When we go on holidays, we normally avoid cities. We prefer appreciating the scenic views from the countryside, take a closer look at nature and where possible an interaction with nature - hiking, swimming, boat rides, snorkeling, etc .... An exposure to the essence of local cultures - exhibited in dances, folk songs, music, local food, festive celebrations, etc ...... would be entertaining. If it is possible, it will be great to delve into local history, legends, myths.....anything that can make the place more unique and personal. In short when I am on a holiday I became an inquisitive child - thirsting for new sights, knowledge and in hope of seeing things that can broaden my outlook in life.
Every sight is interesting and worth a second look. I value the opportunity to glimpse into the way people in these places live out their lives, how they adapt to technological and economic influences......after all I am on a break from my normal routine ! A major set back is the language barrier... how nice if I can talk to the local people and exchange views and opinions on things in general. Can there be one day a gadget that allows us to talk and comprehend any language in the world?
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| Joining a local tour seems sensible ! |
Well, when one is a new place, one need to explore the city life as this is where trade activities occur and influence the growth of the place. We can check out the infra structures, the facilities in the city, and imagine we are city dwellers, not foreigners. Incognito we can observe the local people as they go about attending to their daily business......!
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| Shopping for stuff, anyone.....? |
Shopping in the city is always a change from the sight seeing activites. It is nice to pick up small souvenirs and check out what are offered in the shops and form an idea on the cost of living as we checked out the prices of essential items. From the clothes, footwear, bags, etc ...one can more or less gauge the latest trends. We can also examine the gadgets they sell and see if we can pick up new ideas to bring home - my favorite haunts is normally the household and gardening departments .....!
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| Oriental Pearl Tower |
Aside from shopping, one can visit places such as museums, gardens, shopping arcades, theaters for cultural shows, places of worships, libraries, appreciate the architecture of high rise buildings, etc, etc ...... So in conclusion, we cannot rule out exploring the cities when we travel .... lol!
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| Goodbye Shanghai ... The Railway Station |
