Discovering the hidden gems of Asia
TRAVELLING to overcrowded tourist hotspots can put a serious damper on your holiday spirits.
If you are looking for something that harkens to the early, undiscovered days of your favourite destination, Apple Vacations has dug up a few hidden gems that are usually tucked out of sight, but can easily be found right in our backyard.
Central Asia
Often dismissed as little more than a speck on the map, travel off the beaten track across Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to experience a different side to Asia altogether.
Admire the untouched splendour of Asia’s heartland by cruising along Issyk-kul Lake, the second largest alpine lake in the world.
The “hot lake” is said to never freeze, even in the fierce winters of Central Asia.
Some 200km east of Almaty, the Charyn Canyon features amazing rock formations in pink and orange hues – aptly dubbed the “mini Grand Canyon”.
Immerse yourself in its unique yet authentic culture to appreciate the regions’ little-visited oddities, which offer an addictive interest all of their own.
Witness the national horse games performance such as the Ulak Tartysh and Kyz Kumay or experience the ancient trademark of the Kygyz nomads in falconry at the Sunkar Falcon Farm.
China
Said to be one of the lost horizons on earth, Daocheng Yading is tucked out of sight in the far west of Sichuan.
At the foot of Chenresig, the highest peak of the three sacred snow-capped mountains, lie the 800-year-old Chonggu Monastery and Pearl Lake. Encircled by forested valleys, crystal-clear rivers and glacier-fed lakes, its beauty rivals that of the famed Jiuzhaigou.
Also, look out for Dagu glacier – the world’s largest yet youngest glacier with the lowest elevation.
Take the opportunity to hitch the cable ride up to the top of the glacier, where the view from 4,860m will be nothing short of spectacular.
Japan
Enjoy the first signs of spring in the Kanagawa Prefecture with the budding of Kawazu sakura, which is known to bloom early in the year and lasts for a month.
Come witness the spectacular sight of a pink wonderland as a sea of a thousand Kawazu sakura in full bloom line the trail from Miura Kaigan Station to Komatsugaike Park.
South Korea
The relatively new Samcheok Ocean Rail Bike offers a unique way to explore Korea’s coastal scenery by peddling a rail bike.
Its double-tracked 5.4km route follows the stunning shoreline of the East Sea, flanked by lush pine trees that canopy the trail for a comfortable ride with a view of the azure blue waters and craggy rocks by the shore.
The slow languorous ride will take you along two rest stops, an observatory lounge and a series of enchanting underwater-like tunnels that feature Fantasia-esque luminaries and laser shows.
It sets the perfect setting for a fun-filled family – or even a romantic – getaway.
Taiwan
Home to over 570 stone weirs, the most famous and well preserved of them is the Twin-Heart Stone Weir in Qimei Township, Penghu. Formed out of basalt and coral reefs as a traditional fishing trap, the weir resembles two hearts spooning.
The unique shape draws hordes of visitors, particularly couples and newly weds, to this romantic island.
Also, be sure to indulge in the harvest of the sea in a unique way at the Open Ranch BBQ, which combines net cultivation and tourism.
Floaters are built on the ocean surface as platforms for visitors to enjoy a variety of fresh seafood right off the catch for a mouth-watering experience that will leave you coming back for more.
South Vietnam
Apart from pristine waters of Ha Long Bay and the terraced rice paddies of Sapa Valley that lure visitors to Northern Vietnam like bees to honey, its Southern counterpart too offers attractive charms of its own.
Discover the coastal strip of Mui Ne, home to the Sahara-esque formation of enormous snowy white and fiery red sand dunes.
Just grab a sledge and slide along the steep slopes for an unexpected sand surfing adventure that is just a hop, skip and jump away.
Come and discover the littleknown charms of Asia with Apple Vacations.
Book your holidays at the upcoming MATTA Fair to enjoy early bird discounts and other promotions. In conjunction with its 21st anniversary, Apple Vacations will also be giving away limited edition travel luggage that comes with warranty with purchase of a certain amount.
Terms and conditions apply. Customers can also enjoy similar promotions when they call in or drop by Apple Vacation’s office to book packages.
■ For more information, visit Apple Vacations and Conventions Sdn Bhd at Booth No.1185-1220, Hall 1 at PWTC this MATTA Fair, from Sept 8 to 10.
Alternatively, log on to www. appleholiday.com, call 03-2141 8250, e-mail enquiry@appleholiday.com or drop by its office at Wisma Apple, 2nd-4th Floor, 42-2, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 KL.
The office will open from 9am to 8pm this weekend.