Experience the sights, the sounds and, not least, the enticing smells of Asia. Here are a few Asia travel stories for you to enjoy.
Latest Asia travel stories
World at a Glance: Humayun’s Tomb
Like the Taj Mahal, Humayun's tomb is a property worthy of special protection. And like the Taj Mahal, it's a grave. And just as Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal for his late, much-loved wife, this tomb was built by Humayun's widow, Biga Begum, in memory of her late (and equally-loved, one must assume) husband. Taj Mahal may be [...]
A day at the lake in Beijing (Day out)
In 2002, Alex and I went to China to bring home our new daughter/sister. While waiting for all the paperwork to be finalised, we passed the time, about a week all in all, having a closer look at Beijing and surrounds. Luckily Cat was – and still is – an easy-going child. On the other hand, she was - and [...]
World at a Glance: Fare adjustment
Haven't paid sufficient fare for your transport? In Tokyo, you won't get a fine. Instead there's fare adjustment machines, or norikoshi seisan-ki. Usually, when you haven't paid sufficient fare (or any fare) - whether by mistake or on purpose - chances are, if you do get caught, you'll have to pay a fine; one which hurts your pocketbook [...]
Qutub Minar: the leaning tower of Delhi
The 72.5-metre-tall red sandstone and marble Qutub Minar is the tallest structure in Delhi, and the tallest brick minaret in the world. It's also an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture and one of the major sights in the Indian capital. When we visited, it seemed to be equally popular with foreign and local visitors. Construction of the Qutub Minar began [...]
World at a Glance: A Victorian Mosque in Malaysia (Day out Singapore)
Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque is the state mosque of the state of Johor in southern Malaysia, just across the border from Singapore. Notice how this Islamic house of worship is built, at least partly, in a Victorian English style? There are other influences as well, of course - Moorish, and Malay - but look at the minarets. Couldn't they just [...]
Fatehpur Sikri: UNESCO’s Ghost Town
Akbar wanted Fatehpur Sikri to be the most beautiful city ever built. But style won over substance; no easy access to water. The city was soon abandoned.
Travel photo: Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Valley
This week's #FriFotos theme is holy places. My choice is the UNESCO-listed Swayambhunath stupa - or Monkey Temple - in the Kathmandu Valley.
Where in the world 9
Another Wednesday, another travel quiz. I've been playing with PhotoShop and ended up with this slightly distorted image of a famous structure. And I'm in a good mood today, so I'll give you a hint right away.
Sunday snapshots – Sunrise at Taj Mahal
6:15 am Taj Mahal: romance and tragedy Even though it's a mausoleum, a funeral mosque, the Taj Mahal must surely be one of the most romantic buildings in the world. But then romance and tragedy often seem to go hand in hand, don't they? In 1631, Mumtaz Mahal, wife of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, dies giving birth to their 14th [...]
Travel photo – Lombok fishing boat
Lombok fishing boat A relatively wordless post today - I think this cheerful Lombok fishing boat speaks for itself. Where: Senggigi beach on the island of Lombok, Lesser Sunda Islands group, Indonesia
Dreaming of Uzbekistan
I just submitted an article about Kyiv, and was reminded of my first journey there a couple of years ago. Uzbekistan came to mind. Why? Well, as I was waiting in transit at Riga airport, I noticed an Ilyushin from Uzbekistan Airways on the tarmac. I remember staring dreamily at it while sipping a so-so coffee. Uzbekistan, the country, is [...]
