As exciting as it can be, traveling as a family can also be a challenge. Making sure the kids, parents, and grandparents, are relaxed and enjoying themselves can turn your Christmas vacation into more work than fun. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up 7 holiday destinations suitable for the entire family:
Taiwan
Christmas Family Vacation Ideas: Taiwan
If you’re travelling with lots of family in tow, head somewhere with plenty of travel options. Taipei city is full of urban wonders like Taipei 101 or the picturesque National Palace Museum. Outdoorsy family are sure to enjoy a trip to Taroko Gorge, where they can hike through nature trails or trek through towering marbles mountains Or meet somewhere in the middle with a short day trip from Taipei to Northern Taiwan, where you can see bizarre rock formations, sip high mountain tea, and light a sky lantern.
Thailand
Christmas Family Vacation Ideas: Thailand
Looking to get away from all the typical holiday buzz? Head to Thailand; the weather is warm, the people are friendly, and the prices are cheap. Enjoy your Christmas shopping aboard a paddle board as you wade through their famous floating markets. And if you have the time, be sure to visit the famous Elephant Sanctuary, where you can feed and interact with these majestic creatures.
Japan
Christmas Vacation Ideas: Japan
Japan has steadily grown as a family Christmas vacation destination, so take advantage of the kids’ holiday break to explore some of its top attractions. Everyone in the family will appreciate a visit to Mt. Fuji, with its breathtaking natural beauty, as well as the ancient temples of Kyoto. Bring the kids to Universal Studios Japan’s Wonder Christmas to experience a holiday like no other. Check out our guide to the holiday event, and purchase your tickets ahead with KKday!
Korea
Christmas Family Vacation Ideas: Korea
Winter in Korea is an enchanting sight to see, whether you’re hitting up Seoul City or scenic outdoor sights, like Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm. Korea is also one of the *coolest* places to ski. This Christmas, adventure to Korea and hit the slopes with the family. Learn how to ski atone of Korea’s top ski resorts, and enjoy a great afternoon of snowy fun.
Hong Kong
Christmas Family Vacation Ideas: Hong Kong
Once the calendar flips to December, Hong Kong goes all out with its festivities. The family-friendly city is a great place to go for Christmas vacation, not just for the great shopping deals (READ: 10 Best Hong Kong Markets), but also for its fantastic food and city attractions. Kids are sure to enjoy seeing their favorite characters at Hong Kong Disneyland and Madame Tussauds
Singapore
Christmas Family Vacation Ideas: Singapore
Vacationing with kids in tow means you’ll need to be extra energetic to keep them entertained. Luckily, Singapore’s amusement parks and attractions will do most of the work for you. Make a splash at Adventure Cove Waterpark, soar to great heights at Skyline Luge Sentosa, meet wild creatures at the River Safari , or do a little bit of everything at Universal Studios Singapore.
Sydney
Chritmas Family Vacation Ideas: Sydney, Australia
If your best family vacations are spent under the sun, escape to the Southern Hemisphere where it’s summer during Christmas. Trade ski lessons for surf lessons at Bondi Beach, or witness the incredible landscapes and wildlife of Blue Mountains National Park. Try to stick around until New Year’s Eve, where you’ll see the stunning fireworks show over Sydney Harbour.
This Christmas, why not pack up the mistletoe for a kiss under a palm tree? We have 10 Christmas vacation ideas for couples so you can spend some quality time with your partner and explore a new destination. Grab your bae, book your tickets, and head on your way!
Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #1: Wander the streets of Old Montreal, Canada
Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Montreal, Canada (Flickr/Caribb)
Be transported to a quaint European city in Montreal, Canada. Hold hands with your better half, and stroll down the romantic streets of Old Montreal, stopping for warm cider and poutine.
Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #2: Take a bite out of the Big Apple
Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Montreal, Canada (image via Pexels)
New York City is always a great idea, but the city transforms during Christmas into a winter wonderland. While you’re there, take in a Broadway show or experience one of New York’s unique performances. Enjoy ice skating at Rockefeller Center, then cozy up with a hot chocolate and your special someone. Afterwards, check out the incredible store windows and Christmas lights that line the streets.
Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #3: Watch the sunrise in Cappadocia, Turkey
Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Cappadocia, Turkey
Make memories to last a lifetime and head to Cappadocia, Turkey. Hop in a hot air balloon and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city. Witness ‘fairy chimneys’, tall, cone-shaped rock formation clusters and check out historic Bronze Age homes carved into valley walls.
Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #4: Chill out in Iceland
Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Iceland
Why it’s great for couples: Cuddling under the northern lights
Adventure with your partner to Iceland and spend a day in a geothermal spa. Soak away in the warm pools, before heading out after sunset to observe the northern lights. Keep warm by cuddling with your S.O. as you gaze up at the night sky.
Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #5: Bangkok, Thailand
Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Bangkok, Thailand
If you and your sweetheart have a love affair with delicious food, then head to Bangkok, Thailand. Tour the markets for local delicacies, tasty street food, and fresh fruits.
Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #6: Make a splash in the Cebu, Philippines
Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Cebu, Philippines
Why it’s a great for couples: Thrilling excursions for adventure-loving couples
Head to Cebu, Philippines and swap cold winters for warm beaches, sunny days and picturesque islands. Kick this Christmas up a notch and try scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming with sea life.
Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #7: Fall in love with Taipei, Taiwan
Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Taipei, Taiwan
Why it’s great for couples: Street eats, natural beauty and cityscapes
While Seoul itself is a bustling and vibrant city, it’s easy to slow down with a day tour to the surrounding areas. Enjoy a leisurely pace on Nami Island, as you stroll the pathways lined with trees and snow.
Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #10: Make Memories in Malaysia
Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Why it’s great for couples: Wildlife and dreamy sunsets
Celebrate the holidays at Universal Studios Japan’s incredible Christmas event, Universal Wonder Christmas! With spectacular shows, fun parades, and all sorts of holiday specials, read up on KKday’s ultimate guide and make the most of your holiday!
Minion Mayhem Christmas Party
Minion Mayhem Parade 2017
The minions take a break from plotting world domination to bring you the most happening Christmas Party in town! See them sing and dance with their Santa hats on, as roll down Main Street on a huge float. Join in their fun and make your way to the front of the crowd, and dance along as festive balloons and Christmas confetti rain from the sky.
Dates: November 10, 2017 to January 8, 2018 Location: Hollywood Area Show Times: 1:45 pm (days with 1 show), and 12:15 pm and 2:30 pm (days with 2 shows). Please arrive 30 minutes prior. Show times are subject to change. Please check here to see the show schedule ahead of time.
The Gift of Angels III : The Voice of an Angel
The Gift of Angels III: The Voice of an Angel
Now on its third year running, ‘The Gift of Angels III: The Voice of an Angel’ is back this season and is grander than ever. See a heartwarming holiday story unfold with spectacular lights and fireworks and a heavenly chorus of angels. Experience the excitement and awe with everyone in the audience as the Christmas Tree is lit as the show’s grand finale.
Dates: November 10, 2017 to January 8, 2018 Location: New York Area/Gramercy Park Event Times: 5:45 pm (days with 1 show), and 5:35 pm and 7:50 pm (days with 2 shows). Please arrive 30 minutes prior. Show times are subject to change, so please check here to see the show schedule ahead of time.
Note:
There are designated but limited wheelchair exclusive areas at the Special Viewing Area. Guests should speak and seek assistance from crew members early on. Flash photography is also prohibited.
Winter in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Feel the magic of Christmas as you walk the snowy streets of Hogsmeade Village at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Warm up with some Butterbeer from the Three Broomsticks, or have your fill of Christmas-themed sweets from Honeydukes and enjoy all the holiday-themed decorations that give life even to the old Hog’s Head pub.
The Hogsmeade Christmas Tree
Event Dates: November 10, 2017 to January 8, 2018 Location: Hogsmeade Event Times: 10:00am onwards
This year, grab the opportunity to cast your own spell at the village’s Christmas Tree. With your own special wand right from Ollivander’s, a few choice words (“Locomotor” or “Lumos”), and a swish and flick, you can charm the tree into moving or see it light up beautifully!
Notes:
Please make sure you have a “Magical Wand” before advancing to the Wand Magic location. “Magical Wands” can be purchased at Ollivanders™ and other locations.
Hogwarts™ Magical Nights – Winter Magic
Hogwarts Magical Nights – Winter Magic
Feel the magic come alive as you witness the iconic Hogwarts Castle transform before your eyes. As the day dips into nighttime, the castle magically transforms from an icy stone edifice to a brilliant display of light. See wizards and witches cast raise their wands to Hogwarts to cast a warm, holiday spell that envelopes the entire park.
Dates: November 10, 2017 to January 8, 2018
Location: Hogwarts™ Castle
Time: 30 minutes after sunset until closing. Show times are subject to change, so please check the official website to see the schedule ahead of time. Event details may be altered or canceled without notice due to weather or other factors.
Christmas Treats:
Minion Park: Minion-shaped sandwich cookies (600 yen)
Minion-shaped Sandwich Cookies
With their big round eyes looking right back at you, be sure to take a photo before biting into these cute sandwich cookies. Enjoy the sweet Christmas exclusive treat stuffed with seasonal strawberries, cream, and custard.
Studio Star Restaurant: Exclusive Christmas Set (2190 yen)
The popular Studio Star Restaurant has cooked up something special for the holidays! Enjoy their juicy patty and sunny side-up eggs, with either rice or bread. Top off your meal with your choice of special Minion dessert: Banana mousse cake drizzled in cranberry sauce, or a savory swiss chocolate cake.
Hogsmeade’s The Three Broomstickers™: Christmas Exclusive Set (8500 yen) & Hot Butterbeer (1250 yen)
Christmas Exclusive Set
Enjoy Christmas just like the teachers and students of Hogwarts as you feast on their special Christmas dinner: a set mouth-watering roast chicken, vegetables and salad.
Butterbeer
Down your meal with a warm bottle of their famous Butterbeer guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.
The Joyful Food Market
Enjoy all sorts of Christmas exclusive sweets and treats at the Universal Studios Japan Joyful Food Market!
KKday’s Recommendation:
Turkey Drumstick (950 yen)
Cheesy Turkey Drumstick
Every Christmas, you can spot a snaking queue for the turkey drumstick. Don’t miss out on their seasonal cheesy flavor!
Hot Chocolate Cone (500 yen)
Hot Chocolate Cone
Warm up this winter with another must-try. This sugar overload is stuffed with matcha chocolate, rice krispies, cranberries, conflakes, and drizzled in hot chocolate sauce. A warm topping of melted marshmallows tops this sweet treat!
Christmas Gifts
Minion Popcorn Buckets
Minion Popcorn Bucket
The exclusive minion popcorn buckets are the cutest souvenir you should buy in Universal Studios Japan. This time, instead of taking a bear, Tim, Minions in a Christmas hat takes a small snowman. This shape of Minion is so adorable that you should take it home or you will regret.
This year’s cutest souvenirs are the Christmas-themed Minion Popcorn Buckets. Perfect that holiday movie marathon with the family!
Christmas Specialty Store
There are all sorts of Christmas-themed merchandise like socks, dolls, and some ornaments in Christmas Specialty Store. If you want to buy some souvenirs, you should come here!
For some last-minute Christmas shopping, head here to find socks, dolls, ornaments, and merchandise of all your favorite characters! See Hello Kitty, the Sesame Street Gang, the sharks from Jaws, and Snoopy spread the holiday cheer in their snowman outfits.
Or choose one of the bestsellers: the Snoopy Christmas Hat, which customers love for its soft, warm fur, or the Minion dolls in wacky, nutcracker outfits. At the Christmas Specialty Store, there’s something for everyone!
Booking Your Tickets
Make your trip much more enjoyable by booking your tickets ahead! Enjoy KKday’s exclusive tickets that allow you to skip the lines and head straight to park. Choose from any of our great packages
Christmas is a great time to spend in somewhere new, but we can’t always travel far. But just here in Asia, there’s a lot of holiday cheer to go around. KKday rounds up 4 Christmas Festivals and Traditions worth checking out this year!
As soon as winter rolls in, Hong Kong becomes a glamorously festive. Hong Kong is in a holiday for a whole month long, which means one thing: Christmas shopping! Be on the lookout for all the great deals (READ: 9 Shopping Spots in Hong Kong). After a long day of shopping for everyone, unwind by taking a stroll through the iconic Statue Square Christmas Tree, or take your significant other to see the Hong Kong Pulse Light Show.
Japan is always a great country to visit if you’ve got your family in tow, with its cultural sites, shopping districts, and kid attractions. And at Tokyo Disnyeland and DisneySea, they pull all the stops to bring you a Christmas that kids and kids at heart will never forget. Visit the happiest place on earth and see the famous Christmas parade, see your favorite characters dress up for the holiday stage shows, and take ride on your favorite attractions that have put on their own festive hats. Cap the day with some seasonal delights at the park stores and restaurants, and watch the holiday fireworks show with the whole family.
Christmas in Asia: Lighting Festival at the Garden of Morning Calm (Flickr/Travel Oriented)
The Garden of Morning Calm is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but becomes especially festive once the Christmas season kicks in. Catch Korea’s biggest and most extravagant light festival and see 30,000 colorful lights adorn the trees, the paths, and gardens. In the middle of the blistering winter cold, the lighting festival is sure to warm you up and have ready for the holidays.
Dates: Annually, from early December to late March
The Philippines will proudly claim to have the longest Christmas season in the world. As early as September 1, you’ll hear Christmas songs on the radio and malls start hanging up festive decorations. One uniquely Filipino Christmas tradition is what they call ‘Simbang Gabi’ (‘Night Mass’), a nine-day series of Masses held at 4:30 in the morning, leading up to Christmas. Many believe that if you complete the novena, you’ll be granted a single wish. Whether or not you’re Catholic, be sure to check out the beautiful Churches this time of year.
Dates: December 16 to December 24, 2017
See some of the country’s most beautiful churches and more when you book a Bohol Tour with KKday!
The Maldives is top of the mind when we think of the world’s most relaxing destinations. But its ridiculous exclusivity and cost of travel can definitely sour any dream vacation plans. So if you’re looking for an island paradise with no crowds, don’t look too far. Here are our top picks for your next great escape.
Underrated Beaches in the World: Cebu, Philippines
As an archipelago in the tropics, the Philippines has more than its fair share of fantastic beaches. Skip the tourist flocks of Boracay, and head elsewhere in the Visayas region to Cebu. A rare mix of everything you need in a vacation, and more: water sports, powder-soft sands, and resorts and guesthouses for every budget range. Spend a day exploring the coastal mountains, which will treat you to spectacular sunsets and a view of the other 167 nearby islands dotting the sparkling sea.
Komodo, Indonesia
Underrated Vacation Spots: Komodo, Indonesia (via Max Pixel)
Yes, this is a reference to the dragons. Komodo, Indonesia is a secluded paradise for nature lovers filled with lush mountains, crystal clear waters, and colourful coral reefs. And of course, exotic wildlife fresh off the set of Jurassic Park.
Koh Phayam, Thailand
Underrated Vacation Spots: Koh Phayam, Thailand
Thailand is a great country with a lot to offer locals and tourists (READ: 6 Thrilling Bangkok Activities) but it can get overcrowded during peak holiday season. With a local population of roughly 500 people, and tourists heading to Thailand’s better known islands, Koh Phayam is wonderfully quiet. With all the holiday attractions of its more known neighbors, Koh Phayam is a beach paradise perfect if you don’t want to be disturbed.
Jeju Island, Korea
Underrated Vacation Spots: Jeju, Korea (image via Republic of Korea)
This longtime honeymoon spot for Korea’s newly weds boasts of incredible beaches, seas of exotic wildlife, and landscapes shaped by centuries of volcanic activity. Spend a day exploring Mt. Hallasan, a dormant volcano rising 1,950 meters above sea level and see the stunning crater lake and colourful fields of flowers, before heading back into town for some delicious (and affordable) seafood.
Con Dao Archipelago, Vietnam
Unerrated Vacatin Spots: Con Dao, Vietnam (image via Lam Tr Th)
Vietnam is full of incredible sights and steeped in culture and history. Much of Con Son is charmingly Gallic, with almost no traffic and a number of cheap and delicious cafes and restaurants. But for many years, many of the islands were used as prisons by the French and US. It’s an interesting but sobering history worth exploring, but be sure to end your visit on a high note. Enjoy the wildly idyllic beaches now mostly populated by nesting sea turtles.
The lack of roads and tourist facilities make a great deterrent. But isolation has its upsides, and Simpang Mengayau is a beach that has thrived from the solitude. Take day trip up north from Kota Kinabalu and enjoy kilometers of pristine coastline as the South China Sea crashes into the shore. And if you have the time, be sure to explore Sabah’s forests and see Mt. Alab and the Mahua Waterfall.
Is the work week getting you down? Nothing puts you in vacation mood more than a hump day that’s extra tough. To help you along, we’ve rounded some of the world’s most relaxing destinations that make for the best vacations. Bookmark this for your next long weekend or vacation trip!
Maldives
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: Maldives
With powdery beaches and crystal-blue waters like nowhere else in the world, and ultra-exclusive resorts, Maldives is top off the head when it comes to dream vacations. Resorts are constantly competing to give travelers the most relaxing experience possible, with services and amenities such as personal butlers and underwater spas. But over the years, the Maldives has become more accessible to the independent traveler and you can choose from the many luxury resorts, or go backpacker style and stay with a friendly local family. Whether you stay in a small guesthouse or a luxury villa, you’re sure to enjoy the pristine sands and seas.
Koh Lanta, Thailand
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: Koh Lanta, Thailand
Step away from the crowds and reconnect with nature at Koh Lanta. Go island hopping and trek through the jungle, where you’ll stumble upon waterfalls that will take your breath away. Explore Maya Bay, a hidden beach tucked behind 100-meter high cliffs and was the setting for Leonardi DiCaprio’s movie ‘The Beach.’ And after you’ve recharged enough? Head over to the famous Why Not bar where you can meet friendly strangers, listen to live music, and just enjoy the sound of the waves.
Bali, Indonesia
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: Bali, Indonesia
While a number of beaches have become too touristy and commercialized, Bali is still full of the same powdery beaches, perfect waves, and incredible sunsets (READ: Bali’s Most Beautiful Beaches). Pockets are so untapped and secluded, a vacation getaway can quickly turn into a spiritual retreat. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go on an off-road island adventure and a safari tour.
Budapest
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: Budapest (Flickr/Maurice)
We’ve got to thank Wes Anderson for reminding us what a wonderful place Budapest can be. And while you (hopefully) won’t be solving any murder mysteries during your stay, Budapest is full of all sorts of astounding sights to see. Explore the stunning architecture in cool weather with a guided walking tour (or bike tour), or make the most of your time and take an exclusive air cruiser. Don’t end your trip without a nightcap of some of their finest wine.
Marbella, Spain
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: Marbella, Spain
Fancy yourself a Spanish siesta? The southern coast of Spain boasts of gorgeous sandy beaches, lush greenery, and peaceful harbours. If you find yourself feeling a little restless, wait until the sun goes down to enjoy the bustling nightlife, or sip a cocktail on one of the many tapa bars overlooking the sea.
Bondi, Australia
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: Bondi, Australia (Flickr/Athena Lao)
The atmosphere in Bondi Australia is so relaxed many of the locals don’t even bother to put on shoes. Spend a beach weekend here, where you’ve got access to numerous fantastic beaches via the Bondi to Coogee Beach Coastal Trail. After a day of surfing or sunbathing, have a hearty fill at any of the quaint cafes and restaurants nearby
El Nido, Palawan
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: El Nido, Palawan
Conde Naste has declared Palawan as the most beautiful island in the world, two years straight. And it’s easy to see why. With miles of pristine beaches, tropical forests, and its famous underground river system, El Nido is the perfect place to go for a taste of both adventure and relaxation.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: Chefchaouen, Morocco (Flickr/YoTut)
Let your eyes rest easy on Morocco’s Blue Pearl City, famous for its powder-blue painted doors and walls. Stroll through the small but vibrant town with an empty shopping bag, and fill it with all sorts of colorful finds from the city’s craft market: handwoven blankets, pots made from brass and clay, and intricate jewelry. After a day of haggling and bargain hunting with the local merchants, sit back and unwind with a cup of spiced coffee, and enjoy the incredible view of the Rif Mountains. If you’re up for something more, take a Balloon Flight, or go Quad Biking in the desert.
Bagan, Myanmar
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: Bagan Myanmar
If you’re itching to get off the grid and go backpacking, definitely consider Bagan, Myanmar (READ: 6 PLaces to Check Out on Your Next Trip to Myanmar). This growing backpacker haunt is little more than an overgrown village with some of the simplest traveler comforts. But don’t mistake its simplicity for boring; with over two thousand temples and pagodas and wide, winding dirt roads, Bagan is easily one of Myanmar’s greatest tourist attractions and is best explored by bicycle.
Vientiane, Laos
World’s Most Relaxing Destinations: Vientiane City, Laos (via SaigonJoe)
Uncrowded and slow-paced, Vientiane has been nicknamed the ‘Capital of Calm.’ But this Mekong River-side spot is full of age-old Buddhist temples, impressive colonial French architecture, and great finds at the street markets. Spend your days pouring over a good book at any of the tiny cafes, and your nights at an old French villa turned boutique hotel.
How many times have your friends decided on an “air-con” place to have a meal just because of the sweltering heat of Singapore, or Southeast Asia for that matter. The tropical humidity can get downright intolerable some days of the year. That’s usually when we find ourselves fantasizing about winter adventures, or cool mountain hikes in the fall. But home is home and here are some things we wouldn’t trade at all.
Tropical Asia: Scuba Diving in Palawan, Philippines
Speaking of oceans, another tropics-only attraction are the seas and oceans filled with colourful corals and marine life. Whether you decide to go helmet diving, scuba diving, or island hopping, there are countless ways to explore the great ocean blue.
3. The Food
Tropical Asia: Balinese Cuisine, Indonesia
Living close to the equator has its upsides when it comes to food. And who doesn’t love food? Tropical climate makes for farming some of the most delicious fruits and vegetables that make their way into all sorts of delicious and exotic dishes. Whether you’re into Thai cuisine, Balinese cuisine, or Malaysian cuisine, take a food tour or try your hand at making these delicacies yourself! Book a Thai, Balinese, and Malaysian Cooking Class tour with KKday!
4. The Mountains
Tropical Asia: Mt. Pico de Loro, Philippines
Apart from incredible oceans and beaches, the tropical climate makes for some lush forests and mountains. You’ll see endemic plants and animals, stunning waterfalls, and incredible views.
5. The Locals
Okay, we’re a little biased here. But how can we not be? Something about all the sun makes the locals from this neck of the woods (or the beach) some of the friendliest people around.
Do you need more reason to head over to the tropics? Check out some of KKday’s Tropical guides and products!
Haunted Halloween in Okinawa, Japan: Chibichiri Cave
Japan has lots of somber memorials from the war, like the Hiroshima Memorial.The Battle of Okinawa left behind a number of haunted caves and when the Japanese lost the war, they were told to kill themselves rather than surrender to the Americans. So many soldiers—and even civilians—took this to heart and killed themselves in the Okinawa caves. Today the skull sculptures are kept as a memorial of the war, and a number of visitors come to pray for family members. But the claustrophobic caves and skulls protruding from the walls continue to be a harrowing sight.
Up until 1995, the Gonjiam Psychiatric Hospital was a fully functioning asylum. But after a number of mysterious deaths that authorities could not pinpoint, it was forced to shut down. In the last twenty years since its closure, the building—together with the hospital beds and equipment—have rotted nastily, leaving a haunting look to passerby today.
Many have claimed they can still hear disembodied cries through the cracked windows. The grounds have been closed off to the public since the hospital was shut down, but a number of thrill-seekers find a way to sneak in and explore.
Tak Tak School, Hong Kong
This old abandoned school have earned a notorious reputation for being the most haunted place in Hong Kong. It’s built on a mass grave where local residents were killed by the British for resisting eviction. When the school closed in 1998, a rumour went around that the headmistress hanged herself in the girl’s toilet which wearing a red dress dress—thus spinning stories of a red-clothed spirit wandering the grounds. Until now, the school is the source of many stories of paranormal activities.
Lawang Sewu, Indonesia
Haunted Halloween in Indonesia: Lawang Sewu
Apart from great Bali Beaches, Indonesia has a few other secrets. The building may look like any other old building, but Lawang Sewu, which was built during the Dutch occupation, is rife with tragedy. During its early days, the building was already tainted with stories of headless ghosts and paranormal activity, the most famous one of a Dutch woman committing suicide. But its most infamous event was during World War II, when it became an actual battleground. Indonesia and Japanese troops clashed right at this site, and supposedly a number of soldiers were held captive and tortured within Lawang Sewu’s walls.
Clark Hospital, Philippines
The Clark Air Base following Mt. Pinatubo’s eruption. This led to the the hospital closing down.
This former US Army Hospital is said to be haunted by the ghosts of soldiers. During World War II and the Vietnam War, it served as an asylum for the injured and dying troops. Because it was a war-time hospital, many of these deaths were violent and brutal. The hospital was abandoned following the volcanic eruption of Mt. Pinatubo, but locals say you can still see and hear the screams of the spirits.
These places are not for the faint-hearted. But for anyone just looking from some fun thrills and chills without risking bringing home any evil spirits, then be sure to attend Universal Studios Singapore’s Halloween Horror Nights 7.
Here in the Singapore, the climate is hot and humid year-round. That’s why KKday is here to show you some of the best ski slopes in Asia! Here are our top 4 picks for the snow season.
If you’ve only lived in tropical climates and humid weather, winter sports can be both exciting and terrifying. But fear shouldn’t stop you from the thrill of the mountain slopes. At Daemyung Resort Vivaldi Park, there are classes for beginners of all ages eager to go skiing or snowboarding on Mt. Daemyung. Guests can conveniently rent all the equipment they need and spend as much time as they’d like conquering the slopes.
Hokkaido is known to feel the first brush of winter in Japan, and becomes a scenic winter wonderland once the season kicks in. For the skilled and the serious skiers, head to the Asahidake Ropeway, which has some of the lightest and driest snowfall in the country–perfect for the seasonal athletes who like a challenge.
Winter Season: Asahidake Ropeway, Japan
To get to the ski area, you have to take a single gondola lift—the Asahidake Ropeway—where skiers can jump from more than 400 meters. The resort has an expansive terrain that goes deep and steep; it’s advisable to ski with a guide, because the terrain can get very dangerous on low visibility days. And while the Asahidake Ropeway isn’t the ideal family activity (especially if you’re traveling with small children or elderly), it’s located at the Daisetsuzan National Park, which is full of other scenic sights worth exploring.
Nami Island is one of Korea’s year-round, natural attractions and is an easy getaway from Seoul City. At this half moon-shaped island, tourists can try their hand at ice fishing over the solid frozen river.
Winter Season: Nami Island, Korea
Set out for the half moon-shaped Nami Island, only an hour away from Seoul. Warm up over a classic Korean BBQ before hitting the slopes. Race down the snow topped hills on a fun sledding experience. In the afternoon, you can try your hand at ice fishing. Stand over a solid frozen river and place bait in one of the many man-made holes. Cast a line and try to catch as many mountain trout as you can! After a successful haul, you can either release your fish or grill and eat them on the spot for an additional fee.
If winter means playing in the snow, head to the Tambara Ski Park. Just two hours away from Tokyo, this family friendly ski park is full of great outdoor activities. You can take ski and snowboard lessons and trail the beginner friendly slopes, while the kids (or you) can head over to the Tambara Snow Land’s moving snow escalator.
Winter Season: Tambara Ski Park, Japan
Afterwards, warm up over an all-you-can-eat snow crab and deep-water shrimp buffet. And for dessert? Pick it out yourself at the Harada Farmlang where you can enjoy fresh, succulent strawberries with sweet condensed milk!
Many were left devastated when Gong Cha left the bubble tea scene in Singapore and got taken over by LiHo (they will be coming back into our tiny red dot soon, don’t y’all worry). However, if you still miss Gong Cha as much as the other Singaporean, head down to Taiwan, because of the copious amounts of bubble tea shops that they have you are sure to find one that you will love. Here’s a run down of some of our favorites!
Chun Shui Tang
Milk Tea in Taiwan: Chung Shui Tang (image via ayustesty)
Chun Shui Tang is the OG of milk tea, and what started the craze. Must Try: Classic Pearl Milk Tea
Tea Patea is a younger milk tea brand compared to the others. The story is that Tea Patea was founded by a former apprentice of Chun Shui Tang. This brand boasts of much more affordable prices Must Try: Tieguanyin Tea Latte
85°C Bakery Cafe
Milk Tea in Taiwan: 85°C Bakery Cafe (image via sstrieu)
85°C Bakery Cafe is often called the ‘Starbucks of Taiwan.’ And while the shop is known for serving coffee (especially their Sea Salt Coffee, which you should also try!), they have a pretty goo menu of milk tea drinks as well. Must Try: Iced Rose Milk Tea
Presotea
Milk Tea in Taiwan: Presotea Milk Tea (image via Connie)
The name comes from the fact that Presotea uses an expresso-type machine for their drinks. They claim that their method keeps the natural freshness and flavor of the tea leaves. Must Try: Panda Milk Tea and Royal Earl Grey Milk Tea
50 Lan
Milk Tea in Taiwan: 50 Lan (image via Rory Finneren
As many people claim, this is the KOI of Taiwan. Also just like in Singapore, you can find this bubble tea store just a stone’s throw away from where ever you are! Must Try: Milk Tea with Pearl (Nothing beats the original here)
Night Market Milk Tea
Milk Tea in Taiwan: Shilin Market Milk Tea
But nothing really compares to the milk tea from Taiwan’s night markets. The night markets are a cultural experience all on their own, making their food and drink unique. Bonus points: the milk tea here is really cheap!
For more things to do in Taiwan, check out our other travel guides:
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