Category Archives: Destinations

Destinations

Hong Kong – Your Perfect Holiday Destination

Chances are that out of every five pictures you see of city skylines, one will belong to Hong Kong. But breathtaking sea views are just one of the attractions for the city that is named “fragrant harbor” in its native Cantonese.

Indeed, Hong Kong started as a port for British trade and the name seems to have been derived from either the sweet waters flowing in the Pearl River or from the scent of incense floating in from the factories around the port. But Hong Kong has long since moved on from its humble origins and turbulent beginnings marred by wars and diseases to one of the most fantastic and exotic tourist locations around the globe.

Think of any adventure spot. Think of any cuisine. Think of any shopping destination. Stop thinking. Welcome to Hong Kong!

The popularity of this mega city can be gauged by the fact that more than eight major airlines offer flights to Hong Kong round the clock. So getting there is not the problem, Getting out is, because there is so much to do and see you would not feel like leaving.

OK, so you have got there, so what to do now? Well, the problem is not what to do but when to do and if you can fit it in your itinerary. Thinking of trekking? Head out to the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China and become a rock enthusiast while taking in the breathtaking landforms.

Where to Dine?

The city’s more than 11,000 restaurants will cater to your every whim and fancy be it Chinese, Western, Thai, Italian or even Indian. But if you are adventurous enough to try the local cuisine, then head out to any of the food streets like Lan Kwai Fong, Food Street Causeway Bay, Kowloon City etc. famous for their sea food and homemade delicacies.

Sea Life

Visit the Ocean Park and take in the absolutely magnificent under sea views and environment along with thrill rides and theme parks displaying various exotic and rare animals. Still not enough? Then visit the Sky 100 Hong Kong Observation desk situated on the 100th floor of the city’s tallest building, the Internal Commerce Centre, and take in the 360 degree bird’s eye view of the surrounding Victoria Harbour. Also, there is a Disneyland thrown in for good measure. The list is endless.

Hong Kong has something to offer to everyone, young or old alike. This truly cosmopolitan city has one of the best transport facilities the world has ever seen. Over ninety percent of daily travels are done through public transport so going to places is never a problem. This city truly is a place where ‘east meets west’ as the city still has its roots grounded in ancient customs and traditions while simultaneously offering every possible comfort and facility of the western culture. This amalgamation of sorts has enriched the city to the point that it truly deserves the title of “Asia’s World City” bestowed upon it. The city will hypnotize your senses and mesmerize you beyond your expectations and no one will leave here without amazing memories and splendid moments to behold.

Destinations

Ways to Save When Planning Your Destination Wedding

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting adventure. Because you are not having a traditional wedding there are things you will need to consider. First and foremost remember that you will be asking friends and family to travel to your wedding and possibly take on extra expenses that they might not have done normally. Also you will want to consider your budget and how you would like to spend your money. If you know this and are sensitive to everyone’s needs, you will be able to find ways to save for both you and your guests on your wedding day.

Let’s begin with the timing of your wedding. Timing is everything, you will need to consider the season, holidays, and any special events that may take place in any one destination. Depending on the occasion, your travel might be manageable, but the flowers may not. And choosing the low season is a great option, but you will need to deal with weather. How about the date and day of your wedding. Since you are already traveling to your destination you may find a better deal if you have your wedding during the week.

Travel deals are also crucial to your budget. Take your time to find the best travel deals available. Don’t jump on the first flight. Find sites that have fare predictors and or flight aggregators. They will help you find a good deal that you can book right away. Try also to fly direct because then you won’t pay extra for multiple stops. You may want to find an airline that has destination airline packages that will give you a discount for you and your guests. There may be package deals available, but sometimes booking airfare and hotels separately will give you a better deal. If you do your research then the beginning steps of planning your wedding will seem easy.

Now consider your budget and decide which details are the most important to you on your wedding day. Some ways to save are by shopping for favors and gifts in the off season. If you are having your wedding in June try and buy any beach themed wedding favors in November or December. You might find some savings and don’t forget to shop around. There are several wedding sites to choose from and each has something different to offer. Another way to save is by being a “DIY Bride.” By making favors, printing invitations, and stuffing your own Welcome Bags you can save a lot. Have you thought about your registry? You can always register for the normal wedding gifts, but having a honeymoon registry will help to pay for the little extras. Dinner, a spa treatment, or an excursion are perfect gifts to make things special once you are married.

Over the last few months, you have planned most of your wedding details, but here are some ways to save a little extra cash once you arrive at your destination. At your wedding ceremony site the first thing you can do is use nature as your decoration. There is no reason to go crazy with flowers or candles because you already have a natural backdrop. Once you’ve said ‘I do” it will be time to have your reception. Before you begin think about these few little ways to save – fake the cake. When you have a destination wedding, you probably have a smaller guest list and will need less cake, this however does not mean that you have to have a smaller looking cake. Have a display cake made with the top layer made just for the cutting ceremony. You can then have the biggest cake of your dreams for your pictures and not a lot of cake leftover. Your guests can then enjoy a sheet cake that was made just for them. On your table use seashells, sand, or fruit to decorate. You can save a lot on flowers, not to mention that some destinations will not let you take your flowers home with you. Try a local liquor to toast with, you may see a savings compared with champagne. And when planning you menu ask for substitutes because your vendor may have a less expense alternative. Finally one last way to save money (something I did) was make a playlist and use your Ipod to play music at your reception. I had my brother play DJ and we saved a lot!

I hope that these few tips were helpful. There are truly an unlimited amount of ways to save when planning a destination wedding. Just remember to stick to your budget and remember your guests!!!!