Which is why we turn our attention now to the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The Java island province is home to just over 3 million people and the capital city of the same name. Just over 500 km from Jakarta, the capital is a notable pulse point of arts and culture in Java and like the province, has a wealth of attractions. Here are some special points of interest in the Special Region of Yogyakarta.

Kraton Yogyakarta

Kraton is the word for palace on the island of Java and within the city of Yogyakarta is a spectacular one. The home of the Yogyakarta Sultanate is magnificent, with several inherent landmarks open to the public.

Museum Kereta

The Sultan’s Carriage Museum, or Museum Kereta, is within the Kraton complex and contains a fabulous collection of ornate, bygone-era carriages.

Museum Kekayon

The Museum Kekayon puts one of Java’s native arts on display, in the form of wayang puppets. The lush botanical garden backdrop is more than picturesque.

Museum Sonobudoyo

More wayang puppets, in addition to other native arts and crafts from Java and the rest of Indonesia, are on exhibit at the archaeology-centric Museum Sonobudoyo.

Benteng Vredeburg

Lest you forget, Indonesia was a foremost Dutch colony once upon a time. The colonial fortress of Benteng Vredeburg makes the point quite clear, in austere, vivid fashion.

Kotagede

Prior to independence, Kotagede was the economic focal point of Yogyakarta and once upon a time, the capital of the ancient Mataram Kingdom of Central Java. All in all, a superb place to explore, with handicrafts and traditional architecture galore. Be sure not to miss the mausoleum of the first Mataram king.

Kotabaru

For more colonial Dutch architecture, most of which remains intact, visit the area of Kotabaru. The former compound of the Dutch includes a monastery, stadium, cathedral and heritage estates.

Candi Sambisari

Ancient temples in Java go by the name candi, with several excellent examples all over Yogyakarta. Candi Sambisari is thought to have been built as far back as the 9th century and is relatively close to Adisucipto International Airport. The complex is actually several temples in one and stands apart from most others in the Special Region.

Candi Kalasan

The senior Buddhist temple in Yogyakarta is a mere 14 km from the capital city. Built in the 7th century, Candi Kalasan is within Prambanan valley. As a result, the temple is close to other gems like Candi Sewu, Candi Plaosan and superb UNESCO World Heritage Prambanan complex, all in the province of Central Java.

Candi Sari

Another fine temple in the province of Yogyakarta, Candi Sari is about a two hour drive from Candi Kalasan. Like the other temples in the region, Sari dates back to the late 8th century and contains ornate and elaborate Sanskrit inscriptions. Originally a Buddhist monastery, the fragile deity figures that dot the outer walls make Candi Sari a target for careful restoration.

Handicrafts

While the Buddhist complex of Borobudur and Hindu temple compound of Prambanan draw millions through Yogyakarta every year, one specific way people can give back to the earthquake-torn region is to purchase local handicrafts. From silverware to ceramics, sculpture to batik textiles (a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity), Yogyakarta is awash with beautiful products. Just beware that some markets may sell handicrafts from other parts of Indonesia, such as Bali for example. At any rate, head to Sultan’s Square in Yogyakarta city, where artisans and vendors often sell traditional wares.

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Himeji Castle

In what will soon prove to be a pattern, Himeji-jo or Himeji Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More people visit the historic castle in the city of Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, than any other in Japan. Together with Matsumoto and Kumamoto, Himeji is one of the “Three Famous Castles” and dates back to the early 14th century.

Naka Castle

The island of Okinawa and indeed, prefecture of the same name, is replete with gusuku, the native word for castle fortress. Nakagusuku, though in ruins, is important as the former haven of legendary 15th century Ryukyuan commander Gosamaru. The castle was built from native stone, like other gusuku on Okinawa, to ward off invasions from Katsuren Castle.

Matsumoto Castle

A National Treasure, Matsumoto is one of the most pristine castles left in Japan. A popular day trip from Tokyo, the castle dominates the landscape of the small city of Matsumoto, home to just over 220,000 people. Most of the original 16th century landmark is still intact for visitors to enjoy today.

Nijo Castle

Almost singular in construction and appearance, Nijo Castle in gorgeous Kyoto is a marvel. The entire castle complex contains 275,000 square meters, with many landmarks, from Ninomaru Palace to Honmaru Palace, and gardens to explore. A real Kyoto gem.

Hikone Castle

Like many castles in Japan, Hikone towers over a small city with the same name. Within scenic Shiga Prefecture, Hikone Castle dates back to the Edo period and early 17th century. Today it ranks as a vital National Treasure.

Nakijin Castle

Another precious castle in ruins on Okinawa Island, Nakijin is nonetheless visible enough to enjoy. From a hilltop perch near the coast of the South China Sea, one can imagine the level of majesty the castle and fortress complex had over the landscape. The ruins of Nakijin remain a place spiritual veneration with native Okinawans today.

Kumamoto Castle

The last of the “Three Famous Castles” to make our list, Kumamoto is the principal point of interest in a city with close to one million people. The former home of a feudal lord and his court, the castle dates back to the late 15th century. While the fortress is great, the star attraction may well be the ornate and intricate garden in the back.

Shuri Castle

A key component of a vast network of UNESCO World Heritage gusuku and Ryukyuan religious monuments in Okinawa, Shuri Castle is now part of the prefecture capital of Naha. Back in the day however, Shuri was a separate royal city, with all the inherent landmarks typical of the Ryukyu Kingdom. In power from the 15th century to the 19th century, the kingdom left behind a spectacular palace in Shuri Castle. From the Bridge of Nations Bell to the Shureimon gate, Tamaudun mausoleum and formal gardens, the complex is a gem on the island of Okinawa.

Zakimi Castle

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India has close to one hundred national parks that total just over 1% of the nation’s land mass. While urban India, from Mumbai to Jaipur, Kolkata to Pune, is rife with charm, the country’s national parks display a side seldom seen.

Bandhavgarh National Park

The Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh state is a popular destination because of Bandhavgarh National Park. Tigers dominate the 437 km² reserve in numbers rarely seen on the subcontinent. As with so many other national parks in India, Bandhavgarh also has a fair share of cultural attractions as well.

Bandipur National Park

Another vital tiger preservation area, Bandipur National Park is within the state of Karnataka and links with Mudumalai National Park in the state of Tamil Nadu. A potential new UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park features leopards, elephants, sloth bears, wild boars and wild dogs.

Bannerghatta National Park

A short drive south of Bangalore in Karnataka, Bannerghatta National Park is popular as a place to admire the singular beauty of white tigers and white lions. The park also features a butterfly sanctuary.

Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar

Within the Bhavnagar District of Gujarat state, Blackbuck National Park at Velavadar is relatively close to the Arabian Sea coast. Once the private reserve of a Maharaja, the park is famous for herds of blackbuck antelope.

Corbett National Park

The eponymous park of British hunter conservationist Jim Corbett is a wonderful gem. The first national park in India lies within the Nainital district of the Greater Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. A pioneer in ecotourism, Corbett National Park has 25 reptile species, 580 bird species, 50 species of mammals and 110 tree species. It was also the first park to launch a Project Tiger conservation initiative.

Eravikulam National Park

The Idukki district of Kerala is the perfect place to admire the Western Ghats mountain range, preferably from the confines of Eravikulam National Park. Another potential UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park has some impressive animal residents, from golden jackals to gaurs, porcupines to jungle cats.

Hemis National Park

At over 4,000 km², Hemis National Park has the most land mass in all of India. The park is also the only one north of the Himalayas. As such, it offers incredibly exclusive peeks at some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the world. From cultural landmarks like the 17th century Hemis Monastery to Tibetan wolves, snow leopards and Asiatic Ibex, the park is extraordinary.

Kaziranga National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the remote, northeastern state of Assam, Kaziranga National Park has many significant claims to fame. For one, the park is home to two-thirds of the planet’s Great One-horned Rhinoceros population. Another feather in the park’s proverbial cap is that it contains the highest density of tigers of any conservation area in the world. Just two supreme reasons to visit the scenic and culturally vibrant state of Assam.

Kudremukh National Park

Though conservationists worry about the potential harmful effects of iron ore mines in the Kudremukh mountain range of Karnataka state, the national park still has a bevy of impressive attractions. Sloth bears, wild dogs, Malabar civets and the Hanumana Gundi waterfall lure scores of visitors every year.

Nagarhole National Park

Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Nagarhole is less than 100 km from Mysore in Karnataka. The tropical conservation area teems with elephants, macaques, leopards, wild dogs, bison and has a notable tiger population as well.

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What was to be a brief explanation of the island province’s many charms in our last Philippines installment evolved into a full-blown feature. Why is that? Simple. Palawan just deserves more coverage. Not because the island – which makes up most of the province of the same name – is first in the Philippines in size, has a world class UNESCO World Heritage Site and hundreds of kilometers of exotic coastlines to explore. Well actually, on second thought, yes, those are the reasons!

Visitors who take the extra time and overlook the possible additional expense to make the journey to Palawan find the trip well worth the effort. The capital, Puerto Princesa City, is a mere 80 minute flight from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport, with regular legs throughout the day on Philippine Air.

Puerta Princesa is a highly diverse city by Filipino standards and has a population of over 200,000 people. If you can spare a day to tour the city, do so. If not however, Palawan has too much to offer to waste precious time in the capital.

The municipality of El Nido for example, on the northern tip of Palawan island, is a gem. Reminiscent of Halong Bay in Vietnam, with limestone cliffs and gorgeous scenery, the biodiverse region borders the South China Sea and Sulu Sea. Miniloc Island is home to one of the first resorts on Palawan.

Coron Island is off the main island and represents the northernmost point in Palawan province. Famous for spectacular scenery and Japanese shipwrecks from the Second World War, the lush, rocky island is consistently lauded as one of the best scuba dive sites on the planet.

Even those who choose to stay near Puerta Princesa can choose from a wide variety of resort areas. Honda Bay is one of the most popular, with exceptional beach escapes in store. Visitors can go high end and stay on semi-private islands off Palawan and relax, or take advantage of peerless water sports and recreation.

One Palawan attraction no visitor should head back to Manila, or elsewhere for that matter, without checking off their travel list is the inimitable Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The crown jewel and most famous point of interest in splendid Palawan is first and foremost, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and New Seven Wonders of Nature finalist. Good enough. But forget the titles and hyperbole. The park, a mere fifty kilometers north of Puerto Princesa, is unique.

The star of the show is of course, the underground river, which after a short hike from the town of Sabang, appears in brilliant azure. Incredibly, the river is navigable – by tour of course – some 8 km below a limestone karst mountain. The rock formations are just as remarkable as the river itself, which eventually crawls out of view and flows into the vast South China Sea. Huge cave chambers, stalactites, stalagmites and other sculptures abound in the national park, which contains some of the most biodiverse habitats in all of Asia. A first-rate conservation ground, Puerta Princesa Subterranean River National Park features macaques, wild pigs, bearcats, stink badgers, porcupines, monitor lizards and pythons. If you like to birdwatch, the park is one of the best for that activity as well. All in all, the most prominent of many fine, gorgeous and extremely delicate natural resources the beautiful island province of Palawan has to offer visitors to the Philippines.

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But Turkey is much, much more than beach resorts and Istanbul, as we well know. The nation of over 75 million people has a rich, venerable history and culture, is home to some of the most ancient heritage sites on the planet and lest we forget, is the land bridge between Asia and Europe, the Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea. What a country indeed! Oh and the food!

As we start to salivate, here are some superb destinations to consider in beautiful Turkey.

Cappadocia

The lynchpin of the central Ancient Region of Anatolia, Cappadocia is veritable time warp to a bygone era. Simply put, the place feels almost Biblical. Indeed, from Herodotus to the New Testament, references to this mystical place abound. For tourists, UNESCO World Heritage Goreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia is the principal draw.

Izmir

The third most populous city in Turkey is a port city first and foremost, with access to the Gulf of Izmir and Aegean Sea. Throw in thousands of years of history and a population well over 2.6 million and you have a first-rate destination. Overall, Izmir offers a diverse mix of old and traditional, modern and cosmopolitan.

Adana

The capital of Adana province, just inland from the Mediterranean in south central Turkey is a big city. Adana in fact, has well over 2 million people. Fine points of interest in and out of the vibrant metropolis include the Taurus Mountains, Tuzla Bird Heaven, Love Island and Bazaar of Kazancilar.

Erzurum

Eastern Anatolia is not often the destination of choice with mainstream tourists in Turkey for the first time. People should definitely give the region a hard look however, for it offers some of the most unique places to explore in the country. Erzurum for one, has over 350,000 people and a lineage that runs from Arab to Roman to Byzantine. Kurdish culture, brilliant natural scenery and winter sports on Palandoken Mountain are some of the highlights.

Pamukkale

Hierapolis-Pamukkale is one of the paragon UNESCO World Heritage Sites in all of Turkey. The country is no stranger to inscription after all, with no less than nine on the official list and dozens more on the tentative list. As a landmark that fits both natural and classification, Pamukkale is quite special. UNESCO describes the landscape as “unreal”, with mineral baths, Greek and Roman ruins on display. Check out the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum on site.

Nevsehir

Another Central Anatolia gem, Nevsehir is so old it dates back to the Hittites. Par for the course in this part of Turkey but still, to outside visitors, remarkable. A popular destination on the way to or back from Goreme National Park, the town of 100,000 plus people is a good place to relax for a few days. Beyond Cappadocia, the region is worth a deeper look as well.

Sanliurfa

A short drive east of the Euphrates River, Sanliurfa is another city in Turkey that feels, well, Biblical. With over a million people, the historic city has a diverse, multi-ethnic and multi-faith population. As a result, Sanliurfa has rich culture, beautiful architecture and of course, superb cuisine to enjoy. The sanctuary of Gobekli Tepe, built in the 10th millennium BC, is a must-see attraction.

Selcuk-Ephesus

The twin towns of Selcuk and Ephesus in Izmir Province date back to the Neolithic Age, with all the requisite ruins, landmarks and attractions one would expect as a result. There are more Roman ruins in Ephesus in fact, than anywhere in the eastern Mediterranean. The collection of sights in store are magnificent and range from the Library of Celsus to the Grand Fortress of Selcuk.

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Think about it. Over 92 million people, with 11 million overseas. Well over 7,000 islands. The Philippines is a formidable country indeed, with so much on tap beyond Manila. So without further ado, here are several more superb destinations to consider in the Southeast Asian Republic.

Baguio

Many of the most popular places to visit in the Philippines are on the island of Luzon. Home to Metro Manila, the island is the largest, most populated and most important in economic and political terms. With over 300,000 people, Baguio is a major city that draws scores of tourists because of a mild climate, vibrant festival scene and fine landmarks.

Batangas

A province in southwestern Luzon, Batangas has a beautiful stretch of coast on the South China Sea, with a vast array of resorts, public and private beach clubs. Popular with Filipinos and knowledgeable tourists alike, the province is a great place to soak up local culture, products, arts and crafts.

Bohol

A lovely island province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, Bohol has a population of over 1.2 million people. The capital and main hub is Tagbilaran City, although most tourists rush to the coast. Bohol has a coastline of over 250 km and a little gem in the small island of Panglao. The main reason most visitors head inland? The Chocolate Hills, a potential new UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Boracay

Perhaps the most popular and sought-after destination in all of the Philippines, with the possible exception of Metro Manila, Boracay has a reputation as a world class beach resort. Some 300 km south of the National Capital Region, the island is indeed idyllic. Beware however, if you prefer your beach resort on the quiet side. Boracay gets extremely busy, especially from September to June.

Cebu City

The de facto Second City of the Philippines, Cebu City is a major metropolitan region that totals over 2 million people. That of course, includes other destinations in the Mindanao region of the Visayas, like Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue and Talisay. As the first Spanish settlement in the nation, Cebu has many inherent attractions. Magellan’s Cross is the most famous and a vital national symbol.

Davao

The main commercial hub on the island of Mindanao, Davao is a lively, independent city with over 1.2 million people. The main attraction, aside from several superb museums and monuments, is 2,954 m high Mount Apo and a plethora of beach resorts on the Davao Gulf coast.

Ifugao

Easily one of the most unusual UNESCO World Heritage Sites on record, the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras are known by many Filipinos as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. With some as old as 6,000 years old, the terraces defy description and stretch over four scenic provinces. Head to Ifugao to visit the supreme national treasure.

Iloilo

The capital Iloilo province in the Western Visayas offers some of the best attractions in the Philippines. From colonial cathedrals and estates to traditional festivals and events, Iloilo City is worth a tour. The nearby Jintotolo Channel coast is exquisite.

Laguna

Laguna province is accessible by car from Metro Manila and is definitely worth a day trip. Natural scenery is the main draw here, with gems such as Pagsanjan Falls, Los Banos thermal springs, Mount Makiling and Seven Lakes of San Pablo.

Puerto Galera

The 3.5 hour trip from Manila to Puerto Galera, by bus and ferry, is well worth the hassle. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and foremost member of The Most Beautiful Bays of the World club, the coastal town offers white sand, water sports and biodiversity to intrepid visitors.

Tagaytay

A popular stop on the way from Manila to Batangas, Tagaytay deserves a special trip. With views over Manila Bay, Lake Taal and volcano and Laguna Bay, the hilly and verdant area offers a cool, scenic summer escape. Make a lunch reservation at Antonio’s.

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For now, we take a look at ten must-see attractions in Metro Manila. Remember however, that Manila itself is but one city in the National Capital Region. Others like Quezon City, with over 2.6 million people, Makati, Valenzuela and Pasig provide visitors to Metro Manila with a lot to see and do.

10. Intramuros

Intramuros is the de facto Old Town of Manila. The district dates back to the colonial era under Spain, in the 16th century. Though heritage preservation has not always been front and center on the Filipino agenda, efforts have been under way in recent years to stem the tide of decay and neglect.

9. Rizal Park

In the actual heart of Manila, Rizal Park is the historic hub of political protest and social movements in the Philippines. With monuments and green space, the park is also close to Intramuros and Manila Bay.

8. Coconut Palace

Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos left a shameful legacy behind but at least visitors today can enjoy the Coconut Palace. The former First Lady’s nutty plan to elicit support for the coconut export industry, the coconut-centric landmark was a prominent guest house back in the day and now contains a museum and botanical garden.

7. American Cemetery and Memorial
As a former territory and commonwealth of the United States, the Philippines has very strong cultural bonds with America. Just turn on the radio, check out a local beauty pageant, evangelical church service or visit a mall to see for yourself. But we digress. The American Cemetery and Memorial is a fine landmark in the Taguig City area of Metro Manila.

6. National Museum of the Filipino People
If you want a history lesson and some elucidation on the Philippines, check out the National Museum of the Filipino People. Natural history, ethnography and the arts form the backbone of the facility, next to Rizal Park.

5. Casa Manila
Part landmark, architectural masterpiece and museum, Casa Manila is a rare gem in the National Capital Region.

4. Malate
Malate, the Metro Manila district and not the organic compound with the formula HO2CCH2CHOHCO2H, is a terrific destination. Though home to the sorry Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden, the area also contains a Baroque church that together with the cathedrals of Intramuros, make up the city’s only UNESCO World Heritage inscription.

3. Metropolitan Museum of Manila
Arturo Luz is one of the most prominent artists to ever come out of the Philippines. The sculptor, printmaker and visual arts pioneer is just one of many talents on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.

2. SM Mall of Asia
To understand a vital component of the culture of Metro Manila and indeed, the Philippines, visit a mall. Seriously. Malls – huge, multi-purpose, mega-malls – are a major deal in the National Capital Region. With over 410,000 m² of floor space and daily visitors in excess of 200,000 people, SM Mall of Asia in Bay City, Pasay City, Metro Manila is the best initiation for foreigners.

1. Manila Bay
One of the best natural harbors in the world, certainly in Southeast Asia, is Manila Bay. A marvel and indeed, impetus behind Manila’s ultimate development, it serves a massive port of course but also provides some opportunity for quiet reflection.

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Just leave all comparisons to the capital of France aside. Beirut’s popular nickname, “Paris of the East”, is a rather unfortunate analogy. Sure, the language of Molière has official status with Arabic in Lebanon but still, Beirut is singular. With talk of Paris superfluous, enjoy the gem of a destination for what it is. These ten attractions will certainly help.

National Museum of Beirut

Despite the lack of a rights-free photograph to show you, trust us when we declare the National Museum of Beirut a certifiable triumph. Other than the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Anjar, Baalbek and Byblos, this is the epicenter of culture in Lebanon and the place to gaze at myriad Phoenician artifacts.

Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque

While it may seem trite and a tad obvious, run to the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque. A recent addition to the skyline from a perch in Martyrs’ Square, the awesome structure is a critical landmark in Beirut.

Burj Hammud

Beirut has a vital Armenian Catholic community, most notably in the Burj Hammud district. Fallout from the Armenian Genocide of the early 20th century, the densely populated neighborhood has a distinct atmosphere and vibe.

Nicolas Sursock Museum

A fine museum of modern art, the Sursock is a major point of interest in the historic and affluent Achrafieh district of Beirut. A former late 19th century private villa of one of the city’s high aristocrats, the museum now contains a fabulous collection of Lebanese and international art.

Raouché

Beirut’s most notable natural landmark is in the swish, seaside Raouché district. Known as Pigeons’ Rock or the Rock of Raouché, the massive objects provide visitors with a trademark Mediterranean photo op.

Corniche Beirut

The Raouché neighborhood is also where locals and visitors alike congregate to watch the sunset and take in brilliant views of the sea. Replete with cafés, restaurants and bars, Beirut’s Corniche is one of the best seaside promenades in the world.

Hamra

Though we loathe the comparison, rue Hamra was the “Champs Elysées” of pre-civil war Beirut. While rue Verdun, Monot and Gouraud now surpass the famous street for pure cosmopolitan allure, take a stroll here anyway. The historic significance is worth it (the red light district too).

Roman Baths

The Romans made it to Lebanon. Yes, even Beirut has Roman ruins to enjoy. While not quite up there with Bath, they do still make for a worthwhile tourist attraction in the city.

American University

A private and secular university since 1866, the American University of Beirut enjoys a special place in the city. With a rich history of student activism, the university’s alumni list reads like a who’s who of politics, science and business in Lebanon and indeed, the Muslim diaspora.

Ashrafieh

From a fortuitous shoreline and hillside perch above the city, the Ashrafieh district of Beirut is special. Aside from the Sursock Museum, the historic ‘hood offers a plethora of landmarks to enjoy and is the future home of Sama Beirut, a record-high skyscraper in Lebanon that will grace the cityscape in 2014.

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The iconic skyline of Hong Kong was not a calculated design by a mad architect. It arose, both in literal and figurative terms, expressly because of precious little wiggle room for real estate on Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula. The geographical limits of the Special Administrative Region are rigid and completely inflexible. On average, less than 1.3 km separates the lofty hills of Hong Kong from the harbour. As a result, the city makes Manhattan look desolate and population density trails only Macau, Monaco and Singapore. Without a doubt, Hong Kong is the most vertical city in the world. More than one-third of the tallest residential buildings in the world are in the city and at any given moment, more people go about their daily business above a 14th floor in Hong Kong than any other place on Earth. Impressive facts indeed. With that in mind, here are some notable gems on the Hong Kong skyline.

International Commerce Centre

With a tentative, final delivery date sometime in 2010, the International Commerce Centre is the latest high-rise architectural marvel on the Hong Kong skyline. The bare stats of the West Kowloon skyscraper are incredible. 118 floors, 484 m and a roof that will trail only the Burj Dubai and Shanghai World Financial Centre in height. The ICC Tower’s home is special as well – just across Victoria Harbour from 2 International Finance Centre. One key tenant will be Ritz-Carlton, who will operate a luxury five-star hotel on the top fifteen floors.

2 International Finance Centre

The Central District of Hong Kong has a spectacular skyscraper in 2 International Finance Centre. The waterfront commercial development is a magnetic landmark and current king of the skyline in the city. In fact, only two other skyscrapers in the People’s Republic of China top it.

The list of tenants at 2IFC includes BNP Paribas, Moody’s, ING Group and Ernst & Young. Four Seasons also operates a flagship five-star hotel and restaurant at 2IFC.

HSBC Main Building

Though not nearly as tall as other skyscrapers in Hong Kong and throughout the People’s Republic of China, HSBC Main Building stands out. Sir Norman Foster, the lead architect on the 1985 project, has his signature and stamp all over the iconic facade and as a result, no matter how high Hong Kong’s skyline develops, HSBC will remain indelible and photogenic. The Feng Shui-friendly edifice lights up in spectacular fashion after dark, perhaps best appreciated from the Kowloon side of Victoria Harbour.

Central Plaza

Currently number two in skyline height in Hong Kong, the reinforced concrete marvel that is Central Plaza was also the king of the sky in all of Asia from 1992 to 1996. The 78-story skyscraper has many curious features, from a four-bar neon tower clock to a 378 m-high anemometer.

Central Plaza’s triangular floor plan is rather ingenious as well. The idea behind the design was not a mere question of aesthetics but rather, to provide more efficient use of office space and beautiful views of the harbour. As a result, a visit to Central Plaza’s Sky Lobby is a must.

The Center

The Center is the fourth-tallest landmark on the Hong Kong skyline and one of the few with a core entirely made of steel. Built between 1995 and 1998, The Center’s claim to fame is a fantastic light show that dramatically climbs the tower, courtesy of hundreds of neon lights.

Especially festive in December to coincide with the Christmas season, the light display is another testament to the ingenuity inherent in Hong Kong’s phenomenal cityscape. For a great view of The Center, head to the top of Victoria Peak.

Bank of China Tower

World-famous architect I.M. Pei was the creative force behind perhaps the most recognizable and unique skyscraper in Hong Kong. The Bank of China Tower was the first to break the 1,000 feet mark outside of the United States when it was completed in 1990 and was the tallest building in Asia for three years.

A pop culture icon, the BOC Tower features two observation decks. A public one on the 43rd floor and one by appointment only, on the 70th floor. The latter is well worth the effort and offers unbelievable views of Hong Kong.

Though often cited by critics as a blatant affront to pure feng shui design, the BOC Tower remains a characteristic example of Hong Kong’s remarkable skyline and a tour de force in I.M. Pei’s long and illustrious career.

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What is Medical Tourism?

The term “medical tourism” isn’t as luxurious as you might at first believe. While some people associate tourism with “vacations” and “trips” the term actually applies to individuals who travel to foreign countries to obtain health care that is either not available or unaffordable in their own country.

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There are several different reasons to use medical tourism in order to obtain health care. Some people, especially celebrities, prefer to have cosmetic surgeries done far from home because they want to be out of the public spotlight while they recover. In other case, some patients may find alternative treatments being utilized in other countries that are not available in their home country. In many cases, the main reason for participating in medical tourism is cost.

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Individuals have traveled across international borders for joint replacement, dental work, psychological care, and even hospice treatments. Just about every area of the medical profession welcomes medical tourism in some country. Today there are approximately 50 countries around the globe who participate in medical tourism.

The Risks Associated with Medical Tourism

Those who decide to participate in medical tourism are taking quite a few risks. It is important to realize that the culture in every country is different. The natural immunity you have built up towards diseases in your home country may not protect you from foreign diseases in the place you visit. You’re opening yourself up to infection not only from your procedure, but from amoebic dysentery, paratyphoid, tuberculosis, HIV, and even hepatitis.

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One of the reasons people flock towards medical tourism is because the costs associated with care in other countries are often much less than the cost of care in their own homes. For example, the cost of healthcare in the United States is so expensive because it is heavily regulated by government agencies who are concerned with quality control. If the doctor makes a mistake in a foreign country you may have no recourse and, even if you did sue, the doctor is not very likely to pay you.

Ethical issues may arise as well. In some countries, such as Thailand, doctors are so focused on foreign travelers (who pay more) that they have less time for local Thai patients who urgently need their care.

Medical Tourism in Kerala

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The Indian state of Kerala focuses on Ayurveda as its traditional medicinal system and is heavily promoted as a medical tourism destination because of these classical treatments. That’s not to say that Kerala is solely focused on Ayurveda, though. The state prides itself on having highly trained doctors from all areas of the medical profession and is believed to have some of the finest medical facilities in the world.

Indian doctors have gained recognition around the world. They’re known for being very skilled and caring and several of the finest Indian doctors return to India after touring and training abroad. The Indian medical system also includes world-class pre- and post-operative care – meaning you won’t be rushed out of your hospital bed because of corporate or bureaucratic red tape.

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The types of medical care available in Kerala include:

• Ayurveda
• Cardiac
• Dental
• Transplant Surgery
• Ophthalmology
• Orthopedic
• Neurosurgery
• Fertility Treatment
• General Surgery, and
• Other alternative practices (naturopathy, Siddha, etc)

Kerala is popular amongst medical tourists for a number of reasons. Aside from providing high-quality medical care for low prices, the area is relatively easy to access and boasts a temperate climate year round. Visitors will be able to communicate easily with their doctors and the public and will have the finest amenities available, both in the hospital and in their hotels.

Medical tourism is, of course, not something that should be taken lightly – whether you plan to travel to Kerala or some other country. Make sure you conduct thorough research before deciding to take a trip overseas for a procedure you could have had done back home. Do the benefits outweigh the risks?