STI: dr hols

May 5, 2009

dr hols

 

I am planning to visit Florida between June and September. What can I do and see there?

 

Chen Shichang

 

Florida is a fantastic place for families because of its theme parks.

 

Chan Brothers Travel recommends you start at Magic Kingdom in Orlando's Disney World where you can meet Mickey Mouse and other Disney characters.

 

Explore a world of wonder and imagination at Epcot Center and visit Mission: SPACE and experience the full force of a space launch on the most intense thrill ride in any Disney park.

 

Find out how it feels to be a Lilliputian in a land of Gullivers on special-effects adventure, Honey, I Shrunk The Audience.

 

Take your time to explore the country pavilions in the World Showcase, where one highlight is a man-made lagoon with a circumference of 3.2km.

 

At Universal Studios, join a tour to explore the world of movie stunts and thrilling rides centred around blockbuster movies such as Jurassic Park and Back To The Future.

 

The Terminator 3D Adventure showcases impressive special effects.

 

Then take it slow with a bout of leisurely shopping at the Chelsea Premium Outlets, where designer stores offer savings of up to 65 per cent.

 

I would like to take my family to Taiwan for a week. What should we visit in Taipei, Hualien and Alishan?

 

Ho Wei Chan

 

In Taipei, the capital city, there is something for everyone at the largest wholesale market, Wu Fen Pu Wholesale Market, and the Taipei 101 Mall, with shops selling branded items and the latest fashion. In Yingge Ceramics Old Street, you will find shops selling a wide variety of pottery.

 

A place where the young and hip hang out is the famous Ximending, known as the Harajuku of Taiwan.

 

You can watch and take photographs of the changing-of-guards ceremony at the Martyrs Shrine.

 

Fans of Meteor Garden will want to visit Fisherman's Wharf, where the popular teen idol drama serial was filmed.

 

Most importantly, do not miss the famous Shihlin Night Market, the largest night market in Taipei, where you can sample a wide variety of local snacks.

 

En route to Hualien, enjoy the magnificent sea view along the winding road, especially at the Clear Water route.

 

Visit the Taroko Gorge National Park to admire the cliffs, waterfalls and caves.

 

The picturesque Chihsingtan Beach, a largely undeveloped sandy strip with a spectacular mountain backdrop, is an excellent spot for taking pictures.

 

At Alishan, the attractions include sights such as the Sisters Pond, Alishan Sacred Tree, Three Generations Trees and Shouzhen Temple.

 

My wife, our three-year-old child and I intend to visit Adelaide in November. What are some family-oriented activities we can do?

 

Nigel Wang

 

November is a great time to visit Adelaide since the temperature there averages a comfortable 24 deg C.

 

In the city, head to the famous Haigh's Chocolate Visitors Centre to find out how the artisan chocolates have been made since 1915.

 

Then take a trip to Barossa Valley, where there are numerous vineyards with play areas for children, while adults can savour lunch and local wine.

 

Visit Chateau Barossa, a Baroque-style chateau, for the view of tens of thousands of roses and one of the world's greatest collections of Meissen porcelain, antique furniture, tapestry and paintings.

 

For nature lovers, go to Angas Park and buy a variety of locally grown dried fruit.

 

Also, visit Cleland Wildlife Park, where you can get up close to koalas, wombats and kangaroos, and feed them.

 

If you have time, head south to the seaside town of Victor Harbor and ride on a horse-drawn tram to Granite Island, home to more than 1,000 fairy penguins.

 

You can also join a tour to Kangaroo Island to see the astounding rock formations at Remarkable Rocks or take pictures of seals on the beach at Seal Bay.