Noriter Cafe Manila: A Cozy and Relaxing Cafe in Taft

February 21, 2023

Did you know that there is a hip cafe in Manila and it’s just in front of La Salle Taft? Yes, we found Noriter Cafe! This cafe is already been running for quite long and students surely loved the ambiance and feel of the cafe. It is a place where they hang-out, study, relax, from whole day of studying and campus activities.
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Noriter Cafe Manila

Noriter Cafe is a Korean-themed cafe with artsy indoor style that totally is perfect for the gram. It’s a cafe where not only you can sit and dine, but you could also lay on your back, a total relaxation cafe. We’ve even found a few spots where the diners, couples are already sleeping. That’s definitely cool of them and you can stay as long as you want.
They also give you a soundtrack of your favorite Korean bands while you stay and eat so people who truly love K-Pop culture and K-drama addicts will surely enjoy this place.

Their dishes and specialties are also a catch. Even when people and patrons are ‘quite overstaying’, the prices of their food doesn’t change and it stayed to be an affordable venue for many including students. Their eye-catching food presentation and mouth-watering food delis are what’s being loved by the customers.
The food serving is nice and abundant so you would be feeling full even when you have not finished your meal yet and yet again, the food choices are affordable.

Here’s their menu for the beverages they currently offer.

Here’s their menu for the meals with relatively abundant serving. (Click to see full photo)

Let me just share this. Noriter Cafe was the second cafe we have been to when Jane and me started dating each other. That was 2015 and I was still working on the corporate world. We had good memories in this place, how can I forget? We went here to chat and get to know each other. Now, it’s been about 3 years since we first came in here and memories are coming back. Good old days.

The ambiance hasn’t changed a lot but there’s definitely more spaces (seats and tables) now for people to commune together, study together, laugh together, eat together, and share moments together. There have been new decors and new setup now. The place looks much cooler and relaxed and picture perfect.

Once you visit, you may also notice that there are writings on the walls and tables at the cafe. Some call it vandalism, but I think it’s for people to keep memories. If Noriter Cafe didn’t want those writings on the wall and tables, they would have already painted it over, but no, they kept it there.

Now, let’s check out the dishes and drinks our group ordered – the best selling ones.

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With these exciting dishes to choose from and tasteful coffee blends and smoothies, I’m sure you’d also have a nice time with your friends in Noriter Cafe (because we definitely did!). Make sure to visit this chill and relaxed cafe when in the area of La Salle Taft.
Don’t forget to take snapshots of you and your friends while in the cafe. Those are your memories!

How to Get to Noriter Cafe?

From the north (QC, Cubao, Bulacan, etc)

1. Ride a bus bound to Buendia with sign boards of LRT Buendia/Leveriza/Ayala.
2. Drop off at Buendia (Gil Puyat LRT Station).
3. Ride a jeepney or the LRT going to Vito Cruz. Drop off at La Salle Taft.
4. Look for Tapa King. Noriter Cafe Manila is at the 2nd floor.

From the south (Alabang, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, etc)

1. Ride a bus bound to LRT Buendia.
2. Drop off at Buendia (Gil Puyat LRT Station).
3. Ride a jeepney or the LRT going to Vito Cruz. Drop off at La Salle Taft.
4. Look for Tapa King. Noriter Cafe Manila is at the 2nd floor.

Noriter Cafe Manila
Open/Close hours: 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Address: 2nd Floor, Reyes Building, Estrada Street,
Taft Avenue, Malate, Manila
Phone: 0926-645-7712
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noritercafemanila/

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5 Ways to Reduce Stress While Traveling

Jerny - Two Budget Travelers

February 21, 2023

Travel can be stressful, there’s no denying it. From the panic of nearly missing a flight to worrying about having enough gas to make it to the next gas station when out on the open road, there are tons of sources of stress to worry about.
Whether it’s screaming kids, a deadline closing in, or a flat tire, we’ve got the solutions for travel stress that you’re going to want on your next adventure.
Read on to find out how we bust even the most ridiculous levels of travel stress while we’re on the go with these 5 tips.

Mindfulness apps

First, if you haven’t ever tried it, adding a little bit of mindfulness to your routine is a great way to reduce stress in even the most frustrating situations. Mindfulness is all about living in the moment: instead of worrying about the 15 steps it’ll take to get from point A to point B on your journey, by being mindful, you can focus on the specific tasks at hand.
When can you practice mindfulness? Anytime really – well, unless you’re behind the wheel of the car. But it makes for a great and restorative way to pass the time while waiting for a flight, or if it’s not your turn driving.
The great news is that mindfulness is easier than ever to access: just download a mindfulness app and find the guided meditation, mindful eating, or even mindful walking routine that works for you.

Soothing CBD

CBD has started quite the craze due to its many health and wellness benefits. But what exactly is CBD? CBD is one of the active chemicals in marijuana, along with its more famous counterpart, THC. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t get you high or cause confusion and disorientation.
Instead, CBD offers a soothing, mellow feeling that can help with everything from sleep troubles to travel stress. Plus, it comes in a variety of easily transported forms, like small tinctures, tasty gummies, slender vape pens, and even CBD powder, all of which make it easy to bring along with you on your next adventure.
Next time you feel yourself start to panic about your itinerary, just take a little CBD, and let the calming feelings wash over you.

Yoga on the go

Yoga might be most at home in a beautifully lit studio, the smell of incense in the air, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t find your inner yogi while traveling! In fact, yoga is great in part because it’s so easy to bring with you – all you really need is a set of comfy clothes and a good recollection of the poses.
Yoga is a great option to destress while traveling for a few reasons.

First, it packs in all those mindfulness benefits we mentioned before. Yoga is all about mindful breathing, which is perfect for travel stress.
Second, when traveling, it’s pretty easy to get stiff and sore, especially if you’re sitting in a car or airplane seat for hours upon hours. Getting in a good stretch is key.
Third, yoga is easily portable. Just be sure to download a yoga app with all the poses you need, and wear your comfiest pair of yoga pants while off on your adventure, and you’re good to go!

Bring along a book

There are few things more stress-relieving than immersing yourself in a good book. With the swirling, high-pace tempo of traveling causing you to feel overwhelmed and not yourself, sitting down and reading can be a grounding activity that brings inner peace.
Find a great local bookshop and pick out a couple of eye-catching titles before embarking on your next adventure! Or, if you’d prefer, be sure to download a high-quality e-reader app that allows you to download multiple books on your favorite tablet or other device.

Always come prepared

The best way to reduce stress while traveling is to prevent it in the first place. While you’ll always face some degree of stress while on the go, you can seriously reduce it by planning ahead and making sure that every step of your journey is accounted for before you strike out on the road.
Make a plan, write it out somewhere that you can reference it, and go into your adventure with the knowledge you need to be confident. And, of course, remember a few of the stress relievers mentioned in this list!

A Square: The Newest Community Hub along the Road to the North

Jerny - Two Budget Travelers

February 21, 2023

A Square: A Community Hub in Baliuag, Bulacan

Five minutes away from SM Baliwag, Bulacan is another rising destination and a pit stop for people heading to north or south.

A Square (formerly known as St. Agustine Square), is the newest community hub in the area. Comprising of stores not known to many, A Square could be your next great investment for the future.

A short visit to A Square gave us an idea of what good things are in store for the future of the community of Baliuag. A place that could be the next big thing for aspiring entrepreneurs and businessmen as it is strategically located along Pan-Philippine Highway and in front of Waterwood Park.

Shop and Dine at A Square

Stores and businesses that have already been put up and are continuously gaining popularity include Creations Salon (Lourd Ramos Salon), Nail Impressions, Hap Chan, Rosemary’s Kitchen, Bavarian Coffee, Navarro’s Furniture & Antiques, Hapag (Events Place and Restaurant), Onigiri Chan, The Baking Room, Pick-a-Box, Adriano’s Giftshop, iCON Classic Shoes, and Honey Lyn (imported bags and accessories). Baan Khun Thai (House of Traditional Thai Massage) and Sun Life Financial office are located on the 2nd floor.

There’s also Unionbank and another commercial bank (on the works) for your banking needs. A Cignal (cable TV) sales and marketing outlet and a PAG-IBIG office are also at the hub. Just a few more stores in the setup and this place is a perfect deal for travelers and locals alike.

Ideally, it’s a place for families and friends. Try to grab a coffee and stay in the cool and steady ambiance of the ground floor. Pray and speak to God at a chapel also on the first floor. Drool yourself with all the goodies you can find at the shops in A Square, or simply spend some time watching the Koi fishes swim at the pond. No pressure, just good times!

Business and Events for Locals and Entrepreneurs

As mentioned already, A Square gives opportunities to aspiring young entrepreneurs and local or international businessmen as it offers affordable commercial spaces. If you’re keen to put up a business, A Square is a great deal for you.

Last June 16, a job fair (Suit Up!) was also held at A Square. Over 40 employers and 6 government agencies were on site and provided employment opportunities to more than 800 job seekers.

Coming this July 23, the first ever open-air bazaar in Bulacan will be opened in A Square. An event that entrepreneurs and businessmen shouldn’t miss to showcase their products and make a name in the business industry.

For inquiries, visit or contact:
A Square
3006 DRT Highway, Baliuag, Bulacan (near SM Baliwag)
(02) 924 2443
Link to Facebook Page

7 Recommended Beaches and Island Paradise to Visit in Camarines Norte

Jerny - Two Budget Travelers

February 21, 2023

If you’ve have not been to Camarines Norte yet, now is definitely the time to make up your mind, pack your bags, and bring your friends along on a trip to the gate to Bicolandia.
Camarines Norte is currently taking action on boosting their tourism industry. Why is it the best time to visit this province? Because you can be the first one to experience all of it! Meaning you won’t have too many competitions on bus, rides, and especially the experiences. Each place in Camarines Norte is unique in its own way and people in this province should forever be grateful for having such a great place to live in, all with natural wonders!
Here’s a list of beaches and islands you can definitely go to while in Camarines Norte in no particular order.

1. Calaguas Island

When in Camarines Norte, you should definitely visit the famous Calaguas Island located in Vinzons. Calaguas Island boasts of a long coast of pure white sand. It’s a pristine beach located 2 hours away from the city of Vinzons. Beware about the waves though! On a not so good weather, waves good go as high as 5 feet or more! But after all the struggles on your way to the island, you’d definitely experience a good relief upon reaching the paradise island.

2. Bagasbas Beach

Next on the list is the Bagasbas Beach. With an almost 2.5 kilometer stretch of shoreline facing the Pacific, Bagasbas beach boasts one of the best sunrise views in the region. The beach is also known as the Surfing Capital of Bicol. It is located in Daet, Camarines Norte and you can train yourself to surf for a fee of 300 pesos (15 USD) with an instructor good for one hour.

3. Parola Island

Parola Island comes third on this list. It was formerly known as Tailon Island and is located off the coast of the town of Jose Panganiban. Parola Beach is known for its pinkish-colored shoreline which is clearly visible when the sun starts to set in, also known as the Pink Beach. This island is just small but it’s so virgin and unspoiled which makes it one of the best islands to visit in Camarines Norte. See full album of this beach here: Parola Island album

4. Pulang-Daga Beach

Pulang-Daga Beach (Pulang Lupa in Tagalog dialect) comes fourth. It is located in Paracale, Camarines Norte and can easily be navigated by land. The stretch of white sand (actually semi-white and brown, especially during summer) makes it ideal for a day tour and family getaways. This beach is ideal for swimmers and offers a great panoramic view of the ocean. This is also a good spot to capture the sunset.

5. Macolabo Island

Macolabo Island goes on this list as well. Another gem and gold of the town of Paracale is the Macolabo Island. It can be located after almost an hour of boat ride from the fish port of Paracale. Known for its fine white sands and turquoise blue waters, it’s one of the best paradise islands to be in. It’s a less crowded island as well perfect for people who’d like to remove themselves temporarily from the hustle of city life.

6. Bulalacao Beach

Another one and probably a newly heard beach are also on the rise named Bulalacao Beach. Also located in the town of Jose Panganiban. This one definitely is an unspoiled white sand beach as there are not many houses and people around the beach. You definitely will have the beach mostly to yourselves, and I think that is perfect! Great for campers and night photographers chasing the milky way!

7. Pag-asa Beach

Pag-asa Beach is just 3 kilometers away from the town of Jose Panganiban. It has become popular for people seeking to swim and do some water sports. You can drop by here or camp overnight and the good thing is that this beach already has cottages and comfort rooms. They have put up a net over the coast to prevent jellyfish on swimming within the shore where people usually swim.

8. Siete Pecados (Mercedes Group of Islands)

Last on the list is the Mercedes Group of Islands also known as the Siete Pecados. The Siete Pecados is composed of 7 islands located in the vicinity of the town of Mercedes in Camarines Norte where you can also find the tastiest tinapa or smoked fish. Will provide a separate and exclusive blog post for this stunning Siete Pecados.
The 7 islands are namely:
a. Caringo Island – Composed of white sands and shells type of beach.

View this post on Instagram
"Home to a small community of fishing families, Caringo is the furthest of the seven islands of Mercedes, yet it is well worth getting to. The sand on the island was blindingly white in the noontime sun. Seashells adorned the branches of driftwood lining the shore while colorful flags fluttered in the wind, echoing the colors of the wooden fishing boats." Caringo Island. Camarines Norte, Philippines. 2015. www.traveling-up.com
A post shared by Travel Up (@travel.up) on May 22, 2017 at 8:03pm PDT

b. Canimog Island – The closest Island to the mainland. It’s also the biggest among the seven islands of Mercedes.

c. Apuao Grande – The biggest of the Apuao islands. It’s a beach with pine-like Agoho trees as their main attraction and is interconnected with another island, the Apuao Pequeña, by a sandbar.

d. Apuao Pequeña – A good spot for camping and relaxation. This island also has a sanctuary for bats and wildlife.

e. Canton Island – a small, rocky island surrounded by mangrove forests. Unexplored caves can be seen in here but are only visible when it’s low tide.

f. Quinapaguian Island – an island nearby Apuao Pequeña and Apuao Grande, but still needs to ride a boat to reach this island.

Credits to benjielayug.com — Credits to Benjie Layug

g. Malasugui Island – the smallest island among the Siete Pecados.

These are only a fraction of the go-to places for island paradise and awesome beaches from Camarines Norte! Time to get that adrenaline going and start the adventure to Camarines Norte!
Do you have anything to add to the list that we also should visit?

8 Ways to Make Your Offices Look More Modern

Jerny - Two Budget Travelers

February 21, 2023

Only the most talented employees can ensure business growth and success. They prefer a modern office with good work environment more than their pay package. Maybe your office is lagging behind in this respect. Then, it is high time to revamp the office. In case you are struggling, here are 8 ways to do that.

1. Open out the office space

Modern office theme is to have leaders and not bosses. So, cubicles and hierarchical sitting are no longer necessary in the modern offices. They simply trap people inside and make them isolated. Ditch the cubicles and let the employees sit in a large hall.

This increases communication at work and also makes the employees more collaborative. There is no assigned sitting arrangement in open office plans. Only separate working zones for different functions are created.
If required for any specific work, people may regroup themselves or join another group. This helps to build trust and the employees learn to work as a team. However, create a private space for the works the call for more concentration.

2. Embrace the latest technology

Technology is the lifeblood of modern offices. You cannot expect to survive competition working with outdated software. Provide the most updated laptops, dual monitor stands, and tablets for office work. This will make your employees happy.
Other than this, joining the social media is another criterion of the modern office arrangement. Explore this to your advantage. There should also be an arrangement for video conferencing. This will save time and a large chunk of the travel costs.
Also, provide free Wi-Fi zone with full access internet throughout the office. Thus, the employees will be able to get connected from anywhere in the office. Power connections and charging stations should also be spread throughout for the sake of convenience.

3. Flexible working options increase efficiency

The modern employees, especially the millennial, do not like fixed office hours. They always want to balance life and work. For this, they prefer flexible working options to manage their family needs. In the flexible working arrangement, they have a feeling of personal control and enjoy working.
A majority of the big houses have implemented these to reduce employ burn out. With the help of the latest technologies, they can always be connected. This also improves the employee morale and they give the best. So, why not start flexible working in your set up?

4. Home-like sitting

Modern employees are required to stay long in the office. This is why most of the organizations are making the workplace as relaxing as possible. Since most of the office works are now done on a laptop, tablet or Smartphone, they can be done from anywhere.
Include cozy sofas and armchairs in the office. You can also get bin bags even, to make it look like a living room. This will let the employees work in a relaxed manner.

5. Go for ergonomics when you need furniture

Most of the office jobs are now sedentary type. People have to sit for long being glued to the monitor. When you need to have office chairs and desk, then you must invest in the ergonomic furniture. These are specially designed to keep the posture right and provide maximum comfort. One can adjust the height and armrests to lower the risk of injuries. If required, you can also change a desk into a standing workstation.

6. Have a place to chill

You have to accept that none can focus on the screen continuously. Integrating a breakout area is one of the vital requirements of a modern office. Create a separate room or a dedicate zone away from the workspace.

Get comfortable sofas and play soft music. The employees will be able to relax here for a while between the jobs. This will make them more social. They can also discuss problems with others. Thus, there will always be an informal brainstorming and quality of the work will be improved.

7. Invest in an onsite gym

Modern offices do not support outdated all-work ideas. The current theme is that people can concentrate more when they are physically fit. This made investing in an onsite gym one of the prime criteria of the modern offices. The employees will be able to do some workouts here to break the monotony.
Including indoor games is also a great idea. You can also have a table tennis board. This will let the employees take a break and be charged for the next assignment. Additionally, you can also have a yoga mat. Doing yoga exercise will make your employees more relaxed and productive.

8. Use wall panels to make it wow

You need to add a wow factor to make your office look more modern. The 3d decorative wall panels can deliver it to your office for the latest look and feel. These come in a variety of core materials and plenty of designs and textures. You can pick anything from Acrylic, Felt, Gypsum, MDF, Metal, Stone, wood etc based on your choice and preferences.
Other than enhancing the aesthetics, these textured wall panels can also protect the walls. These have other benefits as well. Noise is a perennial problem in most of the offices with open office plans. Since people sit together in a hall, reverberations are caused. Having sound dampening properties the wall panels reduce the noise level in the office.

These design driven architectural wall panels are available in almost limitless options. There are wide ranges of collections and ceiling paneling options. They do not require any surface treatment and can be installed easily.
These architectural decorative panels are free from VOC and also have LEED certification. Fire safety is the most important factor in the office. Being class ‘A’ fire rated, they can make your office safe.

Conclusion

Present day employees work for long hours. This is why they prefer a flexible and adaptable office environment. Implementing the above ideas will freshen up the office and give it a more modern look. Why not try these and make it a heartthrob of the next generation employees!

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Osmena Peak: Easy Night Trek in Cebu’s Highest Ground

Jerny - Two Budget Travelers

February 20, 2023

One of the most sought after scenic views in Cebu is when you are at Osmena Peak, 1000+ masl. It is located in Dalaguete, Cebu nearly 2 hours away from the main city.

Osmena Peak comprises of hills comparable to Chocolate Hills in Bohol, a nearby island in The Philippines. Comparable, due to its structure but not very similar to that of Chocolate Hills. It’s more likely the gothic version or when you look at it, the dangerous one. Worry not, it’s perfectly safe and easy to reach the highest peak in Cebu!

How we ended trekking at night?

It was already around 3:00 pm when we moved out from Moalboal. Knowing the distance of Dalaguete from Moalboal, it’s gonna be a very long drive.

We took a bus to Bato Bus Terminal and from there, rode another bus to bound to Cebu and told the driver to drop us off at Dalaguete. It was nearly 6pm when we got off and we still have to buy something to eat when we get there.

Arriving at the junction, we bought food and water. Rode a Habal-habal up to the jump-off point that costs 100 pesos each. Habal-habal drive took at least 20-30mins and it was already fast. The road isn’t well lit so if you are not familiar with the place, better not take risks on driving faster especially when it’s already dark.

The sun has already set when we arrived at the jump-off point. Hence, darkness already took over the place. The only lighted parts in this area are the stores, some parts of the road, and the registration area. On the registration area, we have to pay 30 pesos each and put our names in the log book.

Moonlight Trekking up to the Campsite

Good thing I brought a flashlight with me. My girlfriend, Jane, has poor vision especially on dark areas, whilst I can manage better since I have a clearer vision. It was dark and we are unfamiliar with the place. If it were only my girlfriend trekking up, she would have freaked out already. I had a little hard time because of my slippers, the strap kept on slipping through so I had to adjust it every now and then. I did not bring any shoes in Cebu.

The path to Osmena Peak was trailed with white limestones making it easy finding the way in the dark and even with a little light as the light reflected with the stones. Jane is a bit scared because she thinks that the other side of the path is a cliff (which really is) but just a shallow one. Once we saw lights from the campsite, we felt relieved. At least, we’re near to the target destination, the campsite.

Setting up Camp

There also are campers in the area. They looked like a family or neighborhood doing overnight camping as they are talking with each other in Bisaya language. They also were setting up a bonfire, merely a bad idea due to strong winds. This could cause a wildfire if not managed correctly and can even burn up their tents.

While it was happening, we were setting up our tent to camp out. Being on the top of the mountain, it was cold. The cold breeze whirling around our bodies gave a chill feel. After setting up our tent, we took out our food and ate them with delight. We were starving, it’s been about 4-5 hours since we had a meal.

Camping Grounds in the Middle of the Night

The wind coming from every direction were so strong. My neighbor campers started to look for another place to set up their tent. Whilst us kept still on the ground. We slept for a few hours after we ate, but due to the cold breeze and strong winds, it’s hard to keep up with sleeping. Every now and then, I get to wake up to adjust our bags on every corner of the tent because we have no pegs. Luckily, our bags were heavy enough to take care of the tent’s required strength.

As the night goes by, our tent is being hampered heavily by the winds. It’s kind of alarming but thankfully, we managed to survive the night.

Rise and Shine

It’s nearly dawn when I woke up and the sun wasn’t all up.

She was still sleeping so I went out alone to check what’s outside. I was surprised by the view, white and foggy, cold and windy. There were only two tents that remained in the campsite. Ours and the other one beside us. The other campers were gone. They have changed location, by then, at the foot of the summit.

She woke up with a smile.

That night was full of worries and I made her sure that the tent and our camping experience will be okay. We ate our breakfast and prepared our stuff. I took some photos while she prepares our things. We dismantled the tent and left our baggage at the foot of the summit. We started to trek up the highest peak (summit) of Osmena Peak and look at the scenic views of lush hills and vast oceans.

The sun was up but the clouds were still forming. We didn’t get the chance to have a clearer view of the blue sky. She wanted to wait until the clouds go away but it would take more hours and we still have to go some other place.

We waited for a little while. Took photos of the awesome summit. Took lovely photos of her. Took bright pictures of us. It was fun and I loved that moment!

We weren’t able to see a proper clearing but the experience, the scenic views from our naked eyes, were nonetheless a golden memory. Preserved and always remembered.

Tent Pitching Mechanics

Before I forget, a person will come at you in the morning and will be asking for a payment of 50 pesos (per tent). It was already expected since it was on the notice on the wall at the registration office and the officer told us about it.

After taking lovely photos, we proceeded to the next destination, Obong Spring, still situated in Dalaguete, Cebu, 10 mins away from the Dalaguete junction.

Just a little information..

It was our first time to trek by the night. We arrived roughly 7pm at the jump-off point, paid 30 pesos for the registration, and started trekking up under the shy light of the moon to Osmena Peak. There also are other campers but they eventually left the campsite due to heavy and strong winds. Luckily, our tent didn’t go down! We rose up in the morning and started taking photos of such a wonderful creation!

ITINERARY & EXPENSES:

How to get to Osmena Peak?
From Cebu~
Take a bus at South Cebu Bus Terminal bound to Oslob/Bato.
Tell the driver to drop you off at Dalaguete. The fare is about 70 pesos.
Once in Dalaguete junction, hire a habal2x to the jump-off point. This costs 100 pesos each.
You have the option to drop by the Mantalogon Market or head straight to the jump-off point.
On the jump-off point is a registration office, pay 30 pesos as an entrance fee.
Tent Fee will be collected in the morning for overnight campers. 50 pesos per tent.

Going back to Cebu, take the same route. Habal2x from the jump-off point still costs 100 pesos each.

Where to stay in Cebu?

Aside from tents, you may also try these lovely hotel/hostel options.
[hoops name=”cebu”]

Take 5 – Some great Christmas gift ideas for travelers

Jerny - Two Budget Travelers

February 20, 2023

Choosing gifts for travelers used to be a problem.
Most of us get a warm glowing feeling when it comes to thoughts of Christmas. But, there’s one Christmas tradition that can leave many of us out in the cold, and that’s the year-after-year frustrating process of choosing the right gifts. Choosing gifts for travel lovers can prove especially challenging, flights, cruises, or train tickets can be beyond most people’s budget. Items like travel clothing, luggage options, and other accessories tend to be highly personal choices with considerations like suitability to planned trips, weight considerations, and technological preferences to recognize. Check online here more resources.
That’s why we’ve tried to make it easy for you and come up with 5 great solutions suitable for every nomadic spirit.

1. Tinggly Experience Gift Box

Tinggly is changing the way people are giving gifts. It seems that accumulating material possessions is no longer our priority, and that’s where Tinggly comes in. Tinggly offers’ a collection of over 2,000 hand-picked life-enhancing experiences in over 100 locations around the world – we think they make the perfect Christmas experiences gifts. From bungee jumping in New Zealand, shark cage diving in Hawaii, or luxurious spa treatments in Indonesia, Tinggly’s onus is built on the concept ‘give stories not stuff’. In effect, the Tinggly gift is an experience gift voucher letting the recipient choose the experience that suits their travel plans, lifestyle, and preference for adventures.
And the really great part is that recipients have five full years to make their choice.

2. Travel Pillow

Did you ever feel envious of that person who sleeps the whole way through a long-haul flight? Looking like they’re safely wrapped up at home in the comfort of their own bed. Don’t worry, every traveler feels like that. When you’re trying to think of a really great gift for the traveler in your life, you won’t go far wrong by choosing a modern travel pillow. Long gone are the days of the simple ‘U’-shaped pillow – although there are still some great models of this type on the market – designs, materials, and the technology behind travel pillows has moved with the times.
From pillows which are placed on an aircraft seat’s cabin-tray allowing the owner to really put their head down, to simple wrappable scarves which come complete with pliable neck supports, there’s a huge range of choice out there. When you gift a travel pillow, ever time the gift recipient arrives at a destination relaxed and refreshed they’ll have you to thank for that.

3. Travel Thermos

No, wait. Seriously, a travel thermos (or mug) is a great gift for world nomads. When you travel you probably need more liquids than at any other time, keeping yourself hydrated on long-haul flights, banishing thirst under a burning equatorial sun, or just making sure that you have a hit of coffee to get you through an early morning dash to the airport or a long tiring bus ride. But not just any old thermos will work for serious travelers. It’s going to have to be tough, durable, light, serve its purpose of keeping liquids hot or cold for prolonged periods of time, and importantly, it won’t leak.
Thermos flasks are no longer the boring functional drink holders they once were, gone are the familiar Tartan patterns and in their place steps stainless steel, toughened recycled plastics, and even wood. The range of choices has grown, from simple non-spill thermos cup and mugs to large-volume carriers designed to make sure a thirsty traveler is always happy and hydrated.

4. Face Moisturizer

OK, let’s keep this tip brief. Face moisturizer. Even if a frequent traveler doesn’t realize that they need moisturizer, they do. It’s essential to keep your skin moisturized when traveling – altitude and cabin pressure can strip your skin of valuable nutrients, sea air can do similar damage, and the sun will do more damage than both of the others combined. That’s why when choosing a face moisturizer for a traveler it’s recommended that you choose one with a built-in SPF (Sunscreen to you and me).
Most people don’t like to apply sunscreen directly to their faces so this may be the perfect option. However, make sure that it’s the right size to make it safely through airport security.

5. Universal USB Travel Power Adaptor

The modern nightmare travel scenario. You’ve just arrived at your destination in some foreign country and you need to make an important phone call or check an email confirming an accommodation booking. But – here it comes – you’re batteries are dead and your charger doesn’t fit the local power sockets. That’s why having a versatile travel power adaptor is essential for anyone constantly migrating between regions, zones, or even continents.
The really great power adaptors are interchangeable across different power supply variations, and can even support simultaneously charging multiple devices at the same time. Just be sure to check whether the adaptor you choose is only suitable for 110v devices and doesn’t support appliances requiring higher-power input.

Experience gifts or material possessions?

Whether you choose to splurge on a material gift or an experience gift there’s a lot of choices. You don’t want to waste your money but you also want to give a worthwhile gift your recipient will value physically or due to the benefit of great memories and stories, so, make sure you choose wisely. Plus, giving the perfect gift will not only make the recipient happy, giving a great gift is scientifically proven to make the giver happier too.

Best Beaches in the World According to Travel Bloggers | Page 2

Jerny - Two Budget Travelers

February 20, 2023

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11. Shell Beach in Western Australia

According to Edit Zsido of Edit Around the World

When we talk about beaches we automatically think of sand because obviously, that’s what beach means, right? Not in this case though. Only one of two in the world, Western Australia’s Shell Beach is indeed entirely covered of shells. A unique beach located on the stunning west coast of Down Under, 45 km from the town of Denham, the attraction is famous for it’s outstanding-ness and is visited by thousands of tourists that travel in the area. Best Beaches in the World
The beach is covered by shells on a 60 km stretch and a 7 m depth.
The whole area, which is popular also for sharks, hence the name of Shark Bay, is a world heritage site, having various other unusual attractions.

12. South Beach in Miami, Florida

According to Talek Nantes of Travels with Talek
Follow her adventures on her Facebook Page.

What I like best about South Beach, the southernmost point on Miami Beach in south Florida, is that it offers a spectacular, uncrowded beach with golden san and crystal-clear waters, AND tons of everything else.
The beach is fronted by Ocean Drive, ground zero for the art deco architecture the area is so famous for. This is the heart of the art-deco district, most famous and recognized for its neon-infused night-life. But the early morning sunlight reflecting on the art-deco buildings makes for a pretty awesome sight too. Here you will also pass Gianni Versace’s former villa, just one of the beautiful buildings you see on South Beach.
The area also boasts museums, parks, a multitude of dining options from the classic Joe’s Stone Crab to ethnic take-out heavens with steaming pots of fragrant foods.
There is something for everyone on South Beach. A mini wonderland of all things fun anchored by one of the prettiest beaches in the U.S. Best Beaches in the World

13. Xpu-Ha Beach, Quintana Roo, Mexico

According to Michele Peterson of A Taste for Travel
Follow her adventures on her Facebook Page

One of my all-time favorite beaches in the world is XPU-Ha Beach, located south of Playa del Carmen, Mexico just off Highway 307 on the way to Tulum. Although the name of this secluded beach might be hard to pronounce, it’s easy to fall in love with its clear blue water, powder soft white sand, and peaceful atmosphere. If you can imagine what Cancun might have been like before developed as a mega-resort destination, then this is it.

But for me, what makes this beach extra special is that while its beauty is still in a natural state, it does offer amenities such as the XPU-Ha Beach Club with washroom facilities, hammocks, loungers, and palapa umbrellas. There’s also a restaurant serving chilled beer and light meals such as grilled fish and ceviche. Weekends, you might even enjoy live music. Best Beaches in the World

While some people might object to the admission fee (refundable with food purchase) I appreciate that at least part of the proceeds goes towards collecting rubbish and preserving the ecological integrity of the beach and local environment. However, if you don’t want to use the beach club, it’s also entirely possible to bring your own cooler, chair, and umbrellas, set up on the sand for the day and soak up the Caribbean atmosphere of swimming, sunning and long walks on the beach. A day at the beach doesn’t get any better than this!

14. Kiama Beach in Australia

According to Priyadarshini Rajendran from Glorious Sunrise
Follow her adventures on Instagram: @gloriousunrise

best-beaches-in-the-world-according-to-travel-bloggers

Kiama is a charming coastal town very close to Sydney in New South Wales. It is about a 3-hour train ride towards the south of the city. This train takes you through other gorgeous beaches along the way including the famous Wollongong beach. As soon as you set foot in Kiama, you would be mesmerized by the blue skies here against dark green pine trees around. The short walk to Kiama beach leaves you at the edge of deep blue waters which transfixes you to the spot. The waves are choppy and high and you can spend at least an hour watching them majestically lap on the rocky shore.

Walk a bit further and you can see the impressive Kiama lighthouse rising into the sky. Next attraction is the Kiama blowhole where you find a bit of a crowd on the otherwise deserted beach area. You can take the half-day walk from Kiama to Minnamura river to enjoy fantastic natural beauty along the way. Do not forget to stop at Cathedral rocks to enjoy a glorious sunset.

15. Koh Mook in Thailand

According to Per Brogevik of Resrutt – The Travel Blog
Follow his adventures via Instagram: @resrutt

In the southern parts of Thailand, you can find the small island, Koh Mook. You need to take a speedboat from one of the nearby piers on the mainland, but it’ll only take about 20 minutes and is well worth the trip. There are also other amazing islands close to Koh Mook, so island hopping in this area is well recommended.
On the island, there are several good beaches. The favorite one is the beach situated right on the eastern end of the island, close to the Sivalai Beach Resort. It has been nominated to one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand several times and is a place to put on your bucket list.
The waters are turquoise and absolutely crystal clear. You can go snorkeling right off the beach and there are several good restaurants within reach. Even so, there are no crowds of tourists here which is very nice.

16. Cresta de Gallo in Romblon, Philippines

According to Karla Ramos of Karla Around the World
Follow her adventures via Instagram: @karlaroundtheworld

The Philippines is known to have 7107 islands and truly it’s hard to choose just one that stands out but for me one of my favorites is Cresta de Gallo in Romblon. Best Beaches in the World
Although it may be difficult to get here, that’s exactly one of the reasons it stands out. The water is pristine and clear blue and it is not tarnished by tourist or commercial accommodation. The area feels very local and everything is just clean. I would love to spend weeks here but then the only accommodation they have is a local homestay, but then again, that makes living in an island even more worthwhile right? check it out, I literally found myself constantly in awe by just being there.

17. Kaikoura Beach in New Zealand

According to Leanne Scott of The Globetrotter GP

One of the most beautiful beaches I’ve encountered on my travels was Kaikoura beach which I came across whilst on a New Zealand road trip. Whilst it may not be a sandy beach (it’s mostly shingle) where you would be inclined to sunbathe, it is incredibly pretty, in part due to the snow-capped mountains rising beyond the beach.

Kaikoura is a brilliant place to enjoy the local wildlife. One of the most popular things to do is to go whale watching – we saw so many whales on my trip, breaching and putting on a show for us. There are also opportunities to see dolphins and even swim with them. It’s also possible to go swimming with playful seals.

It’s also worth taking a stroll along the beach and you are very likely to come across a seal colony. Just be aware they can be a bit stinky! Also, don’t get too close, they may look cute but they are still wild animals!

Kaikoura can be reached easily on a day trip from Christchurch and should be a must-see on any New Zealand South Island itinerary!

18. Arcipelago della Maddalena, Italy

According to Greta Omoboni of Gretas Travels

The Archipelago of Maddalena in Sardinia, Italy, is in my opinion one of the best beach destinations in the world. While the whole of Sardinia has beautiful beaches, the islands of the Archipelago of Maddalena are blessed with particularly clear turquoise water and fine white sand beaches.

One of the particularities of these beaches are all the different shades of blue and turquoise that you can admire as you sail around the islands, due to the different depths of the seabed and presence of algae or rocks underwater. The best beaches and spot of the Archipelago of Maddalena are the “Natural Pools”, an area enclosed between the islands of Budelli, Spargi and Razzoli where the water is always calm, creating a pool-like effect. Best Beaches in the World

Dotted all along the coast of the islands are numerous beautiful beaches, my personal favourites are Cala Soraja and Cala Corsara, since they have the clearest water and are usually less busy than the bigger beaches. The beaches of the Archipelago of Maddalena can easily match in beauty the most famous beaches in the Maldives, Fiji or Bora Bora, with the added benefit of being a short flight away from most European cities.

19. Noonu Beach in Maldives

According to Sara of OurKindofCrazy Blog

Follow her adventures via Instagram: @ourkindofcrazyblog

Beach vacations are always the best type of vacations. Beaches are very relaxing, you get some sun, and hopefully, the water is nice enough to go in. One of our favorite beaches was found in the Maldives. We stayed at a resort island Noonu, at Robinson Club Noonu and enjoyed the beach around the whole island. The sand is very fine and soft, and the waters are crystal clear with the most beautiful blue colors. Our favorite part about Noonu, was that you could see straight through the water, so we saw a ton of sea life just by sitting on the beach or walking on the pier.

We spent so much time in the water while snorkeling and checking out all the sea life around the island. On top of it being a fabulous beach, you have a pool right next to the beach, as well as a bar and lots of couches and lounge furniture to relax and enjoy the views. It’s really hard to beat a beach in the beautiful Maldives!

20. Reynisfjara, Iceland

According to Julianna Barnaby of The Discoveries Of
Follow her adventures via Instagram: @thediscoveriesof

Reynisfjara (nicknamed Vik Beach) on the south coast of Iceland often pops up on lists of the best beaches in the world and it’s no surprise.

Mile after mile of black sand beach, ending with a section framed by stark cliffs of black basalt columns looking out to a cluster of black volcanic rocks in the sea – it’s a sight to behold.

Iceland has no shortage of black sand beaches thanks to the volcanic rocks that dominate the island’s geology but Reynisfjara still stands out because of the spectacular cliffs.

If that’s not reason enough to go, Reynisfjara also makes an appearance in Game of Thrones as the Eastwatch and a few destinations north of the wall. Best Beaches in the World

It’s definitely my favorite beach simply because it’s so striking and unfamiliar. You won’t be doing any sunbathing (the weather isn’t ever really warm enough in Iceland) but with views like these, who cares?

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Best Beaches in the World

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Fridays Puerto Galera: Unspoiled Beauty in a Private Beach | via AirTrav

Jerny - Two Budget Travelers

February 20, 2023

Aside from the famous White Beach, there still are lots of unspoiled beaches in Puerto Galera including this one we have recently visited together with AirTrav, the Fridays Puerto Galera.

Fridays Puerto Galera with AirTrav

Fridays Puerto Galera is situated in Boquete Island and you need either a private boat or a chartered flight to get here. This resort is an eco-friendly and luxury resort that offers large cabin villas perfect for couples and families, diving activities, sumptuous foods at the CRU Restaurant, relaxation and peace like no other than the other famous beaches in Puerto Galera cannot offer.

Last weekend, we went on a staycation escapade to Fridays Puerto Galera via a seaplane from AirTrav. It only took us about 35 – 40 mins from Manila to Puerto Galera (that’s 5x faster than traveling to Batangas Port from Manila and taking a boat from Batangas Port to Puerto Galera. It saved us so much time! Check out our flying experience via AirTrav from Manila to Fridays Puerto Galera.

AirTrav Philippines is the newest addition to seaplanes catering a chartered flight to and from Manila with destinations heading over to Puerto Galera, Coron, and Clark. It’s a Filipino owned company that also partnered with Uber Philippines to deliver the UberCopter rental across Manila.
AirTrav has partnered with Fridays Puerto Galera to bring you the greatest satisfying vacation you’d ever wanted to do for so long. Head on to their website and check exciting deals for your much-awaited vacation.

Getting there and What to expect

Upon arriving at the island via the AirTrav seaplane, we immediately head on to the receptionist that was very accommodating. The General Manager also welcomed us and served us welcome drinks. However, our room was not yet ready so we explored a bit of the luxury resort.
Each staff who we got to come across with was welcoming and smiling towards every other guest — and that’s a great thing. You won’t feel like a stranger at all. They’ll greet you happily.
The CRU Restaurant, the only restaurant in the area, which was just behind the front desk also serves sumptuous meals at a reasonable price. Compliments to the chef for serving us great food while we were on Fridays Puerto Galera. The scenery at the restaurant will also be one of your favorites during your stay. peace, calm, quiet.

Fridays Puerto Galera doesn’t have a lot of rooms similar to other luxury hotels but that’s one of the advantages. You can relax and ultimately just give in to nature and its beauty. No one would ever bother you on your own time. You’ll just have a sweet time for yourself and your loved ones.

What makes Fridays a premiere spot in Puerto Galera?

The rooms are all viewing the sea. The Premier Sea View Rooms are perfect for a more relaxing retreat. Imagine waking up to the beat of the ocean waves and calming winds of Puerto Galera, isn’t it a delight? Sunrise is surely a great ang magical moment, everytime.

The rooms are larger than usual. To be perfectly honest, the Sea View Rooms of Fridays are the largest I’ve seen so far for Puerto Galera resorts. Plus, it comes with a Smart TV with cable channels, a bathtub, a wardrobe, and all other amenities you could ask for.

The infinity pool is inviting. Who wouldn’t love infinity pools with a view of the sea? Even xennials and millennials would come together for a refreshing swim under the sun and coconut trees. Plus, it’s picture perfect!

The beach is enticing. Who goes to an island getaway and not swim in the ocean? The ocean is one of the most beautiful creations on Earth and truly makes our hearts jump and get excited every time we see and swim into one. A few meters away from the shore, you’d find coral reefs even at 1-meter deep level. That’s how healthy the beach is. Absolute one of the best marine ecologies in the world.

The CRU Restaurant serves great food. With happy and welcoming people in the restaurant, you’d never go wrong with whatever you will order. During our stay, the restaurant never failed to delight us with sumptuous treats. There was even a complimentary cocktail in the evening of our first night. Lovely!

A perfect paradise for couples and honeymooners. With a bathtub in the room, an infinity pool, and a pleasing beach view, Fridays Puerto Galera is a great place to stay especially for couples. With an ambiance so relaxing and beach so enticing, you’d truly have a great time in this luxury resort, free from worries.

A perfect retreat for the family. This luxury resort is not only good for couples but is great for family getaways. During the course of our stay, we never failed to see kids enjoying and playing around the pool and the beach.

CRU Restaurant

CRU Restaurant is the only restaurant on the island.

Since Fridays Puerto Galera is a secluded paradise, they have an in-house restaurant that serves sumptuous meals with recipes from an Italian chef. CRU also has an in-house bar where you can sip wine and or have fun with friends while drinking beers and cocktails.
Here’s what we ordered for our lunch.
a. Fridays Chicken Wings & Garlic Butter Prawns
b. Mango Juice & Watermelon Juice

Here’s what we ordered for dinner.
a. Pan Seared Pork Chop & Four Cheese Pizza
b. Calamansi Juice & Orange Juice

Here’s for breakfast.
a. American Breakfast
b. Filipino Breakfast

We highly recommend booking and staying here for you to experience a paradise vacation you are longing for away from the busyness of life in the city. With Fridays, you can go high on relaxation and high on enjoyment. You can never go wrong with Fridays Puerto Galera, the only luxury resort in Puerto Galera.

How to Get to Fridays Puerto Galera

You can only get there when you have a reservation on the resort. Day tours are not allowed. Walk-in guests are welcome as long as they would avail a room. Otherwise, you won’t be allowed to use the facilities. Kindly call the number below to confirm other information.
To get there, you may rent a boat from Muelle Port or White Beach for about 250 to 500 per way and tell them to get you to Boquete Island or Fridays Puerto Galers resort. You may also request for a pick-up at the front desk. Kindly call the number provided below.

FRIDAYS PUERTO GALERA
Boquete Island
Puerto Galera, Mindoro
Philippines
Phone Number: +63 43 4420000
Email: reservations@fridayspuertogalera.com
Website: https://www.fridayspuertogalera.com
CHECK RATES VIA AGODA | CHECK RATES VIA BOOKING

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TWO BUDGET TRAVELERSWorld Travelers on a Budget

TWO BUDGET TRAVELERSWorld Travelers on a Budget

Noriter Cafe Manila

Here’s their menu for the beverages they currently offer.

How to Get to Noriter Cafe?

From the north (QC, Cubao, Bulacan, etc)

From the south (Alabang, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, etc)