Below are some of the most magnificent and intriguing landmarks that have become more popular with the advent of Google Earth.

The Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park

Beneath the Yellowstone National Park is a supervolcano that created the famous features of the park: the geyser, Old Faithful; the columnar basalt near Tower Falls; and the largest hot spring in the United States, the Grand Prismatic Spring. This “boiling lake” is 50 meters deep and its vivid colors come from heat-loving bacteria that live on the mineral-rich water of the spring.

The Great Blue Hole, Belize

Considered by some of the world’ top divers to be an astounding dive site of peerless quality, the Great Blue Hole of Belize is almost a perfectly circular blue hole 1,000 feet across and 400 feet deep. The name derives from the contrasting color of deep blue of the hole and the lighter blue of the surrounding shallow water. Below, the Great Blue Hole is an underwater cavern filled with stalagmites and stalactites which get more intricate as the diver goes deeper.

Meteor Crater, Arizona

From high in the sky, Meteor Crater appears featureless, save for what looks like a really big hole in the ground. Getting up and down the crater, however, entails serious hike which suggests the crater’s massive depth (570 feet) and size (4,000 feet across). A must-see for space lovers, Meteor Crater was where a 50-meter nickel-iron meteorite struck Arizona 50,000 years ago.

Heart-Shaped Islands

When Mother Nature wants to get frivolous, she conjures human-recognizable shapes out of underwater volcanic eruptions or tectonic plates drifting apart. She can also be hopelessly romantic. Several heart-shaped islands can be found scattered all over the globe: an island off the coast of Turkey; an idyllic Fijian island called Tavarua; a heart-shaped coral reef in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef; and the recently discovered uncannily heart-shaped Galesnjak island off the coast of Croatia.

Nazca Lines, Peru

The Nazca people of southern Peru flourished sometime between 100 BCE to 800 CE. They are famously known for their geoglyphs that depicted various characters in their day-to-day life. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Nazca Lines – which continue to baffle archaeologists as to their real purpose – have been preserved over time due to the region’s dry climate.

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Risk is inherently built-in in mountaineering, but more so when the mountain in question is as tempestuous as the captivating Mayon. While every precaution is understandably taken by those who allow entry to danger zones and make the trek themselves, fatalities are a fact of life when in the vicinity of magma vents. So tread carefully when you find yourself headed to these geological attractions – arranged from most active to least – ‘permanently monitored’ by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.

Mount Mayon

Famed the world over by the perfect symmetry of its cone, Mayon Volcano is like a demure “daragang magayon” (beautiful lady) who surprises everyone with her tempestuous temperament when she does not want to entertain a particular suitor. This otherwise achingly magnificent Bicolandia lass has been active for the last 500 years, so it’s no surprise that she lets off steam every now and then. The last time she did a major scene was in 1814 when she buried the town of Cagsawa in pyroclastic eruption.

Taal Volcano

The Philippines’ island within a lake in an island within a lake in an island (Vulcan Point Island within Crater Lake in Volcano Island within Taal Lake in Luzon island) is no other than the succinctly named Taal. Beguiling in its unbelievable geomorphology, Taal Volcano easily deceives the unsuspecting who come by the truckload to take in its scenery. Its earliest recorded eruption was in 1572 during the time of the Spanish conquest and its most recent (phreatic) eruption was in 1977. However, PHIVOLCS is keeping a close eye on Taal because of its increased seismicity (number of tremors) in 2011. Taal has had a history of warning people when it is about to blow its top, so the chances of getting caught in its “crossfire” can be mitigated.

Mount Kanla-on

Called “kang laon” (of the ancient) by ancient Negrosanon, Mt. Kanla-on towers over central Philippines. It is an exhilarating sight from a ferry or plane approaching the Negros island. Its earliest eruption on record was in 1886 and its most recent was in 2006 when it spewed steam and ash. Like Mayon, Kanla-on can also be tempestuous at times, like its 1996 phreatic eruption which killed three.

Mount Bulusan

The Bicol region in northern Philippines is without doubt tectonically active. Mt. Bulusan, just 70 kilometers southeast of another smoking crater, Mt. Mayon, first erupted in recorded history in 1885 and most of its tantrum-throwing since then is phreatic. In 2011, it again spewed a plume of ash two kilometers high and temporarily put the otherwise laidback province of Sorsogon into ash-induced chaos.

Mount Hibok-Hibok

A Bisaya term meaning “heaving”, Hibok-Hibok is the name of an active stratovolcano and dome complex found on the white-sand-fringed island of Camiguin in northern Mindanao. Its 1871 eruption gave birth to a smaller Mt. Vulcan and sank the town cemetery which can only be identified today with a giant white cross in the middle of the blue sea.

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1) Koh Siboya

If crabs playing hide from hunting monkeys is your definition of holiday, then this island is heaven. Koh Siboya, 20 kilometers south of Krabi, is as rural and detached from the hustle and bustle of modern life as it is lacking in tourist facilities. The beach is not exactly what you would call achingly beautiful – technically mud flats instead of “beaches” – but this does not dissuade equally off-grid travelers from coming back. Resorts – three as of last count – and cafes – someone else’s front porch – or the lack thereof, make up Koh Siboya’s tourist infrastructure. There are even no proper roads to make transport easier (you would have to explore this speck of an island on foot or, if you are lucky to rent from someone, by motorcycle) and there are only a few stalls selling basic commodities to the 1,000 or so people living in the island earning their day’s pay from the sea or from rubber trees.

2) Ko Bulon Lae

A tiny island in south Andaman reachable by a 45-minute speedboat ride from Pak Bara, Ko Bulon Lae is delectably laid back even during high season. The absence of roads means there are no motorized vehicles to contribute to sound or air pollution, and this undiluted atmosphere applies to lack of influences from the mainland.

3) Ko Sukorn

If you are looking for white sand beaches, then Ko Sukorn will frustrate. But if you don’t mind black sand, miles and miles and miles of desolate beaches, hard coral reefs, buffalo herds outnumbering locals and locals outnumbering tourists, rubber trees that dominate the landscape, a pastoral atmosphere, concrete roads big enough for bikes, ridiculously cheap accommodation, and “unplugged” way of life (no ATMs here), then Ko Sukorn fits the bill.

4) Ko Chang Noi

Rugged, “reggaed” and really out of the way, Ko Chang Noi is the definition of “unplugged” yet artsy laidback island off the coast of Burma in the Andaman Sea. So unplugged is the island that there are no televisions, hot showers or fans even during limited hours of the day when electricity is on, and cellphone and Internet signal are unstable at best. Largely uninhabited on land, Ko Chang Noi is home to a constellation of life underwater.

5) Ko Kut

What Koh Siboya lacks in amenities, Ko Kut makes up for luxuries. Equally off-the-beaten path like Koh Siboya, Koh Kood (as it is also known) nonetheless affords creature comforts like delicious spas, giant LED screens and exquisite Thai feasts if you are willing to part ways with precious dollars. But the “palm sun day” scenery and the chorus of jungle sounds make Ko Kut an ideal escape for travelers yearning for deep introspection and communion with nature.

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Karaoke is one of those things that immediately come to mind when we think of Asia. Since the 1970’s karaoke has spread throughout most of the continent turning from phenomena to culture. In Singapore, the karaoke culture is strong with an abundance of bars to sing your heart out in. The best of Singapore’s karaoke bars, known as KTV’s, are listed below to make your night of singing much more memorable.

1) Party World KTV
With locations all over the city, eight to be exact, Party World is one of the most well known KTV’s in Singapore. By using top notch devices, they are known to have excellent sound quality. It’s family and company friendly with spacious rooms catered to your group size. Although a tad expensive, you can become a member to receive discounts. Oh and the songs, in over ten languages, are constantly being updated to provide you with the most up to date karaoke experience!

2) TopOne KTV
If you’re after decor, TopOne has some of the most attractive rooms that are even themed. This KTV gives off the party vibe with strobe lights, smoke machines, and disco balls while still remaining family friendly. It’s the perfect KTV for special occasions like birthday parties, bachelor parties, and so on. At TopOne you can feel like a celebrity with the chance to record your own album in their recording studio. If you are free before 6pm each day, there are great happy hour specials to take advantage of. TopOne is located across from Bugis Junction.

3) Teo Heng KTV Studio
Teo Heng can be described in two words; cheap and simple. By charging per hour per room (not per person) this karaoke experience can cost only a few dollars (as low as $8/hour). There’s even a Mon-Thurs special where you pay the price of two hours for three hours. Talk about a bargain! Don’t expect fancy decor or special services though. You get what you pay for. Guests are allowed to bring food and snacks from home to save even more money, while drinks only cost $1! There are three locations in Singapore; Katong Shopping Centre, Nanyang Technological University, and Sembawang Shopping Centre.

4) Chillz Bar
Very different from this rest, Chillz Bar is more just your ordinary bar than a KTV hotspot, but it sure has charm. If you aren’t shy or want to show off your singing skills, Chillz Bar is a great option since they don’t have private rooms. The karaoke screen is at the bar so your voice will entertain plenty of strangers. The crowd is a bit young here, but it is filled with high energy and happiness. They have frequent singing competitions so come with your best voice!

5) Ten Dollar Club
With a name like Ten Dollar Club, we know this is another KTV on the cheap, as long as you show up with a group of four or more. There are three locations, which all offer different vibes. The Balestier outlet gives off a home feeling with its cozy but simple decor, while the Chinatown and Downtown East outlets have the nightlife vibe both with a disco ball and pool table in their common area. 10 Dollar Club offers a free flow of hot and cold drinks with a social environment. It’s a great place to save money and meet new friends!

Photo by RLHyde

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Northeast Thailand, also referred to as Isaan is home to 25 national parks. Many of these parks are located in mountainous water catchment areas and shelter vegetation and wildlife. Therefore, they were selected as conservation areas. Unlike the other regions, several of these parks in the Northeast house artifacts of past civilizations. The top five to visit are listed below:

1. Khao Yai National Park
The second largest and first national park in Thailand, Khao Yai is located somewhat close to Bangkok in the Provinces of Nakhon Ratchasima, Saraburi, Prachinburi and Nakhon Nayok. Covering an area of 2,168 square kilometers, there is a wide array of flora/fauna and wildlife. Bears, deers, elephants, tigers, hornbills, monkeys and many more call this park their home. Khao Yai’s size and abundance make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Phu Kradueng National Park
Located in the Loei province, this 348.12 sq km park is famous for its 1,316m summit with spectacular views that tens of thousands climb per year. Once at the flat top of the mountain consisting of pine trees and grassland, hikers have the option to trek 60km of trails offering amazing cliffs, waterfalls, and meadows.

3. Phu Wiang National Park
Probably one of the most interesting parks, oddly shaped Phu Wiang is known for its evidence of ancient civilization, not for its beauty. It was here where miners and paleontologists discovered proof of the existence of dinosaurs with fossils and footprints. Phu Wiang National Park wasn’t established until after the discovery to help in the preservation of this rare and astonishing discovery that is now available to the public.

4. Phu Rua National Park
If you can’t make it to neighboring country, Laos, Phu Rua National Park allows you to at least see the beauty of it. Therefore, you should not miss the 1,365 meter climb, which takes around two to two and a half hours. The peak offers a splendid view of Laos’ countryside as well as the Heang and Mekong Rivers. Another great site is the Huai Phai Waterfall dropping 30meters. The park may be scarce with wildlife, but there is an abundance of unusual flora scattered around.

5. Pha Taem National Park
Another park offering special views of the Mekong River and Laos, Pha Taem is important for its collection of prehistoric paintings. These 300 or so works of art aging 3,000 years are stretched along 180 meters of rock. The red and ochre colored subjects include, animals, human hands, human figures, hunting and fish. They can be seen on Taem cliff and Kham cliff, while the park is located in the province of Ubon Ratchathani.

Photos by Willy_G91 and thomaswanhoff

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Singapore’s wealth is creating one entertaining country and the growth of Sentosa Island is a perfect example. A playground for adults and children, Sentosa Island is the Disney World of Asia offering a mix of everything, such as, theme parks, spa retreats, rainforests, sandy beaches, resorts, golf courses, and luxurious residences. It is a place for business or pleasure, a place to play or work, and a place to enjoy life to the fullest.

Lying just half a kilometre away from the southern coast of the main island of Singapore, Sentosa spreads out over 500 hectares making it a world in itself. No matter what your interests are, there is something for you to enjoy or take advantage of. From fine dining to luxurious sleeping to entertaining the kids, the following are things to do during your visit.

1. Hit the Beaches
Everyone loves a lazy beach day despite if they are artificial or not (Sentosa’s are artificial). Sentosa is home to three beaches, Palawan, Siloso, and Tanjong. Palawan beach is the one to head to with the family considering it is so family-friendly. It is also famed as being the southernmost point of continental Asia. Siloso, filled with young adults, is the place to hang out and party with friends since it offers many clubs and restaurants. Tanjong, on the other hand, is more for couples or solo visitors as it is very tranquil making it the beach to relax at.

2. Discover Nature
Although Sentosa is predominantly man-made, there are still some preserved areas of the Island, better known as the Imbiah Forest. A 1.8km walk is a perfect thing to do for nature lovers. Not your typical nature walk, the trail begins indoors at a gallery where you can learn more about vegetation and wildlife to prepare you for your walk. The trail then meanders through the rainforest with chances to see interesting heritage trees, macaques, squirrels, geckos, and over 20 species of birds.

3. Relax at a Spa
There are six different spas to pamper yourself in while on Sentosa Island. Each spa offers something unique to their guests. Auriga Spa takes a holistic approach to wellness and only uses natural or organic products. Fish Reflexology at Underwater World only focuses on one treat that involves tiny fish nibbling away at your dead skin until your feet are revitalized. Spa Botanica is home to mud pools and floating pools with cascading waterfalls. The remaining three spas, Rasa Spa, Spa and Wellness Center, and Spa Republic all offer treatments in different decored settings. all being tranquil, welcoming, and luxurious.

4. Shop Till You Drop
There are plenty of souvenir shops scattered around the island, but when it comes it your ordinary spree, splurging at Resorts World is quite satisfying. The Galleria houses some of the most luxurious brands in the world. From Bulgari to Versace to Jimmy Choo, this 30,000 sq ft space would make any fashionista smile.

5. Play a Round of Golf
Sentosa Golf Club is home to the Barclays Singapore Open and the Asian Tour making it a famous course for all golfers. The club is home to two different courses; Tanjong and Serapong, both offering stunning landscapes with freshwater lakes and towering trees. The Serapong Course earned awards for being the best course in Asia. Even when you take a break from hitting those golf balls, there is a the option to relax in pure luxury at the clubhouse.

Photo by GrrLash

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There are thirteen National or Marine parks easily accessible from Bangkok since they reside in the Central region of the country. From mountain reserves to wildlife sanctuaries, each corner of this region has a park to amaze all. Several of the parks in this region belong to the Western Forest Complex, which is one of nine Biodiversity Conservation Landscapes executed by Asian Development Bank. The top five of the thirteen are listed below:

1. Erawan National Park
Located in the Tenasserim Hills of the Kanchanaburi Province, Erawan National Park is one of the most popular of Thailand taking up 550 square kilometers. The main reason for its popularity is its seven-tiered waterfall partially resembling Erawan, the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology. The magnificent waterfalls cascade down numerous ledges forming turquoise colored pools, some available to swim in. The 2km trail to the top pool can be quite steep.

2. Khao Sam Roi Yot Marine National Park
The name of Khao Sam Roi Yot signifies ‘mountains with 300 peaks’, which makes sense after seeing this park. Only 98 sq km in size, the park includes a series of spectacular grey limestone mountains rising from the Gulf of Thailand to a maximum height of 605 meters. Also included in the park are many swamps, marsh lands, white sand beaches, open seas, and islands. With so much in compactness, Khao Sam Roi Yot is a tourist attraction. Boat excursions are a great way to get the most of this stunning park.

3. Sai Yok National Park
Not as developed as other parks, Sai Yok National Park is true wilderness in Kanchanaburi. It is famous for its karst pinnacles, soaring cliffs, and astonishing caves. The Daowadueng Cave, which includes a river trip and trek, is one of the most beautiful in Thailand for its white color, size, and interesting lime formations. Other sites not to miss are the Lawa Cave and the Sai Yok Yai Waterfall.

4. Kaeng Krachan National Park
Kaeng Krachan National Park is Thailand’s largest park sizing to 3,000 square kilometers in the Kaeng Krachan, Petchaburi, and Prachuap Khiri Khan Provinces. Most of this area remains untouched. To explore Kaeng Krachan, it is best to have your own transport, but will be worth it considering the magnificent grounds see very few tourists. The stunning Pala U Waterfall should not be missed.

5. Thungyai Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries
Although not a National or Marine Park, this Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a World Heritage Site for its unbelievable size and diverse array of animals. Stretching over 500,000 hectares along the Myanmar border in the Tak and Kanchanaburi Provinces, it is the grandest legal protected forest in South East Asia. With a 12,000 square kilometer or more conservation area, species and habitats have the best protection to confirm long life spans. Of these species,  77% are mammals, 50% are birds and 33% are land vertebrates.

Photo by lindz graham

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Most of the national parks in the south of Thailand have two things in common, water and limestone. They are perfect for divers, swimmers, and lazy beach bums. There are around 37 national and marine parks around the region. Below are five worth visiting:

1. Khao Sok National Park
Located in the Southern province of Surat Thani, this park is one of the most visited for its special gem, a 50 km (diameter) crystal green lake that encompasses the center of the park. Not only is this lake for canoeing, swimming, and boating, but its also for sleeping. Adding to the park experience, travelers have the option to spend the night in little huts atop of the jaded waters.
This 738.74 square kilometer park offers other attractions, such as, trekking on huge limestone mountains or deep valleys, exploring caves, spotting wild animals and discovering rare flowers/plants.

2. Phang Nga Bay National Park
Particularly for limestone island lovers, Phang Nga Bay is a paradise with around 40 islands containing super high and oddly shaped limestone cliffs, some reaching up to 400 meters.

For James Bond fans, Phang Nga Bay has become a popular tourist destination since a movie scene was filmed at Ko Tapu, now known as James Bond Island. The park is located in the Phang Nga Province a short drive away from Phuket.

3. Ang Thong Marine National Park
31 km to the northwest of Koh Samui, easily reached by boat, Ang Thong is an archipelago comprised of over 40 idyllic islands closely knitted together. One fascinating site is Ko Mae Ko (Mother Island), where an emerald lake is surrounded by limestone cliffs. The 40 minute climb to reach the lake is strenuous, but well worth it.

4. Sirinat Marine National Park
This tiny park is only comprised of 8.5 square kilometers of land and 13.5 square kilometers of the Andaman Sea. Resulting from its size, Sirinath remains non-commercialized and a perfect place to escape the crowds. Diving into the owned waters of this park can be astounding with over 200 coral reef species. There are also turtle breeding beaches in the northern end of Mai Khao Beach with three different species.

5. Khao Luang National Park
Khao Luang is the highest mountain in Southern Thailand located in the Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The 570 square kilometer park is mountainous with beautiful forests, rivers, waterfalls, and fruit orchids. It actually plays an important role for the nearby villages as it provides a watershed.

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The following are the top five courses to be taken in Chiang Mai, but can be found in other locations around the country.

1) Cooking

Thailand has some of the best cuisine in Asia, and with a bit of help, it can be easily prepared at home. For travelers just passing through the city, day courses are available. From appetizers to desserts, a six course meal can be learned in one day, depending on the school. Day courses cost around $30 to $45USD, with package options if studying more. The number of cooking courses in Chiang Mai is uncountable, but the most known are Chiang Mai Thai Cooking School and Thai Farm Cooking School. Most courses include a recipe book to take home, and of course a meal!

2) Muay Thai

To develop inner awareness and positive aspects of human nature, Muay Thai Sangha is a good option. It is basically Thai kickboxing with a spiritual twist, but still involves intense fighting. The Muay Thai Sangha course can be challenging and requires dedication as it encouraging students to study for a reasonable time.

3) Massage

Learning how to give a Thai Massage may be beneficial to your wallet as it is an easy talent to make money off of. Otherwise, it’s still a fun activity to learn.There are several courses in Chiang Mai that usually last one week, but can also last months. If learning for profit, it’s best to find a certified course. Two recommended schools are Wat Po Thai Traditional School and Old Medicine Hospital Thai Massage School.

4) Meditation

Clearing your mind is something everyone needs to learn how to do. Meditation is not something you have to pay to learn, as courses are donation based, but it is more about the willingness to learn. Almost all courses are intense since they require living the life of a monk. The most challenging of all would probably be at Wat Rampoeng, where you enter a vow a silence for 10 to 26 days, wake up at before the sun rises, and eat only two meals a day. For many, the feeling after the retreat is positively indescribable.

5) Rock Climbing

Thailand is known for having many limestone cliffs that are every rock climber’s dream. Crazy Horse Buttress, only 35 km from Chiang Mai, is Northern Thailand’s best crag offering over 100 unforgettable routes. It’s a great place to learn since there are routes for all levels. Considering that rock climbing is an extreme sport, it’s wise to choose a reputable company, like CMRCA for training. They offer a variety of courses fitted for your level of fitness and comfort with heights.

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Eastern Thailand has the least amount of National Parks with only eight, but there is no shortage of beauty. Two of the parks are Marine National Parks with coral ecosystems, while the others have a range of vegetation ecosystems. Eastern Thailand is also home to the Dong Phayayen Khao Yai Forest Complex, which was named a World Heritage Site and contains three of the eight National Parks. While fairly easy to visit all eight, the five below stand out most:

1. Ko Chang Marine National Park

A heaven, paradise, and retreat, Ko Chang Marine National Park in the Gulf of Thailand is an archipelago of over 50 islands among 650 sq km with Ko Chang being the largest island. Only 330 km east of Bangkok, the park surprisingly remains untouched and well-preserved with a small part dedicated to tourism. Snorkelers and divers are attracted to visit for the beautiful coral reefs below the crystal clear waters, while all others visit for the serene tranquility.

2.  Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park
Fairly small, this 131 square kilometer park is comprised of granite formations around the Plet and Laem Ya mountains with 94% of it encompassed by the sea. The popular island of Ko Samet is found here along with 8 or 9 other young sibling islands. The island of  Ko Man Nai is home to the Rayong Turtle Conservation Centre, a breeding place for endangered sea turtles, making an interesting visit.

3. Pang Sida National Park
The dense evergreen forest of Pang Sida National Park is diversely abundant with wildlife, especially mammals. From gibbons to macaques, there are around 112 species of mammals lurking in the park. Located near the city of Sa Kaew, the park sizes over 600 square kilometers. A highlighted spot not to be missed is the Pang Sida waterfall, along with the butterfly conservation depending on the season.

4. Khao Chamao Khao Wong National Park
Located in the provinces of  Chantaburi and Rayong, this tiny 85 sq kilometer park is famous for famous for limestone mountains, high cliffs, caves, dense forest and waterfalls. There are over 80 caves, but not all are visitable. Avoid this park between the months of May to October when rainfall is extreme. With that being said, the 3000 mm of rain per year results in making Khao Chamao Khao Wong a true tropical rain forest.

5. Khao Khitchakut National Park
This small 58 sq kilometer park is great for hiking, swimming in crystal pools, and feeling Buddha’s presence. At the top of the holy Khao Phra Bat mountain, Buddhist mythologies stand strong, including a footlike print from Buddha himself. It is frequently visited by locals to pay their respects to Buddha. The 13 level Krathing waterfall is another inspiring site to see.

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