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Asia Tigers

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Author: Marek Mazur

Asia Tigers

Asia is a real variety of colors, tastes and cultures. Very fast growth, reaching for the dynamic development of tourism and enrichment of the population, no other continent is changing at such a dizzying pace. Tourism is one of the most important industries of many countries in this part of the world. It excels in Thailand, but the other “tigers” are just waiting to take over the pole position. One of these, which is very dynamic and very interesting for tourist destinations is Malaysia. Writing home from a trip to both countries, I would like to share with you.

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Let me start with Malaysia. It is a country divided by the South China Sea, with an interesting, unusual history, beautiful nature and wonderful beaches. More and more beautiful and luxurious hotels. Many airlines offer flights to Kuala Lumpur. The prices are not exorbitant, and in return we get a key to the gates of the fascinating paradise for travelers. Once we land on a modern airport in the capital, greeted by a typically warm climate for this part of the world. Unless you are traveling in the rainy seasons, it is relatively easily and quickly you can adapt to the prevailing conditions.

Kuala Lumpur is the perfect example of the almost explosive rate of growing agglomeration. One of the most dynamic “Asian tigers” flexing its muscles, showing its strength at every step. Strolling through the streets of this city, one can not get over the huge momentum, the masses of people in cars gliding through the streets, often luxury brands. In the business districts, men hurrying to the office in a perfectly tailored, bespoke suits. This is Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is – not a small and naive kitten, but full-bodied adult tiger. Racing Formula 1, Moto GP, Petronas Twin Towers, the biggest dictators in fashion shows, spectacular cultural events, the entire spectrum of multi-million dollar investment in a thoughtful way to create a clear and strong message to the rest of the world – that we and our country are strong, ambitious and modern! And it is not a coincidence or a happy coincidence, but conscious, effectively implemented strategy. But Kuala Lumpur is not just boiling like a warm cauldron with modern business and shopping centers. It is also full of beautiful historical sites, parks and avenues. Extremely rich culture, which is not subject to modernity. Luckily it found a balance between the new and the old, between development and memory.

Pic 2 - night Panorama of Kuala-lumpur

I stayed at the luxurious Shangri La, in the city center. This tall, modern building offers comfortable rooms and suites, some with fascinating view of the Petronas Twin Towers. Especially after dark, when you slide open the tight curtains, and a real colorful spectacle appears before our eyes – the center with soaring, gleaming silver, the Petronas twin towers.

We wanted to have a view. I was not disappointed. A fantastic panorama of a huge window is always an asset and an unforgettable highlight. The hotel, which is located in the center of the metropolis, in a modern high-rise, can arouse admiration. It is very smart, has a spacious but cozy and nice lobby. Support typical for Asia, kindest and always ready to help. Everyone is smiling and benevolent to foreigners. At restaurants guests partake of tasty dishes. There is also a small park with a pond, with splashing colorful fish. In a word, a hotel that gives you more than we can expect. A separate, quite extensive mention must be made of the breakfast. It’s really a masterpiece! I travel a lot, for a total spend of good part of my life traveling, and I know that in few hotels are such wonderful breakfasts offered. Of course, you can admire mornings in Italian luxury hotels, when we are spoiled by the taste and aroma of coffee with a quite balanced and limited, but tasty menu. But at The Shangri La the choice is huge and everything almost is unnaturally tasty. In other places I happened to sleep through breakfast time, here I set the alarm clock. A real spectacle! Until the end a very nice accent, namely the position of tea and coffee cups to take on the road. When successful, and after a hearty meal, we intend to go for a walk, good coffee or tea is an excellent company. I checked every day and appreciate this small, but very important element. Not only because for a few days stay at the Shangri La had the feeling that everything there is subordinated only to guests comfort. There is evidence of this whole bunch of little things. Not always throwing themselves at once in your face, but if necessary we perceive them and are happy to use them.

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While in Kuala Lumpur, it is certainly not worth it to rely solely on the so-called nose traveler technique. Trust your organizer and take advantage of the rich offer of private tours. Only in this way can you see exactly the tiger’s eyes. In another case, a number of very interesting and original places you just won’t know. And that’s a huge shame, after all, a trip to so distant regions of the world does not happen every day. This town and its surroundings have a lot to offer. Isolated you can visit the Petronas Twin Towers, leisurely stroll through the streets in the city center, approach the Menara Tower or visit noisy Chinatown, full of stalls with portable “boutiques” LV, Hermes and Gucci, stands the “Original Mister” Rolex, Patek Philippe and others. The horror! The right to brand protection, intellectual property concept that is alien here. In the end counterfeit Chinatown and here is almost everything … This colorful and bustling district, has lost its charm, turning into one big bazaar of counterfeit goods. Fortunately, invariably, you can eat well there. Thus, at least the culinary made in China rules!

After receiving detailed instructions from the hotel’s concierge, indeed using the hotel texi (so called taxi in Malaysia) will get you in too easily to Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, concealing in its interior, among others, one of the largest aquariums in the world. However, if you are interested in a little bit more, use the experienced and, most important, previously registered guide cooperating with Luxury Travel. You can discover the legends, history and the true face of Little India, Central Market, unusual and very authentic Chow Kit Wet Market. Surely you go inside or outside Kuala Lumpur, to a magical place of pilgrimage – Batu Caves. This team of caves boasts paintings and statues of Hindu gods. Definitely worth a look is also the oldest temple in Southeast Asia – Thean Hou. Only a must visit with a qualified guide.

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I must honestly admit that I did not plan to stay too long in Kuala Lumpur because it does not belong to enthusiasts of modern metropolises. But I quickly revised my expectations and I extended my stay by two days of adventure in this city. It is of course another thing that can not be – indeed, should not even be – overlooked: Asia is inextricably linked with massages. There are thousands of relaxation lounges to serve you there. Before lunch time enjoy a relaxing body massage, after a long walk – a healing foot massage, combined with a nice peeling. At the same time two lovely ladies massage my work-worn hands, while the third – tired feet. And so every day, why not? It is nice, a simple joy and … cheap. The inhabitants of Malaysia are very accommodating and optimistic. It may be hard to believe, but the time spent on massages on us was always accompanied by nice chat. Never mind that knowledge of English sometimes is sometimes poor. It was always cheerful and joyful, that’s what it also is like on vacation. Nightlife in Kuala Lumpur also surprised me positively. A nice variety of bars, discos and restaurants, it is impossible to be bored.

On the fifth day of debauchery in Kuala Lumpur, after breakfast, from the Shangri La I drove a new Mercedes class E. So I began the next stage of my journey. One more thing, I almost forgot. Along the way we visited friendly tailor, who in three days sewed a fantastic suit. It is true that prices are slightly higher than eg. in Bangkok, but still a bargain, so be sure to take advantage of them. Then we went on a trip to the village of the sonorous sonorous name of Malacca. Sounds like porridge for infants or fertilizer for plants. However, it is a historic, colorful city, a commercial port located on the Strait of Malacca, the state capital of the same name. Once it played a very important role in the history and development of the country. In 2008, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I spent there two interesting, rich in experience, days. I was hosted in a charming, comfortable and beautifully located hotel, with a Spanish-sounding name – Casa Del Rio, that house on the river. This picturesque nestling into the river Sungai Melaka, a five-star new hotel, with colonial architecture, is an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area.

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After a short walk from the hotel we come to the lively and colorful center with countless art galleries – it caught my attention. Authentic items, hundreds of Asian idol masks, beautiful handicraft. Of course, once I was immersed in the richness, like a prospector assessing valuables in a cave full of treasures, and found many unique items. I had a lot of luck, hitting on the owner of one of the galleries. This lovely old lady has surprised me every moment with her extraordinary knowledge collected exhibits, as if proof showing the description of the books. Shopping passed in a great atmosphere and very unsuccessful. Standing bags full of treasures of the hotel, I set out to discover the city. Most of the tourist attractions of Malacca were concentrated in the center or in the vicinity. The main part of the old city, known as Jonker Walk, full of bars, said art galleries and shops of handicrafts and textiles. This part is also traditional Peranakan Chinatown, with interesting architecture, lots of colorful stalls and small restaurants.

The next day I went on a river cruise. Ferries reflect the marina located on the waterfront Casa Del Rio, and there also end cruises. Tickets are happy to arrange hotel concierge. This tour is very interesting. From the deck of a cruise ship, you can admire the panorama of the city, an interesting development and daily life of the inhabitants. The cruise does not last too long, as I recall just over an hour, but I highly recommend it. Be sure to also visit Famosa Fort and St. Paul Hill, which are among the main tourist attractions located in Bandar Hilir, old part of town. It is also worth visiting Malacca Mosque. Private boat or ferry can be reached in interesting places – to located a short distance away, picturesque islands, for example. Pulau Upeh, which can be seen from the beach Klebang in Malacca, or Pulau Besar. Malacca is worth a visit, and the optimal time there seems to be a period of two nights and three days. And in this case you need to use the services of an experienced guide on a private full-day excursion. Unfortunately, there are not too many, therefore, it is essential to make a reservation in advance. Really worth it.

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The third day of my visit to Casa Del Rio came to an end After a delicious breakfast, accompanied by a personal driver who went way back, at the airport in Kuala Lumpur. It was the last stage of this, as I now know, too short trip to Malaysia. The country is indeed interesting, full of colors, where modernity mixed with the story. It intrigued me enough that certainly I’ll go back. Meanwhile, we hurry up with my driver, to catch the plane. My next stop on my Asian adventure is crazy Bangkok.

The airport capital of Thailand is pretty well connected. Dear transportation, such as its size and the number of flights, which assumes a relatively short number of flights. Unfortunately, I came to the accumulation of arrivals and passport queue writhed like a snake. Now I know that it’s best to pre-book a quick briefing fast track. It makes life easier. After settling issues of passports and baggage collection, traveling with Luxury Travel, immediately after leaving the arrivals hall meet your personal driver who will help you with your luggage and invite for a comfortable car, where you go to the hotel. It was no different in my case. One remark only: try to find the driver waiting with a sign with your name in the jungle of waiting drivers, agents, representatives of the companies etc. At the airport you should also withdraw money from an ATM or exchange it at one of cantors. The course usually is the same everywhere, or is slightly different. There is also no significant differences between the points at the airport and cantors bank in the city. So we do not exchange too much cash, so as not to tempt fate. In Thailand, you can feel safe, but – as in every country visited by a mass of tourists – be careful.

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In Bangkok I spent two nights in an unforgettable, unique Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Once considered the finest and best hotel in the world today it still has this quality and uniqueness. Bravely based on fashions, it is in a class of its own. Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is a true icon of hospitality. I did not think even for a minute, making a selection in Bangkok. Of course I was not disappointed. Even though the hotel knew very well, because for many years, Luxury Travel is the Polish partner of Mandarin Oriental, my visitors deposit still had to be signed by a colleague from the office, who frequented there several times. Myself refreshed the opinions of our customers stay at the Mandarin Oriental, which of course confirmed my election. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the first luxury hotel in Thailand was opened as The Oriental already in 1879. Today it is one of the leading facilities of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, consistently for many years faced among the best hotels in the world. Famous guests such as Lauren Bacall, George W. Bush, Jacques Chirac, Sean Connery, Mel Gibson, Vaclav Havel, Audrey Hepburn, Mick Jagger, Henry Kissinger, Helmut Kohl, David Beckham, Sophia Loren, Yehudi Menuhin, Richard Nixon, Pelé Princess Diana, Prince Charles, Omar Sharif, Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Jackson, royals, oil sheikhs (long enough to exchange), returning there every time for their stay in Bangkok. I have not seen so many reasons why should I deny myself this pleasure. It worried me that I booked only three nights. Not enough time to enjoy all the senses of hotel restaurants and bars. And at the door is still waiting the mad metropolis that does not sleep even for a minute. I like challenges, so I undertake it with pleasure.

Royal Palace Groupings

After checking in to a magnificent Executive Suite overlooking the river, I opened a chilled bottle of champagne. When the shot stopper, exclaimed: – Bangkok, I’m coming! And it began … Waking evening time, I decided to go down to the restaurant. Of the ten available Sala Rim Naam chose, Thai restaurant. Fable, a real treat for the palate, an absolute blast! The rest of the evening I spent at The Bamboo Bar. Waiting for the announcement of the conquest of Bangkok, but ran out of strength … After two glasses of wine I politely went to my apartment. Back in the hotel elevator I doubted whether to do well. However, after entering the apartment I was happy. While bathing in the tub I finished the rest of my champagne and went for a well deserved rest. All in all, tomorrow is another day!

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The morning sun greeted me. When I ate a delicious and hearty breakfast, in the hotel lobby the guide was already waiting for me. I have an appointment with him for two private tours, a full-day and scheduled for half a day. Once again I am very glad that I took advantage of pre-booked attractions, because after the second day I’m sure that alone one does not want to see all these unusual places, even in a week. By the way, not only did I see them, but I met trivia, anecdotes and stories and legends associated with them. It’s impossible alone, even with the best tourist guide in hand. Fortunately, in this area the man is irreplaceable. The more guide endowed with incredible knowledge, charisma and experience. I think that could decide the intensity of sightseeing. THe guide, realizing my interests and expectations has adapted perfectly these two days to my preferences. We visited (in random order) magnificent temples: Wat Saket (entered also the golden mountain to admire the panorama of the island of Rattanakosin), Wat Arun (otherwise known as The Temple of Dawn), Wat Pho, the Grand Palace & Wat Prakeaw, swam water taxis on the canals of Chao Phraya River & Waterways, went through the old town and Khao San Road, we were in Chinatown, Soi Cowboy with neighboring central terminal 21. Mandatory on our route were also on the water market Floating Market and bazaar Chatuchat. A late lunch on Khao San Road – generally the whole area full of stalls, bars and pubs, colorful Asian elements, incredibly bustling. Along the way, every time a building reduces the temple. Beautiful promenade along the river. Indeed, fascinating city full of surprises in the most unexpected places. Another tailored suit and a few shirts to the collection, already much cheaper than in Kuala Lumpur. Excellent quality, all ready in two or three days. Bangkok’s nightlife is no less interesting and intriguing. But more about that some other time. There’s a saying – Bangkok, The City That Never Sleeps – has its justification. The city is able to draw like a vortex, but you need to know in which places visit. And here it proved to be an invaluable guide to Luxury Travel, a resonant sounding name of Sanan. Thus, Kob kun, Sanan.

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After checking out the Mandarin Oriental hotel limousine proceeded to the next stage of my journey. Nowhere far. Friends of the exclusive hotel chain Anantara invited me on its luxury sightseeing boat cruise. I had the pleasure to participate in a three-day trip a wonderful Anantara Dream. I received for disposal very tastefully decorated and finished in wood, luxuriously equipped cabin with an area of 25 sq. m. During the cruise the river and canals are scheduled breaks to explore on land. My only personal remark: in the boat it was better, however, choose the friends group, and the best – with a close person. Dinner with wine and a view of the luminous, shimmering with thousands of colors the edges of Bangkok awakens romantic feelings. It should then be in the company of your loved one. To take her hand and silently watch the glittering skyline of the metropolis.

Thus ended my adventure with “Asian tigers”. This unique time in Bangkok was the final destination. However, based on experience from previous trips to Thailand Can you recommend a wonderful culmination of relaxation on the beach. My first suggestion to you is a few days in fabulous luxury resort Soneva Kiri. Currently, it is one of the finest and most luxurious beach resorts in Thailand and throughout Asia. It provides spacious and comfortable villas with swimming pools as well. It has plenty of secluded and romantic places, but also offers great attractions for families traveling with children.

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Another worth recommending the hotel is great Phulay Bay to the Ritz Carlton Reserve.Address and well known for many years travelers from the logo Luxury Travel. A special place in every respect. The resort covers a huge area along the shore. Hotel Boats can very quickly move to the surrounding islands which offer heavenly scenery, white, soft sand and warm, azure waters of the ocean.

Of course it’s not all relaxation opportunities offered by Thailand, Malaysia or the whole Asia. Very recommendable are Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Certainly, Luxury Travel advisors will help you in meeting travel dreams and goals!

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