Mahawaskaduwa | Kalutara, Sri Lanka

Kalutara, a semi-urban town in Sri Lanka, is best known for its exquisite baskets, delicious mangosteen, and the golden beach and peaceful surrounding area of fishing village Mahawaskaduwa. Colonial fortifications can also be found in the area.

Discover and explore the wonders of Kalutara. Here are frequently visited spots:
Kalutara Vihara
Dutch Fort
Turtle Conservation Project
Maduganga River Safari
Sinharajah Rain Forest

Pekanbaru | Riau, Indonesia

Pekanbaru City, located on Indonesia’s Sumatra Island, to the west of Singapore, was a 19th century trading port for coffee and coal exports to Singapore and Melaka. As such, the city owes most of its development to oil-refining companies that serviced the area.

Despite its highly industrial roots, this capital city of Riau province is one of Indonesia’s cleanest hubs. It was even given the Adipura award for being the top cleanest big city of the country in 2006 and 2007. Additionally, the people of Pekanbaru are known to be very friendly and hospitable.

Key places in Pekanbaru:

• Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport (SSQ)
• Great Mosque of An-Nur
• Alam Mayang Fishing Garden
• Sang Nila Utama Museum
• Riau Cultural Park
• Princess Kaca Mayang Garden
• Sari Valley Artificial Lake
• Awal Bros Hospital

The Old Quarter | Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, meanwhile, possesses a unique personality that stems from the influences of both East and West. Today, it is the country’s cultural centre, showcasing historic monuments that tell tales of Hanoi’s rich history.

The Old Quarter is called as such, because it has preserved Hanoi’s colonial architecture and layout. The area has also managed to keep its bustling commercial vibe, with plenty of merchants and establishments still open for business. Silk and souvenir shops also line the streets of this area, making it the ideal shopping destination.

The following places are worth a visit:

• Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Historical Museum
• Trang Tien Plaza
• Opera House
• Dong Xuan Market

Geylang | Singapore, Singapore

Singapore's Geylang area is in the east of the city’s business district. Geylang remains one of Singapore’s historic districts, as most of it is somehow untouched by urban development. The streets are lined with vintage shophouses that now have eateries, and other entertainment establishments, making Geylang an ideal location for travellers. The rest of Singapore is a delightful mix of cultural, historic, and entertainment wonders. Guests who want to further explore the city can do so by hopping on a bus or taking the MRT. This district is also quite accessible from a number of MRT stations, namely Aljunied, Kallang, and Paya Lebar.

Singapore’s efficient transport system makes it very easy to get to various attractions. The following significant areas are only minutes away from Geylang:

• Suntec Convention Centre – 10 minutes

• Orchard Road – 15 minutes

• Changi International Airport – 20 minutes

• Singapore Expo – 20 minutes

• Singapore Zoo and Night Safari – 20 minutes

• Harbourfront Centre and Sentosa Gateaway – 25 minutes

Puerto Galera | Oriental Mindoro, Philippines

Puerto Galera is located on the north coast of Mindoro Island, which is 130 km south of Manila. A popular tourist destination, this resort town boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and resplendent dive spots.

The famous areas to visit are the following:
Beaches – White, Coco, Sabang, Bulabod, Talipanan
Mangyan Village
Tamaraw Falls
Poblacion – town proper

Magelang | Central Java, Indonesia

Magelang is a large city in Central Java, and one of the more populated regions on Java Island. This city is brimming with history, having been a military post during the Dutch East Indies era. Colonial buildings have survived and are now important landmarks.

Despite foreign influence, Magelang has managed to retain much of its traditions. Tourists in search of cultural immersion should visit its mystical temples. Borobudur, a monument and shrine to Buddha built in the 8th or 9th century. While it is a famous tourist attraction, the temple is still visited by Buddhists who celebrate Vesak once a year. Borobudur is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other temples aside from Borobudur include the Pawon, Mendut, and Canggal.