Ecotourism in Hong Kong: Why ecologically responsible travel is the way forward

Ecotourism in Hong Kong may not be as popular as its nightlife and other urban appeals – as is evident from its exclusion from HK Tourism Board’s top 10 attractions – but it’s high time for us to build awareness around its potential.

Think of Hong Kong and the first thing that leaps to mind is its famous skyscraper-dotted cityscape. But alongside the glitz and glamour of the city lies its great outdoors, which, strangely enough, is neglected as a top tourist attraction.

As Josiah Chan, lecturer at The City University of Hong Kong, points out, “Despite possessing the favourable conditions needed for ecotourism, such as an abundance of natural beauty and biodiversity, Hong Kong has achieved only limited success in ecotourism development in terms of business potential and increasing tourist arrivals.”

Yet, these natural beauties are world-class by their own rights. For instance, the Yuen Tsuen Ancient Trail was included by National Geographic in its list of top 10 ancient highways. Dragon’s Back Trail was voted as one of the best urban hikes by Time magazine.

The government is doing its bit though. The Ramsar site, for instance, is closely monitored by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) and the HK Bird Watching Society. According to their records, till March 2016, the peak count of waterbirds at the site in mid-winter was 57,778, comprising 17,701 ducks and grebes, 21,482 shorebirds, 6,609 gulls and terns, 8,247 cormorants, 3,556 egrets and herons, and 183 rails and coots. It’s safe to say that Ramsar is a bird-watcher’s paradise.

The government has also built the Hong Kong Wetland Park, a conservation, education and tourism facility at Tin Shui Wai in Yuen Long. With themed exhibition halls, a theatre, ‘swamp adventure’ play area, and the Wetland Interactive World, it’s just the kind of place to gain knowledge about conservation while having a lot of fun!

But travelling to nature parks does not directly translate to ecotourism. International Ecotourism Society (TIES) defines “ecotourism” as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment.” The keyword here is ‘responsible’. While local travel agencies conduct guided tours, there is little or no awareness about ecologically responsible travel.

Cheng Lok Yi, a local resident, narrates, “The [tour] guide did not encourage us to build environmental awareness and respect. He picked up starfish, crabs and sea cucumbers from the water and showed us how cute the animals were…I even witnessed people throwing starfish as Frisbees and the guide did nothing to stop them.”

This alarming account leads to a vital question: in the guise of ecotourism, are we instigating eco-terrorism?

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Smart Luggage: Are these high-tech carry-on options really worth it?

Smart luggage features include charging capabilities — Smart luggage designs may seem fancy at first, but are they really worth it?

The battle for technological supremacy has now taken to the skies. Established travel brands like Tumi are now competing side by side with IT start-ups to create the perfect carry-on for today’s plugged-in traveller. But do these smart luggage designs really decrease travel hassles, and are they worth their hefty price tags?

At first glance, ‘smart’ features seem wonderfully convenient and helpful. Built-in battery packs to charge your devices? Great. Remote lock activation? Fantastic. GPS tracking in case you misplace your suitcase? Sign me up.

Modobag smart luggage lets travellers ride to their destination — Modobag’s motorised carry-on that lets travellers to breeze through airports

Some companies have gone even further. Modobag has created a motorised carry-on capable of carrying passengers at up to 8.5mph. Travelmate recently introduced an autonomous suitcase robot which follows you around by tracking your phone’s GPS. It can even navigate its way through a crowd thanks to its in-built sensors.

There’s clearly enough tech here to send any gadget lover into fits of euphoria. But for the rest of us, smart luggage products raise some practical concerns. What happens if the battery runs out? What if the electronics break down mid-trip? What if you can’t hook onto a network and therefore can’t connect to the app?

Travelmate's robot suitcase follows you wherever you go — Travelmate’s autonomous robot suitcase follows you wherever you go

This last question is indicative of a larger problem. Any high-tech suitcase relies heavily on network connectivity and readily available electricity outlets. Sadly, this rules out its use in all but the most advanced (and even-surfaced) cities and airports.

However, if your travels veer more towards well-connected destinations, these issues become less pertinent. At that point, using smart luggage may well be the most convenient and trendy option. At the very least, you’ll be the envy of any mere mortal dragging or carrying their luggage the old-fashioned way.

Pay attention to which one you buy though. Starting 15 January 2018, several major airlines including Qantas, Delta and American Airlines have banned all built-in lithium ion batteries (such as the one in Bluesmart’s carry-on). No word yet if Cathay Pacific or other Asian carriers will join the bandwagon. But just in case, save yourself any future headaches and pick a smart luggage product with removable batteries.

Text: Tenzing Thondup
Images: Modobag, Travelmate

Chinese New Year getaways: Five last-minute destinations to make the most of the extended weekend

While the rest of the world is feeling the post-holiday blues, we are counting down the days till the much-awaited Chinese New Year festivities; moreover, another few days out of the office! Whether you are dreaming of soaking up some sun or embarking on an exciting city adventure, there has never been a better excuse to snap up a last-minute trip.

Here is a round-up of some of our favourite destinations:

Bhutan – One for the peace seeker

Looking for a one-of-a-kind escape? To find peace and tranquility and to witness one of the world’s most awe-inspiring and untouched natural beauties? From its mystical mountainous landscape, to prominent Buddhist monasteries and unforgettable views of the Himalayas, Bhutan has got you covered. Spend your day trekking through the sweeping forests or wander off the trails into remote villages to experience absolute solitude.

Maldives – One for the sun worshipper

Crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, pristine white sandy beaches and stunning corals: there is no better place to unwind in style. Spend your day swimming in the Indian Ocean or head out on a snorkeling excursion to discover the extraordinary marine life. Charter a private yacht and enjoy a sundowner on the sun deck followed by a massage in the comfort of your own private over-water villa. This picture perfect haven will have you feeling rejuvenated in no time.

Siem Reap – One for the culture lover

Embark on a cultural adventure to a magical town filled with many UNESCO heritage sites, some of which have been featured in the famous Hollywood franchise Tomb Raider. After a day of exploring the land of mythology and history, enjoy a relaxing spa treatment or explore the colourful markets. For those looking to extend their getaway, luxury tour operator Lightfoot Travel offers an 8-day tour of classic Cambodia, which includes excursions to the historical sights of Phnom Penh and a tour of the coastal city of Sihanoukville, followed by a speedboat ride to the spectacular private island of Song Saa.

Bangkok – One for the city addict

This bubbling melting pot has quickly become one of the world’s favourite cities and it’s not hard to see why, with plentiful opportunities to explore the country’s culture and history with temples, palaces and museums, along with luxury malls and weekend markets for the odd shopping spree (or two). A trip to Bangkok would not be complete without sampling local cuisine, followed by a tipple or two in one of the many rooftop bars, including the Sky Bar – featured in The Hangover Part II movie – where you can enjoy unparalleled views of the city.

Sri Lanka – One for the naturist

Hop on an old British colonial train and be transported to the lush tea plantations of the Hill Country, spotting tea pickers along the way. Admire the beautiful wildlife on safari at Yala National Park – home to leopards, elephants and bears – or head to the south coast, renowned for surfing and whale watching. Sri Lanka is indeed the perfect place to be at one with nature.

So if you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, it is time to book your flights and secure the best hotel deals because a good holiday is just what the doctor ordered.

Text: Hira Desai

New Year Travels: Top 10 destinations to visit in 2018

Gearing up for New Year travels but feeling overwhelmed by all the possibilities? To help, Gafencu has chosen 10 destinations that speak to the spirit of adventure and discovery:

Son Doong Cave, Vietnam

Son Doong has only been open to the public since 2013, and fewer people have stood inside it than have scaled Mount Everest. Getting to the cave itself won’t be easy, but it’s worth the effort. Spelunkers must walk 25km through jungles, wade across rivers and complete a 90m rope climb up the “Great Wall of Vietnam”. You might want to start training…

Where to stay: Campsites are provided inside the cave
Best time to go: February to August

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

This charming city is just the ticket for those looking to detox both body and mind. Head to La Gruta Spa’s hot springs, followed by a steam bath in a temazcal (sweat lodge). For a true fiesta experience, visit the city during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) on 1 November. Don’t miss the Spanish colonial churches and cheerful shops lining the cobblestone streets.

Where to stay: Rosewood San Miguel de Allende
Best time to go: November through April

Madikwe, South Africa

Despite being the fifth largest game reserve in South Africa, Madikwe is still somewhat of a hidden gem, making it an ideal spot to embark on your own private safari. The Big 5 can be seen here – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo –.and reassuringly, the reserve is malaria-free, so there’s no need to go dousing yourself in smelly repellent!

Where to stay: Makanyane Safari Lodge
Best time to go: May to September

Lapland, Finland

Lapland, the country’s northernmost province, is truly a winter wonderland. Guests can watch the aurora borealis from the comfort of their glass-roofed igloo, or through the window of a cosy log chalet. The region’s capital, Rovaniemi, happens to be the “official hometown” of Santa Claus, and visitors can also partake in an array of winter sports, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobile riding and sled dog touring.

Where to stay: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Best time to go: Mid-August through early April

Komodo National Park, Indonesia

There are two camps of people drawn to Komodo: those who want to snap selfies on the island’s pink beach, and those who nerd out over the chance to see the world’s largest lizard. In addition to housing some 5,700 komodo dragons, the national park encompasses 29 islands, with plenty of pristine beaches and places to dive or snorkel through colourful coral reefs.

Where to stay: Plataran Komodo Beach Resort
Best time to go: April to October

New Orleans, USA

While The Big Easy’s Mardi Gras festivities are world-famous, equally worth attending are the St Patrick’s Day parade and the French Quarter Festival. If Bourbon Street debauchery isn’t your cup of tea, check out the charming Frenchmen Street for its art market and live music venues. For something off the beaten path, there’s the Voodoo Museum and the 18^th-century Lafayette Cemetery.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
Best time to go: 13 February for Mardi Gras (book well in advance); 17 March for St Patrick’s Day; 12-15 April for French Quarter Festival

Queenstown, New Zealand

Adrenaline junkies likely already have Queenstown – dubbed the world’s adventure capital – on their list of holiday hopefuls. Nestled between Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps, this resort town hosts an extensive menu of extreme sports: skiing, bungee jumping, canyon swinging, whitewater rafting – you name it. Non-sporty types will still enjoy the stunning vistas and renowned wineries in the region.

Where to stay: Azur Lodge
Best time to go: Any time, but summer (Dec-Feb) and winter (June-Aug) are busiest

Muscat, Oman

This port city doesn’t typically top bucket lists, but as a tourist destination it’s on the rise. Luxury resorts have cropped up here in recent years, with travellers drawn to the allure of a city surrounded by mountain, desert and sea. For those looking to stay a while, luxury tour operator Scott Dunn offers a 10-day tour of Oman, which includes excursions to the desert and to mountainside villages.

Where to stay: The Chedi
Best time to go: October through March

Malta

We couldn’t pick just one city in Malta, but luckily, this archipelago nation in the Mediterranean is small enough to see it all. Malta boasts historic sites, ornate baroque architecture, crystal clear waters and sunny winter days. Its capital, Valletta, was designated a 2018 European Capital of Culture by the European Union, meaning it will host a series of community events throughout the year.

Where to stay: Corinthia Palace Hotel
Best time to go: May to July (peak season) or September to October (cooler, less crowded)

Arenal, Costa Rica

Lush rainforests. Tranquil waterfalls. An imposing volcano. Arenal is teeming with natural wonders. This Central American paradise is a good fit for those looking to relax or indulge in adventure sports – or some combination of the two. Visitors will likely spot some wildlife while zip lining through the rainforest, or while hiking around Arenal Volcano (it last erupted in 2010 and has since been dormant).

Where to stay: Nayara Springs
Best time to go: Arenal is lush throughout the year, but there’s less rain January through April

For the full article, please check out the latest issue of Gafencu’s print magazine or the PDF version on the Gafencu app. Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store

Text: Emily Petsko

Grand Hyatt Taipei Review: Fantastic address for business and leisure

Grand Hyatt Taipei is perfectly located next to Taipei 101

Thanks to its convenient location and proximity to the International Convention Center, the Grand Hyatt Taipei is a top pick among business travellers.

That’s not to say, though, that the hotel caters solely to suited-up sojourners with briefcases in tow. Taipei is equally alluring as a leisure destination – and considering that the flight from Hong Kong to Taipei is over before you can catch the end of Life of Pi, you don’t really need an excuse to visit.

Particularly for Hong Kong visitors, Taipei is a breath of fresh air – literally. Wider sidewalks, fewer people and a less dense city layout translate to more room to move about without having to worry if you’re in somebody’s way.

The Grand Hyatt Taipei – built in 1990 but renovated in 2014 – successfully mirrors the wide-openness and relaxed pace of its city surrounds. Suites measure between 645 and 2,379sq.ft and include a spacious living room and separate dining area. Even the standard rooms have a dining table, reflecting the Hyatt team’s desire to create a comfortable space suitable for business meetings or bonding time.

“This is a business-oriented hotel, so if guests don’t feel like eating in front of the TV, they’ll have a proper place to dine,” says Paul Ou, the hotel’s marketing communications manager.

Inside the Grand Executive View Suite – one of the more popular rooms on offer – the marble bathroom is divided into three parts: a toilet and a shower (each behind glass doors) and a bathtub up against the back wall. For those looking to treat themselves to some quality “me time”, the tub is one of the hotel’s best features (not to mention the Salvatore Ferragamo bath products that accompany it). It’s plenty deep to justify the support rail fixed to the floor. Grab hold when you’re ready to lift yourself out of the meditative trance you’ve probably fallen into.

In addition to the TV screen mounted on the bathroom wall, the bedroom and living room each have their own set. Out in the dining area, simpler joys reflect the Hyatt’s attention to detail. The mini bar and fridge are concealed behind sleek wooden cabinets, and some of the pottery pieces on the shelves were hand-picked from local markets.

The most impressive feature, though, is the view – or, more accurately, views. Guests are afforded vistas on three sides, including an unbeatable view of the neighbouring Taipei 101 landmark. The 250 suites which boast a “101 view” are in high demand for New Year’s Eve, during which fireworks are launched from Taiwan’s tallest building.

“During New Year’s Eve, this is one of the first rooms to be booked because every room is a party room,” Ou says.

The hotel has nearly 900 rooms in total, with the plushest offerings being the presidential suites on the 24^th and 25^th floors. Guests staying in a suite on the 18^th floor or higher have access to the Grand Club Lounge, which serves a buffet-style breakfast and evening cocktails.

For other dining options, look no further than the Hyatt’s nine restaurants. One of the best offerings is Yun Jin, a Chinese/Taiwanese fine dining restaurant whose fish dumplings are to die for. Other restaurants inside the hotel offer European, Japanese and Cantonese fare.

While staying at the Grand Hyatt, a trip to Oasis Spa is a must. Located next to the hotel’s 24-hour gym, the spa offers an extensive menu of treatments, including a “caviar ultimate” facial, meridian healing massage and eucalyptus body scrub. We opted for a 90-minute full-body massage, which turned out to be a truly top-notch experience.

Our only complaint was having to take the hotel’s lift up one floor from the changing room to the massage room while stripped down to nothing but a robe. A slightly awkward set-up, but not a deal-breaker.

Those who want to get out of the hotel to do some sightseeing or shopping are in luck. The nearest subway station is a one-minute walk from the hotel, and nearby sites include the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall and Songshan Cultural and Creative Park. Rainy day? Fret not. The hotel is connected to Taipei 101 via a sky bridge, which in turn links nearly a dozen department stores together.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape from Hong Kong, a launch pad for your weekend adventure or a hotel to meet all of your business travel needs, the Grand Hyatt Taipei is a fine choice for discerning travellers.

For more information and reservations, visit https://taipei.grand.hyatt.com.

Text: Emily Petsko
Images: Grand Hyatt Taipei

First Class Fancy: Gafencu spotlights top three first class airline seats

The face of first class travel has evolved beyond all recognition. Even the term ‘first class seat’ seems something of a misnomer these days with airlines now offering full-fledged private cabins to attract premium fliers. But in this massive game of aeronautical one-upmanship, whose product truly stands out? Here are Gafencu’s Top 3 First Class picks.

#3 – Singapore Airlines

Singapore’s flagship carrier nabs the number three spot with its new state-of-the-art First Class design. Currently being fitted on all A380s in its fleet, each roomy first class suite comes with its own standalone bed and separate leather armchair. Adjoining suites can be transformed into a double room, which is perfect for couples or families.

Enjoy a wide array of fine dining choices, take in over 1,000 entertainment options on your 23-inch personal screen with Bose headphones, or take advantage of the personal turndown service and get a good night’s sleep!

#2 – Emirates

Emirates’ First Class private suites are our number two pick. Each Mercedes Benz-inspired cabin comes replete with sliding doors for complete privacy, personal mini bar and Bulgari amenity kits. Perhaps the best amenities of all are the Hydra Active Microcapsule-infused pyjamas, eye mask and slippers. Touted as the world’s first moisturising sleepwear, they release rejuvenating sea kelp nutrients against your skin as you sleep.

Head to the onboard lounge to grab a cocktail and socialise with your fellow passengers. Or refresh yourself with a hot shower at the Shower Spa. If you’re truly feeling lazy, you don’t even need to leave your cabin. Just call up room service and the flight attendants will bring you anything you fancy.

#1 – Etihad Airways

Coming in at the top of our list, Etihad Airways has truly taken first class travel to new heights with its ‘The Residence’ experience. Each 125-square-foot private cabin boasts not one, not two, but three rooms for maximum space and luxury. There’s a personal Savoy-trained butler to take care of all your in-flight needs, an onboard chef to whip up whatever your taste buds fancy and even a lifestyle concierge team to plan activities for your trip.

On top of that, there are also roundtrip chauffeur-driven transfers and private check-in facilities. This seamlessly luxurious door-to-door service that Etihad provides for its top guests is what truly makes it our pick for top First Class experience.

Text: Tenzing Thondup
Images: Etihad Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines

Wearable translator from ili means no more lost-in-translation confusion

Instant translation technology was once a flight of sci-fi fancy, but recent developments have narrowed the gap to make it a reality. For those who long for an alternative to Google’s at times garbled translations, the Ili, a wearable translator, is perhaps your best bet for getting hassle-free directions back to your ryokan in Kyoto.

Developed by Logbar Japan and designed with travellers in mind, the Ili has the potential to become the most effective one-way translator to date. The device’s CPU is optimised specifically for the most helpful of travel phrases, covering dining, shopping, transportation and much more.

Operation doesn’t require WiFi or a smartphone connection, and it boasts a hitherto unbeatable translation speed of 0.2 seconds. The device is also light enough to be affixed to a user’s person, similar in usage to a tape recorder – just hold down the front-facing button, speak and release!

The Ili’s optimisation for travel does result in certain limitations. Only one “destination” language may be stored per device – with Spanish, Mandarin and Japanese currently available – but for holidays or business abroad, it’s sure to prove invaluable. Logbar has been quick to assure customers that additional languages will be available for the wearable translator in the coming months.

Christmas Getaways: Gafencu’s guide to last-minute Christmas escapes

With less than one month until Christmas, the holiday countdown has officially begun! But if you’ve been too wrapped up with work and family to make plans, there’s no need to panic. Check out our guide to last-minute Christmas getaways for a bit of inspiration.

Niseko, Japan

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, transforms into a snow-covered wonderland every winter. Niseko, in particular, is dotted with golf courses, hot springs and ski resorts aplenty. For a truly unique experience, treat your family to a stay at the Glass House, an intimate five-bedroom chalet in Hirafu’s Lower Village. Huddle up by the fireplace, relax in the outdoor Jacuzzi, or have the private concierge drive you to nearby ski resorts.

Seoul, South Korea

The Korean capitol is another great winter escape. Meander through its streets and try local favourites like deokbokki and pajeon pancakes, or treat your kids with a trip to Lotte World’s indoor amusement park. Then head to the hills for some brisk outdoor ice skating at the Grand Hyatt Seoul. Or escape the city and head 50 minutes away to the popular Bearstown ski resort in Gyeonggi-do.

Koh Samui, Thailand

If the thought of snow sends a shiver down your spine, why not head to the tropics instead? The picturesque island of Koh Samui in Thailand features stunning vistas, pristine beaches and plenty of water sports to keep your kids occupied. For truly staggering views, check out Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort’s Ocean View Pool Suites, replete with outdoor bathtubs to soak in the sea panorama.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Home to the legendary Angkor Wat temple complex, Siem Reap gives you plenty of cultural bang for your buck. Trek through ancient temples, sightsee in the sky with a hot air balloon ride or take in a traditional Apsara dance show at the Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor.

Rajasthan, India

Although slightly further afield, December is the perfect month to visit Rajasthan. With summer’s intense heat waning and monsoon rains a distant memory, enjoy balmy weather as you visit the Red Fort, City Palace and Jantar Mantar astrological monument. Switch up your itinerary and head to the Sariska Tiger Reserve for a personal encounter with majestic felines. Nearby is the luxury resort Amanbagh, whose Christmas celebrations feature Babu, the resident camel, in the role of Rudolph, Santa’s trusty reindeer.

Text: Tenzing Thondup

Pearl of the South: Cebu is a gateway to some of Asia’s greatest tropical adventures

Manila’s southern sister is nothing like her. Cebu is older, prettier and more relaxed. She doesn’t even speak the same language. Manila’s tongue is that of the northern Tagalog minority – the country’s official language despite having only 17 million native speakers. Cebuano, on the other hand, is spoken by 21 million and is known for its “hard tongue” sound and rough charm.

Where the capital of the Philippines is congested and heavily urbanised, Cebu city is just a dot on the eponymous province, which consists of a large main island and 167 surrounding islands. To the traveller with no time constraints, adventure awaits in each and every one of them.

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All flights touch down at Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located on the smaller island of Mactan across from the main metropolis. Today Mactan is home to several luxury resorts, but historically it was a kingdom ruled by King Lapu-Lapu. The ruler was crowned a local hero after slaying the famous Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan when he tried to conquer the island on behalf of the Spanish throne.

Gafencu’s top pick for a 5-star Filipino experience on Mactan is the well-established Plantation Bay Resort & Spa. With its classic wood furnishings and marble fittings, the colonial-style institution features one of the world’s largest privately-owned lagoons. Its name alludes to the Spanish cash crop plantations that several haciendero families made their fortunes from.

Myriad activities are on offer within Plantation Bay’s 11.4ha complex, from jet skiing and tennis to cycling and paddle boarding. If you’ve somehow managed to exhaust the in-house facilities, neighbouring islands offer plenty of opportunities for salty excursions, whether it’s diving, snorkelling or island hopping.

If you’re looking for more R&R, head to the award-winning Mogambo Springs spa for pampering. It remains open until 11pm, perfect for those late-night massage cravings. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better way to end the day than soaking in the warm, hydrotherapeutic pool. We swear by the spa’s hot stone massage, which can stop a cold in its tracks.

Extreme sport enthusiasts who crave adventure beyond Mactan’s comfortable paradise will find what they’re looking for in Badian. The canyoneering excursion begins in Alegria, a four-hour drive west of Mactan. You’ll need to don a helmet and life jacket for this guided journey through a 10km stretch of streams and waterfalls. The final destination can only be reached by jumping, swimming, climbing, floating, abseiling and even cliff diving your way through the rugged terrain. We promise that the chance to swim beneath Kawasan Falls is worth risking life and limb for, though. Set aside five hours for the entire experience, plus the travel time to get in and out of Kawasan.

Beyond Alegria, another one of southern Cebu’s gems is the municipality of Moalboal (25km north), famous for its sardine run, in which divers can swim with a million-strong school.

Northern Cebu, meanwhile, is harder to get to but potentially more rewarding. You would be leaving the bulk of mainstream tourists behind as you’re ferried off to an exotic shore of your choosing. Malapascua Island is legendary among divers for its thresher shark and manta ray encounters. Underneath its Gato Island lies a 35m tunnel that can be explored, but it’s not for the faint-hearted – reef and whitetip sharks are known to guard the entrance.

Going to Malapascua without diving would be a shame, so if you’re interested in learning, it’s the perfect place. You can book a Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) course via travel tech start-up Trip Guru, among other activities in the Cebu region such as night diving, sunset cruises and kite surfing.

Non-divers won’t be stuck twiddling their thumbs, though. Visitors can snorkel above a shipwreck near Lighthouse Beach, take a leap of faith off Lapus Lapus cliff or lounge on the nearby Kalanggaman Island’s pristine sandbar.

Finally, we head to the busy hub of Cebu city, heart of the richest province in the Philippines. For unobstructed views of city lights cast upon a black sky, take a mountain bike (or taxi) before dusk to Tops Lookout at Mt Busay’s peak. If hiking is more your speed, look up Osmeña Peak – the highest mountain in Cebu, situated 80km from the centre.

By the time you head back to the airport in Mactan, both your belly and camera will be full. Chances are you’ll have had plenty of interaction with the jolly natives of the south, who once belonged to tribes that tattooed their warriors from neck to ankle. As for you, your markings will be the contagious smile you’ve picked up from the locals, as well as a few tan lines to show off back home.

Text: Julienne C. Raboca

Flying High: Top five helicopter destinations across the globe

There’s truly no better way to enjoy the sheer magnitude of Mother Nature’s most breathtaking sights than flying high in the sky in a helicopter. From the mighty Himalayan mountain range to the great wildebeest migration of the African plains, here are our top five helicopter destinations around the world.

Nepal – Mighty Himalayas

Want to reach higher than the highest mountain in the world? With its towering mountain ranges and deep gorges, Nepal is one of the most adventurous helicopter destinations ever. If trekking is more your thing, there are also provisions for that. Make the most of your ‘down’ time and enjoy a taste of mouthwatering Nepali cuisine.

When to go: September or October

Ethiopia – Out of this World

Africa’s oldest independent country is a diverse nation with fascinating landscapes and rich heritage. Fly over breathtaking terrains like the Simien and Bale Mountains or the Danakil Depression – one of the lowest, hottest and driest places in the world with patches of amber, scarlet and green, unlike anywhere in the world. Indeed, the landscape is so unique that you would be forgiven if you thought you were accidentally flying over some other planet altogether!

When to go: Throughout the year

Kenya – Great Migration

Be witness to the great wildebeest migration from up above. If watching two million antelopes crossing the vast plains is not enough, there’s also Kenya’s diverse landscape for you to feast your eyes on, with maybe a glimpse of the famous Mount Kilimanjaro. Depending on your tour plan, you may also get a chance to view the mighty Victoria Falls in Zambia.

When to go: July to September

Chile – At the End of the World

Torres del Paine in Patagonia is perhaps already on your bucket list. Now imagine flying over vast landscapes of spectacular granite peaks, turquoise glacial lagoons, icebergs, fjords, forests and serpentine rivers! For those interested in adventure sports, Patagonia also provides the perfect opportunity for horse riding, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking and trekking. Keep your eyes peeled for some guanacos and pumas at the Torrers del Paine National Park.

When to go: September to April

New Zealand – The Last Escape

If you are from a crowded city like Hong Kong, New Zealand is like a breath of fresh air. With large expanse of greenery, jagged coastlines, sublime mountains, New Zealand is a reminder of how beautiful our planet actually is! As some parts of New Zealand are inaccessible by land or water, a helicopter ride is a perfect way to explore otherwise unknown terrains.

When to go: October to April

Already planning your next trip? Luxury travel operator Jacada Travel has you covered with its customised helicopter tours to all the above destinations.

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay