El Nido is a popular destination for locals during the long holidays of Holy Week but, until recently, has been relatively unfamiliar to foreign tourists. El Nido is a coastal settlement and primary tourist destination on the Philippines island of Palawan. El Nido comprises 45 islands and islets; limestone cliffs are also found here, which form a Karst backdrop similar to those found in Ha Long Bay, Krabi, and Guilin. Beaches, clear waters (away from the main town), jungle, steep limestone cliffs, and stunning inlets make for beautiful seascapes. El Nido Solo Travel Guide
I’ve traveled to a lot of gorgeous tropical islands in South East Asia but nothing prepared me for the beauty of the Philippines. And nothing outfitted me for the effect that El Nido would hold on me.
Sharing my DIY 5 days & 4 nights experience in El Nido, Palawan as a SOLO BACKPACKER!
(Airfare not included)
Booked a promo flight from Cebu Pacific – MNL – PPS – MNL for just P865 roundtrip! Itinerary: El Nido Solo Travel Guide
Day 1: Manila to Puerto Princesa, Palawan & Puerto Princesa to El Nido Day 1
1:40 PM – 3:10 PM Flight from MNL to PPS
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Travel from PPS to El Nido
(5 hours drive with 1 stopover)
9:00 PM – Checked in Big Mike’s Hostel
10:00 PM – Free time Check out Big Mike’s Hostel rates viaAGODA | BOOKING Day 2
Tour A
8:00 AM – Hostel Breakfast (Free)
9:00 AM – Pick up time for the tour (Island Hopping)
Island Hopping:
– Small Lagoon
– Big Lagoon
– Seven Commandos
– Lunch is included
(Secret Lagoon is not included on the day I did the tour because of the weather)
5:00 PM – End of the tour
6:00 PM – Back to the hostel
7:00 PM – Dinner
8:00 PM – Nightlife (Nightlife is perfect if you want AFAM) Haha! [READ: PALAWAN | El Nido Itinerary 4D3N for only ₱9,200 | Budget Travel Guide] Day 3
(I woke up late so I was not able to attend the Tour C)
10:00 AM – Hostel Breakfast (Free)
3:00 PM – Las Cabanas Beach Resort for the Sunset
5:00 PM – Back to the hostel
7:00 PM – Dinner
8:00 PM – Nightlife El Nido Solo Travel Guide Day 4
10:00 AM – Hostel Breakfast (Free)
11:00 AM – Walking to the beach
6:00 PM – 11:00 PM – Travel from El Nido to PPS
(5 hours drive with 1 stopover)
11:00 PM – Checked in to the homestay Day 5
10:00 AM – Breakfast
11:00 AM – Buying souvenirs and pasalubong
3:00 PM – Supposed to be my flight going back to Manila but the worst thing is, it was delayed for 6 hours. All expenses: Tour A – P1,000 per person Kayak (Small) – P300 Van transfer – P1100 4 Days 3 nights at Big Mikes – P500 per night El Nido Solo Travel Guide PS: I would definitely recommend for you to stay in a hostel if you’re a solo backpacker or if you’re on a tight budget. You can also meet new friends around the world, I made new friends from different countries.
Also, I suggest PUKKA Bar if you love nightlife! You will meet a lot of friends there too! El Nido Solo Travel Guide
Check out other budget accommodation and book in advance AGODA | BOOKING
Special thanks to Mr. Michael Yao for helping me with my accommodation. I would recommend him to all as he is nice and legit! El Nido Solo Travel Guide
The holiday season is one of the most festive times of the year, and Air Asia can help you meet your holiday travel goals. From Christmas celebrations to welcoming the new year, the holiday season is definitely a time for merriment and relaxation. Many take this as an opportunity to catch up with friends and family while making sure that they celebrate in a meaningful manner. For some people, observing this season with friends and family means flying to their hometown. If you are one of these people, you know how expensive holiday flights can be. Combined with other expenses connected with the celebration, flying home can be quite costly. Those looking for an affordable way to visit your friends and family from back home can take advantage of airline promotions. For example, Air Asia offers year-end and holiday discounts on flights to all destinations, including Cebu. If you are from Cebu, check out how you can avail this worthwhile offer. AirAsia plane. Image source: visitmelbourne.com.
Features and Benefits of Air Asia Service
Air Asia’s promotional offer allows customers to enjoy up to 50% off base fares for all destinations as part of its long weekend sale. This allows customers to grab seats from Manila or Clark to Cebu for as low as ₱690 to ₱1,090, all-in! For those interested, keep in mind that the booking period is from October 14 to 27, 2019 only. Moreover, the travel period is from October 14, 2019, to May 31, 2020.
Where to Get It
The best thing about this offer is that you do not need to enter any promo codes to avail it. Instead, you just need to book a flight within the booking period for flights that fall within the travel period. To take advantage of this promo, you can check out the airline’s offers through two options: browser or the Air Asia mobile app. For browser users, you simply need to head on to the airline’s website. Once on the website, you will be met with a search form that requires you to enter your port of origin and destination – in this case, Cebu. Then, you need to enter your preferred dates. For those using their smartphones to book, you will need to download the Air Asia app through the App Store or Google Play Store. You can also access the mobile-friendly version of the site by visiting mobile.airasia.com. Once in the app, just follow the steps required to book the flight, and you are good to go.
Eligibility
Flights that are eligible for this promotional offer are those that are booked within the given booking period and fall within the travel period. During the booking process, you will be required to provide your full name, date of birth, and nationality/region. Keep in mind that you need to be an adult to be able to travel alone. Moreover, children from ages 12 to 16 are required to check-in at the counter accompanied by a parent or guardian. Accompanying adults should present a government-issued ID with photo.
How to Avail Air Asia Deals
When availing this offer, the dates you are choosing are important, as they can affect your chances of getting lower rates. Dates closer to holidays are likely to be pricier. Make sure to check out other travel dates near your preferred date, as these can sometimes offer lower prices. For those using browsers, make sure to book using Incognito, Secret, or Private browsing, as this prevents the browser from storing history and cookies. Remember, prices can spike the longer you are browsing the airline’s website, and this method can prevent such issues.
Air Asia Fees
While you may get a lower price for your flight, adding add-ons to your flight can cost more. Add-ons can include checked baggage, picking a seat, and value meals. If you prefer to get this, bundles with lower prices are available.
Contact information
If you want to get in touch with the airline, you can chat with Air Asia Virtual Allstar (AVA), Air Asia’s chatbot for customer support. You can also reach out to them via Twitter and Facebook.
Conclusion
With this guide, you will be able to book the best price for the holidays. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to get in touch with their customer support for more information.
A seat sale happened and we were able to cheap (by that, I mean really cheap) tickets to China. The first plan was just Guangzhou but saw an opportunity to book for another flight but for another destination in China which happened to be Shenzhen.
Do you know just how much our tickets cost? Just PHP 3,571.58 and it’s good for two people already. Super good deal I must say so we booked right away.
The thing is, for Filipinos traveling to China, a visa is required and you cannot enter without one. You have to secure visas before you go to their country or else you’ll get held off by the immigration officers.
How to Apply for China Visa [with No ITR] + Requirements
If you are a person who is working for an employer or someone who owns a business, visa requirements to China is will be an easy process for you.
If you are a freelancer (like us) and do not possess an ITR yet, then this guide could help you with your visa process. This could also apply to the following:
Below taxable wage earners
Newly-owned business owners
Freelancers
Home-based Workers (whose employers are from abroad)
Other who not have ITR
Let’s take a look at the requirements first assuming you are applying for the first time.
CHINA TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS (If company employed or a business owner)
Original Passport and Photocopy of Passport (front and back pages)
Application Form
Two (2) recent photos for China Visa
Flight Tickets
Travel Itinerary
Hotel Reservation
Invitation Letter (only if invited by sponsor)
Bank Certificate with statement for 6 months and official receipt
ITR (Income Tax Return) – BIR stamped
Certificate of Employment (if employed)
Business Registration Certificate (if business owner)
Valid IDs (PRC ID/Student ID, etc) – Photocopy
CHINA TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS (No ITR, Freelancers/Home-Based workers, etc)
Original Passport and Photocopy of Passport (front and back pages)
Application Form
Two (2) recent photos for China Visa
Flight Tickets (optional)
Travel Itinerary
Hotel Reservation (optional)
Bank Certificate with statement for 6 months and official receipt
Explanation Letter (No ITR)
Valid IDs (PRC ID/Student ID, etc) – Photocopy
Original Passport and Photocopy of Passport
This is your primary document and should not be expiring within 6 months period. You will automatically be rejected to fly if your passport is near to expiration. You also need to photocopy (1 copy) the front and back pages of your passport.
Upon application, bring and submit your OLD PASSPORT too.
Application Form
You will have to fill-up an application form and make sure that you know the category of visa you are applying for. For tourists, that L visa (or category L). The form should be COMPUTERIZED and PRINTED. Use only CAPITAL LETTERS. If you don’t have anything to write on the form, type N/A or None. Your signature is the only pen ink in the form.
Two (2) Recent Photos for China Visa
In your form, you will need to abide by the size requirement and the photo must be taken at least 6 months prior to application. Again, check the size requirement stated in the form.
Flight Tickets
This is not necessary but is a good addition to your application. Make sure that you will have a return flight ticket back to the Philippines.
Travel Itinerary
This is also a requirement when applying for a visa. They would like to know what places are you visiting or where you will be going. This can be just an assumed itinerary and can be not very detailed but put the dates and the places you will be visiting.
See our sample below. You may copy the format and make sure to indicate your flight arrival and departure.
Hotel Reservation
This is also optional like flight tickets. Also a good addition to your application. We booked our accommodation via Airbnb because hotel rates tend to be higher during the holiday season.
If you want to get as much as Php 2200 discount on your first Airbnb booking, register via this link.
Bank Certificate with statement for 6 months and official receipt
You can request this to your bank (usually home branch account where you filed for the bank account). Ours is from PSBank. I also submitted our BDO credit card statement for 6 months. This could be done within a day.
I paid for two bank documents, Bank Certificate and Bank Statement (for 6 months). Yes, they are separate documents.
You will need to present this since you will not be able to present an ITR. They would need to know how much money you have or how much money you could spend while you are away. According to other guides out there, you money should at least be 5,000 – 10,000 per day. Example, if you are staying for 10 days, that’s 10,000 PHP x 10 (days) = 100,000.
I’m not an expert on this one but the safest bet is to have an account with above P50,000 for at least 3 days stay.
Explanation Letter (No ITR)
Since you will not be submitting any other financial documents except your Bank Certificate and Bank Statement, you will need to create a letter and explain to them why you are unable to provide an ITR and what is your purpose of traveling. Add places you have been (overseas) so they could be assured you are only traveling for leisure/vacation and not going to stay long and TNT on their country.
See our letters below. These are our actual letter. You may copy it but please try to change other words and details especially those marked in RED. Pertain to your own reason why you want to visit China but cannot submit ITR.
DATE OF APPLICATION Embassy of the People’s Republic of China
in the Republic of the Philippines 2nd Floor, the World Center,
330 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue,
Makati City, Metro Manila
Dear Sir/Madam,
Good day!
My name is YOUR NAME, a resident of the Philippines, with Passport number (your passport number), and currently doing freelance work as a Travel Blogger. I am writing to request for approval of our China Tourist Visa (double entry) for our upcoming visit.
Me and my fiancée, Mary Jane Famaranco, are planning to travel to Guangzhou, Macau, Hong Kong and Shenzhen (with Guangzhou being our entry point and Shenzhen for our exit point) this coming December 21, 2019 until January 2, 2020. We would like to spend Christmas and New Year on both cities of China with travel in between to Macau and HK, and also to experience the culture and Chinese events for the said dates.
Part of the application is to present an ITR which apparently, I don’t have yet. However, we have traveled to Sapporo (Japan), Bali (Indonesia), Cambodia and Vietnam over the span of 12 months and to prove my financial capacity, I have provided herewith our bank statement and financial documents. Our plane tickets and accommodation details are also attached for your reference. I am earning mainly through freelancing and doing work online. We document our experiences and whereabouts on our travel website https://twobudgettravelers.com.
Rest assured that we are financially capable to travel to China and nearby countries and that we won’t be a burden to the country during our stay. I also provided my fiancée a supplementary cardholder of my credit card so we can share for expenses during the trip if necessary.
I am really hoping to have our tourist visa granted so we can share our experiences during our visit to China through our blog. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jerny Destacamento
Sacred Heart Cathedral in Guangzhou
VALID IDs
Not necessary but it’s our practice to also submit a photocopy of our valid identification cards when applying for a visa.
CHINA VISA FEE
If you are only going to fly in and out once, apply for Single Entry (1400 PHP).
If you are going to fly into China and visit other countries (Macau/Hong Kong) and fly out of China again, you will need a Double-Entry Visa (2100 PHP). This is what we applied for since our itinerary is Guangzhou (in) – Macau – Hong Kong – Shenzhen (out).
If you are going to fly multiple times to China for 6 months, apply for Multiple Entry Visa (2800 PHP).
If you are to fly multiple times to China for over 6 months, apply for Multiple Entry Visa (over 6 months) – (4200 PHP)
Normally, if it’s your first time to visit China, Single Entry or Double-Entry is your type of application. Rarely, multiple entry application is approved for first-timers.
VISA RELEASE
After submitting your application to the embassy, you will have to wait for 3 – 4 working days (holidays not included) for the release of your visa. No payment will be made when you submit your requirements. Payment shall only be made on the release date of your visa – and you will have to pay whether your application is approved or denied.
CHINA VISA APPLICATION PROCESS
After you have completed your requirements, it’s time to pay a visit to the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines. Remember that they only accept visa applicants from 9 am to 11 am. Beyond the time frame, you will need to come back tomorrow. Address: 2nd floor, The World Center, Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave, Makati City
This is near the DOT Manila Office and SSS/PHILHEALTH offices.
Scan your bags.
Get your number from the front desk. Tell her you will submit your application.
Wait until your number is displayed in either window 5 or 6.
Submit your requirements. They will let you know if you miss anything. If everything is good, they will give you a piece of paper with the release date in it. Usually, the result will be available in 3-4 working days. Remember that the payment will be made only at the release date (Manila only).
Assuming it’s your visa release date, tell the front desk again you are visiting for visa release. They will give you a number or will ask you to fall in line for the cashier.
Present the paper provided previously. Pay for the visa fee and they will give you a receipt.
Fall in line for the release window and present the receipt. You will then know your application result if your visa is approved or not.
DENIED VISA
Yes, there are cases of denied visas. However, they don’t really provide any information about why your visa is denied (I’m not sure if they do). You cannot refund the amount you paid, but you can make an appeal or reapply for another visa application. However, that would be another payment on your side.
OUR DOUBLE ENTRY VISAS ARE APPROVED
Yes, that’s why we wrote this guide to help you with your application too. We actually are not that excited about this China trip so we are really not anxious about whether our application will be accepted or not. We just let it be and let God. Fortunately, we are in good hands.
We ran into troubles as well from Clark Airport until Guangzhou Airport and even when we came back. But our travel in China, Macau and Hong Kong went smooth. You can read our mishaps here (in 3 parts). Part 1: A TRAVEL ANGEL SAVED US Part 2: SLEEP AT THE AIRPORT AND BRING ENOUGH CASH Part 3: APPRECIATION POST
Here are some of our posts during our travel: Guangzhou, China Part 1 Guangzhou, China Part 2
-will update soon
WIFI FOR CHINA TRAVEL
There also are many WiFi spots in China. However, you can only connect if you can understand Chinese. So we opted to rent our own from the Philippines. For our travels, we highly recommend BIG SKY NATION as your source for travel wifi. We have been using it since 2018 so we know how it works and what it is capable of. You can use our code: THEJERNY for an extra 15% off on all their services.
You also would need to download VPN app (Virtual Private Network) because China has its own social media. Other sites like Facebook are blocked from their network, nationwide. We recommend Express VPN (make sure you have valid data to connect). Choose Hong Kong, Singapore or Japan as your country location.
We also got to use CherryRoam (pocket wifi) for our China trip. We found it to be a reliable WiFi source as well as it already has a VPN installed. Just power it on and go. You can rent through their website and choose China with VPN package. Sadly, we have no code yet for CherryRoam but will update this post once we do have one.
If you have any questions, please feel free to send us a message at our facebook page or click this link: m.me/thejerny
While booking flights ahead of time can definitely have its perks, it can also lead to a headache if you go the cheaper route and purchase nonrefundable tickets. This is because, sometimes, there are circumstances that will require you to postpone your trip. If you do not want to waste the money you used to pay for the ticket, then you will need to attempt to get a refund on flights you just booked.
Buying a plane ticket ahead of time can be very convenient. This lets you rest your mind after planning a trip, knowing that you do not have to worry about your flight anymore. This also gives you more options should your preferred schedule become unavailable. But if there is an issue and you need to change or, postpone your flight, then you need to at least get a refund.
Now, getting a refund can be tricky, especially as you have a nonrefundable ticket. However, you will be glad to know that there are things you can try in order to get a refund on your flights. Check out the list below.
Have Your Case Reviewed By The Airline
As much as these companies like to remind their clients that they strictly do not give refunds for nonrefundable tickets, you should know that some airlines may be willing to do so if you are able to negotiate your case. Remember, they conduct refund requests on a case-by-case basis. So, if you are not able to fly on the flight you booked due to sickness, you need to get the right documents to present to an airline representative.
However, see to it that you make your appeal using not only the right documents but also the right words and disposition. These representatives usually face customers who talk to them in an accusative manner. Get on their more favorable side by being pleasant and gracious. Should your first attempt fail, be persistent by following up on your request.
See If The Airline Cancelled Or Changed The Flight
When the refund request is the fault of the customer, you can get worked up worrying about wasting money on the ticket. On the other hand, if the airline is the one responsible for the cancellation or even a significant delay, remember that they owe you a refund. Just like in other cases, make sure to persistently contact the airline to explain your case.
Get Travel Insurance
As mentioned, buying a nonrefundable ticket is always risky. However, you can minimize the occurrence of unfavorable situations by getting travel insurance. Just make sure to clarify the coverage when it comes to canceled flights.
These insurers usually have insider knowledge, giving them an advantage when it comes to appealing for refunds. Moreover, these companies often have entire departments that handle such cases. The same is true for travel agencies. By doing this, you know that someone has your back should any unexpected incidents occur.
Cancel Within The Free-Cancellation Period
Keep in mind that airlines have policies that you can take advantage of and one of these is the 24-hour rule. Most companies have this rule in place, especially if you are flying to local destinations. This basically lets you cancel your booking within 24 hours of buying the tickets.
However, when canceling within the free-cancellation period, keep in mind that the company will try to offer reimbursements in the form of flight credits. What you need to know is that you can insist on getting a refund by mentioning the 24-hour rule.
The Bottom Line
Flight tickets alone can be costly and nobody needs the added expense of buying a new ticket in case of emergency. With these tips, you can try to get a refund for your tickets, allowing you to avoid such additional costs. Hopefully, these tips save you some money for future travels!
Like other provinces, Camarines Norte has their own set of special delicacies that originated from ancestors and gets passed on to the next generation. We recently visited this awesome province which really has a lot to offer. From beaches to waterfalls to sumptuous food and snacks, Camarines Norte can’t deny that it’s a paradise for foodie and adventure enthusiasts.
And because of that here’s a list of a few of the must-try delicacies and places to eat when you are in Camarines Norte!
[Where to Eat] Alvino’s Roast, Grill & Fry
Our first dinner was at Alvinos located in Daet. This restaurant has a very wide variety of dishes to choose from. All time favorites are Binalot Kamayan, roasted chicken, pizza, and burgers. People surely have different tastes for food. camarines norte guide
We mostly ordered the Binalot style dishes. I had Pork Sisig with salted egg while the other had chicken, Bicol Express, and a few more. You will be eating using your hands but they will give you plastic gloves for your convenience or you may request a spoon and fork set. Others said their Mango Shake is one of the best but I had yet to try that one.
[What to Eat] Crispy Sisig (binalot style – Alvino’s)
An appetizing version of sisig. The pork belly is crispy fried until golden brown and chopped into small pieces. It’s served on a wrap of banana leaf and blended well together with salted egg and tomato.
[What to Eat] Bicol Express (binalot style – Alvino’s)
https://www.instagram.com/p/BNTsdhjDQqM/
Bicol Express is a stew made from long chilies, coconut milk, shrimp paste or stockfish, onion, pork, and garlic. It’s a famous dish in Bicol region due to it’s unique and spicy flavor than enhances the appetite of anyone who eats this particular dish.
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[Where to Eat] Villa Eusebia Restaurant
It is a restaurant located in Labo, Camarines Norte. It is overlooking the Labo river which makes your lunch even more enjoyable as it goes with a great ambiance of nature. You can be sure it is cooked using the freshest ingredients – which all happen to be organic too. Their menu is just a great if you are looking for quality Filipino cuisine. camarines norte guide
[What to Eat] Sinantol
Sinantol is also one of the popular dishes in Camarines Norte. It is a grated santol (sandor) fruit meat cooked in coconut milk with red and green chili. Sometimes they add pork and other meat to make the taste flavorful.
[What to Eat] Crispy Tadyang (Beef)
Crispy Tadyang
Short ribs are a cut of beef taken from the brisket, chuck, plate, or rib areas of beef cattle. They consist of a short portion of the rib bone, which is overlain by meat which varies in thickness. camarines norte guide
[What to Eat] Lechon Kawali Sinigang
Lechon Kawali Sinigang
The crispy texture of Lechon and the “asim-kilig” factor of Sinigang sa Sampalok combined make food perfection! This one is a great share for barkada and family.
[What to Eat] Ginataang Manok
Ginataang Manok
This is a simple Filipino dish wherein chicken is sautéed in garlic, onion, and ginger then stewed in coconut milk. camarines norte guide
[What to Eat] Sizzling Pork Sisig
Sizzling Pork Sisig
Grilled and diced pork bits fried until golden brown. Served on a sizzling plate.
[Where to Eat] Candist’s Kitchen
Candist’s Kitchen is located at Candelaria St. in Paracale, Camarines Norte. A restaurant that serves great original Filipino cuisines and dishes that originated particularly in Bicol. Head to this restaurant and taste their Tinomok and Pork Binagoongan. camarines norte guide
[What to Eat] Pork Binagoongan
Pork Binagoongan is a Filipino dish made from sautéed and stewed pork in shrimp paste.
[What to Eat] Tinomok
Tinomok
It is made with lean meat wrapped in taro leaves then simmered in coconut milk.
[What to Eat] Fried Tulingan
Tulingan fish fried with perfection. Partnered with soy sauce. camarines norte guide
[Where to Eat] D Bar Kadz
A snack house located in Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte. This was where we had a spaghetti treat that tastes really good. Three of our friends had shared a platter of spaghetti and was consumed immediately. That’s how good it was!
[Where to Eat] Mamita’s
A small food house located in the town of Mercedes. Popular for their snacks and burgers. We ordered their best selling burger and it was sumptuous!
[What to Eat] Tinapa (Smoked Fish)
It is a native delicacy in the Philippines and is often made from blackfin scad. The fish is preserved thru the process of smoking. The tinapa which we have ordered directly from ZDP Smoked Fish House was very tasty. You must drop by and order Tinapa for pasalubong. 🙂 camarines norte guide What are other Camarines Norte specials that have not been included here? State it in the comments!
Despite being an island literally surrounded by beaches, Ireland is not the first place that most people think of when you ask about beaches. We’re here, though, to raise our hand and salute Ireland’s Inch Beach, on the south side of the Dingle Peninsula, as our favorite place for an Irish beach break!
Being right on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, you might expect to pound surf and tall cliffs. Instead, Inch Beach is as stunning as any Irish landscape, with the added benefit of a long strand of glistening sand and gentle waves.
We love that you can join local picnickers and paddle-boarders, fishermen and families enjoying the cool Atlantic. It’s a great beach for beginner surfers, too; surf schools offer lessons and rental gear for much of the year. If you’re fine just watching, there’s a restaurant with great views the strand. As a bonus, the beach faces west for beautiful Irish sunsets! If you get smitten as we did, you can stay just up the hill at The Strand hotel, then wake up for a sunrise stroll on Inch Beach.
Another great thing is that Inch Beach is a Blue Flag beach. That means there must be clean drinking water and toilet facilities, and the beach must be kept clean. More importantly, lifeguards are on duty from June through September. best beaches in the world
From here on, whenever Ireland comes to mind, don’t think just of the many shades of emerald. Some of her brightest gems are beaches, including lovely Inch Beach on the Wild Atlantic Way.
62. Diamond Beach in Iceland
According to Ania of The Travelling Twins
Have you ever noticed that diamonds look best under a bright light on a black cushion? In old movies, they called diamonds “ïce”. On this beach, the diamonds are ice, the light is the Arctic sky, and the cushion is black volcanic basalt. best beaches in the world
The Diamond Beach is not for sunbathing or sandcastles. It is definitely not for swimming. But you must see it because it is like no other.
Each gemstone on the beach is a chunk of crystal-clear ice, thousands of years old, and weighing a ton or more. It has broken off the face of the largest glacier in Europe. It has floated across the Jökulsárlón lagoon in the company of seals and seabirds and then out into the North Atlantic. Polished and sculpted by the roaring freezing surf, it has been cast up again onto the sparkling black shore. Each crystal is unique, and tomorrow it will be gone – replaced by others.
The sun is always low in Iceland, so sunrise and sunset skies may last all day. The light in these diamonds can be a spectrum like Disney unicorns, but the sea is grey and violent. Don’t let it catch you as you pose for selfies against this bucket-list backdrop. best beaches in the world
The Diamond beach is on the main south coast road, five hours east of Reykjavik. There is a carpark very close. Access is free.
63. Waikiki Beach in Hawaii
According to Roxanna Keyes of Gypsy With Day Job
Waikiki Beach, on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu, has become one of the most widely known beaches in the world, attracting untold millions of visitors each year. Although significant portions are man-made, even beach-lovers would never know. The long strip of golden sand running between Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean appears to be exactly where nature intended.
What outsiders refer to as Waikiki Beach is actually known to locals as 8 distinct beaches. Although they run together, each has its own distinct vibe and appeal. There are areas of calm waters, and others with choppy surf. Some sections have adjacent grassy stretches, others a boardwalk, and yet others small stone walls that are ideal to sit and watch the waves. best beaches in the world
But what makes Waikiki stand out in a world of beautiful beaches is the variety and abundance of trees, from the palms to banyans and ficus. Not only does the greenery add brilliant contrast to the sand and sea, but it provides almost as much shady area as it is sunny. When the tropical sun is at its hottest, there are stunning shady areas to relax without retreating indoors.
64. Mughsail Beach in Oman
According to Rahma Khan of The Sane Adventurer Follow his adventures via Instagram: @thesaneadventurer
If you’re surprised to see Oman in the list of best beaches so you’re not alone! Not many people know this but Oman is home to a long stretch of a 3000km coastline. There are many unexplored pristine beaches in Oman but the Mughsail beach in the southern city of Salalah is the most popular and the most visited beaches in Oman. Situated near to the border of Yemen, there are several factors that make it the best beach in Oman. best beaches in the world
The Mughsail beach is along a limestone cave called the Marneef Cave, which is believed to be formed years ago due to the soil erosion from the sea. Another reason that makes Mughsail the perfect beach to visit is the natural blowholes at the beach. During high tides when the water crushed with the limestone cliffs, it comes out from the blowholes with great force making them look like a fountain. So, not only the Mughsail beach an ideal place to swim and spend a great afternoon, the cave and the blowholes make the beach more worthy of visiting.
65. Praia do Porto da Barra, Brazil
According to Daniel James of Layer Culture
Follow his adventures via Instagram: @layerculture
If you know anything about travel in Brazil you’ll be familiar with the huge amount of beaches. After traveling to many places in Brazil in search of the best beaches, Praia do Porto da Barra in Salvador, has been the one with the most pleasant surroundings. best beaches in the world
The beach vendors are super friendly and attentive, they make sure you’ve got everything you need. They’ll make you a tasty Caiprihina whenever you like, or even just a juicy coconut if you want to refresh your taste buds. If you are alone they will watch your belongings which I thought was a nice touch.
If you don’t know the best time to visit Brazil or where to start, the beach here in Salvador will not disappoint you. I recommend coming in the afternoon when the sun has cooled down a little and to enjoy the sunset – which is absolutely gorgeous here.
66. Banul Beach, Coron, Philippines
According to Cat Smith of Walk My World One of our favouritebeaches in the world may just be one of the smallest we’ve ever visited. However, what Banul Beach lacks in size, it makes up for in spectacular scenery. Tucked away in a corner of the stunning Coron Island in the Philippines, Banul Beach is pure paradise. This tiny beach has dazzlingly white sand that is so fine that it feels like powder when you touch it. The crystal-clear water is calm and perfect for swimming, and the dramatic limestone cliff backdrop gives the beach a wild feel. best beaches in the world It’s one of those places where you have to pinch yourself to believe that it’s real. What makes it even more special is that as long as you arrive before the tour groups turn up for lunch, you will have one of the best beaches in the world all to yourself. There are few beaches this beautiful where you can say that!
67. Bang Bao Beach in Koh Kood Island, Thailand
According to Jeanne Malherbe of Learning to Breathe Abroad
The island of Koh Kood (also spelled as Koh Kut) is one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets. The Western side of the island has one glorious beach after another, but the crowning glory has to be Bang Bao. Situated midway down the West coast, this postcard-perfect bay will mesmerize you with its dazzling white sand and crystal clear water. best beaches in the world
The two headlands at the mouth of the horseshoe bay, protect the beach from wind, so you’ll find some of the calmest waters in Thailand here. best beaches in the world
There are numerous resorts dotted around the bay, each with their own wooden jetty stretching out into the sparkling water. Perfect for jumping into the enticing turquoise waters!
There are a couple of great restaurants and a mini-mart for supplies. If the relaxing environment isn’t enough to get you to unwind, then the Thai massage parlor in the center of the bay should be able to ease your stress. There is also a dive shop for those wanting to explore at greater depths.
68. Bamboo Beach, Thailand
According to Pari Alva of Traveling Pari
Follow her adventures via Instagram: @traveling__pari
In my opinion, Thailand has a high concentration of some of the best beaches in the world. It would be difficult to pick just one. Typically, one would say Maya Bay is the best. However, on my visit, I never got to see the famed Maya Bay because it was closed to tourists in order to save the coral life.
Now that Maya Bay is inaccessible, if I had to pick, I would say Bamboo Beach is the best. Just look at the photo and I’m sure you already agree with me… the white sandy beach, the limestone cliffs, and the brilliant blue water make this beach jaw-droppingly gorgeous. best beaches in the world
If you are visiting the southern part of Thailand, I would recommend this beach as one of the best things to do in Krabi or Phuket. The beach is on a separate island called Bamboo Island located between Krabi and Phuket. So, you can easily hire a long-tail boat or speed boat from either place to get there.
69. Inaladelan, Port Barton, Palawan, Philippines
According to Ferna Mae Fernandez of Everywhere With Ferna Follow her adventures via Instagram: @Everywherewithferna
Inaladelan is a favorite beach that I have visited. It is one of the beaches in Port Barton, Palawan located in an Island formerly known by the locals as “German Island”. Today, its name is changed German to Inaladelan Island, now privately owned that has a 12 hectares in size. It’s crystal clear color of the water, the different forms of the corals, abundant presence of sea creatures like the turtles and fish, plus the very fine white-sand beach are among the reasons why this stands out among all those that I visited.
Apart from being such, this place is secluded, unpopulated, and really solemn making it perfect for relaxation and rest. Experiencing a Filipino setting is best presented from this beach, having a bamboo hammock, beach huts, swings, coconut trees standing still, Filipino cuisines offered and a very fresh air breezing through. Other things to do are diving, snorkeling, and camping which the site has a limited source of electric power at night. And above all, having time to sunbath is just a spectacular thing for me to do here.
70. St Tropez Beach in France
According to Priyanko Sarkar of Constant Traveller
What do you get when you cross an old fishing hamlet into an exotic playground of the rich and famous that is known to almost everyone? St Tropez of course. That alone is a compelling enough reason to make the journey to St Tropez on the French Riviera. After all, who doesn’t want to live like royalty for a few days?
If you’re lucky to book in advance and rich enough to cough up the high prices, make sure you stay near the Old City port. Once you explore the port side of town, make way to the actual beachside that’s about 8-10 kilometers from St Tropez. Public transport is laughable in the area but there are rentals on offer. The beachfront stretches unbroken for a good five kilometers and is divided into several parts. Nikki Beach, Pampelonne Beach and the most famous one, Tahiti Beach that was popularised by Brigitte Bardot in And God Created Woman are the most famous ones. That movie, in fact, is the single reason for St Tropez turning into a glam destination so make sure you stop by here.
Take care of beach etiquette though. For example, nudism is a way of life around Pampelonne Beach and you will be met with stern glares and rude comments if you walk with clothes on and gawk at those sunbathing. Along other beaches, you can take part in water activities like windsurfing while others are family-friendly. Choose your beach with care and then spend as much time as you can in one of the best and most famous place on the planet. best beaches in the world
For such a high-profile destination, it’s curious to know that St Tropez has no railway station or even an airport. There are fixed schedule buses from St Raphael, the closest railhead about 40 kms from St Tropez. If you’re using public transport, be sure to plan your entry and exit from here accordingly.
Here at The Jerny, we’re no strangers to the desire to live, eat, and travel like locals whenever we find ourselves at new destinations. As a traveler, putting yourself in the shoes of locals is a great way to learn about, as well as show respect to, the culture that you’re visiting. If you’re planning a trip to South Korea soon, here are some of the best ways to experience the country from the local point of view.
Know your Korean staple food
A big reason why people love to travel is to experience the local food. There are plenty of Korean staples that are well-known worldwide, but it doesn’t take a genius to know that the best version of those staples will be found in the country of origin itself. Travel and gaming website ExpatBets has a range of guides to help you with your trip to South Korea, and cover some traditional dishes that you definitely shouldn’t miss, including bibimbap, dak galbi, and Korean BBQ. Bibimbap is a rice bowl that topped with kimchi (fermented vegetables), fried egg, and a special spicy gochuhang sauce – the best version of which can be found in the Korean city of Jeonju. Meanwhile, it might surprise some readers to know that samgyeopsal refers specifically to pork Korean BBQ, which can include beef ribs or garbisal, as well as dak gui or chicken. Remember these basic terms – they’re bound to come in handy when you’re asking locals for directions to the best locally-ran restaurants in the area.
Familiarize yourself with the train lines
South Korea’s high-speed train transportation system is called the Korea Train Express, an extensive network of railways that can transport you between every major Korean city and town. To say that it’s fast would be an understatement. The train trip from the capital of Seoul to the city of Daegu – a distance of over 200 kilometers – only takes a little more than an hour of travel. Each major Korean city has several train stations that will give you access to this high-speed and extensive transport system, which makes it easier to explore the country like a local. The trains are used daily by Korean citizens to get to their jobs and do errands, and are also perfect for backpacking tourists looking to experience key aspects of local life. Visit a jimjiibang
A jimjiibang is simply a community spa that’s frequented by local Koreans. Don’t worry – jimjiibangs are separated by gender. Do note that you can pretty much expect to be surrounded by naked strangers, as all types of swimsuits are taboo in these hangout-friendly spas. Before you enter any of the pools, you’re first required to thoroughly bathe with soap, shampoo, and water. There are cold, warm, and hot baths available so you can take your pick. Another mainstay of jimjiibangs are full-body scrubs, which Koreans often get after they’re done relaxing, lounging, and socializing in the pools. CN Traveler notes how you shouldn’t be surprised nor offended if a stranger offers to scrub your back clean while you’re in the spa. They’re likely only interested in being friendly to a foreigner, as scrubbing the backs of friends and even strangers is a typical way for Koreans to show social warmth.
Don’t refill your soju glass if you’re done
Spending any amount of time in Korea would be incomplete without partaking in the nation’s national drink – soju. For locals, it’s considered rude to leave the glasses of guests empty, which is why your glass will continuously be refilled whenever you down a shot. If you’ve had enough, simply leave your partially-filled glass alone, or respond to toasts by taking a small sip (which isn’t considered rude).
These are just some of the many ways in which you can experience being a local in Korea. Don’t be shy about asking locals questions whenever you need to, as the locals are used to tourists, and will likely be open to helping you out.
New York City is a notorious destination hotspot for tourists, nationally and abroad. While New York City is a great place for your next vacation, you should also avoid what are known as tourist traps. These people or places take advantage of tourists, either charging much more than necessary – or being downright nefarious. Here are a few pieces of advice to keep in mind the next time you visit NYC.
A Cheaper View
For many tourists, the Empire State Building is a must-see attraction in NYC and for good reason: it provides excellent opportunities for views and photos of the glorious Manhattan skyline. However, it is not the cheapest option to do this: in fact, it can be a serious tourist trap. If you need that perfect shot of the famous NYC skyline, head over to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade to avoid long lines and skip ticket prices altogether.
Central Alternative
Central Park is an iconic part of NYC and everyone wants to visit it on their trip: you definitely want to be able to say that you’ve been here. However, if you want to avoid kicking other tourists for blanket space, head over to Prospect Park, which was built by the same architects. Another fine aspect of Brooklyn, this park has gorgeous woods, a mile-long meadow, and is a much-needed break from the city for many.
Skip Rockefeller Center
This iconic skating rink has been the star of several Hollywood classics, and if we visit NYC, we long to see and experience it. However, if you want to skip the crowds and actually get the most out of your rental skates, head over to the McCarren Rink in Brooklyn as it is much cheaper and you are not limited to only 90 minutes of skate time.
Some Things are Worth It
Still, there are a few attractions that are well with the visit – as long as you remain mindful of those vendors that may attempt to take advantage of you. A Times Square bus tour is a great way to get around this iconic destination as many tourists are nervous to walk around with such a large crowd. You’ll see everything wacky and wonderful that Times Square has to offer from the comfort of a bus.
General Need-to-Knows
Not everything is a tourist trap in NYC: sometimes you just need to know a few inside things about your destination before you decide to head out there. For example, treat the sidewalks of NYC like a highway: never take up more room than you need or stop in the middle of walking. Don’t ride your bicycle on the sidewalk, behave like a local on the subway, and do not keep your nose on your mobile phone as you walk through the city.
When it comes to visiting NYC, there should be no regrets: save plenty of money and have the time of your life. Still, be cautious enough to avoid the tourist attractions that suck up too much of your funds and time, bear in mind that more expensive does not mean more interesting. Plan your trip well and experience NYC with a photographer’s eye.
The ongoing trend of online markets becoming the go-to business option has affected banks across the world in many ways. Digital banking is becoming more popular with each passing year. Payoneer is one of the most reliable companies that provide financial services, including online money transfers and digital payments. With more than 5 million customers today, it successfully operates everywhere across the globe.
Frankly, Payoneer seems like a great option to open an account with, whether you are an employer or an employee. How to register your account, as well as what the potential advantages are, is what we will discuss throughout this article.
What Is Payoneer?
Payoneer is a quick and simple solution for sending and receiving money from online businesses. The best thing about it is the fact that the Payoneer Mastercard is completely free, while the annual maintenance fee is set to $29.99, which has to be one of the lowest fees on the market.
If you are in the USA, Europe, the UK, or Japan, you will be able to open a bank account through Payoneer, which will make withdrawing money much easier.
As it is connected with several international marketplaces, including Elance, Udesk, Fiverr, Upwork, Airbnb, Odesk, Guru, and a few others, it is probably the best financial services solution for freelancers.
Advantages Of Payoneer
Before we get into how to open an account with Payoneer, we want to discuss a couple of benefits that put it in front of other payment services, such as PayPal and Skrill.
The first feature that makes it friendly to students and freelancers is that you don’t need to have a bank account in order to withdraw money. Once you have the Payoneer Mastercard, you can withdraw your money from the nearest ATM at a low fee.
The second amazing advantage is that, even if you are not in the US, you can open a virtual banking account at an American bank and have it connected with other payment services, such as PayPal and Google Pay.
Additionally, you can use this virtual account to connect with the Amazon Affiliate program and have the money deposited there.
The coolest part about Payoneer has to be the speed of service that it is highlighted by. They state that you only need to wait around 2 hours in order to have your money available once it has been sent to you from the payor. However, in most cases, it comes in as little as 10 minutes.
It supports more than 150 currencies and offers a fixed $3 withdrawal fee, which contributes to the overall value of this payment service.
Lastly, there aren’t any hidden fees, as Payoneer is completely transparent. This means there is no risk of you getting surprised or frustrated by additional charges!
How To Open a Payoneer Account
The application process is incredibly simple. The first step is to go to the Payoneer official website and then to the sign-up page or click the image below.
Once you fill in all of the required info, you will be redirected to connect your account with a Global Payment Service or a mass payout company. This is a step that you can skip and come back to later.
When you have your Payoneer account set up, you should go ahead and order your Mastercard. The card should be delivered within 14 business days.
Much like Amazon and a couple of other payment services/marketplaces, Payoneer offers an affiliate program. Firstly, if you sign-up via a referral link, you will get a $25 bonus as soon as you receive the first $100 into your account.
This is in order to prevent those who won’t be using the Payoneer account as a payment service from getting the bonus.
When you have your account up and running, you can earn $25 for every friend that signs up via your link, which you can find by clicking on the “Refer a Friend” tab. Keep in mind that they need to get the $100 deposit in order to be eligible for the bonus.
If you would like to find out about eBay delivery tips when you’re always traveling, take a look here.
Summary
For anyone who does online business, Payoneer seems like a fantastic solution in terms of the fees/charges applied, as well as the simplicity of service.
We did our best to highlight all of the essential features that highlight this company, and now it is up to you to go ahead and create an account if what is offered suits your needs!
Lake Pandin is one of the naturally beautiful bodies of water situated in the city of San Pablo, Laguna – two to three hours away from Manila. The lake has luscious colors of green we would love. From its grasses to the trees, everything looks so stunning. The coconut trees that surround the area is just one of your-gonna-be favorites in this place.
Once you get to the entrance to Pandin Lake, there would be a short trek for about 15 mins to 20 mins. Mind you that there are slopes along the way and the weather might also be hot, so please take care of yourself. There also are guides going to Pandin Lake waiting at the entrance. There’s no fixed payment for the guide so you can give them any amount that your heart could give openly. Lake Pandin
Once you’re in the location, a great scenery awaits. Plus, there also are stores that offer Halo-halo, Mais con Yelo, Calamay, Ube Halaya, Buko Juice, and a few to quench your thirst or fill your stomach after the short trek.
How to get to Lake Pandin from Manila?
Ride a bus heading to Lucena, could either be JAC, JAM, DLTB, LLI, or any, as long as it is passing thru San Pablo. Tell the conductor to drop you off at 711 convenience store near San Pablo Church. Fare: 127 pesos at JAC Liner. Travel time is around 2-3 hours.
Beside 711 convenience store are jeepneys bound to Nagcarlan-Liliw or Ilog. Tell the driver to drop you off at Pandin Lake entrance. The fare is around 20 pesos. Travel time is around 10-20 mins.
Activities in Lake Pandin
You may opt to rent a balsa or raft heading to the other side of the lake. When we were there, the rate is as follows (as of May 2017). As a safety precaution, you will be required to wear a life vest unless you’re a good swimmer. The package is good for ONE HOUR only. Balsa/Raft with meal (rice, fruits, viand): 360 pesos per person Balsa/Raft with meal + Grilled Liempo: 400 pesos per person Balsa only: 200 pesos per person Tip: You can always haggle for the price but be mindful of the locals. Lake Pandin
>Overnight camping is not allowed in the lake (according to the locals). Their operations start as early as 6 am up until 6 pm to 7 pm.
>Also, note that the shower rooms and comfort rooms are not abundant as well.
Most bangkeros are young but they are good at their jobs. There’s also a guide rope that they had to pull along to get to the other side of the lake. On that area was a parking spot for the balsa, a perfect little nook which is quiet and shady, there’s also a makeshift swing tied to a tree that makes that side more enjoyable. Be careful when swimming as it has been reported that the plants in the shallow part of the lake are giving the guests some itch.
Friendly advice: People flock in Lake Pandin especially on a holiday so expect that you would wait for an hour or two for your turn to hop on to a raft to get to the other side. Again, weekdays are the best time to go there as there would be fewer people in the place. Sidetrip: You may also ask the locals to guide you to Lake Yambo. Lake Yambo is located just beside the Lake Pandin but you would need to trek over to get to the next lake. Lake Pandin
Lake Pandin Gallery
These photos are from our friends who went to Lake Pandin. Credits to my couple friend Bradford and Sharlene.
