November 2022

[ad_1] Posted: 11/14/22 | November 14th, 2022 I’ve never been to India. I know. Crazy, right? It’s not that I don’t want to go but life has just always gotten in the way. However, India is a place a lot of people visit and, since I can’t write about it, I want to bring in someone who can: my friend Mariellen Ward. She’d a travel writer who has been going to India since 2005 and runs the website Breathedreamgo. We’ve known each other since 2010. Today, she’s going to share some tips on how to visit India for first-time visitors. I will never forget my first time visiting India. My first car trip in Delhi felt like a roller-coaster ride. Cars and trucks of every size, overloaded bicycles and motorcycles, and even the occasional bullock cart, seemed to be coming at me from every direction. No one was paying any attention to lanes or the rules of the road. Vehicles were driving the wrong way. I couldn’t make sense of what was happening. I had heard about the “sensory overload” travelers feel in India, and now I was experiencing it. It was exciting and nerve-wracking in equal measure. And just a taste of things to come. I spent six months crisscrossing the subcontinent on my first trip, back in 2005 and was often overwhelmed by the huge crowds, the foreign traditions, the perplexing bureaucracy, the mind-boggling complexity, and the bewildering culture shock. These things combined make India a challenging — though very exciting and rewarding —destination. However, if you read and follow these travel tips for first-time visitors, they could help smooth out some of the more disorienting bumps. 1. Slow down It takes time and some know-how to successfully navigate in India. This is not a place for hurried travel. Don’t try and see as much as you can; that is not the right approach. It’s tiring to travel in India, and the object should be to experience it, not to check things off a list. As a general rule, for every two weeks you are in India, pick one region. For a one-month trip, just pick two regions — say, two weeks in Rajasthan and two weeks in Kerala. You can even sit in one place and still not miss anything. No matter what, if you are in India, you will experience India. 2. Adjust your attitude Let yourself fully experience India. There’s a quote from the movie The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel that sums it up: “India hits you like a wave. If you resist, you will be knocked down. But if you dive into it, you will be alright.” Likewise, accept that things will not go as planned. Cultivate the philosophy that things happen the way they are supposed to, not the way they are planned. This attitude can lead to the most marvelous adventures. 3. Be careful who you trust Having said that it’s a good idea to be open, a healthy level of skepticism also comes in really handy in India. There are many con men there, especially in the travel and hospitality sector. They have a sixth sense for first-time visitors and will try and take advantage. So, learn the prices by asking locals and other travelers before negotiating with auto-rickshaw drivers and market vendors. Don’t believe drivers — or random people you come across at airports, train stations, and tourist attractions — who tell you things such as your hotel burned down, or the train you want was canceled. Often, an opportunity to make money off of you will spur creative tactics, and some of these scams can easily catch you off guard. Once, I was looking for a new iPhone case and the vendor showed me one and told me it was made by Apple. But a close look revealed four spelling mistakes in one short sentence engraved inside the case. 4. Practice safe travel India has a reputation as a daunting travel destination, especially for women. However, I have spent many years in India as a female solo traveler, and though I have been uncomfortable, I have never felt really unsafe or threatened. Reported crimes against tourists are relatively rare, but harassment, staring, pickpocketing, and getting ripped off are common. There are also anecdotal reports of women being molested, especially in busy, crowded places. Follow basic precautions and safe travel strategies, and use common sense in India. Here are several safety travel tips (please read my top tips for women traveling in India for more details): Buy a local SIM card so that you can make local calls and stay in touch. Research carefully where you want to go, ensuring it is an area frequented by other travelers, with good infrastructure and hotels. Plan your travel so you don’t arrive late at night; travel during daylight hours only. Be careful when posting to social media, so that you are not revealing your current location. Stay alert to your surroundings, and keep a close eye on your handbag and luggage. Keep the Tourist Helpline number handy and call if you need any assistance: 1-800-111363. 5. Try a small group tour For your first time in India, try taking a small group or custom tour to help you get your feet wet. My company, India for Beginners, was founded to help women travel safely and well in India. We offer a few small group tours, but we specialize in creating custom tours and providing a high level of personal service, such as meeting travelers at the airport and assigning a tour manager who is available 24/7. We hold your hand in India! 6. Take the train Taking a train in India is a great experience and should not be missed. However, you need some basic knowledge about the classes and the trains. You may not want to dive into sleeper class or general class immediately; I would recommend 2AC (second class with air conditioning) or CC (chair car). Or even 1AC

[ad_1] If you’re looking for a sunny, warm destination to travel to, consider Mexico. But, is it safe to travel to Mexico? With its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, Mexico is a great place to relax and enjoy yourself. And with so many tourist destinations to choose from, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Sure, the resort hot spots along the coast are popular, but there is so much more to Mexico than that. Mexico City is a world-class destination bursting with arts and culture. Oaxaca has become one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, thanks to its booming mezcal industry and top-notch culinary scene. Mexico is an amazing country to backpack around, road trip, or just vacation in. There’s an endless variety of things to see and do, and the locals are some of the friendliest people on the planet. Yet the country gets a bad rap in the media, being constantly tagged as unsafe. Drugs, corruption, cartels — the list goes on. But don’t let these negative stereotypes keep you from experiencing all that Mexico has to offer. The current state of Mexico and its tourism industry Despite the current state of Mexico, it is still a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists. The tourism industry has taken a hit in recent years, but there are still plenty of reasons to plan a vacation to Mexico. The beaches are still as stunning as ever, the food is delicious, and the culture is fascinating. Mexico is a country full of adventure, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. There are still many safe areas in Mexico, despite the violence that has been publicized in recent years. According to the U.S. Department of State, “nearly all” of the country is safe for travelers, with the exception of a few areas near the border with Guatemala. Teotihuacán, in the Central Highlands of Mexico State, is one of the most important prehistoric ruined metropolises in the Americas, known especially for its step temples such as the Great Pyramid of the Sun. Is it safe to travel to Mexico? The recent spate of violence in Mexico has many would-be travelers wondering if it’s safe to visit. The answer, unfortunately, is not a simple one. While some areas of the country are relatively calm, others are embroiled in dangerous turf wars between drug cartels. The best way to stay safe when traveling to Mexico is to do your research and plan your trip carefully. Avoid traveling to areas that are known to be dangerous, and be sure to stay in well-populated, tourist-friendly areas whenever possible. Use common sense when out and about, and always be aware of your surroundings. If you do find yourself in an unsafe situation, the best thing to do is to stay calm and call the police or military immediately. With a little caution and planning, you can still enjoy a fantastic trip to Mexico. See also: Tips for Planning the Ultimate Trip to Mexico Is Mexico safe for solo travelers? Solo travelers can feel safe in Mexico by taking some common sense precautions and being aware of their surroundings. While learning Spanish will certainly help, it is not a requirement for staying safe. Find a few useful phrases below. Just use your best judgement, keep your belongings secure, and don’t hesitate to travel in groups or share taxis if it makes you feel more comfortable. With a little planning and caution, you can have a great time exploring all that Mexico has to offer without any safety concerns. Is Mexico safe for solo female travelers? Solo female travelers can safely explore Mexico by taking the same precautions they would at home. This includes being aware of your surroundings, staying in well-lit and populated areas, and avoiding wearing flashy jewelry or using electronic devices in public. Additionally, if you are bothered by catcallers, it is best to ignore them. Although they may become aggressive, pretending you don’t hear or see them is usually the best way to diffuse the situation. Tips for staying safe while traveling in Mexico Mexico can be a safe and enjoyable place to visit. So if you’re planning on traveling to Mexico, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to stay safe. First, be aware of your surroundings and don’t flash valuables in public. Pickpockets are unfortunately common in tourist areas. Second, avoid using ATMs in isolated areas or after dark. Third, only use licensed taxis and make sure the driver uses the meter. Fourth, avoid traveling alone if possible – it’s always safer to travel in pairs or groups. Fifth, try to blend in as much as possible by dressing like a local and not standing out too much. Sixth, keep your belongings close to you at all times. Finally, always trust your gut – if something feels off, it probably is. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Mexico! The importance of research before traveling to Mexico When we travel, we often don’t take the time to research our destination. This can lead to problems, especially when traveling to a country like Mexico. There are many things to consider before traveling to Mexico, such as the language barrier, currency exchange, and safety concerns. While many people in the tourist areas speak English, it’s always helpful to know some basic phrases in Spanish. This can help you communicate with locals and get around more easily. I added a few below. It’s also important to be aware of the currency exchange rate before you travel. Mexico uses the Mexican peso, which is different from the US dollar or the Euro. You’ll need to make sure you have enough cash or traveler’s checks to cover your expenses. Be sure to research your destination before you travel and plan accordingly. Here are a few more frequently asked questions about safety in Mexico Is the tap water safe

[ad_1] If you’re visiting Lisbon and want to get away from the city and immerse yourself in the beautiful countryside, hiking in Sintra should definitely be at the top of your to-do list.  Sintra is one of the most scenic areas in Portugal. It would make sense that hiking in Sintra would give you some of the most amazing views that you can only experience on foot.  However, if you want to hike Sintra, you should know a few things before you embark on your trip. Here is everything you need to know about the best hikes in Sintra. See also: Sintra Guide: A Day Trip from Lisbon Planning to go hiking in Sintra One thing to be aware of is the kind of experiences you’ll have to choose when hiking Sintra.  There are many hikes in Sintra that range from 1 hour up to 5, so make sure you bring your hiking essentials with you before you arrive!  You might want to bring some essential gear: a pair of comfortable shoes with rubber soles fit for hiking, appropriate active clothing that keeps you comfortable, a warm jacket or outer layer, and adequate water and food supplies for your hike’s duration.  One of the best ways to sort out all your hike planning before you even arrive is by booking a Sintra Half Day Trekking Tour. All you have to do is arrive (with your gear, of course), and your tour guide will show you all the best secret sights that can only be seen when hiking Sintra.  See also: Best Sunglasses for Hiking Hiking in Sintra The best hikes in Sintra  It can be hard to nail down the specific sites you might want to see when hiking Sintra. Here are our top picks: Sintra Palace hike Hiking Sintra Palace to Pena Palace is an 11-kilometre (6.8 miles) distance that can be achieved in 3-4 hours. It will take you through some of the top attractions in the region, making it one of the most picturesque hikes in Sintra.  This is a great way to spend a day in Sintra. Some of the sites you’ll see when you hike Sintra this way include the Palacio da Pena, one of the most famous landmarks in the Sintra area. Want to hike this route with a group? Join a guided Sintra Half Day Trekking Tour, and you’ll see all the area has to offer. Pena Palace, Estrada da Pena, Sintra, Portugal. Seteais Trail If you’re new to hiking in general but still want to have fun hiking in Sintra, this is a great choice.  The Seteais trail is only 3.5 kilometres (2.2 miles) and will take you through the 18th-century Palace of Seteais, a hallmark of neoclassicism. While the route is short, you can expect a challenging incline that will get you warmed up for longer treks.  At the top of the hill, you’ll be rewarded with the most fantastic views of the city below, set amongst the mountainous hills. This is one of the most exciting hikes in Sintra that you could experience.  Rota das Quintas  Another unique place to remember when hiking in Sintra is the Rota das Quintas. It is one of the most uniquely Portuguese routes. It leads to traditional manor homes known as Quintas, including the famous Quinta da Regaleira. The most notable part of this estate is the Initiation Well. This inverted tower leads to a secret underground tunnel. You could also spend your time hiking Sintra in the Quinta da Regaleira Park. It includes over 4 hectares (10 acres) of land that spans grottos, fountains and turrets set amongst lush gardens.  The short route, also known as PR5, starts at the Sintra National Palace, leading to Rua Barbosa du Bocage. There is a spectacular waterfall along this route, making it one of the most peaceful hikes in Sintra.  You can expect winding paths and many shady trees to accentuate this hike.  Rota das Quintas hike in Sintra, Alltrails Cruz Alta Found in Pena Park, Cruz Alta is one of the must-see stops when hiking in Sintra. Meaning High Cross in English, Cruz Alta is situated at the highest point of Pena Park, offering sweeping views of the surrounding area.  This is one of the hikes in Sintra that is best known for being a great spot to take photographs. It offers one of the best views of Pena Palace that one could expect without actually visiting the landmark itself! Don’t skip hiking in Sintra If you’re itching to hike Sintra, you should ensure you dedicate at least half a day to this activity.  You can expect some of the most unique and picturesque hikes in Sintra, as most of the landmarks are deeply rooted in the history of Portugal.  Whether you’re after a 4-hour hike or a quicker 60-minute trek, we’re sure you’ll find hiking Sintra a fantastic experience.  Remember that it’s easy to book a guided half-day hike if you want to make short work of planning hiking routes for your day visit to Sintra!  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

[ad_1] Posted: 11/7/22 | November 7th, 2022 As an avid travel hacker, I’m always looking for new ways to earn more points and miles through my everyday spending. As a result, I earn over one million points every year, allowing me to enjoy all kinds of free flights and hotel stays, upgrades, lounge access, elite status, and more. Travel hacking has saved me thousands and thousands of dollars over the years, and I wouldn’t be able to travel as much without it. However, there’s traditionally been one huge expense that has always been hard to earn points for: rent. For years, travel hackers have taken advantage of temporary offers that waive credit card fees or gone through complex procedures to pay their rent so they could get points. But these maneuvers were all hit or miss and never lasted long. Thousands of potential points continued to be left on the table. Until now. Earlier this year, a card called Bilt came out. And it has changed the game.  What is Bilt? Bilt is a credit card that allows you to earn points when you pay your rent (as well as on everyday purchases). You then use those points like you would any other rewards program: you can use them to book travel directly, you can transfer them to travel partners, or you can use some of the other redemption options. There are two ways to earn points with the card: by renting a Bilt Alliance property, or by using the Bilt World Elite Mastercard®. Bilt Alliance properties form a network of two million units across the US. But I’m not going to focus on that. I’m going to talk about its credit card.  How does the Bilt reward card work? Once you open a Bilt Mastercard® (which is issued by Wells Fargo and has no annual fee), you go to the Bilt app or website to set up your recurring monthly rental payments. Bilt then creates a unique bank account tied to your Bilt credit card so that your rent is paid with an e-check rather than through your credit card. This bank account is basically a legal “dummy” account created as a workaround for credit card processing fees. You do not use it for anything else, and you do not withdraw or deposit money from it. Whenever these unique routing and account numbers are used to pay rent, your Bilt Mastercard® is charged for the same amount. (You still have to connect your personal bank account to pay off the card each month.) And, if your property is old-school and only accepts checks, you can still pay with your Bilt card through the Bilt Rewards app, and Bilt will send a check on your behalf. It all takes about five minutes to set up. When you’re done, you’ll be earning points on your rent. I use it, so I don’t leave any points on the table.   Bilt Reward Perks Once your account is set up, you’ll start earning one point per dollar spent using the Bilt credit card on rent payments, up to 50,000 points each calendar year. While the mileage needed for free flights varies drastically depending on many factors, if you play your cards right, that many points could get you a free round-trip flight from New York to London. And, while earning points for rent payments is Bilt’s main draw, you’ll also earn two points per dollar spent on travel (when booked directly or through the Bilt Travel portal) and three points per dollar spent on dining. You’ll get one point per dollar on all other purchases. Just note that you have to make five purchases per month (with no minimum spending requirement) to earn these rewards. You can transfer points 1:1 to travel partners, including American Airlines, United, Emirates, Hawaiian, Virgin Atlantic, Air Canada, Air France/KLM, Hyatt, and IHG. The fact that they transfer to American Airlines and Hyatt really sets this card apart (besides the rent thing). No one transfers to American, so this is a huge selling point for this card, because it’s the only way to get AA points without having an AA card. And earning Hyatt points allows you to have a way out of the Chase system. You can also redeem points for fitness classes, like SoulCycle, Solidcore, Rumble, and Y7, and for items in the Bilt Collection, a curated selection of artisan home décor items. But redeeming for fitness classes comes out to around one point per cent — you get a better redemption on travel purchases. Additionally, purchases also help you earn status in the Bilt Rewards program, based on the total points earned annually. The tiers for those Bilt Rewards are as follows (subsequent tiers include everything in the aforementioned ones): Blue: Earn points on rent and the ability to transfer them 1:1 to travel partners Silver (25,000 points per year): 10% bonus points when you sign a new lease or renew your lease, and interest on your points balance (at the FDIC published national savings interest rate) Gold (50,000 points per year): 25% bonus points for new leases/renewals and access to a home ownership concierge (who will walk you through the home-buying process) Platinum (100,000 points per year): 50% bonus points for new leases/renewals and a free gift from the Bilt Collection of home décor items While the perks in the higher tiers aren’t terribly exciting, they’re a nice way to earn even more points if they apply to you. But, even at the base level, you can still take advantage of Bilt’s main attraction: earning points on rent. In addition to earning points, the card also gives you: Trip cancellation protection and interruption coverage Trip delay reimbursement (for delays of six hours or more) Car rental collision coverage Cell phone protection (up to $800 USD) No foreign transaction fees A free three-month DashPass and $5 USD off your first DoorDash order each month $5 USD Lyft credit each month after taking three rides

[ad_1] For anyone who loves to escape the cold of winter and enjoy the great outdoors and rock climbing scene in the tropics and heat, South East Asia is a great place to flock to. While there might be an immense amount of climbing places all over Asia, we’re focusing on rock climbing in Thailand. Zooming into the island of Krabi, specifically Railay where you would see flocks of rock climbers of all abilities from all over the world gathering here throughout the year to enjoy a great outdoor rock climbing expedition along the cliffs of Krabi. Here’s everything you need to know about rock climbing in Thailand, specifically Railay. See also: Remarkable Wonders of Asia The best time of year to climb in Railay Due to warm tropical and humid weather in Asia and quickly drying limestone, it is very possible to climb throughout the entire year in Railay and Tonsai, even in the monsoon season (though the hours and time on certain crags might be limited). There are also plenty of overhanging routes and crags that stay dry when it rains (my favourite being Fire Wall). This opens up the opportunity to visit during the quieter and less touristy months, although conditions may not be completely ideal and all your waterproof jackets, shoes and climbing bags come in handy.  With that being said, the peak climbing season with the best conditions for the sport (and unfortunately the biggest crowds at the crag) is none other than October to March period. During this time of the year, the days are warm and dry, and you’re likely to be able to climb on every route without being stopped by stormy skies and sudden showers. Its also the perfect season to do your beach and water sports, as the weather is predictable and hence easier to arrange for water activities like snorkeling, kayaking and even the nearby ATV riding on the main island of Krabi.  Krabi, Thailand March, April, and May are warm and sticky, hence rock climbing in Thailand in the early morning before it gets too warm, or early evening as it starts to cool down might be better than frying yourself on the side of a cliff facing the noon sun. Sun block, hats and sunglasses are a must to get through the climbs, especially if the sun is directly above your heads. The rainy season tends to be a bit cooler but the weather can be a little less predictable as mentioned, due to sudden downpours and gusts of wind which could cause more turbulent waves as you take the longtail boat from Tonsai to Railay. The two big upsides to climbing during these periods are the reduced cost of accommodation and the smaller crowds of people in the restaurants and even popular climbing locations like Diamond Cave. In the peak season, Diamond cave attracts floods of tourists and it can get annoying trying to get to the crag or avoid masses of tourists staring at you while rock climbing (unless you like that kind of attention). So give it careful thought before coming over during wet season. If you do decide to, as shared earlier best to also stock up on waterproof gear. Here are some useful recommendations base on rock climbers like us: Ponchos Waterproof duffel bags and backpacks Gortex-coated hiking or approach shoes Water-resistant climbing pants Soft Shell Jackets with hoods Extra Pair of Socks Ziplock Bags and plastic container for food and gadgets First Aid Kits Sunscreen, Insect Repellent Hammock ( best thing ever for an afternoon snooze) Check out Merino Wool clothing is a great option for all weather. Best rock climbing routes in Railay, Thailand If you’re looking for some of the best rock climbing routes to try out in Thailand, you have got to consider some of these top ones mentioned below. If you want the most Instagram-able one, Beauty and the Beast is the more iconic one that gets featured and publicized a lot by climbers when they are there, but the other amazing routes are equally fun, breathtaking and rewarding. Check out this YouTube video on Beauty and the Beast: Fit to be Thai’d – 5c Beauty and the Beast – 6c Orange Juice – 7b+ Lord of the Thais – 7b No Good Deed Goes Unpunished – 6b+ If you have time and have the necessary skills and equipment to do it, do squeeze in a bit of multi-pitch climbing as well, it is absolutely incredible and one of the best in the world. Check out our multi-pitch experience here. How to get to Railay So now that you’ve decided you want to progress from just gym climbing in Bangkok city and are ready to explore Thailand’s best outdoor rocks, how do you get to Railay? As previously mentioned, the peninsula is cut off from the mainland by the beautiful limestone cliffs (that attract the climbing community). Most people arrive on the peninsula by longtail boat. Frequent ferries are departing from neighboring towns and cities which seat around 8 passengers. You can depart from: Ao Nang Nam Mao ferry terminal Nopparat Thara Krabi Town Most of the boats arrive in East Railay, however, you can quickly walk around the peninsula to other areas, such as Ton Sai where the climbers tend to go, or you can hire a private boat to drop you elsewhere.  Search for transport options below: Exploring Railay in Thailand Costs of longtail boats Each ride can cost around 100baht, but if you try to get a boat later in the evening without enough footfall, you run the risks of having to pay full price for a boat to bring you where you want to go.  Where to stay in Railay Most people visiting Railay stay in hotels and hostels. There are some campsites around the area, but there is no obvious campsite documented online that is situated on the peninsula itself, and there are regulating forces in the area that could well

[ad_1] Any conversation about Palawan is awfully incomplete without a mention of Puerto Princesa, its capital and only city. Adventurers and beach bums flock to the towering karst cliffs of El Nido. Divers and nature lovers are drawn to the lakes of Coron. But long before they made a mark on Palawan’s tourism map, Puerto Princesa was already giving tourists of all types a little taste of what the province has to offer. Located in the middle of mainland Palawan, Puerto Princesa serves as the largest and the most convenient gateway to the province. Although a highly urbanized city, it retains its natural beauty and has been consistently among the cleanest and greenest cities in the country, something that any traveler would immediately notice within minutes of their arrival. It’s no wonder it’s also touted as the Eco-Tourism Center of the Philippines. But it’s not always butterflies and unicorns for the city’s tourism over the past years. Like in many destinations around the world, the pandemic presented a number of challenges. Then, in 2021, the province was ravaged by Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai), leaving almost P8 billion in damages. But recently, not even a year after, we were invited to join a recent tour organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT)-MIMAROPA. We got to see for ourselves what it’s like to travel around Puerto Princesa now. In this article, we’re sharing with you a list of tourist attractions in the city (not in any particular order) and what it’s like today. Note: Puerto Princesa is huge! In fact, it is the second largest city in the Philippines by land area, next to Davao. You’ll find places on this list that may be one or two hours away from the city center, but they are still part of Puerto Princesa. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? Officially named Puerto Princesa Subterranean River but sometimes simply called PPUR, this 8.2-km-long underground river is the city’s main tourism draw. This natural wonder which was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2012. Tucked in the northern nooks 76 km away from the city proper, it can be reached after around one and a half to two hours of land travel. The tour’s jump-off point is Sabang Wharf, and only a limited number of visitors are allowed per day. Tourists are required to register in advance if they want to visit. To avoid dealing with this process, it is best to book a packaged tour with a tour operator so they can register on your behalf. Packaged tours usually include roundtrip land and boat transfers, audio guide for the underground river tour, and buffet lunch. Another great thing about booking with a tour operator is in case of inclement weather, you won’t have to spend time traveling to Sabang only to find out that the tours have been canceled for the day. In case this happens, they can also make arrangements to move your scheduled tour to the following day. Only a few minutes away from Sabang Wharf, Cacaoayan Forest Park is an awesome lunch stop after your Puerto Princesa Underground River tour. True to its name, being here will make you feel like you’re in the middle of a forest. You will also find a nice view deck here along with Instagram-worthy spots reminiscent of those in Bali. Their lunch buffet offers a variety of Filipino dishes from fish to pork to chicken to vegetables and fresh fruits. If you’re interested in trying tamilok, the popular exotic mollusk, you can also order it here. Reservations are required for the lunch buffet, but some tour operators include a stop here in their underground river tour packages. Buffet rate is P350 per person. Location: Brgy. Sabang, Puerto PrincesaOperating hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PMBuffet Rate: P350/person Sabang Beach may be known primarily as the jump-off point to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, but it is also an attraction on its own. This stunning beach with the backdrop of the mountains is a nice place to swim and relax. From here, you can also see the stunning St. Paul Limestone formation where the underground river is flowing underneath. If you’re in for more adventure, another activity you can do here is the Sabang X Zipline. This thrilling ride will treat you to the stunning view of Sabang Beach and its surrounding area from above. Measuring 800 meters, it is among the country’s longest ziplines that cross a body of water. To reach the starting point of the ride, you need to go on a short 15-minute hike. Tickets cost P550. Island hopping is one of the most common activities in many destinations in the Philippines, and Puerto Princesa isn’t to be left out. Here, beach chasers go to Honda Bay, which isn’t too far from the city center. Honda Bay is peppered with several isles, but island hopping tours usually include just three stops. If you’re a DIY-er and you’re joining a group tour, those three islands will be fixed. But if you want more flexibility or if you’re a big group, you may book a boat and arrange a private tour. The jump-off point is Sta. Lourdes Wharf, roughly 30 minutes away from the city proper by tricycle. One-way fare is around P400-500 per tricycle. At present, only 3 islands are open for public island hopping tours: Cowrie Island Luli Island Starfish Island Boat rates vary depending on the type used. Here are the latest rates, good for 6 passengers. with 4-cylinder engine: P2100 per boat or P350 per person with 3-cylinder engine: P1800 per boat or P300 per person Aside from boat rental fee, you also need to pay the ENTRANCE FEES: Cowrie Island: P100 Luli Island: P70 Starfish Island: P50 Other islands may be accessible, but most of them are private and collect much higher entrance fees. We’ll discuss them in detail below. Here are other expenses to expect

[ad_1] I love trip planning: outlining routes, researching things to see and do, reading travel books. While I always end up changing my plans on the fly, trip research gets me inspired about where I’m going and helps me know what options I have when I land, even if I change plans ten times over the course of a day. Some of the info I find is on blogs, some is on social media or in guidebooks. I’m constantly having to jump between platforms to look stuff up and compare notes and suggestions. It’s not convenient. Fortunately, there’s a new tool out there that can help travelers find the best things to see and do on their trips (and at home too). It will bring all your research together in one place. It’s called Bestlist.  What is Bestlist? Bestlist is a search engine focused solely on helping you discover the best of anything. Restaurants, beaches, activities, excursions, historic sites — you name it. They crawl the web and aggregate millions of data points, reviews, and comments, and process it all with their proprietary machine-learning models. They measure popularity, sentiment, and more, providing users with the best options for each search query. Whether you’re planning a trip and looking for inspiration and suggestions or just looking for a place to eat in your hometown, Bestlist can help. Once you conduct a search on Bestlist, you’ll see that each result includes a short description and a link to an external site. You can then browse your list and save your favorite results to a collection. You can have collections for anything: websites, places to visit, restaurants, things to do, etc. So far, I have four collections (they’re all travel related of course): The more you use the site, the more things you can add to your collections. Collections are easy to make, reorder, and expand too. (More on this below.) Three features that make Bestlist stand out Here’s a quick look at three other features of Bestlist that I think really help the platform stand out from all the others: 1. Voting: If you feel strongly about a search result, you can upvote or downvote the listing to voice your opinion. The more upvotes something gets, the higher it will appear in the search results (and the more downvotes it gets, the lower it will appear). When you vote, you’ll be asked to state why you voted, which gives other users better insights into the listing. This means you not only get to help shape the results but see why other people voted as they did. This makes the results much more transparent than simply a thumbs up or thumbs down. 2. Submissions: If you find that something is missing from a particular search result, you can submit it as a suggestion using a button at the bottom. Simply add the name and URL of the new listing, and it will be reviewed and published if it makes the cut. So, if there’s something cool from your hometown that’s missing, or you discover an awesome website worth sharing, you have the potential to add it to help improve the platform for everyone else. 3. Privacy: Your personal data is not shared with advertisers or other third parties. This is a big deal, because, as we all know, search engine data is full of personal information about you. I like this feature a lot.  How to make a collection Here’s a quick overview of how to get started building your own collections on Bestlist: Step 1: Once you’ve made an account, simply visit the homepage and search for whatever it is you’re looking for. In this example, we’ll assume you’re going to NYC and want to find some places to eat. So, search for “best restaurants in New York City” and choose the “list” option. Step 2: Now that you have a list of suggestions, scroll down to browse. If you see a place that looks interesting, click the “Collect” option to save it to a collection. If you haven’t started a “Restaurants in NYC” collection, you can do so at this point. On the right side, you’ll also see related searches. So, if you also want to look for museums or accommodations in NYC, you have the option to do so as well (and build collections for any of those results too). Step 3: Once you review the results and save everything to your collection, you’re all set! All the restaurants you chose will be listed in your collection, where you can view them anytime (and also add more, rearrange, or delete some if you like). If you want to share this collection with your travel buddies (or the general audience on Bestlist), you can make it public. Otherwise, if it’s just for you, you can keep it private. *** Bestlist is a new and easy way to search and store information — one that is particularly useful to travelers looking to build itineraries as they plan trips. Not only can you comb the website for awesome suggestions but, as you explore the world, you can add your own, contributing back to the community and ensuring that other travelers benefit from your experiences. So head on over to Bestlist and start searching! Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks Book Your FlightFind a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned. Book Your AccommodationYou can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. Don’t Forget Travel InsuranceTravel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the

[ad_1] What’s up, guys? This is a short vlog video from a recent trip we did to Madeira Island in Portugal. It was an awesome trip and a really great destination to explore. Madeira has a ton of epic cliffs and truly stunning coastal scenery, plus big hills and river valleys, quaint towns and lovely people, amazing fruits and veggies, and so much great seafood! Just be careful with the Poncha, the traditional Madeiran alcoholic drink that packs a punch if you’re not used to it. It was the 2015 World Travel Award winner for Leading Island Destination and it is easy to see why. 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

[ad_1] Istanbul is a city with a rich history and a lot of culture. There are a number of sights in Istanbul to see, and you’re sure to find something that interests you. It’s a city that has been home to many different cultures and religions over the centuries. This is a place where East meets West. It’s a place where you can find traditional Turkish culture side by side with modern Western influences. Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and one of the most populous cities in the world. The city has a population of more than 14 million people, probably around 20 million. The city is located on the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe from Asia. The strait also serves as a natural boundary between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Istanbul has been inhabited since Neolithic times, but it was first settled by Greeks in around 1000 BCE who named it Byzantium after their king, Byzas. The city rose to prominence after it was conquered by Alexander. Top sights in Istanbul There are a number of sights in Istanbul to see, including the following: Basilica Cistern – The Sunken Palace The Basilica Cistern is a must-see in Istanbul. It’s one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s easy to see why. The Cistern is an enormous underground water storage system that was built in the 6th century. It’s a fascinating piece of history, and the atmosphere inside is incredible. This subterranean structure was commissioned by Emperor Justinian and built in 532. The largest surviving Byzantine cistern in İstanbul, it was constructed using 336 columns, many of which were salvaged from ruined temples and feature fine carved capitals. Its symmetry and sheer grandeur of conception are quite breathtaking, and its cavernous depths make a great retreat on summer days. This underground structure is the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul, it was built with 336 columns, many of which are from destroyed temples and have finely crafted capitals. Its symmetry and enormous conception are breathtaking, and its cavernous depths provide welcome cooling on hot summer days. How long does it take to visit the Basilica Cistern? Visiting the Cistern takes about 45 minutes, and the fee is around $20 USD. It’s worth buying a ticket online or go for a guided tour, to skip the lines at the entrance. The opening hours are 9:00am to 5:00pm. Is it worth to visit the Basilica Cistern? Yes, definitely! The Basilica Cistern is an amazing place, and it’s well worth visiting. It reopened in summer 2022 and there are a few art pieces installed. These, but especially the changing colors add to the atmosphere. The paths are well placed into the cistern, so that the people are not really in your view when taking photos. And you’ll find many different angles to take new nice photos, and then in different colors. The Blue Mosque The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul and is famous for its beautiful blue tiles and six minarets. The mosque was built in the early 1600s under the rule of Sultan Ahmed I and is a prime example of Ottoman architecture. Visitors from all over the world come to marvel at the mosque’s grandeur and beauty. The Blue Mosque is situated in the heart of Istanbul and it’s about 10km from Istanbul Ataturk Airport and it’s around 50km to Istanbul’s new airport Tayakadin, further outside of the city. The Blue Mosque is open from 8:30am to 5:00pm, and it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. The mosque was built by Sultan Ahmet I in the early 1600s, When visiting, be sure to dress modestly (cover your shoulders and knees) and remove your shoes before entering. If you’re visiting Istanbul, be sure to add the Blue Mosque to your list of things to do. You won’t be disappointed! Extra tip: To take a similar photo, head to the roof terrace of the Seven Hills Restaurant (map), which you can visit for free. Take the elevator to the top and then the extra stairs to the rooftop. Book this Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia small-group tour. The Hagia Sophia The Hagia Sophia is a former Byzantine church that was converted into a mosque. It is one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul. It was built in the 6th century as a Christian church and later converted into a mosque. It houses some of the world’s most valuable Byzantine artifacts. The Hagia Sophia is known for its large dome and beautiful architecture. It was converted to a mosque in 1453 when the Ottoman Turks conquered Constantinople. The Sultan, Mehmed II, ordered that the Hagia Sophia be turned into a mosque and had the minarets built. For centuries, it remained one of the most important mosques in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia is open to tourists. The iconic Byzantine cathedral, reopened as a mosque in May 2019 after nearly 90 years. It is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can explore its beautiful architecture and history. Extra tip: To take a similar photo, head to the roof terrace of the Seven Hills Restaurant (map), which you can visit for free. Take the elevator to the top and then the extra stairs to the rooftop. Book this Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia small-group tour. The Topkapi Palace The Topkapi Palace is one of the most iconic buildings and sights in Istanbul. It’s known for its opulent architecture and its extensive gardens. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the palace and its place in modern Turkish culture. The Topkapi Palace was built in the 15th century by the Ottoman sultan Mehmed II. It served as the primary residence of the sultans for centuries, and it was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. The palace is one of the most popular tourist destinations in

[ad_1] The Topkapi Palace is one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul, Turkey. It’s known for its opulent architecture and its extensive gardens. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the palace and its place in modern Turkish culture. It’s one of the most important historic buildings in Turkey, and it’s full of fascinating stories and beautiful art. The palace was built by the Ottoman sultan Mehmed II in the 15th century, and it served as the main residence of the sultans for almost 400 years. Today, it’s a museum that houses an incredible collection of art and artifacts from the Ottoman period. Visiting Topkapi Palace is a great way to learn about the history of Turkey and get a taste of the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans. Is Topkapi Palace worth visiting? Yes! Topkapi Palace is definitely worth visiting! And be sure to buy your tickets in advance so you don’t have to queue up (book a skip the line with guide and audio guide app here). The palace is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istanbul. It’s one of the most visited museums in Turkey, and it’s also a popular spot for weddings and other special events. The palace is huge, so allow plenty of time to explore all the different rooms and galleries. It’s also known for its harem, its extensive gardens, and its lavish architecture. If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, be sure to add the Topkapi Palace to your itinerary! What to expect when visiting the Topkapi Palace Sultans, courtiers, concubines and eunuchs The Palace is the subject of more fascinating stories than most museums in the world. The lustful sultans, ambitious courtiers, beautiful concubines and cunning eunuchs who lived and worked here between the 15th and 19th centuries provide a captivating glimpse into their lives. Mehmet the Conqueror built the first stage of this palace shortly after he conquered Constantinople in 1453. Subsequent sultans continued to live in this luxurious environment until they moved to ostentatious European-style palaces on the shores of Bosphorus. Before you enter through Imperial Gate, take a look at ornate structure situated in cobbled square just outside. There you will see a beautiful rococo style fountain. The First Court As you enter the First Court, also known as the Court of the Janissaries or the Parade Court, you’ll see the Byzantine church of Hagia Eirene on your left. The Second Court The Middle Gate leads to the palace’s Second Court, which was used for the business of running the empire. In Ottoman times, only the sultan and the valide sultan (mother of the sultan) were allowed through the Middle Gate on horseback. Everyone else, including the grand vizier, had to dismount. The Second Court has a beautiful park-like setting. Unlike typical European palaces, which feature one large building with outlying gardens, Topkapı is a series of pavilions, kitchens, barracks, audience chambers and sleeping quarters built around a central enclosure. As you enter the palace on the right, you’ll find the great kitchens, which include a dedicated space for confectioneries. This is also where you’ll find a small portion of Topkapı’s vast collection of Chinese celadon porcelain. The celadon was valuable to the sultans not only for its beauty, but because it was said to change color if it came in contact with poisoned food. On the left side of the Second Court, you’ll see the ornate Imperial Council Chamber. This is where the council met to discuss matters of state. Sometimes, the sultan would eavesdrop on these conversations by listening through the grille in the wall. The Harem in Topkapi Palace The Harem is located beneath the Tower of Justice on the western side of the Second Court. If you’re interested in visiting, you’ll need to buy a ticket (this ticket includes a visit to the Harem). As popular belief would have it, the Harem was a place where the sultan could engage in debauchery at will. In more prosaic reality, these were the imperial family quarters, and every detail of Harem life was governed by tradition, obligation and ceremony. The word ‘harem’ literally means ‘forbidden’ or ‘private’. The sultan could have up to 300 concubines in the Harem, although there were usually fewer than this. The girls who entered the Harem would be schooled in Islam and Turkish culture and language, as well as the arts of make-up, dress, comportment, music, reading, writing, embroidery and dancing. Islamic law allowed the sultan to have four legitimate wives, who received the title of kadın (wife). The sultan’s chief wife, the valide sultan, owned large landed estates and controlled them through black eunuch servants. She could give orders directly to the grand vizier, and her influence on the sultan, his wives and concubines, and matters of state was often profound. The Harem complex has six floors, but only one of these is open to visitors. To get there, you’ll need to go through the Carriage Gate. Next to the gate is the Dormitory of the Corps of the Palace Guards, a beautifully restored two-storey building with stunning 16th- and 17th-century İznik tiles. Close by is the Hall with the Fountain, lined with gorgeous tiles featuring botanical motifs and inscriptions from the Koran. Then there is the Courtyard of the Black Eunuchs, also decked out with beautiful Kütahya tiles and if you look to the left behind the marble colonnade, you’ll see the Black Eunuch’s Dormitories. The reception room past the Courtyard of the Valide Sultan is beautifully decorated with a large fireplace and Kütahya tiles from the 17th century. This was where the princes, valide sultan, and senior concubines waited before being received by the sultan in the magnificent Imperial Hall. Nearby is the magnificent Privy Chamber of Murat III, one of the most splendid rooms in the palace. This room dates back to 1578 and almost all of its decoration is original. The three-tiered marble fountain has been restored