The Purple Passport

Seasoned advice for British Travellers

Asia

The ‘It’ Travel Destinations Of 2018

by

Perhaps you’ve noticed through social media and the likes, the popular destinations to travel to this year. Perhaps you’ve even wondered what makes them so attractive, and why everyone seems to be in a rush to visit them.

While the usual popular destinations still remain – such as London, New York, Paris, etc; it seems as though this year travellers have unpacked a whole new set of popular destinations. Destinations that have a few things in common, surprisingly: they’re all about the sun, sand and sea, and kicking back and relaxing, while still learning a thing or two about different cultures, fascinating history and indulging in new tastes, smells and sights. Although some of these destinations are far from ‘cheap’, and you may just need to play Mega Millions online; there are a few that are easy on the pocket, and still offer a vacation experience of a lifetime.

Let’s get into the ‘it’ destinations of the year, and find out why they’re extraordinary. You may just find your new travel bucket list!

Tulum, Mexico

Without a doubt, Tulum comes in as a favourite when we speak of the ‘it’ travel destinations. Why so? Well, Tulum is rustic, yet luxurious; it’s incredibly beautiful, and one thing that stands out is the unique accommodation options on offer on the island which look rather whimsical/’boho’. Some of the hotels even look like tree houses, and others are situated over the ocean. It may just be the next Bora Bora or Maldives, as the honeymooners are flocking to Tulum in their numbers. But don’t be fooled, this is the perfect place even for solo travellers looking to take a break and reconnect with themselves and nature. Tulum is known for holding many spiritual retreats, including yoga retreats and many more. It’s the perfect place to rejuvenate, relax and reconnect.

Source: 3 days away

Bali, Indonesia

Bali comes as no surprise, right? You’ve probably noticed for yourself just how popular Bali has become. Just a few years ago Bali was fairly ‘undiscovered’, and couldn’t compete with the likes tourist-central Thailand. Yet, today, Bali has become a tourist hotspot. The reason for this is that Bali is extremely reasonable in price, making it perfect for students and backpackers, and of course Bali is beautiful; with its pristine beaches and volcanoes dotted throughout the island. It is also deeply immersed in culture and history, as recognised by the many unique-looking temples and spiritual hideaways. This makes it the ideal locale for those seeking out an all-round adventure, packed with beach days, history tours, spiritual encounters and delicious food.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is yet another extremely popular city to visit, and has also only recently been ‘discovered’ by tourists. Cape Town has seen almost a 40% increase in tourism in the last three years – and there’s no wonder why. This city, although fairly built up, is immersed in natural beauty; from Table Mountain to the gorgeous beaches, the vineyards, and let’s not forget the incredible weather. Over and above all that, Cape Town was put on the map by the great Nelson Mandela. Just off the coast of Cape Town, on Robben Island, Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of his 27 year sentence after he challenged the apartheid government at the time. Robben Island has become one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, and it sure is a hit with the tourists and locals alike. It goes without saying that the deep history, as well as the strong African culture that can be recognised through the foods, the languages and the traditional dress, makes Cape Town one of the most rich and diverse cities in the world.

Source: Le Petit Journal

Mykonos, Greece

While most of the above mentioned destinations are attracting students, honeymooners and anyone looking for a great break; Mykonos is a little different. Mykonos is attracting the celebrities in a big way, as well as those looking to party their way through their vacation. It has become known as ‘the party island’, similar to the likes of Ibiza in Spain. Mykonos is rather exclusive and the rates of hotels are incredibly pricey; as for the restaurants, beach bars and clubs. While Mykonos is stunning, with magical little beach coves dotted throughout the island, this is not what attracts the travelling folk. Be prepared to party from morning to night at the many extravagant beach bars; dance on tables at the exclusive restaurants and live it up in the hotels that scream grandeur!

The Maldives Islands

It’s a no brainer that the Maldives makes this list! For some reason there’s been a significant boost in the amount of travellers visiting this island. Of course we can put it down to the fact that the Maldives literally looks like heaven on earth; but there’s another reason why the Maldives has quickly become popular with travellers across the board, and this is thanks to the very reasonable packages that are on offer for this exquisite island. You’d think the Maldives would be a pricey option because it looks like paradise, and because many of the hotels are on the water – it just screams exclusivity, doesn’t it? And yes, you’re right, but don’t be fooled by this – there are plenty of accommodation options that are extremely well priced, and are just as comfortable, luxurious and utterly breathtaking.

Five Adventure Sports to Try Whilst Visiting Thailand

by

If you are into all things adventurous and getting your adrenaline pumping, then Thailand is a great place to visit. With many adventure sports and amazing places that get your heart pumping whilst discovering the beauty of Thailand, there has never been a better time to get yourself out there. Here are five of the best adventure sports to try when visiting Thailand, and where is best to do them.

Diving, Koh Tao

Now, diving may not seem like an adventure sport, but in Koh Tao, free diving has been incredibly popular. Free diving is diving in coral reefs without an oxygen tank. This gives you the ability to glide a lot faster through the water to discover everything underneath. The longest free dive was around 20 minutes, but even a few minutes at a time freediving is enough to get your heart racing.

Off-Road Motorbiking, Northern Thailand

In Northern Thailand there are some of the biggest and thickest jungles in the country. These make for a great track for some off-road motorbiking. There are some recommended routes for those wishing to take on this adventure, such as The Golden Triangle which is 390 miles long. This takes you down windy roads to caves and elephant camps and is a thrilling and exciting way to discover Thailand.

Waterfall Abseiling, Chiang Mai

This is truly an adrenaline addict’s dream. Abseiling and rappelling underneath a beautiful waterfall in the middle of a Thai jungle can give you a thrill like no other. If you have ever rappelled down a cliff, this has got nothing on doing so whilst underneath a huge waterfall.

Deep Water Soloing

This can be done anywhere and is a newer sport. This is a lot like rock climbing, but in much more extreme and beautiful places. Deep water soloing is a form of free-climbing that involves scaling and climbing cliff faces without a harness or anchors to help you. This is all done in the sea so you will need a boat to get to a cliff face. If you fall, you’ll just get wet. The only way down is to jump back into the sea meaning this adventure sport is thrilling but completely safe when done correctly. Railay beach is a great place to start your journey and there are many friendly locals who will show you the way.

Longtail Drag Boat Racing

This is a motorsport that is ever popular in Thailand. As its name suggests, this is drag boat racing to the extreme. Many of the boats are made custom by the locals to win and bring customers to their shops. Whether you want to join in and build your own, Thai Boat Racing is certainly a delight to watch.

Thailand is an amazing place full of adventure for those wishing to find it. Whatever sport you are interested in, Thailand has something for you. Discover Thailand and get your adrenaline pumping with any of these great adventure sports.

Top gaming destinations in Asia

by

Planning your next trip to Asia? Be not be discouraged by the talk that Asia is a conservative continent. You can still quench your thirst for gaming even if you find yourself in the supposedly ‘conservative’ continent as there are dozens of destinations that offer the best when it comes to gaming facilities and the games on offer, the game selection you will find here equate to the game selection available at huge online casinos such as NetBet Live. The following are some of the top gaming destinations in Asia.

Macau

Macau is a small country in Asia that has risen largely due to its gaming industry. The economy of Macau is based on the success of the gaming industry, even the country’s tourism figures are all inspired by the country’s magnificent casino resorts. As the country base its survival on gaming, it’s no surprise that it recently surpassed the revenue figures generated by Las Vegas. In Macau, there are games for everyone, from the classics such as Fan-tan to modern day’s Texas hold-em. There are a number of great casino resorts in Macau with arguably the most impressive being the Casino Lisboa. The casino was officially opened in 1970, the same year that the Stanley Ho Hotel was opened. Casino Lisboa and the Stanley Ho Hotel are connected to each other by a footbridge. The Galaxy Macau casino comes a close second but in general, all the casinos in Macau (over 30) are simply majestic.

Singapore

Visitors who love gaming do not leave out Singapore even though it only has two casinos. However, the lure of these two casinos lies in the sheer scale of each of the casinos. The Marina Bay Sands Resort is simply stunning more so if you catch a glimpse of it at night from a distance or from an aerial view. The resort has three standing towers that illuminate the country at night with glowing colours. There are innumerable designer boutiques in addition to a nightclub, restaurants, an ice rink and a canal that runs through all the boutiques. Resorts World Sentosa is the other casino and it is equally impressive as the Marina Bay Sands Resort. The one thing which separates it with other casinos is the Universal Studios theme park, the first of its kind in Asia.

South Korea

If someone can ask you to name one similarity between South Korea and the Principality of Monaco, what would you say? Probably a lot of interesting answers have come up but the one similarity is that South Korea like Monaco forbids its citizens from using the country’s casinos. However, if you are a foreigner, you can enjoy the many beautiful casino resorts South Korea has to offer, most of which are found in the capital, Seoul. The Paradise Casino Walker Hill is arguably the most popular among tourists, a modern casino with state of the art facilities. The casino overlooks the Han River and offers a great viewing spectacle for visitors. If you want a more quiet and peaceful environment, the island of Jeju-do offers a more peaceful environment. There are several casinos on the island including the Kangwon Casino, the only casino where foreigners are permitted to use.

What Makes Singapore Attractive to Foreign Entrepreneurs and Firms?

by

Singapore is one of the best economic and business hubs in the Asian region. Its government has made a great effort to lure foreign entrepreneurs and investors at all times. The state has numerous strategies and efforts, which improve every day, to attract these beneficial foreigners. According to a senior immigration officer, its prime location favors business and is one of the main reasons behind visa options for business and investors being highly sought after on a daily basis. Let us cover in detail the reasons why foreign entrepreneurs and firms are getting attracted to Singapore:

Conducive Business Environment

If you are looking for a perfect environment to expand your international business in Asia, Singapore is the answer. According to reports, Singapore ranks ahead of all other Asian countries in providing a better macroeconomic environment for any type of business. Thanks to the government and all relevant authorities, setting up a business here is not only easy and cheap but also corruption free. With the help of an authorized agent, you can get your business steady and rolling within no time.

Singapore’s Location

There is nothing a state can do about its geographical location. Singapore is lucky to be strategically positioned in a great location. The best part is that they have taken full advantage of it. It can enjoy business from both west and east, which is an attraction for many foreign investors. Being an island with well-maintained, deep harbors means that it can receive and export goods with ease to and from all parts of the world.

Affordable Tax Programs

Some taxation procedures in some countries are just not affordable. However, Singapore is not among those states. The low tax rates for foreign businesses and individuals working in them make it a favorable environment. For international corporations, the tax is only applicable to profit realized in Singapore. Therefore, this eliminates overtaxing or double taxation. Most foreign companies enjoy a tax rate of 17 percent and below. The government also has numerous tax treaties with various countries in Asia, Europe and other parts of the world.

Skilled Workforce

Singapore meticulously categorizes the type of worker engaged in a business. For this reason, the country has different passes and work permits for different skills of workers. You can hire either locals or foreign workers who meet the qualifications required by a job. What is more is that the workforce is always available and willing to deliver to standards.

Innovation

Asia at large has great innovations in various sectors. Singapore seems to be leading in the application of technology and innovation by businesses. The internet is extremely fast, and therefore, all businesses that rely on it will not have any issues. Most of the offices and company sites have all the devices and equipment they need for work. The government allows a low tax on technological equipment to promote innovation. Employees are also given the freedom to bring in their ideas, and this is the work culture at the moment.

Because of the above and other reasons, Singapore has earned great recognition across the world for the ease of doing business. Therefore, numerous foreign entrepreneurs and firms have good reason to be here.

The Most Romantic Experiences in Thailand

by

Are you looking for a romantic getaway with your special someone in South East Asia? Perhaps you’re celebrating an anniversary or just want to escape from the stresses of life back at home. If this sounds like you, your dream destination is Thailand. You can book a beautiful rental in thailand near the beach or a luxurious hotel in Bangkok to unwind for a week or two. So, before you pack your bags and jump on the plane, check out the following romantic experiences to make your trip even more special.

Sunset Stroll on the Beach

What can be more romantic than walking along the soft sandy beach with the warm waters gently lapping on the shoe? You’re hand in hand with palm trees to one side and the darkening blue water of the sea to the other. The scenery is incredible, and you’re walking in the very definition of a tropical paradise. Watching the sunset is a romantic experience anywhere in the world. But, that feeling is magnified in Thailand. If you’re staying at a beachside resort or vacation rental, sit on your balcony and enjoy the magical experience with a glass of wine.

Watch the Sunrise

Watching the sunrise is equally as romantic as the sunset, but few people make it out of bed. The sun often rises before 6:00 am when most are still fast asleep. If you can get up, watching the sun light up Thailand’s natural beauty as the day breaks is unforgettable. Sometimes you may be able to see both the sunrise and sunset on the same beach depending on where you are. Other times you may need to travel to find the perfect spot.

Join Bangkok’s Private River Cruise

River cruises are a favourite pastime in Bangkok for tourists. Some take you on a sightseeing tour of the city whereas others have a romantic dinner. If you know the right places and aren’t on a budget, you might be able to get yourself a private boat. Picture sitting on comfortable leather seats being whisked around Bangkok’s network of canals and rivers while enjoying time with your partner. Boat rides are nice, but nothing can quite beat the feeling of exclusivity on a private one.

Sip Cocktails at a Rooftop Bar

Another romantic experience in Bangkok is to head to the Central District and go to The Moon Bar. This is an exceptional spot for a drink. The outdoor bar has 360-degree views from the 61st floor and claims to be one of the world’s highest outdoor bars. Drinks are, as expected, expensive but the price is worth it. You can sit on one of the cushioned sofas with a drink or have a candlelit table with incredible views. If you’re planning to spend any time in Bangkok, checking out The Moon Bar is a must.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai makes a great spot for couples with beautiful mountainous landscapes, a historical centre and a laid-back city a million miles away from Bangkok’s noise and pollution. Apart from enjoying the temples, hiking trails and renting a motorbike to explore the province, you can go on a hot air balloon tour. Tour packages include a short flight taking you high over the mountains and hills of Chiang Mai to give a bird’s eye view of the incredible landscapes below. Some packages offer private tours and have an after-flight meal. If you have never taken a hot air balloon ride before, now’s your chance to tick it off the bucket list in style.

Spend a Day at the Spa

Thai massages are available on almost every street around the country. Locals will give you a massage on the beach or in their own shop. But, Thailand is also famous for having world-class spas and wellness centres that are some of the best in South East Asia. You can have a massage and the full treatment with various types of therapies and relaxation techniques. If you and your partner are looking for a few days of recuperation, book yourselves into one of Thailand’s spas for some pampering. Most of the luxurious hotels have an onsite spa, which you should take advantage of at least once during your trip. And when you’re both super refreshed and relaxed, what can be better than a candlelit dinner or rooftop cocktails?

Stay on a Secluded Island

There are thousands of islands in Thailand catering for different tourist interests. Some host the Full Moon Party attracting backpackers and younger travellers for a night of fun. Others are much quieter and have a very high level of luxury. It’s safe to say that you’ll find what you’re looking for on one of Thailand’s islands. But, if you want romance and privacy, check out some of the less visited spots. There are hundreds of places around Thailand’s archipelagos where very few tourists visit including Koh Samet, the Koh Yao Islands and Koh Similan. It’s also possible to find a beachfront rental or resort with a private beach on the more famous islands like Phuket and Koh Samui.

Having the Most Romantic Trip of Your Life

If you’re looking for romance, Thailand has it. From the secluded spots on tropical islands to Bangkok’s rooftop bars and Chiang Mai’s hot air balloon tours, you’ll find something to have a memorable trip. Be sure to see the sunrise and sunset at least once and have a day or two at the spa. Follow these suggestions, and you’re sure to have the most romantic time of your lives.