Thailand: Best Beaches in Phuket

Phuket. The mere whisper of the word evokes hair-trigger impressions from those who have been and, indeed, from those who have yet to go. Whether pro Phuket or con, the province is a dynamo and, Bangkok aside, the most popular tourist target in Thailand.

Top 10 Rooftop Bars

So many rooftops, so little time to enjoy the thousands around the world that have been converted into trendy nightspots with comfy sectional seating, pools and restaurants. It seems that every major city has a rooftop bar scene, and they’re a must for any hotel claiming to be an arbiter of cool.

10 most beautiful places in the world to wake up in

Even if you’re not a morning person, opening your eyes in a fresh destination is guaranteed to give an extra kick to your spirits. And when you’re surrounded by lotus ponds, mountain-filled horizons, a symphony of fountains, or views of minarets, the sound of the alarm clock is the sweetest thing you’ll ever hear. Here are some of the world’s loveliest wake-up calls.

World's top 10 beach destinations

Beaches, bays and impressive coastlines beckon almost all Australian travellers. However, not everyone is wowed by the same waves, and everyone has their own idea of what their perfect beach might be. We have selected their top 10 best beaches in the world, taking into account the off-the-beaten-track beauties and the best-value beach hotel hotspots.

Travel to India - Advice and tips for first time travellers

There's no denying that travelling to India can be a major culture shock, especially on your first visit. It's a huge and bewildering country, with many different religions and cultures, and cities that roar with traffic and bustle with activity non-stop. So how to prepare for this assault on the senses? We reckon that if you want to get the most out of your trip it's best to:

Lonely Planets Guid to Hong Kong

Hong Kong in Cantonese, meaning fragrant harbor is a place with multiple personalities, as a result of being both Cantonese Chinese and under a more recent contemporary ex-British influence. Today, the former British colony is a major tourism destination for China's increasingly affluent mainland population. It is also an important hub in East Asia with global connections to many of the world's cities. It is a unique destination that has absorbed people and cultural influences from places as diverse as Vietnam and Vancouver and proudly proclaims itself to be Asia's World City.

A Trip Through Peru

Exploring the wilds of the Amazon, the high-altitude waters of Titicaca, and the mysteries of Machu Picchu, Dreaming Traveller revels in the sheer, exuberant abundance of Peru.

Puerto Morelos - Maxico

Puerto Morelos is a town in Quintana Roo on the Yucatan Peninsula, about 20km south of Cancun. It is both a fishing village and a resort and diving destination. It is located roughly halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen on the Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. 

Best Destinations for 2012

What places are calling your name for 2012? Whatever your mood, Traveler magazine has a recommendation for you—from the romantic hills of Croatia to the perfect beach in Thailand.

Sri Lanka; A Land Like No Other !

Mainly named as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka as a small island has many names which people call; Serendib, Ceylon, Teardrop of India, Resplendent Isle, Island of Dharma, Pearl of the Orient are some of those beautiful names. This colorful collection reveals its richness and beauty, and the intensity of affection which it has evoked in visitors.

The 10 Best Treks In The World

These 10 classic treks are for serious walkers. All of them require a sturdy pair of lungs, fit legs and a good amount of preparation. However, if you choose to go on any of these trails then you will be rewarded with experiences that last a lifetime. In no particular order:

Sunny Island Escapes

You survived the post-holiday blues, but we’ll bet a pick-me-up is still in order. These sunny island escapes should do the trick.

Jade Mountain St. Lucia: Where All Rooms Have Infinity Pools

Located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, Jade Mountain in St. Lucia is one of the most incredible resorts the Sifter has seen. Each room has only three walls and a private infinity pool with stunning panoramic views of the beautiful Caribbean. A tropical oasis, this slice of heaven doesn’t come cheap, with nightly rates ranging from $950 up to $2,700 US. One can dream though!

Check out the gallery of images below along with information on the resort and rooms. Sigh…

Top 10 Best Winter Vacation Destinations

If you are an adrenaline junkie and winter activities are right up your alley, then going for a winter vacation is just your thing. At least, it's better than sitting at home doing. So, if you are a snowboarder, a skier or just one of those people who loves the winter, then going to a fun winter destination is just what you are looking for. However, winter vacations don't necessarily mean roughing it out in the snow, you could also go to a sunny, relaxing location to soak up the sun while all the others back home are freezing their hands off!

Tokyo's gigantic flood prevention system

The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, also known as the G-Cans Project or the "Underground Temple", is an subterranean water infrastructure project built to protect the capital Tokyo against floodwaters during rain and typhoon seasons. It is believed to be one of the largest water collection facilities in the world. 

Places To See Before It's Too Late

The ice sheets melt fast, the sea levels are rising, and the increase in storms and flooding becomes a serious issue. As scientists expect the sea level to rise around one meter (3.3 ft) by 2100, the global warming warnings sound more and more catastrophic. With such an increase in water levels many coastal areas around the globe are said to disappear under the waves.

Leh Ladakh

Leh India - Leh, the capital city of Ladakh is a destination where you should head to if you are looking for a vacation with difference. The rugged landscape of the Leh India with towering mountains and precariously perched monasteries will enchant you completely.Travellers flock to Ladakh from all corners of the globe. This trans-Himalayan district of Jammu and Kashmir has now become a favourite of both adventure freaks and culture enthusiasts.

World's Most Interesting Festivals

Throwing tomatoes at each other or running outside almost completely naked in the middle of winter might sound a bit insane, but there is a kind of unnatural (or natural?) need individuals have to get together and go crazy...at least once a year. Whether it is a spiritual event or a good way to express yourself, push the limits and have fun, the today's festivals turn into truly spectacular and showy celebrations. 

Seven World Heritage Sites in the United States

What does the Statue of Liberty have in common with the Olympic or Grand Canyon national parks? Well, they were all declared the USA's cultural and natural World Heritage Sites. Among twenty American sites appreciated by UNESCO there are several places of such outstanding beauty or significance that they deserve a separate mention here.

Most Beautiful Destinations In South And Central America

The magnetic beauty of South and Central America goes beyond imagination. The region is blessed with breathtakingly diverse vistas of ancient ruins and amazing natural wonders including majestic mountains, dramatic glaciers, exotic beaches and waterfalls. This short list of marvelous destinations is only a small drop in that ocean of beauty that seems to have no end.