Story: Manachai Inkaew
Photo: Bundit Pinyowattanacheap

The green and golden rice paddy fields infiltrated every corner of Bali, making me feel stunned by the lack of concrete when I first visited Bali. My personal feeling is one of respect at how strongly the local farmers must have fought against the irresistible surge of modernized tourism, helping to make Bali one of the world’s best ‘alternative holiday’ destinations.
After several visits to this charming place, I discovered Ubud - one of Bali’s districts - where I could observe the richly diverse lifestyles of the …

Sitting precariously above the Pacific Ring of Fire on the Malay Archipelago, Indonesia is home to numerous active volcanoes that can erupt unpredictably, making it a destination worthy of both awe and fear. This made my team’s escapades in East Java all the more exciting, providing us with stark reminders of the dangers these volcanoes pose. In fact, two Singaporean tourists were killed in 2004 at Mt Bromo when it suddenly erupted without warning, in the very same spot where I stood on the volcano’s crater.

There is nothing quite like the summer for romance and passion. Put that together with a beautiful beach-side resort, and you having a winning combination for all couples. That’s why Asara Villa & Suite, Hua Hin, the award-winning luxury beach-front resort 2008, has just introduced a special “Summer Passion” for couples. For three full days and two full nights of idyllic scenery, sun-drenched beaches and five-star luxury, couples of any age should not miss out – especially not when the price is just THB 18,800 for accommodation in the Holiday …