Beauty beaches

[ad_1] Posted: 5/27/2022 | May 27th, 2022 Hello from LA! After three weeks driving around the South, I made it back to Austin. It was good to be home. I missed Austin a lot. I missed my bed. I missed my friends. Now, I’m in LA for some work before heading back to Austin for all of June where I plan to focus on being in one place. The last few months have been consumed by TravelCon, our travel media conference. We held our last event exactly a month ago in Memphis. COVID was just too much of a … Hey! Sorry to interrupt but…. You seem to have stumbled onto a subscriber-only article! (Already a member? Log in here.) This article is exclusively for members of Nomadic Matt Plus! NM+ is our member’s only program that gives readers like yourself access to bonus blog posts. Members also get free books, guidebooks, blogging courses, access to our events, event replays, monthly giveaways, t-shirts, exclusive money-saving travel discounts, and more! As a member of Nomadic Matt Plus, you not only get tons of perks to make your travels cheaper but you help us keep creating the in-depth travel content you love! Best of all, subscribing costs less than the cost of lunch! If you want access to this article (as well as 100+ other member-only articles) and all those other amazing perks, join Nomadic Matt Plus and start getting more out of your travels today! Learn More [ad_2] Source link

[ad_1] The extensive landscape of the US makes it a popular destination for tourists year round. But, there are several lesser-known destinations in the US that many don’t know about! When planning a trip in the US, there’s something to do for everyone: families, couples, and single travelers alike. No matter what time of the year you’re visiting, there’s a destination for everyone to enjoy. Whether you love exploring the corners of new cities or you want to go hiking off the beaten track, we’ve got some beautiful destinations that will satisfy your wanderlust. This guide will take you through some of the best entertainment options as well. It’s not just the views that can take your breath away! Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, bars and restaurants or even casinos, we’ve got all the entertainment you need. There are many options to choose from, including some Michigan online casinos. No matter what you’re looking for in the USA, we’ve got all the best destinations off the beaten tourist track. Bars Off the Beaten Track Baker’s Keyboard Lounge in Detroit, Michigan One of the oldest jazz clubs in the world, it’s no wonder that Baker’s is a must-see attraction in Michigan. Built all the way back in 1934, this historic arts venue has always been a Detroit hotspot. The food is some of the best in town and the service is always impeccable. And with legends such as Nat “King” Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, Oscar Peterson and George Shearing having graced its stage, Baker’s legendary status is no surprise. Tunnel Bar in Northampton, Massachusetts If you’re a fan of a martini in an unusual location, then the Tunnel Bar in Northampton is the bar for you. Located in (or under) Northampton’s Union Station, this tunnel was previously used for commuters and train workers. Now, it’s been transformed into a beautiful bar with all of its original brick and stone fully intact. The Coffin Club in Portland, Oregon This next bar is not for the faint-hearted! It’s the Coffin Club in Oregon and we think you can probably guess the theme. It’s full of spooky memorabilia and glow in the dark skeletons that makes for a spooky night out. The Coffin Club has even been voted as being one of the top ten themed bars in the world! Unique Nature Sites Ocqueoc Falls in Rogers City, Michigan If your interests are less city and more out in the wilderness, why not take a trip to Ocqueoc Falls just outside of Rogers City? Not only can you experience the beauty of these magical waterfalls but there’s also a campsite nearby where you can stay. You’ll have to be quick though, there are only 15 sites for tents and small campervans and they’re available on a first-come, first-serve basis. You can hike up to the falls along the Bicentennial Pathway and you can even do some trout fishing if you’re so inclined. Make sure you’ve got the right equipment to cook it though! There are only very basic amenities onsite including vault toilets and a hand pump well for water. So it might be campfire cooked trout for dinner! Sleeping Bear Dunes in Lake Michigan The Sleeping Bear Dunes are found alongside a 35 mile stretch of Lake Michigan’s eastern coastline. This park is known for its incredible scenery including its beaches and forests as well as, of course, the sand dune formations. You’ll also find the North and South Manitou islands nearby which are accessible via ferries. There are 20 miles of hiking trails as well as an 1871 lighthouse that you can visit. And if you’re a history buff, there are plenty of tours you can take as well as a museum to visit and learn all about the rich history of the dunes and surrounding areas. Goblin Valley State Park in Green River, Utah Don’t let the name put you off – Goblin Valley is one of the most unique sandstone formations you’ll see anywhere in the world. In fact, its landscape is often compared to that of Mars! With its weird and wonderful sandstone formations, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world. It’s a once in a lifetime sight and one you won’t want to miss! Devil’s Tower in Wyoming Another unusual rock formation is the Devil’s Tower in Wyoming. This astonishing geological feature was formed by molten rock millions of years ago and has managed to stand the test of time. There are lots of hiking trails to complete – or even rock climbing if you’re feeling brave! But note that there is an annual climbing closure for the month of June to respect the Native American cultural significance of the site. White Sands National Park in New Mexico The White Sands National Park is so unique that it is even home to a type of sand that is rarely found anywhere else. It’s called gypsum and is so rare because it is actually moderately soluble in water – meaning that you won’t be finding it on a beach. White Sands National Park is actually the largest gypsum dune field, covering 275 square miles. The rarity of this landscape means that all of its life and plants are protected. It also means that not a lot of people know about it – so it’s always a peaceful place to visit. Channel Islands National Park in Ventura, Los Angeles Despite its proximity to Los Angeles, Channel Islands National Park is the second least visited park in California. That’s great news for travelers who prefer to bask in the beauty of nature in peace. It’s also a must visit place for activity lovers! There are loads of hiking trails to explore such as the Smugglers Cave trail. If a day trip just isn’t enough time for your island trip, there’s also the option to camp on the island. Just make sure you pack light – it’s a mile long hike to get from the ferry to the campsite! Given the vastness of the

[ad_1] If you think La Union has nothing else to offer other than surfing, you’re gravely mistaken! Elyu has a diverse set of wonders kept in its nooks and crannies. But if you’re staying in Urbiztondo in San Juan, one attraction that you shouldn’t miss is Tangadan Falls! La Union has over a dozen waterfalls spread throughout the province — from the mildly sloping Lang-ay Falls in Tubao up to the little-known Occalong Falls in Luna. But perhaps the most popular of these cascades is Tangadan Falls, tucked in the sleepy town of San Gabriel. Punctuating a portion of the Baroro River, this waterfall has two tiers, each with a natural pool at the base, surrounded by limestone cliffs and giant boulders. Tangadan Falls is located in Barangay Amontoc in the mountainous area of San Gabriel, La Union. So the first step is to get into La Union. This waterfall is too far for a day trip straight from Manila, so most travelers visit it as part of a greater La Union itinerary. They usually book a hotel or resort in either San Juan (particularly Urbiztondo Beach) or San Fernando City. From here, you can dedicate half a day to this waterfall. Planning to visit Tangadan Falls soon? Here are some of the things to know before you go. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? 1. Board a bus to San Fernando. If you’re coming from Metro Manila, the only transit companies that we know carry passengers to La Union directly are PARTAS and VIRON Transport (as of May 2022). Both have terminals in Cubao. You can also find La Union-bound buses at Viron’s Sampaloc Terminal. Board a bus to San Fernando City or San Juan, depending on where your accommodation is located. Most La Union buses terminate in San Fernando City. Alternatively, if you’re staying elsewhere, you may catch a bus bound for Abra or Ilocos instead and alight in San Juan or another town in La Union. (Note that NOT ALL buses allow this, so it’s important to ask a staff member before booking a ticket.) For the schedule, fare and other important reminders, we wrote a dedicated article here: MANILA TO LA UNION BUS TRAVEL INFORMATION! ✅ If you are bringing your own car, just use Google Maps or Waze, then search San Gabriel Municipal Hall. 2. Ride a tricycle or jeepney to San Gabriel Town Proper. The travel time is about 45 minutes from San Fernando and about 30 minutes from San Juan. Jeepney fare is between P15 and P20 pesos. If you’re coming from San Fernando, head to Tanqui Transport Terminal to catch a jeepney. If you’re coming from San Juan, go to People’s Park, located just across the San Juan Municipal Hall. A more convenient (but more expensive) option: Hail a tricycle that will take you directly to San Gabriel Municipal Hall. Roundtrip fare starts at P500 if you’re solo, or more if you’re a group. (We paid P800 for a party of 3.) The driver can wait for you at the town proper and take you back to your hotel or resort after. If you want to make the most of your day, arrange a combined Tangadan Falls + Northern Tour (which includes a visit to Immuki Island in Bacnotan and stone attractions in Luna). Tours like this range from P1800 to P2000. 3. Pay the entrance fee at the Municipal Treasury Office. The tricycle will drop you off around San Gabriel Municipal Hall. It’s located beside the Police Station at the junction. Pay the environmental fee/entrance fee at the Municipal Treasury Office. The fee is P30 per person. “No Receipt, No Entry” rule is in effect. You may be asked to present the official receipt when at the site. 4. Hire a tour guide. Yes, it’s required. A “No Tour Guide, No Entry” is in effect. You’ll find the tour guide station beside the police station. Tour guide fee is P500 per group. We weren’t able to catch how many members are allowed per group. But we were a party of three and we were considered just one group. 5. Ride a habal-habal or jeepney to the trailhead. Choose between a habal-habal (motorcycle) and a jeep. Habal-habal roundtrip fare is P400 per unit. A unit can accommodate up to 2 passengers. If time is an issue or if you’re visiting early in the morning, this is the mode of transpo for you. Jeepney fare is around P150 per person. But it might wait for more passengers before departing. The travel time is 20-30 minutes. 6. Trek to the waterfall. It’s a 15-20 minute hike down a mostly concrete staircase to the waterfall. But it still depends on your pace. NOTE: The road leading to the trailhead is narrow and winding, and some parts are steep. It’s quite challenging if you are not familiar with the road. We also have a video version of this travel guide here: Swimming. Take a dip into the cold freshwater of the Baroro River. If you are not a confident swimmer, you can rent a life vest or just swim in the shallow parts. The mossy rocks are very slippery, so be careful. Cliff Diving. If you are feeling adventurous, go cliff jumping! Check the drop point if there are swimmers below before taking the plunge. Note that the original cliff jumping point is closed due to safety reasons, but you can still jump from the lower protruding rock near the falls. Snap away. Take lots of photos. This picturesque natural gem, with the surrounding limestone cliffs, makes for a stunning photo backdrop. Planning to spend a few days in La Union? San Fernando and San Juan are the best places to book a hotel. They’re both centrally located, well connected, and close to most attractions. Here are some of the properties available on Agoda. Below is a full-day itinerary that includes a stop in Tangadan Falls. Note that this assumes you’re staying in San Juan, like

[ad_1] Published: 16 May 2022 When heat becomes unbearable and the stress gets too much to handle, most of us look north for a quick escape. While many of the country’s most popular islands are located south of Manila, some of the most easily accessible can be found in the north. And when it comes to destinations in the north, it’s pretty hard to resist the calls of La Union. But since the pandemic has pretty much messed up all the well-established bus schedules that we have relied on over the years, it takes some effort to figure out how to get to La Union by bus. So we did a little digging (i.e. contacting bus companies). And we successfully reached PARTAS Transportation Company and Viron Transit. ‼️ IMPORTANT! These days, route availability and timings change frequently and quickly. Before your trip, contact the bus companies directly for the latest updates and policies at 0917 819 3909 (Partas) or 0932 364 1487 (Viron Transit) or message PARTAS’s official FB page. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? As of: 16 May 2022 PARTAS operates several bus routes to the north, mostly in the Ilocos Region and Abra. In their latest timetable (as of this writing), La Union is nowhere to be found. But it turned out that they still do ferry passengers to La Union via their other routes. We recently called and messaged PARTAS to find out how to get to La Union. And they told us the following: Ilocos- or Abra-bound PARTAS buses coming from CUBAO Terminal can drop off passengers in San Fernando City, La Union. These include P2P buses. You need to inform the driver that you’re alighting in La Union. Otherwise, they will skip the terminal. We were told they only make a stop in La Union if and only if there is a passenger getting off there. PARTAS doesn’t make a stop in San Juan (Urbiztondo). The closest is San Fernando City. They are only allowed to drop off passengers at their terminal. But since their Sebay Station (San Juan) is temporarily non-operational, buses can’t stop there. However, their official FB page shared with us that they can drop off passengers in the following La Union towns: Agoo, Bacnotan, Balaoan, Bangar, Bauang, and Damortis. (See image below.) List of stops in La Union, Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, shared with us by the PARTAS FB Page on 16 May 2022 We are not sure whether or not buses from the Pasay Terminal also drop off passengers in La Union. But their Facebook page specifically indicated “FROM CUBAO ONLY.” Below are the timetables and fares for PARTAS Buses that can make a stop in San Fernando, La Union. Cubao to Abra P2P Fare: P800 Cubao to Laoag P2P Fare: P960 Cubao to Vigan P2P Fare: P800 Cubao to Candon Fare: P800 Cubao to Sta. Cruz Fare: P800 Cubao to Narvacan Fare: P800 Cubao to Cabugao Fare: P960 As of: 16 May 2022 Viron Transit has not published any updated schedule on their official Facebook page, so we called their terminals by phone. Here’s what they shared so far: Viron’s La Union buses terminate at their San Fernando Terminal. If your destination is San Juan, transfer to a jeepney or a tricycle from there. Alternatively, you may ride a Viron bus bound for Ilocos and Abra, which can drop you off in towns north of San Fernando (including San Juan), but you’ll need to pay the full fare for that route. Sampaloc to San Fernando Fare: PhP 505 Sampaloc to Vigan Fare: PhP 700 Sampaloc to Abra Fare: PhP 750 Cubao to San Fernando When I called, they confirmed that they do operate trips to San Fernando City from their Cubao Terminal too, scheduled at 10:00 pm. I wish I had more details to share but that’s all I was able to get for now. You can try calling them through the numbers below or email virontransit@gmail.com. Once you’re in San Fernando, the next step is to get to San Juan. Whether your final destination is Urbiztondo Beach or San Juan Town Proper, you have two main options: BY JEEPNEY. Fare: around P15. BY TRICYCLE. Fare: P100 (special ride) From San Fernando City Center, travel time is around 15 minutes to Urbiztondo and 20-25 minutes to San Juan Town Proper (longer if jeepney because of the stops). [ad_2] Source link

[ad_1] Road tripping is probably the most convenient and safest way to travel especially now that the pandemic is not yet over. It will allow you to travel at your own pace and make stops whenever you need or want to. If you’re coming from Manila, one of the most popular road trip destinations is Subic. In most conversations, Subic refers to the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ), which comprises parts of the municipality of Subic and Olongapo City in Zambales and Morong and Hermosa in Bataan. The former U.S. Navy Base is best known among tourists for its beaches, dive sites, waterparks, and other family-friendly attractions. There are also historic spots along the way. It has also made a name for itself as a shopping hotspot, thanks to the various outlet shops and duty free shopping stores around the area. If you’re planning to go on a road trip to Subic with family, here are some of the attractions you can visit during an overnight trip. We got to visit these during the recent Subic leg of the NLEX Lakbay Norte. Keep reading to know more details about these attractions that you can include in your Subic itinerary. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? Holy Land Subic Sanctuary For your first stop, spend a couple of hours at the Holy Land Sanctuary, a biblical theme park and a retreat and pilgrimage site for Catholics. It’s situated somewhere detached from most other attractions, so it’s a good idea to visit this first just to get it out of the way. Spanning a 15-hectare land along Tipo Expressway and adjacent to the Subic Freeport Sentry Gate, the property is an ancestral land of the Aetas that was leased and developed into Holy Land Sanctuary. In turn, the Aetas are receiving a percentage gross revenue sharing through SBMA (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority) and they are also provided with jobs in the sanctuary. Inside Holy Land Sanctuary are over 200 life-sized religious statues depicting the life of Jesus, local devotions, and international apparitions of Mary. The Stations of the Cross draw pilgrims here especially during Holy Week. You will also find a chapel called Chapel of Cana, a prayer wall, a coffee shop, and a souvenir shop here. There are also overnight accommodations at the retreat village if you wish to stay the night or have a guided retreat. If you’ll visit here to do the way of the cross, don’t worry about getting lost because they will provide a map of the whole place so you’ll be guided where you need to go. If you can’t do a lot of walking or if you’re going with seniors, there are also shuttles that could take you around. Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PMLocation: Adjacent to Subic Freeport Tipo Main Entrance Gate, Tipo ExpresswayEntrance Fee: P350 – Regular, P280 – Students & Senior Citizens Room Rates: P4000/ room (up to 4pax)Breakfast: P300/headLunch & Dinner: P350/head For reservation and inquiries, you may contact them at 09189380979 or 09064641945. If you’re not a Roman Catholic or you’d rather visit somewhere else, you’ll find eco-trails like Pamulaklakin Forest Trail and El Kabayo Trail (and El Kabayo Waterfall) around the area. I’m just not sure if they’re open these days so please double check before you go. There are also wildlife observation spots around the area. Tree Points Bistro Yes, tree not three. This restaurant and sports bar was named such because of the trees inside the restaurant. Instead of cutting them down, the owner decided to keep and incorporate the huge trees in the design of the place. Tree Points Bistro serves a variety of dishes from Western fare like steaks, pizza, pasta, and burgers to Filipino dishes like lomi, beef mami, and champorado. They also offer coffee, smoothies, wine, and beer. We got to try their pizza with a really thin crust and lots of cheese, which I loved. I also had one of their “Belly Buster” meals—the Tom Brady’s BBQ Belly, which is pork belly slathered with barbecue sauce and served with garlic rice. Their smoothies are perfect if you’re going for a meal on a hot summer day like we did. The restaurant is very spacious and has a lot of tables so even if you’re with a group, you don’t have to worry about the place feeling too crowded. Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PMLocation: Aguinaldo corner Raymundo St., Subic Bay Freeport Zone Hotel Check-in After a hearty lunch, it’s time to check in! Subic Grand Harbour Hotel Subic Bay. Image via Agoda. As a well-developed tourism hotspot, Subic harbors lots of accommodation options. As part of this edition of Lakbay Norte, we stayed at Subic Grand Harbour, which is a beach front hotel and resort. This is perfect for you if you want to stay close to the beach or if you’re interested in trying out water activities. You’ll find a water sports station just down the beach. It is also within the Central Business District so restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores are plenty. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY! If you’re looking for other options, search for more SUBIC RESORTS! Subic Rolling Tour The Subic Rolling Tour will take you around the Freeport zone. The tour usually starts at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) and will take you to the following sites: Spanish Gate Inang Laya Monument Bat Kingdom Duty Free shops If you book this tour, a tour guide will lead you, as they share information about the different stops. However, note that the tour guide would have to ride with you in your vehicle during the rolling tour. Bat Kingdom Subic Inang Laya Monument To book a rolling tour, you can send an email to tours@sbma.com. In your email, indicate the date of your trip, name of the point person for your group, and mobile number. Rates: P250 – Private VehicleP500 – Coaster or Bus Note: There’s no fee for the tour guide, but you

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[ad_1] Florence is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. This city has a village atmosphere that can’t stop bringing visitors back repeatedly due to its old-world charm. However, you might be bored of going to the same few tried and tested museums or destinations. You might not yet know that there are many unique things to do in Florence, including a lot of non touristy things to do in Florence that will show you another side of this fantastic destination.  Here are some Florence hidden gems to add to your itinerary next time you travel to Italy! See also: Cheap but Chic: Budget Hotels in Florence Finding hidden gems in Florence streets Unique things to do in Florence Selfie Museum The Selfie Museum is an international sensation that features incredible installations created by many artists designed to be used as a backdrop for Instagram photos and selfies! Selfie Museums started as far back as 2015, with one of the first museums located in the Philippines. Now, Florence is the home to the first Selfie Museum in Italy.  You should know that it’s not an actual museum but more of an interactive experience designed for entertainment. Each person is encouraged to immerse themselves in their surroundings.  You can expect corridors of colourful backdrops, optical illusions, and more. Don’t forget to wear an #instagrammable outfit.  A ticket gets you 1.5 hours of access to over 50 installations created by international artists. It’s also open every day from 10:00 – 19:00pm.  Individuals can expect to pay €13, with student discounts and bundled options available for families. Booking is essential, so don’t miss out on one of the most unique things to do in Florence – book your ticket here. All’Antico Vinaio Food Tour All’Antico Vinaio is a renowned sandwich store in Italy, known for its ‘schiacciata’, sandwiches made on focaccia-style bread. It first opened in 1989 and has since opened branches in Rome, Milan and even across the pond in New York. If you are looking for non touristy things to do in Florence but still want to enjoy great food and drink, you would love the All’Antico Vinaio – Skip The Line food tour.  You can expect just under three hours of unique eats, featuring 7 different stops and 4 kinds of wine. You’ll start with traditional Italian espresso and pastries, enjoy a fantastic sandwich at All’Antico Vinaio, drink Chianti wine and enjoy a sweet surprise at the end.  Florence food markets – depositphotos.com Museo Salvatore Ferragamo This is one of the best non touristy things to do in Florence for any fashionistas who happen to be in Florence instead of Milan. The Museo Salvatore Ferragamo is one of the most unique things to do in Florence off the beaten path! It’s a fashion museum entirely dedicated to the life and work of world-renowned fashion designer Salvatore Ferragamo and his company. He is known for his prolific shoe design and production. The museum features over 10,000 models of shoes created and owned by Salvatore Ferragamo.  The museum is open every day from 11:00 until 19:30, and admission costs €16.50. You can also expect seasonal exhibitions at the Salvatore Ferragamo museum if you’re lucky! Villa Bardini Often, the Bardini Gardens in Florence are missed by travellers. It wouldn’t be wrong to feel like you’re discovering a new place while visiting the beautiful premises of Villa Bardini. Villa Bardini features a 17th-century villa with many acres of gardens. This area offers some of the best views of Florence and regularly hosts art exhibitions and other significant events. You don’t want to rush your visit to these lush gardens! There is no better place to lie under the trees and simply relax. It might not be the most fitting for the title of non touristy things to do in Florence, but it’s worth a visit anyway.  View from the Italian-style Bardini gardens in Florence, Italy – depositphotos.com Acquario di Livorno (Livorno Aquarium) You may not think of an ‘aquarium’ when you think of ‘Florence’. That’s because it’s not in the city centre of Florence – it’s actually in Livorno, about 1.5 hours away by car.  However, the Acquario di Livorno (Livorno Aquarium) is one of the most unique things to do in the broader Florence area. Inside, you’ll find a Mediterranean-style aquarium that features unique international exhibits. You’ll discover blacktip sharks, jellyfish, manta rays and sea turtles. This is a fantastic opportunity for families with children looking for Florence hidden gems to enjoy. Other visitors enjoyed the tremendous sights, helpful staff and relative quietness of the aquarium compared to other tourist destinations in Florence. Admission is around €16.00, with more significant price discounts if purchasing online. It would be a great destination to make a day trip adventure with other non touristy things to do in Florence and its greater area! Tettuccio Thermal Spa Located between Florence and Versilia in Montecatini, Tettuccio Thermal Spa offers four different thermal pools in Europe’s oldest spa town. These baths contain mineral salts and other precious elements, set in a beautifully landscaped garden to create the most dreamy spa day ever.  If you are looking for the ultimate in relaxation, this is the perfect thing for you – and one of the most unique things to do in Florence. There is a beautiful fresco in the cafe here, a historical writing room (sala di scrittura) and a few shops to browse.   You’ll also find unusual healing treatments here, such as drinking the thermal water. There are also more traditional spa treatments, such as massages, facial treatments and thermal baths.  Summary  There are many unique things to do in Florence that will take you off the beaten track to find a bit of quiet during your visit – you just need to know where to look! If you like fashion and art, you will love the Selfie Museum or Salvatore Ferragamo museum, two of Florence hidden gems that aren’t always busy. If you are after a

[ad_1] If you’re looking for a bit of adventure while vacationing in Bali, consider doing one of the Bali volcano hikes. It is one of the best ways to not only get your heart rate up, but an incredible way to take in the picturesque landscapes that Bali has to offer. And so, while volcanoes may not be the first type of hiking ground that comes to mind when you think of a hike, let the record show that this is not an experience that you want to miss. Every step you take will be totally worth it!   An intro to the top Bali volcano hikes Keep in mind that this is an introduction to three volcanoes to trek in Bali – more is to come, don’t you worry.However, before you go embarking on this adventure, it is important to keep in mind that they all differ in difficulty and trip length. That being said, they all provide breathtaking views and a sense of achievement when you reach the summit. When to hike volcanoes in Bali: During the months of April to September (the dry season) is the best time to climb any of the volcanos as the tracks get muddy and slippery in the wet season, making it difficult or impossible to climb. Usually, it’s best to aim for the summit around sunset, so the climbs begin very early in the morning. If possible, choose a date close to a full moon for extra light, but you can climb the volcanos any time of the month. What to bring: Warm clothes, good shoes, water, snacks, and a headlamp. Top 3 Bali volcano hikes Mount Batur – The Easiest Climb Mount Batur is the easiest Bali volcano hike of the three volcanos and provides spectacular views of Lake Batur and the ocean. It is also Bali’s most active volcano, so check whether it is safe to climb before you go. Most people do the climb as an organized tour, but you can do it on your own if you prefer. If you decide to do the volcano trek without a guide, be prepared to deal with local guides in Kintamani, the town where the trek starts, who have a reputation for being extremely pushy and doing almost anything to hinder people without a guide to reach the summit. The track starts out as a dirt path, but as it quickly gets steeper it also gets rockier and after a while vegetation is mainly limited to grasses growing among the rocks. Before reaching the summit, a small vendor sells refreshments. On the summit, views reach as far as Mount Rinjani, and if you have a guide, he or she might cook you an egg boiled in volcanic steam before the descent. Difficulty: The trek is straight forward, so if you are in decent shape, you shouldn’t have many problems. Trip length: This Bali volcano hike takes one to two hours to reach the summit and the same time to get down, but you should also include time to enjoy the views and explore the rim of the crater. Location: An hour’s drive north of Ubud. If you decide to do the hike with a guide there’s an option of a few add-ons, including a sunrise hike with a natural hot spring, a sunrise hike with breakfast, or a sunrise hike with white water rafting. Mount Agung – Bali’s Highest Point The trek starts at around 2.30 in the morning at the stairs of the temple. Bring a torch or preferably a headlamp, as the first part of the trek through the forest is particularly dark. After walking uphill in the dark for about three hours you should reach the summit as the sun starts to color the sky orange. Especially on windy days, it can get very cold at the summit, so make sure to bring extra warm clothes. As you start making your way down, the sun becomes more intense, and you’ll welcome the guy selling semi-cold refreshments at the temple where the trek ends. Height: 3031 meters Difficulty: You need to be fit for this trek as it is a fairly long climb with some steep sections. Trip length: It takes about two to four hours to reach the summit and a little less to get down. Location: An hour’s of drive northeast of Ubud There’s an option to book a Mount Agung sunrise hike with breakfast. Mount Rinjani – Lombok’s Spectacular Volcano The classic Rinjani volcano trek takes two nights and three days and is the most spectacular of the three. And is one of the harder Bali volcano hikes. On day one, walk from the National Park entrance to the rim of the volcano. The first half of the day goes through the jungle, where curios monkeys will watch you, but as you get closer to the rim, vegetation is limited to grasses and small bushes. When you reach the rim, and if you still have any breath left, the spectacular view of the crater will take away what remaining breath you have. Spend the next day exploring the crater for a couple of hours where you can swim in the blue crater lake or relax your muscles in the nearby hot springs before climbing up to the opposite side of the rim. On the third day, you get up early in order to reach the summit at sunrise. On a clear day, you get a spectacular view of Lombok, the Gili islands and Bali as the sun starts warming you up. Back at camp, you’ll have breakfast before descending through grass and farmlands all the way down to the village of Sembalun where the trek ends. Difficulty: Climbing Rinjani is a hard trek with some steep sections, especially the last bit to the summit, where the sand-like surface makes walking difficult, so you need to be in good shape to reach the summit of Mount Rinjani. An easier option, but with equally good views, is just to trek to the rim, which is

[ad_1] If you’re looking for an alternative Osaka travel guide, you’ve just landed on the right page. Japan expert, La Carmina, shares her best tips and advice for exploring the more underground side of Osaka. Only three hours from Tokyo by bullet train, Osaka is a turbo-charged setting for a long weekend getaway. Although it’s worth seeing historic landmarks such as Osaka Castle, travelers shouldn’t miss out on exploring the underground culture for an alternative perspective of the city. For instance, Osaka is home to a gritty and raucous music scene that’s matched only by its drinking holes — where the staff has feathered and dyed hair, the speakers blast Def Leppard, and the walls are decorated with grinning skulls. I’ve been writing about Japan and visiting Osaka for well over a decade on my La Carmina travel blog. Here are some of my favorite subculture hangouts in the city, which I hope you’ll get to check out on your next trip. See also: A day in Osaka, Japan La Carmina, Japan travel and fashion blogger of LaCarmina.com Osaka shopping guide Let’s start off this alternative Osaka travel guide with a few vintage, indie and unique shopping spots in Osaka. Shinsaibashi Shinsaibashi’s Shopping Arcade is a bustling treasure hunt: look for indie and vintage boutiques, such as Dangerous Nude, amidst the mass retailers. Nearby Amerikamura is the cultural equivalent of Tokyo’s Harajuku, with Goths, punks and rockers hanging out in Triangle Park (here’s a map of the best stores). Poke your head through the beaded curtains for cyber fashion, tarot cards and 1980s toys. A Satanic-themed 666 clothing shop in the Shinsaibashi district of Osaka. Image by La Carmina Blog. EST Center A stone’s throw from Umeda Station, EST is a young women’s “shopping town with dream and excitement.” The boutiques lure you in with frantic J-pop music and the chic outfits seen in Cutie and ViVi magazines. If the hundred-plus indie and alternative shops aren’t enough, across the street is Hep Five, a shopping and entertainment megalopolis with a red Ferris wheel. Pokemon Center, Osaka. Image by La Carmina Blog. Sightseeing in Osaka Here are a few more unique sights to visit in Osaka. Pokemon Center Believe it or not, the Pokemon Center is one of the top tourist attractions in all of Japan. The gargantuan Umeda, Osaka store is stocked with every character imaginable. Children in Pikachu hats will remind you that the brand’s motto is “gotta catch em all,” so bring your wallet. Kaiyukan Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world and a family favorite. Young Osaka resident Takumi Tanaka reminisces on his childhood visits. “It’s always fun to see the penguins and dolphins playing, but my favorite thing to do is visit the Floating Jellyfish tanks. It’s so relaxing to watch the intertwining tendrils,” he says. “Also I love to watch the staff feed the sea otters, who play like children.” Osaka Castle Tanaka also encourages first-timers to visit the historic Osaka Castle, especially during the cherry blossom season. “There are always festivals and gatherings in the beautiful park, and little stalls that sell traditional foods like takoyaki. It’s fun to just sit on the benches and watch people go by,” says Tanaka. Related tour: Guided Walking Tour around Osaka Castle Fu-Ki pours a devilish drink at hard rock Bar Midian, Osaka. Image by La Carmina Blog. Bars and Nightlife in Osaka What’s an Osaka travel guide without a list of the best bars and nightlife? Related tour: Osaka: Nightlife Experience Bar Midian Fans of Visual Kei/J-rockers Blood were heartbroken when the group disbanded. But like a Goth Elvis, vocalist Fu-ki is alive and ominously wielding an ice pick behind the counter of his Bar Midian. The Umeda dive is near-impossible to find, so I suggest studying these detailed directions on my La Carmina Blog. Midian’s decor is a heavy metal wet-dream: a dripping candle sits in a Dracula wine bottle; an axe rests in the umbrella stand. That night, we sat with tattooed rockers who headbanged to Black Sabbath videos and scandalized us with their boy-on-boy antics. Drinks are 500 yen and have names such as Black Rose and Satan. Fu-ki mixes a strong cocktail and will gladly make you a special one, or pour you a Belgian Satan Beer. He’s also known to pick up the tab for newcomers, especially if you bond over music — so don’t forget to ask him about his Motley Crue cover band. Bar Moonwalk When metal and rock bands tour Osaka, they frequently stop by Moonwalk, a bar that pumps Marilyn Manson and Japanese glam metal to a young, heavily-pierced crowd. My travel comrade and I had an instant crush on our eyeliner-smeared server Kouta, who plays bass in a new Visual Kei band. The fantasy faded a little when he went into the kitchen to cook our orders: tasty 315 yen plates of Korean fried rice and lotus pork cakes. There’s a 400 yen cover charge, but the drink menu — which has over 300 offerings for 200 yen each – more than makes up for it. Got a sweet tooth? Try the raspberry yogurt cocktail. More of a hardcore type? Go for the brandy ginger mixer. And don’t be surprised if the charming bartender brings over free shots. Bar Rock Rock Alice Cooper. Bad Religion. Motley Crue. Metallica. They are among the hundreds of famed faces who have raised hell at Rock Rock since the bar opened in 1995, leaving behind autographed photos and tales of destruction. The atmosphere reminds me of a really chill jazz club, only with screamo vocals. The bar plays anything from punk to metal and has events throughout the year that bring in throngs of rock fans. These include special DJ nights such as Hell’s Bells (AC/DC), Emotion is Dead (emo) and the self-explanatory Loud & Heavy. The menu is a typical selection of pizzas, pastas and salads (600-800 yen). The drinks are standards, plus a selection of

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