Food is one of our basic needs, but cooking is also an art, and fine dining at fantastic restaurants is one of the most luxurious experiences you can have. However, not all restaurants are made equal, and there are absolutely restaurants you should avoid like the plague and others you should make a beeline for. It takes time and experience to build the instincts that can spot a restaurant’s quality, but nobody wants to waste their money and time on a meal that is not worth it, so here are a couple of tips to help you find the perfect restaurant. Use the Internet In the modern and digital age, we have almost unlimited information available right at our fingertips, so we really have no excuse to walk in blindly anywhere. Use social media, Google, Instagram, or any other tool to find a restaurant that appeals to your tastes and style. If you take a look at https://www.koreandinnerparty.com/, you’ll see what they have to offer, their opening and closing times, what the menu looks like, etc. Also, do not forget to check out reviews to see what other people have to say about their past experiences with the restaurant, so you do not just fall for good marketing. First Impressions Matter Yes, you should not judge a book by its cover, but it can certainly give you an idea of what you can expect inside the book, and first impressions do matter. If the restaurant is not well maintained, the exterior looks unkempt, the interior looks grimy, and the tables are greasy, you probably will not be witnessing any MasterChef levels of cooking. But if the tables shine, the cutlery is pristine, the waiters are attentive and professional, and the exterior is carefully maintained, the chances of you having an incredible time will naturally be a lot higher. Size of the Menu If the menu is like 20 pages long and has a dozen variations and varieties for every continent on the planet, it is a dead giveaway of a restaurant you should stay clear of. No self-respecting and high-class kitchen in the world can churn out such a huge quantity of dishes without making heavy compromises on the quality and attention they pay to each dish. Go for one that is focused; you are much more likely to get succulent Italian cuisine at a restaurant that specializes in Italian cuisine than at an Arab restaurant, it’s logical. Book Early This is more of a tip for yourself, but the early bird catches the worm, and the early booker gets the best seats and timings. Once you have settled on a restaurant, do not wait days or weeks to book your table, and contact them promptly instead, ensuring you catch the timeslot you want and the tables you prefer, especially if it is a bigger occasion like a family dinner party.  Nobody wants to have an evening they regret, and especially in situations where you need everyone to have a great time, like a dinner party, it is imperative you choose the restaurant carefully.

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As we explore the world and its diversity, we often come across fascinating animal species that spark our curiosity. Zoos provide an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of these animals, learn about their habitat, and understand the challenges they face in the wild. Asia is home to some of the most diverse and intriguing wildlife species on the planet. From giant pandas to Bengal tigers, there is no shortage of exotic animals to observe in their natural habitat. In this guide, we will explore some of the best zoos in Asia that you can visit to experience these fascinating creatures up close. Looking for an exciting adventure in Singapore? Look no further than the Singapore Zoo! Get your Singapore Zoo tickets and explore the lush rainforest environment and see over 300 species of animals, including endangered ones. Enjoy animal shows, interactive exhibits, and feeding sessions for an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out! Singapore Zoo The Singapore Zoo is a world-renowned attraction that is home to over 2,800 animals from 300 different species. The zoo is renowned for its open concept design, which allows visitors to see the animals up close without any barriers. This immersive experience is especially popular with families and animal lovers who want to get up close and personal with their favorite creatures. Beijing Zoo The Beijing Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Singapore, established in 1906. It is home to over 14,500 animals from over 950 species, including giant pandas, red pandas, Siberian tigers, and Chinese alligators. The zoo’s mission is to educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation and raise awareness about the threats faced by these species in the wild. Ueno Zoo The Ueno Zoo is Japan‘s oldest zoo, established in 1882. It is home to over 3,000 animals from over 400 species, including giant pandas, Bengal tigers, and Japanese macaques. The zoo also features a petting zoo, where visitors can interact with domesticated animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and goats. Chiang Mai Zoo The Chiang Mai Zoo is located in Northern Thailand and is home to over 400 different species of animals. The zoo is especially renowned for its successful breeding programs for rare and endangered animals such as the giant panda and the Siberian tiger. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of exhibits, including a walk-through aviary and a freshwater aquarium. Ocean Park Hong Kong The Ocean Park Hong Kong is a theme park and marine mammal park located in Hong Kong. It is home to over 13,000 animals from over 500 species, including giant pandas, Asian small-clawed otters, and hammerhead sharks. The park features a wide range of attractions, including roller coasters, aquariums, and animal shows. Bali Safari and Marine Park The Bali Safari and Marine Park is a wildlife park and conservation center located in Bali, Indonesia. The park is home to over 100 different species of animals, including African lions, Indian rhinoceros, and Komodo dragons. The park also features a water park, amusement park rides, and cultural shows. Taipei Zoo The Taipei Zoo is the largest zoo in Taiwan and is home to over 400 different species of animals. The zoo is especially renowned for its giant panda exhibit, which features two giant pandas on loan from China. Other popular exhibits include the African savanna, the Australian exhibit, and the insectarium. Calauit Safari Park The Calauit Safari Park is a wildlife reserve located in the Philippines. It is home to a variety of exotic animals, including giraffes, zebras, and impalas. The park also features a wildlife museum, a crocodile farm, and a beach resort. Sri Racha Tiger Zoo The Sri Racha Tiger Zoo is a popular attraction in Thailand that is home to over 200 Bengal tigers. Visitors can watch the tigers perform in shows, and even bottle-feed tiger cubs. The zoo also houses other exotic animals such as elephants, camels, and ostriches. Jurong Bird Park The Jurong Bird Park is a bird sanctuary and park located in Singapore. It is home to over 3,500 birds from over 400 different species, making it one of the largest bird parks in the world. Visitors can explore the different bird habitats, watch birds in flight shows, and even get up close and personal with some of the birds. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and Zoo The Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and Zoo is a popular attraction in Pattaya, Thailand. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and giraffes, as well as a large collection of tropical plants and flowers. Visitors can enjoy animal shows, cultural performances, and explore the beautiful gardens. Everland Everland is a theme park and wildlife reserve located in South Korea. The park is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, and bears, as well as a range of rides and attractions. The park is especially popular for its safari ride, which allows visitors to see animals such as zebras and giraffes up close. Conclusion Zoos provide an opportunity to learn about and appreciate some of the world’s most fascinating animal species. The zoos in Asia listed above are just a few of the many attractions that offer immersive and educational experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in giant pandas, tigers, birds, or any other exotic animals, these zoos are sure to offer an unforgettable experience.

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Seoul, Korea – Marriott International today announced the opening of the 199-room Four Points by Sheraton Seoul, Gangnam, the second Four Points hotel to open in the Korean capital city. Located strategically in the heart of Seoul’s upscale Gangnam district, the new Four Points Seoul, Gangnam features uncomplicated yet sophisticated spaces with modern design elements complemented by thoughtful service. “We are very happy to be opening the second Four Points by Sheraton hotel here in the exciting Gangnam district of Seoul, one of the most popular areas in South Korea for locals and visitors alike,” said Mike Fulkerson, Vice President, Brand and Marketing Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “The smart, independent traveler will appreciate the comfortable, relaxed ambience of the hotel and the team’s thoughtful service. Four Points Seoul, Gangnam will surely become a meeting place for locals to bond over craft beers on tap as part of the brand’s signature Best Brews™ program.” The new Four Points Seoul, Gangnam is conveniently located near major subway stations that are within walking distance to the hotel, providing easy access to top attractions throughout the city. K Star Road, which is also nearby, will provide the ultimate immersive experience for fans of K-pop culture. It is also a shopping and nightlife haven, just mere minutes away from the hotel. Gangnam Business District, Cheongdam Luxury Street, Beauty Clinic Street and Garuso-gil, popular for their upscale boutiques, galleries, restaurants and cafes, are all located near the hotel. The Four Points Seoul, Gangnam incorporates the Four Points style ethos – modern and practical, designed for the ultimate in comfort for business and leisure travelers. Each of the hotel’s 199 stylish guest rooms, including two penthouse suites, feature a 49-inch ultra HD TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, egg chair and a comfortable bed for a deep and restful sleep. Evolution, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, boasts modern interiors, a lively atmosphere and offers an à-la-carte menu as well as a full buffet prepared with freshly selected local ingredients. The private dining room is for intimate family gatherings or business dinners.  The Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day with a glass of wine, along with a selection of refreshing drinks, snacks and sweet desserts. Best Brews™, the brand’s signature beer program, invites guests to enjoy craft beers and authentic local flavors with fresh ingredients. Committed to improving productivity while on the road, Four Points Seoul, Gangnam offers everything business travelers need. The second floor has 106 square meters of meeting space which can cater to a variety of event sizes and needs. Each function room is equipped with the latest technology for a seamless experience. The hotel also features state-of-the-art fitness equipment for a great workout, as well as sauna facilities to soothe and pamper after a day’s work, sightseeing or shopping. “We are very proud to open a new Four Points by Sheraton hotel in Seoul, one of the most bustling cities in Asia,” said Jennifer Lee, General Manager, Four Points by Sheraton Seoul, Gangnam. “We strive to provide friendly, genuine service so guests can relax for a greater travel experience, whether they’re traveling for business or pleasure.” For more information, please visit http://www.starwoodhotels.com/fourpoints/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=4224&language=en_US

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The Rainforest World Music Festival this year has put up a plentiful schedule of musicians, with an impressively jam-packed schedule that included exhibitions, cultural shows and lots of performances. It has sadly come to an end, and when we sit and talk about the event, there were a lot of musical treats in store, but one of the most exhilarating performances was indeed the one by South Korean ensemble group Palsandae. THE ENSEMBLE Palsandae is acrobatic art performed by a dance troupe of 16 members. The troupe features Korean traditional music, acrobatics, dances and shamanic prayer songs, and their performances are rooted in a tradition of traveling music and dance troupes. This year was apparently the first time they manage to bring all of its members onto an international stage. Palsandae charismatic and shamanic male leader Kim Woon Tae, one of few in a group of near-all women, grew up traveling with a troupe and has a jazz background. THE MEANING Palsandae reproduces the traditional ‘sandae’ stage, which displays the essence of traditional Korean music and dance, and ‘pal’ means ‘eight’ or ‘whole’ in Korean when added to a name. THE MUSIC Palsandae breathtaking performances carry elements of improvisation and wild music that is at times very loud, ecstatic and steeped in spirituality. Their genre is a traditio nal farmers’ music called ‘nongak’, a deliciously cacophony played by double-headed janggo drums, clattering hand-held kkwaenggwari gongs, sogo hand drums, and the braying piri, a small bamboo oboe. Palsandae has a wide range of repertoire including shamanic prayer songs – ‘pansori’ – traditional storytelling songs, improvisational ‘shinawi’ ensemble music, and ‘pangut’, the highlight of its program featuring Master Kim Woon Tae’s Chaesang Sogo Dance. THE DANCES Palsandae is a show of weave acrobatics and dances with performers wearing traditional clothes and Chaesang hats with ribboned whirly gigs, a stunning extravaganza that they brought onto the main stage as in a circus performance. Leader Kim is most well-known for his Chaesang Sogo Dance, a dance that is quite popular. THE FOUNDATIONS The foundation of Palsandae’s mesmerizing performance is shamanism, but elements of the many other religions in Korea are brought in as an addition to the set of farmers’ music ably directed by Kim Woon Tae. TRADITIONS People familiar with Korea culture should recognize this iconic dance that has become a genre of traditional Korean dance. Palsandae are proud of their culture and carry down the tradition of Korea’s last nomadic ‘nongak’ troupe – literally meaning farmers’ music, Honam Yeoseong Nongak Dan (meaning Honam region’s female nongak troupe). ON STAGE Members of Palsandae walked down from the west area of the main stage and, quite in contact with the audience, performed a ritual to cleanse the concert space. During the fascinating act and the visually stunning stage of ‘pangut’, each performer played a percussion instrument while whirling and spinning ribbons on their ‘chaesang’ hats, expressing the continuous flow of life. A fascinating performance that dazzled the audience. There was a lot of improvisation, with dances adapted to the energy of the space in which it happened, and with costume changes made on stage for a programme that Kim created especially for the Rainforest World Music Festival and that will never be repeated. EMOTIONS Palsandae dazzled audiences with their energy level and an uplifting blend of traditional and party music, dazzling display of costumes, twirling dancers, and ritualistic chanting. The essence of the group is connecting with nature, people, the community and the environment, the perfect themes at the Rainforest World Music Festival. For us Palsandae was a new and mysterious thing that we treasure dearly thanks to good memories and great pictures and videos. FACTSHEET In the period of Joseon Dynasty, ‘sandae’ referred to the stage held at the palace for the most important figures at the time: the King and foreign ambassadors. Upon their arrival to the palace, the kingdom’s most talented performers put out a spectacular ‘sandae’. ‘Nongak’ old styles of farm and street music used to be predominated by male performers, among both professionals and amateurs, as in many other cultures most drummers are male. However a handful of professional female groups emerged and made great commercial successes during that time in agricultural Korea. Female ‘pungmul’ ensembles would roll into a town, set up a tent and present their circus-like shows. Director of Palsandae, Master Kim Woon Tae, started travelling with his father’s troupe Honam Yeoseong Nongak Dan at the age of seven, and soon became a child star. He then toured the world as a member of Little Angels and later with the famed Kim Duk Soo Samulnori group. Under Kim’s direction, Palsandae preserves and develops ‘honam udo’ region’s ‘pangut’, usually performed by eleven to thirteen members, with each performer playing a percussion instrument in ensemble while running, whirling and spinning ribbons on their ‘chaesang’ hats, and while the players keep on running in a circle. The Palsandae troupe is today supported by South Korean government funding, namely the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism of Korea and the Federation of Gyeonggi Cultural Center, and the more they perform internationally, the more recognition they are getting in their own country. Palsandae on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/palsandae Palsandae on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeC-nUnxJLg

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