Tokyo Disneyland

The first ever Disney theme park to be constructed on foreign soil, Tokyo Disneyland has become the most visited theme park in the whole world. The most popular rides are here, along with everything you’ve come to expect from a Disneyland venture: magic, fun, and days of entertainment for both child and adult.

Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983, lovingly based upon both the American theme parks - Disneyland and Disneyworld. Taking the most popular parts of both of these parks is just one of the reason that no one does Disney better than Japan. There is even a Tokyo Disneyland hotel called the Disney Ambassador that is modeled just like the original in Anaheim. Strangely enough, it’s the only of the Disney parks that is not, technically, owned by the Disney Company – rather the characters are just licensed out to a Japanese corporation that runs the park. Even so, everything you’d expect from a Disney vacation are on display at the Tokyo Disneyland.

When it came time to expand overseas, to make another Disneyland, Japan was a great fit. Tokyo contains the world’s biggest population, mixed with millions of tourists per year, so the match between Disney and Japan’s largest city was destined for greatness. Now the park owns a sister property, Tokyo DisneySea, and continues to be one of the city’s major tourist attractions.

Like any Disneyland, Japan’s version is split four ways. Adventureland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and Westernland (this park’s version of Frontierland) are all on hand here, as well as Mickey’s Toontown and Critter Country. These layouts don’t differ much from the American institution – right down to Cinderella’s Castle, most of Tokyo Disneyland is a direct replica. Which is certainly not a bad thing - but there are a few differences. For instance, Main Street U.S.A. has been given the more cosmopolitan name of World’s Bazaar. The railroad that normally circles Adventureland is absent, and the Haunted House is moved to Fantasyland – the Japanese belief that ghosts can only exist in fairy tales still holds true, even in Disneyland. Japan’s version diverges little outside of these cosmetic changes. You’ll still find signature Disney rides like: Space Mountain, Star Tours and Splash Mountain.

For Disney magic that never stops, even after you’ve left the park, you can stay at the famed Tokyo Disneyland hotel, the Disney Ambassador. Every bit the same as the other Disney hotels, with all the same perks and amenities. If you are also heading over to Tokyo DisneySea, there is another Tokyo Disneyland hotel located adjacent to that park, called the Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta.

You’re never too old or too young for a Disneyland adventure – so grab the kids and head to Tokyo Disneyland because, really, it’s a guaranteed hit. Guaranteed.

Thailand Beaches

For a little rest and relaxation, nothing beats Thailand beaches. To enjoy the best beaches of Thailand, head to the island of Phuket, located in the southern region of Thailand. Travel by ferry or by car to get to the island, or elect to fly into Phuket International airport, which features regular flights to and from Bangkok.

A typical Phuket beach is characterized by long stretches of white sand, clear turquoise waters and dazzling views. In selecting a beach, it is important to choose a location that matches the day’s mood. Those that are feeling more social will probably enjoy a visit to Patong Beach. This stretch of sand is positively bustling with things to do. Along with parasailing and jet skiing, this Phuket beach has masseuses as well as tour boat operators that are ready to do a customer’s bidding.

While the waters at most Thailand beaches are often as smooth as glass during the north-east monsoon season which runs from November until April, the waters become much more choppy in the south-west monsoon season. From May until October, surfers make Kata Beach their destination spot, enjoying the reasonably sized waves and the laid-back atmosphere.

While the southern tip of the island is usually crowded with tourists, it is possible to get away from the maddening crowd and enjoy one of the best beaches of Thailand: Freedom beach. Just off the beaten path from Patong Beach, this strip of paradise is accessible via a 10-minute long-tail boat ride from Patong. Quiet and isolated, this Phuket Beach also boasts a coral reef that offers picturesque snorkeling opportunities.

For those that are looking to enjoy Thailand beaches that are slightly more isolated, head to the northern part of Phuket. Along the way, you will encounter Nai Thon Beach, a location that boasts white sand that is so smooth and silky that it actually “squeaks” as you walk along it. This area has retained an untouched quality and while local hotels and bungalows are available to rent across from the beach, the establishments don’t have the same commercial feel as some of the Thailand beach resorts located to the south. Offering a smattering of restaurants and plenty of peace and quiet, this Phuket beach is worthy of a few nights’ stay.

Located less than 200 miles from Bangkok, Ko Chang Island is Thailand’s second largest island after Phuket. Boasting beautiful rainforests, rich marine life and a calm, peaceful atmosphere, Ko Chang Island is becoming the destination spot for tourists who are seeking the best beaches of Thailand. The island has only recently registered on the tourist radar, and as a result, the pace is still laid-back and calm. Rent a little bungalow on White Sands Beach or opt for a little more luxury at one of the Thailand beach resorts in the area. Along with shops along its main road, the beach also has a sprinkling of restaurants and clubs for a little fun once the sun goes down. Kai Bae Beach is a great destination spot for doing a little snorkeling or enjoying a little time out on the ocean in a kayak.

Sentosa Island

In Malay, Sentosa means tranquility and peace and to most tourists it offers exactly that during a vacation on picturesque Sentosa Island. Along the narrow north tip of the island lies the stunning Shangri-La’s Rasa Resort. It’s one of the more illustrious and luxurious of Sentosa Island resorts situated on Siloso Beach, a white, sandy stretch that looks over the crystal blue ocean of the South China Sea. As for Singapore island resorts, this high-class accommodation is also the only beachfront resort on the island, making it even more popular with visitors.

Moving south, the island widens out and as a whole resembles a large arrowhead. The Siloso Beach Walk stretches along the western side of Sentosa Island and eventually leads to the Musical Fountain, Merlion Walk, Lighthouse Beach Walk, and down to the Sentosa Resort and Spa, just past the midway point on the west island side. The Sentosa Resort and Spa is the second of only two five star Sentosa Island resorts offering luxury, tranquility, and world-class service on the island paradise.

Aside from two resorts, there are five Sentosa Island hotels to choose from. Overlooking Siloso Beach from a hilly incline, Sentosa Island hotels include Costa Sands offering guests quaint Malaysian-style beach huts that are simple yet charming. Offering colonial architecture and a lovely historic feel, the Sijoro is another of the Sentosa Island hotels offering accommodation to visitors. With a variety of choices offered at Siloso Beach Resort, guests can opt for unique tree house accommodation, family suites, or villas for vacations on Sentosa.

To the east of the Sentosa Resort and Spa are the only two Sentosa Island golf courses, Serapong and Tanjong. The Sentosa Golf Club is the gateway to two exceptionally designed and scenic Sentosa Island golf courses. The Barclays Singapore Open is held at Serapong, a multi-million dollar project that includes incredible upscale dining, meeting, and conference facilities. Both of the Sentosa Island golf courses offer eighteen holes of prime, championship golf, and are considered two of the best among Asia’s leading courses. Compelling and dynamic, both Tanjong and Serapong both feature stunning views and boast fairways lined with verdant natural foliage. The fantastic natural aspects lend a tranquil feel for those who prefer to spend more time at the spa, and less or no time golfing!

Visiting golfers can expect a truly enhanced golf experience playing at either of the Sentosa Island golf courses. At Sentosa’s Serapong course, golfers can anticipate an impeccable design created by Ronald Fream and used for many professional events. The course features a combination of exotic grasses including Zoysia fairways, Tiffeagle greens, and teeboxes covered in Paspalum CL 2000. Opened on Sentosa Island in 1972, the Tanjong golf course was originally designed by Frank Pennick and collaborated on by Chris Putman, a course architect, and the golf course designer Max Wexler. Tanjong boasts tall, swaying trees, natural hazards, bunkers, mounds, freshwater lakes, and undulating fairways designed for continuous, championship play.

Sentosa Island offers a number of excellent attractions and things to do for all ages. There are three separate Singapore beaches to choose from including quiet Tanjong, sports-oriented Siloso, and secluded Palawan Beach. Dolphin Lagoon and Underwater World offers stunning reef exhibits, a large aquarium and dolphin shows daily. The coastal Fort Siloso, Carlsberg Sky Tower, Sentosa Orchid Gardens, and Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom are also wonderful attractions to visit. There are numerous nature walks across the island that offer a more in-depth look at the natural scenery and island’s wildlife. For a jaunt away from the hectic pace of the city, take time to visit Sentosa Island and soak in both the excitement and the relaxing benefits it offers tourists and locals alike.