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Marco Ferrarese is a journalist and travel writer specializing on Malaysia, Southeast Asia and India. He earned a PhD in Anthropology with a focus on Malaysia from Monash University. Ferrarese has written about travel, culture and extreme music in Asia for a variety of international publications such as Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia, CNN Travel, BBC Travel, South China Morning Post, NIKKEI Asian Review, Roads & Kingdoms, Southeast Asia Globe, Perceptive Travel and Time Out. He is co-author of the 5th edition of "The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget", having researched chapters on West Malaysia, Sarawak, Brunei and Sabah. He is also the author of two fiction and non-fiction books - one, "Nazi Goreng" (2013) currently banned by the Malaysian government - and several academic essays published by Routledge, Rowman & Littlefield and Marshall-Cavendish. Know more at www.marcoferrarese.com
Portfolio
Outstanding things to do in Astana
Astana, the young capital of Kazakhstan, offers a blend of modernity and tradition with attractions like the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Centre, Nurzhol Boulevard, and the Baiterek observation tower. The city hosts the World Nomad Games and features the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the futuristic Museum of Future Energy. The Grand Mosque of Astana, the largest in Central Asia, is a notable landmark. The article provides a guide to exploring these highlights, emphasizing Astana's unique architectural and cultural offerings.
Games without Frontiers
The World Nomad Games, a bi-annual event celebrating nomadic cultures and sports, concluded its fifth edition in Astana, Kazakhstan, in September 2024. Initiated by former Kyrgyz president Almazbek Atambaev in 2014, the games aim to promote Central Asian nomadic traditions and counter globalization. The event featured over 2000 athletes from 89 countries competing in traditional sports like horseback wrestling and kokpar, a form of horse rugby. Kazakhstan emerged as the top medal winner, securing 112 medals, including 43 golds. The next edition will be hosted by Kyrgyzstan in 2026, continuing the celebration of nomadic heritage.
Nepal's vibrant tourism begins at home
In Barauli, a village in Nepal's southwestern Terai region, locals and tourists engage in a cross-cultural game despite the intense heat. The Tharu ethnic group introduces female tourists to their traditional attire and art, fostering cultural exchange and enhancing the local tourism experience.
Cedar Coast a Calabrian treasure trove
The Cedar Coast in Calabria, Italy, offers a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Key attractions include the picturesque village of San Nicola Arcella, the historic Crawford Tower, and the vibrant street art and chilli culture in Diamante. The region also boasts archaeological sites like the Romito Cave and offers adventurous activities such as rafting on the Lao River. The area is accessible via the Trenitalia network, making it a convenient destination for tourists seeking an authentic Italian experience.
Five villages that will make you love Calabria
Calabria, the southernmost region of Italy, offers a unique travel experience with its lesser-known villages. Scalea Old Town, despite its overdevelopment, reveals historical sites like the Palazzo dei Principi and the Norman Castle. Pentedattilo, set against Mount Calvario, offers homestays and a film festival, and is the starting point for the Sentiero dell’Inglese hiking route. Stilo, with its Byzantine architecture, features the Cattolica temple and nearby Marmarico Waterfalls. Papasidero provides whitewater rafting on the Lao River and archaeological sites like the Romito Caves. Lorica, in La Sila National Park, is a hub for water sports and mountain activities, offering kayaking, biking, and adventure parks.
China tourism takes a great leap inward
China has introduced a 15-day free tourist visa for Italians and citizens of some other European and Asian nations, marking its first visa relaxation since the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aims to boost foreign tourism, as observed in the southwestern province of Guizhou, where domestic tourists are engaging with local cultural experiences.
World Nomad Games put the spotlight on the sport of the Great Steppe
The Fifth World Nomad Games, held in Astana, Kazakhstan, celebrated the sport and culture of Central Asia's nomadic peoples. Featuring over 2,000 athletes from 89 countries, the event showcased traditional games like kokpar, audaryspak, and kusbegilik. Kazakhstan emerged as the overall winner with 112 medals, including 43 golds. The games highlighted the cultural heritage of the Great Steppe and aimed to strengthen international friendships. Future editions may expand globally, with potential hosting in North America. The event underscored the growing global appeal of traditional Central Asian sports and culture.
How tourism can soften hard-line Aceh
Aceh province in northwestern Sumatra, Indonesia, known for its strict adherence to Shariah law, gained negative global attention after police actions against local punk rockers. This incident, along with the devastating impact of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, has affected the region's image. The article explores how tourism might help soften Aceh's hard-line reputation.
A dreamy stay on the Desaru Coast
The Desaru Coast in Johor State, Malaysia, is described as a prime family getaway destination featuring a long, wide, and semi-deserted beach backed by exclusive resorts. The area has been transformed from a neglected land into a luxurious retreat.
From market to table in Penang
The article recounts the author's experience attending a cooking class in Penang, Malaysia, led by Chef Samuel. The class offers a deep dive into Malaysian cuisine, including dishes like char koay teow, roti canai, satay, nasi lemak, and Nyonya specialties. Participants visit a local market to source fresh ingredients and learn to cook authentic Malaysian recipes. The author describes the process of making dishes such as Chicken Curry Kapitan and Babi Chilli Garam, emphasizing the flavors and techniques learned. The class concludes with the enjoyment of the prepared dishes, leaving the author with no complaints and a desire to share the experience with others.
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