EDITOR’S NOTE
When putting out a monthly publication whose scope is
something as diverse and wide-ranging as the ASEAN
community of nations, it’s sometimes an overwhelming
task trying to find enough space to fit it all in between 2
covers. Every month it seems like there’s still so much
more we’d love to tell our readers about.
At any rate, in this issue we feature a cover story profiling
beautiful Brunei, probably the least known of all the 10
ASEAN nations. This secluded Sultanate may be smaller
than many of its Southeast Asian neighbours, but it
still manages to offer a wealth of interest for visitors
adventurous enough to make the journey. And while
Brunei might be off the beaten track for the average
tourist, there’s no doubt that Singapore – the subject
of our 2nd main feature – is a top 10 tourist mecca. And
one thing that consistently draws visitors from far and
wide to this locale is the wealth of delectable cuisine,
and the abundance of culture and history.
In addition to our 2 main features we have also
included 2 smaller features profiling different aspects
of Malyasia. In the first feature we take a look at a
traditional Malay homestay experience, and in the
second we travel to George Town, Penang to discover
life in this unique colonial UNESCO heritage town.
Other highlights this issue include an intriguing report on the wonders of Eastern
Java, one of Indonesia’s undiscovered gems, as well as a one-on-one interview with
Hamdan M. Taha, the Deputy Minister, Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities for the
State of Palestine. We’ve also got first-hand coverage of the recent SEALYP youth trip
to the United States, a terrific duck sour soup recipe from one of Siem Reap’s most
esteemed restaurant chefs, and a pair of property profiles that showcase 2 of Thailand’s
best oceanfront holiday getaways – the U Zenmaya in Phuket, and the Sheraton Hua
Hua Pranburi Villas.
Finally, no issue would be complete without a few of our regular monthly columns and
travel features. It’s a lot to take in, so sit back, order a long latte, and dive in.
I also invite all readers to become a fan on our Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.
com/aseantripper, and visit our official website at www.aseantripper.com.
Gaid Phitthayakornsilp
Editor-in-Chief
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