Suspended in the sky on the 63rd floor of The Dome at State Tower, I was taken to the Skybar at Sirocco, one of the world’s highest open air bars that looks as if it would literally drop to oblivion if it wasn’t for the glass fencing. It seemed like forever to get up there in the lift but what I saw, blew my mind away. A band dressed in crisp, white suits with the leading lady in a long, flowy white dress, greeted me with a song that she crooned in the most melodious voice. I swooned even before I knew where I was.

Standing at the top of the staircase, I was gapping in awe at the panoramic view of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya river. With such an enthralling ambience coupled with a seductive selection of the finest vintages, beverages, cocktails and appetizers in Bangkok, the Skybar soars as one of the prized destinations in the city. We walked down the stairs like a prince walking his princess into a ball. No wonder, the rooftop bar is unanimously accepted as the coolest bar in Bangkok. The wind at that height was strong, swaying me as I stood by the bar. My date held onto me to prevent me from tipping over and the stunning, multi-hued Skybar turned my seconds into timeless moments….

Don’t know where to stay? PYO Travel has many types of accommodation to suit the occasion & with our great deal of Buy 1 Free 1 Promotion launched yesterday, many lucky couples who managed to grab the limited seats will get a chance to experience the moment for that spectacular view up at the Skybar, The Dome.

Christmas is around the corner, why wait any longer? Surprise your partner by booking him/her into a romantic getaway that he/she can’t refuse….

Have you been to the Skybar? Tell me if you have had similar experience!

If you don’t want to miss a chance to be the first to book the next time we have a fantastic deal, sign up for our updates.

My Love Affair In Bangkok….1 On 1 is a post from: PYObuddy.com

The gateway to Paradise

I flew into Singapore and took the cab to Singapore’s harbourfront center. Honestly, i must say that the transportation system in Singapore is excellent. At the Harbourfront Center, you can take the Tram into Sentosa Island, or take one of the designated buses into the island. As I was staying @ Shangrila Rasa Sentosa Resort, they actually provide you with a private bus service that takes you all the way to the hotel lobby.

Shang-rila's Rasa Sentosa Resort

Sentosa Island is certainly a wonderful place to be. If you’re looking for a relaxing place to unwind and relax, Sentosa provides it all. J There are so many activities that you can do there. You can visit the underwater world, the wax museum at Fort Siloso or go bar hopping at all the wonderful bars you get on the beach. You can ride on the Luge, rent a bicycle and move around the island.

What impress me the most, was how everything was. The flow of the island was so…. Relaxing….. and i guess my timing to travel to sentosa Island was right on the dot. As there was the “Jazz on the beach” event happening every Saturday on Siloso beach. You get to unwind and enjoy the sights and the sounds.

Sunsetting on a beautiful Island

Seriously, Singapore is quite a fine place to be. I’m planning another trip to Sentosa Island in December as I type this. There’s so much things to see and do. Maybe the next time I’m there I’ll try out the trapeze that they have there. What about you? Have you been to Sentosa Island?

The Virgin Trip is a post from: PYObuddy.com

A story from Tanah Lot

I love stories. One of the many reasons I love to travel is because of the stories I’ll get to hear about. Every place, every landmark, every building has a story to tell, and beautiful and mythical Bali is the very place for endless tales…

“Long long time ago, back in the 15^th century, a holy priest named Nirartha was traveling along the South coast to preach the teachings of Darma (duty). During his travel, he saw a beautiful bird-shape rock at the coast and decided to take a rest and pray to the God of the Sea. There, he preached to many of the local people from the village of Beraban. Villagers in the nearby area also came and learnt about his teachings and became disciples of the teachings of Darma.

This has enraged the leader of Beraban, Bendesa Beraban. He angrily gathered what was left of his believers and demanded that priest Nirartha leave the place immediately. Priest Nirartha was not afraid at all. When he saw Bendesa Beraban approaching, he used his power and moved the rock he was sitting on into the middle of the sea. He then created hundreds of poisonous sea snakes to surround his newly created rock-island.

Bendesa Beraban saw how powerful Nirartha was and surrender to him. Not only that, Bendesa Beraban later became priest Nirartha’s most faithful follower, helping him spread the teachings of Darma.

Before priest Nirartha left the rock island, he spoke to the people and told them to build a shrine on the rock for it is to be a holy place to worship the Balinese Sea Gods. Thus, the temple of Tanah Lot was build.”

Beautiful is an understatement...

The Tanah Lot Temple attracts not only the local Hindu worshipers, but also international tourist to marvel at the beautiful temple at this amazing setting by the sea. When the tide is low, people can even walk to this temple. However, they are cautioned not to disturb the sea snakes as they are believed to be the guardians to the God of the temple.

The Tanah Lot Temple is also one of the seven sea temples build around the coast of Bali. Every one of these sea temples are build within sight of the next sea temple. It forms a magnificent looking chain of sea temples along the South Western coast of Bali.

Sunsets at Tanah Lot are the best!

The silhouette of the temple set against the setting sun is a sight to behold and fall in love with. Book a trip now with PYOtravel, amazing deals are offered in this Merdeka season.

Story time in Bali… is a post from: PYObuddy.com

The focal point of growth and development in Southern Philippines

History plays a vital role in shaping the world we have today… being the country’s oldest city, Cebu can truly boast its rich cultural and historical heritage. From a busy trading port in the 50’s, Cebu has transformed itself into a quite a concrete jungle with many boxy looking sky scrapers. Like most of the Southeast Asia developing countries, the traffic is often spelled together with chaos. Yet, progress has not swallowed Cebu’s vintage quality landmarks and has instead wisely preserved some of its amazing landmarks back in the time where it all started.

Fort San Pedro has once held the Cebu City Zoo

Located at the Pier area in Cebu City, Fort San Pedro is the oldest and smallest tri-bastion fort in the Philippines. This is the place where the Spanish settlement first set foot on and grew from its nucleus size community to the huge Spanish influence we can see in the Philippines now. From being originally a fort in 1565, it had switched its role to being barracks, classrooms, the army camp, a miniature garden, the Cebu City Zoo, the Philippine Tourism Authority, and now, the National Museum, where it showcases the San Diego shipwreck and Fort San Pedro diggings.

The over-photographed Magellan's Cross

The Magellan’s Cross at Magellan’s Street was planted in 1521. It signifies how Christianity has come and spread with the baptism of the first Christian Filipinos, Rajah Humabona and Queen Juana, and their 400 followers. A hallow cross of tinadalo wood is now encasing the original cross to protect it from people from removing chips from it, believing that it holds miraculous power.

Casa Gorordo Museum: A typical Filipino home of the late 19th century.

Home to the first Filipino bishop of Cebu (Juan Gorordo), the Casa Gorordo Museum brings you on a brief journey back in the period of 1860-1920. Breathe in the old scent of life through noted paintings of that period, muse at museum relics, relish in the serene courtyard, or take a seating on the antique household furniture, get a feel of how the people lived their lives, is it much different from the way we lead our life now?

The massive build of Basilica Minor del Santo Nino

Basilica Minor del Santo Nino is quite a mouthful for a worship place, but it is duly a place of great reverence. Initially built in 1565, a fire in 1568 has completely destroyed it and it was rebuilt in 1602 and remains what you can see of it now.

The austere atmosphere inside the basilica

Surely, Cebu would not be what it is now without these landmarks. Do go for a historical walking tour to visit these places and more. But first, book your trip with PYOtravel!

Cebu, Philippines: A Stroll Down History Lane is a post from: PYObuddy.com

Pyro-experts from all over the world gathered in Macau to show-off their artistic skills of painting the night sky with colourful sparks and glitters. This year, we will witness artworks from Spain, Korea, Taiwan, France, Italy, the Philippines, Japan, Portugal, Austria and China.

At the same time, photography and drawing competitions will be organised for the public. Here are some winning pictures taken from previous contests for preview.

Photo taken by Yen Kuac Fu, winner of the 15th Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Photo Contest.

Photo taken by Chao Kin Hong, winner of the 16th Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Photo Contest.

Photo taken by Lam Sao Wa, winner of the 17th Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Photo Contest.

Photo taken by Lam Sao Wa, winner of the 18th Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Photo Contest.

Photo taken by Chao Kuong Chong, winner of the 19th Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Photo Contest.

Photo taken by Tang Chan Seng, winner of the 20th Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Photo Contest.

Act now!!! Grab your packages with PYO Travel before too late. 21st Macau International Fireworks Display Contest – Here we come!!!

Photos credit : Macau Government Tourist Office

Fireworks Display Over the Skyline of Macau!!! is a post from: PYObuddy.com

Traveling to me is not only an opportunity to take a break and see the world, it also gives me a chance to touch base with people from all over the world, born of a different country, a different race, a different culture, a different lifestyle and many other differences altogether. Yet, the differences is what draws me closer and deeper in love with my travel passion, it opens up my eyes, my heart as I meet wonderful people and forge lifelong friendships.

I’ve made friends from Taipei while traveling in other parts of the world. They’ve vividly described their beautiful country and have given me tips and ideas of awesome things we can do while visiting Taiwan. Yet, even if I can divulge delicious tips on Taipei travel, the people at Taiwan’s Southern end suffers the aftermath of Typhoon Morakot, let us learn more about this country and have compassion for the people, and sent a quiet prayer for those who have suffered this wrath of nature.

It was on 7 August when Typhoon Morakot landed on Taiwan. As the people were urged to prepare for the heavy rain and strong wind, it turned out that Southern Taiwan has suffered the more devastating landslides and floods as compared to Northern Taiwan. The area which got the hardest hit is at the Southern tip of Taiwan in the area of Pingtung County. Pingtung is famous for the beautiful sight of Kenting National Park where visitors folk in year round to enjoy the luscious greenery and sandy beaches. The sights at Kenting National Park is enough to captivate anyone’s heart and worthy of many Kodak moments. But as flood and landslides had ravaged this beautiful area, it’ll take a little time for its mend and let us remember to go and support them in terms of tourism, in time.

Kenting National Park at Taiwan's Southern most

Hiking at some of the rocky paths

Take a good hike and enjoy the beautiful scenary at Kenting

Just lay back and enjoy the sound of the waves, or dive in...

a place easy to fall in love with

**Travel time from Taipei to the Southern end takes 4-5 hours by bus and an hour more by train. If you have the time to explore, there is much to see after spending time at exciting Taipei.

Let’s Us Remember Taiwan… is a post from: PYObuddy.com

However, to see the world, to me, is to experience the beating pulse of life which holds its irresistible magnetic power that draws me close, to ignite my pores of senses, to arouse the tinkling feelings of excitement, of wonder, that we are creatures of life. In Australia’s Southern hemisphere, Queen Victoria Market is the place where the beating heart lays, emanating life, bringing people from all walks of life together, connecting them to the humble roots of Earthly realities.

It's a must-visit for food lovers

There is not a place in the world where it can survive without a market. Though many places have replaced the original market with modern chain-build air-conditioned and spunky clean grocery stores, food remains the basic need for life continuation. We know that meat will always come from dead animals, vegetables are grown from dirt, and Queen Victoria Market, in Melbourne reigns as the market not to be missed.

Makes a good souvenir to bring home for friends!

Officially opened on 20 March 1878, this heritage listed market has been operating in various forms prior to that date. Over 131 years old, Queen Victoria Market has once been a cemetery, a livestock market, a wholesale farm produced market and in each of these periods, they have their own unique historical stories to tell.

What makes this historical market place unique is that it has taken a few more steps to ensure the sustainability of business with the aim of being environmentally friendly too. In the early 1990s, over a thousand solar panels were installed, generating electricity for the use within the market, reducing tones of greenhouse emissions. Reusable shopping bags are produced too to reduce plastic bag usage.

freshest catch of the day for your pick!

Other than being environmentally friendly, Queen Victoria Market is best known for its huge variety of fresh produce. The smell of everything is enough to tantalize and arouse your pores to see, feel, smell, and taste all that it has to offer. Being divided into a few market precincts, you can take in whiffs of the heavenly fresh baked rolls and other worldly delicacies at the Deli Hall while Elizabeth Street Shops have all kinds of trinkets for you to pick some souvenirs back home to your love ones. It is a treat to explore the market at each precincts namely the F shed laneway, Market Place food court, the Meat Hall, Organics, Fruits and Vegetables, General merchandise, and the Wine market. A stroll at Queen Victoria Market on a Sunday even offers you buskers and street entertainment at Queen Street where it is closed for a place of cafes, carnival rides and other fun activities.

Spoilt for choice over the huge array of selection!

If you call yourself a food lover, the Foodies Dream Tour offered at Queen Victoria Market is a treat for your taste bud. It is a two-hour gourmet tour of the three main produce sections of the market: the Meat and Fish hall, The Fruit and Vegetables aisles, and the Dairy Hall. A qualified Market Guide will bring you on an exploration journey to meet some of the specialty traders and sample generous helpings of the goods. It will cost you AUS$30 which includes the sampling, a piping hot aromatic coffee and an environmentally friendly reusable shopping bag. Go for it if exploring the market on your own is too overwhelming an idea for you or you’re short of time but still insist on experiencing the best in this Market.

The best bread in the world comes straight from the oven!

Though a sole visit to Queen Victoria Market may not be enough reason to pack your bags to Australia right now, it is a shame to miss it altogether if you’re in the area. So if you do decide to go to Melbourne once the H1N1 blow is over, remember to put in an afternoon slot at Queen Victoria Market!

Queen Victoria Market: A Foodies Dream Tour is a post from: PYObuddy.com

“Do I look like a lion?”

“This is too much! I’m gonna wear this in my wedding!”

Isn’t it too early to plan your travel for January? It’s NEVER too early! Early birds get the worms… Plan you own trip to Boracay with PYO Travel and join in the fun in the Ati-Atihan Festival!!!

Photos credit : Kickflickr

Colourful Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo is a post from: PYObuddy.com

As a habit, I often look up reviews of what people have to say about a place. I find it the most honest way to really get to know what a place have to offer. For such a popular vacation choice, there are some tourists who had felt let down or betrayed during their stay in Koh Samui. After reading their ranting, it dawned on me that we cannot really fault a paradise island like Koh Samui. So what went wrong?

It's definitely too many a crowd here

Many bad comments lament on the fact that the island is too overcrowded with tourist and it has been developed into everything touristy to generate income from foreigners. The rich Thai culture is nothing but an empty shell at Koh Samui because it had all been sucked dry by money-making. There was also mention of overpriced food and what-nots. If I’m not a savvy research nut as I am, I would definitely have crossed out Koh Samui as a recommended holiday spot. But I beg to differ here.

Choosing a vacation venue can be really tough when we lack the knowledge of the place. We must first understand what type of holiday we’re seeking before choosing a place to go. Though Koh Samui can be tagged as a very touristy place, it does preserve some of its hidden treasures for those who seek a low-key getaway. The key to loving it all at Koh Samui is to understand what it has to offer.

Getting to know what Koh Samui has to offer…

For those of you who seek to mingle with the crowds and want to pick up a few babes or dudes, Chaweng and Lamai is the place for you to go. Chaweng and Lamai are the sandy strips on Koh Samui known for being the happening place with all noise and parties you could ask for. Restaurants, bars, clubs, and the holiday crowds will gather here to unwind and have a blast. But for those who want a quiet, peaceful holiday, head away from this two places.

Be left alone with glee on Thong Krut Beach

Most of the smaller coastal villages are still untouched at Koh Samui. Take a look at Thong Krut on the south coast and Maenam in the North. They still give you a nice feeling where you’ll be uninterrupted by other tourist. The locals there will give you their gentle smile and you can perhaps chat up with them and they’ll share with you other hidden gems in Koh Samui.

Enjoy the simplicity at these humble chalets at Maenam Beach

Nathon, the island’s capital is a great place to experience the Thai culture. It is nowhere near as touristy as Chaweng and has great food, a lively market. Every evening, there are lots of local food stalls set up at the ferry car park harbour front where you can eat well alongside the locals for a few baht only.

Eat with the locals and get a taste of the real Thai flavour

These places are only a few I get to mentioned here and there are definitely more to come. Once you get to know and understand the various locations in this paradise island, you’d be sure to love it all at Koh Samui.

Loving it all at Koh Samui is a post from: PYObuddy.com

Being a Chinese, I was quite skeptical initially as there’s a Cantonese saying that goes something like this “Cheap things, not good; Good things, not cheap”. I was apprehensive when I heard about these ‘free’ attractions. Are these so-called attractions worth visiting? Are they free because they want to force you to buy something while you’re there? The best way to find out about these places is to read reviews! So here’s what I found out about this Too-Good-To-Be-True-But-Is-Real-And-Awesome-Free-Attraction right in the heart of metropolitan London – The British Museum.

Norman Foster’s stunning glass-covered Great Court

British Museum allows its visitors to literally travel around the world. Not only that, you can travel back in time to learn about the rise and fall of some of the world’s greatest civilizations. This landmark museum is founded in 1753 and is home to over seven millions exhibition-worth objects collected from the whole world that bring you on a journey of exploration, discovery, and enjoyment.

Visiting British Museum can become an overwhelming experience if you’ve only visited our own Malaysian local museums. British Museum is HUGE. To really see everything in this museum, it’ll take you more than a day. But don’t worry; if you’re afraid about getting lost in the numerous corridors and exhibitions rooms, there are daily gallery tours as well as guided tours. If you’re adventurous and would like to explore in your own style, just grab a map and an audiotour headset available in various language, and you’ll be all set to go.

Click for a larger image to see the sections of the British Museum

One thing you must see is the world renowned Rosetta Stone, the valuable key to the decipherment of hieroglyphs. Perhaps it may just look like a plain old stone with inscriptions on it, but the Rosetta Stone has helped lead the discovery and understanding of the Ptolemaic era (before about 332 BC) and laid the foundations of our knowledge of ancient Egyptian language and culture.

Rosetta Stone

If you are a big fan of the movie “The Mummy”, you’ll be sure to be thrilled on the journey into the Mummy at British Museum. Every one of the mummies in this museum was once a living, breathing Egyptian who had gone through about their everyday life. Studying these mummified people tells us about their way of lives thousands of years ago. There are Egyptian mummies which had been in the museum for more than a hundred years and remained sealed. This is because unwrapping the mummies can badly damage them. Yet, with the current amazing technology, there are images that are taken of the inside of the mummies without having to open up the case.

Seeing a real mummy and its inside too!

If mummies are too scary for you (I know, they’re dead people), there’s a very pretty exhibition that shows Chinese ceramics. You’ll be captivated by the marvelous workmanship transforming ordinary clay into fine porcelains which record the imagination of people throughout history an across the globe. Just be really careful and no running at this exhibition room as not to shatter any of these priceless pieces of art.

Looking at pretty things – Chinese ceramics exhibition

Though the British Museum is said to be free, there is a periodical special exhibition which changes according to its set dates in the museum’s events calendar. It cost from £8.00 (about RM50). Right now, the special exhibition focuses on Indian summer season celebrating Indian culture up until end of August 2009. You can see vibrant illustrations depicting the palace life and pleasures of the Royal court telling stories of Indian epics.

The pleasurable lifestyle of the Indian Royal court

Alright, for me to tell you about every inch of the museum is simply not possible. The best way to know what I’m actually talking about is go see it for yourself. Because it is free to enter into the British Museum, you can go treat yourself in buying a souvenir from the museum store! PYOtravel deals to London though are not free, but they are at an incredible price too good to bargain for right now, so go check it out! Click HERE.

It’s FREE at the British Museum! is a post from: PYObuddy.com