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Hospitality Jobs Abroad For Filipinos: How To Start

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

Moving to a foreign nation in search of employment opportunities is on the rise in the Philippines. With the top-level work ethic and skillset displayed by the Filipino Workers in the hospitality industry, many companies are opening their doors for them.
The hospitality business has been categorized as one of the fastest-growing industries internationally in the last few years. And this accelerating growth rate only signifies the rise in the hospitality industry on the global stage. As a result, there will be more opportunities in the future for devoted Filipino workers.
Here we’ve master crafted a guide to help you understand and escort your path for your career through overseas hospitality jobs. Read on to learn how to get started.

READ: App to Earn Money Online – Learn How to Use

1. Types of Hospitality Jobs

Depending on your skills and knowledge, you can find almost all kinds of jobs in the field. From managerial operations to bartending works to everything in between, the hospitality industry boasts many and varied professions.
If you are competent enough and have superior knowledge, you can also get assigned to high-paying top-level jobs in the hospitality field.

READ: 7 Questions To Ask Yourself Before You Relocate To A New Country

Moreover, with simple training, you can get yourself involved in preparing hot and cold beverages to establish yourself as a Barista. You can also become a skilled waiter who gracefully serves mouth-watering dishes to the guests.

2. The Best Countries to Work In

You can find Filipinos expats working in hospitality sectors in developed nations like Japan, America, and China. In fact, statistics reveal that more than two million Filipinos are currently employed in several sectors all across the world.
That’s not all! Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar are also very famous among Filipinos because of their competitive salary packages and greater career opportunities because of the steady increase in their economy.

3. How Much Can You Earn?

There is a handful of Filipinos who live in a foreign land, miles away from family, to boost their career by chasing their dream. However, for the majority of Filipinos, the core driving factor to join the hospitality industry is money so that they can financially support their family back home.

READ: How to Apply for China Visa [with No ITR] + Requirements

Over the past few years, the hospitality business has been offering high-paying jobs to Filipinos internationally. The pay may range from USD 1,000 to almost USD 5000 for skill level jobs such as bartender, cook, casino dealer, and sommelier.
And if you have a better educational qualification in the hospitality field you might even be offered even higher-paying jobs with other perks.

4. Where to Apply?

Streamlining the job options and finalizing the one that matches your skills and knowledge is overcoming one milestone to landing a good job. What follows next is the question- ‘Where to apply?‘
Fret not! We’ve got your back with that too with a very simple solution- the Internet! At present, smooth access to the internet has made job searching a lot more convenient and secured. You can easily filter the jobs on several online professional portals and then submit the applications.
‘Workabroad.ph’ is one of the leading websites for finding jobs abroad. It provides guides for ambitious OFWs and covers topics such as financial wellness, legal recruitment and how to boost your hospitality career. Another popular website that Filipinos rely on is OFWguru.com.

Government Placement Branch

You can also apply for a job via POEA’s famous in-house recruitment and job placement facility known as GBP (Government Placement Branch). The perk of finding a job through this medium is the security you get by the mantle of the government.

READ: Best Places to See and Visit in Canada and the USA during Winter

The employment opportunities they update are cent-percent legal in addition to the assurance that the employer is good. Therefore applying for jobs via different recruitment agencies that are licensed by POEA ascertains that you land a job legally.
There are many good-paying hospitality jobs available for Filipinos in every nook and corner of the world. All you have to do is to hone your skillset prior to submitting the job application.

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DAYTOUR: Singapore to Indonesia

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

 

Do you know that you can take a day tour in Indonesia from Singapore?
Indonesia Day Tour - https://twobudgettravelers.com
Yes, you read it right! A day tour to Indonesia is possible if you’re coming from Singapore! On our 9 days backpacking, we had included Indonesia and spent a day there. But obviously this itinerary here is only a part of Indonesia, there’s no way we could do a day tour covering the country.
You might be asking, “How did you do it? Did you fly from Singapore to Indonesia?”
The answer is, “It was easy and we didn’t have to book flight tickets to get to Indonesia. We went there via the ferry.” Read this guide: Backpacking and Crossing Borders: Singapore to Indonesia

[READ: 8 Spots to See in Singapore if You Have Limited Time]

First, you would need to book your ferry tickets online from Bintan Resort Ferries website. They only accept credit and debit card payments (with VISA/MasterCard logo). You can catch fares as low as S$6 (!!!) per way (taxes and others excluded).
There will still be the immigration process. Check this guide for the whole process.
Note: For Philippine passport holders, Indonesia is a visa-free country.
To get a map of Bintan, ask the ticket counter on Bandar Bentan Talani port. You may also check some off-beat destinations when you head to this country.
For the things you could do on a day tour in Bintan, Indonesia, here you go! This is what we did too, basically.

Bintan, Indonesia on a Day Tour

1. Take photos outside BBT port (Bandar Bentan Talani)

Indonesia Day Tour - https://twobudgettravelers.com

  • The ferry station offers a picturesque view outside. You may stay outside for a picnic or playground. A park is also located in the vicinity.
  • The location feels romantic at night but there are a lot of mosquitos.

2. Go to Crystal Lagoon and swim all day (or do fun activities)

  • Treasure Bay Bintan’s Crystal Lagoon in Indonesia is the first largest lagoon in South-East Asia with over 6.3 hectares of land. This is equivalent to 50 Olympic pools and is also a haven for watersports and land activities.
  • A saltwater manmade lagoon – feels like a real ocean.
  • Offers a wide range of water sports and other activities like Kayak, Paddle Boat, Water ZOVB, Inflatable play area, e-motorbiking, Jetovator, water tricycle, unlimited slide, ATV, and a lot more for a separate price.
  • To get there, you may walk about 10mins from BBT port to the Crystal Lagoon or hire a taxi.
  • Entrance Fee: 100,000 Indonesian Rupiah each.

3. Book a room at The Canopi

Indonesia Day Tour - https://twobudgettravelers.com

  • If you feel like spending a night in Bintan, I highly suggest The Canopi in Treasure Bay. It is located beside the Crystal Lagoon.
  • The Canopi offers luxurious safari tent (more like glamping) designs inspired from the 18th century.
  • Complete with modern luxuries such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, spa, meeting rooms and all day dining facilities.
  • The staffs here were very polite!
  • More information on their website – The Canopi.

4. Spend a few hours in Plaza Lagoi

Indonesia Day Tour - https://twobudgettravelers.com

  • Plaza Lagoi is the newly opened mall (opened 2015) situated near the Lagoi Bay. Built in a modern contemporary design with generous Indonesian touches.
  • You can go shopping or dine in here.
  • Other amenities here also include tourist information and tour booking center, a baggage drop-off facility for those departing for Singapore on Bintan Resort Ferries as well as shower and changing facilities for those heading for the beaches fronting the mall.
  • To get there, you may hire a taxi or wait for the roaming (free) shuttle bus at a fixed schedule.

5. Swim and enjoy the Lagoi Bay

  • Lagoi Bay or Lagoi Beach is located just in front of the Lagoi Plaza.
  • It’s a white beach fronting the mall. You may opt to take a photo or enjoy swimming in its waters. There’s a shower area inside Lagoi Plaza so you won’t have to worry about getting clean after heading to the beach.
  • To get there, a taxi will do or wait for the free shuttle bus at fixed schedule.
  • Check Raja Ampat, it’s an uncrowded white beach with rich marine life and awesome people.

6. [Alternative] Head to Nirwana Gardens

  • Nirwana Gardens is a five-star luxury hotel in the northern part of Bintan.
  • This hotel and resort offer a wide range of water and land activities for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.
  • Nirwana accommodations are rustic design and beachfront.
  • Most people whom we asked for a good place to stay and relax suggested us this place, but since we are budget travelers, we opted to stay at Crystal Lagoon, Plaza Lagoi, and Lagoi Beach.

That’s it!

[READ: 5000 Pesos Challenge – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia]

For our day tour itinerary in Indonesia, we had been to Crystal Lagoon – spent a few hours here enjoying the greatness of the facilities and the heat of the sun! Plaza Lagoi, where we had our lunch and afternoon snack. Lagoi Beach (Lagoi Bay), where the sands are extra white when hit by the sand and grayish in color when wet and a few more.
Here’s the free shuttle schedule.
Indonesia Day Tour - https://twobudgettravelers.com
And I think we had spent less than S$40 on this day trip (without the tickets). Isn’t that cool?!
If you need to spend a night there, you may check out the hotels on this page.
 

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Create, Design, & Print Photos for Free with Photobook using this Voucher Code

By
Jane - Two Budget Travelers
-

A photobook is a stubborn old-fashioned technology, but it provides you with some space for experimentation. It is basically a sequence of photographs printed on paper and bound into a portable volume.
In a time of a hammering flow of online photographs and videos, such materialistic simplicity is obviously quaint. But yet, this form which happens to have been invented in the mid 19th century still remains to be one of the most vivid ways of conveying the power of images.

READ: How to Create your 6×6 Simple Photobook
[+VOUCHER CODE: THEJERNY]

FREE Photobook Voucher Code
Today, we are going to talk about an app called Photobook that allows you to create and design photos for free. Read on to learn more.

About Photobook

Photobook is probably the best place for personalized custom gifts cards and photobooks. With Photobook, you can now transform your best photographs into inspired designs of outstanding quality, and turn your best moments into meaningful memories.
Photobook is offered by Photobook Philippines that believes in making every moment more magnificent and magical. With Photobook, users can narrate their greatest stories and share their wonderful experiences with their loved ones.
Create and Design Photos for Free with Photobook

Why Should You Use Photobook?

Photobook Philippines is among the best photobook designers and printers that the world has ever seen. Besides, there are few things that make Photobook, a stand-out brand in the market, and why we should choose Photobook for designing our own customized photobook.

READ: Find The Best App To Listen To Books On iPhone

The prime reason why Photobook Philippines should be on top of your list for creating a memorable photobook is its work quality. Photobook promises to offer a 100% quality guarantee and full personalization options in simple steps.
It ensures that all of their products are well made and meet the full satisfaction level of their customers and clients. Besides, Photobook offers an exclusive menu of personalization tools and a growing range of striking designs.
Additionally, Photobook also promises to deliver the products right at the customers’ doorsteps within 7 days. Also, if the orders achieve certain thresholds, Photobook has free shipping facilities.

Create a Design for Free with Photobook

With the Photobook app that is available on both iOS and Android platforms, you can easily create and design photos for free. The app is a brief version of the Photobook and has all sorts of service that it actually provides.
See how to design and get your free photobook here.
You can customize your photobook design and, also place an online order via the app. Photobook puts forward two separate binding options for the hardcover photobooks that includes the perfect binding option and a lay-flat binding option.

The standard photobook features a perfect binding with a reinforced spine whose cost can range from $44.99 to $64.99, depending upon the size.
Similarly, the lay-flat binding photobook levels out to display the photos seamlessly across two pages, which enable you a continuous visual experience. Its price starts at $64.99 and can hike as high as $99.99.
 

Mini Photobooks

Create and Design Photos for Free with Photobook

At Photobook app, users can also create mini photobooks. You can create a mini memento for your everyday moments in a softcover book. These mini photobooks can cost from $6.99 to $11.99, depending upon the sizes.
Get your FREE 6×6 Photobook here.
Moreover, you can also design simple books, wall decor photographs, calendars, photo gifts (tumblers, puzzles, mugs, pillows, keychains), apparel, embroidered and engraved gifts, and much more.
Photo prints are also available in various sizes and paper types. Photobook is your one-stop destination for all your necessities that includes photos in them.

The Bottom Line

To sum up, Photobook Philippines is the number 1 platform to turn your photographic collection into elegant photo books and albums. Make sure to consider this app if you are interested in making Photobooks.

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Dangerous Health Symptoms Travellers Should Be Aware Of

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

With various modes of transportation nowadays, traveling has become an essential part of work for some people and an important aspect of personal life for others. It has allowed many to visit faraway places for business and pleasure.
However, it is important to remember that ports for air, sea, and land transport serve as sites in which all kinds of people from different places congregate. Though it offers an economic, cultural, and social advantage, it also poses a health risk.
Because of this, it is only smart to check yourself for dangerous symptoms before your travel. Not sure what to look for? Here’s a list of symptoms you should be aware of.
Dangerous Health Symptoms

4 Health Symptoms That Could Be Dangerous

  • Fever, Cold, And Cough

A fever, cold, and cough are signs that your body is fighting off an infection, which could be caused by bacteria or viruses such as influenza or flu virus. As your body combats the bacterial or viral infection, it can be more vulnerable to other health risks.
With the recent virus pandemic, it is important to refrain from traveling if you experience these symptoms. This way, you can minimize your exposure to illnesses that could aggravate your situation and reduce the chances of passing on your sickness to others.

  • Chest Pains And Breathing Difficulties

Chest pains and breathing difficulties could indicate more severe health conditions. Usually, chest pains can be a sign of heart-related concerns like heart attacks, while breathing difficulties often have something to do with the respiratory system.
Those who are experiencing these symptoms should think twice about boarding that plane, ship, or vehicle. Possible medical conditions related to these could quickly worsen and you need to make sure that you have access to doctors and medications.

  • Severe Headaches

Intense headaches can mean a lot of things, from eye problems to more serious conditions concerning the nervous or circulatory system. Some sources of extreme headaches can include migraine, high blood pressure, anxiety, and even brain tumors.
Just like the case with chest pains and difficulty breathing, you might want to have yourself checked by your doctor before going on your trip. This way, you can minimize the risks and address any immediate sources of concern.

  • Aches Related To Your Ears And Nose

Those who are planning to fly to their destination should have their ears and nose checked before doing so. Pain could indicate sinusitis or ear infection, which can make the flight uncomfortable and even dangerous.
Flying with an ear infection can lead to your ears’ lowered ability to equalize pressure, which can, in turn, lead to ruptured eardrums and hearing loss. Meanwhile, the dry air from the plane can aggravate your sinusitis or even cause infections.

Health-Related Precautions To Take Before Traveling

To minimize risks and ensure your health while traveling, it is important to take the right precautions before doing so. Here’s what you should do.

  • Make Sure You Are In Good Health

Always ensure your good health before going on a trip, whether it is a short or a long one. This way, you can spend your time focusing on your destination and what it has to offer.
This also reduces the possibility of contracting diseases during your travels. You could also consider getting health insurance for added peace of mind.

  • Bring Necessary Medications

If you have an existing condition, you need to make sure that you have your medications with you before you travel. Take the necessary steps to find out whether such medications are allowed on the plane and in the place you are visiting.

  • Postpone The Trip If Necessary

If any issues with your health come up, do not hesitate to postpone your trip. This way, you are not risking your health just to push through with the trip. Postponing or canceling the trip can also save your life should any serious related issues occur.
Health Symptoms Travellers S

The Bottom Line

Being able to travel easily is definitely a perk of modern times. However, any risks to your health are not worth it.
You should always prioritize your health. To make sure that you are in perfect condition to travel, you can look out for these symptoms and make your decisions accordingly.

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The Legend Palawan celebrates 2 Decades of Filipino hospitality

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

The Legend Palawan celebrates 2 Decades of Filipino hospitality

The Legend Palawan (TLP) celebrates today its 20th Foundation Anniversary with the theme, “TLP@20: Two Decades of Unprecedented Filipino Hospitality.” Since 1999, this hotel has long nurtured that Filipino identity. It has been a dining destination serving only the best of local cuisine, a hearth of warmth and hospitality, home to past and current leaders, a venue for diverse groups to huddle, a pioneer in Puerto Princesa tourism, and an edifice that has witnessed Palawan through its best and worst of times.
the-legend-palawan-celebrates-2-decades-of-filipino-hospitality
In the span of two decades, the hotel has made significant contributions both to the hospitality and tourism industries of Palawan. TLP General Manager Eva Sembria reports that in 20 years, the hotel has served over five million guests, put in millions of investment in the city, employed more than 2,000 local talents, supported hundreds of local suppliers, and most importantly, promoted local destinations.
Wyden King, chairman and founder of  Legend Hotel International Corporation (LHIC), the Christian company that operates The Legend Palawan, shares the difficulty of promoting the hotel back in the day when there was only one flight going to Puerto Princesa daily. “We needed to promote Puerto Princesa as a destination with us being the tour host. We did not sell the hotel, we sold the destination,” adds King.
Promoting Puerto Princesa as a destination was a trailblazing strategy that proved successful. Sembria shares that TLP’s innovative tour packages became popular among tourists, particularly the Palawan Vacation Royale (PVR), a three-days/two-nights package in Puerto Princesa with tours at the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Park and Honda Bay. The PVR was later on rebranded as the Palawan Experience (PAX), an exclusive full-service tour package that included travel arrangements to and fro on top of accommodations and lodging in Palawan.
the-legend-palawan-celebrates-2-decades-of-filipino-hospitality
“Moving forward, we will continue to sell the destination but making sure we live by our mission of providing guests with our distinct Filipino hospitality—the ‘sulit alaga’ seamless service to the most important people, our guests,” says Sembria. To commemorate its 20th anniversary, The Legend Palawan launched a plethora of newly enhanced tour packages dubbed Roam Puerto Princesa.
In spite of having two decades in leisure and hospitality business tucked under its belt, The Legend Palawan aims to be continuously relevant by keeping up with the ever-changing needs of travelers and standards of hotels. One such demand previously identified by the company was the clamor for a beach destination. Being a city hotel, Legend Palawan faced stiff competition from resorts on the island that were offering beach accommodations. Not to be edged out, the company acquired the rights to manage and operate Isla Pandan in Honda Bay as a countermeasure. The company is also in the thick of developing other “hot spots” in Palawan as viable tourist attractions and destinations. “My dream, moving forward, is to create an unforgettable experience in the island of Puerto Princesa where guests can enjoy the beach, the mountain, and the river—all of these things they can do in comfort,” says King.
Sembria adds that “as the steward of one of Palawan’s iconic landmarks, we strive hard to keep the balance between tradition and innovation.”
the-legend-palawan-celebrates-2-decades-of-filipino-hospitality
Early this year, TLP launched its newly refurbished deluxe rooms and suites, helmed by award-winning interior designer Wilfrid Magcase. Each carefully appointed room is exquisitely decorated in classic Filipiniana motif using capiz shells and fine-grade wood furniture. With a total of 91 rooms to date and more underway, TLP is definitely gearing up for the future and standing by its commitment to bringing its signature brand of hospitality to the rest of the world.
For more information about The Legend Palawan, log on to www.legendpalawan.com.ph or follow them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/TheLegendPalawan)

BOOK YOUR ROOMS AT THE LEGEND PALAWAN HERE

 

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Disclaimer: This is a press release.

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Essential Tips To Stay Safe From Getting Infected When Traveling

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

As the pandemic continues to take its toll around the world, more and more people are encouraged to stay safe and to stay at home. As a matter of fact, only certain necessary individuals can perform what’s been touted as “essential travel,” including medical professionals and grocery store workers.

While traveling becomes a concerning event for both locals and foreigners alike with the rapid spread of the virus, people are taking more precautions to safeguard their health and safety. Most individuals have even canceled their trips and travels.

In the event you need to travel for work, or even for simply purchasing essential items and groceries, it’s important that you stay safe and take necessary measures to maintain your health. Below are some tips to stay safe from getting infected when traveling. Take a look.

Essential Tips to Stay Safe from Getting Infected

  • Consider Your Overall Health And Wellbeing

If you are already sick prior to your travel date, chances are you should postpone your trip. This way, you can heal, boost your immune system and prevent others from contracting the virus.

More than checking your health status, it’s also vital that you consider the state of your health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), older adults such as senior citizens and those with underlying medical conditions are more at risk of getting illnesses.

If you have these conditions or err on the older side, it’s best that you stay safe and reconsider traveling or postpone your plans to a later date.

Boosting your immune system by eating fresh fruits, vegetables, and drinking your vitamins is also highly advised. Likewise, physical activity also keeps you fit and healthy.

  • Look Up Your Destination

With numerous cases of the virus outbreak happening around the globe, it would be best for you to check if the country or destination you’re planning to go to. See if it has been considered a hot zone.

If it is, you might be required to get country-specific vaccines and medication to stay safe avoid being infected.

Consult your physician and get the approval of your doctor as they may know what steps you need to undertake before traveling.

  • Wear Protective Gear

Wear gloves and a mask when you are going out. Wearing gloves while traveling allows you to protect yourself from directly coming in contact with viruses. However, it’s recommended that you dispose of these gloves afterward.

Face masks should also be worn when going out in public. This is meant to protect other people in case you have symptoms or are currently feeling under the weather.

At the same time, this prevents the virus from immediately going into your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Mask-wearing may also lessen the risk of you accidentally touching your face and spreading germs. Because of this, it’s worth investing in cloth masks. Just make sure to properly disinfect and wash it after every use.

  • Sanitize Everything

If you don’t have the means to wash your hands with soap and water, it’s best that stay safe and arm yourself with at least 70% alcohol, sanitizing wipes, or hand sanitizers. These tools are helpful in wiping down surfaces and removing germs from areas you can potentially come in contact with.

Since viruses have the ability to survive and live off of various surfaces for days, it’s important that you sanitize areas such as plane seats, armrests, poles in a subway, handrails, and even the handles of grocery carts.

It’s understandable that you feel tired and weary after traveling for hours. However, once you have arrived at your travel destination, you should take a shower to wash off the germs and bacteria that you may have come in contact with. Do this prior to sitting down or laying on your bed.

While you’re at it, you should also immediately wash or launder your clothes. Disinfect your shoes and, if possible, leave them outside the door to prevent bringing germs or the virus indoors.

Disinfect surfaces you might have touched such as door handles, knobs, and even light switches. This is one of the most effective ways to stay safe when traveling.

Stay Safe when Traveling

The Bottom Line

Traveling may be unavoidable for many. But with these tips, you can certainly stay safe from getting infected even while you’re on the go. Take a cue from these tips and you can help flatten the curve in no time.

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25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-


Known for its long stretches of beautiful beaches, Boracay attracts millions of local and foreign tourists each year. The world-renowned paradise island is truly a must-visit.
Before packing your bags and heading off to this vacation destination, learn about the many things that you would wish you knew before going to Boracay. From the things you should avoid to the ways you can experience the island on a deeper and more meaningful level, this travel guide provides the tips you need to get off to a great start.

25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
Photo courtesy of keulefm via Pixabay

  1. Going to Boracay via Caticlan may be more convenient and faster, but it is going to cost you an arm and a leg. Flying via Kalibo is much cheaper, but it will leave you wasting hours traveling on the road. When traveling to Boracay, you must forego one thing in favor of the other. You may decide depending on what is more important at the moment: budget or time.
  1. There is a much less known route to Boracay. You can actually go there by water, and without having to take a plane ride to Caticlan or Kalibo. You only need to take a bus ride from Cubao to Batangas, then take a RoRo boat ride to Caticlan. This route costs much less and has a meal included. The caveat is that the trip is going to take so much longer, up to 10 hours or more. If your time is valuable to you, this may not be your best option. But if you have time to kill and would rather hang on to some extra cash, then there is no harm in giving this option a try.

    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of Hani_Han via Pixabay
  1. The locals would appreciate you more if you call the place by its rightful name. Remember that it’s Boracay, not Bora. Moreover, it will let you differentiate the paradise island of Boracay located in Malay Aklan, Visayas to Bora Bora in the South Pacific.
  1. Not everyone knows this, but it is actually illegal to remove pebbles or sand from any of the beaches in Boracay. Municipal Ordinance 310 dictates that people are banned from taking shells, pebbles or sand from any of the beaches. Those who are caught will be penalized with 1 to 3 months of imprisonment or a fine of Php2,500 for the first offense.
    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of Myriams-Fotos via Pixabay
  1. Smoking is also banned at the White Beach. Violators will be fined Php1,000 or may face imprisonment. You will have to move to designated areas, mostly on the beach path away from the beachfront, if you insist on smoking.
  1. If you are not a strong swimmer, you must swim only between the Yellow and Red Flags. You must also make sure you keep yourself to areas patrolled by lifeguards. If you cannot swim at all, then you must make sure you don’t go anywhere that is deeper than your waist height.

    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of ed-davad via Pixabay
  1. Make sure you have the henna tattoo done hours before you shower or go to bed. Henna ink is hard to remove and the hotel will charge you for any bed sheets or towels ruined by the ink. You may also want to have a skin test done 12 hours in advance as there are people who have experienced severe reactions to henna ink, with some resulting in unwanted scarring. 
  1. Prostitution is illegal in the Philippines, and Boracay is no exception. If you are caught engaged in such an exchange, you face the possibility of being imprisoned until your trial is set, and this can take several years. It’s simply not worth it, especially if you would consider the prison conditions in the country.

    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of 2206088 via Pixabay
  1. One sad truth about the paradise island is that you will encounter children begging on the streets. Worse, 95% of these children were smuggled to the island by syndicates. Giving them money is not going to help, as the syndicates will be collecting them. Report them to the authorities, or give them food and drinks instead. 
  2. Tourism in Boracay has reportedly caused a decline of 70.5% in coral cover from 1988 to 2011. And this is mostly attributed to unmonitored diving and snorkeling activities. Make sure you do not add to this figure. 

    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of JanClaus via Pixabay

  3. Accommodations tend to be fully booked during peak season, which is typically between September and May. Make sure you plan your trip ahead and have your accommodations booked in advance. [READ: Azalea Boracay: Living It Like You’re In The Metro!]
  1. Boracay has caught quite a party vibe. While this would satiate your social side, you would still want to have a quiet place to escape to after a long day of adventure. This is especially true if you planned a romantic itinerary. Arranging your accommodation in places that are relatively secluded, albeit still near key areas, is advisable. Places like the Alta Vista de Boracay or Coast Boracay provide a getaway in the often-crowded tourist destination.

    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of CarinaChen via Pixabay
  1. Traveling in Boracay is much more meaningful if you get to know the locals. Interact with the Ati tribe, and learn more about their expertise in flora and fauna. Take the time to visit Boracay’s rustic countryside.
  1. Boracay natives want you to be informed of the environmental and socioeconomic issues they are facing. They would appreciate if you could help them educate people about the pressing issues they are dealing with. 
    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of yrissari via Pixabay
  1. Avoid purchasing anything from people who approach you on the beach. They often travel agents who will add unnecessary charges. You can visit providers directly instead.
  1.  Feel free to haggle. Cartels have been set up in Boracay, standardizing the prices of scuba diving and other popular water activities. You can still negotiate for a bargain privately though, especially for snorkeling, island hopping, and sailing.

    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of stevepb via Pixabay
  1.  Most shops in the island’s popular D’Mall offer western prices. You’d do better to shop somewhere less centralized.
  2.  Most hostels, hotels and food places have WiFi connectivity; 3G and 4G connections may be unnecessary.

    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of lapping via Pixabay

  3.  Check if your place of accommodation is offering tours. These places often have in-house tour agencies or partner agencies that can offer competitive prices. It’s more convenient as well, as you would be making the arrangements at the front desk.
  1.  If you plan to travel to the countryside, make sure you download offline maps via Google Maps. Remote places usually do not have WiFi or GPS available.

    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of yrissari via Pixabay
  1.  Boracay is more than just the popular White Beach. The island has other beaches that are worth exploring, such as the Puka Beach, Diniwid Beach, Bulabog Beach, and Ilig-Iligan Beach. They all have white sand and boast their own distinctive charm.[READ: Upgrade Your Boracay Staycation with Caipirinha Villa!]
  1.  Boracay is more versatile than most beach islands. Activities go beyond just swimming and sunbathing. You can do Boracay kitesurfing, go windsurfing, go zip lining, and so much more!


    25 things you wish you knew before going to Boracay - https://twobudgettravelers.com
    Photo courtesy of igorska via Pixabay
  1. Boracay boasts an exciting nightlife, and many tourists visit the island mainly for that!
  1. The famous island paradise is not only an upscale destination. You will find a range of accommodation and restaurant options that will suit your budget.
  1. Boracay is world famous.  It has received various recognitions, including Top Island in the World in 2016 and 2017 by Condé Nast Traveler and  Best Island in Asia from Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. One must simply cherish the time spent on the prestigious island!

Now go and work on an awesome Boracay itinerary of your own!

Check and book flights to Boracay
Book your hotels for Boracay

 

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Discovering Marine Beauty in Bali

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

Discovering Marine Beauty in Bali

With lush forests to explore, beautiful beaches to lounge on, terraced rice fields to hike, and active volcanoes to climb, the Indonesian island of Bali is a must-visit location for many travelers that want to explore a tropical island.
And it isn’t just the island itself that is full of beauty. The waters surrounding the island are home to a diverse range of marine life. Those with snorkeling and diving experience could spend an entire trip just exploring the waters!
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Thinking about an underwater adventure in Bali? Here’s what you need to know!

Planning a trip to Bali

When it comes to planning a snorkeling or diving trip to Bali, be mindful of the season. April through October is the dry season; this is the ideal time for a trip because waters will be calm and underwater visibility will be better.

READ: Villa Palma Canggu: Bali’s Hidden Oasis You Should Stay

The rainy season is from November through March. Humidity is higher and precipitation throughout the day is normal. While it is possible to go snorkeling or diving during the rainy season, rain causes decreased visibility. Mosquitos are also more common during the rainy season. However, this is an ideal time of the year if you prefer dealing with rain instead of crowds.

Getting close with Mola Mola

Mola Molas are giant oceanic sunfish that live in Bali all year long, but they prefer living down in the deep, cold waters of Nusa Penida. However, from the end of June until early November, the water temperatures drop and the Mola Mola fish swim closer to the surface to sunbathe or to get rid of parasites. Sometimes, they even leap out of the water!
Mola Molas are timid and scare easily. Divers need to remain still around them or the fish will swim away. Unfortunately, Nusa Penida is a diving location that is only recommended for experienced divers because of the strong currents.

Swimming with sharks

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There are sharks to be found at some of the dive locations—the most common type of sharks found are reef sharks and hammerheads, both of which are relatively harmless. Those that want to purposefully want to swim with sharks should head to Gili Selang. Reef sharks can also sometimes be found at Anchor Wreck, a dive location protected from the open sea.

READ: 4D3N BALI INDONESIA ITINERARY | Bali Travel Guide 2018

Gili Selag is a small rocky island off the coast of Bali. Large aquatic animals, including hammerhead sharks and reef sharks, can be found here. Currents around the island are very strong, so previous experience with diving and a local guide are recommended.

Plenty of fish in coral reefs

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There are coral reefs aplenty off the shores of Bali, perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Beginning divers should head to the Blue Lagoon, where plenty of coral and critters live in calm waters. Colorful coral is home to octopi and other amazing animals. Occasionally, sea turtles and harmless reef sharks can also be spotted here.
More advanced divers will want to head to Blue Corner. This location is considered a deep dive and is full of strong currents. In addition to the beautiful coral, there are both small reef fish and larger aquatic animals (such as rays) that live here.

READ: Indonesia Travel Tips: Make The Most Of Your Holiday

Enjoying Manta Rays

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While smaller species of rays can be found throughout Bali, magnificent manta rays can only be found at a few locations. Sometimes they can be spotted in the waters of Nusa Penida. Even beginner snorkelers can safely see the manta rays if they go with a guide.
However, if you don’t feel like diving or snorkeling to see manta rays, you can instead visit Manta Point or Manta Bay. Both of these locations are accessible by boat and the manta rays stay near the surface of the water. Depending on weather conditions, it is also possible to go diving at these locations as well.

Respecting natural environments

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No matter if you choose to snorkel, dive, view from a boat, or view from the shore, remember to respect the natural environment of the marine animals. Ocean pollution, hunting, and rising water temperatures are harming more and more marine life every day.
Make sure never to touch an animal unless the guide tells you that it is okay. If you are given the okay to pick up a shell in the water, make sure to return it to the location you found it after examining it—that shell could be playing an important role in the ecosystem. And, never throw food into the water unless given the okay from a local guide.

READ: The Junction House Bali: A Must Visit Restaurant When in Bali

Final thoughts

Whenever you go for a swim in Bali, you will share the water with thousands of different species. Bright colored coral, small colorful reef fish, larger fish such as the Mola Mola, manta rays, sea turtles, reef sharks, and more. Different snorkeling and diving locations will have different animals, so choose your location carefully.

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Best Places to Visit in New Zealand for Tolkien Fandom

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
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Essential Places to Visit in New Zealand for Tolkien Fandom

Despite being so far away, New Zealand remains one of the most desired destinations to visit.
According to the stats, nearly half a million tourists visited New Zealand as of January 2019.
We’re pretty sure that Tolkien fans are accountable for more than half of this number.

New Zealand as Mecca for Tolkien Fandom

It was in the stars for New Zealand to become the ultimate destination for Tolkien fans, when Peter Jackson finally, after a series of daunting negotiations, got the rights to make the films from Saul Zaentz.
With the help of The Lord of the Rings’ main location scout, a photographer, and a New Zealand native Dave Comer and his crew, Peter Jackson discovered the most breathtaking locations around the two islands that have since become the dream destinations for the Tolkien Fandom to visit.
Being a Tolkien fan myself, I have the list of the top New Zealand locations that are must-visit for Tolkien fans to get a glimpse of how the movies were made, and, of course, to immerse in the atmosphere of Peter Jackson’s creations.

  1. Wellington

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A view on Wellington from Mount Victoria
Image credit: Unsplash
Wellington and its surroundings are the home for numerous LOTR locations. It’s where the production was held and where the history was made.

READ: 10 Best Places to Visit in Bali, Indonesia

Among quite a few places to visit in Wellington, Tolkien fans will especially enjoy:

  • Weta studios: Weta Cave is one of the coolest places to visit if you want to learn more about the production of the films. Original stage property, as well as stories told by people who worked on LOTR production, will leave a lasting impression on anyone who is a big fan of the films.
  • Mount Victoria: this historic location is the home of Hobbiton woods, and particularly the scene, where hobbits hid from the Ringwraiths.
  • Hutt River and Kaitoke Regional Park: these two locations hosted the two most epic scenes from the LOTR movies. Hutt River is Anduin River, where Arwen stopped the Ringwraiths from claiming Frodo, and Kaitoke Regional Park is the home of Rivendell, one of the most beautiful locations in LOTR movies. In Kaitoke Regional Park, you can explore elven paths and even enjoy a picnic with your family or friends.

Another location near Wellington is Putangirua Pinnacles – a place where Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas explored the Paths of the Dead to secure their legendary coalition against Sauron.

  1. Queenstown

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Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Image credit: Unsplash
The most breathtaking locations from the Lord of the Rings movies are found around Queenstown – a town on the south island of New Zealand.

READ: 10 Places in Spain You Should Definitely Visit

The most notable of them are:

  • Glenorchy – the Gate to Paradise – is one of the most breathtaking locations around Queenstown, which was the home of Isengard.
  • Earnslaw Burn – this place was the home of Rivendell in the Hobbit movies, more notably – the home of the Hidden Path, where dwarves, Bilbo and Gandalf escaped the orcs.
  • Fiordland National Park – the place that will take your breath away, Fiordland National Park hosted several locations from the LOTR movies, including Edoras, Helm’s Deep, and The Pillars of the Kings.

Tolkien fans can enjoy numerous tours that are organized by the authorities of Queenstown. “There are hundreds of tours a day to different LOTR locations”, says Patrick Harris, a developer at Axonim and an avid New Zealand visitor.
So, because there are so many notable LOTR and the Hobbit locations around Queenstown, I too recommend staying there for several days for the full experience.

  1. Matamata

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Hobbiton, Matamata, New Zealand
Image credit: Unsplash
This location is surely one of the most popular locations among Tolkien fans and one of the reasons to travel to New Zealand in general.
Matamata is the home of Hobbiton – a place where every Tolkien fan would want to live for sure.

READ: Top 5 National Park Road Trips in America

Once a sheep farm, Hobbiton now hosts hundreds of tourists a day. The Dragon Inn hosts incredible events, and the fairs held several times a year will strike a chord in everyone, who cherishes Tolkien’s creations.

Over to You

Of course, besides Wellington, Queenstown, and Matamata, New Zealand has other incredible locations that were the home for The Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit movies.
Do you have any suggestions?
Share them with us in the comments!

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Tokyo Bubble Tea

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

Tokyo Bubble Tea - www.twobudgettravelers.com

Tokyo Bubble Tea

Tokyo Tower – 585.00

Kiwi Green Fruit-C (Large) – 125.00

Matcha Ice Cream Frappe (Large) – 150.00

Taro Ice Cream Frappe (Large) – 150.00

Location: BGC, Taguig City

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