Traveling is simply the best way to see the world, and travel insurance Philippines can help you do just that. Some people travel for personal reasons, while some go abroad for business-related reasons. There are also some who simply crave an adventure that only traveling satisfies. Either way, they are likely to fly to and from their destinations. If you are worried about traveling, it is important to carry travel insurance wherever you go. It can help you get out of potential financial ruin. Those interested in getting their coverage surely want to get it from reputable insurers. Good thing there is a number of reliable providers in the country. Check them out.
AXA iON Smart Traveller
Features & Benefits
One of the most important features of this insurance is that it has 24/7 emergency travel assistance that covers comprehensive medical benefits. This includes hospital costs, doctor’s fees, and other similar charges. Moreover, this coverage offers refunds for pre-books travel expenses in the event that your non-refundable expense is canceled or postponed.
How to Apply
Applying for this insurance is quite easy. You just need to visit the company’s website and pick which package is perfect for your needs. You can choose among the firm’s offerings – namely Essential, Classic, or Elite. After choosing, you simply need to enter your travel details, which will determine the amount you will pay. Keep in mind that each package has a different coverage amount for each package.
Fees & Charges
The fee can vary depending on your travel dates and destination. For international travel, you can pay as low as ₱775.65. Travel insurance for domestic flights can go for as low as ₱225.
Contact Information
Interested in getting insurance coverage from AXA iON? The easiest way to get in touch with the company is through its website’s LiveChat. You can also give them a call via landline at (+632) 8 5815-AXA(292) and through mobile at (+63) 917 1709292 (Globe) or (+63) 998 5889292 (Smart). You can also send mail to their office at 34th Floor GT Tower, Ayala Ave. Corner H.V. Dela Costa, Makati City, Philippines.
Pacific Cross Insurance in the Philippines. Image source: ptiapps.paynamics.net.
Features & Benefits
When you choose to travel with a Pacific Cross Insurance, you can rest assured that you will have a 24/7 emergency assistance wherever you are in the world. You can also benefit from various policies for travel-related issues such as baggage loss, travel documents loss, flight delay, and other similar problems.
How to Apply
Those who are looking to apply for this insurance just need to avail of the company’s free quotation services. You will be required to provide your age, plan type, the purpose of travel, travel date, origin, and destination. You can choose from the Travelsafe Tripguard offerings, which offer in- and out-patient care, dental treatment, and several others. You can also pick ShortSecure, which includes medical treatments and personal accident coverage.
Fees & Charges
When you avail of the Travelsafe Tripguard, you should be ready to pay a minimum of ₱513 depending on which package you choose, your travel dates, and your destination. For those who availed the Shortsecure Individual, the premiums range from ₱194 to ₱466.
Contact Information
If you want to reach out to Pacific Cross, you can simply visit their website and use their General Inquiries form. You only need to provide your name, email address, contact number, location, choice product, and your query. To get in touch with their head office, give them a call at +63 2 8899-8001 or email them at info@pacificcross.com.ph. You can also visit a branch near you. To find the nearest office, check out their complete list of branches.
This travel insurance Philippines package covers a variety of travel-related situations. This includes hospitalization, necessary follow-up treatment, theft, and other emergency benefits. It can also handle problems with your airline, including delays and missed flights.
How to Apply
To apply, you just need to provide your travel date and destination, and you will be given a quote. Keep in mind that you will need a Fortune General account, so make sure that you register for one before you proceed. After this, you can push through with the transaction through the quotation page.
Fees & Charges
Just like the first two coverages, your premium will depend on your travel date and destination. The amount can also vary depending on the number of travelers included in the package. Your premium can be as low as ₱1,150 per person.
Contact Information
To get in touch with the insurer, you can give them a call at (+632) 706-3959. You can also send them a message through the website’s query form. Just enter your name, email address, subject, and message.
There is nothing better than knowing that you are protected by an insurance package when you travel. So, if you love traveling or you are required to travel for work, getting insurance from these travel insurance Philippines companies is your best option.
Bali is the most famous island holiday destination in the Indonesian archipelago. The island’s home to an ancient Balinese culture that’s known for its warm hospitality. Enjoy astonishing beach resorts and luxury resorts in any of Bali’s famous areas. Exotic temples and palaces set abreast stunning natural backdrops are some of its top attractions. Bali Travel Guide
Inland, towering volcanoes and pristine jungles greet you with plenty to see and do. Most can’t linger away from the beach for long, though. These include Kuta, Seinyak, and Jimbaran where most of the great hotels and villas are right on the beach. Photo by: Maw Purisima-Ragandac
Day 1⃣ Half Day Ubud Tour
1:00pm – 6:00pm Bali Travel Guide ☀️Kynd Community (in Seminyak) ☀️Batuan Temple (free) ☀️Tegalalang Rice Fields (free) ☀️Uma Pakel & Luwak Coffee Plantation (free)
Day 2⃣ Bedugul Tour with side trips
North of Bali ☀️W Seminyak Hotel Bamboo Entrance (free) ☀️ Motel Mexicola & Sea Circus ☀️Tanah Lot (IDR60K) Multiply by .004 to convert to peso ☀️Puru Ulun Danu Bratan (IDR50K) ☀️The Handara Gate (IDR20K) ☀️Wanagiri Hidden Hill (IDR50K) ☀️ Taman Ayun Temple (IDR20K)
Day 3⃣ East of Bali
We went back to Tegalalang for shopping
Alternative: Monkey Forest IDR50K, Ubud Palace, free ☀️ Tirta Gangga (IDR30K) ☀️Lempuyang Temple (IDR5K for the sarung rental, you may bring your own sarung) ☀️ Ubud Art Market
On the second and third day, we opted to stay in Ubud.
✔️ The Alena Resort Luxury Genuine Experience by Pramana
Stay in a Bali villa and you’ll never want to stay in a hotel again! For the sense of privacy and intimacy, larger living spaces in a single compound comprised of a separate pavilion and an added bonus of a swimming pool surrounded by tropical gardens! So hard to leave! Bali Travel Guide
Promo fare at Cebu Pac Php 6306.35
Plus Travel Tax Php1620 TIP: Download the SkyScanner app to score cheap flights.
Car Rental:
Good for 4 people. Multiply by .004 to convert to peso
First Day 500K (Php2K)
Second Day 600K (Php2400)
Third Day 500K (Php2K)
Fourth Day 200K (Php800)
Total per person Php1,800 only for 4days Bali Travel Guide
Food: Bali Travel Guide
Roughly 75k per meal (Indo cuisine)
Php300 x 7 = Php2100
Entrance Fees:
First Day (Php0)
Second Day 60K (Php800)
Third Day 50K (Php140)
Fourth Day (Php0)
Total: Php940 Bali Travel Guide TOTAL ESTIMATED EXPENSES: Php12,766.35 excluding accommodation and souvenirs. (IDR 3,191,500.00)
I didn’t include in the expenses cause we have different preferences, but I must say, stay in a Bali villa!💚
Photo by: Maw Purisima-Ragandac
Tips: Bali Travel Guide
▪ Bring USD and tell your driver to drop you off in a money exchange center outside airport. Best deal tho is in Ubud. Bali Travel Guide ▪ You may contact our driver slash photographer Yan Nik He can also customize your itinerary ▪ If you have an adapter, bring it cause they have a round hole socket in the hotels. ▪ Bring sunblock haha and water, always. They do not have “service water” in their restaurants ▪ Cheapest to buy pasalubong is in Tegalalang. ▪ June – Nov are rainy months in Bali ▪ Buy some snacks in convenience stores
Few vids in my highlights: www.instagram.com/mawsmallows 👗OOTDs from The Boho Soul 📷 Camera : Fujifilm XA3 and post-processed in LR mobile.
Of course, behind those amazing shots is my sister slash photographer Jah Purisima
I had such a beautiful experience in Bali, it’s hard to even explain. Definitely, going back. 😍
Drop me a comment if you have any more questions on your impending trip!
Hope this helps!
After a long day at Siem Reap, spending time at the Mahonati Pool of Memoire Palace Resort and Spa, and having a great massage at the Memoria Spa, it’s now time to taste the best of dinner in our stay in this hotel.
We are scheduled at around 8 pm to take place and dine at The Stage 1960s, a restaurant located just one level above Aha Udom, that caters to traditional and historical dishes of Khmer culture from the old days of war until today.
The Stage 1960s
This restaurant serves dishes from the old times with a hint of a modern twist, plated and garnished in an elegant way, in a dining area decorated with old appliances and memorabilia, on a traditional Khmer set up with a strong French colonial influence.
For the soup, there are three (3) choices; SOMLOR CHAO HON, SOMLOR SREY SUR, and SNGOA TRAV TREY SANDAI. We didn’t actually know what to order so we ended up asking the staff of what’s the best seller out of all the three. She mentioned it was the second one so we opted for Somlor Srey Sur.
For the main dish, we felt like we should get what will make us full, and so of the three choices from the menu; SACH KO AING, MOAN DOT KHNOL, and KAYORNG PLIT BAY KARI TRUNG KREUNG, we picked the second one, Moan Dot Khnol.
From the Top Secret menu, out of all the three choices; Num Kreep Tateuk, Bok Sach Kor, Num Kru-uhk, we decided to go for the Num Kru-uhk.
Somlor Srey Sur
A traditional soup of Cambodia, using a mix of Surf and Turf with relatively mature coconut that has the particularity to have very soft skin. The Royal Celestial Soup with Lean Pork, Chicken Breast, Prawn, Coconut Flesh and Cilantro Springs. The Stage 1960s
Moan Dot Knol
This dish is commonly found in local eateries at the straw huts near ancient monuments. This is an ideal meal during a family outing to visit the temples. The traditional way of roasting the free-range (organic) chicken is in a heavy cast-iron pot, over a charcoal fire. Roasted Free Range Chicken stuffed with Lemongrass, Kaffir Leaf, served with Young Jack Fruit and Citrus Black Pepper Corn Dip and Spicy Sweet Sour Sauce. The Stage 1960s siem reap
Num Kru-uhk
This dish is made of Rice Coconut Puffs with Prawn, Crispy Bacon, Khmer Dressing Topped Creamy Herb Espuma.
As we were still waiting for the food, we had the chance to look around and chat a bit with the staff at the restaurant. Also, while waiting, we opted for the drinks in the form of cocktail and wine. The Stage 1960s cambodia
There was interestingly old radio that came from Japan, not a jukebox, but really an old-style radio that still works and I asked the staff if they could try and open it. Amazingly, even though it looks really old, it works perfectly connected to the speakers inside the restaurant, with the tune of Elton John songs.
While our ordered food was being served, the staff tells about some of the histories of the food, what’s made of it, and some information we need to know on how to properly eat each dish. It was a dining area that feels like you are learning more while having your tummy full of sumptuous treats.
The staff in the restaurant was really cool, kind, and great service. They all are full of smiles and feels like a long-term friend when you just met them. This is something that we know we couldn’t simply forget in Siem Reap or particularly in Memoire chain of hotels, their hospitality and welcoming personality is contagious, it will make your day better.
We personally would recommend that you go and eat at The Stage 1960s if you are a history buff and or someone who loves to eat food with a story behind it.
THE STAGE 1960s
Street Phsar Kroam Krong Siem Reap, Krong Siem Reap 17252
(inside Memoire Palace Resort and Spa)
Have you ever thought that there’s also a Muslim community in Manila?
I’m actually quite surprised myself. It’s true that we always see Muslim people in almost every business establishment possible but never I had thought there’s a community in the heart of the city.
Quiapo, where the Feast of the Black Nazarene is being held every January, is where the Muslim community in Manila lies within. Meaningful Travels PH gave us a remarkable trip to this community together with other bloggers and the crew of GMA 7 News Channel.
Quiapo Muslim Community Muslim Town Tour
I’ve been to Quiapo but little did I know that there is a Muslim community inside the streets of this place. You know, it’s probably because of the rumors circulating in and around the news that Quiapo is quite a dangerous place, especially at night. My girlfriend, Jane, who is a resident of Manila, do not know much as well regarding an Islamic community in the area though she’s quite frequent to the place primarily because she’s a student at a nearby university.
I didn’t even know that there was an arc in the area that signifies a lot for the Muslim community in Quiapo. Everything is new to me and we are to be a part of, what I know (and have experienced), an eye-opening experience for everyone.
Arab Asian Cafe Muslim Town Tour
Our first stop was the Arab Asian Cafe that served as our meeting place as well. It’s a small cafe in Norzagaray St. corner Gunao St. that serves Arabian cuisines and Filipino food. Here, we got to know each other’s names, who’s among us in the tour, and the coordinators that will give us a tour and explain to us what’s in the community. Amanah Busran Lao, who is a lawyer by profession specializing in Sharia Law (or Islamic Law) and Nords Maguindanao, who is a Salaam Radio Host, and Ann Marie Cunanan, the founder of Meaningful Travels PH, were the tour coordinators and hosts who gave us a lot of insights and information regarding how the Islamic Community in Quiapo started.
Nords was also enthusiastic about the history of the Philippines and how the Muslims contributed a lot when there is a war on-going but was never written in the books. Hearing this side of the story is really interesting and if you are a history buff, this will really pique your interest and ask more questions. I mean, have you ever read in a book that a part of the Muslim Mindanao has been captured by any conquerors?
Amanah also shared quite interesting details about how the Sharia Law is different from the Law of the Land (Philippine Constitution) and how it is being worked on to become a part of or in line with the National Law. Muslim Town Tour
Manila Golden Mosque or Quiapo Mosque
We head next to Manila Golden Mosque (Masjid Al-Dahab) which is located at Globo de Oro St. The mosque was constructed in 1976 for Libya’s President Muammar al-Gaddafi as a place to stay and pray in the Philippines during his visit. However, the trip was canceled but it has started the bloom of more Islamic culture in the area with people putting up shops and cafes around the mosque.
Muslims and non-Muslims are welcome in the mosque, provided that women will wear proper attire covering most of the skin and hair (hijab, long pants or dress, and sleeved blouses up to the wrist). However still, women with on-going menstruation are not allowed to go inside the mosque.
Halal in Food, Banking, Everyday Life
The most common thing that comes to our mind when we think of Halal is about the absence of pork in a dish. Yes, that’s correct, but that’s not all of it. Halal refers to the way or manner of preparing the food, cooking the food, from the ingredients to the utensils used making sure that everything is not contaminated. Halal also refers to their fashion, tourism (Halal tourism), and banking. Halal banks are not allowed to excise tax to a loan or any borrowed money.
There’s a rise now in restaurants serving Halal food. I know there’s one small shop in Harrison St. cor Gil Puyat St. But in the inside streets of the Muslim community, there’s a lot. There are cafes, small restaurants or carinderias, even the market serves Halal certified/processed foods. So if you’re one craving for Halal delicacies, then the Muslim Town in Quiapo is your go-to place. Muslim Town Tour
I’m also surprised that they are selling goods from Malaysia, a neighboring country near Mindanao. A ready to cook noodles I am most fond of is available in this town so I didn’t hesitate to buy one, Mi Sedaap. You should also try this (somewhat similar to Mi Goreng).
Some of the must-try food in the town is Pater, Dodol, and Palapa. Pater is a rice covered in banana leaf with some meat inside making it a snack at the same time. Dodol is a sweet made of sticky rice flour with coconut milk and sugar palm commonly served as dessert when there is a celebration in the house or in the community. Palapa, on the other hand, is a spicy Maranao dish that is best eaten as an appetizer to enhance taste buds.
Shops in Quiapo Muslim Town Muslim Town Tour
There’s a lot of shops in the Muslim Town of Quiapo. Every corner you will see a store of different goods. There are also quite a number of shops for Islamic clothing as it one that is bounded by their law. Hijabs are common for women as it is a sign of their submission to Allah. Imagine wearing a Hijab in a tropical country, but that just means Muslim people are one with their religion and their religion is not just a reading but a way of life. Muslim Town Tour
You also will find shops that are selling condiments, goods, and foods originating from the Mindanao so if you are looking for ingredients that can only be found in Mindanao, this Muslim community in Quiapo might have them and you do not need to go far.
Insights from the Muslim Immersion Tour
The Muslim Immersion Tour we commenced was simply different. Among all the tours I’ve been into, this has been an eye-opening tour for me. Most people are usually afraid to go to Muslim places and I couldn’t deny I have been one of them. You know, from all the news we get from the media outlets that Muslims are the proprietor of bad things happening around, we got installed with the idea that some of the Muslims are not good. But hey, with this tour, I learned a lot! About the history with Muslims, about why they would want to be a separate state, their Islamic culture, and many more things that only you can experience in the tour.
This tour really breaks the stereotypes instilled in the minds of most people. Muslims are religious people that are living their lives thru the teachings of Islam. They are kind and friendly people being discriminated because of what they look and how they behave. These people are also the generous kind. Like the other ordinary people in other parts of the country, they are also pleading for equality, acceptance, and opportunities. Muslim Town Tour
WATCH: Kultura, kasaysayan at pagkaing Muslim, masisilip at matitikman sa Quiapo tour. Tinutukan 'yan ni Sandra Aguinaldo. Sa mga Kapuso abroad, tumutok o mag-subscribe sa GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, at GMA News TV International para sa iba pang mga balita.
Meaningful Travels PH made a great move to be doing this tour. Not only they are creating a new way to travel differently, but they also are making great changes to human’s minds about how the people in the community are doing and what they need to help them or understand them. A real immersion within a couple of hours experience. I’m excited to see what’s in store for the next mission that the founder of Meaningful Travels PH, Ann Marie Cunanan, will have in the future.
Meaningful Travels PH
Quiapo Muslim Immersion Tour starts at ₱1,500.00
Get in touch with them via their Facebook Page. Email: meaningfultravelsph@gmail.com Contact: 0905 559 9040 Muslim Town Tour
For some, travel is a form of therapy. People love to get out of the house and explore the world. However, in a pandemic when you have to make essential travel, or even outside of one, there can be reasons to talk to a therapist.
In this post, we will look at why you should look to online therapy while traveling.
Online Therapy is Important for Any Time
First, we should mention that online therapy can be incorporated at any time; not just traveling. For example, you may not want to see a therapist in-person due to the pandemic, or you may have difficulties leaving your home. These are a couple of reasons why online therapy is essential. It has increased in popularity in 2020, and their services can be as effective as an in-person therapist.
Travel Can Get Lonely
Photo by Paola Chaaya on Unsplash
If you are traveling alone, be it for business or to find yourself, it can get lonely. You don’t know the people in the area you’re traveling to. There may be language or cultural barriers you have to face whenever you’re in a place. Even if you are a social person, it can be hard to form a true bond with someone when you are traveling.
That’s why talking to a therapist can be important. They can help you treat your loneliness when you’re out. While they are not a full replacement for a friend, they can be someone who will listen to you and offer advice.
Travel Can Be Stressful
Photo by Eric Ward on Unsplash
Even if you’re doing it for fun, travel can bring a lot of stress. You’re worrying about your budget, you worry about traveling safety, and the stresses of getting up or adjusting to a new time zone can be a challenge as well. While traveling is stressful, it doesn’t have to be full. By talking to a therapist, you can learn how to manage your stresses while in an unknown land.
Travel Can Be Costly
Because it costs so much to travel, you’ll be happy to know that online therapy tends to offer flexible payment schedules and tends to cost less than traditional therapy. There’s nothing wrong with saving some money, especially if you’re spending a lot on your travels. You’ll be glad you did.
It Can Be Hard to Seek Help When You’re Somewhere New
Another reason why online therapy during traveling is a must, even if you take away the pandemic aspect, is that seeking help from a traditional therapist may be difficult if you’re always traveling. You may not be in the same area long enough to schedule a therapy session. You may be in an area where therapy is more expensive. There are many reasons why you may not be able to make it to the office when you’re traveling. However, you don’t have to worry about that when you seek help from a licensed therapist online. Photo by Sydney Sims on Unsplash
Therapy on Your Schedule
One part of travel that can be a hassle is that you may be in a different time zone and have to deal with that. For example, you may be in a situation you’re 12 hours ahead of your home country, and you’re unable to talk to anyone back home because it’s not a reasonable hour for them.
With online therapy, it’s much easier to find a therapist who is up when you’re up. Many therapists will have their own working hours, and some are designed to be night owls. These therapists can help you quite a bit when you’re feeling like you need someone to talk to.
You Can Talk While Commuting
If you’re on a train or bus, you can’t exactly have a therapy session. That’s why it’s good for you to speak to a therapist online. You can talk through chatting, allowing you to have a quiet session while commuting. A chat session allows for more freedom, even if some nonverbal language does get lost. Many people, however, will find that it’s a small price to pay for being able to talk to someone at any time. It allows you to be more flexible as well. You can do an online gaming session while you talk to a therapist while commuting. The possibilities are endless. Photo by Metin Ozer on Unsplash
Seek Help
When you’re traveling, one thing you have to remember is that depression never takes a vacation. Having an online therapist you can talk to while on your way out can make your travel much better. If you’re traveling for business, seeking help allows you to have a clearer mind in the process.
There is no shame in seeking help, and BetterHelp is here for you. By trying online therapy with BetterHelp. You will have a licensed therapist who will help you no matter where you are on the globe.
Yourself is a masterpiece. You are a precious human. You are unique. You are extraordinary. You are raised to be you in this world. You are perfect. You are better than anyone else. You are great. You deserve more. You are your own life. You are worth it.
With the rise of the technology comes the rise of anything that’s comparable: life, wealth, work, basically everything. When we see something posted online, we tend to compare what we don’t have and what the other one has. We, if not always, get to see what we lack and starts to think we don’t have a life similar to what we see on a post.
What one people have doesn’t mean that we have to have it too. What one person does n’t mean we have to do it as well. If that one person you compare yourself too claims that they have the best life, then it’s probably the opposite. It could be a mask to what’s really happening to his/her life. They tend to hide the bad things because they always want to see only the good things for the crown. Not that they are a fraud, but it could be one way of telling themselves that they have a perfect life.
When we try to compare ourselves with anyone, we mostly think of the negative aspects of our life. When this happens, our levels of energy become low. Low energy results to lack of active and healthy cells that help us conquer the quests in our life. This makes us think we are not living a good life.
To change this kind of thinking, one must surround himself with the positive people around. Hang out with the best people you know, the ones that will uplift your energy and soul. Go make some friends with people who you think will bring positive change in your life. Having friends who share the same positive energy gives you an infinite amount of good karma that you can use to build and think of better things.
One should also not compare themselves to the lives of others. If that one person you think happens to have a great life, then your life is doing great as well. You must learn that each and everyone has different experiences, different struggles, different emotions, and different way of living. To each, his own. You do not need to experience what that other person experiences. Would you want to experience also the bad things happening in their lives? I guess not.
Everyone has different sets of energies. You are the one person who holds your own. You must make the best out of it so instead of being hard on yourself, be thankful with everything that you have, for what you have is precious and not everyone has it. Be grateful with anything. Be it a small thing in your life like someone told you “Good Morning”, or your business has been successful enough that you do not think to think of a way on how to pay your bills. When you practice being grateful, you will appreciate life more.
With being grateful also comes the trait of being appreciative. When you become appreciative, you get to see even the very small details and appreciate it. Even just the smile you see in every person’s face, you get to appreciate that. And when you appreciate, you become a well positive person.
Since you must not lose energy due to negative thinking, taking vitamins is also a good habit. For this matter, Ultima Vitamins helps you become the better you. With high energy levels and nutrients, you’d think you will be able to conquer everything. With regularly taking Ultima Vitamins, you’d have the energy to spend an entire day being active and not feel down. Ultima makes you feel the ultimate energy unleashed in you to be the ultimate you.
This spring break season, why not take a surfing break. There is a whole host of destinations which cater to the boarding crowd, both domestically and on the international scene. Regardless of your experience level, you are bound to find a fantastic destination which is perfectly suited to your own skill level. Here, we present ten of the best gems when it comes to top class surfing around the globe.
Any top surfer needs a top board to accompany them on their travels, you can read an in-depth guide of one such board with this Wavestorm Surfboard Buyer’s Guide. This may be the perfect choice to join on your spring break surfing adventure.
Bocas del Toro, Panama
Photo by Austin Neill via Unsplash
This Central American beauty is the ideal place to catch some of the best waves this spring break. Suitable for all levels of surfer, it also allows you to break from the usual spring break crowds which descend. This is an ideal escape and welcomed by many, yet it still provides an awesome social life and experiences once you decide to call time on your days of surfing. You can also guarantee with pretty much certainty that the weather conditions will be just perfect. Surf Destinations Around the World
Bali, Indonesia is one of the most popular surf destinations in the world. Beyond this, the island is also hugely popular for honeymoons or just regular tourists all through the year. A major part of the reason for this is their world famous beach and seas as well as a local population with increased English skills and all the required facilities to cater for a surfing crowd. While it may not be cheap to get there, this is more than made up for through your cost of living at the destination. This cost is very low.
Photo by Rajvinder singh via Unsplash
For those who may wish to stay a little closer to home, yet still, capture that destination magic, PR has the perfect solution. It is immersed in international culture and atmosphere whilst still being considered a domestic destination. Beyond this, the infrastructure provided for surfers is second to none, with some amazing conditions and a highly suitable spring break climate.
The mecca for many surfers throughout history, Hawaii still retains much of that reputation. The conditions which you will find in Hawaii during spring break have not diminished since the heyday of the state. Combined with being able to surf monster waves, you will also be able to soak up the sun and the nuances of a local culture thousands of miles away, while technically remaining in the US. This also means there are many competitive deals when it comes time to book your flights from major US airports.
Photo by Matt Briney via Unsplash
If you are looking for more island options, this Caribbean beauty may be just perfect. It presents an ideal option for those who wish to combine relaxed surfing conditions with some amazing beaches and idyllic surroundings. It is a little quieter than some other selections, but this just means you can immerse yourself in the surf even more and enjoy the tranquility of your surrounding and the local culture when getting some time on the waves. Surf Destinations Around the World
Photo by Joe Cooke via Unsplash
Mexico is always a popular spring break destination and with Cancun among others being the party hub for spring break, why not change the pace a little with Salina Cruz. This still offers fantastic opportunities to enjoy your spring break social life, but also comes with a fantastic location to enjoy some of the best waves in the world. Again, given the time of the year, you can also be assured that the water temperature remains quite warm. Always a plus. Surf Destinations Around the World
Photo by MontyLov via Unsplash
Another domestic option for those who do not wish to travel internationally. An excellent domestic option at that. San Diego is a fun and enthralling place to visit at any time of the year and for any occasion, but during spring break it also features many of the great surfing conditions and still positively warm water conditions with a steady surf. It is likely the most ideal for those who also wish to combine the benefits of a city spring break and enjoy the waves. Surf Destinations Around the World
Photo by Cristian Palmer via Unsplash
Located off the coast of Spain and Morocco, these islands are something of a hidden gem within Europe. They reach some of the highest spring temperatures on the continent and provide the most amazing sandy beaches and ideal surf conditions of any place. Here you can enjoy these perfect conditions while exploring a real once in a lifetime collection of islands with a modern infrastructure which is easy and cheap to access from Europe.
Photo by Chris Marquardt via Unsplash
Certainly, Ireland does not feature some of the warm water temperatures which our other locations can count on, and you may indeed experience some rain, but the wild Atlantic winds and waves make for some of the world’s best surfing conditions, particularly on the north-west coast. You will also not be left searching for opportunities to socialize, with a traditional local pub never much further than a stone’s throw from the beach. The people are welcoming and the surfing is fantastic on this rugged island.
Photo by Atanas Malamov via Unsplash
A final tropical beauty. Like Panama, Costa Rica is becoming increasingly easy to access, and it certainly delivers. It features some of the most beautiful landscapes and beaches anywhere in the world, combining them with near perfect surfing conditions. Regardless of your ability level, the country has options for you. Following your visit, you will also almost certainly fall in love with both Costa Rica and its surf. Surf Destinations Around the World
With so many fantastic destinations to choose from, you really have no reason not to take to the waves this spring break. With options both at home and abroad which ensure you will have an awesome time regardless of experience levels, it may just be time to book those flights and pack your board for an amazing Spring break adventure this year.
WHAT TO READ NEXT Surf Destinations Around the World
When you think about it, it is even funny — there are thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of travel blogs, but people keep writing and reading them. And some of them become truly successful. So, if you are procrastinating thinking, “oh, I want to write just another travel blog, how I can possibly compete in this market,” stop it right now. It is a good thing to recognize competition, but it should not decide whether you start writing a blog or not. You just need to be properly prepared, and today we will share a detailed list of things you need to do to create a working travel blog. No more jibber-jabber, let’s get started. Woman reading travel blog on tablet
How to Create a Travel Blog from Scratch
Here, we will start not with texts but with app strategy. Before you start writing, you need to decide on what you will write, choose the platform, decide on the name of your blog, and define content strategy. Just deciding that you will write about travel won’t do, so make sure you don’t skip this part.
Decide on Your USP
USP stands for a unique sales proposition. You may think that it doesn’t concern you, and all you want is to describe some places to go and things to see. However, as you decided to write a blog, not a diary, you need to sell this blog’s idea because readers’ attention is also a currency. So, think about the topic or a tone of voice that will help you differ. You cannot write about everything for everyone, but you can write about the most affordable locations for students, or about places that are perfect for creating content for Instagram, or about food in different parts of the world or your country.
Choose a Name and a Descriptor
Once you are done with USP, it is time to choose the name for your blog. It should reflect its main idea. You can also explain your USP in more detail, creating a slogan or description for your blog. For example, “A travel blog about places you can spend a weekend for $100”.
Choose a Blogging Platform and Settle on It
There are dozens of options. You can use a classical WordPress website. There are hundreds of detailed tutorials online for that. You can use a website builder like Wix, Tilda, and many others. You can use your social media platform that you use already. Yes, you can write a travel blog on Facebook or even LinkedIn; everything depends on your target audience.
This section should stand out, as it explains why people should start reading you and why they should keep doing it. Here are some rules. Don’t write your autobiography. People hate that. No one is interested in the fact that you liked to write essays on traveling in highschool. So, you need to follow a different story pattern. Answer the following questions: What do you write about? Here, you should make a dig towards the USP. Why are you good at it? Why is it beneficial for people to become your readers? How does your blog differ from others? One answer – one abstract.
Learn a Thing or Two About SEO
Writing well is not enough. You need to make sure that someone actually reads what you have written, and for this, you need to optimize your articles accordingly. SEO stands for search engine optimization. When someone goes on Google and writes, “The best wine places in Napa,” they won’t scroll further than 2-3 pages of search results. You need to be on those pages.
Write a Content Plan
We bet you feel like you haven’t started yet, and are already tired. This preliminary strategic and tactical will pay off, we promise. At this stage, you need to create a content plan at least for a month. Why? Because now you have 2-3 topics in mind and feel very relaxed. But once you are done with them, you will hit the wall. The best way not to start procrastinating is to have a doable content plan.
Even if you start writing a blog “just because,” it is a good idea to think about monetization in advance, why not earn extra money from your hobby? Read about Adsense, Amazon, and affiliate programs. If you are strongly interested in monetization, we recommend from time to time to order blog posts from professional paper writing services, such asWrite My Paper Hub whom you can pay to have your essays written from scratch. You will both learn how to write better and have quality optimized posts and academic articles for better promotion.
How to Improve Your Travel Writing Skills
Once we are done with a strategy, it is time to focus on writing itself. If you have defined USP and created a content plan, writing will not be a problem. Let’s get started.
Read and Make Notes
The fact that there are so many good travel blogs can be scary or inspiring. Choose inspiring. Make an analysis of the most successful blogs in your field, make notes on what they write and how they describe places and activities. Of course, there is no room for plagiarism, but you can get some invaluable ideas. Also, read not only about travel but about the regions you travel to. This way, you will collect the needed information to make your blog useful and unique. Don’t trust your memory, make notes!
A writing style is not something that can be created in one day, it is worth trying. At first, just write the way you can and want. Later, analyze the feedback from your readers. Feel the flow. When you are in the flow, your true style is seen. We are not born with style, we need to work on it, but we have some specific tone that can be inherent only to us.
Use Online Grammar Checkers
Last, but definitely not least, use online proofreaders. No matter the style you choose, your writing should be clear and have minimum mistakes. Blogs with grammar and style mistakes look cheap and unreliable. Choose several quality checkers, such as Grammarly, and use them for every article you write. Congratulations, you are all set!
Now you can create your own salad and start eating healthy fruits and veggies on the go with Salad Bar!
How Salad Bar started
Salad Bar was introduced by Paul Gan, Edmil Chan, and Jenrich Jen Chua. The three seemed to notice that there are only a few choices for healthy snacks and food for people working in the corporate atmosphere and it was then decided that they should set up a food cart that brings another choice to their usual menu and palate. A healthy way to spend your break rather than smoke or eat more carbs.
Create your own Salad
This is the fun stuff about Salad Bar. You get to create your own salad with plenty of choices! There’s macaroni, grapes, mushroom, lettuce, tuna, honeydew, melon, watermelon, lychee, carrots, cucumber, tomatoes, corn kernels, papaya, cucumber, green bell peppers, grapes, turnip (singkamas), and a whole lot more! You can have as much as you want and even more. There’s no limit to what you can add to your bowl.
There’s also a lot of choices for the salad dressing. What are those? That’s for you to find out. 🙂
The Salad Bar Experience
We visited the Salad Bar branch at Robinson’s Summit Center on the 7th-floor food hall. Robinson’s Summit Center is located in Ayala Avenue, Makati City. We created our own salad!
We put lettuce as the base for our own creation. Next, we added fruits like melon, honeydew, papaya, and lychee. We actually would love to have the grapes on our salad but unfortunately, grapes were already out of stock. Jane loved macaroni so we also a added a bunch of that on the side too. We chose to add strips of carrots, mushrooms, corn kernels, strips of turnips, cucumber pieces and topped it off with a Thousand Island and Raspberry dressing. Mmm, yum!
That salad we created has been our merienda and we’re stuffed with good food for like 2-3 hours. Truly a healthy way to spend money and eat healthy without breaking the bank! Only 30 Php per 100 grams!
Salad Bar Contact, Locations and Branches
FB:@saladbarph Email:saladbarph@gmail.com Website:www.saladbarph.com
7th Floor Robinson’s Summit Center, Ayala Avenue, Makati City
12th Floor GT Tower, Ayala Avenue, Makati City
7th Floor PBCom Tower, Ayala Avenue, Makati City
2nd Floor Zuellig Building, Makat iAvenue cor Paseo de Roxas, Makati City
3rd level Food Choices, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Ayala Avenue, Makati City
MANILA – BANGKOK – MANILA via FLIGHT
AIRFARE: PHP 2942.10
Inclusive: ✔️Roundtrip Cebu Pacific Airfare Ticket ✔️15 KG Baggage Allowance (MNL – BKK) ✔️20 KG Baggage Allowance (BKK – MNL) TRAVEL TAX: PHP 1620 TIP: Book your flight as early as possible, watch out for promo fares. Booked mine last year.
(Near Khaosan Road)
BUDGET: 700 BAHT per night (2 Nights)
PROS: ✔️Good Location ✔️Near Bars and Resto ✔️Walking Distance near Khao San Road ✔️Near Chao Phraya River Book Now | AgodaBook Now | Booking.com
2. Sabai Sabai Sukhumvit Hotel
BUDGET: 1100 BAHT per night (1 Night)
PROS: ✔️Near Ramkamhaeng Station Airport Train Link TIP: There are a lot of affordable hotels and hostels in Bangkok. Book as early as possible to take advantage of the early booking discount. Thailand Travel Guide Tri-City Itinerary Book Now | AgodaBook Now | Booking.com
[hoops name=”Ad_textLinks2″]
ACTIVITIES:
Please check photos for detailed information, make sure to read the captions.
DAY 1 (Bangkok)
📍Grand Palace Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) Chakri Maha Prasat (Foreigner with a Thai Hat) 📍Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) 📍Khao San Road
DAY 2 (Ayutthaya)
📍Ayutthaya Elephant Village 📍Wat Maha That (Monastery of the Great Relic) 📍Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon (Great Monastery of Auspicious Victory) 📍Enjoy BKK Bistro (Bangkok)
DAY 3 (Damnoen Saduak)
📍Damnoen Saduak Floating Market 📍Chatuchak Week End Market (Bangkok)
ENTRANCES & FEES:
299 BAHT – Thai Sim Card
500 BAHT – Grand Palace (includes Wat Phra Kaew and Chakri Maha Prasat)
100 BAHT – Wat Pho Thailand Travel Guide Tri-City Itinerary
700 BAHT / person – Elephant Ride
50 BAHT – Wat Maha That
20 BAHT – Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
1000 BAHT / person – Floating Motor Boat (Private)
1000 BAHT / person – 2hrs Floating Market plus Temple Tour
[hoops name=”InArticle”] “Welcome to Bangkok, the City of Angels!”
Upon arrival, proceed to the immigration for entry registration. Filipinos will be granted 30 days visa upon arrival. “The sunrise in Mo Chit.”
A more than a 3-hour flight from Manila, we boarded the plane at 9:00 PM and landed at 11:45 PM in Thailand local time. There is an hour time difference between Manila (GMT +8) and Thailand (GMT +7). Luckily, I have my sister and cousins working in Thailand. We spent one night at their flat.
“BTS (Train) Ticket Vending Machine.”
From Mo Chit Station, we took the BTS ride going to Ratchathewi Station (station near Khao San Road).
Then from Ratchathewi Station, we took a metered taxi ride going to our hostel. FARES: 💳BTS Ticket 💵 37 BAHT one-way ride per person Taxi Fare 70 – 100 BAHT (Going to Hostel) “The Happio Place.”
We arrived at our hostel earlier than the check-in time. The staff allowed us to check-in early without additional cost. Thailand Travel Guide Tri-City Itinerary
The location is very good, walking distance in local stores, bars, and resto, also in ferry stations and near Khao San Road. [BOOK HERE – Agoda][BOOK HERE – Booking] “The Phra Arthit Ferry Station.”
From our hostel, it is 5 minutes walk going to the Phra Arthit ferry station. We crossed the Chao Phraya River via the express boat, this is the easiest and cheapest gateway going to the Grand Palace.
We got off in Tha Chang station, walked inside the Tha Chang market and followed the flow of people going to the Grand Palace. Thailand Travel Guide Tri-City Itinerary
FARES: Ferry Ride Phra Arthit Station – Tha Chang Station 15 BAHT one-way ride per person
“The Grand Palace.”
Your visit to Bangkok will not be completed, without the glimpse of the home of the royal family, The Grand Palace. Lies in the center of Bangkok, the architectural structure will amaze you and gives you a hindsight of how rich the culture is and gives you a commemorating view of the Thai history. It’s one of the best places to visit here in Thailand.
[hoops name=”InArticle”] “The Grand Palace Entrance Fee.”
Getting inside the Grand Palace is actually free, you can go inside the palace without paying anything. However, if you would like to access the beautiful view of the Palaces and Halls you need to pay 500 BAHT per person to have a full access on the unrestricted places inside the home of the royal family.
ENTRANCE FEE: Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Chakri Maha Prasat 500 BAHT per person “Proper Attire in Visiting Grand Palace.”
Visiting the Grand Palace and Temples in Thailand requires proper clothing. To avoid extra expenses, make sure to wear proper clothes, no sleeveless, no shorts, no skirt above the knee, no sandals and slippers. Sometimes, you will be required to take off your shoes going inside the temples. Above all, RESPECT Thai traditions and cultures. Thailand Travel Guide Tri-City Itinerary
“Grand Palace Architectural Designs.”
Grand Palace is undoubtedly famous because of its sophisticated architectural designs showcasing the craftsmanship and mastery in the art of the Thai people. An Instagram-worthy wall, where you can pose and take pictures. Just one of the many sides and views in Grand Palace.
“Temple of the Emerald Buddha.”
Known as the Wat Phra Kaew for Thai locals, this temple lies inside the Grand Palace. Video and picture taking is not allowed inside, as this served as one of the sacred Buddhist temples in Thailand. You need to take off your shoes if you have plans for going inside the temple. Thailand Travel Guide Tri-City Itinerary
[hoops name=”InArticle”] “Chakri Maha Prasat.”
A western architecture creation dubbed as the “Foreigner with a Thai Hat” that serves as the function hall for royal events and gatherings. “Wat Pho.”
Lies next to the Grand Palace is the Wat Pho, famously known as the “Temple of the Emerald Buddha“. 10-15 minutes walk from the Grand Palace where you can see the 46 meters long figure of Buddha.
Just follow the long stretch of the Grand Palace white wall instead of riding Tuktuk. Again, proper clothing is observed.
ENTRANCE FEE: Wat Pho 100 BAHT per person (includes free water) “Wat Pho Gallery.”
Beside Wat Pho temple is a mini gallery where you can see miniatures, buddhas and gong. Also, you can offer and light incense for wishes.
“The Grand Palace Miniature.”
You can spot a cute miniature of the Grand Palace found inside the Wat Pho Gallery.
Photo by Hazy Haz Tigue “Khao San Road.”
A one-kilometer long strip located in downtown Bangkok best described as the “center of the backpacking universe”.
This place is a haven for backpackers looking for budget hostels and mid-range hotels. The road features the nightlife in Bangkok where you can find different bars and clubs to hop in. The best place to have a taste of Thai’s local food where you can find different local restaurants. Finding your travel needs, where you can find a lot of travel agencies and money changers. Thailand Travel Guide Tri-City Itinerary
Overall, I highly recommend staying in or near Khao San Road.
Photo by Billy Catacutan “Getting in Ayutthaya.”
From Happio Place, we took a metered taxi ride going to the Mo Chit Bus Terminal Station.
Mo Chit Bus Terminal Station serves as the gateway going to different places from Northern, Central, Eastern and Southern Thailand. From here, we took the minivan going to Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya is approximately one and a half hour drive away from Bangkok.
FARE: Mini Van Mo Chit Bus Terminal – Ayutthaya 60 BAHT one-way ride per person Photo by Billy Catacutan
“Exploring Ayutthaya.”
When we arrived in the City of Ayutthaya, we rented a Tuktuk to roam us around the city.
Good thing, there were some travelers from Japan and Canada that we have met. I’ve approached them and ask to share the ride and split the fare on the tuk-tuk ride, and they agreed. We ended up exploring the city with them and meeting new friends. Thailand Travel Guide Tri-City Itinerary
FARES: Tuktuk Ride 3 Destinations Ayutthaya Elephant Village Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon Wat Mahat That 250 per person Photo by Hazy Haz Tigue “Ayutthaya Adventures.”
Whenever I travel out of the country, it is on my top priority to visit the places that allow me to see the ruins of the past, why? because I’m a big fan of history and culture. Ayutthaya City is one of those. Under the world heritage list of UNESCO, Historic City of Ayutthaya is listed as one of the historical sites in Thailand.
“Ayutthaya Elephant Village.”
According to the Thai history, riding an elephant in the ancient times were only for King and privileged royal visitors. The place offer packages for an elephant ride. It ranges from 1000 BAHT up to 2000 BAHT per ride depending on the length of time. RIDE FEE: Elephant Ride Fee 1400 for 2 people (30 minutes) TIPS:
Local operators here are greedy for money. They will give you bracelets and charge you, also asking for compulsory tips. We only want to try riding an elephant for experience, however, with the experiences we had with the local operators here, I will NOT recommend this place. Photo by Hazy Haz Tigue “Riding An Elephant.”
Riding an elephant was a fun experience indeed, but after I have seen the animal cruelty in this elephant tourism in Thailand, I will no longer recommend to try it at all. Yes, it is true, there is a dark side of enjoying the ride. Elephants were being tortured and mistreated. Using bagging hooks and chains, elephants were forced to work.
Recommended KKday and Klook discounted offerings [Bangkok]:
✔️It is highly recommended to buy a local sim card with internet for maps/directions. Thailand has a very good high-speed internet connection. Most of the Thai’s doesn’t know how to speak good English. ✔️Have a list of things to bring especially when going to an international country like Thailand. ✔️In visiting temples, make sure to wear proper clothing to avoid additional expenses. No shorts, no sandals, no skirt above the knee and above all respect their culture and traditions. ✔️Unlike Hong Kong, where most of the tourist places are walking distance within train stations, most of the tourist places in Thailand are not walking distance. Ride the trains and taxis for transportation convenience, always go for the metered taxi, if not metered just say NO and try to hire another ride. Flat rate starts at 35 BAHT, most of the taxi drivers that we had were very nice and honest. Bus rides are not recommended, most of the drivers don’t know how to speak in English unless you have addresses translated into Thai. Tuktuk (tricycle) rides can be negotiated, however, fares will depend on your destination, also its expensive compared with taxis. Thailand Travel Guide Tri-City Itinerary ✔️Beware of the SCAMS, when someone approaches you, be cautious, its much better if you buy your ticket on your own especially in visiting the Grand Palace and Temples. ✔️Geographically, Philippines and Thailand are almost the same, there are traffics during rush hours. Thailand traffics are tolerable compared the traffics in the Philippines. ✔️It is not about how many places you’ve been, but it is all about enjoying the places. Make your time count, explore the places. ✔️Blend in be a traveler, not a tourist. Try local food and local shops.
