Taipei 101 (台北101), once the world's tallest building, is naturally what comes to mind at the mere mention of Taiwan. However, the country is so much more than this iconic skyscraper of 101 floors. Taiwan is dominated by rugged mountain ranges on a good two thirds of the island country, parallel to the east coast. Therefore, ... continue reading »

One of the four municipalities in China since 1997, alongside Beijing, Shanghai and Tianjin, Chongqing boasts the largest population in southwestern China. Strategically located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, it is the gateway to the Three Gorges, the starting point for a promising scenic boat cruise downstream Yangtze through the Three Gorges ... continue reading »

Picturesque, serene, historic.... these are but three adjectives used to describe Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province in Central China. Wuhan is the amalgamation of three smaller cities of Hanyang, Hankou, and Wuchang on 1st January, 1927. In the same year, Wuhan became the capital of China, albeit for only six short months. Due to its strategic ... continue reading »

Observed in some countries in the West annually on 31st October, Halloween originated from a Celtic festival some 2000 years ago, called Samhain (pronounced sow-in). The day, also New Year's eve, marked the end of the summer harvesting season and the transition to a harsh winter. The Celts believed that this was a day when the ... continue reading »

One of the most significant festivals in the Chinese lunar calendar is Mid-Autumn Festival. To give thanks to a bountiful autumn harvest, it is observed on September 24 this year, or annually on the 15th day of the 8th moon according to the lunar calendar. Celebrated by Chinese people around the world due to China's cultural ... continue reading »

The mention of Labuan draws puzzled looks among many Malaysians. Where is it located? Is it part of Sabah? No, Labuan, named after "labuhan" or harbour, is the second Federal Territory of Malaysia after Kuala Lumpur. Located off the state of Sabah in East Malaysia, enchanting Labuan is known as "the Pearl of Borneo". On the ... continue reading »