Traveling

Best Country To Visit in Southeast Asia

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Asia is known for its rich history and culture, and it is a great place for travel especially if you are looking for something different. And because it is the largest continent, it is definitely hard to choose where to go for a start. Southeast Asia is the best way to go if you are into beautiful scenery and beaches. If you live in a cold place or country, this will be a nice way for you to escape the cold and embrace some warmth. In addition, it is very budget-friendly. If you are finding a place to stay, here are some suggestions:

1. Indonesia

You can do a lot of activities in Indonesia with its volcanoes and beaches. Bali is a well-known destination because of its various activities and attractions, but there are still other places you could visit. Indonesia is also known for its coffee and fried rice.

2. Thailand

Thailand has its significant gorgeous beaches but what it is known for are the parties and if you love mingling and fun nightlife, Thailand is the place. Despite that, they still have their temples that you could visit. Thailand also offers vast cuisine that can be found in the streets and restaurants.

3. Philippines

An archipelago that consists of more than 7,000 islands and because of this, this country have a lot of beaches you go to. But if you are looking for other sights and activities, it has a lot to offer. With its mountains and volcanoes, you can have a hike with one of those. It also features amazing sights like the Banaue Rice Terraces. In addition, you can also see historical landmarks such as churches and buildings that were mostly made during the Spanish colonization.

4. Malaysia

If you love safaris, Malaysia offers them because of their rainforests. You could also see a lot of wildlife sanctuaries. You can also do some hiking. Food is also great and the must-try is their soup called Laksa that has coconut curry in it.

5. Singapore

It is an island city-state that is known for its cleanliness and safety. Unlike other Southeast Asian countries, Singapore is very high tech and full of modern architecture buildings. There are lot of foods to try too and the best place would be at a night market and multi-culture given its state.

6. Laos

Laos has this soothing and calm vibe to it. It is also rich in history. The capital, Luang Pragang, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for their ancient temples. With its rivers, you could do a lot of activities such as tubing and kayaking. There are also zip lines and caves you could go to. This is definitely a perfect place if you love doing adrenaline-rushed activities.

7. Cambodia

Cambodia has the Angkor Wat which is one of the largest temples in the world. You could actually rent a bike and ride around the temple. Aside from that, there are also towns that feature interesting architectures from the French colonization.

Must-See​ European Cities

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A great way to catch a break is to go on a vacation. By this, you will able to relax and just focus on the good. You can definitely do this when you are to go on a vacation abroad. It will not only involve new sights but also new cultures and a different atmosphere. So why don’t you go ahead and make plans?

If you are thinking about what country would be the best to go to, there are definitely a lot of them. If you want places that are rich in history, why not travel to Europe? The sights itself will draw you in and add to that are the different cuisines you could try. There are a lot of places though, so where should you start?

1. Paris, France

This city is also called the “City of Love.” It is already filled with iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower and Louvre. This city also has a lot of museums, monuments, and churches. If you want to do some activity, you can have a bike ride around the city. Paris also has a lot of cafes you can try.

2. London, England

It has the iconic sights such as Big Ben, Tower of London, and more. If you are into stage musicals, you can see one at the West End. You can also experience the local cuisine through pubs and restaurants.

3. Florence, Italy

Italy has a lot to offer and has more than one city and places you should go to. But Florence is a good start with the art museums, street eats, and great architectures. You can go to Piazzale Michaelangelo for a stunning view.

4. Amsterdam, Netherlands

If you love going to cafes, Amsterdam is notorious for it. You can also have a bike ride throughout the city. It has the many famous museums such as the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and Verzetsmuseum. There are also a lot of parks to set up a picnic.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is known for its Gothic architectures. You can see it when you visit places like St. Vitus Cathedral and Prague Castle. There is also the Old Town Square with its lively atmosphere.

6. Edinburg, Scotland

Edinburg is known for its castle and rich culture. You can see a lot of historical places in this city. If you want to try their cuisine, you can hit pubs that are scattered around the city.

7. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona has a lot to offer from architectures to art to food. Since Barcelona is located by the sea, it has a lot of beaches you can go to. 

8. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is known for both being a place rich in history and also with beers. It is where the Guinness headquarters is held and because of that, this city has a lot of pubs. 

9. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a great place for people who loves history because of the variety of museums, art galleries, and historic neighborhoods. If you like to party and mingle at night, it also offers a great nightlife with all the nightclubs around.

10. Istanbul, Turkey

It is an ancient city with modern advances. Despite the skyscrapers they built, they still managed to preserve historical monuments.

Best Cities in Asia

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Traveling is said to be good for the soul because it refreshes your mind and keeps you away from all of the stress. This is especially if you are going to another country where you will be exposed to not only new scenery but also new atmosphere and culture. One of the best continents to travel is Asia because of its rich culture and history. Asia is the largest continent though, so there are many possible places to go. Do you know where you’re going? Here are some of the cities you could go as a start.

1. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is firstly known for its food with noodles such as udon and ramen and their rice bowls. It is also a fashion capital with it having a lot of shopping malls. But in the midst of it being a busy city, Tokyo still preserves and treasure their culture and religion with the shrines and temples.

2. Seoul, South Korea

South Korea is a country that became really popular because of the rise of Kpop groups and their culture. When you visit Seoul though, you will see the vast skyscrapers and high tech facilities. There are also a lot of shopping malls you could go to. With Korean barbecues being a trend, why not try it in the source itself in addition to their other cuisines.

3. Singapore

Singapore is an island city-state that is known for its cleanliness, safety, and cuisine. It is also a place that is modern with its architecture and facilities. 

4. Bangkok, Thailand

It is known for its culture with temples and markets. But it is also modern with its buildings and skylines. Bangkok is also known for its various cuisines that also features other culture like the Middle Eastern. While you are there, check out the floating markets that can be done by a boat.

5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

It is the home for the famous Petronas Twin Towers which were the world’s tallest buildings. But it is not the only one to see for Kuala Lumpur also offers a lot of architectures and skyscrapers to see. And because of its vast cultures, they have a great mix of cuisines you could try with a lot of restaurants. They also have a lot of markets and shopping centers you could shop.

6. Beijing, China

It has the Forbidden City which offers ancient palaces that is a great example for imperial architectures. It is also the home for one of the world’s greatest man-made wonder which is the Great Wall of China. There are also several temples you could visit.

7. Hoi An, Vietnam

This city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which preserves the historical architecture of the 15th to 19th century through its streets, buildings, and Southeast Asian trading ports.

8. Mumbai, India

Mumbai is the home for the Bollywood film industry. It is chaotic but it surely has a lot of places to visit with their architectures and markets. Indian cuisine is also a must-try, so do not forget to visit their restaurants.

Tips for Traveling Abroad for the First Time

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Being on vacation is exciting. What more exciting is having a trip. What is even more exciting is having a trip abroad especially if it is your first time. There is something about being in a new place with a different atmosphere and even a different culture. It will be really refreshing and relaxing and kind of overwhelming at times even. But it is definitely a great time to take a break and consume the sights that you will see and make new memories.

Like any other trip, it will involve planning and there will surely be a lot. If this will be your first time, here are some important essentials you need to know:

1. Know the necessary documents needed

First thing will definitely be your passport and visa. You should know about the limitation and expiry dates of them when you plan. They might need to be renewed before you plan or you leave and to know your schedule. Another are the files needed for confirmation with your flight and lodging. You can have them printed for you to have a physical copy to carry around when you are traveling and also as evidence in case problems arise. This also includes contacting your credit card company and bank to inform them that you are leaving the country. This will avoid suspicions of fraud and so that you can use them even if you are at another country. Another thing to prepare is your budget. Be sure to know about it and set it up even its limitations to be sure.

2. Know what to pack up

You may get too excited upon leaving for abroad for the first time that you may want to bring a lot of things and clothes. But always remember that you might need or even use all of them during your trip for there will be other things you will do or get excited about. Add to that, your luggage might be added with a lot of memorabilia and souvenirs that will be added. So that is why it is important to pack light and just bring necessary items including enough clothes (with some extras). A great way to know about them is to have a list beforehand. Be sure to have extra clothes in your hand luggage in case something happens like a canceled flight.

3. Know about their culture

When you are going abroad, it will be definitely different from what you are used to. Not only the sights but also the way of living people does. So it is important to know what their culture beforehand. There might be things or gestures that you should avoid because they may get offended or consider it rude. It is also handy to know about their language even just the basics. There are times that you will need to know your way around and it will be hard if people do not speak English. Also, by knowing their culture, the shock will be avoided and you will know that it is how it works for their country. To know about this, you can buy guide books and dictionaries or simply do quick research on the internet.

Things To Do Before Leaving for Vacation

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Going on vacation is very much anticipated by everyone. It is a great time for you to take a break from work and other stress that is happening. It will be a nice way for you to clear your mind and relax. If you are going with someone whether It with your friends or family, it will be a great way for you to bond with them.

But it is also important for you to plan your travel. There are many essentials needed. Before you leave for a vacation, you might need to do this.

1. Prepare the documents needed

Whether you are traveling abroad or not, there will be a lot of documents involve with your trip. When you are traveling abroad, of course, you would need your passport, visa, and plane tickets. Be sure to have confirmations about your flight and lodging. But even if you are just traveling locally, you will still need confirmations about your board and lodging and transportations such as train, bus, and plane. Another thing to confirm are places of entertainment that needed reservation such as stage plays. Documents also include ones at your home that needed to be settled before leaving such as bills. Be sure to update your travel documents and travel insurance too. If you are leaving the country, be sure to inform your credit card company or bank to avoid fraud and so you can also use it if it is applicable. Also, another important thing is that you know and set up your budget that will be needed for your vacation.

2. Prepare a list of emergency numbers

Being on vacation is unpredictable. In case something happens, you should have a list to contact like close friends and relatives. Keep track of other emergency numbers too such as hospitals and conduct research about the local numbers too.

3. Inform a trusted family or friend

When you are leaving, be sure to have a trusted person to know where are you going and how long. They could be the ones you can contact in case of emergency. They are also ones you will entrust with your home especially if you have pets that needed to be fed. 

4. Pack up 

Be sure to pack up the essentials. It will definitely depend on the place where you are going. But no matter where you go, do not overdo it and pack light. Like the clothes for example, just pack enough including the extras. Be sure to have one in your hand luggage too in case of an emergency like canceled flights. To know which one should be packed, it will be handy to have a list needed for your trip.

5. Check the weather

Know if the weather is applicable for you to leave. In case a plane trip is required, you might want to know about the flight being canceled that needed to be rescheduled or even refunded. This is also applicable when you are going home.

6. Secure home

Being on vacation means leaving home for a while, so make sure to check if it will be secured enough. Have a trusted family or friend, maybe a neighbor, to watch out for your home. Be sure that no unnecessary electronics are plugged especially those that might cause to start a fire. Also, be sure to have your trash empty and check your refrigerator if something needed to be disposed of. This will save you from food that might get rotten and the smell it will emit.

Must-Have​ Travel Items

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With our lives being busy, it is good to have a break at times. Traveling exposes us to a new environment, so it is a nice way to clear our mind. Whether you are traveling abroad or locally, by land or by air, it is nice to be somewhere different. You may have gone to that place before or perhaps it is somewhere new to you but being in a different place takes you away from the busyness of your life.

Traveling will involve a lot of planning though. There are essentials that you need have. What are they?

1. Clothing

Clothing will depend on where you will go. If it is in a cooler place or even cold enough for snow, you might need to bring thicker clothes and accessories for it like a scarf, gloves, and cap. If you plan to go to a warmer place, you may need less. But no matter where you will go, it is important to pack light. Bring clothes, a few extras included, but just enough for your trip. Many times you get so excited when packing and in the end, you aren’t really able to wear them all. Also, since the weather is unpredictable at times, bring clothes that are essential when the rain comes.

2. Toiletries

Sometimes you would ask if it is even necessary to bring toiletries especially if there will be complimentary items in the hotel you will stay in or perhaps you just plan to buy in nearby stores you will go to. Toiletries are more than just the shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, soaps, and even towels. You can skip bringing those if you want to but sometimes they will be handy if you need extras. Apart from those, there are some items that are not given in hotels like sunscreens which are a necessity on a hot day or if you are planning to go for a swim.

3. Medicine

Sometimes, you just cannot predict what will happen. You might get a headache from walking all day or eat food that is bad. You or some of your companions might not be good with vehicles and get sick on the trip. That is why it important to have medicines around in case of emergency. This also includes vitamins and maintenance medication. Keep in mind if you or your companions are prone to allergy or asthmatic. You will need an Epipen or inhaler on hand.

4. Documents

You will need to check to make sure you have your documents because they are the most important thing for getting to your destination. Without them, you might not get to travel at all. When you are traveling by plane, train, ship, or bus, you will definitely need your ticket, so be sure to have them in a safe place. If you are going to travel to another country, your passport and visa (if needed) should be secured. Other essential documents including your ID and money (both cash and credit cards). You will also need information on where you are staying to assure confirmations and avoid problems like canceling without your permission. If you have one, medical prescriptions are also needed in case of emergency.

Fun Things to Bring On Vacation

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Vacation is a good way for you to relax and take a break from stress. It is a good way for you to spend time and bond with your family and friends. It will clear your mind and also give you a new perspective on other cultures whether you are traveling abroad or locally.

But you will also need to bring some things that can be helpful for your trip. There are the necessities but there are also some things for preserving memories and also entertainment when you are at your hotel to rest.

1. Gadgets

There are a lot of possible gadgets to bring. Smartphones would be an obvious one since it will be used for contacting friends and relatives especially in need of emergency. Smartphones are also used as a camera for documenting though you can still have a camera if you want to. And because of social media, you will be able to share them on the spot. Smartphones can also have games, music, and movies installed in them in case you need an added entertainment at your hotel room.

2. Portable Speakers and Headphones

Taking a break is done even on a vacation. Sometimes we just get tired of walking around and seeing sights. You can watch movies with your laptop with your companions and have portable speakers for enhancing the sound. If you would want it by yourself or listen to music without disturbing anyone, a good pair of headphones will be handy. You could also use it when you want to relax at a park and taking in the scenery with music.

3. Playing Cards

Another thing handy while resting in a hotel room with your companions and bond with them at the same time. There are endless possibilities to do with playing cards even if you are playing with kids. You could also bring alternative playing cards like the Uno cards.

4. Journaling Items

At times we want to document our travels and photos are not enough. Journaling is the best way to do that. You will just need to bring a notebook with you. This will be best if you love to write and could describe the places you have seen and what happened that day.  If you are not into writing, you could just save your trinkets like tickets, stubs, food wrappers, brochures, and anything memorable for you and stick it in your notebook. You could also do both or even have some pictures with them too. Some do their journaling mixed with scrapbooking, so if you are into that, why not do it with your vacation? It is a fun way to preserve memories for some.

5. Books

Another way to relax while resting is to read a good book. Not only is this handy for hotel room stays, but it could also be done in a hammock on a beach or a cabin or even at a park. Sometimes,  walking around may be overwhelming, so it will be nice to have your mind elsewhere by reading a book. 

Packing List for a Beach Vacation

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Going on vacation is the best thing to do if your kids are on a break. If you do not have one, it does not matter for you yourself will need breaks from time to time. Going on a beach is a vacation that is more enjoyable when you have company. You will be able to bond with them and can do various activities together.

Of course, like any other vacation or travel, you would need to plan ahead. First thing you should need to know are the essentials when you are going to trip on a beach. What are they?

1. Bag

The first thing you would need are the right bags. There are many beach bags available according to your needs. You will need one big enough to accommodate your needs such as towel, clothes, and toiletries. As for food, it would be wise to have them in a separate bag to avoid spillage on clothes and smell. It would also be handy to have cooler bags for beverages and ice.

2. Clothes

You do not have to bring many especially if you will always spend your time doing beach activities. You will surely need an outfit for those though. If you are planning to stay overnight or are on a beach far away from home, be sure to pack enough and is appropriate for your trip.

3. Towels

Towels are not used only to dry after a swim but also for laying down in the sand in for rest or for sunbathing. Be sure to have enough because sometimes, one or two might not be enough especially if they are small in size.

4. Toiletries

Toiletries include sunblock for protection from the sun. That is definitely a must. Another is lip balm because our lips will tend to dry not only from the heat but also from the water. If you are planning to shower at the beach rooms, soap and shampoo would be handy to get rid of some dirt and saltiness from the water.

5. Food

Going to the beach most often involve lunchtime, so be sure to pack enough and put it in a safe container. Drinks especially, water is a must to stay dehydrated from the heat and activities. And because of various activities will likely be done, it is important to have some snacks to stay energized. There are beaches that provide shelter to stay in for sleeping. It will be possible for you or your other companions to cook meals if that is the case. Just know if there are markets or grocery stores nearby for the ingredients.

6. Entertainment items

Being at the beach does not only involve swimming. There are a lot of possibilities for kids and adults alike. You can bring sports equipments such a ball or frisbee for a game. You can also bring a book if you just want to have quiet time to yourself. Portable speakers are also handy to add some noise (not too disturbing though).