3 Reasons Why Thailand Is The Ultimate Wellness Destination

BY  Barsha Dec 28, 2023

Bangkok is home to over a thousand temples. Some of these temples are historical and have cultural significance, and some others or mainly for local prayers. During a Holiday in the Capital of Thailand, booking a Bangkok temple tour is a must to explore the city’s main highlights and most beautiful temples. In this article, we will be listing the best and most recommended 5 temples in Bangkok to visit. Wat Pho  Wat Pho temple (also known as the temple of the sleeping or reclining Buddha), is one of the most important temples to visit when being in Bangkok. The temple is home to the famous sleeping Buddha statue which measures 46 meters in length and 15 meters in height. The statue is covered in gold leaf and is a unique piece of art. This temple is considered as the largest temple in Bangkok and is the birthplace for Traditional Thai massage. It was the first public university in Thailand that specialized in religion, science, and literature. Till today, It is still a center of learning for traditional Thai massage and medicine. During your visit to Wat Pho temple, you can book a traditional Thai massage session that combines stretching, pulling, and rocking techniques to relieve tension and enhance flexibility and circulation. It's often described as a combination of yoga and meditation. This Temple is very popular among Bangkok temple tours since it has a strategic location near the Chaophraya river, the Grand Palace, and other important Landmarks in Bangkok. Wat Phra Kaew Wat Phra Kaew is located inside the Grand Palace. This temple is home to the Emerald Buddha, one of the most revered Buddha images in Thailand. Despite its name, the statue is actually made of jade or jasper rather than emerald. This temple is considered as the Personal chapel of the Royal Family. Wat Phra Kaew was Constructed in 1782 when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok.  The temple's architecture is a stunning example of Thai craftsmanship, with intricate carvings, colorful mosaics, and gold-leafed figures adorning its structures. The Great thing about visiting this temple is that you will have the opportunity to combine the visit of both the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew since they are both within the same location. They are also within a very short walking distance from Wat Pho, making combining both of them in a half-day visit a very popular choice among tourists visiting Bangkok. Wat Arun  Wat Arun is Known as the temple of Dawn and it dates back to the Ayutthaya period. It has a unique design, similar to the Ayutthaya temples design and having some Khmer elements as well. The temple was renovated by King Rama II and It has been a significant symbol of the Rattanakosin Period and the shift of the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok. Wat Arun’s towers (known as prangs) are decorated with colorful porcelain and seashells, making it visually unique. The central prang is a symbolic representation of Mount Meru, the center of the world in Buddhist cosmology. The temple is located along the Chaophraya river and is often included on the same day when visiting the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. You just need to take a ferry boat to cross the river to reach the other side of the City and visit this amazing temple. Wat Arun has undergone several renovations in the past years and the last significant restoration completed was in 2017 under the supervision of UNESCO. Wat Traimit  Wat Traimit is another beautiful temple in Bangkok with unique features. It is famous for housing the world's largest solid gold Buddha image. The statue is about 3 meters tall and weighs approximately 5.5 tons. The Golden Buddha dates back to the 13th or 14th century, originating in the Sukhothai period. However, the exact origins and history of the statue are still subject to debate and research, and no one has confirmed it. Wat Traimit is one of the most sacred temples, not only in Bangkok but all around Thailand. The building is a beautiful example of modern Thai Buddhist architecture. The temple complex includes a museum where visitors can learn about the history of the Golden Buddha and the Chinatown area where the temple is located. In addition to that, it also offers insights into the Chinese community's role in Thai society. Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple) Wat Benchamabophit is famous for its use of white Carrara marble from Italy, which gives it a distinctly elegant appearance. This feature is unique among Bangkok's temples and of course, is the reason why it gained the name of the Marble Temple of Bangkok. This temple was built in the Late 19th Century during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), in 1899. It is a fine example of modern Thai religious architecture from the end of the 19th century. The temple's design is a fusion of traditional Thai architecture and European influences. Wat Benchamabophit is associated with the Thai royal family and has been used for numerous royal ceremonies. When you hold a five Thai baht coin, you will find the image of this temple on the back of the Coin, reflecting its importance and significance in Thai culture. The temple is home to 52 Buddha images, representing various styles and postures from different periods of Thai history. This collection offers a comprehensive overview of the evolution of Buddhist art in Thailand. The temple complex includes beautifully maintained gardens and courtyards, adding to its serene and tranquil ambiance. Read Also: Crime Rate In Florida Trending Down While California Skyrockets: Report World’s Most Famous Christmas Tree Has Reached Trafalgar Square

BY  sagnika Apr 19, 2024

Are you planning to visit Australia soon? Tell me it is on your bucket list, and you can't wait to plan your itinerary. Let's check out some of the coolest restaurants across Australia, mostly in Victoria, Sydney, Adelaide, and New South Wales. In the article, you will learn about culinary experiences and planning a food walk or trip across Australia. In 2023, The Gourmet Traveller Team has compiled a list of some of Australia's best restaurants, creating a winning experience. Their team of reviewers has evaluated several restaurants and made a perfect list! If you are a foodie, you will learn so much more about the dining scene of the nation and have a comprehensive pleasure. In this article, you can find more details about the restaurants and learn about the culinary experience. What Are The Restaurants In Australia Worthy To Have An Experience? Let me share some of the best dining experiences these restaurants will offer you. You can read about some of Australia's best restaurants right now! Several dining locations in Australia are quite in demand, such as Sydney, Gold Coast, Adelaide, Melbourne, and others. If you love unique experiences, you can go to restaurants such as Sounds of Silence, Quay, and others. These restaurants are special because they use local produce and curated rare items; thus, they create a beautiful landscape of taste and deliciousness. We must remember the cultural combination of food and the people's culture. I will be sharing some of the best restaurants in Sydney, Australia. Let us get into details about the dishes served on the menu! What ingredients are used in the dishes will give you a better idea about the culinary experience. Alberto's The restaurant Alberto's Lounge is known for serving umami-rich sardines pate on crisp fried crostoli, which are the size of triangles. The snack is quite a popular one among the visitors! They also love the old-school feel of the trattoria, which gives you a beautiful feel with retro posters, personal services, spaghetti western lenses, and natural wines. The restaurant is on Alberta Street in Sydney. Its head chef is Elizabeth Mitchell, who creates beautiful dishes and some eccentricities! I recommend that you make bookings before you visit the restaurant. If you love Italian food, this is the perfect place. They offer delicious custom Italian dishes such as seared tuna with tomato-scented acqua pizza and hand-cut pappardelle coated with beef short-rib ragu. They also add red wine and saffron; imagine the deliciousness of it all! Bar Heather A Parisian-styled joint where the philosophy is wine first and then food! You will receive the menu from which you will order once you have ordered your first drink. Situated on the south side of Byron Bay, the rollicking joint might give an old-school and dim vibe, but every dish on their menu is a beauty. The chicken broth is to die for, as it is quite in demand! Manchego cream with shaved local mushrooms and crisp potato also satisfies the customers who visit this restaurant. The restaurant is owned by Tom Sheer and James Audas, who serve their customers with wine that perfectly pairs with their delicious menu. The chef of this restaurant, Ollie Wong-Hee, has created an interesting menu with Southeast Asian cuisine showcasing his amazing Chinese heritage. One of the knockout food items on his menu is grilled pork wrapped in a betel leaf with lettuce, charred pineapple-chilli sauce, and pickles, so you must try it! Alta Trattoria The restaurant is well known for its small touches, such as fried capers on vitello tonnato or pickled mushrooms! Alta Trattoria is an homage to the northwest region of Italy and its beauty. The chef, Mckay Wilday, brings together Piedmontese cuisine paired well with French, Australian, and Italian items. For example, lemon and chestnut gnocchi and rabbit ragu tossed with tajarin are some of the restaurant's landmark dishes. A group of industry professionals, along with McKay Wilday, the chef, creates the perfect menu to satisfy customers worldwide. It is a delightful trattoria situated on the back street of Fitzroy in Australia. The restaurant is open from Saturday to Sunday for dinner; you can get lunch on Saturday and Sunday. Attica The name on the menu is weird, but the food is delicious as hell! The lasagna, "Eat the Problem," combines buffalo, boar, and venison wrapped in green-ant-studded pasta sheets. You will get to eat Mud crabs and pikelets along with bunya-bunya cream and sea lettuce. Playfulness is a part of a restaurant with beauty, as there is a backyard where you can sip your drink while watching a game. The dining spectrum of the restaurant is significant because, along with the food, the atmosphere is also beautiful. The restaurant is in Ripponlea and features a delightful menu! They also use the cultural aspect of native Australia, as one of the dishes features a gorgeous flower-shaped wafer. The food is quite inventive, and the service is prompt! Quay Chefs Troy Crisante, Tim Mifsud, and Peter Gilmore have created a menu for this Australian restaurant that presents umami depth, a balance between crunch and cream, marine life, and other elusive ingredients. So why do you feel like this place is so magical? The menu includes sweet scallops with shaved abalone, liquorice Kombu, and raw palm hearts with vinegar dressing. The richness of the dishes, such as confit pork jowl paired with smoked trotter broth, will leave you speechless. Please make bookings before you go. You cannot miss the "white coral" dessert with a tart-sweet taste that creates an otherworldly feel! Sounds Of Silence A unique experience, Sounds of Silence creates a magical combination of sounds, sights, and tastes, creating an immersive experience. The background of this experience is the Uluru sunset, creating a fascinating field of light. It is one of the things to do in Australia! You can go for a dinner date to the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, creating a beautiful environment where the music and wine start flowing. From entrees to desserts, you will find the inclusion of indigenous ingredients along with the drinks that accompany them. Even when it comes to drinks, you can have a varied choice, starting from Aussie beer to chilled sparkling wine. Along with this beautiful experience in Uluru, you can have a star talker who talks about the mysteries of planets, zodiac signs, and constellations using a laser pen. Fugazzi A lively restaurant with New York-style Italian culture, Fugazzi has created a space perfect for neighborhood diners! You will find vintage posters along with red booth seating, which has created a cheekier charm. There are several bowl options in their breakfast section, along with some decadent options such as Chorizo scramble croissant, salmon benedict, and Florentina benedict! You can definitely try handmade pasta and pizza which is their specialty. From mushroom tortellini to Wagyu Lasagna, they offer a diverse palate. Culinary Experiences In Australia One of the most unique experiences in Australia is the Aboriginal experience, as Aboriginal cuisine is an integral part of Australian cuisine. You cannot forget the significance of culture and the arts in influencing your perspective and choices of food! You can try out ingredients such as native finger limes, spinach, Kakadu, quandongs, saltbush, and other herbs. Emu and Kangaroo give these spices and herbs a different flavor. You must remember the events and festivals in Australia, which are quite cool! For example, the Canberra Beer & Cider Festival, Wild Harvest Seafood Festival, and other food events create a perfect culinary experience. Visiting Australia will allow you to experience culture, music, comedy, and art at different events where you can celebrate your nationality. Planning A Foodie Trip In Australia Let me give you some tips on exploring the dining scene along with the restaurants discussed in the article. How can you appreciate a foodie trip when making Australian-travel ideas? You can savor the Aboriginal Desert Feast while exploring Uluru; hence, you can add Tali Wiru to your checklist. A blend of nature, cuisine, and culture is available where you can have a 4-course platter inclusive of wine. Some of the street foods in Australia are quite popular, such as! Local food markets in Australia are quite popular as they offer healthy and farm-based fresh produce. Finishing Off... To sum up, regardless of where you stay in Australia, you must visit these places to eat and experience the diverse culture of the country. I will emphasize the vibrant and diverse food culture of the country and encourage travelers to go on a food walk! The art and awe of this experience are great attractions to local performances and events. After reviewing the article, you have picked up little details about the different restaurants and would look forward to making decisions. Comment to let us know if you have already visited one of these restaurants, let us know how your experience was. Learn More About: 6 Tips For A Luxurious Trip To Australia Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia A Beginner’s Guide To Island-Hopping In Greece

BY  Ankita Mar 26, 2024

Japan, a country steeped in tradition and culture, offers an array of sensory experiences that attract travelers from around the globe. Among these, the Japanese matsuri (festivals) stand out as a testament to the country's rich heritage, embodying the spirit of joy, community, and the spectacular interplay of light and color. For those embarking on Japan tours, the opportunity to participate in these festivals is not just a travel highlight; it's a deep dive into the heart of Japanese culture. The Essence Of Vibrant Matsuri Matsuri are integral to Japanese culture, with each festival having its unique significance, rooted in history, religion, and local lore. These events range from solemn traditional ceremonies to explosive celebrations of life, each painted with vibrant colors and illuminated by dazzling lights. The experience is a feast for the senses, offering insight into the communal spirit and the enduring traditions that define the Japanese way of life. A Kaleidoscope Of Festivals No Japan tour is complete without witnessing the spectacle of at least one matsuri. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, renowned for its grand procession of floats, is a spectacle of craftsmanship and community spirit that dates back over a thousand years. The Sapporo Snow Festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland of intricate ice sculptures, blending artistry with the beauty of nature. Meanwhile, the Aomori Nebuta Festival captivates with its parade of enormous lantern floats, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow. Illuminating Experiences What sets these festivals apart is not just their visual appeal but the immersive experiences they offer. Participating in vibrant matsuri is to step into a living tapestry of history and tradition. Visitors can don traditional attire, partake in ancient rituals, and indulge in local delicacies. The warm welcome extended by the local communities adds to the charm, making every visitor feel part of the celebration. Seasonal Spectacles The beauty of Japan's festivals is their diversity throughout the year. Spring welcomes the cherry blossoms with hanami (flower viewing) parties, where the fleeting beauty of sakura serves as a backdrop for gatherings filled with food, drink, and song. Summer brings the explosive energy of fireworks and bon dances, while autumn and winter festivals, such as the Chichibu Night Festival, showcase breathtaking displays of light against the seasonal landscapes. Planning Your Japan Tour For travelers eager to immerse themselves in the magic of Japanese matsuri, planning is key. Many festivals occur on specific dates or seasons, and some of the most popular can draw large crowds. Engaging with a specialized Japan tours operator can provide invaluable insight, ensuring you not only witness these incredible events but also understand their cultural significance. Accommodations and logistics are also taken care of, allowing you to fully immerse in the experience without the hassle. A Journey Through Light and Color Japan's festivals are more than just events; they are a vibrant expression of life itself. They offer a unique window into the soul of Japan, where tradition and modernity dance hand in hand. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture or simply looking to experience the extraordinary, the vibrant matsuri are a highlight of any Japan tour. As you navigate through the festivals of light and color, you're not just a spectator but a participant in a centuries-old tradition that continues to dazzle and inspire. How To Take Part In Matsuri  To take part in Matruri, a grand Japanese festival, you have to learn about Japanese culture. Many Matruri welcome tourists and visitors from around the world. Indeed, it's a great way to learn about Japanese festivities and share the most important inputs on the celebrations. Here, we discuss how you can take part in Matrusir and experience the festivities. It is usually opined that there are many, hundreds, and thousands of Matsur taking place in Japan. The is no requirement to wear traditional clothes. Watching the people in procession and parades in huge numbers is a great approach to feeling the festivity from within. Renting Traditional Japanese Costumes If you join the matsuri celebration in general clothes, there is no issue, but you may be detached from the crowd. Why not make the gathering special? No, you do not need to buy traditional wear. But you can rent it. It's a simplistic wear, yet echoes the Japanese spirit…yes we mean a Kimono called the Yukata. There are Yulta rentals. Moreover, ther are some specific costumes meant for different festivals. You can try it out and have fun. Chanting Together  Another part of the festivities and soaking in the fun is chanting together. It is one of the easiest ways to be one with the people. Chants like Washoi or Oisa, or say Rassera Rassera Rassera (in the Nebuta Festival), can help you get yourself close to the Japanese culture and the sense of unity. It is indeed a great way to join the locals and be one with the Japanese culture. Dance Together  One of the great ways to express fun, merriment, and lightness of mood is by dancing together. Dance has been an integral part of the culture of various civilizations. It is a great way to participate with the people and learn about the intricacies of the culture. The same goes in for Japan. It is a great way to embrace the warmth of the festivities and soak the cultural elements. In Japan, during the vibrantMatrusi, you can take part in a traditional Japanese folk dance called Odori. Repeat the same movements with everyone, and you will be a master of it in no time. If you find it shaky initially, then you could use YouTube videos to familiarize yourself with the steps. Don’t worry, you are new and you need some time. But there is no doubt that you will have great fun. Conclusion In conclusion, Japanese tours that include the vibrant matsuri offer an unparalleled experience of the heart of Japanese culture. Each festival, with its unique blend of history, tradition, and community, presents an unforgettable spectacle of light and color. Whether you're drawn by the history, the beauty, or the sheer joy of these celebrations, participating in a matsuri is an experience that resonates long after the lights have dimmed.