June 2022

Top Croatia Travel Tips – Travel Dudes

[ad_1] Yes, Croatia is a very small country, but that doesn’t mean that it is not worth visiting. This gorgeous location will easily charm you in a matter of minutes with everything that it has to offer you – from food to weather, people and more, you will easily fall in love when travelling in Croatia and exploring this picturesque country! In fact, are you aware that Croatia is considered to be one of the most beautiful countries in the world? That’s right! You only need to look at the few images to realize that this is a country worth visiting. So, consider Croatia for your next holiday destination and prepare for an experience that you will never forget. The island of Hvar is one of the Dalmatian islands and it has been famous since the antique because of its important strategic position. When is the best time to visit Croatia? Since this country is most famous for its beaches and beautiful coastline, the best time for a visit is during the summer. Be careful because during July and August, because Croatia is filled with tourists at that time, and the prices of accommodation are 30-40% higher. With that in mind, its best that you visit this sunny spot during the months of September and October to get the best deal. This is also when the weather is the most pleasant for outdoor exploring including cycling, hiking, and various water sports. The country also tends to come alive during the warmer months, so keep that in mind when you are booking your flights! See also: Reasons Why Croatia Makes for an Awesome Vacation Is traveling to Croatia expensive? One of the many perks of visiting this incredible country is the fact that travelling in Croatia is relatively cheap for an average tourist. This wallet-conscious location works well if you do not have enough money, because you can still have a very nice holiday without having to spend a fortune or have to dip into your savings. That being said, just make sure that you remember to avoid tourist traps like the city of Dubrovnik, or the island Hvar. These locations are a lot pricier, so you will want to try and avoid them if you are travelling in Croatia with a smaller budget. In Croatia, you will pay approximately 10 euros for one meal in a restaurant. If you do not want to spend so much money on food, then it is recommended that you go to bakeries or fast-food places where you can eat a lot cheaper than that. It Is also worth noting that Croatians love cash, so make sure that you always have the cash to pay for stuff, since some places will not accept credit cards as a form of payment. See also: Enjoying Croatia without Breaking the Bank Top Croatia travel tips: Where to go and what to do The best Croatia travel tips include where to go and what to do, so here are the best places to visit in Croatia and things to do while you’re there. Visit one of the old towns When figuring out what to visit when travelling in Croatia, you need to remember that this will  depend on your personal preferences and your budget. That being said, you must visit one of the old towns like Split (check out our guide to Split), Rovinj or Dubrovnik. You don’t even need to be someone that enjoys more historical locations, as these old towns will enthral and entertain everyone, which make them a top bucket-list contender. See also: Your Guide for Visiting Dubrovnik, Croatia! Head to one of the tropical islands If you come to Croatia, you must visit at least one island. Since Croatia has over 1000 islands, sometimes it can be tricky to pick just one out. My personal favorites are Brac, Hvar, Korcula, Cres and Vis. Just keep in mind that you will need to take a ferry to go to any of these islands – but that forms part of the adventure too! Jadrolinija is the company that handles island trips, so make sure that you visit their website and book your ticket online before your trip. You must know that car tickets for ferries are quite expensive, so sometimes it is better to use a bus as transportation. Croatia offers something for everybody. You could be a fan of mounting climbing, riding a bike, snorkeling, or sailing, and you will never be bored in Croatia. See also: Family Sailing Holidays on a Catamaran Charter in Croatia Get out onto the water Whether or not you consider yourself to be a water baby, it is essential that you explore the crystal blue waters on offer throughout Croatia. These vast waters offer you so many opportunities to play and explore including snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, diving, surfing and more! But even if you aren’t much of a water person, the waters will definitely help keep you cool after a hot day of exploring, so make sure to take a little dip. See also: Our two day sailing trip in Croatia was SPECIAL Visit the Game of Thrones Tour If you are a serious Game of Thrones fan, then you should know that much of the series was filmed in Croatia… which means that you can now visit this famous location where many scenes were shot. There is an actual Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour that will take you around the country to all of the major Game of Thrones filming sites (many of which just happen to coincide with the best places to visit in Croatia). Sneak in a little bit of clubbing Okay, this might not be for every one but the nightclub scene is definitely worth mentioning in Croatia. There is a vibrant night scene here where the drinks are ever-flowing, the music is blasting and there is a place for everyone to get a little boogie in – regardless of age! Consider traveling to Pag Island, Split, Murter Island, Hvar,

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The Best Sustainable Luggage Combination for Digital Nomads

[ad_1] Luggage is one of the most important components of a digital nomads’ necessities. Not only are you traveling a lot, but you may also be living out of your suitcase for large chunks of time – which makes it well worth investing in proper luggage for digital nomads. We’ve spent our fair share of time on the road and, by now, we know a thing or two about what makes a good suitcase and the various luggage combinations for different trips. And we’ve found the perfect combination of luggage for digital nomads. If you’re about to embark on a digital nomading journey, keep reading. Related read: Tips for Traveling and Working Remotely What makes the best luggage for digital nomads? For the team at Travel Dudes, it involves four things: It needs to feature a smart design that makes traveling easier It needs to be made from high-quality, durable material The brand needs to support sustainable and eco-friendly practices It must look sexy We recently tested out three different travel bags from Horizn Studios and can happily say that they tick all the boxes – and more! They also make several different types of luggage, from check-in suitcases and cabin bags to backpacks, weekenders, laptop bags and cross-over bags. Something for everyone – including digital nomads! Here’s the perfect luggage combination for digital nomads If you’ve ever packed up your life (including your work gear) to travel and work for an extended period of time, you’ll know how traveling with just one bag just isn’t possible. You need a few different bags, and we’re pleased to share that we’ve found the perfect combination of luggage for digital nomads. For a smooth digital nomad experience, you need four different types of bags: Large check-in suitcase (we prefer a hard suitcase over a backpack as it’s easier for long-term travel where you’re staying longer periods of time in each place) Cabin bag for extras you need easy access to while flying Backpack for your laptop and accessories Small day bag to use once at your destination Check-in suitcase: H7 Smart/Essential If you’re going to be traveling for a while, you need a decently sized suitcase to carry everything – especially if you’re traveling over multiple seasons! We love the H7 suitcase from Horizn Studios as it’s built to last a lifetime. This luggage features a premium polycarbonate hard shell (partially recycled) and is complete with recycled polyester lining. It’s also 100% vegan and produced in a way that is 99% waste-free. The Smart version comes with a removable smart charger and a compression pad. This particular option is the 77cm (90L) size which is best for traveling over longer periods. They also have a 64cm (65L) size which is big enough if you’re traveling over just one season and have the option to pack lighter. The laundry bag also comes in handy when needing to separate clean and dirty clothes while on the go. Features Lightweight and durable hard shell One-click removable smart charger – cabin approved for all airlines Four 360° Japanese spinner wheels TSA-approved lock Inbuilt compression pad to maximise volume Premium laundry bag Details Width x Height x Depth: 52cm x 77cm x 28cm Volume: 90L Weight: 4.9kg Review On our trip to Chiemsee in Southern Germany we were able to give the H7 Essential suitcase a proper test. Let’s start with the first impression: super light I was very impressed how light the suitcase was when I lifted it the first time. Then I love to have four instead of two wheels. OK, most suitcases have those nowadays, but I still remember our old suitcase with only 2 wheels. And the wheels felt soft when pushing the suitcase, but also quite and easy to roll at the same time. When I first opened the suitcase, I was surprised that there wasn’t much. But what did I expect? A suitcase’s job is to pack as much as possible. So everything extra is taking away space. There are two nets with zippers to keep the clothes in its departments and that’s it. My essential version is without compression pad, which might be useful to have. On the other side, 90 liters of clothes/volume should be enough. The ones who pack their complete household, can still go for the Smart version, which includes the compression pad. 😉 I don’t mind scratches on well traveled luggage. Each scratch belongs to a journey. But when the suitcase is brand new, I don’t need that scratch. I thought several times that I would have added scratches, when opening or closing that huge thing, as it moved a bit on the floor. Nope, I haven’t added a single scratch, also not when loading it into the trunk. The hard shell is super tough and light. Cabin bag: M5 Smart What’s better than strolling through an airport lounge while wheeling a slick cabin bag? Wheeling a Smart cabin bag. The M5 Smart from Horizn Studios features the world’s first removable smart charger which lasts up to five days. It also features a front pocket for your laptop which makes sliding in and out while going through airport security checks a breeze! Horizn Studios – M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studios – M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studios – M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studios – M5 Cabin Luggage Features One-click removable smart charger – cabin approved for all airlines Water-resistant front pocket for a 15” laptop Lightweight and durable hard shell Four 360° Japanese spinner wheels and TSA-approved lock Inbuilt compression pad and premium laundry bag TSA-approved lock Details Width x Height x Depth: 40cm x 55cm x 23cm Volume: 33L Weight: 3.6kg Review Creating a superb cabin bag is far tougher than a suitcase for check-in. At least when it gets used by me. Usually I try to travel with hand luggage only. I’m not the super hero, when it gets to packing, but I realize quickly what I like and where a bag could get

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How to Use an eSIM for USA Travel

[ad_1] One of the most annoying things about traveling to a new country is having to constantly hunt down reliable Wi-Fi spots or figure out how to buy a local SIM card to get connected. Or worse, getting hit with the exorbitant international roaming charges. If you’re traveling in the US, it helps to have constant internet connection to help you navigate the public transport systems, follow Google Maps on road trips and quickly look up restaurant reviews when looking for somewhere to eat. Well, you can now stay connected with a travel eSIM in the US. We recently partnered with Holafly, an international eSIM provider, to tell you all about how eSIMs work and why you should get one for your next trip to the US (or anywhere outside of your home borders). You can continue using your maps while in the US with a travel eSIM – Depositphotos.com What is an eSIM? An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a virtual or digital SIM card that is built into your mobile phone. Modern mobile phones have microchips installed that allow you to install several “eSIM profiles”, which are similar to physical SIM cards with both phone numbers and data plans. You won’t need to insert any physical card into your phone (as it’s already built in) and can use your eSIM plan immediately (without having to wait for it to be delivered). It also allows you to buy a data plan from another country to avoid paying high roaming prices. Simply put, an eSIM allows you to use multiple lines at the same time. You can easily switch between different carriers straight from your phone’s settings. Just make sure that your phone is unlocked! Does the US support eSIM? Yes, eSIMs are supported by AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon in the US. There are also many different eSIM provides in the US, including Holafly, that offer various US eSIM plans. You just need to make sure that you have an eSIM compatible phone. Current phones that are compatible include: All models from the iPhone XS, XR onward, including the iPhone SE 2 (2020) From the Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra onwards From the Samsung Galaxy Fold, Fold 2 and onwards From the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and onwards From the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and onwards Huawei P40, P0 Pro and later models Huawei Mate 40 Pro and later models Google Pixel 3, 3a (some versions do not allow eSIM) Google Pixel 4, 4 XL, 4a, 5 and later models Oppo Find X3 Pro Oppo Reno 5A Motorola Razr (2019) Motorola Razr 5G (dual SIM) You can also find a full list here. eSIM is quickly becoming standard to all new mobile phones and, eventually, all will support eSIM. How does international eSIM work? The first thing you need to do is check whether your phone is compatible (which is listed above). Once you know that your phone is compatible you can choose an eSIM provider that is partnered with the country that you’re traveling to. Most eSIM providers are connected with a wide range of countries across North and South America, Europe and Asia. Then all you have to do is buy a data plan in the country where you’re traveling. For example, you can buy unlimited data plans for the US which are valid for anywhere between five to 90 days. You’ll then get a QR code to activate the plan via the eSIM card on your mobile device. And you’re done, free to start browsing the web immediately. Why is a travel eSIM useful when visiting the US? There are many benefits of using a travel eSIM when in the US, including: Saving on high international roaming costs by easily buying local data plans Not having to risk losing your traditional SIM card by removing it to replace with a local SIM card eSIM cards allow for dual SIM setups so, for example, you can have both a personal and work phone number on the same device No need to search for Wi-Fi or remain unconnected You’ll get better rates than when buying local SIM cards Stay connected in the US eSIM is the best way to stay connected internationally (provided your phone is compatible). You’ll get better rates and speeds than when you’re roaming, and you’ll get a local phone number to call on—super handy when you need to call to make restaurant reservations. Travel Dudes I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes. [ad_2] Source link

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How to Get a Sri Lanka Tourist Visa

[ad_1] We’ve all wanted to travel to unique destinations in the east – and Sri Lanka is no exception, with its fascinating culture and beautiful landscape to explore! But before you’re able to explore this exciting country, you’ll need a Sri Lanka tourist visa. For tourists from select countries, you’ll need to get a visa on arrival for Sri Lanka. Only a handful of countries don’t need a visa for Sri Lanka, including three visa-exempt nations such as the Maldives, the Seychelles and Singapore. For other nations, you can get a visa on arrival for Sri Lanka when you arrive.  To simplify the travel process, we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions tourists ask when looking to get a visa on arrival for Sri Lanka. Temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Depositphotos.com Frequently asked questions about getting a Sri Lanka tourist visa Here’s everything you need to know about applying for a Sri Lanka tourist visa on arrival or ETA.  Can I get a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka? If you are from one of 230 countries, you can apply for a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka. However, getting ETA (electronic travel authorization) may be faster. This document is a digital visa, which means you don’t have to visit an embassy or stand in queues once you arrive in the country.  Sri Lanka’s visa on arrival system allows visitors for tourism, business, or transit, and grants short stays ranging from 30 to 60 days.  How much is the visa on arrival in Sri Lanka? Citizens of the Maldives, the Seychelles and Singapore can receive a free visa on arrival in Sri Lanka due to a reciprocity policy with these countries.  Most other nations need to pay a fee – which can be completed online or on arrival. The cost of this visa depends on a few factors, and prices can change depending on your trip length, visa type, or third-party application. Assuming you are from a country without an agreement and have paid online, you can expect to pay $35 for tourists and $40 for business visitors for a 30-day visa. This cost includes free transit for 2 days for both visa types.  Bear in mind that if you pay on arrival and wait in line, this price increases to $40 for a tourist visa and $50 for business visitors.  There are also occasional visa fee exemption schemes for residents of select countries, the latest of which ended in 2020, so double-check the rules before applying for your visa on arrival. Hiking the hills outside Kandy in Sri Lanka Which countries still need a pre-approved visa for Sri Lanka? There are only 21 countries that need a visa in advance to visit Sri Lanka: Nigeria, Afghanistan, Cameroon, both Congolese republics, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Myanmar, North Korea, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, Syria, Uganda and Sudan.  All other nationals can get a visa on arrival or ETA to visit Sri Lanka. How do I get an ETA for Sri Lanka? Tourists wanting to get an ETA for Sri Lanka must complete an online application before travelling. It is a simple form that requires applicants to enter some basic information, including: Name and surname Personal email address Date of birth Place of birth, precisely, the country  Applicant’s nationality Personal mobile phone number  Passport or travel document number Passport or travel document’s issue and expiry dates  The purpose for your visit (tourism, business or transit).  It’s essential to double-check that all of the data on your ETA form is correct to avoid being rejected or re-applying due to a mistake.  Sri Lanka ETA applications usually take around 24 hours to process, so it is best to apply a few business days before your departure date to ensure you get the ETA on time. Once complete, your ETA for Sri Lanka will be sent to your specified email address and remains valid for 30 days within the country. Train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka What are the requirements for getting a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka?  While it might seem easy, there are still some basic things you need before your trip. Some requirements that budding tourists need to meet for the ETA include: A Passport that is valid for at least 6 months upon entry to Sri Lanka A good, current email address  A scanned copy of each applicant’s passport information page  A credit or debit card to pay the Sri Lanka ETA or visa on arrival fee  There are further requirements after receiving your ETA, which include: a completed disembarkation card, a printed copy of your approved Sri Lanka ETA, proof of funds for your stay in Sri Lanka, your confirmed return ticket for after your holiday ends, a visa for another nation (if applicable) and a yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable).  Visiting Sri Lanka We hope you enjoy your next trip to Sri Lanka. Here are some fantastic places to see and things to do when visiting:  Travel Dudes I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes. [ad_2] Source link

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Things You Need To Know About Sicily

[ad_1] Going to Italy and not visiting Sicily should be considered a crime. It’s one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Even the Ancient Romans can confirm that. Here we have some useful info for your trip to Sicily. This Mediterranean slice of heaven has a vibrant history you can feel while walking the antique streets. You can explore the mountains, forests, waters, and cuisine or ski down the nearby active volcano. Yes, you can really do that! Most locals consider Sicily to be a separate entity in Italy. That’s mainly because of their dialect. Even if you’ve been studying up on your Italian, you’d still have a hard time talking to the locals. Nevertheless, the cuisine, architecture, and culture more than make up for it. The locals are great at describing everything to tourists just by using their hands! When’s the best time to visit? Sicily’s one of the places where you can go any time of the year and have a great trip. That’s because it’s one of the most southerly destinations, and it’s pretty close to North Africa. If the seasons are generous, you could be swimming in the sea even in November. Additionally, the summers aren’t that hot because the island is home to a constant breeze from all sides. Now, let’s get into the specifics. The tourist season starts in June or July, depending on the year. Until the middle of September, you can expect higher prices and a lot of people in the streets. If you plan to visit during the summer, remember to book all of your experiences beforehand. Reservations tend to sell out pretty quickly. If you don’t like to deal with crowds all the time, a better time to visit would be March, April, or May. You’ll have a lot of room to go sightseeing, but you need to check online whether specific services are open for business. Locals usually close down when the season ends to do repairs or renovations, and they might be out of order at the moment. That’s true for restaurants, shops, and a few resorts. How to get around? There are two primary choices when it comes to travel. The first one is renting a car, and the second one is using public transport. You’ll want to avoid the latter. Public transport timetables are more like guidelines instead of actual schedules. It’s pretty normal for a bus or a train to be 15 minutes late. Because you’ll want to see everything under the sun, it’s better to rent a small car. You need a smaller vehicle because the island has a massive parking issue. Additionally, the streets are quite narrow, and you might feel anxious driving on the tight roads. What’s even more, the locals drive like they’re crazy. They’ll probably figure out you’re a foreigner by watching you abide by all the rules. Then, they’ll cut you off from all sides or pull out without proper signalization. The same rules apply to the youngsters on motorbikes. Remember to check multiple times if there are any scooters nearby. Use cash You’re going to lay off using your credit card during the trip except for taking out money from ATMs. Euros are similar to the dollar in terms of their value, and you’ll need them to pay for granitas, wine, coffees, and dinners. The same thing applies to large markets and tolls on the road. However, that doesn’t mean you should always carry a thick wallet in your back pocket. Bring a little more than necessary, keep the bulk of your money at home, or make regular visits to the ATM. It’s better to use the ones issued by banks because private ones have hefty transaction fees. Live the Sicilian life Try to adapt to how the locals live. When they have a siesta, take one too! Also, no trip to Sicily would be complete without shopping in the local markets. It’s best to go early in the mornings because that’s when the fresh produce is laid out. If you decide to sleep in, nothing will be left. Forget about your diet and enjoy some fresh bread while you’re there. It’s fresh in the morning or after the siesta. All of your taste buds will be overjoyed by the sounds, smells, colors, and tastes you experience! Don’t talk to locals about the mafia Most of the stereotypes about Italians are true. They love eating pizza, pasta, and salads. They drink wine and take breaks from work during the day to take a nap. And, of course, when they talk, it looks like they will start fighting at any minute. Well, the same thing is true about the mafia. Blockbuster movies are filled with Italian mafia bosses, but the Sicilians have to live with them. Even though the criminal activities are close to zero, some shops still have to pay fees just to be “protected from danger.” You won’t experience any sort of crime or violence as a tourist. In fact, it’s an incredibly family-friendly place to visit. However, you should pay attention to how you use your internet. Hackers are more prominent than the mafia, and they’re waiting for tourists to take the bait of public Wi-Fi. Since you won’t have data all the time, it’s wise to install a free VPN with limited features for when you’re using a public network. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy the internet safely and be protected from malware, ads, and intrusive cookies. Travel Dudes I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes. [ad_2] Source link

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2022 ZAMBOANGA CITY TRAVEL GUIDE with Requirements, Itinerary & Budget

[ad_1] Welcome to our comprehensive ZAMBOANGA TRAVEL GUIDE! In this article, you’ll find the information you need to plan a trip to Zamboanga City, including recommendations on where to stay, where to eat, and how to build an itinerary. We’ll also break down our expenses so you get an idea on how much budget to set aside for this trip. The pandemic drained almost all the color out of our little worlds. For most of us, we burned over two years cooped up inside four bleak, off-white walls, isolated from all this planet’s vibrance to which travel used to treat us. For most of us, the only trips we made were to the grocery. The only flights we took were of fancy. As for me, when I let our imagination run wild, it usually takes me back to Zamboanga. When we think of Zamboanga, we think of colors. And we’re not just talking about the iconic vinta that has become a symbol for this region! From the subtle rosy hues of its Pink Beach to the delicious bright orange plates of curacha crabs to the vibrant costumes at the Hermosa Festival, Zamboanga is definitely one of the brightest, most colorful destinations in the Philippines. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? The term “Zamboanga” can refer to many geographical areas. Zamboanga City is the biggest urban hub in Region IX, called Zamboanga Peninsula, which is also made up of the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay and four other cities (Dapitan, Dipolog, Pagadian, and Isabela de Basilan). Map by Mike Gonzalez (TheCoffee), Wikimedia (CC BY-SA 3.0) In the airline industry, Zamboanga most often refers to the city, where the Zamboanga International Airport (ZAM) is located. But for the purpose of this travel guide, when we mention Zamboanga, we mean the city. The name Zamboanga is most likely to have come from Samboangan, which means “mooring place”. Samboang is a Sinama term referring to poles used for mooring. Other sources claim that its etymology leads to Indonesian jambangan, which means a place for flowers, which is why Zamboanga is also called “City of Flowers”. Zamboanga City’s history as a settlement is deep, running all the way to the 12th century when the Subanon (Subanen) people reached the area. Over the next centuries, many Tausug, Yakan, Sama-Banguingui and Sama-Bajau people moved here from the Basilan and the Sulu archipelago. When Islam arrived, it became the dominant religion. When the Spaniards began its colonization of the Philippines, they chose Zamboanga as a military stronghold in Mindanao, paving way for Christian settlers. Fort Pilar was later established to defend the settlement. This long history led to the complex, eclectic mix that is Zamboanga. Its proximity to Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia also allows a flood of influences to seep through. This diversity is evident in almost all aspects of its culture, including its languages, religions, cuisines. Today, Zamboanga City is a highly urbanized, chartered city. It is politically independent, although for statistical purposes, it is clustered with Zamboanga del Sur. It also serves as the region’s economic, educational, and cultural hub. Here are some essential bits about Zamboanga that you might need to know before your trip, especially if you’re coming from abroad. Location: Zamboanga City, Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula), Philippines. Coordinates: 6°54′29″N 122°04′35″E Nicknames: Asia’s Latin City, City of Flowers. Time Zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time). If you’re visiting from Malaysia or Singapore, Zamboanga (and the entire Philippines) is in the same time zone. Language: The most commonly spoken is Chavacano or Chabacano, a Spanish-based Creole, which is a mix of Spanish and other native languages. Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP, ₱). Modes of Payment: Bring cash. You’ll need it for most transportation options and small purchases. Many establishments accept credit cards and GCash, but most still prefer good old-fashioned cash. Zamboanga City is under ALERT LEVEL 1, as of this writing. For leisure travelers from similar Alert Level or lower, here are the travel requirements: FOR FULLY VACCINATED valid government ID vaccination card FOR NON-FULLY VACCINATED valid government ID negative RT-PCR test result from an accredited laboratory, issued 120 hours or 5 days before departure. FOR TRAVELERS FROM AREAS UNDER HIGHER ALERT LEVEL or other areas with known cases of concerning variants (according to IATF), here are the requirements: negative RT-PCR test result from an accredited laboratory, issued 120 hours or 5 days before departure negative rapid antigen test result from an accredited lab, issued within 24 hours prior to departure Children/Minors under eighteen (18) years are exempted from testing requirements. But all travelers may be subject to random antigen testing upon entry into the city. Zamboanga City and nearby municipalities are served by Zamboanga International Airport (ZAM), which also serves as the gateway to Basilan. Because there are no direct flights from Luzon or Visayas to Bongao, most Tawi-tawi-bound travelers also make a transfer at Zamboanga Airport. Most local airlines operate flights to Zamboanga from Manila. But if you’re after affordable fares, AirAsia flies daily to Zamboanga City. Travel time is 1 hour and 40 minutes. I did a quick search for flights and found fares like these: Each booking comes with a complimentary 7kg carry-on baggage allowance. This can be enough for a weekend trip. But note that this does not yet include check-in baggage allowance. For a worry-free and more comfortable journey, you can also add a Value Pack, which includes 20kg check-in baggage allowance, standard selection, a meal, and Tune Protect insurance (for baggage delay & 1 hour on-time guarantee protection). Meanwhile, their Premium Flex option allows you to change the date and time of your flight up to two times. If you’re coming from Manila, AirAsia’s Zamboanga flights operate from NAIA Terminal 4. Upon Arrival at the Airport After disembarking, you will be led to the Arrival area, where you’ll be waiting for your check-in baggage (if you have any). As soon as you exit the Arrival Hall, you’ll notice a white tent immediately in

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10 Things to do in Roscommon, Ireland

[ad_1] County Roscommon is located in Irelands Mid West and is a long County that borders seven other counties. Those counties being Longford, Sligo, Leitrim, Galway, Westmeath and Offaly. The area is known for great farming and wonderful agriculture, but also packed full of great and wonderful history and a wide range of things to do. After researching and experiencing as much as we can, we’ve compiled this list of the best 10 things to do in Roscommon. Everything on the list has been tried and tested by ourselves. See also: Things to do with Kids in Ireland in the West The 10 best things to do in Roscommon If you’re looking for fun and interesting things to do in Roscommon, here are a few options. 1. Visit Roscommon Castle Ruins Located moments from the centre of Roscommon Town lies Roscommon Castle ruins. The castle which now lies in ruins, is a 13th-century Norman castle which was once of Hugh O’Connor, the King of Connaught. It features a quadrangular plan with rounded bastions at the corners and a double-towered entrance gate. The attraction is free to visit and is always open all year round to visitors. The upper parts of the bastions and the other stairwells are inaccessible but otherwise you are free to roam the inside. A park area, with lake, walking tracks and kids playground are also within this one area. See also: Walking Tracks of Ireland’s Mid West Roscommon Castle 2. Take a look at Strokestown House and the Famine Museum A grade one listed building, this 300 year old manor house is steeped in history. The house and grounds are now in the hands of the Irish heritage trust. The house is also home to Ireland’s National Famine Museum and, after a huge government grant, they have just completed redevelopment of the museum and visitor centre, making the experience all the better and enabling this great piece of history to be shown for many years to come. Peak season tours of the house and museum are available alongside a woodland walk and Strokestown houses own walled gardens. The grounds are also home to the start of the famine walk. This huge 165km heritage walk is in honor to those 1490 men, women and children who made the walk during the Irish famine in 1847. The walk has been laid out in sections with many choosing to complete over a seven-day period. The tracks are known to be very moderate. 3. Take the kids to Glendeer Pet Farm Glendeer Pet Farm is a children’s petting farm in the north end of County Roscommon very close to the Westmeath and Galway borders. The farm starts off winding through a selection of pens with very friendly animals. The first section has goats, hens, deer, emus, ducks, monkeys and even a bearded dragon. Moving through the farm into a second section leads into a barn area where all the local and native pigs live. In the next section of the farm you’ll find donkeys. This area also has Alpacas, horses, cows and the Belted Galloway (a breed of Scottish cow that adapted itself to living on the poor and windy moorlands) – the Wallaby, a native Australian animal, is found here. The last area of the farm has meerkats and pheasants with a selection of wild birds. The farm also has many play areas with indoor and outdoor slides, swings, courses and a whole host of kids play equipment. Other additions include a fairy trail through the woods and an old 1850’s restored cottage, complete with original fixtures and fittings. See also: Waterfalls in the North West of Ireland Glendeer Pet Farm 4. Visit Lough Key Forest Park Lough Key is a 300 hectare Park, forest and lake in the heart of county Roscommon. The park has many many things to do including boat rides, SUP, tours of the grounds, tree top walk, zipping tree adventure, kids playground as well as many walking tracks and even a cafe all on sight. The most notable attraction is the 16th century McDermott Castle located on a island in the middle of the Lough itself. The castle has its own romantic little story. “Local legend tells the story of a girl called Una, the daughter of the McDermott chief, who fell in love with a boy from a lower class. Una’s father refused to let her leave the island, in the hopes that this would deter the budding relationship. Unbeknownst to her father, Una’s boyfriend began swimming across Lough Key to reach the castle. It was during one of these crossings that tragedy struck, and the boy drowned. It’s said that Una died from grief and that both she and her partner have remained buried beneath two intertwined trees on the island ever since” McDermotts Castle 5. A tour through Arigna Mines Arigna Mines is a top Roscommon attraction, a mine which enjoyed a long history of mining which was actively used as a coal mine from 1700’s until as recent as early 1990. It was then back in 2003 that the mine, driven by a community initiative, was reopened as a visitor attraction. The mining experience at Arigna documents the countries first and last coal mine. The tours are taken with ex-miners so you always know that the knowledge is the best available. The mine is also the start of the Miners Way Walk, a walk that is 118-kilometre long circular route that begins and ends in Arigna village. 6. See the Elphin Windmill Opened as a tourist attraction in 1996, The Elphin windmill is the only fully restored windmill in the west of Ireland. This mill was originally used for grinding corn and a few other grains and is now home to a visitor centre which shows how the windmill operated and are also demonstrated. Adjacent to the windmill is a newly formed walking track. Elphin Windmill 7. Take a look through Boyle Abbey Boyle Abbey is a Cistercian monastery

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The Dazzling Story Behind the Eiffel Tower

[ad_1] The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous icons in the world The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly the crown jewel of France and is one of the leading drivers of French tourism. In fact, it is actually one of the most-visited pay-to-enter monuments in the world, with almost 7 million visitors every year. Better yet, visiting the Eiffel Tower means experiencing one of the architectural wonders of the world. Keep in mind that one of the top things to do in Paris is to visit the Eiffel Tower. Whether it’s to go up to the top or just have a picnic below. Every visitor to Paris wants to catch a glimpse of this wonder – and for good reason too. For almost forty years it stood as the tallest man-made structure in the world. Its bright lights in the evenings make it a stunning sight to witness. But, do you know the history behind Eiffel Tower? The significance of it? And all of the nuances behind its unique story? Well, wonder no more as we delve into its dazzling story so that you are prepared for when you go visiting the Eiffel Tower next. Here are some facts and figures making up the story of the Eiffel tower Why was the Eiffel Tower Built? There are many historical reasons why this magnificent structure was built. The most well-known and true reason is that it was built to cheer up the world exhibition commemorating the 100-year anniversary of the French revolution. The French revolution is a very important event in French history, as it was responsible for abolishing dictatorship and welcoming democracy. The French people and officials wanted to remember the 100-year anniversary by doing something different for their country. They wanted to improve the quality of life in Paris and all over France. Many suggestions were given suggestions that the country builds a new and beautiful building to commemorate the anniversary.  A number of designers, engineers and architects presented their design ideas. Among them, the design of Gustavo Eiffel was selected as the winner. It was opposed by many people, but with the determination of Eiffel the design won out. Another reason it was built was due to the promising nature of its design. The height of the Eiffel tower allowed for practical experiments related to air pressure, temperature and radiotelegraphy. In fact, the major reason for its design was so that it could be used as a radio transmission tower. After the expiration of its first lease, many people wanted to demolish it, but politicians wanted to retain it for radio transmission. One of the other reasons that the Eiffel Tower was built was to create a history that illustrated the purpose of the Paris Exposition.  During this time, the Eiffel Tower would have been the tallest building in the entire world. This swayed many leaders in France to choose this design over others and ultimately erect the building as it stands today. Whatever the reason, there is no doubt about the strong Eiffel Tower’s significance to the French people. Designing and Construction of the Eiffel tower The construction of the Eiffel Tower involved tremendous effort from the Eiffel and his companions; Maurice Koechlin (a structural expert) and many other metal experts. After much debate, the final design was ready. It involved 18,000 pieces of puddle iron, a kind of wrought iron used in construction, and 2.5 million rivets. More than 500 workers worked for 2 years to assemble the framework of this iconic tower.  In the end, it stood at a height of 10,000 feet and was the tallest building in the world (though this is no longer the case). To the surprise of many who visit the Eiffel Tower, the original plan for the structure was to actually dismantle it after 20 years, however, the designer later went and added telegraph transmitters and a radio antenna to the Tower. This contributed to the French government’s decision to keep it ad it was now deemed “too useful”. Parisians Reaction to the Great tower Initially, many Parisians literally hated the tower. Yes, you actually read that correctly. While this monument is now considered to be one of the great travel thrills throughout Europe, it was first initially hated by locals. They considered it to be structurally unsound and an eyesore in their city. The famous novelist Guy de Maupassant hated it so much that he wanted to avoid seeing the tower and would therefore dine at the restaurant in the Eiffel Tower so that he could avoid looking at it directly. What is the Eiffel Tower Today? Thankfully, the outrage over the Eiffel Tower eventually simmered down and has since become the most important landmark in France. It has become a permanent feature of the Paris skyline.  A major part of Paris’ revenue is generated by tourism geared towards visiting the Eiffel Tower as many come to the famous ascend up the Tower. Many people from many parts of the world come to see it and it’s become commonly referred to as the Tower of Love. The scenic beauty from the top is enough to drive you mad. A trip to the Eiffel Tower is something that you’ll remember for the rest of your life! So, why not share the story behind the Eiffel Tower with your friends and family until then?   The scenic beauty from the top is enough to drive you mad. A trip to the Eiffel Tower is something that you’ll remember for the rest of your life! So, why not share the story behind the Eiffel Tower with your friends and family until then? How to visit the Eiffel Tower As you can tell from this article, visiting the Eiffel Tower is an absolute must – but that also means that there are thousands of other visitors who have journeyed to Paris to do the same thing. So, to keep from disappointment, it’s best to plan ahead of time. You can visit the Eiffel Tower by any mode of transportation. The most popular is without

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