2021 – Your Travel Online

TRAVEL GUIDE: HAPPY TURKEY TRIP

December 28, 2021

It’s Turkey time! Not the one you may be thinking about however… We’re talking the country of Turkey, not the one you may be sitting down to eat this week. Our Senior Communications Manager, Megan Madigan, is sharing her recent travels to Turkey and Bodrum alongside her radiant and cool mother, Ann. Prepare yourself for the hottest takes, ancient local gems, and best pizza IN THE WORLD. Onward to the Ottoman Empire!

MUST-SEES:

Topkapi Palace is a spectacular remnant of the Ottoman Empire and the home to sultans for almost 400 years. Beautifully perched on the Bosphorus, you’ll see artifacts unlike anything you’ve ever seen. With an impressive museum collection and tons of Hungarian swords, you can cap off your visit with a pic outside the Sultan’s harem like Megan and Ann!

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The Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia are spots that absolutely cannot be missed with impressive architecture and beauty.

Visiting a hammam (Turkish bath) was such a cool experience Megan would 10/10 recommend to everyone. At Kiliç Ali Pasa Hamami, Megan and Ann came to the conclusion they would like to go every month.

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The Curcurkema antique shops in the Beyoglu neighborhood are filled with idyllic and fabulous pieces of furniture and finery. It feels like you’re in another world, and the shops are full of new things to discover. Megan and Ann also went to the Grand Bazaar (obvi), which was more like a shopping mall than they were anticipating. They did a few laps and made their way to the Spice Market and Egyptian Bazaar which felt very authentic and reminiscent of the old world.

SWEET PLACE TO STAY:

Tomtom Suites was the cutie hotel in the Beyoglu. This chic hotel with 10-star service had a phenomenal restaurant on the roof where breakfast was served overlooking the Bosphorus and old city every morning. There are a zillion fabulous hotels in Istanbul, so you truly cannot go wrong. Megan also considered staying at the Bank Hotel or Soho House. The city of Istanbul itself is very cosmopolitan and surprisingly European to Megan. The staff at Tomtom Suites were so nice and knowledgeable about the neighborhood which is home to tons of European consulates making the community feel like a true melting pot.

FOR A COOL SIDE TRIP: BODRUM!

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Bodrum is a phenomenal coastal region where Megan and Ann took a short flight and stayed for a relaxing few days. The Macakizi pronounced “matchakuzee” was the absolute best place to eat exquisite food, drink amazing drinks, relax, ogle wildly large boats aka yachts in the bay or docking for lunch. Basically, the vibes were immaculate, as cringe-y as Megan feels saying that. Additionally, Megan adored the serene and beautiful scene at Amanruya, referring to it as a “serene temple of relaxation.”

She and Ann also had a blast renting a gulet and sailing on the Aegean. There are loads of boats for charter for everything from a half day to weeks-long vacations. Megan and Ann took a smaller boat, and it was so delightful. They also took a day trip and hopped over to the Greek isle of Kos. It’s only a 45-minute ferry or boat from downtown Bodrum!

DIVINE DINING:

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Murver is the perfect scenic dinner spot overlooking the Bosphorus. The experience was incredible.

Yeni Lokanta fulfills the craving for more delicious Turkish food. Head on over for a great tasting menu and have your mind blown.

Napoli Gourmet is serving an Italian moment with the friendliest service. Megan and Ann only once deviated from Turkish cuisine, and it was here. The food was so fresh, and the best pizza Megan HAS EVER HAD, which is really saying something.

Note: There is an obscene amount of delicious dining options with lots of Michelin stars. Megan and Ann went the Turkish route for almost every meal, which is the way to go, of course! Also, another important thing, their favorite beer was Efes, a crisp pilsner brewed with their unique, Mediterranean slow brew.

Finally, we owe Megan and Ann a huge thanks for their detailed recaps and imagery. We don’t know about you, but we are absolutely dying to go to Turkey. Let’s start saving for a flight in 2025! We’d also like to wish all our fabulous turkeys a joyful and safe Thanksgiving. Cheers to more colorful adventures ahead![……]

EUROPE

When is the best time to visit the UK?

November 3, 2021

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Travellers around the world are always interested in exploring European countries, especially The UK, due to its traditional cities like London, Cambridge and Oxford, as a part of their travel journey.

But for such a journey, they often need to apprehend an appropriate timing for the planned visit. This article will allow you to plan your UK trip for the best time around the year.

Although the UK can be visited at any time of the year, its climate is relatively temperate, and it hardly experiences extreme temperature conditions like tropic regions.

But for travellers, it’s best to explore the right time and places before heading out to an unknown place. For that purpose, you need to get a brief overview of the annual changes and seasonal high times for visitors of foreign nations.

Excited for The Journey but Confused for The Timing?

The UK may sound like a small place to visit. Still, you should never forget that it’s a hugely diversified cultural nation, that includes a wide range of cities and villages along with some exciting places.

Indeed, the glorious natural setup and the exciting beauty of these cities always keep the UK to be standing among the top travel destinations. The country generally remains active in peak times of spring and autumn.

However, the visitors still need to consider whether details in the following session plan their memorable visit to the UK or not.

Should the Trend Be Followed? – The Risk

Besides weather-related risks, there also arises the consideration to be given to the high season for visitors. Well, of course, the summer in London and other cities of the UK is accounted as the top-notch tourists’ season.

However, there remains the risk of extreme throngs of the crowd and costly hotel rents in the high time of seasons, so it’s better to look out for the right time before planning the things out.

To avoid a risky stuck-up situation in the UK due to weather or any crowded situation, we have tried to bring the needful data. This includes some brief details about temperature extremes, and seasonal variations for our readers. The guideline can help one decide what time of year will be most appropriate to visit the UK.

So, let’s begin with some points to ponder, and factors to consider while planning a trip to the UK.

Contemporary Events of Climate Change and its Possible Impact upon Visit

In summers, UK usually remain balanced in temperature approach, but winters show their peak temperatures here in. Indeed two-three days of constant snow can convert the whole scenery into a depiction of an Ice Age. On the contrary, a continuous temperature upgrade of 25°- 30°C can present the scenery of drought if not naturally replaced with a rainy spell of a few hours.

However, in recent years, as the world is facing temperature extremes due to Climate Changes and Global Warming, England has also been turning its whether around extremes. And this has been observed in the form of summer’s temperature reaching above the 30s and persisting for more time. At the same time, winter temperatures becoming more catastrophic with the excessive flooding been expected and experienced during spring seasons.

To apprehend the temperature extremes and avoid any mishandling of trip planning to the UK, you must read the climatic changes observed in the UK in a different season. It will help you to plan your trip more wisely, taking into consideration timing, whether, resources, and need.

An Overview of Climate in England To Plan the Visit

Summertime’s in England

The summer season, just like other parts of the world also shows its extremes from June to August in the UK. The average summer temperature remains maintained around 20 to 25 degrees. However, some fluctuations are often faced in the form of temperature extremes up to 30 degrees or above.

Since the temperature extremes are not that often or unbearable as compared to tropic regions of the world. Therefore, summer is considered as the best time to visit England owing to the summertime music festivals, and outdoor functions that are arranged by families. Moreover, the school holidays in summer make it best for families to plan their visits to the UK in the summer.

If you are specifically planning for England, Scotland, whales, and other countries in a row, the months of July and august in summers are the peak season with lengthy days. This period is considered best in terms of whether and busiest in terms of tourists destined activities.

Except for some holiday festivals, the prices also remain in range in these months, unlike European countries. However, be aware of the London crowd if you are planning to visit Wimbledon in July or Notting Hill Carnival in late August.

Rainy Season in England

Rain seasons though settles in for some periodic times in the UK, but when it happens, it rarely affects travel. So, you could continue your journey and enjoy the bright rainy spells in the UK. In the midsummers in which the sun remains up from early morning times till late in the evening, so it’s usual to witness a grey whether in the night times.

According to locals “There are no bad weather extremes” even in the rainy season. The large city of London experiences only an annual rainfall of 26 inches. And most of the rain falls in summers occur in the southern, eastern, and central UK as compared to northern and western regions.

At the same time, the rainfall in winter is a common occurrence throughout December, which makes it the wettest month of the year. So, if you love rain plan it around June, July, or later in December to fun attached with the rainy days.

Autumn times in England

Autumn spans from September to November in the temperate regions like England. The month of October remains filled with falling sceneries of tree leaves alongside the roads. Temperature is falling, and in village areas like Berkshire, the temperature often turns quickly to settle winters.

At the beginning of November, the places become less crowded owing to the coming of winter, which makes Autumn, as the best time to visit England for a Holiday, especially for couples and newlyweds for honey money. Moreover, the school also gives breaks at the end of October to kids. During which the families can enjoy certain events like Halloween, theme functions, and the Thames festival.

Winter Season in England

The winter season shows it peaks from December to February, in which the average temperature remains between 2 and 6 degrees Celsius. Decembers bring the best time to enjoy Christmas eves in the shades of snowy seasons.

The lights, décor, and crowd might attract visitors more than any other thing. This makes Christmastime as an enjoyable event in London, which brings along with it the New Year’s Eve’s cherishing moments. On the parallel, the next months of January and February are relatively much quieter in terms of crowded places, and during this time the winter deals are also quite cheaper for travellers.

Although you may encounter less crowd with cheaper travel packages, the sightseeing hours are relatively shorter in winters, and the situation often turns down in winter extremes. Even some attractive places remain close throughout extreme winter months like January and February.

However, if you are a snowing lover who enjoys the white nights and slow walks on the streets of London, then probably the winter months are the best time for you to visit England.

Spring times in England

Lastly comes the spring season, which like another part of the world, also blooms the best among the other seasons. The seasons last from April to May, when the landscape flourishes with flowers giving life to the city dwellers, who long stayed warmed up in their houses to avoid winter snow.

Locals and travellers of foreign countries recommend visiting England in the spring season especially if someone loves to travel and enjoy a long road trip around England, to reach other cities like Cambridge, Oxford, Stonehenge, Cheddar Gorge, and Brighton.

This is because the spring season boasts the beauty of natural marvels (biological gardens, exquisite beaches, parklands, and horticultural creations and natural hubs) of UK cities. And at the beginning of May, after 1st may, many spring festivals are also held all across the UK, which indeed makes spring a perfect time to travel to the UK.

Final Thoughts- Personal Suggestion

The bottom line is if you want to enjoy the peak time of festivals, right with the balance of whether extremes, crowd density, and begging festival decoration then the best time is from April to May (spring) or from October to festival December (autumn).[……]

EUROPE

30 of the Best Cities to Visit in Germany

October 27, 2021

Germany is a large and beautiful country with so much to see and do. So which are the best cities to visit in Germany? I’ve asked my fellow travel bloggers their best cities to visit in Germany and I’ve added my favorites. My top 4 are Hamburg, Cologne, Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Füssen. I’ve fallen in love with Hamburg, and we have family living close-by, in Norderstedt. Paul proposed to me in Cologne. Rothenburg is such a dreamy city and has a Christmas museum. Füssen is high on my list because of the beautiful castles. But there are many more special cities in Germany as you can see for yourself in this blog.

Best Cities to Visit in Germany

Here are 30 of the best cities in Germany, all are perfect to include on road trips.

Füssen, Bayern

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Neuschwanstein as seen from Hohenschwangau

Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.

Füssen is a city in the South of Germany on the border with Austria. It’s famous for the beautiful Neuschwanstein castle and is located at the end of the Romantische strasse.

Although Neuschwanstein castle is technically in the nearby town of of Schwangau, just like the less famous, but equally mesmerizing Hohenschwangau castle, people mention Füssen when visiting either of these castles. Both are on the list of most beautiful fairytale castles in Germany.

The Romantische Straße or Romantic Road starts at Würzburg and is a fairytale route that meanders through medieval towns ending in Füssen, where the fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau await. Füssen itself has its roots in the Roman era, it’s located at the old Via Claudia Augusta. It gained city rights at the end of the 13th century.

Worthwhile things to do in Füssen are visiting the Hohes Schloss and Basilika Sankt Mang, it’s history dating back to 750 AD. If you’re into museums, make sure to visit the Museum der Stadt Füssen. The Alps start in Füssen, so the surrounding nature is beautiful with mountains and lakes. Hiking and mountainbiking are perfect outdoor activities with Füssen as a base.

Potsdam, Brandenburg

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Potsdam by Growing Global Citizens

Contributed by Kristin from Growing Global Citizens.

Visiting the city of Potsdam is an easy day trip from Berlin, even accessible by public transportation on the S-Bahn. Potsdam is known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil setting amongst multiple lakes. History buffs will know Potsdam as the seat of the 1945 Potsdam Conference where the U.S.S.R, the U.K. and the U.S. met to divide Germany after World War II.

A great activity for all ages is renting bikes and biking along the lakes and through Park Babelsberg, which has multiple castles and beaches. The city center is very walkable with lots of cute shops and cafés to stop at and enjoy a radler, the drink of bikers.

The must-see attraction is Sanssouci, the palace of Frederick the Great when he ruled Prussia in the 18th century. It is the largest UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany, and it is massive. You could easily spend a full day just walking the grounds and seeing all of the extravagant buildings and gardens.

Meißen, Saxony

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Torhaus of Meissen

Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.

Meißen is a city in the East of Germany. It’s known for it’s worldwide famous porcelain. The porcelain is of exceptional quality. Recognizable by the Crossed Swords mark. Nicknamed the white gold. It can be admired at the Meissen Porzellan Manufactur & Museum.

The Albrechtsburg castle is worth a visit. The first European porcelain was produced here in 1710. Further you’ll have a beautiful view over the city from the tower of the Frauenkirche.

Further don’t miss the Stadtmuseum Meißen Franziskaner Klosterkirche und Neogotisches Haus to learn more about the history of the city.

Visit the old town of Meißen and admire the buildings such as the Torhaus, Dom and the Rathaus.

Just 25 kilometers Northwest of Dresden, it’s a must on any Eastern Germany itinerary.

Celle, Lower Saxony

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Celle by Ronja Goes Abroad

Contributed by Ronja from Ronja Goes Abroad.

Celle, a small city in Northern Germany is a must-visit for anyone who loves half-timbered houses like the ornate Hoppener Haus. Celle is located in between Hannover and Hamburg. You can get to Celle by train from Hannover in less than 30 minutes, and it’s just an hour and five minutes from Hamburg. Making it super easy to visit!

The main attraction in Celle is the Castle. Celle Castle, located close to the heart of the city, is a magnificent sight to see. If you do not feel like taking a tour, just walk the castle grounds.

If you do not like popular sights, Celle is definitely the city for you. This small city is a fantastic place to stroll around. You don’t have to visit sights, all you have to do is walk around the city and you will fall in love with it. If you want to make strolling around the city fun look for the human-like statues around town.

So add Celle, the town of cute half-timbered houses, to your must-visit list!

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Celle by Ronja Goes Abroad

Frankfurt, Hesse

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Cathedral of Frankfurt am Main

Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.

This city in Western Germany is worth a visit. Discover Frankfurt am Main, there’s enough to see and do.

We recommend Apfelweingaststätte Atschel, since it’s one of the oldest and most beloved cider restaurants in Frankfurt. Frankfurt is famous for the Apfelwein (cider).

A quick way to get an overview of the highlights of the city is to take a sightseeing cruise on the river Main. There’s a downstream and upstream cruise, the downstream one offers the most complete overview of the city.

Frankfurt is the 4th largest city in Germany. Its nickname is Mainhattan, it’s a city full of modern architecture and skyscrapers. The city is the financial heart of Germany. The history of Frankfurt goes all the way back to the Stone Age. In the 16th century it had an important position n the printing press and book trade.

Bamberg, Bayern

Contributed by Sarah from LifePart2 & Beyond.

The gorgeous town of Bamberg was a highlight for us on our two-week river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam. It’s easy to see why it’s often cited as one of Germany’s most beautiful towns.

This picturesque old town with its charming narrow streets has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. The ancient buildings date from the 11th to the 19th century. One of the most impressive sites is the iconic Altes Rathaus (The Old Town Hall), with its incredible murals, located on a tiny island it’s reached by two arched bridges. Also, don’t miss the Romanesque Bamberg Cathedral with its four towers and many stone carvings.

But truly, the best way to enjoy this delightful city is by aimlessly wandering the streets.

The town is also known for its rauchbier, which means ‘smoke beer’. The smoky flavors come from drying the green brewer’s malt over open fires causing the grains to absorb the smoke. A tad too smoky for me, but for those that enjoy a beer, a must-try. For me, the mulled wine was the perfect accompaniment to enjoy the surroundings and experience the first snowflakes of winter.

Trier, Rhineland-Palatinate

Contributed by Brit from Life of Brit.

Trier is a small and somewhat unknown tourist destination that you shouldn’t miss in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate. It’s considered Germany’s oldest city. It’s brimming with incredible things to do and historical landmarks that date back to the Romans.

Trier’s most famous landmark is the Porta Nigra, or the Black Gate. This impressive landmark was built over 1,800 years ago and is a testament to the ancient Roman history that Trier is renowned for. Visitors can climb up and into the Porta Nigra for views of the city as well as visit other Roman ruins like the Roman amphitheater and imperial baths.

Other exciting things to do in Trier include visiting the Trier Dom, Germany’s oldest cathedral, and the Karl Marx House, a museum housed within the infamous philosopher’s birthplace.

Not to mention, Trier is nestled within the lush Moselle River Valley. A beautiful region of Germany famous for rolling vineyards, picturesque river views, and exciting hiking. That means that no trip to Trier is complete without sampling the local Riesling. One of the best wine tastings in Trier is at the Vereinigte Hospitien Winery. Home to the oldest wine cellar in the country.

You only need a day or two to experience the charm of Trier. But its location near the Luxembourg border, the charming town of Cochem, and the famous Burg Eltz castle makes it an excellent stop on a longer trip around Rhineland-Palatinate.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bayern

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Kathe Wolfart at Rothenburg

Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.

This popular touristic city is on the Romantische Straße and is still completely in medieval style. When visiting the city take a guided city tour during the day and at night as well. Both are fantastic and a good way to learn more about this city.

Rothenburg is also beautiful to just wander around in and admire all the beautiful buildings. Such as the Marktplatz and the fortifications. The most photographed or instagrammable place in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is Plönlein. Do also stop at Diller’s Schneeballen to try a schneeball (local delicatesse). On the Marktplatz don’t miss the Ratstrinkstube with a clock and sundial. Watch the show!

Don’t miss the Käthe Wohlfahrt store with Weihnachtsmuseum (Christmas museum). It has the biggest collection of traditional German Christmas decorations in the world and is a true site to see. It’s not large, but everywhere you look, there’s something to see.

Also interesting to visit is the Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum (Medieval Crime Museum), with everything you want to know and don’t want to know about torture of criminals in Medieval times.

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Ratstrinkstube at Rothenburg

Berlin

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Berlin Charlottenburg Palace Gardens by Berlin Travel Tips

Contributed by Ali from Berlin Travel Tips.

No trip to Germany would be complete without visiting Berlin. Not only is Berlin the capital, but it’s diverse, quirky, and chock full of history. The city is also easy on the budget since there are so many free and cheap things to do in Berlin.

In the center of Berlin, you’ll find most of the iconic sights. Brandenburg Gate, built in the 18th century, is Berlin’s only remaining city gate. It sat on the dividing line between East and West Berlin, but quickly came to symbolize unity once the Berlin Wall fell. It’s also become a symbol of the city and even a symbol of Germany itself.

Another attraction you shouldn’t – and probably can’t – miss is the TV Tower. It’s located in what was East Berlin, and the Soviets built it with the intention of being seen from almost anywhere in the city. Due to its height, it’s a fantastic place for views of the city.

Other sights you shouldn’t miss include the Reichstag Building, Berlin Cathedral, Holocaust Memorial, Charlottenburg Palace, Tiergarten Park, and Museum Island. Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site comprised of several important museums. And don’t miss the East Side Gallery and the Bernauer Strasse Wall Memorial, two excellent but very different historical sights relating to the Berlin Wall.

If you’re looking for something a little more quirky, seek out Berlin’s famous street art. You’ll see it everywhere, but the most well-known pieces are mostly in Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg. For a not-so-typical park, check out Tempelhof. This park used to be an airport, and now you can walk on the runway. And if food is your thing, Berlin is the place for you. You’ll find cuisines from all around the world here.

Cochem, Rhineland-Palatinate

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Reichsburg Cochem

Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.

A small, touristic city on the Moselle. Reichsburg Cochem towers over the place and dominates every view of the city.

Next to the Reichsburg, Cochem and surroundings is famous for the Moselle wine. This area is the oldest wine area of Germany. This makes Cochem a perfect base for exploring this wine region, either by car, bike, foot or boat.

In Cochem itself other attractions are the Bundesbank-Bunker, the historical Senfmuehle (mustard mill), the Edelstein Museum and the Rathaus. First mention of Cochem is in 882 AD, city rights were granted in 1332. The fortress was built in the 12th and 13th century. It was destroyed in the 17th century, but rebuilt in the 19th century.

Peine, Lower Saxony

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Rausch Schokoland by Ragain Adventures

Contributed by Christina from Ragain Adventures.

Peine is a small, beautiful German town located in Lower Saxony. It is the capital of the district of Peine and is located 25 km West of Braunschweig and 40 km East of Hannover. While Peine has several attractions for visitor’s including Kreismuseum Peine, shopping at City Galerie Peine, and the beautiful Jakobi Kirche, my absolute favorite is Rausch Schokoland.

Rausch Schokoland is a museum and chocolate café / store located at the Rausch Chocolate factory in Peine. Once you walk through the door, you are surrounded by the smell of chocolate. At the museum, you can learn about the history of the production of chocolate from around the world. After the exhibits, be sure to enjoy hot chocolate and a snack while watching the large chocolate volcano. On your way home, be sure to stock up on Rausch Chocolates for yourself, friends, and family.

If you are looking for a great hotel for your stay in Peine, be sure to check out Hotel Schoenau. With comfortable rooms, an onsite restaurant / bar and even a beautiful event center, Hotel Schoenau is a great hotel with a local feel.

Leipzig, Saxony

Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.

Leipzig is a city in the East of Germany. In 1165 Leipzig gained city right’s, relying on trade. In the 15th century the city became a center of the printing press. Hence a German Printing Press museum (Deutsche Buch- und Schriftmuseum). In 1813 the Volkerenslag was near Leipzig, in which Napoleon was defeated. For this they erected the Völkerschlachtdenkmal (Monument to the Battle of the Nations) in 1913, still a monument worth a visit.

Lots of famous composers lived in Leipzig making it a music city. Johann Sebastian Bach, Richard Wagner and Edvard Grieg among them. There’s a Bach-Museum in town and a Grieg-Begegnungsstätte. Further there’s also the Mendelssohn-Haus and those of Robert Schumann and Friedrich von Schiller. There’s also a music instruments museum, so enough museums for music lovers. There’s even a guided music tour along museums and statues. The St. Thomas Church is where Bach played the organ.

Brandenburg, Brandenburg

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Brandenburg by Tymrazem

Contributed by Jakub from Tymrazem.

Brandenburg is located in the region that is named after the city (Brandenburg). Currently, the capital is Potsdam, but Brandenburg was once even more important than Berlin, from which it is about 80 kilometers away.

Originally it was a Slavic town called Brenna. From the year 948 (with breaks) Brandenburg was the seat of the bishopric.

Brandenburg has a lot to offer and the interesting surroundings make it a very good weekend destination. The must-see places in the city include the old towns, city walls, churches and “wild pugs”. In the area, be sure to check out Potsdam with its palaces and gardens (for example Cecilienhof), and the Babelsberg film studio.

Brandenburg is situated on the Havel River. It is used for communication and for tourists it can turn out to be a great idea to spend time in. In the city, you can rent a houseboat and discover the area from its deck.

It does not matter if Brandenburg is the destination of a longer journey or if you come here during your stay in Berlin or Potsdam – it is definitely worth visiting!

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Brandenburg by Tymrazem

Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Saxony-Anhalt

Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.

Lutherstadt Wittenberg is in Eastern Germany. The city dates from the 12th century, the add on Lutherstadt dates from 1922. Translated it means Luther city, after Martin Luther. Wittenberg was the city where Luther made his Ninety-Five Theses known. You can see them for yourself on the doors of the All Saints’ Church. They’re engraved on the door. Wittenberg is known as the city where the Reformation started.

Luthers house is in Lutherstadt Wittenberg, and that of Philip Melanchton, a reformator as well. Lucas Cranach, a painter, lived in the city at the same time as Luther. His house is now a museum. An architectural monument and worth a look is the Hundertwasserschule. A really colorful building, in line with Hundertwasser’s style.

Most of what there is to do in Wittenberg revolves around the Reformation. The Stadtkirche and the Slosskirche are important in the Reformation.

Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

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Kröpeliner Strasse in Rostock by One Trip at a Time

Contributed by Lee & Stacey from One Trip At a Time.

Founded in the 13th century, Rostock is quite possibly one of the most delightful cities to visit in Germany that you haven’t heard of. Historically it was one of the key players in the Hanseatic League and has been an important shipbuilding center since Medieval times. Today it is a wonderful city to wander and explore, especially if you are in port for the day in nearby Warnemünde on a Baltic cruise.

With a compact historic center, many of the best things to see and do in Rostock are within easy walking distance. Begin a visit to the city with a wander along Neuer Markt to see the colourful merchant houses, the pretty pink (yes, pink!) Town Hall, and Marienkirche, renowned for its 15th century astronomical clock where you can still watch its “Apostles’ Procession” each day at noon. Then stroll Kröpeliner Straße to see gabled houses, visit shops, and see the playful fountain in Universitätsplatz.

When you want to learn more about Rostock’s history. Take some time to visit the Cultural History Museum and a walk along the old city walls to see Kröpeliner Tor (a watchtower) and Steintor, a city gate from the Middle Ages should definitely be on your agenda.

To top off your visit to Rostock, don’t miss the opportunity to take in the city from above by heading up the tower of Petrikirche to its observation gallery. From this vantage point, you can see all the way across the striking orange rooftops to the Port of Rostock, along the river, and to Marienkirche several blocks away.

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View from Petrikirche by One Trip at a Time

Lübeck, Schleswig-Holstein

Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.

Lübeck is a city in Northern Germany, close to Denmark. It’s a Hanseatic city and became wealthy during that time. The historical old town is beautiful and is famous as the city of marzipan. As such Lübeck draws a lot of tourists.

Go on a self-guided (or guided) tour in the old town to discover all the monumental buildings and their history. Next to that find out why Lübeck is the city of marzipan and taste it!

Lübeck is the home of Niederegger, who have produced quality marzipan since 1806. You can taste all their product and learn more about the history of the company at Café Niederegger at the old city. Visiting this café is a must even when you’re not a fan of marzipan.

Among the monumental buildings in the city is the Marienkirche, an example of the Brick Gothic. The fortifications and two city gates are still there, the Holstentor and Burgtor. The Salzspeicher, was where salt was being kept until it was shipped to other Hanseatic cities.

Lübeck dates back to at least the 8th century. Lübeck eventually became the most important Hanseatic city in the 16th century. There’s a Hanzemuseum to learn all about the Hanseatic league.

Mainz, Rhineland-Palatinate

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Mainz by JOURNICATION Travel Blog

Contributed by Phil from JOURNICATION Travel Blog.

Mainz is considered an insider’s tip when traveling to the West of Germany. Located near Frankfurt, the capital of the state of Rhineland-Palatinate has so much to offer.

Mainz has a long history. Already the Romans[……]

AMERICAS

Explore Brazil and Argentina at Your Own Pace

September 7, 2021

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Travel between Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires to see the highlights of Brazil and Argentina on a flexible Hop-on Hop-off Pass.

Brazil and Argentina are two beautiful countries full of amazing places to visit, and even with an entire lifetime of travelling there wouldn’t be enough time to discover all of their gems. The best to fully enjoy the journey is to travel at your own pace between Rio and Buenos Aires on a flexible Hop-on Hop-off Pass, so you can really be independent, do what you want, and stay as long as you wish in each place. Your transports and amazing experiences are included along the way so you can lay-back, resting assured that the structure of your trip is taken care of.

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Rio de Janeiro is definitely one of the best places where to begin such an adventure. Rio is renowned for its wild Carnival parties, breathtaking panoramic views and fun-loving Carioca people. Beside the beautiful beaches and natural wonders, here you will have the opportunity to learn about true Brazilian society by taking a tour into one of its favelas, and have a close-up look at the complex architecture, developing commerce and warm friendly people.

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When you feel like it is time to get out of the city, just a short trip from Rio, you can transfer to the stunning Ilha Grande, one of Brazil‘s most picturesque and pristine islands, boasting a tranquil quiet existence with only a few villages with nothing more than dirt roads and small family businesses. You’ll find yourself never wanting to leave this tropical paradise!

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Next on the list is the beautiful colonial town of Paraty, once an important Portuguese port, where you’ll get the opportunity to go on a schooner boat ride within its bay, discovering beautiful sandy beaches and snorkelling in search of tropical marine life.

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Brazilian Iguazu Falls

As you travel south you will pass by the commercial capital of Brazil, Sao Paulo, which lays claim to the country’s best gourmet restaurants, finest museums, hottest clubs and most diverse population. From Sao Paulo you’ll catch a bus to one of the most awe-inspiring waterfalls, the Iguazu Falls, for a full day visit of the Argentinian side of the falls.

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The adventure will come to an end as you take an overnight bus to the tango capital of the world, Buenos Aires. This metropolis will keep you entertained by day and night with its eclectic neighbourhoods, vibrant nightlife and culinary delights. A tango show will round off this incredible trip.[……]

ASIA

How To Plan The Perfect Singapore Family Holiday

August 23, 2021

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There’s something so comforting about stepping off the plane into the brown tones of Singapore Changi airport. I couldn’t even count how many hours I’ve spent in that airport in my life so far, and there’s a reason why it’s consistently ranked the best airport in the world. But more than that, stepping foot in Changi means (if you’re lucky) the opportunity to enjoy a Singapore holiday.

Working in travel I used to hear all the time “meh, Singapore is so boring.” This perception that it’s tame, bland and uninspiring was really pervasive in the tourism industry (in my experience anyway). And I always delighted in the challenge of changing someone’s mind. Because to me, Singapore is absolutely full of excitement and adventure.

On our Malaysia and Singapore holiday, I really would have liked to spend more time in Singapore. Alas, we were really restricted with available days. I’m still so glad we made it happen though because we got to show our kids the wonder of Singapore. And now they want to go back as much as we do.

So here are our tips for planning the perfect family holiday to Singapore. I hope this helps you to plan your own Singapore holiday!

Singapore is one of the best-connected cities in the world (and with the best airport, as mentioned above). This means there will likely be available flights to Singapore from your closest international hub. Flights take approximately 8-9 hours from the east coast of Australia, 18 hours from Los Angeles, 10-14 hours from various cities in Europe, and 10 hours from Johannesburg. Singapore is particularly well-connected to the rest of Asia, so you could be there from Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, or Beijing in just a few hours.

Given that flights to Singapore from destinations outside of Asia can be so long, you want to pick a good airline. This is not the time for US carriers (sorry!) – this fan girl says it’s Singapore Airlines all the way.

The Best Time To Travel To Singapore

Singapore is HOT all year round, and there’s no getting around that. However, some months are definitely better than others. You’ll find the humidity less oppressive from December to June; February, March, and April are the best of these in terms of minimising humidity.

Air quality can be poor from June to October, as this is burning season in nearby Malaysia and Indonesia.

All this being said, no matter what time of year you visit, Singapore is wonderful.

Where To Stay In Singapore

The last time we visited, we stayed in an Airbnb (see below for information on this). However, I’ve been to Singapore several times and also sent many clients on Singapore adventures. Here’s what I recommend:

The Ritz-Carlton Millenia is absolutely gorgeous. Our friends who travelled with us stayed here for a night after we left and confirmed it’s just as amazing as ever. Click through to book the Ritz-Carlton Millenia.

The Andaz Singapore is a funky modern option in Kampong Glam, with easy access to the Marina and the National Museum. You can read a full review here. Click through to book the Andaz Singapore.

The York Hotel is a great 4-4.5* option just off Orchard Road. It’s not extra fancy but it’s really clean and comfortable, the service is excellent and the rooms are really big. A family would fit in a superior twin quite easily and it’s always been a popular option for my family-traveller clients. Click through to book the York Hotel.

The W Sentosa is my absolute dream property (as is any W property, actually). If you’re after something a little extra, the W Sentosa is for you (click through to book).

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Image courtesy of Marriott Hotels and Resorts

I’d be remiss not to mention the Marina Bay Sands. Not sure I could actually call myself a travel blogger if I didn’t. The lead-in rooms are exxy but of course, you can’t use that infinity pool if you’re not staying at the property. That said, I had clients (a family with young kids) stay in the Orchard Suite and they were suitably impressed. Definitely book the Marina Bay Sands if you can.

What’s The Deal With Airbnb In Singapore?

We stayed in an Airbnb apartment in Novena, which is a suburb over from Newton. That meant we were an easy ten-minute walk to Newton Circus food court, and another five minutes on to Orchard Road. In Novena itself, the United Square shopping mall on Thomson Road has great high street fashion stores, a supermarket (with booze section) and several decent places to eat.

Staying in an Airbnb apartment was great for us: we had our own kitchen to whip up food for the kids, and we could sit around at night when they went to bed playing music and having a few drinks with our friends. On our last night, we ordered food delivery through Foodpanda.

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There is, however, a big BUT when it comes to using Airbnb in Singapore… it’s not technically legal. This post explains the laws with regard to rentals in Singapore. In short, Singapore is one of the most densely populated places on Earth and renting out scarcely available flats to tourists can cause big problems… which is why it’s heavily regulated.

Unfortunately, I didn’t know this before booking our apartment on Airbnb. I point it out now to save anyone else the worry. Whether you book anyway is your own ethical and financial decision, but it’s worth knowing I think.

Practically, we had no issues, but I’ll admit to being a little bit worried about what would happen if something went wrong. Singapore is expensive enough as it is… Without having to book last-minute accommodation for six people because you’ve booked your accommodation in a dodgy way. I don’t think travel insurance would cover that one.

Practical Considerations

Singapore Travel Costs

Singapore is NOT cheap, especially coming from Australia. Last time I was there, costs were pretty reasonable but this time, the exchange rate was actually 1:1. Travelling in Singapore is definitely not like travelling in Malaysia or Thailand, cost-wise. That being said, while you’ll pay more or the same for accommodation and consumer goods, some things such as food can be cheaper. Stick to Singaporean food and drink, for example, and this will shave a bit off your budget. Make sure you read our post on Singapore holiday costs for more information.

Getting Around In Singapore

In terms of getting around, taxis are pretty cheap (again, because of the change in exchange rate, it wasn’t as cheap this time as our other trips). Grab (a rideshare service like Uber) is big in Singapore and having used it a lot in Malaysia, we automatically went to use it in Singapore. However, laws are stricter in Singapore than Malaysia when it comes to carrying children. Only taxis in Singapore are insured to carry children without car seats so unless you have your own, you can’t catch a Grab with kids. Obviously, car seats are ideal but sometimes this isn’t possible.

Buy A SIM Card

Several phone carriers offer international SIM cards for short-term travellers. This was wonderful for us. We paid a small setup fee and pre-loaded our SIM, and we were able to make calls and access the internet, with a generous amount of data.

Things To Do In Singapore

Singapore Zoo And River Safari

Singapore Zoo is often heralded as one of the best in the world, and there’s a reason for that. Aesthetically, it’s incredible. Set around a beautiful lake, from tropical plants to multiple water features, there’s always something to see even when you’re not looking at animals. But the enclosures themselves are great. MY favourite example: the orangutans are free to roam around the zoo. You just look up and, oh hey! There they are! The zookeepers follow them around to make sure they don’t get up to too much mischief… But it’s amazing to see them out and exploring right above you.

It’s a huge zoo, so having a ticket for the tram that travels around the complex is great. But if you don’t, just strolling around is wonderful. In terms of hitting the zoo with kids, you can hire a stroller or a little drag-along cart; we took the cart and, well these pics speak for themselves…

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We also hit the River Safari, which wasn’t part of the complex last time we were in Singapore. It’s kind of a smaller-scale Aquarium, but for freshwater and brackish water dwellers. Mr. Winter is a fish fiend so he always gets a kick out of anything fish-related, but the Amazon exhibit, in particular, was a highlight for him. For me and the kids, seeing the dugongs was an incredible experience. There’s also a (slightly randomly-placed, in my opinion) Giant Panda exhibit in the middle of the complex.

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If you feel like something different, take a boat ride around the complex (Mr. Winter and the kids did that) or take a log-flume ride (our friends and I did this – the kids were too small). Let’s just say the log-flume-thingy won’t get your adrenaline pumping (AT ALL). But it was good for a laugh.

Newton Circus Food Court

Newton Circus is an institution in Singapore. It’s changed a bit since I was last there in 2011… a bit of a facelift and seemingly an accompanying price rise. But you’re absolutely guaranteed to have an amazing meal and the atmosphere is top-notch.

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Tuck into a delicious chilli crab (Singapore’s specialty), devour delicious satays, or grab a huge plate of char kway teow. Knock it all back with a longneck of Tiger beer.

Sentosa Island

You could travel to Singapore, stay on Sentosa, and never even leave this fun little island. It’s just jam-packed with things to do. Our highlights were:

SEA Aquarium

Like I said above, I live with some very fish-obsessed individuals so aquariums are always high on our list. The Singapore option is certainly impressive in size and scope, and its location is great. It’s not the cheapest activity, but I’m always prepared to pay more for animal-related activities if it ensures they’re well taken care of. Singapore Aquarium achieves this. I love the interactive learning opportunities scattered around, offering visitors the opportunity to reflect on our environment. There’s a lot of promotion of conservation and what we can do to look after our oceans and waterways. Issues such as pollution and climate change are tackled well for both smaller and bigger humans.

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Eat, Eat, Eat!

There are SO many amazing places to eat on Sentosa. I’m not kidding: there are five Michelin-starred restaurants for a start: Forest, Feng Shui Inn, Osia, Syun and Tunglok Heen. They’re all located in the ResortsWorld complex and focus on their own contemporary Asian cuisine.

For us, we needed to focus on two things: keeping costs down, and keeping the kids happy. So no Michelin stars for us. In the ResortsWorld complex, where we were after enjoying the Aquarium nearby, there are still several decent options: a Hard Rock Café, Malaysian Food Street (a hawker centre!), and chain restaurants Ruyi and Streats. We opted for Streats because we liked the menu, but we didn’t have overly high expectations. Our meals were absolutely delicious though; I had the char kway teow and satay combo.

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Heading down to Siloso Beach, Coastes and Mambo Beach Club looked like wonderful options (I had a quick chance to check them out while waiting for the luge riders – see below). We kept walking down the Beach Walk to Tanjong Beach Club for dinner… keep reading for a wrap-up.

Skyline Luge

If you take the Sentosa Express train over to Siloso Beach, the Skyline Luge is right there when you disembark. The luge has four tracks, each 600-700m long: the Jungle Trail, the Dragon Trail, and two new tracks that go through the forest. The luge is open at night too, so make sure you leave a ride or two for after sunset!

Siloso Beach

Our little fella was too small to go on the luge, so I drew the short straw and looked after him while everyone else went. H and I hung out on Siloso Beach instead. You wouldn’t really think of Singapore as a beach destination and that is absolutely fair… but it IS possible to swim.

The Sentosa Express takes you to Siloso to get on the Luge, and from there it’s a nice stroll along the Beach Walk from Siloso Beach to Palawan Beach, and then Tanjong Beach where we ended our day. It takes about 15-20 minutes: S had a quick nap in the backpack during the walk!

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Tanjong Beach Club

You guys know I looove a good beach club (click through to read about the best Bali beach clubs) ones are here). So I was pretty keen to try one in Singapore. Compared to Bali, the vibe of Tanjong Beach Club is certainly different, but so is Singapore as a whole. The whole beach club thing doesn’t represent as good value as those in Bali either (pay for entry, pay for towels, pay for food etc) but it was still a fantastic spot to spend an evening.

We watched the sunset over Tanjong Beach while sitting in the pool drinking sangria and eating the most amazing truffle fries. The busiest shipping lane in the world was right in front of us, slightly obscured by palm trees and fairy lights. I can’t think of anywhere else in the world you’d experience a view like that.

On Sentosa as a whole, there are some other amazing activities to try too, such as the Cable Car (we didn’t bother since we went on a huge one in Langkawi), iFly, KidZania, and Universal Studios. I really could talk for days about Sentosa.

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Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam is the traditional Malay quarter of Singapore. There are several sights to see in Kampong Glam, such as the Malay Heritage Centre and the Masjid Sultan mosque. For me though, Kampong Glam is all about the cruisey nightlife. From the Atap Bar speakeasy on Arab Street to craft cocktail bar Maison Ikkoku on Kandahar Street, there are so many trendy options to choose from.

My personal fave though is Piedra Negra in Haji Lane. Probably some of the absolute best Mexican food I’ve eaten outside Mexico, and a super funky place to sit back eat and enjoy a Corona or ten. My recommendations: the Esquites and the Ceviche de Molcajete (though any Ceviche option on the menu is divine). There were plenty of options suitable for kids on the menu too, though our littles were the only ones there. They loved it!

Singapore Unlimited Attractions Pass

If you’re planning on staying a few days and trying to see as much as possible, the Singapore Unlimited Attractions Pass represents excellent value. There are so many attractions included in the pass: the Zoo, SEA Aquarium, Universal Studios, Singapore Flyer, Kidzania, Gardens By The Bay… over 35 activities all on one pass. It also comes with a handy little guidebook so you can make sure you know exactly what you want to do.

Book Your Singapore Unlimited Attractions Pass

We also recommend doing the Singapore River Cruise.

What Would I Add Or Change From My Own Recent Trip?

There are so many things I would have liked to do on this trip that we didn’t get a chance to. Gardens By The Bay is probably the number one activity on this list and I think the kids would have got a real kick out of it. I also really wanted to visit the ArtScience Museum at the Marina Bay Sands. We did also spend a couple of hours strolling along Orchard Road… In hindsight, this was a waste – we didn’t buy anything other than a Boost Juice or see anything particularly interesting. We just went because it was close-by and we wanted to get out of the apartment before dinner. I think we could have used that time to do something a bit more fun.

The thing is, though, my kids still need naps. And when travelling in a hot, muggy climate they’re not used to (not to mention taking in so many different sights, sounds, and smells) they got tired really easily. I’ve mentioned in other posts that we tend to work our itineraries around naptimes. This breaks the day into morning and afternoon activities. We can either head back to our rooms for naps or structure the day so there’s a restful spot (such as a beach club) or a long drive in the middle of the day. All that said, the reality is we were never going to cover all the things on our list with a three-day/four-night itinerary.

We’ll certainly be back, and Mr. Winter and I will likely have a night or two on our own in Singapore when we next travel kid-free. Marina Bay Sands, ArtScience Museum and Gardens By The Bay will be our top priority.[……]

ASIA

Useful Malaysia travel tips you should know before you go

July 18, 2021

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Diversity. This is the first thing that hits you when you start reading about Malaysia. Mixed cultures, languages and religions, vibrant cities and remote jungles, modern skyscrapers and UNESCO historical sites, beautiful beaches and wildlife-packed rainforests…Not to mention the variety of delectable food. Sounds like Malaysia in fact has it all.

Having not been to any other Asian country before, I can’t really vouch for a very popular Malaysian slogan: “Malaysia truly Asia”, but choosing it as my first Asian country to visit was definitely the best decision. Being one of the most developed countries in South East Asia and keeping its rich tradition and culture at the same time, Malaysia delivers a wealth of unique experiences.

No matter if you’re an Asia first-timer or 50-timer this blog post will reveal all the Malaysian secrets. If you want to know when is the best time to visit Malaysia, how to get there, what to eat and even how to dress, keep reading to discover:

useful Malaysia travel tips you should know before your trip!

And don’t forget to check out my “Malaysia Itinerary” blog post to plan your 2 perfect weeks in this beautiful and diverse country.

Ok, but where is Malaysia?

Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia and consists of 2 parts separated by the South China Sea. There is Peninsular Malaysia, which shares a border with Thailand and East Malaysia which is the Malaysian part of the Borneo Island. When researching travelling in Malaysia, you will mainly find recommendations for places in the Peninsular (western) Malaysia. That’s why it’s worth remembering, that this country also has another – less touristy part.

The capital of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur. Being also the biggest city, KL is the cultural, financial and economic centre of Malaysia and one of the fastest growing metropolitan regions in Southeast Asia. Founded as a settlement for the tin-industry, KL grew rapidly, becoming the perfect mixture of tradition and modernity it is today. Historic colonial buildings, buzzing markets and botanical gardens synchronise perfectly with tall skyscrapers, impressive Petronas Towers, and luxurious shopping malls, which you’ll find very useful when escaping the heat or rain.

Malaysia has more than 800 islands along the coastline. Pulau (Malaysian word for “island”) Langkawi is the biggest and most visited island of the country, but you will also come across names like: Perhentian Islands (for divers, snorkelers and backpackers) Penang Island (colonial and metropolitan), Tioman Island (once voted the most beautiful beach in the world) or Pangkor Island (empty beaches and clear waters).

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How do I get there?

By plane.

– Wow, really?

– Yes!

All major intercontinental airlines offer flights to Kuala Lumpur, which is the main airport of Malaysia. So if you’re travelling from Europe, take a plane. If you’re travelling from America, take a plane. When you’re travelling from Australia, take a plane. When you’re travelling from different Asian countries, you have more options, but plane is the surely the fastest and most convenient one. If you decide to visit Singapore first (travellers usually combine those 2 countries, due to their proximity), you can take a plane (yes, again), a train or a bus. The same if you’re travelling from Thailand.

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Will they let me in?

Travellers from most of the countries in the world DO NOT NEED a visa to enter Malaysia. You will normally be given permission to stay either for 90 or 30 days (depending on the country) on arrival. The customs officer might get your fingerprints and ask you a few questions regarding your stay in Malaysia. Visas for longer stays or for non-tourist purposes must be obtained from the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission before you travel. Check your country’s government website to make sure you’re free to go.

Do I need a shot?

No specific vaccinations are required for tourists travelling to Malaysia. In general it’s good to be vaccinated against Tetanus, Hepatitis A and Typhoid. There are no particular sanitary and epidemiological threats in Malaysia, but it’s also better to check properly before your trip. If some unfortunate event happens and you’re forced to go to the hospital, don’t worry, medical care is generally available and inexpensive. For all the minor conditions, I suggest asking a pharmacist first.

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Plane, train…? How do I get around?

If you follow my Malaysia travel tips and you successfully make it to Malaysia, you have plenty of options to travel within the country. Public transport in Malaysia is reliable, inexpensive and easy to use.

BY BUS

Much of your travelling, particularly in Peninsular Malaysia, will be by bus. Most popular routes are running several times a day with frequent connections for very reasonable prices. Coaches are usually spacious, comfortable (only 3 seats in one row…wooo), air-conditioned (don’t forget to take a hoodie on board) and have WiFi. There is one thing you won’t find on board though – toilets. On the longer routes the bus driver will simply stop once or twice for a rest and bathroom break. So drink freely. Buying the tickets is also easy. Most of the time you can show up at a bus station and get a ticket for the next coach, but I recommend buying them online. Easybook.com is a website where you can choose the best connection and book the tickets in a few simple steps. My favourite bus operator was: Unititi Express.

BY TRAIN

Travelling by train is also a great option for getting around Malaysia. There are two main classes of train: express services – modern, fully air-conditioned and well maintained, and local trains – often not air-conditioned and of variable quality. Travelling by train is good if you want to commute between major locations or if you want to travel internationally. The route Singapore – Kuala Lumpur – Thailand offers sleeping services, which can save you a few bucks on accommodation. Train connections are however more limited than bus connections, the journeys usually take longer and the prices are a little bit higher.

BY PLANE

Thanks to low-cost airlines flying in Malaysia is fast and inexpensive. Malaysian domestic flights are operated by Malaysia Airlines (MAS) and the budget carriers AirAsia and Firefly. Planes fly between most of the state capitals, as well as Langkawi Island and Singapore.

BY BOAT

To get to some islands though, like Perhentian, Tioman and Pangkor you can only go by a boat or a ferry. You generally buy your ticket in advance from booths at the jetty, sometimes you can simply just pay on the boat.

BY CAR

Roads, expressways and highways in Malaysia are good and well maintained, making travelling by car an alternative option. You have to remember that there is left-hand traffic in Malaysia and driving in the cities can be very…challenging. Like one of our Grab drivers said: “in Malaysia when you wanna go, you just go”.

OR…GRAB A GRAB!

Oh yes, Grab (Malaysian Uber) is also a very popular, convenient and cheap mode of transportation. They operate in most Malaysian tourist destinations and grabbing a Grab is a great and sometimes much needed way of cooling down in the air-con.

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Malay or Malaysian? How do I not offend anyone?

This is one the Malaysia travel tips you have to pay attention to!

Malaysia is a very multicultural nation, but it doesn’t just mean that there are people of many different races living there. Malaysia is made up of 3 main ethnicities: Malays (first inhabitants of Malaysia, that now make more than a half of population), Chinese and Indian. It doesn’t seem so different from other countries, does it? However, in Malaysia the multicultural and multiethnic background of the nation is celebrated by all Malaysians. For example, there are bank holidays for different nations’ and religions’ celebrations, like Chinese New Year, Diwali or Christmas and you can see the shops and streets being decorated honouring all different holidays throughout the year.

It’d be also nice, if before going to Malaysia you understood the difference between Malays and Malaysians. ‘Malaysian’ refers to nationality. ‘Malay’ refers to the ethnicity. So for example, a Chinese person who was born and is currently living in Malaysia is called “Malaysian”, NOT “Malay”. The same with an Indian person born and raised in Malaysia. So all the Chinese, Indian and Malay people born and living in Malaysia are called “Malaysians”. But only Malay ethnicity people are called “Malays”.

Do I need to learn another language?

The national language of Malaysia is…again – Malay (Bahasa Melayu – to be more specific). All lessons are taught in Malay at school. However, because of the different racial backgrounds, especially in the bigger cities, you will hear Malaysian ethnicities speaking with each other in English. English is commonly spoken in Malaysia and almost every Malaysian citizen can communicate in this language.

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And what’s the religion?

Islam is the official religion of Malaysia. So bear in mind, that 5 times a days, including one around 5 am, you will hear calls to prayer coming from multiple mosques in the area. Perfect wakeup call to watch the sun rise. The rest of the population practices either Buddhism, Hinduism or Christianity. Thanks to the religious diversity you will find beautiful and fascinating Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu and Christian temples all over the country.

JUST REMEMBER TO WEAR A PROPER OUTFIT WHEN VISITING THE TEMPLES.

You can’t march into a mosque or Hindu temple wearing shorts and a T-shirt. It applies to both, men and women. In most of the mosques you will be given the chance to borrow robes for your visit. Taking your shoes off is also a must when entering the most sacred “chambers” in the temples. The most “chilled”, regarding outfits, are Buddhist temples, although you also might be asked to cover your shoulders with a scarf.

Apart from religious and historic places, there is no specific dress code for visitors in Malaysia. Wearing shorts, T-shirts and dresses is totally fine. Just in general, be respectful of the people and the culture.

Will I be sweaty?

Yes!

Hot, hot, hot! And humid! All year round. This is how you can describe the weather in Malaysia. If you’re coming from a cold country like England, Norway or Canada the amount of times you will say: “It’s so hot”, “I’m melting” or “Let’s take those stupid Instagram pictures and go some place cool” is countless. Even if you’re you travelling from hot and sunny Italy, Spain or Egypt…it’s the humidity that will destroy you. So happy travelling! Kidding, the heat and humidity are definitely a part of the Malaysian experience.

Malaysia is a tropical country located close to the equator, therefore warm weather is guaranteed. Temperatures generally range from 32°C/89.6ºF at noon to about 26°C/78.8ºF at midnight. But like most Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia’s sunny days are interrupted by Monsoon season. But it’s not only one Monsoon season. Different parts of Malaysia are touched by heavy rains at different times. So pay attention, because it’s one of the most useful Malaysia travel tips!

The east coast monsoon begins in mid October and lasts until the end of March. The weather is usually very rough then, sometimes it can rain for days and some of the islands, like Perhentian or Tioman are even “closed” for tourists.

The west coast monsoon begins in April/May and lasts until end of October. West coast monsoon is much milder, you won’t usually even notice that it’s there.

Besides the monsoon seasons it can always rain in Malaysia. Rain falls usually happen between 4 and 6 pm and are intense but brief.

SO “WHEN IN THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MALAYSIA?” YOU MIGHT ASK.

If you’re planning to stay on the east side, the best time would be between April and September.

But, if you, like most tourists, want to travel on the west coast, go between November and March.

I, despite what I just wrote in my Malaysia travel tips, went to the western part of Malaysia at the turn of June and July and didn’t experience much rain. It literally rained 3 times when I was there, for max of 1 hour each time, so the rain fall was indeed short, but intense and actually very refreshing. The temperatures tend to be cooler in Cameron Highlands or in certain parts of Borneo, like Mount Kinabalu. If you include those places in your itinerary, make sure to take at least one hoodie

One more thing, don’t trust Google weather and any other weather app. They will always show you rain when it’s not actually there.

Let’s talk about money!

The currency of Malaysia is called Ringgit (MYR), which is made up of sen: 1 RM=100 sen.

Most of the hotels, stores, bars and restaurants accept Visa and MasterCard. ATMs are also widely available (they only might be limited on the islands) and you will definitely need cash when going to the popular night markets and food markets. Practice your haggling skills – a certain amount of bargaining is required when buying stuff at night markets. Just don’t be too aggressive, that’s not a part of Malaysian shopping culture.

Currency exchange “places” are also quite popular and usually offer better exchange rate than the banks.

And one of the best Malaysia travel tips: Travelling in Malaysia is generally not expensive! It’s suitable for both backpackers and travellers who seek luxurious facilities. It obviously all depends on your accommodation and the entertainment you provide for yourself, but on average you’ll need 300 Ringgit per day in Malaysia. Food will definitely be the smallest part of your expenses.

Ok, now I’m hungry!

If food is also your favourite “F” word, you couldn’t find a better country to travel to. Malaysians are obsessed with food! Food courts, food street markets and food hawkers are very popular in Malaysia, due to the fact that Malaysians very rarely cook and eat at home. Eating out is a part of Malaysian culture. And the choice is endless. Thanks to the cultural diversity, you will be able to try traditional Malaysian food, aromatic Chinese food and flavourful Indian food. And there is something for everyone.

Most dishes in Malaysia are based on either rice or mee (noodles), but: Malay dishes often contain beef, chicken, mutton or fish (never pork as Malay food needs to be halal), Chinese dishes are often with pork, and Indian dishes are usually vegetarian (never with beef). But the most important thing: food is cheap!

SO WHAT DO YOU NECESSARILY HAVE TO TRY?

Nasi Lemak – is the national Malaysian dish, often eaten for breakfast. It consists of coconut rice, sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber slices. There can be variations of Nasi Lemak, such as vegetarian, even vegan option, but the rice, cucumber, and peanuts are pretty much staple.

Laksa – is a spicy rice noodle soup, served with chicken, prawn or fish. You can also find a curry laksa served with coconut milk. The most famous one is the Penang Asam Laksa.

Roti canai – is a light flatbread served usually with 3 dipping sauces of varying levels of spiciness.

YUM YUM YUM! WHAT ELSE?

Mee Goreng – is yellow noodles mixed with beef or chicken, shrimp, soy sauce, local vegetables and egg. Topped with chilies and chili sauce.

Char Kuey Teow – is flat rice noodles, fried with pork, soy sauce, bean sprouts, chili and most importantly cockles (a kind of shellfish). Sometimes egg and prawns are added too.

Murtabak – is a pan fried bread mixture, filled with minced meat, onions and dipped in a spicy/sour sauce.

Rendang – is similar to a curry. It’s a mix of coconut milk, spices and meat, normally beef, chicken or lamb. Slow cooked so the sauce is thick and rich.

If you’re a vegetarian or a vegan, you’re probably thinking: “What on Earth will I be eating there?”. The answer is: Indian food. The choice of vegetarian and vegan options in Indian food corners is huge. But even within traditional Malaysian or Chinese cuisine you will find dishes without meat. If they are not on the menu, you can always ask for a recommendation.

AND SOMETHING TO DRINK?

If after all this food you suddenly feel thirsty, don’t forget to try Teh Tarik. It’s the national drink of Malaysia. And no, it’s not an alcoholic cocktail, it’s a hot milk tea.

You also can’t pass by the fruit stands and not try pineapples, coconuts and…durians! If you can smell garbage from afar, you know they sell durian there. This fruit, native to Malaysia, Indonesia and Borneo is super healthy, but incredibly stinky and will give you an experience you will never forget

Laksa

Nasi Lemak

Is there anything else I should know before travelling to Malaysia?

Yes!

There are a few more useful Malaysia travel tips:

– even though drinking tap water in Malaysia is safe, you might not want to risk it. Purchase a water bottle with built in filter (like I did) and you’re good to go. I was drinking filtered tap water throughout the whole trip and never had any problems.

– and those infamous ice cubes? I had many beverages with ice cubes and again – didn’t experience any stomach problems.[……]

ASIA

Top 37 Hidden Tourist Spots in the Philippines Travel Pros Rave About

June 28, 2021

Danjugan Island 1/37Cauayan, Negros Occidental (Check available Flights and Hotels)

Yoshke Dimen and Vins Carlos of The Poor Traveler say- “Danjugan Island is a rainforest-covered island and rich marine sanctuary that can be reached after a 4-hour drive from Bacolod and a 30-minute boat ride from mainland Cauayan. The island has five lagoons, two of which you can explore by kayak. Since it’s a protected area, fishing is not allowed here, allowing marine life to explode in full color. The best part is, you don’t need to be a scuba diver to enjoy it, you can simply do so by snorkeling. There you can see the bluest giant clams, humongous table corals, and all sorts of fish including juvenile black-tip sharks (if your timing is right). Danjugan Island can accept only a handful of guests per day – this ensures that the island’s pristine conditions will remain so for a long time.”

Sundang Island 2/37Lumot Mahipon Lake, Cavinti, Laguna(Check available Hotels)

JB and Renee Macatulad of Will Fly for Food say- “Have you ever fantasized about having your own private island? Well, you can with Sundang Island in Cavinti, Laguna. For as low as about P3,400 a night, you can rent this small island and house in the middle of a lake. The island in Lumot Mahipon Lake can be booked online, and it comes complete with boat transfers for groups as big as ten. Just hop into your car and make the 3-4 hour drive southeast of Manila to become king or queen of your very own island. Awesome!”

Bayugin Falls 3/37Bulusan, Sorsogon(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Nina Fuentes of Just Wandering says- “Visitors in Bulusan flock to the Bulusan Volcano National Park, but not many make it to Bayugin Falls. It’s a small waterfall, but the water is very cold and refreshing, especially on a hot and humid day.To get there, drive or take a tricycle up to Bgy. San Francisco. Admission fee is only 15 pesos per guest, vehicle parking costs 20 pesos, and cottages can be rented for 150 pesos. You can also get a guide, but there is no set amount for his fee. Once there, you need to take a short trek, and climb 278 steps down to reach the waterfalls. You can swim and take countless selfies near or under the waterfalls, but there is also a bigger swimming area towards the other end where the water flow is not as strong. Make sure to bring some food and drinks with you, because there are no stores there!”

Bonbon Beach 4/37Romblon, Romblon(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Joshua Berida of The Wandering Juan says- “Bonbon Beach in Romblon has fine, white sand, clear waters and a beautiful view. I first learned about Bonbon from another travel blog and decided to visit when I was in the province. Luckily, there weren’t too many people around! Make sure to wait until sunset so you get to see the sky turn into variants of red and orange before getting dark. The beach is easily accessible by public transport from the town. Simply board a tricycle, and tell the driver you’d like to go to Bonbon Beach. There are now flights from Manila to Tablas Island, Romblon, your next gateway to the beach.”

Kiokong White Rock Wall 5/37Quezon, Bukidnon(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Kara Santos of Travel Up says- “The Kiokong White Rock Wall is visible from a bridge along the Davao Bukidnon Highway. It’s one of the main attractions at the Kiokong Eco-Tourism Project site where you can also go rock climbing, rappelling from a bridge or swimming in the Blue Water Cave Pool nearby. Adventure Technology Outfitters, an outdoor group based in Bukidnon, offers tours where guests can ascend and stay overnight on the ledge of a cliff, 400 feet above the ground. For extreme adventurers, this is an amazing experience definitely worth putting on your bucket list.The site is accessible by land travel from Davao City or Cagayan de Oro City. I booked my return flight to Davao via Traveloka to get to Bukidnon, but if you want to see more of the province, you could go on a road trip and fly back via Cagayan de Oro instead.”

Mausonoan Island 6/37Linapacan, Palawan(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Ferdz Decena of Ironwulf says- “Mausonoan Island is easily accessible from Sibaltan, El Nido. Unspoiled by tourists and development, the island boasts of white powdery sand and incredibly clear turquoise waters. While you’re there, make sure to visit the nearby islands of Magransing and Binulbulan for excellent snorkeling.”

Codcod Rice Terraces 7/37San Carlos City, Negros Occidental (Check available Flights and Hotels)

Jeffrey of Traveling Morion says- “The Codcod rice terraces are the results of the artistic labor and dedication of the Codcod locals. With the cool weather, stunning views of Mt. Kanlaon, and the wonderful people, the terraces could possibly be the next ecotourism site. The Codcod Rice Terraces are located in Barangay Codcod, an upland barangay of San Carlos City.From San Carlos City, take a bus bound to Bacolod. Alight at the crossing going to Barangay Quezon. From there, hire a habal-habal that will take you to Barangay Codcod after passing Barangay Quezon. Alternately, you can also hire a habal-habal from San Carlos City proper to go directly to Barangay Codcod.”

Panguan Island 8/37Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Ervin Malicdem of Schadow1 Expeditions says- “Around 30 minutes away from Semporna, Sabah, and under the municipality of Sitangkai in Tawi-Tawi, Panguan Island is considered one of the most remote islands in the southern part of the Philippines. Also known as “Malamanok” in the local dialect, the island is where sea farers from the Sulu archipelago head over to roast their chicken for meals before heading to Malaysia. Luckily, I was able to get to Panguan Island through an invite from the marine corps for my mapping expedition, reconnaissance, and extraction mission. If you plan a visit, it can be reached via a 6-hour boat ride from Bongao.”

Bulusan Volcano Natural Park 9/37Bulusan, Sorsogon(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Lilliane Cobiao of Wanderlass says- “The town of Bulusan, Sorsogon is embraced by lush tropical greenery. In fact, the town’s pride, Bulusan Volcano National Park is located at the foot of the country’s fourth most active volcano in and serves as a sanctuary for a variety of plants and birds.Guests can choose to hire a guide to explore the area, or they can simply rent a kayak (about P100 per boat) to paddle around the clear waters. The park has hanging bridges that give you aerial views of the lands, as well as different treks, and areas for resting.”

Niludhan Falls 10/37Bayawan City, Negros Oriental(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Jeffrey of Traveling Morion says- “Niludhan falls is the pride and joy of Negros Oriental. It is a natural attraction that has yet to be explored by most. This waterfalls is hidden deep within the city’s forests and sugarcane plantations. Despite the different projects created to make it more accessible, Niludhan falls is still quite a long travel. But it’s actually the best part about it. It leads you so far from the urbanized city, making you feel like you are one with nature.The waterfall is around 25 meters wide and has a 40-meter vertical drop that builds a beautiful curtain of water. The plants around the area are also magnificent. The white color of the falls combined with the green of the plants and the blue of the sky make every angle a perfect shot.There are flights that can be booked headed to Dumaguete City. Once you are there, you can choose which one of the routes you would like to take. From there you can take the Bayawan Route (ride a Ceres bus near Robinson’s Place mall headed to Bayawan City. From there, ride a bus to Mabinay and go down on the stop of Niludhan Falls.”

Aglicay Beach 11/37Tablas Island, Romblon(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Carlo Dominguez of Travelosyo says- “Tablas Island is the largest of the islands that comprise Romblon. When people hear the word Romblon, they will immediately think about marble. Indeed, the province is the marble capital of the country, but only a few know that it is also home to some of best beaches just waiting to be discovered.Overshadowed by its neighboring superstar, Boracay, Tablas Island is just a few hours boat ride from Caticlan. Aglicay Beach is one of my favorite beaches. Its shoreline features almost a half-kilometer stretch of white sand, while the surrounding water is calm, clear and turquoise green. This place is perfect for people who are looking for a relaxing vacation.Aside from Aglicay Beach, there are so many things to see and do on Tablas Island. That is why you should visit Romblon before everybody does. To get here You can book a flight from Manila to Tablas Island via Traveloka.”

Panampangan Island 12/37Sapa-Sapa, Tawi-Tawi(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Marky Ramone Go of Nomadic Experiences says- “Panampangan island is a 12-hectare property located in between the municipalities of Panglima Sugala and Sapi Sapi. Though the island is undeniably breathtaking with its white sand and towering palm trees, it still remains to be fairly unvisited by tourists.During low tide, the island reveals a 3.1-kilometer long sandbar that extends its reach to the neighboring island in the same reef. Wade a few hundred meters offshore and you’ll be greeted by one of the richest marine life you’ll ever see. Sea urchins, turtles, colorful fishes, and pristine corals — still unspoiled. Today, the island has a few simple huts for visitors looking for a relaxing retreat. It’s managed by a family of friendly locals who will gladly provide you with a delicious feast straight from the sea. The nearest jump-off point is about 24 kilometers away in Panglima Sugala where you can take a two-hour boat ride to the island.”

Cabgan Islet 13/37Barobo, Surigao del Sur(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Gabz Gabiano of Pinoy Travel Freak says- “Surigao del Sur has plenty of hidden gems and one of my recent discoveries is the Cabgan Islet in Barobo It’s one of the three islands that you can visit in Barobo along with Turtle Island, but Cabgan Islet is the best for me in terms of sand quality, clarity of water and fantastic view! I first learned about it when I was looking at the Google Maps during my backpacking trip in Mindanao. To get there, just take a bus from Butuan City, Surigao City or Davao City that passes by Barobo. From the bus terminal of Barobo, take a tricycle to the port where you can hire a boat for an island hopping tour which costs P1,500 for three islands.”

Cambais Falls 14/37Alegria, Cebu(Check available Flights and Hotels)

CJ Estrada of Four Eyed Laagan says- “Cambais Falls is a gorgeous waterfall in Alegria, Cebu. It is located 11.3 km from the highway, thus a long and adventurous ride awaits.The 2-tier waterfall is undeniably worthy of its distance. The cold spring and the awe-inspiring view of the waterfall itself say it all. The wide pool of icy cold water and second level tier makes for a great jumping-off point for adventurous travelers.To get there, you can ride a bus from Cebu City straight to Alegria Market for P160-180 (depends on the bus type). From there, you can ride a motorcycle taxi (habal-habal) going to Cambais Falls for P150-200 each (depends on negotiation). Entrance fee to the waterfall is P30 per person. You can also opt in to bring your own vehicle but I would advise to bring a vehicle that can handle rough roads.”

Casino and Kandungaw Peaks 15/37Dalaguete, Cebu(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Abbie Ruiz of D’YAN LANG says- “Aside from the more famous attractions like the highest Osmena peak, Dalaguete has more mountains to climb. They say it’s a 20-minute trek up Casino Peak, but it took us a good 45-minutes thanks to the instagram-worthy scenery. Once you get to the top, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking views of the hills that resemble the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. In fact, the view is so beautiful that travelers come all the way just to see it. The trek to Kandungaw is a more challenging experience. To get to the top, you have to climb 195 steps, pass through muddy trails, and climb steep rocks. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for an adventure, the view is more than worth it. To cap off your trip, you can pass by Sergio’s Farm where you can pick and pay for some strawberries and all kinds of herbs depending on the season.”

Alibijaban Island 16/37San Andres, Quezon(Check availableHotels)

Jay Noma Ramos and Angelo Nivera of The Byajayro say- “Alibijaban Island is a virgin paradise located at the most southern tip of Quezon and is in the municipality of San Andres.From Manila, you will need to take a nine to ten-hour bus ride or six to seven hours of driving, if you have your own car. Having to endure the bumpy and itchy trip to San Andres pays huge rewards at the end, as the island is amazing.Alibijaban Island offers a very scenic and picturesque view of golden to white sand, crystal clear waters and undisturbed forests. To get there, take a bus going to San Andres, Quezon via Barney Bus (Alabang Starmall). Travel time is at least 8 hours.”

Palani Beach 17/37Balud, Masbate(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Lloyd Salac of The Lost Boy Lloyd says- “To manage expectations, I’d be honest and say Palani Beach isn’t exactly at par with Boracay’s White Beach. Nonetheless, it has the trifecta of what makes a great beach: an unspoiled stretch of white sand, crystal clear waters, and a pure breeze that wafts towards the shore. The beach resort was developed with the inspiration of “old Boracay” in mind — calm, beautiful and away from pollution.From Masbate Airport, you can take a jeep or a bus heading towards Balud Town. About 10 kilometers before you hit the town proper, along the National Highway, there will be an access road on the right that will lead you to Palani. From there, habal-habal drivers can be hired to take you straight to the beach.”

Pinipisakan Falls & Sulpan Cave 18/37San Jorge, Samar(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Joni Bonifacio of Trexplore the Adventures says- “Hard to get to, Pinipisakan Falls & Sulpan Cave are truly Samar’s hidden gems because even locals are hesitant to take the trip.The journey requires a lot of physical strength and determination with its treacherous climbs, strong currents, and slippery terrain. But the sight of the falls alone will cure any aches and pains the trek might have caused you. After crossing the crystal clear river, the towering curtains of water will greet you — you’ve made it! Though you can choose to camp by the pool, it’s is advisable to climb the 4 layered falls to reach the hidden Sulpan Cave. From there, you can traverse from one opening of the cave to the other, marvel at the rock formations, and jump off cliffs to the cool water below.”

Maligcong Rice Terraces 19/37Bontoc, Mountain Province(Check availableHotels)

Adah Grace Dela Cruz of Pinay Wanderess says- “Bontoc, Mt. Province is the road less traveled of the Cordillera region. Whenever we’d talk about Cordillera terraces, we would often have Banaue and Batad in mind. But what everyone does not know is there’s this hidden and equally gorgeous slopes of rice fields. I discovered this hidden gem in 2015 during my first solo backpacking trip in Cordillera. My friend who had been there first told me about it and he wasn’t kidding when he told me that it is indeed stunning. The best time to see this paradise is in the morning as the glorious flares of sunrise reflect on the magnificent rice terraces. It requires an easy hike that is totally perfect for beginners! I’d been here in November, February, and May; and the best month by far was November. You can take the van from Banaue to Sagada and ask the driver to drop you off at Bontoc proper. There should be a jeepney terminal near the tourism office that will bring you to Maligcong. Look for Ate Suzette, she has always been my host and a friend. She also has the best oatmeal cookie in town!”

Pinacanauan River 20/37Penablanca, Cagayan(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Estan Cabigas of Langyaw Travel says- “Pinacanauan River is pristine, cool and meanders through some of the amazing natural landscapes in Cagayan province. You can take a cruise, or paddle through its rapids, stop and watch the circadian bat flight at dusk or just enjoy the rock walls and rock formations along it’s route. I happened to know it during a trip to Callao Caves. From Tuguegarao, head to Peñablanca where Callao and Sierra Caves are.”

Callao Cave 21/37Penablanca, Cagayan(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Roxainne Ritual of Dorang Petite says- “Callao cave is a limestone cave with seven chambers situated at the northern tip of the Philippines. There are also several spectacular formations inside the cave.Getting to the cave itself requires you to climb 184 concrete steps. It has natural crevices that let light into it, giving you lots of opportunities for Instagram-worthy moments. If you’re particularly religious, its first chamber has actually been turned into a chapel by the community because of its cathedral-like dimensions. The Callao Cave is also near the Bat Cave, where you can watch the daily circadian flight of bats at dusk.To get to the Callao Cave, take a bus to Tugegarao City. This is a 10 to 14 hour drive, so if you can’t stand that, book a flight to Tugegarao City. The flight cuts down your travel time to one hour. From Tugegarao, take a 20-minute tricycle ride to Penablanca. After that, take another tricycle from Penablanca to the Callao Cave. Total trip time is 40 minutes.”

Lapsay Lagoon 22/37Taganaan, Surigao del Norte(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Jeffrey Rilles of Traveling Morion says- “Surigao del Norte never fails to amaze me! I have good memories of the place, especially of the beaches, the fresh seafood, wonderful people and its newest gem, the beautiful Lapsay Lagoon located in Tinago island in the municipality of Tagana-an. I don’t want to compare but the lagoon is similar to the Kayangan Lake in Coron or Sohoton of Bucas Grande (located also in Surigao del Norte). It’s definitely paradise on earth!”

Vanishing Island 23/37Malilipot, Albay(Check available Flights and Hotels)

Jay Noma Ramos and Angelo Nivera of The Byajayro say- “In the middle of the ocean of Malilipot, Albay you will discover a spell-binding sight that emerges when the tide recedes. It is believed to have come about as a result of the huge waves that hit the area during strong typhoons. It is not surprising how this charming and beautiful island has become a main tourist attraction of Albay.Vanishing Island was the name given to this magical place because it literally vanishes during high tide – not there, gone, nada!The island is an hour away from either Tabacco or Bacacay Port. You will know you are near when you can see in the distance tiny cottages that appear to be floating on the ocean.During high tide, most adults can wade through the knee-high water, but maybe that might be too deep for the younger kids. It’s deep enough to swim in and t[……]

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