Lijiang is on a historical route in Yunnan, China; its old town provides visitors with a glimpse of its rich culture and past. I had the chance to visit this lovely place during my trip to this country.

The cities of Japan are fascinating; the bustling streets filled with pedestrians in Shibuya, the neon lights of the shopping centers and restaurants of Osaka and the trains that zip through each city like bullets are hallmarks of a developed country. However, that was not what I was looking for on this trip. I headed to the provinces to discover what Japan was like before.

Tsumago Old Town

I wasn't planning on going to Narai, but I had time after a few nights in Matsumoto. It was also on the way back to Nagoya, which was the same direction I was going. After researching online and hearing from a roommate, I decided to visit this old post town.

Vigan is a fourth class city and is the capital of Ilocos Sur. A visit to this historical city will bring you back to Spanish colonial times with the clopping of horse carriages, cobblestone streets and old houses transformed into shops, restaurants and hotels.

Marinduque has a rich cultural and historical heritage showcased by the many old houses and churches on the island.

Quezon is rich in culture and history that date back to Spanish times. There are a number of beautiful decades or even centuries old houses and churches in Lucban and Tayabas.

I was looking for other things to visit and do in Quezon aside from the much talked about beaches. I was directed to the grand old houses in Sariaya.

The Spaniards left a lasting influence on the Filipinos, as seen by the many churches scattered in various parts of the country.

Ilocos has several noteworthy destinations that has made it a popular tourist spot for Filipinos. The region has a UNESCO Heritage Town, white sand beaches, historical structures, delicious food, and unique landscapes that attract different kinds of travelers.

During the last leg of my more than two months odyssey through Southeast Asia, I traveled from Southern to Central Vietnam. My first stop? Ho Chi Minh City or formerly known as Saigon.

Since I was in Malaysia for a week after my trip to Nepal and have been to Malaysia quite a few times already, I decided to go to a state I have yet to visit. I didn't know what to expect from Ipoh since I barely researched on places to visit and things to do in this city in Perak. I was in the 'what-the-heck-mode-I'll-just-wing-it' mentality.

Art in the City

After the chaotic Floating Market, I went to the Bridge Over the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi. The actual bridge was already destroyed but a new, albeit symbolic one, was erected. Our first stop was in the Jeath War Museum. The entrance fee to the museum cost 40 Baht.