Despite having some of the greatest attractions in Thailand like The Big Buddha, Namuang Waterfall, Sawadee Shrine and Magic Buddha Garden, we can not dismiss the popularity of lady boys walking freely around country. I'm sure Thailand would love to be well known for their national icons, but its been such a common practice amongst men in Thailand that we need to be increasingly aware of who we talk to while visiting cities like Bangkok (no pun intended) or Phuket.

How To Spot Lady Boys

Unfortunately with the help of advance medical technology, its becoming harder to recognize male from female. Here's a few tips:

1/ Check for Adam's apple: Some men don't have enough money to remove their Adam's apple, so keep an eye out for this. Personally, I'd just grab their necks but maybe this approach is a bit direct.

2/ Check facial features: Wouldn't be interesting if you saw a "female" with a few bristles stemming from their chin.

3/ Check the hips: You might be able to notice a different body structure, but even these days, some men are actually removing their ribs to form a more "lady like" figure.

4/ Check other bodily features: No need to go into details here. You can figure it out.

5/ Check passport: Perhaps the only real accurate way to check is on the passport. Thailand still does not allow individuals to change their sex status. If they are real lady boys, it must have a capital "M" for male. Lets hope the local government does not change this rule.

Don't take this the wrong way. Lady boys are still very nice people. This might not be a good idea, but since we specialize in hotels, heres a few excellent hotels in Bangkok.

Sports enthusiasts should not miss the Singapore Triathlon or the OSIM Singapore International Triathlon this July 28 to 29 at the East Coast Park near the Car Park E2 and East Coast Food Centre, located at the outskirts of central Singapore. Whether as a participant, or spectator, this sports event welcomes everyone of all ages.

The Singapore Triathlon offers five categories for the three sporting events of swimming, biking and running. The five categories are the Kids Category, for ages 7-14 years old; the Mini Category for men and women 15 years old and above in an open relay or mixed relay of 200 meters of swimming, 10 kilometers of biking and two kilometers of running; the Sprint Category for men or women 19 years old and above and the junior boys and girls 15-18 years of age in an open relay or mixed relay of 750 m swimming, 20 kilometers biking and five kilometers running; the Olympic Distance Category in several age categories for men and women 19 years old and up in an open relay or mixed relay of 1.5 kilometers swimming, 40 kilometers biking and 10 kilometers running; and the Elite Category only for invited National Triathletes.

Registrations are ongoing online at their website (www.triathlon.sg) until June 27, but early registrants get discounts from the registration fee. Make sure to completely fill up the required information. On the spot registrations and incomplete forms will not be processed so early preparations are a must.

People from all over Asia will be flocking to Singapore on this last weekend of July to participate and watch. Book your hotels online early at Asia-Hotels.com and you won't have to worry on where you will stay after and exciting and tiring day. A complete list of hotels in Singapore at Asia-Hotels.com can be sorted alphabetically, by room rate per night, star rating, and instant confirmation. On each hotel page like in Grand Mercure Roxy Hotel Singapore, read up on the customer reviews from previous Asia-Hotels.com customers who have stayed at the hotel. View the pictures of the hotels, scrutinize the location and facilities too.

One of the most popular and exciting festival in the Japanese calendar, has its origins dating back to the Edo era of the seventeenth century. Sanja Matsuri attracts around two million people on the streets of Tokyo’s Asakusa district for a three day festival. The festival starts on the third Friday of May(16^th May 2007) every year with the first day reserved for ‘Daigyoretsu’, which is a grand parade of performers, with a lot of music and dancing to keep the participants and the spectators alive to the whole event. On the second day around 100 mikoshis, which are the portable shrines, are carried from various neighbourhoods and taken to the Asakusa Jinja Shrine where the purification rituals take place. The shrines then return to their respective precincts and on the last day these mikoshis are again taken out, but this time in various directions to different neighbourhoods. On this day the three mikoshis of the Asakusa Shrine itself also come out and visit the forty-four blocks of its worshippers that are divided into three groups, in a bid to bring prosperity and bestow blessings upon them. These processions travel through out the day, starting early in the morning at 6 am till around mid-evening.

The bearers of the portable shrines as well as the participants are dressed in traditional colourful dresses and it is believed that the bumpier the ride is for the kami (deities), the more blessings he will shed. Some mikoshis are so large that they need dozens of people to carry them. It is a festival of colours, music and excitement. It may be a little crowded but the thrill of the whole event and the promise of extra blessings with every push and shove make it a worthwhile experience.

Four Seasons Chinzanso Hotel Tokyo

The modern building with very distinct Japanese touches and European décor has great facilities for the guests to enjoy. It is located in a beautiful and serene 7-hectare garden and is right next to Tokyo’s main business centre. The hotel has 283 spacious rooms, all with breathtaking views. For the discerning diner, three on-site restaurants offer Italian, Japanese and Asian cuisines in classy settings. Extras like the modern gym, in-door pool with a retractable roof and the spa set in the serenity of the hotel’s garden are hard to beat. The hotel is also located ideally with respect to Tokyo’s Central Train station, which is only 5 km and is only 20 km from the International airport.

Malaysia is a country that proudly boasts a great diversity of cultures and religions, living in full harmony. A befitting celebration of this amazing feat is held in a grand style during the festival of ‘Citrawarna Malaysia’ or the ‘Colours of Malaysia’. Festivals of this magnitude are very rare in the world. With all of the 13 states and the capital drenched in joviality featuring the rich diversity of the country’s culture and heritage, it is a festival that showcases all of the major aspects of Malaysian life. The crafts, cultures, music and cuisine, all are featured in the festival and receive admiration from the visitors from all over the globe.

The festival kicks-off with a grand parade, held in Kuala Lumpur. It also marks the birthday celebrations for the king, His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The parade, with more than 5000 participants, marches through the streets on a 1.5km route from Dataran Merdeka, or the independence square, and passes through Jalan Raja Laut, Jalan Semarang and reaches Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, with troupes featuring the heritage and art of all the states. Marking the end of the parade is a grand show of fireworks, that lights up the night sky of the capital and makes it a true festival of colours. This year the parade is scheduled on 26^th May at 8:45. The festivities will be held from 26^th May to 10^th June 2007.

The festival has official programmes, ranging from arts, crafts, music, food and cultural shows, being held through out the country. Therefore, wherever you are, you will not be missing out on the festivities. The length of the festival makes it a great opportunity to take in numerous destinations in the country at a time when the people are ready to welcome you and share with you the secrets of harmony in diversity; a secret well worth appreciating.

The Place to stay
Best Western Premier Seri Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur welcomes you with the traditional Malaysian hospitality. The amazing building is located in the heart of the city close to the Putra World Trade Centre. The hotel is only 3 km from the train and 25 minutes away from the Kuala Lumpur Airport. The elegantly furnished accommodations and the picturesque view of the Genting Highland Mountains and the Petronas Twin Towers will make your time in the hotel a pleasure. The restaurant has a great range of delectable offerings to choose from and the bar beckons you to come in, sit back and relax. A well-equipped business centre will take care of all your official needs and when its time to relax you can take a dip in the pool, revitalize in the spa or sauna, burn some calories in the gym or on the tennis court and better still, play a round of golf.

To appreciate the Carabao Festivals held in Pulilan, San Isidro and Angono (Philippines), one has to look at the farming culture of the region. Carabao or Water Buffaloes have for centuries been the life line for the farmers, especially in Asia. Farmers use these animals to till their land which makes the Carabao an integral member of the farmer family. Though not always treated as a beloved member, for the two days of the festival, they are revered as deities.

What Happens During the Pulilan Carabao Festival?
The festival begins on 14^th May every year and on that day every family cleans, oils and decorates their Carabao with wreaths of flowers. The animals are lovingly scraped and at times some farmers, in pursuit of getting the hidden beauty out from deep within the animal, even shave them. After dressing up, man and his beast head towards the church square to be part of the procession. Saint Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers is revered in grand style during the festival. The Carabaos kneel in front of his statue, and the priest then blesses them with good health. Another interesting fact is that for the Carabaos it’s not very easy to kneel and they have to practice this act daily for weeks before the festival. On the second day, the Carabaos compete in a friendly race to entertain tourists and visitors.

Even though technology and modern machineries are coming in to replace the Carabaos and their number in active duty in dwindling fast, people of the region still celebrate the festival with a lot of zeal and zest. Not to mention the enjoyment they give to others who come to attend the festivities and witness a rather strange event. One thing is for sure the oiled garlanded and perfumed Carabaos definitely love it.

Hotels in Manila
If you are looking to visit the country and also get a taste of this rather unusual festival, the best place to stay would be in Manila where many other attractions are loacted. The city offers many excellent hotels at very reasonable prices.

Dusit Hotel Nikko Manila has world-class standards of comfort and service. With 542 guest rooms, it is located in the heart of the city and is within walking distance of many major attractions. It is also at a very convenient 30-minute drive from the international airport. The food on offer in the restaurant is tempts with offerings from both Western and Asian cuisine. Along with a well-equipped business centre and spacious banquet rooms, it also has a fitness centre and a swimming pool making it a perfect place for both business and leisure..

Discovery Suites Manila is another high class hotel that offers panoramic views of the Manila skyline. Great service and facilities and a very welcoming atmosphere set this place apart. It is set in the heart of Ortigas Centre and is only 14 kilometres from the Airport. The place has 225 spacious and well furnished units with individual kitchens featuring all the modern day gadgets. Breakfast, dinner and drinks all can be enjoyed in the onsite restaurant and bar. From gym to swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, spa and revitalizing massages, your hosts make sure you enjoy every moment of our stay with them.

Consists of two buildings, the Century Tower and the Park tower, Century Park Hotel Manila is located in the midst of the shopping, business and entertainment centre of the bustling city. All of the 500 rooms in the towers are tastefully furnished, with modern amenities provided for the guests comfort.

The Seafood Restaurant and the Café along with the in-house cocktail bar provide the best in food and drink you can ask for. Whether you are here for business or pleasure, the grand ballroom and other meeting facilities as well as the gym and pool are going to take care of all your needs.

The Dragon Boat festival (also known as the Tuen Ng Festival) originated from a legend of over 2000 years ago in Chinese history and today it is one of the most popular and well known events celebrated across Asia in the month of June.

During the celebrations dragon boat races are held across most Asian countries, while traditional Rice dumplings wrapped in silk or banana leaves (commonly known as Tsung Tse or Ma Chung) are made and shared across the dinner table.

To compliment this festive season currently there are some exclusive last minute deals available on RatesToGo with the luxurious Dusit Resort Pattaya in Thailand and the Royal Plaza Hotel in Hong Kong to share with your site visitors. So make sure you have a look at these exclusive last minute deals available on RatesToGo to save hundreds of dollars while your touring Asia during the Dragon Boat Festival.

Sydney, Australia is one of the world’s best travel destinations. It is home to some of the finest restaurants, wineries, and beaches. A trip to Sydney would not be complete without seeing the fabulous Sydney Harbor showcasing the famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Sydney is known for having the friendliest people, so you’ll feel right at home. Perhaps that is why Sydney has been voted the best city in the world for visitors six consecutive years.

Hunter Valley Wineries

Australia’s oldest, most visited wine region is an easy two-hour drive from Sydney. There are about 120 wineries to visit. Part of the fun is discovering an excellent wine that you can't buy just anywhere. There's nothing like tasting a wine on the site where the wine was made and with the person who made it.

The Hunter Valley is also well known for its gourmet restaurants, all of which make good use of the local produce. Hunter Valley beef, duck, cheeses, olives, stone fruits and honey are all found in the area. There are also lots of things to do, from touring wine cellars to relaxing in luxurious day spas.

Sydney Harbor

Sydney sits on one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. The harbor provides the perfect backdrop for sailing, swimming, fishing, jetboating, dining, and harbor tours by ferry or seaplane. Climbing the Harbor Bridge is also a favorite for tourists, which takes you from the base to the summit of the famous bridge’s arch.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely tour of Sydney, a Harbor cruise is the perfect scenic adventure. Short Harbor cruises will allow you to do some sightseeing for an hour or so. The sunset dinner cruises offer a romantic dinner for two while listening to the world’s most popular arias from the Opera House.

Regardless of how you choose to see the sights, Sydney Harbor offers exciting adventures, relaxing tours, and one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Opera House

The Opera House nestled in Sydney Harbor is an architectural wonder! You can take a walking tour of the famous theater with a knowledgeable guide, or attend one of the many performances held at Sydney’s Opera House. They even offer a backstage tour of the Opera House so you can stand on stage and meet the performers, stars, and staff.

Sydney Accommodations

When staying in Sydney, you’ll find fantastic accommodations. Two of my favorites are the North Sydney Harbourview Hotel and Four Points by Sheraton Darling Harbour.

The Harbourview Hotel has spectacular views of the Sydney Harbor Bridge and the city’s skyline. Known for its uncompromising service, the Harbourview is close to tourist attractions like the Taronga Zoo and the Bridge Climb.

The Sheraton’s Four Points overlooks the Darling Harbour and is minutes from all the best tourist attractions in Sydney. You’ll be right in the thick of the entertainment and dining center of Sydney. Don’t forget to stop in the hotel’s restaurant for an elegant seafood buffet. You won’t want to miss it.

Sydney Beaches

With over 240 days of sun and clear blue skies, you cannot leave Sydney without visiting one of the sprawling sandy beaches. The coast line of New South Wales has miles of unspoiled beaches perfect for swimming, surfing, coastal walks and scenic drives. Some of the most popular Sydney beaches include Byron Bay, Coffs Coast, Bondi, Ballina, Port Macquarie and Crescent Head.

No matter which activities interest you, there will be endless fun and adventurous things to see in Sydney Australia. If you’re planning on visiting Sydney, make sure to plan enough time to see all the culture and history this city has to offer.

What a crazy time of the year this is for the locals of Hong Kong. Every 8th day of the 4th moon on the Lunar calendar, young men climb a tower of lucky buns, collecting as many buns as possible, as they commence fasting for 3 days. Only vegetarian food will be eaten starting 24 May this year. The festival is held at Cheung Chau, one of the largest islands in Hong Kong, and signifies a donation to the Gods and ghosts that haunt the island. Kids are dressed in mythological figures accompanied by customary lion and dragon dances. Find a hotel at Asia Hotels and witness the this outrageous event.

If you’re traveling to Hong Kong on business or vacation, you’ll need to know the cost saving ways to get around the city without it costing an arm and a leg. This handy guide will show you how to save money when visiting Hong Kong on your next trip.

Airbus Instead of Airport Express

When you arrive in Hong Kong from your long flight, you’ll want to take the Airbus instead of the Airport Express or taxi. While Airport Express is convenient and there are plenty of baggage handling officers to help you, the Airbus is a much cheaper way to commute from the airport to the city.

A taxi will run you about $300 USD from the airport to the city. The Airport Express will cost you anywhere from $60 USD to $100 USD each way, and the Airbus is about $30 USD to $45 USD. It may take you a little longer to get there, but you can definitely save money with the Airbus.

Octopus Card

The Octopus Card is a prepaid rechargeable card that is your ticket to all the public transportation in Hong Kong. Since Hong Kong’s transportation system is so advanced you won’t mind it one bit, and it will save you lots of money getting around Hong Kong.

When you swipe your Octopus card, the cost of the item is automatically deducted from your available balance. Not only is it convenient, you will also get a discount on everything with your Octopus Card, so it’s wise to get your card immediately upon arrival. You can even use it at convenience stores and fast food chains like McDonalds.

An Octopus card costs $150 for a $100 value and a $50 refundable deposit. You can also receive a refund on any funds not used on the card so you never have to worry about ending up with extra once your visit is over.

Sight-seeing tour for only $2

Take the double-decker trams in the city for a nice slow ride through the city streets of Hong Kong. It is one of the best ways to see the city on a budget.

Find a Cheap Hotel in Hong Kong

Finding a cheap hotel in Hong Kong can be a challenge, but with the Harbour View International House you get a reasonable room rate with a view of beautiful Victoria Harbour. It is perfectly located, close to the subway, the convention center and within walking distance to the ferry.

Tipping

A 10% tip is usually added to most services like restaurants and hotels, so do not leave a full tip in these cases. Make sure to check how much gratuity is already added to your bill before leaving additional tips. An extra 5% is appreciated in addition to the gratuity already billed.

Shopping

If you are looking for authentic Hong Kong shopping and still get some deals, Kowloon is the place. But beware! These open markets are known for selling to tourists and may sometimes overcharge. Be a discriminating buyer to get the best deals. Bargain as much as you can as some items could be discounted up to 50%.

There are lots of ways to save money when visiting Hong Kong – you just need to know where to look. Keep your eyes open, compare prices, and follow some of these money-saving tips for thrifty travel in Hong Kong.

Stay at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur and watch the fastest cars in the world as they compete at the Sepang Formula One Circuit. After Australia, this is the second race of the F1 season which attracts over 100,000 fans every year. The best drivers from around the world compete for prestigious prizes. Tourists and visitors can experience the rush of roaring cars, enjoy the crazy atmosphere and cheer on their favorite cars. Certainly an event not to be missed.



A Recommended Hotel in Kuala Lumpur is the Best Western Premier Hotel Kuala Lumpur. This is a 5 star hotel with its own golf course, swimming pool, restaurants, tennis courts, conference facilities and fantastic room service. Book through Asia Hotels to secure a room.

This is one crazy time of the year in Thailand. Even though it's not raining, everyone is guaranteed to be soaking wet from the 13-15th of April. Locals will be spraying water on the streets at everyone they see, celebrating the New Year in Thailand. Lucky the weather in Thailand is fairly hot during this time as they throw water at people using water guns, buckets and even elephants. They do this as a sign of respect for their elders.

During this period, there will be parades, traditional meals, and many will be wearing colorful costumes. Tourists will love the water fights and shows put on. The major cities like Bangkok are chaotic when Songkran comes around so prepare yourself. Bring as much dry clothing as you can!

The best hotel in Bangkok, Thailand is the Amari Watergate Hotel. They have a quality cocktail bar, gymnasium, cable tv, laundry facilities, but best of all, is their hairdryer. That will be a must during April.

Find discounted hotels in Taiwan and prepare for one of the biggest celebrations in the country. The God of Medicines birthday, celebrated on the 15th day according to the Lunar calendar, is spread over 160 temples in Taiwan. Dancing, decorated floats and flowers fill the streets as locals party throughout the night. Many friends and family members who are overseas often return home for this major Taiwanese event.

Some recommended hotel in hotels in Taiwan include:

Caeser Park Hotel *****
Located in the heart of Taipei City, this 5 star hotel is within walking distance to a few amazing attractions in the area such as the botanic gardens. Only 7km from the major airport, there are 378 luxurious rooms to accommodate visiting tourists.

Ambassador Hsinchu *****
Another brilliant 5 star hotel, recommended by all tourists, Ambassador Hsinchu is found near the city center, close to shops, restaurants and services. It is only 1km away from the train station. There will definitely be noisy festivities in Hsinchu, celebrating the God of Medicines birthday.

Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung *****
This is one of the best world class 5 star hotels in Taichung, Taiwan. Evergreen Laurel Hotel is close to the National science museum and commercial district. They are well equipped for the festival providing air conditioning, mini bars in each room, outdoor swimming pool, hotel restaurants, and excellent room service.