EDITOR’S NOTETRAVEL TO BUILD KNOWLEDGE
HOI MUN YEE
EDITOR’S NOTEDear Reader,The summer months have arrived in the northern hemisphere, which means it’s peak
tourist season in many places. There will be plenty of busy beaches, vibrant clubs
and bars, and overused selfie sticks. While it is important that we use our holidays to
unwind and recharge, it is also quintessential that we learn from them. Whether it’s
finding out about yourself through a solo journey, or about the people you’re visiting,
travel is about discovery. It is my hope, however unrealistic it is, that everybody in the
world have the opportunity to travel, to fight off ignorance and xenophobia.
One country that I have certainly learnt a lot from is Cuba (pg 22.) It is one
of the last real socialist countries left in the world. Navigating the island by
myself was tough, but in the end, it built character and experience. I am glad
that the country is opening up more with the end of Fidel and Raul Castro’s
presidencies, it is a land of absolute uniqueness that more people should witness.
For seasoned travellers who know everything there is to know about the hard-
hitting destinations, consider sisiting the second cities. Fukuoka (pg 34) plays a
supporting role when compared to the likes of Tokyo, Osaka, and Hokkaido in
Japan. Following the crowd is a safe bet, but when you take a chance on smaller
cities, you might get surprises. In Fukuoka’s case, you get delicious authentic
Japanese food, and extensive shopping.
Perhaps before you head beyond borders, you want to know more about your
own country. Where better to start than the ever-popular state of Penang (pg 40)?
We’re not talking about the usual topics of food, Kek Lok Si, or the Penang Bridge,
we’re talking about its history, diversity, and heritage. It would be a mistake to
think that Penang is a one-dimensional attraction, I’d argue that it is maybe the
most versatile tourist destination in Malaysia.
In this issue we also welcome the return of our photo-journal column, featuring
what is known as the happiest nation on Earth, Bhutan (pg 60). I hope you will
enjoy the amazing shots of our featured photographer, David Bay. Maybe if we
look carefully, we can also learn the secrets to Bhutanese happiness.
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