January_2013

Jan

ua

ry

2012

PP

15075/07/2012(029856)T

RA

VE

L 3Six

Ty

A

iRA

SiA

inFLig

hT M

Ag

Az

inE

ww

w.airasia.co

m/travel360

54

AirAsiA inflight MAgAzine

help save the earth. read the magazine online and stop stealing me!www.airasia.com/travel360

01 2012

Palawan, Philippines

Return to Majesty

Paws for Peace

United BUddy Bears

Paradise FoUnd

Gujerat, India

soaring to the sUn

QUeens Park

rangers

dragonYear of the2012

R S V C _ T r a v e l 3 6 0 a . p d f P a g e 1 2 4 / 1 0 / 1 1 , 4 : 4 5 P M

Contents January 2012

NAVIGATOR

56ENTER THE DRAGONChinese New Year 2012

66RETURN OF QUEENS PARK RANGERSRangers Strike Back

74PAWS FOR PEACE United Buddy Bears

80PARADISE FOUNDPalawan, Philippines

88SOARING TO THE SUNGujerat, India

96 PILOTS PERSPECTIVEA Flight Primer

100TRAVEL LOGSouth Korean Sojourn

CHECK-IN56

6674

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_151211_5 1 16/12/11 1:58 PM

R S V C _ T r a v e l 3 6 0 a . p d f P a g e 1 2 4 / 1 0 / 1 1 , 4 : 4 5 P M

50

88

102 104

BOARDING CALL

06 CAPTAINS ADDRESSWelcome 2012

08 INBOXThe Buzz from our Guests

10 RED FORTNews from AirAsia

128 MY AIRASIAWhos the Boss?

FLIGHT PLAN

18 SPOTLIGHTStuff youd Love to Know

24 HOT DATES January Events to Keep a Lookout for

26 COMPASSCheap & Chic

30 QUICK BITESJanuary Foodie News

32 PAGE TURNERRead-y for 2012

34 MONEY MAKEREncouraging Economic Endurance

36 PRESCRIPTIONHeed your Health

38 SCORE BOARDBig on Brands

40 HYPER TECHThe Big Small

42 SLEEP INNSRest & Rejuvenate

50 HIT LISTBridging the Gap

110 KIDS SPACEYear Round Fun

STYLE FILE

102 OFF THE RACKYour Best Foot Forward

104 VANITY FARENew Year, New You

106 JETSETTERDan Lynn

IN FLIGHT

112 PLANE FUN Puzzles & Games

114 PICTURE PERFECTPhotos Taken by AirAsia Guests

116 GET COMFYJoy of Flying

PORT OF CALL

118 ROUTE MAP

124 AIRASIA SALES OFFICES & STATIONS

126 TOUCHDOWN Semarang, Indonesia

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_151211_5 2 16/12/11 1:58 PM

50

88

102 104

BOARDING CALL

06 CAPTAINS ADDRESSWelcome 2012

08 INBOXThe Buzz from our Guests

10 RED FORTNews from AirAsia

128 MY AIRASIAWhos the Boss?

FLIGHT PLAN

18 SPOTLIGHTStuff youd Love to Know

24 HOT DATES January Events to Keep a Lookout for

26 COMPASSCheap & Chic

30 QUICK BITESJanuary Foodie News

32 PAGE TURNERRead-y for 2012

34 MONEY MAKEREncouraging Economic Endurance

36 PRESCRIPTIONHeed your Health

38 SCORE BOARDBig on Brands

40 HYPER TECHThe Big Small

42 SLEEP INNSRest & Rejuvenate

50 HIT LISTBridging the Gap

110 KIDS SPACEYear Round Fun

STYLE FILE

102 OFF THE RACKYour Best Foot Forward

104 VANITY FARENew Year, New You

106 JETSETTERDan Lynn

IN FLIGHT

112 PLANE FUN Puzzles & Games

114 PICTURE PERFECTPhotos Taken by AirAsia Guests

116 GET COMFYJoy of Flying

PORT OF CALL

118 ROUTE MAP

124 AIRASIA SALES OFFICES & STATIONS

126 TOUCHDOWN Semarang, Indonesia

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_151211_5 2 16/12/11 1:58 PM

Save 10% on your next holiday fromKuala Lumpur at AirAsiaGo.com

Book a holiday from Kuala Lumpur with yourAmerican Express Card and enjoy fantastic savings

Make your booking with your American Express Card from 1 December 2011 to 29 February 2012and enjoy 10% savings on all package deals from Kuala Lumpur for travel between 1 January and 30 June 2012.

Simply click the American Express banner ad at AirAsiaGo.com and use thepromo code AAGAmex2012 to enjoy this exclusive offer.

Terms and Conditions: This offer begins 1 December 2011 at 00:01hrs and ends 29 February 2012 at 23:59hrs. Valid for new purchases only. Promo with the accommodation component is valid on www.airasiago.com for American Express Cardmembers who use the promo code AAGAmex2012 during the promotion period and applicable for selected hotels only. Package rates are per person based on twin sharing basis. Accommodation check-in/out period is valid from 1 January to 30 June 2012. Full payment shall be made upon booking. A non-refundable processing fee is applicable for payments via credit, debit and charge card. Fare includes fuel surcharges; carbon offset surcharge (for flights to/from Europe) and airport taxes (except for selected airports where airport tax is collected at the point of departure). All taxes must be paid at the time of purchase unless otherwise stated. Foreign fares are subjected to currency exchange rates. No refunds are permitted after payment has been made. Guest travelling are responsible for obtaining and must possess and have available for presentation as required by the relevant authorities all entry and exit, health and other documents required by law. AirAsia reserves the right to deny guests from boarding without proper travel documentation. Other terms & conditions apply.

AIRASIA INFLIGHT MAGAZINE

HELP SAVE THE EARTH.READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AND STOP STEALING ME!www.airasia.com/travel360

01 2012


Return to Majesty

Paws for Peace

UNITED BUDDY BEARS

PARADISE FOUND

Gujerat, India

SOARING TO THE SUN

QUEENS PARK

RANGERS

DRAGONYEAR OF THE2012

PUBLISHER Kathleen Tan

MANAGING EDITOR R. Rajendra

ART DIRECTOR Kan Seak Hong

WRITERS Beverly RodriguesChitra S

PHOTOJOURNALIST Adam Lee

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Fazlina Bee Binti Abdul Rashid

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Fadillah Kamarudin

CONTRIBUTORS Alice Yong, Captain Lim Khoy Hing, Edgar Alan Zeta-Yap, E Hamzah, Farheen Ali, Pete King, Shantini Suntharajah, Tony Incenzo

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Indran Balavishnu (Malaysia) [email protected]

Mairianne Reardon (Singapore, UK and International Markets) [email protected]

Charuphan Pojchanart (Thailand) [email protected]

Vikhram Radhakishnan (Indonesia) [email protected]

Tel: +6 03 7962 5813 (Phar Partnerships Malaysia)E-mail: [email protected]

Travel 3Sixty wishes to thank Lovatts Crosswords & Puzzles, MPH, Pansing Marketing, Quikmark Media

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES [email protected]

PUBLISHED BY Travel 3Sixty c/o AirAsia BerhadLCC Terminal, Jalan KLIA S3, Southern Support Zone, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, 64000 Sepang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. Tel: 603-8660 4333

PRINTING Percetakan Zanders Sdn. Bhd.No. 16, Jalan BK 1/11, Bandar Kinrara, 47180 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.Tel: 603-5623 9393

PRE-PRESS SERVICES Digiscan Services Sdn. Bhd.No. 26, Jalan 4/62A, Bandar Manjalara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 603-6273 6386

TRAVEL 3SIXTY DIGITAL TEAM

CONTENT Matthew Mok, Jayne Kam, Irvin Hanni

WEBMASTER Iyan Yudhiana

WEB DEVELOPERS Ong Chin Han, Jason Phoon, Mohd Su an

WEB DESIGNERS Charmaine Wong, Goh Wee Kee, Howard Choong

All rights reserved. The opinions and statements of contributors in Travel 3Sixty do not necessarily re ect those of the publisher or AirAsia Berhad. Travel 3Sixty and AirAsia Berhad are not responsible or liable in anyway for the contents of the advertisements, articles, photographs or illustrations contained in this publication. We reasonably assume that all articles are factual and not plagiarised or intentionally libellous. The editorial team reserves the right to edit and / or re-write all materials according to the needs of the publication upon usage.

Reproduction of material from Travel 3Sixty in any form is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Unsolicited materials will not be returned unless accompanied by suf cient return postage. All

information correct at the time of printing.

PP15075/07/2012(029856)

Find us at www.facebook.com/travel3sixty

ON THE COVER2012 Year of the DragonIllustration by Tim Lai

airasia.com/ask

AirAsia on Twitter for information & assistance on simple requests: www.twitter.com/AskAirAsia For exciting news, bytes and tweets from AirAsia: www.twitter.com/airasia

AirAsia on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AirAsia. For AirAsia promotional updates, travel stories & news: www.facebook.com/airasia

AirAsia blog to share travel experiences and stories: http://blog.airasia.com

Find us on Weibo athttp://t.sina.com.cn/airasia

Folow us on RenRen athttp://page.renren.com/airasia

FOR QUERIES, ASSISTANCE AND FEEDBACK, YOU CAN REACH US HERE:

Have a question regarding travelling with AirAsia? Get your answers here at airasia.com/ask! Well help you out via chat, twitter.com/askairasia or E-mail if you need further assistance

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 4 17/12/11 1:08 PM

AIRASIA INFLIGHT MAGAZINE

HELP SAVE THE EARTH.READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AND STOP STEALING ME!www.airasia.com/travel360

01 2012


Return to Majesty

Paws for Peace

UNITED BUDDY BEARS

PARADISE FOUND

Gujerat, India

SOARING TO THE SUN

QUEENS PARK

RANGERS

DRAGONYEAR OF THE2012

PUBLISHER Kathleen Tan

MANAGING EDITOR R. Rajendra

ART DIRECTOR Kan Seak Hong

WRITERS Beverly RodriguesChitra S

PHOTOJOURNALIST Adam Lee

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Fazlina Bee Binti Abdul Rashid

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Fadillah Kamarudin

CONTRIBUTORS Alice Yong, Captain Lim Khoy Hing, Edgar Alan Zeta-Yap, E Hamzah, Farheen Ali, Pete King, Shantini Suntharajah, Tony Incenzo

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Indran Balavishnu (Malaysia) [email protected]

Mairianne Reardon (Singapore, UK and International Markets) [email protected]

Charuphan Pojchanart (Thailand) [email protected]

Vikhram Radhakishnan (Indonesia) [email protected]

Tel: +6 03 7962 5813 (Phar Partnerships Malaysia)E-mail: [email protected]

Travel 3Sixty wishes to thank Lovatts Crosswords & Puzzles, MPH, Pansing Marketing, Quikmark Media

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES [email protected]

PUBLISHED BY Travel 3Sixty c/o AirAsia BerhadLCC Terminal, Jalan KLIA S3, Southern Support Zone, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, 64000 Sepang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. Tel: 603-8660 4333

PRINTING Percetakan Zanders Sdn. Bhd.No. 16, Jalan BK 1/11, Bandar Kinrara, 47180 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.Tel: 603-5623 9393

PRE-PRESS SERVICES Digiscan Services Sdn. Bhd.No. 26, Jalan 4/62A, Bandar Manjalara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 603-6273 6386

TRAVEL 3SIXTY DIGITAL TEAM

CONTENT Matthew Mok, Jayne Kam, Irvin Hanni

WEBMASTER Iyan Yudhiana

WEB DEVELOPERS Ong Chin Han, Jason Phoon, Mohd Su an

WEB DESIGNERS Charmaine Wong, Goh Wee Kee, Howard Choong

All rights reserved. The opinions and statements of contributors in Travel 3Sixty do not necessarily re ect those of the publisher or AirAsia Berhad. Travel 3Sixty and AirAsia Berhad are not responsible or liable in anyway for the contents of the advertisements, articles, photographs or illustrations contained in this publication. We reasonably assume that all articles are factual and not plagiarised or intentionally libellous. The editorial team reserves the right to edit and / or re-write all materials according to the needs of the publication upon usage.

Reproduction of material from Travel 3Sixty in any form is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Unsolicited materials will not be returned unless accompanied by suf cient return postage. All

information correct at the time of printing.

PP15075/07/2012(029856)

Find us at www.facebook.com/travel3sixty

ON THE COVER2012 Year of the DragonIllustration by Tim Lai

airasia.com/ask

AirAsia on Twitter for information & assistance on simple requests: www.twitter.com/AskAirAsia For exciting news, bytes and tweets from AirAsia: www.twitter.com/airasia

AirAsia on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AirAsia. For AirAsia promotional updates, travel stories & news: www.facebook.com/airasia

AirAsia blog to share travel experiences and stories: http://blog.airasia.com

Find us on Weibo athttp://t.sina.com.cn/airasia

Folow us on RenRen athttp://page.renren.com/airasia

FOR QUERIES, ASSISTANCE AND FEEDBACK, YOU CAN REACH US HERE:

Have a question regarding travelling with AirAsia? Get your answers here at airasia.com/ask! Well help you out via chat, twitter.com/askairasia or E-mail if you need further assistance

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 4 17/12/11 1:08 PM

M a y b a n k _ T r a v e l 3 S i x t . p d f P a g e P a g e 1 0 8 / 1 2 / 2 0 1 1 , 2 2 : 4 2

012012

CAPTAINS ADDRESSwww.airasia.com/travel360

Its nally here folks. 2012; that special year thats been on everyones mind for the past decade or so. And its an auspicious one at that too. Around three weeks into the year, the Chinese will herald in the year of the Water Dragon, which comes around every 60 years, with every 12-year cycle marked by the elements metal, water, wood, re and earth.

In the Orient, the Water Dragon is a special creature as it personi es creativity and growth. Although a re and masculine energy (yang), the hot temperament of the dragon is calmed and redirected towards positive results with this water element.

Trend spotters too have been supremely busy telling the world whats in and whats out for 2012. Pantone has proclaimed Tangerine Tango (17-1463) as the colour of 2012. This luscious shade that blends coral, orange and red portends all that is bright, cheerful and propitious.

With food, Mexican cuisine is expected to take centre stage while macaroons crumble to give way to Snow Ice and exotic avoured marshmallows think Guinness and Cabernet!

Citizens of the world will lose their marbles over all things British with the London Olympiad in July, and

as for destinations, travel magazines have zeroed in on Japan, Malaysia, Morocco, Ukraine, Brazil and London as holiday hotspots.

And lets not forget the huge, pink elephant in the room the Mayan prophecy for 2012. Though doom prophets are gleefully rubbing their palms, many believe that the Mayan and Hopi calendars have been wrongly interpreted. According to Joseph Robert Jochmans, author and researcher of ancient mysteries,Both the Hopis and Mayans recognise that we are approaching the end of a World Age. In both cases, however, the Hopi and Mayan elders do not prophesy that everything will come to an end. Rather, this is a time of transition from one World Age into another. The message they give concerns our making a choice of how we enter the future ahead. Our moving through with either resistance or acceptance will determine whether the transition will happen with cataclysmic changes or gradual peace and tranquillity.

There you go. Its gonna be a great year!

Managing EditorR.Rajendra

WELCOME 2012

TONY, THE DRAGONAirAsia Group CEO Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes was born under the auspices of the Wood Dragon in 1964. Heres a description of the characteristics of the Wood Dragon, which we think rather precisely describes the man!

Wood has a modifying infl uence and brings creativity to this sign. Questioning and liberal, Wood Dragons enjoy talking about original ideas and are open to other points of view. They are innovative, imaginative practical and appreciate art in each of its forms. Generally less pretentious than the other Dragons, Wood Dragons have an ability to get along with people. They have the essentials to build a prosperous and happy life for themselves. Still, Wood Dragons are outspoken and at times a bit pushy to quell everyone, even in the friendliest quarrel.

Source: www.usbridalguide.com/special/chinesehoroscopes/Dragon.htm

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 6 17/12/11 1:14 PM

INBOXwww.airasia.com/travel360

The article The Kidzania World (Oct 2011) caught my attention while travelling to Tokyo recently. The growth of a nation is invested in the youth. Such an investment is the creation of Kidzania. Kidzania will expose children to various vocations, creating an opportunity to learn and experience the skills needed for each job. Parents too will get good insights about their

childrens interests. It is a great way of learning skills, which will be of great bene t for the younger generation as well as the nation. I strongly recommend that every kid be given the opportunity to visit Kidzania. ~ Dr. S. VasanthaPriya, Tokyo.

Great! Not only has the magazine gone online, the bumper Dec 2011 issue was a lovely year-end gift for fans like me who thoroughly enjoy reading Travel 360 from start to end. I also totally dig your new look. The layout is clean, clutter-free and refl ects a very contemporary way of presenting articles and stories. Most other magazines, I noticed, are gimmicky with unnecessary colours, graphics and design. Yours allow the stories and articles to entertain without resorting to cosmetics. Keep up the good job! ~ S Jakarathan, via e-mail

HERES THE BUZZ ON AIRASIAS TWITTER, FACEBOOK AND WEIBO PAGES

I cant thank you enough for the Silken Splendour article (Nov 2011). I was actually heading to Chengdu when I read the magazine. The article was a wonderful insight into Shu embroidery. Not only did I learn about silk, the tips on choosing and avoiding getting cheated with overpriced and fake silk products came in handy too. Thank you for an informative and interesting read

on Chengdu. ~ Shawn Wong, via e-mail.

KidZania Jakarta is an indoor facility, located on the 6th oor of Paci c Place Shopping Mall. www.kidzania.co.id

junior jet club

The Kidzania WorldKidzania is a wonderful place that kids can truly enjoy while learning about the real world.

KidZania is a unique edutainment centre that promotes intellectual growth through educational and professional role-playing activities for children between the ages of four to 16. It is a kid-sized replica of a real city complete with an airport, hospital, supermarket, beauty salon, theatre and more.

In KidZania, kids get KIDZOS, the of cial KidZania currency to either save or spend on buying goods or participating in activities. Once they run out of KIDZOS, however, the kids will have to roll up their sleeves and work to earn them back.

Kids who visit KidZania can experience being a pilot, play the role of a ight attendant, become a customer at the bank, play surgeon on the operating table, take a course to obtain a KidZania driving license, host and support the production of a television programme and try out other activities that cover over 90 different professions.

While in KidZania, kids will also get to meet three friendly mascots: Urbano, an energetic 9-year-old boy who is adventurous and curious. His favourite music is Rock.

Vita, a delightful 7-year-old girl who is caring and a great thinker. She loves Pop music. Bache, Urbano and Vitas enthusiastic, funny and affectionate pet dog. Baches favourite music is Urban.

Urbano, Vita and Bache in KLKidZanias lively and adorable mascots made their rst appearance in Kuala Lumpur at the recent Boustead

Holdings Petrol (BHP) Orange Run where they were spotted mingling at the start line with the under-18 category runners and later keeping the crowd entertained with a KidZania dance performance.

Working with AirAsia, KidZania Kuala Lumpur is also the rst KidZania state to have a fuselage xture extending out of the building.

Opening at the end of this year, KidZania Kuala Lumpur will be located at the Curve NX a new building connected to the Curve shopping mall in the Mutiara Damansara township.

Lookout for Miss Kidzania in JakartaKidZania Jakarta was formed in 2007 and has since organised many activities. This year, KidZania Jakarta will hold one of its biggest events, Miss Kidzania Indonesia, for the third consecutive year. The event nale will be held in December 2011.

Indonesian kids aged between seven to 12 years old can register from October until mid November. Selection criteria will be based on Brains, Beauty and Behaviour. Throughout the event, participants will be judged based on their sense of caring for the environment and broad based general knowledge. Many interesting prizes await, including an opportunity to become the brand ambassador of KidZania Jakarta for one year.

Miss KidZania pageant

UrbanoVita

Bache

KidZania Kuala Lumpur

110 travel3sixty october

NIS KThe legacy, splendour and production of

silk have always intrigued and mesmerised. From a closely guarded secret in royal

households to a trade commodity, the silk industry in Chengdu nds a new lease of life

in stunning embroidered art pieces.

SPLENDOURppdd pandndaaned aeecsseed mmmmmomnnea ns a eedere

TsilkThek hFr

houindus

i

eegacy, scy splvve alwaylw ysmm a closc selyhholds tod o ayy in Che enstunninn g e

evmehrys

llaavommseetrrn s

e harosstn

ionucticmeresmsroyn rnhey, tyse easecespiec

n ofd. rised

yal ke silkfeof lif

s.

L EWORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY: IRA DE REUVER

84 travel3sixty november

Thanks AirAsia! You allow me to travel to France on a tight budget! (only SGD1200 from

Singapore to Paris!). With your low fares, I can have more money for my food and accommodation in Paris. Also, saw some European guys taking pictures to celebrate their rst trip to Asia! myEmilia

Thanks AirAsia for allowing free ight changes during the Bangkok oods. Of cer at AA Thailand Call Centre was great. I changed my ight with only 1 call. Lovep1125

Ive been a fan of AirAsia ever since you arrived in China. AirAsia has granted me the chance to travel out of China, changed my life and, let me see and experience the beauty of the world. Im grateful for this! Leo

Absolutely good call on @airasia and their engagement strategy. Even CEO responds to most

tweets. OurManinSH

@AirAsia Web check in is so ez. Dont have to stress out at the airport everytime we tour. Jakarta here we come! WingMeng

I Thank you @AirAsia X Premium. Slept for at least 10 hrs out of 13hr ight. Most comfortable ight ever #AirAsia. Sam White

On the ight to KUL to DPS just now on @AirAsia,David Beckham, Paris Hilton & Julia

Roberts were doing the safety demo. That caught the attention of everyone! Very creative way to cheer-up an early morning ight. Marul69

Great job AA! I have been waiting for you to come to Osaka since 2008! I have already booked 2 tickets from Osaka to KL! Noriko Hasegawa Suzuki

LETTER OF THE MONTH

WINS A RM918 VOUCHER TO

BE REDEEMED AGAINST AN ATC 0912 28

LUGGAGE.*

o

*T&C apply. *Luggage shown here for illustration purpose

only. Colours may vary.

Like what you read in Travel 3Sixty? Share your thoughts with us! To show you how much we appreciate your feedback, well give the best letter of the month a fabulous prize and the other two letters will receive a RM100 gift voucher each from Luggage Empire. Email your feedback to [email protected]. Travel 3Sixty reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and length, and only letters regarding articles published in Travel 3Sixty will stand to win a prize.

LETTEROF THE

MONTH!

TRAVEL 3SIXTY8

012012

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 8 15/12/11 7:36 PM

INBOXwww.airasia.com/travel360

The article The Kidzania World (Oct 2011) caught my attention while travelling to Tokyo recently. The growth of a nation is invested in the youth. Such an investment is the creation of Kidzania. Kidzania will expose children to various vocations, creating an opportunity to learn and experience the skills needed for each job. Parents too will get good insights about their

childrens interests. It is a great way of learning skills, which will be of great bene t for the younger generation as well as the nation. I strongly recommend that every kid be given the opportunity to visit Kidzania. ~ Dr. S. VasanthaPriya, Tokyo.

Great! Not only has the magazine gone online, the bumper Dec 2011 issue was a lovely year-end gift for fans like me who thoroughly enjoy reading Travel 360 from start to end. I also totally dig your new look. The layout is clean, clutter-free and refl ects a very contemporary way of presenting articles and stories. Most other magazines, I noticed, are gimmicky with unnecessary colours, graphics and design. Yours allow the stories and articles to entertain without resorting to cosmetics. Keep up the good job! ~ S Jakarathan, via e-mail

HERES THE BUZZ ON AIRASIAS TWITTER, FACEBOOK AND WEIBO PAGES

I cant thank you enough for the Silken Splendour article (Nov 2011). I was actually heading to Chengdu when I read the magazine. The article was a wonderful insight into Shu embroidery. Not only did I learn about silk, the tips on choosing and avoiding getting cheated with overpriced and fake silk products came in handy too. Thank you for an informative and interesting read

on Chengdu. ~ Shawn Wong, via e-mail.

KidZania Jakarta is an indoor facility, located on the 6th oor of Paci c Place Shopping Mall. www.kidzania.co.id

junior jet club

The Kidzania WorldKidzania is a wonderful place that kids can truly enjoy while learning about the real world.

KidZania is a unique edutainment centre that promotes intellectual growth through educational and professional role-playing activities for children between the ages of four to 16. It is a kid-sized replica of a real city complete with an airport, hospital, supermarket, beauty salon, theatre and more.

In KidZania, kids get KIDZOS, the of cial KidZania currency to either save or spend on buying goods or participating in activities. Once they run out of KIDZOS, however, the kids will have to roll up their sleeves and work to earn them back.

Kids who visit KidZania can experience being a pilot, play the role of a ight attendant, become a customer at the bank, play surgeon on the operating table, take a course to obtain a KidZania driving license, host and support the production of a television programme and try out other activities that cover over 90 different professions.

While in KidZania, kids will also get to meet three friendly mascots: Urbano, an energetic 9-year-old boy who is adventurous and curious. His favourite music is Rock.

Vita, a delightful 7-year-old girl who is caring and a great thinker. She loves Pop music. Bache, Urbano and Vitas enthusiastic, funny and affectionate pet dog. Baches favourite music is Urban.

Urbano, Vita and Bache in KLKidZanias lively and adorable mascots made their rst appearance in Kuala Lumpur at the recent Boustead

Holdings Petrol (BHP) Orange Run where they were spotted mingling at the start line with the under-18 category runners and later keeping the crowd entertained with a KidZania dance performance.

Working with AirAsia, KidZania Kuala Lumpur is also the rst KidZania state to have a fuselage xture extending out of the building.

Opening at the end of this year, KidZania Kuala Lumpur will be located at the Curve NX a new building connected to the Curve shopping mall in the Mutiara Damansara township.

Lookout for Miss Kidzania in JakartaKidZania Jakarta was formed in 2007 and has since organised many activities. This year, KidZania Jakarta will hold one of its biggest events, Miss Kidzania Indonesia, for the third consecutive year. The event nale will be held in December 2011.

Indonesian kids aged between seven to 12 years old can register from October until mid November. Selection criteria will be based on Brains, Beauty and Behaviour. Throughout the event, participants will be judged based on their sense of caring for the environment and broad based general knowledge. Many interesting prizes await, including an opportunity to become the brand ambassador of KidZania Jakarta for one year.

Miss KidZania pageant

UrbanoVita

Bache

KidZania Kuala Lumpur

110 travel3sixty october

NIS KThe legacy, splendour and production of

silk have always intrigued and mesmerised. From a closely guarded secret in royal

households to a trade commodity, the silk industry in Chengdu nds a new lease of life

in stunning embroidered art pieces.

SPLENDOURppdd pandndaaned aeecsseed mmmmmomnnea ns a eedere

TsilkThek hFr

houindus

i

eegacy, scy splvve alwaylw ysmm a closc selyhholds tod o ayy in Che enstunninn g e

evmehrys

llaavommseetrrn s

e harosstn

ionucticmeresmsroyn rnhey, tyse easecespiec

n ofd. rised

yal ke silkfeof lif

s.

L EWORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY: IRA DE REUVER

84 travel3sixty november

Thanks AirAsia! You allow me to travel to France on a tight budget! (only SGD1200 from

Singapore to Paris!). With your low fares, I can have more money for my food and accommodation in Paris. Also, saw some European guys taking pictures to celebrate their rst trip to Asia! myEmilia

Thanks AirAsia for allowing free ight changes during the Bangkok oods. Of cer at AA Thailand Call Centre was great. I changed my ight with only 1 call. Lovep1125

Ive been a fan of AirAsia ever since you arrived in China. AirAsia has granted me the chance to travel out of China, changed my life and, let me see and experience the beauty of the world. Im grateful for this! Leo

Absolutely good call on @airasia and their engagement strategy. Even CEO responds to most

tweets. OurManinSH

@AirAsia Web check in is so ez. Dont have to stress out at the airport everytime we tour. Jakarta here we come! WingMeng

I Thank you @AirAsia X Premium. Slept for at least 10 hrs out of 13hr ight. Most comfortable ight ever #AirAsia. Sam White

On the ight to KUL to DPS just now on @AirAsia,David Beckham, Paris Hilton & Julia

Roberts were doing the safety demo. That caught the attention of everyone! Very creative way to cheer-up an early morning ight. Marul69

Great job AA! I have been waiting for you to come to Osaka since 2008! I have already booked 2 tickets from Osaka to KL! Noriko Hasegawa Suzuki

LETTER OF THE MONTH

WINS A RM918 VOUCHER TO

BE REDEEMED AGAINST AN ATC 0912 28

LUGGAGE.*

o

*T&C apply. *Luggage shown here for illustration purpose

only. Colours may vary.

Like what you read in Travel 3Sixty? Share your thoughts with us! To show you how much we appreciate your feedback, well give the best letter of the month a fabulous prize and the other two letters will receive a RM100 gift voucher each from Luggage Empire. Email your feedback to [email protected]. Travel 3Sixty reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and length, and only letters regarding articles published in Travel 3Sixty will stand to win a prize.

LETTEROF THE

MONTH!

TRAVEL 3SIXTY8

012012

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 8 15/12/11 7:36 PM

T 3 6 0 _ S e p _ P P o i n t . p d f P a g e 1 2 9 / 0 7 / 1 0 , 3 : 5 1 P M

RED FORTwww.airasia.com/travel360

JUST AWESOME!

On December 8, 2011, AirAsia celebrated its 10th anniversary and commemorated the airlines very rst route from Kuala Lumpur

to Kota Kinabalu, way back in 2001. With AirAsia Chairman, Dato Aziz Bakar leading the welcome party, an excited group of AirAsia AllStars received guests ying in from Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur. The surprised guests were then presented with goodies in celebration of AirAsias special day.

The LCC Terminal was also transformed into a carnival-like zone with re-eaters and dance performances, interactive games and appearances by local radio personalities. Adding to the merriment, was a cake-cutting ceremony led by AirAsia Chairman, Dato Aziz Bakar; Group CEO, Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes; Deputy Group CEO, Dato Kamarudin Meranun; AirAsia X CEO, Azran Osman-Rani; AirAsia Indonesia CEO, Dharmadi; AirAsia Philippines CEO, Maan Hontiveros; AirAsia Member of the Board of Directors, Dato Fam Lee Ee and, the senior management team from AirAsia and AirAsia X.

The real icing on the cake, however, was the Awesome Sale. In celebration of AirAsias 10 Awesome Years, the airline offered fares from as low as 10 sen to hotspots like Penang and Langkawi in Malaysia, Bali, Bangkok and Hanoi. But, thats not all! AirAsia also reduced its processing fee, applicable for all online transactions made with credit or charge cards to just RM5 per guest per sector. Visit www.airasia.com for more information.

We worked hard over the past 10 years to take AirAsia to celestial heights. With passion, creativity and commitment, weve achieved our dreams which others deemed impossible. Where others were sceptical, we believed. And after 10 years since our inception,

we remain as the popular choice among travellers, and we will continue to provide the best for many years to come. ~ AirAsia Group CEO, Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes

This is our thank you to guests for the support given all these years. We will continue to do our best for many years to come in providing everyone with the exceptional AirAsia Experience via Awesome low fares, consumer-friendly products and services, a modern

fl eet, extensive network, great fl ight frequencies, convenient booking and payment channels, and choose-your-own features for meals, seats and baggage allowances. ~ AirAsia Regional Head of Commercial, Kathleen Tan

LEFT: Celebrating 10 Awesome Years. (From L - R) AirAsia member of BOD Dato Fam Lee Ee, Deputy Group CEO Dato Kamarudin Meranun, Group CEO Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes, AirAsia X CEO Azran Osman-Rani.

BELOW, LEFT : AirAsia Chairman Dato Aziz Bakar welcoming guests as they disembark fl ight AK5101 from Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur.

COM

PILE

BY:

BEV

ERLY

ROD

RIGU

ES

OUR MISSIONAirAsias mission is to democratise travel. This is clearly represented in its tagline: Now Everyone Can Fly. Over the past 10 years, AirAsia has grown from three destinations in 2001 to over 80 destinations across 24 countries. Today, over 140 million people have own across the world with AirAsia.

TRAVEL 3SIXTY10

012012

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_151211_5 10 16/12/11 2:01 PM

JUST GO BIG

BIG IS BETTER BIG membership is borderless and open to anyone aged two

years and above! There are 1,500 BIG partners with more than 3,000 retail

outlets around the world where BIG Shots can shop and collect BIGGIES online and of ine. BIG also has an online shopping mall at shop.tune2big.com with over 1,000 cross-border global merchants!

BIG Shots can start redeeming rewards from as little as 500 BIGGIES; cash top ups are accepted.

In Malaysia, the BIG card doubles up as a BIG Visa Prepaid card!

On November 14, 2011, AirAsia launched BIG a new and innovative global loyalty programme that allows BIG Shots (members) to earn BIGGIES (loyalty points) when travelling and shopping with programme partners worldwide. The BIGGIES can be redeemed for fabulous rewards, the best being free ights! Visit tune2big.com to sign up as a BIG Shot!

To bring AirAsia even closer to the public, the airline opened its 35th AirAsia Travel and Service Centre (ATSC) in Malaysia at KL City Walk. Complementing the popular online services available at www.airasia.com, ATSCs act as one-stop travel and service centres that offer of ine guests fast and convenient access to AirAsias amazing low fares, as well as products and services from AirAsia Insure, AirAsiaGo, AirAsia RedTix and Red Megastore. While run by independent operators, ATSCs are fully authorised and committed to provide high service standards set by AirAsia.

In November 2011, AirAsia signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in Penang, offering special bene ts to university staff carrying government warrants for of cial travel. These bene ts include special Hot Meals, an assigned Hot Seat (depending on seat availability), baggage allowance of 20kgs,sporting equipment allowance of 20kgs and much more.

COOL BENEFITS

ABOVE: Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes launching the AirAsia Travel & Service Centre (ATSC)

Testimonial

LOVIN BIG Going on holiday around the region is something my family and I always try to do, but the sheer expense has always put me off. Then I heard about the BIG Card. I love the idea of the frequent air miles, but what really attracted me was the way we are rewarded by fl ying and, using the card for our everyday purchases with Visa merchants. I applied for a card for everyone in my family! Its easy to reload the card via online banking, and the family can spend using the card at all Visa merchants worldwide and for online transactions. We can earn BIGGIES and redeem them for quick weekend breaks. Even our helper redeems fl ights home to Indonesia to see her family. Thats the beauty of BIG! ~ Andy Buddel, BIG Shot

AIRASIA TRAVEL CENTRES

ABOVE: (L - R): Tune Money CEO Peter Miller, Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes and BIG CEO Johan Aris fl anked by AirAsia fl ight attendants.

AirAsias Group CEO Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes has been named one of the Top 100 Most In uential People for Japan by Nikkei Business magazine, making him the rst and only Malaysian ever recognised in this list, as well as one of just three non-Japanese to be accorded this honour. The Top 100 are shortlisted by business leaders in Japan, reviewed, and then placed in six categories that make up the 100 People Creating the Japan of Tomorrow: Game Changer, Creator, Hero, Leader, Thinker and Dreamer. Fernandes was dubbed Game Changer.

Ten years have passed since I began my aviation journey and it gives me joy to know that the low-cost carrier impact started by the AirAsia brand is felt throughout the region. AirAsia Japan is set to be an industry changer when we start operating, and I am glad to be working with great people in ANA to make air travel affordable for all in Japan. ~ AirAsias Group CEO Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes

GAME CHANGER

12 TRAVEL 3SIXTY

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_151211_5 12 16/12/11 2:01 PM

HOT IN TRANGCome January 15, 2012, AirAsia will bring you a hot, new destination: Trang in Southern Thailand. While quieter than nearby tourist hotspots like Phuket and Krabi, this province along the coast of the Andaman Sea is known for its stunning natural beauty. Here are some of its best attractions.

Ko Kradan is believed to be Trangs most beautiful island with powdery white stretches of beach and crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkelling and diving.

CARGO IN COLOURInspired by Mumbais dabbawallas whose colour-coding system is said to be so ef cient, only one mistake occurs in every 16 million deliveries, AirAsia Cargo has created its very own colour-coding system to enhance its distribution and handling processes. Besides air waybills to identify shipment locations, each box is af xed with a colour-coded sticker; with each country having its own designated colour. This new and innovative system will signi cantly reduce misrouted and un-located shipments in an outsourced cargo warehouse.http://cargo.airasia.com

On Ko Muk, theres a cave called Tham Morakot thats famous for its beautiful lagoon accessible via an 80-metre limestone tunnel.

Hat Pak Meng is a 5km-long crescent-shaped beach fringed by pine forest, and is popular for its seafood restaurants.

A popular local haunt, Namtok Ton Te is the tallest waterfall in Trang, cascading down some 320 metres.

Tham Le Khao Kop is an eco-tourism hotspot; visitors can take a boat ride through the cave to view its amazing stalactites and stalagmites.

GETTING THERE AirAsia will commence ights to Trang from Bangkok on Jan 15, 2012. For ights details, go to www.airasia.com

TIME FOR 3In November 2011, AirAsia Indonesia moved its international operations to the eco-friendly Terminal 3 at Soekarno Hatta International Airport, which incidentally, has been the airlines main base for domestic operations since 2009. The integration of AirAsia Indonesias operations at Terminal 3 will enable a seamless transfer between domestic and international ights.

We are very pleased to fi nd a home that refl ects our innovative spirit. We are excited to welcome guests to Terminal 3 where they can enjoy high quality amenities. Not only will this move boost operational effi ciency, but more importantly, it will elevate our guests travel experience to the highest level of comfort. ~ CEO AirAsia Indonesia, Dharmadi

ABOUT AIRASIA CARGO

AirAsia Cargo is the only major low-cost carrier to have a web-based cargo booking and tracking system.

AirAsia Cargo handles approximately 8 million kgs of cargo monthly.

AirAsia Cargo bagged the ACWs World Best Customer Care Award 2011.

14 TRAVEL 3SIXTY

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_151211_5 14 16/12/11 2:02 PM

MAKING DREAMS HAPPEN

As a CSR initiative, AirAsia X collaborated with Mister Potato (of cial global partner of Manchester United) to make one special MU fan very happy. Muhammad Anas Sadiq, 16 years, suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), which results in muscle degeneration, making it dif cult to walk and breathe. To make Muhammads wishes come true, AirAsia X ew him and his parents to UK, where they watched a live MU match, dined in a hospitality suite, toured the stadium in Old Trafford, and even met the MU team at their training ground in Carrington.

Our aim goes beyond running an airline commercially; its to help those in need where and when we can. We hope Muhammad Anas Sadiqs dreams have been fulfi lled. Our association with sports, culture, and entertainment will always be an avenue to strengthen our brand image, provide an opportunity for world unity, foster stronger ties locally and internationally and of course provide the chance for everyone to fl y the world. ~ AirAsia X CEO, Azran Osman-Rani

Mohammad Anas Sadiq and his mother, Siti Nazriah binti Diman, are all smiles during their fl ight to London courtesy of AirAsia X.

Anas and his parents pose with players at the Manchester United training ground in Carrington.

Anas, all geared up to watch a Manchester United game, with his parents and the Mister Potato mascot at Old Trafford.

MAKING DREAMS HAPPEN

As a CSR initiative, AirAsia X collaborated with Mister Potato (of cial global partner of Manchester United) to make one special MU fan very happy. Muhammad Anas Sadiq, 16 years, suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), which results in muscle degeneration, making it dif cult to walk and breathe. To make Muhammads wishes come true, AirAsia X ew him and his parents to UK, where they watched a live MU match, dined in a hospitality suite, toured the stadium in Old Trafford, and even met the MU team at their training ground in Carrington.

Our aim goes beyond running an airline commercially; its to help those in need where and when we can. We hope Muhammad Anas Sadiqs dreams have been fulfi lled. Our association with sports, culture, and entertainment will always be an avenue to strengthen our brand image, provide an opportunity for world unity, foster stronger ties locally and internationally and of course provide the chance for everyone to fl y the world. ~ AirAsia X CEO, Azran Osman-Rani

Mohammad Anas Sadiq and his mother, Siti Nazriah binti Diman, are all smiles during their fl ight to London courtesy of AirAsia X.

Anas and his parents pose with players at the Manchester United training ground in Carrington.

Anas, all geared up to watch a Manchester United game, with his parents and the Mister Potato mascot at Old Trafford.

T 3 6 0 _ J a n _ T u n e . p d f P a g e 1 1 / 1 2 / 1 1 , 3 : 2 9 P M

SPOTLIGHTW

ORDS

: CHI

TRA

Swww.airasia.com/travel360

AUSPICIOUS DRAGONDragons crafted in pewter and gilded in 24K gold are the seasons offerings from Royal Selangors Dragon collection. It includes plates, tankards, bowls and tea caddies, as well as a limited edition plaque decorated with the image of a dragon against a backdrop of clouds. Design elements in the collection such as raised dots and rice grain pattern on plates and trays are inspired by sculptures from the Shang, Zhou and Han dynasties. www.royalselangor.com

NUN-SENSICALGrab your tickets for Dan Goggins hilarious musical comedy Nunsense, to be staged at the British Club in Bangkok in February by the Bangkok Community Theatre. In this comedy, the convent cook accidentally poisons 52 fellow sisters with a bad batch of vichyssoise and the musical follows the lives of ve nuns desperately trying to raise money to bury the remaining sisters who are temporarily stowed in the freezer! The fast-paced hilarious musical comedy won four Outer Critics Circle Awards including Best Musical during its 10-year run in New York. Tickets are priced at THB800 each and are available from Jan 20. www.bct-th.org

TAKE TO THE SKIS!Ski the powdery white slopes of Niseko, one of Japans most popular ski resorts on the island of Hokkaido. Test your skills on the legendary tree runs like Strawberry Fields and Miharashi, or explore the powder elds off The Peak, just a 20-minute hike from the top lift. Even beginners can enjoy the powder by learning to ski on the beautifully groomed slopes at the base of the mountain. Visitors can take advantage of great deals offered by SkiJapan.com from now until March 2. The latest development here is the high speed gondola that carries up to eight skiers from Niseko Hirafu to the apex of the ski area. Also available are 31 lifts and more than 60 different ski and snowboard runs. www.skijapan.com

TRAVEL 3SIXTY18

012012

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 18 15/12/11 7:36 PM

SPOTLIGHT

WOR

DS: C

HITR

A S

www.airasia.com/travel360

AUSPICIOUS DRAGONDragons crafted in pewter and gilded in 24K gold are the seasons offerings from Royal Selangors Dragon collection. It includes plates, tankards, bowls and tea caddies, as well as a limited edition plaque decorated with the image of a dragon against a backdrop of clouds. Design elements in the collection such as raised dots and rice grain pattern on plates and trays are inspired by sculptures from the Shang, Zhou and Han dynasties. www.royalselangor.com

NUN-SENSICALGrab your tickets for Dan Goggins hilarious musical comedy Nunsense, to be staged at the British Club in Bangkok in February by the Bangkok Community Theatre. In this comedy, the convent cook accidentally poisons 52 fellow sisters with a bad batch of vichyssoise and the musical follows the lives of ve nuns desperately trying to raise money to bury the remaining sisters who are temporarily stowed in the freezer! The fast-paced hilarious musical comedy won four Outer Critics Circle Awards including Best Musical during its 10-year run in New York. Tickets are priced at THB800 each and are available from Jan 20. www.bct-th.org

TAKE TO THE SKIS!Ski the powdery white slopes of Niseko, one of Japans most popular ski resorts on the island of Hokkaido. Test your skills on the legendary tree runs like Strawberry Fields and Miharashi, or explore the powder elds off The Peak, just a 20-minute hike from the top lift. Even beginners can enjoy the powder by learning to ski on the beautifully groomed slopes at the base of the mountain. Visitors can take advantage of great deals offered by SkiJapan.com from now until March 2. The latest development here is the high speed gondola that carries up to eight skiers from Niseko Hirafu to the apex of the ski area. Also available are 31 lifts and more than 60 different ski and snowboard runs. www.skijapan.com

TRAVEL 3SIXTY18

012012

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 18 15/12/11 7:36 PM

a a _ J a n u a r y _ T 3 6 0 - . p d f P a g e 1 2 / 1 2 / 2 0 1 1 , 1 1 : 5 8 A M

ABBA-CADABRAMAMMA MIA comes to Manila! The musical that has become a global smash hit is coming to Manila on Jan 24. The funny yet heart-warming tale unfolds when a daughters quest to discover the identity of her father on the eve of her wedding brings together three men from her mothers past. The story-telling magic of ABBAs timeless songs brings this tale to life and will have you dancing in the aisles! Great ticket deals for the show to be staged at the CCP Main Theater are available at www.ticketworld.com.ph

SPIN A YARNCreate your very own modern-day Dickensian story based on the city you live in and stand a chance to win an SGD200 Kinokuniya book voucher and, have your work featured at The Arts House in Singapore and on www.britishcouncil.org/dickens2012. Celebrating the bicentennial anniversary of Charles Dickens, the competition offers aspiring writers the opportunity to create a present-day character sketch inspired from the authors works. The deadline for entries is Jan 15, 2012. Open to entries in English, Malay, Chinese and Tamil. http://civiclife.sg/writingthecity/competitions/

FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWDImagine basking in the sun and frolicking in the sea on your own private island. Enjoy all that nature has to offer with the complete privacy and freedom of having an entire island all to yourself. The Ariara, southwest of Manila, is an incredible white sand paradise exclusively for private hires. The island is perfect for a romantic getaway or a holiday with friends and family, with luxurious accommodation for up to 18 guests. All rooms have unobstructed views of the ocean. Rates include dining and transfers from Manila. www.ariaraisland.com

20 TRAVEL 3SIXTY

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 20 15/12/11 7:37 PM

ABBA-CADABRAMAMMA MIA comes to Manila! The musical that has become a global smash hit is coming to Manila on Jan 24. The funny yet heart-warming tale unfolds when a daughters quest to discover the identity of her father on the eve of her wedding brings together three men from her mothers past. The story-telling magic of ABBAs timeless songs brings this tale to life and will have you dancing in the aisles! Great ticket deals for the show to be staged at the CCP Main Theater are available at www.ticketworld.com.ph

SPIN A YARNCreate your very own modern-day Dickensian story based on the city you live in and stand a chance to win an SGD200 Kinokuniya book voucher and, have your work featured at The Arts House in Singapore and on www.britishcouncil.org/dickens2012. Celebrating the bicentennial anniversary of Charles Dickens, the competition offers aspiring writers the opportunity to create a present-day character sketch inspired from the authors works. The deadline for entries is Jan 15, 2012. Open to entries in English, Malay, Chinese and Tamil. http://civiclife.sg/writingthecity/competitions/

FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWDImagine basking in the sun and frolicking in the sea on your own private island. Enjoy all that nature has to offer with the complete privacy and freedom of having an entire island all to yourself. The Ariara, southwest of Manila, is an incredible white sand paradise exclusively for private hires. The island is perfect for a romantic getaway or a holiday with friends and family, with luxurious accommodation for up to 18 guests. All rooms have unobstructed views of the ocean. Rates include dining and transfers from Manila. www.ariaraisland.com

20 TRAVEL 3SIXTY

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 20 15/12/11 7:37 PM

T O U R _ T R A V E L 3 S I X T Y . p d f P a g e P a g e 1 6 / 1 2 / 1 1 , 8 : 2 6 P M

LADY OF THE LAKEThe recently opened Angsana Hangzhou in China is an idyllic retreat from which to explore what Marco Polo once called one of the most splendid cities in the world. Located within the Westbrook Resort complex in the Xixi National Wetland Park, the property is only six kilometres away from Hangzhous bustling downtown district and near one of the citys renowned attractions, West Lake. Angsana Hangzhou offers 59 king or twin rooms, all tastefully decorated to re ect Chinas rich artistic heritage. Guests staying here can also take advantage of the rejuvenating spa treatments at the nearby Banyan Tree Spa. www.angsana.com

ROCK THIS PLAN!Catch Canadian band Simple Plan in Kuala Lumpur on Jan 14 at KL LIVE, Jalan Sultan Ismail. The band will perform songs from their latest album Get Your Heart On!, packed with fun and catchy melodies with their signature modern rock sound. Tickets are priced from RM98 (free standing). www.rockthisjoint.com.my

22 TRAVEL 3SIXTY

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 22 15/12/11 7:37 PM

LADY OF THE LAKEThe recently opened Angsana Hangzhou in China is an idyllic retreat from which to explore what Marco Polo once called one of the most splendid cities in the world. Located within the Westbrook Resort complex in the Xixi National Wetland Park, the property is only six kilometres away from Hangzhous bustling downtown district and near one of the citys renowned attractions, West Lake. Angsana Hangzhou offers 59 king or twin rooms, all tastefully decorated to re ect Chinas rich artistic heritage. Guests staying here can also take advantage of the rejuvenating spa treatments at the nearby Banyan Tree Spa. www.angsana.com

ROCK THIS PLAN!Catch Canadian band Simple Plan in Kuala Lumpur on Jan 14 at KL LIVE, Jalan Sultan Ismail. The band will perform songs from their latest album Get Your Heart On!, packed with fun and catchy melodies with their signature modern rock sound. Tickets are priced from RM98 (free standing). www.rockthisjoint.com.my

22 TRAVEL 3SIXTY

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 22 15/12/11 7:37 PM

J a n 2 0 1 2 - a a c a r g o - t 3 6 . p d f P a g e 1 2 / 1 2 / 1 1 , 4 : 0 2 P M


HOT DATES

MALAYSIATHOUSAND-HAND BODHISATTVA DANCE JAN 31 & FEB 1 Hearing impaired dancers of the China Disabled Peoples Performing Art Troupe present a spectacular show directed by famous Chinese choreographer Zhang Ji Gang at Kuala Lumpurs Istana Budaya. www.istanabudaya.gov.my

CHINA

CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEARJAN 23 Chinese all over the world usher in the Year of the Dragon with traditional reunion dinners, reworks displays and the exchange of red packets lled with money. During this time, China experiences its largest human migration with workers travelling thousands of miles and, across oceans to be home for the holidays.

THE PHILIPPINESATI-ATIHAN JAN 3 16 During this festival in honour of Santo Nino or the Child Jesus, Aklanons from the island of Panay cover their faces in soot, don ethnic dress and dance in the streets of Kalibo to the beat of traditional drums. Ati-Atihan actually began as a celebration of the friendship between the lowland Maraynon people and the mountain-dwelling Negritos called Ati. www.tourism.gov.ph

HONG KONGTHE 40TH HONG KONG ARTS FESTIVAL 2012JAN 28 MARCH 8 Creative forces descend on Hong Kong to present an arts festival fi lled with ballet, opera, orchestral concerts, jazz performances, theatre and other treats. Not to be missed is the fi rst ever overseas presentation of New Zealands World of Wearable Art (WOW) Show, which blends art, fashion and theatre. www.hk.artsfestival.org

JAN 2012

NEW ZEALANDWORLD BUSKERS FESTIVALJAN 19 29 Dont miss this vibrant showcase of some of Christchurchs most talented buskers, including the comical Backup Dancers, sword-swallowing Miss Behave and burlesque artiste Lily Verlaine.www.worldbuskersfestival.com

TRAVEL 3SIXTY24

012012

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 24 17/12/11 2:38 PM


HOT DATES

MALAYSIATHOUSAND-HAND BODHISATTVA DANCE JAN 31 & FEB 1 Hearing impaired dancers of the China Disabled Peoples Performing Art Troupe present a spectacular show directed by famous Chinese choreographer Zhang Ji Gang at Kuala Lumpurs Istana Budaya. www.istanabudaya.gov.my

CHINA

CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEARJAN 23 Chinese all over the world usher in the Year of the Dragon with traditional reunion dinners, reworks displays and the exchange of red packets lled with money. During this time, China experiences its largest human migration with workers travelling thousands of miles and, across oceans to be home for the holidays.

THE PHILIPPINESATI-ATIHAN JAN 3 16 During this festival in honour of Santo Nino or the Child Jesus, Aklanons from the island of Panay cover their faces in soot, don ethnic dress and dance in the streets of Kalibo to the beat of traditional drums. Ati-Atihan actually began as a celebration of the friendship between the lowland Maraynon people and the mountain-dwelling Negritos called Ati. www.tourism.gov.ph

HONG KONGTHE 40TH HONG KONG ARTS FESTIVAL 2012JAN 28 MARCH 8 Creative forces descend on Hong Kong to present an arts festival fi lled with ballet, opera, orchestral concerts, jazz performances, theatre and other treats. Not to be missed is the fi rst ever overseas presentation of New Zealands World of Wearable Art (WOW) Show, which blends art, fashion and theatre. www.hk.artsfestival.org

JAN 2012

NEW ZEALANDWORLD BUSKERS FESTIVALJAN 19 29 Dont miss this vibrant showcase of some of Christchurchs most talented buskers, including the comical Backup Dancers, sword-swallowing Miss Behave and burlesque artiste Lily Verlaine.www.worldbuskersfestival.com

TRAVEL 3SIXTY24

012012

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 24 17/12/11 2:38 PM

PARISFRA ANGELICO AND THE MASTERS OF LIGHT JAN 1 16 Paris Jacquemart-Andr Museum pays tribute to the 15th century artist who initiated the Peintres de la Lumire (painters of light) artistic movement. Displayed alongside Angelicos masterpieces are works by his contemporaries, including Masolino, Zanobi Strozzi and Paolo Uccello. http://musee-jacquemart-andre.com/fr/home

INDONESIAKATY PERRY CALIFORNIA DREAMS TOUR JAN 19 The colourful pop queen entertains KatyCats with hits from her third studio album Teenage Dream at Jakartas Sentul International Convention Centre. www.katyinjkt.com

THAILAND

THE ROYAL FLORA RATCHAPHRUEK JAN 1 MARCH 14 Its ower power time in Chiang Mai as the Thai city celebrates the birthday of HM King Bhumibol with fantastical ower parades and garden showcases. Highlights include a garden illuminated by solar cells, a Kids Eco Park and a 40 metre-high ora wheel.www.royal ora2011.com

ELSEWHERETHAILAND The Naked and Famous Live in Bangkok JAN 17 www.thaiticketmajor.com HONG KONG Che Kung Festival JAN 24 www.discoverhongkong.com AUSTRALIA Southbound Festival JAN 7 9 www.sunsetevents.com.au SINGAPORE Ivory Metal: An Evening of Piano & Gamelan Music JAN 6 & 7 www.sistic.com.sg THE PHILIPPINES Mamma Mia! JAN 24 FEB 5 www.ticketworld.com.ph

BE OUR FAN ON FaceBook.com/AirAsiaRedTix, FOLLOW US ON Twitter.com/RedTix AND PURCHASE TICKETS TO THESE HOT EVENTS AT AirAsiaRedTix.com

EVENTS

Join us at twittertwitter.com/RedTix

Join us at Facebookfacebook.com/Re

dTix

AUSTRALIA2012 BIG DAY OUTJan 29 Following sold out concerts in the Gold Coast and Sydney, 2012 Big Day Out comes to the Melbourne Flemington Racecourse with cool acts like the Amity Af iction and Art vs. Science. www.bigdayout.com

UNITED KINGDOM

STRICTLY COME DANCING THE LIVE TOUR 2012 JAN 28 & 29 Aussie singer Jason Donovan, Waterloo Road star Chelsee Healey and McFly drummer Harry Judd waltz into The O2 in London for a tour celebrating the sizzling dance TV show, Strictly Come Dancing. www.theo2.co.uk

TRAVEL 3SIXTY 25

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 25 15/12/11 7:38 PM


COMPASS

CHEAP & CHICTravel was once the domain of the well-heeled while the

rest of us could only look on with envy. Now a range of low cost options are available for the budget conscious

travellers to see the world.

WOR

DS: S

HANT

INI S

UNTH

ARAJ

AH

SUITCASE KNOW-HOWFinding the perfect suitcase is an art and a science. Keep these tips in mind before you shop for your ideal travel bag:

Hard shell luggage costs more and adds about four to ve kilogrammes in weight but it lasts longer and is pretty much tear proof. Soft bags are easier to lug around and weigh a lot less but are proneto damage.

Always choose baggage, which features a handle rather than a strap or leash. Handles should pop up from the case and be long enough for comfortable towing.

Designer suitcases get stolen more than any other kind so, think twice before you part with your cash.

Good suitcases should last for 10 years or longer.

MUST-SEE MELBOURNEMelbourne is a city of culture, cosmopolitan food and a convenient tram system that operates like clockwork. Here are some of the top attractions in the city that was named the most liveable in the world in 2011.

Queen Victoria Market. This is one of the largest and most charming open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere.

Melbourne Zoo Australias oldest zoo is an excellent space located deep within the leafy heart of Royal Park. The atmosphere gets spirited in the summer when youll hear live music drifting through the air.

Crown Entertainment Centre This is one of the best places to absorb Melbournes nightlife. The centre houses a number of bars, nightclubs and a gaming area.

Federation Square Among Australias most ambitious architectural projects, and one of Melbournes top meeting spots, Federation Square features a number of great bars, restaurants and galleries.

City Circle Tram Theres no better way to see this captivating city than on the City Circle Tram, which will take you through the heart of Melbourne. The best part? Its free!

GETTING THERE AirAsia X ies daily to Melbourne from Kuala Lumpur. For ights details, go to www.airasia.com

Above: City Circle Tram infront of Flinders St. Station, Melbourne.

IMAG

E: T

OURI

SM V

ICTO

RIA

TRAVEL 3SIXTY26

012012

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 26 15/12/11 7:39 PM

THE SCOOP IN HONG KONGThe next time you touch down in Hong Kong, dont miss having a scoop or two of Lobster Ice-Cream! Youll nd this one-of-a-kind dessert at Hong Kongs Ice-Cream Gallery at Repulse Bay. If seafood ice-cream isnt your thing, there are other unconventional avours to try like egg & bacon ice-cream with an eggy and smoky bacon avour. You can also opt for lemon ginger, foie gras or luxurious black truf e ice-creams. www.icecreamgallery.com.hk

GETTING THERE AirAsia ies daily to Hong Kong from Kuala Lumpur. For ights details, go to www.airasia.com

HEALING HOTELSMore and more people journey to far off places to restore and improve their health, which is why wellness travel is such a popular trend. You can now enjoy top of the line spa treatments and excellent, healthy cuisine in healing hotels like Ananda, a destination spa in the Himalayas. Similar health-inducing establishments can be found anywhere from Chiang Mai, Thailand to Rancha La Puerta, Mexico. Check out www.healinghotelsoftheworld.com for a list of healing hotels.

YOGA ON THE GOLong ights can prove exhausting but this simple yoga stretch, known as the Cat Cow, will help you stay refreshed, calm and energised:

1. Sit at the edge of your seat and align your feet with your hips.

2. Keep your hands on your thighs. Now inhale and roll your shoulders back so your chest points up and out.

3. Look to the tip of your nose, exhale and roll your spine forward. Allow your body to follow the natural movement.

4. Repeat for 10 or 20 breaths.

BUDGET FRIENDLY: SAVING BIG WITH CHEAP EATS If youre watching your wallet while on holiday, try dining at restaurants frequented by the locals instead. Look out for crowded, clean, no-frills eating establishments when you reach your destination. If you prefer planning ahead, check online for popular eateries before you leave. www.tripadvisor.com lists restaurants that serve up delicious, economical, local meals at various popular destinations around the world.

EASY, BREEZY CHECK-INAirAsias self check-in system, which includes web and mobile check-ins, come with a host of bene ts. These include the ability to order your meals, pick your seat, opt to supersize your baggage and personalise other ight details via Manage My Booking. You also get to avoid Counter Check-In fees. Up to 50 guests can check-in using the web system and up to nine guests are allowed for mobile check-ins. However, do bear in mind that travellers with reduced mobility or those with special needs should check-in at the counter.

BIGGER BANG FOR YOUR BUCKWhen it comes to savvy travellers and the hotels they stay in, heres the new rule of the game: Pay only for what you use. Tune Hotels, with properties all over Asia and the UK, is leading the way toward a future of cheap, chic accommodations at convenient, central locations. Tune Hotels is classi ed as limited service lodgings that allows travellers to avoid paying for unnecessary extras like spas, gyms and pools that they dont use and shouldnt have to pay for. Tune Hotels come with 5-star beds featuring spring mattresses and 250-thread count duvets, high-pressure power showers, a sparkling clean environment and 24-hour security. www.tunehotels.com

The Spa Resort Chiang Mai

28 TRAVEL 3SIXTY

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 28 15/12/11 7:39 PM


QUICK BITES

SEASON OF SPRING

MAKING WAVES Savour Bella Rosa Italian Restaurants scrumptious Open Seafood Lasagna a succulent dish of prawn, scallop, mussel, squid, tuna and salmon enhanced with Pernod-laced broth, egg yolk cream and herbs amidst a spectacular sunset at the ve-star Padma Resort Legian Bali.www.padmaresortbali.com

COOK LIKEA PROWant to try your hands at whipping up classic Malaysian favourites and popular street food in the comfort of your own kitchen? Now you can with The Best of Chef Wan A Taste of Malaysia, the latest culinary tome from Chef Wan, Malaysias celebrity food ambassador. Available at major bookstores, you can also order the book online from www.mychefwan.com

THREADS OF LONGEVITY Voted as one of Singapores Best 50 Restaurants, Putien specialises in rustic Heng Hwa cuisine from the Fujianese city of Pu Tian in China. On the rst day of the lunar new year, the Heng Hwa eat mee sua delicate, silky smooth strands of ne wheat noodles for longevity and health. Sample this homely dish at Putien Singapore and Jakarta this month. www.putien.com

While the dust has barely settled on a brand new Gregorian New Year, Chinese New Year (CNY) the most important festival in the Chinese lunar calendar will arrive with a bang on January 23. Known as chun che or Spring Festival, this lunar new year also heralds in the Year of the Dragon.Heres a quick overview on the traditional delights that are customary for the CNY celebrations, and a plethora of tempting morsels from around the region.

SEASONAL & ORGANIC Seasonal, organic ingredients are chef Clive Allan Pelsers preferred choices when he rustles up his latest repertoire of salads, pan-Asian classics and international offerings at Sabeen Restaurant, The Haven in Seminyak, Bali. www.thehavenbali.com.

He who toils with pain will eat with pleasure.

~Chinese proverb

TRAVEL 3SIXTY30

012012

55476_t360 Jan2012_CP_141211_1 30 15/12/11 7:39 PM


QUICK BITES

SEASON OF SPRING

MAKING WAVES Savour Bella Rosa Italian Restaurants scrumptious Open Seafood Lasagna a succulent dish of prawn, scallop, mussel, squid, tuna and salmon enhanced with Pernod-laced broth, egg yolk cream and herbs amidst a spectacular sunset at the ve-star Padma Resort Legian Bali.www.padmaresortbali.com

COOK LIKEA PROWant to try your hands at whipping up classic Malaysian favourites and popular street food in the comfort of your own kitchen? Now you can with The Best of Chef Wan A Taste of Malaysia, the latest culinary tome from Chef Wan, Malaysias celebrity food ambassador. Available at major bookstores, you can also order the book online from www.mychefwan.com

THREADS OF LONGEVITY Voted as one of Singapores Best 50 Restaurants, Putien specialises in rustic Heng Hwa cuisine from the Fujianese city of Pu Tian in China. On the rst day of the lunar new year, the Heng Hwa eat mee sua delicate, silky smooth strands of ne wheat noodles for longevity and health. Sample this homely dish at Putien Singapore and Jakarta this month. www.putien.com

While the dust has barely settled on a brand new Gregorian New Year, Chinese New Year (CNY) the most important festival in the Chinese lunar calendar will arrive with a bang on January 23.

Documents

January_2013