1) Sydney, Australia
This was my first time in Australia. I actually arrived in Sydney in 2008, but stayed there over the New Year, making it my first location in 2009. Sydney surprised me. I often hear that it's a beautiful city, and a great destination, but I still kinda doubted it. But when I was there, I was impressed with the place. The harbour, the nightlife, the people - all wonderful. I am considering returning in a few months. 2) Melbourne, Australia
I was in Melbourne when it was my birthday. Of the two cities I visited in Australia, I preferred Melbourne. It has a thriving artists community, and the city center is beautiful. If I was to ever live in Australia, I think it would be in Melbourne.3) Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand, and certainly one worth visiting. The city has a slower pace and it's own style, and feels quite different from Bangkok. I was there during the annual umbrella festival, which was an amazing event. 4) Hong Kong, China
I have always had a soft spot for Hong Kong, and have spent more time in this city than any other place in Asia. I feel very comfortable in Hong Kong, and have many friends that I consider important. I ended up 'living' in Hong Kong for a total of 6 months this past year, and got to know it even better than before. I've learned that it's very expensive, and difficult to live in, if you are not connected to the right people. But, it's still a highlight of my year. 5) Xitang, China
When I was in Shanghai in April/May, I visited this small village a few hours away. It is a beautiful little town with a small canal system. It's overrun with tourists now, since it was featured in the movie Mission Impossible III, but it's still very beautiful and worth the short trip. 6) Beijing, China
I kind of knew in advance that I'd like Beijing, before I arrived there. It has all the things I like in a city: historical monuments, thriving art community, non-stop culture and great shopping. Seeing the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall is something that everyone should do in their lifetime.
7) Bali, Indonesia
Bali is certainly the most beautiful part of Indonesia. I've been 4 times now, I think. And each time, it's better, as I find nicer Villas to stay in, and better beaches to visit. Bali has a recognizable style all it's own, and there are so many amazing properties and restaurants/clubs. Well worth seeing, again and again. 8) Penang, Malaysia
Penang has so much going for it, and is among the best little places I've visited in Asia. Since it is a World Heritage site, it's protected, and much of it's history is still very visible. I've shot a lot of great photos around the island, and would recommend visiting it to any photographer. And it's one of few places in Malaysia that you can get pork. =)9) Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap, and Cambodia in general, is amazing. Of course, the highlight of Siem Reap are the historical Angkor Wat temples. I spent a week there in September, visiting as much of the park as I could. It was well worth it, as I've amassed a huge library of great images from this park that may one day be closed to visitors. 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
I quite like the city of Ho Chi Minh (or Saigon as it's often known). The monuments to the Vietnamese War are interesting, the food is great (but not the coffee), the shopping is cheap, and the people are very nice. I think Vietnam's time for a tourism boom has come. I'd certainly like to return, and to visit more areas in the country.
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