Going down the river

The Jakarta Post   |  Fri, 03/28/2008 2:10 PM  |  This Way Out

Going down the river
South Sumatra has never got the attention of better known tourist areas in West and North Sumatra, but its Visit Musi 2008 campaign may help change that. Visitors to the province’s capital of Palembang can take a river tour along the historic Musi River, get an up-close look at the iconic Ampera Bridge and stop in at a historic ethnic Chinese community. After all that traipsing around, treat yourself to a plate of pempek, the local culinary specialty. The place to stay today is the 174-room Aston Palembang Hotel and Convention Center.

Here, there and everywhere
John and George have gone to a better place, Paul has been sorting out a costly divorce settlement and Ringo – we’re not sure what he’s been up to – but there’s no denying the Fab Four live on in so many ways. The latest will no doubt thrill on-the-road Beatles fans who can finally check into a boutique hotel that pays homage to the band. Located in where else, but Liverpool, England, the two-month old Hard Days Night Hotel has been two years in the making and features 110 rooms, a bar, a restaurant and even a wedding chapel. John and Paul also get some love with suites named after them. The all white Lennon room sports a white baby grand piano and the McCartney Suite a suit of armor in recognition of his knighthood. A specially commissioned piece of artwork by acclaimed Beatles artist Shannon also enjoys pride of place in every room. Think the whole thing’s a tad kitschy and gimmicky? Others are lapping it up. According to a hotel spokesperson, the phones have been ringing off the hook and enquiries have come as far as Croatia, Japan, Russia, the U.S. and Brazil. (www.harddaysnighthotel.com)

Smoke-free zone
Thailand is the latest country to stub out smoking in pubs, restaurants, clubs and open-air and air- conditioned marketplaces. The country had introduced the no smoking law for public buildings and air conditioned areas previously, but the ruling now extends to F&B establishments too. As in Singapore, those in need of their nicotine fix can only light up in designated smoking areas. Otherwise, errant smokers can expect to pay as much as 2,000 baht (US$65) for flouting the law.

Tuning In
Perth’s own musical claim to fame, the Fairbridge Festival, celebrating all kinds of music from around the world, opens April 24 for three days of fund. People of all ages can sit back, relax and enjoy the entertainment and the atmosphere in one of Australia’s friendliest cities.

Cruise Control
A new addition to global cruises lets you roam the Yangtze River and visit China’s historical spots and Tibetan monasteries. From Beijing to the Himalayas, the 15-day cruise will leave you with memories you won’t ever want to forget. The cruise begins on April 27. For more info, contact Globus Tour.

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