Tips for Asia trips

In an article by the Associated Press called, “Tips for Asia trips” that I found on CANOEtravel.com, they talk about some good ideas to remember when traveling through Asia.

The article says, “The October issue of Conde Nast Traveler provides the answers to these and other questions about travelling in Asia. A guide to tipping explains that in Japan, 10% may be added to your restaurant bill, but otherwise, leave nothing, and don’t tip taxi drivers.

A guide to performing arts recommends the Shanghai Acrobats in China; the Thang Long Water Puppets in Vietnam; and the Sala Rim Naam dancers at the Mandarin Oriental’s riverside restaurant in Bangkok.

Sunrise may be the best time of day to visit places like Angkor Wat and the Taj Mahal, the magazine advises; crowds from tour buses frequently show up for the sunset views.

Conde Nast Traveler also checked out booking and flights on the new low-cost carriers serving various Asian cities, and found 12 worth recommending: Jet Airways, Kingfisher Airlines, Air Deccan, Spicejet, Jetstar Asia, Cebu Pacific, Tiger Airways, Nok Air, One-Two-Go, Thai Airasia, Airasia Malaysia and Valuair.

Finally, when in doubt, the doorman or concierge at a decent hotel is your best bet for advice and assistance. The magazine warns that Western travellers in Asian cities are easy prey for taxi and pedicab drivers who deliberately take circuitous routes or charge more than agreed upon. Doormen can negotiate the fare in advance and make sure the driver knows where to go…”