations, could really invigorate your trip? There’s a tendency when going on safari to head straight to the wildlife and miss out on some of the local life. Safari can also be exhausting and we think that a couple of nights either before or after your wildlife adventure can...
Hanoi highlights
With Hanoi still set to be on the Formula 1 Grand Prix racing circuit at some time yet to be determined; Vietnam will be in the spotlight worldwide but here we’ll take you on a different street circuit. At odds with the razzmatazz of F1, the historically communist capital of North Vietnam has a distinctive and pragmatic character, compared with the more decadent and ‘Western’ south. Our guide who meets us at the airport tells us how...
Inle, Myanmar – Part 2 – Spectacular spires
One for your wishlist when the world settles down! If, like us, you’re prone to getting ‘templed out’ on your travels, when an endless stream of religious sites tests your faith, you’ll be surprised to find that you’re completely mesmerised by the thousands of temples at Indein. Myanmar alternates between a no-go area and a magical destination to explore, dictated solely by political policy and actions. Here’s our review from...
Inle, Myanmar – Part 1 – Lake and life
Travels in happier times that we hope will return. Combine Intha, Taungyo, Pa-O (Taungthu), Danu, Kayah, Danaw and Bamar ethnicities and it alludes to the broad diversity of activities, crafts and lifestyles that you’ll encounter around this picturesque lake in central Myanmar. Inle Lake is also one of the most picturesque and varied landscapes you’ll find in Myanmar, providing you with wonderful opportunities for photography around...
