The storm had already claimed the lives of at least two people in China's Hainan and 16 people in the Philippines
asia9 hours ago
Tokyo is the obvious starting ground for most tourists, when in Japan. The metropolis boasts everything from imperial gardens to fantastic restaurants, high street fashion to traditional kabuki performances — so much so that it would be doing the city a grave injustice to just be ‘passing through’. Dedicate at least a couple of weeks here, if you can.
Up north, the Daisetsu-zan National Park in Hokkaido offers fantastic hiking trails. If you prefer something less adventurous, check out Hakodate, the island’s most historic city that is full of 19th century wooden houses and elaborate churches built by foreign traders. And if you’re lucky, you might also catch the country’s gorgeously famous cherry blossoms in bloom there till about late May.
To the south lie the other two of Japan’s four main islands: Shikoku and Kyushu. Little visited, with tranquil rural settings, Shikoku’s best offering is Matsuyama-jo, an impressive imperial castle built in 1602.
Kyushu has some incredible natural attractions that could just about make you forget its terrible past for a moment. But Japan’s third-largest island has rebuilt itself following the A-bomb disaster that it is best known for, and now offers a vibrant nightlife in addition to museums, ash-spewing volcanoes and islands boasting 1,000-year-old cedars.
Travel time: 9 hrs 45 mins on Emirates
South Africa
If it’s an aesthetic experience you’re looking for, head straight for Cape Town in South Africa. The beautiful city’s most famous landmark, Table Mountain, offers beauty beyond compare in sweeping views of forested mountainsides, historic vineyards and sheer drops. Words can only paint the picture, however, and you’ll definitely want to get to the top to enjoy the view for yourself.
Of course, South Africa is also well known for a score of major parks, wherein you can indulge in the ‘proper’ African experience. May to October are the cooler months in Johannesburg — a welcome getaway from the merciless heat of Dubai and the entry point to said African experience. A happening street life, fantastic shopping opportunities and the sheer diversity of people from all walks of life make this city a must-visit. Exercise caution, however; Jo’burg is well known for its alarmingly high daily crime rate.
It’s a half day away by car to Kruger National Park nearby, where thousands of game animals — from elephants and lions to rhinos, cheetahs and elands — roam the savannahs freely. You can drive yourself around, if you wish to have the flexibility to do things at your pace. Book as much in advance as possible, however — accommodation is pricey and usually unavailable at short notice.
Travel time: 9 hrs 50 mins on Emirates
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