Daniel Jowssey asked:


Most Asian countries have problems in their big cities, like Bangkok, with over-population, traffic congestion and pollution. There are several modes of transportation in Bangkok, with the automobile being the most popular. Bangkok is a large city that possesses only the beginnings of a mass rapid transport system such as can be found in Singapore or Hong Kong. Traffic in Bangkok is also notoriously bad, and it is often impossible to ascertain just how much time is needed to go from point A to point B if you are travelling by road. There are ways to get around the city however, and the best method of transport can very much depend on the time of day, or other circumstances such as start and end points of travel. Although not expensive in any case, cost can also be a factor in selecting the best method of transport.

The colourful taxis that dominate the traffic in Bangkok are cheap and plentiful, and these days they are all fitted with meters. Nevertheless, some unscrupulous drivers will refuse to turn on the meter and quote you a flat, inflated price. This particularly happens in certain tourist areas. In this situation, it is best to get out of the taxi and flag another one down. In order to try and avoid this situation completely, it is usually better to walk just a short distance away from the tourist spot and flag down a moving taxi. It is normally the case that it is the stationary taxis who most frequently behave in this manner, although it has to be said that the vast majority of taxis will turn on their meters straight away without you having to ask. For short trips, outside of rush hour, a taxi is probably easiest and quickest, and is particularly economical if you are a group of 3 or 4. It also has the advantage of taking you from door to door. In rush hour, you will probably find that the taxis will, in any case, refuse to take you to certain areas because they don’t want to be sat in a traffic jam either. Taxis are also good for longer journeys at weekends when traffic is usually much lighter.

The ubiquitous and photogenic tuk tuk is probably something every tourist wants to try once, but as a regular way to get around the city they are to be avoided. They are often involved in scams with the intention of taking you to specific shops where they get free petrol and you get ripped off. The usual approach, is to quote you a very low price per hour, and then to take you on a tour of places where they get their commissions and kickbacks. Don’t be fooled! Even if there is no scam, they will almost always quote you a price more expensive than a normal taxi. Add to this, the fact that they are dirty, noisy and just a little dangerous, then there is little reason to use them in preference to taxis.

Equally dangerous, if not more so, are the motorcycle taxis often preferred by the locals. They are quick to get around the streets as they negotiate the traffic, sliding between cars and buses, and even taking to the pavements in some areas! They can be useful for short journeys as long as you are prepared to take the risk of travelling on the back of a motorbike without any protection in the form of a crash helmet. Costs are generally less than a taxi for short journeys, but can be more, depending on the state of the traffic.

Since 1999, the Skytrain has weaved through the streets of central Bangkok on just 2 routes. Initially empty, it is now crowded, especially at rush hour, but it is a fast and convenient way to get around if your journey coincides with one of its two routes. Expansion has already started, but it will be some time before there is greater coverage of Bangkok. 2005 saw the addition of an underground system known as the MTR but as yet there is only one line, and, in typical Thai fashion, there is no cooperation with the Skytrain, for example, in the use of a single ticket. This is despite the fact that the two systems are somewhat integrated with connecting stations. As with the Skytrain, if your starting point and destination happen to coincide with the MTR’s route, then it is probably the best choice, although if there are 3 or 4 of you it will cost more than a taxi. Safety and speed are however assured which cannot always be guaranteed with a taxi.

The Skytrain (BTS) connects, not only with the MTR, but also with the express boat services at Saphan Taksin. They ply their trade up and down the Chao Phraya River through central Bangkok, and all the way up to Nonthaburi. Incredibly cheap, it is something of an experience to take one of these boats. They only stop for a few seconds at each landing stage, allowing passengers to jump on and off, before speeding on to the next pier. They are definitely the preferred mode of transport for any destination along the river, and are particularly good for tourists wanting to visit the sites, most of which are situated close to the river. Boats also head off river, down the klongs (canals), and provide a convenient and fast mode of transport through some parts of the city. Other boats service some of the larger klongs through the city and, of course, there are long tailed boats available for hire that will take you on a site seeing trip through the klongs and to some tourist attractions such as the snake farm.

Large and small buses are everywhere in both air conditioned and non air conditioned forms. They are very cheap, and although they can suffer the same traffic delays as taxis, they are an economical way to get around the city centre and to the outlying districts of Bangkok. Bus route maps are available free at BTS stations. At certain times of the day, they can be very crowded on certain routes. Given this and the traffic situation in Bangkok, they are, therefore, not always the best option.

It is often worth spending a few minutes studying the options available when travelling from one part of the city to another, and considering using a combination of the different methods to get to where you want to be. For example, if you are located near to BTS or MRT station and wish to go to Chinatown, you could take the BTS to Saphan Taksin, and then take the express boat. Alternatively, you could take the MRT to Hue Lampong, and then take a short taxi ride or even walk. It really all depends on time of day, your personal preference and the number of people in your party as to which is the best method.

Until expansions to both MRT and BTS are completed, Bangkok will remain a traffic clogged city, suffering the pollution caused by exhaust gases from cars and ageing, diesel fume belching buses. These expansions, however, point to a cleaner, easier to get around city in the future. It will, however, be some time before Bangkok can begin to match the efficiency of the transport systems of Singapore and Hong Kong.



Arts and Entertainment Singapore

Ravinder Singh asked:


People with a penchant towards traveling to exotic global locations can opt for the flights to all destinations. These flights take tourists to various travel destinations around the world within a short time.

There are many holiday destinations across the world where travelers flock in large numbers. Some of the most preferred holiday spots of the world are Barcelona, Melbourne, Vienna, Amsterdam, Brussels, Sydney, Paris, Rome and London.

Providing attractive offers on ticket bookings many budget airlines operate cheap flights to the top holiday destinations on earth. Some of the budget airlines are Hansung Airlines (Asia), Blu Roma Express (Europe), Zoom (Transatlantic), Avolar (United States of America), Kulula (Africa) and Air Arabia (United Arab Emirates).

Travelers can avail several other airlines that offer regular flights including charter planes to the popular tourist destinations. Among others, British Airways has been declared as one of the best airlines offering flights to almost all the holiday destinations. Some other airlines, which operate flights, are Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, China Airlines and Qatar Airways.

Booking airline tickets is a vital part of traveling. Tourists who wish to save time can go for online booking of tickets. Those who want to get cheap airfares have to book flights well in advance. Some of the flights including the budget airlines also offer the option of frequent flyer miles to the passengers traveling to various spots of the world. Initiated by Western Airlines, today this option is exercised by many premier airliners like British Airways, Emirates, Malaysia Airlines and others.

Providing the option to obtain airline tickets, book flights and frequent flyer miles, the budget airlines as well as other air carriers like British Airways make the journey to various global destinations enjoyable and comfortable.



Arts and Entertainment Singapore

Wolfgang Jaegel asked:


Hong Kong, also referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Orient,’ is perhaps the most popular tourist destination in the Southeast Asia. Until the arrival of the British in 1842, it was just a typical small village.

In 1997, Hong Kong was handed over to China, under the policy ‘one country, two systems.’ The city has now become one of the vibrant as well as s sought after destinations not only in Asia but also in the world.

Bordered by the South China Sea and Sea, Hong Kong, al though a part of China, is different from rest of China. With its own government, stamps, and laws and regulations, the city consists of four geographic areas, such as, the New Territories, Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, and the Outlying Islands, all of them packed with a plethora of attractions and facilities.

It also consists of more than 200 islands, which consist of both small and tiny islands. In addition, Hong Kong is much famed for its superb deep water harbors. According to the survey conducted by the World Tourism Organization, the city has been ranked among the 15 most preferred tourist destinations in the world.

An incredible city blending the best from the East and West, Hong Kong’s attractions, among many others, are Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre with its unique curved three-tier roof and glass walls; the covered Central-Mid level Escalator, which is the longest in the world; and Hollywood Road, packed with a range of antique and curio shops selling Buddha statues, Japanese specialties like ikebana baskets, Chinese furniture, and snuff and perfume bottles.

Despite these attractions, perhaps the most famed attraction of the city is Victoria Peak, from whose summit you can gaze down to enjoy the wonderful vistas of skyscrapers and Victoria Harbor. During nights, the sights from the peak become more dazzling.

Also, of special significance are the temples of the region. Since Buddhism being the most popular religion of the place, Hong Kong has to its credit more than 400 temples, each of which is regarded as not to be a missed tourist attraction.

One of the most prominent Buddhist shrines is the Chi Lin Nunnery, located in Kowloon. Considered a living museum of the Tang Dynasty, it has been stunningly renovated in the traditional Tang-era architecture with several magnificent Buddhist halls. Another popular Buddhist shrine is Po Lin Monastery, whose focal point is a bronze statue of the Lord Buddha, which is the largest in the world. In addition to Buddhist shrines, the place also consists of several other popular shrines such as St John’s Cathedral, which is considered to be the oldest in the Far East and Shelley Street Mosque, which is noted for its minaret of green and white colors.

A visit to Hong Kong would be incomplete without taking a tour to many of its fascinating museums, showcasing unique art and antiquities representing several aspects of the place such as its history, film industry, space and science, and coastal defense. Some of the most visited museums in the region are Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, Hong Kong Film Archive, Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences, Hong Kong Racing Museum, Hong Kong Planning and Infrastructure Exhibition Gallery, and Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre.

Attractions also include a continuum of beautiful beaches, including Repulse Bay, the most spectacular among the city’s beaches; Deep Water Bay, which is connected by a pathway to the Repulse Bay Beach; Turtle Cove, a tranquil beach; Golden Beach, the first artificial beach in Hong Kong; and Hung Shing Yeh - a marvelous beach on the Lamma Island.

Also, the gastronomy of the place is amazing, with specialized areas for enjoying remarkable delicacies, like, SoHo with a variety of restaurants serving international cuisine; Gage Street, dotted with an array of stalls, from where one can enjoy the best of Hong Kong style cuisines comprising noodles, soups, pastries, and herbal teas; and floating style restaurants found in Aberdeen.

Apart from this, excellent options are available for shopping, with areas like Lyndhurst Terrace packed with shops selling ancient paintings and maps; Stanley Street, considered a paradise for shopping cameras and film accessories; and Li Yuen Streets, dotted with shops selling knick-knacks, leather items, and casual wear.

With these fabulous attractions and options to enjoy a variety of activities, tourists flock to Hong Kong all year round. No matter you want budget or luxury accommodation, the city has options to cater to all types of tourists. Majority of the hotels and resorts are located within the heart of the city, and hence are within easy reach of almost all top tourist attractions.

Nowadays, many of the hotels, both budget and luxury accommodation, have their own sites on the web, which in turn enables the visitors to check price and room as well as make bookings in advance.



Visit Singapore!

Kevin Laura asked:


Smallest yet wealthiest of the South East Asian Nations, Singapore has been prominently figuring on the tourism map of the world.  The graph is constantly making an upward travel.  With millions of visitors making their presence here, Singapore has turned out to be one of the busiest cities of the world.  In fact, to day it is the busiest port of the entire world.

People of all kind visit Singapore on multifarious purposes.  Strict social codes of conduct added with a general skepticism towards individualism have prompted tourists and travelers coming in huge numbers to this place.  On turn this has resulted in enormous growth in the hotel industries in the country.

Identifying hotels by location

Great thing about hotels in Singapore is that you can easily identify them and categorize them basing on their geographical locations. There are a few exceptions but it is more a trend than an exception.  For instance most of the luxurious hotels in Singapore are located in and around Orchard road or in close proximity to the botanical garden or the art museum.

Charming, highly comfortable, and with all modern facilities available these hotels come in the category of affordable to expensive. One of the major attractions of the star Singapore hotel is the food delicacies it provides.  Not only all the leading international dishes are available here but also several local delicious cuisines add to the splendor of dining bonanza here. In addition you have gyms, spa, swimming pools, games and sports, and leisure and recreation facilities in plenty in any of such Singapore hotel.



Economy hotels offering best benefits

Doors are not closed to the world of entertainment and recreation for those who wish to reside in economy or budget hotels in Singapore.  In fact there are several such hotels that are located near the shopping complexes, and Chinatown where you can shop to your desired levels.

These are not all.  Hotels that are affordable yet provide you plenty of avenues to satisfy your research and intellectual needs are those located near the art museum and others like the Asian Civilization, history and the Philately museums in Singapore. Even though these hotels are inexpensive in comparison to luxurious ones, the amenities provided are not inadequate by any measurement.

Cheap does not mean inferior quality

While there could be no question about the luxurious hotels in Singapore, the cheap hotels there are not of very inferior quality.  Singapore itself is one of the cleanest towns of the world and the tropical climate adds to its hygienic excellence.   The cheap hotels are neat and clean and they take care of most of the basic requirements of a modern time guest.

There are many discount hotels in the city.  Both luxury and economy hotels offer you discounts at certain levels.  You can also choose the luxury motels that are available in affordable prices.  The only thing you should take care is not to hurry.  Just take your time and choose a Singapore hotels that suits you best both in terms of amenities provided and price.



Entertainment Center

Nancy Eben asked:


Singapore, an island nation in Asia, is one of the main tourists’ destinations in the world. Deluge of tourists can be seen every year in order to explore the numerous facet and characteristics housed there and in return, Singapore travel promises incessant attractions and amenities for a wide range of visitors. It is counted to be in the list of most developed nations in the world. In this enchanting nation, there is adventure, fun, nightlife etc… i.e. all what the travelers want. Tourists take delight in the enticing and charismatic attractions of the country.

Singapore is home to diverse ethnic commune, which comprises several cultural venues, thus offering an exceptional cultural experience. For instance, Gayland serai is a habitat for Malay population and Little India, for Indians. You can come across several sort of special features or wide selection of some specific items of the particular population in its respective locality or enclave. Singapore entices a huge crowd to its cluster of islands which consist of fun filled activities and attractions. Not only for business or leisure travelers, but also for the nature enthusiasts, historians or zoologists, Singapore has something for every type of traveler.

Infinite wonders of Singapore have captivated all its tourists and have made it one of the most desired vacation destinations. Singapore attractions have left it visitors spell bound by their ineffable architectural beauty and cleanliness. Some of the significant Singapore attractions have been compiled here.



Sentosa island- it is Singapore’s mega theme park on an island. It is a premier island resort gateway with multi-faceted appeal, which is a unique blend of leisure and recreational facilities. It is highly well known place of interest among both locals and tourists. Finding family attractions, retreats, golf, sea sports and hotel accommodation is not at all a problem here.

Chinatown- it is a set against the backdrop of Singapore’s modern infrastructure and the prosperous financial district. This area is a receptacle of traditional Chinese customs that were carried by Chinese provinces to Singapore in 19th century. It still provides the glimpses of the old ways but much of its original character has been lost in the redevelopment.

Singapore Zoological Garden- it has been created to preserve the natural habitats of its resident animals. The zoo can be explored along its meandering walking trial or form the comfort of tram that move along a circular route. A guide to Zoo includes a map that suggests you itineraries incorporating other major attractions.

Singapore art museum- this beautiful building has 14 galleries that display the national art collection and a range of special exhibitions.



In addition to it, there are many parks, gardens, and attractions that serve special delight to the eyes of its visitors.



Entertainment Center

Alan Johnson asked:


Now a days medical field has spread its wing by offering overseas treatments at much reasonable costs for everyone to take benefits of. There are a lot of discussion going around the globe to see if there are benefits of medical tourism. Well, today we are going to take a peek in some of these benefits for us while considering any kind of medical tourism.

Medical tourism in simple term is a travel abroad to undergo any medical treatment that you would otherwise find either very costly in the your country or not as well equipped with the recent technology as the country you are traveling to receive that treatment. So if for example, you are from U.S.. and it costs you as an example GBP 20000 for an eye surgery, the same may be done say for example in India for the total sum of GBP 9000 which will not only include the surgery and hospital fees but also include accommodation, follow ups and a holiday feel all in one. This is why so many people today are attracted to this unique concept.

Thus there are many benefits for Medical Tourism. now for the patients who would like to undergo any kind of surgical treatment. Medical tourism gives everyone the opportunity to get best quality of medical treatments at lower costs. Although the costs certainly is the main benefit of medical tourism, the other attraction is the fact that other countries might perform certain treatments that are not available or are restricted in the country of their origin. And while vacation might not be the goal here, people certainly want to recuperate from any treatment while holidaying in their preferred places. There are lots of countries that offer such packages like India, Singapore, Thailand, Brazil, etc.

After information Technology (IT) and Information Technology Enabled Services (IEES), which are now good contributors to our Nation’s GDP, the next great thing happening could be ‘Medical tourism’, which has numerous potential, if rightly captured, to make big contributions to the Nation’s GDP. The following will show a some valid points by the way of expert’s questions vs. opinions offered, current status available with future projections and a some suggestions for making top use of medical tourism towards the development of the nation’s economic prosperity.

The offers available now a days for similar patients are specialized services ranging from cardiology and cardiac surgery (angioplasty, bypass, valve replacement), to oncology and onco-surgery, organ transplants (liver and kidney), bone marrow transplants, joint replacements, eye surgery and in-vitro fertilization. The price difference is significant, as that was for Marshall, for the patients.

Medical tourism is now a days attracting people from all over the world, from countries with comparatively poor healthcare infrastructures and, in case of the US, places with exorbitantly expensive health care services.

Medical tourists from US are generally those seeking procedures not covered by their insurers, those seeking required procedures and who are provided with incentives to find lower cost options, and those who cannot get medical insurance where they depend on the procedures and the physicians. Cosmetic surgery are locally found in South America, while complex heart and orthopedic surgery are found in India, Thailand and Singapore, and specialized in-vitro fertilization may be found in South Africa, Israel and Spain.

In the global medical tourism services, from cosmetic surgery to complex oncology, bargain prices may be found at a medical centre somewhere in the globe. Time and money provide the incentives for seeking healthcare outside the nation. In the case of general public health services with long delays, such as Britain, time is the motivation.



Singapore Tourist Attractions

Alfred Anderson asked:


Medical tourism, as an industry is popular due to the degree of convenience and affordability offered by the countries offering such services. In the United States the waiting period for a hip replacement surgery can be more than a year or so whereas the same procedure can be conducted in India, a day after arrival. The healthcare delivery costs at destinations like India, Thailand, Singapore etc are far economical than the United States. Most medical procedures are conducted at one-tenth of the cost in the United States. For instance a heart-valve replacement costing more that $200000 in the U.S can be done for $10000 in India.

The standard of medical care provided in these countries is truly world class. The hospitals are accredited by international accreditation bodies, like Joint Commission International (JCI) and employ best practices that match up to the international standards. The doctors are well qualified and a vast majority of the doctors have clinical experience of working in the West. Apart from these, the patients enjoy five-star comforts in their hospital rooms, with facilities like a personal dietitian and interpreter; the hospitals offer an array of choices from an international menu of food and beverages.

With all these facilities on offer, the medical tourism industry is all set to become the next big thing in the healthcare sector. The recent trend predicts the size of this industry to touch $2 billion by the year 2012 in India alone. Other destinations like Singapore, Thailand and Cuba are also expected to attract a large number of medical tourists in the years to come. Quality treatment at affordable rates, comfortable stay and convenience has made medical tourism a sought after option by the patients.



Visit Singapore!

Wolfgang Jaegel asked:


Malaysia is blessed with marvelous islands and picturesque golden beaches that attract tourists from all over the globe. These exotic beaches offer you the thrill and excitement that lasts forever in your mind and you will be longing to get back there once again to share those memorable moments that you have enliven once.

The beaches and islands of Malaysia literally sparkle during day and night which makes it a paradise for the visitors and the visitors can also enjoy a wide variety of leisure activities such as site-seeing, dancing and singing. You can also enjoy the excellent feeling of Idyllic Islands and Golden Beaches of Malaysia with a beer.

Starting from Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, to the vibrant and idyllic golden beaches Malaysia is a land of fascinating diversity. Not only that with its unique culture and tradition but also the splendid cuisines and the hospitality of the people all adds to a joyful experience for you that you can cherish in your memory.

Malaysia is perfect for its awesome quixotic getaway, spotted with pristine beaches and idyllic islands that bound all the way along the coast.

The most popular choice for tourists among these islands is the Langkawi and the Penang. The Langkawi is located south east of the Kuah which act as the entrance to the sandy beaches and gorgeous islands. These islands are a part of Malaysian mainland state Kedah. The Langkawi islands are clean, green, eco friendly and are a true holiday destination for those who wish to have a lifetime memorable trip. The weather remains ideal all the year round which makes this a four season tourist destination.

This feature makes it an ideal vacation destination for people around the world. You can have a nice time trekking, fishing, rock climbing, cycling, and snorkeling in crystal clear waters and relaxing on the sandy beaches of the coast of Malaysia.

Beach volleyball is commonly played by visitors in Malaysia. It offers enthusiasm as well as it makes your body warm and energetic.

You can hire boats and have a ride in the crystal clear water. It will be a thrilling experience for adventure loving tourists. The pleasant and warm climate makes it a perfect spot for sunbathing and you can relax sitting back and reading a novel.

The sight of sparkling red sun sinking slowly into the faint blue waters is a rare moment and it really brings enthusiasm and passionate feelings in your mind. The fascinating glass bottom boat allows the visitors to enjoy the marine life from the very near quarters.

You can see lot of hotels and resorts in Malaysia, so it is not a difficult task to find a suitable accommodation facility. You can find accommodation in resorts or hotels which are equipped with multiple facilities like swimming pool, library and internet.

Above all a remarkable thing yet to notice is tasty traditional Malay cuisines that are extremely delicious. Mouth-watering Malay cuisines are very famous all over the world.

Beach side resorts are also available so that you can sit in front of it and enjoy the activities there, but it may be little expensive. Rooms that are fully air-conditioned are also there for those people who prefer it.

You can reach there by train or by flight from major locations around the world like Europe, America etc. If you are choosing train then express trains from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur are also available.

With the world class resorts with ultramodern facilities, scenic islands, serene landscapes, Malaysia has now become a favorite tourist destination for local as well as international visitors.

If you are planning to visit a popular tourist destination the next time then you surely have to go for the idyllic islands of Malaysia since it not only offers a pleasing experience but also gives an opportunity to mingle with the society that is truly exceptional in their hospitality and in every manner.



Singapore Tourist Attractions

Wantanee Khamkongkaew asked:


Located in central part of the country along the low flat plain of the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is the largest as well as the capital city of Thailand. The cultural, educational, and political center of Thailand, Bangkok is one of the top tourist destinations in southeastern Asia, with a range of fabulous attractions such as Chitralada, Royal Grand Palace, Erawan Shrine, the temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho, the Bangkok National Museum, and the Bangkok University Art Gallery.

Apart from being a popular vacation spot, Bangkok is considered the backbone of the country’s economy. For instance, the Stock Exchange of Thailand is located in Bangkok. Further, a large number of commercial banks and financial institutions have been headquartered in the city. Further, the cost of living in condominium is exceptionally low.

Above all, when compared to other Asian cities, Bangkok is a safe place to live in. Perhaps for these reasons, people prefer to live in Bangkok. Living in Bangkok is not only a great way for tourists to discover the great attractions of the place but also an excellent choice for those who want to settle here permanently, since it is strategically located center to almost all prominent Asian countries.

Like any other Asian cities, Bangkok provides a range of accommodation options to choose from, such as, budget villas and bungalows, single detached homes, and luxury apartments and flats coupled with a host of peerless amenities and facilities. Along these accommodation options, condominiums are also considered a great choice to live in Bangkok. But, this type of accommodation is quite different from other accommodation types.

A specialty of condominiums is that they possess dual nature, ie, a condo owner has full control over his unit. But, the owner is required to share the cost and expenses incurred for the common facilities of the property, like passageways and lobbies. In the case of condominiums, the owners are required to follow the rules and regulations formulated by condominium association. Nowadays, condominium units found here matches with the design and style of those units in some of the hi-fi Asian cities like Singapore and Hong Kong.

Depending upon the budget, lifestyle, tastes and requirements of the people, a multitude of condo units are now available in Bangkok. Some of the most popular forms of condominiums available in the city are apartment, townhouses, and single detached homes. No matter it is of any type, a condo unit in Bangkok mostly comes with comfortable bedrooms with adjustable beds, expansive living rooms, fully equipped kitchen with superb dining area, and sophisticated bath area with uninterrupted water supply.

In luxury type condominium units, facilities such as parking areas, fitness room coupled with gym facilities, laundry, Jacuzzi, separated male and female saunas, pools, and meeting rooms are included. Additionally, many of the condominium properties come attached with areas exclusively for children like kids pool and playground. Mostly, luxury condo units are located in such posh areas of the city as Sukhumvit, Sathora, and the Central Lumpini areas.

Living in a Bangkok condominium offers a host of benefits. One of the major advantages is that it is affordable. You can become a part of the unique community by living in a condominium in Bangkok. Low maintenance is another prime benefit of Bangkok condominiums. Advantages also include safety, as there are a lot of people around, there may not be chances for theft and robbery.

Above all, condominium life allows you to utilize a range of facilities such as pool, library, and elevators. Apart from these, condominiums are considered a long term investment. Understanding the importance as well as the benefits of Bangkok condominiums, many foreigners now invest in condo units. Further, a condominium is the only type of asset that can be legally owned by a foreigner in the country. Even a special law has been formulated for purchase of condominiums, known as the Condominium Act of Thailand (1999.)

With a myriad of real estate consultants, realtors and property builders in the scenario, buying or renting a condo unit in Bangkok is no longer a tedious process. In addition, since many of them have them have their own websites with details regarding the nature of the property, expected price or rent, amenities available and pictures of the condominium, buying or leasing a condo unit has now become quite convenient.



Singapore Tourist Attractions

Gregory Smyth asked:


Asia is currently going through what is widely known as a “Property Boom”. Real estate is a highly recommended area for investment in Asia. Almost all countries in Asia are flourishing in the real estate sector. China is going through a revolutionary phase in the real estate sector. Rural homes and paddy fields are transformed into roads and shopping attractions. However some parts of the country the foreign investment and job opportunities have not created a real flutter. Costs of real estate are steadily increasing and anybody who is investing in the region could make handsome profit.

China has begun a huge drive towards urbanization. It is understood that they are relocating about 20 million people each year from country border to the cities. Very much the same is happening in the whole of East Asia as this half of the continent undergoes a strong urbanization drive. Asian governments are doing everything in their power to woo foreign buyers and investors. However supply hasn’t kept pace with demand which has boosted rents and capital values.

Malaysia has a favorable government in terms of property investment as the interest rates are only 6.75%, which is lower when compared to interest rates imposed by other countries like Vietnam and Indonesia. Prices of different kinds of properties continue to be cheap, particularly in comparison with other countries in Asia.

However this situation may not remain the same for a long time as at the close of 2006, the government dispensed with the requirement that foreign buyers should have the permission from a foreign-investment panel. This move is expected to have a positive bearing on the property market, especially on the mid-to-high end property segment.

Hong Kong is also getting increasingly cheap. This is clearly shown by the fact that rental rates for office space staying at $1,105 in 2006, lower than $1,237 in 1994. Because of mortgage competition between the banks and the steady decline of apartments city’s residential prices are predicted to rise more than 50% by the end of 2007. Considering the case of The Zurich and Monaco the potential threat is the vulnerability that has plagued the US economy. Many East Asian countries, whose economies depend heavily on exporting goods to America, will be affected quite badly by the state of the US economy.

Keeping this in mind, Singapore has the most attractive property investment opportunities in this part of Asia over the next two to three years. The Chinese manufacturing boom has been a real eye opener for the Singapore government. The various governments have started to redistribute their resources with the aim to make their respective cities as financially viable as possible. Singapore offers the lowest tax rate in the world for beginning companies, while 80% of firms spent an effective tax rate of less than 10%. Singapore is also very popular among tourists and this makes it even more compelling for potential investors. Unemployment has come down to a floor of 2.5% and as a result immigration is given an active encouragement.

About half of the 176,000 new jobs created last year were taken up by foreigners. The government expects that another 450,000 jobs will be created over the course of the next five years. This has given a real boost to the property market, which was hardly affected by the Asian financial crisis of 1997. The Singapore government has ended restrictions on borrowing limits in 2005 and as a result purchasing among Singaporeans has become active again.

Even after all these alterations the prices have remained relatively cheap. In comparison with equal cities in the Western world cities like London or New York, Singapore is cheaper. Property is considered a safer bet when you take the equity markets into consideration because of its lack of stability to a US downturn.

If you are interested in property investments, there may not be so many better choices than the Asian property market. There could be some problems in the future though like the possible lack of availability of homes when foreign workers searching for homes could create a scarcity. However, at least for the time being, Asia is among the most lucrative property markets available. Always be alive to it at the time of investing because you could commit on a healthy investment.



Arts and Entertainment Singapore