The Bivou

1. Introduction to The Bivou

The Bivou Lijiang, located in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lijiang, is a designer guesthouse for the modern adventurer. Housed within two historic farmyards built by the area’s Naxi minority tribe, our 16 rooms look out over private gardens landscaped to reflect the full color and fragrances of the changing seasons. The Bivou was borne out of a simple idea: an adventure lodge that is authentic and sustainable, and sets new standards in comfort and style.

Built around farmhouses that have stood on the site for over a hundred years, The Bivou stays true to its roots and celebrates the authentic building techniques of the local villagers. At the same time, sustainability lies at the core of all that we do. On top of this we’ve added our own unique Bivou touches, and imbued our rooms and spaces with a designer aesthetic which wouldn’t be out of place in Shanghai or New York.

The Bivou has a mixture of designer rooms and suites clustered around two lushly landscaped courtyards, as well as a fully self-contained villa perfect for a family. To the west, the Farm Yard mirrors the ever-changing scenes of the surrounding fields; to the east, the Garden Yard brings together the best of Yunnan’s famous blooms. Guests staying at the villa also get to enjoy their own private garden, planted with lush beds of rhododendrons and camellias. 

Configured around a series of lush courtyards, our rooms can be grouped into any number of semi-private zones, offering corporate and private groups the opportunity to cater the space to their own particular needs. In addition, The Bivou’s flexible design allows parties to take advantage of our communal spaces for customized events: art seminars, wedding receptions, yoga groups, photography shows, and even cooking workshops in our state-of-the-art kitchen.

Within the next few months, The Bivou will play host to a number of unique events and workshops, including a photography masterclass by the acclaimed photographer Michael Freeman.

2. Main attractions

The Bivou is uniquely sited right in the heart of the old village of Shuhe. This town itself predates the more well-known “Old Town” of Lijiang City, but is only 15 minutes away by road. Many visitors have commented that Shuhe retains much of the original charm and tranquility of Old Lijiang – without the accompanying crowds of tourists and touts. Indeed, guests at The Bivou today can see, every morning, local villagers tending to their vegetable gardens while sipping on their breakfast espressos.

Within a couple minutes’ walk from the entrance of The Bivou, visitors can tread the 700-year old stones of Shuhe’s Green Dragon Bridge, enjoy the tranquility of the sacred Dragon Spring, recount the region’s history at the Tea Horse Road Museum, or sip on a coffee by the crystal clear waters of Shuhe’s own creek. Shuhe gives visitors a perfect base to explore the area at their own pace. And is very much the “real” Lijiang.

3. Activities: Things we can do there

Dayan Old Town (Culture and History)

While Shuhe itself is worth a day of exploring, many visitors will also visit the more famous Dayan Old Town of Lijiang. The hustle and bustle of this area is definitely worth experiencing and there is a wealth of little shops to explore. Our favorite places to visit here, however, are perhaps the old Zhongyi market (a local market filled with everything you can imagine) and the Mu Palace (the home of the local kings during the imperial era). At night, the city is truly spectacular as the lights give the architecture an other-worldly glow. For those who love nightlife, the iconic “Street of Bars” is not to be missed.

Tiger Leaping Gorge (Natural Beauty, Hiking)

Truly one of unmissable treks of the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge offers visitors a breathtaking view of Nature at its most dramatic. Part of another World Heritage Site (Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan), the gorge is one of the deepest in the world and is created by the powerful waters of the Yangtze River. Hiking here is not as hard as one might expect, and is definitely extremely rewarding. We would recommend a stay at one of the lodges perched high up on the hiking trail to watch the unforgettable sunset.

Yulong Snow Mountain (Natural Beauty, Entertainment)

The iconic peak that towers over the Lijiang valley, Yulong (5,596m) is sacred to the local Naxi people of the area, and has never been scaled. The mountain is one of the key attractions in the area, and rightly so. Many visitors have been awestruck by Director Zhang Yimou’s (Beijing Olympic Games) “Impressions Lijiang” – a cultural spectacular featuring hundreds of local farmers and villagers, but for those with more time to explore, we definitely recommend taking a cable car up to one of the high mountain meadows at halfway up the mountain. There is even a permanent snow-covered glacier that is accessible all year round.

The Bivou’s Secret Destinations

Central to the Bivou experience is our deep knowledge of the area’s hidden treasures, and our close relationship with the local inhabitants. Guests at The Bivou are able to enjoy an insider’s understanding Lijiang, with specially customized trips to off-the-beaten track destinations. These include alpine gardens, hidden Yi minority villages, exclusive wildlife sanctuaries, and the warm, welcoming homes of local farmers.

4. Who should go to The Bivou

The Bivou is a unique lodge which seeks to create an experience around the core values of authenticity, sustainability, comfort and style. It has a little something for everyone, being both a design hotel, and a base for adventurous travelers. But it mainly appeals to the following groups:

Designers and people in the creative/fashion industry
Young families
Active seniors
Specialty adventure groups such as hikers, photographers, bikers

5. Getting there

Getting to Lijiang is becoming increasingly easy. Currently, most tourists fly directly into the city via main Chinese gateways such as Kunming (served from Singapore by Silkair and China Eastern) or Guangzhou (served by many Singapore budget carriers such as Tiger Airways and Jetstar). Another well-traveled route is to fly into Kunming and take the overland train to the historic town of Dali, before continuing on to Lijiang.

Given the recent opening of a new international terminal, and the increasing numbers of international hotel chains such as Aman, Banyan Tree, and the Pullman, Lijiang stands to become a destination to rival Bali. There is current a direct Sichuan Airlines Hong Kong – Lijiang flight which bodes well for the future of Lijiang’s international connectivity.

6. Seasons

The province of Yunnan is famed as the land of eternal spring. And Lijiang’s location at the edge of the Tibetan Plateau puts all its natural treasures within reach all year round. In spring, mountains around The Bivou burst into a riot of azaleas and wild flowers. In summer, sunflowers carpet the valley, and wild mushrooms and fruit trees ripen for the picking. In autmun, perfect blue skies make hiking a dream. And in winter, migrating birds flock in the thousands to highland lakes.

Due to its higher altitude (2300m) Lijiang’s climate is temperate all-year round, with cool wetter summers and dry spring and autumn seasons. Even in winter time, travelers can walk around comfortably in a light sweater during the day as brilliant sunshine keeps daytime temperatures in the teens. Early mornings can be brisk though, with occasional frost.

This article was specially written for NATAS. All rights reserved.

Greece

Credits: Nam Ho Travel

Article written for www.natastravel.com  

OVERVIEW :

Greece is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, ranking in the world's top 20 countries. According to the Greek Ministry of Tourism, the nation received about 17 million visitors from January to mid August 2007, a large number for a small country of 11 million. Visitors are drawn to the country's beaches and reliable sunny summer weather, its nightlife, historical sites and natural beauty.

ATTRACTIONS :

Visit the Historic Sites in Athens

When considering things to do in Greece, it only seems natural to schedule an itinerary for Athens. Athens has some of the most famous attractions in Greece, from the Acropolis to the Parliament Building at Syntagma Square. The world class museums in Athens, like the National Archaeological Museum and the Benaki Museum, are more than worthy of a visit, and will give added insight and understanding into the many historic Greece attractions spread throughout the country. Wander around the ancient agora and visit the Kallimarmaron stadium to see where the ancient Panathenaic Games were held.

Soak Up Some Sun in the Greek Islands

This is easily among the top things to do in Greece. Especially in the summer, the beaches of Greece are at the top of the list of attractions in Greece. While you can find plenty of isolated and serene beaches on both the mainland and the islands, the summer nightlife found at many island beaches is among the best in all of Europe. On islands like Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, the beaches are the place to be in the summer. Scores of tourists and native Greeks head to the Greek islands beaches to enjoy the refreshing blue waters of the Aegean Sea and take in the evening sunsets. There are also many naturist beaches in the Greek islands, if you are looking for them.

Take in a Show during the Hellenic Festival

Every summer in Athens, the Hellenic Festival is in full swing, and it is among the most popular and significant events in Greece. The Hellenic Festival celebrates the performance arts and at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus theatre, musical and dance performances by international and national artists are featured. The ancient theatre provides a stunning venue for such shows. There are also popular music concerts held during the festival atop Lykavittos Hill and theatre performances at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus and the Little Theatre of Epidaurus. Where better to see a recreation of a Greek tragedy than in Athens?

Take a Bus and Guided Tour to Olympia

Among the many attractions in Greece, the ruins at Olympia are one of the most popular. From Athens, or the city of Pyrgos, you can arrange a guided tour to these ruins to get the full appreciation. Tourist attractions in Greece rarely get more historically significant than this. Olympia was the location for the ancient Olympic Games and here you will find the remnants of an old stadium and sprinting track, as well as the ruins of the once great Temple of Zeus. The Temple of Zeus once housed the great Statue of Zeus, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Visit the Soaring Rocks and Monasteries of Meteora

First of all, the landscape is amazing here. The rocks of Meteora are a conglomeration of natural rocks at the edge of the Pindus Mountains that rise to form pinnacles in the sky. These rocks were a place of refuge for monks who built an amazing series of monasteries dating back to the 13th century. Of the original 24 monasteries, only 6 remain, and they are almost unbelievably perched among the rocks. The Church of the Metamorphosis is the most famous remaining monastery and offers a wonderful small museum. This area easily ranks among the best Greece attractions.

Take a Wine Tour on the Islands of Crete and Santorini

Greek wine is steadily gaining popularity, and as if these islands weren’t already among the top tourist attractions in Greece, you can add a wine tour on them to your list of things to do in Greece. On the island of Santorini, the volcanic-rich soil makes for some unique tasting wines. On Crete, wine production can be traced back in history to the Minoans, and visiting one of today’s wineries is a nice diversion in between enjoying the mountains and beaches of Crete.

GENERAL INFORMATION :

Capital of Greece: Athens

Official language: Greek

The currency: Euro(€)

Time Greece: GMT +2

WEATHER:

Greece has a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine, mild temperatures and a limited amount of rainfall. 

Due to the country's geographical position, its rugged relief and its distribution between the mainland and the sea, there is great variation in Greece's climate. 

In summer, the dry hot days are cooled by seasonal winds called the meltemi, while mountainous regions have generally lower temperatures.

The winters are mild in lowland areas, with a minimum amount of snow and ice, yet, mountains are usually snow-covered. Moreover, a common phenomenon is the occurrence of different climactic conditions during the same season (for instance, mild heat in coastal areas and cool temperatures in mountainous regions).

PASSPORT AND VISA:

Please check with your Travel Agent.


This article was submitted by Nam Ho Travel (A member of NATAS)

Previous blog entries written on Greece: A trip down to Athens, Greece and My fairytale, my kingdom. My castle, my knights.

The Confession of A Shopaholic: First Short Trip to Bangkok!

Author: Sophia Loh

Article written for www.natastravel.com
Copyrighted, 2013

BANGKOK - HERE I COME!

I’ve always hear people telling me how Bangkok (BKK) is a shopping paradise, and I couldn’t wait to grab on that opportunity to travel to BKK when I was having my vacation. Embarking on a 4D3N Trip, I was about to discover the true meaning of a “shopaholic”.

Prior to travelling, I checked with my family and friends who have been to BKK before and ask them for their advices on where I should go to. I also did my own research – it’s helpful and it cuts down unnecessary time that could be better spent exploring the capital! So here’s a few that I have gathered, for those who have not been to BKK before and would like to have an awesome shopping trip!

* Note: The suggested are just some of my preferences; moreover, I did not have the luxury for spending more days at Bangkok. Bangkok has way too many shopping malls to suit every kind of lifestyle and budgets, so take time to find yours!

1) Platinum Fashion Mall, Pratunam: 

Do not be deceived by the appearance of this shopping mall – Not only is it MEGA-HUGE, I believe spending 1-2 days at the Platinum Fashion Mall might not help you to truly cover every retail shop. If my memory did not fail me, there are 2 sections in this mall. Do plan your time wisely as you will not realize how fast time passes in the indoor shopping mall!

Also, one of the hotel front office personnel told me that Platinum Fashion Mall is more for tourists/ shopaholics who are interested in Thailand’s modern and street style fashion. The Platinum Fashion Mall is also “Thailand’s largest stylist wholesale & retail fashion mall”! Indeed, it is fantastic place for buyers interested in getting wholesale! As a frequent customer who patronizes online blogshops, you can imagine my horror when I found out that I could get the same items at half the price over at the Platinum Fashion Mall.

Remember to keep your tummy full amidst the shopping craze, you can easily purchase a value card at the food court if you intend to spend more than 1 day at this shopping mall. The unused value can be refunded back as well! J

2) Chatuchak Market: 3 Words – SHOIK & HOT!

Endless Crowds

Street Performances

If you have ever been to a pasar-malam in Singapore or to Bugis Street, you will find yourself at a familiar scene in Chatuchak Market. This is a ‘MUST-GO’ place during weekends and oh my, the shopping here is beyond your imagination.

The Chatuchak Market is made up of 26 sections and different sections may stand for different categories. For example, Section 3 and 4 is Clothing/Accessories and Section XX may be Garden Equipment. Do refer to the below picture for a clearer illustration! My friend and I wanted to explore the section of ‘Fighting Cock’ but the market is simply way too big to really make sense of your exact location. It is like a huge maze and my advice is: If you see something that you really like, you should buy it straight away! Because the chances of finding the same stall is slim.

THE MAP - GUIDE TO SHOP

I spent my weekends mostly at the Chatuchak Market because I really had such a great time shopping at the market. Head on early to the Chatuchak Market because they close their stalls rather early – by 6pm I supposed. Some of the things sold at the Chatuchak Market can also be found at shopping malls such as the Platinum Fashion Mall but at a slightly cheaper rate!

Oh did I mention about the weather there? It is really hot and humid!!! Thank goodness to the drink stalls along the way. I would highly recommend the coconut drink because it is really refreshing! If you are hungry, fret not. Food stalls are available and they are really yummy too!

3) MBK, Siam: 

This is the place to go if you are into IT gadgets and sports equipment! You can get really good deals at MBK but do take your time to find the best deal if you are interested in let’s say, getting a canon camera or a mini-ipad. J The gadgets should be really cheaper over at MBK because I see tourists lugging big television sets; it is those scene that you will see at Courts mega-sale!

Outside of MBK, you will also discover many small stalls set up along the roads. Sadly, I only found out about this on the last day of my trip!

4) CentralWorld, Siam: 

Lastly, this is the shopping mall to visit for those who are interested in ‘Atas’ shopping, or rather, anyone who has no budget constraints! I would say CentralWorld is like our Ion/Paragon. Certainly, I do not think you can bargain over here because the brands featured in CentralWorld are international brands such as Zara, Timberland, Naraya, Cath Kidson etc. I enjoy my short visit at the CentralWorld and you can take beautiful pictures at night outside CentralWorld!

Of course, no shopping trips are completed without foot massages! Simply ask the taxi-uncles or the hotel staff for directions. If you are a self-confess shopaholic, or are intending to revamp your entire wardrobe, you will definitely not want to miss those $8 foot massages deals – something that you can never find in Singapore!

So till then, this sums up my short trip over at Bangkok! :) 

The author is a student of University of Las Vegas (UNLV)