CP Travelling Guide

[TheyCallMeBruce]

There's been a lot of travelling threads that are popping up lately, and I figured it would be a good idea to include a travelling guide for all CP'ers, a sort of one stop thread that details all sorts of stuff that we can look forward to should we travel to that destination.
This is what I propose. If there is something that is particularly interesting, such as food, the location, or the people, just detail the interest by bolding it (like what I did). Preferably the location first.

So the destination I will be travelling to is Malaysia. I'm heading there in 3 weeks and here are a few things I think will benefit CP'ers to know.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Capital city of Malaysia. This is the place to be. You will find everything from a robust nightlife, authentic malaysian cuisine, and shopping. Everyone who makes a trip to Malaysia should stay in KL for at least a couple of nights. Here are the things to expect when you're in KL

Food
You must try the hawker food stands. This is where most of malaysia's well known dishes are served. Everything from Nasi Lemak (rice in banana leaf served with spicy sauce and dried fish fry), cha kway teow (fried flat noodles), to Penang Laksa (spicy noodle soup). You can also get famous east indian dishes such as Roti canai.

This isn't to say KL doesn't include food from all over the world. As a matter of fact, if you can think of it, they will most likely have it. I was surprise to learn they have a couple of "Bolero" like restaurants in KL.

Almost everyone I have ever spoke to said the best dishes in the world are in Malaysia. You'll need to judge for yourself, but IMO this isn't far from the truth.

Nightlife
The clubs in Malaysia are nothing like the clubs we have in Calgary. As a matter of fact, the clubs in malaysia are more European influenced and have a wide array of DJs from all over the world. The clubs that are the most popular are Zouk and The Beach, often hiring live acts to perform. KL's chinatown is also famous for their night market. This is where you hunt for bargains and knockoffs. You can also enjoy the shadow puppet acts called Wayang Kulit (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayang_kulit#Wayang_kulit).

Hotels
Best hotel I can comment on has got to be the Corus hotel. It is extremely close to the twin towers, it is a 4 star hotel with all the amenities, and the price is far more reasonable than others. However, not really like it matters much, since the exchange rate really benefit us canadians. If you want to stay at nice 5 star hotel, you're probably looking to pay around $100-$120cdn a night (not bad for living it up for a couple of nights).

Shopping
In the Petronas twin towers (KLCC) there's a mall called the Suria. This is by far Malaysia's premier mall. For the luxury freaks, this mall is heaven. Though this isn't the most popular mall in KL. That honor belongs to the Mid-Valley Mega Mall.

Place to visit
The Batu Caves is located north of Kuala Lumpur city and is actually part of Selangor state. The large limestone hill is shaped like one big mound, where the middle part holds the main cavern with 272 steps leading up to its entrance. Predominantly a religious site of worship for Hindus, the main cave has a few altars and statues. Walking past them will lead you to an opening in the roof of the hill, where sunlight filters in through into the cave.
Along the way up the steps, there is another cave, which is called the 'Dark Cave'. This is a cave with restricted access as it holds a diverse range of fauna, such as spiders, bats and snakes. However, there are tours available to enter and explore the 2-km Dark Cave. While exploring Batu Caves, do watch out for naughty monkeys that will brazenly nick your bags for food when you look away.

The National Museum or Muzium Negara is located just outside the Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens, and is Malaysia's main museum. The building itself is a mix of traditional Malay and modern architecture, built in 1963. Outside, a restored old railway train greets visitors along with other old transportation vehicles such as the very first Proton Saga car, bullock carts and a vintage automobile.
The museum consists of two wings that house a variety of exhibits, dioramas and galleries which include historical relics and artifacts, cultural items, arts and handicrafts, flora and fauna, weapons and currencies. From time to time, there are special theme exhibitions to educate and enthrall visitors.

The National Art Gallery located along Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin was established in the former Majestic hotel, which itself is a historical building built in 1932. It houses a number of galleries that range from permanent exhibits to temporary ones. The permanent collection amounts to over 2,500 art pieces, featuring the work of local and international artists. From time to time, educational programmes, workshops, competitions and seminars are organised.

I think this is good for now. I'll include a guide later for Malaysia's Penang Island.

[Zarathustra]

Good idea. My addition to the thread is

Auckland, NZ

I lived in this city for 5 months, left back in March. When I got to the country I didn't know anybody, by the time I left I was working as a bartender and had hundreds of friends.

Nightlife

Three main nightlife districts. Queen street, K road, and the viaduct. On Queen street you'll find most of the backpacker bars, K road is the "alternative" area of town, many gay bars, and the viaduct is where you'll find the higher end clubs. Most clubs are open until 7AM, and Queen street is packed all night on Friday and Saturday nights.

Hotels

I only stayed in a hotel for a few weeks when I first arrived, then I moved into an apartment. Most hotels in the city will have weekly rates, take advantage of this. Many hotels in and around Queen St. I recommend staying in the central business district, that way you'll be close to everything. I stayed at the Elliot Street Apartments/Hotel, it was pretty nice.

Transportation

Because the city is surrounded by the ocean, the airport is really far away from the city. Don't take a cab from the airport, take the Airbus http://www.airbus.co.nz/home/ instead. This will take you directly to downtown Auckland.

Things to Do

Bungee jump off the Harbour bridge (a huge bridge that connects Auckland with the North Shore).

Have dinner at the Sky tower (http://www.skycityauckland.co.nz/Attractions/Skytower.html). Last time I checked it was the tallest building in the southern hemisphere.

Jump off the sky tower.

Shopping

Queen Street has everything you'll need. If you are into high end fashion, check out High Street (the next street over from Queen St.)

I liked this city a lot, It's a great place to go during the winter months here in Canada. Temperatures in December and January were usually around 25 degrees, not too hot, especially compared to Australia. Really humid though.

If I have the chance to checkout NZ again, I'd definitely want to check out Queenstown on the South Island and do more exploring.

[TheyCallMeBruce]

Wow, interesting coincidence Zarathustra. One of the places I am considering next year is NZ. Thanks for the info.

[troutman]

Edmonton, Alberta
Capital city of Alberta. This is the place to avoid.

Food
Perogies

Nightlife
Sweat pants with good shoes

Hotels
West Edmonton Mall Theme Room - explain to your children why there are mirrors everywhere

Shopping
Capital City _______. Aeneas reports every store in EDM is called Capital City _______.

Place to visit
Calgary Trail, southbound

[Peanut]

Yeah, the Fantasyland hotel creeps me right out.

[Aeneas]

Originally Posted by troutman

Edmonton, Alberta
Capital city of Alberta. This is the place to avoid.

Food
Perogies

Nightlife
Sweat pants with good shoes

Hotels
West Edmonton Mall Theme Room - explain to your children why there are mirrors everywhere

Shopping
Capital City _______. Aeneas reports every store in EDM is called Capital City _______.

Place to visit
Calgary Trail, southbound

Capital City Knife Depot
Capital City mullet trimming
Capital City knives
Capital City Living in the past emporium
Capital City Knives etc.

[Zarathustra]

Originally Posted by TheyCallMeBruce

Wow, interesting coincidence Zarathustra. One of the places I am considering next year is NZ. Thanks for the info.

Yeah it's a lot of fun. But don't make the mistake I made, if you get to New Zealand make sure you explore the country!

[WesternCanadaKing]

Sydney Australia
Largest city in Australia and a seemingly endless list of things to do and see. Perfect for someone traveling on the cheap because this city is a major backpacking hub that's host to many free and cheap attractions. Theres ALWAYS something going on and has an increible music scene. I spent about 3 weeks there and only left because I couldn't find a job. Perfect place for a working holiday or to start off an Australian trip.

Things to Do
Climb the Harbour Bridge for a really cool experience, Bondi and Manly Beaches are good if you're lucky enough to be there when it isn't crowded, the Sydney Opera House provides endless photo opportunities, the Blue Mountains are a really unique experience, Sydney Tower, many different wildlife parks (pet kangaroos and koalas, watch them feed giant crocs), Harbour Tour, Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, Luna Park, North Shore, Botanical Gardens, New South Wales Gallery, it goes on and on.

Nightlife
Not the best spot for nightlife in Australia (that'd be Melbourne) but still has a ton to offer, including George St., Manly, and the infamous Kings Cross district where you can find just about anything.

Transportation
Good rail network is serviced by very regular buses. I never had to wait longer than 5 minutes for a train or bus. The ferries are the best way to get around the harbour and the Manly-Sydney ferry is worth it just for the views. Taxis are very pricey but easy to get. A train runs between Central Station and the airport every 15 minutes and costs $14.


Accomodation
There are many hotels in the CBD, especially around Darling Harbour and Circular Quay. These seemed to go for around $80 - $250 AUD a night. There are more hostels than you can count (really), including 7 YHAs. These go from around $20 to $40 a night (the average being $30 for a good quality 8 dorm. Avoid Kings Cross hostels because they're notorious for bed bugs).

[jeremywilhelm]

Wow, great idea, I will try to write up something about Thailand and Korea if i get a chance today.

[icarus]

Originally Posted by WesternCanadaKing

Sydney Australia

Very good considering you were only there for three weeks. The only things I would say is that you were very lucky to never have had to wait longer than 5 minutes for a bus and why would anyone go to Manly for the nightlife (unless you wanted to get into a brawl at the Steyne); substitute King Street Wharf for Manly and the guide looks pretty good.

[STeeLy]

Even when I was in Sydney for 5 days... I can't exactly comment on the buses because I've never taken them, but definitely true for trains.

I also think the Sydney Fish Market is something one could see...

On the other hand
I'm going to see if I can write up one about HK... but I wouldn't know much about accomodations

[cmyden]

It almost seems like you should break this into separate threads by country?

ie:

CP Travelling Guide - Malaysia
CP Travelling Guide - Australia

Just an idea, or it could get pretty messy in the long term...

[Incogneto]

I have been to 31 countries...which one do you want my travel guide for? Somewhere in Asia, Europe, or South America?

[TheyCallMeBruce]

Originally Posted by cmyden

It almost seems like you should break this into separate threads by country?

ie:

CP Travelling Guide - Malaysia
CP Travelling Guide - Australia

Just an idea, or it could get pretty messy in the long term...

I agree if someone has a particular place in mind, but for those of us that are undecided, you can just pop into this thread and read about potential destinations you'd like to travel to. Who knows, maybe there's a country you never thought of going to, but after reading the guide peaked your interest.

This guide will probably benefit the people who are undecided as well. I'm considering a couple of countries to travel to next year, but to be honest, I don't really know which. I think reading what other people have experienced might help sway me in the right direction.

[TheyCallMeBruce]

Originally Posted by InCoGnEtO

I have been to 31 countries...which one do you want my travel guide for? Somewhere in Asia, Europe, or South America?

Whichever country you feel the most comfortable about talking and is not in this guide.

[Eric Vail]

Originally Posted by cmyden

It almost seems like you should break this into separate threads by country?

ie:

CP Travelling Guide - Malaysia
CP Travelling Guide - Australia

Just an idea, or it could get pretty messy in the long term...

There seems to be a move here to have as few threads as possible. I don't really understand it. When I open a thread that is 30 pages long, typically I read a few posts on the first page and a few on the last and miss everything in between.

I think this is a good idea, to break up the thread to smaller more specific threads. I think this could be valuable if I were travelling to a specific place. However, I think there will be great information that simply gets buried in what could become a massive thread.

[STeeLy]

Hong Kong, China (or Hong Kong, Hong Kong if you so prefer)
Now a major hub in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong is one of the more diverse and vibrant cities in Southeast Asia. Compared to many other cities in China, it is much cleaner and according to some sources, much more civilized. There are certainly sights to see and things to do there. If you enjoy a fast paced environment and don't mind the heat, this is a place for you.

Transportation
Transportation in Hong Kong is vast and well connected. The train system, known now all together as the MTR, gets you to a lot of places in Hong Kong. Spanning from both ends of Hong Kong Island, through Kowloon and extends all the way into the New Territories, Lan Tau Island and the airport, it is the most common and easiest way to travel around Hong Kong though not the cheapest.

Buses will reach more places, the wait time is decent and is normally based on the time and the popularity of the route. There are multiple bus companies in Hong Kong, however, most of them share routes, and prices will be the same. Places such as Saigon, Stanley and Ocean Park on the far side of Hong Kong Island behind the hills will require bus transportation to get to.

The Historic Star Ferry still operates between Kowloon (Mainly Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok) to Hong Kong Island (Central, Wan Chai and North Point) across the famous Victoria Harbour.

Taxis in Hong Kong are relatively cheap compared to Calgary, however Green Taxis are only allowed to operate in the New Territories, Blue Taxis only on Lan Tau Island and Red Taxis have almost no restrictions.

Food
From Street food stands to food franchises to five star hotel restaurant, Hong Kong has it all.

Dai Pai Dong are usually good places to go if you want some sort of variety in one place. They are basically a bunch of different restaurants that shares a common seating area, much like a food court in North America, however, it is usually outdoors. They can be found in many places in Hong Kong.

There are also food stands that sells Fish balls, Rice rolls and waffles in the shape of eggs. These are most prominent in the Kowloon area, especially around Mong Kok.

Nightlife
There are many clubs, bars and pubs in Hong Kong. Mostly in the Tsim Sha Tsui and Central area. The most popular place and probably most famous place to go for a drink in Hong Kong is Lan Kwai Fong. Just a few minutes walk from Central Station, this is the place where a variety of bars and pubs are, there is even a Canadian themed pub and will show hockey if it's the right time of year.

Accomodation
If you are looking to stay in the higher end luxury hotels. There are plenty to choose from in the Tsim Sha Tsui and Central area. Like most places, don't expect those to be cheap. If you're just looking for a place to crash after touring, look at hotels in the likes of Mong Kok and Tsuen Wan. There are also hotels in Causeway Bay, and on Lan Tau Island near the airport in Tung Chung.

Shopping
High end shopping can be found in Tsim Sha Tsui, Central and Time Square in Causeway Bay. There are also brand name stores in many shopping centers throughout Hong Kong. The Citygate Outlet mall in Tung Chung is also worth checking out.

There are many electronics stores in Hong Kong and they all offer competitive prices. For something electrical (like adapter plugs, which you will need if you bring electronics back to Canada) Try Apliu Street in Sham Shui Po, and if you're into Video games, check out the Golden Computer Center near Apliu Street.

You can find most of anything in the Ladies Market in Mong Kok, from clothing to stuffed animals to scrolls to fake watches, you will find it in the ladies market. You will also find something similar to the Ladies Market in Stanley.

Remember, most places will allow haggling, so brush up on your haggling skills before you go.

Places to Visit
Victoria Peak. Take the Peak Tram from Central up to the Victoria Peak, if the weather cooperates, you will get quite an amazing view of Hong Kong. Stay until Sun down and it will present great photo opportunity of Hong Kong and see the bustling city all lit up.

Clock Tower. Right outside the Star Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui is the clock tower. This clock tower used to be the terminal of the train station. The train station has moved but the clock tower is still in the same place. Around the same are is the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Hong Kong Cultural Museum.

Giant Buddah. On Lan Tau Island is a statue of the Giant Buddah. The main way to get there now is take the cable car from Tung Chung which takes you to the village. A few minute walk and you will be at the stairs up to the Giant Buddah. Not the most difficult climb, but definitely requires a fair bit of energy.

Ocean Park. If you're into amusement/theme parks, ocean park is the way to go. In my opinion, it is definitely above the Disney Theme Park opened in Hong Kong. Ocean park is much more established, more forms of entertainment as they have shows with Dolphins, Whales, Sea Lions and other Marine animals as well. The bus from Admiralty station takes you to the "back" entrance of Ocean Park, from there, you are close to all the rides and the marine animal show. Take the cable car to the other side for the Panda Exhibit and habitat for other marine animals.

There are also a multitude of museums to be explored such as the Hong Kong Museum, the Science Center, the aforementioned Cultural Museum and Space Museum and many others around Hong Kong.

If I can think of anything else, or if anyone else can think of anything else, by all means, please add to it.

[STeeLy]

Originally Posted by Eric Vail

There seems to be a move here to have as few threads as possible. I don't really understand it. When I open a thread that is 30 pages long, typically I read a few posts on the first page and a few on the last and miss everything in between.

I think this is a good idea, to break up the thread to smaller more specific threads. I think this could be valuable if I were travelling to a specific place. However, I think there will be great information that simply gets buried in what could become a massive thread.

Maybe we can petition to a mod to have a sub section in the Off Topic for Travels