On Taiwan
Although Shihlin is the better known of Taipei's night markets, the best local food is to be found at Tunghua night market, close to Hsinyi Road to the east of town. 

On Ukraine
For a frank and fascinating background into Ukraine's history visit the Chernobyl Museum in Kiev - this is a sobering experience. 

On Russia
For an authentic Russian experience visit a church or cathedral on a Sunday. You may get to see an orthodox christening during which queues of couples wait with their babies to be christened.  

On Oman
Take something warm for cool evenings in the mountains in Oman – it's a real change from the heat of Muscat. 

On Tibet
At Everest Base Camp, an early start will give you a fabulous view of Everest as the sunlight moves up the mountain itself. 

On Russia
Try to take the Moscow Metro at least once while you're there as the stations are beautifully decorated.  

On Tibet
When visiting monasteries be sure to negotiate 'photography fees' in advance with the monks before getting your camera out. 

On Tibet
At Potala Palace, if you leave your guide at the entrance you can take as long as you like to wander through the countless rooms. If your guide enters with you your time is more restricted. 

On Oman
When self-driving in Oman be prepared to stop and ask for directions on occasion. Routes change regularly with the on-going road construction and development. 

On Oman
If staying at a desert camp, bring a sealable plastic bag for phones and cameras. The sand gets everywhere. 

On Uzbekistan
Sunrise or sunset over the walls of Khiva is a superb sight and not to be missed. 

On China
When taking a train in China, stock up on dry food at a supermarket first as you won't always find a restaurant car on board. 

On Taiwan
Take a gondola to the teahouses of Maokong in the hills south of Taipei, a refreshing break from the heat of the city.  

On Kyrgyzstan
Make sure you take a torch when staying at a yurt camp - there is no electricity up on the Kyrgyz Steppe. 

Biography

Chris's passion for China stems from his first introduction to the country twelve years ago, his first trip out of Europe. Since then he has returned several times to different regions of China, and is always amazed by the speed at which the country is changing. He studied for a year in Taiwan and remains captivated by this understated island. After graduating in Chinese he put his travel experience and knowledge of Asia to good use by joining Audley Travel. While at Audley Chris has visited Tibet, where he travelled across the plateau to Nepal in summer 2007. Staying at a monastery guesthouse at the foot of Everest was the highlight of his Audley travel experience so far. He also travelled to Russia, The Baltics and The Ukraine in 2008 with Audley as well as making a fascinating journey to Central Asia and the Silk Route.

My Most Memorable Experience

"The walk from Rongbuk to Everest Base Camp was tough at over 5000 metres and with a fierce wind in my face. The feeling of actually being at Base Camp though, and faced with the magnificent spectacle of Everest in front of me made the climb well worth it.

After a long and tiring day the Monastery Guesthouse was a lovely place to rest and chat to others with a tea in the evening and prepare for the following day's drive."

My Favourite Destination

Everest Base Camp, Tibet

"Though the capital, Lhasa, is studded with fabulous sights and attractions, my unbeatable highlight of a trip to Tibet is seeing Everest at close quarters.

The views are simply staggering as you round the last bend on the dusty road to Base Camp and see the world's highest mountain tower above you.

The journey to Golmud and Base Camp is worth every bone-jarring minute and an overnight stay in the Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse is an ideal way to round off the day, swapping stories with other travellers in the cosy lounge.

You'll see the light change colour on the side of Everest as the sun sets, which is an unreal and magical experience."

My Favourite Accommodation

Songtsam Retreat, China

"I love the delightful Tibetan style of the Songtsam Retreat, as well as the food here, and it feels genuinely unique in a country where luxury and boutique hotels are springing up all the time.

It's located on a hillside, close to Songzanlin Monastery, and is a peaceful haven to relax in after a day's walking."

Photos of Me

Photos Taken On My Travels

The rest of the North Asia & Russia team

Alex

Graham

Isabel

John

Katherine

Kevin

Layla