10 Things You Should do in Brisbane

Brisbane is the capital city of Australian state Queensland and is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Australia after Sydney and Melbourne. Situated at Brisbane River and surrounded by Moreton Bay and the Great Dividing Range, Brisbane has lot of things to explore. So if you are planning to visit Brisbane and can’t take a decision about what places you should see in Brisbane then this article is for you. In this article we would highlight the top 10 must go places in Brisbane which you should not miss on your Brisbane tour.

So here we go

Lone Pine Sanctuary

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary - One of the top 10 zoos on world according to AOL. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world’s largest koala sanctuary. You can cuddle a koala, feed kangaroos with your hands and explore the diverse Australian wildlife in its natural settings. The Sanctuary is just 50 minutes from Gold Coast and is easily accessible by a private taxi or a local bus.

Brisbane Forest Park

D'Aguilar National Park - D'Aguilar National Park formerly known as Brisbane Forest Park is natural forest reserve located at the doorsteps of Brisbane where you can explore the versatile Aussie Wildlife, beautiful waterways and plants in their natural conditions. The park provides with excellent bird watching and camping opportunities to the visitors.

Wheel of Brisbane

Wheel of Brisbane – Wheel of Brisbane at South Bank is one of the latest tourist attractions in Brisbane. The giant Ferris wheel was installed on the 20th anniversary of World Expo 88. The wheel contains 42 air conditioned capsules (gondolas). The wheel would take you to the height of 60 meters so that you can enjoy the spectacular view of the city. Wheel is opened seven days a week from 10 am -10 pm.

Adventure Climb on Story Bridge - Brisbane Story Bridge Adventure Climb is a unique adventure experience ideal for all level of ages. It is one of the three adventure bridge climbs available in the world. You would experience the beautiful and panoramic uninterrupted 360 degree views of the Brisbane city during this 2.5 hour adventure climb.

Botanical Gardens Brisbane – Botanical gardens located at 7 km from Brisbane in Toowong is a great way to spend some quality time away from the crowd and noise of city life. It is a great place where you can relax and forget all your tensions. Botanical gardens are open 24 hours a day and are free of charge for visitors.

Whale Watching – Brisbane is the world’s best watching area where you can enjoy the stunning views of ocean’s beautiful creature “Whales”. The whale watching tours are organized in the Moreton Bay area with guaranteed sightings of whales and other rare sea animals like dolphins, Green turtles etc.

Sumptuous Seafood – Brisbane is Famous for its sumptuous, delicious and delightful seafood buffets all across the world. Brisbane contains some of the finest seafood destinations of the world where you can enjoy the freshest and exotic Queenslander’s seafood. For your help here is the list of more popular seafood buffets in Brisbane where you can enjoy the best seafood at affordable prices.

Skydiving – Are you great fan of adventure and want to feel adrenaline rush in your blood, then you should experience the tandem skydiving in Brisbane. There is no need of prior experience of Skydiving as highly qualified and trained skydivers would be attached to your rope so that you can enjoy the panoramic views of the city while coming down safely.

Moreton Bay

Moreton Bay Tour- Moreton Bay is the largest bay on the eastern coast of Australia and is also referred as Brisbane’s aquatic playground. The bay is the home of numerous species of aquatic animals including dolphins, whales, dugong, sharks and turtles. Swimming, Surfing, feeding a dolphin or just relaxing on the sandy coast Moreton bay is a must go place for every tourist in Brisbane.

Fraser Island – Fraser Island is the largest sand island of the world with over 130 dune lakes. The fresh water lakes in Fraser Island are the world’s cleanest fresh water lakes. Rainforests in Fresher Island is a home of more than 300 species of birds including sea eagles, osprey and kites. The island contains some of the most beautiful walking tracks of the world which varies from 1 day to 11 day tours.

Pictures and Text by: Gagandeep Singh

Gagandeep Singh works for Brisbane Australia blog which provide detailed information about Brisbane Tours, Hotels, Events and Things to do in Brisbane.

P.S.

Are you planning to travel to Australia? Check out Hostels and Hotels deals with Hostelbookers and Hotels Combined! You might as well check out some Cheap Flights with CheapoAir. And by the way, don't forget your Travel Insurance Have a safe trip!

The Philippines' Hidden Gem

The Visayas is often associated with beautiful beaches. The popularity of Boracay, however, sometimes over-shadow the other similarly beautiful beaches scattered in the area. Among which are the 16 hidden gems of Concepcion in the Province of Iloilo. Concepcion is just 2.5 to 3 hours away from Iloilo City, hence, a great place to visit when in Iloilo.

If taking a bus, it is best to stay overnight as the last trip in Concepcion going back to Iloilo City is at 3pm and 4pm for going to Sara (the next municipality where there are several bus trips by Ceres Liner going to the city). If bringing a private vehicle, one day of fun is do-able.

The maximum number of islands that one can visit in one day is three: Pan de Azucar, Agho Island, and Bolobadiangan Island.

Take a Leganes-bound jeepney and get off at Tagbak Terminal in Jaro. HPQ Liner has regular trips going to Concepcion daily. Take note, however, of the last trip which is at 3pm. Beyond 3pm, Sara-bound jeepneys are available and from Sara, there are numerous bus trips bound for Iloilo City.

Pan de Azucar is 40 minutes away by boat from the mainland. It is famous for Mt. Manaphag, towering at 573 meters and ideal for mountain climbing. As one approaches the island, one can already see the looming presence of the steep mountain. There are no resorts in the island. There are, however, several rest houses owned by the town's prominent residents. Unless you know them, camping is the only way to go. The beach is not really a good place to swim anymore. One could check out an interesting rock formation on one side of the island instead.

Approximately 25 minutes from Pan de Azucar, is Agho Island. Agho Island is a paradise. One can have the island for the whole day without anyone else. Besides being private, the sand is white, the scenery picturesque, the breeze heavenly, and the water crystal clear. It is noted for different kinds of shells and Tabon birds. A word of caution though, there may be sea urchins in the area depending on the season. There are no resorts in the island. Only the caretakers inhabit the island. So, if one would like to stay the night, one should bring a tent and enough food and water. Do not fret, Malangabang Island (where a sari-sari store is available) is just a kilometer away.

Bolobadiangan Island is often visited by tourists because of its long and winding white sandbar. During low-tide, the sand bar extends as far as if it almost touches the next island. Owned by the heirs of the Eusala family, accommodations is available through the Sand Bar Beach Resort situated in the island. There are simple cottages that visitors can rent, which ranges from Php500-800. One can also rent or bring their own tents and pay a minimal amount. The island resort does not have a restaurant, so one should bring their own food and drinking water. Water for bathing is for sale at Php10/gallon.

Concepcion beaches offer world-class quality beaches. It would be a shame not to visit these hidden gems, when it is so close to Iloilo City.

Contacts

Accommodations

- Junbee Recreation Center - Concepcion

Mr. Augusto "Jun" Garilva: 09209021681; 3920371; hoteljunbee@yahoo.com

- Sandbar Beach Resort - Bolobadiangan Island

Mr. Rex Eusala: 09207198042

- Agho Island: 09296089830; 09155454616

Boat

Ronnie (boatman): 09072897111

Sandbar boat operator: 09129575002

Municipal Tourism Officer - Mario Lazarito: 09085929096; mariolazarito@yahoo.com

Rates

Accommodations

Junbee accommodation: P200/pax

Sandbar accommodation (big cottage): P800

Boating

3-island tour with Ronnie: P1800

Sandbar boat operator: P2000 (back and forth only)

Island tour arrangement with Municipal Tourism Officer: P1500 (small boat), P1800 (2-island tour), P2200 (3-island tour)

Entrance Fees

Agho Island: P50/head

Bolobadiangan Island: P25/head

Bus

P120 each way/head

for more photos

Pan de Azucar

Agho Island

Bolobadiangan Island

for a video

Agho Island

Written by Lagaw

(All text and pictures in this article are original works of Lagaw)

Lagaw is a hiligaynon term, meaning to travel. The word aptly describes me. I love to take pictures and to discover the great sights and sounds of my country ... and hopefully the rest of the world. I consider my pictures as my way of promoting the Philippine Islands.

I especially enjoyed the white sand beaches of Boracay, Puerto Galera, Guimaras, Concepcion in Iloilo, Honda bay in Palawan, natural bath tub of Taal Volcano, old churches of Vigan and Iloilo, rocky road of Capones Island, exhilirating beauty of Mt. Pinatubo, mystical mountain of Zambales, freezing shower baths of Baguio, beautiful stalactite and stalagmites of the underground river of Palawan, magnificent limestone cliffs & lagoons of El Nido and Coron, the ukay-ukay (bargain shopping) of hollywood, dark alleys of New York, high rise buildings of Chicago, grand memorials of Washington D.C., old dominion charm of Charlottesville, Virginia, and the tabing ilog (river) of Calinog in Iloilo.

Are you interested in becoming  a contributor? You can promote and write an article about your hometown and send it to iamflip (at)flipnomad(dot)com.

Four Things You should Do in India

India has a lot of things to offer to tourists and backpackers alike. It's a huge country that is so diverse you would definitely find some activities and sights that will suit your travel palate. Here are some of the things that you shouldn't miss when you go to India.

Drink Masala Chai with Friendly Locals

Cheap, calming and it’s so good. That’s my first impression when I had my first cup of Chai in India.

Strike a conversation with friendly locals or fellow backpackers while savoring the aromatic and delicious Chai.

Flickr Photo by uteart

Some facts about Chai from Wikipedia

“Masala chai is a beverage from the Indian subcontinent made by brewing tea with a mixture of aromatic Indian spices and herbs. By itself, chai is merely the generic word for tea in Hindi, Punjabi and many other languages around the world, and was adopted into British slang as cha or char. However, for many English speakers who refer to ordinary tea as tea, the word chai is a relatively recent addition to their vocabulary and automatically implies masala chai.”

Shop and Dress up like Indians

Flickr Photo by mckaysavage

“You’ll find yourself dressing up like an Indian after one week.” That’s what my friend told me when I saw him in Kathmandu. I ended up wearing Alibaba pants on my third day in India.

India has a lot of silk scarves, colorful saris, linen shirts and pants and absurdly looking Alibaba pants. Their clothes are made to comfort you on a hot and sunny Indian day.

Let go of your inhibition and wear ‘em. You’ll not only blend in, you’ll also feel very comfortable and you might enjoy it too because it’s also like you’re in a big dress up party in Asia.

Take note that most boutiques will charge you ridiculous prices, go to the market and compare the prices of one store with the other. You’ll be able to save a lot of money.

Soak up the Culture

Flickr Photo by mckaysavage

I’m from Asia and I’ve been to some countries in this gigantic continent and so far India seems to be the most culturally alive country that I’ve ever been to. It’s like an entirely different world.

If you have an adventurous spirit, stay away from organized tours and do the trip on your own. Talk to locals about their families, cultures and traditions and stay inquisitive.

I was hesitant at first because of some fear but I’ve learnt to trust people. They are just you and me. But don’t forget to trust your gut feel as well. If you feel that it’s not right then by no means don’t do it. Be careful in talking to strangers.

Stuffed yourself with Indian Food

Flickr Photo by jetalone

If you’re a big fan of curry and spicy food then this is the best place for you. Curries, freshly cooked chapattis and other Indian treats are really yummy.

Make sure to eat in clean restaurants. You don’t want to end up in a hospital because of food poisoning right.

Note: If the restaurant is packed with customers, there’s a big chance that their food is always fresh.

P.S.

Are you planning to travel to India? Check out Hostels and Hotels deals with Hostelbookers and Hotels Combined! You might as well check out some Cheap Flights with CheapoAir. And by the way, don't forget your Travel Insurance Have a safe trip!

Convince Me to Go to India

I was hanging out with three really nice folks earlier today (1AM-6AM), drinking while singing karaoke. Yeah, that’s life in the Philippines, karaoke everywhere! One of them has been my friend for years now, the other two (a couple), were her friends. Me and my friend have traveled to quite a few places, but not as much as the couple. They’ve traveled to a lot of countries because of their work (awesome job right!).

(Warning: Before I continue on, I just like to say that this is a long post. Probably my longest post as of this moment, please bear with me. Thanks!)

Our conversation revolved around blogging, traveling, funny stuff and more traveling until one of them said, “Convince me to go to India.”

I was actually caught off guard. It’s easy for me to convince people to travel. As I’ve said repeatedly in this blog, traveling is my passion and I also want other people to try it and experience it. I always find myself answering questions of my friends and acquaintances about places that I’ve been to, you know, the usual stuff about travel.

But I really find it hard to talk about India. I always tell them to go there if you’re ready. India is like an entirely different world. It’s like a love and hate relationship. You either love it or hate it and for some maybe both.

Flashback

I bought my bus and train ticket to India in Pokhara around the 3rd week of August 2009. I bid the guy that I traveled with in Nepal goodbye and headed to the bus station around five in the morning. It was a little cold and I fell asleep again inside the cab on my way to the bus station. Upon reaching the terminal, I was surprised to see my dorm mate in Thamel with his Korean friend and both of them were also going to India. We traveled together by bus and train for almost two days until we reached Varanasi.

Advices and Warnings

Prior going to India, I received a lot of advices and I’ve heard a lot of stories from folks that I’ve met along the way. I kept on asking about the do’s and don’t’, stuff to avoid etc because I’ve read that it’s quite “hard” to travel in India. Here are some of those:

(Note: I’m not sure if they’re ok with seeing their names in a blog, so I’ll just not put it)

“It’s the perfect place to learn and see things especially for a young guy like you. India is a very special place. Go there and see for yourself.” -American guy in Chengdu

“You look too neat to go to India. You’re lucky you wouldn’t be groped coz you’re a guy but you wouldn’t escape the weird Indian stares even if you’re Asian.” -Belgian lady in Guilin

“Oh! It’s nice to travel in India. Everything is so cheap. But people do this weird blank stare, it’s scary sometimes coz you don’t know what their thinking while they’re gawking at you.” -Singaporean guy in Guilin

“My friend had his kidney stolen while he was on a train in India! He swore to me that it’s true. He woke up with a sign hanging on his neck, -Please Take me to the Hospital” and blood all over his body. I’m scared as hell to go there!” -American guy in the Philippines

“Stay aware of your surroundings. India is the land of instant karma. Oh, and be careful with what you eat and drink man, ok! By the way, you’ll see shit everywhere.” -Spanish guy in Thamel

“If there’re only two places in this world that you would visit, you should go to Jerusalem and Varanasi. Those places have strong energies. When you get there you’ll understand what I’m saying.” – Kiwi guy in Vientiane

Thoughts, Thoughts, and a lot more Thoughts

We arrived safely in Varanasi, settled in a hostel and traveled around. We drank, mingled with locals, and visited the market and all other touristy stuff. And we spent our nights at the burning ghats watching dead people getting burnt everyday.

On our first night, I was horrified with what I’ve seen. The most shocking of all was when after putting off the fire, some dogs would hurriedly ran towards it and eat the remains – left over human bones, they say it’s usually the chest and pelvic part.

Another weird, sounds funny but it’s really not amusing, was the smell. It smelled like barbeque.

My head really hurt on that first night. I was appalled with what I’ve seen and smelled. But I realized that what I’ve seen is reality. We will all die soon and dying, aside from being inevitable, is something that I should not be scared of. It’s part of our nature, its part of our life.

Having experienced and realized that life and death event, I also started asking a lot of questions to myself.

Am I doing what I want to do in life or am I just wasting it?

Do I know what I want?

What if I die tomorrow, can I say that I was able to live my life to the fullest?

I might only have one shot at this because I’m really not sure about reincarnation nor second life.

Crossroad

I felt an unexplainable sadness and worry on my third night. I was wondering if it was because of the emotion of the family members that I’ve observed. Even if I did not see any tears falling off their faces, you could feel the grief, sadness and hope (coz of reincarnation belief) for their departed love ones.

I’ve decided to go online the following morning and contacted my family. And then I understood the reason for my sadness.

My grandmother died on that same morning. The nice lady that raised and took care of me since I was a little boy had left us.

Tears fell from my small, dark brown, almond eyes. I tried to hold it back because there were other people inside the internet café but I just couldn’t. I logged off, paid the rent and walked out of the shop.

I went straight to the Ganges riverbanks. I closed my eyes and imagined that I was talking to her. I thanked her for everything that she did for me and said goodbye.

Tears were still quietly falling off my face when I heard some giggling voices of kids. Three little Indian kids were in front of me trying to sell me postcards. I wiped my tears off my face and started talking to them. The girl held my hand and started drawing some nice designs using some glittery gold and silver makeup like thingy.

I said, “I’m sorry but I don’t have any money to pay for it.”

She laughed and said, “It’s free!”

And all of us started laughing.

Dashing from Delhi to Manila

I went back to the hostel and immediately told the two other guys that I’ve changed my plans and I’m heading home right away. One of them said, “It’s ok, you don’t have to explain.” I know he noticed that my eyes were still red because of too much crying.

I said, “I’m going to Delhi via Agra and fly there to Manila.”

And they’ve decided to keep me company up to Delhi.

We stopped by Agra to see Taj Mahal and then hop on another train to Delhi. I booked my flight tickets when we were still in Agra. I spent a couple more days in Delhi while waiting for my flights. On the day of my departure, I hugged them so tight and wished them well. We promised that we’re gonna visit each other and we’re gonna travel again together. This time I was able to hold my tears back.

I arrived in Manila a day before my Grandmother’s burial.

Seeing her for the last time was more important to me than seeing the world at that time. Backpacking the world could always wait.

I was in India when I realized some of my greatest lessons in life.

Salamat sa lahat Lola.

Ten Travel Facts about Flip

Let’s play the list game. Here’s my top ten travel facts.

10. Flip has eaten disgusting stuff like deep fried meal worms and grasshoppers in his trip in Thailand.

09. Flip has always tried to avoid spending too much money on booze and ciggies, but failed to do so.

08. Flip can sleep anywhere like buses, sidewalks, trains, lounges, waiting areas, planes, etc.

07. Flip has tried eating dog meat in Manila and hated it.

06. Flip always falls in love with someone whenever he travels, or maybe he’s just drunk.

05. Flip hates cold weather because his nose always bleeds.

04. Flip loves to hang out and party on the beach.

03. Flip loves having a conversation with a stranger.

02. Flip had seen a floating body part in the Ganges River. (eeewe!)

01. Flip thought he’s gonna die in Yunnan because of a vehicular accident.

One out of the ten things that I’ve mentioned is a lie. 

Which one do you think it is?

Flickr Photo by Karindalziel

Win a Free Trip to South Africa

What a great way to start the year!  South African Journeys is offering a free trip to South Africa, visit their website at http://www.southafricanjourneys.com/ for more details.


The prize will includes:


1. Return Economy airfares for 2 people from anywhere in the world to South Africa
2. Transfer Included: Include all transfers in South Africa
3. Venue and class accommodation - minimum 4 Star
4. Full breakfast daily, only one meal per person
5. Valid for 10 nights
6. Spending money of Sterling 1000.00 is included in the prize
7. The trip is valid from May 1, 2010 to September 30, 2010
Travel is not redeemable for cash and is not transferable 


All other expense not mentioned above will be shouldered by the winners I presume.


Flip just joined the competition as well. It's so easy, just watch and choose the the video that you like  and provide your contact information and that's it.

Flickr Photo by Kristin

Goodluck!!!


P.S.
Flip is not an affiliate of this program. Flip is just sharing this information to his fellow travelers. 

Do Travelers Need a Financial Goal?

I can’t remember if I ever setup a financial goal in my life. My goals have always been simple, vague, flat and it’s always about spending such as finish school, get a job, travel, etc. As I was smoking my third cigarette for the day (no, I didn’t break my resolution lol, I’m just in a gradual quitting phase), something hit me in the head (and no, it’s not bird sh*t). A realization that maybe I should do some goal setting or maybe at least try it.

I was doing my personal financial Math, and here’s what I came up to:

What I Have

A few clothes and shoes: I don’t know how to get the monetary value

Three cheap watches: Maybe around $150 for the three of them.

Cheap Celphone: Got it from my mobile subscription, maybe around $50 in value

A few pesos: Maybe around $250 in value

My Backpack: Priceless (lol) Not counted

Beer Belly: Priceless (lol)

Kidneys and other Organs: Um, too bad they’re not functional anymore (lol)

What I Owe

$0 Credit Card: No debt here, Hurrah!!!

$500 Loan: Got it from my Aunt

$400 Loan: From Social Security (I’ll pay them when I get a job)

My Gut Feel

Uh oh! I guess I’m in deep sh*t and I should do something before I sink further.

My Action Plan

1. Pimp myself (just kidding)

2. Get a Job ASAP!

3. Learn more ways of earning passive income

4. Monetize my blog (though I don’t do SEO, maybe I should start reading about it)

5. Quit my Job and Travel again (lol)

Flickr Photo by Anakronik

What I Want to Achieve in the Next Five Years

I want to achieve a sustainable and mobile lifestyle so I could travel more. Travel is my passion and I don’t want to compromise it with my lame old corporate life. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t have anything against people doing it. I used to do it and I will do it again until I get to stand on my own feet.

I don’t want to attend a meeting at three in the morning under a fix salary. I don’t want to deal with a$$ kissing, backstabbing and petty office fights due to extreme personal insecurities of my lovable coworkers (lol, I’m just practicing my a$$ kissing skill). And most importantly, I don’t want to talk to customers screaming wildly about their DSL connection or TV programming. I just don’t get it anymore.

It’s just that, it does not fit me anymore. I want more freedom. I want more time for things that really matter to me.

My Conclusion

Yeah, I need to setup my financial goal so I could travel longer!

I know it is possible! A lot of you have shown it to me. And I feel that a lot of you are supporting me in one way or another. Thank you! But I need to get the real work done.

I made an acronym that will easily remind me of this plan.

Focus on goal and execute them with grace

Understand stuff that will help me achieve it

Change is inevitable, Embrace it

Keep on learning and

Keep on trying and you’ll make it

!!!

How about you? Have you done any financial planning lately? 

Do You Believe in Horoscope?

I didn’t have anything to do today (just like any other days) so I called a friend and chatted and we ended up reading our respective horoscopes for 2010. I was never a believer or rather I used to be a non-believer but now it’s like um, so-so, especially after some weird past horoscope predictions came true (or maybe just a coincidence).

I’m a Sagittarian, and as what most if not all astrology sites say, Sagittarians are travelers and carefree people. So it wasn’t a big surprise when the horoscope was about, you know… being carefree.

Here’s what it say:

Yearly Horoscope from Yahoo

“Did you just hear that gigantic cry of "hooray"? That was the sound of millions of Sagittarian lives getting better in 2010. Pluto has moved out of your sign, and Saturn has left Virgo (which wasn't doing you any favors either, as you may have noticed from the unusual pressures in your home life, and the difficulties you've had getting what you need to feel secure).”

What Flip Thinks: Horoscope writers did a great job in making my head swell. Anyway, just for the heck of it, Hurrah!!!

Yearly Love Horoscope from Yahoo

“As a complicating factor, you're not going to have a shortage of romantic opportunities, whether you want them or not. It's as if your attractiveness has been turned up a notch -- or maybe people are just paying more attention. If you're single this can't help but be good news, but again can be challenging if you are in a relationship that needs tweaking but not trashing. As a result of all this attention, don't be surprised if you become the object of some jealousy from your romantic partner(s), particularly in May and June.”

What Flip Thinks: LOL, only one word made me stop… did it say partners? Cool, 2010 will be very interesting then, Hurrah!!!

Yearly Career Horoscope from Yahoo

“Work? Money? These are not things that Sagittarius has a reputation for caring about all that much -- it clashes with your carefree image. Unfortunately, the last couple of years have made you take these things seriously. That's because Saturn has been passing through the Career Sector of your sky, making for all kinds of restrictions and limitations. Fortunately, that influence has passed, and (relatively speaking) it should be clear sailing from now on. Congratulations on having simply made it through more or less in one piece. You passed through the fire and made it out the other side.”

What Flip Thinks: So all the hardships and dramas were all Saturn’s fault huh! Damn, I’m gonna blame that planet for everything that happened. LOL! Seriously, with or without this horoscope prediction, I realized that I need to clean up my act. After vagabumming in different parts of Asia for six months, being unemployed for ten months and blogging instead of looking for a job, I better start finding one. Where’s the Manila Bulletin?

Do you believe in horoscopes? What does it say for your 2010?

Flickr Photo by Dalbera

Win a Free Boracay Vacation Package

Wow! It's been awhile since I've been to Boracay! I miss the sea, sand and sun life and of course the nightlife! What could be greater than this offer from  http://www.boracay-packages.com. See info below.

Win a Free Boracay Vacation Package by WOW Philippines Travel Agency

WOW Philippines Travel Agency, Inc. is celebrating it's 5th year in business during July of 2010, and we would like you to have a chance to celebrate with us, so we have decided to give-away a FREE Boracay Package complete with 5 Star accommodations at the luxurious Le Soleil de Boracay Hotel on Boracay Island. The lucky winner will win the following Boracay vacation package.

Flickr Photo By Dilly Lama

Vacation Package Inclusions:

- 5 Days / 4 Nights Luxury 5 Star Accommodations at the Le Soleil de Boracay Hotel

The Le Soleil de Boracay hotel is located on the best part of Boracay beach, station 2, also known as Boracay central. Here you will find exciting activities, shopping areas, highly favored restaurants and the best beachfront on Boracay Island. WOW Philippines Travel Agency, Inc. choose the Le Soleil de Boracay resort in Boracay not only for its prime location, but also for there excellent service, great food and superb rooms that overlook the swimming pool. We have no doubt that you will thoroughly enjoy your stay at Le Soleil de Boracay Beach Resort.

- Flights to Boracay from Manila to Caticlan Airport on Philippine Airlines

Boracay Flights will be provided by Philippines Airlines, leaving Manila Domestic Airport and flying directly to Caticlan Airport on Panay Island. Once you arrive at the Caticlan airport you will be taken by currier to the jetty port where you will board a banca boat for a 15 to 20 minute ride to the jetty port on Boracay Island located at Cagban beach.

- Island Transfers - Door-to-Door from Manila to the resort and back to Manila Domestic Airport

All land and sea transfers to and from Boracay, Caticlan and Manila will be provided for by WOW Philippines Travel Agency, Inc.

- Three (3) Meals each day, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

All meals will be provided for, three set meals, with soft drinks only will be provided for each day, there will be a set buffet breakfast, set lunch and a set dinner buffet, all meals will be received at the Le Soleil Boracay Restaurant, at the beachfront.

- Boracay Activities - Horseback Riding, Island Hopping, Glass Bottom Boat

Included in your Free Boracay Package will be three activities, starting on your second day your first activity will be a 1 hour horseback riding event, your third day will consist of Island hopping to other near by Islands, this also includes snorkeling and your forth day will include a ride on the Glass bottom boat including snacks and soft drinks.

- PLUS - 5,000 peso Spending Cash

As an additional bonus WOW Philippines Travel Agency, Inc. will also include (5) five thousand peso of spending cash, use this on souvenirs or anything you like, to remember you Boracay vacation.

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrggggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! What could be better than this?!?!? Hurry up and join now!

P.S.

Text from http://www.boracay-packages.com

Remembering Pokhara

It was around the third week of August when I left Kathmandu and decided to go to Pokhara. They say that it’s easier to go to India from Pokhara because there are buses that go directly to Gorakhpur.

As soon as we got off the bus in Pokhara, the taxi drivers swarmed to us like bees. “Hey Mister, are you looking for a cheap hotel? I’ll take you there for free!”

It was crazy!!! Good thing I was with two other travelers. We tried to find the best deal that we could and then hop on one of the taxi. We dropped off Robert somewhere because he’ll be meeting his Korean friend. Rodney and I decided to head on to the lakeside.

The lakeside is totally amazing. I could spend hours lazing around. They say on a clear day you could see the Annapurna from where we were staying. But even if it’s a little cloudy the view is still spectacular.

Another thing that I noticed, Pokhara is cheaper than Kathmandu. The food is way cheaper and tastier. Beers are cheaper. And Pokhara is cleaner than Kathmandu.

The guesthouse owner said a lot of tourists stay in Pokhara for months doing nothing. I couldn’t blame them because Pokhara is such a laid back place. It could also be an artist sanctuary if you want. It’s not impossible to gain some inspiration just by staring at the grandeur of the mountains and the lake.

I spent a couple of days in Pokhara and on my third or fourth day I have decided it’s time to go to India.

Here are some pictures of Pokhara.

(View from our Hostel)

P.S.

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