Cheap Asia Travel: Information You May Need to Know
One of the most well-known tourist destinations is Asia. With lots of tourist spots and cheap travel destinations, you will surely have an enjoyable vacation even if you are on a tight travel budget. Among the countries that you can visit in Asia include the Philippines, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, China, Malaysia, Taiwan, South Korea, Maldives, Laos, Brunei, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Macau, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, India, Japan, Mongolia, Nepal, Daruss, North Korea, Laos, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Georgia and Azerbaijan.
A typical Asia travel covers the foremost tourist regions of Thailand, Singapore, Japan, Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia and Myanmar. Most travel experts often advise their clients to visit these regions during the breezy months. In Asia, you can travel either by taxi, airplane, bus or hire your personal driver. You can also travel by boat and train. Land and train travel can be such a wonderful event to take a look at the countryside as you move towards another destination.
If you are considering an Asia travel package, it is wise to consult a travel agency or a travel agent who can give you cheap travel deals. You can also search online for cheap travel packages. Travel excursions and tours are great means to explore a city or a country. Fully escorted travel tours typically include air fares, hotel accommodations, meals, guides and a lot more.
Asia offers a few of the finest air pass values of some regions. For less than two thousand dollars, you can visit almost 20 different interesting spots in Asia. Among the most usual price destinations are Cebu, Bangkok, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Sapporo, Penang, Manila, Osaka, Shanghai, Colombo, Ho Chi Minh, Singapore and Taipei, to name a few. Another cheap Asia travel is to book a group travel. This could be an escapade Asia traveling with your family, friends or people you do not personally know.
There are lots of travel websites on the Internet that you can check to find cheap Asia travel deals or packages. And if you know where to take a glance at, you can surely find a cost effective travel package, discounted airfares, promotional deals and an affordable travel agent. You may also check some newspapers and magazines to find the best travel deals in Asia or may ask your friends who have visited Asia at a very affordable rate.
There are simply lots of places to see in Asia and these include the newly opened Disneyland in Hong Kong, fish and flea markets in Tokyo, astonishing zoos in Singapore, fabulous beaches in the Philippines like Boracay and Dakak, bird parks in Indonesia, pristine beaches in Thailand, religious sites in Kamakura and animal rehabilitation centers in Malaysia. With so many great things to see, you can certainly have a wonderful experience and get to see a diverse culture.
When searching for cheap airfares, it is advisable to look for airlines and travel agencies that focus on the country that you are planning to visit. Finding the most inexpensive means of transportation is a thing but do not, of course, forget about safety.
About the Author
Bruce Tan is the expert travel guy based in Singapore. He is founder of http://www.urgentroom.com, a leading hotel search tool which allows users to search and compare millions of room deals globally from a single website. If you need to search hotel and accommodation rates fast, go to www.urgentroom.com
hotel lao_3="hotel lao" Laos Hotels. Lao Plaza hotel.?
do they provide suit room in Lao Plaza hotel? i have 6 ppl to stay for a party and to stay for a week.
yes, there provide plaza suite, executive suite and president suite in Laos Plaza hotel check if you want more information at www.expedia.com or www.excelloz.com good luck
Hoteloogle.com - Super 8 Hotel Qi Bao Lao Jie Shanghai
Active Travel Asia promote tours to Sapa - the Cloud city of Vietnam
The first thing travelers should know about Sapa is that it is one of highlands in Vietnam - 1,600m above sea level. That means a leisurely stroll to the nearest tribe village is more like an hour-long trek up and down some steep slopes. It is not a destination that travelers should tackle without some mental and physical preparation.
Having said that, Sapa is a sight to behold. The Hoang Son Lien range of mountains, which dominates it and includes Fansipan - Vietnam's highest peak at 3,143m - is the eastern extremity of the Himalayas.
Conquering Fansipan mountain Vietnam
On a good day, travelers' view is a myriad of colors merging onto textures of landscapes as vivid sky hues blend into the browns and greens of the mountains before cascading back into the blues as rivers and streams mirror the skies.
Even on wet days, the landscape is not a total washout: Rolling mists blanket the valleys and lowlands, giving it a veil of mystery.
When travelers were there in October, the temperature hovered between a cool 16°C and 19°C but travelers were told it could dip to zero in winter and push the mercury to 29°C in summer.
The best time to visit this quaint town is from March to June, when it's warmer and drier - making the mountains easier to scale - or from September to December, if travelers want to escape the heat.
When it's wet, escape into the many cafes about Sapa town where a piping hot coffee or rich hot chocolate will return the color to traveler's faces. Once a French colony, Sapa's pastries and breads are the softest and fluffiest travelers've ever had, with toasty crusts to thaw traveler's frigid fingers.
Myriad cuisines, from Indian to Italian, can be found in Sapa town. The adventure of tourism has ensured that different palates from all over the world are catered to. Although, personally, nothing warms the tummy like slurping up a hot bowl of pho.
Take a short walk from Sapa town to the bus station and travelers find themselves surrounded by eateries proffering steamboat, grilled meats and pho.
The clean air and water give the mountain greens an added crunch and a delicious natural taste, that even non-vegetable lovers will leave their plate bare.
Terraced field in Sapa, Vietnam
Sapa is located at the Lao Cai province in north-west Vietnam, bordering China. Lao Cai is also a station to cross into China from Vietnam. Treks into the neighboring hill tribes of Black H'mong (say "her-mong") and Red Dao ("zhao") are a must. The Black H'mong is characterized by the indigo vests they wear while the Red Dao is identifiable by their red headgear.
A local guide from the hill tribes can be hired for expeditions into the villages. English-speaking guides can be found easily at the hotels or tour offices around town. The level of spoken English is pretty good, with many of the guides sporting British, Australian and even American accents.
A fee must be paid at guardhouses located at the entrance of the tribes before entering the village. These go towards development of the villages, with a budget set aside for schools which kids attend for free. A guide we met at a tour office warned us against going into the villages alone as authorities have been known to penalize unaccompanied travelers. Besides, having a guide offers some insights into tribe culture.
A trek through the Black H'mong village took travelers four hours, at a leisurely pace. The cool weather and the friendly Black H'mong villagers made the experience a very enjoyable one.
Travelers learnt the hard way that travelers should ask before travelers take pictures as some of the tribes' people may not be receptive. But the locals are more than happy to pose for travelers if travelers ask nicely.
GETTING THERE To get to Sapa, Vietnam travelers need to take a train from Hanoi to Lao Cai. From there travelers will take a mini bus up in to the town of Sapa. Transportation from Hanoi to Sapa can be arranged for a reasonable price. Travelers might also be able to take a bus but it takes much longer. Railway tickets can be bought locally, via travel agents or at train stations.
GETTING AROUND Local hotels and travel agents offer daily bus and private car between tourist attractions in two ways.
PACKAGES Active Travel Asia (844 3573 8569; www.activetravelvietnam.com) offers package trips in Sapa, Vietnam with some activities like trekking & hiking include accommodation, meals, guide, activities and return ticket from Hanoi to Lao Cai and vice versa and transfers.
About the Author
Bobby Nguyen Marketing Manager
#31, Alley 4, Dang Van Ngu Street, Dong Da District, Ha Noi capital, Viet Nam.
Telephone: +844 3573 8569
"Pakse & The Bolaven Plateau" Lbraun's photos around Pakse, Lao Peoples Dem Rep
Motorbiking in Southeast Asia: two-wheeled adventures from mountain to coast
Vietnam and Laos – sublime scenery from mountain to coast
To kick off, the infamous Ho Chi Minh Trail has been upgraded into a major highway running along the spine of the country and offers some sublime scenery. The stretch from the old US airbase of Khe Sanh north to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a beauty.
Elsewhere in Vietnam, Ha Giang is the final frontier for motorbiking aficionados in Indochina. Like Halong Bay on high, karst peaks protrude from the top of rolling mountains and secluded villages are home to a colourful mosaic of ethnic minorities. The gorge road from Dong Van to Meo Vac is the stuff of biker yore, its towering cliffs looming high above and plummeting to the Nho Que River in the distance below. Just remember to keep an eye on the road, despite the breathtaking scenery. A word of caution, however, Ha Giang still requires an official permit to visit more remote areas.
If the coast is more your cup of tea, then try the Top Gear thing and ride notorious Highway 1 between Saigon and Hanoi. The traffic can be daunting around major cities, but there are some remote and desolate stretches with empty beaches. Aim high over the Hai Van Pass, ignoring the tedious tunnel that has been conveniently burrowed through the mountain.
Take the Top Gear theme further and team up with some friends to ride a Minsk, a Vespa and a Honda Cub. Converting the bikes to amphibious vehicles to explore Halong Bay might be a step too far for a holiday.
Back to the Ho Chi Minh theme, for experienced dirt bikers, it is possible to explore remnants of the old Ho Chi Minh Trail across the border in Laos. Rusting tanks and forgotten field guns litter the jungle of Southern Laos. Combine a ride through the region's recent history with some of the most remote and wild regions of the country in Salavan and Attapeu.
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA) offers a wide selection of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar adventure tours, including hiking and trekking, biking, motorcycling, overland touring and family travel packages.
food laos="food laos" Know any famous South East Asian food brands?
You know how Yeo's is famous for being from Malaysia, Ayam Brand from Singapore, Indofood from Indonesia.
Does anybody know famous food brands from the Philippines, Brunei Darusalam, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia? All answers welcome..!!
B.Affandi ... There must be HUNDREDS of different kinds. Have you considered just visiting an Asian market/grocer with a clip board to write down all the names you see?
But I visited the web site for some Asian food distributors and easily found these names in alphabetical order:
Ajinomoto Badawon Ban Nanphrick Sawoey Mae Anong Jittritham Camel CJ Corp Do Do Florence Garden Haitai Hanmi Jack & Jill Jayone Foods Jen Yi Kadoya Sesame Mills Kasugai Kikkoman Kimlan Lee Kum Kee Longevity Lucia Lucky Me Mama Sita Mei Xin Nishimoto Nong Shim Nong Shim Corp Ottogi Corp Pantainorasingh Co Penguin Shik Poom Rhee Brothers Tomei Wang Globalnet Young Chang Food
Are you dizzy yet? I am. Good luck. I hope this helps.
"For all you foodies . . . LAOS FOOD" Gocarygo's photos around Louang Phabang , Lao Peoples Dem Rep
Indochina Sails is proud to announce the launch of the newest addition to its fleet of luxury junks. The "Premium Indochina Sails" will begin sailing the tranquil waters of Halong Bay in October 2010.
Premium Indochina Sails cabin
Following in the tradition of our entire fleet, the Premium Indochina Sails offers luxurious accommodation, professional and friendly service, fine Vietnamese and Western cuisine and an itinerary designed to maximize your holiday pleasure.
Our Premium Indochina Sails are built to the highest luxury standards, in a time-honoured style with first-class modern facilities. We have combined the best of Old World and New and the best of East and West to create a unique and memorable way to explore one of Mother Nature's most spectacular creations
Where the Premium Indochina sails differs from the rest of our fleet is in the amount of, and size of the cabins, with 24 luxurious cabins include 14 superior cabin with 14 square meter, 4 Deluxe cabin with 16 square meter, 4 Suite (22 square meter) and 2 President Suite with 30 square meter. In addition to their generous size, all the cabins feature en-suite bathrooms, which not only contain a large shower with rainfall and handheld massage showers, but a full bath with Jacuzzi as well.
Onboard a boat with only 24 cabins you will enjoy a more warmful atmosphere, large space for beach activities and with as many crew members as passengers we will pamper and spoil you while cruising one of the worlds' most spectacular natural wonders.
Premium Indochina Sails is the perfect choice for discerning travelers seeking an exclusive choice for their holiday in Halong Bay. Enjoy our one or two night itineraries on the boat with your honey or family for as many nights as you. The Premium Indochina Sails is the perfect choice for families or couples and of course for small events on the most beautiful bay on earth.
Our goal is to offer a soothing as well as stimulating experience that you will remember and cherish. Our dedicated and professional management and staff await you and look forward to serving you on magnificent Halong Bay.
laos dvd="laos dvd" i downloaded a 720p of planet earth dvd and its in a .mkv format, how do i burn to dvd w/o losing quality?
i laos bought a pack of dvd 8.5 gb so i have more space, so what software(s) do i use to make the best possible qulity dvd
try this software,
Total Video2Dvd Author can help you convert mkv to dvd simply and directly,
1. convert avi and other popular video formats (*.flv, *.divx, *.xivd, *.avi, *.wmv, *.mkv, *.rm, *.rmvb, *.3gp, *.mp4, *.mov, *.ts, *.ogm, etc.) to DVD or ISO image file. 2. download youtube video or other video share website video, and burn it to dvd, 3. include a lot of beautiful dvd menu template 4. support photo slideshow to DVD, 5. Supports .srt . sub .ssa .ass .smi .psb .tex .idx subtitles 6. easy to use, only a few clicks.
you can download it from: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=total+video2dvd+author&btnG=Google+Search
ai-ma-di(vannasack) Champathong DVD#29 Lao song www.thbusa.com or yaichaidy@yahoo.com
laos airports="laos airports" on flights from saudi arabia do you have a lot of vieled women throughout the journey?
i would laos like to know are they vieled throughout the journey or do they remove their veils once the plane has left saudi airspace also if anyone has flown into gatwick formsaudi arabia or waited for someone on a flight from saudi arabia do you see a lot of vieled women in the airport shortly after landing
I've been back and forth to the Kingdom about 50 times (I worked there for 19 years) on different airlines, but a lot of the time on the national airline, Saudia. Most of the women don't remove their veils as soon as the plane has left Saudi airspace, though a few do. Many of them, however, do remove their veils and their abayas (and sometimes change into western dress) before the flight lands in the States/Europe. But there are always some who remain both veiled and abayaed as they deplane.
"Laos - New and Improved" Travellish's photos around Luang Prabang, Lao Peoples Dem Rep
lao army="lao army" Which branch of the military is best for me ?
I want to be an officer in the military . i want to see combat and have a lot of travel , but not be bored all the time. My grandfather is a retired Captain of the Royal Lao Army during vietnam war and came to America to train at Fort Knox. He tells me that the marines,air force and army can get stattioned wherever they want and the navy is always on a ship.
Combat rules out Air Force and Navy. Army isn't even worth discussing. That just leaves the Marine Corps. Congratulations!
From Ruins, Temples, Rolling Hills & its Charming Aura; Southeast Asia's Magic will get to you
Always have been and continuing to be in the future, Southeast Asia is a magnet for travelers from all over the world. Characterized by warm tropical weather, zesty food, smiling people and scenic environments, there is everything here. The region also has great interconnecting travel routes, and we're here to take advantage of that so you can get your full dose of the region.
Your awe inspiring journey starts at the center of the region in Bangkok, Thailand. And a great place for you to assimilate yourself with Southeast Asia. The sprawling city is a mix of today (as well as tomorrow at certain spots) and yesterday, all evident by its people, food, culture and infrastructure. Don't forget to peep into one of the temples in the Grand Palace for a glance of the heralded Emerald Buddha. A river tour will also open up a side of Bangkok many fail to see.
From here, head up north. Discover the ancient city of Sukhothai, the former capital of one of Thailand's greatest dynasties. Its ruins and temples should at least give you a faint idea of how grand the place and kingdom was.
Continue northwards to the region's unofficial capital, Chiang Mai. Here, discover a scenic city amidst the hills and mountains of the area. Discover the old city, complete with a crumbling walls and surrounding moat as well as the north's most recognizable and revered temple, the mountainside Doi Suthep. Discover more via long tail cruise along the Ping River.
Now it's time to cross the border and into Laos. First stop, the UNESCO Heritage Town of Luang Prabang. You'll see why it has earned that title with its classic and traditional look complete with temples, colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and clean appearance. From here, check out the natural side of the town as you venture off to the always impressive (and refreshingly cool) Kuang Si Waterfall and the thousands of Buddha statues at Pak Ou Cave.
It's now Vietnam's turn to be explored. Start things off with the north and its capital, Hanoi. From there, head to the region's marvel of a destination, Halong Bay. Go ahead, awe at the limestone formations and blue waters. Many before you have done so as well. From here, discover some of the country's heritage with visits to the UNESCO town of Hoi An and the Imperial City of Hue. Ever wonder how it will feel like to cruise down a river of perfume? Find out right here!
And now, the grand capital of ruined temples. This is your final stop in this Southeast Asian tour, and a grand one it is. This is Siem Reap, Cambodia, home to the mighty Angkor Empire's finest temples. And yes, Angkor Wat is here. Ever seen a temple smothered in trees and jungle? Ta Phrom is where you need to go. These are just two of numerous picture worthy temples. Go nuts with your camera!
Need more options in the region? Check out our multi-country tours page. We got the region covered.
About the Author
Established in 1993, Exotissimo Travel is a well known Tour Operator in Asia. We have the expertise and connections to create your perfect inspirational tours as well as customized programs in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan at the best possible price. Your experience guarantees stops to the main sites as well as the hidden spots, giving you a true sense of the culture and rewarding you with unforgettable memories.
South East Asia (3): Laos
laos southeast asia laos southeast asia laos southeast asia
Getting less for more, value for money, closing a deal and negotiating a great price are all phrases that make us happy. We as human beings love to think that we're getting the best deal out of anyone out there. It can be something as small as getting a great deal on a loaf of bread, or as big as a deal on a car. So how do you find great hotel deals on the internet?
Back in the old days, we were reliant on coupons listed in the local newspapers and relied upon our luck to find a store with a great deal. Nowadays we have the internet and this allows us to find great deals on hotels. We used to be relegated to having to pick up the phone and call the hotel to see if they had any specials or discounts available. Now it's as simple as logging onto a deals website to find the latest hotel deals.
This also allows you to skip over the travel agent, who in the past had been the go-to person for outrageous hotel deals. By avoiding the travel agent and instead using the internet, you are opening up a whole new world of travel and hotel deal possibilities. You are no longer relegated to one particular hotel chain that is under contract with the travel agent. It's in the travel agent's best interests to send you to a hotel that pays them a high commission, so they are not looking out for your enjoyment, but rather their own profits.
There are only 3 real choices when searching for hotel deals:
Hotel comparison website: Sometimes you can find great deals on hotels, but more often than not you are presented with a maze of confusing information, taking hours of time to sift and sort.
CheapCouponCodes.com: This website takes the long boring search out of finding hotel deals and gives you a clear and easy to follow webpage that will enable you to find exactly what you are looking for. They have an updated listing of all the great deals out there and work hard to keep their travel deals page updated frequently.
Hotel websites: The actual hotel website sometimes has deals listed on their "deals" page, but they are usually not that spectacular. These hotels find that once they have the visitor on their website, they can usually get them to buy a room regardless of the price.
When’s the last time you had a good laugh? Take a moment to relive the good feelings that come with real laughter.
We pay money to laugh. At the movies and a comedy clubs. We stay up to catch the jokes on late night talk shows. We delight in finding something funny in our lives to laugh at. When we laugh, we get pleasure. What a joy! What a blessing!
Certainly there are times when life presents major challenges when we need to act clearly, but behaving responsibly and efficiently doesn’t preclude humor and light-heartedness. In fact, a flexible, fluid, upbeat approach and attitude is crucial to being effective and creative in our lives.
Laughter, play, spontaneity and improvisation are integral aspects of being human, healthy, happy—and successful. Tribal peoples laugh, sing, chant, drum, dance and act out stories as basic ways to relate socially, to make individual and collective decisions, and to achieve their goals in daily life.
Inspiration and breakthrough are often born from the spirit of playfulness and exuberance. A spontaneous wink, a funny smile, a comic gesture can facilitate change and harmony in the most blocked situation. Through conscious merriment our spirit can emerge and work its magic.
Take a Tip from the Kid In You
Preschool children laugh an average of 400 times a day. The typical adult only laughs 17 times per day. Perhaps it’s time to return to the power of living life through the wonderment of childlike adventure, innocence, lightheartedness, humor and irreverence.
Ancient Roots
Throughout history, spiritual traditions in China, Japan and India have revered the sacred strength of laughter. Lao-Tzu is always pictured smiling. Samurai are always laughing. “Laughter Yoga” was a practice of the ancient rishis of India over 5,000 years ago. Dr. Madan Kataria of Mumbai India started a “Laugher Yoga Club” a few years ago, and now there are thousands of laughter yoga clubs across the world. The club members get together just to enjoy a deep chuckle—and reap the many benefits of mirth.
Hawaiian Secret of Laughter
The ancient Hawaiians assert there are two chemical reactions within the human body that can accomplish Reconnection with Source Oneness. The first is the "sacred tear” beneath our sadness and hopelessness. Beneath that tear lies the second chemical reaction, said to be more powerful than all the healing agents known to humankind. It comes "out of the blue" with the power of a jackhammer, shattering the seriousness of the entire human estate. A power instantly freeing and balancing to all the body's chemistry. This is the power of laughter. When it comes in this manner, it comes through the "na'au" (gut level) and will pierce the hopelessness of any situation or attitude. It is not a power to be taken lightly, for the ancient Hawaiians say it holds the chemistry of immortality and will instantly heal any terminal disease. It’s said to be the "laughter of God" which shatters the ridiculousness of hopelessness.
Laughter Is the Best Medicine
A laugh a day keeps the doctor away! Having a good laugh has long been known to be very therapeutic. As we let laughter wash over and through us, its energy cleanses, purges, and rights imbalances and disharmonies in our mind and body. Hundreds of medical studies have shown the remarkable benefits of laughter.
DEEP LAUGHTER:
Frees Breathing
A good belly laugh opens up your lungs, stretches your diaphragm, eases chest tension, and has an overall healing effect on your well-being. Laughter aids ventilation and clears mucus, improving respiratory functions for those suffering from conditions like emphysema and asthma.
Aids Circulation
Laughter improves blood vessel function, reducing blood pressure and heart rate, enhancing blood oxygen levels and boosting overall circulation.
Boosts Immune Defenses
Laughter increases the immune system’s T-cells, which kill invading bacteria that are harmful to the body. Laughing increases the number of antibodies in saliva, which combat upper respiratory infections. Laughter increases immunity to infections by instantly flooding the system with immune cells and cancer fighting proteins.
Reduces Stress
Cortisol is a chemical produced in your body when you feel stressed, upset or frustrated. Elevated levels of cortisol in your bloodstream have the effect of suppressing your immune system function. Laughter lowers the cortisol levels in the body, thereby protecting your immune system from the negative effects of stress.
A good laugh increases endorphins, which make a person feel happy and have a brighter outlook on life. Laughter also causes secretion of an enzyme that protects the stomach from forming ulcers.
Cures Cancer
Since cancer thrives in an oxygen-depleted body, laughter is helpful in combating cancer. Norman Cousins, in his book “Anatomy Of An Illness,” explains how he laughed himself back from the death sentence of a terminal illness just by watching funny movies, laughing hard, and taking vitamin C. There are hundreds of cases of laughter healing patients described as “terminally ill” with cancer and other ailments.
Laughter reduces food cravings. Laughing 10 minutes a day burns 40 calories.
Is Enjoyable Exercise
Laughing can be considered an exercise since it conditions the abdominal muscles and relaxes muscles throughout the body. Twenty seconds of laughing gives the heart the same workout as 3 minutes of hard rowing.
Makes You Look and Feel Younger
Laughter reduces the rate of cellular decay, which slows aging. Also, the effects of laughter include better mental function, improved mental alertness, memory and social responsiveness.
Saves 30% on Medical Expenses
In western Japan the government provided elderly people with a complete medical care program combining physical training and laughter therapy. "It’s the nation’s first attempt to launch a medicare business with laughter," commented university official Mitsutoshi Nishikawa. 92 participants reported their annual medical costs fell some 30 percent after they joined the program.
Helps Diabetics
A Japanese scientist is unlocking the secrets of the funny bone by cheering up people’s genes. Geneticist Kazuo Murakami teamed up with an unlikely research partner: stand-up comedians—who turn their one-liners into efficient, low-cost medical treatment. Murakami’s approach is to use laughter to trigger energy inside a person’s DNA, potentially helping cure disease.
Murakami had diabetics laugh at a comedy show performed by top stand-up comedians after listening to a monotonous college lecture. The two-day experiment showed that the diabetics’ blood glucose levels (a key gauge for development of diabetes) became lower after they laughed— as compared with their levels listening to the boring lecture. He identified 23 genes that are activated with laughter. 18 of these genes control immune response and cell signal transmission.
“A laughing therapy has no side-effects, meaning it’s an epoch-making treatment for clinical medicine," Murakami said. "One day it won’t be a joke to see patients receive a prescription for a comedy video at a pharmacy for medical treatment."
Maintains a Healthy Heart
University of Maryland Medical School discovered that laughter helps keep your heart healthy. The scientists found that laughter-provoking movies cause the tissue that forms the inner lining of blood vessels to expand, resulting in an increase of blood flow.
For their experiment, the team recruited 20 healthy volunteers to watch two segments of movies at the extreme ends of the emotional spectrum: the comedy "King Pin" and the war drama "Saving Private Ryan." They found that when the study subjects watched a movie that caused laughter, beneficial blood vessel relaxation increased in 19 of the 20 volunteers. In contrast, blood flow was reduced in 14 of the 20 volunteers following the movie clips that caused mental stress. Overall, blood flow increased by 22 percent during laughter—and decreased by 35 percent after watching a clip that caused mental stress.
Lead researcher Dr. Michael Miller suggests people should combine regular exercise with 15 minutes of laughter a day for good cardiovascular health. "It’s conceivable that laughing may be important to maintain healthy blood vessels and reduce the risk of heart disease," said Miller.
Laughter Inspires Clowning
Doctors, nurses and attendants now use "clowning" in hospitals to enhance the healing process with patients. They’ve discovered that when people are laughing and having fun, they experience less physical and psychological pain—and recover faster.
So … laugh more, heal quicker, live longer, and enjoy life as a kid again!
About the Author
Drawing from the wisdom of native and ancient spiritual traditions, Keith Varnum shares his 30 years of practical success as an author, personal coach, acupuncturist, filmmaker, radio host, restaurateur, vision quest guide and international seminar leader with “The Dream Workshops”. Keith helps people get the love, money, and health they want with his F-r-e-e Prosperity Ezine, F-r-e-e Abundance Tape and F-r-e-e Coaching at http://www.TheDream.com
Volunteer abroad UBELONG: Volunteer Voices, Van's journey to Laos
Vietnam Travel Agents Supply Unique Deals at Best Reasonably priced Price ranges
It was picked to be the money of Vietnam in 1802 under the Nguyen dynasty and continued its function till 1945. Hue was established on the design of the Forbidden town in Beijing with lots of palaces, temples within. Far more a short while ago the French tradition has left a robust impression in the metropolis. For much more info on other Vietnam locations for astounding Vietnam tour packages, make sure you visit a different article: http://www.prlog.org/10589106-best-locations-for-vietnam-vacation-deals.html
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Honeymoon deals in Vietnam
There are numerous destinations for your honeymoon in Vietnam in which the enticing tourism deals to Sapa - Heaven love, Ha Very long Bay, Cat Ba, Vung Tau. Honeymoon deals in Vietnam presents you feeling relaxed, that everyday living is wonderful, wonderful start off the next day with stunning pictures of Vietnam remain in your memory.
Sapa package deal honeymoon
Sapa is mountainous terrain is very romantic, with a tiny cold weather conditions in Sapa is interesting, he felt a new warmth in your hand and do, make guaranteed you are going to like it. Sapa is a fair choice, cozy accommodation, attentive services, meals processing, with grilled dishes, this is typical cuisine of Sapa. The scene here is really peaceful, existence devoid of the hustle, is the most attractive weather conditions of spring. If adventurous, you can adventure cycling on the mountain side to get to Sapa, and a lot of other attention-grabbing items.
Culture here is really distinctive, often there are various festivals consider place, this place is great for young couples on their honeymoon.
Vietnam is the most reasonable Global journey destinations for holidaymakers all around the planet. Throughout the year lots of tourist pay a visit to this site and get pleasure from their vacation with various deals provided by travel businesses. If you want handy traveling with your loved ones and friends then travel agents can improved aid you. Vietnam travel agents give solutions and services connected to the traveling such as airlines, buses, autos, coastal transportation, accommodation, sightseeing tours and other points which can include in holiday deals of Vietnam. These agents organize traveling for family members, good friends, large & modest groups and even small business travelers can get positive aspects by employing these agents which are doing work as traveling agencies all around the entire world.
They present holiday deals on behalf of different corporations which provide merchandise and products and services for travelers. Journey agents acquire solutions from these organizations and supply at sensible rates to different people around the entire world. Journey agents are veteran individuals and they can advocate you far better tourist locations in your picked destination. As they are doing work in traveling sector from numerous many years so they give fantastic offers and diverse expert services.
Who Do I Turn To To Find The Best Thailand Property?
Thailand is considered by many to be one of the most luxurious locations in the world to live. Every year thousands upon thousands of people choose to move to Thailand permanently or they choose to purchase vacations home in Thailand. In fact, Thailand property is considered to be one of the hottest forms of real estate on the market today. The good news is that there are a wide variety of Hua Hin property locations that are currently available to individuals from all backgrounds and social classes. All you have to do is seek out those properties which meet your standards and needs.
Thailand has been determined to be the world's 50th largest country. It is located in Southeast Asia and is also an independent country. It is also surrounded by numerous other locations that are considered to be very exotic. These include Burma, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia to name a few. Therefore, choosing to live on a Hua Hin property is a very wise decision if you love to travel to numerous exotic locations with great sightseeing and attractions. These humble and unique surroundings are another reason why so many people choose to seek out and obtain Thailand property.
Thailand Property, Hua Hin is considered to be the leading authority when it comes to acquiring Hua Hin property. They in fact are leaders in the industry and have access to a wide variety of properties including new homes that have never been lived in or even properties which have recently been vacated but that are in excellent condition. They also have access to condominiums, apartments, golf resorts, and even business locations. Their unique relationships with Thailand in general can ensure that you can easily and quickly find the Thailand property that you are looking for.
Though Hua Hin property is very sought after it can be acquired for affordable rates when relying on Thailand Property, Hua Hin. There is no better or more reliable company for you to turn to when you are seeking out real estate in Thailand. That is why you should never even consider seeking out property in Thailand unless you turn to their resources first. They have the knowledge, know-how, and relationships that you will want to take advantage of in order to obtain not only the best property but also the property that you can afford.
If you desire to acquire a beautiful home or to relocate your business to Thailand then you should be sure to turn to this respected company in order to successfully find what you are looking for. Once you arrive in Thailand you can be sure that you will be surrounded by beautiful locations and a very unique culture that is very deep and rich. When it comes to Thailand you truly will be entering a unique and majestic paradise that is sure to keep you captivated for the rest of your days. That is why Hua Hin property is in such high demand in the real estate market these days.
About the Author
With Thailand Property, Hua Hin you can find the Thailand property that you are looking for. If you are on the market for Hua Hin Property then turn to the experts.
travelling in laos_3="travelling in laos" I want to travel thru Laos by buses and visit Yunnan,China.?
Currently in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Lao buses go everywhere. I don't like them, but they get you to where you are going most of the time. Mine crashed and turned on it side 20k from my destination. The driver wanted us to help him flip it over...lol. I said get stuffed. I hitched a ride to my destination. After that, I started to hitch rides a lot(from anyone with a good newish pick up truck) much better. The buses are ok, but no leg room for a tall foreigner like me. The driver passes out plastic bags to all the rural hill tribe women before the mountains. They puke as soon as the turns get nasty. I liked the pit stops along the way. Very good yellow/Muslim style curry. Beer Lao was ok and the fresh baguettes are great. Somehow Thailand never learned the secret of good bread making that the French left behind in Indochina. Oh, some of the underage looking soldiers with football team shorts and camo shirts, holding AK's made me jumpy. You never can tell what kids with guns will do, something i learned in Africa.
ps. I asked a friend about the "fast" boats. He said it was great until it crashed(they had helmets). (he laughed at my story as well). They got stranded mid river for 6 hours until new boats were sent. Advice was take the slow boats.
"Travelling in Laos - the summary" Colleensouness's photos around Pakse, Lao Peoples Dem Rep
travelling in laos travelling in laos travelling in laos
As of December 31, 2009, China had 3,757 budget hotels in total, up 952 and 33.9% year-on-year, with 412,840 guest rooms, rising 99,910 and 31.9% year-on-year.
In addition, the top ten budget hotels in China were Home Inns, Jinjiang Inn, Motel168, 7 Days Inn, Hanting Inns & Hotels, GreenTree Inn, Super 8 Hotel, Ibis Hotel, Vienna Hotel and Hotel Home. The top three, top five and top ten accounted for 37.0%, 52.5% and 63.3% of China's budget hotel market respectively, and the market will be further concentrated in the future.
China's budget hotels are mainly distributed in first-tier cities such as Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou, and Beijing and Shanghai alone accounted for around 25% of China's total. In the future, the well-known budget hotel groups will expand to second-tier and third-tier cities due to a wide and prospect future there.
The report has made an in-depth analysis of China's budget hotel industry in terms of tourism development, hotel industry development, budget hotel regional development, nationwide budget hotel groups, and regional budget hotel groups.
Table Of Contents:
1. Definition & Characteristics of Budget Hotel 1. 1 Definition 1. 2 Characteristics
2. International Budget Hotels 2.1 Development Course 2.2 Management
3. China's Budget Hotels 3.1 China's Tourism Industry 3.2 China's Hotel Industry 3.3 Overview of China's Budget Hotels 3.4 Operation Modes of China's Budget Hotels
4. Regional Budget Hotel Markets in China 4.1 Beijing 4.1.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.1.2 Budget Hotel 4.2 Shanghai 4.2.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.2.2 Budget Hotel 4.3 Tianjin 4.3.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.3.2 Budget Hotel 4.4 Chongqing 4.4.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.4.2 Budget Hotel 4.5 Guangzhou 4.5.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.5.2 Budget Hotel 4.6 Xi'an 4.6.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.6.2 Budget Hotel 4.7 Nanjing 4.7.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.7.2 Budget Hotel 4.8 Hangzhou 4.8.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.8.2 Budget Hotel 4.9 Shenzhen 4.9.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.9.2 Budget Hotel 4.10 Wuhan 4.10.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.10.2 Budget Hotel 4.11Chengdu 4.11.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.11.2 Budget Hotel 4.12 Jinan 4.12.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.12.2 Budget Hotel 4.13 Shenyang 4.13.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.13.2 Budget Hotel 4.14 Suzhou 4.14.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.14.2 Budget Hotel 4.15 Qingdao 4.15.1 Tourism & Hotel 4.15.2 Budget Hotel
5. Nationwide Budget Chain Hotels 5.1 Home Inns 5.1.1 Profile 5.1.2 Operation 5.2 Jinjiang Inn 5.2.1Profile 5.2.2 Operation 5.2.3 Listed in A-share 5.3 Motel168 5.3.1 Profile 5.3.2 Operation 5.4 7 Days Inn 5.4.1 Profile 5.4.2 Operation 5.4.3 Successfully Listed on the New York Stock Exchange 5.4.4 Gaining Pricing Power through Direct Sales 5.5 Hanting Inns & Hotels 5.5.1 Profile 5.5.2 Operation 5.5.3 Successfully Listed on NASDAQ 5.6 GreenTree Inn 5.6.1 Profile 5.6.2 Operation 5.7 Super 8 Hotel 5.7.1 Profile 5.7.2 Operation 5.8 Ibis Hotel 5.8.1 Profile 5.8.2 Operation 5.8.3 Launching Franchise Operation to Rapidly Expand China's Market 5.9 Vienna Hotel 5.9.1 Profile 5.9.2 Operation 5.9.3 Boutique Business Hotel Orientation 5.10 Joyinn 5.10.1 Profile 5.10.2 Operation
6. Regional Budget Chain Hotels 6.1 Hotel Home 6. 1.1 Profile 6.1.2 Operation 6.2 Gold-Lions 100 6.2.1 Profile 6.2.2 Operation 6.3 Nanyuan Inn 6.3.1 Profile 6.3.2 Operation 6.4 City Inn 6.4.1 Profile 6.4.2 Operation 6.5 Huatian Inn 6.5.1 Profile 6.5.2 Operation 6.6 Xilong Hotel 6.6.1 Profile 6.6.2 Operation 6.7 Garden Inn 6.7.1 Profile 6.7.2 Operation 6.8 Shindom Inn 6.8.1 Profile 6.8.2 Operation 6.9 Huakun Hotel 6.9.1 Profile 6.9.2 Operation 6.10 An-e-Hotel 6.10.1 Profile 6.10.2 Operation 6.11 Grace Inn 6.11.1 Profile 6.11.2 Operation 6.12 Holiday Star 6.12.1 Profile 6.12.2 Operation 6.13 Jin's Inn 6.13.1 Profile 6.13.2 Operation 6.14 Orange Hotel 6.14.1 Profile 6.14.2 Operation 6.15 WHWH 6.15.1 Profile 6.15.2 Operation
7. China's Budget Hotel Industry Development Trend 7.1 Operation Differentiation & Brand Building 7.2 Management Specialization & Technology Improvement
About the Author
China Budget Hotel Report, 2009-2010 now Available on ReportsandReports. ReportsandReports, comprising of an online library of 10,000 reports, in-depth market research studies of over 5000 micro markets, and 25 industry specific websites.
Insight Meditation, the Subconscious and Reincarnation
By Simon Ramsden, Thailand
Sir Winston Churchill once said that he believed he was wrong about a quarter of the time. If someone as illustrious as Sir Winston Churchill felt that his powers of judgement were so suspect, how can any of the rest of us feel confident in relying on our own? In the modern Western world, since science took over from religion as the ultimate arbiter between truth and fantasy, we have become accustomed to placing complete credence in the conclusions we come to using our powers of deduction and to ignore our intuition as unreliable. However, there is a problem with this approach, as the conclusions we come to rely on our assumptions and on our deductive powers, both of which may be flawed and so cause us, like Sir Winston, to make mistakes.
Some problems are also just so complex that it is extremely hard to come to a balanced judgement based on ration and reasoning. The subconscious mind, however, does not rely on logic or upon our conscious assumptions, so maybe we should try listening to it sometimes. This is one of the purposes behind vipassana (insight) meditation, that if we ignore conscious thoughts and feelings for long enough then the subconscious has the chance to be heard and to whisper intuition in our inner ears.
Ignoring the conscious mind is a far from easy task, as like a chattering monkey it constantly throws fears, desires and worries at us. Annapanasati (mindfulness with breathing) is an implementation of vipassana, where the meditator slows the stream of conscious thoughts and feelings by concentrating as hard as possible on the sensation of air moving in and out of the nose. It is not a breathing exercise where you try to breathe in a better way (although it will also achieve that), what it primarily achieves is that after a time (for some people a fairly long time) you will start to be able to attach less to the thoughts and feelings that arise – they become just thoughts and feelings, not ‘my’ thoughts and feelings.
When a thought or feeling arises, recognise that it has arisen and then go back to examining the breath. The idea is not to push thoughts away but to allow them to depart of their own accord, which you achieve by not giving them the much-magnified power you usually do by attaching to them as ‘mine’. By attaching to them less the meditator is able to wave them goodbye more easily. Eventually intervals will start to occur between the thoughts and feelings, which are the spaces where insight can arise. In at instant you will just know, with complete certainty, the answer to a problem you may not even have known you had.
Thai people are very strong contenders for being the happiest people on the planet. Buddhists monks believe that the natural state of human beings is contentment despite the tribulations of the vale of sorrow in which we live. Using vipassana and annapanasati, the causes for discontentment are observed and allowed to wither. Personally, I’m tempted to take these monks’ practices seriously as, despite what to most people would seem like extremely boring and ascetic lives, they so often seem to be so deliriously happy. They set a shining example of contentment through non-attachment to impermanent phenomena - those thoughts, feelings, relationships and possessions which come and go in life. This leadership is extremely beneficial to the rest of the community and justifies the reverence in which the monks are held and the physical support which they receive.
It is maybe no coincidence that Thailand is a mainly Buddhist country and that Thai people are very strong contenders for being the happiest people on the planet. The rival countries for the distinction of being the happiest places, in this author’s experience, are the Buddhist Himalayan countries. Meditation encourages people to let their fears and worries arise, to face them and then to let go of them. The Thais’ amazing ability not to worry is maybe at least in part a consequence of this.
Many Westerners will already be aware that they are happiest when forgetting themselves through concentration, but often assume that in order to be effective the object of their concentration must be something exciting like an adventure sport in a foreign country. How lucky the Buddhists are, after they have learned to get the same happiness just from concentrating on the breath going in and out of their noses, which are always there, are always reliable and which also don’t require exhausting and expensive aircraft flights to reach. To delve into the subconscious can for some people be a difficult path. Suppressed feelings and repressed events can arise or be remembered, sometimes extremely painfully. It is recommended that anyone seeking to try out meditation enlists the guidance and support of the people who have been doing it for a very long time, the Buddhists. It is not necessary to subscribe to Buddhist ethics and after-life beliefs to benefit from this religion’s techniques for increasing contentment and generating insight.
While on the subject of Buddhist after-life beliefs, I would like to examine one of the many cases I’ve come across that show to my satisfaction that there is at least a case for suggesting that we are reincarnated. In 1970 a German woman insisted to her hypnotist that she was an 1880s doctor working in the gynaecology department of Edinburgh hospital, the layout of which she drew in detail. When she later visited this hospital for the first time and showed the staff her drawing, she was told that it didn’t match the actual layout. Persistently, she asked to see 1880’s plans for the hospital. The layout of these plans matched her drawing. The above is just one case of many. They don’t constitute one hundred percent proof, but to my mind people who refuse to countenance them are not keeping open minds.
Anybody who is interested in this subject is recommended to read about Edgar Cayce, a 19th century American healer and psychic. It is hard to disbelieve the evidence that he could see peoples’ past lives just by placing his hands on them. There is an alternative explanation for these phenomena. The philosopher Carl Jung believed that humans have a common shared consciousness, through which every person has a link to everything ever experienced by every other person. A species memory. So maybe reincarnation doesn’t really happen, maybe the reincarnation cases are manifestations of Jung’s species memory.
Thai meditation advice: people wishing to try meditation and who feel they are up to an ascetic ten-day retreat are advised to attend Suan Mok monastery (google “wat suan mok”).
Whilst in Thailand, why not visit one of the country’s currently best three beach destinations:
photos of laos="photos of laos" What do these lyrics mean or signify?
It is a song called "Laos":
He was a pretty boy, stayed at our house He took his girlfriend and they went off to Laos They took a photo there of his heart....
Somethings you should never see Somethings you should never see...and there they are there they are...
At the last supper sits Jesus Christ beneath his disciples fits some device holding double A batteries on the side they make the halo circling 'round his head twinkle on and off in red as he holds up a piece of bread and rolls his eyes...
How could that poet state such a phrase: "Never look an angel in the face" He knows they like to wait in the strangest places; Motels rooms, pharmacies, photographs, batteries
Somethings that you should never see,
Something.....
Somethings you should never see, but hey, you see them anyway
anyway.....
Maybe it could be about how some things happen that really shouldn't, or could be about how death seems to be lurking everywhere 'they like to wait in the strangest places' .. not sure though.. :)
"You want something?" Mikeandjess's photos around Vientaine, Lao Peoples Dem Rep (new vientaine)
It is difficult to imagine an area of the world so bursting with photography opportunities than Indochina. No matter what type of photography you want, Indochina has the light, the colours and the exotic views. Beautiful land and seascapes, floating markets, rich paddy fields, saffron robed monks, ancient temples, French influenced architecture, historical monuments, traditional minority costumes …
In the northern mountains of Vietnam, live some of Vietnam's 56 minority groups. You can visit their villages and share their traditional lifestyle for a while, all the time recording what you see. In Yunnan, in South-west China, the Dai, Bai and Naxi peoples are proud to display their colourful traditional costumes as they go about their daily lives in their villagesand towns with traditional architecture. But be careful. Some ethnic minorities have cultural prohibitions against photography. Just ask first. Buddhist monks in Laos and Thailand stroll the streets and are sometimes happy to pose for you. Always obey signs forbidding photography – failure to do so can cause great offence in religious settings. If in doubt, ask.
Especially in Vietnam, one can see the blending of French and Vietnamese architecture, with a little Chinese influence thrown in too. In Hanoi, the French mansions line boulevards that could have been imported directly from France. In Cambodia, the Khmer architecture reaches its peak in the 12th century temple of Angkor Wat. This is one scenic area that demands photography! Similarly, in the Thai capital, Bankok, the Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is a photographer's dream as are the hundreds of smaller temples across all of Indochina.
The cities, too offer occasions to capture great images. The bustling markets in every city; perhaps an elephant walking through the crowded streets of Bangkok; the stalls selling weird and wonderful food which appear on the streets every night; the fascinating mix of styles and influences.
For natural wonders, the karst islands of Halong Bay in northern Vietnam are hard to beat. Thousands of islands rise from the seabed creating a mystical panorama. The island beaches of Thailand are stunning and no one should miss the vivid turquoise seas which surround Indochina. The rivers that irrigate the whole area also offer many photography possibilities – whether from the natural wonder or for the communities who live beside and on the rivers. The floating markets of the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam are a prime example of the photogenic. Phu Quoc in the far south is Vietnam's largest, and most beautiful, island and it is known as an ideal place to catch the sunset.
The local holidays and festivals also offer special photography opportunities. The important water festival known as Pimai in Laos and Songkran in Thailand is a colourful event celebrated across Indochina. Be careful to keep your camera dry! But perhaps the most beautiful festival is Thailand's Loy Krathong when thousands of tiny boats made from banana leaves are set afloat on the river, bearing candles.
No matter which interests you have photography tours can be arranged to your special requirements to ensure you miss nothing. Whatever you do, bring spare batteries and lots of memory capacity – you are sure to go home with many more pictures than you thought possible.
Indochina Odyssey Tours - Your trustworthy Indochina Vietnam tour operator since 1987. Personalized and worry-free service in tours, hotels and tickets in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand.
"Laos, the food" Jillandaric's photos around Luang Prabang, Lao Peoples Dem Rep
It is a better idea to know about the culture of the country, which you are planning, got to spend the vacation with your family. Cambodia is one of the greatest countries in Eastern part of Asia Continent. The culture here plays a significant role in uniqueness of the people. In earlier days, They have suffered with internal war and some issues. Now, the country putting its past behind to embrace the twenty fist century. Most of the people around the world are interested to choose this as a destination to spend vacation with their family members. However, this country has a vibrant, exciting tourist travel destination are offering an opportunity to set back the history behind. The people here are good people are they stored their culture and moments in ancient history are in a kind and charming culture. There are so many facilities offering by the five start boutique hotels, and also you can see the crumbling colonial building, and you can hear the sound of motorized rickshaws and trendy restaurants and spas.
The boarder countries are also very good and greatest countries in the continent. The Thailand, Laos and Vietnam are the boarder countries to the Cambodia. One of the greatest rivers Mekong is the boarder place for Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. This Mekong River is starting its journey from Laos in the North and moving to south almost divide Cambodia country into halves. This river shore has so many beautiful places and also having one of the greatest capital for Cambodia. And this river forms a Great lake near Capital at southwest. There is another great tourist attraction here, it is the Angkor temple complex. This Temple was built in earlier days; you can see the Khmer culture architecture around this temple.
Most of the people around the world are used to call this as Land of smiles, The Cambodian culture was full influenced by the Theravada Buddhism practices by the thirteen million ethnic people of Khmer culture. There are so many people who are migrated there in early centuries. Chinese, Vietnam, and hill tribes are formed new generation called Khmer people. These people built the Angkor watt temple redefining the culture of these people of the eleventh century. At that time, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand are the parts of the Khmer Kingdom. The Khmer culture is severely influenced by the Indian and western cultures. In earlier days so many people think that it is not a safe place to live. However, the new technologies arrived there and change everything. And now the tourism is the main way of income to this country. Every day, so many people are visiting this country to see the world biggest eco park for elephants and bird sanctuary. Spending vacation in this country would remain you and your family as a dream comes true situation. Finally, for more information and details about Cambodia country, please visit their website.
About the Author
Leo Jackh is a famous Archaeologist. To know more information about Khmer empire,Khmer culture,Khmer history,Khmer tradition,Cambodia Eco-tourism,historic period,Tangible Culture,Discovery in the Prehistoric Period. Please visit our website.
Mekong Tourism Forum 2011 (Pakse, Laos) - HD Interview
lao temple="lao temple" What are some traditional songs played at Asian parties?
I've been to many parties and Lao New Year celebrations. This weekend I went to an engagement party for a Cambodian friend of mine, and later to a party at a temple in an Asian village. There is this song I really like and I heard 4 times throughout the day, and none of my Asian friends know the name of it. They just said they have been dancing to it since they were young. It's got a sort of dance beat to it, and it's a guy singing. Of course, I have no clue what he's saying. I'm not sure exactly what type of song it is, since I heard it at a Cambodian party, then later a party with laotian, vietnamese, and other various Asian ethnicities mixed. Does anyone have any ideas of songs that could possibly be the one I want to download?
yeh desh hai veer -jawano ka.,
Boon Pha Pah Samakee Lao Temple Phouthasamakee of Elgin, IL..
palace hotel="palace hotel" Live in Bangkok? How much does the International Breakfast at the Karnamee Palace Hotel's Coffee Shop Cost?
I have stayed at the Karnamee Palace before, the room does come with a international breakfast. It's not the best I have had but it's Ok. Myself I wouldn't stay there again they overcharge for the room for a foreigner. Thai pays about 900 baht for a room you will pay 1,300 to 1,500 for. Just about 100 meters away is the Elizabeth Hotel a better breakfast and the rooms are the same but cheaper.
Lao-Tzu's Tao: a contemporary interpretation for becoming a better person
THE TAO
45.
The Tao that can be walked on is not the eternal Tao.
The Tao that can be named is not the eternal Tao.
Tao has no name,
So it is the creator of heaven and earth.
Tao has a name,
So it is the mother of ten thousand things.
Without desire
Tao reveals its true mystery.
With desire
Tao reveals only a shadow.
It is the same Tao,
Only we give it different names.
The source is unknown,
But it leads to a life that is subtle and sublime.
46.
If someone sees beauty
It's only because they also see ugliness
If they see something as good
It's only because they see something else as bad.
Therefore, you can't have one thing
Without something else.
Some things are difficult because other things are easy.
Some things seem long because other things seem short.
Some things are up high because other things are down low.
Some things sound like music because other things sound like noise.
First one thing and then the other; front and back always follow each other.
Work without struggle,
Teach without saying a word.
Do not deny what is asked of you, even if it is ten thousand things.
Do them without claiming authority over them.
Do them without expecting favors in return.
Do them and move on.
And, the work you do will last forever.
47.
Tossing compliments around freely
Causes people to quarrel
And waste time trying to impress you.
If you value something,
Someone will try to steal it.
Keep it to yourself
Or you will disillusion some people
And confuse others.
Lead by clearing the noise out of people's heads,
Open their hearts,
And fill their bellies.
Weaken their desires and stregthen their bones.
When people are simple and free from desire
No one can push them around.
If they think they know the answers,
mess with their heads.
Stop doing stuff.
Practice doing without doing
And see what happens.
Everything will work out.
48.
Tao is the emptiness of a bowl,
We cannot overfill it as we use it.
It is the source of ten thousand things
Yet remains a deep, unfathomable mystery.
Blunt the sharp points,
Unravel complicated things,
Temper the brightness.
Tao is pure and holy
And goes on and on forever.
It does not need a mother.
It has always been.
49.
Heaven and earth do not wish to be good.
They deal with everything like they would a grass-eating dog.
Do not wish to be good.
Deal with people like you would a grass-eating dog.
Tao is the space between heaven and earth.
It is like a great bellows,
Empty yet never depleted,
The more it moves the more it makes.
Don't fill your soul
With trivial stuff.
Be cool.
50.
The fertile spirit does not die.
She is the first mother
Who gave birth to everything.
She is the root from which
Heaven and earth sprang.
She is an eternal mystery
She has no name.
Everyone has Tao in them.
Dim and barely seen,
Yet ever present.
You just have to use it.
Draw from it all you want;
It will never run dry.
51.
Heaven and earth will last forever.
Why?
Because they do not live for themselves.
Therefore, leave yourself behind
To find yourself out front.
Be defenseless to be defended.
Be self-less to be full-filled.
52.
Goodness is like water.
It benefits ten thousand things.
It fills the voids without working.
It always moves to the lowest place.
And as such is like Tao.
Good houses are built on good land.
Good minds are built on deep stillness.
Good associations are built on good vitures.
Good governments are built on good order.
Good affairs are built on good conduct.
Good moves are made in good time.
Accept where you are in life,
And no one will fault you.
53.
It is easier to carry a vessel that is empty.
If you keep working it,
It will lose its point.
If you fill your house with valuable stuff,
You cannot keep it safe.
Brag about how good you are or how much stuff you have,
And you invite disaster to fall upon you.
When you have done what you had to do,
Withdraw into obscurity.
This is the way of heaven.
54.
Can you let go and embrace the quiet spirit
While your head is full of noise?
Can you be like a newborn baby
While you focus on everything else?
Can you see past what is in front of your eyes
While cleaning your mirror?
Can you not be in charge
While leading other people?
Can you just let it happen
While it's happening?
Can you remain simple and true to your own nature
While you forget what you know?
Help others.
Help them to live and not hold on to things.
Help them without expecting a reward.
Help them without controling them.
That's the way it's done, it's called Hidden Virtue.
55.
A wheel has thirty spokes,
But it is useful because of the hole.
A pot is made from clay,
But it is useful because of the hole.
A window is cut into a wall,
But it is useful because of the hole.
Things work to our advantage,
But it's what they don't have that makes them useful.
When we work with something,
We use nothing.
56.
Color blinds the eye.
Music deafens the ear.
Flavor dulls the taste.
The thrill of the chase messes with your head.
Objects rare and strange,
Makes men evil do.
Seek to satisfy the craving of the belly,
Not the longing of the eye.
Better this than that.
57.
Winning and losing are just the same.
Honor and dishonor are just the same.
You are down because you once were up.
When you are in,
There is fear of being out,
The fear of losing out,
Is the great dishonor.
Trouble comes to those with a physical body.
What can trouble a free spirit?
Love others as you love yourself
Is damn good advice for he who would be king.
58.
We look but do not see,
We call it invisible.
We listen but do not hear,
We call it inaudible.
We grab but do not grasp,
We call it intangible.
These three names do not the Tao make,
But blend them and they become the one.
One side is not bright,
The other is not dark.
It is always moving towards nothing.
It is the shape of the formless,
It is the shape of the invisible,
It is the shape of the intangible.
We cannot tell if it is coming or going.
Cling to the old ways,
Experience the moment of now,
Know that to follow the path of Tao leads back to the beginning.
Which is nothing.
59.
In days of old, Ancient Masters
Were in touch with the subtle mysteries of the universe
That were too deep for ordinary men to comprehend.
There aren't words enough to describe how deep they were.
I can only tell you this:
They were hesitant, like a man crossing a winter stream.
They were nervous, like they were surrounded by enemies.
They were serious, like a visiting guest.
They were fleeting, like melting ice.
They were simple, like an uncarved block.
They were empty, like a valley.
They were dense, like muddy water.
Eventually muddy water clears itself
And the weary rest.
Those who walk this path are not full of themselves.
Because they are not full of themselves,
They do not appear all shiny and new.
60.
Empty your head.
Stay calm,
even when ten thousand things are going on.
Everything will flourish for its time
and then return to its original state,
which is nothing.
When something returns to nothing its destiny is fulfilled.
It has gotten it right with Tao.
Those who don't understand this
move towards screwing things up.
Those who do, always know what to do.
Those who are one with Tao, even after they are gone, got it right.
61.
In days of old,
People did not know that there were rulers.
In the next age, people loved and praised them.
In the next age, people feared them.
In the next age, people hated them.
Do not trust your leaders who do not trust in Tao.
In those days of old,
The Ancient Masters said very few words,
Which made each one important.
They did their work without taking control
And the people were amazed with what they had done.
62.
When people stop following Tao
Kindness and righteousness appear.
Then wisdom and level-headedness
And hypocrisy break out.
When harmony no longer prevails in the family,
Sons rise up.
When the state falls to disorder,
Faithful leaders rise up.
63.
If we stop being such cleaver wise-asses we would be 100 percent better.
If we stop being kind and moral, we can discover compassion.
If we stop being shrewd profiteers, thugs and thieves will disappear.
These three methods of elegant governing
Have often failed before,
But simple views and simple truths
Puts and end to selfish ends.
64.
Don't spend your time thinking about stupid stuff.
Why must you fear what others fear?
Everyone is running around trying to be happy
And having a good time.
I alone am drifting without direction.
Everyone else has more stuff than they need
And are excited about it.
I alone seem in want.
Everyone else is bright and clever,
Alert and self-assured.
I alone am slow and aimless,
Like the wind. Like the waves.
Other people seem to have it all.
I am different from other people. I seem to have nothing.
I am getting right with Tao.
65.
Focus only on the Tao.
Who can say for sure the true nature of the Tao?
You cannot touch it,
You cannot see it,
It's deep and dark as can be,
Yet within it everything exists.
And these things, truth does hold
The same today as in days of old.
The Tao shall not pass away,
Its beauty shall not decay.
How do I know?
I know because I know.
66.
The incomplete is complete,
The crooked is straight,
The empty is full,
The worn is new.
He who desires little, gains
He who desires lots, loses.
Embrace humility for all the world to see.
Be free from showiness to really shine.
Be free from defenses to really be distinguished.
Be free from bragging to really be acknowledged.
Be free from selfishness to really be superior.
Be free from strife to really be free from strife.
This is not given in vain,
The Tao sees everything as complete.
67.
When you have nothing to say,
It is a sign that you know yourself.
A sudden wind does not last all morning,
A sudden rain does not last all day,
To what do we owe this?
Heaven and earth.
If heaven and earth cannot make such things last,
How much less can man!
When you follow Tao,
The people who follow you will agree.
When you follow virtue,
The people who follow you will agree.
When you follow nothing,
The people who follow you will also fail.
Those who agree are happy.
Those who fail are happy too.
But if you're not happy, ain't nobody happy.
68.
It is not easy to stand still
On your tippy-toes.
It is not easy to walk
On one leg.
It is not easy to get somewhere
If you are showing-off.
It is not easy to get respect
If you are bragging.
It is not easy to get credit
If you always have an excuse.
These things are bad,
Like bad food that nobody wants
Or a tumor that no body wants.
Do not adopt them.
69.
Something existed before heaven and earth.
It was still,
And formless,
And did not change.
It stood alone and reached everywhere.
It does not grow weary.
It is the mother of ten thousand things.
It does not have a name
So I simply call it Tao.
But if pressed to give it a name;
I'd call it the great Tao.
Being great, it flows ever on.
Flowing ever on, it flows to distant places.
Flowing to distant places, it eventually returns.
And the return is what makes it great.
There are four great things.
Faithful leaders are great.
The earth is great.
The heavens are great.
The Tao is great.
Man takes orders from earth.
Earth from heaven,
Heaven from Tao,
Tao from itself.
70.
Heaviness is the root of lightness,
Stillness the root of motion.
Travel lightly,
Carry only what you need.
Sightsee along the way,
But never forget your place.
How can the king carry himself lightly around his kingdom?
If he acts lightly he loses his roots.
If he moves around
He loses his throne.
Better to stay in your place.
71.
A skillful traveler leaves no trace behind.
A skillful speaker makes no slip of the tongue.
A skillful thinker can do math in his head.
It is impossible to open that which a skillful closer has closed.
It is impossible to untie that which a skillful binder has tied.
It is the same for the skillful master,
He does not cast any away, therefore he saves other men.
This is known as concealing the truth of your actions.
A skillful man is the master of the unskilled.
The unskilled is the servant of the skilled.
It would be hard to tell which is which and who is who
If the servant did not respect the master, nor
The master appreciate his servant.
This reveals the utmost degree of mystery.
72.
The strength of a man
The gentleness of a woman
Flow together as one,
In him who remains simple as a child.
He who knows which is which and who is who,
Yet keeps himself humble,
Becomes the master of them all
On this endless journey
To return to the uncarved state.
Glory does not last
Neither does disgrace.
To he who walks from either
The Tao in him remains
Simple as a child.
Raw materials form the vessels,
Tao forms the void.
Faithful leaders form the government,
Tao makes them remain, simple as a child.
73.
He who wishes to rule the kingdom
By his own hand
Is doomed to fail.
The kingdom is a spirit-like thing
That can't be held by holding.
He who tries is doomed to fail.
And will destroy everything!
What once was the front is now the back.
What was warm now is cold.
What was weak now is strong.
What we have labored to build now mocks us.
So put away excessive effort,
Put away extravagance,
Put away easy indulgence.
74.
Help the Faithful Leaders stay faithful to the Tao,
Do not assert yourself with a show of arms.
What goes around comes around.
An army camped inside your borders
Sprouts thistles and thorns.
In the course of generations,
There are sure to be some bad years.
A skillful general strikes a decisive blow,
And stops.
He does not pursue
Complete control.
He is not boastful or vain.
He strikes because he has to.
He strikes not for the want of
Complete control.
When things have reached the end of their days,
They shall grow old.
This cannot be said of Tao.
Whatever is, that is not Tao, soon will see the end of days.
75.
Weapons are terrible things,
However beautiful.
Do not use them.
It is customary to consider the left hand favorable.
But in times of war it is the right.
The right to bear the arms,
Is repugnant.
Peace and harmony are the prize to favor.
Victory, undesirable.
To consider this desirable is to delight
In the slaughter of men.
He who delights in the slaughter of men
Cannot get right with Tao.
In happy times the left hand is favored,
In times of mourning, the right.
So then, the army captain on the left,
The general on the right
Ranked according to the number of men killed.
We should weep for them
When they return from war.
76.
Tao has no name,
It is forever unchanged.
Although it may seem simply small,
Its power is immense.
If anyone could hold on to it,
People would instintively follow him.
Heaven and earth, guided by Tao,
Send down the rain,
Without so much as word one from man,
It rains equally everywhere, of its own accord.
Everything that isn't Tao needs a name.
When it has a name, man knows how to use it.
When they know how to use it,
They can set themselves free.
Tao is like the great ocean,
Everything flows back to it.
77.
Knowing others makes you smart.
Knowing yourself makes you wise.
Ruling over others makes you powerful.
Ruling over yourself makes you strong.
To want only what you have is to be truly rich.
Never, Never, Never give up and Tao will help you find a way,
Be true to your own nature and you will succeed.
Live out each day, really live it up,
and in the end you will have really lived.
78.
Tao covers everything like a flood.
It flows in every direction at once.
Everything depends on Tao,
And Tao denies no one,
And no reward does it claim.
It accomplishes its tasks
Yet it does not try to control them.
Therefore, Tao may be called "little."
Everything eventually returns to Tao,
Even though tao does not control them.
Therefore, Tao may be called "great."
So do not desire to be great,
And you will be truly great.
79.
Hold on to the invisible Tao
And everybody will be your friend.
In you they will find
Rest and peace and security.
Music and fancy food can feed the body.
The truth about Tao,
As strange and unusual,
As bland and worthless,
As it appears
Can feed the soul.
It is inexhaustible.
80.
To breathe in, breathe out.
To weaken, strengthen.
To overthrow, elevate.
To take, give.
This is hiding the light
Soft overcomes hard,
Weak overcomes strong.
Fish shold not be taken from the deep.
War machines should not be seen.
81.
Tao does nothing
For the sake of doing.
There is nothing it cannot do.
If our faithful leaders could get right with Tao
Ten thousand things would develop on their own.
If our faithful leaders get out of step with Tao,
They will be drawn back by its simplicity.
Simplicity without a name is freedom.
Without desire imposed upon them,
Everything goes as it will.
About the Author
Mr. Young is a nationally certified activity director working at his local nursing home. He is currently working towards improving his state's education requirements for becoming a certified activity director. He has completed his master's level advanced coursework for his ACC certification.
He is an ordained minister and holds a MetD degree in metaphysics.
He consults with other nursing homes about how to meet spiritual needs and improve their activity programing.
