When giant companies fall, how can the average person resist getting caught in the financial crisis?
The markets are reeling from the recent news that Bank of America acquired Merrill Lynch, a 94-year-old institution that was one of the last remaining independent holdouts on the street, while at the same time the 158-year-old securities firm Lehman Brothers has filed for bankruptcy protection. American International Group (A.I.G.), still woozy from the credit crisis joined troubled mortgage finance companies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in receiving a bailout from the Federal Government. The Dow dropped 449 points on the news of the AIG bailout. And shares in the last two independent investment banks, Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs fell precipitously on fears that they might go the way of Lehman and Merrill.
Coming on the heels of the forced sale of Bear Stearns to JPMorgan Chase earlier this year, its more than enough to make the average person wonder if our entire economy is on the verge of collapse. When such seemingly solvent financial institutions get shaken to their foundations, it leaves a lot of rubble.
So what can you do to make sure you are protected?
Resist the tendency to respond emotionally. The Three Principles of Personal Finance haven’t changed just because Lehman Brothers made some poor financial decisions. Stick with the three principles and you will be prepared for any crisis.
Spend less than you earn
Make the money you have work for you
Be prepared for the unexpected
Don’t try to time the market
Instead, dollar cost average your way into the market . Dollar cost averaging is an investing approach that reduces exposure to the risk associated with making a single large purchase. Spend a fixed dollar amount at regular intervals on a particular investment regardless of the share price. More shares are purchased when prices are low and fewer when prices are high.
By following the most basic investing principle, “buy low, sell high,” you can turn the market volatility to your advantage and lower your average cost basis. This means higher returns when the market eventually rebounds.
Take a long-term approach and keep making regular, steady investments into your 401k & IRA. Bull and bear markets cycle through every few years. Many investors saw a growth in their portfolios in the 90’s only to see their profits dissolve by 2002. But the ones that panicked, abandoned the stock market, and put what was left of their remaining assets into low-yield CDs were not well positioned for the rebound that occurred between 2003-2006. Keep this simple fact in mind. According to Jeremy J. Siegel, there is not a single 20-year-period in the last 100 years where the stock market has not increased in value.
Still worried? See if your employer offers dollar-for-dollar 401k contribution matching. That’s like getting an instant 100% return.
Diversify
While consumer financial services are down 54% over the past year, healthcare has outperformed the S&P 500 by 10% - just a few years ago, the situation was reversed. Rather than investing in a single stock or single sector of the economy, look for mutual funds that invest across many businesses. Another option, index funds, which are less subject to seismic shifts in the market because they are based on a set of rules of ownership that remain constant, regardless of market conditions.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
Ecotourism Adventure from Mountain High to Ocean Deep (Sabah, Malaysia)
Situated on the beautiful island of Borneo, Sabah is one of the thirteen states which Malaysia is made of. Sabah is the second largest state in Malaysia and shares the island of Borneo with Sarawak, Brunei, and Indonesian Kalimantan.
Simpang Mengayau means 'lingering junction' as it is here that the South China Sea lingers and meets the Sulu Seas flowing from the east ... Enjoy the stunning view. The sunsets and full moons are just beautiful ... The Pulau Kalampunian lighthouse is a reminder of treacherous coastline and past shipwrecks. On the left is the beautiful beach of Pantai Kalampunian.
Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary, Sandakan
An ideal destination for backpackers, Sabah is richly blessed with nature diversity, unique cultures, fun adventure, beautiful beaches, and fantastic cuisines for the adventurous taste buds.
From mountaineering and scuba diving to wildlife spotting or just simply relaxing at the beach, Sabah is the ultimate place to go. We have it all here, from the world's largest flower; the Rafflesia, to the highest mountain is South East Asia; Mount Kinabalu, to one of the world's best dive sites; Sipadan Island.
From mountaineering and scuba diving to wildlife spotting or just simply relaxing at the beach, Sabah is the ultimate place to go. We have it all here, from the world's largest flower; the Rafflesia, to the highest mountain is South East Asia; Mount Kinabalu, to one of the world's best dive sites; Sipadan Island.
Not only will you be amazed by the places to see and things to do here, you will also get to meet warm and friendly people in Sabah who are very hospitable. Get immersed in the unique culture and tradition of Sabah, not forgetting the sweet memories to last a lifetime.
Sipadan Island,
Sipadan Island is considered the pinnacle of diving in Malaysia and one of the top diving destinations in the world. Diving here is always good and sometimes it is simply awesome. The tiny rainforrest covered oceanic island forms the top of an ancient volcano that rises up from a 600 meter abyss in the northern Sulawesi Sea. There are several outstanding dive sites dotted around Sipadan's local reef system where you are likely to see sharks, turtles, manta rays and other big pelagics. Diving here is great for walls, drop offs and drift dives, it was only discovered as a dive destination in 1984 and even received an international boost when Jacques Cousteau spent several weeks here filming.
The Tip of Borneo - Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, Kudat
This dramatic headland is situated in the northern-most tip of BORNEO, the third largest island in the world, after Greenland and New Guinea. It is located in the Kudat Peninsula, about three and a half hours (or 215 kilometres) drive from Kota Kinabalu City.
Simpang Mengayau means 'lingering junction' as it is here that the South China Sea lingers and meets the Sulu Seas flowing from the east ... Enjoy the stunning view. The sunsets and full moons are just beautiful ... The Pulau Kalampunian lighthouse is a reminder of treacherous coastline and past shipwrecks. On the left is the beautiful beach of Pantai Kalampunian.Mabul Island, Semporna
Mention Mabul Island and visions of swaying coconut trees and idyllic water villages come to mind. And that’s just above the water.Located only about 15 minutes by speedboat from the famous Sipadan Island, Mabul has gained its own recognition as one of the best muck-diving (a term used to describe limited visibility dives at shallow sites with usually sandy bottoms) sites in the world
Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary, SandakanThe Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre was set up in 1964 to rehabilitate orphaned baby orang utan. Set in the lush 4,300-hectare Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, the Centre under the administration of the Wildlife Department of Sabah attracts tourists and researchers alike, giving them the opportunity to watch the orang utan up close in their natural habitat. A boardwalk leads you to a viewing gallery and feeding platform where the apes are fed milk and bananas twice a day at 10.00am and 3.00pm by rangers. Feeding time also attracts long-tailed macaques to the area. While orang utan rehabilitation is still the primary goal at Sepilok, it also focuses on public education on conservation, research and assistance on other endangered species such as the rhinoceros.
Visitors are restricted to walkways. Some orang utan have become familiar with people but touching them is strongly discouraged, and while the apes are naturally shy and gentle, the more mischievous ones may try to grab your camera or hat, in which case you should call for a ranger as trying to wrestle the 200 pound apes may not be a good idea.
For the more adventurous, there is trekking through mangrove forest. As this is under the Forestry Department, you will have to get a permit from them before trekking the 5km trail which runs through Sepilok Laut. You can also arrange for a boat return or accommodation in chalets in the forest.
Kundasang War Memorial, Kundasang
A must-visit in Kundasang is the Kundasang War Memorial. Established in 1962, this was one of the first memorials to commemorate the brave Australian and British Prisoners of War who died in Sandakan and during the infamous death marches to Ranau during World War II. The memorial also remembers the people of North Borneo who risked their lives to help the POWs.
The Memorial is made up of four beautiful gardens - the Australian Garden, the English Garden, the Borneo Garden and the Contemplation Garden and Pool - to represent the different nationalities. With its towering pine trees and blooming roses, a walk in the gardens is reminiscent to that of a stroll in a quaint English garden. The scent of roses lingers in the air and the serene atmosphere makes the Kundasang War Memorial an ideal place to contemplate and remember the heroes of the war. Visitors can also opt to view a brief video on the history of the Sandakan Death March.
Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu (Capital City)
Located at the end of Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman and about 6 kilometres from KK City, this place is closest to the hearts of the locals, and just one visit to the beach will tell you why. Taking its name from the casuarinas or aru trees that fringe the fine sands, this is where one might get a ringside seat to the greatest sunset on earth every evening when the crimson sun dips slowly into the horizon, leaving the vast skies a brilliant red.
Foodstalls serving local food and drinks are open till late at night. Enjoy coconut and sugarcane juice, chicken or beef satay and steamed peanuts and corn, or indulge in a full-course dinner at the seafood restaurant located there.The Tanjung Aru beach is also home to Shangri-la's Tanjung Aru Resort, the Kinabalu Golf Club and the Kinabalu Yacht Club.
Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre, Kota Kinabalu
Situated just two kilometers north-east of Kota Kinabalu City at Likas or ten minutes from the KK City Centre, the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre (KKWC) formerly known as Kota Kinabalu City Bird Sanctuary (KKCBS) covers 24 hectares (60 acres) of mangrove forest . It is at once an educational and recreational centre.
Commonly sighted birds here include the migratory species from as far as Northern Asia, Siberia and Northern China like the sandpiper, Greenshank, Redshank, egrets and herons as well as canopy birds such as collared kingfisher and stork-billed kingfisher. To date almost 80 species of birds have been identified at the sanctuary.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Mutual Fund
Mutual Funds are portfolio of stock market shares and other financial instruments built with funds collected from (usually) small investors whose primary concern is security of investment. These funds are run by government trusts, banks, and now private financial institutions as well. These funds can be OPEN – FUNDED or CLOSED – ENDED.
A mutual fund is just a convenient package or basket for a lot of investments—mainly stocks and bonds—that would be complicated for the typical investor to manage otherwise.
Mutual funds are the way the masses invest in the stock market. They are a cheap, easy and efficient way for people without a lot of money or financial experience to take advantage of stocks and bonds.
There are different kinds of mutual funds to cater to varied investment objectives: Growth Funds, Income Funds, Balanced Funds, and Liquid Assets Funds, also known as Money Market Funds.
One manager (or sometimes a team) manages a pool of millions or even billions of dollars in a mutual fund. That’s much cheaper than all those thousands of investors hiring a broker to manage their money individually.
Mutual funds are all about bulk. Mutual funds allow investors who start with a little bit of money, yet spread their investment around widely. That makes it much less risky than investing in one or two stocks.
A mutual fund is just a convenient package or basket for a lot of investments—mainly stocks and bonds—that would be complicated for the typical investor to manage otherwise.
Mutual funds are the way the masses invest in the stock market. They are a cheap, easy and efficient way for people without a lot of money or financial experience to take advantage of stocks and bonds.
There are different kinds of mutual funds to cater to varied investment objectives: Growth Funds, Income Funds, Balanced Funds, and Liquid Assets Funds, also known as Money Market Funds.
One manager (or sometimes a team) manages a pool of millions or even billions of dollars in a mutual fund. That’s much cheaper than all those thousands of investors hiring a broker to manage their money individually.
Mutual funds are all about bulk. Mutual funds allow investors who start with a little bit of money, yet spread their investment around widely. That makes it much less risky than investing in one or two stocks.
Stocks
Stocks are fractions of companies that are sold to people like you and I. When you buy stock in a company, you are actually owning a small piece of it. Can you imagine the look on someone's face when you tell them, "I own McDonalds"?How Does a Company Sell Stock?
In order for you to buy stock in a company, they first have to issue it. They do this by going to an underwriter. They tell this person how many shares of stock they want to issue to the public and the underwriter sets a price for the stock and sells it in an Initial Public Offering (IPO).
Why Do Companies Sell Stock?
Companies sell stock in order to gain money that will allow them to grow and buy more things. Some companies cannot afford to keep growing on their own so they sell parts of the company to shareholders.
Why Do People Buy Stock? People buy stock in a company in hopes that their investment in it will grow and they will make more money. They can make money in a stock by two different ways. The first is by receiving a dividend. A dividend is an amount of money that each shareholder is given that comes from the money made by the company. When a company makes money, they decide whether or not to pay their shareholders some of the earnings. If they do decide to pay the shareholders a dividend, they decide exactly how much to pay for each share. The more shares you own, the more money in dividends you will receive.
The other way an investor can make money is by having the stock price go up. This is generally how most of the money in a stock is made. The price of a stock will go up when there are more people that want to buy the stock than want to sell it. If more people want to sell it than want to buy it, the stock price will usually go down. People also buy stocks so that they can have a part in making decisions that affect the company. Companies have annual meetings to decide on things like whether to issue more stock or not or if they want to elect new people to the board of directors. When a company issues stock, they give up some of their rights to decide things like this.
In order for you to buy stock in a company, they first have to issue it. They do this by going to an underwriter. They tell this person how many shares of stock they want to issue to the public and the underwriter sets a price for the stock and sells it in an Initial Public Offering (IPO).
Why Do Companies Sell Stock?
Companies sell stock in order to gain money that will allow them to grow and buy more things. Some companies cannot afford to keep growing on their own so they sell parts of the company to shareholders.
Why Do People Buy Stock? People buy stock in a company in hopes that their investment in it will grow and they will make more money. They can make money in a stock by two different ways. The first is by receiving a dividend. A dividend is an amount of money that each shareholder is given that comes from the money made by the company. When a company makes money, they decide whether or not to pay their shareholders some of the earnings. If they do decide to pay the shareholders a dividend, they decide exactly how much to pay for each share. The more shares you own, the more money in dividends you will receive.
The other way an investor can make money is by having the stock price go up. This is generally how most of the money in a stock is made. The price of a stock will go up when there are more people that want to buy the stock than want to sell it. If more people want to sell it than want to buy it, the stock price will usually go down. People also buy stocks so that they can have a part in making decisions that affect the company. Companies have annual meetings to decide on things like whether to issue more stock or not or if they want to elect new people to the board of directors. When a company issues stock, they give up some of their rights to decide things like this.
Bonds
Basics
When you buy a bond, you become a lender. The bond issuer is the borrower. The bond issuer might be a company, a city, a state, or a federal government agency. They may borrow for short periods to manage cash flow or cover operating costs, for example. They may also borrow money for longer-term goals such as to build new facilities or pay for new technologies. Cities or states may need to build bridges or provide other community services. One common way to borrow money is to issue a bond series and sell units of the series to the public.
Why own bonds?
Bonds are a good choice if you're looking to earn a steady income with the potential to beat inflation. Bonds are sometimes referred to as "fixed income" securities. They pay you interest based on a fixed rate for a specified period of time, thus earning you "fixed income."
If you are thinking of buying a bond, consider some of the following questions: How much will you earn? When will you be paid the interest? How long is the loan? How reliable is the borrower? How much do they want to borrow?
How much will you earn?
The amount that you earn will be based on the bond's face value, coupon rate and yield.
The face value, or par value, of a bond is the value of the bond at maturity, the date when the loan is paid off. A common face value is $1,000 per bond. It's important to keep in mind that the actual market price of a bond may be higher or lower than the bond's face value. A bond's market price can fluctuate over time, depending on a variety of factors including investor demand, interest rate movement, the bond's maturity date and the creditworthiness of the issuer.
How safe is your bond?
When you buy bonds, you're taking a risk that borrowers with poor credit ratings may not repay their loans on time, or even at all.
Taxable or tax-free?
Depending on type of issuer and your state of residence, the interest you receive from a bond investment may be taxable or tax exempt. Generally speaking, all corporate bonds are taxable.
Do interest rates affect prices?In short, interest rates and bonds work like a see-saw: when rates rise, bond prices tend to fall, and when rates fall, bond prices tend to rise. If the economy's interest rates rise, newly issued bonds will pay higher interest than the bonds you own.
Typically, your older bonds will be worth less, and you'd have to sell them at a discount. If, however, the economy's interest rates drop, newly issued bonds will pay lower interest than the bonds you own. Then your older bonds will be typically worth more, and you'd be able to sell them at a higher price. If you hold a bond to maturity, you will not face these price changes.
Interest rates can also influence an issuer's decision to pay off the bonds early. Just as you can pay off a mortgage at any time without a penalty, many bond issuers have the ability to "call" in the bonds early. Typically, if interest rates drop significantly, a "callable" bond will get called. This allows the bond issuer to get rid of this high interest debt and borrow again at a lower interest rate.
How long are you willing to tie up your money?
Time also plays a big role in how much risk you'll be taking and how much interest will be paid. In general, the longer you're asked to lend your money, the higher the risk that something might go wrong, and therefore the higher the interest rate you can expect to earn. There are three main time-based categories:
How can you manage risk?
To help manage these risks, many financial professionals recommend holding a variety of bonds with different maturity dates. As with stocks or most types of securities, you generally want to avoid holding a large bond position with a single issuer or type of bond. Bond mutual funds can also reduce risk because they invest in a pool of many bonds.
When you buy a bond, you become a lender. The bond issuer is the borrower. The bond issuer might be a company, a city, a state, or a federal government agency. They may borrow for short periods to manage cash flow or cover operating costs, for example. They may also borrow money for longer-term goals such as to build new facilities or pay for new technologies. Cities or states may need to build bridges or provide other community services. One common way to borrow money is to issue a bond series and sell units of the series to the public.
Why own bonds?
Bonds are a good choice if you're looking to earn a steady income with the potential to beat inflation. Bonds are sometimes referred to as "fixed income" securities. They pay you interest based on a fixed rate for a specified period of time, thus earning you "fixed income."
If you are thinking of buying a bond, consider some of the following questions: How much will you earn? When will you be paid the interest? How long is the loan? How reliable is the borrower? How much do they want to borrow?
How much will you earn?
The amount that you earn will be based on the bond's face value, coupon rate and yield.
The face value, or par value, of a bond is the value of the bond at maturity, the date when the loan is paid off. A common face value is $1,000 per bond. It's important to keep in mind that the actual market price of a bond may be higher or lower than the bond's face value. A bond's market price can fluctuate over time, depending on a variety of factors including investor demand, interest rate movement, the bond's maturity date and the creditworthiness of the issuer.
How safe is your bond?
When you buy bonds, you're taking a risk that borrowers with poor credit ratings may not repay their loans on time, or even at all.
Taxable or tax-free?
Depending on type of issuer and your state of residence, the interest you receive from a bond investment may be taxable or tax exempt. Generally speaking, all corporate bonds are taxable.
Do interest rates affect prices?In short, interest rates and bonds work like a see-saw: when rates rise, bond prices tend to fall, and when rates fall, bond prices tend to rise. If the economy's interest rates rise, newly issued bonds will pay higher interest than the bonds you own.
Typically, your older bonds will be worth less, and you'd have to sell them at a discount. If, however, the economy's interest rates drop, newly issued bonds will pay lower interest than the bonds you own. Then your older bonds will be typically worth more, and you'd be able to sell them at a higher price. If you hold a bond to maturity, you will not face these price changes.
Interest rates can also influence an issuer's decision to pay off the bonds early. Just as you can pay off a mortgage at any time without a penalty, many bond issuers have the ability to "call" in the bonds early. Typically, if interest rates drop significantly, a "callable" bond will get called. This allows the bond issuer to get rid of this high interest debt and borrow again at a lower interest rate.
How long are you willing to tie up your money?
Time also plays a big role in how much risk you'll be taking and how much interest will be paid. In general, the longer you're asked to lend your money, the higher the risk that something might go wrong, and therefore the higher the interest rate you can expect to earn. There are three main time-based categories:
How can you manage risk?
To help manage these risks, many financial professionals recommend holding a variety of bonds with different maturity dates. As with stocks or most types of securities, you generally want to avoid holding a large bond position with a single issuer or type of bond. Bond mutual funds can also reduce risk because they invest in a pool of many bonds.
Basic Investing Principles
Keep Fees Low
Fees and expenses reduce your returns over time. That goes for all types of financial products, including mutual funds, individual stocks and bonds, insurance and mortgages.
When it comes to mutual funds, it's important to know the difference between "load" and "no-load" funds. Load funds charge an up-front sales fee whenever you make an investment. No-load funds do not charge an up-front sales fee. If you are evaluating mutual funds, look for no-load funds with expense ratios of less than 1 percent.
Similarly, when it comes to trading individual stocks or bonds, you want to keep costs low. Stock brokers charge a commission every time you trade. If you are interested in purchasing individual stocks and bonds, consider using a discount brokerage firm and completing your trades online when possible to keep your trading costs low.
Index Funds
Index funds are low-cost mutual funds that seek to mirror the performance of the broader markets they represent. Years of investment research show that mutual fund managers who try to buy and sell individual companies based on their own research have a hard time outperforming the broader markets over time. That's why index funds are so attractive.
Diversify to Reduce Risk
The old saying about "not putting all of your eggs in one basket" is especially true when it comes to investing. Diversification means spreading your investments among different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds and cash equivalents. It also means having exposure to a large number of different companies so that your investment success isn't dependent on a single company or sector of the market.
None of us can tell with certainty which investments will rise in price, but if your investments are diversified enough, you increase your chances of owning investments that rise in value. Just as important, however, diversifying your portfolio helps lessen the impact of investments that lose value. In short, diversification is a way to help reduce risk in your overall portfolio and improve your returns over time.
Mutual funds can be a convenient and effective way to achieve instant diversification through a single investment. Be careful though. Some people invest in several mutual funds that all have similar stocks in them. They think they're diversifying across several mutual funds, but instead they're duplicating efforts.
Rebalance to Stay on Track
Once we have made our investment decisions, we often forget to revisit them. But markets change. Rebalancing helps you maintain your target asset allocation among stocks, bonds and cash. If the value of the stocks in your portfolio increases, the ratio of stocks to bonds could change. Over time, you could end up with more risk than you realize. Rebalancing refers to adjusting your assets periodically to meet your target allocation of stocks, bonds and cash.
Keep it Simple
There are over 10,000 mutual funds in the United States. So which ones are right for you? How do you find out? And how can you be confident that you've made the right decisions?
Having too many choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to manage risk, ensure proper diversification and be confident that all of your investments are working toward a common goal. Tracking the progress of many investments takes time, not to mention the paperwork.
Owning a few simple, well-chosen investments is a sound approach for many investors. For example, the average investor today doesn't need complicated investments, such as futures, options and hedge funds. If you don't understand an investment, then don't buy it.
Fees and expenses reduce your returns over time. That goes for all types of financial products, including mutual funds, individual stocks and bonds, insurance and mortgages.
When it comes to mutual funds, it's important to know the difference between "load" and "no-load" funds. Load funds charge an up-front sales fee whenever you make an investment. No-load funds do not charge an up-front sales fee. If you are evaluating mutual funds, look for no-load funds with expense ratios of less than 1 percent.
Similarly, when it comes to trading individual stocks or bonds, you want to keep costs low. Stock brokers charge a commission every time you trade. If you are interested in purchasing individual stocks and bonds, consider using a discount brokerage firm and completing your trades online when possible to keep your trading costs low.
Index Funds
Index funds are low-cost mutual funds that seek to mirror the performance of the broader markets they represent. Years of investment research show that mutual fund managers who try to buy and sell individual companies based on their own research have a hard time outperforming the broader markets over time. That's why index funds are so attractive.
Diversify to Reduce Risk
The old saying about "not putting all of your eggs in one basket" is especially true when it comes to investing. Diversification means spreading your investments among different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds and cash equivalents. It also means having exposure to a large number of different companies so that your investment success isn't dependent on a single company or sector of the market.
None of us can tell with certainty which investments will rise in price, but if your investments are diversified enough, you increase your chances of owning investments that rise in value. Just as important, however, diversifying your portfolio helps lessen the impact of investments that lose value. In short, diversification is a way to help reduce risk in your overall portfolio and improve your returns over time.
Mutual funds can be a convenient and effective way to achieve instant diversification through a single investment. Be careful though. Some people invest in several mutual funds that all have similar stocks in them. They think they're diversifying across several mutual funds, but instead they're duplicating efforts.
Rebalance to Stay on Track
Once we have made our investment decisions, we often forget to revisit them. But markets change. Rebalancing helps you maintain your target asset allocation among stocks, bonds and cash. If the value of the stocks in your portfolio increases, the ratio of stocks to bonds could change. Over time, you could end up with more risk than you realize. Rebalancing refers to adjusting your assets periodically to meet your target allocation of stocks, bonds and cash.
Keep it Simple
There are over 10,000 mutual funds in the United States. So which ones are right for you? How do you find out? And how can you be confident that you've made the right decisions?
Having too many choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to manage risk, ensure proper diversification and be confident that all of your investments are working toward a common goal. Tracking the progress of many investments takes time, not to mention the paperwork.
Owning a few simple, well-chosen investments is a sound approach for many investors. For example, the average investor today doesn't need complicated investments, such as futures, options and hedge funds. If you don't understand an investment, then don't buy it.
Luxory Hotels in Asia
Ritz-Carlton Millenia (Singapore, Singapore)
Spread across a garden oasis lies the Ritz Carlton Millenia hotel. Located in the popular Marina Centre you will be treated like royalty from the moment you arrive. Each room features fantastic views of the surrounding area but the artwork within the hotel is also worth remembering. There are restaurants right outside its doors or stay at the Ritz and feast at one of its five dining options. Although you are in a busy area the hotel itself has created a getaway for its guests. Gardens, waterfalls, spa and fitness center create a wonderful ambience for you to enjoy as well.
Oberoi Udaivilas (Udaipur, India )
‘Grand’ doesn’t come close to describing this world-renowned hotel. Even the most basic room at the Oberoi Udaivilas will exceed your expectations. The staff prides themselves on a job exceedingly well done and helps make this retreat worth remembering. Relearn how to relax at a yoga classes or indulge your senses at one of its restaurants. You could also take a boat ride along the lake and enjoy the fabulous views. The city of Udaipur is amazing but it might be a tad difficult to find a reason to leave the grounds of this fantastic hotel.
St. Regis Hotel (Beijing, China)
Located near Beijing’s finest attractions, the St. Regis Hotel has become a popular choice. Although the city is busy 24/7 the hotel has set itself apart and created a wonderful ambience for its guests. Each room has been carefully designed with your needs in mind. Great views, large marble bathrooms and the most comfortable beds you have ever slept on grace each room. As with most St. Regis establishments they pride themselves on fantastic service. In fact, each floor has its own butler. This hotel even has its own bowling alley. What will they think of next?
Banyan Tree (Phuket, Thailand)
A regular on many ‘best of’ lists, the Banyan Tree made ours as well. First, its location along the Andaman Sea gives you plenty of white sand beaches and numerous water activities. Second, it is part of the Laguna Phuket resort and that means you have acres of perfected gardens, a fantastic golf course and more dining establishments to choose from. Third, the rooms offer everything you could need – slippers, tanning lotion, water and even incense. Last, its service is impeccable. You too will discover that the Banyan Tree lives up to the country’s ‘Land of Smiles’ motto.
Oberoi Rajvilas (Jaipur, India)
Recreating a royal ambience you will feel as though you have entered a different world. The ‘fort’ setting guides you into peace and relaxation. The unusual set up is a welcomed treat from the typical five-star hotels of the world. The grounds are immaculate, the restaurants out of this world and the service is perfection. Depending on what room you choose you could have your own butler or private swimming pool. Each is perfectly laid out with simple, yet elegant, furnishings. India’s sights, scents and sounds will leave a lasting impression as will the Oberoi Rajvilas hotel.
Four Seasons (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
Overlooking mountains, the Mae Rim Valley and working rice fields the Four Seasons prides itself on being an oasis in the middle of this lively city. Rather than being clumped together in one large building they have created pavilions that are located throughout the beautiful grounds. Indulge on the luxuries provided including the fabulous infinity pool. Work up an appetite on the tennis courts or along the trails and satisfy it dining on the amazing Thai cuisine. Of course the Four Seasons spa is reason enough to come. The treatments provided are one of a kind and definitely worth experiencing.
The Oriental (Bangkok, Thailand)
The Oriental has become one of the finest hotels in all of Asia. Ornate is a poor descriptor for this hotel and yet none of it is overdone. Take in the spectacular views from your bedroom or feast at one of its restaurants. Enjoying your meal? You can learn how to make it right there in the hotel. Stay in shape with the complimentary yoga, Pilates and tai chi classes. Or, indulge at one of the finest spas in the world. Continuously striving to stay ahead of the times no visit to the Oriental will be the same… and yet you will enjoy it every time.
Marriott JW (Hong Kong, Hong Kong)
Whoever thought that putting a hotel atop of Pacific Place was ingenious. This downtown location puts you at the heart of Hong Kong. Plus, you are sitting over some of the finest shopping the world has to offer. The décor of the Marriott JW is beautifully done and the service they provide is one of the best you will ever find. The rooms take advantage of its location and show off views of the harbor, mountains or the thriving city. Not sure what time zone you are in? No worries, the health club is open 24 hours a day.
The Peninsula (Bangkok, Thailand)
Taking full advantage of this prime real estate spot the Peninsula has been cleverly designed into a W shape. Thus, you will enjoy fantastic views of the Chao Phraya River and the Bangkok skyline. Its location is also near many of Bangkok’s popular tourist attractions. Paying close attention to the details the Peninsula provides fantastic service. Featuring a three-tiered swimming pool, spa and access to the Thai Country Club golf course also caters to those who are in need of a little rest and relaxation.
Nikko Bali Resort and Spa (Bali, Indonesia)
Sitting high above the Indian Ocean you are overwhelmed at the beauty that thrives here. What can you all do? There are restaurants, a spa, water slides, camel rides and the aptly named Jungle Club for the little tikes traveling with you. The garden view and ocean view rooms are priced quite reasonably. Or you could splurge for a pool or beachfront property and a little more for a canopy or private pool access room. Of course, the suites are, well, sweet. Ocean views and lots of extras make the Nikko Bali Resort and Spa an unbelievable choice.
Spread across a garden oasis lies the Ritz Carlton Millenia hotel. Located in the popular Marina Centre you will be treated like royalty from the moment you arrive. Each room features fantastic views of the surrounding area but the artwork within the hotel is also worth remembering. There are restaurants right outside its doors or stay at the Ritz and feast at one of its five dining options. Although you are in a busy area the hotel itself has created a getaway for its guests. Gardens, waterfalls, spa and fitness center create a wonderful ambience for you to enjoy as well.
Oberoi Udaivilas (Udaipur, India )
‘Grand’ doesn’t come close to describing this world-renowned hotel. Even the most basic room at the Oberoi Udaivilas will exceed your expectations. The staff prides themselves on a job exceedingly well done and helps make this retreat worth remembering. Relearn how to relax at a yoga classes or indulge your senses at one of its restaurants. You could also take a boat ride along the lake and enjoy the fabulous views. The city of Udaipur is amazing but it might be a tad difficult to find a reason to leave the grounds of this fantastic hotel.
St. Regis Hotel (Beijing, China)
Located near Beijing’s finest attractions, the St. Regis Hotel has become a popular choice. Although the city is busy 24/7 the hotel has set itself apart and created a wonderful ambience for its guests. Each room has been carefully designed with your needs in mind. Great views, large marble bathrooms and the most comfortable beds you have ever slept on grace each room. As with most St. Regis establishments they pride themselves on fantastic service. In fact, each floor has its own butler. This hotel even has its own bowling alley. What will they think of next?
Banyan Tree (Phuket, Thailand)
A regular on many ‘best of’ lists, the Banyan Tree made ours as well. First, its location along the Andaman Sea gives you plenty of white sand beaches and numerous water activities. Second, it is part of the Laguna Phuket resort and that means you have acres of perfected gardens, a fantastic golf course and more dining establishments to choose from. Third, the rooms offer everything you could need – slippers, tanning lotion, water and even incense. Last, its service is impeccable. You too will discover that the Banyan Tree lives up to the country’s ‘Land of Smiles’ motto.
Oberoi Rajvilas (Jaipur, India)
Recreating a royal ambience you will feel as though you have entered a different world. The ‘fort’ setting guides you into peace and relaxation. The unusual set up is a welcomed treat from the typical five-star hotels of the world. The grounds are immaculate, the restaurants out of this world and the service is perfection. Depending on what room you choose you could have your own butler or private swimming pool. Each is perfectly laid out with simple, yet elegant, furnishings. India’s sights, scents and sounds will leave a lasting impression as will the Oberoi Rajvilas hotel.
Four Seasons (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
Overlooking mountains, the Mae Rim Valley and working rice fields the Four Seasons prides itself on being an oasis in the middle of this lively city. Rather than being clumped together in one large building they have created pavilions that are located throughout the beautiful grounds. Indulge on the luxuries provided including the fabulous infinity pool. Work up an appetite on the tennis courts or along the trails and satisfy it dining on the amazing Thai cuisine. Of course the Four Seasons spa is reason enough to come. The treatments provided are one of a kind and definitely worth experiencing.
The Oriental (Bangkok, Thailand)
The Oriental has become one of the finest hotels in all of Asia. Ornate is a poor descriptor for this hotel and yet none of it is overdone. Take in the spectacular views from your bedroom or feast at one of its restaurants. Enjoying your meal? You can learn how to make it right there in the hotel. Stay in shape with the complimentary yoga, Pilates and tai chi classes. Or, indulge at one of the finest spas in the world. Continuously striving to stay ahead of the times no visit to the Oriental will be the same… and yet you will enjoy it every time.
Marriott JW (Hong Kong, Hong Kong)
Whoever thought that putting a hotel atop of Pacific Place was ingenious. This downtown location puts you at the heart of Hong Kong. Plus, you are sitting over some of the finest shopping the world has to offer. The décor of the Marriott JW is beautifully done and the service they provide is one of the best you will ever find. The rooms take advantage of its location and show off views of the harbor, mountains or the thriving city. Not sure what time zone you are in? No worries, the health club is open 24 hours a day.
The Peninsula (Bangkok, Thailand)
Taking full advantage of this prime real estate spot the Peninsula has been cleverly designed into a W shape. Thus, you will enjoy fantastic views of the Chao Phraya River and the Bangkok skyline. Its location is also near many of Bangkok’s popular tourist attractions. Paying close attention to the details the Peninsula provides fantastic service. Featuring a three-tiered swimming pool, spa and access to the Thai Country Club golf course also caters to those who are in need of a little rest and relaxation.
Nikko Bali Resort and Spa (Bali, Indonesia)
Sitting high above the Indian Ocean you are overwhelmed at the beauty that thrives here. What can you all do? There are restaurants, a spa, water slides, camel rides and the aptly named Jungle Club for the little tikes traveling with you. The garden view and ocean view rooms are priced quite reasonably. Or you could splurge for a pool or beachfront property and a little more for a canopy or private pool access room. Of course, the suites are, well, sweet. Ocean views and lots of extras make the Nikko Bali Resort and Spa an unbelievable choice.
Subterranean River (Puerto-Princesa, Philippines)The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located about 50 kilometers north of the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. The National Park is located in the Saint Paul Mountain Range on the northern coast of the island.
The City Government of Puerto Princesa has managed the National Park since 1992. It features a limestone karst mountain landscape with an 8.2 km. navigable underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea. It includes major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers. The lower portion of the river is subject to tidal influences. The underground river is reputed to be the world's longest.
The area also represents a significant habitat for biodiversity conservation. The site contains a full mountain-to-the-sea ecosystem and has some of the most important forests in Asia.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Angkor Wat (Cambodia)
Angkor Wat (or Angkor Vat) (Khmer: អង្គរវត្ត), is a temple complex at Angkor, Cambodia, built for the king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as his state temple and capital city. As the best-preserved temple at the site, it is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation—first Hindu, dedicated to Vishnu, then Buddhist. The temple is the epitome of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors.
Angkor Wat combines two basic plans of Khmer temple
The modern name, Angkor Wat, in use by the 16th century, means "City Temple": Angkor is a vernacular form of the word nokor which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara (capital), while wat is the Khmer word for temple. Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder, Suryavarman II.
Floating Market (Thailand)
Damnoensaduak Floating Market (Bangkok, Thailand) is believed to be one of a well-known and an attractive travelling sites. Historically, Damnoenssaduak was actually the name of the canal dug in the reign of King Rama IV by the military men and the people of Rajburi, Samutsakorn and Samutsongkram Province directed by Phayasrisuriyawong, the minister of Defence. In those days without rivers and canals, transportation was almost motionless; King Rama IV with his great concern over the country's future economic growth, he finally had the canal dug to connect the Taachin River in Samutsakorn Province and Maklong River in Samutsongkram Province together. Nowadays Damnoensaduak is one of a provincial district of Rajburi Province. Most people live densely along both sides of the canal from one end of the canal to another.The majority of this people are agriculturists. They grow several different kinds of fruit and vegetable for examples oranges, grapes, papayas, cabbages, bean, onion and etc. The land in this area is naturally fertile. Apart from providing transportation, Damnoensaduak Canal also provides farmers with adequate water for agricultural purposes for the whole year around. More than 200 small canals were dug by local peasants to connect with it to get water to splatter their land. Moreover; these small canals also become protitiouus ways of taking their agricultural products to the markets in neighbouring provinces and Bangkok. Day in and day out from about 8 a.m. to about 11 a.m. the Floating Market is routinely crowded with hundreds of vendors and purchasers floating in their small rowing boats selling and buying or exchanging their goods. What they purchase are particularly food, fruit and vegetable which mostly brought from their own orchards. 
How to get there? Take a Taxi to Southern (route) Bus Terminal (about 25 km from Bangkok city center, cost $110-$160 B). Take Bus #78, $64 B. The trip takes about 2 hours. Get off at Damnern Saduak. Do not get suck in by the boat tour operator at the bus station. They want "Standard" price of $1000 B for one hour long tail boat tour. Instead, walk outside the parking lot and turn left to town. A short 10 - 15 minutes walk and you will arrive at the bridge over looking the floating market. You can then hire a non-motor boat tour for $100 - $200 B at the floating market.
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