religion in laos_2="religion in laos" thesis statement help!!?
im writing a research paper on the cultures of souteast asia; cambodia, vietnam, and laos. i have a thesis statement - the culture of vietnam, camobodia, and laos have changed over the years; with language, religion, education, marriage, and food changing as the countries become more modern.
i dont like this because i have to explain how it changes and i dont want to talk about the past culture, i want to talk about the culture now..
the things im talking about in my paper. -language -religion -education -marriage -food. if you can think of a good thesis for me that just talks about the culture today it would really help! thanks.
State that they have amazing and unique culture
Party - Lao/Thai New Year and New Tripitaka Library Celebration 3/26/2011
Day 1: Arrival - HO CHI MINH City (-/-/-) On arrival at Tan San Nhat Airport, you are met and transferred to hotel for check in. In this afternoon, we spend a half-day exploring the captivating Ho Chi Minh City. The most places of interest are located near the town center. We pass by the now-demolished wartime American Embassy on our way to the Reunification Palace. This famous mansion was a former residence of the President of Southern Vietnam until end of April 1975. Close to the palace are some striking French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Sai Gon Post Office. Upon leaving these landmarks we drive to see the crowded Saigon's Chinatown, locally named Cho Lon, which is crammed with fascinating temples as well as mysterious and narrow lanes. We follow it with a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War remnant exhibit with a wealth of images from the notorious conflicts. O/N in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 2: CU CHI - TAY NINH (B/-/-) Depart for Cu Chi, which is about 30km from the north-west of Ho Chi Minh City to visit an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the long struggle for independence. Cu Chi tunnels were used as the base from which the Vietnamese mounted their operations of the Tet Offensive in 1968. The Cu Chi tunnels consist of more than 200km of underground tunnels. This main axis system has many branches connecting to underground hideouts, shelters, and entrances to other tunnels, the tunnels are between 0.5 to 1m wide, just enough for a person to crawl along. Later on, Proceed to Tay Ninh, the head quarter of Cao Dai region founded on 1926. On arrival we attend the fantastic mid-day mass when the followers fill the hall wearing colored robes, a symbol of the curious combination of the Confucianism, Taoism, Christianity and Buddhism. O/N in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 3: HO CHI MINH CITY – MEKONG DELTA – CAI BE (B/L/-) In the morning, we will keep heading out of town by roads to Cai Be in the heart of the Mekong Delta. On arrival we embark a boat for a leisurely trip around the tributaries of the mighty Mekong River, stopping en route to explore the vibrant floating market of Cai Be where each boat usually sells one particular item such as pumpkins, pineapples, sugar canes and more. In order that customers know where to shop, the vendors hang that item from the highest part of the boat. We continue our exciting river trip to visit some local cottage industries including rice paper makers, sweet factory and bonsai nurseries. The boat will anchor at an island, giving us a chance to see various farmers at work and enjoy a huge lunch followed by many seasonal fruits. We weave our way through the intricate network of canals which are the lifeblood of the Mekong Delta. On reaching Vinh Long Town, we meet up with our vehicle for a return to Ho Chi Minh City. Drive back to Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 4: HO CHI MINH CITY - DANANG - HOIAN (B/-/-) At leisure until transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for flight to Da Nang. On arrival at Da Nang Airport, you are met and transferred to Hoi An, which was originally a Cham seaport but has been influenced down centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. There are plenty to see in this tranquil and delightful town, some of which are the famous Japanese Covered Bridges, the Pottery Museum, the 200-year-old Tamky House, the Chua Ong Pagoda and the vibrant market. We include these sights in an enchanting walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets and assembly halls which reflect the town's multi-cultural past O/N in Hoi An. Day 5: HOIAN - HUE (B/-/-) In the morning, Depart for Hue via Danang from Hoi An. The scenic 4-hour drive will be getting over Hai Van Pass known as one of Vietnam's most impressive panoramic scenes offering spectacular views of mountains, the sea, idyllic beaches and villages (we can choose the shorter way by driving through the tunnel). However, on the way we will stop by one very famous Cham Museum in Da Nang city. This structure contains many exquisite limestone carvings from the vanquished Kingdom of Champa which has been the central coastal littoral prior to the march of the Vietnamese nation south. In the afternoon, the Imperial Citadel including Flag Tower, Noon Gate, Nine Dynastic Urns, Nine Holy Cannons, Thai Hoa Palace and the Purple Forbidden City. This royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, however it is still fascinating to walk among the ruins. Close to this masterpiece is Hue Imperial Museum which displays an interesting collections of bronzes, Chinaware, court robes and various emperors' personal belongings. Later on, we come back to Hue center &l stop by the bustling Dong Ba Market that sells a wide variety of local goods and handicrafts. Along the way we pass many fantastic eating spots, all ideal for visitors to sample some local delicacies. O/N in Hue.
Day 6: FULL-DAY HUE CITY TOUR (B/-/-) In the morning, we keep on exploring the hidden charm of Hue by enjoying a boat trip on Perfumes River to visit Thien Mu pagoda and time for discovering the typical lifestyle of Vietnamese people at Kim Long Village. Afternoon: We continue a car- trip to visit the Royal Mausoleum of Tu Duc and Royal Mausoleum of Khai Dinh. O/N in Hue.
Day 7: HUE - HANOI (B/-/-) After breakfast at hotel, flight to Hanoi. Arrive at Noi Bai Airport, transfer to Hanoi Center for an orientation tour via Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, French Colonial Quarter and West Lake. In the afternoon, we visit the Temple of Literature well known as Vietnam's first university and Ethnology Museum, which displays an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the Vietnam's ethnic minorities with their own traditions, cultures & life-styles. Additionally, the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple and the bustling Hang Be or Dong Xuan Market are also visited. Lastly, a cyclo tour in the old quarter streets to discover the local people life. O/N in Hanoi.
Day 8: HANOI - HALONG BAY (B/-/-) Today we commence our sightseeing of Hanoi with the Ho Chi Minh Complex, containing the mausoleum of the nation's founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh's house on stilts. Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of Hanoi. We follow this with another visit to Hilton prison detaining American pilots captured in the bombing war in Hanoi from 1967 until 1973 before driving straight to Ha Long Bay. O/N in Ha Long.
Day 9: HALONG BAY - HANOI (B/-/-) The legendary Halong Bay is truly one of Vietnam's most impressive scenic sights. We board a traditional boat for a 5- hour trip around Halong Bay. This exciting cruise provides us a fantastic view of the picturesque scenery blending with the sky and some 3,000 limestone islands rising amazingly from the clear and emerald water. These limestone karst formations are littered with beaches, grottoes and beautiful caves. Along the way we will anchor for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and an enjoyable visit to one of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. We round off our excursion with a seafood lunch served on board Finally, we will driver back to Hanoi. Evening: Water puppets show, the unique Vietnam traditional art. O/N in Ha Noi.
Day 10: HANOI - HOALU - TAMCOC - HANOI (B/-/-) The country capital during the Dinh and early Le Dynasties is Hoa Lu, which however has left its legacy in the form of two small temples, each one nearly a thousand years old. Today we will depart our hotel at 8h00 for Ninh Binh to visit these two remaining structures. The first one is dedicated to the Dinh Dynasty. The second one commemorates the Le Rulers. In front of these temples is the rugged Ma Yen mount; it involves a walk over 200 steps for a fantastic view over the surrounding areas. The following sight is Tam Coc which is surnamed "Halong Bay on land". We board a sampan for a leisurely trip through the quiet and peaceful landscape of rice fields surrounded by towering limestone cliffs to the grottoes of Tam Coc. The trip ends after arrival in Ha Noi O/N in Ha Noi.
Day 11: HANOI - LUANG PRABANG (B/-/-) After breakfast at hotel, transfer to Noi Bai airport for flight to Luang Prabang, the ancient first capital of Lane Xang kingdom, the center of religious life in Laos and today the World Heritage City. Arrive in Luang Prabang and transfer to our hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, we take a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of temples, of which nearly fifty temples still remain in the town and surrounding areas. Visit Wat Visoun, the 16th century temple served as a small museum for religious artifacts; Wat Aham, the early 19th century temple, whose two guardian figures at the foot of the steps which represent two characters from the Ramayana - Hanuman, the Monkey God and a fierce Yaksa; Wat Xiengthong, the 16th century temple which, more than any temples in Luang Prabang, epitomizes all the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture; Phousi Hill, the 328 steps leads to the summit of Phousi hill that dominates the sky-line of Luang Prabang overlooking the finest panoramic view in the whole Luang Prabang. O/N in Luang Prabang.
Day 12: LUANG PRABANG & PAK OU Cave (B/L/-) Following breakfast, we depart hotel to the boat landing, and take an excursion (a few hours) by boat, upstream on the Mekong to visit Pak Ou cave in the side of a lime stone cliff and opposite of the mouth of the Mekong and Ou rivers. The sanctuaries at Pak Ou consist of two large caves, both repositories for thousands of Buddha images, which range from mere centimeter to two meters in height. En route, Lao typical villages are barely visible behind a screen of foliage. Slender canoes bobbing by the shore, bamboo poles and floats mark the location of nets and fish traps. Our first stop will be at Ban Muangkeo, a well-known village for Lao traditional rice whisky, namely Laoh-Khao to be distilled. We are welcome to taste it and also take away. Lunch is served at a riverside restaurant. We arrive back at Luang Prabang in late afternoon, and continue to drive outskirt of town to visit Ban Xangkhong, a well-known village for its wood paper making and also Lao silk weavings with natural dyes. O/N in Luang Prabang.
Day 13: LUANG PRABANG - KUANGSI WATERFALL (B/L/-) An morning breakfast, before we take a drive (30 km South) to visit Kuangsi Waterfall, which, though not very high, is spectacular and really beautiful with its green surroundings as the preserved National park. We stop en-route, stop to visit a fresh produced market namely Talad Phosy, and also visit Ban Na Oune, a small village of a hill-tribe group "Hmong", probably the best-known minority group in Laos. Just before arriving at Kuangsi waterfall, there is another village of Khmu minority group, namely Ban Tha Pane that we will visit. Our picnic lunch is served at the shady park nearby Kuangsi waterfall. There is plenty of time for relaxing and a swim in cool water, before we head back to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is spent by visiting various craft-shops, including silver smiths' and also Hmong market in town, where some skilled embroidery-works of Hmong ladies can be seen. O/N in Luang Prabang.
Day 14: LUANG PRABANG - VIENTIANE (B/-/-) In the morning, visit the National Museum, the former Royal Palace which houses the collection of valuables including the famous Prabang Buddha statue, gifts received from foreign dignitaries…etc. Transfer to Luang Prabang airport for flight Vientiane. Meet on arrival and you are welcome to Vientiane, the city of the moon - an ancient city, situated on the bend on the left bank of the Mekong as the largest city and the capital of Laos. Transfer to hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, we take a sightseeing tour of Vientiane, to visit religious museums of Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple to have been survived from the Siamese war of 1828 and its cloister contains more than 8000 Buddha statues; Wat Ho Prakeo, the former home-temple of the Emerald Buddha statue or Pra Keo, but today it contains a collection of Buddha statues, antiques and all artifacts found in around Vientiane; That Luang Stupa, the single most important monument in Laos, which was built to cover the original small stupa containing a piece of the chest bone of Buddha; Patouxay (Arch de Triumph), built quite recently in commemoration of those who died during the wars in the past and it is today as the land-mark of Vientiane. O/N in Vientiane.
Day 15: VIENTIANE - PHNOM PENH (B/-/-) After breakfast, a short flight to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival at Phnom Penh airport, meets and transfers to hotel Visit the Victory Monument and the National Museum, the Royal Palace, built by the French in 1866 on the site of the old town, and Silver Pagoda, which located within the Royal Palace ground. You will then end your tour with a visit to Wat Phnom Temple, Phnom Penh's namesake, from where you can enjoy views over the tree lined avenues of the city during sunset O/N at hotel.
Day 16: PHNOM PENH - SIEM REAP (B/-/-) Breakfast at hotel Transfer to Phnom Penh airport for departure to Siem Reap. Upon arrival at Siem Reap airport, meets and transfers to hotel Visit the ancient capital of Angkor Thom (12th century). See the South Gate (with its huge statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk), Bayon Temple(unique for its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces of Avolokitesvara), the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King In the afternoon, visit the most famous of all the temples on the Angkor plain: Angkor Wat. The temple complex cover 81 hectares and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Its distinctive five towers are emblazoned on the Cambodian flag and the 12th century masterpiece is considered by art historians to be the prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture. Angkor Wat's five tower symbolize Meru's five peaks, the enclosed wall represents the mountains at the edge of the world and the surrounding moat symbolizes the ocean beyond Sunset from Phnom Bakheng, one of two hills dominating the plain of Angkor, from where you will have a spectacular view of the Western Baray and Angkor Wat O/N at hotel.
Day 17: SIEM REAP (B/-/-) Breakfast at hotel In the morning, you will continue your temple visits. Included are Prasat Kravan (with its unique brick sculptures), Srah Srang ("The Royal Boths" was once used for ritual bathing), Banteay Kdei (surrounded by four concentric walls), Eastern Mebon (guarded at its corner by stone figures of harnessed elephants, some of which are still in a reasonable state of preservation) and the "Mountain Temple" of Pre Rup. In the afternoon, transfer to the archaeological site and continue to the temple tour. Visit Ta Prohm, one of the most beautiful temples in the area. Ta Prohm has been left relatively untouched since it was discovered and retains much of its mystery Then, visit Takeo, Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda temples O/N at hotel.
Day 18: SIEM REAP (B/-/-) Breakfast at hotel Morning, drive to Kbal Spean. Walk 45 minutes through the forest to the top of the hill to reach Kbal Spean, the "Thousand Linga River." Discover the 10th-12th century sculptures chiseled into the rocky riverbed, the Royal Bath and the waterfall Then, continue to the enchanting temple of the Banteay Srei, nearly everyone's favorite site. The special charm of this temple lies in its compact size, remarkable state of preservation, and the excellence of it decorative carvings In the afternoon, visit Banteay Samre, one of the most complete complexes at Angkor due to the "anastylosis" restoration method being used. The name Samre refers to an ethnic group of mountain people that inhabited the region at the base of Phnom Kulen and were probably related to the Khmers. No inscriptions have been found at this temple, but the style of most of the architecture is of the classic art of the middle period, similar to Angkor Wat. The proportions of Banteay Samre are splendid. A unique feature is an interior moat with laterite paving, which when filled with water must have given an ethereal atmosphere to the temple Return to Siem Reap at the end of the afternoon O/N at hotel.
Day 19: SIEM REAP - Departure (B/-/-) Breakfast at hotel Visit the floating village of the Chong Khneas, located 10 kilometers south of Siem Reap. Take a traditional wooden boat for a ride on the Tonle Sap, the "Great Lake" of Cambodia and the largest in Asia In the afternoon, visit "Les Artisans d'Angkor - Chantiers Ecoles" of Siem Reap and time at leisure at the local market (if time permits) Transfer to Siem Reap airport for departure to the next destination
Vietnamese Tour Companies support Eco and Responsible Travel in Vietnam & Indochina
Eco and Responsible travel now are the way of traveling while respecting and benefiting local environment, cultures, practices and economy. It also highlights significant elements of how to improve standard of living for ethnic poor communities, educate local people to protect the environment, help in reducing carbon emission, and helping nature by planting trees, protecting endangered animals. Besides that responsible tourism can also include efforts to help humanity by giving to the people in need, by volunteering time and knowledge, treat them or take care of their special needs.
A group of companies that have founded responsible travel club in Vietnam (www.rtcvietnam.org) and Indochina include ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA( www.activetravel.asia/responsible_travel/ ). They co-operated with NGO's such as SNV (Netherlands Development Organization) and Caritas Switzerland and created their products which are included the activities that not only give travelers the chance to discover the destinations in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, but show them who to improve local standard of living and protect the environment while their travels.
Eco Travel in Vietnam
Some of the ATA tours are, Ha Giang Tour or Adventure in Northern Vietnam: An Eco-experience. The former is a 14 days, 10 nights tour which combines sightseeing with visits to local communities and ethnic cultural villages. During this tour you will be using motorbikes en route. During the tour the travelers will stop at some villages and learn how NGOs are helping in preserving the Vietnam culture and heritage and how travelers can contribute towards it.
Travelers also get to explore the local culture as part of responsible travel through cultural ceremonies. ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA and Caritas expect to educate ethnic communities in Quang Ba, Ha Giang how to accommodate travelers and protect travel resources. Children in Ha Giang do not have the much resources to educate themselves and this helps in giving them some form assistance to get educated and also make you feel good about your contribution to these children.
The above is just one of the ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA Responsible Travel products. There are several others which are coming soon in 2011 include countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos .
About the Author
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.
vientiane times laos_2="vientiane times laos" Vientiane to Luang Prabang?
Hi, I am a female from Singapore and I am intending to travel up ALONE to Vientiane and Luang Prabang soon for a backpacking trip. This is my first time travelling on my own and I would like to know-
1) if the 10-hr bus ride from Vientiane to Luang Prabang is safe and how often do they stop for a break?
2) Is it generally safe in Laos?
3) What are the things I should be wary of over there?
Thank you!
Yes, I did this trip recently. It's safe but the roads are windy and the trip is long. If you want to break it up you can stop at Vang Viang (spelling?) which is about halfway and quite pretty. There are so many guesthouses there as well as internet cafes etc. There are many tourists traveling this particular route so you won't be alone.
The bus might stop every few hours for a toilet break but this involves running behind some trees or for guys just peeing on the side of the road...it's quite an adventure.
lao news="lao news" What happened in Nong Khai on 6/03/2009?
Could it be the start of train service to Laos? http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/137107/thai-lao-train-service-launched A 9km link is to be built from Thanaleng to Vientiane supposedly in the next year.
See video about the trip to Nong Khai-Laos by train at http://nongkhai-hotels.blogspot.com/2009/03/trains-to-nong-khai-and-lao.html
and the new government project for railway is Bangkok-Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai for connect the Mekhong ferry port Chiang Saen-Yunnan China.
I hear like this from TV, but I don't know when the project will start. LOL.
laos new_2="laos new" What's the best way to recharge my iPod while traveling in Asia?
I will be traveling for 2 months. I will only have access to internet cafe computers on an unpredictable basis, so charging from a computer using my USB cable is a little impractical. I will be in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore, so getting outlet adaptors for all those countries also seems impractical. Also, do iPods adjust for different voltage automatically the way new laptops do, or would I need to get a voltage adaptor too? I'd especially like to hear from people who have actually used an iPod on a long-term trip through Southeast Asia.
I went to Singapore and Malaysia last year. I brought my video iPod with me and also a USB power adapter. Didn't have any problem charging the iPod with it at the hotels, so I don't think you'll need a voltage adaptor either. And most hotels these days can provide you with outlet adaptors, assuming you'll be staying at the hotels. If not, then, yeah, you just have to bring outlet adaptors with you. :)
Khaen 2011 Boon Pi Mai Lao New Year Stockton หมอแคน
lao newspaper="lao newspaper" Would Jesus be reborn as the son of a Vietnamese drug trafficker?
Death-row prisoner gets pregnant in solitary
HANOI (Reuters) - A death-row inmate held in solitary confinement in Vietnam for almost a year is pregnant and is seeking a pardon to give birth, a newspaper reported on Thursday.
The Lao Dong (Labour) newspaper quoted a police doctor as saying tests in September confirmed that convicted heroin trafficker Nguyen Thi Oanh, 39, was then 11 weeks pregnant.
The report said it was the first time that a death-row prisoner had become pregnant in Vietnam and that police were investigating how it had happened.
And then there were Five: a Take on Southeast Asia's Best 5 Unspoiled Places
The biggest continent in the entire world, Asia is nothing less than a display of everything and anything wonderful. With colors, cultures, traditions, practices and religions as diverse as the continent's awesome assortment of exotic animal species, this garden of numerous landscapes certainly has something to provide to satisfy any tourist. With its immense landmass covering 29.9% of the Earth's total land area, Asia is appropriately divided into 5 geographical regions- Southeast Asia, East Asia, Southwest Asia, West Asia and Central Asia- all offering a unique flavor despite being housed under one colossal soil.
Of all the Asian regions, Southeast Asia presents a very rich but similarly distinct experience to all vacationers. This part is composed of 13 beautiful countries, divided under the mainland and maritime categories. Mainland consists of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar (Burma), Peninsular Malaysia, and Vietnam. Maritime is made upof the islands separated from the main continent, such as Timor-Leste, the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, East Malaysia, and Brunei.
If you do decide on a vacation to this region, it is highly recommended to travel in places that are well-preserved and unspoiled by widespread tourist trade, to genuinely experience the place. Here are the five best unspoiled travel sites in Southeast Asia that you shouldn't pass-up:
5. The Bach Ma National Park in Vietnam – Developed in 1991, the national park that showcases its richness in floras and faunas houses 233 species of birds and 55 species of mammals, and even a broad vegetation array of more than 500 plant species. Because of its verdant forest that covers an area of 22,031 hectares, the park is considered as one of the biodiversity centers of Indochina. Tourists have been visiting the place since the 1930's, when French colonials constructed a hill resort to enjoy their summer away from their humid plains. With this kind of history and scenery, having a trip in this park where tropical monsoon and sub-tropical forest combine their natural elegance is always enjoyable.
TOP 4: THAILAND (Sukhothai) - Name translated as "the dawn of happiness," Sukhothai is an historic and small city based at the lower northern part of Thailand and 427 kilometers north of the capital, Bangkok. The city is a popular tourist spot offering a blast-from-the-past feeling of olden times of Siam, the ancient name of Thailand. Sukhothai Historical Park manages the preservation and refurbishment of the historical temples and monuments of the circa-13th Century A.D province. The ideal way to enjoy the awesome views of this city is by leasing a bike or a motorbike, while traveling to the parks and the fresh market in which you can check out the scrumptious Sukhothai noodles at the street.
TOP 3: CAMBODIA (Siem Reap Province) - Known as the provincial capital, Siem Reap is nestled at the northwest of Cambodia. The name, which means "Siam defeated," reminds Cambodians of the historical clash between the Khmer and Siamese. Providing travelers a glimpse of their ancient temples, the town is only 7 km from Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport and accessible by boat and bus from the country's capital, Phnom Peh. Vacationers must never miss the famous travelers' spots: Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom that show the beautiful history of Cambodia and are now recognized as one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites in the World.
TOP 2: INDONESIA (Kalimantan) - Kalimantan is made up of a portion of Borneo Island and 73 percent of Indonesia's area. Known as Indoneasian Borneo, Kalimantan is well known for this rich biodiversity and outstanding views incomparable to other Asian countries. Trekking enthusiasts would enjoy to go to Kayan Mentarang National Park and reach the top of Apokayan Highlands. In this part, trekkers and hikers can encounter friendly orangutans, proboscis monkeys, unique-looking birds, and even the odd sun bear. The urban village of Sungai Mahakam offers travelers a glimpse of a river village and a day at the floating markets.
TOP 1: PHILIPPINES (Cuyo, Palawan) - The well-preserved and historical place of Cuyo in the island of Palawan, Philippines has a population of less than 20,000 people. Featuring a provincial life during the Spanish invasion, some of the very well-maintained ancestral houses and old-age chapels and churches became travelers' favorite photo subjects. With a perfect tropical weather and warm-hearted people, many vacationers fell in love with this alluring place. Vacationers mostly visit Cuyo during October to March, and it is best to gear up and windsurf, before taking a leisurely stroll to the market and tasting the prominent sweet cashew nut brittle made by locals.
Well you won’t be traveling to Monaco and staying at a five star resort on a budget, will you? Maybe so! Mostly, traveling on a budget means finding the cheapest price for the experience you want.
When traveling on a budget it’s best to keep in mind the following points:
1. Travel in the off-peak seasons. You can save up to as much as fifty per cent off air flights and accommodation costs if you plan to travel in low season times.
2. Stay away from popular tourist spots (unless they are on your ‘must-see’ list). If you can go off the beaten track with your destinations, things can be cheaper to see and do and your cultural experiences will be richer.
3. Try camping. Not only is it the cheapest form of accommodation it’s a great way to get up close and personal to nature. It’s the best way to see National Parks and Heritage listed areas.
4. Look for special travel offers (or packages). But make sure you check everything that they include - and don’t include.
5. Invest in a travel pass where you are able. Most developed countries have a rail or bus transport system where you can obtain day, week or monthly passes that will get you around cheaply.
6. Get a work permit if you aim to gain employment while traveling overseas. Working can help subsidize places that aren’t so cheap, such as Europe and Australia.
7. Look for good exchange rates on the dollar. This may help you decide which country to travel to.
8. Think about shortening your visit to destinations that are expensive and increasing your length of stay in cheaper places.
9. Where possible use your credit card. The exchange rate is better.
10. When staying in a hotel, avoid paying for ‘extras’. Don’t touch anything from the honor bar. Don’t watch the in-house movies and don’t use the hotel phone. And try not to use room service too much!
On the world scene there are some great places to travel on a budget for under thirty dollars a day. In Asia you can try India, Laos, China, Cambodia, Mongolia, Pakistan, Thailand, Sumatra and Burma. In Central and South America you can visit El Salvador, Bolivia and Ecuador. If you are after a budget experience in the Pacific, try Fiji or New Zealand. Over in Africa there are some great budget destinations such as Kenya, Egypt, Morocco, Malawi, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Ghana. Don’t forget the Middle East where places like Iran, Syria and Turkey provide excellent value for money and wonderful experiences for the budget traveler.
There is no ‘best place’ to travel on a budget. Just be prepared to look around, avoid the pitfalls of unwanted costs in package deals or hotel bookings. If you want to travel and your budget doesn’t meet your expectations, be flexible and see if there is somewhere cheaper you might like to experience. You could be pleasantly surprised with your stay in India or Iran, when you thought you wanted to go to Tahiti.
Stuart S. Travel / Your All World Online Travel Guru: Sherry Hardesty has been a professional flight attendant for over 15 years. Her experience is extensive and she provides professional travel consulting and booking services at http://www.stuartstravel.com
That Luang Festival Laos video preview by mickspatz
Travel to Vietnam and visit Vietnamese UNESCO heritage Sites, vietnam travel tips
Historical Vietnamese UNESCO Heritage site are:
Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Hanoi (2010) The Thang Long Imperial Citadel has become the 900th site to be inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. The Citadel was built in the 11th century by the Ly Viet Dynasty, marking the independence of the Dai Viet. It was constructed on the remains of a Chinese fortress dating from the 7th century, on drained land reclaimed from the Red River Delta in Hanoi. It was the centre of regional political power for almost 13 centuries without interruption. The Imperial Citadel buildings and the remains in the 18 Hoang Dieu Archaeological Site reflect a unique South-East Asian culture specific to the lower Red River Valley, at the crossroads between influences coming from China in the north and the ancient Kingdom of Champa in the south
Complex of Hué Monuments (1993) Hue is one of places, which has many cultural heritages. Up to now, there is no places like Hue remaining a lot of originally historical vestiges as in this ancient Capital City
Hoi An Ancient Town (1999) Lying on the banks of the Thu Bon River, Quảng Nam province ( in the South Central Coast of Vietnam), Hoi An Ancient Town is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Over the last few years, Hoi An has become a very popular tourist destination in Vietnam. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the influences, both indigenous and foreign, that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. In 1999, the old town was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO under the criteria C (II) and criteria C (V):
My Son Sanctuary (1999) The sanctuary was recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site in 1999. After strolling around the sanctuary, you can see local dances being performed on a stage. Cham people have many folk festivals such as Rija Nugar, Rija Harei and Rijang Praung.
Natural vietnamese UNESCO heritage Site:
Ha Long Bay (1994) Halong Bay covers an area of 1500 square kilometres. Within this area is close to two thousand limestone islands (someone counted and claimed there're 1969 islands) that jut out in spectacular fashion from the sea. The islands are similar to those at Phangnga Bay in Thailand, and come in unusual shapes. Some of these have their own names, such as Fighting Cock Island, a pair of limestone outcrops that look more like a two chicks about to, not fight, but kiss. There are so many islands, but the ones I can name include Yen Ngua Islet, Ba Trai Dao Islet, Con Coc Islet, Cong Do Island, Soi Sim Islet. We stopped over at Ti Top Island where we climbed up to the view point right up at the top.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (2003)
Phong Nha - Ke Bang is a national park in the center of Quang Binh province in north-central Vietnam. It protects one of the world's two largest karst regions with several hundred caves and grottoes. Its name derives from Phong Nha cave, the most beautiful one, with numerous fascinating rock formations, and Ke Bang forest. The plateau is probably one of the finest and most distinctive examples of a complex karst landform in Southeast Asia.
Location: Geographically, the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (PNKBNP) is located in central Vietnam, about 500km south of the capital, Hanoi, within the Quang Binh Province.
The western boundary of the Park partially forms Laos-Vietnamese border, which is only 42km from the sea. The Park is found within the geographical co-ordinates of 170 20'-170 48' N and 1050 46-1060 24' E in Bo Trach and Minh Hoa Districts.
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Fans of the Call of Duty franchise certainly won't find themselves disappointed by Treyarch and Activision's seventh release of the CoD franchise. Released for the X-Box 360, PC, Nintendo Wii and DS, and Playstation 3, Black Ops is a first-person shooter that plays out during the Cold War, giving you the choice from a broad assortment of weapons, including exciting new additions with even more amazing ammunition Black Ops outdid its forerunner, Modern Warfare 2 in it's opening week – selling nearly a million copies more!
There are many new exciting locations for you to fight through, including Cuba, Russia, and Laos, and is as much a revolutionary progression forwards from Modern Warfare 2 as Modern Warfare was for Call of Duty 2. Though the controls are all familiar to those who have played the CoD franchise for years, there is a lot more stealth involved in Black Ops than any game in the series to date.
But the real meat and potatoes of any Call of Duty game, and especially the more recent ones, is of course, Multiplayer – and the hallmark of any great multiplayer game is it's ability to make multiple hours disappear when you pick up the control; often without your notice. The new zombie multiplayer mode is as much fun and engaging as it is slightly silly.
It's obvious that this portrayal of the Cold War is only a fictional mock-up, but it is certainly entertaining. The gigantic explosions, story arcs and twists, and the ‘missions' all point to a colorful re-imagining of what things might have been like if the Cold War had played out like an explosive action movie. It's easy to separate the fact from the fantasy, but that doesn't change the fact that there are certain lines and scenes that are gripping and meant to evoke a visceral emotional reaction, especially the scenes of torture.
Black Ops is both a cinematic and gaming success, artfully rendered and though out, with the masterfully thought out storyline that only a big name studio and a lot of investment behind you can create. The storyline may be a bit faster paced than previous Call of Duty games, but this doesn't detract from the game; instead of a single goal that you work towards for an extended amount of time, you may find yourself flowing from goal to goal without much time to pause and wonder in between – a certainly thrilling experience for me that I highly recommend for all first-person shooter fans!
LAOS - Vientiane province will spend more than 25 billion kip to asphalt a 13.5km section of road between Huayphanla and Nongsan villages in Kasy district as one of the government's priority projects.
According to a local reporter, Mr Phoukhong Siduanglath, an agreement was made at the General Staff Department of the Defence Ministry on March 10, and was inked between Director of the Vientiane provincial Public Works and Transport Department, Mr Thavone Phengseng, and the owner of a road construction company, Mr Somphan Panyathilath.
Deputy Director General of the department and Chairman of the Lao-Thai Border Security Sub-committee Brigadier General Bouasieng Champaphanh attended the signing along with other officials.
"This road linking Huayphanla village to the Nongsan development area is a mountainous area and a priority project of the government because the people in the Nongsan area are mostly returning illegal migrants from Thailand who have settled here ," said Mr Thavone.
He said the road will help local people transport goods to the Phalak development area which is also home to former illegal migrants. The road will pass through Phalak to the urban area of Kasy district.
The road is set to finish in two years time and will cost more than 25 billion kip, financed by the government, he said. The asphalt road will be eight metres wide.
The purpose of the project is to help improve the living conditions of people living in the Nongsan development area.
It is also being tied to this week's 9th Party Congress and elections for the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly.
"I want the construction company to build the road quickly because it will facilitate two further projects in the Nongsan area to provide electricity and irrigation," said Brigadier General Bouasieng.
"Currently there are difficulties transporting fuel, construction materials and electricity poles to the area."
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About the Author
Asiana Travel Mate, founded in 2006, provides customized inbound travel into Vietnam, extending to Cambodia and Laos. We believe in delivering services as promised, benefiting local communities and preserving the cultural and natural heritage of Vietnam
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Vientiane Time
vientiane times laos vientiane times laos vientiane times laos
The ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism provides us with timeless wisdom we can certainly apply today to help us through our present crises, and also help us through the high levels of success that will surely follow if we apply this ancient wisdom today.
"Tao" is a term that refers to the basic, unchanging foundation of reality. It is the balanced, harmonious condition that all unbalanced, inharmonious conditions naturally gravitate toward. And it is essentially supportive, being the eternal foundation of reality.
All conditions in time are destined to go up and down. The economy, your relationships, your healthy, your happiness, all must rise, and fall, fall and rise, like your chest when you breathe, like the ocean waves, like the path of the sun to your vision. As you integrate with the unchanging, balanced and harmonious state of Tao, you find yourself so completely supported that the so-called "good" and "bad" times turn into mental illusions that dissolve into an ever-present condition of essential good. This fills you with a faith that surpasses reason and belief. You cannot enter this experience through reason or belief. You have to attain liberation from your own unbalanced, discordant conflict with reality to release yourself into it.
Every challenge gives you the opportunity to free yourself from emotional dependence upon the changing circumstances of your life. In life, while whatever goes up comes down, and vice versa, as you respond to both the ups and downs with clear, calm emotional equanimity, you see no need to react with emotional stress to any condition, because you experience at the core of your own consciousness the same supportive, loving embrace of reality underlying all change.
The greatest virtue is like water; it is good to all things. It attains the most inaccessible places without strife. It is therefore like Tao. Lao Tze
One lesson we can glean from this is the wisdom of avoiding trying too hard to control what happens, be it the frightful struggle to avoid danger, or the desire-driven struggle to seek or seize opportunity. Work for what you want, but not at the expense of your eviction (in consciousness) from the ever present support of the Tao. Whatever you achieve or lose, circumstances tend naturally to return to balance, like a pond of water blown about by the wind. When the wind stops blowing, the water naturally returns to balanced calm on its own and once again reflects the ever-present limitless beauty of the heavens above. The same will prove true in every area of your life.
Water has traditionally been used as a symbol of life for this very reason, among other reasons: Water changes forms like life, but the water itself remains life-giving water. As you stop working too hard to direct your life, your life works out. You have the power to direct your destiny. But losing your balance directs it toward chaos. Working for what you want in a calm, loving, balanced way directs your life toward the changes that you want with the support of the Tao, with the support of the basic unchanging nature of the universe.
You will find all the support you need to achieve your goals when you count on the Tao for your support.
May you freely imbibe the life-giving, spiritually buoyant quality of Tao's sacred balance and harmony in time.
Bob Lancer leads individuals, businesses, families, and associations to fulfill their greatest dreams. He does this through a wide variety of venues, including his WSB radio show, Bob Lancer's Parenting Solutions, a show that focuses as much on the raising of ourselves and of our society as on the raising of children. The show has been on the air since 1995 and broadcasts to 35 states over the radio, and worldwide over the internet.
He is the author of numerous books and he has created dozens of motivational recordings on his themes.
Bob Lancer transforms audiences through his dynamic keynotes and seminars on parenting, marriage, and personal and professional development at live events, including conferences around the nation and overseas. He has been leading his audiences to greater personal and professional success as a public speaker, seminar leader, consultant and author for over 20 years and his work has been featured on CNN and other network television stations, in national magazines and in major newspapers.
About the Author
103.7 MHZ Sporadic E - Lao National Radio (LNR) FM 1, Vientiane, Laos at Siliguri, WB, India
Liu Ruiqi: Heng Yuan Xiang from a single brand to a multi-brand development - Heng Yuan Xiang, brands - clothing industry
Who would have thought it a recession, a long-established industry, now in long-established in Shanghai ranked first, fame? Who would expect a small shop that year, has become the 40,000 employees of the huge "economic union"? Now how many people will be interested in care yarn with a business but he just let the whole world's eyes were fixed on wool textile industry group which most fine wool.
Liu Ruiqi This is Heng Yuan Xiang. The head of Liu Ruiqi, low-key, restrained, tone of voice is low and the. But his business plan is passion, philosophy has the courage to lead, the sword go the wrong front. He deliberately made the business a legend, the brand management arrangements into one story, sounds and Syria to one climax after another, derived the better suspense, attracting public attention. Heng Yuan Xiang originated
yarn shop of 180 sq m
Has shown signs of Liu Ruiqi, of medium height, young and handsome, who exudes energy and vitality, giving the feeling of deja vu. Along with "Aries sheep of the" three voices is sound, there's goes on frequent full Reiki, innocent baby face, is the "cloning" Liu Ruiqi my childhood photos. Liu Ruiqi is closely linked with the Heng Yuan Xiang.
1987, the only 29-year-old Liu Ruiqi into "Heng Yuan Xiang," When the general manager. A less than 180 square meters of small shops, business was light, is in the wool industry, the occasion of landslides. Liu Ruiqi tried to think: Where to go? History of the shop after painstaking research, he found 60-year-old has "Heng Yuan Xiang" is a vast reservoir of wealth is not a "gold mine" it? ?? "We can not be brought a golden rice bowl begging ah!" Liu Ruiqi become clear, resolutely decided to use the flagship company registration, their production of "Heng Yuan Xiang," "Xiaonan" brand knitting wool.
Since 1991, "Heng Yuan Xiang" out of the dilemma, at an extraordinary pace miraculously developed. Year 75 tons of knitting wool production only after 6 years, "Heng Yuan Xiang," the Commonwealth of production and sales passed the one million tons, up 130 times in one fell swoop into the country and the world's largest wool production and marketing of the Commonwealth. Served as member of the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau, Vice Premier Wu Bangguo personally wrote an inscription: "Wool King Heng Yuan Xiang." Year drew
1997, Liu Ruiqi his party was invited to visit Uruguay wool rich. He also has an important purpose is to meet some old friends?? Uruguayan President Julio Sanguinetti Maria Dr.
Liu Ruiqi friendship with the president should also be traced back to Uruguay in April 1997 a government delegation to visit China.
That led President Sanguinetti visit to Shanghai's first stop on the road to Heng Yuan Xiang is located in Jinling company visits. In fact, knowledge of President Heng Yuan Xiang is starting from the wool. In 1996, Heng Yuan Xiang Uruguay Uruguay wool accounts for the use of 15% of the total wool, is the first customer in the world.
Talk about "Heng Yuan Xiang" brand, which is Liu Ruiqi experienced the most proud of editing software, he lives as precious as his example. Liu Ruiqi said, "Heng Yuan" as the company's total mark, we have to high-quality products and good after-sales service as standard, a new face appears in front of consumers.
Heng Yuan Xiang was founded in 1927, was once a well-known firm on the beach. After 1956, public-private partnership, leaving only No. 711 Nanjing East Road, Heng Yuan Xiang more than 100 square meters of knitting wool shop, and later even "Heng Yuan Xiang," words have changed. In 1978, Heng Yuan Xiang knitting wool shop to restore the name of the professional distribution in Nanjing East Road, Shanghai brand yarn, began to resume business.
Liu Ruiqi determined to show his hands and feet, revitalize the Heng Yuan Xiang's glory. Advertising marketing strategy, two years after the name of Shanghai Heng Yuan Xiang, designated special shops.
1991 years ago, the company set up knitting wool Heng Yuan Xiang, Liu Ruiqi spend 900 yuan to the Bureau registered a "Heng Yuan Xiang" trademark. And advertising through OEM bombing two strategies, re-fired brand and Heng Yuan Xiang. The following year, the Group set up Vientiane, Heng Yuan Xiang Group companies to become one of knitting wool.
1994, the Vientiane group listed. Under the management of the Liu Ruiqi, Heng Yuan Xiang is becoming a major source of profits of listed companies, Liu Ruiqi was promoted to general manager of listed companies.
2000 8 24, the Shanghai Shimao Hui Wing-mau's Investment and Development Limited for 144 million cost, the largest shareholder of shares from Vientiane, Huangpu District, Guo Ziju buy 26.43 percent stake, becoming the first shares in Vientiane major shareholders. Shimao investment of White, listed on the appointment of a new general manager, Liu Ruiqi was demoted to deputy general manager.
Shimao Group is a core real estate development company with the White Vientiane group, but the main industry in order to develop their property, and Heng Yuan Xiang Liu Ruiqi in fact already marginalized. This seems to Liu Ruiqi negative, but the idea behind the negative, just pregnant with time.
Fact, as early Shimao Group shares before the White Vientiane, Liu Ruiqi have the idea of MBO. By Liu Ruiqi talent and his contribution to the industry Heng Yuan Xiang, Liu apparently not content with the state-owned enterprises can get in return.
1998, the Shanghai Investment Consulting Company Ltd. Rong Zheng Peimin are found on the beach Liu Ruiqi is being seriously underestimated the value of one of the entrepreneurs, that through some channels Liu Ruiqi planning on "Heng Yuan Xiang," the acquisition, but because various conditions, acquisitions can be relevant without the support. Vientiane
Shimao Group shares after the reverse merger, "Heng Yuan Xiang" in terms of the Shimao actually tasteless, but to quickly find the right assets for the Heng Yuan Xiang external buyers, it is not easy, because these assets left Liu Ruiqi as the core management team will be unable to maintain their operations. Shimao Group and Liu Ruiqi MBO to become the best choice. About the Author
I am a professional editor from China Product, and my work is to promote a free online trade platform. http://www.himfr.com/ contain a great deal of information about lathes mini , used cnc router welcome to visit!
Alexandra,Birdie,Lila T and GUMBY Concert in Minnestoa
