#>where

[emilyzh2019-blog]

Virtual Mailboxes: How to Receive Mail while Traveling

Digital Nomads

How do long-term travelers and digital nomads receive mail or packages while traveling? I use a virtual mailbox service that allows me to scan and forward my mail internationally.

I’ve been working as a digital nomad for the past 9 years, basing myself in multiple countries or simply living out of my backpack while traveling.

Currently, I’m living as an expat in Italy.

Yet I have a virtual mailbox with a physical address in San Antonio, Texas.

Using this service, any incoming mail or packages is photographed, which I can then view through an online dashboard.

From there, I can decide to scan the contents (letters), forward the mail/packages somewhere else, or have it shredded/recycled. I can even deposit checks.

My virtual mailbox service is incredibly helpful for running my online business getting paid to travel around the world!

I use it to receive payments from clients, for business & personal bills, bank & credit card statements, legal documents, packages, and more.

Guide To Virtual Mail Forwarding In 2019

My Earth Class Mail Online Dashboard

1. Earth Class Mail (Recommended)

Cost: $69-$179 USD per month

Earth Class Mail is the virtual mailbox service that I personally use, and have been using for the last 5 years. Their suite of features is the most advanced, especially if you’re running an online business.

They have the largest number of US-based addresses for different states of all the services mentioned here. Their online software, features, speed, and sorting facilities are top-notch, but you’ll also pay a premium for it.

While expensive, I can’t imagine running my travel blog without them. It’s one business expense that’s totally worth it. I use them to receive client checks, important packages, business & personal banking correspondence, tax documents, everything!

The service integrates with QuickBooks, Xero, Bill.com, Dropbox, Google Drive, and more.

They also offer a fully-automated CheckStream Deposit Service if your business receives a lot of physical checks.

Earth Class Mail Details →

2. Traveling Mailbox

Cost: $15-$159 USD per month

Traveling Mailbox is another decent forwarding service with 5 plans to choose from depending on your needs. Like Earth Class Mail, all accounts include basic envelope scans, junk mail filtering, unlimited cloud storage and free mail shredding.

They have over 30 addresses around the US. Premium features like check deposits cost extra. There are additional fees if you go over your monthly limits. The service integrates with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox.

3. US Global Mail

Cost: $10-$20 USD per month

US Global Mail has been around since 1998, and they offer individual and family plans for short-term (monthly) or long-term (1-2 year) periods.

They offer free letter storage for 180 days, and free package storage for 30 days. Mail forwarding rates are quite affordable. One major downside is that they only offer one address location in Houston, Texas. This isn’t ideal if you need your address to match your state of residence.

4.8 million Americans who now call themselves digital nomads? Technology has made the digital office a reality for many, and now you don’t have to be tied down by physical mail either.

RVers & Vanlifers

Living out of a vehicle like an RV or campervan poses a challenge to receiving your mail & packages, especially if you’re on the road. Forward your mail to the next RV campground you plan to stop at, no matter what state you’re driving through.

Expats

Are you living overseas in a foreign country with a travel-friendly job, but want to keep a physical mailing address in the US for billing, voting, and tax purposes? Sign up for a virtual mailing address in your former home state.

USPS Form 1583 and have it notarized.

Unless you’re signing up for Earth Class Mail, who offers free complimentary notarized online activation, you’ll need to get the form notarized in person.

Or if you’re already outside the United States — through an online notary service like NotaryCam (which only costs $25).

Reduce the amount of physical mail you generate by signing up for paperless billing and online statements. Opt out of credit card & insurance offers using https://www.optoutprescreen.com/

Many financial institutions require a physical mailing address and don’t allow PO boxes. Make sure to choose a plan accordingly.

When picking a virtual mailbox service, pay attention to the plan limits and figure out how much mail you think you’ll receive.

You might be able to reduce your state taxes by setting up residency in a state with no income tax. Pick a virtual address in that same state.

READ MORE DIGITAL NOMAD TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide to virtual mailbox services! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:

How To Start A Successful Travel Blog

Proof Of Onward Travel For Flying

My Best Travel Tips For Beginners

10 Great Compact Travel Cameras

How I Became An Irish Citizen

Have any questions about virtual mailbox services or mail forwarding while you travel? Any other suggestions? Let me know in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

[poolenick-blog]

Nepal is a historic and natural wonder of sorts, so you could imagine how ecstatic I was when I had the chance to visit this amazing destination last year whilst I did various fun things to do in Kathmandu!

FYI: To best clarify the difference between Kathmandu city and Kathmandu Valley, you must first understand that the Kathmandu Valley is made up of 3 beautiful ancient cities, namely: Kathmandu (the largest city and capital), Lalitpur (also called as Patan), and Bhaktapur — .

As such, these 3 places that make up the Kathmandu Valley have an enthralling mix of sights, smells and sounds, as well as an awe-inspiring number of temple complexes and squares. As a matter of fact, this 220sqm region has become a place that has the densest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world!

That being said, for such an intoxicating place like this, you would surely need to be on top of the best things to do in Kathmandu city or the valley as a whole. But fret not, because with the guide below, you will be making the most of your time here as you base yourself in the capital city of Kathmandu!

Come and check out my list of the ‘Best Hotels in Kathmandu‘ which features the top recommended choices for cheap to luxurious accommodation choices.

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Things to Do in Kathmandu

 – Visit the city’s key landmarks

Boudhanath, Swayambhunath and Durbar Square from Shutterstock.com With such a dynamic city like Kathmandu, there are definitely a lot of attractions or landmarks that are worth seeing, but to start off, below are some of the spots that you absolutely must NOT miss!

NOTE: *★ – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

★ Pashupatinath: This is a sacred Hindu temple complex which serves as the seat of Nepal’s national deity, Lord Shiva (one of the principal deities of Hinduism in which Pashupatinath or Pashupathi is one of his given names). As the oldest Hindu temple in the city, you will find a sprawling mix of temples, ashrams (spiritual monasteries), images, and inscriptions from the moment that you set foot in this place. TIP: 

If you want a unique experience, you can visit in the morning to see them do cremations or visit in the evening from 6PM to see the aarti (worship with fire).

Swayambhunath: This is an ancient religious architecture that contains shrines, temples, a stupa, a Tibetan monastery, a museum, and a library — moreover, it is also surrounded by ‘holy monkeys’ (as per mythology) which made it gain the nickname: ‘Monkey Temple’. Although this site is considered Buddhist, it remains to be revered by both Buddhist and Hindus. TIP:

To get a great panoramic view of the stupa, enter the Tamang Gompa monastery. Meanwhile, for a less crowded environment, it’s best to come either early in the morning or early in the evening.

Garden of Dreams or Swapna Bagaicha: If you want to find a space that is away from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, the serene atmosphere of the beautifully-restored neo-classical Swapna Bagaicha or Garden of Dreams will be your wanted respite. In here, you can enjoy a vast garden that has 3 pavillions, an amhitheater, ponds, urns, and pergolas (walkways).

Wanna do a guided Kathmandu tour?

With the help of a local guide, you can take part in a 7-hour Kathmandu day tour which will cover all of the city’s top highlights and UNESCO spots. To book your spot, go here.

#2 – Go through Thamel and have some fun!

If you’re looking for the liveliest commercial neighborhood in the city, you only need to head to Thamel which is distinguished for its narrow alleys that are filled with various buildings and vendors: clubs, hotels, hostels, pubs, restaurants, shops, tour operators, and more — you really will find almost everything here!

To fill up your itinerary, below is a list of recommended things to do in Kathmandu’s Thamel:

Go shopping: Bring home some souvenirs and gifts by browsing through the array of colorful shawls, jewelry, statues, paintings, etc. As for my tip? Haggle hard if you want to get a fair and good price. As a standard, aim to ask for half or a 3rd of their original quoted price. (But if I you’re not too privy like me wherein you wouldn’t mind giving some extra help to the locals — even if they’re not being exactly fair with the price — it’s fine to skip on the bargaining.) Do some classes or workshops: There are a number of shops in Thamel that can, for instance, teach you how to cook Nepali cuisine, do Buddhist thangka paintings, make woodcarvings, and more. You could even enroll in an amazing yoga class or retreat! Your activity choices are absolutely endless.

TIP:

If you’re rather looking for authentic bazaar-esque places, head on over to either Asan, Indrachok or Mangal bazaars. #3 – Fly above the Himalayas and Mt. Everest

Mt Everest from Shutterstock.com Let’s face it: a lot of us are NOT prepared to scale the summit of the world’s highest peak; so thankfully, as part of your things to do in Kathmandu, there are providers in Nepal that gives anyone the chance to get a bit close to the Himalayas and see the beauty that is Mt. Everest.

Of course, nothing beats the experience of trekking up to the summit or to the Everest Base Camp — BUT, if you can’t do that, then why not just fly there, right? Besides, you’ll be among the lucky few who can get to witness this majestic mountain range from up high in just a few hundred meters away!

Yet… as you would expect, this is NOT entirely cheap; but for sure, it will certainly be worth it!

Lasting from 45 minutes to an hour, most flights start from around $50 and there are 2 options for you to choose from: doing it by helicopter or by plane. There are a lot of tour operators who offer helicopter rides, but when it comes to aerial rides, there are 3 airlines who are well-known for doing it: Buddha Air, Guna Air and Yeti Air.

Wanna book an Everest flight?

For a hassle-free experience, you can book your Everest mountain flight here. Subject to schedule availability, this flight tour will be made through Buddha Air, Yeti Air or Simrik Air.

TIP: Book a flight during the earliest part of the day for the leat chance of getting cloudy or bad weather.

NOTE: If in case you don’t have the budget to fly nor the capacity to hike/trek, there is another option for you to see Mt. Everest “up close”. Aside from the obvious fact that you just go to places or towns that have a clear view of the Himalayas, you can also get an ‘aerial glimpse’ from up high on the plane when you get in or get out of Nepal — provided that you pick the right seat.

For example, if you’re flying to Nepal from Southeast Asia, reserve a window seat on the right (those labeled letter K, for example). And when flying back to Southeast Asia from Nepal, go for the left seats (letter A’s). You can always ask for tips from the airline you’re flying with to be sure!

#4 – Enjoy the natural landscape through outdoor activities

River Rafting from Shutterstock.com As a part of your things to do in Kathmandu, you should make sure that you also grab the chance of enjoying the city’s surrounding natural terrain by doing the following outdoor activities…

Hiking/Trekking: There are a number of amazing hikes that you can do around the valley such as Chisapani, Champadevi, Nagarkot, and Nagarjun. You could also go to to the high peaks of Shivapuri National Park, or if you are up for a longer hike, there is a 6-day trek from Kathmandu to Langtang National Park (the st Himalayan national park in Nepal). All in all, I can assure you that the sights will be stunning — more so when you get to see the surrounding terrain during sunrise or sunset. river rafting tour that goes through Trishuli River which connects the city of Kathmandu to Pokhara. To reserve your spot for this adventure, go here. Rock climbing: If you’re looking for something to climb that is not Mt. Everest, there are several options for you in the heart of Kathmandu. First up, in case you are not ready yet to go for natural cliffs, there is an Astrek Climbing Wall in Thamel. Otherwise, great natural climbing cliffs can be found at Hattiban (Pharping) and Nagarjun. #5 – Explore nearby cities and towns

Nagarkot and Patan from Shutterstock.com Wanna fully escape the traffic and urban setting found in Kathmandu? There are several charming towns and cities that you could explore during your time there.

Bhaktapur: As one of the ancient cities that make up Kathmandu Valley, you will enjoy how this place has the most temples per square kilometer in Nepal! Truth be told, it has the best-preserved palace courtyards and old city center in the country. TRANSPORTATION:

(Less than hour away). Ride a bus at Bagbazar or Ratna Park that costs about 50 NPR (less than $), or get a taxi that will cost you around ,000 NPR one way ($9~). (Otherwise, you can also join a Bhaktapur Tour with a stopover at Patan here). TRANSPORTATION: (30 minutes away). Ride a bus at Ratna Park or a blue/green bus at Ring Road which will cost about 5 NPR (less than $). Taxis, on the other hand, will be about 200 NPR ($2~). (Otherwise, you can also join a Patan Tour with a stopover at Bhaktapur here). TRANSPORTATION: (Less than hour away). It’s preferable to get a day tour that covers both of these villages. To reserve a spot, go here. TRANSPORTATION:

(Less than 2 hours away). Ride a bus from Ratna for around 60 NPR (less than $~). Taking a taxi will be more expensive at about 2,500 NPR ($24~). TRANSPORTATION: (Less than 2 hours away). Ride a bus at Bakhtapur Bus Terminal at Ratna Park, and from Bhaktapur you can get to Nagarkot (total of about 70 NPR or less than $~). Since this can be quite a hassle, it’s rather best to get a private car for hire or a taxi which can be around 3,000 NPR ($30~). TRANSPORTATION: (About 30 minutes). Ride a bus at Ratna Park for less than 50 NPR (less than $~) or get a taxi for approximately 500 NPR ($5~). .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, h2{ border-color: }

Pre-Travel Guide

When is the best time to visit Nepal? Below are the prominent 4 seasons in Nepal…

Spring: March to May with pleasant temperature averaging from 6ºC to 23ºC. This is the 2nd most popular season with its warmer days and flower blooms such as the rhododendrons which is the national flower of Nepal. The only con for traveling during this time is that there’s higher chance of haze that will obscure the mountains from lower elevations.

Summer: June to August, hot and wet, averaging from 23ºC to 30ºC. There is high humidity and there’s rain almost every day so it’s not an ideal time to visit especially if you want to explore the nature. (But city visits is fine since there will be lesser crowds).

Autumn: September to November with cooler temperatures, averaging 5ºC to 25ºC. This is the best tourist season given that the weather is more pleasant, bringing in clearer views of the mountains. Furthermore, big Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar happen during these months so it can get quite lively.

Winter: December to February with cool weather averaging 9ºC to 2ºC. This is also the season where the skies are clear, but just make sure that you are well prepared especially when going out on treks since the temperature drops significantly at night time.

Where to get the best flight promos to Kathmandu? My go-to platform for grabbing the best flight deals is Skyscanner since it scans all possible airlines that fly to and from your destination. I can even set up alerts so that it notifies me when the prices suddenly drop or rise.

Nepal’s main international getaway is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) which is located about 6km from Kathmandu city. In order to get to the center (such as that of Thamel), you can arrange a hotel transfer, a prepaid taxi (approx. 700~ NPR), a regular taxi (approx. 400~ NPR), or a bus (approx. NPR 0~).

How to change your money into Nepal currency? Nepal’s currency is called as Nepalese Rupee (NPR). I highly advice that you do NOT exchange your money at the airport since the rates there are totally not competitive. What should you rather do? Either exchange your money or US dollars at a bank or at a money exchanger in your home country or in Kathmandu’s thamel; or better yet, just withdraw from an ATM with your debit/credit card. Remember to keep the exchange receipt because you will need it when you need to change back your NPR to your original currency. Rate exchange: USD $ = NPR 03~ = Php 50~

Where to best stay (for accommodations)? Budget: Shangrila Boutique Hotel (or see HostelWorld for complete list of Kathmandu hostels) Mid-Range: Kantipur Temple House Luxury: Hyatt Regency Kathmandu

To see a complete list of the top recommended accommodation chances ranging from cheap to luxury places, check out this post of the ‘Best Hotels in Kathmandu‘.

How can I go around Kathmandu? Some places can be reached by foot, but since it can get quite chaotic due to the lack of street names, it’s best to either get a rickshaw especially if you don’t have Google Maps on hand to navigate your way as you execute the above list of things to do in Kathmandu.

Rickshaws can be found everywhere and prices can start at 5 NPR — but it’s highly likely that the driver will set a higher price, so feel free to haggle. Meanwhile, taxis and green or blue buses are more ideal if you want to go to far places inside or outside of the Kathmandu Valley. Taxis are also not that hard to find especially in the day (it gets harder at night though) and cost can start at 300~ NPR if, let’s say, you want to get to Patan. As for buses, you can find them around the city or on the ‘Ring Road’ and the cost can start from 20 NPR. Just take note that the buses are quite old and it’s not entirely comfortable.

Should I get a visa to visit Nepal? Yes, ALL foreigners (except Indians) are required to have a visa to visit Nepal. Rest assured, the process is fairly easy and fast. To know the whole process and details, see my ‘How to Apply for a Nepal Visa on Arrival‘ guide.

Helpful Nepali phrases Many local Nepalese have no difficulties speaking English as a second language, and it becomes more prevalent when you’re in the capital of Kathmandu. But of course, it doesn’t hurt to learn a bit of Nepali.

Hello: Namaste / Namaskār ((Nah-MAH-stay / Nah-MAH-skar) Thank you: Dhanyavād (DHAN-naii-bat) Yes: Hajur / Ho (HA-jur / HO) No: Chaina / Haina (Chai-NA / Hai-Na) Goodbye: Namaste / Namaskār ((Nah-MAH-stay / Nah-MAH-skar) .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, h2{ border-color: }

Overall

Much like what I experienced, I hope that this list of things to do in Kathmandu will help you capture the best of the valley’s cultural and natural highlights.

Sure enough, there is a dizzying number of activities and sights for you in this destination but I can guarantee you that the things listed above will already give you a great Nepal experience that will be worth your time and money. Enjoy!

Photo above and feature photo of Patan from Shutterstock.com DISCLOSURE: Thank you so much to the Himalayan Travel Mart 207, PATA and PTBA for making this Nepal trip happen.

How about you?

Would you like to visit Kathmandu? Why or why not

What things to do in Kathmandu would you best like to do or see?

Or have you been here before? Do you have any other tips to add?

Did you like this article? Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube and be notified about my newest posts and updates!

The post Top 5 Amazing Things to Do in Kathmandu City & Valley (Nepal) appeared first on I am Aileen.

[ericsdietert-blog]

We know plenty of keen visitors to Africa don’t have the luxury of choosing the “ideal” dates to travel. Let’s be honest, life is busy! This might seem like a limiting factor when planning a safari trip, but it doesn’t have to be. One of the beauties of Africa is its diversity, which means there’s an abundance of options to satisfy almost everyone, at any time of year. However this don’t make the task of choosing where to go in Africa any easier! So over four seasonal blog posts, we’ll be looking at your best safari options for the coming year.

Here are our recommendations for where to go in Africa during May, June and July …

This blog article is courtesy of Cedarberg Africa, a travel and safari company specializing in African tailor-made itineraries. We have special rates with all the hotels and game lodges, so you don’t pay any more. 

. Enjoy sunny days (it’s not too hot yet) and cool evenings. As peak season in the Delta starts in late June/early July, you’ll also benefit from shoulder season rates in May and usually early June.

We recommend combining your . The water levels have subsided slightly at this time of year, enabling you to see beyond the spray, (especially towards the end of the month.)

Consider a safari in , and as such provides a great opportunity to capitalise on low season long stay specials. Try game lodges in . If you’re an adrenalin junkie, the shark cage diving high season begins in and around Gansbaai.

The wetter weather of the  should also be over by April time. So from now until October is an excellent time to enjoy a safari in South Africa.

Namibia

May is a great time to visit

Uganda

If gorilla trekking is high up on your list of things to do, consider visiting contact us so that we can tailor-make the perfect trip for you. You might also like to look at our travel calendar for more ideas of when to travel where in Africa.

  This mid-year month kicks off the safari high season in some of Southern Africa. Think camp-fires, Amarula in your hot chocolate and mild days of game viewing. The ‘show’ is about to start in East Africa too… so lots of choice!

Southern Africa

There is very little rain between now and October in Southern Africa. Animals therefore gather around permanent rivers and wetlands as surface water begins to dry up, making them easier to find. The days are shorter so there’s no need to get up too early, and the rainy-season bugs and mosquitoes have disappeared.

We recommend the Greater Kruger Park. View game under clear skies, but be prepared for chilly mornings and frosty nights. (Pack gloves and a woolly hat for those early morning game drives!)

Although June is heading into peak safari season in Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia , you should still benefit from shoulder season prices at many lodges.

East Africa

June is an exciting time in East Africa. The migrating wildebeest herds arrive in the north-west of the Tanzania. Here you will witness river crossings on the Mara River to the North or the Grumeti River on the Western Corridor. It is worth mentioning that although this is considered one of the greatest ‘highlights’ of the migration, it is an emotional experience for some, and the banks of the Serengeti are crowded with eager tourists.

  Coastal Retreats

Those looking for an unforgettable diving experience should consider Madagascar remain balmy throughout the year.

Uganda & Rwanda

This is considered the best time of the year to go gorilla tracking in Uganda and

July is an all-round delightful time to be travelling in Africa. In Southern Africa the days are mild and sunny, whilst nights are cool and clear. Game reserves are dry and the game have become even more concentrated.  And of course, the drama of the annual migration continues to unfold in East Africa.

Tanzania

This is an important month for the migration as the wildebeest congregate in the western and northern reaches of the Serengeti. They are joined by dazzling zebras as they continue their trek back to the Masai Mara, pausing at the rivers that block the way.

  Botswana

The Okavango Delta is in full flood, so you need to plan early to get availability as it is peak season. The air is crisp but the conditions are perfect for photography, canoeing, fishing, and an excellent diversity of wildlife viewing.

Namibia

It is also peak, peak season in Namibia with perhaps even worse constraints on availability. Mornings and evenings can be very cold, so be prepared!  Try to plan your trip for earlier in July as it gets ‘booked out’ very early from mid July onwards. (Namibia is a large, but sparsely populated country so there is not an extensive range of accommodation to choose from, so the country puts out a ‘fully booked’ sign for much of late July to September!)

South Africa

Between May and July each year, huge shoals of sardines move into the coastal waters of southern KwaZulu Natal in what is known to locals as The Sardine Run. It’s the marine equivalent of the annual migration of the wildebeest in the Masai Mara.

Indeed KwaZulu Natal is the perfect destination for an affordable family holiday, with a great combination of bush, berg and beach at this time of year.

For other beach options to combine with your East or Southern Africa safari, consider the Seychelles and Mauritius in this dry month.

At this time of year in Rwanda and Uganda, you’ll experience the coolest nights, the mildest days and the least rain – perfect conditions for gorilla trekking!

Our Where to go in Africa series is by Cedarberg Africa

Cedarberg Africa is a travel and safari company specialising in African tailor-made itineraries. We have special rates with all the hotels and game lodges. Booking through us will cost no more than booking direct, and sometimes less. So our expertise and knowledge comes at no extra cost to you!

  The post Where to go in Africa in May, June and July appeared first on Cedarberg-Travel.com.

[davehodgetts-blog]

Off the coast of Mauban floats a small island, Cagbalete, which looks ordinary at first glance. However, a great scenery resides underneath its waters, which only reveals at low tide.

Cagbalete Island is one of the pride of Quezon province. It features wide coastlines and an ecologically diverse habitat. The verdant greens serves as a host to unique bird and plant species. Moreover, the waters surrounding it is a home to abundant marine life. Cagbalete is a total package for adventurers and nature-lovers who seek for a tranquil getaway.

If you are planning to see Cagbalete Island one of these days, this guide may help you.

A vast shoreline appears at low tide in Cagbalete

M/B Neneng and M/B Anthony have two daily Mauban-Cagbalete v/v trips. The boat to Cagbalete leaves Mauban every 10:00AM and 03:30PM while the return boat leaves the island every 07:00AM and 01:00PM. Travel time is 45 minutes, and the fare is ₱50 per person.

You can hire a private boat if the schedule is not amenable to your itinerary, or you just need your trip to be solitary. This will cost you or your group ₱1,200 per way. Major resorts in Cagbalete usually offers private boat transfer upon request.

Boat Ride to Cagbalete

The passenger boat will drop you off at Sabang port. From there, some kids will offer to guide you to your resort for a small fee.

Sabang – Cagbalete’s coastal residential area and port

On our case, we hired a carabao pull cart to get to Villa Cleofas. However, I refused to ride it. I just don’t advocate the use of animals for transport.

Island transpo

[email protected].

Villa Cleofas canoe

Villa Noe

Villa Noe is located along the same strip as Villa Cleofas but a little distant. As of their website, Villa Noe collects corkage fees for liquors which is a downside for hard party drinkers. Their cottages are bit pricey too. The room costs ₱4,000 for 10-12 individuals, ₱3,500 for 8-10 pax, ₱3,000 for 6-8 persons, etc. Pitching your own tent will require you to pay ₱200/tent.

If you don not want to cook, you can avail Villa Noe’s food catering at ₱800/person per day. This includes breakfast, lunch, snack, and dinner.

To secure your accommodation, visit their site: www.villanoe.com.

Doña Choleng

Doña Choleng offers an equally relaxing stay with a lot of activity offerings. Air-conditioned for 6 persons costs ₱4,500 while the non-A/C of the same capacity is ₱3,500.

For worry-free travel, they offer a food package for only ₱800 per head consisting of 3 meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and 2 snacks per day.

For more info and reservations, see their website (www.cagbaletedonacholeng.com).

Cagbalete DIY Travel Guide appeared first on Freedom Wall.

[davehodgetts-blog]

As a home to pristine beachfronts, awesome rock formations, and scenic countryside, Pagudpud awes every travelers, first timers or not. The inviting Saud Beach and Blue Lagoon are more than enough to entice you to visit. Likewise, the Kapurpurawan rock formations, the Kabigan Falls, the wind farm in Bangui, and the secrets of past of the neighboring towns are equally intriguing – you will surely find your way to the northernmost municipality of Luzon island.

Paoay Church or with the antiques displayed at Malacañang of the North. You must not skip sand surfing at the Sand Dunes or view the other angles of the martial law years at Marcos Museum and Mausoleum.

Blue Lagoon, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

Now, when you are planning to experience Pagudpud, here’s a travel guide for you. The contents of this article are divided into the following sections:

things to do in the municipality.

The enchanting Kapurpurawan Rock Formations

Plan your travels ahead and cross out the items in the list below on your Pagudpud visit.

Blue Lagoon (Maira-ira Beach) and Hannah’s Zip line—The blue lagoon is more of a cove or bay than a lagoon. It is a host to a long strip of white shoreline named Maira-ira beach. Hovering it is the 1.2-kilometer Hannah’s zip line, famed to be the world’s longest in the “over water” category.

Patapat Viaduct—Patapat Viaduct bridges the highway that connects the provinces of the North. Patapat stands 31 meters and is 1.3 kilometers long. It is an architectural prowess built on a rocky beach.

Saud Beach—Saud beach is popular for its long strip of powdery, white-sand beach and calm and squeaky-clean water fronting it. Yes, Saud Beach is one of the most stunning shorelines in Luzon. Open up your beach umbrella, lay on your tanning bed (sunbed), take a glass of piña colada, and forget about everything else – then your Saud beach experience will be all about relaxation and happiness.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation—The postcard-perfect Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is the most-photographed spot in Pagudpud. These rocks had been chiseled naturally by strong tidal forces. This monumental calcium carbonate figure glows white under a strong sunlight and turns ivory in a gloomy day. Whatever the weather is, Kapurpurawan will always be a perfect backdrop of your selfies and groupies.

Bangui Windmills—At first, this is just a noble government project. There’s no greener than harvesting wind energy and eventually turning it to electricity. Truly noble, truly renewable. However, the proponents of this project never expected that this wind farm would turn into a major tourist attraction. I know, you also wanted a photo beside these gigantic electricity-generating fans.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse—Built in 1887 by Martin Pers, the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse stands 20 meters. The octagonal main tower is made of stones and bricks and is topped with bronze dome or copula. It also has a viewing gallery that is surrounded with decorative iron grill railings.

Kabigan Falls—A 1.8 kilometer trek may disappoint some but if you are persistent to see the waterfalls, I assure you that it has more to offer than the photos. You will forget all the efforts once you take a dip to its cold and indulging waters beneath.

Bantay Abot Cave and Timmangtang Rocks—Bantay Abot Cave is not a cave but an opening created by two leaning rocks or hills. The hole was formed from an earthquake that happened decades ago. Just few meters from Bantay Abot is Timmangtang Rock which you may find intriguing and mysterious.

Dos Hermanos Islands—The twin islands of Dos Hermanos protrude from the shallow sea at the end of the Maira-ira beach. Having a photo with them as your backdrop is worth a page on your memory books.

Paoay and Batac—You may include in your things to do the must-visit places in the municipalities south of Laoag. In Paoay, you can go sand surfing; pay a visit to San Agustin Church, a word heritage site; or explore within the corners of Malacañang of the North. You can also get a glimpse of history at Marcos Museum and Mausoleum in the municipality of Batac.

Pagudpud Tour Cycle.

The stunning Kabigan falls

The Pagudpud Tour Cycle costs ₱600 per tour and this is good for 3 persons for one whole day of awesome experience. It is divided into two major tour routes and the stops are as follows:

Pagudpud Tour Cycle – Northbound Tour

Kabigan Falls

Patapat Viaduct

Agua Grande

Patapat Viaduct

Paraiso ni Anton

Timmangtang Rock

Bantay Abot Cave

Blue Lagoon

Dos Hermanos Islands

Pagudpud Tour Cycle – Southbound Tour

Bangui Windmills

Bangui View Deck

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

If you want to go to Kapurpurawan Rock Formations, you can ask your southbound tour cycle guide/driver to bring you there but this w should be compensated with an extra cost. You may add ₱100 to ₱200 to the standard ₱600 tour fee.

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A resort near the strip of white beach would be a perfect place to stay in Pagudpud. If you have no plans to frolic around the town, then a staycation near the shore would be the best choice. Nothing beats the sojourn bliss of having your own beachfront sunbed under the shade of palm trees complimented with a glass of your favorite cocktail.

Saud Beach, Pagudpud

Here are the recommended resorts and hotels in Pagudpud:

Near Blue Lagoon

Casa Consuelo Resort – Island reef – Stay in a relaxing and elegant beachfront casas of Casa Consuelo. Their accommodations are built from native materials but of modern interiors and designs, a pretty sophisticated contrast. If you are looking for a quiet yet noteworthy stay, then Casa Consuelo Resort would be best for you. Address: P. Paterno St., Sitio Baniaran, Balaoi, Pagudpud

Hannah’s Beach Resort and Convention Center – Location-wise, Hannah is quite a perfect choice. Fronting it is the Blue Lagoon at the stunning Maira-ira Beach. It also offers a ride to world’s longest zip line over water at 1.2 kilometers.

Dos Hermanos Island Emprise Beach House – At the farther end of Blue Lagoon it seats, offering you a noteworthy stay. Fronting the resort is the famed Dos Hermanos Islands and is pretty close to the stunning Maira-ira Beach. A room for 4 starts at ₱3,000. However, you can find competitive rates at Agoda when you book in advance during off-peak season. Address: Sitio Baniaran, Balaoi, Pagudpud

Near Saud Beach

Palm Grove Saud Holiday Complex Hotel – Just few meters from Saud Beach, Palm Grove is a good choice for group or family travelers on a tight budget. Address: Sitio Jupiter, Barangay Saud, Pagudpud

Terra Rikka Beach & Dive Resort – The resort is designed for both business and leisure. Terra Rikka stands pretty close to Saud beach so beach bumming is just footsteps away. Address: Saud, Pagudpud

Near the Surfing Area

Kingfisher Sand Sea Surf Resort – Located in an area that is a constant target of the north wind, Kingfisher is a resort of choice for surfing enthusiasts. They have ocean view huts and casitas available to answer your discriminating accommodation needs. Room rate starts at ₱2,500. You can also get discounts at Agoda. Address: Sitio Ayoyo, Brgy. Caparispisan, Pagudpud

Villa del Nico Beach Resort – Villa del Nico is bit far from the beach but they have one of the most competitive rates. They also have a nice swimming pool. A room for 4 starts at ₱2,000 per night. Address: Sitio Aprot, Caparispisan, Pagudpud

If you plan to visit Laoag, Paoay, and Batac, you can also book your accommodation in Laoag. Competitive rates and advance bookings are available at Agoda.

Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel Address: Brgy. 37 Calayab, Laoag City Proper

Laoag Parklane Hotel Address: Barangay 55 Barit – A, General Segundo Avenue, Laoag City Proper

Isabel Suites Address: Brgy. 11, Gen Segundo Ave., Laoag City Proper

Plaza Del Norte and Convention Center Address: 41 Balacad, Laoag City Proper

Pamulinawen Hotel Address: National Highway, Brgy. 22, 2901 San Nicholas (near the airport)

Vigan and its neighboring towns. If you need a list of things to do in Vigan, you can check the article entitled: “Things to do in Vigan, Ilocos Sur“. If you arrive early in Vigan, you immediately check Calle Crisologo. It is more awesome at night. Better yet, book a hotel near the historical street.

Return to Manila

Pagudpud, The Wonder of the North: A Travel Guide appeared first on Freedom Wall.

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My Five Acres. Travel. Adventure. Yoga. My Five Acres. Travel. Adventure. Yoga. - Travel. Adventure. Yoga.

Koh Lanta is an incredibly versatile island! In this post, we share the best things to do in Koh Lanta, including cultural experiences, volunteer work, best beaches and exploring the island. Read on for your complete guide to visiting Koh Lanta, Thailand.

This is a guest post from travel blogger and adventurer Mimi McFadden of The Atlas Heart. She lived on Koh Lanta for a while so she’s the perfect person to tell you all about the island!

What’s in our guide to things to do in Koh Lanta?

1. 3. 5.

Koh Lanta is a great place to rent a scooter and zip around to empty beaches.

It also has a great balance between the peace and quiet you want from a tropical island, mixed with outdoor adventures and a few busier areas to satisfy those who might get bored with laidback island paradise.

(Don’t miss: Looking for more island inspiration? Make sure to check out Mimi’s travel guide to Koh Chang)→

I got plenty of QBT (Quality Beach Time) on Koh Lanta but also left with some fantastic adventure stories. There’s such a variety of things to do in Koh Lanta that I never felt bored.

I made some incredible memories during my time living on the island and I’m sure you will too, no matter how much time you have there.

Keep reading to discover some of the island’s best kept secrets and a few not-so-secret things you should strongly consider checking out.

Also don’t miss these posts:

Your itinerary for 2 days in Bangkok → How to be vegan in Thailand → Guide to visiting the Ayutthaya Temples →

1. Enjoy the best beaches on Koh Lanta

Since you’re visiting an island, you have to check out at least a few of the beaches!

The beaches on Koh Lanta are some of my favorite in all of Thailand. They’re usually very quiet, don’t have huge waves (so swimming isn’t too daunting), and most have some kind of a restaurant or bar to enjoy a beverage or bite to eat while you watch the sunset.

Even the popular beaches in Koh Lanta are quiet compared to other in Thailand.

One of the best beaches on the island is Klong Prao. The water is calm and clear and the beach is virtually untouched by people, making it feel like your own private beach. Even so, it still has a cozy beach-side restaurant to enjoy while you watch the sun dip into the water.

A close second favorite is Kai Bae Beach. It has a similar vibe to Klong Prao — tranquil, quiet, calm water, with not too many people.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more lively, head to Lonely Beach. The name doesn’t do it justice! Lonely Beach is actually one of the best party beaches on the island. It’s a great place to hang out if you’re in the mood to meet other travelers.

Last but not least, Bailan Beach is a small stretch of coast with more rocky shores than white sand beaches (in case you were getting bored of that). This is definitely more of an “activity” beach: the surrounding area is absolutely incredible but you probably don’t want to try and swim here.

In your research you might come across White Sand Beach — the largest and most touristy beach on the island. I’d recommended skipping it unless you’re into the touristy vibe.

You won’t get a quiet beach day here as there are a ton of vendors. However, if you’re staying at one of the swanky hotels on the island, this is probably your closest beach.

2. Learn how to ride a scooter

One skill you’ll certainly want to acquire when travelling internationally (especially in Asia) is knowing how to drive a scooter — Koh Lanta is an excellent place to learn! The roads here are quieter than most you’ll find elsewhere in Asia so not as intimidating for beginners.

The ability to successfully drive and navigate while on a scooter opens your travels up to a whole new world of possibilities. You’ll be able to go places on your own (i.e., not having to rely on a taxi or bus) and you visit areas that public transport might not offer.

Start off by renting a scooter for a few hours one day and see where it takes you. Just ask a local or another traveler who knows how to ride (there are plenty in Thailand) for a quick lesson and get used to the feeling of balancing on two wheels.

Learning to ride a scooter is one of the most useful things to do in Koh Lanta and will make a huge difference to how you experience the island.

3. Watch the Sunset on the Beach

A must when you’re staying on any Thai island is to take in a gorgeous sunset while you sip a cocktail beachside. Koh Lanta is no exception.

The sunset really does look like this in Koh Lanta!

I experienced some of the most incredible sunsets during my time in Koh Lanta. Especially on Long Beach and Klong Khong, it seems like the whole island comes out to watch the sun go down and the sky light up in a kaleidoscope of colors.

4. Yoga at Oasis Yoga

The best way to fully embrace the tranquility and relaxation of island life? Take a yoga class.

Oasis Yoga offers several different kinds of yoga, including Yin, Vinyasa, and free morning meditation classes. It has a supportive and welcoming environment, even for beginners.

The classes here are all open-air, and thus provide an organic hot yoga of sorts because of the natural humidity on the island. The studio is also right by the beach which makes the whole experience that much more relaxing.

5. Cooking class at Time for Lime

I’ve always believed that the best way to immerse yourself in a new culture is through local food. The cooking classes at Time for Lime are island-renowned on Koh Lanta. It’s by far the most popular place to learn how to cook Thai specialties on the island.

Thai food is delicious and if you learn to cook it, then you can take it home with you!

The traditional Thai food you’ll make here has flavors that are out of this world and the cocktails are known to be some of the best on Koh Lanta. Don’t miss trying the lime cocktail which is the house speciality!

6. Volunteer at Lanta Animal Welfare Center

Volunteering at the Lanta Animal Welfare Center is a rewarding and memorable experience which takes you beyond the usual touristy options.

The welfare center was started in 2015 by a Norwegian woman named Junie Kovacs, who has lived in Thailand since 2002. In Thailand, you’ll see a lot of animals in distress and this shelter takes on the difficult job of helping animals in need.

You can commit for a whole day, a week, or longer-term volunteer opportunities, or just visit for an afternoon to walk a dog or two.

However much time you can volunteer, the welfare center appreciates all the help it can get. Plus, you get to hang out with cute animals all day. It’s a win-win!

7. Go hiking at Koh Lanta National Park

Imagine having an endless expanse of turquoise water and silky beaches all to yourself. If that’s your dream, Mu Koh Lanta National Park will make it a reality. Entry is 200 THB (6 USD) per person and it’s 20 THB (less than 1 USD) to rent a motorbike, which makes it easy to zip along the length of the park.

If you want to explore the park by foot, there’s a small hiking trail that takes a little less than an hour to complete. Steps are steep and uneven in the beginning, but they eventually level out until you reach the top. A lighthouse will greet you at the top.

Planning an all-day trip in the National Park? Make sure to bring plenty of food and water! But be careful with your bags — the monkeys are notorious for trying to dig through backpacks for yummy treats.

8. Scuba diving or snorkeling Koh Lanta

Take advantage of the crystalline waters off Koh Lanta by arranging a scuba diving or snorkeling trip!

There are plenty of great diving spots in Koh Lanta, such as Koh Rok Nok or Kaw Kaweng. Trips take 3–4 hours, most often with a speedboat that will take you far out enough into the waters so you can dive comfortably amidst the coral and colorful fishes.

If you’re staying at a hotel, ask the concierge to help you book a trip. You can also go to online tour sites (like The Four Islands or Opal Travel Koh Lanta) to book a trip in advance.

9. Party on the beach

Did you even live it up on your island vacation if you didn’t go to at least one beach party?

Walking along the beach in Koh Lanta at night is a great way to people watch.

While the nightlife vibes of Koh Lanta are markedly different from Bangkok, there is no shortage of hip bars (Funky Monkey, Majestic Bar, Why Not Bar, Mushroom Bar, etc.) and half moon beach parties that will have you partying all night on white sand beaches with a Leo in hand.

Revel in the fact that you have pretty much unlimited access to a dizzying array of cocktails, live music, and fellow travelers who are also looking to have a great time!

10. Swim at Khlong Chak Waterfall

In south Koh Lanta, Khlong Chak Waterfall is best accessed by riding your scooter to the trailhead.

You will then have to hike through the jungle, but it’s a relatively easy and beautiful hike. Not only do you come across a dam filled with emerald-hued water, but you get to make your way through the lush foliage to the sound of bird song.

Once you arrive at the waterfall, you’ll be struck by the contrast between the blue water of the falls and the red sand. You can also check out the nearby Khlong Chak Cave, miraculously held together by massive tree roots.

11. Enjoy the island landscape from a sea kayak

One of the best ways to enjoy Koh Lanta’s stunning rock formations and caves is to get up close — by sea kayak!

Since this is an all-day trip, book a sea kayaking tour to take care of transportation, equipment, and food. All you have to do is show up in your swimsuit and athletic shoes.

Koh Talabeng and Koh Phee are popular kayaking spots because of the relatively still currents, stalagmites and stalactites, and cool stories associated with them. For example, did you know that Koh Talabeng was a secret hideout spot for ancient pirates?

You’ll hear that and many more tales on a Koh Lanta kayaking tour.

12. Explore the streets of Koh Lanta Old Town

Koh Lanta is home to two main towns. Saladan is the up-and-comer while Old Town is a charmingly preserved relic of Koh Lanta’s past.

The Thai-traditional Old Town is on the central east coast of the island and used to be its commercial and administration center. Now, it’s home to sleepy wooden row houses, Chinese-influenced architecture, and small shops and restaurants by the sea.

While Old Town doesn’t get many visitors, it has enjoyed some of the side effects of Koh Lanta’s tourism boom. You’ll find coffee and fruit shake stalls with English menus, plus you can take boating day tours to the south of Koh Lanta from Old Town’s pier.

13. Grab a bite at Saladan Market

If want to experiment with Thai food, Saladan Night Market is an essential destination while you’re in Koh Lanta.

For starters, the vendors sell more skewered food than you can imagine. We’re talking about BBQ chicken, fish, dessert, and meat cuts you might have never heard of before. And the best part is is that these skewers are often made to order, so you can enjoy them sizzling hot!

Cotton candy, clothing, and cheap souvenirs are also readily available at this night market, so even vegetarians will have plenty to check out on a balmy evening.

14. Get a massage on the beach

Is there anything that sounds more relaxing than getting your muscles kneaded and knots worked out while enjoying the sound of gentle waves?

Lucky for you, you can easily spot a selection of masseuses along the coast. Most of them will either offer a Thai massage (much more energetic, great for working out the kinks in your back) and oil massage (better suited for relieving tension and stress from your muscles and tissues).

While massages in Thailand are easily found for an affordable price, the off-season prices — sometimes as much as 50% off — make the prospect of visiting Koh Lanta during that time even more appealing.

The ferry to Koh Lanta is easy to take and a beautiful ride.

The fastest way to get to Koh Lanta is to take the public passenger ferry from Chao Fa Pier in Krabi Town. However, the passenger ferry is only available in peak season, from November to April.

If you’re visiting Koh Lanta during the off-season, the best choice is to take a taxi or minibus.

A shared taxi or minibus will make multiple stops to fill up with passengers and then go on their own ferries to Koh Lanta. After the ferries land in Koh Lanta, the taxi or minibus will drop you off at your destination. The multiple stops inevitably make the trip longer, but the fares cheaper.

From Phuket, you can take the ferry from Saladan Pier on the south end. Powered by 12Go Asia system.

KoHub

offers decent WiFi, co-working spaces, and other nomad-friendly amenities. KoHub even offers co-living if you’re looking for something more permanent than a stay at a hostel.

Take your time in Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is blessed with a more laid-back vibe than many of the tourist destinations in Thailand. Take full advantage of that by spending at least a couple of days or even full week in Koh Lanta.

Watch the sunsets. Enjoy a margarita or two. Don’t feel the need to jam-pack your trip to Koh Lanta full of activities in the span of a few days.

Who knows? You might just decide to stay forever.

travel towel. Even if you don’t swim or wade in the water, you’ll want to chill out on your towel and read a book while absorbing the natural beauty around you.

Bug spray. As with all tropical near the equator, the resident mosquitos just love to eat tourists alive. While you might not be able to completely avoid these pests, you can do your best to ward the mosquitos away with a big dose of bug spray.

(Jane got dengue fever in Koh Lanta, so make sure to spray up!)

There are plenty of bug repellent sprays out there, but you want to look for sprays that either contain DEET, picaridin, or plant-derived chemicals, since they tend to be the most effective and long-lasting.

This little guy can cause you lots of problems, so beware.

You can find bug spray on Koh Lanta if you don’t want to pack it from home.

Long sleeves. Koh Lanta is a predominantly Muslim island, so more modest clothing is appropriate compared to the rest of Thailand (which is mostly Buddhist).

That’s not to say you can’t show off your bikini bod at the beach, but a little modesty goes a long way when interacting with the locals. Slip on a lightweight long-sleeved beach cover up before you leave the beach.

A cover-up comes with the added bonus of thwarting mosquitos and protecting you from irreversible sun damage. It can also look great in those dreamy Instagram photos you’ll be taking.

Sunscreen. The tropical island life is hot, so make sure you protect your skin by slapping on some UV protection! If you plan on going swimming or hiking, you will want to reapply sunblock more regularly than the recommended 2–4 hours. Especially for kids, a waterproof version is best.

To protect the fragile reefs, make sure to use coral-friendly sunscreen.

Slip-on shoes. The worst part about tropic is either inevitably getting sand in your shoes or getting your shoes drenched by the occasional downpour. Remedy this situation by packing a pair of slip-on travel shoes. These can be something as lightweight as espadrilles or as low-maintenance as flip-flops!

This is a typical budget Koh Lanta “resort”. Just a few bamboo shacks near the beach.

Where to Stay in Koh Lanta

Hostel: Hub of Joys Hostel, comfy social hostel close to Long Beach, rating 9.2/10, $7 dorm bed

Budget: Lemonade Boutique Inn, homey hostel & hotel 2 mins from beach, 9.1/10, $7 dorm bed, $12 double room

Budget: Lanta Private Bungalow, stylish bungalow rooms next to the beach, 9.3/10, $19 bungalow

Mid-range: Long Beach Chalet, resort with beach bungalows & loft rooms, 9.1/10, $34 standard bungalow, $71 sea view villa

Luxury: Layana Resort & Spa, adults only luxe resort on the beach, 9.5/10, $174 garden pavilion, $338 beach villa

Find more Koh Lanta Hotels on Booking.com →

You’re Going to Love Incredible Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is the perfect place to retreat when you want the time and space to truly unwind and feel at ease.

On Koh Lanta, you aren’t surrounded by the frenetic energy of big cities or overwhelmed by the constant party vibes and debauchery you can find on other Thai .

Instead, Koh Lanta offers a sanctuary for those who truly want to immerse themselves in the simple, laidback pleasures of traveling. Have a great trip to my favorite island!

About the Author

Mimi McFadden is a travel blogger and freelance writer. Originally from California, she has been slow traveling the world since 2013. When she’s not writing, you can probably find her sipping on a pint of craft beer, chasing waterfalls, or planning her next adventure in a foreign land.

After living abroad for five years in Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Greece, and Portugal she has finally found a home in San Francisco, California. Find her on Instagram, Facebook, and her blog, The Atlas Heart.

We hope this post helps you figure out what to do in Koh Lanta. Though we were there recently, we didn’t get a chance to do many of the things on Mimi’s list. Don’t make the same mistake we did — get out there and see Koh Lanta!

♥  Happy mindful adventures, Jane & Stephen

We’re not going to lie, it takes a LOT of work to create travel guides like this. But it’s easy to help us out! If you book or buy something using one of our personal links in this post, we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course, we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

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The post 14 Things to Do in Koh Lanta, Thailand appeared first on My Five Acres. Travel. Adventure. Yoga..