Bali’s Unexplored Gem: Why You Should Spend a Day at Denpasar City

Denpasar is Bali’s airport AND much, much more.

June 15, 2017, 5:08 pm June 15, 2017, 5:31 pm

Jerlyn Ng Jerlyn adores naked guinea pigs, yong tau foo and sleep. She also has a thing for adrenaline and can’t wait to feed eagles in the sky.

No city does flawlessly incongruous like Denpasar – sprawling with modernity while retaining a strong hold on its heritage, urban cafes next to centuries-old architectural masterpieces, energetic yet so charmingly enigmatic.

It’s a pity that Denpasar City is known to many travellers as a gateway to Bali, and it pretty much stops there. Far removed and untainted by the tourist masses, this unexplored gem is much, much more than just a place for transits.

The architecture

From stunning Hindu monuments…

Diehard Amazing Race fans, you might recognise this majestic complex as the finish line of the Amazing Race Asia’s 5th season.

To some of Bali’s largest temples…  

To temples on water!

The beaches

While it might be old news that Bali is synonymous with beaches, there are many other noteworthy beaches that provide visitors with the perfect golden-sand-blue-sea experience other than Kuta Beach and Seminyak Beach. Many of which are located in Denpasar City, including Sanur Beach, Sindhu Beach, Mertasari Beach, and Mangrove Beach.

Tip: Do not miss the sunset when you’re at Sanur Beach!

The marketplaces

Bali’s biggest markets

The heart of Bali’s thriving market scene, Denpasar City is home to several bustling traditional marketplaces. The largest one of the lot is Pasar Badung, located barely a kilometer away from the city center. Gloriously packed with varieties of fresh produce, fabric, clothes and trinkets, this treasure filled four-storied market makes for a fascinating stroll in the day, especially if you’re frantically searching for souvenirs to take home.

Markets on a motorbike

And if you’re looking to jazz up your market experience, try hunting down one of these ‘motorbike markets’.

The festivals

Frequent goers of Bali will know that this tropical paradise is one that explodes with vitality. Vitality in its locals, in its marketplaces, and especially in its festivals.  

Denpasar City is a proud host of many of them, with the most well-known one being the Bali Arts Festival, colloquially termed as Indonesia’s cultural event of the year. This annual affair is unapologetic for its grand parades, music and dance ceremonies, and all things glam and glitzy.

Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Kesenian Bali)

Besides the theatrical, Denpasar City also holds many other different types of festivals. Just to name a few:

Sanur Village Festival

Bali Kite Festival

The cultural villages

Kertalangu Cultural Village

For something refreshing away from the orthodox sand and sea of Bali, journey through Kertalangu Cultural Village, rustic and encircled by lush natural gardens and greenery.

This rustic village hidden away in the depths of Denpasar city allows you to indulge in delectable Balinese cuisine, watch traditional performances and even witness locals create handicraft from scratch. For the adventurous ones, there’s even a jogging track amidst the rice paddies where visitors can ride on horses, and well, jog.

Come your next Bali vacation, dedicate a day or two to this modest city, and you might have your heart unwittingly stolen this time.

12 Things to Do in Dubai for An Unforgettable Week

Where else are you going to frolic with camels, check out the world’s largest indoor theme park, and sashay publicly in a unicorn onesie – all in a day?

May 10, 2017, 9:45 pm June 15, 2017, 5:37 pm

Jerlyn Ng Jerlyn adores naked guinea pigs, yong tau foo and sleep. She also has a thing for adrenaline and can’t wait to feed eagles in the sky.

It’s getting lost in the marketplace with indistinct hollers distracting my navigation through the medley. It’s the eclectic tangle of old sand-colored buildings and dramatic skyscrapers, yet so perfectly complementary. Perhaps the dancing fountain illuminated against the world’s tallest building. Or our gutsy driver shredding his Jeep through the desert as he took us on one hell of a dune-bashing ride... Okay, so I can’t choose the one thing I love about this city.

Dubai is a city unapologetic for its grandeur, its culture, its cuisine, its outrageous attractions. Nowhere does over-the-top like Dubai, and nowhere can you find the world’s largest indoor theme park, tallest building, only 7-star hotel, largest shopping mall (with the world’s largest aquarium in it), biggest fireworks display, only dinosaur carousel and a dozen other world records – all in a single city.

Planning a visit to this glitzy playground can get pretty overwhelming. There’s so much to do and see, with too little time (and money). That being said, this city is one you’d revisit again in a heartbeat. Here’s a list of things to do in Dubai which can keep you occupied for a whole week. Pack them all into your itinerary!

1. Go on a desert safari tour

The highlight of my trip was the desert safari tour. In the company of camels and chummy local guides, frolick in the sand dunes’ endless ripples, witness the golden sunset illuminate the desert in a thousand more hues of orange, and have an enchanting evening in this oasis amidst the city clamour.

There is a dozen activities to get your hands sandy with in the desert – including dune-bashing (think roller coaster on a 4x4), sandboarding, henna painting, shisha smoking, getting up close with a handsome Arabian falcon, and feasting on a barbeque buffet in your cosy Bedouin camp.

Getting there: The easiest way to visit the desert in Dubai is to join a private tour (there are many to choose from), where local guides will pick you up from the city and whisk you to dunes comfortably in a 4x4. Until the dune-bashing starts.

2. Stop to marvel at the architecture

This charming city is a tryst of modernity and tradition, which manifests most sublimely in its architecture – from the swankiest of skyscrapers to the humblest of suburbs.

Also read: In 20 Photos: Why Dubai is Basically #ArchitectureGoals

3. Have a fountain show get you all emotional

Believe me when I say I’m the least touchy-feely human around. Though, also believe me when I say I actually teared up witnessing the fountain show at The Dubai Fountain. Extraordinary doesn’t even begin to cover it – a choreography of water, lights, and music against possibly the most gorgeous skyscraper glittering in its fullest glory.

Tip: Instead of standing at the bay, catch this stunning spectacle from a water taxi, the ‘abra’, as it courses through Burj Lake and stops right before the fountain for a front row seat of this showstopper. It’s also quite the 4D experience when you get the sprays from the shooters.

Address: The Dubai Fountain, Financial Centre Road, Downtown Dubai

Nearest metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station

4. Delve in hippie haven at Al Serkal Avenue

By now, the concept of Dubai being a perfectly incongruous city should be old news, where elementary and grandiosity often sit side by side. Now garnish that equation with a thriving contemporary art scene for an eclectic tangle of amazing.

Oddly nestled in Dubai’s industrial area of Al Quoz, Al Serkal Avenue is home to art galleries and community spaces (in the form of warehouses) for photography, design, music, and all things creative.

Here’s a favourite art gallery of mine, The Happy Studio, which dedicates its space to magic, confetti, and a truckload of happiness. The gallery is a gleeful ensemble of colored balloons, neon lights, and bathtubs with a thousand rubber duckies. To simply put it, a time-machine that brings you back to your unbridled 4 year-old self.

Where else can you sashay in a unicorn onesie without the weird stares?

Address: Street 8, Al Quoz 1

Getting there: Take the metro to Noor Bank Station, then take a taxi/Uber to the Al Serkal Avenue.

5. Parasail, jet ski or bum at Jumeirah Beach

Unofficially termed as the eighth world wonder, Dubai’s coastline is a phenomenal stretch of glorious beaches and archipelagos...

… and the sweetest sky-diving spot that might just convince an acrophobic otherwise.

One of which is Jumeirah Beach, a strip of soft white sand adjacent to possibly the world’s only seven-star hotel, Burj Al-Arab. Hit the turquoise waters on a jet ski, bum at shore and see day fade into a peachy sunset, then end the night with an alfresco barbecue dinner. A perfect antidote to the downtown hubbub.

Address: Jumeirah St

Getting there: The most convenient way to get to Jumeirah Beach is by a taxi/Uber, with it being only 10km from Downtown Dubai.

6. Spend a day at the world’s largest mall

I recall our guide explaining to us that the locals in Dubai regularly spend their entire day in malls. As awfully mundane as that sounds, it is quite the opposite, and you’ll see why when you step into one.

The Dubai Mall is the superlative of them, and is probably also the mall that holds the most world records in a single space – the world’s largest mall, the world’s largest aquarium, and even the world's largest choreographed fountain system, a 24-metre waterfall traversing through all four levels of the mall.

The only way you should get around a mall the size of a spanking 12 football fields.

Address: The Dubai Mall, Financial Centre Road, Downtown Dubai

Nearest metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station

7. Visit an authentic food trailer park

This photogenic trailer park, The Last Exit, is the perfect backdrop for that gram shot, yes. But more importantly, this street food truck park serves as a pit stop for hungry motorists on their inter-city travels, and whips us gourmet (yet affordable) food choices from Mexican bites to Arabic desserts.

Address: E11 Sheikh Zayed Road

Getting there: The Last Exit is an hour drive from Downtown Dubai, and is most accessible via a taxi/Uber.

8. Enthrall in Middle East’s largest theme park resorts

Like its skyscrapers, the theme parks in Dubai are anything but modest. And boast some mind-boggling world records themselves as well. Surprise, surprise.

Aquaventure Waterpark

Whether you’re hurtling down a 30-metre flume on free fall into a tank of sharks and rays, or lounging your lazy bones through the Lazy River, Aquaventure Waterpark makes the perfect place to spend a summer afternoon.

Address: Atlantis, The Palm, Crescent Road

Nearest metro:  Take the metro to Mall of the Emirates Station, then take a taxi/Uber to the Atlantis.

Dubai Parks & Resorts

Dubai Parks & Resorts is an integrated resorts destination with four theme parks: Motiongate, Legoland, Bollywood Park and Riverland. Water rides, carousels, roller coasters on lego bricks, a Smurfs village – you name it, this gripping labyrinth of mega theme parks has it.

And as if this 25 million square feet of a mammoth entertainment hub isn’t impressive enough, Six Flags Dubai is slated to open here in 2019, making it the region’s first Six Flags park!!!!!!!!! Brb while I book my flight to Dubai for 2019.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Opposite Palm Jebel Ali

Getting there: Take the red metro line south to Jebel Ali Metro Station, then take a 10-minute taxi/Uber ride to Dubai Parks & Resorts.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

You would think indoor theme parks have nothing on outdoor ones. At least I did, but was thoroughly convinced otherwise by IMG Worlds of Adventure, also boasting the title of the world’s largest indoor theme park.

IMG Worlds of Adventure houses four main adventure zones, with dozens of attractions in each of them including thrill rides based on iconic Marvel and Cartoon Network characters, roller coasters for serious theme park goers, and a haunted hotel, a visitor-favorite and also my theme park bias.

Meet the beau of my trip in his element.

Have your childhood dreams wrecked as the not-so-adorable Powerpuff Girls take you on a brutal 360-degree swing ride.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Opposite Palm Jebel Ali

Nearest metro: Jebel Ali Metro Station

9. Study the cityscape from Dubai’s highest point

It’s not everyday you get to be at the highest point of a city, with it being a kickass vantage at that. Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, stands 125-storey tall (that’s three times the height of Eiffel Tower) and offers a stunning view of  central Dubai. Correction – the whole of Dubai, basically.

While the city centre is dotted with sprouting skyscrapers, the rest of Dubai is interestingly juxtaposed with low-rise buildings and sandy apartments.

Address: Burj Khalifa

Nearest metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station

10. Befriend penguins at Dubai Ski Resort

Nothing seems to be able to unseat the dazzling view from the world’s tallest building, or the thrills you’d be stirred by in the region’s largest theme parks. But just as you think Dubai can’t impress any further… Penguins.

Yes, penguins, snow sleds, and ski slopes in a land surrounded by deserts.

Dubai Ski Resort offers an assortment of your favorite winter activities, only without the frostbite. This 20,000 square meters indoor snow park is situated right in the core of Dubai’s city centre, and is a go-to for a casual hour of snowboarding, an escapade from the heatwaves outdoor, or to have gentoo and king penguins tug at your winter jeans and heartstrings.

Address: Mall of The Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road

Nearest metro: Mall of The Emirates Metro Station

11. Have your burning questions about Arabs answered

“What do Arabs think about homosexuality?” “Why do Arab men have to wear thobes daily?”

At the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), things go by the ethos of ‘Open Doors. Open Minds.’ Visitors are encouraged to have no inhibitions whatsoever and openly discuss about the UAE’s culture, in the course of learning firsthand and debunking preconceptions about the country.

The most controversial of questions were fired (and answered), a spread of authentic Emirati cuisine was served, and we left the building with an appreciation of this beautiful culture nowhere else could gift us with.

The SMCCU also conducts heritage trails around its premise, through the photogenic Al Bastakiya neighborhood and a visit to the Diwan Mosque.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, Al Musalla Road

Nearest metro: Al Fahidi Metro Station

12. Find Happiness Street

If you think a thriving metropolis like Dubai is all about the fast cars, the riches and the high life, think again because its ruler, HH Sheikh Mohammed, has just launched the first World Happiness Council. And on that note, another world record in the bag.

The World Happiness Council aims to “support international goals to standardise happiness as a measure of development.” Simply putting it, to make the world a happier place, and Dubai is taking this seriously, with initiatives including the newly renamed Happiness Street, the Jumeirah Emirates Towers being declared as the World’s Happiest Tower, the use of a Happiness Meter for its residents, and even an official Minister of Happiness championing this movement.

Address: Al Sa’ada Street, Dubai International Financial Centre

Nearest metro: Financial Centre Metro Station

This is Dubai in more than a nutshell, and I still have paragraphs about this city I could wax lyrical about. Dubai, you’ve stolen my heart this time and I’d gladly let you do it again when I’m back in 2019 for Six Flags. Till then.

A huge thank you to Dubai Tourism for the incredible opportunity to explore the magic of this beautiful city.

Emirates Airlines operates direct flights from Singapore to Dubai daily, with multiple timings to choose from. So begin your trip planning here!

Is It Still Safe to Travel to Mindanao? – from a Local’s Perspective

After the declaration of Martial Law, do you think it's still safe to travel to Mindanao? Find out from a local!

June 16, 2017, 9:00 am June 16, 2017, 2:40 am

Race Del Rosario Race is a beer-chugging backpacker who occasionally dabbles as a spermologist. When he's not travelling, he freelances as an events host and organizer. His ultimate dream? To travel the 6 continents before he turns 40.

I was born and spent my early childhood years in Manila. My dad is a Bulakenyo, while my mom is a Surigaonon. I was in the third grade when the entire family decided to move to Mindanao, where I finished school and spent most of my adult life. When I decided to transfer back to Manila for far greater career opportunities, I was bombarded with reasonable, but sometimes utterly ridiculous questions by colleagues who have never been to the Land of Promise.

Do you have electricity? Do you have internet? Do you have high-rise buildings? Do you have malls? But the most common question, and probably the hardest to answer was… Is it safe to travel to Mindanao?\

Also read: 15 Unspoilt Beaches in Mindanao You've Probably Never Heard Of

I don’t blame them, though. I used to share the same fear before transferring to Mindanao. I remembered crying non-stop while we were in the seaport because I can’t help but picture myself as a refugee in a war-torn area waiting for rations of food served with unsanitary utensils. Manileños have an odd perspective of Mindanaoans, to say the least.

Life in Mindanao

On our first year in the South, my siblings and I stayed in my mother’s hometown in Lianga, Surigao Del Sur while she was working in Butuan City, which was 3 hours away. Lianga, which is a fourth-class municipality and was perceived to be a rebel-infested area, was my first impression of Mindanao. It was the complete opposite of our highly urbanised life in Manila. Here, we learned how to fetch water from a deep well, scrub the wooden floor of our ancestral home, do chores we’ve never done before, and to top it all, our aunt only gave us ₱2 as our daily allowance in school, compared to the usual ₱50 we got in Manila. It was very rural and we were never used to that kind of life, but the people made up for it. These people on this side of Mindanao, were the nicest people I’ve met so far.

When my mom was able to establish herself as a doctor in Butuan, we all transferred. It was a huge adjustment since we were not familiar with the language yet. To sum it up, my primary and secondary years in this city were generally peaceful. Not once did I encounter any conflict that could’ve traumatised me as a kid.

Also read: Two Theme Parks in CDO Cancelled Due To Marawi Siege

I decided to study college in Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro City. Believe it or not, it was in this school that I first talked to a Muslim. Although XU is a Catholic school, it is very inclusive, which means that at least 20% of the students practice Islam. To be honest, I’ve always had negative connotations about them. Media has always projected them as the bad guys, and growing up, I stereotyped them as such. But thanks to this institution, I was able to widen my understanding, and I am proud to say that some of the best friends I’ve had in college were Muslims.

I spent three years in Manila, where I was robbed twice, harassed countless times in the MRT, experienced near death almost every time I cross the road, and probably have damaged lungs because of the pollution. These are things that I probably would not have experienced in my hometown. I decided to transfer back to the more laidback life I had in Mindanao, where everything was conveniently 10 minutes away from where I live. When I got back, I have always invited my friends and officemates in Manila to see Mindanao first hand for them to be able to remove all the negative perceptions they have of the region. It has been a struggle convincing them, but for the brave souls who risked it, they didn’t want to leave anymore.

Also read: 10 Adrenaline-Pumping Adventures in Mindanao

Mindanao is home to some of the most pristine and unspoilt beaches in the country with adventure offerings that will excite any soul. But due to the presence of militants and rebels in the area, it has received worldwide negative press that erases all the good things that the region has to offer.

Fast forward to 2017 and the entire nation was startled with an attack that nobody saw coming. Marawi was being terrorised by an organised group called the Maute, which is composed of family members who pledged allegiance to the international terrorist group, ISIS. This prompted the government to declare the Martial Law in the entire Mindanao.

Is it still safe to travel to Mindanao?

Again, we are being asked the same question. Is it still safe to travel to Mindanao? To be honest, we are not so sure anymore. While the Martial Law brought increased police presence in our locality, the promise of a safe vacation here cannot be assured. Although we see foreign and local vacationers every now and then, the tourism industry seems to be on hiatus.

Also read: Travel Advisory: Davao & Cagayan de Oro Status After President Duterte Declared Martial Law in Mindanao

I believe that a good vacation stems out from good timing. You wouldn’t want to travel to the beach on a rainy day, right? The same logic may apply for Mindanao this time. While Martial Law is still in effect and if the government has not given the assurance that everything is under control, it might be best to postpone your Mindanao trip. As much as we want you here, safety should always be the priority. After all these havoc, then we will welcome visitors with open arms.

Although the region had its fair share of terroristic activities which include bombings, rebel attacks, harassment, and kidnappings, Mindanao will always be our home. From our perspective, no matter where you live, there will always be danger lurking around the corner. You just have to take extra care!

Sri Lanka on a Budget: My 10-Day Itinerary & Cost Breakdown

This comprehensive itinerary covers great destinations in Sri Lanka including Dambulla, Ella, Kandy, Sigiriya and Colombo. Expect a jam-packed vacation with plenty of attractions – on a shoestring.

June 14, 2017, 11:00 am June 16, 2017, 8:47 am

Garrett Aeria There are three things that Garrett absolutely loves about life: Eat, Travel and Photography, which are all perfectly summed up in his travel blog's moniker. Ever since being bitten by the travel bug, Eat. Travel. Photography represents his way of chronicling his life's journeys and sharing his enthusiasm with the world.

Contributed by Eat. Travel. Photography

Trip Summary

• Trip length and when did I go? 10 days in September 2016
• Places visited: Colombo, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Mirissa, Unawatuna, Galle
• How much did it cost me? MYR 1,615

At A Glance

• Day 1 - Colombo to Dambulla. Arrival in Colombo. Took a bus from Katunayake near the airport to Kurunegala, then another bus to Dambulla. Upon arrival in Dambulla, I checked in to Lotus Tourist Inn Resort. Visited the Golden Temple and Dambulla Cave Temple in the afternoon. Overnight in Dambulla.
• Day 2 - Sigiriya & Dambula to Kandy. Half day trip to Sigiriya, visiting Sigiriya Rock & Pidurangala Rock. Upon returning to Dambulla, I checked out from the guesthouse and took a bus to Kandy. Arrival in Kandy and stayed at Clock Inn Kandy. Overnight in Kandy.
• Day 3 - Kandy. Full day sightseeing around Kandy, visiting Kandy Lake, Kandy viewpoint and the Temple of the Tooth to name a few. Overnight in Kandy. 
• Day 4 - Kandy to Ella. Checked out from guesthouse and boarded the train from Kandy heading to Ella. Arrival in Ella and check-in to Spice Hut Hostel. In the afternoon, I went for a short trek to Little Adam's Peak to watch the sunset. Overnight in Ella.
• Day 5 - Ella. Went on a half day trek to Ella Rock. On the later part of the day, I went to Ravana falls for an afternoon dip. Overnight in Ella.
• Day 6 - Ella to Mirissa. Visited the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge in the morning. Afterwards, I checked out and took a bus to Matara, then another bus to Mirissa. Stayed at Flora & Fauna Mirissa Guesthouse for the duration of my stay there. Overnight in Mirissa.
• Day 7 - Mirissa. Sightseeing around Mirissa beach. Also visited other points of interest in the vicinity, such as the Mirissa fisheries harbour and Secret Beach. Overnight in Mirissa.
• Day 8 - Mirissa to Unawatuna. Checked out from the guesthouse and took a bus to Unawatuna. Upon arrival there, I stayed at Pink Elephant Hostel in Unawatuna. Overnight in Unawatuna.
• Day 9 - Unawatuna, Galle & Koggala. Half day trip to Galle in the morning, visiting Galle Fort. In the later half of the day, I went to Koggala beach to watch stilt fishing. Overnight in Unawatuna.
• Day 10 - Unawatuna to Galle to Colombo. Check out from hostel and took a bus to Galle, then a train to Colombo. Upon arrival there, I went sightseeing around Colombo, visiting Pettah market, the Fort area and Galle Face Green, before heading to the airport for my flight home.

View the itinerary map and travel montage on the original post.

DAY 1

Arrival in Sri Lanka

• 12.00 am - Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo by flight (Malindo Air) - RM584 (return)
• Immigration clearance. Malaysians will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to arriving in Sri Lanka. You can do it online by visiting this website, and at this point of writing, costs $35 to apply for the 30-day tourist visa. Be sure to bring along a printed copy for checking purposes upon arrival. In case they ask for proof of sufficient funds, simply produce your credit card when requested
• Went to the currency exchange to convert some of the dollars I had into Sri Lankan rupees. There are plenty of them in the airport, just choose any one, all them offer the same rates
• Purchased a Dialog sim card (with 4GB of data, valid for 30 days) for my use later - 1,300 rupees
• Had supper at the airport's cafeteria - Sweet roll & coffee (220 rupees)
• It was still very early in the morning and since the earliest bus to Dambulla is at 6am, I decided to rest for a few hours in the airport

Colombo to Dambulla by bus

• There are many ways to get to Dambulla but one of the most cost-effective method is taking the bus from Katunayake to Dambulla. There are no direct buses however, so from Katunayake you need to take a bus to Kurunegala first, and from there another bus to Dambulla
• 5.30 am - Walked from the airport to the nearby Katunayake bus station at Awariwatta (under 15 minutes). To get there, exit the airport and take a right and follow the road down for about 1km until you reach an arch. Upon reaching this arch, turn left before a row of shops and follow this road for another 150m until you reach a roundabout. Take the first left at this roundabout and follow the road until you see the bus station on your left
• 6.00 am - Ride bus #5 (with letters 'Katunayake - Kurunegala') to Kurunegala - 100 rupees 
• 8.00 am - Arrive in Kurunegala (dropped off near the Kurunegala bus station)
• 8.15 am - 9.00 am - Photo walk around Kurunegala. Besides the Kurunegala Clock Tower and Ethagala, there honestly isn't much to see here that is within walking distance. Had breakfast at a bakery opposite the bus station - Pastries & tea (140 rupees)
• 9.30 am - Ride bus #48 (with letters 'Kurunegala - Kaduruwela') from Kurunegala bus station to Dambulla - 150 rupees

Arrival in Dambulla

• 11.30 am - Arrive in Dambulla (dropped off near the clock tower in the town centre)
• Walked from the town centre to my accommodation in Dambulla (under 45 minutes). Had lunch at Sunray restaurant enroute - Rice & curry (300 rupees)
• 1.00 pm - Check-in to Lotus Inn Tourist Resort - 1,020 rupees per night (stayed for 1 night). The place is quite nice for the price. However, due to poor ventilation, the rooms can get a bit warm and stuffy, especially in the afternoons. Furthermore, it's a bit far away from town. On the plus side, the owner (and his wife) made every effort to ensure my stay here was a good one, and it's within walking distance to the Golden Temple & Dambulla Cave Temple

Golden Temple & Dambulla Cave Temple

• 3.30 pm - Walked from the guesthouse to the Golden Temple (under 15 minutes). The stairs to Dambulla Cave Temple is located inside the Golden Temple's compound. Both these places are free to enter. Take note that you are required to take your shoes off before entering the cave temple, there is shoe storage available near the entrance for a modest fee (25 rupees)
• The climb to Dambulla Cave Temple isn't too difficult and takes about 20 minutes if you're physically fit. For a bit of motivation, the magnificent views from the top does make all that climbing worthwhile
• 4.00 pm - 6.00 pm - Photo ops around Dambulla Cave Temple. There are a few caves with plenty of Buddha images inside, and all of them can be seen in under an hour or so. Stayed around until sunset before returning to the guesthouse
• Had dinner at the guesthouse - Kottu roti (300 rupees)

DAY 2

Dambulla to Sigiriya

• 5.45 am - Wake up
• 6.15 am - Took a tuk tuk to Dambulla bus station (under 5 minutes) - 150 rupees
• Based on what I've read, the earliest bus to Sigiriya was supposed to be at 6.30 am, but there weren't any that day, so I had to wait until 7am for one. Bought some snacks at a shop in the bus station (50 rupees)
• Alternatively, the guesthouse I stayed at provided a taxi service to Sigiriya and back for 1,500 rupees. Alternatively, they also rent out motorcycles for 1,000 rupees per day. Based on what I experienced, renting your own vehicle may be the way to go if you dislike walking a lot
• 7.10 am - Ride bus #490 (with letters 'Dambulla - Sigiriya') from Dambulla bus station to Sigiriya - 50 rupees

In & Around Sigiriya

• 7.55 am - Arrive in Sigiriya (hopped off at the bus stop in front of a dirt road that leads into Sigiriya Rock)
• Walked from the bus stop to the entrance & ticketing area of Sigiriya Rock (under 15 minutes)
• It's not a very long walk, just about 1km in distance. The path is mostly flat and goes around a large moat. If you aren't too keen on walking, you can also hire a tuk tuk to get around Sigiriya. Have been quoted 150-200 rupees to get to Sigiriya Rock, and 200-400 rupees to get to Pidurangala Rock
• 8.10 am - Arrive at the entrance & ticketing area of Sigiriya Rock. Only viewed it from the outside as the entrance fee costs 4,200 rupees! While Sigiriya Rock does have its merits, being a UNESCO heritage site and all, I found it too touristy and too exorbitant for my liking

Pidurangala Rock

• 8.30 am - Walked to Pidurangala Rock, not too far from Sigiriya Rock (under 25 minutes). The distance is walkable (just under 2km), however you can engage any tuk tuk to take you there for under 200 rupees if you bargain
• 8.55 am - Arrive at the base of Pidurangala Rock. The trail head is located behind a small temple. Paid a small donation to enter - 500 rupees
• Getting to Pidurangala Rock is quite straightforward, just follow the trail and the signs. The ascent itself isn't too challenging and takes about 30 minutes. However, there is a bit of rock climbing you have to do towards the end so I recommend wearing proper footwear for this 
• 9.30 am - 10.30 am - Photo ops at Pidurangala Rock. Amazing views of Sigiriya Rock and the surroundings from the top! If you are short on time and get to choose only one, I highly recommend Pidurangala over Sigiriya Rock

Back to Dambulla

• 10.30 am - Descend back down from Pidurangala Rock (under 15 minutes)
• Took a tuk tuk back to the Sigiriya bus stop (under 10 minutes) - 200 rupees
• 11.00 am - Ride a passing bus (with letters 'Sigiriya - Dambulla') back to Dambulla - 40 rupees
• 11.45 am - Back in Dambulla (dropped off at Dambulla bus station). Took another tuk tuk back to the guesthouse - 150 rupees

Dambulla to Kandy by bus

• 12.15 pm - Pack up and check-out from the guesthouse
• 12.35 pm - Ride bus #42 (any bus with letters 'Kandy') from Dambulla to Kandy - 98 rupees
• It's not necessary to board the bus at the bus station, I simply hailed it from the roadside near my guesthouse as it was passing by, just make sure you're standing on the correct side of the road

Arrival in Kandy

• 2.45 pm - Arrive in Kandy (hopped off at the junction near my accommodation in Kandy)
• Check-in to Clock Inn Kandy - $6.70 per night (took the capsule bed option). Stayed for 2 nights (total cost - $13.40). One of the best guesthouses I've stayed at in Sri Lanka, really good value for money and is within walking distance to most tourist hotspots in Kandy. Opt for the capsule beds, they're really spacious and comfortable!
• 4.00 pm - 7.00 pm - Didn't really have plans for the day, so I spent some time just walking around in Kandy City Center (KCC) mall. Had dinner at the mall's food court - Chicken tikka masala (600 rupees) & ceylon tea (200 rupees)
• Alternatively, for your first night in Kandy, it would be a good idea to catch the Kandyan dance performance (5pm daily, costs 1,000 rupees per person). It wasn't really my cup of tea, so I skipped it
• 7.30 pm - Return to the guesthouse

DAY 3

Pre-day

• 7.00 am - Wake up
• Breakfast at the guesthouse - Eggs, toast & tea (included in the room rate)

Sightseeing around Kandy

• 8.00 am - 12.00 pm - Photo walk around Kandy, visiting the following points of interest along the way:
• Kandy Clock Tower. One of the main landmarks in Kandy, situated next to the bus station
• Torrington Park. Located directly across the road from where Kandy Clock Tower is. There's a souvenir market directly below it on the lower level
• Kandy Market Hall. A very local market, selling almost everything under the sun. Best time to visit is in the mornings to early afternoons
• Bogambara prison. Currently, the second largest prison in Sri Lanka. Only viewed from the outside as you can't enter 
• Kandy Viewpoint. Located south of Kandy Lake, near Wales Park. Finding this place isn't too difficult actually. To get here from Bogambara prison, you need to follow the road (between the prison and KCC mall) towards Kandy Lake until you reach a junction. From here, follow the small path that leads uphill until you reach a road. Turn left, then walk for another 300m until you reach the viewpoint

Sightseeing around Kandy (continued)

• Lunch at the food court in KCC Mall - Hyderabad chicken briyani (600 rupees) & ceylon tea (200 rupees)
• 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm - Continue sightseeing around Kandy lake. There's a small market and the Kandyan Cultural Centre (where the Kandyan dance is performed) around the northeastern part of the lake
• Had some refreshments at Natural Coffee cafe (along Temple Street) - Strawberry shake (330 rupees)

Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

• 5.00 pm - 8.00 pm - Sightseeing in Temple of the Tooth. Being one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka, there's a dress code to adhere to before being allowed entry, so be sure to dress conservatively. Paid the entrance fee - 1,500 rupees (includes free entry into the World Buddhist Museum)
• There is quite a bit to see in the temple, so be sure to spare a few hours if you want to see the place in its entirety. The best time to visit is during puja, a religious ceremony that takes place a few times daily (the time slots are 5.30 am, 9.30 am and 6.30 pm). During puja, some areas (including the shrine which houses the tooth relic) that are normally off limits are opened to visitors
• Dinner at License to Grill stall in Torrington Park - Torrington chicken sandwich (300 rupees) & coke (160 rupees)
• 9.00 pm - Return to the guesthouse

DAY 4

Getting from Kandy to Ella by train

• 6.00 am - Wake up
• Breakfast at the guesthouse - Eggs, toast & tea (included in the room rate). Pack up and check-out from the guesthouse
• 7.30 am - Walked from the guesthouse to Kandy railway station (under 20 minutes)
• 8.00 am - Purchased a ticket (second class, free seating) for the 8.45am train to Ella - 240 rupees
• Do note that train tickets (for second and third class) cannot be booked in advance. Tickets are sold at the ticket office on the day itself, so be sure to arrive at the station at least an hour before departure time to get your tickets. These tickets have no seat number and they never get sold out anyways, so it doesn't matter how early you arrive at the station to get your tickets
• 8.55 am - Board train departing for Ella from platform #2

The train ride from Kandy to Ella

• The first hour or so of the train ride wasn't that interesting, so you can sit back and just relax. The scenery got better and better after Watawala station
• 11.15 am - Arrival at Hatton station. Hop off here if your intention is to hike up Adam's Peak
• The scenery after Hatton continue to be amazing. Lush tea fields as far as the eye can see all the way to Nuwara Eliya. Do keep an eye out for St. Clair's waterfall and the surrounding panorama, about halfway to Nuwara Eliya (ideally you will want to be seated on the left for this)
• 1.00 pm - Arrival at Nanu Oya station. Hop off here if your intention is to stay the night in Nuwara Eliya and the Horton Plains
• After Nanu Oya, there is not a lot of good scenery, a far cry from what I saw earlier. Safe to say you won't really miss anything, however there are some good bits closer to Haputale

Arrival in Ella

• 3.30 pm - Arrive in Ella (hopped off at Ella railway station). Walked from the station to my accommodation in Ella (under 5 minutes)
• Check-in to Spice Hut Hostel - 1,300 rupees per night. Stayed for 2 nights (total cost - 2,600 rupees). Despite the good location and reviews, the accommodation was a bit rundown and the facilities provided were very basic. Therefore, I find it hard to recommend this place as it is not worth the money at all. There are better options elsewhere in Ella for more or less the same price, so I'd advise checking those first before considering this place. Negatives aside, if you don't really mind the basic accommodation, the room and beds were clean for starters, and the hosts were quite friendly and helpful when I needed directions

Little Adam's Peak

• 4.00 pm - Walked from the hostel to Little Adam's Peak (under 1 hour)
• The trail to Little Adam's Peak is a bit outside of town, however it is still relatively easy to locate. Simply head south down the main road, then at the main junction, follow the road eastward for 1km or so until you reach the trailhead (near Chillout Ella). Follow this trail and the signs through the tea plantation until you reach a staircase (the only hard part of this trek, fortunately it takes only 10-15 minutes to climb to the top)
• 5.00 pm - 6.00 pm - Photo taking at the top of Little Adam's Peak. Really impressive views of Ella Rock and the Ella Gap from up here. Stayed around until sunset before heading down and back to town

Back to Ella

• 7.00 pm - Back in Ella. Given my earlier experience with Sri Lankan towns that usually winds down early, Ella was a refreshing change with plenty of eateries and nightlife to suit the backpacking niche
• Dinner at Ella Village Restaurant - Garlic chicken with fries (799 rupees) & Lion lager (350 rupees). Hung out at the restaurant for another hour or two before returning to the hostel

DAY 5

Getting to Ella Rock without a guide

• 6.00 am - Wake up
• Getting to Ella Rock can be quite confusing for first timers, however if you follow the steps I have detailed below, it's definitely possible to do this without a guide
• 6.30 am - Walked from the hostel towards Ella Rock. The trailhead to Ella Rock is somewhere near Kithal Ella railway station, about 2km from Ella, where you can get to by following the train tracks. The train tracks is only a little ways up the main road from the hostel I stayed at (under 5 minutes) 
• 7.25 am - Arrive at Kithal Ella station shortly after passing a black iron bridge. Continued walking along the tracks for another 400m until I found a turn-in to a small path leading to a village (it will be on your left if you're coming from Kithal Ella). Cross the small bridge and immediately turn left and go up the path through a tea plantation. From here, it's fairly straightforward, continue following the path until you reach Ella Rock. If you passed by some cabanas selling food and drink and saw a lot of eucalyptus trees on the way, you know you're going in the right direction
• The trail to Ella Rock isn't too difficult at first, the first half starts out on a gradual incline until you reach a forest clearing with good views of the Ella Gap. The second half is quite a difficult and sweaty climb, fortunately it only takes about 30 minutes to get to the top
• 8.30 am - Arrive at the top of Ella Rock. Amazing views of Little Adam's Peak and Ella, though I honestly preferred the views from Little Adam's Peak (that's just me though lol). 
• There's a small canteen set up by a local here, where you can buy bottled water if you ran out

Ravana Falls

• 10.30 am - Head back down from Ella Rock using the same way I came and back to town
• 12.30 pm - Back in Ella. Lunch at Cafe Chill - Sri Lankan curry of the day (650 rupees) & coke (130 rupees)
• 1.30 pm - Ride a passing bus (any bus with letters 'Wellawaya') from Ella to Ravana falls (under 15 minutes) - 20 rupees
• 1.50 pm - 3.50 pm - Photo taking and enjoying a cool afternoon dip at Ravana falls. There's no entrance fee to enter the falls area

Back to Ella

• 4.00 pm - Ride a passing bus (any bus with letters 'Badulla' or 'Bandarawela') from Ravana falls to Ella - 25 rupees
• 4.20 pm - Back in Ella. Head back to the hostel for a well-earned nap and rest
• Dinner at Ella Village restaurant again - Chicken burger (499 rupees) & Lion lager (350 rupees)
• 9.00 pm - Back to the hostel

DAY 6

Demodara Nine Arch Bridge

• 6.00 am - Wake up
• 6.30 am - Hired a tuk tuk to take me to the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, just under 3km outside of Ella town - 300 rupees
• You could also go there on foot, and there are a few ways you can use to get there. One way is to follow the train tracks from Ella station going eastward for about 2km until you reach the bridge. The other way is a shortcut through the forest, however I am unsure where to turn in from the road to get to this path. Some locals told me that it's supposedly located a little way past the turn-in to the trail to Little Adam's Peak
• 6.45 am - The tuk tuk dropped me off somewhere near the Nine Arch Bridge. Followed a small trail from the dropoff point to the bridge (under 5 minutes)
• 6.50 am - 7.40 am - Photo taking around Nine Arch Bridge. Best to time your visit when there's an oncoming train. There are usually trains crossing here a few times a day, it's best to ask a local what these times are. In my case, there was one train at around 7am

Ella to Matara by bus

• 7.45 am - Walked along the train tracks back to Ella from Nine Arch Bridge
• 8.30 am - Back in Ella. Breakfast at Remo's restaurant - Sri Lankan breakfast (450 rupees)
• 10.00 am - Pack up and check-out from the hostel
• 10.15 am - Ride bus #31 (with letters 'Bandarawela - Matara') from Ella to Matara - 250 rupees
• There's only one bus (#31) about every hour that goes directly from Ella to Matara. If you missed it or you're having a hard time spotting it, alternatively you can also take any bus to Wellawaya first, and then from there bus #35 to Matara
• 1.20 pm - Stopover at Hambantota
• 2.30 pm - Stopover in Tangalle

Matara to Mirissa

• 3.35 pm - Arrive in Matara (dropped off near the suspension bridge to Matara Paravi Duwa temple, directly opposite Matara bus station)
• 3.40 pm - 4.30 pm - Sightseeing around Matara, visiting some of the sights there, mainly Matara beach and Paravi Duwa temple
• 4.35 pm - Ride bus #350 (with letters 'Matara - Galle') from Matara bus station to Mirissa - 24 rupees

Arrival in Mirissa

• 5.05 pm - Arrive in Mirissa (hopped off at the bus stop near the Sun Shine Beach Inn). Walked from the bus stop to my accommodation in Mirissa (under 5 minutes)
• Check-in to Flora & Fauna Mirissa Guesthouse - $5.50 per night. Stayed for 2 nights (total cost - $11). I highly recommend this place if you're staying over in Mirissa, the rooms here are really nice and spacious for the price, and it's only 50m away from the beach
• 5.30 pm - Walked from the guesthouse to Mirissa beach (under 5 minutes) to watch the sunset
• Dinner at Central Beach Inn restaurant (located on the beach) - Fish curry with rice (500 rupees) & Lion beer (200 rupees)
• 9.00 pm - Return to the guesthouse

DAY 7

Sightseeing around Mirissa

• 7.30 am - Wake up
• Breakfast at Mirissa Eye restaurant (located on the beach) - American breakfast (500 rupees)
• 9.00 am - Walked from Mirissa beach to the Mirissa fisheries harbour (under 25 minutes). This place also serves as a dock for the whale-watching boats. There's honestly not much to see here, other than fishing boats and fishermen going about their day to day, and the foul smells from the harbour can be a bit off-putting. You will need to pay for a gate pass to enter - 25 rupees
• 9.40 am - Walked from the harbour to Secret Beach, a secluded beach just around the corner (under 20 minutes). Easy enough to find if you're coming from the harbour, however you will need to get permission to enter the Weligambay Villas compound (they just let me in when I said I was headed for Secret Beach). The views of the seaside on the way is amazing though, and exploring this area is definitely well worth your time 
• Alternatively, there is another way to get to Secret Beach without entering the harbour. Just before arriving at the gates, make a quick left turn (if you're coming from Mirissa) into a small road that goes through a village and simply follow the signs. The path isn't as obvious though, ask around if you're afraid of losing your way 
• 10.00 am - 12.20 pm - Chilling out and went for a swim at Secret Beach. The beach wasn't as clean as I hoped, however the place is really quiet, often times you will have the whole place to yourself. Had some drinks at the Secret Beach Bar - Pineapple juice (250 rupees)
• 12.30 pm - Walked back to Mirissa (under 30 minutes)

Back in Mirissa

• 1.00 pm - Back in Mirissa beach. Lunch at Suduweli restaurant (located on the beach) - Sri Lankan fish curry with rice (650 rupees) & coffee (200 rupees) 
• 3.00 pm - 5.00 pm - Fun on the beach. The sea was quite rough during the time of my visit, however in Mirissa, it was very swimmable. Rented a bodyboard for 600 rupees (for 2 hours)
• 6.00 pm - Walked to Parrot Rock, a small islet off the eastern side of Mirissa beach, to watch the sunset (under 5 minutes). Best time to go is during low tide, where the water is only up to your knees, low enough to traverse across to the islet 
• Dinner at Sun Shine Beach Inn Restaurant - Seafood fried rice (700 rupees) & coke (100 rupees)
• 9.00 pm - Return to the guesthouse

DAY 8

Mirissa to Unawatuna

• 9.00 am - Wake up. Had breakfast at Ocean Moon restaurant (located on the beach) - Set breakfast (475 rupees)
• 10.45 am - Pack up and check-out from the guesthouse
• 11.00 am - Ride bus #350 (with letters 'Matara - Galle') from Mirissa to Unawatuna - 50 rupees. Alternatively, you can also take bus #2 (with letters 'Matara - Colombo) to Unawatuna

Arrival in Unawatuna

• 11.35 am - Arrive in Unawatuna (hopped off at the bus stop near Ridee Villa)
• Walked from the bus stop to my accommodation in Unawatuna (under 10 minutes)
• Initially, I was going to stay at Dreamhouse Unawatuna; unfortunately Agoda somehow managed to screw up my booking. Going to give them credit however as they were gracious enough to offer me a reimbursement. In the end, I stayed at a different place that was much closer to the beach
• Check-in to Pink Elephant Hostel - 2,500 rupees per night (took the private room option). Stayed for 2 nights (total cost - 5,000 rupees, fully reimbursed by Agoda). Despite the good reviews, I really wouldn't recommend this place if you're choosing a place to stay in Unawatuna. If you had to, avoid the dorm option (one of the worst dorms I've seen so far) and spend a bit more on the private rooms upstairs. The hosts were friendly, albeit a bit shady. It can't be just coincidence that there was no water from morning until 5pm every day during my stay there

In & Around Unawatuna

• 4.00 pm - 6.00 pm - Sightseeing and photo taking along Unawatuna beach until sunset. The beach is nothing to shout about, and is a bit too over-commercialized for my liking. Some would argue that Hikkaduwa has a better beach, however Unawatuna is a better base for day trips to Galle and Koggala, due to its proximity to these places
• Dinner at Koko's Beach Bar & Grill - Fish & chips (900 rupees) & coke (150 rupees)
• 9.00 pm - Return to the hostel

DAY 9

Half day trip to Galle

• 7.00 am - Wake up
• 7.20 am - Walked from the hostel to Unawatuna bus stop (under 10 minutes from Unawatuna, walk along Welle Dewalaya road until you reach the main road, then turn left and walk another 50m to the bus stop)
• 7.35 am - Ride bus #350 (with letters 'Matara - Galle') from Unawatuna to Galle - 20 rupees
• 7.45 am - Arrive in Galle (dropped off at Galle bus station, within walking distance to Galle Railway station and Galle Fort)
• Walked from the bus station to Galle Fort (under 5 minutes). Entrance to the fort is free.
• 8.00 am - 12.20 pm - Sightseeing around Galle Fort. There's quite a bit to see here, so I took my time. Visited the clock tower, the ramparts and the lighthouse
• Late breakfast at Anura's Cafe (inside Galle Fort) - Chocolate cake (250 rupees) & iced latte (400 rupees)

Side trip to Koggala Beach

• 12.30 pm - Walked from Galle fort back to the bus station (under 5 minutes)
• 12.45 pm - Ride bus #350 (with letters 'Galle - Matara') from Galle to Koggala - 40 rupees
• 1.20 pm - Arrive in Koggala (hopped off at the bus stop near Koggala train station). Walked from the bus stop to Koggala Beach Park (under 5 minutes)
• Lunch at a beachside stall in Koggala Beach Park - Rice & curry (150 rupees)
• 2.00 pm - 5.45 pm - Photo walk around Koggala beach. Despite claims of it being one of the longest beaches in Sri Lanka, it feels a lot smaller due to the fact that many parts of it have been developed with hotels (that are built right up to the sea, so there's not much beach left). There is a larger beach further west down the road.
• The main draw to Koggala is stilt fishing, a traditional method of fishing unique to Sri Lanka. However, I couldn't help feeling cheated and a little disappointed, as the place was more of a tourist trap than the real deal. Koggala is still worth coming for the beach alone though 

Back to Unawatuna

• 5.50 pm - Walked from Koggala Beach Park to the nearby bus stop (under 5 minutes)
• 6.00 pm - Ride bus #350 (with letters 'Matara - Galle') from Koggala back to Unawatuna - 20 rupees
• 6.15 pm - Back in Unawatuna (hopped off at the bus stop near Ridee Villa)
• Walked from the bus stop back to the hostel (under 10 minutes)

DAY 10

Unawatuna to Galle to Colombo

• 7.00 am - Wake up. Had breakfast at Full Moon Restaurant (located on the beach) - Western breakfast (700 rupees)
• 9.40 am - Pack up and check-out from the hostel
• Walked from the hostel to Unawatuna bus stop (under 10 minutes)
• 10.00 am - Ride bus #350 (with letters 'Matara - Galle') from Unawatuna to Galle - 20 rupees
• 10.15 am - Arrive in Galle (dropped off near Galle bus station). Walked from the bus station to Galle Railway Station (under 5 minutes)
• Purchased a ticket (second class, free seating) for the 10.55am train to Colombo - 180 rupees
• 11.00 am - Board train departing for Colombo from platform #1

In & Around Colombo

• 1.20 pm - Arrive in Colombo (hopped off at Colombo Fort railway station). Stored my luggage at the cloak room inside the station - 56 rupees (for one small bag)
• 2.00 pm - 5.20 pm - Walking tour of Colombo, visited the following points of interest along the way:
• Pettah market. Located only minutes away, across the road from Colombo Fort. Not a very interesting place if you aren't much of a shopper. Keep an eye out for the Khan Clock Tower, an important landmark in the area (it's kind of hard to miss as you will pass it anyway on your way to the Fort area)
• Fort area. The central business district in Colombo. Plenty of well-preserved colonial buildings in the area, namely the Old Colombo Lighthouse, Old Dutch Hospital and the Old Parliament Building. Did some last minute shopping for souvenirs at Laksala
• Galle Face Green. A municipal park by the sea. There's a beach but it's really nothing to shout about, there's lots of street food here though. Great place to spend your afternoons at. Had a quick snack here while enjoying the sea breeze - Seafood wadey (150 rupees)
• 5.30 pm - Walked back from Galle Face Green to Colombo Fort railway station (under 20 minutes)

Colombo to Bandaranaike International Airport

• 5.50 pm - Back in Colombo Fort railway station. Retrieved my luggage at the cloak room
• Walked from Colombo Fort to Pettah bus stop across the road (under 5 minutes)
• 6.05 pm - Ride bus #187 (with letters 'Fort - Airport') from Pettah to Katunayake - 100 rupees
• 7.30 pm - Arrive in Katunayake (hopped off at the turn-in just before the airport arch)
• Walked from the dropoff point to the airport (under 10 minutes)
• 7.40 pm - Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport for my midnight flight back home. Changed all my remaining rupees back to dollars at the currency exchange
• 12.25 am (next day) - Board flight (Malindo) back to Kuala Lumpur

Trip Cost & Expenses

How much did it cost me?

• In local currency: LKR 56,512
• Conversion rate (at the time): MYR 1 = LKR 35, $1 = LKR 140
• After conversion: MYR 1,615 (for 10 days)

8 Long-Haul Budget Flights from Singapore Under $399

Eager to visit London or Athens – on a budget? Why not grab your flight tickets from low-cost carriers like Scoot and Air Asia X!

June 8, 2017, 11:00 am June 16, 2017, 8:48 am

Ziyue Guo Ziyue has her heart set on exploring the world. She is enthralled by the beauty of people and nature, and is always looking forward to her next adventure. She adores fat bunnies and can never resist anything with matcha. When she’s not busy stuffing her face with cakes, Ziyue enjoys snuggling up with a cup of hot tea and a good book on a rainy day.

Flight tickets can be extremely expensive. So to a wallet-conscious traveller, hopping on a budget flight is often the best way to go.

You might think that budget flights are only for short trips to Hong Kong or weekend getaways to Thailand, but guess what – budget flights do make long-haul trips too! Lucky for us, many low-cost carriers such as AirAsia X and Jetstar Airways have started expanding their long-haul routes in recent years, which means that we no longer have to fork out an arm and a leg just to satisfy our wanderlust!

Without much ado, let me introduce eight budget long-haul flights departing from Singapore that will get you to your dream destinations under S$399:

1. United Kingdom: London (via Norwegian Air)

How to get there: Norwegian Air flights starting from ~S$199.90 (one-way)

Great news, everyone: Norwegian Air recently announced the launch of its non-stop flights between Singapore and London’s Gatwick Airport. Starting from 28 September this year, travellers can take a direct 13-hour flight to the capital of United Kingdom. Getting to London for ONLY S$199.90? Count me in!

Widely believed to be the cultural capital of the world, London is rich in history and famous for its thriving food scene. While you’re there, be sure to visit its iconic landmarks or pop by cosy cafés to get your full English breakfast fix!

2. Iran: Tehran (via AirAsia X)

How to get there: AirAsia X flights starting from ~S$176 (one-way)

Introduced in 2016, AirAsia X connects Kuala Lumpur directly to Tehran, the capital of Iran. Travellers from Singapore would have to make a transit at Kuala Lumpur, but that just means a quick stop in KLIA2 to savour the delicious Malaysian food, amirite?

Iran might not be on the usual list of common travel destinations, but trust me, it is definitely a country worth visiting. With a population of 14 million, Tehran is overflowing with lively bazaars and friendly locals. From the Azadi Tower and the Golestan Palace to the Imamzadeh Saleh and the towering Mount Tochal, the sights and sounds of this beautiful city will surely enthral you.

P.S. Keep a lookout for awesome AirAsia X deals like the Free Seats promotion to get the most value for your money!

3. Greece: Athens (via Scoot)

How to get there: Scoot flights starting from ~S$288 (one-way)

Starting this month, travellers will be able to fly directly to Athens on Scoot’s fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Equipped with mood lighting and in-seat power outlets, Scoot will make this 11-hour journey a breeze!

When it comes to Athens, you can’t miss out on its ancient monuments and magnificent sculptures. Having stood witness to the Ottoman, Byzantine and Roman Empires, the capital of Greece can be said to be the birthplace of western civilisation. From spectacular Greek temples like Parthenon and Temple of Poseidon to modern art museums and fascinating flea markets, Athens is filled with wonderful treasures and eclectic charms.

And if you’re a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, you’re in luck – the healthy Greek salads and delicious gyros (a kind of Greek sandwich) will keep your tummy very happy!

4. Oman: Muscat (via IndiGo)

How to get there: IndiGo flights starting from ~S$225 (one-way)

Founded in 2006, IndiGo is a low-cost airline headquartered in India. With a layover at Chennai International Airport in India, IndiGo brings travellers from Singapore to Muscat, the capital of Oman.

Surrounded by looming mountains and vast deserts, Muscat is a charming and laid-back city. If adventurous hikes and thrilling dune-bashing is not your thing, you can always visit the various dazzling souks (Arab marketplaces) to get your hands on the delicate ceramics and intricate jewellery available.

Muscat is also home to an endless supply of the freshest seafood fished from the Gulf of Oman. From grilled tuna to juicy prawns to superb lobsters, Muscat is a paradise for seafood lovers!

5. Australia: Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast & Perth (via Scoot, Jetstar Airways & Air Asia X)

How to get there:

• Scoot flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Perth starting from ~S$128.67 (one-way)
• Jetstar flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Perth starting from ~S$179 (one-way)
• AirAsia X flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Perth starting from ~S$268 (one-way)

Australia surely needs no introduction. Famous for its beautiful Opera House and adorable animals like kangaroos and koalas, Australia is both a country and a continent. Feel free to go snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef, ride the waves at the sunny surf beaches, or even hike up the Blue Mountains. If you’re an avid coffee aficionado, don’t forget to drop by Melbourne to check out its incredible coffee scene!

Some of these flights are direct, whereas some require layovers at Vietnam or Malaysia. So don’t forget to pack your comfy travel pillows and adorable sleep masks along!

6. New Zealand: Auckland, Christchurch & Wellington (via Jetstar Airways)

How to get there: Jetstar Airways flights starting from ~S$284 (one-way)

Keen to visit this nature paradise? Then it’s time to get on board Jetstar Airways! With a transit in Melbourne, the flights would bring you to three of the major cities in New Zealand, namely Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington.

Rated the second safest country in the world in the latest Global Peace Index, New Zealand is the perfect destination for solo travellers and newbie backpackers. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy some dramatic views of the breathtaking mountains, shimmering lakes and vast greenlands! Besides swimming with dolphins, thrill-seekers can also opt for an extreme bungee jumping experience. This will be the ultimate leap of faith!

7. Japan: Sapporo (via Scoot)

How to get there: Scoot flights starting from ~S$205 (one-way)

With Scoot, you can get from Singapore to New Chitose Airport, the main airport in Sapporo. The nine-hour journey also includes a short transit in Taipei!  

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is well-known for its ramen, beer and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. Besides trying different types of beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum and admiring ice sculptures at the Snow Festival, visitors can also pop by Odori Park for its mouth-watering food festivals or take a cable car up to Mount Moiwa for an awe-inspiring night view of the city.

Susukino, an entertainment district in Sapporo filled with restaurants, karaoke shops and even red-light establishments, is famous for its Ramen Yokocho (meaning “noodles street”). Definitely a must-visit for all ramen lovers!

BONUS

8. Hawaii: Honolulu (via AirAsia X & Scoot)

How to get there: AirAsia X flights starting from S$399 and Scoot flights (soon!)

Yes, you read that right – it’s Honolulu! AirAsia X will be launching its flights to Honolulu on 28 June, and even Scoot is planning to fly there by the end of the year, bringing us one step closer to that perfect Hawaiian experience!

Full of white sand beaches and breezy palm trees, Honolulu is home to a plethora of dining, shopping and nightlife options. With a mix of bustling sidewalks and laid-back bars, this is a city of contrasting charms. Other than scenic beaches, there are also museums, mountains and military memorials for you to visit!

With the rise of low-cost carriers such as Scoot, AirAsia X and Jetstar Airways, these far-flung destinations don’t seem that impossible anymore. So if you’re searching for your next travel destination, why not consider taking any of these budget long-haul flights?

Jacaranda: Australia’s Prettiest Blooms and Where to Catch Them

Jacaranda Blooms are a common sight in Australian spring and can be found in several areas like Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and more!

June 16, 2017, 11:00 am June 16, 2017, 10:52 am

Kimberley Ambrose Kimberley lives for the sights and sounds of faraway lands. She is a serial dog-snuggler and travels to different parts of the world to take pictures with dogs. When she’s not busy travelling, she’s planning her next trip. Her goal? To visit all Disneylands and Harry Potter Wizarding Worlds by 25.

Each spring, Australia transforms into an amethyst abode thanks to the jacaranda blooms. For two months in October and November, the sidewalks come alive with sprinkles of lilac from the trees and serve as a feast for the eyes of locals and tourists alike. Although not native to Australia, these sub-tropical blooms can be found in several parts of the land Down Under, most prominently in Sydney. We’ve compiled a list of places you can find these stunning trees.

Sydney

Can be found at: Lavender Bay, Paddington, Royal Botanic Gardens, University of Sydney

Perth

Can be found at: Applecross, Mount Pleasant, Victoria Park

Adelaide

Can be found at: Adelaide Hills, Unley, Mitcham

Brisbane

Can be found at: Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, University of Queensland, New Farm Park, Kangaroo Point

Grafton

Can be found at: Jacaranda Festival @ Clarence River

Whether or not you decide to visit the East or West of Australia, you will have a chance to come up close and experience the blooms in full force between the months of October and November. You can check out other cool things to do this spring in Melbourne as well!

Event Highlights of Singapore Night Festival 2017

From 18-26 August 2017, the Singapore Night Festival will celebrate “10 Magical Years” at the precincts of Bras Basah and Bugis with a myriad of dazzling lights!

June 16, 2017, 12:00 pm June 16, 2017, 11:12 am

Kevin Mak Apart from catching overly-dramatic movies, quenching his voracious appetite and just lounging in his free time, Kevin finds François Rabelais' quote "I am going to seek a grand perhaps" resonating with him at times. It is this very desire that sees him travelling to foreign lands in search of new experiences, and food. In his adventures, the only thing that can temporarily impede his journey is his soft spot for pizza.

Nyctophiles, mark your calendars – the Singapore Night Festival will be back in August! The 10th anniversary of this annual bonanza, themed 10 Magical Years, promises a spectacular line-up of dazzling light art installations in the heart of the city.

Nestled in the artistic precinct of Bras Basah and Bugis, this year’s instalment invites Singaporeans and visitors alike to take to the streets and be entertained through the night. The rustic buildings and contemporary landmarks in the area make for a stunning festival backdrop, one that you definitely wouldn’t want to miss.

Full event details have yet to be released, but it’s never too early to start planning. Keep a lookout on our page for more updates but in the meantime, let’s take you through some brief highlights of the festival, shall we?

What:

Singapore Night Festival 2017

Where:

Bras Basah and Bugis Precinct

When:

18–26 August 2017

Marvel at illuminated landmarks

The perennial highlight at every edition of the Singapore Night Festival – the light facades of iconic institutions. Every year, the Singapore Art Museum and the National Museum of Singapore are transformed into ephemeral works of wonder with their kaleidoscope of vibrant colours on display. This year will be no different.

Take to the streets that come alive

Hit the pedestrian-only Armenian Street and Middle Road for a nocturnal extravaganza unlike any other! As mentioned, event details have yet to be confirmed but you can bet that last year’s lively drama and music performances will return once again!

Explore cultural institutions after hours

Prepare for a cultural immersion through the night as landmarks such as the National Museum of Singapore, the Peranakan Museum and The Substation remain open till the wee hours of the morning! An exciting line-up of displays, events and shows promises to make your nighttime museum-hopping dreams come true.

Hurry and mark your calendars! We promise you that this isn’t one event you’d want to skip, especially since it’ll be its 10th anniversary.

The Ultimate 10 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is best explored on a self-drive road trip. Explore volcanoes, ice and aurora borealis in this 10-day Iceland road trip itinerary.

October 10, 2016, 9:00 am June 16, 2017, 2:29 pm

Bryan Lim Bryan is the author of The More I Travel . He shares his travel writings and photography with individuals from all over the world. He travels for food, culture and view of the world. His favourite travel philosophy is 'Travel for the Journey, not the Destination'.

Contributed by The More I Travel

Welcome to The Land of Fire and Ice. Iceland is known for its extreme landscapes from volcanoes to glaciers.

If you are wondering whether to travel around Iceland in a clockwise or anticlockwise manner, my advice is to plan according to the weather forecast. I did my drive along the Ring Road in the anti-clockwise direction; it was random because I had to book accommodations in advance. I came across my fair share of good and bad weather. The ideal Ring Road trip is to get as

The ideal Ring Road trip is to get as many sunny days and clear nights as possible. This is so that the attractions can be enjoyed in the day and aurora borealis in the night. The objective is to align the clear nights with a strong KP index outlook. With that, the battle is half-won. Witnessing the aurora borealis is easy in Iceland because it is strategically located in the North. My favourite sites to get aurora and weather forecast are from Aurora Forecast for Europe and Iceland Met Office. They are pretty accurate, especially for predictions within 3 days.

The Ring Road covers around 2500km, including all the detours for attractions along the way. This amount will increase significantly if you plan to cover North-East Iceland, specifically Ísafjörður. Route 1 is the main highway to be on for this round island drive. South-Iceland is notorious for sand storms and

Route 1 is the main highway to be on for this round island drive. South-Iceland is notorious for sand storms, so remember to check the forecast before travel. Many roads are closed during winter, even during shoulder months. I encountered one road closure (F570) due to snow conditions at Snæfellsjökull in September. North Iceland is generally colder than other parts.

Accommodation

Airbnb cottages at Egilsstaðir

Out of my 10 nights in Iceland, 9 nights were in Airbnb apartments. They usually offer a fully equipped kitchen with the whole apartment where you can cook your own meals. This is a plus if you do not want to dine out.

I was travelling in a group of three and the average cost per night for one person was around US$40. There are not many Airbnb options out of Reykjavik so there is a need to book early. Otherwise, the options left are guesthouses and hotels which cost much more. If you are a first time user, use this link to get a US$33 credit which can be used for your bookings. A more adventurous option is to go for camper vans where cooking essentials and beddings are provided. These vans range from 2-person onwards.

Transport

Icelandair is the main airline and they offer good prices when booked in advance. I paid US$180 for a round trip from London with 23kg check-in luggage included. I checked again at a closer date and found that the prices were almost double.

Renting a car provides the best experience for exploring Iceland. The preferred option is to choose a car rental company that is within walking distance from Keflavik International Airport. Among the many notorious car reviews online, I found Blue Car Rental to be decent and it indeed lived up to my expectations. The thing I like about this company is that their fleet is always new. They upgraded me with an inbuilt GPS and a 4WD vehicle. I got a 2016 Kia Sportage with a 2.0 diesel engine. Diesel engines are more fuel-efficient and marginally cheaper than petrol. Most F-roads in Iceland only allow 4WD vehicles and rental companies do not allow 2WD to go on F-roads. I recommend to pay a little more for 4WD to enjoy more freedom with road options. My 10-day rental cost US$850 and I consider it a steal.

Most places in Iceland, including gas stations, take credit cards for payment. But some unattended gas stations accept cards with a 4-digit PIN only. Most European-issued credit and debit cards can be used at these gas stations. Credit and debit cards from Singapore do not work because they are usually issued with a 6-digit PIN. The option I found to be useful is to get a prepaid card loaded. There are various denominations to choose from, depending on the gas station. N1 is the most common all around Iceland but is generally the most expensive one, hence I prefer Orkan.

Groceries

Grab one of these Icelandic yoghurts

If you are staying in places with cooking facilities or having your own camper vans, there are a few supermarkets in Iceland to choose from. The most popular and wallet-friendly option is Bónus. But I realise that their opening hours do not go beyond 6.30pm. Krónan is a good alternative too. They usually have a bigger selection than Bónus for fresh meat. So plan your itinerary to visit one of these before the closing time. The more expensive option yet having 24/7 outlets is Hagkaup.

The most popular and wallet-friendly option is Bónus. But I realise that their opening hours do not go beyond 6.30pm. Krónan is a good alternative too. They usually have a bigger selection than Bónus for fresh meat. So plan your itinerary to visit one of these before the closing time. The more expensive option yet having 24/7 outlets is Hagkaup.

Mobile Card

If you are travelling along the Ring Road, I highly recommend Síminn prepaid. It has one of the best signal coverages in Iceland. I was connected under 4G/3G for more than 95% of the time, making me wonder how well Icelandic lines are laid all over this sparsely populated country. Prepaid lines in the US and UK usually do not have good connections outside of cities. I took the deluxe package which costs ISK2990 (US$26) for 100min of talk-time, 100 SMS and 1GB of data. I ended up not using the SMS or talk-time, but well, it was meant for emergencies.

Day 1: Reykjavik

Get on an earlier flight, either connecting from Europe or North America and try to reach before 3pm. That leaves you with a night to explore Reykjavik and start off fresh the next day. Do not miss out Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, which is one of Europe’s best hot dog stands. Visit Hallgrímskirkja at night, as it is one of Reykjavik’s most outstanding landmarks.

Spend the night at Reykjavik.

Hallgrímskirkja

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

Day 2: The Golden Circle

Start the day by heading to Þingvellir National Park where the Earth’s tectonic plates meet. You have the option to go diving in between the plates at Silfra.

This is the only place in Iceland where I had to pay for parking, except for city areas. It costs ISK500 for up to 24 hours of parking access around the national park. I consider Iceland to be overwhelmed by tourism when parking fees are introduced at natural attractions. Continue on to Geysir and Strokkur where there are geothermal eruptions every few minutes. End the day by witnessing the impressive Gullfoss, add in Kerio Crater Lake if you still have some daylight left. There are plenty of shops and restaurants around. I chose to stay at Eyrarbakki which is about 15 minutes away by car from Selfoss because I found a

Continue on to Geysir and Strokkur where there are geothermal eruptions every few minutes. End the day by witnessing the impressive Gullfoss, and add in Kerio Crater Lake if you still have some daylight left.

There are plenty of shops and restaurants around. I chose to stay at Eyrarbakki which is about 15 minutes away by car from Selfoss because I found a cosy Airbnb loft there.

Spend the night at Selfoss or Eyrarbakki.

Always have an umbrella or raincoat/waterproof jacket with you in Iceland

Gullfoss

Strokkur erupting behind me

Day 3: More waterfalls and black beach

Continue on Route 1 and head to Seljalandfoss where you can take the trail that leads to the back of the waterfall.

There is a nearby waterfall named Gljúfrafoss, which is about 400 metres away. It is much less touristy and definitely worth the walk from Seljalandfoss. There is an opening in the rocks where you can walk into the waterfall itself. It is a perfect for an Insta-worthy shot but be prepared to get wet.

Complete the waterfall hat-trick by visiting Skogafoss. You have the option to head to the famous Sólheimasandur plane wreck to see the US airplane that crash-landed there in 1973. But the road has been closed recently, and the only option is to park the car off Route 1 and take the 8km round trip to the plane wreck by foot.

End the day with the gorgeous sunset at Reynisdrangar which is famous for the basalt sea stacks and black sand beach. There is a nice spot in Vik where the church is located to catch a nice view of the town.

Spend the night at Vik.

Seljalandfoss

Gljúfrafoss

Skogafoss

Top of Skogafoss

Reynisdrangar

Sunset at Reynisdrangar

View of Vik from the church lookout

Day 4: Skaftafell National Park And Glacier Lagoon

The Airbnb host at Vik highly recommended us to head to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon. It became one of the most beautiful places of my trip.

Both amateur and expert hikers will love Skaftafell National Park. It is located in the southern part of the magnificent Vatnajökull Glacier. There are plenty of hiking routes available, ranging from 2 hours to over 10 hours. Those that want to do some serious exploring can spend an additional night there.

Carry on to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where you can witness one of the most beautiful places in Iceland. Hofn is known as the lobster capital of Iceland. From here, there is a beautiful view of the Vatnajökull Glacier.

Spend the night at Hofn.

Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Day 5: Eastern Fjords

The fantastic driving scene through the eastern fjords starts shortly after leaving Hofn. The number of cars and people reduce drastically as you continue eastwards because most people would have u-turned back to Reykjavik.

You will be weaving in and out of the dramatic coastline with black sandy beaches. There are chances of reindeer crossing the roads so look out for them.

Be sure to visit Seydisfjordur for its beautiful town, it is just located 30 minutes away by car from the capital of East Iceland, Egilsstaðir. I caught my first aurora in a farm cottage near Egilsstaðir that was booked through Airbnb, and it was phenomenal.

Spend the night at Seydisfjordur or Egilsstaðir area.

Seydisfjoudur

Stop whenever you like along the Eastern Fjords; every stop is beautiful

The dramatic coastline

Aurora just right outside the cottage

Relationship goals!

Day 6 and 7: Myvatn Area And Akureyki

Time for huge waterfalls as you progress northwards toward Akureyki. Visit Dettifoss which has the largest volume of water flowing through in Europe; there is a side visit to Selfoss (not the city) from the same parking area. There are two sides of Dettifoss which are accessible by two different roads off from Route 1.

When you have seen enough waterfalls, proceed to Myvatn geothermal area for Hveraröndor Hverir (mud pots) and nature baths. The mud pots have very strong sulphur smell and the surrounding gives you the feeling of being on Mars. Myvatn Nature Baths is much less touristy than Blue Lagoon and also costs lesser. Lake Myvatn is a perfect place to see the aurora borealis because the lake shows the reflection if there are aurora activities. This is absolutely beautiful on camera.

After staying and moving everyday, consider spending two days at Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland. It is the second largest city after Reykjavik with plenty of things to do. There are many nice restaurants here that serve authentic Icelandic food but they are much cheaper than in Reykjavik. Bautin has good reviews and I can vouch for it personally. The botanical garden is a nice place, especially in summer when everything is in full bloom. Akureyrarkirkja is the church designed by Guðjón Samúelsson which sits on top of a hill in the city. The same guy designed the famous Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavik. Book a whale-watching tour in Akureyki or Husavik which guarantees more than 99% chance of whale sighting.

Also read: 4 Days in Iceland – Best Places to Go and Things to Do

Spend two nights at Husavik or Akureyri, or one night at each place for the experience.

Dettifoss

Hveraröndor Hverir

Myvatn Nature Baths

Akureyri

Aurora nights over Akureyri

Whale you eat me?

Try Bautin restaurant while you are in Akureyri.

Day 8: Seal-watch and lots of F-roads

Take a long drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with plenty to see along the way. The Vatnsnes peninsula has a few spots for seal-watching and one of the best is at Osar. Be prepared to get the car muddy because of the gravel mud roads for the most parts of this peninsula. There are water sprays with brush head at gas stations to make your job of cleaning the car much easier after.

Spend two nights at Stykkishólmur or Grundarfjörður to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Both towns are equally unique in their own ways.

Always stop for shots because Iceland is really beautiful among the nothings

Do not miss out the close encounters with these Icelandic horses. You can see them just right off Route 1 in the farms

Day 9: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Depending on where you stay, you can do the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in an anti-clockwise or clockwise manner. Visit Kirkjufell, the most photographed mountain in Iceland. Along the same road, you can get to Kirkjufellsfoss and take that trademark waterfall plus mountain postcard shot.

Afterwards, proceed to Snæfellsjökull National Park where the magnificent Snæfellsjökull Glacier lies. The road leading up to the glacier is usually open during summer but it was impassable due to the icy pass, even in September. From the high point near the summit, there are good views of the nearby towns. This active volcano provided the setting for Jules Vernes’ famous Journey to the Center of the Earth.

At the foot of Snæfellsjökull lies Djúpalónssandur, the sandy beach which was once home to fishing boats. Hellnar and Arnarstapi are both old fishing towns which have walking trails between them right beside the coast. Talk a walk and you will not be disappointed. For photographers, do not miss out the black church in Budir where you have the snow mountains as the backdrop. Head back to the lodging town and be prepared for the drive back to Reykjavik.

Kirkjufellsfoss with Kirkjufell in the backdrop

The road ahead was covered with snow

Hotel Hellnar with Snæfellsjökull Glacier in the background

Budir Church

Day 10: Reykjavik

You have an option to head to Langjokull Glacier for a detour before heading back to Reykjavik or reach Reykjavik early to spend the remaining time there. Take a leisure walk around the city centre and soak up the local vibes. Consider visiting Harpa which is the concert and meeting hall and it has a unique design.

Harpa from the harbour

The Sun Voyager is a good place to take pictures of the aurora borealis because the icon serves as good foreground

I couldn’t forget the geomagnetic storm that was raging in my last night at Reykjavik!

This is my itinerary so far, so readers feel free to amend it to suit your needs. I am happy to answer anything via my website's contact page. Friends, you can just drop me a message. Meanwhile, I hope this post is helpful to future travellers to plan their Iceland trip.

Bonus for our Singaporean readers: Get 5% off your Blue Car Rental from now until Dec 2017. Simply quote "#BlueIcelandSG" upon booking. 

20 Fun Things to Do in Penang On Your First Trip

Penang is not just about feasting! These fun-filled activities in Penang will keep you occupied during your trip!

March 7, 2016, 11:00 am June 16, 2017, 2:46 pm

Darren Yeoh Darren enjoys the finer things in life and loves exploring unfamiliar places on foot, guided with nothing but instinct and a good-old fashioned map. He enjoys cultural experiences and exciting adventures and is not a stranger to travelling alone. When he's not putting his travel experiences into words, he's probably sitting behind his laptop, planning his upcoming adventure.

Ah, Penang, the Pearl of the Orient. Unless you've been living (or travelling!) under a rock for the past few years, chances are you've heard of this magnificent city in Malaysia. In fact, in recent times, it's been ranked by many travel reviews as one of the very best travel destinations not just in the country or the region, but in the whole world!

From mouth-watering street food to artistic murals which don the streets, here are 20 things to do on your first trip to Penang. Or second. Or third. Actually, it doesn't matter how many times you've visited Penang, these activities always seem to captivate the traveller's mind every time.

1. Take a walk along Penang's Harmony Street

Penang's Street of Harmony is found along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling and is by far one of the places which best reflect the multi-cultural uniqueness of Malaysia as a country. The street is filled with multiple places of worship catering to different faiths and it's not uncommon to see devotees pouring in and out on a weekend or religious holiday. Some of the buildings include the Masjid Kapitan Keling (duh!), Kuan Yin Temple, St. George's Church, the Sri Mahamariamman Temple and many more. The famous Khoo Kongsi building is also located here.

Where to find the Street of Harmony: Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, 10300, Penang

2. Stay at a heritage building or museum

Image Credit: Mahen Bala

When visiting a place as steeped in history and heritage as Penang, it's safe to assume that not all buildings were built in the past 20, 30 years. This includes some restaurants and hotels. Known as refurbished heritage sites, visitors are allowed to spend the night in these buildings much like any other hotel or hostel. Some places, like the Blue Mansion, even has a museum within the vicinity! Other possible options include the Seven Terraces, a Perankan-themed boutique hotel refurbished from 19th century Anglo-Chinese terrace houses. These places carry a deep link to Penang's history and certainly projects a different ambience compared to the Hard Rocks and the BayViews.

Where to find the Blue Mansion: 14, Leith Street, 10200, Penang, Malaysia

Where to find the Seven Terraces: Lorong Stewart, 10300, Penang, Malaysia

3. Play Hide & Seek With The Street Murals of Penang

Image credit: CEphoto; Uwe Aranas

I think it was around late 2009 or early 2010 when my friends started posting pictures of themselves standing next to creative murals along the streets of Penang. It wasn't long before tracking down these works of art became the next 'it' thing in Penang tourism, even for locals! The streets of George Town are literally filled with these interesting pieces and is one of the main reasons why there are so many more bicycles on the street on the island now than say, 10 years ago. Due to the sheer number of art murals in the city, hunting for them all is a legit day-long activity and most likely (and for your sake of convenience), it would be ideal to rent a bike (some hotels have rental services specifically because of this).

And just in case you DO want to visit them all, here's a map of the locations where you can find them. Good luck.

Also read: Penang Food Guide: Best Places to Eat as Recommended by a Local

4. Embark on a culinary marathon

Image credit: Michael Camilleri

Having covered Penang's street art, I think it's only fair (and probably required by law) to start talking about Penang Street FOOD. Penang is consistently ranked as one of the best food paradises in the world and it would take a brave soul to argue against that. From hawker food staples like Char Koay Teow to delicious broths like Penang Laksa, and even to scrumptious after meal delights like Rojak, Penang has it all. So much so that 'Penang' has become a sort of brand in Malaysia's culinary field. I swear, while studying in Kuala Lumpur, I've had my fair share of 'Penang Famous This And That' which I've never actually seen in Penang before! Hah! But certainly, if you don't go on a food hunt in Penang, your palette might just hate you forever. There are many food courts and hawker centres across the entire island, but a good place to start would be along Gurney Drive. Be warned as it could get really crowded on certain days and seats would be at a premium.

Where to find Gurney Drive Hawker Centre: 172, Solok Gurney 1, George Town, Jelutong, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

5. Go Café/Bar Hopping across the island

Image credit: unsplash.com

As a bustling port island city, Penang has no shortage of cozy concept cafes, classy bars and party-like-there's-no-tomorrow clubs throughout the island. One of the best things to in Penang on your first visit is to go on a day-long café and bar hop. Some cafés which I personally recommend are the Mug Shot Café (great yoghurt and sandwiches AND you get to take a mug shot!) and Tavern in The Park (takes the word 'class' to a whole new level). If you're looking for a fun night out with drinks (do it responsibly though), then head on over to Straits Quay which is something like Singapore's Clarke Quay, I suppose. It's got a wide selection of chain pubs and independent bars with a killer night view. It's also got a seafront retail marina! What more can you ask for?

Where to find Straits Quay: Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang 10470 Tanjong Tokong, Penang Malaysia, Malaysia

6. Throng the Little Penang Street Market for bargains

Image credit: Screen cap from Youtube user Matt Chia

As it is with many top tourist destinations in Asia, street markets are a thriving business in Penang. The Little Penang Street Market, however, is one of those fairy tale stories of how a little community project that was started in 2006 somehow manage to grow into a staple of Penang street market lore. Every last Sunday of the month, the Little Penang Street Market brings to the streets beautiful hand-crafted souvenirs and (was there any surprise about this?) food, along with lively street performances and sometimes even book readings. It's usually a brilliant atmosphere perpetuated by friendly vendors. The street market opens from 9a.m. and buzzes until about 5p.m.

Where to find the Little Penang Street Market: Upper Road, 2, Jalan Penang, 10300, Penang

Also read: Non-Stop Eating on the Penang Food Trail

7. Hop on a trishaw for a breezy tour of George Town

Image credit: Shankar S.

Well, in Penang, apart from cars and buses, there are bicycles and…trishaws. Though it's gotten a little bit tougher to find these three-wheeled vehicles compared to the past, you can still find a number of trishaw peddlers around the George Town area and some near the pier of the SuperStar Libra cruise ship. It's a nice and traditional way to get from point A to B in the city or simply for a breezy tour around Georgetown. (Psst, it's a great way to beat the crazy traffic in Penang). Though prices may vary between drivers, the general hourly rate should not exceed RM30.

Where to find trishaws in George Town: In George Town. Dude, they're technically three-wheeled chariots with bright umbrellas, just look around and you're bound to find one.

8. Pay a visit to the Kek Lok Si Temple at night

Image credit: Flying Pharmacist

The Kek Lok Si temple is one of the finest and largest temple complexes within the region. Adorned with many sculptures and carvings, and even more images of Buddha, the temple is an essential aspect of Buddhism and Chinese cultural rituals in Penang. The temple's architecture, with its many pagodas and archways, is even more enchanting during the Chinese New Year and Wesak Day celebrations as the temple will be covered in dazzling lights. It is also during those times when the temple is most crowded, usually by worshippers but also tourists who wish to soak in the serene atmosphere.

Where to find Kek Lok Si: Kek Lok Si Temple ,11500 Ayer Itam, Penang

9. Get your feet moving and visit the waterfall hilltop temple

Image credit: Tripadvisor

Moving now from a temple dedicated to Buddhism to one dedicated to Hinduism, the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple is one of the island's oldest Hindu temples. It is built in dedication to the deity Murugan and to get to the top, you would have had to climb…wait for it…500 steps. Make it and you'll be rewarded by a spectacular 180-degree view of the area near Gurney and Mount Erskine. While most people associate Thaipusam with the Batu Caves, the waterfall hilltop temple in Penang is the main attraction and star of the festival within the island state.

Where to find the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple: Jalan Air Terjun, 10300, Penang

10. Visit one of the world's largest reclining Buddha statues

In case you weren't keeping track, we've gone from a Chinese Buddhist temple, to a Hindu temple, and now we've arrived at the Siamese Wat Chayamangkalaram Buddhist temple. The temple was commissioned in 1845 by Queen Victoria and it houses a 180 feet, gold-plated reclining Buddha statue, one of the (if not THE) largest in the world. The temple is located on Jalan Burma and it is just a stone's throw away from Bangkok Lane (because, obviously) and is truly a remarkable sight to behold.

Where to find Wat Chayamangkalaram: 24, Lorong Burma, 10300, Penang

11. Pay a visssssit to the Snake Temple

Image credit: Khalzuri Yazid

I promise you, this is the final temple on the list. What? Penang has deep cultural roots, of course there were bound to be more than the odd temple or two. Anyway, the snake temple was featured at one point on The Amazing Race and it is essentially a Buddhist temple. The temple is filled with snakes (no prizes for he or she who guesses why it's called Snake Temple) and even though they are venomous vipers, they have had their venom extracted and for the most part, they just laze around peacefully, apparently lulled into a sense of nirvana by the smell of incense in the temple. But just in case of the odd jumpy one, visitors are still advised to not pick up the snakes for a selfie. Just don't.

Where to find the Snake Temple: Jalan Tokong Ular, 11600, Penang

12. Catch the spooks at the Penang Ghost Museum

Image credit: Ghost Museum Penang

Yep, you read that right. A museum about ghosts. Of course, understandably, you might not be looking to be scared silly on your first ever trip to Penang, but rest assured, not all sections in the Penang Ghost Museum would give you nightmares…I think. That being said, it is indeed a one of a kind attraction found only in Penang.  Visitors can take pictures with the ‘exhibits’ which also include detailed explanations of the various ghosts and the legends associated with them. The exhibits cover a range of ghost a creatures from various cultural and religious folklore and it's just a truly memorable experience. While the exhibits are mostly made of wax or synthetic cotton, I wouldn't touch the exhibits themselves per se…you just never know…BOO!

Where to find the Ghost Museum: 57, Lebuh Melayu, 10100, Penang

13. Whacky Fun @ Made In Penang: The Interactive Museum

Image credit: Made In Penang

From scary to whacky, it's the Penang Interactive Museum! Although 3D museums are the norm in many places, what makes Made In Penang special is the deep Penangite vibe of the 'exhibits'. The motto of the museum is to 'rediscover Penang' so many of the exhibits convey just that. Fancy being fed a giant shrimp from a gigantic bowl of char koay teow? Or perhaps you'd like to try your hand at making teh tarik? Maybe you might even fancy a cup of coffee with the (wax figure of) Chief Minister of Penang? Regardless of what you fancy, the Penang Interactive Museum certainly is a fun place for the family and friends and no doubt, you will leave a satisfied patron.

Where to find Made In Penang: No 3, Pengkalan Weld, 10100, Penang

Also read: 12 Destinations in Malaysia for Your Next Weekend Getaway

14. Get a blast from the past at the Pinang Peranakan Museum

Image credit: Hajotthu

The Pinang Peranakan Museum is housed in a refurbished peranakan mansion from the 1900s. The museum houses exhibits which showcase the many tools and lifestyles of the Baba and Nyonya, prominent communities in Penang, Malacca and Singapore in the past. It is a truly magical experience and many visitors exclaim that they feel as if they were siphoned back into the past when they step through the threshold of the mansion. The museum has even been featured multiple times in the Amazing Race and the Amazing Race Asia. It is also the filming location of the 2008 Singaporean drama, The Little Nyonya.

Where to find the Pinang Peranakan Museum: 29, Church Street, 10200, Penang

15. Flock to the Penang Bird Park for a fun-filled time

Image credit: cat_collector

This place is special and not just because it's the only attraction on this list which is not found on the island. Yes, in case you forgot, the state of Penang is not just confined to an island. The Penang Bird Park in Seberang Perai is the largest bird park in the country and the first of its kind. Featuring a huge aviary and geodome which mimics the natural habitat of the birds, the Penang Bird Park houses over 300 species of birds, over half of which are native to Malaysia. Kids will definitely enjoy this day out but if bird watching isn't your thing, the park also has a handful of selection of other animals such as turtles, deers and pythons.

Where to find the Penang Bird Park: Taman Burung Seberang Jaya, Jalan Todak, Seberang Perai, 13700, Perai, Penang

16. Take a nice stroll at the Penang Botanical Gardens

Image credit: Dr. htgoon

The Penang Botanical Gardens may not be what it used to be a couple of decades ago, but it is still a beautiful public park to have a nice stroll on a breezy afternoon. The gardens were originally established in the 1880s from an old quarry site. It contains lush green tropical forests and is generally a place of tranquility of peace. The Penang Botanic Gardens department regularly initiate programmes to help educate visitors about the park's deep cultural history and the on the rich diversity of the collection of flora and fauna in the park. And if that wasn't enough, there's a waterfall in the park which you can visit by making arrangements with the Penang Water Authority (while the park is public, the waterfall and reservoir are private property)

Where to find the Penang Botanical Gardens: Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350, Penang

17. Escape the city at…well, ESCAPE Theme Park

Image credit: cmglee

Probably one of the newest outdoor tourist attractions in Penang, ESCAPE Theme Park first opened its doors in 2012 and is still relatively an unearthed gem, even among Penagites. The theme park is near the Penang Butterfly Farm (also worth a visit) and is surrounded by lush greenery and trees. This family-friendly outdoor adventure park offers many exciting activities  including tower climbing, free falling, balance beam walking and many more. To make it easier and to encourage visitors to visit the exciting theme park, those who arrive at ESCAPE by taking the public buses (Rapid Penang 101 & 102) can redeem their bus fares the theme park entrance!

Where to find ESCAPE: 828, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050, Penang

18. Trek to your heart's content at Penang National Park

Image credit: Syed Abdul Khaliq

Penang National Park is...by every way of the word, the smallest national park in the world. That being said, its 2.5 hectare area contains a rich diversity of habitats. You can find beautiful lakes, wetlands, mangrove plantations, coral reefs and even turtle nesting beaches at the Penang National Park. And, if you're up to the challenge, there are multiple challenging trekking routes around the park that are sure to put your mettle to the test. Survive and you'll be rewarded with many breathtaking views of the park. You can also access some pristine beaches from the park by boat!

Where to find Penang National Park: Jalan Hassan Abbas, 11050, Penang

19. Take a train ride (or hike!) up Penang Hill

Image credit: Ginson Lim

Also known as Bukit Bendera in Malay, Penang Hill is one of the top attractions in Penang and one of the coolest (the temperature is literally cooler at the top of the hill). One of the main attractions of Bukit Bendera is the funicular train ride to the top of the hill. It only takes 5 minutes but if you're one who fancies the embrace of nature, you may also choose to hike up the hill. Either way, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and minty fresh air. The top of the hill is home to a few restaurants, a souvenir shop, a temple, a bird sanctuary and a mosque. Personally, I recommend foregoing the restaurants there. It's not that they're not good enough, it's just that the top of Penang Hill has many ideal spots for picnics, so if you have the time, definitely go for that.

Where to find Bukit Bendera a.k.a Penang Hill: Jalan Stesen Bukit Bendera, 11500, Penang

Also read: Road Trip to Penang

20. Complete your day by relaxing and unwinding at Batu Ferringhi Beach

Image credit: Eduap

It would be a real travel sin on my part if I were to write an article about Penang and not once mention any of the numerous beaches on the island. But of course, but hard-pressed to make a pick, pick the best one. And in Penang, it would have to be Batu Ferringhi beach. There's a reason why so many top-class resorts have decided to open shop in and around the area. It's pristine sandy beaches and array of water activities keep visitors coming back for me. And hey, if you're not one to hop about in the sun, you too will surely be able to appreciate the idea of lazing around on a beach with an ice cold cocktail in hand. Believe me when I say that watching the sun set over the horizon at Batu Ferringhi beach is just one of those things you never knew you'd like until you've experienced it firsthand. And then, it becomes one of those memories which never seem to go away.

Where to find Batu Ferringhi: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, 11100, Penang

Truth be told, I'm pretty sure I missed out more than just a couple of things on the list. There are just too many things to see, do and enjoy on Penang Island. In fact, I have to admit, I've not done a few of those things myself yet and I live in this beautiful city. There's no way to say it more clearly than this: The reviews are on point. Visit Penang once, and you just might never want to leave again.

“Experience the Philippines” – Win or Fail?

How do you feel about the new campaign of the Department of Tourism? Share your thoughts!

June 16, 2017, 4:27 pm June 16, 2017, 4:58 pm

Race Del Rosario Race is a beer-chugging backpacker who occasionally dabbles as a spermologist. When he's not travelling, he freelances as an events host and organizer. His ultimate dream? To travel the 6 continents before he turns 40.

After the previous slogan “It’s more fun in the Philippines”, which gained vast media mileage all over the world, the Department of Tourism launched its newest campaign called “Experience the Philippines”.

Also read: 23 Reasons Why It Is So Much More Fun in the Philippines

To kickstart the campaign, DOT released a video produced by McCann Worldgroup Philippines entitled “Sights” which features a Japanese retiree named M. Uchimura enjoying the different tourist destinations in the country. The AVP comes with an unexpected twist, revealing that the character is actually blind. The video ends with a quote from Uchimura saying that “Life feels better when with Filipinos”.

Watch the video here:

Mixed reactions

When DOT launched the new logo of the campaign, some netizens embraced the change while others were skeptic about it. Some even pointed out that there’s not much to experience in the Philippines but the negative happenings around the country.

In general, the new DOT ad was received positively by the Filipinos, saying that it is heartwarming and tugs one’s heartstrings. On the other hand, some questioned whether the ad is appropriate, since it might create the impression that the Philippines is PWD-friendly.

On originality

Reddit users were quick to point out that the “Sights” ad had uncanny similarities with the 2014 promotional campaign of South Africa entitled “Rediscover South Africa”. Both ads share the same plot twist at the end. This sparked fire with the netizens blasting the Department of Tourism for “wasting taxpayer’s money” on an unoriginal ad.

Also read: Summer is More Fun in the Philippines: 20 Stunning Photos from Filipino Travellers

The Department of Tourism was quick to defend the video saying that it was not a rip-off. Tourism Assistant Secretary Fredrick Alegre said in an interview with ANC that despite the similarities, “the biggest difference really is that is a true story. The Japanese retiree is an actual retiree residing in the Philippines”.

However, several days after, DOT released a statement stating that it is discontinuing its contract with the McCann Worldgroup Philippines and demand that the latter issue a public apology for the trouble it has caused the department. Read the official statement here.

Also read: Expectation VS Reality: Philippines

Hours after, McCann also released a statement that it has not received any formal communication from the DOT, terminating its contract. The company hopes that both parties will “discuss a sensible resolution to this matter”.

As of this time, the DOT has already deleted the video on their Facebook page.

What do you think of the new DOT campaign? Is it a hit or a miss?

20 Experiences Every Filipino Traveller Must Complete Before Getting Married

Don't get married yet if you haven't completed these experiences in the Philippines.

November 9, 2015, 8:00 am June 16, 2017, 10:44 pm

Charmaine Acha Charmaine loves random weekend trips, technology and coffee. Guided by her travel mantra "chill and travel", she enjoys unplanned escapades without compromising leisure. Her free hours are spent reading a book, watching movies or thinking about her next possible adventure.

“When are you getting married?” This dreaded question is often asked by relatives, friends and even acquaintances you just met. God knows when! I’m not getting married anytime soon because there’s just too many places to see and experiences to accomplish even in my beloved country.

So if you’re like me, who wants to travel wide, explore more and experience all the fun in the Philippines, here’s a list of experiences you need to complete before you finally decide to settle down with your one true love!

1. Travel solo

You are not ready to get hitched if you have not conquered the fear of being alone. Travel solo and you’ll be proud to accomplish many things without anybody to rely on but yourself. Test your limits, go out of your comfort zone and learn more about yourself as you discover the world.

Also read: Filipinos’ Guide to Travelling Solo for the First Time

2. Then travel with your partner

After you’ve managed to travel alone, it’s now time to test your relationship by travelling with your partner. Of course, given that you have a boyfriend or a girlfriend. For singles, you’re excused from completing this point until you find that special someone to travel with.

Also read: 10 Reasons Travelling with Your Partner is Awesome

3. Ride all modes of transportation in the Philippines

I bet you’ve tried the common modes of transportation such as the jeepney, taxi and tricycle. But have you tried everything? MRT, LRT, kalesa, habal-habal, skylab, banca and pumpboat? Ride every single mode of transportation in the country and call yourself a true Filipino commuter.

4. Eat every street food in town

With so many local street food around the country, it might probably take you a lifetime to try all of them. Just focus around your town or city and try every street food you can find in every corner.

5. Try exotic food as well

Test your stomach with some cringe-worthy Filipino food. Make sure you strike everything off this list of bizarre Filipino food.

6. Go spelunking

Caves have put the Philippines on the tourism map, and it would be a shame if you have not explored at least one of the hundreds you can find in the country. Discover the hidden natural chambers of your province and go spelunking. I’m sure there’s at least one cave near your place. Some of the most notable destinations with amazing cave systems are Sagada, Cagayan de Oro, Palawan and Bohol.

7. Reach the summit of a mountain

One of the simplest pleasures in life is to watch the awe-inspiring beauty of nature from the top. Prepare your trekking gears and reach a summit of any mountain near your locale to rejuvenate your soul and maybe have a little introspection.

8. Then go camping

While you’re at the summit, why not spend a night and go camping? Catch the sunrise the next morning, enjoy the scenery, breathe the unpolluted air, and perhaps have a cup of coffee to complement the mood. Just make sure you don’t leave any litter in the campsite.

Also read: Camping in the Philippines: 10 Sites with the Most Incredible Views

9. Get a scuba diving license

After all those adventures viewing the world from the top, you might want to go scuba diving and experience a different world where colourful and unadulterated corals thrive along with unique sea creatures. You can find scuba diving centres in almost every popular beach in the country, so it wouldn’t be hard for you to get a scuba diving license.

10. Leap off a plane

This is pretty scary but you can first opt for a tandem skydive. Strap your body to a professional skydiver and off you go! If you complete this challenge, it will be easier for you to conquer all the other extreme outdoor adventures in the Philippines.

11. Go to an island without bringing anything

Live like a survivor in a remote island. Don’t bring anything; no gadgets, no luxury. Just enjoy the simple island life, befriend the locals and learn their way of living. You may choose to stay for a while or go home after a day trip.

12. Know how to weave using traditional methods

Time for a cultural experience! Traditional weaving has been part of the lives of many indigenous people in the Philippines. Visit a cultural village and learn the art of weaving to appreciate and preserve this fine Filipino craft.

13. Learn the art of pottery making

After weaving, you can try pottery making. One popular destination to learn this skill is Vigan, Ilocos Sur. You can easily find some pagburnayan (traditional pottery making) areas within this UNESCO World Heritage town.

14. Visit all UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines

If you have visited the historic town of Vigan, congratulations! You have crossed off one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines. You still have to visit the baroque churches including Santa Maria, Paoay, Miag-ao and San Agustin Church in Manila, the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras, Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Long way to go!

15. Dance in a festival

What’s the most important festival in your place? Encourage yourself to at least participate in street dancing or cultural shows in your barangay or municipality.

16. Master all the regions and their capitals

What’s the capital of Ilocos Sur? No cheating! Great, if you answered Vigan, if you didn’t, well, you have you to learn some Philippine geography and master all the regions. This will be useful for your future travels (and teaching future children).

17. Learn a second (regional) language

If this cute little girl can do it, why can’t you?

18. Plant some trees

You wouldn't enjoy most of the items on this list if not for mother Earth, so time to give back and plant some trees! Join some agencies that organise tree-planting programs in various provinces of the country.

19. Join a clean up drive

You can also participate in a clean-up drive or initiate your own. Look around you; a simple act of picking up a litter on the street can already go a long way. Imagine if every single person does this, our garbage and pollution problem can surely be reduced.

20. Volunteer in any way you can

After giving back to mother Earth, make sure you also give back to humanity. I don’t know how you would execute this, but before you build your own family, do at least something to alleviate the lives of our fellow Filipinos. Teach in remote areas or do community services, perhaps?

Also read: The Philippine Bucket List: 20 Challenges Every Filipino Traveller Must Complete

I’m not saying you can’t do all these things when you’re already married, but not having to worry about the welfare of your spouse or children can significantly help you accomplish more of what you really want in life.

Married or not, take this list as a challenge for yourself. How many have your accomplished so far?

3 Countries, 4 Girls, 5 Days with Less than ₱10k Budget Each

Singapore, Ho Chi Minh & Kuala Lumpur in 5 days with just ₱10k budget each -- learn how these 4 Filipinas did it!

June 13, 2017, 8:00 am June 17, 2017, 2:44 pm

Sheena Fernan

Contributed by ashshian

I have always loved making itineraries, whether it’s for a day trip or a long trip somewhere. It gives me a sense of excitement and imagination of what would happen. Now making the itinerary for this trip is a very special one for me since it will be the first out of town, out of the country trip with my college besties.

Who would have thought it was possible for me and my friends to gather up and pack our bags? What started out as a plan on paper became a reality last April 2017 when we took on the challenge to visit 3 countries in a 5-day itinerary. Later, you’ll see how we were able to visit Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia and spent only less than ₱10, 000, excluding airfare (I didn’t include airfare in this write up since prices tend to vary). Impossible? Nope. Definitely not.

Also read: A Three Day Singapore Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Itinerary

Day 1: Singapore

Little India (Breakfast)

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

Masjid Abdul Gaffoor Mosque

Arab Street and Haji Lane

Masjid Sultan Mosque and Kampong Glam

National Library of Singapore

Singapore National Gallery

Chinatown (Lunch and souvenir shopping)

Anderson Bridge/ Merlion Park

Marina Bay Sands/ Gardens by the Bay

VivoCity Mall (Dinner)

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

This unexpected experience to start off the day. Special Thanks to fellow Filipino and Captain of Jetstar Airlines!

Also read: Vietnam One-Week Itinerary: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City & More

Saigon Pearl

Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Saigon Opera House

Saigon Post Office

Notre Dame Basilica

Park near Notre Dame Basilica

Coffee shop visits

Nguyen Hue Walking Street

District 2/ Saigon River Tunnel

Food trips

Ben Thanh Market (souvenir shopping)

Accommodation (3-floor Airbnb apartment)

Day 3-5: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam & Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Quill City Mall

Batu Caves

Petronas Tower/ KLCC Suria Mall

Merdeka Square

Kuala Lumpur City Gallery

Pasar Seni- Central Market (souvenir shopping)

Lake Gardens

The Face Suites (where we stayed)

Expenses

Also read: Backpacking Southeast Asia: 10 Days in 5 Countries with Just ₱25k (All-In)

Some tips before the trip

• If you’re a citizen of any ASEAN nation, then travelling to Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia will not require you any Visa. So all you need is your passport, extra valid IDs, pocket money and itineraries.
• Before our trip, we exchanged our money to Singapore Dollar and Malaysian Ringgit. We bought US Dollars to buy Vietnamese Dong since no local foreign exchange offers the money. We exchanged our US dollars to Vietnamese Dong upon arrival at the airport in Ho Chi Minh.
• Buy a travel adapter. Do some research on the power sockets of the country you’re visiting. To be honest, we forgot about this and we’re just thankful we had our power banks with us and the airports have USB charging stations.
• Plan your entry and exits points ahead. For us, we flew to Singapore from the Philippines and took a midnight flight that saved us a night in a hotel. Our exit point was our last stop, Malaysia.
• Pack lightly and bring a good backpack. All of us brought only 1 huge backpack plus a small bag to carry with us while going around. We wore mostly dresses during the trip to save on space and weight. We were able to save hundreds from baggage allowance.
• Instead of buying a new Singapore EZ link Card, borrow from your friends/relatives who went to Singapore. The EZ link Card will get you around Singapore through train, buses and even allows you to use it in some stores like 7/11. Since there’s a non-refundable fee of SGD5 when you’ll buy a new card, borrowing will save you money. The cards have a lifespan of 5 years.
• If you want to save money on accommodation, consider sleeping at the airport. Aside from trying to save money, we did this out of curiosity, experience and practicality (our flight to Vietnam was early morning the next day). We did so at Changi Airport and we didn’t feel ashamed or what since there were lots of travellers doing the same thing. Plus, what better airport to do this than in the world’s best airport, right?

https://www.facebook.com/sheenabf/videos/10213076014677414/

Hope you somehow find this article helpful. And I hope I somehow inspired you to book that flight and take that trip. ☺

Batanes – The Home of the Winds (Part 1)

Read this and see the beauty of Batanes from a different perspective.

May 23, 2017, 9:00 am June 17, 2017, 8:32 pm

Johanna Michelle Lim Johanna Michelle Lim is a brand strategist, creative director, and travel writer based in Cebu City, Philippines. She swims in jellyfish-infested oceans, treks through mountains, rides rickety buses, and walks in busy cities. She is almost always never home. Catch her at What Distance Tells Us.

Contributed by What Distance Tells Us

“Innocence,” tour guide, Arthemus, might have told me, if we could talk through the ruckus.

Early morning in Basco, the van careens through karst mountains 70 metres above sea level on the way to Mahatao where a boat waits in the port, ready to take passengers to Sabtang.

The van carries with it a slew of anxiety, nostalgia, sexual tension, and soap, emanating from the ten passengers cramped in its seats.

Also read: 8 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Batanes

If yesterday, these strangers, forced together by circumstance and a cheap tour package, talked in muffled duos, now they were a reverse juxtaposition to the stillness of the highlands.

As if to legitimise this new-found closeness, each has been given a nickname, taking the formality out of a Ronnel Victor or a Julius Ceazar.

Instead, Ronnel Victor, a 24-year old Bank Officer in Taguig, is now The Mayor.

The oldest in the bunch, celebrating her birthday (for what age, she won’t tell), is now Nanay.

Christian and Marie, week-old newlyweds, are collectively called Bagong Kasal.

A penchant for dresses and walking barefoot through rolling hills has made me Miss Cebu.

And Arthemus, with his patrician nose and moreno skintone, so similar to a well-known TV actor, is now JM de Guzman.

Halfway through the port of Mahatao, passing through the Spanish Lagoon, I let out a gasp followed by a facepalm.

“Kuya Art! Nakalimutan ko yung camera ko!” I tell him, an image of the device still fastened to a charger flashing through my mind. But there was also the rudeness of making everyone late to what might be the only boat to Sabtang for the day. I lie and tell him that the camera phone will do.

“Ay, hindi pwede, Ma'am. What if hindi mo na mababalikan ang Mordor?” Art prods. Mordor is his own moniker for Sabtang, this otherworldly cross between a UNESCO World Heritage site and Marlboro Country. He has been to most parts of Batanes, he says, but even Sabtang was paradise to him – endless green pastures with the West Philippine Sea as backdrop. It is the island where we would find our new profile photos.

So, we headed back. The others in the van politely hiss instead of groan as we make a u-turn to retrieve this non-negotiable from Marfel’s Lodge.

“Okay lang yan, Miss Cebu.”, Mayor pacifies. And in a mock aristocratic voice loud enough for everyone to hear says to the driver, “Sabihan mo hintayin tayo ng barko. Late si Mayor. Pak! Ganun!”

The whole van, used to him by now, chuckles like kids on a carpool as we count the number of “Blow Ur Horn” signs, another Batanes landmark, on the left.

Somewhere, there must be a crash of waves, disturbing unaware boulders on the shore. But we are oblivious to all of this, as if the height of Batanes has made us untouchable to all things that are hurting, including ourselves.

Never mind the delayed cross to Sabtang.

JM de Guzman

To the non-comical, Arthemus Castillejos is just Art. And when he was six, his father moved the whole family from the hubbub that is Quezon City – a city constantly changing and in motion – to the posthumous stillness that is Batanes.

His playmates took him to the very spots that he takes tourists to now. Boulder Beach. The Basco Lighthouse. The Spanish Lagoon. Children kept on touching his face like they would a diety, so enamoured were they by his fair skin and foreign tongue.

“Tagalog lang yung alam ko noon,” he tells me, his only language an offbeat trifecta to the syllabic, prayer-like chant of Ivatan where a street greeting sounds like a prolific bearing of soul. Kup ka Nu Dios. God bless you.

Art witnessed the Batanes of 20 years ago. Nothing much has changed, he says. It was just less inhabited, and people managed to live without modern luxuries like satellite TV and ice-cold Coke.

Most companies from mainland Luzon never considered expanding to Batanes for fear that its distance will be a hindrance to operations, but with the coming of cheap flights, Batanes has somehow become more accessible.

Internet companies send in representatives, urging residents to finally attach to the rest of the world. Boatloads of Coke come in from Tuguegarao.

There were only three movies Art’s neighbours, the sole owners of a television set, routinely played on Betamax then: Benhur, The Ten Commandments, and The Sound of Music. Epic cinematic efforts that tried to equal the magnanimity of the place. Tried to. But never really succeeded.

For as epic trips go, most Filipino travellers agree, what could be more epic than Batanes?

Geographically, this is inarguable with Batanes being the Northernmost province in the archipelago. Ivatans, I imagine, must have channeled Maria and ran through its steep hills, hat tossed to the air in surrender.

But those so used to this landscape are oblivious to the grandiosity of cinema or of Batanes.

“Wala na. Para sa kanila, pare-pareho lang naman yung nakikita nila. Bato dito. Bato doon. Kung minsan, nakikita lang nila yung kagandahan pag lumabas sa Rated K o sa Kris TV,” Art tells me as the faluwa – a round-bottomed boat crossing the Balintang Channel on its way to Sabtang bobs through unusually-calm waters.

It is standing room only. Locals are cramped between motorcycles, tires, and construction supplies. The whir of the motor cuts our conversation but locals are unperturbed by the noise. Just as they are, Art says, unperturbed to the feverish clamour for the island.

These might be the very same locals who stare at the trigger – happy set of tourists this morning who, even before the faluwa arrives at the port, has already filled up half of their memory space with photos of the outriggerless vessel and its foot-controlled steering pole.

But Art knows too well why Batanes shouldn’t be underestimated even by its locals.

After an obligatory visit to the Tourism Office, he takes us to the sinadumparans – two-sloped traditional houses – in the village of Chavayan. Usually quiet, Chavayan especially today is a ghost town. Abandoned cats and chickens own the stone roads. Clustered garlic cloves and papery, dried gabi leaves rustle in the wind. Vintage Japanese bicycles are strewn on the ground. Chopped wood and coconut shells pile up outside homes. The remaining functioning houses that supposedly still held residents are, today, uninhibited.

The men have apparently crossed to mainland Basco for an inter-island basketball cup. The women are in the fields. The children in school.

The only signs of life are found on the beachside where a group of kids are holding some sort of forum underneath a thatch hut heavily tilted to the right.

We walk through the village, stopping every few seconds, to take photos of brightly-painted doors and vine-covered walls.

“Okay lang. Pasok lang kayo.” Art urges as we see a particularly well-preserved structure with a bright cerulean door, its thick cogon roof covered by a green net.

It begs to be entered but the city dwellers in us, mindful of boundaries, tethers our own curiosity. But Art insists.

In Batanes generally, he says, it’s uncommon practice to lock doors, even if you were leaving for weeks on end. They are purposely left open for neighbours to check the whereabouts of your possessions.

This virtue of unbroken trust is what influenced the concept of Honesty Cafe in mainland Basco, its visitors and residents allowed to pay without the scrupulous eye of an attendant. In the cafe, visitors drop their payments on a wooden box and write what was consumed on a ledger for everything from cassava cookies to motorcycle rentals, its keys left hanging in the keyhole for convenience.

This practice isn’t true to Honesty Cafe alone. Sabtang has its very own Conscience Cafe where we seek shade now from the mid-morning sun. A bunch of bikers and a priest testing out their lungs’ strength by belting out videoke hits inside. The quiet-seeking set of the group, wait in the arc outside, sipping their sodas and Minute Maids. Original black and white photographs are hung on the walls of the arc, showing the Sabtang of a hundred years ago when it was nothing but a 20-house village.

Across us is a government building that reminds passersby that, truly, “Honesty is the best policy; it begins with me.” It’s also reflected in battered school signs all around Batanes, constantly reminding young Ivatans of Batanes’ common virtue.

It is again in Timyan Viewpoint, Art’s Mordor, a wooden sign marks the vendor’s plea in black ink “Dios Mamajes. For Sale. Ladies T-Shirt. 250. But I want po honest.”

While we while away the time, tricycle drivers with thatch roofs over their vehicles join us and share accounts of ₱40,000 left by tourists in the St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel returned days after with nothing out of place.

₱10,000. ₱20,000. ₱30,000. The denominations change. But the results were always the same. They were returned to their owners intact.

No surprise that Batanes has zero-crime rate. It’s the outsiders, Art says, who are often jailed.

This somehow sealed, purer world where neighbourly motives are unquestioned is enough to make Ivatans think of it as a norm rather than an archipelagic exception.

They question why Batanes holds a talismanic magic to outsiders when they themselves are, as soon as they find a way around the expensive airfares, ready to depart.

But if Art is so verbose to say there is nothing special to this collective virtue, he need only be reminded of his first few hours back in Quezon City.

Also read: Why You Should Go and Visit Batanes Now

With his rent and food allowance tucked too tightly in the back of his jeans, the neighbourly thing to do, a city dweller presumed, was to help him pick it. Then, run away with it. Art recounts this encounter as we find shade in the front arches of the Conscience Cafe.

In an embarrassed gesture, JM de Guzman wrings his baseball cap and then puts it on backwards. A boy recounting his snafu.

“Sige nalang. Mas kailangan niya siguro.”

Batanes – The Home of the Winds (Part 2)

Get to know Batanes from the narrative of this traveller.

June 19, 2017, 10:00 am June 17, 2017, 8:54 pm

Johanna Michelle Lim Johanna Michelle Lim is a brand strategist, creative director, and travel writer based in Cebu City, Philippines. She swims in jellyfish-infested oceans, treks through mountains, rides rickety buses, and walks in busy cities. She is almost always never home. Catch her at What Distance Tells Us.

Contributed by What Distance Tells Us

“Peace.” says Ina. The formation of hills called Alapad, greenery on one side, exposed limestone on the other, is steep but it’s not a difficult climb. The group – a mixed bunch, all searching for a spot to call their own – hops from stone to stone, avoiding goat droppings and other unrecognisables.

But 53-year old Ina is tired. She insists she’ll stay on the base of the hill until tour guide, Arthemus, drops this clinching trivia: that this Imnajbu vista is where Richard Gomez carried a dying Dawn Zulueta in his arms in the Filipino cult classic, Hihintayin Kita sa Langit.

“Sige na.” she calls out as Art goes back for her. “I-Dawn Zulueta mo na rin ako.”

Nanay, as we’ve come to fondly call her, goes first. She takes a series of photos with Arthemus as her prop. She is nestled in his arms, her head resting on his shoulders.

Arthemus’ muscles bulge. He takes a deep breath as he attempts to fight gravity. The weight of his load battles with wind resistance.

The sea behind them is a mirror, reflecting the heat of a Batanes afternoon, the treeless rock formation a direct hit to warm air on all sides.

And as I sit on Alapad’s edge, I wonder, as I look at this postcard moment, if a windswept Dawn Zulueta ever sweated this much.

Also read: 8 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Batanes

Nanay Ina

I had a pre-written Batanes in my mind. There, in that imagined lacuna, I would find peace brought about by isolation and radical individualism.

This statement is flawed on many levels, of course. Mostly because I don’t really know what peace is. Except that the closest thing that I’ve come to it, a state of non-sensation almost, happens in escape.

What traveller has never imagined treading on land that has yet to be mapped, or blogged? What traveller has never selfishly imagined the exhilaration of earlier explorers unlocking a piece of himself the rest cannot check into, or track through Google Earth?

Solitude suspends the need to compromise. To deal with outside stimuli. To dilute the self. In my imagined Batanes, I have become the island; and, consequently, in Jonathan Franzen’s words “it seemed, the island was becoming the world.”

This was the Batanes I was holding on to as my mind reels back to a possible misencounter brought about by a box of donuts.

I liked the look of Batan from the air. All greens. Very few houses. A month or so prior to the trip, I anticipated the sensation of arrival.

Liveng, thatch-like wind breakers outlining the boundaries of private property, cross through fields and fields of land. They were the only delineation in the unending grass that stretched for kilometres in all directions.

Picture out my chagrin then as a Yuppie cuts in front of me, carrying a bright mustard box of donuts. We both struggle to cram out of the 36-seater into a minuscule Basco airport.

Batanes, to me, has always been a touchstone to the unchanged, a frontier whose distance seals the noise of consumerism.

But there he was, unaware of the perception he just ruined, carrying a dozen artificially-flavored worlds. My immediate reaction was to snatch the box before it contaminates the rest of the place.

This would have still been futile. There seems to be no escape from it.

“May banko na pala. Ang rami nang bahay! Akala ko pupunta ako sa isla pero ang rami na palang tao. ” says a lady on the passenger seat of our van.

Nanay and I took the same flight from Manila and are now tourmates. Taking a seat beside the laconic driver, she had, in retrospect, cunningly excused herself from polite small talk throughout the trip, hidden behind dark glasses and a straw hat.

Both of us were hoping perhaps to experience Batanes solo. Do-it-yourselfers that didn’t like conceding to the other. But both us though never considered the price to pay for the place’s inaccessibility either.

A litre of gas in Batanes is a whopping ₱59. To give a staunch comparison, gas in the expensive metropolis that is Manila is ₱42. A typical rice meal in Batanes is ₱180. It is ₱120 in Manila. A tricycle ride to the next town from Basco is ₱300. It is ₱50 in Manila. By economic necessity, Nanay and I were stuck together. For frugality’s sake, there was no other way to see Batanes than to conquer our discomfort of the symbolic “other”.

Basco is a tightly-knit community with a masonry of stones and streets. Yet it wasn’t the isolated village I pictured it out to be. When we arrive at Marfel’s Lodge, an internet representative is sitting in the living room, infecting the air with the nasal voice of Kris Aquino.

As defense, I retreat back to the van, ready to take Nanay and I away to South Batan.

The Uninhabited Ones

Batanes is made up of 10 islands. Only three of these islands are inhabited – Batan, Sabtang and Itbayat – while the rest – Mavulis, Ivuhoy, Dequey among others – fall into obscurity, too difficult to get to by plane or boat.

To get to the more uninhabited ones, you would have to set aside several weeks for a willing boatman and good weather conducive for landing on rocky shores. And again several weeks to actually escape the same islands which are devoid of infrastructure and trivial conveniences. While the Ivatans are skilled seafaring people, even they are mindful of the wrath of the West Philippine Sea.

But already, as soon as I get to what may very well be one of the least inhabited islands in the Philippines, I become restless again and look for something farther away.

As we pass by farm to market roads on our way to Tayid Lighthouse, I question Arthemus endlessly about the possibility of going to the northernmost island, Mavulis.

The lighthouse temporarily satiates this clamour though. Tayid is a looker. A mesmeric combination of stone walls, red roofs and wooden, bolted doors. Cows graze in its pasture. Mount Iraya looms in the background. And down below is a secluded beachfront meeting an ironed-out sea. A companion describes it as “parang screensaver ng Windows XP.”

Several times over the course of the tour, Arthemus has to warn me about standing dangerously close to edges as in here in Tayid. “Papayagan kita, peru yung iba, hindi.” exempting me from supposedly cut-and-dried rules as I sit on jagged rocks, a foot dangling in the air. He seemed to understand that part of my happiness came from what lay beyond.

Nanay takes out her digital camera, proceeding to take photos of everything.

Nanay Ina or Filipina Mendoza is a travel blogger from Batangas but in her Facebook account, she dubs herself a Flyer at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

At 53, she has been to almost all of the provinces in the Philippines, lacking only 12 from Mindanao.

She asks me to take a photo of her in front of the rolling hills. For posterity as today’s her birthday, after all.

Taken aback, I ask her the same question most people I’ve encountered on my trips ask me. “Bakit ka nag-sosolo, Nay? Birthday mo pa naman.”

Also read: On Solo Travel and Feminism

As soon as it came out, I knew I had become one of the very people I’d secretly been amused with, people who didn’t seem to understand solitude.

She smiles and says “Mas madali kasi mag-plano pag solo.”, then proceeds to take more selfies, three quarters of which is her profile and a small quarter of it the outland.

I look at her from afar and realise I may very well be looking at myself 25 years from now.

This is the depth of my relationship with Nanay, and this is what solitude seems to bring to two people looking for it – a distant view of a separate island, always blurred and unfamiliar. I do not know if what I made of her is fiction or a heavy-handed representation of myself in her. Whatever it was, I related to her clamour for human depravity.

I always seem to spot her, separating herself as she takes a photo of the mini-replica of the San Carlos Borromeo Church or looking around the port of Ivana.

There never seems to be enough space to escape to but Mahatao fitted us both. Unlike compact Basco, Mahatao is commodious, a ghost town to any tourist who doesn’t peer closer.

When you do, you’ll find that a larger cosmos thrives separately from it. The town is around 30 kilometres away from Basco but it might as well have been a different sphere.

Here, three boys are shooting hoops in the basketball court while just beside it, at the police station, two policemen are writing reports in the front desk, the brunt of their work considering Batanes has zero-crime rate.

Traffic, Arthemus says, is defined as when three vehicles meet on the road. Otherwise, there is no use for the word at all.

As we walk towards the San Carlos Borromeo Church, adjacent to the Book of Blank Archives, the Vice – Governor whizzes by in his motorcycle in his khaki shorts and shirt, without the airs of escorts.

“Kaplan ka pa nu Dios si Chamakuyab aya.”, greets Arthemus, a lengthy afternoon greeting that barely reaches the ears of the Vice-Governor, already a length away.

The Mayaang a Libro du Vatan or the Blank Book Archives is a collection of bound blank pages beside the National Culture Treasure, the San Carlos Borromeo Church. While some gravitate towards the magnanimity of the altar, I veer towards the quieter companionship of books.

The Blank Archives is where visitors can write in free form their thoughts about Batanes.

There are around 400 sets in the collection, all hardbound in blue. Messages range from gratitude for the place’s easy acceptance of outsiders to professions of love to a muse who might not even get the chance to read it.

I choose book number 199. There is something about its incompleteness that speaks to me. For the first time, scanning through the words of those who came before me, I feel a certain closeness.

The Insatiable Lacuna

It is 7:00 in the evening, but the sky is still half-way between twilight and shadow. The moon peaks out with a promise of fullness.

We invite Nanay to the park for dinner but the beauty of Batanes has seeped out her energy, and she retires to a small side street with access to the sea.

When I ask her though what the best part of her day was, she says to me with conviction “New friends.”

Here lies the difference perhaps between Nanay and I. People like her are fortunate in the sense that they are able to make peace with their solitude, realising it is a choice rather than circumstance. She can get out of it if she wants to for I later on, through Facebook, that while this need to be a company of one exists, she also lives in a far more concrete island where she recognizes she is needed by a husband, children and grandchildren; that a structured corporate job with mandatory interaction takes up her everydays.

In a sort of Stockholm Syndromesque relationship, I have trapped myself inside mine.

The constant search for isolation is really just the search for a world that will allow your experiences to be fully your own. To customise. To personalise. To constantly fulfil whims at your time and how your want to do it. And when inconvenience is set on its path, like expecting a place to be what it never really was, the entitled solitude seeker becomes bereft and dissatisfied.

This is what Franzen, once again, calls the symptoms of a world that is now too small and is built on hyperspeed.

The problem with is that the need to find a personal lacuna is often insatiable, and unstoppable. Mine certainly is. Nanay has perhaps learned to control hers.

No matter how solitude protects us of hurt and want, it is also self-defeating by the very notion that we will always want more of it.

Every time I dare think of wanting the realities to change for me, instead of the other way around, I now think of Nanay.

Her legs are pumped in the air in surrender. Her arms are fully stretched in openness. And her iconic words, echo through my hollowed mind, addressing the cosmos that now deviates from human interaction in order to go deeper to that sense of self.

“Sige na. I-Dawn Zulueta mo ako.”

Also read: Batanes – The Home of the Winds (Part 1)

One Laidback Day with the Deer of Nara Park

When visiting Japan's Kansai Region, take a day trip to Nara, home to some of Japan’s oldest and largest temples and free-roaming deer at Nara Park!

June 20, 2017, 8:00 am June 18, 2017, 3:19 pm

Angela Talattad Angela is an agricultural engineer who currently holds a day job in a Japanese firm. She started travelling at 30 and believes it is never too late for anyone to fulfil his/her dreams of seeing the world. She is fond of ancient architecture and cultures and dreams of chasing the Northern Lights someday.

Contributed by Wanders of Eve

Nara is the first permanent capital of Japan which dates back to the year 710. It is bordered by Kyoto to the north and Osaka to the west. It can be accessed by train from both cities for just around an hour. So if you are planning to visit Kansai, consider a day trip to this laidback city which is cradle to some of Japan’s oldest and largest temples and free-roaming sika or deer at Nara Park. The Japanese believe that these deer came from heaven and are said to be protecting the city.

Also read: How I Travelled 7 Days to 4 Cities in Japan: Itinerary & Tips for Filipinos

One of the fun things to do in Nara Park is feeding the deer. Tourists feed them with senbei or cracker which is sold around the park premises. Some children chase them with much delight while the other kids burst into a loud cry at the sight of them. Some of the deer are quite shy and there are also friendly ones who would eat the senbei from your hand. It was one of the simple joys I had experienced in Japan. Here are some photos of our encounter with the dear deer of Nara.

While in Nara Park, you can also visit other sites within its premises like Todai-ji Temple which houses the Daibutsu, one of Japan’s largest bronze statues of Buddha. Nearby is Kasuga-taisha, a shrine famous for its stone and bronze lanterns.

Nara is a breath of fresh air. Bask in its laidback vibe after indulging yourself in the metropolis like Osaka.

Also read: Travel Different: Japan’s Hidden Gems and Experiences – Revealed!

A Guide to Renewing Your Philippine Passport

Your Philippine passport expiring soon? Time to renew it! Here's a simple guide.

June 20, 2017, 9:00 am June 18, 2017, 3:37 pm

Cathy Mendoza She is a 27-year old online English teacher who loves random solo travelling and beach bumming. Reading, listening to and writing travel and life stories are what she's passionate about. Her dream destinations are Madagascar, New York City and London. Check out her posts to get to know more about her on escapesanddiaries.com.

Contributed by Escapes and Diaries

If you got your passport almost five years ago, chances are, you’ll need to renew it soon. Do you still remember the do’s and don’ts? Here's a refresher guide for you!

Wear proper attire

I was wearing shorts when I went to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for my appointment. Upon seeing my attire, the security guard got pissed and said that I couldn’t enter the premises unless I change into something else. I arrived there at 8.32am and my appointment was at 9am. I couldn’t afford to miss my schedule!

Luckily, a vendor was selling a pair of leggings which cost ₱250. I haggled for the price and got it for ₱150. I hastily put them on and voila, I was ready for my appointment.

No escorts allowed

You can’t take a companion, so better come alone. Prepare your appointment confirmation printout and have it validated at the entrance.

Beware of scams

There are vendors selling manila and plastic envelopes for ₱25 each outside the DFA office. They’d say that it’s required to put your documents in an envelope, but ignore them. Your requirements such as your old passport and other supporting documents like birth certificate, or SSS ID are not required to be put in an envelope provided that they’re not crumpled.

Schedule an appointment 2-3 months ahead

The appointment calendar gets full in no time. Despite the fact that the DFA has numerous branches from which you can select where to schedule an appointment, at least 90% of them get fully-booked right away. I recommend that you book an appointment 2 to 3 months before your next flight to avoid hassle. The general rule is, if your passport is expiring in less than 6 months, you can’t leave the country.

The image above will give you a clearer idea on how difficult it is to set an appointment. But there are other sites that you can try. Pick the one closest to you for convenience.

The earliest appointment is the best

Choosing the best schedule can save your ass from queuing. Select the earliest possible schedule to avoid the crowd. Forget about Filipino time for heaven’s sake! Appointments scheduled within the first hour after the office opens are prioritised. The security guards and the staff will assist you, so you won’t get confused along the way.

Get a new passport in 1 to 3 weeks

DFA’s processing is much more efficient than before. Processing time during the appointment lasted for almost 2 hours only. Back in 2012, I queued for 7 hours! Kudos to DFA for the new policy. Everything is more convenient now. Kudos!

10 years of passport validity is a rumour

I asked a DFA staff if passport validity had been extended to 10 years. The staff said no. It was just a rumour. But that’s alright. By the time it happens, processing would be much quicker and more advanced. Let’s stay hopeful.

Also read: How to Avoid Getting Offloaded in Philippine Airports

Updated: Confirmed

Passport validity is only 5 years! But! The design and theme are simpler but classy!

Also read: The New, High Security Philippine E-Passport Finally Unveiled!

Requirements for renewing your passport

Your old passport and yourself. Nothing else.

Lastly, I know it’s been almost 5 years since you got your first or last passport, so I understand you’re a bit baffled and clueless on how to renew one. I got my very first passport on June 20, 2012 and it will expire on June 17, 2017.

I simply wrote down important hacks that might help you save time in getting your passport to the world! I made this as the last part.

To give you a better and clearer understanding of how to get started, here’s a simple step by step guide.

Booking an appointment

Go to www.passport.gov.ph for appointment. There’s a simple guide on how you can schedule your appointment. There are options for new application and renewal, as well as for applying as an individual and as a group. See the photo below.

Select the Asia Pacific and the Philippines. Pick the site where you want to renew your passport.

Select the Individual Appointment if you’re alone. Otherwise, you can click the Group Appointment box.

I chose DFA Aseana, the main branch, as it’s the closest to my condominium. After choosing your preferred site, you can now move on to getting your schedule that matches your own time. Schedules come in one-hour intervals. Here’s what you need to know about getting your schedule. It’s not easy to get one. Although time slots are open every one hour, at least 90% of them are fully booked, so if you’re expecting a trip outside the country, I strongly suggest you schedule an appointment 3 months prior to that. As for me, I booked the schedule in January and was able to get an appointment on March 6. Can you imagine? That’s 2 months!

As soon as you’re able to book an appointment, you’re good to go. Wait for the confirmation that will be sent to your email address. Click on the link in the email and confirm your appointment. But don’t stop there yet. At least 72- 48 hours before your appointment, kindly confirm that. Otherwise, it would be cancelled. It is also important that you print a copy of your appointment confirmation before going to the DFA office to make sure you’d be allowed to enter. Walk-ins are not entertained.

On the day of your appointment, it’s best to arrive on time or at least 30 minutes prior to your schedule. DFA Aseana is one of the busiest offices.

Step 1: Inside the DFA office, you will be asked for your printed copy of the confirmation. The first part of it will be collected. Take a seat and wait for the officer to call out your name. Make sure you have photocopied your old passport or any supporting documents as they will be needed. ( Xerox machines are available just outside the office, it’s ₱5 per copy. You only need one)

Step 2: Windows. An officer will tell you which window you should proceed to. Hand over your passport to the lady and you will be asked if you have upcoming trips. Once handed, your passport will be punctured. That means your old passport is already invalid and can’t be used anymore. Yep. That’s right. You will also be asked if you prefer fast processing to the regular one. Fast processing takes at least 1 week and the second option, 2-3 weeks.

Step 3: Payment. Payment section is on the third floor. I chose regular since I wasn’t in a rush. Payment processing is quick. Just give your payment and you will be queued for the next step.

Step 4: Get your number. Two ladies are going to give you your number that’s being shown on the screen. Don’t fret. Waiting doesn’t take that long. There are many available windows, so your number will be called sooner than you think.

Step 5: As soon as your number is called out, go to the assigned window. Have your photo taken and sign. That’s it.

And passport delivery? Yes.

Make sure to ask about this, because it’s usually not mentioned during the first four steps. The delivery section is just near the payment section, but you won’t notice it, so ask where it is and you will be directed to go there. Delivery fee is ₱150 for Makati area. Sorry, I’m not sure if it’s the same for other areas in Metro Manila as well as in the provinces but I assumed its only around ₱150-200.

And if you ever wondered if you can smile for your next passport photo, yes you can! I remember that when I processed my first passport, I wasn’t smiling at all. I looked like the whole world was on me. Yes, you can smile, but make sure not to show your teeth.

Also read: 10 Countries Filipinos Probably Didn’t Know They Can Travel To Without Visa

Congratulations, you’re done!

Insider tip: Passport Renewal is allowed at least 2 years prior to expiration.

So, I hope you found this helpful. Remember to set aside Filipino time on this day! If you have anything to add or questions, just let me know on the comment box below! Good luck!

7 Things to Do & Attractions to Visit in Hakone

Home to attractions like Lake Ashinoko, Odawara Castle and Owakudani Valley, the mountainous town of Hakone makes an incredible escape from Tokyo. Here's what you can experience there.

June 19, 2017, 9:00 am June 19, 2017, 9:21 am

Beatrice Tan Beatrice absolutely loves stargazing and often fantasises about going into space one day. However, since she won’t be an astronaut anytime soon, her heart is set on being a globetrotter instead. She is always craving for a new adventure, and believes that travel nourishes the soul. You can most likely find her traipsing around the museum, or in a quiet café with her nose buried in a book, and a soy latte in hand.

If you have spent a few days in Tokyo and feel in need of escaping the jostling crowds for some peace and quiet, we have a solution for you.

Say hello to Hakone, a beautiful town nestled in the mountainous region just an hour and a half away from Tokyo by train. This hidden gem is dotted with a variety of onsens (hot springs) and offers splendid views at every turn. Before you begin your journey, get yourself a Hakone Free Pass – it covers all Odakyu-affiliated modes of transport on the island and grants discounts on some attractions. With this, you’re all set to go.

Here's my take on the top seven things to see and do on your visit to Hakone:

1. Take in nature’s grandeur at Lake Ashinoko

The first stop on this list is the highlights of Hakone: Lake Ashi. Lake Ashi is one of the best viewpoints of Mt. Fuji. The stunning view of the mountain along with its reflection in the crystal clear blue waters of the tranquil lake is truly a remarkable sight to behold! I definitely recommend having a picnic along the lake to indulge in the grandeur of nature at your own pace.

For a different viewing experience (and more photo opportunities), go for a sightseeing cruise on board a pirate ship. The iconic Hakone pirate ships ferry people between the north and south ports of Lake Ashi. The journey is approximately 30 minutes and it offers a fun way to experience the lake.

The Hakone Free Pass covers your fare for the pirate ships but is limited to seats within the second class cabin. However, for a small top up fee, you can upgrade to the first class cabin, which gives you access to the front half of the ship!

2. Take the Hakone Ropeway

The Hakone Ropeway delivers quite the sightseeing experience! The service features gondolas that can hold about 10 passengers each, departing at approximately one-minute intervals from each station. Enjoy the magnificent aerial view of Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashinoko and Owakudani Valley on your 30-minute ride from Sounzan Station to Togendai Station.

The admission fees for the Hakone Ropeway are covered with your Hakone Free Pass!

3. Feast on the famous black eggs of Owakudani Valley

Owakudani Valley, also known as the “Valley of Hell”, is an actual active volcano valley. Your ability to visit this place really depends on luck – the last time I was here, the entire area was closed due to bad weather conditions and the potential “grumpiness” of the volcano. If you do get the chance to explore Owakudani, be sure to take precautions as the volcanic gases will (literally) take your breath away. There are masks provided, but friends with respiratory conditions are still advised to stay away.

Once you have reached Owakudani, head up to the “boiling site” which is a short ten-minute trek from the ropeway station. Here, you can sample the famous black eggs which are freshly boiled in the bubbling natural springs from the volcano’s steam vents. The eggs emerge blackened because the sulphur and iron in the boiling water react with the eggshells. Sold at 500 yen for five, each black egg is said to add on seven years to one’s lifespan. Could this be a step towards immortality? (Just kidding.)

4. Soak in quirky baths at Yunessun Spa

As mentioned, Hakone is dotted with a variety of onsens. However, if I could only recommend one, I would definitely pick Yunessun Spa Resort because of the unique experience they offer.

This amazing place is almost like an onsen theme park, giving you the opportunity to soak in different “flavoured” onsens such as coffee, red wine, matcha and sake. There are even quirky themed onsens such as one that is shaped like a bowl of Nissin cup noodles, with toppings and noodles made out of foam to boot, and also a Doraemon bubblegum soda pool.

For those who prefer something more conventional, there is also a regular open-air scenic bath with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.

Admission fees are 2,900 yen for adults and 1,600 yen for children.

5. Wander around the Hakone Open Air Museum

Art lovers, rejoice! Hakone is not only known for its natural beauty, but also for its variety of museums and galleries. For a unique museum experience, visit the Hakone Open Air Museum which attempts to create a harmonic balance of nature and art by displaying various sculptures on the fields, set against a backdrop of the surrounding valley and mountains.

Admission fee is 1,400 yen with the Hakone Free Pass.

6. Feel the Italian vibes in Hakone Glass no Mori

The Hakone Glass no Mori is another impressive attraction that is worth visiting. Get ready to step into a whole new world; this little compound mimics the streets of Italy with Italian style buildings housing the Glass Museum, shops and a café. There are also charming, well-sculpted gardens where you can take a leisurely stroll. Glass ornaments adorn the trees and around the pond, giving you a gorgeous view of the grounds which are exceptionally enchanting – especially under the sun.

Take your time to explore the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum, which displays over 100 different pieces of Venetian glassware dating from the 17th to 20th century. Like the Open Air Museum, admission fee to Hakone Glass no Mori is 1,400 yen with the Hakone Free Pass.

7. Explore the historic Odawara Castle

If your budget is a little tight, I recommend swapping the museums mentioned above for Odawara Castle. This is another spot touted for having one of the best views of Mt. Fuji as well as the famous seasonal Japanese cherry blossoms. 

Be sure to head to the castle’s observation deck to be treated with perfect panoramic views when you reach the top! The Odawara Castle Historical Museum is also located on the castle grounds and this is where you can learn about the history of the castle and Odawara. There is even a mini zoo within the compound and other exhibits and displays about the history of Samurais.

Don’t miss a photo stop during your visit! There are Ninja and Samurai costumes as well as kimonos available for rental at the souvenir shop, and you can proceed to have your photos taken with the Odawara castle in the backdrop.

Admission fee into the castle keep and the museum is 650 yen.

So take your pick from our list and craft your perfect itinerary – be it for a daytrip or longer. Rest assured you’ll return to Tokyo refreshed, ready to take on the rest of Japan. Trust us, Hakone is definitely not a place you want to miss.

7 Perfect One-Week Itineraries for Thailand

No clue where to start planning your Thailand itinerary? Start with these feasible itineraries combining the best destinations in the country!

May 8, 2017, 11:00 am June 19, 2017, 9:37 am

Janine Perri Janine Perri is a history enthusiast, Fulbright Scholar, and world traveller who loves exploring new places. Her travels have taken her to different countries in Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Some of Janine’s favourite travel experiences include swimming with sharks, dancing to Gangnam Style at a PSY concert, and seeing the Queen of England during a castle tour.

When you think about Thailand, do you envision the golden temples and palaces of Bangkok? The playful monkeys and enormous elephants in the jungle? The pristine white beaches of Phuket and the Thai Islands? Thailand has all of this and more—though few of us have the time (or budget) to see everything. Narrow your search by determining which experiences you would like to have in Thailand, then book your flight and prepare for your adventure! To get started, check out one of these suggested one-week itineraries.

1. Thailand Overview

Day 1-2: Bangkok

Fly into Don Mueang International Airport or Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport. For the first two days of your trip, explore this capital city known for its splendour. Visit Khao San Road, the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and numerous smaller temples spread across the city. For a more relaxing itinerary, consider getting a Thai massage at one of the numerous parlours. Before enjoying Bangkok’s notorious nightlife, climb to the top of the Golden Mount and watch the sunset over the city.

Day 3: Kanchanaburi

Using Bangkok as your home base, take a day trip to the western province of Kanchanaburi. See the infamous Bridge on the River Kwai—the subject of the movie by the same name—as well as the War Cemetery and the Jeath War Museum. For a more lighthearted day, you can instead visit Erawan National Park to see the waterfalls or stop by the nearby elephant camp. At the end of the day, return to Bangkok.

Day 4: Ayutthaya

On Day 4, take a trip to Ayutthaya province, which is home to the ancient capital of Siam. You can either spend the entire day admiring the temple ruins and learning about the history of Buddhism in Thailand, or you can spend half the day exploring the ruins and the other half touring the nearby Bang Pa-In Palace, summer home of the famous King Mongkut (from the famous musical The King and I) and King Chulalongkorn. In the evening, take an overnight train from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai in the north of the country for the next part of the journey.

Day 5: Chiang Mai

A much smaller city than Bangkok, Chiang Mai still offers a plethora of activities for all types of travellers. Haggle in the night markets, visit the Buddhist temples, or take a day trip to the nearby elephant and tiger sanctuaries. Adventurers can also summit Doi Inthanon, the tallest mountain in Thailand. Consider going to the night safari at the local zoo before spending the night in Chiang Mai.

Day 6: Chiang Rai

Wake up early for your day trip to Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle. Chiang Rai is one of the northernmost cities in Thailand, and the Golden Triangle is the place where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, separated only by the Mekong River. While at the Golden Triangle, take a boat ride down the river and pass by the marshland which once served as the centre of Southeast Asia’s opium trade. If time permits, stop by a local village to visit a hilltribe on your way back to Chiang Mai. Spend your final night in Chiang Mai.

Day 7: Chiang Mai

Pick up any final souvenirs from Chiang Mai and prepare for your flight home.

2. Bangkok and its surroundings

Day 1-2: Bangkok

Begin your journey in the capital city of Bangkok. Pick your accommodation in the vibrant backpackers’ district Khao San Road, and spend the first two days exploring the Grand Palace and ornate temples that Bangkok is famous for. You can also take a cruise along the Chao Phraya River or take a Thai cooking class if you want a more relaxing day.

Day 3-4: Kanchanaburi

On day 3, travel westward to Kanchanaburi. With two days to spend here, you can experience both the breathtaking nature and the heartbreaking history of this large province. Spend the first day learning about the history of World War II in Thailand by visiting the infamous Bridge on the River Kwai, the War Cemetery, and the Jeath War Museum. You can also take a ride on the “Death Railway,” the railroad commissioned by the Japanese imperial army and built almost entirely by forced labour. On the second day, visit Erawan National Park to see the waterfalls. You can also visit the Erawan Museum and its stunning gardens, or visit the local elephant camp. At the end of the day, travel eastward to Ayutthaya.

Day 5: Ayutthaya

The former capital city, Ayutthaya is known for its ancient Buddhist temples. The most famous sites in Ayutthaya include a Buddha’s head entwined in tree roots and a large reclining Buddha. You can also visit the nearby Summer Palace, Bang Pa-In, and admire the amalgamation of Thai, European, and Chinese architecture. In the evening, return to Bangkok for the night.

Day 6 -7: Pattaya

Early the next morning, take a flight from Bangkok to Pattaya. Over the next two days, check out the Big Buddha of Wat Phra Yai or admire the Sanctuary of Truth, a wooden monument dedicated to philosophy and art rather than materialism. You can also venture outside of the city to visit the Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Gardens, Buddha Mountain, and Pattaya Floating Market. At night, enjoy a cabaret show or go to the clubs. On the afternoon of Day 7, take a flight back to your home country.

3. Thailand's Gulf Islands

Day 1-2: Koh Samui

Want to avoid the big cities in favour of the beach? Fly into Koh Samui for a trip around the eastern Thai Islands. Spend the first two days relaxing on the beach, snorkelling, or taking a boat ride around the 42 islands of Ang Thong National Park. No strenuous activities here—just a tropical paradise.

Day 3-4: Koh Pha Ngan

On the morning of Day 3, take the high-speed ferry to nearby Koh Pha Ngan, which is famous for its Full Moon Party and vibrant nightlife. During the day, explore the island's waterfalls and lagoons or go hiking. At night, try the different restaurants and bars, where you are sure to meet other travellers (or a scuba instructor who planned to vacation for a week and ended up staying for five years).

Day 5-6: Koh Tao

Koh Tao, or “Turtle Island,” is one of the best places in the world for scuba diving. Take the ferry from Koh Pha Ngan to Koh Tao and spend the next two days enjoying water activities such as swimming, snorkelling, or diving. Lucky divers might see a whale shark during their excursion. The nightlife in Koh Tao is a little tamer than Koh Pha Ngan, making this island a popular spot for young travellers, families, and honeymooners alike.

Day 7: Koh Samui

On the last day, take the ferry back to Koh Samui. Transfer to the airport for your trip home.

4. Northern Thailand

Day 1 -2: Chiang Mai

Arrive in Chiang Mai on Day 1. Begin your journey by visiting the Buddhist temples, exploring the night markets, or climbing to the top of Doi Inthanon (taking a bus tour of the mountain is also an option—no judgments!). You can also visit the Mae Sa Waterfall, get a Thai massage, or take a cooking class.

Day 3-4: Chiang Rai

Travel to Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle. On your way north, stop by the White Temple, a modern art exhibit and cultural icon styled after a Buddhist temple. When you reach the Golden Triangle—the place where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet—take a short boat ride across the Mekong River to a Laotian market and gain another stamp in your passport. When you return to Thailand, learn about the infamous opium trade at the Hall of Opium Museum. On the second day, you can also visit Mae Sai, Thailand’s northernmost town, which shares a border with Myanmar. If time permits, visit the Tham Pla caves or climb the hill to Wat Phra That Doi Wao for a gorgeous panoramic view.

Day 5: Lampang

Travel further south to Lampang and visit traditional villages of Thailand’s hilltribes. Alternatively, you can marvel at the murals of Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, see the emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao, or observe the elephants at the National Elephant Institute, a conversation centre for Thailand’s most famous animal.

Day 6: Sukhothai

Early in the morning, set off for Sukhothai Historical Park, the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom from the thirteenth century to the fifteenth century. Ruins of Buddhist temples and a royal palace comprise this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations outside of Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Tour the site by bicycle, on foot, or by tram. Spend the night in Sukhothai.

Day 7: Chiang Mai

Return to Chiang Mai for your last day. Pick up any final souvenirs and fly home.

5. Northern Hill Tribes and Villages

Day 1-2: Bangkok

Arrive in Bangkok and spend the first day and a half exploring the palaces and temples. Absorb everything you can from this modern city, which will seem a world away from the hill tribes you will visit later in your trip. On the second night, board an overnight train to Chiang Mai.

Day 3: Chiang Mai

Make the most out of your day in Chiang Mai. Introverts and history enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Buddhist temples, while social travellers will love talking to the merchants in the night markets, many of whom come from the northern hill tribes to sell the crafts their villages make. Stay overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 4-6: Northern Hill Tribes

Depart Chiang Mai for the start of your trek through the northern Thai villages. Begin at the bustling marketplace of Mae Malai village. For the next two-and-a-half-days, hike through the unspoilt forests and rugged rural terrains of Bae Min Jok and Pa Khao Lam, experiencing the beauty and diversity of different hill tribes. Learn traditional arts like basket weaving and making bamboo rafts. Consider booking a homestay in different villages to learn more about each tribe’s unique culture, language, and identity. At the end of the sixth day, return to Chiang Mai.

Day 7: Chiang Mai

Pick up any final souvenirs from Chiang Mai and prepare for your flight home.

6. South Thailand

Day 1: Bangkok

Fly into Bangkok on the first day and check out city highlights such as Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, or sample the street food on Khao San Road. In the evening, take an overnight train to Khao Sok National Park.

Day 2-3: Khao Sok

When you arrive at Khao Sok, you will be in the midst of one of the oldest jungles in the world. Stroll past the waterfalls, watch the mischievous monkeys play, or sign up for a safari with one of the park’s tour guides. You can also take a boat ride down Cheow Larn Lake and observe the animals that gather at the water’s edge. Spend your nights in a guesthouse in the jungle.

Day 4-5: Ao Nang Beach

In the morning, transfer from Khao Sok to Ao Nang Beach, right in the heart of Krabi. Dive, snorkel, swim, or relax—you need it after trekking through the jungle!

Day 6-7: Phuket

Finish your southern vacation on the island of Phuket, a haven for beach-goers and young travellers who enjoy the nightlife. At the end of Day 7, head to Phuket’s international airport and depart for your home country.

7. Sailing from Phuket

Day 1: Phuket

Prefer a seafaring voyage? Begin by flying into Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, and join up with a tour group that will take you around the western islands via cruise ship or catamaran. Spend the morning exploring Phuket or relaxing on the beach, and then spend the afternoon sailing toward the Northern Phuket Islands. Overnight on the ship or catamaran.

Day 2: Phang Nga Bay/Railay Beach

In the morning, arrive at Khao Phing Kan, also called "James Bond Island" because it was the location for The Man with the Golden Gun. After touring the island, arrive at Railay Beach, where you can go hiking, see the Shrine of the Sea Princess, or experience the active nightlife. Spend the night on the ship or catamaran.

Day 3: Railay Beach/Koh Haa

Set sail for the national park Koh Haa, where you can swim, dive, or snorkel in the lagoons. Kayaking and sunbathing are also options. Overnight on the ship or catamaran.

Day 4: Koh Phi Phi

Arrive in Koh Phi Phi, a small archipelago with six islands. Depending on which islands your trip decides to visit, you can climb to the top of the viewpoint for a breathtaking view of the Thai Islands, get up close and personal with the monkeys on Monkey Beach, or enjoy the fire shows and other cultural entertainment in the evening.

Day 5: Koh Racha Noi

Before setting off for Koh Racha Noi, pass by Maya Bay, the location for the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach. When you arrive at Koh Racha Noi, relax on the beach or go diving in the deep waters.

Day 6: Ko Yao Yai

Your final stop before returning to Phuket, Koh Yao Yai is one of the lesser developed islands in Thailand and is renowned for its natural beauty. For your last full day, enjoy a final stroll on the beach or go for a swim in the turquoise water. If you plan to fly home the following day, avoid scuba diving—too many changes in atmospheric pressure in a short time period can be harmful to your health.

Day 7: Phuket

Return to Phuket. Prepare for your flight home or to your next destination.

Top 24 Places to Visit in Malaysia

Thinking of where to go in Malaysia? Pick from this list of 24 destinations, from the usual cities to the national parks and highlands.

May 9, 2017, 10:00 am June 19, 2017, 9:37 am

Darren Yeoh Darren enjoys the finer things in life and loves exploring unfamiliar places on foot, guided with nothing but instinct and a good-old fashioned map. He enjoys cultural experiences and exciting adventures and is not a stranger to travelling alone. When he's not putting his travel experiences into words, he's probably sitting behind his laptop, planning his upcoming adventure.

“Malaysia, truly Asia.” Now, if you’ve spent any amount of time within the last 20 to 25 years in Malaysia (I know, it’s actually been THAT long), chances are you’ve definitely heard this slogan an infinite number of times in many, many different ways.

It was the tagline of a campaign by the Malaysian Tourism Ministry aimed at promoting Malaysia as one of the best travel destinations in the early 1990s and it the phrase has just stuck around since then. Malaysia truly has a lot to offer the enthusiastic traveller, so here’s a quick rundown of the top 24 destinations to visit in Malaysia, some of them well-known, some of them just waiting to be discovered.

Psst, I say ’24’ but I’ve snuck in a few extra locations in the descriptions because there’s just so much to cover!

The Usual Suspects:

1. Penang

We start off with the obvious. Penang has long been known globally as one of the most popular tourist destinations ever. From mouth-watering street food and hawker fare to iconic locations such as the Kek Lok Si Temple and the hip and trendy street murals in Georgetown, the city is more or less the poster boy of Malaysian tourism. Steeped in history and adorned with modern skyscrapers, Penang is a cultural cauldron of tradition and modernity. Definitely a world-class holiday destination and a must-visit for any self-respecting traveller in Malaysia!

2. Melaka

From one UNESCO World Heritage Site to another! Melaka, which lies a little way south of Penang, is a popular tourist destination in its own right. Apart from being home to famous historical landmarks such as A Famosa Fort and Christ Church, the state of Melaka also boasts being the go-to place for delicious Malaysian delicacies such as satay celup, chicken rice balls and Nyonya cuisine. Having been an important trading port during Malaysia’s (or Malaya, if you want to be even more accurate) colonial era, you will also find remnants of the past here, such as the Portuguese Settlement and the Dutch Heritage Trail. And if you’re a fan of night markets, then the Jonker Street Night Market is surely an experience not to be missed!

3. Ipoh, Perak

Compared to the previous two entries on the list, Ipoh is slightly more underrated, often slipping under the radar of even the most experienced of travellers. Located in the state of Perak, Ipoh is a place of good food, and wonderful natural scenery. Its water theme park, the Lost World of Tambun, is a classic favourite among Malaysians for a weekend getaway. In addition, the Kek Long Tong Cave Temple Gardens and the Gunung Lang Recreational Park are just some of the locations which exemplify Ipoh’s beautiful natural scenery. For a cultural fix, visit the Ho Yan Hor Museum and Ipoh World, which showcases the important historical roots of the Hakka community in the city.

4. Kuala Lumpur

The metropolitan capital of Malaysia is arguably the most populous city in the entire country, so you can be sure that there is much to do here. The Central Market is a bustling location of activity as vendors peddle their wares ranging from traditional handicraft to hip apparel and, most importantly, local street food. Within the market is also a space called the Annexe where local artists occasionally hold galleries showcasing their work. For a fun night out on the city, visit Bukit Bintang which is the main pubbing/clubbing district of the city. Here you’ll find plenty of establishments with rustic atmospheres and homey ambience to enjoy a few drinks with friends. And of course, no trip to K.L. is ever complete without a snapshot of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.

5. Kuching, Sarawak

East Malaysia (Sabah, Sarawak) are often forgotten as most tourists flock to destinations like Penang and Malacca on the peninsula. However, Malaysian Borneo has much to offer and one of my personal recommendations is Sarawak’s capital city, Kuching. Beyond delicious food like laksa and kolo mee, Kuching is also home to many heritage locations such as the Sarawak Museum and the Chinese Museum. You’ll be able to visit an authentic Bidayuh tribe village and take a relaxing cruise on the Santubong River as well. What’s more, time your trip to perfection and you’ll be able to experience the annual Rainforest World Music Festival, which is one of Malaysia’s biggest celebrations of music all year round!

Theme Parks:

6. Genting Highlands, Pahang

Known as the City of Entertainment, Genting Highlands is another top destination in Malaysia for a fun and (literally) cool getaway. Located high up in green hills and mountainous terrain, the weather in Genting is far removed from the tropical heat synonymous with Malaysia. While it is most famously known as the Las Vegas of Asia due to its casinos, you could visit attractions like Snow World or the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Exhibit for some great family fun too. What’s more, the Arena of Stars often features amazing performances and concerts to thrill and excite! And let’s not forget that the world’s first ever 20th Century Fox theme park is scheduled to fully open sometime in late 2017! I think it’s high time I paid another visit myself!

7. Bukit Tinggi, Pahang

Bukit Tinggi in Bentong, Pahang is often overshadowed by its more illustrious cousins, Genting and Cameron (we’ll get to that) Highlands. Unlike Genting Highlands, Bukit Tinggi isn’t exactly a high octane location of entertainment. Rather, it’s a place of relaxation and literal Zen. Modelled after a French town, Bukit Tinggi is known amongst locals as the Little France, complete with cobblestone pavements, street performances, cafes and European-style architecture. Visitors can even learn the art of Japanese tea-making at a Zen-inspired Japanese village!

8. Legoland, Johor

Last time I checked, Legoland Johor is the only theme park of its kind in South East and East Asia. As the name suggests, the theme park is a celebration of those beloved (sometimes painful!) building blocks. It’s fun for the whole family as you get to visit attractions like Mini Land, which houses miniature Lego versions of iconic Asian monuments like the Angkor Wat and Taj Mahal. Visitors of all ages will also enjoy the many interactive rides and activities and kids will especially love the Water Park and Lego City, the space where children engage in role play as adults and where they can learn to drive or fly a plane! So, what are you waiting for? Lego!

Beaches and Islands:

9. Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan

Featuring pristine beaches and a tranquil ambience, Port Dickson is one of the top destinations for a beach resort getaway in Malaysia. While the Upside Down Art Gallery, Army Museum and Cape Rachado Lighthouse are must-visits along with its pristine beaches, I highly recommend the Turtle Hatchery Centre. It is basically an educational facility about the conservation and protection of endangered sea turtles. You’ll be able to witness turtle hatchlings in the aquarium and the incubation process of turtle eggs.

10. Sipadan, Sabah

As enchanting as a visit to a grand aquarium may be, nothing beats swimming alongside schools of fish in person. Sipadan Island is located in the Celebes Sea, off the eastern coast of Sabah in East Malaysia. The location is well-known among diving enthusiasts that Sipadan is one of the most heavenly places in the world to go scuba-diving and snorkelling. Containing diverse marine life including turtles, whale sharks and thousands of species of fish and coral, it is one of the most enchanting places in Malaysia and certainly one not to be missed for an unforgettable experience of marine life. The fine sandy beaches are a bonus as well!

11. The Islands!

Right, I’m just gonna ahead and cheat a little bit here and group all the top island/beach destinations in Malaysia under one header. Otherwise, this article may well turn into a book! Some of the most popular island hotspots include Langkawi, Pangkor, Perhentian, Redang, Tioman and Rawa in West Malaysia while East Malaysia is represented by the aforementioned Sipadan and Mataking. Even though each island here contains its own unique activities, such as eagle watching in Langkawi and turtle watching along the east coast, all these locations provide sandy beaches, a relaxing atmosphere and the ambience associated with a typical island getaway.

The Hills (and Mountains) Are Alive:

12. Mount Kinabalu, Sabah

Mount Kinabalu and its surrounding terrain are one of the most important locations in Malaysia in terms of biodiversity. Over 600 species of flora and fauna call this breathtaking landscape their home and with a summit height of over 4,000 meters, Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain within the Malay Archipelago. Hiking to the summit is no simple task but it’s not considered a herculean feat either. While visitors need to be accompanied by a trained guide at all times, the hike itself is relatively simple compared to other mountains, especially for any individual without severe physical impediments. The view from the top is absolutely surreal and is definitely one of the locations on this list worthy of being on a bucket-list itinerary.

13. Niah National Park, Sarawak

The greatest draw of Niah National Park is the complex cave system known as the Niah Caves. It is an important archaeological site which contains beautiful limestone formations that date back 16-20 million years! It’s estimated that the caves were once home to our Neolithic ancestors and human remains dating back close to 40,000 years ago have been found here. Surrounded by dense forests, the caves are a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site which will stun you with raw, natural beauty. A similar destination is the Gunung Mulu National Park, with caves and karst formations that are located just a little ways north of the Niah Caves.  

14. Broga Hill, Selangor

Broga Hill lies on the outskirts of the quaint town of Broga (duh), in Selangor. It is a popular hiking location for many locals and especially students from the nearby University of Nottingham campus. To say that the sunrise view from the top is breathtaking would be to say that Emma Watson is pretty. It’s an understatement, really. It is also a good location for stargazing, if you find the gusto to camp out late at night. What’s more, the pan mee and grilled fish in Broga Town are also popular highlights of the area, as is the nearby rabbit farm in Semenyih.

15. Cameron Highlands, Pahang

I think I speak for all Malaysians when I say that we are constantly seeking a way out of this perpetual heat! Cameron Highlands, much like Genting Highlands, boasts spring-like weather all year round. Its cool climate has allowed strawberry farms and products to flourish and they are a staple tourist attraction there. In addition, one should also visit the BOH Tea Farm and Lavender Garden, where you can sample, as weird as it may sound, lavender flavoured ice-cream! The many homestays, lovely weather conditions and extremely fresh vegetables and fruits in Cameron Highlands also mean that it’s an ideal location for a BBQ retreat with family and friends.

The Great Outdoors:

16. Firefly Valley Leisure Park, Johor

You know, I always believe that no matter how advanced in technology we become, there’s always a part of us that longs to be in nature. And one of the truly most magical experiences ever is to walk among a colony of fireflies as the illuminate the night. Such is the fairy-tale like experience one would find at Firefly Valley. There is also a programme where you cruise along the Johor River as you admire the wonders of nature before your very eyes. Similarly, you may also visit Kampung Kuantan Firefly Park in Selangor, which contains one of the largest colonies of fireflies in the country!  

17. Taman Negara, Pahang

Malaysia’s National Park (like national, national park) is one of the most ancient tropical rainforests in the world. An ideal destination for camping, Taman Negara features lush greenery, beautiful waterfalls, and fantastic beasts (this is where to find them), though be warned that sightings are extremely rare. One of the world’s longest canopy walkways (not for the faint of heart) can also be found here. While it’s possible to explore the park by yourself, I do suggest going along with an experienced guide, especially if you plan to go camping or jungle trekking. It’s a jungle out there, after all!

18. Bako National Park, Sarawak

Compared to Taman Negara, Bako National Park is a lot smaller in size but is by no means any less impressive. With a variety of jungle trekking trails that range from scenic walks to huff-and-puff hikes, Bako National Park is a suitable and fun experience for all ages. With swamp and mangrove forests along with lovely coves and beaches, the park contains arguably every type of vegetation found in Borneo. But the main attraction at Bako National Park is the chance to meet the Prime Minister of Mala…I mean the rare proboscis monkeys that are only found in Borneo *nervous laugh. With less than 300 of these unique animals remaining in the wild, you can be sure that spotting them while trekking will be a highlight that you’ll remember for a long time.

19. Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Sarawak

From one primate to another. The Semenggoh Nature Reserve can best be described as an orangutan haven. Rescued orangutans are reintroduced into the wild and given a chance to thrive and breed. It’s an ideal place to observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. In addition, many species of exotic birds can also be found here, making it a good destination even for passionate birdwatchers. Another worthwhile mention is the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve in Sabah. As the name suggests, the centre nurses orphaned orangutans and prepares them for life in the wild. You can even adopt one if you want to!

20. Kinabatangan, Sabah

The Kinabatangan River in Sabah is the second longest river in Malaysia and with the surrounding area containing habitats like limestone caves, swamp, mangrove and lowland forests, it is home to an important ecology of wildlife. You’ll be able to spot Asian elephants at Kinabatangan in addition to other wildlife. Most importantly, you’ll be able to spot the rare Bornean hornbill, the representative bird of neighbouring Sarawak. You may also cruise along the river or hire a guide to take you through the dense forests as you spot and encounter various flora and fauna.

21. UK Argo Farm, Johor

I’ve mentioned the UK Argo Farm from Kluang, Johor, once in an article about places in Malaysia with natural scenery akin to New Zealand. Apart from the gorgeous scenery, the farm specialises in sheep and goat dairy products. Visitors to the large-scale farm will be able to witness the process of feeding and milking the animals and even cuddle baby sheep! Close by, the Zenxin Organic Farm is the largest of its kind in Peninsular Malaysia and a must-see for a fun, educational visit. For food, the nearby Kluang Food Street, located inside Kluang Mall, is a hidden gem of hawker stalls and delicious food.

Cultural Heritage:

22. Batu Caves, Selangor

One of the most significant religious sites in Malaysia is the Batu Caves in Selangor. Every year, during the Hindu celebration of Thaipusam, thousands of devout followers visit the location and climb up to the temple cave and shrine dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Murugan, whose statue stands tall at the temple’s main complex. The interior of Batu Caves is a network of limestone caves that were once inhabited by the aboriginal tribes in the area. When it’s not being crowded during religious festivals (it is open all year round), Batu Caves is a site for rock climbing and cave exploration, with multiple species of plants and cave animals being found here.  

23. Islamic Heritage Park, Terengganu

The Islamic Heritage Park, sometimes known as Islamic Civilization Park, is a relatively young addition to Terengganu’s list of tourist destinations, having only been open for less than 10 years. It features detailed replicas of 22 important Islamic infrastructures from around the world, mostly mosques, tombs, and minarets. Aimed at providing a fun experience and for educating people on the development of Islamic civilisation, the park also contains a water wheel and a paddle lake. But most magnificent is the nearby Crystal Mosque, famous for its unique design and sophisticated beauty.

24. Sarawak Cultural Village

Marketed as a “living museum”, the Sarawak Cultural Village is a must-visit destination for anyone who wishes to immerse himself or herself in the local cultural heritage of Sarawak. Featuring seven different longhouses of the different aboriginal tribes, visitors will be able to experience first-hand the local customs and traditions of Sarawak’s rich native history. Interact with the locals; learn their dances, their music, their lifestyles, all of which are on display for the curious traveller. Hike through the Penan Trail towards the Santubong River and enjoy a good meal made up of traditional recipes to end the day!

There is so much to do in Malaysia

I’ll be honest, I’m feeling mightily impressed with how many wonderful destinations there are in Malaysia for the passionate traveller to explore. I myself can’t claim to have visited every location on this list, and that’s not including the many locations I must have missed out on! There’s just so much to do in Malaysia, so what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip now!

Souvenirs To Bring Back From Hong Kong & Where to Buy Them

Here are some ideas on unique souvenirs to take home from Hong Kong, the shopping paradise of Asia.

May 11, 2017, 10:00 am June 19, 2017, 9:37 am

Darren Yeoh Darren enjoys the finer things in life and loves exploring unfamiliar places on foot, guided with nothing but instinct and a good-old fashioned map. He enjoys cultural experiences and exciting adventures and is not a stranger to travelling alone. When he's not putting his travel experiences into words, he's probably sitting behind his laptop, planning his upcoming adventure.

I’m pretty sure this scenario has plagued many a traveller countless of times before: on the last day of your trip, you begin to panic about the things you should bring home for the good folks at home. And in the end, you just grab the closest things you can find: fridge magnets, postcards, nooks and crannies that look cool but are ultimately generic and meaningless. The secret disappointment of your loved ones will be inevitable. 

But don’t fret if you are indeed heading to Hong Kong in the near future because here’s a list of the top nine souvenirs to bring home from the shopping paradise of Asia. 

1. Hip apparel, imitation goods and badly translated placards

The best street markets in Hong Kong are all located on the Kowloon peninsula. They are the Temple Street and Ladies Street markets in the Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kong areas.

While you won’t find much street food within the markets themselves (you can find them in the surrounding area though), the Hong Kong night markets are famous for selling amazingly hip t-shirts and imitation bags and even underwear! The goods are all usually of high quality and the bustling street simply adds to the atmosphere.

Apart from these knock-off fashion statements, you can also find cool leather bound notebooks, soft toys, power banks and wacky glasses. But my personal favourite definitely has to be the placards carrying (intentionally) badly translated Cantonese sayings. Hilarious with a touch of local cultural identity, these make for extremely fun gifts, especially if that person understands a little bit of Cantonese.

2. Makeup and cosmetics

The Tsim Sha Tsui area in Hong Kong has one cosmetic product store for every 10 humans. Okay, no, that was an exaggeration but cosmetics and beauty products are all the rage in Hong Kong. You will find many local and foreign cosmetic brands and the selection is enough to drive any makeup enthusiast insane.

Of all makeup brands, Korean and Japanese brands are the most popular and the most easily found throughout the city. If you’re looking for more niche and upscale cosmetics like Bobbi Brown, take the MTR to Kowloon Tong and make your way to the 2nd floor of Festival Walk mall, where the entire west wing is dedicated to cosmetics and makeup!

As a guy who barely knows the difference between eyeliner and eyeshadow, I can’t say much but I do know that if you’re shopping for cosmetics as a souvenir, you would have to try extremely hard to not come away with something you or your friend/family will like.

3. Shoes…all dem shoes!

There’s shoe shopping and then there’s Hong Kong shoe shopping. Because when an entire street is dedicated to just sneakers and shoes, you know it’s a serious business!

You’ll find all the most recognisable brands on Fa Yuen Street in the Mongkok area: from Nike and Adidas to Reebok and Timberland, you’ll be able to find the trendiest and latest designs here. If you’re looking to buy a pair of new kicks for the people back at home, make sure to shop around, because you’ll likely find that prices vary store by store.

And just because you don’t find a particular design in one store, it doesn’t mean you won’t find it in the one next door, so make sure to take your time. I do recommend taking a look at New Balance sneakers while in Hong Kong. They are probably the most popular brand in the country and one of the best in terms of looks, price and comfort.

The prices are always competitively low and sales are a regular occurrence here. And don’t worry – all merchandise sold, despite their lower than average prices, are genuine.

4. Electronics

Hong Kong is a tech-savvy city, no doubt about that. Electronics can be found in many of the flagship stores in Hong Kong. But if there’s one go-to place for the latest tech gizmos and gadgets, it has to be Sham Shui Po.

More specifically, one should definitely check out the Golden Computer Centre, right outside the D2 exit of the Sham Shui Po MTR station. It sells a variety of electronics, from uber cool keyboards to the latest webcams. Any technophile would fall in love with this place and if I were to make a recommendation for a souvenir, perhaps a cool-looking power bank or USB stick would be great.

Or, if you or your friends are into gaming, the first floor (or second, depending on which metric system you’re using) is a haven for computer games lovers, with many stalls selling the latest games, both new and secondhand editions for a real bargain. So if you’re looking for an electronic souvenir, you can’t go wrong at Sham Shui Po!

5. Anime merchandise

Truth be told, I’m not much of an otaku; I only know a handful of anime series, and they are probably from the late 2000s! But I do enjoy looking at anime figurines. After all, they’re cute, cool, or unique, sometimes all three! And they make for great souvenirs for anime fans.

In’s Point (Yau Ma Tei) and Apple Mall (Sham Shui Po) are two of the biggest anime merchandise retail outlets I know of in Hong Kong. They sell a great selection of anime merchandise including posters, figurines, mugs, manga…anything you can think of, basically. You can even occasionally come across some rare anime figurines which can’t be found anywhere else.

I was once having a stroll at In’s Point and I came across a Pikachu doll (that was when Pokemon Go was trending) dressed in a traditional Cantonese opera stage costume. It was super cool and absolutely amusing. So for all the otaku friends you might have, these are the places you’ll want to get their souvenirs from.

Also read: How to Travel Hong Kong on a Budget

6. East Asian Pop Culture (read: K-Pop)

I may not be an otaku, but I certainly do know my K-Pop…and exactly where to get them. The Sino Centre in Mongkok is arguably THE hangout spot for East Asian pop culture fanatics. J-Pop, Canto/Mandopo, and K-Pop albums and related merchandise are all readily available here at affordable prices.

Apart from albums, you can also find magazine covers, coasters, bookmarks and even jigsaw puzzles featuring your favourite oppa or nuna (gender equality ftw!) or other East Asian celebrities. You can even pre-order albums though I suspect that you’ll find yourself short on time unless you’re in Hong Kong for an extended period.

That being said, the merchandise sold (especially albums) are all official merchandise imported straight from South Korea and of exceptionally high quality. So, if you know anyone who is a huge K-Pop/Mando/Canto/J-Pop fan, you know what to get them!

7. Jade ornaments

Y’know, jade has always been synonymous with positive energy and good health in Chinese traditions, so what better souvenir to get from Hong Kong then a nifty piece of jade ornament? However, given the high value of jade, it’s not exactly ideal to break the bank just for a souvenir. So, I recommend heading to the Jade Market in Yau Ma Tei.

Housed in a flea market set up, the Jade Market offers far more choices in terms of design and type of ornament. You’ll be able to find all sorts of jade-fashioned trinkets here: bracelets, necklaces, zodiac signs, and decorative pieces to name a few. While the quality of jade is not as pristine as the ones sold in jewellery stores, the stones still look exceptionally pretty and unless your friends or family are jade connoisseurs, that’s all that matters.

With so many stalls right next to each other, you can expect competitive pricing (as in, affordable). Plus, the stall owners speak a fair amount of English, so communication is not something to fret about either.

8. Chinese antiques

Now, if jade is not exactly your thing but you’d still like to bring home something which is more closely related to the culture of Hong Kong, then definitely pay a visit to the many Chinese antique markets in Cat Street, around the central region of Hong Kong island. Here, you’ll find plenty of trinkets that are modelled after Chinese antiques, from Ming dynasty-style furniture, to calligraphy brushes and ink stones, and even to actual antique decorative statues!

A word of caution is necessary, though. Some merchants will attempt to convince you that their wares are legitimate treasures from the age of dinosaurs even though they were probably made in a factory 100 metres away. So, unless you have someone who knows how to appraise genuine artefacts from fakes, maybe stick to less expensive souvenirs just to be safe.

Then again, it’s not exactly easy to transport a 500-year-old vase home anyway, so maybe a nice Chinese painting with poetry on bamboo would be more appropriate. I personally recommend an ink stone engraved with a meaningful character. Culture and a touch of sophistication, anyone would be impressed!

9. Souvenirs to munch on

But of course, when all else fails, just get an edible souvenir! There are multiple shops in Hong Kong that only sell packaged/boxed snacks. These range from locally baked pastries to international munchies like the infamous Korean Honey Butter products.

You’ll often find these stores in most shopping malls or even on the streets of the Mongkok tourist hotspot. I can’t really make a recommendation here because they all taste amazingly good! Heck, even some of the instant noodle packets are amazing, with real (I will assume it’s real because otherwise, it becomes disturbing) pieces of meat in them!

So, as many would say, when all else fails, the key to happiness is through one’s digestive tract. Or something like that. Bottomline: good food never fails, especially ones that come in nice packaging.

And there you have it! Nine souvenirs to bring back from Hong Kong that will excite and please your friends and family. So skip the fridge magnets and other disappointingly generic stuff the next time you’re in Hong Kong and shop to impress!