They say the right book has the capacity to change our lives forever. Their words can not only transport us around the world but they can also lend us another perspective. The right books captivate our imaginations and inspire us to travel
Travel is one of those things that make life worthwhile. And of course, while reading a book can be as gratifying, there’s certainly something thrilling about traveling the world and seeing it with your own eyes.
Below are some books that will inspire the wanderlust in you. Hopefully, these shine a light on the different beautiful corners of the world you have yet to visit. One day, you can explore the places featured in these books yourself.
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Perhaps one of the most iconic books (and films) about traveling is Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love. This best-selling book takes readers across a journey of love and self-discovery in three countries.
From Italy to India to Bali, you’ll find yourself falling in love with the main character, a newly-divorced woman named Liz. Here, she learns what it means to start over and find herself – even if it is outside her comfort zone.
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
Fond of unique fashion styles and how the wealthy live? If you are, no one does class, wealth, culture, travel, and deep family traditions better than Kevin Kwan in his books.
Set in modern-day Singapore, this novel is about Nick Young and his girlfriend Rachel Chu as they meet the influential Young clan and navigate a maze of schemes and lies within the family.
As Chu agrees to visit Nick’s family, she is surprised to see the affluent life and the traditions they uphold.
From various Asian locations such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and Penang, let this novel take you on a crazy peek into the lifestyles of the rich and famous.
Complete with designer name dropping and tours around Singapore and Malaysia, this is certainly not one to disappoint.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Telling the story of one Andulasian shepherd in search of treasure, The Alchemist takes you on a journey that’s more than just the destination. A story of following dreams and desires, this famous Paulo Coelho novel takes readers on a quest from Spain to Egypt.
Along the way, the young shepherd boy meets a lot of people and experiences hardships. However, as he continues his travel, he learns to love and go where the road takes him.
If you are a dreamer that has a thirst for travel and adventure, this novel is surely one that will change your life.
On the Road by Jack Kerouac
Taking you on a series of trips across the United States years after the Second World War, Kerouac travels with his Beat Generation friends and shows the vital moments in history through the protagonist, Sal Paradise.
From New York to San Francisco to dazzling L.A., Kerouac exposes readers to a thrilling story of drugs, poetry, and jazz.
This novel is a great jumping point that not only satisfies travel within America but also serves as the identifiable point where Kerouac magnified his voiced through historic writing.
Lands of Lost Borders: A Journey on the Silk Road by Kate Harris
While not a novel per se, this non-fiction book takes readers through a vivid and meditative undertaking by Harris herself. Here, Harris tackles important questions and discoveries of life as she cycles her way through the Silk Road.
From the stunning ridges and landscape of the Tibetan Plateau to the delectable cheese and egg-filled bread in Georgia, Harris unlocks the boundaries within herself and moves borders to tell the stories of others.
A truly reflective and vivid account of her travel in the legendary Silk Road, Harris shows readers that it takes guts and courage to discover what the universe holds for all of us.
The Bottom Line
If you are ready to immerse yourself in a new world that will change the way you travel in the future, make sure to read these books from cover to cover.
Prepare for a serious case of wanderlust as you flip through these pages. Who knows, you might find yourself planning an itinerary soon enough.
Plane seats are extremely dirty and are covered in bacteria. Because hundreds and thousands of people ride the plane, these seats contain the highest aerobic count. Therefore, it is important to disinfect various items. If you want to ensure your health, you must disinfect your seat on the plane. According to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), the seat’s headrests are among the top fivedirtiest surfaces in a plane. This surface contains E.coli, homolytic bacteria, and other microbial germs. Aside from the headrest and the seat itself, the seat belts, and the tray tables are also part of the dirtiest surfaces in the plane.
Why Disinfect?
The risk of catching viruses and bacteria on the plane is high because, apparently, not all airlines disinfect seats and other surfaces. Now that there’s flu pandemic, you must be extra careful and do whatever it takes to disinfect surfaces, including your seat, headrest, and tray tables. The reason for disinfecting your seat is to avoid the transfer of bacteria to your body and other items. When you don’t sanitize, the microbial germs stick to your body, which then can enter through the eyes and mouth. Take note that the likelihood of contracting a disease from the plane is higher for individuals with a weak immune system. These individuals include the elderly, babies, and people with autoimmune diseases. When you disinfect, germs can be wiped off and you can be at ease knowing that you are free from bacteria.
What You’ll Need
To disinfect your seat, you need are disinfecting products like wipes, sanitizer, or travel-sized disinfecting sprays. Wipes that are anti-bacterial are best to use. These are designed for killing germs and bacteria easily. If you are using a disinfecting spray, you can use a tissue to wipe surfaces to remove dirt and germs. Hand sanitizer also helps to clean hands after disinfecting your seat. Make sure to rub hands in a circular motion and use a tissue to dry them.
Tips For Disinfecting Plane Seats
Now that you know what you will need to clean your seat, here are the best techniques to do.
There’s a right way to use disinfecting wipes. What you need to do is wipe down all hard, nonporous surfaces thoroughly.
Read the packaging carefully to find out the instructions on how long the surface needs to stay wet. During this period, the germs are killed so don’t rush.
Don’t use disinfecting wipes on upholstery surfaces because it will only spread the germs. If you want to be safe from bacteria, pack a washable seat and tray table cover.
Wipe other surfaces like the seatbelt handle, light and call buttons, recliner button, air vents, and window.
Don’t recycle the disinfecting wipes. Use these only once after wiping your seats.
Other Tips To Avoid Contracting Bacteria On The Plane
You should not only be concerned about your seat because there are also other surfaces that are dirty. This includes the toilet door handle, light switch, overhead storage handle, and other reading materials in your seat. Bring the disinfecting wipes with you when using the toilet and wipe surfaces before touching them. The most important thing is washing your hands with soap and water to remove the germs altogether. Hand sanitizer does minimal disinfecting but hand washing is still the best thing to do.
Bottom Line
Disinfecting your seat in the plane is important to avoid contracting germs and bacteria whenever you travel. It is one of the most importantflight hacks you ought to remember every time you travel. Use good disinfecting products like wipes, alcohol, and sanitizer. Finally, remember to always wash your hands to ultimately get rid of the stubborn virus.
After our tour on our first day in Bali, we were driving next to our villa by our lovely tour guide and driver, Panca. Panca owns one of the best tours companies in Bali, the Bali Customized Tours, hence, why we decided to take his service. Knowing that you’re guided by the best is an assurance especially when you are not in your home country. NOTE: If you want to avail of his service when you are in Bali, let him know that we (Jerny or The Jerny) referred you so you could get a discount on tours. Contact them via Facebook.
You may check out our complete itinerary here: 4D3N Bali Itinerary | Complete with Tours, Costs, and Villas
Tri Datu Villas in Ubud
Tri Datu Villas is an accommodation with jungle or forest view in the north of Ubud center. It’s far from the noises of the city so if you are looking for a peaceful getaway or vacation, this villa would be perfect for you. The villa is surrounded by forest and rice fields, and at night, all you can hear is the humming of the birds at the nearby forest. Tri Datu Villas Ubud
It’s composed of three (3) individual studios with full amenities sharing one infinity pool with an overview of the forest. Each villa has its own shower room with bathtub, kitchen, and bedroom. We happen to have been booked at Maitre D Studio.
Maitre D Studio – Tri Datu Villas
Maitre D Studio is located on the ground floor, located at the right of the infinity pool. It is fully equipped with kitchen, utensils, drinking water dispenser, a bathroom with hot and cold shower plus bathtub, and a king-sized bed with mosquito net. Facing the bed is the balcony facing the forest making a perfect backdrop of the scene like you are living within the jungle.
We totally loved the setup of our room. Imagine waking up in the morning with a view of the jungle and when you go to the balcony area, it’s full of fresh air and all you can hear is the birds singing and chirping. Going outside the room, you will see the beautifully crafted infinity pool facing the forest. Totally perfect for taking pictures, dipping and relaxing. Tri Datu Villas Ubud
Infinity Pool – Tri Datu Villas
One of the highlights of our stay was this infinity pool that is shared by the three studios. It’s a small infinity pool just enough for a quick dip but the color of the tiles was too good, you would want to swim after seeing it. The water isn’t that cold as well so you could take some time staying in the water. It faces the forest and that gives it a perfect impression of having a good time while in it.
A few walks down from the pool, you’d find reclining chairs where you can relax or sunbathe when the sun is out. Going down further is a place where you could practice yoga. Tri Datu Villas Ubud
Experience at Tri Datu Villas
The moment we got there was a bit late because we had a tour with Bali Customized Tours. We arrived at around 4 PM and the check-in time was 2 PM. Unfortunately, there was no one in the villa when we arrived. So we had to call them and someone arrived after a few minutes, thanks to Panca for speaking for us.
We were then escorted to our room. The staff explained the basics of our room and it was surprisingly complete, like a house. It’s equipped with a kitchen, toilet, and bath with bathtub, and a king-sized bed with mosquito net. There are even a few fruits in the basket — apples, and oranges. What more can we ask for?
After settling our things down, we took pictures of the place and took a dip in the infinity pool. The water in the pool wasn’t too cold so I stayed for a longer time, just watching the forest in front of me. When hunger strikes, I went out of the pool, dried myself up and we started cooking for our dinner.
Since the kitchen is well equipped, we didn’t have any problems cooking for our dinner. There’s also a supply of drinking water so we didn’t have to buy for our own as the stores in the area are quite far. While having dinner, we also tried to watch television. I didn’t know any channels and I could not understand the language but I was able to browse all the channels they have, thinking there would be English channels, but there’s none. However, surprisingly, there’s a Chinese anime channel where Naruto Shippuuden is being played. I settled for it even when I cannot understand a thing. Tri Datu Villas Ubud
Jane headed to the bathroom to take a bath and I did the same when she got out. We both went to sleep early as we will be picked up by another tour guide from Bali Customized Tours to start our Day 2 tour.
Prior to Check-Out
We had not ordered breakfast because we brought some food from town. But if ever you stay here, the villa is offering breakfast. Just make sure to tell them the night before so they could prepare for it and bring it in the morning. You could either eat on your bed or eat breakfast by the pool. After making sure we left nothing of our possessions at the villa, we left at 9 AM to start the tour.
Check-out was no hassle. We just left the keys at the table.
How to Book Tri Datu Villas for your Bali vacation?
Via Airbnb only
If you don’t have an Airbnb account yet, make sure you register via this linkso you could get a discount for your stay. Click this link to registration portal. The discount coupon will only work on new accounts so make sure you don’t use an email that’s already registered to Airbnb.
After registration, visit this link – Maitre D Studio | Tri Datu Villas –– and book your desired dates.
The discount coupon will automatically apply upon checkout.
Canada is considered to be a great holiday destination for many people. With so many beautiful sights and plenty to do, you are never going to be bored when you visit here. Here are some of the things you should think about when trying to plan your ultimate Canadian holiday.
When to Go
One of the big questions you have to ask yourself when travelling to Canada is when you actually want to go. A visit in the summer is going to be very different from one in the winter. Not only will you have to pack differently, but you will also need to think about some of the things that you may or may not be able to do. Canadian Holiday
This should always be at the forefront of your mind. Canada hosts some fantastic winter festivals, not to mention the abundance of snow sports available, and you might want to check one of them out. Likewise, you might want to appreciate some of the rugged beauty of the Canadian prairies and walk around the cities without freezing then the summer will definitely be your best bet for a visit.
Arrival
When planning a big Canadian adventure, you have to think about where you are going to enter the country from. Flying is obviously one of the most convenient ways to do so. You can regularly find flights to Toronto from several major American cities like New York or Chicago with Porter Airlines. If you are not from the Americas, you could use this as an opportunity to visit some cities in the USA too.
Flying is one of the more convenient ways to enter Canada. If you are going to be entering using the land border, this is going to be a very different process. Plans change all the time when you are travelling but you need to be aware of this. They regularly turn people away at the border for not having the right paperwork so make sure you are not caught out.
Cites
Travelling to Canada for a city break gives you the opportunity to explore some of the amazing cities here. Toronto is the largest and very reminiscent of New York. If you are searching for a city which is larger than life and home to many amazing districts then this is going to be the right place for you. To get a taste of the French influence in Canada, head to Montreal or Quebec City. Everyone who loves exploring history and culture should check out the capital Ottawa. If you find yourself on the west coast, the metropolitan Vancouver is a must. Finally, if you are heading out into Nova Scotia then you have to swing past Halifax. Canadian Holiday
Each one of these cities has a very different vibe. Going to each of them will give you a clear idea of how life differs for Canadians if they choose to live in one of them. An excellent holiday idea would be to start in Toronto and make your way up to Nova Scotia, maybe even jumping across to Newfoundland. If you want to see the best of what Canadian cities have to offer, this is going to be the best place to do it.
Winter Sports
If you are heading to Canada for winter sports, you will have no shortage of places to choose from. However, the two best resorts are often considered to be Whistler and Banff.
Whistler is a purpose-built resort town which is one of the largest ski resorts in North America. Nestled between the mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb, it helped to host the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. No matter what your skill level is, you are going to find plenty of support here as you learn. The resort village here is easy to navigate and is full of restaurants to try. There are also other winter activities to try like snowshoeing and tobogganing. Visit in the summer for mountain biking and hiking.
The other great resort to visit is Banff in Alberta. This resort is located between Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade. It is centred around Banff Avenue and mixes boutique shops with chateau hotels and amazing places to stay. In addition to the winter sports, you can often try out ice-skating and dogsledding. Come to Banff in summer for canoeing on Lake Louise and hiking in the Canadian Rockies.
Travelling Across Canada Canadian Holiday
If you have decided to spend your Canadian holiday travelling between multiple destinations, you have to give some thought on how to do it. Driving in Canada in winter is always going to be difficult. Black ice and heavy snow are just two of the dangers you might have to face. If you are trying to cross the Trans-Canada Highway, you might also have to face unexpected road closures due to avalanche warnings.
You might want to try the rail route which goes from Toronto to Vancouver. There are many tour groups that take this route which then links up with a cruise ship to visit the glaciers of Alaska. The train is fully serviced and even has an observation carriage with a glass roof where you can look out to the scenery speeding past. However, this is not the cheapest way to travel. Expect to pay a premium for this service even if you are in the most basic compartments.
Finally, you can take internal Canadian flights. These often work out to be fairly cheap and the way most Canadians choose to get around their own country. However, taking flights does mean that you will miss out on some of the amazing scenery Canada has to offer. Though it will take much longer, seeing Canada from the ground is not to be missed.
Places to Stay
Canada is packed with amazing places to stay. It does not matter where you are going or what you will be doing, there is always going to be a great place for you to rest your head. Backpackers can check out some of the many hostels located all over the major cities. You could even decide to try a couch surfing opportunity to take advantage of some spectacular Canadian hospitality.
If you want to take things a little more luxurious, Airbnb offers you a fantastic chance to find unique properties all across your travel. You can get a $22 discount when you register thru this link. You might also want to stay at one of the many hotels. All the big chain hotels will be here as well as plenty of unique boutique experiences in the bigger cities and old names with lots of prestige and history.
Canada is one of the best destinations for anyone who wants to see unbelievable sights while having the time of their life. Whether you are sticking in the big cities or you are headed out into the country to see the wildlife and the mountains, you need to make sure that you are properly prepared for everything. Canada is a great place to visit but the abundance of natural dangers and wildlife means you can’t let things slip. Pay close attention to everything and don’t get caught off guard. No matter what, you will hopefully make memories in Canada which you always remember! Canadian Holiday
Whether it’s for major repairs or standard maintenance to a Yamaha bike, it’s always tempting to shop for aftermarket components. They’re often cheaper than OEM parts, making replacement and upkeep a less expensive prospect.
Many people don’t realize that getting aftermarket goods can rais the cost exponentially in the long run. Picking Yamaha genuine parts for repair is often the better option for any enthusiast.
Going to the Source
Original Equipment Manufactured (OEM) components come from the company that made your bike in the first place. That means they’re specifically made to fit your Yamaha motorcycle perfectly.
Since aftermarket suppliers often don’t have access to original blueprints or die casts, their parts can have inferior quality when installed. Tiny spaces might not look like much, but when it comes to fuel efficiency and emissions standards, a little gap can lead to major leaks or failed inspections.
“Cheaper” Isn’t Always Cheaper
Just because a part is listed as generally cost less, if it isn’t manufactured with the same care as original parts, they may need replacement much more frequently. Swapping out a five dollar part three times a year versus changing a $10 OEM component once is still costing you more money.
In addition, shopping around can get you great deals on cheap motorcycle parts, including OEM components. Before choosing the lowest-cost aftermarket option, look around for sales and clearance opportunities.
Warranty and Support
Perhaps the best value comes from the dependability of larger companies like Yamaha. When you purchase an OEM part, installing it often won’t void your motorcycle’s overall warranty like aftermarket repairs might. In addition, OEM parts generally have better individual warranties as well.
The cheaper option isn’t always better. Opting for Yamaha genuine parts to fix your ride will save you the troubles associated with aftermarket parts, keeping your motorcycle out of the shop and on the road where it belongs!
SCUBA for Change is the World’s First Not-For-Profit dive center located in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines.
The dive center located in Tamaraw Beach Resort is sharing 50% of its profits to Stairway Foundation, a child care non-government institution established in 1990. The remaining half is set-aside for SCUBA for Change’s future growth and expansion and is shared by staff for equitable wage distribution.
The Stairway Foundation Inc. is a non-stock, non-profit, non-government child care organization located in Puerto Galera with the mission statement to help prevent and stop child exploitation in the Philippines.
By taking their courses, not only you will learn about SCUBA diving but you will also help create a brighter future for kids in the foundation. SCUBA for Change
Buy Tickets for A Cause and Get a Chance to Win a PADI Certificate!
Help kids create and build a brighter future by purchasing a raffle ticket worth P100 that entitles you to win a PADI Certificate courtesy of SCUBA for Change. Grand Prize: PADI Certificate: A Full Package SCUBA Diving Course (Open Water or Advanced Open Water Certificate) Consolation Prizes:
* 2 x – 4 Boat Dive Package
* 3 x – 2 Boat Dive Package
* 3 x – DSD for 3 hours or 2 house reef’s dives
You may also purchase P10 donation tickets to help these kids. SCUBA for Change
Every ticket purchase and donation help the Stairway Foundation create future leaders and educators. For ticket purchase and donations, please contact me via +639999751731 or via email at jernydesta@gmail.com. You may also check our About page.
SCUBA for Change: Discover SCUBA Diving
Discover SCUBA Diving (DSD) is the experience that will bring you the taste of the underwater world and how it feels like to be in that world for a short moment. This is definitely enjoyable!
We got a chance to do Discover SCUBA Diving with fellow participants and bloggers at SCUBA for Change Dive Centre. We met the lovely lady and instructor – Julienne, the natural born diver with amazing buoyancy – Gracean, and of course the amazing and gorgeous one – Rose.
We started our briefing with our instructor Julienne. She instructed us on how to properly use the SCUBA equipment, how to breathe underwater, and what are the hand signals to be used for proper communication underwater. SCUBA for Change
After the briefing, we were helped by Gracean on fitting our gears. The next session after learning equipment, hand signals, how to properly use the gears, is getting the skills required before diving. This is a requirement so you’d know what to do when you’re already underwater. This is also to ensure that you are and will be comfortable while diving.
Skills to Learn before Diving
The session was conducted in a swimming pool with only a depth of 5 to 6 feet. We were taught in groups.
The first thing you will learn here is how to breathe using the breather. TIP: Just breathe in a regular way but through your mouth.
Second, you will learn how to use your BCH (Buoyancy Control Device) to control your buoyancy in order for you to float or sink in the water.
Third, you will learn how you could take out the water that got inside your mask. SCUBA for Change TIP: Exhale thru your nose with force while pushing the upper part of your mark towards your face using your hands. Water will flow out naturally if you did it correctly.
Fourth, the skill you need to learn is how to get your breather back when it was accidentally removed (nobody wants that) by any means and how to get your back up breather. TIP: Swing your arms vertically and backward to grab your breather.
Lastly, you will also need to learn how to remove water inside your mouth in case the water gets in or you get to drink a small amount.
Fancy, isn’t it? Diving teaches you many skills! Note: You do not need to be an excellent swimmer to do DSD but you need to know at least basic swimming or how to swim. SCUBA for Change
Open Water DSD
This is the time you’re going to experience how it feels like floating underwater.
The weather wasn’t too good for the first batch. However, the boatman changed location for our batch and the weather went in favor with us.
The instructors went into the water first. We were also assisted by our boatmen on strapping the breathing equipment we have in order to start the dive. Getting started, our feelings started to mix up. I am feeling more excited and ready to start diving. I know I’m more than prepared to try diving in open water.
The water was cold. It just finished raining and the sunshine started on clearing the clouds again. We stepped out of the boat and felt the coldness of the water onto our sleeves. The suit definitely helped in maintaining our body temperatures. The excitement was different. It’s a new thing I know I would love. The challenge was thrilling, and thinking that I’m doing more than just snorkeling was an achievement already.
We started descending into the water. Gracean was my support. I can’t contain the excitement I was having. We’re finally going to dip underwater, more than 6 feet where most swimming pools are. SCUBA for Change
Going deeper, my ears started hurting. While I kept on going down, the amount of pain was going up. I know what to do. I squeezed my nose and blew out air through my nose. I equalized. This is a must when diving. Water pressure will squeeze the air on your body and you will feel the pain on the inside of your ears.
Relieved, I slowly turned my position into a horizontal phase.
Being a first timer in diving, it’s quite difficult especially when you know that there will be corals under you when stretching your feet. This is the part I was stuck at the most. The moment when you’re so close to the corals and you think that your fins would hurt the fishes habitat. Gracean helped me with this, he signaled me to use the inflator. Oh man, I forgot there was an inflator I could use! He was really helpful.
Getting back on my position, it was easier now. SCUBA for change
The underwater world was truly a fantastic one. It’s calm, mesmerizing, and soothing. The feeling was like, if you could just breathe underwater, you’d want to stay there longer. But we’re humans and we need oxygen to breath and live.
I started to recognize a few species. The location we had was great. Although it’s only 5 to 6 meters deep, the corals and the species in this location was abundant. There were no turtles, however. But I have seen a clownfish, the fish species in the movie “Finding Nemo”. They were awesome, I’d tell you! They’re territorial so they are definitely coming out of their abode when detecting danger.
I can also sense that I was getting far from my colleagues. I spin around and I thought I was the only one at the spot where I was. I knew I had enjoyed the activity for sure. Breathing and being able to see underwater was a different feeling. Unimaginable. Incredible.
I saw my colleagues waving at me. As I came closer to them, I know that anytime soon we would be ascending to the surface. I swam a little bit more, closer to the underwater nature. All I can think of at the moment was how amazing the experience was.
Miss Rose came in closer. She was signaling us to go up.SCUBA for Change
I never wanted to go yet, but I know, soon our air tanks will be empty. I have to go back. To the environment where humans truly belong. The surface. Though the underwater world is great, humans just can’t go on diving forever.
Our instructors were truly great. They have provided us an experience we’ll surely treasure a lifetime. We will be back and try it again, but this time for a certificate.
And when we’re back at the shore, we had a sumptuous boodle fight meal!
Note: Please do not forget to donate or buy tickets for SCUBA for Change and help the kids at Stairway Foundation, Inc.
Scuba for Change
Tamaraw Beach Resort,
Aninuan Beach,
Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro
Tel: +63 916 794 5624
Email: pg@scubaforchange.com
Monkeyspeak Coffee
We also had a visit to Monkeyspeak Coffee’s office and got to taste one of the best coffees I ever tasted.
Monkeyspeak Coffee offers coffee solutions for your business or own pleasure. They are located in Puerto Galera where there are coffee farms for Liberica (Barako) coffee beans. They offer products such as the coffee machines, frothers, coffee capsules, and just recently added, the chocolate shot capsule. If you’re kinda familiar with Nescafe’s Dulce Gusta, you would know what I was saying.
Similar but different. I had a taste of the other brand and the ones from Monkeyspeak. I can genuinely say that their product tastes better. I didn’t get to experience an acid attack after taking a few coffee capsules (I can’t help it, the coffee tastes great). My favorite was the Ristretto Coffee. If you need a lighter blend, you may have the Decaf.
These unprecedented times have been difficult for the body and mind, and now more than ever people are feeling anxious about what is ahead. The recent health concerns among a host of other things have taken a toll on people’s mental well-being, which affects not only their personal lives but also their work performance.
Over the past three months, there has been a whopping 1000% increase in the number of people getting in touch with the government’s emergency hotlines for emotional distress. This is compared to the figures around the same time last year.
An anxious mind can most definitely influence the quality of life of those affected. If you are experiencing anxiety during these trying times, you might want to try some relaxation techniques to help ease your mind. Here are some activities you can try.
4 Relaxation Techniques to Help with Anxiety
Music and Art Therapy
In many cases, anxiety can be caused by or lead to pent up emotions that you cannot fully express. This is why cathartic practices are recommended for individuals with anxiety. You want to make sure that you release your thoughts and emotions in different ways.
Music and art are two mediums that can help release unspoken issues, even those that you unconsciously have. Your audio and visual art can then be used to discuss, understand and address such issues.
Because it is a mind and body therapy, you can expect to get results not only in the mental and emotional aspects of your wellbeing but also in the physical component. It can help release hormones that can improve your overall health.
Mindfulness Meditation
This practice is well-known for its enlightening and mood-improving effects. It is rooted in ancient Buddhist traditions and has been practised secularly in recent decades. The key point of this activity is to get in touch with your current experiences and accept them.
To do this, you need to sit in a comfortable position and focus on your breathing. Then bring your mind to the present moment and concentrate on it without looking into the past or thinking about the future. You must do this objectively.
Research shows that this type of meditation can enhance your mood and amplify positive emotions. It can also reduce stress and anxiety. Overall, it can help address job burnout and emotional reactivity.
The best thing is that it has physical effects such as reduced heart risks, cognitive decline, cell aging and pain caused by psychological responses. It also helps improve your immunity, which is valuable during a pandemic.
Deep Breathing
Experts say that smiling when you are down can make you feel the emotion associated with that expression, which is happiness. This principle applies to breathing. If you are used to taking shallow breaths, it mimics your breathing when you are agitated and anxious.
Keep in mind that your body needs the right amount of oxygen in order to function optimally. This affects your physical parts including your brain, which in turn influences your mind. This is why deep breathing is a recommended technique to combat anxiety.
You can do it by simply getting into a comfortable position such as lying on your back or sitting straight in a chair. Then, breathe in deeply through your nose, filling your belly with air. Breathe out through your nose. Do this four times in total.
The key to doing this breathing technique right is to place one hand on your belly and another on your chest. Your belly should expand more than your chest.
Repetitive Prayer
The practice of silently reciting a short prayer or praise while focusing on your breathing is a great way to disengage from negative thoughts and experiences while reinforcing positive ones. This can help you view your situation in a positive light, thus reducing your anxiety.
Now, when you hear the word prayer, you might think that this activity can only be done using religious traditions. However, you can certainly use encouraging phrases, sayings and mantras. You can even memorise a short poem and recite as you do breath focus.
Conclusion
It is important to be kind to yourself during these trying times. After all, your community and the world are undergoing a collective trauma, which should be taken seriously. So, if you find yourself anxious lately, make sure to try these relaxation techniques. If you need professional help with your anxiety, reach out to a licensed therapist at BetterHelp.
Since computers and computer games first hit the market in the late 1970s, a future filled with online gaming and social interactions has been touted by the media and technology experts.
That future was still far away in the 1980s and early 90s, but in the last 25 years, different new technologies have converged to connect people and cultures in ways that they have never been before.
More and more people are using social media, online gaming, and virtual reality to meet new people and experience new places without having to leave the comfort and security of their own home. Now these technologies are combining and developing together, and very soon hopping into a virtual space to meet friends and share experiences will be a part of our day-to-day lives. Photo by Sigmund on Unsplash
These online gaming opportunities and virtual spaces create an opportunity to travel virtually by giving you an immersive experience that includes new people, unique cultures, and even virtual walks through real spaces.
Shared Sporting Experiences can Take You To New Places and Culture
Photo by Ivars Utināns on Unsplash
Sports and gaming focussed social media sites, as well as apps, are letting people enjoy sporting events and competitive games together. This lets you experience new perspectives and make new friends from the comfort of your own home. It’s like traveling without moving!
Watching a football game online or playing online casino games, often allows you to communicate with fans and players from across the globe that you have something in common with; a love of the game.
Many sports betting and streaming sites let viewers interact with one another. People all over the world are also sharing virtual casino experiences, by visiting casino sites like the online casino that has portals for players from all over the world, and allows them to play some of the most popular slot machines that you can find anywhere on the world wide web.
Many major sporting events may soon have virtual crowds, as well as the one in the stadium, as a way of selling extra tickets and bringing fans together in huge numbers. As the technology that underpins VR improves, and internet bandwidth increases, virtual sporting experiences will become more common and will be just as social as the real thing.
The wide range of immersive social experiences available online allows you to travel virtually, and experience new people and places without the need to leave your home.
Online Multiplayer Experiences are Making Our World Smaller
Photo by Rocco Caruso on Unsplash
Online gaming has exploded in the last decade or so, with more players enjoying massively multiplayer online games than ever before. Thanks to the increase in high-speed broadband internet coverage and the advances of home games consoles, more and more people are getting access to online game networks like Xbox Live and Steam.
Video games themselves have become more popular, and a part of mainstream culture and millions of people a day watch someone play a game on a service like Twitch rather than play a game themselves.
All these people are meeting one another in gaming chat rooms and lobbies and continuing these relationships on social media like Facebook and Reddit. This is making our world smaller by bringing us closer together, and by experiencing friendships with people from distant countries, you experience their culture and perspectives.
Virtual Reality Gaming is Bringing People Together Like Never Before
For decades, futurists and technology experts have been telling us that true virtual reality is just around the corner, and it finally seems as if the corner has been turned.
Huge advances have been made in this area in just the last few years, and the massive investment by Facebook in the VR company Oculus has spurred a wave of hardware and software development and introduced social media to the virtual reality space.
Through competitive gaming and shared social spaces, virtual reality is bringing people together from very distant places in a way the world has not seen before. Not only does this introduce you to new cultures and languages, but it also lets you make new friends who can take you through virtual tours of their country. There are hundreds of thousands of VR videos, and plenty of programs, that allow you to explore a real place. It feels like walking through a photograph or Google Street View, and your new online friends can give you a unique and informative walkthrough of their hometown or city. You can do the same and show them London or the Lake District, and you can also explore new places together!
Though nothing can beat the feeling of walking through a new city or visiting a new country in real life, the quality of Virtual Reality is constantly improving and already creates a lifelike experience. As VR and social media technology continue to develop, perhaps in the coming decades, it will be possible to take a holiday to a faraway destination without having to leave the security and comfort and of your own home.
Heading to Coron means you’d be making it to the best island in the world, Palawan!
Coron has just too many wonders that even if you stay for a week, you still are not finished on your to-do list. There’s just more than desirable things to do in this awesome place. Island hopping, beach tanning, snorkeling, diving, name it and Coron will give you what you need. And since you’d be having your time on the beautiful island of Coron, that also means you need an accommodation that is fit for your budget and won’t compromise comfort.
We found Coron Soleil Express Hotel to do that particular job that we travelers and couple travelers require.
Coron Soleil Express Hotel
Coron Soleil Express Hotel is a 3-star hotel located within the Coron Soleil Garden Resort complex. It’s a budget hotel with the amenities of a 4-star hotel. Why? When you book at the Express Hotel, you also have the privilege of using the Garden Resort’s amenities like the (infinity) swimming pool, cardio gym, request for massage and more.
The lobby at the main entrance and the lobby at the Express Hotel are different but they give the same service. Staff will greet you with full smiles which appear very warm and it gives a good feeling that you’re in a good company. Cleanliness is a big part of their motto and it’s evident in the location.
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Plus, when you book at the Coron Soleil Express Hotel, you are also entitled to a free breakfast with a variety of dishes to choose from. If you want an upgrade to a buffet style breakfast, just add 200 pesos ($4) for each and you can enjoy a buffet breakfast at Sol 721 at Coron Soleil restaurant. The breakfast upgrade request will be charged to the room and is payable upon checkout.
There’s also an on-site Bar and on-site restaurant (Sol 721 at Coron Soleil) in the complex so you won’t have any issues with food and beverages. Additionally, there’s an ongoing promo (like happy hour) from 4 pm to 10 pm every Fridays thru Sundays to enjoy the night with friends while drinking. Note: If you book at their hotel, you won’t have to worry about getting a transport to the airport and from the hotel. They will be the one to arrange these for you according to your schedule. It’s definitely a big PLUS and it’s totally FREE! Bonus fact: Coron Soleil Express Hotel and Coron Soleil Garden Resort is located at the foot of Mt. Tapyas so you absolutely can enjoy the views at this hotel with fresh air.
Coron Soleil Express Hotel Room Review
Our first night was booked at Room 305 (Deluxe Room) of the Coron Soleil Express Hotel. The room is equipped with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, Wi-Fi, a seating area, a queen-sized bed, a shower room with hot and cold shower and complete toiletries, most of all, it’s clean. Here’s a short video of our room.
The Deluxe Room’s size is reasonable for its price. The ambiance is cozy and intimate and is just perfect for couples who are strict with the budget. The bed is remarkably comfortable. The wi-fi, however, is quite so-so. We personally don’t expect a 4G signal at Coron so that wasn’t a problem. Though, if you are working remotely and needs a strong wifi connection, I cannot advise using the in-room wi-fi. You’d have to go outside and look for a better signal to keep your work going or use their connection at the lobby entrance.
But with these amenities at hand, you’d really be getting the most out of your money during your stay. Truly a value for money, a bang for your buck.
The Verdict at Coron Soleil Express Hotel
Let’s recap!
When you book at Coron Soleil Express Hotel, you are entitled to:
◊ Free Breakfast
◊ Free Wi-Fi
◊ Free use of Infinity Swimming Pool
◊ Free use of Cardio Gym
◊ Free Shuttle Transfers from Airport to Hotel and vice-versa
◊ Breakfast Upgrade (buffet style) for Php 200 ($4) at Sol 721 Location-wise: The hotel is not far from the main town. Only Php 20 each from the hotel to town via the tricycle. Staff-wise: They are all smiles, friendly, and approachable. Vacation-wise: Cleanliness, comfort, and relaxation are what they could offer. Service-Wise: They are superb. Will definitely do their best to serve you.
We can definitely say that this hotel, Coron Soleil Express Hotel, is one of the best 3-star hotels in Coron.
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Coron Soleil Express Hotel
Mabintangen Road, Palawan, 5316 Coron, Philippines
Tel No: +632-8066377 | +63915 – 2126340 | +63939-9269288
Email: customercare@coronsoleil.com Website: http://coronsoleil.com/soleil-express/
Check Coron Soleil Express Hotel Prices via: Disclaimer: All opinions, reviews, and statements are our own.
1. Sobrang strict nila sa first time travellers.
2. Hinanap halos lahat ng ID ni bf, buti dala nya lahat including his Company ID na old and new + COE and approved leave form.
3. Tumagal din kami ng 20 minutes haha! Akala namin di na kami makakaalis, pero thanks God talaga haha!
4. So PLEASE, prepare all your documents!! Print a copy of all your tickets, accommodation and itineraries, as in lahat chineck nila. Be confident lang and simplehan lang ang OOTDs.
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DAY01:
7:00 – Hotel check-in, rest & dinner
8:00 – Macau Night tour
* Grand Lisboa
* Grand Emperor
* City of Dreams
* Parisian (eiffel tower)
* Studio City
12MN – back to hotel (lights off)
DAY02: MACAU HALF DAY TOUR
5:00 – WAKE UP TIME
6:00 – Senado Square
* Ruins of St. Paul
* Historic Centre of Macau
* St. Francis Xavier
* St. Augustine Square
* St. Dominic’s Church
(Magkakalapit lang sila kayang kaya sya ng 2-3 hrs lang hahaha depends on you gano kayo katagal mag picture.)
8:00 – Hotel check out (Depart to HK) Macau-Hong Kong Itinerary 2018
9:00 – Ferry ride to HK via Cotai Jet (45 minutes)
10:00 – HELLO HONGKONG
* Hotel Check-in
* Avenue of Stars
* The Peak Tram
* Sky Terrace 428
* Symphony of Lights
11:00 – LIGHTS OFF
Day03: Macau-Hong Kong Itinerary 2018
* Ngong Ping 360
* HK Disneyland (whole day)
Day04: HKG back to MFM
* Flight back to Manila Macau-Hong Kong Itinerary 2018
OTHER TRAVEL TIPS:
* Stick to your plan / itineraries para hindi masayang oras mo while you’re there.
* Bring food and tumbler!! Sobrang makakatipid! Water is life sa adventure na to, promise!
* Baon more biscuits and cup noodles pra hindi na kakain sa mga food stalls, pricey talaga!
* Bring your most comfortable shoes grabe! More walk talaga, tiis ganda yung paa mo.
* Do not forget to buyOCTOPUS Card sa HK for fare and payments sa store. [Buy via Klook]
* Bring medicines and band-aid, mahal gamot dun and walang biogesic o medicol lol.
* You don’t need to buy wifi sim / data sim, free wifi sa Macau and HKG kahit san ka pumunta.
* Sobrang daming pinoy sa MFM than HKG, wag mahiya iapproach sila!
* Download the MTR app, nakakalito ang train stations and exit points sa HK.
* Kapit tayo kay Google map, mahirap maghagilap ng pinoy sa HK unlike Macau
* Wag sakay ng sakay sa mga bus, iba iba yung routes nila hehe (nagkamali kami ng sakay before, napunta na kami sa north part ng HK hahaha)
* Use your haggling skills sa night market, isipin mo nasa divi ka!
* Spend whole day sa disneyland, sobrang saya promise! Macau-Hong Kong Itinerary 2018
Di masyadong detailed tong IT pero if u want to ask something, just PM me. I’m open to questions!
NOTE: This is a TRAVELER’S ULTIMATE HACK.
Always check Klook or KKday for more discounted offers to tours and entrance fees. Start from checking these links below. Klook.com
