[Pics] 10 of Our Inspiring Travel Photos…and the Story Behind! I

Every year, Odynovo staff travel extensively to enhance their travel knowledge and inspect tour programs. Most importantly, experience the destination themselves and pass on the excitement to the guests. They also bring back tons of inspiring travel photos that shouldn't be buried in the disk. So we decide to make these photos a series and present you the first episode in this article.

1. A splash of sacred water - Ganges, India

By Sherry Zhang, Odynovo Travel Consultant

"It was early morning. Hundreds of Hindus were bathing in the Ganges when our small boat slowly passed by. I was told that over 60,000 people from all walks of life, in Varanasi alone, plunge themselves into this most desired holy river to cleanse their skin. The sun was just up, and amid the morning beams we exchanged a few looks that I would probably never forget - call it fanaticism or devotion, to me it was a message of most determined belief."

2. Where daily life starts - Tsukiji Market, Japan

By Laura Li, Odynovo Travel Consultant

"Usually wet markets are not my thing, but Tsukiji Market is different. Being one of the world's largest fish markets, it trades more than 2,000 tons of marine products every day - imagine how lively it is! To see the famous action scene, you must get up very early to secure a spot, but it is well worth it. The market is clean and tidy, with no foul smell. Everything sold here is pure and fresh for a bite. I especially like the restaurants nearby that serve high-quality local foods at reasonable prices! Keep in mind that the thriving inner market is scheduled to relocate to Toyosu in November 2016."

3. Lost empire unveiled - Angkor Wat, Cambodia

By Michelle Shen, Odynovo tour operation staff

"Angkor Wat is something that endorses the saying that pictures don't do justice to what you see in person. We were fortunate enough to witness the breathtaking sunrise view from the pond. The silhouette of Angkor Wat can summarize all that is classic about Siem Reap. At that point, I realized that the reasons we long to visit ancient wonders are simply to be filled with awe and admiration."

4. A bowl of Hanoi - Beef Pho, Vietnam

By Wanda Tang, Odynovo Sales Manager

"I can't visit Vietnam without gorging myself on a steaming bowl of pho, the national dish of Vietnam. For me, beef pho is the most popular version that introduces me to the rich culinary landscape. The slick rice noodle soup consists of broth, beef, and a heaping platter of garnishes like fresh herbs, bean sprouts, greens, lime, and chilies. Though widely served across the country, pho originated in Hanoi, where preserves the most authentic flavor."

5. Divine beach killer - Bohol, the Philippines

By Lucy Peng, Odynovo Account Manager

"The beaches of Bohol are considered some of the most awesome beaches on earth. The Philippines just walked out of one of my dreams the moment I reached the beach paradise that was revealed before me: white sands, crystal-clear water, and the sky that seemed to be within a distance so close that I could easily touch it with my hands. There is not much to do, but free snorkeling or tasting fresh coconut water under the shade is already enough for me."

6. An encounter of the wild - Chitwan National Park, Nepal

By Mathilda Wu, Odynovo Marketing Specialist

"Our private guide signaled us to be silent and pointed forward - there it was, a one-horned rhino roaming around, staying on its back was a sick bird looking for a way to help clean the friend's body. The jungle safari also offered an up-close view of other wildlife like sloth bears, deer, and much more, all of which inhabit the deep bushes. It is very important to explore with an experienced guide, and I was lucky to have one arranged by Odynovo. A fascinating experience!"

7. Priceless love - Negombo, Sri Lanka

By Mavis Jiang, Odynovo Travel Consultant

"We met the lady and her son in front their house when we were taking some rest from a drive. They examed us with curious peek at first, our camera then seemed to be the subject of their attention. I gestured that if I could take their portrait. The lady gave a lovely smile as permission, holding her baby in a natural pose. This precious moment was accurately captured. She giggled when she timidly checked out the picture. We continued the trip without knowing her name, but I was pretty sure one of her beautiful names would be 'mother'."

8. The nature's spell - Mt. Huangshan, China

By Jun Wang, Odynovo Travel Consultant

"It's never too much to use 'phenomenal' on Mt. Huangshan, China's most scenic mountain. I was blown away by the grotesque stones, stunning sea of clouds and oddly-shaped pine trees - a visually stunning and emotionally inspiring place that should be on every traveler's itinerary. Though arduous climb was needed, every turn, peak, and curve brings a more amazing view that made every step and moment worth. If time permits, staying in the mountain will greatly maximize your visit."

9. Magical existence - Bagan, Myanmar

By Kevin Yang, Sales Manager for B2B

"Well-traveled tourism industry people I am, Bagan remains one of the most beautiful places I have seen by far. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw over 2,200 Buddhist temples appearing on the lush plain. Each temple was built by a family from the area, and together the congregation creates a magical existence through human ingenuity. Taking a hot air balloon ride outside the monsoon season, you will be rewarded with a mind-blowing panorama."

10. The royal dignity - Grand Palace, Thailand

By Sinba Guang, Odynovo Sales Manager

"The spectacular royal architectures certainly are not-to-miss, but I find myself enjoying more watching the people around, like this young security guard. Unlike the Queen's Guard, they laugh during duty, to a reasonable extent, and never forget about maintaining royal dignity. I strolled the grounds and got a good history lesson about the royal family. Besides, it was really emotional when we saw the Thai people show their respect and love towards the king and his families."

How'd you like these travel photos and the stories? You are invited to share yours on our Facebook page and let's stay tuned for the next episode of more inspiring travel photos!