During our nine-day stay in Taipei, we had the privilege to stay at one of Taipei’s best boutique hotels, that’s amba Taipei Songshan. amba Taipei Songshan is a new boutique design hotel, giving travelers a fresh new look and a millennial feel without compromising on the value they deliver and are known for. It has been opened in July 2016 designed for the smart travelers looking for a place with the C factor; creativity, connectivity, and conservation. Through their modern, unique, and playful design, they make communal areas inviting and energetic.
Amba Hotels are also socially responsible thru the use of eco-friendly materials, crafts, and all natural products, helping the local community and being an advocate of building a healthy and sustainable environment. They are partnered with Two Acres, a socially responsible Taiwanese brand which helps in giving second chances to people who have formerly committed issues with the law.
amba Taipei Songshan: Our Experience and What You Need to Know
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This beautifully built boutique hotel is strategically located in Songshan and is connected thru the Citylink giving travelers a mere 5-minute walk from the Songshan MRT Station to reach the hotel. When you get down at Songshan Station, just look for Exit 4A, enter the Citylink premises on and proceed to where the UNIQLO store is. Beside Uniqlo is the exit to amba Taipei Songshan. TRAVEL HACK #1: Those who are staying at the hotel can use their FREE Shuttle heading to various destinations including Taipei 101 and Xinyi Business and Shopping district in less than 10 minutes on a fixed daily schedule. A convenient way to spend less and experience Taipei!
The Hotel Lobby and Que Woodfired Grill on the 17th Floor
The lobby and Que Woodfired Grill restaurant of amba Taipei Songshan are located on its 17th floor.
The moment we stepped out of the elevator, we were in awe. The hotel lobby is spacious and has an amazing view of the world outside, the Taipei City. The colors and how the lounge was set up is inviting, you can even set a meeting in this area alone. They also have a Table Football which is a good way to entertain yourself if you feel like playing and or feeling a little bored.
A SPIN game was also set in the lobby. This is sort of similar to the ways in a Taoist temple but with a twist. Instead of praying in a temple, you get to ask yourself a question that is answerable by a Yes or a No. You insert a token, spin the shaft, and break open the ball preferably in the ping-pong table. Jane did the SPIN game and got a “Yes” so whatever question she had in mind, was answered with a Yes. 🙂
A Ping-pong table is also available. If you feel like playing Ping-pong, you can definitely do! Just approach the front desk to lend you the pieces of equipment in playing the game.
Check-in and check-out, I can say, was a breeze. During check-in, just present your passport, sign the document, and pay the amount for check-in security deposit using your credit card or cash. All in less than 10 minutes and you’re done. You can proceed to your room or roam around if you want. FUN FACT #1: The guestrooms are located on the 18th-21st floor of the building. Each door represents something that has become known or invented on a particular year from the past and or a known moment for the future. FUN FACT #2: During New Year’s Eve, the lobby is transformed as a place for New Year’s Eve party as you could see the best views from there along with the fireworks at Taipei 101.
Que Woodfired Grill Restaurant
Coming from its name, the Que restaurant uses woodfire to grill the meat they serve, a traditional way of cooking for a modern restaurant. The woodfire gives a distinct taste to the meat unlike using an induction cooker or a stove.
Located on the left of the lobby, Que restaurant serves as a dining hall, event hall, meeting place, with killer views of Taipei City and Keelung River. This airy restaurant is where we had our sumptuous breakfast with many selections to choose from. By night, the restaurant is lit up with locally made giant bamboo lanterns, making the ambiance added with a romantic feel. It fits with any occasion so if you plan for anything, it is one of the perfect places to go to in Taipei.
Jane, an avid rice lover, couldn’t complete her day without eating a rice meal and Que restaurant gave her what she wanted and what she was craving for. We had good meals at other places we ate at but she really loved the offerings at Que.
amba Taipei Songshan: Spacious Designer Rooms
What’s noticeably positive with amba Taipei Songshan hotel is how each of their rooms has plenty of space that you can even do a cartwheel and don’t get bumped into anything. This is totally rad, I can say. Plus, the color coordination of everything inside the room blends with one another. All are good a spot to take photos.
Here’s are some photos of the other rooms.
Corner Extra Large 101 View Room
We had one of the best rooms during our stay, and the best thing is that our room was upgraded for free to a Corner Extra Large 101 View Room. This room was truly I can say, Instagram-able.
Our room is located on the 21st floor and has the view of both Taipei 101 and Keelung River. If we have gone to Taipei with an event going on, we probably had the greatest view from our room. We totally loved the room we stayed in and we could not contain our excitement when we saw the interiors of the room and its features.
Corner Room with Taipei 101 view and the Keelung River
All around were glass walls so we could see what going on outside if it’s a rainy weather or a sunny one. We get greeted by the morning sunshine to start a lovely day and the view is wonderful. We also had access to the WiFi hotel-wide (up to 200mbps) so we don’t have to change connections every time we leave the room.
I also love the workspace as I had plenty of room to put my laptop in and do some work online. Additionally, the workspace has a USB charging port so I could just conveniently plug-in the cable of my phone to have it charged. The entire room also has universal sockets so you won’t have to worry about borrowing an adapter, although if you find yourself in trouble with that matter, you can check their thoughtful extras.
They also have mentioned that the floorings are eco-friendly. On top of that, they are using trendy slippers for you to take home (we took ours home) and all-natural bathroom amenities (with a zing of Ginger) from socially responsible Taiwanese brand, Two Acres. They surely support local products and the advocacy behind these companies they are partnered with. Ah, the washroom is intended to be oversized so you have space for your other belongings, which we really liked!
My favorite area after the overly comfortable bed was the bathtub. The bathtub has a spectacular view of the Keelung River and also if you bathe with it during sunset, you get awesome scenery right straight from the tub. Truly a relaxing feeling. During the night, it covers an entire night scene of the city and with that, I’m sure you’d get easily relaxed.
Other Room Features:
King-sized bed
Bathtub overlooking the Keelung River
48” Sony BRAVIA Full HD TV
Wireless Bluetooth® speaker (customized for amba Taipei Songshan hotel)
Remote controlled windows sheds
USB charging ports (workspace and on phone)
Separate washroom and shower room
All natural shampoo, hair conditioner, bath gel, and body lotion
Other features I have not mentioned here can be found on their website
Did I mention that you can also borrow board games and rent a laptop, PlayStation, Apple TV, pocket projector, and Xbox? Yes, it’s on their thoughtful extras and you can request for that when you’re checked-in. So, where to stay in Taipei?
amba Taipei Songshan: Hotel Facilities
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Self-service Laundry, Ice, Filtered Water
Other things that we loved about amba hotel Songshan is that they have the free self-service laundry with soap and fabric conditioner, also, a probation for ice and filtered water. I have never heard of these services in the hotels in our home country as they always charge laundry service, so this one of amba Hotels is a definitely a big plus! Their self-service laundry room is located on the 18th floor beside the fitness center.
Fitness Center
Keeping yourself fit while eating and traveling is a huge body requirement for you to enjoy your life and live it well. Their fitness center is not that huge but is enough for your daily routine exercise.
Paid Parking
Pay parking is located on the 4th floor of the building.
Raohe Night Market – about 5-6 minutes walk away from amba Taipei Songshan.
CiYou Temple – the temple beside Raohe Night Market.
Rainbow Bridge – The 167-meter long bridge that lies across the Keelung River.
Wufenpu Garment Market – If you love shopping, this is a perfect place for you, just 5 mins walk away from the hotel.
Chengmei Riverside Park – The riverside park is a favorite for romantic walks and bike escapades.
For cultural events and concert happenings, Taipei Arena and Songshan Cultural & Creative Park are less than 10 minutes’ drive away. Other attractions are either nearby parks or a station away from the hotel.
Every single thing in amba Taipei Songshan especially with our room, WE LOVED! Every corner is picture-worthy and the amenities are superb. We really have enjoyed our entire stay and I’m sure you will as well! This hip hotel is highly recommended in many ways!
How to get there:
Getting to amba Taipei Songshan hotel is easy.
-From Taipei Main Station, board the red line and get off at Zhongshan.
-Transfer train for the green line and board the terminal station to Songshan.
-Look for Exit 4A, go to the 3rd floor and look for UNIQLO.
-Beside Uniqlo is the exit to enter amba Taipei Songshan.
-On the elevator, press the 17th floor to get to the lobby.
amba Taipei Songshan
Address: 8 Section 7 Civic Boulevard, Taipei 11562 Taiwan Contact: +886 2 2653 2828 Website and where you should book:https://www.amba-hotels.com/en/songshan/ Travel Tip: Book directly through their website as you can get more from their personal offers than booking at a booking platform. You get more while it cost you less. amba Taipei Songshan at night
Daytour from Taipei / What to do in Taipei
[hoops name=”InArticle”] Travel Hack # 2: While we’re checked in at the hotel, we didn’t pass on the opportunity to experience a day tour outside Taipei. We availed of the following while we are in Taiwan via KKday.
Why avail from KKday? Their startup is based in Taiwan so they have the best partnership for their tours (and cheaper too!).
Get to experience and see for yourself the following: Jiufen Old Street, Yehliu Geopark, Shifen Old Street, Shifen Lantern, Shifen Waterfalls. Our comprehensive review on this Daytour package from KKday to be posted soon. Book here.
Get to see the famous spots of Taipei with KKday sightseeing bus tour. An affordable and easy way to enjoy the whole city and see the famous and latest attractions in town. Our comprehensive review and experience to be posted soon. Book here.
We availed of this for a hassle-free experience. It comes with tickets to the National Palace Museum and entrance tickets to Taipei 101 Observation Deck. See Taipei’s history and the whole city in a bird’s eye view. Our comprehensive review and experience to be posted soon. Book here.
This is the tour I’d really like to experience but due to the lack of time, we weren’t able to do this. I wish we could go back soon and experience the Northeast Coast of Taiwan. I’d like you to avail this for a different Taiwan experience. Book here.
TRAVEL HACK # 3:
Our Taiwan trip wouldn’t be complete without getting connected all the time to the internet, hence, I’d also like to recommend buying your unlimited Data Sim Card with Pinoy Traveler’s Unlimited Data SIM Card. For ₱550, you get to enjoy unlimited data service (4G/LTE) in any part of Taiwan with speeds of up to 100mbps for 5 days! We totally love this product as it is cheaper but better! Connect with them thru their FB Page. See screenshot of the speed test results below. Read our review of this sim card.
Traveling is food for the soul they say and usually, it is. However, choosing the perfect destination can be challenging. You have to consider various factors to ensure a safe trip.
To ensure a safe trip you need to check on factors like crime rate, weather patterns, health concerns, and unrest in your chosen destination.
If you plan to travel and want to know about the safest tropical places to travel, it is better to consider the factors concerning safety. Learn about the common factors to think about for safe travel and know the safest tropical islands to visit below:
Image Source: Travel Online
Factors to Consider for Safe Travel
Crime
Review the crime rate of the region. According to a report, about 28 million visitors of the Caribbean are rarely affected by violent crime per year.
Plus, reports of crime are generally confined to inner-city neighborhoods where a small number of visitors are observed.
Just as in every place, it is also best to be careful. In your accommodation, vehicle, etc., try not to leave valuables unattended. Moreover, it is often advised to hire local guides whenever traveling far off the beaten path.
Weather
Track the weather of the place you visit. Shoulder seasons are periods between the high and low seasons of the travel destination.
Though these seasons are the beginning and end of bad weather, they are usually taken advantage of by many tourists because fares tend to be low.
Tropical storms happen from June to November and may become a concern while traveling. Peak season, however, actually falls between August and October.
Therefore, the best Caribbean islands to visit will usually not have poor weather at the start and end of the season.
Health
Examine your health if you are fit to travel. Before any trip to the Caribbean, it is recommended that individuals see a doctor prior to find out what type of vaccinations you may need.
The Caribbean authority itself has a list of vaccinations you need to have. On the other hand, there is no need to worry if a traveler becomes sick during a visit because the region has excellent healthcare.
Safest Caribbean Islands to Visit
Barbados
Barbados is an independent British Commonwealth nation, considered as one of the safest Caribbean islands for families.
The tourism industry is a big part of the island’s economy, and the locals are said to be some of the friendliest in the entire Caribbean. It welcomes around 1 million visitors annually.
Several family-friendly beaches along the west are famous for their white sand and pristine turquoise waters. Besides, Barbados offers delicious cuisine, a variety of activities, and a luxurious interior with quaint gardens.
Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is a British Overseas Territory, included in the top list of safest Caribbean destinations. It is a family-friendly destination that has around 40 different cays and islands. It is home to the finest beaches, including the world-famous Grace Bay Beach.
The island offers some of the best shops and restaurants within the entire region. In addition, it boasts many private villas equipped with secure and elegant facilities for a large number of travelers every year.
Another reason that makes Turks & Caicos safe is that it only has occasional bad weather conditions.
St. Barts
Saint Barthelemy is a French Overseas Territory popular for first-class and wealthy tourists. Also called St Barts, this place is renowned for being the most exclusive island in the Caribbean.
No wonder it is listed as one of the safest destinations in the region. This island offers travelers some of the best marinas and beaches for tourists, plenty of shopping and dining, and more.
Image Source: The Scenic Suitcase
The island has almost no crime reported. Also, it is common for their residents to leave their homes unlocked and unguarded. Though, travelers must still be cautious with their valuables even if the island is considered safe.
Bottom Line
A journey to the best tropical destinations will surely be a memorable experience once the restrictions lift. Travel destinations have made efforts to apply safety and hygiene measures for the tourists they expect in 2021.
All governments have travel safety warnings, so be sure to check your government website before booking a flight.
If you are a globetrotter, you would agree with the saying that “people do not take trips but trips take people.” While travel feels rejuvenating and eye-opening, it is impossible to imagine it without a phone and a great SIM card. From tickets and reservations to navigating an unknown land, having a working phone is a must in today’s era.
With the ridiculous data charges from the local phone services and exorbitant roaming charges, travelers face great dilemmas while traveling internationally as they decide which SIM to buy. To avoid all these issues while you are enjoying your trip, it makes sense to buy the international SIM cards that fit your budget.
While they can be slightly more expensive than the local SIM cards, international SIM cards come handy for quick leisure trips, business trips, and comparatively longer trips as well. To ease all your phone-related worries, here are some of the most economic SIM cards that will streamline your international travel in a jiffy!
1. TravelSIM To Simplify All Your Travel Plans
Accessible in more than 170 countries, TravelSIMoffers calls, data, and text plans across the globe. Their incoming calls are free in 130+ countries and their SIM card stays active for at least 18 months. Moreover, they have categorized countries into three zones- A, B and C, and have curated plans accordingly. While nations classified as zone A enjoy the cheapest plans, nations pigeonholed as Zone C have the most expensive plans. You can learn more about the prices at this link, visit TravelSIM’s website.
2. OneSIM For All Your Trips
A product of Belmont Telcom Inc., OneSIM has facilitated communications in the US since 1994. They assure that you could save up to 85% on roaming charges by using this exclusive SIM card which has three different types: Europe and more SIM, Expedition SIM, and Universal SIM.
What’s more, you may ask? Well, their SMS messages are free and can be sent everywhere. You may avail their outgoing calls for 25 cents/minute and data for 20 cents/MB as per their daily, weekly and monthly plans. To learn more, visit OneSIM’s website!
3. WorldSIM To Bring The World Closer
Fit for all the three slots, standard, micro, and nano, WorldSIM lets you cut your roaming costs by a whopping 95%. This card works in more than 200 countries across the globe and in more than 110 countries you may have the privilege to receive free incoming calls. Their prices vary with the country they are used in and you can buy data bundles for 90+ countries. You can learn more at WorldSIM’s website.
4. GoSIM To Go Anywhere Without A Worry
GoSIM is also a significant SIM card company that offers coverage across 300+ countries and lets you save 90% on the roaming related costs. The best part about GoSIM is that you can access the unused credit and even airtime for 18 months. And you get free incoming calls for 130+ countries and incoming messages are also offered by them.
5. Go Around The World With KeepGo
KeepGo offers two types of SIM cards: Smartwatch Data SIM card and Lifetime Data SIM card. The former offers coverage in more than 100 countries and their data plans expire after one year, so you don’t have to worry about a data pack that’s left unused. Moreover, their Smartwatch Data SIM card allows you to connect your smartwatch with 2G or 3G networks in more than 100 countries.
6. Roam Without A Worry With KnowRoaming
KnowRoaming is slightly different from the other SIM cards that you may know. You can convert any SIM into KnowRoaming by placing a special sticker on your home SIM card. Another USP of KnowRoaming is that it offers free WhatsApp data that you can use for 30 days without any worries.
7. GigSky To Make Your Travel Smooth
Accessible in more than 120 countries, GigSky offers a dedicated data SIM card. You may choose either of their cards for regional plans in Europe, Asia, North America and non-regional plans for other countries. They offer validity for 30 days and data plans up to 5 GB.
Bottom Line
To make your card shopping easy, make sure to understand the country that you are visiting and evaluate your preferred channel for communication: text, data or calling. Accordingly, compare the SIM cards that we have mentioned and then pick the one that closely fits your requirements.
The World Health Organization, known by its acronym WHO, has established, according to some studies, that about 3 million people die every year from tobacco in some form. Some measures have been taken in the commercial air sector to reduce these catastrophic figures, such as banning people from smoking in airplanes. This measure, however, can be a real challenge for those who have been smoking for long periods of time since the hours they spend on a plane, not being able to have smoke can cause a lot of anxiety.
Slowly closing options for smokers
Before 1999, when lighting a cigarette on board was banned entirely in many travelling companies in the world, some specific companies, such as Iberia from Spain, had begun to reduce the number of seats allocated to smokers. So there were already some restrictions that could affect smokers when travelling.
The first to establish the ban was the large US airlines, which were joined by others such as British Airways, Air France, SAS, Lufthansa, Brazilian Varig and the entire fleet of Australian and Thai commercial aircraft.
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Long trips and anxiety
A long-haul flight usually lasts between 11 and 15 hours. Many of the nicotine addicts cannot last so long without smoking, so some airlines have seen fit to implement some measures. In “Air France” we find what they call “the smoker’s corner.” Once the opening of the smoking area is announced, smokers are ready to win a seat – only six people – very close to the emergency exits and from where they do not disturb the rest of the passengers.
Although it has been for at least 10 years that smoking began to be banned in some parts of the world, some smokers have not suffered the anxiety caused by being long without smoking whether they make trips by plane, bus or train. They have avoided anxiety with nicotine medications. Since these drugs can take away anxiety when people want to stop smoking, they would also serve to put up with hours without cigarettes. Although they work great, these products lack much to have a flavour as rich as the tobacco, but they remove the symptoms. In a hurry they are excellent.
Nicotine Substitutes in airports: good idea
Most flights are “non-smokers,” thus banning the use of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, electronic cigarettes (which use a vaporizer and some of the best e-liquid) or similar devices in the aircraft. In case you are a regular smoker and believe that the prohibition can cause discomfort, consult with your doctor the possibility of carrying nicotine substitutes, such as gum and patches.
One of the substitutes that can be used is nicotine patches, which are not provided by airlines but which many passengers use during their flights. Usually very good results are obtained from its use, however, there may be some side effects such as dizziness, headache, abdominal discomfort, among others.
The fact that nicotine substitution therapies are not available in places where there is no option to leave the premises, such as airplanes or trains; it is irrefutable proof that smoking bans are not a measure of protection to the nonsmoker, but a measure of punishment against smokers.
Smoker’s quality of life
The quality of life of smokers can be greatly improved if products with nicotine are easy to obtain. It would be very positive if a smoker, who is doing a plane trip when he is anxious could buy nicotine gum on the same plane. Because, after all, it is unacceptable for a smoker to be condemned to long hours of anxiety by some. Nicotine products must be easy to obtain. It must be possible to buy them in any place where smoking is prohibited. In spite of everything, they are human beings with the same rights as everyone else.
First were the flights of less than 90 minutes, then the national, later all. Shortly after the buses were added, and now the trains. To the joy of non-smokers and the misery of nicotine friends, smoking and travelling are, increasingly, two ‘pleasures’ that can only go together in the privacy of one’s own car. Luckily there are some tips and tricks to make those long waiting hours a little lighter.
The walls in your home might have started talking to you, if so, it’s time to virtually travel the world from home so you can get away. Despite the world still under pandemic restrictions, technology advancements now provide us with new ways to do the things we love without breaching safety protocols.
One among such inventions include virtual reality travel apps, which enable users to travel the world leaving home. Requiring no plane tickets, no time offs, and no physical contacts, it’s no surprise that these apps are now experiencing a tremendous boom in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you’re one among the many who wants to satiate their wanderlust without compromising health, turning to virtual travelling apps can be your best option to date. Below, we have compiled the best of these technologies that you may want to check out and download. If you are too busy to read and check these apps right now, you can bookmark this page using a bookmark app so that you can read it later.
Top Virtual Travelling Apps
Google Cardboard
First on our list is none other than Google’s very own VR technology. Dubbed to be the “Google Cardboard,” the app brings virtual reality straight into your smartphone. As the name suggests, you need a cardboard viewer, into which your phone is to be inserted to enjoy different virtual reality.
All you have to do is download the app from Google Play or Apple Store for $15. Once you get the app, you can take advantage of its Earth feature, which lets you fly to wherever you want, whenever you ask.
On top of top, you can even look around the photospheres you’ve captured or go on an Arctic journey to admire the beauty of the northern lights and more – all while staying at home!
Ascape VR
If you’re after scenic virtual tours and terrific visual content, checking out Ascape VR should be on top of your list. Serving as a mobile platform that lets users travel the world in virtual reality, this app takes pride in its 360° videos, which enables users to explore scenes by simply rotating their smartphones in the direction they want to see.
Moreover, what makes the app an instant must-have is it doesn’t just offer superb visual contents on different destinations, but it also lets you immerse yourself in the places you’ll be visiting. Using Ascape VR, you can go snowboarding, underwater snorkeling, or skydiving in virtual reality! The app is currently available for both iOS and Android for free.
VeeR
If you’re in for an adrenaline-inducing adventure, VeeR comes as the right app choice for you. From interactive movies, animations, Sci-Fi, travel, to documentaries, the app lets you experience a bundle of worlds right from your smartphone.
Among the activities you can experience include walking on a thin line stretched across cliffs, witnessing epic ancient battles, and taking a trip to dreamland. With the said app, you can also conveniently preview, bookmark and purchase titles to expand the cover of your adventures.
Fortunately, VeeR is currently available for both iOS and Android devices free of charge!
AccorHotels For Cardboard
Of course, for most travellers, no trip could ever be complete without exploring the best hotels in their dream destinations. With AccorHotels for Cardboard, users can now also witness and marvel at the most prestigious hotels in virtual reality.
From London, Paris, São Paulo, and more, the app lets you browse and experience the enthralling environments of the best hotels from different parts of the globe. From strolling through their luxurious lobbies to relaxing by their mythical pools, you’ll never run out of things to do and areas to check out while exploring hotels through this remarkable app.
On top of that, aside from giving you virtual reality, Accorhotels also works as a free multi-brand booking app for the AccorHotels group, meaning you can reserve and book on a number of celebrated hotels around the world without the need to leave the platform.
The AccorHotels for Cardboard is currently available for download for both iOS and Android
.
The Bottom Line
Ready to ditch the boundaries of quarantine and explore every inch of the outside world. Thanks to virtual travelling apps, you can now do so without compromising your health and the safety of those around you. So get downloading and take yourself on an adventure.
Philippine Airlines is now offering direct flights from Manila to Sapporo, Japan starting September 10, 2018!
And because of this, they are having an ONE DAY SALE ONLY for flights going to Sapporo from Manila for as low as 399 USD roundtrip base fare! BOOKING PERIOD:July 6, 2018 ONLY TRAVEL PERIOD:SEPTEMBER 10, 2018 onwards
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PAL is the first airline in the Philippines to have direct flights to Sapporo! Do not miss this chance to fly directly from Manila! PAL is flying to Sapporo 3x a week!
While you are sitting at home, you might find yourself daydreaming about the pleasure of going outside. If you can’t actually do that, turning toward movies may be able to help.
If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in such a situation, turning to quality movies about traveling around the world could help revitalize your wanderlust. Letting fictional characters take on your desire to go outside and explore the world can help you kill some time.
Below, we have prepared a countdown of the best travel movies. These films will teach you about the beauties and wonders of going out an adventure. So, continue reading to learn more.
Into the Wild (2007)
If you’re looking for a raw, gripping, and poignant movie, this is for you. This movie shows the allure of freedom, forgiveness, and the search for one’s identity. Therefore, the 2007 American biographical adventure drama film Into the Wild might be the one of the movies you want to watch.
In the story, fresh graduate Christopher McCandless decided to abandon the comfort of his previous lifestyle to live in the wilderness of Alaska. Along his journey, he encounters different situations and people that transformed his life and changed that way he sees the world around him.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
If you want to ditch the heavy feels and opt for a light-hearted movie, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty can give you the right dosage of laughter you’re looking for.
Released in 2013, the movie follows the story of Walter Mitty, an introverted daydreamer who always fantasize about embarking on an epic adventure.
One day, he found himself at the risk of losing his job. He then realized now’s the time to take his fantasies into reality and go on an adventure that far exceeds anything he could have ever imagined.
A Walk into the Woods (2015)
Serving as the film adaptation of the book written by Bill Bryson, A Walk into the Woods is another great spectacle. It incorporates elements of comedy, adventure, and drama into a single movie.
This film features critically acclaimed actors Robert Redford, Nick Nolte, and Emma Thompson. The movie shows the escapades of author Bill Bryson as he hikes the Appalachian Trail along with his long lost and former friend Katz.
Funny, comical, and chaotic, the film explores the themes of man and his connection to the natural world. It also explores how friendship can persist amid differences.
The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
Surely, it cannot be denied that traveling is a political act. This fact comes as the main theme that drives the story of the 2004 film The Motorcycle Diaries into action.
The movie centers on the early travels of Marxist revolutionary Ernesto “Che” Guevara. It explores how engagement with the natural world helps build one’s class consciousness and shape the person’s ideology.
In the story, Che Guevara, along with his friend Alberto Granado, embarks on a road trip to uncover the secrets of Latin America.
As the young duo go through their journey, they are confronted by different scenarios. That exposed them to the existing class system that structures the Latin American continent.
The Bucket List (2007)
If you’re looking for a quality film that will make you laugh and cry at the same time, the 2007 film The Bucket List should be your top priority.
This movie stars Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. The film follows the adventures of two terminally ill buddies. They decide to escape from a cancer ward to set out on an adventure of a lifetime.
Funny, tender, and unforgettable, The Bucket List is an emotional roller coaster. The movie explores the themes of life and death, class divide, redemption, and celebration of man’s existence.
Lost in Translation (2003)
Considered to be a classic in the travel films list, Lost in Translation is something you should not dare miss out on.
In the story, a middle-aged star and a college graduate find solace with each other. They confront the loneliness and isolation that comes with being in a place that is alien to them.
Fresh, poignant, and mesmerizing, the film takes you into a modern-day Japan. In the film two people that seemingly share no similarities find connection in their loneliness, existential ennui, and culture shock.
The Beach
If you’re aching for the distinct beauty and charm of the tropics, the 2000 adventure film The Beach could serve you exactly what you need.
Starring Leonardo di Carpio, the movie centers on a young man’s exploration. He seeks one particular beach that has been tipped to him as an unspoiled “paradise on earth.”
This feature serves as the film adaptation of Alex Garland’s acclaimed novel. The movie is a spectacular creation that focuses on man’s journey towards danger and salvation.
The Bottom Line
Have you found which movie you want to try? Ultimately, if you’re after some fun, self-discovery, or melancholy, these are for you. These 7 travel movies are sure to give you a good time despite being stuck at home.
Click on the play button and enjoy these movies today!
Edible plants planted by farmers at Milea Bee Farm. | Photo by Mariano Sayno, an award-winning travel photographer.
CALAMBA, Laguna—The emerging interest in agri-tourism among farmers and fisherfolks in the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon was clearly evident in the Farm Tourism Development Media Tour. Twelve farm tourism sites were visited to showcase their specialties in agri-tourism, which strengthened the agriculture and tourism industry as part of their local economic promotion.
The familiarization tour conducted by the Department of Tourism-Region IV-A, in coordination with Juan Pasyalan Travel and Tours on December 18-20, 2018, was attended by guests from the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation, Association of Travel and Tours Agencies CALABARZON, and friends from media. Rolled for the first time, the tour aims to achieve tourism growth in the regions promoting agri-tourism development and to help improve the lives of the farmers and fisherfolks by advancing environment-friendly, efficient, and sustainable farm practices. Harvesting crisp, green lettuce at Costales Nature Farm. | Photo by Mariano Sayno, an award-winning travel photographer.
As part of the increasing tourist promotion programme for the farm, farm tourism owners and fisherfolks engage visitors and tourists to experience farm life by providing services, including, but not limited to, educational and recreational tours, farm training development, and other farm-related outdoor activities while also catering as a venue for leisure and vacations.
Some of the activities offered include fruit-picking, vegetable-and-fruit-harvesting, organic farming, touring, farm-to-table dining, seminars and workshops, sightseeing, various farming techniques, retreats, and staycations, among others. Costales Nature Farm is the first agri-tourism destination recognized and accredited by the Department of Tourism for offering farm experience and nothing but delicious, organic food. Known for its organic produce, it has become a go-to getaway for those who want to learn organic farming and other farming techniques. Costales Nature Farm gives aspiring agri-tourism farmers extensive consultation and training. At Milea Bee Farm, one of the beekeepers showing bee colony that produces honeybee. | Photo by Mariano Sayno, an award-winning photographer.
While most, if not all, farm tourism sites concentrate on farming, Milea Bee Farm focuses on beekeeping. They give beekeeping seminars and workshops, provide farm tours, cook farm-to-table organic food, and sell products that are made from bees, such as pure honey, skin care products, bath products, cosmetics, and beeswax to gain profitability. In addition, Milea Bee Farm has beekeeping supplies, gives bee inspections, and offers bee colony relocation services.
Being the first farm tourism site accredited by the Department of Tourism in the province of Cavite, Terra Verde Eco Farm started as a small private farm that has evolved into a 30-hectare landscape. The farm is a great place to relax because the whole place can be reserved for a private group, allowing an eco-tour with the group alone. With its affordable price and proximity to Manila, being a two-hour drive away, Terra Verde Eco Farm will give respite to the soul for those who live in the nearby cement jungle.
Harvesting crisp, green, organic lettuce at Costales Nature Farm. | Photo by Allandale Antenero of Utopian Wanderer
Other participating farm tourism sites included Flor’s Garden, Graco Farm, Forest Wood Garden, Uma Verde Eco, Gintong Bukid Farm and Leisure, Taal Maranans, Gorgeous Farm, Nurture Wellness Farm, and Teofely’s Farm.
Agri-tourism makes a significant contribution not only in agriculture but also in tourism for Region IV-A. Moreover, agri-tourism creates a wide array of business opportunities for farmers and fisherfolks alike.
From Netflix’s excellent selection of original series to DisneyPlus’ beloved animated content, almost every streaming service is trying to impress you. And while travel could undoubtedly be your first love, you may also like to watch TV to unwind at the end of the day!
Thankfully, there are countless apps that will let you watch all your favorite shows even on the go. After all, with the internet, your TV can travel with you. Even better, it can sometimes travel with you at no extra cost!
From the endless list of the free apps that are available, here is our recommended list of the special few that are legal and absolutely free for you to enjoy. With these services, you can have uninterrupted TV even while you are traveling. Check them out below.
1. Crackle
As Crackle is owned by Sony, this app has an incredible collection of TV shows. The good news is that they can be streamed for free. Yes, you read that right! While some of the videos might contain ads, most of them are uninterrupted. You do not need to sign up to watch the content on Crackle. However, if you sign up, then you can pick up from where you left and keep a track of your shows while you are traveling.
Their search tool works really well and it allows you to choose your TV shows per genre, alphabetical order, and even based on length. This app is just what you need while traveling! Download Crackle: Android | iOS
2. Pluto TV
With a plethora of live channels, Pluto TV comes closest to your regular TV binge. Just like you do with your remote, you can instantly browse through their countless live channels. But that’s not all; the Pluto TV also boasts a vast selection of videos, channels, and movies with a streaming speed that is quite uninterrupted and fast.
Moreover, you can quickly switch channels without any buffering. Not to mention that it’s UI is perfectly streamlined for hassle-free entertainment. Perfect for travel time, no?
Download Pluto TV: Android | iOS
3. Tubi TV
Thousands of films and TV shows are something that this platform offers you from the click of a button! While being a legal app, Tubi offers uninterrupted access to your favorite shows with fewer adds. From British series to Korean dramas to American classics, whatever your niche is, Tubi TV has it all lined up for you. With no hassle of credit cards or subscriptions, Tubi TV is one of the best apps to rely on while traveling.
Download Tubi TV: Android | iOS
4. Hotstar
Do you love the spice, thrill, and drama of regional TV shows? Or do you want to catch a whiff of globally acclaimed tele-series and watch non-stop sports action from all across the world? Hotstar is perfect for you then!
But before you get excited, Hotstar is not entirely free. However, it offers umpteen shows, especially Indian, American, and British, that are free to watch. You just have to scroll a bit to select the movie, channel, or show that does not have a premium tag. Once you get there, you will have the best of the time while traveling!
In order to access the premium shows, you will need to get a paid membership, which is still comparatively cheaper than other streaming platforms.
Download Hotstar: Android | iOS
5. Hulu TV
With more than 300 shows lined up for you, Hulu TV is your one-stop-entertainment solution that offers everything from regional to international shows. Have that live match to watch? You name it and Hulu TV has it!
A perfect app to rely on while you are on the road or just waiting for the check-in, Hulu includes a modest library of feature-length movies, which sets it apart from other platforms on the list.
Download Hulu TV: Android | iOS
Bottom Line
As all these apps are available on Android and iOS, you won’t face any issues accessing them. If they are not available in the country you are visiting, then you could use an alternate VPN to stream them. Sometimes, watching a few shows can help pass those long layovers while traveling. So, happy binging while you are flying across the globe!
One could safely say that the Land Down Under is a vast and diverse continent, riddled with natural and human-made wonders across the map. Wherever you may go, wherever the wind might take you, there is no shortage of adventure as you are bound to discover a natural treasure here or an urban gem there.
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However, the sheer size and the countryside that varies greatly in terrain and accessibility require thorough planning and preparation before you set sail into the unknown. You don’t only need to pack your supplies and ensure your vehicle is in top road trip condition, but also plan your destinations in order to experience as much along the way as possible. Also, make sure the vehicle you opt for has got night vision dashboard camera and good-quality bar LED light bar. eastern Australia
Here is how you can have an amazing road trip around Eastern Australia that will take you through Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria, even to Adelaide from Darwin. But before you start your adventure, make sure you have a packing list for a road trip such as this.
Brisbane to Sydney
The road down the east coast is riddled with excitement, and while you will be able to stop at numerous cities along the way, you should definitely visit the national parks and quaint little town and villages that are situated off the main roads. eastern australia
Travelling south from Brisbane, you will immediately find yourself unable to resist making a stop at the famous Gold Coast, one of the most popular skydiving places in the world. From there you have the option to travel the road further south or take a right turn from the Coast towards the Lamington National Park where you will be greeted with the breathtaking inland scenery.
Be wary though, Lamington is Adjacent to the Border Bridges and Mebbin National Parks, and if you’re a true outdoor aficionado, you will find yourself taking a much longer detour than you previously planned.
The M1 expressway takes you down the coastal path through towns and villages towards Newcastle and Sydney. You can make a stop at the beautiful Byron Bay and climb its lighthouse (don’t forget your camera) before proceeding to Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour for some well-deserved r’n’r.
Your next stop is Port Macquarie and the Crowdy Bay National Park after which you can head straight for Newcastle, Central Coast and of finally, Sydney.
Sydney to Canberra
Once you’ve had the chance to rest and resupply in the gem of NSW, you can continue towards the nation’s capital, Canberra. You can reach Canberra either through the Kanangra-Boyd National Park or the coastal town of Wollongong. Either way, you will take the M31 until you reach the M23 turn for Canberra. Be sure to stop at Lake George before entering the city. eastern australia
If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can delay your visit and head out to the Blue Mountains, Yengo and Wollemi National Parks outside of Sydney. Bear in mind that although well-kept, the roads can be tricky, and no matter where you’re headed, you need to have a trusted mobile mechanic on speed dial in case anything goes awry. However, these national parks are vast and are homes to numerous intriguing animal species as well as natural wonders that are bound to steal your heart. It would be a shame not to experience their beauty.
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Canberra to Melbourne
If you were in a hurry to reach Melbourne, you would simply get back on the M31 expressway, but since you’re on a road trip, you want to take the B52 road back to the main, A1 coastal highway. Once there, you will find numerous resting stops along the way, from National Parks and quaint towns to lakes and bays. Be sure to make a stop at Mystery Bay and the breathtaking Pambula Beach. eastern australia
The road will give you plenty of stopping opportunities, either to rest and resupply or to visit yet another natural wonder. Of all the possibilities along the way, you should definitely stop at the Cape Howe Marine National Park and Lake Wellington, after which you can head straight to Melbourne via the A1-M1 expressway or take the A440 to Nooramunga Marine & Coastal Park and the Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park. From there you can make a final stop at French Island before heading into the city.
And that’s it! Congratulations, you’ve had one heck of a road trip! Be sure to devote plenty of time to city explorations as well, as all of these magnificent metropolises have plenty to offer to any adventurer with their positive, vibrant cultures. Lastly, you should always be ready for some quick car repair equipment if you go for such road trips. Halfords would surely help you find few basic repairing accessories which you can carry within your car at economical prices.”
