Discover the pristine splendor of Shangri-La country in Yunnan, China through the authentic and immersive trekking & glamping experience with Caravan Liotard. In this mandarin webinar, QiLian – the representative from Caravan Liotard will take you on a journey to a modern-day adventure along the ancient Tea Horse road.Â
Do you know how does Korea get its present-day name? In this webinar, we will travel back in time to the turbulent period of The Three Kingdoms of Korea. The three kingdoms refer to the ancient Kingdom of Baekje, Silla and Goguryeo, from which the name Korea was originally derived.
Join us to learn about this intriguing period of Korean history and discover the UNESCO world heritage sites in Gyeongju, Buyeo and Gongju where traces of these fabled kingdoms can be found. This webinar will focus more on two dynasties Silla and Baekje. The former is described by Chinese emissaries as a country of gold, whereas the latter is known for its metal craftsmanship.
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| Speaker |
Sohey Ahn Sohey is an English-Speaking License Guide in Seoul since 2013. As a tour guide, she has guided many corporates VIPs as well as government high officials. Her expert guided study tours were especially hugely popular with History groups. She is also a trainer on “How to deliver Korean History to Tourists” at Korean Guide Association for new tour guides. Her Lectures were incomparable with professional academics, historians and writers and her knowledge of their subject area and an ability to communicate their learning in a way that were enlighten and stimulate her students. Her passion, enthusiasm and knowledge of Korean history makes her narration comes alive
Over the past few months, many countries have started to welcome international travellers again, with relaxation of entry requirements. While many are thrilled by the prospect of embarking on a long-awaited journey abroad, some, especially prudent parents of little ones, understandably may still have reservations about traveling in the new normal.
So, what is it like to be traveling in a world where the rules are changing? We invited our guest Joleena, who set out for a Hawaiian holiday in January, to share her recent experience of her journey of a tropical escapade.
How does it feel to be traveling again?
J: Emotional and thankful. After being grounded for two years, the thrill of boarding a plane and exploring a new destination was almost unbelievable.  The simple act of checking in my luggage at the SQ counter in Terminal 3 almost brought tears to my eyes. I recognized that not many people have the freedom nor ability to travel, so I am grateful that I had the opportunity to spend my festive season in Hawaii. It was liberating and almost felt like an expedition to go on long-haul travel! I will never take travel for granted again.
What is the biggest difference of traveling pre & post-Covid?
J: Those days of last-minute travel decisions are over. Post-pandemic travel requires immaculate planning, allocation of time for PCR pre-travel tests and printing of documents, the discipline of self-testing and also sacrifice on indoor activities and avoiding crowded places. It is no longer feasible to snatch the cheapest air ticket offer and jump onto the plane to our weekend destination. The detailed logistics and continency planning will take weeks!
I also learnt to be very selective about the type of activities and destinations to visit. Quality is definitely more important than quantity now.
Do you think the trip’s worth it?
J: Yes! The trip was like food for my soul. It was not a simple vacation, but rather, an affirmation of my passion for the tourism industry. The thrill of discovering a new destination and returning to the skies was exciting. But above all, the grand escape from Singapore was a mentally and emotionally enriching experience for me.
Any suggestions for those who are about to hit the road again?
J: Unless you are traveling to a destination with a lot of domestic support, I would highly recommend engaging a travel planner. With thanks to Intriq Journey, my trip was well-planned and everything went like clockwork, so there I thoroughly enjoyed my vacation. Winnie Sum, my travel designer, took away the pain of navigating travel restrictions, curated a dream itinerary based on my passion points and prepared a detailed briefing note for my daily reference. This gave me total confidence and absolute peace of mind, which allowed me to relax and enjoy myself to the fullest.
The folly of attempting to plan a Hawaiian sojourn during the height of Omicron would have caused a nervous breakdown without Winnie’s help!
Not only was Joleena keen to share her delightful experience to encourage others to travel soon, she also shared some of her favourite experiences which made this trip unique and memorable:
1. Being an Advanced Scuba Diver, my favourite is the Night Experience with Manta Rays. That was truly unique and magical that I could get up close & personal with these gentle giants.
2. Heli Tour:  This is a brilliant activity because I could enjoy aerial views of the active volcanoes and waterfalls… But 2hrs was a bit too long so I got restless after 1hr.
3. Germaine’s Luau: The Plumeria package was perfect! I loved my front row seat and VIP access to the bar/ buffet line. It was really fun too!
4. Polynesian Cultural Centre: Although I loved learning about all six Polynesian cultures and traditions, it was a bit crowded and very hot. Don’t get me wrong: I loved this too!  It’s just that I prefer the Germaine’s Luau.
Our team of luxury travel specialists are among the first to return to the skies when the VTL scheme launched in October 2021. Speak to us to learn more and start planning your one-of-a-kind journey to rediscover the world now.
With traveling back to norm, we have picked a handful of top-recommended resorts in Maldives, completed with our exclusive partner benefits. Book your ultimate relaxing getaways to lock in the limited-time offers. The tropical paradise is just 5 hours away.
Located in the pristine Thaa Atoll, accessible by 60-min seaplane flight. The resort boasts 66 exquisite villas and suites both on land and over-water. Ideal for both families and couples.Â
3-night package with exclusive benefits Â
Beach Suite with Private Pool from USD 6,848.96 for 3 nights
Water Suite with Private Pool from USD 7,859.20 for 3 nightsÂ
Note:
Min. 3 nights stay. Book & stay by 30 Apr.Â
We recommend it because… Â
A 173-villa resort with numerous F&B options (8 restaurants & 5 bars shared with The Residence Falhumaafushi). Ideal for family vacation with a kid’s club, pool, water sports & dive centre. Accessible by 55–min domestic flight & 7–min speedboat.Â
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4-night package with exclusive benefits* Â
-Upgrade from Full-board to Standard All Inclusive* 
-USD 200 resort credit for 1BR villas, and upgrade from Lagoon Pool Villa to Sunrise Water Pool Villa at time of booking* 
-Complimentary return domestic flights and speedboat transfers
-If international flights arrives into Male after 19:00hrs, first night is USD 190 on bed and breakfast (with min. 5 nights inclusive of this first night) + USD 6 per person green tax* 
Sunset Beach Pool Villa from USD 5,092.15 for 4 nights in high season
Sunrise Water Pool Villa from USD 6,592.58 for 4 nights in high season Â
Note:
Book by 30 Apr 2022, stay by 30 Mar 2023
High season from Nov to Apr, except festive season around Christmas and New Year
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We recommend it because…Â
The newly opened resort features 100 villas (from 1 to 3 bedrooms) with 24-hour ‘Aris Meeha’ butler service and 7 restaurants and bars. Ideal for both families and couples. Accessible by 45-min speedboat.
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Stay 4 Pay 3 with exclusive STARS benefitsÂ
-Complimentary 4th night of stay (cumulative and repeats every 4 consecutive nights. i.e. book 8 nights and get 2 nights complimentary)
-US$300 hotel credits per stay
-Complimentary room upgrade
-Complimentary early check-in or late check-out
1 bedroom Overwater Villa from USD 9,026 for 4 nights in low season (May to Sep)
Note:
Book and stay by 30 April 2023
Block-out dates: Year-end festive season (18 Dec 22-9 Jan 23), Lunar New Year (20-28 Jan 23), Easter (1-16 Apr 23)Â
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We recommend it because… Â
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96 well-appointed rooms in traditional Maldivian architecture with a little rustic feel. 4 restaurants & 2 bars. Ideal for both families and couples. Accessible by speedboat in 25 min.Â
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4-night package with exclusive benefits*Â
-Complimentary room upgrade of one category, subject to availability at time of check-in 
-On top of US$100 hotel credits, exclusive benefit of additional US$500 credit* per stay, subject to availability at the time of booking
Lagoon Water Villa from USD 7,587.84 for 4 nights in high season
Sunrise Water Villa from USD 12,158.56 for 4 nights in high season  Â
Note:
Book and stay by 20 Dec 2022
High season from Nov to Apr, except festive season around Christmas and New Year
We recommend it because…
Located 40-min away from Male by seaplane, the top-notched luxury resort boasts 46 villas in contemporary and sleek Maldivian architecture. 6 restaurants & 4 bars with a wine & cigar cellar. Ideal for couples and families. The resort will be closed for renovations from mid-May to mid-Jul.
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Stay 4 Pay 3 package with exclusive benefits*Â
-Complimentary 4th night of stay
–USD 150 F&B credit*
-Complimentary wifi, full buffet breakfast or in-room dining, welcome amenities, complimentary room upgrade, early check-in and late check-out upon availabilityÂ
Water Villa 1 Bedroom from USD 13,255.04 for 4 nights in low season (May – Sep)Â
Note: Book and stay by 30 Sep 2022
We recommend it because…
The barefoot luxury resort features 97 villas with 3 restaurant & 3 bars. Activities include free bicycle rental, movie under the stars, water sports & dive centre. Eco-friendly with a sustainability focus. Ideal for both families and couples. Accessible by 35-min domestic flight & 15-min speedboat.Â
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4-night Summer in the Lagoon packageÂ
-Complimentary shared return domestic flights for 2 adults 
-Upgrade to half-board (excluding beverages) for 2 adults Â
Lagoon Water Villa from USD 4,061.50 for 4 nights in low season (Apr – Sep)
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Note:Â
Min. 4-night stay. Valid from May – Dec 2022 
We recommend it because…
If our last blog hasn’t inspired you to start planning for your next vacation, read on for some more amazing recommendations that will hopefully change your mind. Whether you are more of an urban explorer or a nature rambler, get ready to be impressed by this lovely country when wandering through the vibrant cities on foot or journeying through the countryside in a stylishly German automobile.
Magic Cities
Cologne
Appreciate the splendor of the Cologne Cathedral, a spectacular feat of architecture that took over 600 years to build. The magic of Cologne hardly ends there. Keep an eye out for the banana sign when strolling down the streets in the city. The striking yellowish fruit painting had once been an initiative by an art student, Thomas Baumgärtel, to raise attention to booming art spaces and gradually became a symbol liken to the Michelin Star for art galleries.
Hamburg
Experience the charm of this maritime capital of the north through its many fascinating heritages. Hamburg boasts the oldest Opera House in Germany, that once hosted the likes of George Friedrich Handel, an elaborate City Hall that has more rooms than the Buckingham Palace and the UNESCO Heritage of Speicherstadt, the world’s largest single complex of traditional brick warehouses that stands on a timber-pile foundation.
Berlin
The magical charm of Berlin, the capital city of Germany, goes way beyond its famed historic landmarks. It’s a trendsetter in lifestyle with a pulsating vibe – be it in private art galleries, bustling flea markets, alternative clubs and bars, diverse culinary options from Michelin-starred restaurants to vegan cuisine to the craft beer culture, its diversity makes it welcoming for all. Did you know that Berlin has the largest Turkish community outside Turkey? You can even experience a pampering session in an elegant Hammam in the second ‘Turkish Capital’.
Stuttgart
Cars has played a magical part in the history of Stuttgart, the capital of Baden-Württemberg region. Not only the world’s best cars are made here, you can also explore the history of the automobile industry from start to finish in the Mercedes-Benz Museum. A tour at the plant of this famed car-maker gives you a peek into the behind the scenes at a state-of-the-art car factory.
Delightful Themed Routes
Romantic Road
This 400km-long road in Germany certainly befits its name. Stretching from the foothill of the Alps in the south to the vineyards in Central Germany, we recommend at least 4 or 5Â days to allow ample time to explore tiny quaint Bavarian towns with half-timbered houses. Among the many little gems along the way, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of our favourites with a wealth of historical sights and gourmet options.
German Avenues Route
Don’t miss this one if you are a tree-hugger! The 2,900km-long Avenue Route is the longest scenic route in Germany with trees lining the avenues running through the countryside. Be amazed by the dense canopies of foliage and the flourishing varieties of trees, from linden, chestnuts, birches, to oaks and maples. Travel in autumn months to capture the magical moments as nature transforms their green foliage into a beautiful sea of colours.
German Alpine Road
Set against the backdrop of majestic mountain in the south, the Alpine Road is a 450km-long winding route with a plethora of crystal-clear mountain lakes, spa resorts, ravines, valleys and sun-soaked mountain pastures. Rich in nature and culture, discover world-famous sights enroute such as Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Wieskirche Pilgrimage Church and many more.
German Volcanoes Route
This route is a real gem even if you are not a geology aficionado. The 280km-long route stretches between Bonn and Trier in the Eifel region with about 40 geological sights, including volcanoes that have been dormant for 10,000 years. Discover the mysterious connection between a monastery and volcanoes or visit the award-winning Roman mine The Römerbergwerk Meurin.
By no means is this list exhaustive of the countless experiences in Germany. With our extensive networks on the ground, we are happy to share more ideas and assist you with planning a hassle-free bespoke holiday as the border reopens.
BMW’s slogan is certainly befitting for a limitless driving experience in Germany, with more than 12,000 km of autobahn (highway) and 65% without a speed limit. What’s more, the autobahn has been engineered in a way to ensure safety as well as a frictionless driving experience, so channel your inner racer for a carefree spin!
Many research suggest that access to nature is fundamental to our well-being. With almost one-third of the country covered in green, forests in Germany span across a massive 11.4 million hectare, equivalent to 157 times the size of Singapore. For active travelers, enjoy numerous trekking and cycling routes of more than 200 kilometres in Bavarian Forest National Park, the oldest of all national parks in the country. Discover untouched wildlife, flora and fauna in Berchtesgaden National Park, the only national park in the German Alps.
Although Germany is not as famous as its neighbouring countries when it comes to food, it does offer something for everyone, whether you are a meat-loving person or a vegan. Germany boasts over 1,000 varieties of sausages (there’s even a museum dedicated to the popular currywurst) while its capital Berlin is regarded as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world with a thriving and diverse food scene.
For the history and culture lovers, be thrilled by the extensive options of over 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites dotted across the country, only surpassed by Italy and China. Be awe-inspired by the famed Cologne Cathedral, jaunt through the charming old town of Bamberg and appreciate the legacy of the architectural maestro Le Corbusier in Stuttgart.
Beer is an integral part of Germany culture, with over 5,500 brands of beer made from only four ingredients. Recent years have seen soaring popularity of craft beer and even non-alcoholic beer, making it even more accessible to everyone to indulge some delicious foamy brew. There is also something for the wine aficionados – Germany has some excellent wineries, most notably its Rieslings. Travel this fall just in time to savor the best local wines during the harvest season.
Did you know that the first known Christmas tree (Tannenbaum) originated from Freiburg, a town in Germany in 15th century? The country boasts some of the oldest and best Christmas markets in the world – with the mainstream ones in cities like Frankfurt, Berlin and Munich drawing the crowds with their bustling atmosphere. For something a little more different, check out the market in the underground wine cellars of Traben-Trarbach, perfect for avoiding any potential snowstorms, or the cozy village of huts under the viaduct of the Hollental Railway for a romantic setting in the Black Forest.
Last but not least, what can be a better motivation than being able to travel quarantine-free? Leave us to take care the complicated border entry requirements while you enjoy a hassle-free vacation.
Our team at Intriq Journey has carefully curated this feature on China, a country that boasts over 20 amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites and no less than 56 different ethnic groups. Read on to find out why our China travel expert Stella Fan thinks it is the destination that has something for everyone in every season.
We are taking a different perspective to illustrate our recommendations according to China’s geographical landforms, which can be categorised by: the mountain ranges, the high plateaus and the low-lying plains.
Soaring Mountains
Encompassing some of the world’s tallest peaks, China’s mountain ranges deservedly earned it’s title of Roof of the World. Generally above 2,000m altitude, geographical features include snow-capped mountains, glaciers, high mountain passes, and incredible alpine landscapes.
10 Days Eastern Tibet Panorama
Step into the Switzerland-like scenery of Eastern Tibet, trek its largest ancient blue Laigu glacier and wander around quaint remote villages in the world’s deepest canyon.
8 Days Hidden Charms of Northern Yunnan
Stroll across the quaint roofed houses of Lijiang and the undulating beauty of Shangri-La town, hike across the iconic Tiger Leaping Gorge and marvel at the snow-capped peaks of Meili.
High Plateau
Although at a lower altitude than the mountains (mostly elevations between 1,000 – 2,000m high), the high plateaus are no less impressive, boasting of impressive landforms ranging from steppe grasslands, mountains ridges and ravines, verdant valleys, highland lakes and waterfalls.
6 Days Alternative Shaanxi
Get lost in Yucha Grand Canyon, which bears a striking resemblance to Antelope Canyon in the United States. Be awed by the world’s only yellow thundering Hukou Waterfall.
6 Days Hulunbuir Immersion in Inner Mongolia
Enjoy breath-taking colours of Ergun – the no.1 wetland in Asia, traverse the boundless grassland of Hulunbuir and mingle with the “last hunting tribe in China†Aolunguya Reindeer Tribe.
Sweeping Plains
We categorize the rest of China as the low-lying regions – fertile plains that are densely farmed and populated. The landscape is one of the most diverse, from rivers meandering through karst formations, lush rice terraces stretching along the rolling hills, tropical forests to white sandy beaches.
5 Days Landscapes of Guilin
Take the path less travelled to journey through Guilin to see its gorgeous karst formations along the Li River, enjoy the picturesque rice terraces in Longsheng and bike along a quiet trail to visit authentic villages with a local guide.
8 Days Best of Fujian
Explore the signature highlights of Fujian, one of the most culturally diverse provinces in China. Visit a local family in the unique Tulou Hakka House and retreat into a Toulou-transformed hotel.
Retreat to Relax – Jinmao Purelax Mountain Hotel Lijiang
The recently renovated hotel offers 89 suites and villas, nestled against the backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Yunnan. The hotel is a destination in itself, boasting the magnificent scenery of century-old glaciers and a plethora of dynamic cultural heritage.
With our unbeatable knowledge & extensive connections on the ground, get in touch to find out the best experiences in this incredible country.
Not many know the Kimberley region, taking up almost the entire north-western corner of Australia, the sheer size of it makes it one of the best places to discover nature, wildlife and adventure. Almost 383 times larger than Hong Kong, 581 times the size of Singapore, this remote region is home to prolific wildlife, wondrous sights, swimming holes filled with fresh water, and outback stations. Don’t like crowds and prefer some fresh air? Despite being immensely large, there are very few inhabitants in the region, making Kimberley a very sparsely populated area. Curious as to what’s there to see? We have the list prepared:
Glimpse in ancient history
If you thought Roman architecture was a peek into ancient times, we’re taking a huge leap back in time at Kimberley, Australia. Many ancient Roman ruins are like infants when compared to the painted Rock Walls in the Kimberley region, dating back to almost 16,000 years ago.
Paleontology more to your liking? Come to Broome to have a look at the world’s largest dinosaur tracks, the 25 kilometre stretch of coastline north of the city is home to thousands of dinosaur tracks belonging to more than 20 different groups, making it the most diverse track sites in the world. Imagine the thundering beats of two-toed herbivores, or raging T-rexes that stomped their existence into the very Earth that you tread today.
A giant cornucopia of Natural Wonders
Though Kimberley itself is not crowded, there are certainly enough attractions and natural wonders here to crowd your itinerary. Breathtaking wilderness Purnululu National Park is home to the Bungle Bungle range, an expansive land formation out of beehive-like sandstone karsts, and also a UNESCO world heritage listed for the geological significance. Many nature-buffs would also be fascinated to experience the Horizontal Falls of Talbot Bay, described by the famous natural historian David Attenborough as the “Australia’s most unusual natural wonderâ€. The massive tidal movements of the region, easily reaching 11-metre, creates rapids that resembles a waterfall moving horizontally, a truly awe-striking sight.
Bird of paradise
Thought you would be lonely in such a sparsely populated area? Not at all – there are over 300 species of birds in the Kimberley region alone. Sit by the shore at sunset to see the dance of brolgas birds, a true spectacle for any nature lover. You can also see flocks of magpie geese fly overhead at sunrise, it’s definitely a noisy sunrise as you hear the flapping of enormous wings heading out to sea. If lucky, you may even spot a pair of chirping Brown Honeyeaters or some colourful Rainbow Bee-eaters among the trees, the endangered Gouldian Finch or the Sea Eagles feeding their young by the shore.
Clear skies ahead
Sparsely populated also roughly translates to low light pollution. Get unhindered views of the night sky that’s near impossible in cosmopolitan cities, almost all of the Milky Way can be seen here, where the spectacular night skies are revealed. The Kimberley night skies are clear, pristine and beautiful, and you find yourself transported back in time to a point where there were no streetlights or billboards. There is a moment where you will realise that you are not only staring into the Milky Way, but you are on a planet that is part of the Milky Way, that realisation often is humbling and makes one appreciate the beauty of just being alive.
Fly me to the moon
Ready to go to the moon? We might not be flying though but we can certainly take the stairs. The Staircase to the Moon in Kimberley is an amazing phenomenon caused by the rising of a full moon reflecting off the exposed mudflats in Roebuck Bay at a low tide. The optical illusion of a stairway to reach a Moon is alluring as it is breathtaking. The phenomenon only occurs a couple of times per month from March to October. Don’t worry if you don’t arrive at the right dates to catch this spectacular show, the Indian Ocean itself seen in contrast with the red rocks of the Kimberley coast is a sight to behold on its own.
Connect with the oldest culture in the world
Having been here for over 50,000 years, the Traditional Owners of Australia’s Kimberley region are now represented by the Kimberley Land Council. Up to 40% of the region’s population are aboriginal people, comprising a vast range of different language groups, each with its own story and heritage. Visit them in Indigenous-led tourism businesses operating in the region, tours can offer a variety of experiences that help you learn, understand and appreciate the spiritual connection Aboriginal people have to this vast and beautiful Kimberley land.
Can’t wait to take a tour around Kimberley? It’s important to note that many of these amazing locations are not easily accessible by land and vehicle. Instead, Intriq Journey recommends taking a cruise to visit Kimberley: get up close and personal to the Horizontal Falls, get on and off with extreme comfort and luxury, knowing that only the best quality of service is available to you. Kimberley’s complex gorges, canyons, ridges and cliffs can be easily accessed with a cruise, designed for those who delight in the thrill of discovery while indulging in lavish surroundings. Who says you have to pick a side? Get your private verandas and ocean suites all with exclusive butler service, celebrate expedition cruising at its best with the comfortable living to the experienced local guides that guarantee a wonderful and fruitful journey in Kimberley.
Guizhou, home to one of the best Chinese liquors, is more than just a place where Maotai is manufactured, the province is in fact a cornucopia of cultures and hidden gems for culture tourism and those who are interested in the ethnic minorities. In the southeast of Guizhou is Danzhai, where natural wonders and the culture of the ethnic minority people in Danzhai pull in millions of visitors each year. An awe even to the most seasoned traveller, the rustic and unique folk styles and cultures are great attractions for those who love immersive experiences. Under the administration of the Qiandongnan Miao and the Dong Autonomous Prefecture, the rich cultural diversity made it a recommendation by Lonely Planet, a worthy travel destination comparable even to Brazil’s Amazons and Lord Howe Island in Australia.
A mere two-hour drive away from Guiyang, the ethnic minority villages here in Danzhai are what churches are in Europe, or Gondolas in Venice, living museums that showcase the culture and history of people from different ethnicities, village-hopping is a must on anyone’s itinerary. You could head to Paimo, Song Long, or Ma Niao to see different villages and discover traditional art forms like Batik Dyeing, Bird Cages, and Paper-making. Don’t worry about comfort as the Danzhai Wanda Village would be your perfect anchor point, providing easy access to different locations and also comfortable resorts and dining options, all while supporting the local community and funding the poverty alleviation programme for the ethnic minority in the region.
Curious as to what you can do in Danzhai to learn about the ethnic minority culture? Here are some activities that are eye-opening and immersive:
Craving more cultural heritage? Driving 3 hours westbound, you’ll arrive at Anshun, where another kind of ethnic minority flourishes. While village-hopping through the Anshun area, you’ll come across the Anshun Yunfeng Tunbao Cultural Scenic Area where fort villages are brimming with cultural heritage and history. Specifically in the fort village of Ben, one of the most well-preserved villages, meet the “Tunbao people ” who are in fact not an ethnic minority, but Han people who have migrated to the region in the Ming dynasty. They often don Ming dynasty clothing and live in stone houses. There are minimal tourists here, really get the most authentic experience by observing the daily lives of the people who still live here. You can also admire the architecture of the Tunbao, a former military-use fort where there are hidden holes where archers fired their deadly shots.
Different from commercial sightseeing villages, the forts here are conservational and have been kept for their historical value. In the Yintan area, home to 323 families and a total of 1,669 villagers, you can immerse yourself in the Dong villages. Ancient wells that have been in use since their ancestors migrated here, still provide for the villages as they did centuries ago. The people here are generous, loving and open, often welcoming visitors with local cuisine, singing and dancing. Get to know their culture from an insider’s point of view, learn about their customs and traditions not from a museum, but from the people.
Besides the cultural side of things, Guizhou is also full of natural wonders. Home to the magnificent Mount Fanjing, the Libo Xiaoqikong and the majestic Huangguoshu Waterfall, simply let us know what your preference is and tailor your itinerary to make the most out of your trip to Guizhou.
One of the most signature, almost postcard-esque shots of Guizhou would be their rice fields. Head to the Jiabang rice field to take long walks along the rice paddies, take the path less taken, free from other tourists. Discover the lovely natural wonders in Guizhou at your own pace and leisure.
If you prefer to hike, Guizhou has many beautiful mountains suitable for you to conquer. Home to many bridges, Guizhou is the proud home to 14 of the highest bridges in the world. Walk around the loop of Tianxingqiao Scenic area to brave the heights on a relatively easier trail. Want a challenge? Head to Fanjingshan, one of the UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage sites at 2,336 metres above sea level that is still standing after being through earthquakes, volcanic outbursts, and the ice age. A place with great biodiversity, it has around 4,000 different species of flowers alone and is home to the Grey Snub-nosed Monkey. Climb up a thousand steps to see the Fanjingshan temples, built first in the Ming Dynasty, and restored once in the Qing Dynasty. A majestic sight to behold atop the clouds.
Whether you’re a history buff interested in the ethnic minorities’ complex culture or a nature-lover who is in search of the best scenic routes, Guizhou has its mix of authentic experiences that isn’t watered down like your average sightseeing village. Intriq Journey is happy to tailor-make your very own itinerary to make the most out of Guizhou, be it immersive workshops and experiences, or a hike through the mountains.
Animal migration happens for various reasons, for some, it is about depleted food sources and the climate, while for others, it is about heading back to where it started and giving birth to the next generation. Some are seasonal, while others are a year-long affair (did you know that the wildebeest in Tanzania and Kenya are constantly on the move all year round?). We share this and 7 other lesser-known facts:
Zebra herds are called Dazzles, and they dazzle for many miles
Commonly found around the rivers in dry months, zebra herds are said to move up to nearly 1,000 km each year, the longest migration of all land animals in Africa They make their way almost all the way across Botswana, back-and-forth during the interchanging seasons – southbound towards the desert in the wet season from November to March, and then back North through the same tracks during the dry season from April to October. A truly dazzling spectacle when viewing a large, um, dazzle, running through the plains.
Beware of snaps: Wildebeests brave the waters of Mara River
It is said that Wildebeests are able to stand and even walk almost immediately after birth, extremely vital due to their vulnerability to the predators around them. Up to 250,000 wildebeests die each year during the migration, either because of thirst, hunger, or simply being hunted down by prides of lionesses or other predators. One of their most perilous crossings is made in the legendary river crossing at Mara River. Situated between the borders of Tanzania and Kenya, thousands and thousands of wildebeests make their way across the river during July and through August, and not all of them make it across safely. Get your best views from Tanzania, where most wildebeests graze before crossing the river.
Pink skies and Flamboyance
One of the lesser well-known migrations, but certainly ranks high on our list of nature’s greatest shows. These great big birds fly in a V-shaped formation to their breeding grounds from April to June from Kenya. Although they are lagoon birds, their giant wings allow them to fly up to 4-5km up in the sky to avoid predators like eagles. Millions of pink feathers make even the skies blush bright pink, which also echoes what people call a large pack of flamingos – Flamboyance!
Summer home in Africa: Southern Right Whales go north
Like the Hamptons to a New Yorker, Southern Right Whales have holiday homes too. From June to November, these large gentle mammals make their way north from the colder waters of Antarctica to the warmer waters along the southern coast of South Africa between Hermanus to Plettenberg Bay, where they mate and give birth to young calves. This whale watcher’s haven has the added advantage of being able to view these magnificent giants right from shore, with an excellent variety of cosy boutique hotels and beachfront villas to choose from.
Boom, baby, boom: Wildebeests give birth to over 500,000 calves each year
Having already amazed us with their ability to walk within days and keep up with the gigantic herd, wildebeests also impress with their fertility, with a record of 8,000 calves born in one day. Sadly, this is essential to the survival of the herd with several predators ranging from snappy crocodiles, hungry hyenas, and prying prides picking on these easy prey – definitely not for the faint-hearted! For the intrepid traveller, this is a wonderful season (January – March) for a safari to experience the circle of life with thousands of calves and plenty of action from the predators on the prowl.
Amazing Graze: up to 4,000 tonnes of grass is consumed each day
With all this grass-gorging, it’s no wonder animals have to migrate! However, did you know that zebras and wildebeests graze hand-in-hand (or hoof-to-hoof) with the limited food resources in the plains? Zebras, who are less choosy, eat the taller grass, while the pickier wildebeests only like the short, more palatable parts of the grass. There certainly won’t be any leftovers when they are through!
A true bachelor’s party: male predators buff up and follow the migratory herds
For a bachelor to win over the pack and become the alpha male, it’s important to not only be strong, but also smart. Some bachelor lions form groups to follow the herds and hunt during these migrations, picking out easy targets like calves. Only the strongest and boldest are then able to head back to a pride to challenge the leader.Â
There are still many mysteries surrounding migrations – how do these animals identify their destinations? How do they know where they are headed to without a leader? Regardless, it is one of nature’s most spectacular wonders with different phases and seasons. Whether you would like to witness hundreds or thousands of new-born calves and the heart-stopping hunts by predators, or thunderous hooves braving deep water on a perilous river crossing, we at Intriq Journey would be more than happy to share our decades of experience and plan for your journey to experience this spectacle in Africa.
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Call us at +65 6219 1359 or email us at enquiry@intriqjourney.com to speak with us.
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