Beauty beaches

[ad_1] Good news! AirSWIFT has recently opened commercial passenger flights to Romblon, connecting the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 4 (NAIA-4) in Metro Manila to Tugdan Airport (TBH) in Tablas Island. The boutique airline is the first carrier to operate in the province since the pandemic disrupted most tourism activities globally. Romblon’s only airport started operations many years ago, but it remains largely under the radar. It has been a favorite among scuba divers — thanks to the richness of its marine biodiversity — but most tourists have yet to discover all the other natural and historical wonders that it has to offer. We were honored to be a part of AirSwift’s inaugural flight to Romblon, so we had a sneak peek into its tourism trove. In this article, we’ll share with you, some of the province’s key tourist spots with some practical information about each. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? The province of Romblon has three main islands: Romblon, Tablas, and Sibuyan. Around and in between them are several other isles and reefs that attract scuba divers and underwater photographers from around the world. Beach lovers can also have a field day in any of these islands! In this section, we’ll share some of the top attractions outside the three main islands and activities that can be enjoyed in any part of the province. Cobrador Island Among beachgoers, Romblon is best-known for their three-island tour, which covers the isles north of Rombon Island: Alad, Logbon, and Cobrador. Of the three, Cobrador Island is the farthest and the northernmost, but it is also inhabited. Most of the settlements, however, are in the western and southwestern coasts, which are covered in a a wide bed of fine grains, shells and coral bits. The interior of the island is generally hilly, with some rocky cliffs and formations protruding into the sea, framing the serene beachscapes. A notable attraction on the island is Tinagong Dagat, a natural saltwater pool tucked on the northeast coast. But as of writing, this part is temporarily closed. Entrance Fee: P60Environmental Fee: P30 How to Get to Cobrador Island: From Romblon Port, book an island hopping tour, which usually includes Logbon Island, Alad Island, and Cobrador Island in the itinerary. Sometimes it’s the first stop, other times, the last stop. The travel time from Romblon Port to Cobrador Island is about 45 minutes. Cascarro Islet (Cliff Jumping) Most island hopping tours make a stop at nearby Cascarro Islet, where you can go cliff jumping, if the conditions are right! In the habagat season, the waves can get too strong, so boats might get a hard time getting closer to the stairs leading to the jumping board. In this case, you need to jump into the water from your boat and swim towards the islet. Previously a guard station, this tiny adrenaline paradise still houses the guardhouse, painted in aquamarine. Logbon Island Also part of the three-isle tour, Logbon Island has an almost uninterrupted beach that spans its entire western coast. But its most prominent feature is the Logbon Sandbar, dangling from its southeastern tip, just next to Romblon Beach Resort. (This is just the first of the many sandbars that we’ll mention in this article.) From here, you can catch a glimpse of Bonbon Beach and Bang-og Island. On the other end of the cove lie the Nabagbagan Rocks. How to Get to Logbon Island: From Romblon Port, get on a boat to Logbon Island. The travel time is 15-20 minutes. You can also join an island hopping tour, which usually includes Logbon Island, Alad Island, and Cobrador Island. Alad Island Located north of Logbon, Alad Island is another inhabited island boasting pristine and uncrowded beaches with ivory sand. A marine sanctuary, the island’s surrounding waters offer excellent snorkeling and diving spots in both the west and east coasts and are home to numerous species of fish and soft and hard corals. How to Get to Alad Island: From Romblon Port, get on a boat to Alad Island. The travel time is 20-25 minutes. You can also hop on an island-hopping boat, which usually includes Logbon Island, Alad Island, and Cobrador Island in the itinerary. Carabao Island Also referred to as Hambil Island, Carabao Island lies off the southern coast of Tablas Island. Here, you’ll find the town of San Jose, Romblon’s southernmost municipality. It is also conveniently close to Aklan’s Boracay Island, piquing the interest of more beach chasers who are looking for quieter, more laidback escape. From Boracay, you may simply book a boat tour to Carabao Island and be back within the day. Its nooks and crannies are filled with white sand, punctuated by cliff diving sites and lined with highly Instagrammable coconut trees. Covering a land area of 22.05 square kilometers, it boasts a number of attractions including: Lanas Beach San Jose Beach Tagaytay Viewpoint cliff jumping spots like Cathedral Cave and Koding Koding It can be accessed either way: via Santa Fe Port (about an hour) in Romblon or via Boracay (40-45 minutes). Cabalian Channel separates Carabao Island from Tablas Island, while Hambil Channel separates it from Boracay Island. How to Get to Carabao Island: If coming from Tablas, go to Santa Fe Port, then take about to Carabao Island. If coming from Boracay, just charter a boat or book a day tour. If you are in the Caticlan area, go to Tabon Port, then take a boat to Carabao Island. Scuba Diving While the greater touristing public is still taking its sweet time discovering its many beaches, scuba divers from all over the globe have long been making Romblon their home and playground. Romblon is positioned near the mouth of the Verde Island Passage, considered the area with the richest biodiversity on the planet. Beneath the waves is an underwater wonderland, marked by a number of dive sites including: Three P House Reef Blue Hole Bonbon Sea Grass Valley The Rope Lunas Mapula One of the places we stayed at in

[ad_1] Finland is a beautiful country that has many attractions, and millions of tourists visit it every year. It is a bustling hub for travelers due to its proximity to many European countries. Finland is Santa Clause’s homeland, and its visitors can enjoy awe-inspiring northern lights. Nevertheless, this country is also well-known for its iGaming industry. Local players and tourists have many options at their disposal to spin the wheels and try out their luck in casino games. On the other hand, gambling laws in Finland are pretty strict. However, they don’t prevent gamers from playing their favorite casino games, as they contribute to a highly-regulated industry. Players have several land-based and online casinos in Finland at their disposal, and they can find the best Finnish online casinos presented by BestOnlineCasino.com. Finns love playing all kinds of casino games, including slots, roulette, and blackjack. Therefore, it is not strange that the number of iGaming fans in Finland is continuously increasing. Moreover, the gambling proceeds go back to society, as they are used to support science, public health, education, and other sectors. Veikkaus Oy and PAF are the two big companies with a monopoly over the Finnish iGaming market. The Finnish state owns Veikkaus, a company that runs all domestic mainland brick-and-mortar and online casinos. PAF is in charge of regulating physical and online gambling in the Åland Islands, which is Finland’s autonomous zone. If you plan to enjoy some land-based casino experience in Finland, we bring you the top three Finnish casinos. Casino Helsinki Casino Helsinki is the flagship of brick-and-mortar casinos in Finland. It is one of the oldest gambling facilities in the country and perhaps the most popular land-based casino among local players and tourists. Players can try their luck at over 350 slot games, 20+ table games, and half a dozen poker tables. Although the game variety is not so wide as in worldwide-known gambling hubs, you should have more than enough opportunities for a memorable gaming experience. This gambling venue feature games developed by the world’s most reputable casino software providers. Therefore, players can enjoy an incredible gameplay experience provided by the industry giants such as: Of course, slot games dominate the offer, and you can find a great variety of titles. Different slots like those with mechanical reels or modern video slots using RNG software will satisfy any player’s taste. You can also get the opportunity to win huge prizes thanks to slots with a progressive jackpot feature. Those who prefer table games can spin the roulette wheels, check their skills in a game of blackjack, or play other traditional games. Poker players can also enjoy different varieties like highly-popular Texas Hold’Em, Chinese Poker, Stud, or Omaha. If you plan to visit Casino Helsinki, you shouldn’t worry about your stay! A luxurious Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel is at your disposal, with over 300 rooms and many amenities to make your stay comfortable. Tourists can enjoy several restaurants and bars as well, and you don’t need to leave the complex. You probably think that there’s no such thing as a non-profit casino. Well, you are wrong since Casino Helsinki donates 100% of its profits to charity since it is a state-owned casino. That’s another reason why this casino is so popular among players. PAF Casino The PAF company governs the PAF Casino in Mariehamn in the Åland Islands. It is the only land-based casino in this area, but it provides an excellent gaming experience. This facility offers a standard set of casino games, with slots as the most dominant game. Of course, players can enjoy playing blackjack, baccarat, or roulette. Although the PAF casino doesn’t offer cash poker games, you can find several poker derivatives. This casino suits every player’s budget since stakes can go as low as $1. Of course, high rollers can wager considerably larger amounts of money. On the other hand, PAF is committed to responsible gambling, and it limits losses a player can make on casino games. Similar to Casino Helsinki, PAF Casino also distributes its profits to charity. Therefore, players might feel better even if they were not lucky enough while playing, knowing their money will go for a good cause. Casino Tampere When you go to mainland Finland, besides the many fun things you can do in Helsinki, you might visit Tampere for a land-based casino experience. Casino Tampere has been open to players since the end of 2021, and it is a very modern casino facility. Its game variety is not as wide as in Casino Tampere, but you can still find a lot of titles to have incredible entertainment. Players have 120 slot machines at their disposal in a 20,000-square-foot area. If you prefer table games, you can test your skills and luck against other players at 34 tables. Poker fans will be thrilled to see dedicated rooms only for this exciting game, and therefore, all kinds of players can enjoy a lot of fun at Casino Tampere. However, if you plan to visit Casino Tampere, bear in mind that it does not offer accommodation. Nevertheless, its location is perfect since it is next to Nokia Arena. When you want to take a break from gaming, you can enjoy a great variety of bars and restaurants. Also, those who also like shopping will have a great time in nearby malls. If you plan to spend a couple of days in the area, you’ll have several luxurious hotels at your disposal. Casino Tampere follows the same practice as Casino Helsinki, which is the pioneer in responsible gambling in Europe. It also implements loss limits, while all proceeds from gambling go to charity. Conclusion Although the Finnish iGaming market is strictly regulated, those rules don’t prevent Finns and tourists from having a lot of fun in land-based and online casinos. Some of the world’s highest progressive jackpots are landed in Finland, and many players dream of being so lucky to hit a life-changing prize. Therefore, it is another reason

[ad_1] Alongside Spaniards, the Prado Museum in Madrid boasts an impressive amount of crowd-pulling artists, one being Hieronymus Bosch. King Phillip II got his hands on an outstanding collection of Bosch’s work, that being in all probability the paintings’ the only connection with Spain. Nevertheless, there seems to be something, particularly in Bosch’s depictions of hell, that link his art with the horrifying, dark and inhuman renderings of Spanish art. If you want to witness these historical paintings, then make sure to visit Museo del Prado while in Madrid. Here’s what to expect when visiting, along with how to get Museo del Prado tickets. See also: Madrid Landmarks – Which Ones Should you Visit? Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain What to expect when visiting the Prado Museum in Madrid (Museo del Prado) The Museo del Prado (or Prado Museum) is a museum and art gallery located in Madrid, the capital of Spain. The Prado Museum is renowned as being the largest art gallery in the world. It also exhibits sculptures, drawings, coins and other works of arts, but it is undoubtedly its large collection of paintings which has given it fame worldwide. It houses more than 8,600 paintings, of which they exhibit less than 2,000 because of lack of space available. A collection currently comprises around 8,200 drawings, 7,600 paintings, 4,800 prints, and 1,000 sculptures, in addition to a large number of works of art and historic documents. At the present time, the Museum is displaying less than 1,300 works in the main building, while around 3,100 works are on temporary loan to various museums and official institutions. Many museums throughout the world have less artistic riches in their halls than the Prado Museum has in storage. History of the Prado Museum It was built under the command of King Carlos III in the year of 1785. The one responsible for carrying out this magnificent work was the architect Juan de Villanueva. This project was custom-made to order and inclinations of the king and of his cabinet of intellectuals and reviving artists. Has been, is and will be one of the places where you don’t only breathe air but also art in its maximum expression. It has been considered the richest of the world, possessor of the greatest quantity of works of art by square meter, showing off in its collection almost 8000 paintings of authors of the Renaissance, the Neoclassical period and of the Modern period (between the centuries XVI and XIX). Great artists gathered at the Prado Museum. They allow you to compliment them, even without the praise these artists will still make great work. In the Prado Museum and all the greatness they could become one. Pillar makes this museum exterior looks elegant. The beauty is full of artistic value is visible when you enter, and the interior of the museum also makes you enjoy the return trip time in the Fernando VII. Phenomenal paintings in this museum is a wonderful trip in Madrid. If you come to Madrid to take a closer look at the beauty of the work of El Greco, Velazquez, Goya, Peter Paul Rubens, Hieronymus Bosch. The present day art gallery comes from the royal collections of the old Trinidad Museum, as well as acquisitions, donations and bequests. Its history began during the reign of Charles III, when he tried to create a single art collection under one roof. But it was not until the reign of Fernando VII when the Royal Museum of Painting and Sculpture was created, on 19th November 1819. The kings death caused inheritance problems and endangered the unity of the collection, but with the disappearance of the monarchy in Spain the museum became national property and became known as the Madrid Prado Museum. From then to this date, the works of art have survived several challenges and were transferred several times during the Spanish Civil War, ending up in the Swiss city of Geneva and being returned to Madrid during the Second World War. Visiting the Prado Museum Prado Museum in Madrid Here are the opening hours of the Prado Museum: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday and holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Closed January 1st May 1st December 25th Free hours Monday to Saturday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday and holidays from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Museo del Prado tickets Make sure to book your Museo del Prado tickets online before you arrive. Entrance tickets cost €18.00 and you can get them here. Search for availability and book below: If you’d like to do a Prado Museum tour, you can book a tour here. 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] So, you’ve got your digital nomad visa ready, your company or clients have given you the go-ahead, and your backpack is packed. You’re ready to spend the next few months remote working in Europe. Great lifestyle choice! You’re in for the most incredible few months (that may quite easily turn into years). But how can you make the most of your time working remotely in Europe? How can you ensure you stay on top of work while enjoying the experience? It all comes down to careful planning. Working remotely in Europe – depositphotos.com How to (successfully) go remote working in Europe Here are our top tips for successfully working remotely in Europe. 1.      Start with using the right luggage Unless you plan to stay in one location for a few months, you will likely live out of a suitcase for a few months. So, you want that luggage that really works for you. A good combination of luggage for digital nomads includes a 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 in each place), a cabin bag, a backpack for your laptop and other electronics and a smaller day bag. It’s worth investing in good quality luggage to ensure it makes it through the whole journey with you. 2.      Pack all your working gear Try and duplicate your current workstation as much as possible. While travelling with a second screen may not be possible, you can still carry many of your other accessories, including: Your laptop (the lightest one your work can maintain) A laptop sleeve to protect your laptop (it’s going on an adventure, after all) A small wireless mouse Decent noise-cancelling headphones A laptop stand Slim external keyboard (if you use one) HDMI cables (for possible connection to hotel TVs) ALL of your cables and chargers 3.      Get a travel SIM card as soon as you arrive If you’re working on the go, you can’t afford to not be connected. Sure, you’ll likely be connecting to the Wi-Fi in your accommodation, but a SIM card allows you to remain connected while out and about. You’ll need it to help with map directions, call Ubers and to search for information on local things to do. Plus, you can always use your phone as a backup internet source if the Wi-Fi fails or you need to quickly respond to a work email while roaming the streets. Orange Travel is a great option to consider. They have two main offers, including: Orange Holiday Europe for €39.99 (this normally gives you 15GB, but you’ll get 30GB on their promotion up until 5 October 2022) Orange Holiday Zen for €19.99 (this normally gives you 8GB, but you’ll get 15GB on their promotion up until 5 October 2022) Their SIM cards include unlimited calls and texts in Europe and can be used in over 30 European countries. The SIM is valid for 6 months and can be renewed depending on the recharge chosen. You can also choose to get either an eSIM or a physical SIM. Stay connected while working remotely in Europe – Depositphotos.com 4.      Use a VPN on all devices You’ll likely be connecting to many different Wi-Fi hotspots and connections while remote working in Europe, so it’s a good idea to protect your devices. We highly recommend connecting to a VPN while online for a few reasons, including: Protecting your personal data from hackers Hiding your banking activity Accessing any blocked websites & unblocking streaming channels Finding cheaper flights Ensuring seamless connection to all of your work apps, software and devices previously set up with your home location Related Read: Important Reasons Why You Should Use a VPN While Traveling 5.      Plan your travel days around work If you’re hopping between locations, plan your travel days around your work schedule. If you don’t want to take vacation days, or you’re swamped with freelance work, then schedule move days over the weekend or after hours. Don’t make the mistake of thinking, “Oh, I’ll just continue working on the train.” Sure, you can try, but it’s not always convenient, and Wi-Fi is incredibly unreliable on trains. 6.      Stick to a remote work routine To successfully remote work in Europe, you need to actually do some work. Which can easily head to the bottom of your to-do list – after exploring, sightseeing and eating your way through each destination. To make sure that you don’t fall behind, stick to your regular work routine. If you’re usually at your laptop at 9am every day, keep doing that. As far as possible, keep your regular working schedule from Monday to Friday. Leave the exploring for after hours and weekends. If you’re travelling in Europe in the summer, you’ll get to enjoy the extended daylight hours to squeeze in a few extra activities each day before it gets dark. Of course, if you’re coming from the US, you’ll have to adapt to the different time zones. Make sure to figure out a workaround before you leave to let your co-workers know what times you’ll be available. One option could be to explore your new destination in the morning, as people in North & South America are still sleeping. Then you could start working in the afternoon and into the evening hours. That way you are able to see many sights and you are still in touch for clients and colleagues. 7.      Join a coworking space Remote work in Europe involves setting up your laptop in all types of places: hotel rooms, hostel common areas, apartments, cafes, restaurants and bars. And while each place can do just fine, sometimes you need a dedicated space to work from. Most European cities feature great coworking spots that provide ideal working conditions: proper tables, comfortable chairs, decent Wi-Fi, enough plug points, coffee and just general positive work environments. You may also find a few fellow digital nomads on a similar journey. Working from coworking spaces

[ad_1] Italy is such a popular tourist destination that it’s hard to escape other travellers, no matter wherever you go – unless you go to the south, that is. Visiting Puglia in the southern region of Italy is perfect for anyone whose idea of a holiday is settling in for a while to live like locals. Puglia in Italy is an area where tourism does not spoil the countryside and where people are very welcoming but still live their Italian way of life and their customs. Here’s why you should consider visiting Puglia and what to expect when you get there. The best time to visit Puglia The best time to go to Puglia is in spring or autumn because then the temperatures are nicely warm and pleasant and not too hot to stay active. The area benefits from its position (south east of the mountains) and is protected against rain so that it is dry almost all year round.  The advantage of the autumn time is that the temperature of the sea water is still very pleasant (20 – 23°C) so it is still warm enough to go swimming (the air temperature is about 22 – 25°C in September / October). See also: Female Solo Travel in Italy: Why Puglia is the Perfect Destination What to expect when visiting Puglia The seaside has only a few inviting beaches, most of the coast line is rocky and the infrastructure is basic. That is the reason that most international tourists avoid it for their holidays. There are many little roads with little traffic and some of them especially signposted for cyclists. This has become more and more popular so that you can even rent bikes there nowadays and organize your own bike trips. There are plenty of campsites (often very basic). But you can also find accommodation in B&B places, farm houses (Maserie) or hotels easily. Search for accommodation here. If you like walking (hiking) then this is not such an inviting area because there are only a few walking paths and they are poorly marked and the maps are not up to Middle European standard. Trulli are the traditional accommodation in Puglia, Italy Best places to visit in Puglia When visiting Puglia, make sure to include the below sites to your itinerary. Alberobello Alberobello with the Trulli Houses (there is a large area around this town where you can find them). Many places offer rooms in such buildings as accommodation (both Maseri and B&B) or you can rent places which are holiday homes (often bought, let and used by British people).  The streets of Alberobello Matera There is an area along the line of the towns Massafra, Motolla, Castellaneta, Laterza and Matera where you can find many old cave settlements in the gorges (Gravinas). The best place amongst the many others is Matera where a cave town is still settled in and preserved. Matera in Puglia Both places mentioned above are in fact more touristic, especially because cruise ships shovel passengers to these places; which makes them crowded every now and then. There are more places which are also worth seeing: like the towns of Lecce, Bari, Castel del Monte and, and, and… they are numerous. Here are three places to visit in Puglia which are lesser known but worth visiting: Ostuni: (medieval part / a bit touristic, of easy reach for cruise travellers) with its old part of the town, a spectacular view to the Adriatic Sea, and the old olive plantations in the plains between the sea and Ostuni. Ceglie Messapicca: it’s a rural and natural place, there are hardly any tourists; it has an extremely nice and unspoiled old town centre without any souvenirs shops. Locorotondo: positioned on a hill with a fantastic view to the west onto “Trulli Land” where you can see the Trulli scattered around the lower land. How to live like a local when visiting Puglia Here’s how to truly experience the local Puglia life. 1. Make Alberobello your base The region of Puglia is ideal for travellers who like to get off-the-beaten-track and love countryside, beaches, food, history, and culture, and the UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Alberobello is the best place to base yourself as it offers all of those things. 2. Rent a traditional trullo* Puglia is dotted with traditional trulli*, the whiteshaped conical-shaped houses that the locals have been living in for hundreds of years. There are many charming, rustic holiday-trulli to rent, many with outdoor pizza ovens and swimming pools, and staying in one is a real treat. Here are two options to consider when visiting Puglia: (*Note: trullo is singular and trulli is plural.) Trulli e Puglia Resort. Image from Booking.com 3. Hire bicycles The countryside around Alberobello is made for bike riding with lovely lanes that snake through fields and olive groves. There are a few busy roads but the locals are used to bike-riders, including plenty of amateur pro-cyclists who zip past faster than the cars, so you shouldn’t have any problems. If your trullo doesn’t come with bikes (bici in Italian), ask the manager to hire some on your behalf so they’re waiting for you when you arrive. 4. Learn Italian English is not as widely spoken in Puglia as it is in the northern regions of Italy, so take a phrase book and dictionary with you or load a language app onto your phone, and try to learn some language basics. At the very least, learn how to say buongiorno (good morning) and grazie (thank you) and when a local says grazie to you, make sure you say prego (please), as is the custom, in response. The locals will appreciate your efforts and help you learn more. See also: Learn The Most Useful European Travel Phrases and Words 5. Take a stroll with a local guide Alberobello has a long, rich history, so while you can wander about on your own and take a peek into some of the thousands of old trulli in the old town, you’ll gain a much deeper understanding of the culture and traditions, and get beneath the skin of the place, if you hire a guide. Ask your trullo manager for a recommendation or ask at the tourist office. Related tours: Alberobello: 2-Hour

[ad_1] You’ve been charmed by the streets of Ljubljana and awestruck by the alpine wonders of Bled. But your visit to Slovenia isn’t complete until you’ve experienced at least one of the top 5 caves in Slovenia. Here are the top tips from Terry Anzur, a Slovenian-American journalist at the blog Strangers in the Living Room: Postojna Cave: something for everyone Predjama Cave Castle: world’s largest cave castle Škočjan Caves: UNESCO heritage underground Pivka Cave: adventure for thrill-seekers Idrija Mercury Mine: deep dive into history Which Slovenia cave adventure is right for you? In a country with hundreds of caves in Slovenia, there’s something for everyone: Natural beauty, fascinating history, epic adventure and even a Disneyland-style train ride. The speedy train ride through Postojna Cave makes a Slovenia cave adventure accessible for travelers of all ages and abilities. Photo courtesy Iztok Media for Postojna Cave Park. Postojna Cave: Accessible Slovenia Cave Adventure If you have time for only one Slovenia cave adventure, make it Postojna Cave. This natural wonder has been wowing visitors for more than 200 years. In 1818, a local lamplighter stumbled into the cave and declared: “Here is paradise.” More than 40 million people have visited Postojna Cave since then. It is the third most visited attraction in Slovenia, after Ljubljana and Bled. At times, you might have the feeling that you’re in a cave-themed amusement park. Don’t despair if there’s a line to board the train; it moves quickly. The 3.7 km train ride makes the most astounding chambers and galleries accessible for all ages and abilities. Don’t miss the vast Dance Hall, lit by Murano glass chandeliers. There is an optional 1.5 km walk to the iconic “Brilliant” formation. Be sure to stay seated on the train as it whips past the overhead rocks with deadly speed. Please respect nature by not touching the formations. They formed over millions of years, one drop of water at a time. For maximum enjoyment, put down your camera. In the low light, your phone photos are likely to be disappointing. Flash photography is not allowed. Professional photographers need permission to set up lights. Join this Postojna Cave tour from Ljubljana! Visitors to Postojna Cave have the option of staying on the train or taking this short walk through vast galleries to view the iconic rock formations. Photo courtesy Iztok Media for Postojna Cave Park. Slovenia’s Baby Dragons Kids will love seeing the “baby dragons,” a unique species in Postojna Cave. The olms can live for 100 years and can survive a decade without food. Buy a separate ticket to the Vivarium to learn more about all the creatures of the underground world. When to Visit: Postojna Cave is open 365 days a year. There’s an underground nativity scene during the holidays. Bring a warm jacket because of the constant 10-degree Celsius temperature, year-round. To avoid the summer crowds in June, July and August, arrive when the cave opens at 9 am. The big tour groups arrive later in the morning. Getting there: Postojna Cave Park is an easy day trip from Ljubljana or Bled, by car or bus. Reserve tickets online or buy at the ticket office. Pro tip: Stay at the Hotel Jama to skip the ticket line and get a discount on tour packages. Camping in the area is also popular. There’s a parking lot for motorhomes. There’s even a free kennel where your pet can wait while you tour the cave. Predjama Castle: Mighty Slovenia Cave Fortress Predjama Castle, the world’s largest cave fortress, is only a short drive from Postonja Cave. You can easily visit both on the same day with a combined “Two Adventures” ticket or combined tour. Many group tours only stop for the insta-worthy photo opportunity of the Slovenia cave castle emerging from solid karst rock. But you should plan to go inside and learn the fascinating history. The 15th Century knight Erazem withstood a siege for more than a year by smuggling in fresh food through the cave tunnels. Sadly, he didn’t survive a cannonball that struck the castle at its most vulnerable point: the toilet. Make a wish as you ring the castle’s bell. It was used to warn of approaching invaders. You only have to admire the view of the surrounding countryside. Pro tip: Get the Predjama Castle audio guide for a vivid description of life in the Middle Ages as you walk through the torture chamber and weapon rooms. Go inside the iconic Predjama Cave Castle to visit the caves that made it possible to hold off an invading army for more than a year. Škočjan Caves: UNESCO heritage Slovenia Cave For a more natural Slovenia cave experience, visit the Škočjan Caves in Slovenia. UNESCO has organized a guided tour that presents the underground world heritage while respecting the environment. You’ll be awestruck by the underground cathedrals, carved out over the centuries by the Reka River. Photography is not allowed for most of the tour inside the caves. Near the exit, there is a picture opportunity that conveys the majesty of what you have just experienced. Sturdy hiking shoes are a must, as well as a jacket for the underground chill. Be prepared for slippery pavement and hundreds of steps. This adventure is not recommended for small kids or those with mobility concerns. Getting there: You can visit Škočjan Caves on a day trip from Ljubljana by car. Buy tickets online or at the ticket office. Horse lovers may want to add a stop in nearby Lipica, home of the Lipizzaner horses you may have seen performing in Vienna. Bicycle tours of the karst region are another great option. Pro tip: Allow some extra time for an extended hike through the karst landscape and the charming village of Škočjan. Hiking trails are well marked, starting from the end of the cave tour. Škočjan Cave guided tour and extended hike exploring the stunning scenery of the karst region in Slovenia. Photo courtesy Terry Anzur. Pivka Cave: Adventure

[ad_1] Here’s the list of TRAVEL AGENCIES officially accredited by the Korean Embassy to accept KOREAN VISA APPLICATIONS, with addresses and phone numbers. South Korea is one of the most popular destinations for Filipino tourists, so when the country announced that they’re opening quarantine-free travel for international travelers early this year, revenge travelers rejoiced! Soon after this announcement, the South Korean Embassy in the Philippines resumed processing tourist visas. As of writing, there are two ways you can apply for a tourist visa. By scheduling an individual appointment through the Korean Embassy’s Online Visa Appointment System. More info here. By coursing your application though a travel agency accredited by the Korean Embassy. Please note that walk-ins are no longer accepted at the embassy. Because of the huge volume of applications, securing an appointment through the website is a bit of a challenge at the moment, so having the option to process it through a travel agency is great. It is also a more ideal option for those who don’t have much free time and those who are located outside Metro Manila. The Embassy has designated 36 travel agencies, but many of them have branches in other parts of the Philippines. Here are the travel agencies that are accredited by the South Korean Embassy for visa processing. We sorted it by location to make it easier for you to find those close to you. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? The Embassy has accredited 10 travel agencies in the City of Manila, but two of them have multiple branches across the city. Budget Travel And Tours Inc.Address: Unit C1, Ground Floor, Echelon Tower, Condominium Building, 2100 A Mabini St., Malate, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8523-8120 to 26 Getaway Tours International Inc.Address: 576 San Andres St. near corner Adriatico St. Malate, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8524-2202; 02-8524-2252; 02-5310-3220 Horizon Travel & Tours, Inc.Address: 490 Potenciana Mansion Sta Monica St., Ermita, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8521-2586; 02-5328-3388; 02-5310-2308 to 09 Las Palmas Tours And Travel Agency, Inc.Address: G/F Unit B2 Imperial Bayfront Tower, 1642 A. Mabini St., Brgy., 699, Zone 076, Malate, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8711-7069 Pan Pacific Travel Corporation – Binondo Main BranchAddress: 353 E.T. Yuchengco St., Binondo, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8243-6666 Pan Pacific Travel Corporation – Ermita BranchAddress: G/F Pacific Place Apartelle Suites, 539 Arquiza St. Ermita, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8523-1990; 02-8526-6427 Rajah Travel Corporation – Manila BranchAddress: Room 202 GLC Building, A. Mabini corner T.M Kalaw Sts., Ermita, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8523-8801 to 02 Rakso Air Travel And Tours Inc. – Manila BranchAddress: Unit G-05 & G-06 Malate Adriatico Grand Residences, 1415 Adriatico Street Ermita, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8354-1000; 02-8353-2707 Rakso Air Travel And Tours Inc. – Binondo BranchAddress: Unit GF03-B Pacific Centre Bldg, 460 Quintin Paredes cor Sabino Padilla Sts., Binondo, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8354-1000; 02-8353-2707 Reli Tours And Travel Company – Lucky Chinatown Binondo BranchAddress: Lucky Chinatown, Binondo, ManilaMobile No.: 09278709552 Uni-Orient Travel Inc.Address: 447 Juan Luna St., Binondo, ManilaPhone No.: 02-8243-3888 Worldwidelink Travel & ToursAddress: 4/F Palacio Grande Bldg., Gen. Luna corner Anda Sts. Intramuros, ManilaPhone No.: 02-5310-2643 Makati has over 20 designated travel agencies scattered throughout the city. Here are their addresses and phone numbers. Constellation Travels, Inc.Address: 2/F CSJ Bldg., 105 Aguirre St., Legazpi Village, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8991-0000❤️ OUR PERSONAL PICK Adventure International Tours Inc Address: 118 G/F Eurovilla 2 Condo, Rufino St. Legaspi Village, Makati CityPhone No.: 02-8884-9400 Airmark Tour And Development Inc Address: Unit 1708, Cityland Herrera Tower, 98 VA Rufino corner Valero St., Salcedo Village, Makati CityPhone No.: 02-8566-0020; 02-8566-0085 Ark Travel Express Inc. Address: LG 3, 4, 14, & 15 Alfaro Place 146, LP Leviste St. Salcedo Village, Makati CityPhone No.: 02-8810-4520 Blue Horizons Travel And Tours Inc. Address: 23/F Pacific Star Bldg., Sen Gil Puyat Corner Makati Avenue, Makati CityPhone No.: 02-7066-4163; 02-8352-7466 Casto Travel Philippines Inc.Address: 2/F Tuscan Bldg., 114 VA Rufino St., Legaspi Village, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8810-0079 City Travel & Tours Corporation Address: LG8 Cityland 10 Tower 1, H.V Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati CityContact Nos.: 02-8812-3553; 0917 885 2780; 0923 733 2780 Feel Yeson Travel And Consultancy Corp.Address: 3/F ECH Building, Makati Avenue corner Jupiter St., Makati CityContact No.: 02-8828-8877 First United Travel Inc.Address: Garden Level Corinthian Plaza, 121 Paseo de Roxas, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8818-7181; 02-8819-3919 Las Palmas Tours And Travel Agency, Inc. – Makati Branch Address: UGI 1 Alfaro Place 146 LP Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8840-1363 to 65 Marsman Drysdale Travel Inc.Address: 45/F PhilAm Life Tower, 8767 Paseo de Roxas, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8887-0000 loc 375 North Star International Travel, Inc.Address: 19/F Trident Tower, 312 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8844-6155 Pan Pacific Travel Corporation – Makati Branch Address: Unit LG-1 Herrera Tower Condominium, #98 V.A. Rufino St. corner Valero St., Salcedo Village, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8810-8551 to 56 Rajah Travel Corporation Address: 3/F 331 Building, 331 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8894-0886 Rakso Air Travel And Tours Inc.Address: 3/F 112, Aguirre St., Legaspi Village, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8651-9000 Sharp Travel Service Phils., Inc. Address: Suite 501-504, Alexander House Bldg., 132 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8812-3323 Swire Travel Phils, Inc. Address: Unit 6C and 6 D, Country Space Bldg., Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8817-1082 local 126 The Baron Travel CorporationAddress: 3/F PCCI Corporate Center 118 L.P. Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8817-4926 Travel Services, Inc.Address: 3/F PhilCox Building, 172 Salcedo St., Legazpi Village, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8706-8600 Reli Tours And Travel CompanyAddress: 3/F Dusit Hotel, EDSA corner Pasay Road, Makati CityContact No.: 02-7915-4005 Uni-Orient Travel Inc. – Makati Branch Address: Unit 101, Ground Floor, Windsor Tower, 163 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, Makati CityContact No.: 02-8818-9585 Aboex Travel And ToursAddress: Unit 612 BSA Twin Towers, Bank Drive, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong CityMobile No.: 0917 8110 461 Danpoong Travel Services (Formerly Mnk Travel & Tours Corp.)Address: 26/F The Podium West Tower, corner ADB Avenue, Dona Julia Vargas, Ortigas Center, MandaluyongMobile No.: 0917 805 7707; 0969 627 5681 Reli Tours And Travel Company – SM Megamall BranchAddress: G/F SM Megamall MandaluyongPhone No.:

[ad_1] You’ve been charmed by the streets of Ljubljana and awestruck by the alpine wonders of Bled. But your visit to Slovenia isn’t complete until you’ve experienced at least one of the top 5 caves in Slovenia. Here are the top tips from Terry Anzur, a Slovenian-American journalist at the blog Strangers in the Living Room: Postojna Cave: something for everyone Predjama Cave Castle: world’s largest cave castle Škočjan Caves: UNESCO heritage underground Pivka Cave: adventure for thrill-seekers Idrija Mercury Mine: deep dive into history Which Slovenia cave adventure is right for you? In a country with hundreds of caves in Slovenia, there’s something for everyone: Natural beauty, fascinating history, epic adventure and even a Disneyland-style train ride. The speedy train ride through Postojna Cave makes a Slovenia cave adventure accessible for travelers of all ages and abilities. Photo courtesy Iztok Media for Postojna Cave Park. Postojna Cave: Accessible Slovenia Cave Adventure If you have time for only one Slovenia cave adventure, make it Postojna Cave. This natural wonder has been wowing visitors for more than 200 years. In 1818, a local lamplighter stumbled into the cave and declared: “Here is paradise.” More than 40 million people have visited Postojna Cave since then. It is the third most visited attraction in Slovenia, after Ljubljana and Bled. At times, you might have the feeling that you’re in a cave-themed amusement park. Don’t despair if there’s a line to board the train; it moves quickly. The 3.7 km train ride makes the most astounding chambers and galleries accessible for all ages and abilities. Don’t miss the vast Dance Hall, lit by Murano glass chandeliers. There is an optional 1.5 km walk to the iconic “Brilliant” formation. Be sure to stay seated on the train as it whips past the overhead rocks with deadly speed. Please respect nature by not touching the formations. They formed over millions of years, one drop of water at a time. For maximum enjoyment, put down your camera. In the low light, your phone photos are likely to be disappointing. Flash photography is not allowed. Professional photographers need permission to set up lights. Join this Postojna Cave tour from Ljubljana! Visitors to Postojna Cave have the option of staying on the train or taking this short walk through vast galleries to view the iconic rock formations. Photo courtesy Iztok Media for Postojna Cave Park. Slovenia’s Baby Dragons Kids will love seeing the “baby dragons,” a unique species in Postojna Cave. The olms can live for 100 years and can survive a decade without food. Buy a separate ticket to the Vivarium to learn more about all the creatures of the underground world. When to Visit: Postojna Cave is open 365 days a year. There’s an underground nativity scene during the holidays. Bring a warm jacket because of the constant 10-degree Celsius temperature, year-round. To avoid the summer crowds in June, July and August, arrive when the cave opens at 9 am. The big tour groups arrive later in the morning. Getting there: Postojna Cave Park is an easy day trip from Ljubljana or Bled, by car or bus. Reserve tickets online or buy at the ticket office. Pro tip: Stay at the Hotel Jama to skip the ticket line and get a discount on tour packages. Camping in the area is also popular. There’s a parking lot for motorhomes. There’s even a free kennel where your pet can wait while you tour the cave. Predjama Castle: Mighty Slovenia Cave Fortress Predjama Castle, the world’s largest cave fortress, is only a short drive from Postonja Cave. You can easily visit both on the same day with a combined “Two Adventures” ticket or combined tour. Many group tours only stop for the insta-worthy photo opportunity of the Slovenia cave castle emerging from solid karst rock. But you should plan to go inside and learn the fascinating history. The 15th Century knight Erazem withstood a siege for more than a year by smuggling in fresh food through the cave tunnels. Sadly, he didn’t survive a cannonball that struck the castle at its most vulnerable point: the toilet. Make a wish as you ring the castle’s bell. It was used to warn of approaching invaders. You only have to admire the view of the surrounding countryside. Pro tip: Get the Predjama Castle audio guide for a vivid description of life in the Middle Ages as you walk through the torture chamber and weapon rooms. Go inside the iconic Predjama Cave Castle to visit the caves that made it possible to hold off an invading army for more than a year. Škočjan Caves: UNESCO heritage Slovenia Cave For a more natural Slovenia cave experience, visit the Škočjan Caves in Slovenia. UNESCO has organized a guided tour that presents the underground world heritage while respecting the environment. You’ll be awestruck by the underground cathedrals, carved out over the centuries by the Reka River. Photography is not allowed for most of the tour inside the caves. Near the exit, there is a picture opportunity that conveys the majesty of what you have just experienced. Sturdy hiking shoes are a must, as well as a jacket for the underground chill. Be prepared for slippery pavement and hundreds of steps. This adventure is not recommended for small kids or those with mobility concerns. Getting there: You can visit Škočjan Caves on a day trip from Ljubljana by car. Buy tickets online or at the ticket office. Horse lovers may want to add a stop in nearby Lipica, home of the Lipizzaner horses you may have seen performing in Vienna. Bicycle tours of the karst region are another great option. Pro tip: Allow some extra time for an extended hike through the karst landscape and the charming village of Škočjan. Hiking trails are well marked, starting from the end of the cave tour. Škočjan Cave guided tour and extended hike exploring the stunning scenery of the karst region in Slovenia. Photo courtesy Terry Anzur. Pivka Cave: Adventure

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[ad_1] Italy is such a popular tourist destination that it’s hard to escape other travellers, no matter wherever you go – unless you go to the south, that is. Visiting Puglia in the southern region of Italy is perfect for anyone whose idea of a holiday is settling in for a while to live like locals. Puglia in Italy is an area where tourism does not spoil the countryside and where people are very welcoming but still live their Italian way of life and their customs. Here’s why you should consider visiting Puglia and what to expect when you get there. The best time to visit Puglia The best time to go to Puglia is in spring or autumn because then the temperatures are nicely warm and pleasant and not too hot to stay active. The area benefits from its position (south east of the mountains) and is protected against rain so that it is dry almost all year round.  The advantage of the autumn time is that the temperature of the sea water is still very pleasant (20 – 23°C) so it is still warm enough to go swimming (the air temperature is about 22 – 25°C in September / October). See also: Female Solo Travel in Italy: Why Puglia is the Perfect Destination What to expect when visiting Puglia The seaside has only a few inviting beaches, most of the coast line is rocky and the infrastructure is basic. That is the reason that most international tourists avoid it for their holidays. There are many little roads with little traffic and some of them especially signposted for cyclists. This has become more and more popular so that you can even rent bikes there nowadays and organize your own bike trips. There are plenty of campsites (often very basic). But you can also find accommodation in B&B places, farm houses (Maserie) or hotels easily. Search for accommodation here. If you like walking (hiking) then this is not such an inviting area because there are only a few walking paths and they are poorly marked and the maps are not up to Middle European standard. Trulli are the traditional accommodation in Puglia, Italy Best places to visit in Puglia When visiting Puglia, make sure to include the below sites to your itinerary. Alberobello Alberobello with the Trulli Houses (there is a large area around this town where you can find them). Many places offer rooms in such buildings as accommodation (both Maseri and B&B) or you can rent places which are holiday homes (often bought, let and used by British people).  The streets of Alberobello Matera There is an area along the line of the towns Massafra, Motolla, Castellaneta, Laterza and Matera where you can find many old cave settlements in the gorges (Gravinas). The best place amongst the many others is Matera where a cave town is still settled in and preserved. Matera in Puglia Both places mentioned above are in fact more touristic, especially because cruise ships shovel passengers to these places; which makes them crowded every now and then. There are more places which are also worth seeing: like the towns of Lecce, Bari, Castel del Monte and, and, and… they are numerous. Here are three places to visit in Puglia which are lesser known but worth visiting: Ostuni: (medieval part / a bit touristic, of easy reach for cruise travellers) with its old part of the town, a spectacular view to the Adriatic Sea, and the old olive plantations in the plains between the sea and Ostuni. Ceglie Messapicca: it’s a rural and natural place, there are hardly any tourists; it has an extremely nice and unspoiled old town centre without any souvenirs shops. Locorotondo: positioned on a hill with a fantastic view to the west onto “Trulli Land” where you can see the Trulli scattered around the lower land. How to live like a local when visiting Puglia Here’s how to truly experience the local Puglia life. 1. Make Alberobello your base The region of Puglia is ideal for travellers who like to get off-the-beaten-track and love countryside, beaches, food, history, and culture, and the UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Alberobello is the best place to base yourself as it offers all of those things. 2. Rent a traditional trullo* Puglia is dotted with traditional trulli*, the whiteshaped conical-shaped houses that the locals have been living in for hundreds of years. There are many charming, rustic holiday-trulli to rent, many with outdoor pizza ovens and swimming pools, and staying in one is a real treat. Here are two options to consider when visiting Puglia: (*Note: trullo is singular and trulli is plural.) Trulli e Puglia Resort. Image from Booking.com 3. Hire bicycles The countryside around Alberobello is made for bike riding with lovely lanes that snake through fields and olive groves. There are a few busy roads but the locals are used to bike-riders, including plenty of amateur pro-cyclists who zip past faster than the cars, so you shouldn’t have any problems. If your trullo doesn’t come with bikes (bici in Italian), ask the manager to hire some on your behalf so they’re waiting for you when you arrive. 4. Learn Italian English is not as widely spoken in Puglia as it is in the northern regions of Italy, so take a phrase book and dictionary with you or load a language app onto your phone, and try to learn some language basics. At the very least, learn how to say buongiorno (good morning) and grazie (thank you) and when a local says grazie to you, make sure you say prego (please), as is the custom, in response. The locals will appreciate your efforts and help you learn more. See also: Learn The Most Useful European Travel Phrases and Words 5. Take a stroll with a local guide Alberobello has a long, rich history, so while you can wander about on your own and take a peek into some of the thousands of old trulli in the old town, you’ll gain a much deeper understanding of the culture and traditions, and get beneath the skin of the place, if you hire a guide. Ask your trullo manager for a recommendation or ask at the tourist office. Related tours: Alberobello: 2-Hour