UPDATE #1 FROM TULUM, MEXICO

Greetings from Tulum! I’ve been here about a week now and I wanted to share my experience so far!

Last Saturday, I flew down here from Austin (Southwest has a direct flight). This was my first international flight considering that COVID started and I was a bit nervous, mostly because people are gross and I’m just normally an anxious person. modern aircraft air filters take viruses out and the air is regularly recirculated with fresh air from outside. I wasn’t anxious about that. I was anxious abo…

Hey! Sorry to interrupt but….

You seem to have stumbled onto a subscriber-only article!

(Already a member? Log in here.)

This post is exclusively for members of Nomadic Matt Plus! NM+ is our member’s only program that gives readers like yourself access to benefit blog posts. members also get complimentary books, guidebooks, blogging courses, access to our events, event replays, monthly giveaways, t-shirts, exclusive money-saving travel discounts, and more!

As a member of Nomadic Matt Plus, you not only get tons of perks to make your travels more affordable but you help us keep creating the thorough travel content you love!

Best of all, subscribing costs less than the cost of lunch!

If you want access to this post (as well as 100+ other member-only articles) and all those other fantastic perks, join Nomadic Matt plus and start getting a lot more out of your travels today!

Learn More

Login

NAGSASA COVE: travel guide & budget schedule

Here’s our newest diy travel guide blog about NAGSASA COVE in ZAMBALES. It has a lot of information that you’ll need to delight in Nagsasa Cove and Pundaquit, including boat trip rates, overnight camping rates, and things to do. We also included a diy NAGSASA COVE schedule with list of expenses for your reference.

Nagsasa Cove bears numerous similarities to its much more well-known stepsister. Anawangin’s popularity, however, is also her weakness. Anawangin can get too overcrowded especially during top season. Nagsasa, although beginning to draw in much more and much more tourists each year, provides much more moving and breathing space. It has all the good things Anawangin is well-known for but retaining the much more laidback atmosphere that has started to slip away from the other.

Like neighboring Anawangin and Talisayin, Nagsasa Cove used to be a common rocky coast fronted landward by a rich rainforest that was home to small groups of Aetas. until the first grain of ash fell.

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING NAGSASA COVE
BEST TIME TO check out NAGSASA COVE
HOW TO get TO NAGSASA COVEMANILA TO NAGSASA COVE
CLARK airport TO NAGSASA COVE
PUNDAQUIT TO NAGSASA COVE

PUNDAQUIT boat trip RATESSmall Boat
Big Boat

WHERE TO stay IN NAGSASA COVE
DAY trip vs OVERNIGHT STAY
THINGS TO bring to NAGSASA COVE
THINGS TO do in NAGSASA COVE
MORE suggestions FOR THE poor TRAVELER
SAMPLE NAGSASA COVE schedule with budget BREAKDOWNNAGSASA COVE DAY trip ITINERARY
OVERNIGHT NAGSASA-ANAWANGIN COVE ITINERARY

More suggestions on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️Related Posts:

UNDERSTANDING NAGSASA COVE

On 12 June 1991, Mt. Pinatubo spewed tons of volcanic ash in a cataclysmic eruption and transformed the site into something completely unrecognizable. Over time, the wind (or maybe the birds) might have brought with it the seeds of agoho trees, a type of casuarina which thrives in seashores in amazing speed. With their slender trunks and pin-like leaves, Agoho trees resemble conifers, which is why people typically mistake them for yearn trees. The surrounding landscape is not as fertile as it probably was before the eruption. numerous of the nearby hills are bald, carpeted only with bushes that occasionally catch fire. one of them serves as a good point to catch wonderful views of the cove.

Photo by Vins Carlos
But Nagsasa Cove is just one of the beaches that the 1991 Pinatubo eruption breathed new life to. like Nagsasa, nearby bays were blanketed by ash, creating Anawangin and Talisayen Coves. These are not islands but part of mainland Zambales. people just easily assume they’re islands because the easiest way to reach them is by boat. They’re tucked away in the far corners behind mountains, which make them challenging to be accessed by land. but it’s possible.

These coves are available from numerous other seaside villages like San Miguel, but the closest settlement is Barangay Pundaquit, which makes it the most typical jumpoff point. From Pundaquit, you can easily ride a boat to the following natural attractions:

Nagsasa Cove

Anawangin Cove

Silanguin Cove

Talisayin Cove

Camara Island

Capones Island

You can go straight to Nagsasa Cove from Pundaquit, but you can also go island-hopping (or beach-hopping) to see the other sited. You just need to make an arrangement with a boatman. and yes, you can check out all five on a day tour, offered that you arrive early!

And oh, Nagsasa Cove has no electrical power and no mobile signal. If you’re searching for the typical resort comforts, this may not be the beach for you. but if you’re after some peace of mind or just an intimate moment with nature, then pack your bags and head to Nagsasa Cove.

BEST TIME TO check out NAGSASA COVE

Like many destinations in the Philippines, Nagsasa Cove is best delighted in between December and April, when the skies aren’t trying to rain on your parade. See the graph below by climate change knowledge Portal.

However, if you want to escape the crowds, avoid the weekends. Nagsasa is relatively close to Manila, which implies it can get packed easily. If you should check out on a weekend, do so before “summer.” The number of arrivals begins rising steadily in March and peaks in April and May.

In my opinion, the best time to check out is November to February.

HOW TO get TO NAGSASA COVE

There are two ways to reach Nagsasa Cove: by land and by sea. It is possible to reach Nagsasa Cove after hours of trekking, but I haven’t tried it myself so I have no idea how it’s done.

The simpler and much more common way is taking a boat from Brgy. Pundaquit. So yep, the first step is getting to Pundaquit. below are directions on how to get there from Manila or Clark Airport.

MANILA TO NAGSASA COVE

Catch a victory liner bus bound to Iba or Santa Cruz, Zambales, and get off at San Antonio Public Market. travel time: 4-5 hours. Fare is between P270 and P360, depending on which part of Manila you’re coming from.  Alternatively, you may also travel by bus to Olongapo City (P218 from Pasay; P207 from Cubao), and then board another bus to San Antonio (P58).

Take a tricycle to Pundaquit. travel time: 20 minutes. Fare: P60-80 if you’re alone; P30-40 per person if you’re part of a group.

Rent a boat to Nagsasa Cove. travel time: 30-40 minutes. boat rates below.

If they’re charging you way over P300 for the bus ride to San Antonio, it could be because they think you’re getting off in Iba. Make sure it’s clear that you’re alighting in San Antonio.

CLARK airport TO NAGSASA COVE

The nearest commercial airport is Clark (Diosdado Macapagal international Airport). From here, Pundaquit is roughly only 3 hours away.

Ride a shuttle (P100) to Dau Bus Terminal. A less expensive alternative would be taking the jeepney from the main gate, but because it will involve a transfer, the direct shuttle to Dau makes much more sense.

Ride the bus to Olongapo. travel time: 1.5 hours. Fare: P140.

Ride another bus to San Antonio, Zambales. travel time: 1 hour. Fare: P59.

Take a tricycle to Pundaquit. Fare: P60-80 if you’re alone; P30-40 per person if you’re part of a group.

Rent a boat to Nagsasa Cove. travel time: 30-40 minutes. boat rates below.

PUNDAQUIT TO NAGSASA COVE

Upon entering Pundaquit, you will be stopped by officials to collect a P20 municipal/environmental fee.

Once you reach the beachfront in Pundaquit, find a boatman that will take you to Nagsasa Cove. Pricing is a bit complicated, so we have created a separate section below.

PUNDAQUIT boat trip RATES

Here are the most recent rates for boat rental and tour.

Small Boat

Capacity: up to 4 pax
Prices are PER BOAT

Anawangin Cove Only: P1200

Talisayen Cove Only: P1500

Nagsasa Cove Only: P1800

Silanguin Cove Only: P2500

Anawangin + Capones Island: P1300

Anawangin + Capones + Camara: P1800

Anawangin + Nagsasa: P2400

Nagsasa + Capones Island: P2100

Nagsasa + Capones + Camara: P2400

Anawangin + Nagsasa + Capones + Camara: P3000

Note that the figures above are per boat, which implies it will still be divided by how numerous you are in the group. A boat can ferry up to 4 passengers.

Big Boat

Minimum of 10 pax
Prices are PER PERSON

Anawangin Cove Only: P300

Talisayen Cove Only: P300

Nagsasa Cove Only: P450

Silanguin Cove Only: P600

Anawangin + Capones Island: P300

Anawangin + Capones + Camara: P450

Anawangin + Nagsasa: P600

Nagsasa + Capones Island: P550

Nagsasa + Capones + Camara: P600

Nagsasa + Anawangin + Capones + Camara: P750

Many trip operators also offer packages that already include transfers, food at camp, tents, entrance fees, and boat rental.

You can work out it down if you’re really on a very tight budget.

The only trip operator we have tried is Harry Balais of LegendHarry Travels. You can contact him at: 0917 6274945.

WHERE TO stay IN NAGSASA COVE

Huts for beach-goers!
Nagsasa Cove is divided into several basic resorts. “Basic” because there are hardly any amenities, other than some open-air nipa and bamboo huts. camping is still the name of the game in Anawangin, Nagsasa, and Silanguin Coves. You can rent a tent on site, but I highly encourage that you bring your own. If you don’t own a tent, purchase one. tent rental is around P500 per night, but you can find a good tent for around P1000!

There are cottages for rent too. here are the fees you need to know:

NAGSASA COVE RATES

Entrance Fee: P50 per person

Overnight Fee: P100 per person

Cottage/Hut Rental fee (Day): P100 per cottage

Cottage/Hut Rental fee (Overnight): P200 per cottage

Tent Rental Fee: P400-500 per tent

ANAWANGIN COVE RATES

Entrance Fee: P50 per person

Overnight Fee: P130 per person

Small Cottage Rental fee (Overnight): P350 per kubo

Big Kubo Rental fee (Overnight): P2500 per kubo

Tent Rental Fee: P400-500 per tent

CAPONES ISLAND RATES

Entrance Fee: P350 per person

Overnight Fee: P750 per person

DAY trip vs OVERNIGHT STAY

It really depends on which sits higher on your list of priorities: comfort or adventure?

Nagsasa Cove is much much more quiet than Anawangin
Spending your night at Nagsasa Cove can be a peaceful, unwinding experience. because there is no reputable mobile signal, think of it as your chance to disconnect from the rest of the world. It’s not each day that you get to do that. It’s an opportunity to unwind and start fresh, especially if you’re going through something. For those who are broken, Nagsasa Cove can make you forget and heal, even for a day.

But going back to basics isn’t for everyone. If you’re maselan when it concerns restrooms or if you can’t live without electricity, it might be too much for you to handle. in that case, just check out Nagsasa on a day tour. You can still see much of what the cove has to offer, but you will need to be back in Pundaquit by sundown. numerous choose to spend the night at a resort in Pundaquit for the typical comforts.

THINGS TO bring to NAGSASA COVE

If you decide to stay overnight,however, here are some things you need to bring to have an incident-free stay:

Tent. Ask your friends. one of them might just own a tent that you can borrow. A medium-sized tent can accommodate up to four people. but if you’re the type that protects your personal space so much, you can also limit it to only 3. It is not advisable to rent tents. If you planning on renting a tent for P500 per night, ditch it and just purchase one. There are tents available at diy shops and sports houses for as low as P1000. best part is you get to keep the tent and you won’t have to worry about finding one next time.

Water. In secluded beaches like Anawangin, water is gold.

Can/bottle opener and knife. You will need these to open stuff. opening things with your teeth is outstanding but…

Rope. You might need this to create an improvised clothesline so your wet clothes will dry easily.

Flashlight. No electricity, baby.

Mosquito repellent. avoid mosquito bites and all the diseases that might come with them.

Sunblock. safeguard your skin from the sun, of course.

Camera. Anawangin provides not just a good place to swim but amazing scenery that you will want to capture.

Also, don’t try to bring too numerous clothes. If you’re staying for only a night, bring just enough. Don’t forget toiletries.

THINGS TO do in NAGSASA COVE

Where the sea welcomes the creek

Climb to the viewpoint for an remarkable vista! The hill on the southern end of the cove — it’s on your left if you’re facing the sea — can be climbed. It’s a short, easy climb, so don’t worry too much about it. There is a sign that says P10 donation, but I’m not sure if it’s legit or where the payment goes.

Swim and beach bum. The base of the seeing hill has shallower waters, so it’s a terrific spot to just take a dip and play around. but always be careful.

Trek to Nagsasa waterfalls. Not too far from the beach are a few waterfalls punctuating the streams in the area. The nearest is probably 30 minutes (or longer, depending on your pace) away. If it’s your first time, you should hire a guide. guide fee is between P30 and P50 per person.

Stroll along the inlet. Nagsasa Cove has a shallow, beautiful inlet near the southern end of the strip.

Go fishing. Some boatmen conduct fishing tours. I was able to try this one time. We caught a wahoo! If you want to do this, be sure to let your boatman know before the trip so they can prepare the fishing rods and other equipment.

Watch the stars. If you have a smartphone, download a stargazing app like Google sky Map for Android and GoSkyWatch for Apple. limited or non-existent electrical power on the beaches make them optimal places to view the stars!

Visit Anawangin Cove. It’s very similar to Nagsasa, but check it out too! It’s the place that put San Antonio on the tourism map. entrance Fee: P50.

Check out Capones Island and Lighthouse. The entrance fee is a bit steep (P350), but Capones Island is beautiful too. If you’re staying overnight in Anawangin, you can make a stop here on the way back to Pundaquit on your second day.

Drop by Casa San Miguel on your way back. Casa San Miguel is a small museum highlighting the cultural heritage of San Antonio, Zambales. You can access it by tricycle from Pundaquit or San Antonio Public Market. It’s a peaceful, enlightening way to end an adventure.

Randy, our boatman, reeling in a wahoo, our first catch!

MORE suggestions FOR THE poor TRAVELER

Go to market! The San Antonio Public Market stands near the bus stop, where you will be alighting. before heading to Pundaquit, drop by the market to purchase supplies. the market sells meat, seafood, and other ingredients at very economical prices. If you’re camping overnight in one of the secluded beaches, this is the best place to get raw or fresh ingredients to be grilled or cooked on the beach. They also have Pinoy kakanin like kutsinta, puto, nilupak, and sapin-sapin.

Hire a local cook (paluto). If you bring raw and fresh ingredients with you, you can hire a local to cook for you. The cook we hired lives on the cove (somewhere inland). They do paluto service to earn additional inc

From Cairns to Airlie Beach, Australia

When I woke up, I thought I was still dreaming. The images that flashed before my eyes were both familiar and strange. Familiar, because these were things that filled my days growing up in the Philippine countryside: banana farms, cane fields, and other verdant seas. Strange, because I didn’t expect to see them here, in Australia.

When I think about Australia, I think about crimson deserts, dynamic reefs, and glowing cityscapes. None of the Aussie postcards I had bragged about the greener pastures. A dumb misconception, given that Australia is a continent on its own, and thus harbors a broad range of landscapes.

My destination: Airlie Beach. A small town along the eastern coast of Queensland, Airlie beach is a top beach destination in Australia, best known as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and a jump off point to the great barrier Reef. coming from the city of Cairns, north of the state, it took us around 10 hours to reach the famed beach.

To Fly or not to Fly

We could’ve flown. There are a few flight options for those who want it fast, fast, fast. Hamilton Island (HTI), one of the larger Whitsunday islands, has its own airport. Qantas flies directly from Cairns (CNS) to Hamilton. Virgin connects in Sydney or Brisbane; and JetStar in Sydney. From the island, one has to take a ferry to Airlie Beach.

But as with many things fast, it comes with a price. One-way Cairns-Hamilton fare for a direct flight plays between AUD 400 and 500. If you have the money but not the time, it’s a wise choice.

However, a non-direct flight with one stop is within the AUD 250-400 range, and the total travel time (mostly waiting time) can take as long as seven to 27 hours (for real).

Long Bus Rides

Traveling by bus is much, much friendlier to the wallet. It is best for those whose pockets aren’t as deep but have all the time in the world. Greyhound, for example, charges only AUD85, one way for a 10-hour journey.

But if there’s one quirk about myself that I have discovered over the past years, it’s that I don’t mind long bus rides. scratch that. “Don’t mind” doesn’t quite cut it. I actually, honestly delight in it for a tall pile of reasons. On top of the mound: It gives me ample time to just be with my thoughts. numerous of my ideas — marketing strategies, film storylines, and personal projects — were conceived in between the aisle and the windows of a humble bus. I was actually looking forward to the long ride.

Departure was scheduled at 8:15am. As early as 7:30, I was already at stop D of the Reef Fleet Terminal, just a 10-minute walk from YHA Hostel central Cairns. The red Greyhound bus arrived on the dot, always a great thing especially that it was a bit cold and drizzling that morning. I fell in line as the chauffeur hopped out and then collected all luggage. When it was time to hop in, I was greeted by well-maintained interiors. No strange odors or trash of any kind.

I wasn’t given a seat assignment, which confused me a little bit. “Do I just sit anywhere?” I asked the driver, who gleefully replied with, “Anywhere but the chauffeur seat.” I dashed in between rows of four seats, all looking neat and comfortable. the best part, wi-fi. An actual working wi-fi. stop spoiling me, Australia!

I find a great deal of excitement in getting a peek of small towns as our bus sweeps through the land. I’ve always looked at townships and villages as characters, each with a distinct personality and appeal, and viewing them appear and disappear in a blur of colors can be quite entertaining. It’s like a series of brief love affairs. Townsville, for example, looked pretty darn interesting as our bus slowed down for a quick stop. It made me curious. It made me want to visit next time.

View of the beach from the bus
A peek at Townsville
I also met two Filipino women when we stopped for a meal in Cardwell, one of the most memorable moments throughout the entire trip.

Even the scenery did not disappoint. The glass window next to me became a screen, flashing fantastic framed landscape images in unlimited succession: virid plains, ivory shores, and rustic villages. At one point, I was treated to a majestic view when the road climbed and ran above a thick rainforest canopy. At another, a ideal rainbow appeared, arching over the road. It was as though I entered a dream. and the much more I think about it, I did. Queensland, to me, was a dream and I was finally living it.

Greyhound Australia plies the Cairns-Airlie beach route daily. To book or view much more info, visit: www.greyhound.com.au

More suggestions on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Related Posts:

4 Highlights of our Kakadu national Park Day Tour, Australia

Mindil beach Sunset Market in Darwin, Australia

DARWIN ON A BUDGET: totally free schedule & travel guide

Alice Springs YHA Hostel: Where to stay in Alice Springs, Australia

Cairns central YHA Hostel: Where to stay in Cairns, Australia

Passions of Paradise: Michaelmas Cay and the great barrier Reef, Australia

Aboard the Derwent Hunter: Sailing around the Whitsunday Islands, Australia

AUSTRALIAN VISA: requirements & online APPLICATION

MY love note TO THE IRISH

Posted: 10/25/2013 | October 25th, 2013

A couple years ago, I had a 24-hour layover in Dublin. I crammed in as much sightseeing as I could, and though I did see the sights, I never got to know the city. I vowed to come back.

The emerald Isle has always held a certain allure: Guinness, friendly locals (never met an Irish person I didn’t like), rolling verdant green hills, leprechauns, pots of gold, lucky charms, hearty food, and ancient castles.

Last month, I went back to Ireland for a travel conference. Sadly, I didn’t get to stay as long as I wanted. My trip had to be cut short due to a commitment in the US, and lots of of the things I tried to do were rained out (but what’s Ireland without the rain?).

I guess that long road trip around Ireland will just have to wait.

Though I didn’t get to see much of the country, I did get to meet a lot of locals — and I have to tell you that while Ireland itself is beautiful, it’s the Irish that make Ireland the terrific country it is.

The Irish are some of the friendliest, warmest, and a lot of outgoing people I’ve ever met. I’ve met Irish travelers before, and one of my close pals is Irish (probably the only vegetarian, non-drinking Irishman in the world!), but that’s nothing compared to experiencing the Irish in their own country.

First, there are the Dublin cab drivers. When I arrived in Dublin a few years ago, the cab motorist chatted my ear off as we drove to town from the airport, telling me all about how his daughter was now 33 (spoken in an Irish accent, it sounds a lot more like “tertee tree”), every neighborhood we passed through, and which Irish food I needed to eat during my visit.

His warm, friendly nature made that taxi ride one of my favorites.

Because of that experience, I took cabs wherever I could during my recent visit. I normally avoid cabs (they’re expensive compared to the local bus), but every cab ride was like learning about a slice of life in Ireland. Each ride was a new chapter of a very long story. I had one motorist make fun of me for being American (“here’s your change, DUDE”), one gave me the lowdown on Irish politics and an upcoming election, another talked about how Ireland has developed considering that he was a kid, and others just chatted my ear off about life in Dublin.

Taxi motorists in Dublin are a league apart. I highly recommend taking at least a couple of cab rides during your visit.

Next there was my Airbnb host in Galway (probably the best host I’ve ever had). He helped out by getting me a complimentary tour, showed me some pubs, and overall made my time in the city spectacular. He went out of his way to accommodate me during my stay.

During dinner one night in Galway, two Irish men sat beside me and my friend, looked over, and after a basic “Where are you from?” chatted our ears off all night, even asking us to take their picture to show their wives they were having a terrific time. We took pleasure in white wine and some laughs, not to mention a thick Irish accent I couldn’t always understand.

I loved the abundant friendliness and hospitality I was regularly shown. Whether it was asking questions on the street, interactions in stores, or banter in the bars, the Irish were always happy, helpful, and energetic. They have an infectious charisma that just makes you happy.

From their demeanor to their attitude and willingness to share a pint and tell jokes with you, the Irish are exceptionally hospitable hosts and left a enduring impression on me.

Ireland is a stunning country, with verdant hills and castle ruins around every corner, but what will bring me back to Ireland are the people and a desire to learn a lot more about their history and culture.

Visit Ireland for the beauty; stay for the people.

Get Your thorough budget guide to Europe!

My detailed, 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the functional information you need to save money while backpacking around Europe. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars, and more! Click here to learn a lot more and get started!
 

Book Your trip to Ireland: Logistical ideas and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner or Momondo to find a low-cost flight. They are my two favorite search engines because they search web sites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned. start with Skyscanner first though because they have the greatest reach!

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the greatest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the least expensive rates for guesthouses and low-cost hotels.

Don’t forget travel Insurance
Travel insurance will secure you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.It’s detailed protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it lots of times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)

Insure My trip (for those over 70)

Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want a lot more information on Ireland?
Be sure to check out our robust destination guide on Ireland for even a lot more planning tips!

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS for Travelers

happy new Year!

Last year brought great deals of things as well as people to be grateful for. however of course, there have been difficulties as well, difficulties that taught us a thing or two about life as well as prompted us to show as well as to enhance moving forward.

For many, new Year is one more chance to begin fresh as well as be better. This doesn’t mean that it’s the only time we will do enhancements as well as changes. We can modification any type of time, however custom has it that we listing down our new Year’s resolutions.

Here are a few of our travel resolutions that you may likewise want to think about for yourself.

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

Use all your leaves.
Take fewer photos.
Avoid utilizing the phone when dining.
Spend in your destination if you can pay for it!
Travel sustainably.
Be more budget-savvy.
Be more adventurous.
Get that insurance.
Learn the regional language.
Be more diligent even when you travel.
More tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️Related Posts:

Use all your leaves.

Some of us don’t get to exhaust all the allotted leaves from work. It’s time to make a change. Take a break, treat yourself, as well as stop feeling guilty for declaring a well-deserved rest. It’s your right. In fact, research study suggests that taking breaks lessens the probability of getting mental tiredness as well as enhances productivity.

Take fewer photos.

Taking pictures as well as selfies is alright, however like what Catriona gray taught us, “Everything is great if in moderation.” Be considerate, particularly when taking pictures of famous places. Don’t take as well much time as others want to have their pictures taken too.

Often, it is finest to just be in the moment. When you put down your camera phone, you’re more likely to enjoy as well as keep in mind the details of your trip.

You already spent energy, time, as well as money to get there — BE THERE. enjoy your time there as well as make the most out of it.

Avoid utilizing the phone when dining.

This is particularly true when you dine with others. prevent taking as well many pictures of food since your companions may be as well tired as well as just want to eat in peace.

Don’t spend as well much time chatting, watching videos or playing games while at the dining table. Paying interest to the people you are with as well as the food on the table is a indication of respect. join in the conversation as well as link with the people you’re sharing a meal with. actual human interaction is still much better than constantly tapping on your keypad.

Spend in your destination if you can pay for it!

Help the regional economic climate by patronizing regional products. However, you must likewise be conscious of the materials or components used. Is it environmental-friendly? Are animals as well as plants (especially the critically endangered species) not harmed in producing the product?

Travel sustainably.

Don’t litter. respect wildlife as well as nature. Bring your own recyclable utensils as well as refillable water bottle. You understand what they say: Take nothing however pictures, kill nothing however time, leave nothing however footprints. Let’s assist take care of our environment. This world is our home.

Be more budget-savvy.

It’s not always about the cheapest however what provides the very best value for money. just since the ticket or the product is on sale doesn’t mean you have to buy it. You have to think about likewise other factors like the time of your arrival, the season, the distance to/from the attractions that you want to visit, as well as so on.

Be more adventurous.

Allow yourself to be spontaneous every when in a while. Don’t be afraid to try regional cuisine. as well as always try to discover something new in every destination!

Get that insurance.

It’s great to be more adventurous; it’s likewise smart as well as practical to get insurance coverage when you travel, particularly for the excitement seekers. even if you are not the adventurous type, paying a fairly little amount for travel insurance coverage goes a long way!

Learn the regional language.

Learn simple as well as useful regional phrases like “hello”, “goodbye”, “please”, as well as “thank you” can go a long, long way. Not only will it prove useful, it likewise shows that you care about your destination.

Interacting with the locals will provide you a deeper insight into their culture. It would likewise assist if you will make effort to understand the customs to prevent offending the locals.

Be more diligent even when you travel.

Some tasks can be quickly done even when you travel. You just requirement to have the right app for it. For example, for electric bills, download the MERALCO MOBILE app as well as indication up for paperless billing. This way, you get to get as well as view your expenses online, even when you travel. You likewise don’t requirement to concern about your expenses getting lostwhile you’re away. You can even pay your expenses utilizing the app too!

✅ download THE MERALCO MOBILE APP: ANDROID, iOS

This publish is given you by MERALCO.
2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 1️⃣ • 2️⃣

More tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Related Posts:

How to insurance claim GST Refund in Singapore

6 simple methods to prevent getting lost in a foreign country

5 methods to stay close to house during travel

7 products Travelers commonly fail to remember to pack

IS TRAVELOKA LEGIT? Yes! as well as right here are 6 reasons Why We utilize It

How to discover the cheapest Flights utilizing Traveloka app

CEBU PACIFIC promo & PISO FARE: exactly how to book effectively

How to book the very best vacation offers with offer Grocer

TNN: how TO improve YOUR travel photography

hi everyone,

I wanted to share another video from a recent Nomadic Network event. this one is all about “How to improve Your travel Photography”.

Do you love taking photos while traveling but wish they turned out better? 

Join us as we talk through ideas that will make a big impact in  improving your travel photography. learn how to bring home sensational  images that capture the magic of the places you check out – whether it’s a  bucket list trip around the world or e…

Hey! Sorry to interrupt but….

You seem to have stumbled onto a subscriber-only article!

(Already a member? Log in here.)

This post is exclusively for members of Nomadic Matt Plus! NM+ is our member’s only program that gives readers like yourself access to bonus blog posts. members also get complimentary books, guidebooks, blogging courses, access to our events, event replays, monthly giveaways, t-shirts, exclusive money-saving travel discounts, and more!

As a member of Nomadic Matt Plus, you not only get tons of perks to make your travels more affordable but you help us keep creating the thorough travel content you love!

Best of all, subscribing costs less than the cost of lunch!

If you want access to this post (as well as 100+ other member-only articles) and all those other amazing perks, join Nomadic Matt plus and start getting a lot more out of your travels today!

Learn More

Login

Photographing Morocco: ideas on rules as well as method

Morocco is a lovely as well as very photogenic country. busy markets, ancient medinas as well as extraordinary landscapes all lend themselves to amazing photographic opportunities. 

But before your snap-happy self steps off the airplane in any type of exotic locale, it’s crucial to think about the finer points of the place, culture, landscape, as well as people that will ideally be exposed to you with your lens.

ARMED village © Chris Griffiths

Landscapes are where you can truly take your time. They aren’t going anywhere as well as so you can set your cam to handbook as well as try different structures as well as depths of field.

Generally, smaller apertures as well as narrow lens openings (f8, f11, f16) are great for landscapes as they bring a lot more of the picture into focus.

Try different points of view by climbing to higher or lower vantage points. If you have identified a excellent shot however its midday as well as whatever is looking a bit washed out, go back for the sunset as well as try catching it in the golden glow of the sunlight.

Taking a picture anywhere in the world while traveling needs a specific level of etiquette.

In Morocco, as in other countries, do your finest to be respectful of the people as well as culture surrounding you. regrettably for professional photographers who are aiming for excellent portraits, Moroccans do not really take pleasure in being photographed.

It’s a genuine pity considering that faces, smiles, stares into the horizon, as well as up-close shots speak so lots of words.

Whether you’re utilizing a elegant DSLR or your throwaway plastic Kodak, let these special people shots come to you. 

In other words, wait on the ideal moment when asking for a picture will boost your chances of getting permission. The chance may develop from somebody in a medina you befriend, an acquaintance with whom you take pleasure in tea, the manager or personnel at your guesthouse, or the household of your motorist or guide if you occur to be on an set up tour.

SOFIA portrait picture © Chris Griffiths

A big aperture with a bigger lens opening (such as f2.8, f2, f1.4) produces a narrow depth of field. This is a great method for portraits. The result will be a blurred background with the person you are photographing. The viewer’s eye is directly taken toward the person when checking out the image.

If you would like to photograph a person close up – always ask permission.

Begin by trying to establish a rapport by engaging in conversation before you bring your cam as much as eye level. Smiling as well as basic communication, if only with body language, works best.

You are far a lot more likely to get a indeed this way. And, if the response is no, smile as well as nod before you turn away to discover your next shot.

SEE ALSO: 5 methods To dramatically enhance Your travel Photography

?Pro Tip: Whether you’re utilizing a elegant DSLR or your throwaway plastic Kodak from an on the internet cam store like Adorama, take your time with people photos. let the people shots come to you. wait on the ideal moment when asking for a picture to increase your chances of getting permission. often you may have to pay, however for an exceptional portrait, it’s nearly always worth it!

LADY IN FEZ © Chris Griffiths

Manual settings will enable the most innovative manage for the photographer. however don’t be terrified to put your cam on to Aperture or Shutter concern settings.

I have discovered this particularly beneficial whilst wandering the hectic streets of cities like Fez as well as Marrakesh, where picture chances can come as well as go extremely quickly.

These settings will enable you to take a lot more time over composing your photograph, instead of costs useful time balancing exposure.

If you are lucky sufficient to have a guide, ask them to assist you with breaking down any type of prospective barriers.

This truly has a tendency to work well inside the Fez as well as Marrakesh medinas where guides are both understood as well as respected. having a regional with you will truly assist to open up doors.

And, if your guide does agree to assist you to set up some shots, prevent hiding behind your camera. engage in the conversation with smiles as well as welcoming gestures that will make the person you are photographing feel a lot more comfortable in your existence as well as will cause a lot more natural results.

 MAMA & HASSAN © Thom Buttery

Sometimes, including the context as well as setting of where the person is assists to tell a story within your image. A smaller aperture as well as a narrow lens opening (such as f8, f11, f16) will produce a larger airplane of focus, bringing a lot more detail into the background.

Experiment with different apertures as well as depths of field for this. believe about what is in the background within your structure as well as concern whether it adds anything to the image.

Another method that you’ll be able to get some excellent pictures is to partake in a workshop.

In Fez, cooking, calligraphy, mosaic, as well as artisan workshops will indicate genuine interactions with locals.

This will bring an chance to not only befriend those you encounter however to likewise get comfortable sufficient with them to take some photos. This is particularly true for those in-your-face portraits that would make national geographic proud.

SEE ALSO: exactly how To Backup Your travel pictures (And Why You requirement To)

BAKER picture © Chris Griffiths

Experimenting with different as well as unusual structures can cause fascinating results.

A close up of a person’s deal with conveys much to the viewer, particularly if an fascinating expression is captured. However, unusual structures can add a innovative edge.

The person may be bring something, which might assist tell the story as well as so framing around actions can assist you discover an fascinating structure angle.

Other shots may come from just waiting in one area as well as photographing objects as well as people as they pass by.

In Morocco, this may be a bit tricky, however a appropriate zoom lens can assist you go unnoticed. The rooftop of your guesthouse will likewise proffer some great chances either down into the alleyway or out into the horizon.

While utilizing your zoom may not be the very best method to get all of the pictures you require, it is a method to acquire shots of locals (and even tourists) interacting naturally with those around them as well as their environment.

FEZ picture © Chris Griffiths

Try choosing out popular landmarks as well as buildings from an unusual angle. believe about out exactly how it associates with its surroundings as well as whether you can make it stick out from other buildings in the background.

Especially in public areas, some Moroccan people may request money before (or after) you have photographed them.

It is now commonplace, as well as it’s truly as much as you exactly how much you’d like to give. A fair level of repayment to begin with is 10 Dirham (or about $1.25).

In areas with mass tourism, such as the primary square (Jamaa el Fna) in Marrakesh, snake charmers sit waiting on tourists to photograph them. If you choose to take a picture, some may try their luck by pushing you for a considerable amount a lot more (usually around 100-200 Dirham).

When this happens, a smile as well as an assertive no while handing them five or 10 Dirham must do the trick.

Just don’t fail to remember to bring a pocket of modification along! If you feel somebody is being excessively pushy, try not to let your rage get the much better of you – arguing will only escalate the situation. just smile as well as walk away.

Here are some a lot more examples of shots taken in Morocco together with some essential notes.

People as well as Portraits

MEDINA alley method picture © Chris Griffiths

The medina of Fez is an amazing location to photograph.

If you have time to stroll the streets, then often standing in one area as well as waiting on the world to pass you by can cause some excellent shots.

I discovered the backstreets especially excellent for this.

The unexpected differences of light produced by the shadows of buildings or dimly lit alleyways make excellent experiments. try catching silhouetted figures walking with an alleyway by subjecting for the light outside, or interestingly frame those walking past utilizing archways.

Landscapes as well as Buildings

SAHARA © Thom Buttery

Sometimes framing a person looking over the landscape can assist add that additional wow factor.

In this instance, the person looking over the velvet sand dunes of the Sahara enables the customer to associate to them, in addition to being able to admire the remarkable landscape.

 MARRAKESH SUNSET picture © Chris Griffiths

If you see amazing sunset – discover a perspective that silhouettes an fascinating part of the skyline against it.

Expose for the sunset rather than the buildings below as well as play with your aperture as well as shutter settings up until you discover the ideal balance to produce the silhouette effect.

You cantry out fascinating crops when you get your pictures into a picture editing software.

The Finer Details

MOSAIC picture © Chris Griffiths

It is simple to get caught up focusing on landscapes as well as people. stepping back as well as believing about the finer details can assist you tell the story of your trip to Morocco that bit bit more.

DOOR picture © Chris Griffiths

It may be an variety of leather bags outside a shop or a pair of used sandals outside a vibrant doorway.

RIAD MARRAKECH picture © Chris Griffiths

Whatever you notice – don’t be terrified to take a shot. bend the policies as well as be creative. however a lot of significantly take pleasure in taking photos as well as be respectful of your surroundings.

Remember as the excellent Ansel Adams when said, “There are no policies for great photographs, there are only great photographs.”

This has never been truer than in a country like Morocco where amazing shots, sensational portraits, as well as dream photographic chances await those well versed in not only method however in the art of photographic etiquette.

Like This Article? Pin it!

 

Disclaimer:Goats On The road is an Amazon partner as well as likewise an affiliate for some other retailers. This indicates we make commissions if you click links on our blog as well as purchase from those retailers.

VISA-FREE PERU: 10 Must-Visit Destinations for your dream itinerary

“You will fall in love with Peru.”

Every single one of my close pals who had gone backpacking in South America said the same thing when they met me for the first time after their trip — that I would love Peru the most. I’m not even kidding or exaggerating. Every single one of them.

And it drives me crazy.

Why? because even without them saying it, Peru has always been up there on my list of destinations that I would sell my worldly possessions for. and all their wonderful stories are amplifying that voice in my head that screams, “WTF are you waiting for?” because really, what have I been waiting for?

Peru’s current tourism campaign posits the country as the richest in the world. That may be quite the stretch to some, but wealth isn’t always about money or gold. Often, memories are precious and moments are priceless. Peru, with its unforgettable natural and cultural wonders, is a real treasure trove.

Peru is visa-free for Filipinos. In fact, citizens of a total of 99 countries and territories can check out Peru without a visa. This includes Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, whose citizens can stay for up to 183 days for tourism purposes. Here’s the list of these jurisdictions:

European Union
Andorra
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Australia
Bahamas
Barbados
Belarus
Belize
Bolivia
Brazil
Brunei
Canada
Chile
Colombia
Costa Rica
Dominica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Fiji
Grenada
Guatemala
Guyana
Honduras
Hong Kong
Iceland
Indonesia
Israel
Jamaica
Japan
Kiribati
Liechtenstein
Macau
Macedonia
Malaysia
Marshall Islands
Mexico
Micronesia
Moldova
Monaco
Montenegro
Nauru
New Zealand
Norway
Palau
Panama
Papua new Guinea
Paraguay
The Philippines
Russia
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Samoa
San Marino
Serbia
Singapore
Solomon Islands
South Africa
South Korea
Suriname
Switzerland
Taiwan
Thailand
Tonga
Trinidad and Tobago
Turkey
Tuvalu
Ukraine
United States
Uruguay
Vatican City
Venezuela

South America is one of the only two continents that I haven’t set foot in. but it looks like that’s about to change soon. I can safely announce as early as now that we’re hitting Peru next year! but while teleportation and time travel are not yet possible, I’m indulging my extremely eager spirit by admiring other travelers’ unforgettable moments, captured in these inspiring photographs.

1. Huascarán national Park

At 6,768 metres, Huascarán is the tallest mountain in Peru and is part of the Cordillera Blanca range, which is also a part of the larger Andes range. It’s a UNESCO world Heritage site and is popular among mountaineers, adventurers, and nature-lovers!

2. Machu Picchu

Peru’s most iconic site! This 15th century settlement perched 2430m above the Inca’s sacred Valley. This UNESCO world Heritage site was also voted onto the list of the new 7 Wonders of the World.

3. Paracas Peninsula

The Paracas Peninsula is where the desert mingles with the ocean. It’s part of the Paracas national reservation in the Pisco Province, which is a UNESCO world Heritage Site.

4. Rainbow Mountains

This geologic wonder is notoriously hard to reach, but if you’re the type who likes chasing incredible views, these striped slopes are worth the days of tough trek! These painted peaks are part of the Andes and are accessible via Cusco.

5. Salinas de Maras

These salt ponds are located in Maras, a town smack in the sacred Valley of the Incas north of Cuzco. These ponds have been used since the Inca days.

6. Nazca Lines

Nazca is where the ancient Nazca civilization settled after the fall of Cahuachi in 400AD and is home to the famous Nazca lines, enormous drawings and geometrical figures on the sand.

7. Amazon Cruise

Peru cradles the headwaters of the Amazon, the world’s greatest river. and you can go on a cruise along some of its tributaries, many of which will also introduce to you the wildlife that both the river and the covering rainforests have nurtured.

8. Paragliding in Lima

Lima’s Miraflores district is where many paragliding companies operate. The jump off spot is at Parque Raimonde. Tandem flights cost around 80USD.

9. Ica

Ica is an oasis at the heart of the Atacama dunes. Don’t miss the mummies and other artifacts inside the Museo regional de Ica.

10. Ruta del Sillar

Arequipa’s historic core is a UNESCO world Heritage City known for its buildings made of white-pink volcanic stones. (Hence the nickname White City.) These stones are called “sillar.” La Ruta del Sillar takes visitors to where these stones were quarried, which will give a better understanding of the region.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ • 1️⃣ • 2️⃣5️⃣

More tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

No related posts.

Sagada Weaving: mountain Province, Philippines

I excitedly hung my camera around my neck as I hopped out of the vehicle and trod toward the Sagada Weaving complex only to be greeted by a “No Taking of Pictures” sign posted on the door. just when I was about to take my cam off and put it back to the bag, one of the ladies working there said that it was okay. We asked if we could take photos of them while they worked; she obliged. She even encouraged us to explore the other parts of the workplace. From that moment on, I knew I would have fun inside the building. warm hospitality always makes traveling a lot more enjoyable!

Sagada Weaving has been weaving quality products such as bags, slippers, souvenirs, and apparel since 1968, making them a pioneer of the industry in the area. many residents work here and it is said to be one of the largest employers in town. They built a souvenir shop along the road that visitors can check out if they are looking for real and traditional made-in-Sagada items.

My pal posing behind a weaving loom
But the highlight of our check out was our brief moment inside the work hall, where we witnessed the workers create colorful fabrics using wooden weaving looms. It was quite wonderful how complicated, painstaking and patience-testing the whole thing seemed to me. I even asked one of the women manipulating the threads manually if it was difficult what they were doing. She answered, “Hindi naman.”

Watching the threads run and merge with others to create a sea of colors and a distinct pattern was astonishing to me as I had never seen anything like it before. While the weaving looms somewhat scared me a little bit when they moved, I couldn’t help imagining my finger getting cut as it gets caught between the twining threads like in the movie Wanted  (starring James McAvoy and Angelina Jolie, I just have to say that ‘coz I love them). That’s what I get for watching too much gory films.

Threads!
More threads!

I tried to understand the whole weaving process, throwing questions to the women every now and then, but I felt like I was bothering them because they looked really focused. By the end of our visit, I still could not grasp how the whole thing works, to be honest. I guess weaving is not for me. Still, the check out was a terrific part of our trip. It’s always terrific to learn something (or at least, try to) especially when you’re in the company of warm, welcoming people.

Sagada Weaving and Souvenir Shop
Nangonogan, Poblacion, Sagada
+639195571431

More tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Related Posts:

The Hanging Coffins at Echo Valley: Sagada, Philippines

BOMOD-OK FALLS, SAGADA: What to expect

That thing Called Kiltepan Sunrise: Sagada, Philippines

Sagada Bonfire Fest in mountain Province, Philippines

CAVE CONNECTION: Next-Level Spelunking in Sagada, Philippines

Lemon Pie House: Where to eat in Sagada, Philippines

The Yoghurt House, Sagada: A Love-Hate affair

Flames and Mirrors in Sagada

Enjoying the Caribbean by cruise

After working difficult all year, as well as looking ahead to your much deserved break, nothing beats cruise holidays. Island hopping between Caribbean islands such as Aruba, Antigua as well as the archipelago of British Virgin Islands seems like a high-end few can afford. However, you’d be wrong!

The surprisingly affordable trip of a lifetime is perfect for families, charming couples, or just for those looking for something a bit different from their holidays. as well as it’s the simplicity of a cruise holiday that attracts many, into the bargain. After boarding your cruise liner, unpack once, as well as relax as you set sail to your very first destination. The liner acts as your hotel for the entire trip, so you don’t requirement to hop on as well as off, unpacking your possessions at each stop on your itinerary. Additionally, with many packages, the entire trip is all-inclusive. Food, drink entertainment as well as lodging are all frequently part of the deal, leaving you to sit back, as well as relax, understanding you don’t requirement to spend extra.

For others, it’s the several destinations on an itinerary which attracts them to a holiday on the open sea. If you always longed to travel the world, a cruise holiday is the perfect method to see many countries quickly as well as in style. The Caribbean has a diverse variety of islands to select from, each offering something more interesting as well as astounding than the next.

Marvel at Aruba’s history as well as culture, with historic design as well as landmarks dating back to the Conquistadors. The funding of the island, Oranjestad, has an archaeological museum which is especially engaging, with exhibits dating from 4000 BC.

If it’s a heaven-on-earth experience you’re after, the British Virgin Islands are for you. Miles of palm-fringed beaches, powdery white sand as well as mixed drinks await you on this archipelago.

Meanwhile, Antigua provides you with the very best of both worlds, making it a backpacker’s dream. The island is infused with Creole culture, as well as boasts the most wonderful beaches. What more as well as you ask for?

If you’ve never experienced what it’s like to set sail on a holiday of a lifetime, you truly owe it to yourself to provide it a try. many of us who try are hooked for life. You never understand up until you try, so take a deep breath as well as embark on a Caribbean cruise experience you’ll never forget.

Images by D-Stanley as well as kansasphoto, utilized under innovative Commons license

More tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Related Posts:

CORREGIDOR OVERNIGHT TOUR: 5 things to Do (Other than Ghost-Hunting)

Hunongan Cove in Caramoan: Camarines Sur, Philippines

The trick Lagoon of Miniloc Island: El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

Tanjong Rhu Beach: missing the Blues in Langkawi, Malaysia

The twin beaches of Nacpan as well as Calitang: El Nido, Palawan

South Batan Tour: 12 Must-Visit areas in Batanes

Passions of Paradise: Michaelmas Cay as well as the fantastic barrier Reef, Australia

12 BREATHTAKING sites IN BATANES, PHILIPPINES