Explore amazing Abu Dhabi in two days

The list of things to do in Abu Dhabi is virtually endless, so it is only normal to get spoilt for choice when choosing the best ones to try. Replete with dozens of sky-piercing towers, architectural masterpieces, historical landmarks, and entertainment hubs, Abu Dhabi makes for a treasure trove of wide-ranging experiences.

Admire Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Middle East's most spectacular museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi traces the entire history of humanity's artistic achievements, from the Neolithic right up to the current day. The wealth and diversity of art on display, from ancient Egyptian statuary to famous paintings by Picasso, is mind-boggling, while the museum's contemporary architecture, with its galleries gathered under a vast silver dome, are the reasons to visit in itself.

As well as the permanent collection, which runs over 12 galleries, several major temporary exhibitions are staged each year. The Louvre is the first of three planned major museums to open on Saadiyat Island, which is set to become the cultural heartbeat of Abu Dhabi in the coming years. The other two, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum, are still in the planning phases.

Visit Ferrari World

Located on Yas Island occupying an area of 86, 000 square meters, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is counted among the most celebrated amusement parks in Abu Dhabi. Every ride and attraction at this park is inspired by the Ferrari brand, making it an interesting place for supercar lovers. A day at this park is sure to be a treat for your whole family since the park has something for every kind of visitor.

The attractions range from the world's fastest roller coaster ride, Formula Rissa to some easier activities like Tyre Twist and Motor Midway Games which are suitable for just anybody. To double your fun, the park even features shopping and dining experiences. So if you are thinking of taking a break from sightseeing excursions, visiting this fun-filled place is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.

Visit the largest mosque in the UAE

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the UAE’s most beautiful mosque, and it is here that you can stroll barefoot on the world’s longest hand-knotted carpet, beneath one of the largest crystal chandeliers on the planet. This elaborate religious site can hold up to 40,000 worshippers and was inspired by Persian, Mughal and Moorish architecture, taking its name from the country’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The mosque was Sheikh Zayed’s idea and he rests within it. Apart from allowing visitors the opportunity to learn more about Islam (there are free tours hosted by local guides), the mosque boasts a unique lighting setup guided by the evolution of the moon during the lunar cycle.

Relax at Umm Al Emarat Park

Umm Al Emarat Park, a meticulously designed public park, blends nature with modern design. Rows of palm trees lead to water features that evoke a man-made oasis, all made to look like a contemporary fountain. The park is home to a number of sites, including an amphitheater, gardens, a playground, and an animal barn. The Wisdom Garden is particularly beautiful, with well-maintained indigenous plants and marble slabs with quotes from the late Sheikh Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Shopping at Yas Mall

One of the primary rules when coming to Abu Dhabi, Do not diss the malls. Malls here are not simply places to shop, they are social and cultural hubs too, especially in summer when it's too hot and humid to congregate outside. Of the many malls sprinkled around Abu Dhabi, Yas Mall is the largest and the most frequently referenced. The architecture feels more like a hotel than a shopping mall, thanks to the long reflecting pool and otherworldly entrance.

Visit Emirates Palace

Redefining royalty even in a place like Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace is an ultra-luxury hotel spanning over an area of 85 hectares. With landscaped gardens on one side and the endless stretch of the sea on the other, the grand structure of Emirates Palace bearing a golden shade is a sight to behold.

Since some parts of the hotel are open for visitors, you can relish the tasteful interiors and captivating architecture even if you are not staying here. Or you can book a table at one of the 14 restaurants and bars located within the hotel premises.

See more: 9 must-see architecture works in Abu Dhabi

Source Internet

Where to visit in Nantou, Taiwan in one day

During your stay in Nantou, you can visit the historical and cultural sites around the lake or take a stroll along the many hiking trails there. Nantou County is rich in history and its background is every bit as charming as its locals.

Bamboo Rock Garden

Sun Moon Lake offers many scenic spots, but the Bamboo Rock Garden is one place you have to visit. The garden’s many trees offer a shady respite from the sun and a place to rest. Ardent photographers can attempt to capture the beauty of the towering bamboo plants.

There are a butterfly garden and a hotel within the grounds. The Tea Research and Extension Station is a short stroll away, too, so be sure to visit it if you have a thirst and time to spare.

Carp Lake

Carp Lake is a very scenic tourist spot, and although it may be located near the outskirts of the township, there’s plenty to see and do here. It’s an especially good spot if you like outdoors activities since you can go boating, camping, picnicking and hiking. The shoreline is fairly well developed, so don't go expecting beautiful natural scenery. However, that development means that there's a good choice of restaurants and hotels immediately around the water.

Wenwu Temple

Wenwu Temple is the result of 2 post-Japanese-era temples being combined as a single entity. The locals here had Wenwu Temple built in place of two temples when rising lake waters threatened to submerge the buildings.

At first glance, the temple looks every bit like a traditional Confucius temple reminiscent to those found in Northern China. The structure is majestic and a sight to behold. With so many travelers visiting each day, officials thought it would be wiser to leave the main gates open for tourists’ convenience, so it is accessible throughout the day.

Batongguan Historic Trail

The Batongguan Historic Trail was established by soldiers in 1875, during the rule of the Qing dynasty. Along the trail, you will find numerous stone inscriptions that act as milestones in the history on the area as well as distance. These include the “Wan Nian Heng Cyu” stone inscription made on a gargantuan boulder. When translated, it reads: “The opening of the roads expedites trade and travel to the benefit of future generations”.

Besides learning about the deep-rooted history of Nantou, you can also bask in the beauty of the Central Mountain Range.

See more: Explore top attractions in Shilin, Taiwan

Source: Internet

24 hours in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur combines mosques with Chinese and Hindu temples. A central oasis filled with tropical flowers, orchids and monkeys in a busy metropolitan city centre – plus an undisputed reputation for delicious food. Find out how to pack all this into a single day in this article.

Morning: Chinese-style breakfast and Little India

Start the morning with a steaming bowl of noodle soup at Restoran One Sentral. The Chinese-hawker style restaurant sits in the heart of Brickfields near the neighbourhood’s budget-friendly accommodation. Stroll through Little India along the colourful streets decorated with arches to the sounds and smells of the subcontinent. Check out the 100-year-old Sri Kandaswamy Kovil Tempe on Scott Road and the Buddhist Maha Vihara Temple. If you’re peckish, order roti canai from one of the Nasi Kandar shops along Jalan Tun Sambanthan. Pro Tip: KL Sentral’s shopping centre has plenty of cafés, shops and ultra-strong air-conditioning for days that are just too hot.

Afternoon: Chinatown, Lake Gardens and monkeys

The afternoon involves a walk around Chinatown and visiting the Lake Garden’s city oasis. Take the LRT from KL Sentral to Pasar Seni (one stop). Remember to get the token from the machines and keep it in a safe place. Chinatown is east of Pasar Seni. Check out the Central Market, Sri Mahamariamman Temple (KL’s oldest temple) and Petaling Street. Take a taxi or Grab Car to Lake Gardens which houses the Orchid Gardens around a lake. With just 24 hours in Kuala Lumpur, this is your best chance to see wild monkeys.

Evening: Petronas Towers and the KLCC Water Show

Our 24 hours in Kuala Lumpur itinerary reserves the evening for the acclaimed Petronas Towers. From Lake Gardens, take a taxi or Grab to KLCC. Snap a few photographs of the towers in front of the shopping centre (where all the tourists are standing). Next, pass through the mall to KLCC Park. Follow the jogging path to get different perspectives of the Petronas Towers. The bridge directly behind the pond offers the best photographs. Enjoy a cake and iced coffee inside KLCC’s megamall and cool down for an hour. Stick around until the 8pm KLCC Lake Symphony Water Fountain Show. Pro tip: Aim to arrive before 6pm to see the Petronas Towers in daylight and again when they light up after sunset.

Night: Unwind in Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant neighbourhood

If you still have any energy after an action-packed 24 hours in Kuala Lumpur, head to Bukit Bintang. The district is a magnet for backpackers and travellers with an array of bars and restaurants. For the not-so-budget conscious tourists, a night at either No Black Tie (jazz bar) or Whiskey Bar makes for a classy night out. Alternatively, order a meal and bottle of beer at one of the plastic-table restaurants spread along Jalan Alor. For a more traditional meal, dine at a banana leaf restaurant.

See more: The best markets to visit in Phuket, Thailand

Source: Internet