Wikitravel - Changes related to "Banana Pancake Trail" [en]

Lake Toba

2013-06-18T20:51:59Z

‎By train:

Vang Vieng

2013-06-18T17:55:20Z

‎In town:

Vietnam

2013-06-18T15:26:19Z

‎Eat:

Yangshuo

2013-06-18T14:25:13Z

updated listing Lisa's Cafe

Penang

2013-06-18T13:35:50Z

added listing Roommates Penang

India

2013-06-18T11:31:25Z

‎Etiquette:

Hoi An

2013-06-18T07:09:33Z

‎By bus:

Varanasi

2013-06-18T05:11:52Z

‎Get in:

Philippines

2013-06-18T00:19:49Z

‎People:

Yangshuo

2013-06-17T13:38:45Z

‎Do:

Bali

2013-06-17T13:23:38Z

‎Balinese food:

Hanoi

2013-06-17T13:04:29Z

‎Stay safe:

Bangkok

2013-06-17T08:31:55Z

Why was this deleted? Please always explain your edits in the edit summary part at the end of the edit field

India

2013-06-17T08:18:48Z

updated listing India Food Tour

Sihanoukville

2013-06-17T08:11:56Z

‎Budget:

India

2013-06-17T08:11:09Z

added listing India Food Tour

Sihanoukville

2013-06-17T08:10:36Z

‎Budget:

Perhentian Islands

2013-06-17T03:23:21Z

‎Get in:

Bangkok

2013-06-16T20:40:42Z

‎Addresses and navigation:

Hoi An

2013-06-16T13:22:38Z

Reverted edits by 171.238.17.153 (Talk) to last version by OVK

Hoi An

2013-06-16T13:14:33Z

‎Cloned clothes:

Pai

2013-06-16T12:04:55Z

updated listing Tacomepai

China

2013-06-16T11:45:35Z

‎Access: Small typo MacDonalds -> McDonalds

Hoi An

2013-06-16T09:44:14Z

Personal experiences and 1st person pronouns

Hoi An

2013-06-16T09:11:20Z

‎Buy:

Puerto Galera

2013-06-16T04:42:21Z

updated listing Foodtrip Chicken Inasal

Hanoi

2013-06-15T12:31:51Z

‎Internet:

Hanoi

2013-06-15T11:11:32Z

updated listing Golden Time Guesthouse

Penang

2013-06-15T10:20:32Z

‎Events and festivals:

Penang

2013-06-14T12:18:59Z

Show changes

Manali

2013-06-14T09:57:45Z

updated listing Maya Bodh Niwas Guesthouse

Manali

2013-06-14T09:07:59Z

Reverted edits by 122.177.57.188 (Talk) to last version by 59.178.57.204

Manali

2013-06-14T07:01:46Z

added listing

Malaysia

2013-06-13T18:20:43Z

Removed nonconstructive edit

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 Another great way to get to Lake Toba is by train. Two or three trains leave each day in that direction and you want to get off either at Pematang Siantar or Tebing Tinggi (The train stops at one or the other).
-If you want to get to the train directly from Medan airport, get a taxi or becak, and tell them or write '''Lapangan Merdeka''' and '''Setasiun Kereta Api Medan'''. From the station there's only 2 trains leaving Medan to Permatang Siantar (or Siantar) at 11:00 and 19:25. The fare is Rp 12,000 per person and the journey takes approximately 3-4 hr. Trains stop at almost each station. Once you reach the Siantar station double check the schedule for the train for going back to Medan. Then take a Becak or walk to the bus/taxi hub to travel to Perapat. The train is a wonderful way to travel if you like to learn more culture on their daily living and lifestyle. Once you are in your seat and have a stream of buskers, food vendors and friendly local passing by you will know why this is often the best way to travel overland. From Siantar (1&nbsp;hr by taxi) or Tebing Tinggi (2 hr taxi) you will need to hire a taxi or a bus for road transport to Parapat.
+If you want to get to the train directly from Medan airport, get a taxi or becak, and tell them or write '''Lapangan Merdeka''' and '''Setasiun Kereta Api Medan'''. From the station there's only 2 trains leaving Medan to Permatang Siantar (or Siantar) at 11:00 and 19:25. The fare is Rp 30,000 per person (as per 16June13) and the journey takes approximately 3-4 hr. Trains stop at almost each station. Once you reach the Siantar station double check the schedule for the train for going back to Medan. Then take a Becak or walk to the bus/taxi hub to travel to Perapat. The train is a wonderful way to travel if you like to learn more culture on their daily living and lifestyle. Once you are in your seat and have a stream of buskers, food vendors and friendly local passing by you will know why this is often the best way to travel overland. From Siantar (1&nbsp;hr by taxi) or Tebing Tinggi (2 hr taxi) you will need to hire a taxi or a bus for road transport to Parapat.
 ===By ferry===

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:55, 18 June 2013
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	* <drink name="The Rising Sun" alt="The Irish bar" address="" directions="" phone="+856 20 7928266" email="info@risingsunvv.com" fax="" url="http://www.risingsunvv.com/" hours="" price="">The only Irish pub in Vang Vieng. Regular live music, 2 free pool tables upstairs and downstairs and 3 TVs showing live sport. Cold beers and homemade pies.</drink>		* <drink name="The Rising Sun" alt="The Irish bar" address="" directions="" phone="+856 20 7928266" email="info@risingsunvv.com" fax="" url="http://www.risingsunvv.com/" hours="" price="">The only Irish pub in Vang Vieng. Regular live music, 2 free pool tables upstairs and downstairs and 3 TVs showing live sport. Cold beers and homemade pies.</drink>
		+
		+	* <drink name="Fat Monkey's" alt=" address=""near the island on the same road as otherside and banana restaraunt"" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">With a great view, awesome atmosphere, tv with plenty of films to watch during the day, a pool table, 2 x beer pong table and so much more fat monkey's has plenty to offer for all kinds of travellers. </drink>

	* <drink name="Sakura" alt="" address="" directions="In the village centre" phone="+856 20 6506993" url="http://www.sakurabar.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="sakurabar@gmail.com" fax="">Is a step above the standard ''Friends'' and ''Family guy'' bars. They have a projector, with a fairly solid library of both Hollywood and art House films, although you have to be lucky or go in with a sizeable group to get your first choice. They also offer dice roll bucket deals, if you're lucky you win a free bucket. Free wifi here but only available from 9AM-8PM.</drink>		* <drink name="Sakura" alt="" address="" directions="In the village centre" phone="+856 20 6506993" url="http://www.sakurabar.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="sakurabar@gmail.com" fax="">Is a step above the standard ''Friends'' and ''Family guy'' bars. They have a projector, with a fairly solid library of both Hollywood and art House films, although you have to be lucky or go in with a sizeable group to get your first choice. They also offer dice roll bucket deals, if you're lucky you win a free bucket. Free wifi here but only available from 9AM-8PM.</drink>

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:26, 18 June 2013
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	In restaurants fully owned by government, you will usually get "errored cuisine" such as fried fish with lemon sauce instead of fish sauce, or rice with tea instead of chili, and some dishes are not available for one month long without any announcement.		In restaurants fully owned by government, you will usually get "errored cuisine" such as fried fish with lemon sauce instead of fish sauce, or rice with tea instead of chili, and some dishes are not available for one month long without any announcement.
		+
		+	Note: restaurants often offer you a wet napkin (kong) at the end of a meal to wash you hands. Be aware that using this incurs an extra charge on your bill.

	== Drink ==		== Drink ==

@@ Line 461: / Line 461: @@
 * <sleep name="Climbers Inn" alt="" address="66 Guihua Rd" directions="in little alley right across from Insight (50 feet from Spiderman)" phone="+86 773 8814370" email="climbers-inn@hotmail.com" url="http://www.climbers-inn.com" fax="">A cheap room this close to Clay Pot and Bar98 is hard to pass up.</sleep>
-* <sleep name="Double Moon Hotel" alt="" address="16 Xian Qian St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" checkin="" checkout="" price="From ¥40, but you need to negotiate">Offers private rooms with hot showers for reasonable prices in off season. Decent, clean rooms with TV and double bed, helpful staff. There are also several other good budget options surrounding this hotel.</sleep>
+* <sleep name="Double Moon Hotel" alt="" address="16 Xian Qian St" directions="" phone="" url="" checkin="" checkout="" price="From ¥30, but you need to negotiate" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Offers private rooms with hot showers for reasonable prices in off season. Decent, clean rooms with TV and double bed, helpful staff. There are also several other good budget options surrounding this hotel.</sleep>
 * <sleep name="Flowers Youth Hostel" alt="" address="90 Pantao Rd" directions="2 minutes from bus station, oppisite Yangshuo Park" phone="0773 8822538" email="yhayangshuo@hotmail.com" fax="" url="" checkin="" checkout="" price="Dorm ¥20 (members ¥15), twin ¥70-100, single/double ¥60-90. Free breakfast with twin, single and double rooms">Probably the busiest hostel in the off season. Internet, free wifi, bike rental and laundry service.</sleep>
@@ Line 467: / Line 467: @@
 * <sleep name="Fun Sam's Bed and Breakfast" alt="阳朔山姆家庭客栈" address="No.27 Xiangshui Road，Yangshuo, Guilin, Guangxi Province, China" directions="When you are at the Way In of the bus station facing a couple hotels, and then turn right and keep going down the Pantao Rd for like ten minutes to a main street corner with an Agricultural Bank of China, at this corner, turn left and you will see a traffic light, and then walk down this street at the end you will see a Bank of China just right across the road to the left, so go to the other side of the road and continue up the hill for 300m. Turn right at the first main street corner onto the tree lined, winding road, and continue along about 400m, you will see some hotels on your left, and Fun Sam's B&B is a blue building and it is right next to Ward Hotel（沃德酒店）. You can't miss it. " phone="+86 13788438456" url="http://www.funsams.weebly.com" checkin="24 hrs" checkout="" price="" lat="" long="" email="hamster168@hotmail.com" fax="">An excellent value for money bed and breakfast, run by Sam and his family. Facilities include Wi-fi, breakfast included, air-conditioned rooms, laundry, private tours, bikes, cooking classes, rooftop bar, large common area.  A great place to meet locals and other travellers situated in a fantastic location. </sleep>
-* <sleep name="Lisa's Cafe" alt="" address="West St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" checkin="" checkout="" price="Dorm beds from &yen;25">The original hostel in town, and one with a lot of character, though these days looks a little dilapidated.</sleep>
+* <sleep name="Lisa's Cafe" alt="" address="West St" directions="" phone="" url="" checkin="" checkout="" price="Dorm beds from ¥15" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">The original hostel in town, and one with a lot of character, though these days looks a little dilapidated.</sleep>
 * <sleep name="Monkey Jane's Hotel &amp; Rooftop Bar" alt="" address="off West St" directions="near the river end, well signed" phone="" url="http://www.monkeyjane.pyksy.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Reliable service and friendly English-speaking staff. Best place to meet other backpackers. By day the Rooftop Bar becomes the hostel common area, by night it is a party with the cheapest beer in town during happy hour. Huge flatscreen TV with 500 DVD's, free WI-FI. Hit and miss on the cleanliness of the rooms, but tour desk is more then helpful when you are trying to organize your days.</sleep>

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:35, 18 June 2013
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	*<sleep name="1920s Peranakan Shophouse" alt="" address="" directions="Jalan Magazine, Lebuh Mcnair" phone="" url="http://www.travelmob.com/house/george-town/1920s-peranakan-shop-house-room-2-3-33197791254.html" checkin="2:00pm" checkout="12:00pm" price="USD$185 per night" lat="" long="">Travel back in time to the first decades of the last century and experience the life of the wealthy families who lived in Noordin Street. Enjoy a head-to-toe massage in your room after learning to cook local dishes with Nazlina. Complimentary wifi and includes Café Breakfast. </sleep>		*<sleep name="1920s Peranakan Shophouse" alt="" address="" directions="Jalan Magazine, Lebuh Mcnair" phone="" url="http://www.travelmob.com/house/george-town/1920s-peranakan-shop-house-room-2-3-33197791254.html" checkin="2:00pm" checkout="12:00pm" price="USD$185 per night" lat="" long="">Travel back in time to the first decades of the last century and experience the life of the wealthy families who lived in Noordin Street. Enjoy a head-to-toe massage in your room after learning to cook local dishes with Nazlina. Complimentary wifi and includes Café Breakfast. </sleep>
	*<sleep name="Sea View Condo" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.travelmob.com/batu-ferringhi-vacation-rentals-apartment/cozy-condo-stunning-sea-view-11860956532" checkin="10:00 am " checkout="3:00 pm" price="90 USD" lat="" long="">This 3 bedroom condo is situated in the town of Batu Ferringhi and is within walking distance from a large of variety of restaurants, eating stands and the evening market. The apartment has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a living room, kitchen and balcony. Facilities include parking, access to the common swimming and fitness centre.</sleep>		*<sleep name="Sea View Condo" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.travelmob.com/batu-ferringhi-vacation-rentals-apartment/cozy-condo-stunning-sea-view-11860956532" checkin="10:00 am " checkout="3:00 pm" price="90 USD" lat="" long="">This 3 bedroom condo is situated in the town of Batu Ferringhi and is within walking distance from a large of variety of restaurants, eating stands and the evening market. The apartment has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a living room, kitchen and balcony. Facilities include parking, access to the common swimming and fitness centre.</sleep>
		+	*<sleep name="Roommates Penang" alt="" address="17B Lorong Chulia, 10200" directions="on the intersection of Lorong Chulia and Lorong Pasar," phone="+6 04 261 1567" url="www.roommatespenang.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="" lat="" long="">This is one of the best hostels in SouthEast Asia. It's designed extremely well with power outlets, a light, a curtain, a larger than full bed, all bedside. It has a common room. The staff and owner are equally amazing, especially the older man who loves to chat all night. Oh, and the cute girl working at reception. The only con is that the air conditioner only turns on at night.</sleep>

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:31, 18 June 2013
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	* There is a huge difference between how Indians treat one another on the street and at home. Indian culture is inward thinking. In their homes everyone is a guest and treated incredibly well. Strangers on the street however are treated with complete indifference and without what westerns call "common courtesy." Personal space is not respected, people shove you, cut you off while driving, cheat, cut in line, spit, urinate and worse in public. So be prepared for that and try not to take it personally and if you are female be careful & watchful. On the streets of India nothing is personal. But in the home you can expect great treatment.		* There is a huge difference between how Indians treat one another on the street and at home. Indian culture is inward thinking. In their homes everyone is a guest and treated incredibly well. Strangers on the street however are treated with complete indifference and without what westerns call "common courtesy." Personal space is not respected, people shove you, cut you off while driving, cheat, cut in line, spit, urinate and worse in public. So be prepared for that and try not to take it personally and if you are female be careful & watchful. On the streets of India nothing is personal. But in the home you can expect great treatment.
−
−	* Indians are parsimonious. This is good and bad. But be prepared for it.

	* Note that most Indians are not aware that the term "Negro" is now considered offensive, and they may use it with no intent to offend. An Indian is usually not aware of the other "N" word.		* Note that most Indians are not aware that the term "Negro" is now considered offensive, and they may use it with no intent to offend. An Indian is usually not aware of the other "N" word.

@@ Line 44: / Line 44: @@
 A ''xe om'' from Hoi An bus station to the old town should be around 10-15,000 dong.
-There is a public bus (#1) from [[Da Nang]] bus station to Hoi An bus station (15,000 dong, the fare is written on the side of the bus (June 2012), they try to charge foreigners 50,000 dong, just grab all your stuff and stay in the bus, they can be very aggressive... same goes for Hoi An - Da Nang). The bus passes through downtown Da Nang as well. If you come from [[Da Nang]] airport, the closest bus stop of the same route to Hoi An is at the roundabout where the streets Nguyễn Tri Phương and Điện Biên Phủ meet (a nice 10-15 minutes walk, since you can walk along the lake). This bus stop is clearly marked with a road sign.
+There is a public bus (#1) from [[Da Nang]] bus station to Hoi An bus station that costs 18,000 dong, takes approx 45 min. There seem to be no fare written on the side of the bus as back in June 2012, but the Ohh La La Socola cafe (14 Thai Phien Da Nang) provides anti-scam maps dated 25/02/2013. On the bus they try to charge foreigners 50,000 dong, close to the price of private vans from a hotel in Hoi An to the airport in Da Nang, close to the cost of a bus from Da Nang to Nha Trang (3.5/4h vs 45min trip). Locals support the scam by pretending they are also paying 50.000 dong, insist on the fare and they will lower it to 30K, insist and pay the official one. Expect no change if you have a 20K note. Beware of bus drivers putting your luggage at front and sparing you the nicest front sit, likely they want you to pay 50k and threaten to kick you off. As soon as they see other foreigners to pick up they kick you off in their favour. Busses are frequent - every 20 or 30min pick time, else every hour - so you can simply sit down, have a coffee, enjoy air-con while talking to nicer locals then jump on the next bus. Same goes for Hoi An - Da Nang. The bus passes through downtown Da Nang and near the train station as well. If you come from [[Da Nang]] airport, the closest bus stop of the same route to Hoi An is at the roundabout where the streets Nguyễn Tri Phương and Điện Biên Phủ meet (a nice 10-15 minutes walk, since you can walk along the lake). This bus stop is clearly marked with a road sign.
 There are no shortage of travel companies and private buses travelling to and from from Hoi An to destinations such as Hue, Hanoi, Saigon, Dalat and Nha Trang.

@@ Line 10: / Line 10: @@
 Varanasi is well connected by train and bus, with multiple of each heading in every direction daily.  The trains and buses are dirty and overcrowded by Western standards.
-===By train===
+==By train==
 Trains are the easiest way to reach Varanasi, with multiple daily services to cities including [[Delhi]], [[Agra]], [[Lucknow]], [[Mumbai]] and [[Kolkata]].

@@ Line 54: / Line 54: @@
 ===People===
 [[Image:DSC01514.JPG|thumb|250px|Luneta Park]]
-As of 2010, the Philippines has a population estimated at 93 million and growing very rapidly. From its long history of Western influence, 377 years by the Spaniards and 49 years by the Americans, its people have evolved as a unique blend of East and West in both appearance and culture. Filipinos are largely Austronesian (more specifically Malayo-Polynesian)in terms of ethnic origin. However, many people, particularly in the cities of Luzon and the Visayas, have [[China|Chinese]], [[Japan]]ese, [[India]]n, [[Spanish]] and [[United States|American]] mixtures, whereas those living in the provinces are mostly of pure Austronesian origin (known as "native"). Many Muslims in the Sulu archipelago near Borneo have [[Arabic|Arab]], Indian and Chinese mixtures. The four largest foreign minorities in the country are as follows: Chinese, [[Korea]]ns, and [[Indian]], and the Japanese. Also of significance are the Americans, [[Indonesia]]ns, and Arabs. Pure Spaniards and other Europeans form a very small proportion in the country's population.
+As of 2010, the Philippines has a population estimated at 93 million and growing very rapidly. From its long history of Western influence, 377 years by the Spaniards and 49 years by the Americans, its people have evolved as a unique blend of East and West in both appearance and culture. Filipinos are largely Austronesian (more specifically Malayo-Polynesian)in terms of ethnic origin. However, many people, particularly in the cities of Luzon and the Visayas, have [[China|Chinese]], [[Japan]]ese, [[India]]n, [[Spanish]] and [[United States|American]] mixtures, whereas those living in the provinces are mostly of pure Austronesian origin (known as "native"). Many Muslims in the Sulu archipelago near Borneo have [[Arabic|Arab]], Indian and Chinese mixtures. The four largest foreign minorities in the country are as follows: Chinese, [[Indian]], and the [[Japanese]]. Also of significance are the Americans, [[Indonesia]]ns, and Arabs. Pure Spaniards and other Europeans form a very small proportion in the country's population.
 Needless to say, the Filipino trait is a confluence of many cultures put together. Filipinos are famous for the ''bayanihan'' or spirit of kinship and camaraderie taken from Austronesian forefathers. They observe very close family ties which is said to have been passed on by the Chinese. Religion comes from the Spaniards who were responsible for spreading the Christian faith across the archipelago. The Spaniards introduced Christianity (Roman Catholicism) and succeeded in converting the overwhelming majority of Filipinos. At least 83% of the total population belongs to the Roman Catholic faith. The Philippines is one of only two countries in Asia with a majority Roman Catholic population (the other being [[East Timor]])

@@ Line 139: / Line 139: @@
 * <do name="Blackrock" alt="" address="on Guihua Road" directions="" phone="+8613737734124" url="http://www.blackrockclimbing.net" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Claim focus on quality instructions, bilingual guides and safety.  Offer other activities such as abseiling, kayaking and ziplining.  </do>
-* <do name="Insight Adventures" alt="县前街45号" address="Xian Qian Jie (off West Street)" phone="+86 773 8811033" url="http://www.insight-adventures.com" lat="32.1524903" long="119.9376365">Insight Adventures are the largest operator in Yangshuo and offer climbing as well as many other activities such as kayaking, caving, biking and abseiling.  Their location has a relaxed lounge area and a bouldering wall. They are the most expensive outfit in town and offer a large staff of foreign and Chinese guides.</do>
+* <do name="Insight Adventures" alt="县前街53号" address="Xian Qian Jie (off West Street)" phone="+86 773 8811033" url="http://www.insight-adventures.com" lat="32.1524903" long="119.9376365">Insight Adventures are the largest operator in Yangshuo and offer climbing as well as many other activities such as kayaking, caving, biking and abseiling.  Their location has a relaxed lounge area and a bouldering wall. They are the most expensive outfit in town and offer a large staff of foreign and Chinese guides.</do>
 * <do name="Karst Cafe" alt="" address="on Xianqian Road" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.karstclimber.com" hours="" price=""></do>

@@ Line 527: / Line 527: @@
 [[Image:Satay Lilit.jpg|250px|thumb|right|Satay lilit - minced seafood on a lemon grass stick, grilled over charcoal]]
-* '''Babi guling''' &mdash; roast suckling pig. A large ceremonial dish served with rice that is usually ordered several days in advance, but also often available at night market stalls and selected restaurants. A very notable outlet for babi guling is Ibu Oka's in [[Ubud]].
+* '''Babi guling''' &mdash; roast suckling pig. A large ceremonial dish served with rice that is usually ordered several days in advance, but also often available at night market stalls and selected restaurants. A very notable outlet for babi guling is Ibu Oka's in [[Ubud]]. A pilgrimage that needs to be made by many, thanks to Anthony Bourdain, but the numerous stalls around the island also offer an equally delightful experience for half the price at Ibu Oka's.
 * '''Bebek betutu''' &mdash; literally "darkened duck", topped with a herb paste and roasted in banana leaves over charcoal.  The same method can also be used for chicken, resulting in ''ayam betutu''.

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 The rule of thumb is if the price is expensive, hygiene quality may or may not be OK, but if the price is cheap, definitely hygiene quality is compromised. There seemed to be no regular food Health Department inspector working regularly in the city.
 For groceries, there is a large supermarket east of Hoan Kiem Lake (Finimart, 27A Ly Thai To, at Tran Nguyen Han).
@@ Line 643: / Line 645: @@
 Also keep all eyes on your belongings, especially in crowded area like Dong Xuan night market, or just don't go at all if it's not worth the risk; expect female pickpockets and don't let them surround you.
 If you carry a backpack or rucksack, do NOT carry it on your back especially in crowded areas with high tourist traffic eg Hoan Kiem Lake area. Pick pockets will open your bag behind you and help themselves to your belongings. Carry it in front of you instead.

@@ Line 123: / Line 123: @@
 And if that's not confusing enough, most of the larger streets tend to change names altogether every few kilometres. Sukhumvit is called ''Sukhumvit'' on one side of the tollway (roughly east), but it becomes ''Phloen Chit'' just before you cross Witthayu Road (aka ''Wireless Road'') going towards the river. Keep going just a few more streets and it becomes ''Rama I Road'' (or ''Phra Ram Neung Road'') after you pass Ratchadamri Road. But if you were to turn right onto Ratchadamri, in just a few blocks you'll find yourself on ''Ratchaprarop Road'' (past Phetchaburi, aka ''New Phetburi'', which is called ''Phitsanulok'' closer to the river). Got it?
-It's when you're able to grasp the city in terms of its neighbourhoods that it both becomes more navigable and more charming. Likewise, Pratunam and Chatuchak are much more than just markets; they're neighbourhoods, each with their own distinct character.
+Fortunately, there's logic to these name changes: most of them are neighbourhoods. It wouldn't make sense to call the road ''Sukhumvit'' if it's no longer running through the Sukhumvit area, would it? Thus, Sukhumvit becomes ''Phloen Chit'' where it runs though the Phloen Chit area. It's when you're able to grasp the city in terms of its neighbourhoods that it both becomes more navigable and more charming. Likewise, Pratunam and Chatuchak are much more than just markets; they're neighbourhoods, each with their own distinct character.
 Related to this last point, compass directions are not widely used by Thais to navigate in Bangkok. That's probably because they aren't very useful; the city's Darwinistic layout, the changing street names, the winding river, and the lack of obvious landmarks all conspire to confuse your internal compass. Thus, asking for directions in terms of "Is that west from here?" will probably earn you little more than a confused look from a local. You're better off to familiarise yourself with the neighbourhoods and navigate to and from them. "How do I get to Thong Lo?" will get you there faster than asking for directions to ''Sukhumvit Soi 55''.

@@ Line 763: / Line 763: @@
-*<eat name="India Food Tour" alt="Authentic Indian Food Tours in India" address="199-A, East Azad Nagar, New Delhi" directions="" phone="+919810645418" url="http://indiafoodtour.com" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Food tours are one of best ways of exploring the cuisine of a country and in a place as diverse as India, you need someone to guide you and answer your queries about the amazing food culture. You can have authentic India food tours in a number of cities in India, but New Delhi is one of best places for it.</eat>
+*<eat name="India Food Tour" alt="Authentic Indian Food Tours in India" address="199-A, East Azad Nagar, New Delhi" directions="" phone="+919810645418" url="http://indiafoodtour.com" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Food tours are one of best ways of exploring the cuisine of a country and in a place as diverse as India, you need someone to guide you and answer your queries about the amazing food culture. You can have authentic India food tours in a number of cities in India. Some are package based and others are customized according to preference of tourists. Owing to it's status as capital of India, New Delhi is one of best places for it.</eat>
 ===Cuisine===
 [[Image:Tandoor_320883074_0c33436035_o.jpg|thumb|A vast spread of North Indian food]]

@@ Line 192: / Line 192: @@
 [[Image: Koh Ta Kiev island (Cambodia).jpg |thumb|Koh Ta Kiev island - tree houses on the beach (Cambodia)]]
-* <sleep name="'''Queen Side Guesthouse" alt="" address="14 Mithona Street" directions="Next to Nice Beach Hotel" phone="+85595414190" email="queenside.sihanoukville@gmail.com" fax="" url="http://queensidesihanoukvil.wix.com/guesthouse" checkin="" checkout="" price="">This nicely refurbished building is One of the older Original buildings in the area , set back from the Main street .
+* <sleep name="Queen Side Guesthouse" alt="" address="14 Mithona Street" directions="Next to Nice Beach Hotel" phone="+85595414190" email="queenside.sihanoukville@gmail.com" fax="" url="http://queensidesihanoukvil.wix.com/guesthouse" checkin="" checkout="" price="">This nicely refurbished building is One of the older Original buildings in the area , set back from the Main street .
 Ideally positioned to give a through breeze in hot weather and a short stroll to the beautiful Serendipity and Ochheuteal Beaches.
 With spacious Fan rooms and Air-Con rooms priced from $6 to $20, it suits a wide range of guests.</sleep>

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:22, 16 June 2013
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	'''Bargaining when having custom clothes made:''' Custom clothes will cost more than ready-made in Vietnam, but should not cost anywhere near as much as in North America/Europe/Australia. You should aim for a fair price, with which both you and the shop owner are happy. If you are not happy with the price, you can go to one of the multitude of other stores in the city; if they are not happy, or feel you are being unfair in your negotiations, there is a chance they will not try as hard to make sure you are satisfied with the result.		'''Bargaining when having custom clothes made:''' Custom clothes will cost more than ready-made in Vietnam, but should not cost anywhere near as much as in North America/Europe/Australia. You should aim for a fair price, with which both you and the shop owner are happy. If you are not happy with the price, you can go to one of the multitude of other stores in the city; if they are not happy, or feel you are being unfair in your negotiations, there is a chance they will not try as hard to make sure you are satisfied with the result.
		+
		+	'''''Here is one place to seek out''''':
		+
		+	Ngoc Hien, stall #20, Hoi An Cloth Market, 1 Tran Phu Street ☎ +84 906 543 075 (cell) and +84 510 391-0899, email: hoathihuynh@yahoo.com.<br />When you first see the exterior of the Hoi An Cloth Market, a squat building that has seen better times, your first inclination will be to make like Usain Bolt and, well, bolt. Especially when you spy the mouldy green interior walls. But resist that impulse and bravely make your way through this warren of small stalls, of which number 20 is near the northeast corner of the building, and situated near stall number 90 (sequential numbering would be too simple, wouldn’t it?). On one side of stall 20 is a sign that reads “Cloth Market Ngoc Hien No. 20” and on the opposite side of the 150 square foot stall is a cute hand-made sign reading in red ink, resolutely but with humour:<br />
		+	<code>"The Best Tailor in HOI AN
		+	Miss : - )
		+	FORGET ME NOT".</code>
		+
		+	Too cute. Try to find a small lady, about 36, named Hoa Thi Huynh, the industrious and honest proprietor, or perhaps one of her two sisters who may be on duty at that moment (and who look nothing alike). Hoa is a whirling dervish of activity, communicating by phone with her off-the-premises seamstresses while locating bolts of fabric and taking measurements of, or fitting, her customers. Hoa is now a bit of an internet celebrity, having been featured in an article. Hoa's strengths are ladies dresses and blouses, and men's shirts. As noted above by another contributor, it is best to bring her an exact sample. A customer bringing his or her own fabric can get shirts made for as little as $5, while dresses go for $15 to $60 depending on the complexity involved. In many cases, an item can be turned around in one day, but you would be better served providing her with more time to make adjustments. She can also do more detailed assignments (three men's shirts with handkerchief linen from Europe and patterned after a Guayaberas Finas Cab linen guayabera from Veracruz and Merida came out splendidly).

	===Custom made shoes===		===Custom made shoes===

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:14, 16 June 2013
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	'''Bargaining when having custom clothes made:''' Custom clothes will cost more than ready-made in Vietnam, but should not cost anywhere near as much as in North America/Europe/Australia. You should aim for a fair price, with which both you and the shop owner are happy. If you are not happy with the price, you can go to one of the multitude of other stores in the city; if they are not happy, or feel you are being unfair in your negotiations, there is a chance they will not try as hard to make sure you are satisfied with the result.		'''Bargaining when having custom clothes made:''' Custom clothes will cost more than ready-made in Vietnam, but should not cost anywhere near as much as in North America/Europe/Australia. You should aim for a fair price, with which both you and the shop owner are happy. If you are not happy with the price, you can go to one of the multitude of other stores in the city; if they are not happy, or feel you are being unfair in your negotiations, there is a chance they will not try as hard to make sure you are satisfied with the result.
−
−	~~'''''Here is one place to seek out''''':~~
−
−	Ngoc Hien, stall #20, Hoi An Cloth Market, 1 Tran Phu Street ☎ +84 906 543 075 (cell) and +84 510 391-0899, email: hoathihuynh@yahoo.com.<br />When you first see the exterior of the Hoi An Cloth Market, a squat building that has seen better times, your first inclination will be to make like Usain Bolt and, well, bolt. Especially when you spy the mouldy green interior walls. But resist that impulse and bravely make your way through this warren of small stalls, of which number 20 is near the northeast corner of the building, and situated near stall number 90 (sequential numbering would be too simple, wouldn’t it?). On one side of stall 20 is a sign that reads “Cloth Market Ngoc Hien No. 20” and on the opposite side of the 150 square foot stall is a cute hand-made sign reading in red ink, resolutely but with humour:<br />
−	~~<code>"The Best Tailor in HOI AN~~
−	~~Miss : - )~~
−	~~FORGET ME NOT".</code>~~
−
−	Too cute. Try to find a small lady, about 36, named Hoa Thi Huynh, the industrious and honest proprietor, or perhaps one of her two sisters who may be on duty at that moment (and who look nothing alike). Hoa is a whirling dervish of activity, communicating by phone with her off-the-premises seamstresses while locating bolts of fabric and taking measurements of, or fitting, her customers. Hoa is now a bit of an internet celebrity, having been featured in an article. Hoa's strengths are ladies dresses and blouses, and men's shirts. As noted above by another contributor, it is best to bring her an exact sample. A customer bringing his or her own fabric can get shirts made for as little as $5, while dresses go for $15 to $60 depending on the complexity involved. In many cases, an item can be turned around in one day, but you would be better served providing her with more time to make adjustments. She can also do more detailed assignments (three men's shirts with handkerchief linen from Europe and patterned after a Guayaberas Finas Cab linen guayabera from Veracruz and Merida came out splendidly).

	===Custom made shoes===		===Custom made shoes===

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:20, 13 June 2013
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	Swastikas are an ancient symbol commonly seen in Hindu and Buddhist temples. They are typically a reverse image of those used by Nazis and do not express similar sentiments or anti-Semitism, so Western visitors should not feel offended when seeing it in the homes of their hosts.		Swastikas are an ancient symbol commonly seen in Hindu and Buddhist temples. They are typically a reverse image of those used by Nazis and do not express similar sentiments or anti-Semitism, so Western visitors should not feel offended when seeing it in the homes of their hosts.
−
−	Malays and pakistanis make the worst neighbours. Because where they go a loud idiotic mosque is sure to follow. The religion of islam is the biggest noise polluter on this planet especially in malaysia. No peace and quiet on any day. These idiots frequently yell from their equally idiotic mosque every single day. Some of these harassing muslim scum even play a pre-recorded message of their wailings which are the broadcasted at 100+db speakers in neighbourhoods. The loudest muslim morons happen to be in kuala lumpur, bangsar. Malays and pakistanis and indonesians are
−	~~the absolute worst infection in malaysia. No respect and no peace of mind.~~
−	~~You don't have to respect the malays or muslim scum because they surely do not respect you. They do not respect peace and quiet. They do not respect law and order and true civility.~~
−
−	Everything you've read above in this section is garbage. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO RESPECT MUSLIMS/MALAYS. They are islamic supremacists, they are self-centered assholes who have no respect for anyone but themselves. You
−	know I'm right everytime these idiots yell from their stupid mosque everyday making a whole lot of noise at the expense of everyone else. You don't have to respect muslims and you do not have to respect malays
−	~~in malaysia or anywhere else in the world. Their behavior does not deserve your RESPECT! What's worse!? These muslim scum intend to act like this in every country they plan to emigrate to. Disgusting.~~

	== Contact ==		== Contact ==

@@ Line 191: / Line 191: @@
 === Budget ===
 [[Image: Koh Ta Kiev island (Cambodia).jpg |thumb|Koh Ta Kiev island - tree houses on the beach (Cambodia)]]
 * <sleep name="Angkor Inn" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="+85516896204" email="" fax="" url="" checkin="" checkout="" price="">Downtown.  Good value rooms starting at US$5 for fan and cold water with cable TV. US$6 gets you hot water and 10+ there are air-con options also.  Restaurant with free wifi in front.  Across from Freedom Bar, can be a little bit noisy in the evening.</sleep>

@@ Line 26: / Line 26: @@
 From the main ferry terminal at [[Kuala Besut]] there is effectively one option:
-* '''Speed boats''' - usually small fibreglass boats with two or three outboards which take 30-45 minutes, charge RM70/person (beware of unreliable & unlicense boat operator do the under cut price.they tend not to pick you up during your return trip) for return open ticket and RM40/person for one way,. It is advisable to make reservation first especially during the peak period May to august for your seats.especially during school holidays and week-end at times you will be waiting for long que to board the boat .
+* '''Speed boats''' - usually small fibreglass boats with two or three outboards which take 30-45 minutes, charge RM70/person (beware of unreliable & unlicense boat operator do the under cut price.they tend not to pick you up during your return trip) for return open ticket and RM40/person for one way,. It is advisable to make reservation first especially during the peak period May to august for your seats.especially during school holidays and week-end at times you will be waiting for long que to board the boat .You can make reservation of your boat ticket through Kuala Besut Travel n Tour office (+609-7479663) or pi boat transfer n services (telephone number+60179806638).You collect your ticket at their office in Kuala Besut jetty or they can deliver your boat ticket to yourHotel in kota bharu town or at the kota bharu airport without additional charge.
 All ferries take their passengers directly to their destination, wherever it may be on the islands. Passengers may be charged an extra RM2 to get a small boat from the ferry to the beach at (Kecil) Long Beach (scam, but you can do nothing except jumping into sea with baggage and swim to coast). If you want avoid this 2RM scam ask for dropping at Coral Bay from where it's easy 10 minutes walk on nice paved tiled path to Long Beach from where it's also more convenient to southern end (Mohsin, Rock Garden...) of Long Beach if you have suitcases, there is no paved path at Long beach. Elsewhere, jetties are springing up and enable people to get off the ferry without the need for an additional small boat ride to shore and without getting their feet wet.

@@ Line 197: / Line 197: @@
 * <sleep name="Spicy Pai Hostel" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="+66 85 2119467" email="" fax="" url="http://www.spicyhostels.com/Spicypai-Backpackers.html" checkin="" checkout="" price="Dorm, 150 baht">10 minute walk from town. Call for pick-up or ask at aYa minibus centre when you arrive. Warning: will be full in peak season.</sleep>
-* <sleep name="Tacomepai" alt="" address="" directions="6 km from town on the road from Chiang Mai." phone="+66 86 1123504" email="" fax="" url="http://www.tacomepai.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="100 baht">Simple bamboo bungalows in an organic food forest. Knowledgeable owner will teach you about sustainable living and farming at daily classes or for a fee. You will be invited to actively participate in farm life and to cook in the communal kitchen. Food picked from the farm costs 15 baht/meal. Free pick-up at bus station. Free Wi-Fi.</sleep>
+* <sleep name="Tacomepai" alt="" address="" directions="6 km from town on the road from Chiang Mai." phone="+66 86 1123504" url="http://www.tacomepai.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="150 baht" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Simple bamboo bungalows in an organic food forest. Knowledgeable owner will teach you about sustainable living and farming at daily classes or for a fee. You will be invited to actively participate in farm life and to cook in the communal kitchen. Food picked from the farm costs 15 baht/meal. Free pick-up at bus station. Free Wi-Fi.</sleep>
 * <sleep name="Thale Mhog Guest House Pai" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="+66 81 9010346" url="http://www.paibungalow.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="Bungalows: 250 baht" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Cosy accommodation.</sleep>

@@ Line 1,625: / Line 1,625: @@
 Some hotels provide access from the rooms that may or may not be free; others may provide a wireless service or a few desktops in the lounge area.
-Also, quite a few cafes provide free wireless Internet service &mdash; for example, Costa Coffee, Italy cafe, Feeling4Seasons Cafe in Chengdu, Padan cafe in Shanghai, etc. Some cafes, especially in tourist areas such as Yangshuo, even provide a machine for customer use. International chain MacDonalds does NOT provide free wifi in China, Starbucks does.
+Also, quite a few cafes provide free wireless Internet service &mdash; for example, Costa Coffee, Italy cafe, Feeling4Seasons Cafe in Chengdu, Padan cafe in Shanghai, etc. Some cafes, especially in tourist areas such as Yangshuo, even provide a machine for customer use. International chain McDonalds does NOT provide free wifi in China, Starbucks does.
 A word of caution: as elsewhere, public computers and the Internet are not secure. Assume that anything you type is not private. Do not send extremely sensitive data such as banking passwords from an Internet cafe. It may be better to purchase a mobile data card for use with your own computer instead (these generally cost ¥400 and data plans run ¥10-¥200 per month depending on your usage). Wi-Fi is the least secure of all.

@@ Line 201: / Line 201: @@
 '''Bargaining when having custom clothes made:''' Custom clothes will cost more than ready-made in Vietnam, but should not cost anywhere near as much as in North America/Europe/Australia. You should aim for a fair price, with which both you and the shop owner are happy. If you are not happy with the price, you can go to one of the multitude of other stores in the city; if they are not happy, or feel you are being unfair in your negotiations, there is a chance they will not try as hard to make sure you are satisfied with the result.
-If you're going to have something made, best to pay a little more and have it done right with one if the bigger shops. You'll pay a little more, but you'll get more for it; still, don't be afraid to bargain. A Dong Silk and Kimmy Tailors are two large, very professional and reputable stores. Smaller shops are very pushy and downright rude if you don't buy more than one piece from them.
+'''''Here is one place to seek out''''':
-−
-One high-rated-on-trip-advisor shop to avoid is Mrs Forget Me Not. We have personally experienced her rudeness and aggressive mentality and her attitude is backed up by many reviews. She demands 80-100% upfront, which alone is reason enough to avoid her. Even if you can look past her attitude, her prices are not any better than elsewhere.
 ===Custom made shoes===

@@ Line 92: / Line 92: @@
 * <eat name="Le Bistro D'Agathe" alt="" address="Muelle Pier" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.puertogalera-lebistrodagathe.com" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">A French restaurant that also has a bakery for fresh baguettes that is no longer there.</eat>
-* <eat name="Foodtrip sa Galera" alt="" address="White Beach" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></eat>
+* <eat name="Foodtrip sa Galera" alt="" address="White Beach" directions="" phone="" url="" hours="24 hours" price="$2 up" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">good food, great value.</eat>
 ==Drink==

@@ Line 668: / Line 668: @@
 === Internet ===
-G internet is very cheap and readily available everywhere in Hanoi. Buying a SIM card costs between 45 000 and 55 000 dong. Unlimited internet for a month costs 40 000 Dong on Viettel (as of March 5th 2012).
+G internet is very cheap and readily available everywhere in Hanoi. Buying a SIM card costs between 45 000 and 55 000 dong. Unlimited internet for a month costs 40 000 Dong on Viettel (as of June 2013, rates for unlimited 3G on Viettel and the other major telco have just been raised to 50 000).
 Do not buy a SIM card at the Vinaphone counter at the Hanoi airport. The lady at the counter will tell you that unlimited internet for a month costs 500 000 dong, SIM card included. She will give you a SIM card, wont set it up correctly, give you no credit and pocket the 500 000 dong. Also, be aware that she writes fake invoices.

@@ Line 518: / Line 518: @@
 * <sleep name="Hanoi Guesthouse" alt="" address="85 Ma May Str" directions="located in historic Old Quater" phone="+84 4 3935 2572" url="http://hanoiguesthouse.com/" checkin="" checkout="" price="Double US$29, including breakfast" lat="" long="" email="info@hanoiguesthouse.com">A small hotel very popular with backpackers. Friendly and reliable staff. All rooms A/C with en suite toilet and shower.</sleep>
-* <sleep name="Hanoi Guesthouse 2" alt="" address="43 Ly Thai To St" directions="Old Quarter" phone="+84 4 3935 1091" url="http://hanoiguesthouse.com/hg2/" checkin="" checkout="" price="Twin US$24, including breakfast" lat="" long="" email="booking@hanoiguesthouse.com">Opened 2010, twin of Hanoi guesthouse. Friendly and reliable staff. All rooms A/C with en suite toilet and shower.</sleep>
+* <sleep name="Golden Time Guesthouse" alt="" address="43 Ly Thai To St" directions="Old Quarter" phone="" url="" checkin="13.00" checkout="12.00" price="Twin US$20 including breakfast" lat="" long="" email="booking@hanoiguesthouse.com">Twin of Golden Time 2 Guesthouse guesthouse. Friendly and reliable staff. All rooms A/C with en suite toilet and shower + bathtub.</sleep>
 * <sleep name="Hanoi Youth Hostel" alt="" address="5 Luong Ngoc Quyen - Hoan Kiem" directions="in the Hanoi Old Quarter close to Hoan Kiem Lake (just a 2 minute walk)" phone="+84 9 7858 6555" url="http://hanoiyouthhostel.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="Dorm bed US$4.5-6, private room US$15-30" lat="" long="">17 rooms and dormitory with city view, A/C, sat TV, telephone, mini-bar, en-suite bathroom with bath-tub and shower. Relaxation room on the 1st floor complete with a pool table, a darts board and a library. Free Wi-Fi, free beer, free tea, free coffee, free breakfast.</sleep>

@@ Line 222: / Line 222: @@
 * '''Thaipusam'''. A Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon in the Hindu month of Pausha (Jan/Feb).
 * '''Vesak''', (''Wesak''). A Buddhist festival celebrated mainly by the Chinese community on the full moon of the 5th or 6th lunar month. It is characterized by a street parade. Temples will typically be filled with devotees and there will be a variety of activities by the various Buddhist associations and societies on this day.
 * '''Penang International Dragon Boat Festival''', [http://www.penangdragonboat.gov.my/]. Staged annually since 1979 and has successfully attracted teams from all over the world including Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Indonesia, the Netherlands, the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, Canada, and the USA. The event is now usually held at the Teluk Bahang Dam.

@@ Line 209: / Line 209: @@
 <sleep name="Getway Resort " alt="" address="Vashisht, Manali" directions="Near Mall Road." phone="+91 9540040327" url="www.getwayresortmanali.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="" lat="" long="">run by a Indian-Swiss couple, very clean & nice rooms, beautiful view over the valley, great fresh food ,Price between 500/- to 1000/- Per Night</sleep>
-*<sleep name="Maya Bodh Niwas Guesthouse" alt="" address="Vashisht, Manali" directions="Behind Yeti G.H." phone="+91 86 2707 6394" url="www.bodhniwas-guesthouse.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="" lat="" long="">run by a Indian-Swiss couple, very clean & nice rooms, beautiful view over the valley, great fresh food</sleep>
+*<sleep name="Maya Bodh Niwas Guesthouse" alt="" address="Vashisht, Manali" directions="Behind Yeti G.H." phone="+91 86 2707 6394" url="www.bodhniwas-guesthouse.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="" lat="" long="">run by a Indian-Swiss couple, very clean & nice rooms, beautiful view over the valley, great fresh food..</sleep>
 ===Budget===

@@ Line 196: / Line 196: @@
 *<eat name="Cafe Bella Vista" alt="" address="Hadimba Temple Road" directions="10 Minutes walk up from the mall road" phone="" url="" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">A small spanish style cafe with 2 small & 2 cottage rooms available for stay. Serves amazingly fresh, brick oven Pizzas & italian.
 Great service & very nice people. </eat>
 ==Drink==