Archives for Thailand
The idea of being fit and healthy is slowly but surely permeating the way of life of modern man. Health-club industry’s global market size has seen a sharp increase in revenue, rising from 67.19$ billion in 2009 to 83.15$ in 2016, a staggering increase of 15.96 billion U.S. dollars in only half a decade. This increase in fitness-related activities has resulted in more and more people seeking active vacation options, which is reflected in the growing number of tourist destinations that not only enable such activities but use them as their main advertising point. Which begs the question, what are the best destinations for health and fitness enthusiasts around the world?
1. Cas Gasi, Ibiza
People associate winter with very cold temperatures and an abundance of snow. However, winter in Ibiza is described by people as delightfully silent and often quite sunny. The White Isle’s Cas Gazi offers a whitewashed and secluded 12-bedroom retreat perched on top of the Santa Gertrudis hills. Visitors are encouraged to try out the famous vinyasa or “flow” yoga or simply lay back and enjoy a soothing delight that is La Biosthétique massages and facials. Add cycling, walking and personal training to suit, as well as healthy meals made using local fruits, vegetables and olive oil and you’ll instantly fall in love with this little slice of heaven.
2. Crete, Greece
Crete boasts an amazing fitness retreat nested beneath the mountains in the form of an eco-village called Milia. A redecorated farm building and breathtaking rock dwellings set inside the White Mountains National Park offer a one-of-a-kind culinary experience and an abundance of outdoor activities including climbing, hiking, running and enjoying the gorgeous view. The resident chef will tell you all about where the local food is grown, how it needs to be prepared and what type of impact it will have on your body.
3. Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Australia’s Gold Coast is home to a number of well-known retreats where you can try out the ancient, yet quite wonderful art of qigong while enjoying the unforgeable sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. You can explore numerous walking trails, try out your luck with various dancing classes or hit the local open gyms and break a sweat using the more traditional exercise equipment. After a tasty, organic lunch, you can swim in the warm waters of the Pacific or one of many private plunge pools of your choice.
4. Koh Samui, Thailand
Thailand might be famous for its natural wonders, but tourists from around the world are flocking to the island of Koh Samui to give the holistic boot camp a try. All your physical, psychological and social needs will be met during the, now famous fitness programs aimed at helping people lose weight and achieve an unprecedented clarity and peace of mind via indoor and outdoor fitness sessions that include cardiovascular workouts, exercises on the beach, Pilates, Muay Thai kickboxing and even weight training.
5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Hidden inside the lush green tropical rainforests of Kuala Lumpur lies the world’s first organic wellness retreat. Malaysia is the go-to destination for those who need to relieve stress and re-energize their bodies. Your physical and psychological shape will be evaluated in order to help you pinpoint the exact triggers of stress and provide you with different means of alleviating it, including mounding biking, trekking, organic farming or playing a relaxing game of golf.
Getting into the fit mindset can be rather difficult, considering our everyday commitments and work-related obligations. Taking a retreat far away from the stresses of the modern world is not only recommendable but necessary if we wish to preserve our health and much-needed peace of mind. Fortunately, these retreats offer both recreation and active relaxation in order to cater to our growing fitness needs and allow you to do more than simply waste our days lying in the bed.
Thailand is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in world if you are talking about beaches and religious temples. It boasts of pristine beaches and awe-inspiring temples and temple ruins.
There are many tourists coming in and out of the kingdom of Thailand, but there are expatriates, too — those that have decided to leave the borders of their homeland to teach English. That means travelling to Thailand is nothing to be afraid of. If you are only a few hours away from your flight, and if you do not have a list of things you want to do in Thailand, there are 15 things recommended to do while travelling around this beautiful country.
- Go on beach hopping.
Patong Beach, Railay Beach, Maya Bay, Hua Hin Beach, Kata Beach, Lamai Beach, Sairee Beach, and the list goes on and on. It is a home to beautiful beaches and you have to try, at least, three of them and be relaxed and amazed. Their beaches are unlike no other.
- Visit the Grand Palace.
Your Thailand visit wouldn’t be complete without setting your two feet on the Grand Palace. It is the home of the Thai king, the whole administrative staff of the government, and the Royal court. It boasts of beautiful architectural design from one dynasty to the other.
- Pay Khao San Road a visit.
If you are looking for a place to buy cheap souvenirs to bring back home or simply want to experience shopping like a local without breaking the bank, Khao San Road is a must-go-to place for you. Khao San is famously called the “center of the backpacking universe”.
- Eat street food.
If you have ever been eating their world famous Pad Thai in restaurants from where you are living, you will be amazed how a pad thai tastes like when it is cooked by a local right in the streets of Thailand. Aside from pad thai, there are other street food must-try.
- Ride a tuk tuk.
It is called by many names in many parts of the world, but it is famously called tuk tuk in Thailand. It is a vehicle used for transportation that is very Southeast asian is look and feel.
- Visit the King Cobra Village.
Be amazed at how entertaining these trained snakes are. It is quite scary at first glance, but the snakes there are bred in captivity to perform for tourists.
- Buy from the floating market.
You’ve seen this in photos and there is definitely no way that you should miss this. Hop into the boat and make your way into their canal and shop like how you would in your local market. It’s all so affordable, and there are people who are willing to cook for you after buying from the market.
- Go white in Wat Rong Khun.
It is privately own Buddhist temple commonly known to tourists as the White Temple. It is breathtakingly white and beautiful, and you can’t find a lot of white temples around the world.
- Learn Muay Thai.
There are Muay Thai camps in Thailand that you can be part of. It is quite an experience as nothing feels more authentic than learning this art from where it was originated.
- Go on a jungle trek.
Discover Thailand’s wildlife. Go on a trek and experience the other natural beauty they offer aside from the beaches. It’s an adventure worth trying.
- Eat insects.
Not everyone would give this a try, but for a full Thailand experience, pick a stick of insects and give it a chew. You will be amazed how tasty they are. It is easy to find one because it is mostly sold in the streets like a typical street food.
- Buy Harem pants.
Be a local. Buy Harem pants. It’s like a jogger pants for Thai people. Best part of it is how refreshing it feels when wearing it.
- Visit Ayutthaya.
Once a royal city, now it boasts of beautiful temple ruins. Ayutthaya is a World Heritage Site. That alone tells you that this place is a must to visit. It gives you an experience not only your eyes would be thankful but, as well as your soul.
- Go to Wat Arun.
Famously called as the Temple of the Dawn. It is a Buddhist Temple. If you’re lucky enough to visit it early in the morning, you will see the first light of the morning reflecting in the temple and it looks magnificent.
- Build a community.
Thai people are one of the most hospitable people in the world. It is not so hard to find a new friend in this country. If you want to make your Thailand experience a memorable one, it is best shared with people. Build a community – big or small. It makes you feel that Thailand is your new home.
There are a couple of hundred things you can do in Thailand. If you are going to work as one of the growing numbers of ESL teachers in the country, there is definitely no need to worry. You have a community willing to take you around and help you make your Thailand experience worth it. If you are just going around for a tour, it’s impossible that you will not enjoy every second of it. That’s how beautiful this country is.
Bangkok is one of the most visited, preferred and singled out tourist destinations amid travelers around the world. Bangkok is the capital and most populous city of Thailand. Bangkok used to receive more visitors than any other city in the world due to its diverse attractions. If you are in Bangkok, it will not take long time to realize why more and more tourists are interested to visit this charming city. The city is packed with both old-world charisma and modern attractions. It is a beautiful city that can is alive with noisy, crowded, bright, exhilarating, and funny. Here are top 5 attractions in the city that let the visitors to experience Bangkok completely:
- Temples
Visitors can experience the splendor of Bangkok by visiting the temples of the city. The temples in the city help the tourists to understand the religion, culture, traditions, beliefs, customs as well as architecture of the city. You can witness many temples right through the city including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of Emerald Buddha), Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (the most iconic temple of Bangkok), Wat Saket, Wat Traimit, Loha Prasat, Wat Mahatat, Wat Suthat, Wat Benjamabhopit (Wat Benja), Wat Prayoon, etc.
- The Grand Palace
One of the most effective ways to explore or experience the beauty of Bangkok is visiting The Grand Palace. The visitors are always enthralled by the opulence of the architecture and the exquisiteness of these sites. Grand Palace is certainly the city’s most famous landmark. It was built in 1782 and it reveals the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai people. At present, the complex is the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom.
- Khao San Road
Another great means for the visitors to explore and experience Bangkok is walking through Khao San Road. Khao San Road is a short and just 410 meter long. It is Bangkok’s backpacker hub and you should visit the site in order to experience the actual local life of Bangkok. Khao San Road is packed out, noisy and filled with a lot of fun. At Khao San Road, every tourist can find numerous budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, internet cafes, travel agents, bookshops, market stalls, swanky bars and clubs, restaurants, massage parlors, tattoo shops, etc. The region is globally famous as a hub of dancing, partying, the traditional Thai New Year (Songkran festival) of 13–15 April and water splashing.
- Chinatown
Bangkok’s Chinatown presents a spectacular experience to the travelers. Chinatown is in one of the oldest spots of Bangkok. Yaowarat Road in Samphanthawong district is the center of Bangkok’s Chinatown. Chinatown’s Sam Pheng Market is an old business hub. Current Chinatown now includes a huge area around Yaowarat and Charoen Krung Road. Well-known for its markets and many gold shops, Chinatown is alive with the local population, many busy, more or less hectic market areas consisted of a chain of roads, alleys and small streets. As a result of the blend of Chinese and Thai cultures, Bangkok’s Chinatown is unique and charming.
- Parks, Beaches and Museums
Parks, Beaches and Museums in Bankok help the tourists to experience the diversity of Bangkok. There are in fact several parks situated around the city and it provides the visitors to the Bangkok with pure air and many outdoor activities in green, landscaped places. Some of the famous parks in Bangkok include Benjakitti Park, Benjasiri Park, Chatuchak Park, Lumpini Park, Queen Sirikit Park, Rama IX Park, Romaneenart Park, Rot Fai Park, Sanam Luang Park (The Royal Field), Santichaiprakarn Park, Santiphap Park, etc.
There are many beaches to choose from in Thailand, and many of them are near to Bangkok. Here are a few beaches that are closer to Bangkok, such as, Hua Hin, Koh Samet, Ko Lipe, Pattaya, Pranburi, Cha-Am, etc.
You can find a number of Museums in Bangkok and it can offer you a premier and complete look into Thai culture. Here are some of the museums in Bangkok that display the most transcendent, and strangest, collections of remnants such as the Bangkok National Museum, Museum of Siam, MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), Bangkokian Museum, Vimanmek Mansion Museum, Jim Thompson House, Erawan Museum, Bangkok Doll Museum, Bang Khun Thien Museum, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, Bangkok Corrections Museum, Bangkok Folk Museum, etc.
The post is by Susan Taylor, a freelance writer and she retired from position as a professor in order to continue freelance writing career. She currently working for a professional thesis writing service online and it lets her to aid students around the world with solving their academic paper writing troubles.
“Travel, in the younger sort, is a part of education; in the elder, a part of experience.”
– Francis Bacon
I fell in love with Southeast Asia after reading “The Beach” and “The Tesseract”, both by Alex Garland. Both novels weren’t part of the reading list, which was quite unfortunate. I could compose an essay in an hour or two, but it didn’t matter. The chance to travel to that part of the world came.
I was excited with my trip, along with my course-mates. I dreamed of a Robinson Crusoe moment in a desert isle, but the closest thing to that was Ha Long Bay. Colin, one of my three travel buddies in this trip, remembered our module on Ian Fleming and James Bond. We did went to Andaman Sea, where “The Man with the Golden Gun” was shot, but that would be another tale.
What was it about Southeast Asia that the likes of Graham Greene have used as backdrop for their novels? It was different from what I’ve seen here at home, or the continent for that matter, but that wasn’t the reason. It would be the destinations, but there was more. In other words, it was anything but dull. It was also unique.
Below were my five must-see places:
1. Wat Rong Khun (Chiang Rai, Thailand)
Designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat, this temple war arguably the main attraction in northern Thailand. Compared to the other monastery temples (wat), White Temple was unconventional, which drew lots of tourists. I would recommend spending half an hour looking at the wall paintings, a mixture of Buddhist images and pop culture. So imagine the likes of Harry Potter in the presence of Buddha’s solemn face, which seemed quite awkward at first. Eventually, I warmed up to it.
2. The terraced fields of Sa Pa, Vietnam
This town in northern Vietnam couldn’t be in a better location, as locals would be greeted with the panorama of Phan-Xi-Pǎng (Fansipan), the highest peak in Vietnam, every morning. It looked splendid on a sunny afternoon, but the countless terraces were the ones that tourists shouldn’t passed up. It would take a day or two for trekking, which might not be enough. Several ethnic groups lived there, and my interaction with them was priceless. Be warned that souvenir shops were ubiquitous in the village of Cat Cat, and the some of the locals were too persistent (in selling their items).
3. Angkor Thom (Siem Reap, Cambodia)
Not that Angkor Wat was unattractive, but Angkor Thom had an august appearance. One needed an imagination, as all that remained were ruins, which looked gorgeous from certain angles. The Bayon Temple was my favourite, its solemn faces good enough for a postcard.
4. The temples of Yogyakarta, Indonesia
One must go the distance in able to see the Buddhist and Hindu temples in Yogyakarta, located in central Java. Borobudur, a pyramid-like temple, was a sight to behold. The summit looked like a page from a fairy tale, where tens of bell-like structures were arranged circularly. Not far behind were Prambanan and Ratu Boko, more reminders of a mighty civilisation that once flourished in this part of Asia.
5. Ho Chi Minh
East meets West, past meets present. This former capital of Vietnam had many landmarks that revealed its storied past. I visited the French section twice, where one of Gustave Eiffel’s creations could be found. I was referring to the Post Office, its remarkable interior had an old map of Saigon.
Lee Smyth studied Film and Literature, had a stint in dissertation writing services, and did freelancing jobs in writing and proofreading. He would pursue a graduate degree next fall. Check out his blog and Twitter account.
Thailand tourism is not only known for its exotic beaches, wonderful marketplaces and great food, but if you are an adventure buff then you can hit the coasts of Thailand for an exciting adventurous treat that is surely going to get your pulses racing.
Rock climbing- Railay is the place in the Krabi province in Thailand where you can go for rock climbing. Most people go to Railay for this adventure sport as it is one of the most amazing things to do in Thailand. There are several routes that fit the needs of all kinds of rock climbers, from beginners to the thorough professional rock climbers. You can also opt for learning the beginner course or the seasoned professional course. You can buy your own gear or get it on rent.
The Railay Bay is really very beautiful featuring limestone cliffs that jut out of water and surround the horseshoe beaches.
Elephant trekking – There is this picturesque National Park situated in the southern part of Thailand. This National Park is known as Khao Sok and there is a good deal of elephants here that are a big hit among the crowds of people that throng here for an amazing experience of elephant trekking. An extraordinary addition to our list of things to do in Thailand, elephant trekking should not be missed at any cost.
The elephants at Khao Sok are pretty healthy and sitting on top of these fairly large creatures is a big thrill in itself. The feel that you get while the elephants take you down the steep hills and over the rough terrains is simply unmatchable. You shudder at the thought of tumbling down from your high perch but these intelligent giants manage to hold you safely all throughout.
Cave kayaking – Well, sea kayaking is quite common but cave kayaking is one amazing Thailand that you cannot experience easily at any other location of the world. Also known as inland kayaking, as you kayak on the river waters making way through the mangrove forests. You go through the lush greenery and the moment you enter the caves give you an adventurous feel, a mysterious feel of being one among nature. It is a complete thrill to paddle under the stalactites and the limestone cliffs. It is a real heavenly feeling when you reach a lovely lagoon encircled by high cliffs.
Bridge walking on the Kawai River – Call it thrill but for some it is more of fear, the fear of taking one wrong move and tumbling down straight into the river. After all, the bridge on the Kawai River does not comprise of wires or cages and you need to just walk on the planks. Bridge walking on the Kawai River is a must-do for most of the adventure freaks that visit the country seeking solace and thrill at the same time.
Travel in a Tuk Tuk – Your visit to Bangkok is not complete unless you take a Tuk Tuk ride. This is sure shot things to do as it is the local mode of transport that is not only cheap and easy to go around but is great fun as well. These are 3-wheeled motorbikes that are found abundantly in Bangkok.
So, Thailand Tourism really has a lot to offer you and fun, adventure and thrill is surely going to be a part of your trip to this epitome of a holiday destination. This guest post was by Stephenleuis, a Travel enthusiast and has written on Thailand Tourism.
Thailand is one of the most famous and visited holiday destinations, the beaches, the hills, the islands, the forests, you name it all, Thailand has it all! Probably you would discern Thailand as the country where Bangkok is located, Bangkok is synonymous with this country which ofcourse forms the ultimate shopping destinations for retailers and individuals as well, and it is officially one of the most embarked upon cities in this country.
Indulge in an exotic experience
Pattaya and Bangkok forms the major chunk of tourism in Thailand as these cities are most favourite indulgences, however there are other as famous and visited destinations. What attracts multitude to this country is cheap shopping, great food, aesthetic locations, amazing nightlife, exquisite indulgences and recreational activities, it is sure one superlative package plus it is the celebrated Thai massages that makes the country popular all the more.
Our top five holiday destination in Thailand
- Bangkok: If you want the best of street and cheap shopping with mouth-watering cuisines and amazing nocturnal experiences (nightclubs), do not miss out on the capital city of Thailand, it is our number one!
- Phuket: Lying towards the southern part of the country, it is Thailand’s largest island, if you want to indulge in spas, beaches and recreational activities such as diving and underwater adventures this is the place to be. Some of the most popular hotels in Thailand are situated in Phuket.
- Pattaya: It offers one of the superlative beach resorts and is a great destination where you can hang out with friends and family
- Ayutthaya: Towards North of the country, the lost Siamese kingdom lying in ruins is now a major tourist attraction and home to quite a few Thailand hotels.
- Koh Tao: This beautiful island is most celebrated for scuba diving and the beautiful underwater adventure, relaxing and pleasurable, those who love water and marine life should not give this place a miss.
Thailand houses great hotels and resorts
Thailand is home to beautiful resorts and accommodations so you don’t need to worry about lodging as there are a huge variety of options available such five star or seven star hotels beach resorts and villas which would be on the higher end range, also available are cottages or reasonable Thailand hotels which although would be comforting, won’t burn a hole in your pocket, like I said there is something for someone always and few of such resorts and hotels would offer the spa treatment for which Thailand is most celebrated. To get lucrative deals check the net for the best or reasonable hotels, pick up top three and then after much consideration and analysis choose your best suited option. The resorts, villas and five star hotels would start from 5,500 INR per night but there are cheaper hotels and accommodations available too.
Thai tourism forms a major chunk of the country’s economy and is one of the most visited destinations on global level, but in present times where finding itself amidst tremendous competitions from the nearby countries cum tourist destinations it has tried to maintain its novelty and golden status by incorporating attractions like medical spas and golf holidays, although not legal, sex tourism is a formidable part of tourism.
This guest post was by Stephenleuis, a Travel enthusiast and has written on Tourism in Thailand. Hope this information will help you to plan your trip to Thailand.
Thailand Tourism promises a memorable stay to all its tourists and delivers it in style. There are a large number of things to do in Thailand and one may fall short of time no matter how well he plans his vacation due to the innumerable options available to him. Here is a list of some of the things one has to do while in Thailand:
- Eating: If you are in Thailand then you are in for a treat. With a score of restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world, Thailand is a paradise for food lovers. The Thai cuisine is well known and appreciated throughout the world due to its exotic flavours and unique preparation. There are restaurants to fulfil everyone’s appetite and to suit everyone’s style. From a quiet little place to eat and relax to a place with loud music and cheerful people. You can find cheap to moderate to high end restaurants serving delicious food with a smile. Eating will definitely be one of your favourite things to do in Thailand.
- Sightseeing: Thailand is a country with a very rich cultural heritage and a glorious past. There are a number of places to visit which are of great significance to the country. Wat Phra Kaew, Doi Suthep-poi National park, Dusit Palace Park, Sanam Luang, Khao Yai National Park are some of the places that you can’t afford to miss while in Thailand.
- Shopping: Thailand proves to be heaven for shopaholics by offering a large number of spots for lightening their wallets. There is something for everyone and you can go from a market of small stalls to high end malls dealing in luxury brands to let yourself loose and shop till you drop. Some of the top shopping spots are MBK Centre, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Damnoen Saduak Floating market, Siam Paragon and many more. Shopping is one of the things to do in Thailand which you will love to do.
- Beaches: The beaches in Thailand are known throughout for their breath taking beauty, white sand, perfect scenery, clear waters, limestone cliffs and exotic flora and fauna. When you are in Thailand you will feel like just laying back on a recliner on one of these beaches and sipping your favourite cocktail or maybe taking a good massage. For the adventurous souls there are a number of activities such as diving, rock climbing, snorkelling etc. Some of the best beaches of Thailand are Railay beach, James Bond beach, Freedom beach, Koh Chang beach etc. These beaches are all gems of Thailand Tourism.
- Partying: If you are a party animal then this is one of the best things in Thailand for you. Thailand’s night-life is one of the best in the world and its late night beach parties are unmatched by anywhere else in the world. With a large number of pubs, clubs and discotheques to choose from you can party according to your own style and to your kind of music.
This guest post is by Chandralekha, a Travel enthusiast, currently working with ixigo, an online India Travel Guide helps you to plan your trip. This time she has written on Thailand Tourism. Hope this information will help you to plan your trip to Thailand.
Thailand has emerged as one of the leading holiday destinations in the world with thousands of travelers visiting each year. The beautiful islands dotted with palm-fringed beaches, the air of spiritualism in Chiang Mai and the vibrancy of its capital city Bangkok have enchanted travelers’ world over. Whether it is for business or pleasure, a growing number of discerning and sophisticated travelers are frequent visitors to Thailand. Catering to this discerning segment, are the hotels in Thailand that offer a suite of superlative services and facilities along with the familiar and popular Thai hospitality. Be it Bangkok, Phuket, Koi Samui, Krabi or Phang Nga, these high-end luxury hotels offers the best to its guests.
Hotels offering Comprehensive Services and Amenities
In order to accommodate the growing number of tourists, Thailand tourism has made arrangement of many hotels in almost each and every corner of Thailand. Each hotel in Thailand is a sheer master piece to watch and experience. From the location to the themes and the amenities each aspect of every hotel is very different from the other. There are beach side hotel and the beach side villas, there are forest hotels and villas and even the themed hotels. In fact, the vacationers have a galore to choose where to stay during their Thailand vacation. Thailand tourism, in order to promote tourism, along with building the 5 star resorts and hotels, have advised the building of budget and economic hotels.
5 Star Hotels in Thailand
There are umpteen numbers of 5 star hotels in Thailand that are known for their distinctive character, style and decor. Each of these hotels is perfect for those who choose to stay in them. Each hotel is equipped with the modern amenities and facilities. While some of the hotels are located in the heart of the city in Bangkok there are others located in remote and pristine locations surrounded by nature’s bounty
There are some hotels in Thailand,which are located near the beach while there are some, which have a private beach within their boundaries. Each hotel provides it guest with great satisfaction and no guest leaves Thailand without fond memories.
Some of the most common amenities which the hotels provide, whether five star or budgets, are include dedicated services like- security, great views from the window, doctor on call, Wi-Fi connectivity, television, air conditioned rooms and more. Various hotels have their own ways to make their guests feel comfortable; however, some of the services remain same and common. However, their level of dedication makes all the difference.
Great discounts during off season
While during peak season luxury hotels may be off limits for many due to budget constraints, the same is not the case off season. Most of the high-end luxury hotels offer attractive discounts to allure travelers from all over the world. The lean season is between July and October, when Thailand experiences heavy rainfall and therefore beach resorts offer great discounts too. The beach may be off limits, but the discounts make it worthwhile to visit Thailand even during this time of the year.
This guest post is by Chandralekha, is a Travel enthusiast, currently working with ixigo, an online India Travel Guide helps you to plan your trip. This time she has written on hotels in Thailand. Hope this information will help you to plan your trip to Thailand.
Does it take a certain skill to feel at home when traveling abroad?
We’ve heard people say home is where the heart is. Thing is, falling for a place – so much so you’re thinking about extending your stay – may take time. The process might even take longer if you keep searching for the familiar.
Homesickness is then inevitable especially for those going overseas the first time. You cannot remain blue throughout though. Your trip is temporary and soon you’ll be going back to ‘real’ life. So live in the moment, and indulge yourself in your new environment.
tourist with local
Here are few tips how you can do so.
Travel on foot. Going to your next stop? If your schedule allows, walk your way instead of riding vehicles. Do your homework about possible routes and tag your travel buddies along for safety purposes. There’s nothing wrong asking locals for directions but do not panic when you feel you’ve lost your way. Surprises come in unexpected packages. You might just experience the best of your trip during this time you’re uncertain where you and your friends are heading to.
Commute with locals. Ditch the cabs and cars for rent, and commute with locals. If you are going to an island destination, take the passenger boat instead of the private ones. If you must hire a vehicle to navigating the town, consider two-wheels instead. If there is no issue with any of your travel buddies, then check out public transportation utilities available in the area. They’re generally cheaper, plus, you get to mingle with locals. People might throw you occasional glances but let it go. You’re the new kid in town, that’s why. Smile back at them.
Go where people eat. Refrain from eating in chain establishments. While the menu may have been altered for a more local appeal, still, nothing beats food served in local eateries. This is even more favorable for budget travelers. If you notice people flock to a food stall or restaurant, chances are items sold there taste great and come cheap. You also would not have to worry about food safety. The fact that patrons gather around is one indication they trust the establishment. Dine in these places. Take out your phrasebook for some help deciphering the menu.
Stop by neighborhoods. Who says tourist attractions are the only places you can check out when traveling? Even non-touristy sites could turn out interesting. Exploring neighborhoods is one way you can witness and experience for yourself, the local culture. If you’ll limit your stops to particular sites recommended to travelers, chances are all you will encounter are foreign travelers like you. That is not what you signed up for.
Visit in time for festivals. Yes, this is considered as among the peak seasons when the price for everything soars. But with adequate planning you can successfully go over trips right at this time, without spending a fortune. Even locals encourage travelers to visit because festivities lend for a perfect timing for socialization. The atmosphere is fun. Food is everywhere. Locals are celebrating their culture. And the more exciting it becomes when you are taking part in activities the place is known for such as “Holi” or the Festival of Colors in India.
Going to a place you’ve never been gives you that sense of confidence and fulfillment. When you get back home, then you can start a conversation with friends or write my essay online about memories you’ve created abroad. You might just appreciate your original home even more, and realize it’s possible that you survive on the other side of the world.
Nettie Gray hasn’t experienced extending trips abroad although she felt the urge to do so many times. Family and work always make her come back home as planned.
Hi fellow travellers! I’m Ella West, and I guess I have one thing in common with you if you’ve chosen to read this post; I love to travel. I’ve visited a fair few places in my time, both pre and post children, so I thought I’d put together an article of tips on the little things that might be useful wherever you’re thinking of journeying to. I hope it’s useful!
1. Decent footwear
Make sure you have good quality footwear that you’ve worn in, because wherever you’re going, be it a short city break in Paris, or a month long trip travelling off the beaten track in China, the last thing you want is blisters and sores ruining the journey.
(Great Wall pic)
You need shoes that were made for walking to get the most out of places like this…
Ladies, I know we all love shoes, but I really do believe that sacrifices should be made in this area when it comes to foreign travel. Ditch the heels and go for comfortable, flat sandals for nights out. For a start, they weigh less and are much easier to pack in your luggage. Secondly, you can get really nice, dressy sandals anyway.
2. Mosquito Net (and repellent, and after-bite cream!)
This advice is maybe more relevant to some countries than others, but I would suggest you at least take a decent insect repellent, because those little buggers can be vicious and incessant!
(Mosquito net pic)
My princess bed, that doubles up as a fortress.
When I went backpacking in Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia last year, I took with me a net that could be fixed above the bed to prevent any nasty little creatures from getting in, and it worked. The only tricky thing was finding something to fix it to, but you can be creative; use light fixtures, picture hooks, window fixtures, anything.
3. A Poncho
I know they look geeky, but a poncho can be really useful and make you that little bit more comfortable when the weather turns. In Florida, there’s normally a downpour for a very short time in the afternoon, and Disney charge about £20 for one with Mickey Mouse on! I’ve experienced rainy seasons in North, Central and South America, and Asia, and believe me, you do not want to be left in soaking wet clothes all day.
They weigh next to nothing – pack one just in case!
4. A sarong and wrap for holy places
In lots of churches and holy places across the world it is a necessity to ensure your legs and shoulders are covered. Be it the Grand Palace in Bangkok or St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, you don’t want to miss out on seeing something spectacular.
(La Pieta)
Don’t miss out on Michelangelo’s La Pieta in St, Peter’s Basilica, Rome
There are often street sellers hanging around to sell or hire ill-prepared tourists appropriate items of clothes, but save yourself some money and research the regulations before your visit.
5. A Side Bag and/or Money Belt
Wherever you go, be it a city in the UK or a rural village abroad, you have to be vigilant against theft. Theft happens everywhere unfortunately, but it can be absolutely devastating when it happens abroad and you’re helpless or vulnerable. Sometimes carrying a backpack or a rucksack is unavoidable, but I strongly urge you to invest in a small side bag for valuables – your money, passport, phone and camera. A side bag should fit nicely under your arm, therefore making it that little bit harder for someone to tamper with. Money belts are also incredibly useful, and can be worn quite easily underneath your t-shirt – a difficult place for opportunist thieves to aim for!
(pic of money belt)
My husband took a trip to Barcelona earlier this year, or I should say, he tried to take a trip to Barcelona. He was going for a weekend to help cheer up his friend whose girlfriend had recently ended their relationship, but when he got to passport control in Spain, he found his passport had been pick-pocketed.
Result: he had to spend 24 hours in an airport cell until he could be put on a return flight the next day.
The moral of the story: be vigilant with valuables at all time (or, don’t go on holiday without your wife!).