Waegook Tom

A Blog About A Globetrotting English Teacher

asia

Karachi: The land lost in Colonial times

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Karachi can be safely ranked on the verge to be the second largest city in the world with a population crossing 23.5 million. The most popular city of Pakistan, is also the most religiously, linguistically and ethnically diverse. The gateway to the country, Karachi is home to many of Pakistan’s museums and other cultural institutions. On Tue economic front, Karachi also generates around 35% of Pakistan’s Tax revenue, moreover during the 1960s; Karachi was widely seen as an economic model around the world. But it is also the cheapest city to live in, according to many. Home to most of Pakistan’s media, this city is the face of both sides of the coin.

You can visit this city through the Jinnah International Airport which offers flight destinations throughout South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, Europe, and North America etc. Booking from reliable sites can even get you Cheap Dubai to Karachi flights, Cape Town to Karachi, Auckland to Karachi, Sydney to Karachi flights and more of the same.

Now that you are here, how about we go about discovering the city:

  • PAF Museum, Karachi: It is an Air Force museum with over 30 aircraft on show, including an Indian Gnat which was captured by Pakistani forces in 1965. Apart from this, you will also be able to see a number of old fighter jets and other antique aircraft. Not just whole structures, but engine parts are also on display which tells us how it all works.
  • French Beach: The French Beach is considered to be the reserve of Karachi’s upper classes and expatriates. Here you will be able to enjoy the cool breezes, clear beach, and a calm atmosphere. Moreover, there is a small fishing village surrounded by a boundary wall which is dotted with huts and thus available for rent. It is recommended to just book a hut there and enjoy a night’s stay. The clear waters are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. The various cliffs which dot the countryside create a scenic look which will never bore you.
  • Karachi Safari Park: A safari is not something anyone wants to miss, especially when it is filled with viewing facilities like a chairlift and safari tracks along with two natural lakes. There is also a privately funded amusement park, Go Aish, in its vicinity. This is a great place to visit with kids and family. There are also food and ice cream stalls if you ever feel the munchies.
  • Mohatta Palace Museum: Built in the posh seaside locale of Clifton offers a diverse range of activities. Here you will first notice the colored windows on the exterior, a wall of stone, an arch and minarets. Get ready to just get lost in its architectural splendor.
  • National Museum of Pakistan: It offers the most varied exhibition of Pakistan’s history and culture. When you enter, right at the entrance you will find a large relief map of the vast territory of southwestern Asia shows routes that linked various regions. Inside, there’s chronologically placed material from Stone Age, village cultures of Baluchistan and the great Indus Valley Civilization.

Karachi always welcomes its visitors so be ready to see a city which is a great reminder of how to combine the past with the present

The Business Traveler: A Business Travel Guide to Singapore

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Singapore boasts of topping the list of some of the best places to start a business in the world. The reasons for this include the existence of a stable government, favourable tax regime, progressive laws and policies aimed at bolstering business, and a big highly educated, sophisticated and well-off population. You would not go wrong if you are travelling to Singapore for business if you work with a reliable agent to have your Singapore business visa which would spare you lots of headaches.

Below are some crucial things worth knowing while you are travelling to Singapore for business

How to stay connected

The fact that Singapore is at the centre of global business travel, staying connected while there is not a big issue. A good number of international mobile telephone companies have made agreements with Singaporean authorities hence have roaming facilities in place. For short visits the roaming plans are tenable but for long business visits, buying a local SIM card which only requires you to present your passport would be a better option. Accessing the internet should not be a problem as most cafes and accommodation places allow good access to the internet. Also, the island state has a free city-wide Wi-Fi service that is known as Wireless@SG whose requirement to access is to register by telephone or online.  In case you may need to make emergency calls, there are plenty of public booths that only need telephone cards or credit cards, in some instances. You can make both local and international calls from the booths.

Transport

Once you arrive in Singapore, most likely through Changi International Airport, one of the best airports in the world, the most convenient means of getting from the town to the city and the downtown is by using a taxi which may take you about 20 minutes. You may also opt to use the bus and train to get from the airport to the city. Within the city, train ranks as the topmost mode of transport for business travellers due to its affordability, reliability and convenience in that you will get to your destination, say for a business meeting in good time. Taxis may be difficult to get and more expensive during peak hours due to traffic snarl-ups where the fare is increased by a surcharge that is added to the metered fare.

Accommodation

Business executives on a trip to Singapore mostly get accommodation facilities in the Marina Bay Area or downtown core. Majority of corporate offices and many hotel chains are located in the Marina Bay areas or the downtown.  The areas also allow you to get the best views of Singapore’s skyline not forgetting the fantastic dining options available there.

Cultural issues

Singapore’s culture has influence from India, Malaysia, China and Britain. The culture is a blend of the four but each group has its distinct culture which you must be mindful of especially when organizing business meetings or dinners. You need to be aware of any dietary restrictions that apply to particular religions or race.

Keeping smart

Due to Singapore’s location close to the equator, you will be experiencing the tropical climate. The weather is mostly hot and humid so doing ten minutes’ walk or more will ruin your sharp look that is a necessity for business interactions. An umbrella is also a necessary item to have due to frequent showers, so ensure you take one with you. Due to the high temperatures you should always stay hydrated to remain upbeat.

Top 9 Things You Must Eat in India

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India is a food lover’s paradise and if you are planning on going for online passport renewal to take a trip to India, then you can prepare your taste buds for some of the experiences of a lifetime. The food culture in India is great, with a plethora of varieties for you to sample from. Whether you want the authentic Indian delicacies or you need a blend from what the region has to offer, you will be literally spoilt for choice on what to eat and what to leave. If possible, you should just take time off to come to India specifically for a food tour, and we can guarantee that you will love and enjoy every bit of it. Here is a look at some of the top dishes worth trying when in India-:

Rogan Josh

In the beautiful and serene valleys of Kashmir, you will encounter one of the most famous dishes in India. Rogan Josh is a lamb cuisine believed to have originated from Persia but has now grown in popularity to become of the iconic dishes of the Indians. The name comes from a Persian word, rogan, which means oil and Josh which means a lot of heat. Therefore, the dish primarily features intensely cooked lamb. The spices and the garnishment are the real game changers in this meal and they include cloves, bay leaves, Hing, cumin, fennel and cardamom which all adds incredible flavor to the lamb. If you want to get the most of it, then be sure to have it with a bowl or rice.

Thali

One characteristic feature you will find with most of the servings of Indian dishes is that they not usually served singly. In other words, they will come as a combination of several dishes all on one platter and thali is one such combination you should never miss when you are in India. This sweet dish normally features two or more curries and lentils as well as steamed chapatti, rice or pickles, one raita, buttermilk, and one or more chutneys. You can always tell how you want your plate to look like, and irrespective of what you choose, you will not just have a lot of it, but it will be delicious to the very last bite.

Dam Aloo

 

Dam aloo is not necessarily the main meal, but one of the side dishes you will be happy to grace your dining table in India. It is a side dish prepared using baby also which are then simmered in a gravy made from a variety of spices, tomatoes, and onions. It is a side dish you will comfortably enjoy with nun bread or even rice and chapatti. If you want a quick but sweet solution to hunger while strolling the streets of India, then you can always order dam aloo from the many restaurants within the Indian cities.

Tunday Kebab

Kebabs are very popular all over the world and when you go for passport renewal to come to India, it is important to have a taste of how the Indian kebabs taste, and you will not find a better option than the Tunday kebabs. It is a sweet and a popular mutton dish that will always bring great delight to your mouth. The kebabs are prepared in such a manner that they are extremely soft and will literally dissolve in your upon with the first bite. You will be surprised to know that the kebab features over 150 spices, with the major ones being garlic, ginger, mint, and sandalwood. It is a delicious delicacy you must never fail to try in India.

Butter Chicken

 

Chicken dishes are everywhere, but the ones you find in India will literally leave your mouth watering. A good recommendation you must try is the famous butter chicken. It a proud cuisine from the Punjabi. The meal is mostly tomato based, and it features a chicken marinated in lots of butter and yogurt and then the curry is cooked slowly until the chicken is tender soft. It may not be very spicy, but it is rich in flavors and greatly satisfying.

Biryani

If you think you have had aromatic dishes in your life, then wait till you feel the smell of biryani being prepared. It is not just the aroma that makes this dish be recommended, but it is a signature Indian dish with lots of varieties and tastes. Almost every region of the country have a way of preparing their biryani and with this, you have assured of sampling different kinds of biryani in every region you travel to. The dish mainly features marinated chicken, beef, mutton and rice cooked in one pot. It is a colorful dish that will make you taste buds tingle on the first sight.

Chaat

 

Chaat features a variety of mount watering meals and it is mainly local to Mumbai, but you can be lucky to find it in other cities. It is a wonderful street snack you can always use as you wait for your main dish to get prepared.

Chole Batura

Chole batura is a versatile meal you can conveniently take for lunch, dinner or even breakfast. It is a very heavy meal with lots of varieties, and with its great taste, it can be taken at just any time of the day or night. It features a deep friend round bread made from white flour and it is mostly taken with chick peas.

Hilsa Fish Curry

Sampling Indian delicacies will never be complete without trying out some of the fish dishes, and Hilsa fish curry is one such you should never miss. It is one of the finest prime curries common in the Bengal region, and it is a dish mostly prepared natively for special occasions such as festivals and feasts. The meal feature salted hilsa fish that is then sliced and fried in soybean oil before it is slowly cooked in ginger paste, garlic slices, and onions. Chili powder and turmeric may also be added for extra flavor.

4 Awesome Things to Do in Matheran

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India is filled with breathtaking landscapes, incredible architecture, and a unique clash of cultures. Traveling within it is a fantastic experience for both local and foreign tourists. Matheran, a hill station in the Raigad District of the state of Maharashtra, captures the whole essence of India in one city. It is a perfect place to visit because of its scenic beauty, rich history, and fresh air and its vibrant people. Here are four awesome things to do on your next visit to Matheran.

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1. Participate in the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival

Ganesh is known as the patron of science and the arts, the deva of wisdom and intellect, and the remover of challenges. People all over India honor him by celebrating his festival with great pomp and color every year.

These celebrations, which mostly fall in August or September, last for nine to ten days. During this time, the people of Matheran proudly install idols of Ganesh around town. The celebrations end with the immersion of Ganesh idols in the sea. But make sure to book Matheran hotels early if you’re thinking of going during the high season, prices tend to be much higher during the festival.

2. Take a Photo at Alexander Point

Alexander Point is a wonderful lookout area that you can access by following the Madhavji Road. You’ll have the chance to see breathtaking panoramic views of the beautiful hills and valleys that surround it.

High points include Palasdari Lake, Chowk Point, and Garbut Point. You can also view Rambaug Point and Borgaon Village from this area. However, you’ll have to use binoculars if you want to see the Bhivpuri Power House Towers from this point.

3. Bird Watching at Charlotte Lake

Charlotte Lake is of great significance to the people of Matheran. More specifically, it is the chief source of their drinking water. It also serves nearby regions as well.

You’ll be amazed by its tranquility and the lush greenery that surrounds it. A perfect time to visit Charlotte Lake is during the monsoon season, which is from July to September. At this time, the waters are full, and the surrounding area is teeming with lush green vegetation. People love bird watching around Charlotte Lake since it attracts many species of birds due to its calm and uncharted environment.

4. Visit the Ambarnath Temple

The Ambarnath Temple lies close to the Vadavan River. More specifically, it lies at the Pune-Mumbai Railway Line at Akoli. The temple is said to have been built during the 11th century by King Mahamandaleshwar, who dedicated it to Lord Shiva.

The Ambarnath Temple is a classic example of the genius of Vesara architecture that was popular in India during the 11th century. In fact, it bares a striking resemblance to the Dilwara Temples on Mount Abu. This temple is a prominent attraction in Matheran because of its design and beautiful imagery. No visit to Matheran is truly complete before you see the Ambarnath Temple, so make sure you mark it down on your list.

As you can see, Matheran is a fantastic destination for everyone. Book Matheran hotels today so that you can experience this incredible destination. Bring your family members, friends, or colleagues with you so that they can enjoy the marvels of Matheran as well.

Top 10 Touristic Attractions worth Seeing in Asia

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Asia is the biggest continent on our planet, so you know there will be a lot to see and experience if you plan a trip there. So where do you start with planning? We can help! In this article, we are going to give you the top 10 attractions that you definitely should see in Asia!

Taj Mahal

Located in India, the Taj Mahal is a marble mausoleum that sits near the Yamuna River. In 1632, Emperor Shah Jahan built this palace to keep his favorite wife stored for the afterlife. Her tomb sits in the center of this huge area that has gardens and crenellated walls on 3 sides. It was dedicated as a World Heritage Sight in 1983 and is known for its outstanding architecture that brings over 7 million visitors each year.

Angkor Watt

This is a temple complex that is located in Cambodia. It is known as the largest religious monument on our planet and is over 400 acres large. Originally a Hindu Temple, it was designed to emulate Mount Meru and it has a moat and 3 galleries. Its beautiful architecture can keep you there for hours and enjoy the smooth stones and over 5 million sandstone blocks.

Forbidden City

Bring your best compact binoculars because there is a lot to see in Forbidden City! This imperial palace, located in China, and housed everyone from the Ming Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty. Construction started in 1406 and lasted 6 years, making the complex stand with 980 buildings, with all traditional Chinese architecture.

This place was named a World Heritage Site in 1987 and is known to have the largest preserved ancient wooden structures collection on the globe. You will find some of the artifacts from the dynasties in the nearby National Palace Museum.

With over 15 million visitors each year, this is a wonder that must be seen in person.

Petra

Petra is an amazing city located in Jordan. This whole town is known for its water system and the architecture that is rock-cut. Also called the Rose City, the stone is a rose colored on many of the buildings, and the carvings are awe inspiring.

This is Jordan’s most visited tourist attraction and the town has been around since about 312 BC. Structure are actually still being discovered here at this World Heritage Site. If you are looking for some history, culture and beautiful buildings, then Petra is your place to go!

Burj Khalifa

Head to Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, to see the world’s tallest structure – the Burj Khalifa. Construction began on this mega skyscraper in 2004 and was opened in 2010 in Downtown Dubai. The skyscraper was put up to give Dubai recognition around the world.

This building is 2,722 feet tall and has a Y shape flooring geometry that gives them more space for residents and hotels inside. The Burj Khalifa holds a ton of records besides just being the world’s tallest structure. It is also the tallest freestanding structure, highest elevator installation, highest observation deck, the most floors, and includes the world’s highest nightclub.

Visit here on New Year’s Eve for the world’s highest display of fireworks! Following that, you can eat at Atmosphere, the world’s highest restaurant, at 1,450 feet up!

Borobudur

Borobudur is a 9th century Buddhist temple that is located in Magelang, Indonesia. It is known as the world’s largest Buddhist temple and has 9 platforms with a dome in the center. There are over 500 Buddha statues here. Originally, this was built during the Sailendra Dynasty.

You will go through many corridors and stairs to get to the dome and it has over 1,400 relief panels on the walls that give a narrative. Very popular for pilgrimage, many people celebrate Vesak here, which is also the most visited tour attraction in all of Indonesia.

Hong Kong Disneyland

While not ancient like some other places, Disneyland at Lantau Island, Hong Kong has 7 huge themed areas such as Fantasyland, U.S.A, Tomorrowland and Toy Story Land. The 13th most visited theme park on Earth, approximately 8 to 9 million people visit each year.

Not only is this very family friendly, but you can do more than just go on rides and eat food. You can catch the Flights of Fantasy Parade, see the Disney in the Stars fireworks show, and partake in various park celebrations such as Halloween night.

Amer Fort

Amer Fort is located in Amer, Rajasthan, India, right near the capital on a hill. This town is 1.5 square miles and located right on Maota Lake. Tourists flock here to see the Hindu style of the fort, such as the ramparts, gates and cobbled pathways.

The fort is made of sandstone and marble on all 4 levels. Each level has its own courtyard, with massive stairways and areas to pray. You can also find the Public Audience Hall which has 27 colonnades, with elephant shapes and galleries, which is truly impressive.

Gardens by the Bay

This nature park is about 250 acres of land located in Singapore near the Marina Reservoir. There are 3 waterfront gardens. At Bay South Garden, you will see conservatories, the Cloud Forest and the Flower Dome.

Family friendly, you can take the kids to the Children’s Garden, and visit the flower market. Supertree Grove is another site to see, as well as the Bay Central and Bay East Gardens.

Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot is a rock formation that is located off of the island of Bali. Amazing sunrises and sunsets happen here, which is why it is popular for photography. Visit Pura Tanah Lot, a pilgrimage temple near the rock.

You can get up near the cliff top on the mainland and visit restaurants and many of the souvenier shops that line the path to the water. Don’t forget your camera!

Author Bio:

Rebecca lives in USA, but loves hiking all over the world. Her favorite is Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal. It usually takes 16 days, but she likes to slow down, enjoy mountains, company of other adventurers and take more pictures, so it took her 28 days last time. Another of her passion is the ocean, so all short and long hikes along the ocean shore bring a lot of joy. She also writes for HikingMastery.com.