Top 10 Things to Do in Bangkok

1. THE GRAND PALACE
It’s called The Grand Palace but “grand” doesn’t even begin to describe just how stunning this historic complex of buildings really is. It is among the top tourist attractions in the whole of Thailand, and has played an important role in the country’s history, being home to the Kings of Siam since 1782. Although it isn’t the official residence of the present king, King Rama IX, it is still used for official events such as state functions and royal ceremonies throughout the year. Of the numerous things to do in Bangkok this is a must-visit attraction for its architectural and cultural value. Get past the hawkers outside who will try to lead you away to spend your money elsewhere, then try to forget about the throng of tourists wandering the palace with you and the inevitable din that goes with them. If you can put all these negatives aside you’ll enjoy the artefacts, beautiful Thai art, and exquisite architecture and decoration throughout the palace complex.

2.DUSIT PALACE
Dusit Palace wasn’t the official residence of King Rama V, but it was his primary residence. The king had this complex built between 1897 and 1901 as a place to go to beat the heat of the Grand Palace. This palace complex is really quite different to the elaborate architecture and ornamentation of the Grand Palace, but even so, it is still among the top things to do in Bangkok because of its differences. The main structure at Dusit Palace is Vimanmek Mansion. The architecture is more akin to traditional Thai but what sets this building apart is that it is reputedly the largest golden teakwood house in the world. It is very beautiful with its sometimes intricate details, and amazing to think that its walls are built entirely of wood. The palace grounds are also beautiful and to make the most of your visit be sure to pick up an audio guide. Other points to mention are that it’s best to visit in the morning before the tour buses arrive. You will have to walk around in bare feet and be appropriately dressed, and finally, if you visit the Grand Palace before this one you should keep your ticket as it gives you free entry into the mansion.

3.JIM THOMPSON HOUSE
The Jim Thompson House is one of the top Bangkok attractions offering insight into the life of owner Jim Thompson as well as a look at some of Thailand’s traditional architecture, beautiful silk and art. Even if you don’t know who Jim Thompson was, the house museum is interesting, and guided tours are informative and fun. Outside, the lush gardens are quite the oasis compared to the busy streets just steps away, and the large fish pond is a great place to sit and relax after a tour. Jim Thompson was a renowned American businessman who established a large and successful Thai silk company. Over the 1950s and 60s he put together this home with pieces from six different antique Thai houses to create the unique place you can visit today. The combination of historic Thai architecture with his own Western influences make this an intriguing place, but maybe more intriguing is the mystery of what happened to Jim Thompson when he went missing in the jungles of Malaysia in 1967. If you’re stuck for what to do in Bangkok after your tour, stay and watch silk being made on the grounds, grab a meal in the on-site restaurant or pick up some unique souvenirs or gifts in the gift store.

4.LUMPINI PARK
Lumpini Park is an inner-city haven of tranquility, fresh air and shade - offering city dwellers the perfect connection to nature. Named after the birthplace of the Lord Buddha in Nepal, the park is more than half a million square metres big, and the habitat of various flora and fauna. Historically, it dates back to the 1920s and was set to be an exhibition centre for Thai crafts and flower displays. Although this original vision was never fulfilled, Lumpini Park has over the years grown into the endearing centre for outdoor leisure activities for Bangkokians, who would convene before and after sunset to enjoy a round of jog, light workout, aerobics and a host of other recreational activities.

5.CHAO PHRAYA RIVER
Like all urban rivers, the history of the Chao Phraya is intertwined with the city it flows through. The original site was chosen by early settlers because of its fertility and abundant fish. Later King Taksin, after the fall of Ayutthaya to the Burmese, located his new capital here, on the western banks today known as Thonburi. In 1782 King Rama I, finding the eastern banks more favourable, founded modern Bangkok and celebrated the occasion by building some of the world's most beguiling temples. Later still the canals it feeds became famous, earning Bangkok its 'Venice of the East' epithet. And, meanwhile, eminent Western authors like Maugham, Conrad and Coward were singling out the Chao Phraya as one of their favourite spots in the Far East.

6.RAJAWONGSE CLOTHIER
Rajawongse Clothier, at first glance, appears no different to the rows of other bespoke tailor shops that line Sukhumvit Road around Bangkok's lively Nana area. However, take a minute to stop and observe the narrow, no-frills looking shop front and you’ll notice one crucial factor that sets Rajawongse Clothier apart from the rest of the competition: their glass door is constantly being opened and closed all day long – not by an overly pushy salesman telling the passing crowds “nice shirt my friend, you want one more?” – but instead by a constant stream of customers. For over 30 years, this friendly father and son team has welcomed thousands of tourists, expats, office workers, ambassadors, politicians, diplomats and even ex and current presidents, who, judging by Rajawongse’s overwhelming popularity both in Bangkok and across the world, would all swear by the name.

7.CENTRAL WORLD
CentralWorld mega-shopping complex offers one of the most exciting shopping experiences in Bangkok. It has everything from brand name clothing boutiques, funky fashion, high-tech gadgets, bookshops and designer furniture to imported groceries, a lineup of banks, beauty salons, gourmet eateries and even an ice-skating rink. With so many tantalising options to explore, you could easily spend half a day here without realising it. It will come as no surprise to anyone who has experienced the incredible size of CentralWorld that this is, in fact, the largest mall in Thailand and among the largest in the world. We think it’s safe to say that if you are looking for a shopping fix in Bangkok this place will deliver.

8.WAT TRAIMIT
Wat Traimit is thought to date from the 13th century. The Golden Buddha image is about 900 years old and is cast in the Sukhothai style. It is believed to have been brought first to Ayutthaya. When the Burmese were about to sack the city, it was covered in plaster to hide its value. Two centuries later, still in plaster, it was thought to be worth very little. But in 1957, when the image was being moved to a new temple in Bangkok, it slipped from a crane and was left in the mud by workmen. In the morning, a temple monk, who had dreamed that the statue was divinely inspired, went to see the Buddha image. Through a crack in the plaster he saw a glint of yellow, and discovered that the statue was pure gold.

9. CHINA TOWN
Bangkok’s Chinatown is a popular tourist attraction and a food haven for new generation gourmands who flock here after sunset to explore the vibrant street-side cuisine. At day time, it’s no less busy, as hordes of shoppers descend upon this 1-km strip and adjacent Charoenkrung Road to get a day’s worth of staple, trade gold, or pay a visit to one of the Chinese temples. Packed with market stalls, street-side restaurants and a dense concentration of gold shops, Chinatown is an experience not to miss. The energy that oozes from its endless rows of wooden shop-houses is plain contagious – it will keep you wanting to come back for more. Plan your visit during major festivals, like Chinese New Year, and you will see Bangkok Chinatown at its best.

10. PATPONG NIGHT MARKET
Patpong Night Market is located in the Bang Rak district of Bangkok off of Silom Road in Soi Patpong 1, 2 and 3. This is a well known entertainment district known for its night market, go-go bars and other various nighttime adult activities. Starting in the early evening until the wee hours of the morning, the centre of Soi Patpong is filled with vendors selling their wares and crowds of tourists looking for a bargain. Along both sides of this can be found many night clubs, go-go bars, discotheques and other adult entertainment venues.

Source by : http://bangkokattractions.com/top-10-things-to-do-in-bangkok/

Things to do in Berlin

1. Reichstag

When the decision was made to move the Federal Government to Berlin, it was time to reawaken the Reichstag building from its long years of slumber on the Mauerstreifen, the military zone between the two sides of the Wall. The building has since been completely modernised, and today's visitors to the Reichstag can look out from the building's glass dome to get a bird's eye view of the hustle and bustle in the city. There are also a number of government buildings in the vicinity of the Reichstag, for example the Bundeskanzleramt (Federal Chancellery) and the Brandenburg Gate.

2. Brandenburg Gate

Without a doubt, the Brandenburg Gate is Berlin's signature attraction. Built in 1791, it was just one of many old city gates around the city of Berlin which, at that time, was still a manageable size. The decorative Pariser Platz was laid at the foot of the gate and is now home to many of the city's important buildings, for example, the Hotel Adlon with its wealth of history and the Akademie der Künste (Academy of the Arts).

3. Gendarmenmarkt

The Gendarmenmarkt, one of Berlin's largest squares, is dominated by three large historic buildings - the Konzerthaus, the French Cathedral (Französischer Dom), and the Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom) - that together form one of the most picturesque corners of the city. Laid out in the 17th century and named after a regiment of Gendarmerie that had a guardhouse here, it remains one of the city's most popular places, day and night. The Konzerthaus, built in 1821 on the site of an earlier theater, has long been one of Berlin's most important theaters - Goethe's Iphigenie was performed at its opening - and is as famous for its architectural splendor as it is for the first-rate performances of Konzerthausorchester Berlin, one of the country's most popular symphony orchestras. In front of the building stands the Schiller Monument, notable for its four female figures on the fountain canopy representing Lyric Poetry (with a harp), Drama (with a dagger), History (with tablets displaying the names of Goethe, Beethoven, Michelangelo, and others), and Philosophy (with a parchment scroll inscribed Discover Yourself). If visiting in winter, be sure to time your visit to coincide with the Gendarmenmarkt's popular Christmas Market. Another well known square in Berlin, Alexanderplatz (popularly known as "Alex") was the very center of East Berlin life and is now home to the World Time Clock, a popular meeting place. Nearby is the Television Tower (nicknamed "Telespargel") with panoramic views of the city.

4. Berlin Cathedral

Famous for its 75-meter-high dome with its old bell from 1532, Berlin Cathedral Church was completed in 1905 on the site of an earlier cathedral dating from the time of Frederick the Great. Built in the New Baroque style, the building - the largest church in Berlin - is divided into three main sections: the Memorial Church, the Baptismal and Nuptial Church, and the Parish Church. After decades of painstaking work to repair war damage, the church has been returned to its former glory, and highlights of a visit include the Imperial Staircase, decorated with bronze cornices and 13 tempera paintings by Berlin landscape painter Albert Hertel in 1905, and the Imperial Gallery with its views of the area below the dome. Also of note is the Hohenzollern Crypt containing nearly 100 sarcophagi, coffins, and monuments from the 16th to 20th centuries, including those of the Great Elector and his wife Dorothea, and Frederick I and his wife Sophie Charlotte. Try to time your visit for one of the cathedral's many concerts or music services, and be sure to climb the 270 steps to the Dome for superb views over Museum Island. (English language guided tours are available.)

5. Kurfürstendamm

Extending all the way from the ruins of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church on Breitscheidplatz to Berlin's elegant Halensee neighbourhood, the affectionately termed Ku’damm is the most expensive address in the capital city and home to the most exclusive brands. Europe's biggest department store KaDeWe is also situated on the extension of the Ku'damm, on the street known to locals as the Tauentzien (short for Tauentzienstrasse). The little ones will just love the Zoological Garden, Germany's oldest zoo.

6. Charlottenburg Palace

Berlin's oldest and largest Prussian estate, the late 17th-century Charlottenburg Palace was for decades the most important place of residence for German royalty. Beautifully restored, this huge palace boasts many important features, from its massive 50-meter-high central dome to the exquisite Orangery added in 1712. A highlight of the property's tour program is a visit to the New Wing with its State Apartments and fine Banqueting Halls. Built in 1746, it's here visitors get a glimpse of the splendor in which the Prussian Kings and Electors lived, from Frederick I's bedroom and study with their fine furnishings and paintings, to the apartments occupied by his successors. Highlights include the State Dining Room and the 42-meter-long Golden Gallery with its rich gilded stucco. Over in the Old Palace is the Porcelain Cabinet, home to one of Germany's most important porcelain collections, along with displays of valuable items including the Crown Jewels. Other highlights are the Palace Park dating from 1697 and home to the New Pavilion (Neue Pavilion) built in 1788 in the style of a Neapolitan villa, and the Belvedere Teahouse with its fine collection of Berlin porcelain. Be sure to visit the Mausoleum with its royal tombs, as well as the Grand Courtyard with its large statue of the Great Elector, Frederick William of Brandenburg.

7. Museum Island

At the eastern end of Unter den Linden is Museum Island, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site lying in the middle of the Spree. It’s home to five of Berlin’s most important museums: two not to be missed are the Neues Museum, home to the Egyptian bust of Nefertiti and the spectacular Pergamonmuseum, one of the world’s major archaeological museums. Within it you walk through a series of astounding structures, from a partial recreation of the Pergamon Altar (170–159 BC) to the two-storey Roman Gate of Miletus (29 metres wide and almost 17 metres high) and the Ishtar Gate of Babylon, dating from the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar (605–563 BC). Tucked away upstairs is the Islamic Art collection, a treasure trove. A day ticket is available permitting entrance to each museum.

8. The Berlin Wall Memorial and Documentation Centre

The Berlin Wall was mostly demolished between June and November 1990 although a restored stretch remains along the southern border of Wedding and Mitte. Visit Checkpoint Charlie, the famous east-west border control during the Cold War and now a tourist centre, for comprehensive display boards telling the Wall’s story. For more of a visual history, take a walk along the Wall by the Spree, where it runs between the Freidrichshain-Kreuzberg districts. Whereas graffiti has been removed from the northern section of the Wall, the one-mile stretch known as the East Side Gallery is dedicated to art and preserves the paintings made on the eastern side when the Wall was brought down. Although attempting to preserve the spirit of the time, an argument blew up when the restoration project of recent years was seen to overstep the mark, with original artworks being painted over without the artists’ permission

9. Potsdamer Platz

Once the bustling heart of the city before the Second World War, then a no man's land from 1945 until the fall of the wall, the history of Potsdamer Platz has been eventful to say the least. It changed completely after the fall of the wall in 1989 and is now dominated by the presence of the Sony Center, skyscrapers and endless shops. What's more, Potsdamer Platz is the main place to be for stars and celebrities, and not only during film festivals.

10. The Berlin-Dahlem Botanical Garden and Museum

Originally the kitchen and herb garden of the Royal Palace, the Berlin-Dahlem Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten Berlin-Dahlem) was built in 1679 on the instructions of the Grand Elector. After being transferred to Dahlem at the end of the 19th century, it became one of the largest and most important botanic gardens in the world. Covering 104 acres, the site is home to more than 22,000 different species of plants, including a series of open beds arranged geographically, an arboretum with 2,200 species of trees and shrubs, a section devoted to medicinal plants, 16 hothouses for plants from tropical and subtropical areas - including the Great Tropical House - and a large pond forming the centerpiece of the biotope for marine and marsh plants. Also worth seeing is the Electoral Garden with its 17th-century garden greenery, a garden restaurant, and the excellent Botanical Museum with its herbarium featuring more than two million plants and an extensive library.

Source by: http://www.visitberlin.de/en/article/berlins-top-10-attractions

Valentine’s Day Special Top 10 Romantic Destinations in Europe

1. Paris, France

Of course, no “romantic spots in Europe” list is complete without a mention for Paris. The architecture, River Seine, cafes that line the streets … they’re all reasons to spend some time in this beautiful city, even in the middle of winter. Bundle up and head to the top of the Eiffel Tower for a breathtaking panorama of the city, then head out to wander the streets of Montmartre hand-in-hand. No Valentine’s Day is complete without trying some of the city’s world-famous chocolates.

2.Prague, Czech Republic

Bundle up and explore the gorgeous city of Prague in the Czech Republic. Colorful buildings, Gothic churches, a castle and little, intimate restaurants await couples in search of a perfect Valentine’s Day.

3.Venice, Italy

Another must on any romantic list; Venice is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Take a romantic gondola ride through the canals to see the colorful aged homes, and then wander the streets, stopping in Saint Mark’s Square.

4.Bath, United Kingdom 

Make your way to Bath for a romantic weekend in the city synonymous with luxurious first class spas. Start your day in one of Bath’s many romantic hotels (many of which have adorable four poster beds) and spend your morning exploring architectural beauties like the Roman Baths or the charming surrounding villages: Castle Combe and Lacock are especially worth the visit. Adventurous travellers might try a hot air balloon ride over the city and countryside. No need to splurge, you can find something for every budget in Bath from cheap and charming gastropubs to fine dining.

• Dinner Suggestion: Sotto Sotto is an award-winning restaurant in an incredible historic location. Take a trip underground into the vaults that lie below the city and you’ll find delicious Italian food and unbeatable ambiance – think thick stone walls and heaps of candles.
• Gift Idea: Need a gift for your special someone? Book a private soak at The Cross Bath: natural thermal waters and champagne are a sure recipe for romance.

5.Hamburg, Germany

Oft referred to as the “Venice of the North,” Hamburg has more bridges than Venice and Amsterdam and plenty of romantic spots to cuddle up and take in the view of its numerous canals and lakes. Walk along the harbor promenade, Landungsbrücken and then visit St. Michaelis Church.

6.Amalfi Coast, Italy 

Located on the south coast of the Sorrentine Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast is one of those sigh-inducing spots complete with picturesque and colorful villages set against a 43-mile stretch of coastline. Valentine’s Day is the off-season, and with a mild winter, it makes it a perfect spot for romance. Stay in Positano and take trips down to Naples, Pompeii or even a boat to Capri. Be sure to take time to sip limoncello, a strong liqueur the area is known for making.

7.Santorini, Greece

The Aegean Sea paradise of Santorini regularly makes the list as one of the most romantic spots in the world. With its whitewashed buildings, blue-capped churches and stunning views of the sea from a top Fira’s caldera, it’s easy to see why. Take a donkey ride or hop on a boat to check out a steaming volcano, and then unwind in hot springs and tour a vineyard.

8.Heidelberg,Germany

A visit to Heidelberg feels like a trip back in time. With a stunning Baroque castle presiding over the city and plenty of small winding streets, you can’t help but feel transported back to another time. Right on the shore of the Neckar, there’s something magical about the way takes on a red glow during the sunset. After a morning spent hiking up to Heidelberg castle and enjoying the view you’re sure to fall in love all over again.

9.Dubrovnik, Croatia 

The weather may not be warm, the sun may not always be out, but Dubrovnik is romantic year-round. The old city, surrounded by ancient walls, provides plenty of opportunities to get lost in little side streets. For amazing views of the Adriatic, head up to walk the walls of the city.

10.Bruges, Belgium

Valentine’s Day means chocolate and where better to buy chocolate than Belgium? Travelling to Bruges, the Venice of the North, makes for a great romantic getaway filled with picturesque bridges, small canals and 15th century charm. Visit the Begijnhof, a 17th century chapel and hermitage, for a beautiful walk in the secluded inner courtyard. Get a sense of the city with a quick carriage ride but be sure to get off at the Rozenhoedkaai – Bruges’ most photographed and famous bridge – for a great photo op. Bruges has something for everyone from a cheap night out with Belgium’s famous French fries to Micheline calibre restaurants.

• Dinner Suggestions: Pro Deo, a restaurant in the Langestraat district, is the perfect spot for an inexpensive and romantic meal. The restaurant is in a house that dates back to the 16th century and the husband-wife duo who cook and host couldn’t be cuter.
• Gift Ideas: Chocolate is the obvious choice. Try these places to avoid all the over-touristed and overpriced alternatives: The Chocolate Line, Spegeleare Chocolatiers and Dumon Chocolaterie are all featured on a list of Belgium’s best.

Source by : http://travelblog.viator.com/top-10-romantic-destinations-in-europe-for-valentines-day/

Top Romantic Places to Visit in Pune for Valentine day

1.Mulshi Dam

Mulshi Dam and the surroundings are full of natural beauty that incorporates a dam, a hilly region of Sahyadri’s profound woods and forts like Dhangad and Koraigadh. Sahyadri is extremely popular for its ravishing hills and its natural artwork. If you and your partner are nature lovers, then this is the place to be for you to collect most romantic memories of your life. Moreover, it’s hard not to appreciate the superb lake, the dam, forest, and rugged locale of Mulshi. For most part of the year you can also experience boating here with your loved one.

2.Parvati Hill

Parvati Hill is a hillock about 2,100 feer above the sea level and one of the most scenic location in Pune. Being a second higest point in Pune after Veta Hills , this place offers a panoramic view of Pune.There is also a temple located here which was built in Peshwa dynasty.

3.Addah-The O Hotel

Addah Restaurant in O Hotel is a beautiful open lounge space overlooking the expanse of the sky, the setting Sun or rising moon. One of the amazing restaurant with some amazing views of the city head out for it if you want to spice up your taste buds with Indian specialties.
Location-The O Hotel, North Main Road, Koregaon Park, Pune
Timings– 7:30 PM to 11 PM
Cuisines– Indian Cusines

4.Osho Garden 

This mesmerizing garden is located in the Koregaon Park. This natural beauty of this garden has its own charm, and has kept it up over the years. It might well be the most peaceful and the most beautiful garden in Pune, making it ideal for you and your loved one to place arms around one another’s shoulders and look deep down into his/her eyes, away from the rush of life.

5.Atmosphere 6

Located in Viman Nagar, Pune as the name suggests Atmosphere 6 is rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city life with amazing seating arrangements and number of food options to choose from. So if you want to enjoy a romantic dinner in a rooftop with some quality food head out to Atmosphere 6.
Location-Konark Nagar, Clover Park, Viman Nagar, Pune
Timings– 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
Cuisines– North Indian, Chinese, Italian, Thai, Asian, Greek, Desserts

6.Khadakwasla Dam

Situated about 20 km from Pune City, Khadakwasla Dam is located in Mutha River. Couples can enjoy the beauty of nature and Dam. It is a great picnic spot too and there are food stalls aslo nearby it offering snacks food and non-alcoholic drinks.

Source by : http://www.romanticbug.com/top-romantic-places-in-pune.html

Things to Do in Madrid

HOW TO SPEND YOUR DAYS IN MADRID

1. The Royal Palace

Though it’s the official residence of the royal family, they don’t actually live here anymore, and the palace is only used for official state functions. You can walk through the palace (both self-guided and guided tours are available) starting at the grand stairway and wander through lavishly decorated staterooms. My favorites are the green porcelain room and the dining room. There’s also the Royal Armory, which houses a collection of medieval weapons and armor. Audio guides and pamphlets are not included in the admission price. The palace is free on Wednesdays.

2. Plaza Mayor

The most famous in the city and the starting point for most tours, this plaza was once host to bullfights, markets, symphonies, tournaments, and even executions. Now it’s ringed with tourist shops, cafés, and restaurants. It’s a good place from which to indulge in some people-watching, offers some good (though overpriced) bars, and occasionally has concerts and events.

3. Mercado de San Miguel

Near Plaza Mayor is this indoor market that used to be a big central market before it fell into disrepair. Bought by a foodie and turned into a hip spot with lots of restaurants and stalls, the food here is delicious and surprisingly cheap considering its downtown location. I left full for less than 10 euros. At night, it’s busy with locals seeking after-work drinks and tapas. You’ll visit this location on your food tour, but it’s worth coming back to.

4. The Naval Museum

This interesting museum provides a detailed history of Spain’s historic naval prowess (and not so prowess). There’s a detailed section on the Spanish Armada’s defeat by the English.

5. The Prado Museum 

The Prado is considered one of the best museums on the planet. There are works from Spanish (El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya), Flemish and Dutch (Rubens, van Dyck, and Brueghel), Italian (Botticelli, Tintoretto, Titian, Caravaggio, and Veronese), and German (Albrecht Dürer, Lucas Cranach, and Baldung Grien) artists. I love the Prado and the tree-lined boulevard that leads to it. You can get free admission from Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm to 8pm, or Sundays from 5pm to 8pm.

6. Royal Botanical Garden 

Built between 1797 and 1839, this park is right across from the Prado and boasts lakes, labyrinths, squares, fountains, and lots of flowers. There’s even a little veggie garden during the summer months. While a beautiful place, the pollen really made my allergies go wild, so for people with similar afflictions, I’d take an Allegra (and some tissues) before heading in.
Source by : http://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/four-days-in-madrid/

Must See Tourist Attractions in Singapore

5 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Singapore

1.  Marina Bay Sands

The opulent Marina Bay Sands resort complex includes a hotel, high-end luxury brands, a mall with a canal running through it, the ArtScience Museum, and the Marina Bay Sands Skypark - a vantage point for taking in the entire city. The Skypark's viewing deck and infinity pool are found in the ship (yes, ship) that tops the hotel. Only hotel guests are allowed to use the infinity pool but anyone can visit the observation deck. From the skypark, you can see the innovative double helix bridge, the port, the Gardens by the Bay, and the impressive skyline. While up there on top of the city, guests can grab a snack or a coffee at the rooftop restaurant or pick up some keepsakes from the souvenir stand. You can purchase a photo of yourself green-screened in front of the massive hotel as it's all lit up at night, but the cost is steep: 50 Singapore dollars. Better to ask a fellow tourist to snap a photo of you. The luxury and elegance of the Marina Bay Sands exemplify Singapore's taste, and help designate a major international city in Southeast Asia.

Observation deck hours: Mon-Thur 9:30 am-10 pm; Fri-Sun 9:30 am-11 pm

Admission: S$23 dollars for adults, S$20 for seniors, S$17 for children aged 2-12

Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore

2. Singapore Flyer

If the observation deck at the Marina Bay Sands doesn't quite do it for you, try taking in high tea while looking out over the city from the Singapore Flyer, the world's largest giant observation wheel. Choose from several different packages that allow you to be served and pampered while enjoying a view that encompasses not only the Singapore skyline, but reaches to the Spice Islands of Indonesia and Malaysia's Straits of Johor. There are several different ticket packages to choose from, and each includes access to the multimedia Journey of Dreams exhibit that delves into Singapore's history and the creation of the Singapore Flyer. Flights last 30 minutes each and run from early morning until late at night, so you can choose which view of the city you want to enjoy: the beginning of another bustling day or when Singapore is aglow after dark.

Hours: 8 am-10:30 pm

Admission: S$33 for adults, S$21 for children aged 3-12, S$24 for seniors

Address: 30 Raffles Ave, Singapore

3. Chinatown

If you've ever visited China, Singapore's Chinatown neighborhood will bring you right back there. From the small mom-and-pop stores and authentic Chinese food to the bright red lanterns, there's an excitement and hustle in this district. You can visit the Chinese Heritage Centre and see the impressive and beautiful Sri Mariamman Hindu temple. Another temple worth seeing is the Buddha Tooth Relic temple. If you're up early enough (think 4 am), you can hear the morning drum ceremony. Or you can just check out the closing ceremony in the evening after viewing the relic.

Heritage markers have been installed throughout the neighborhood in English, Japanese, and simplified Chinese so visitors can better understand the significance of the area. But this neighborhood is not just a testament to the influence of the Chinese throughout Singapore's past. This is a progressive neighborhood (with free Wi-Fi for all) and it's home to the trendy Ann Siang Hill area, where the quaint bistros and upscale boutiques could be at home in any Western city.

4. Changi Chapel and Museum

Singapore was not spared the horrors of WWII, and the Changi Chapel and Museum tells the story of those who suffered under Japanese occupation. The museum displays the letters, photographs, drawings, and personal effects that are now testaments to the imprisonment for more than 50,000 civilians and soldiers in Changi Prison. The Changi Chapel, found in the open-air courtyard of the museum, is a replica of one of the many chapels that were built during WWII. It stands as a monument for those who would not fold under Japanese rule. A must-see in the museum is a series of murals painstakingly recreated from originals painted by Bombardier Stanley Warren. Guests can participate in a guided tour or opt for an audio tour that features accounts of Changi prisoners' wartime experiences.

Hours: 9:30 am-5 pm

Admission: In-house tours - S$12 for adults, S$8 for children; Audio tours - S$8 for adults, S$4 for children

Address: 1000 Upper Changi Rd North, Singapore

5. Singapore Zoo

Billing itself as the world's best rainforest zoo, the Singapore Zoo is a pretty impressive place. The facility is clean and inviting, and the animals appear well treated with plenty of lush vegetation and habitat space. The orangutans are particularly impressive, and visitors can watch as babies and adults alike swing high above their platforms and snack on bananas. There is also a large chimpanzee family, zebras, meerkats, a komodo dragon, mole rats, white tigers, kangaroos, and many other creatures.

Guests can observe feedings for some of the animals. Allow at least three hours to make your way around the zoo. If the zoo doesn't satisfy your need for getting close to wildlife, there's also the Night Safari, River Safari (including a giant panda forest), and the Jurong Bird Park. Park hopper passes are available if you plan to visit more than one of the wildlife parks.

Hours: 8:30 am-6 pm

Admission: S$28 for adults, S$18 for children aged 3-13, S$12 for seniors

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore

Source by : http://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/singapore-sin.htm

6 US Towns with Incredible Christmas Celebrations

Incredible Christmas Celebrations

1.McAdenville , North Carolina
McAdenville,( North Carolina )a small town about 20 minutes outside of Charlotte, gets so into the Christmas spirit each December that they change the name of their village to Christmas Town USA. More than 600,000 people visit Christmas Town USA to gawk at the 450,000 lights that decorate this hamlet. Over 375 trees light a route perfect for a winter stroll through the McAdenville’s downtown. One of the favorite vantage spots is at the nearby lake, where 33 trees line its perimeter, reflecting peacefully in the water. It’s hard to miss the town’s fountain, featuring a jet of water that is propelled up 75 feet, lit with vibrant colors every 10 seconds.

2.Bernville, Pennsylvania
Imagined as a true one-stop Christmas destination, Koziar’s Christmas Village has been a tradition since 1948. A regional hotspot for families, this popular Christmas town packs crowds in to gaze at the million-plus light displays, visit the small cottage dioramas and shops, as well as meet face to face with Mr. Claus. Look out for the several scenes depicting Christmas Beneath the Sea, Christmas in the Jungle, and Christmas in Other Lands, housed in former chicken coops.

3.Ogden, Utah
Northern Utah’s Ogden, one of the country’s great railway hubs, welcomes in the holiday season each year with their downtown Christmas Village. A winter wonderland is staged in the middle of town as miniature cottages pop-up, modeled after Santa’s North Pole Village. Each of the 59 elf-sized cottages has its own theme including The Elf Workshop, The Grinch, and Santa’s Castle—a cottage where children can visit with Santa himself. Rides on the free Polar Express Train are a favorite, as the locomotive passes through a glow-in-the-dark tunnel painted with holiday flourishes.

4.Nevada City, California
About an hour northeast of Sacramento, the historic and quaint Nevada City (population: 3,068) takes great pride in their annual Victorian Christmas festival. A former Gold Rush town, Nevada City now is noted for its many historic buildings, mountainous surroundings, and bygone picturesque downtown. The Christmas season in Nevada City has been described by its Chamber of Commerce as “a genuine Christmas card come to life” as the city transforms into a winter wonderland complete with twinkling white lights, authentic gas lamps, and carolers dressed in Victorian apparel. Festival attendees are encouraged to dress in period attire, complete with feathers, scarves, and top hats.

5.Branson, Missouri
If you haven't been to Branson during the holidays, you’re in for an amazing surprise. If you’ve visited during this special season before, it’s easy to figure out why this is part of your family's holiday traditions.

Around here, it’s called Ozark Mountain Christmas, an ongoing tradition for more than a quarter century. Celebrations run from the beginning of November through New Year’s Day – there’s no waiting for Thanksgiving to kickoff the holidays here!

Of course, Branson offers countless opportunities for fun year-round, but here are seven ways to celebrate the magic of the holidays

6.Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
In between Lake Michigan and Lake Winnebago and an hour away from Milwaukee sits Elkhart Lake, a getaway town known for its summertime racetrack. Come winter, Elkhart Lake shifts it focus to an all-out Christmas-time celebration, complete with its famous Old World Christmas Market. Modeled after the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, the market features a hundred vendors from the region selling crafts, art, and the traditional schnitzel, sauerbraten and potato pancakes. For something truly unique, stop by the Wade House, a local resort for mid-nineteenth-century Christmas celebrations, including a horse-drawn decorated carriage through the woods. It’s like stepping directly into “Jingle Bells.”

Source by : http://www.fodors.com/news/photos/top-10-us-towns-with-christmas-celebrations