Tips to save money when travelling to Japan

Japan is an expensive country to travel to. However, there are still some ways to help reduce the financial burden when travelling in Japan, all you need to do is follow the tips in this article.

Visit the free attractions

With countless museums, shrines, temples, historic neighborhoods and parks, Japan is filled with opportunities to become immersed in its culture. Many of the nation’s parks and museums are free.

Get a JR Pass

The bullet trains in Japan are ridiculously expensive with one-way fares costing hundreds of dollars. If you plan to do a lot of travel around the country, get the JR Pass which allows you unlimited train travel and will save you a ton of money. It comes in 7, 14, and 21-day tickets. Keep it mind it can only be purchased outside of the country, so be sure to plan ahead!

Take the bus

Buses are a far more economical option than the trains. They cost a fraction of the price but take a lot longer. For example, the two-hour bullet train ride from Tokyo to Osaka becomes a 10-hour bus ride. You can get unlimited Japan rail passes for 29,100 JPY (255 USD), for 7 consecutive days of travel, but this is far more expensive than using the bus. Bottom line: if you have the time, take the bus.

Shop at the 100 Yen stores

There are many 100 Yen shops in Japan with set meals, groceries, water bottles, toiletries, and household items. Store names vary by region, so ask your hotel/hostel reception where the nearest one is located.

Eat at 7-Eleven

A 7-Eleven, Family Mart, and other convenience stores have a lot of pre-set meals (including sandwiches, soups, fruit, and more traditional Japanese options) for 125-370 JPY (1-3 USD) that make for a cheap lunch option. Additionally, supermarkets also have many set meals at similar prices.

Eat curry, ramen, and donburi

Curry bowls are as cheap as 370 JPY (3 USD) per plate. Donburi, bowls of meat and rice, are around 500-620 JPY (5-6 USD). Ramen is never more than 870 JPY (8 USD). These are the best ways to eat cheap, filling meals while in Japan.

Buy food at night

After 8pm, supermarkets discount their fresh food as they have to get rid of it (by law). If you buy your food after 8pm, you can save up to 50% on almost everything fresh.

See more: Discover the best parks in Tokyo, Japan

Source: Internet

The useful tips to visit Goa, India

Planning to spend your vacations in Goa? Being one of the major tourist destinations in India, Goa is a perfect place to holiday. So if you have already packed your bags, just go through these useful tips to make your trip memorable.

1/ Do not stick to the popular beaches

With a huge coastline spanning 105 kilometres (65.2 miles), Goa is blessed with a plethora of beaches. Baga, Vagator, Candolim and Calangute are the popular beaches and crowded to boot, while there are plenty of unspoilt and unexplored beaches, where you can relax in peace and solitude. Some of them include Kakolem beach, Galgibaga, Hollant beach, Velsao, Ashwem beach, Mobar beach and Butterfly beach.

2/ Respect holy places and the Goan culture

• While visiting the places of worship due respect and proper decorum should be maintained. Always remove your slippers or shoes before entering any place of worship.
•  When visiting churches, temples and museums kindly switch off your cell phones or you may turn them on silent mode.
• Dress appropriately at all the holy places you visit. Also, it is advisable to cover your heads while visiting  Temples, Mosques and Gurudwaras.
• Don’t idolize the culture, but treat it with respect.

3/ Best way to explore Goa

If you like walking, you will only be able to explore your beach area and around. If you want to explore further, you should rent a scooter. Exploring Goa on a rented scooter is the best and the most affordable option. These scooters are usually available for INR 200 – 300 per day. Please make sure you carry your driver’s license because there are many check points. It is possible to rent cars too but many spots can only be accessed by scooters or on foot.

4/ Explore both North Goa and South Goa

Both North and South Goa have their own appeal. It is highly recommended to explore both the regions as they have plenty to offer visitors. You should move your way north to south. Tick off all the North Goa attractions, and then further move to the peaceful South Goa and make a trip to Vasco Da Gama and Old Goa that are home to centuries-old monuments, churches, temples, museums and islands.

5/ Be Safe in Goa

While Goa is safer than most of India and perhaps many parts of the world, it does not hurt to take typical safety precautions. Trust your instincts and do not accept drinks from strangers. When in doubt, head to the nearest shop and contact a local for help.

6/ Photography

• There are many places such as museums where photography may be restricted so before flashing your camera just look out for signs saying “No pictures” or “Photography Restricted”.
• If you want to click a photo of another person, kindly take his or her permission before. Most people do not refuse if you ask politely.
• It is advised while visiting the caves, temples, forts and churches take a photo of a sign board with the name of that place, as it would be hard to remember later when you reach back home.
• If there are sign boards saying “No Flash”, make sure to use camera without it.
• Charge your camera batteries every night.

See more: Lost in the most beautiful beaches of Goa, India

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Tips to save money when travelling to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur may not be the most budget-friendly destination in the country but it’s not impossible to get by on less than $20 a day. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveller or an experienced backpacker, these ways to save money on your trip to KL can come in handy.

Eat like a local

The key to really making your cash last in this city can lie in finding the right places to eat. Food can present a tricky situation for those who don’t know where to look. The answer to finding cheap grub is simple: do as the locals do.

Make your way to a kopitiam (a Chinese coffee shop that is common in and out of the city). Such hangouts can be found offering menu selections that are both scrumptious and affordable with a number of local favorites to choose from. Similarly, 24-hour mamak stalls are plentiful and provide fresh coffee as well as South Indian delicacies like roti canai to customers who are looking for good, cheap food.

If you’re travelling in big groups, look for food courts in the shopping malls; they can accommodate to different tastes and are incredibly cheap if you pay attention to the bill.

Take the train or the bus

If it’s a tight budget you’re worried about, why not forget about renting a standard vehicle? Kuala Lumpur’s public transportation networks can get the job done just fine. With a series of interconnected systems that lead from one destination to another, you can explore the city without breaking the bank. KL’s numerous trains and buses can get you right where you need to go without the hassles of rush hour road traffic. Prominent landmarks, hotels, shopping districts and malls are often within walking distance of most stations with one-way fares that start at RM1.20 (less than $0.50).

If trains aren’t really your thing, you may want to consider the GO KL City Bus. This option lets you visit popular districts, shopping spots, train stations and notable attractions. The best part? It’s completely free of charge! Look out for a bright lilac-colored bus that makes its way around town, fully equipped with free WiFi and wheelchair ramps for disabled passengers.

Purchase a tourist pass

If affordability and convenience are at the top of your list, the KL Pass helps encourage budget-friendly tourism in the country with special privileges that allow visitors to enter prominent attractions or skip queues with fast-track lanes for free. The pass can be purchased at validities of one (RM165), three (RM395) and six (RM675) days. Apart from getting access to various destinations, the KL Pass also grants you exclusive discounts and offers found in selected retail outlets, shopping plazas or dining spots. A complimentary guidebook with useful information about the many activities and locations in Kuala Lumpur is also available.

Look out for flight deals or choose a flight with a stop

There are plenty of budget airlines connecting Kuala Lumpur to Southeast Asia and beyond. Scoot, Jetstar Asia and AirAsia are just some of them. If their usual fares aren’t appealing enough, follow such airlines on their social media pages to be in the know whenever they have special promotions and limited-time offers.

If you’re travelling from another continent, try hacking the conventional process and stop over at Dubai, Singapore, or even Bangkok on the way to Malaysia. You may just find that it makes the flight a lot cheaper, plus it gives you a chance to stretch your legs and do a little exploring before reaching your final destination.

Save money on early hotel booking

Worried about daunting hotel costs while staying in the city? Why not book your hotel early and cut those rates in half? You could make things easier on yourself if you decide quickly on where you intend to stay in KL, even before you set off. Once you’ve confirmed the area, start looking for the best deals on hotels online, using comparison sites to check on which prices are lower. Waiting until the very last minute to confirm your accommodation can leave you with higher costs on hotels, especially high-quality ones.

See more: The famous landmarks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Source: Internet

What to wear in Bali, Indonesia

When venturing into Bali, you’ll find tropical heat, sun-kissed beaches, shady jungles and high volcanic peaks. Depending on the flavors you choose for your stay in Bali, be ready to pack accordingly and dress like an “onion.” In other words, wear layers.

Dry and wet season

Located a few degrees south of the equator, Bali has tropical weather; the island is humid all year, but drier on the southern coast. There are only two seasons: dry and rainy. The rainy season usually starts in October and ends in mid-March. During the rainy season, the temperature is still warm, although inland areas, including Ubud and the mountains around Kintamani, Munduk and Bedugul can get pretty chilly. The winds are rough on the coast and there are downpours every day, but usually only for a couple of hours in the afternoon. If you plan to visit Bali during the rainy season, make sure to pack layers and always—always—have a rain poncho with you.

When the rainy season ends in mid-March, the sky turns blue and the air is fresh and clean because of the rain from the previous months. The much-welcomed sun is hot, but in the evening, especially on the highlands, the temperature is pleasing—almost a bit chilly when driving a scooter. Pack light cotton and loose clothing; your skin will thank you.

Southern coast

The southern coast, including Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu and the Bukit Peninsula with Uluwatu, is the most popular destination on the island with beaches, surfing and clubs. If you are planning to visit these areas, your packing will be easy: boardshorts and tank tops or tees for the boys and a wavy dress or jean shorts with a top for the girls. Don’t forget to wear a swimsuit as well! If you plan to surf, wear a top to avoid a sunburn; it will save your holiday from unwanted “redness.” Also, bring a hat.

Northern highlands

The northern highlands, including Ubud, Kintamani and Munduk, are paradise for mountain and jungle lovers. The weather up here is still tropical and the sun will make you sweat all day. However, it might get a little bit colder, especially during the night or while driving a scooter. An additional scarf and a jumper will help. If you are planning to hike some volcanic peaks, bring sneakers or hiking boots, a wet-weather jacket and warm clothes. You’ll thank us later.

Temples and ceremonies

When visiting temples and other religious sites, use common sense and follow local etiquette. Wear a shirt that covers your arms and shoulders; men and women should also wear a kain, or sarong—a scarf that is wrapped around your waist, like a skirt.

If you are planning to attend a local ceremony, women usually wear the traditional kebaya, a beautiful, embroidered sheer cotton blouse that is worn over an ankle-length kain and tied with the help of a sash around your waist. Pull your hair back and you are ready to go.

Men should also wear a kain—usually one that is black or brown—tied with a sash. A plain shirt will do as a top. They should also wear the traditional headdress called a udeng.

Driving a scooter

When driving around, you’ll see that locals drive scooters with long pants and a jacket. Then you’ll ask yourself, “Why?” because it’s so hot. The clothing helps protect drivers from scratches and a sunburn. Follow their lead and always wear a helmet too. If you’re planning to have a long ride on a busy road, wear sneakers, a long sleeve T-shirt and a scarf or cloth over your mouth. It will protect you from dust. Drive safely!

See more: Top Michelin starred restaurants in Bali, Indonesia

Source: Internet

Things you should not do when visiting Myanmar

Most of the norms in Myanmar are heavily influenced by the richness of its ancient history steeped in Buddhism. The following list is a guide to understanding the layers of tradition in the culture as well as its quirkiness. It’s important to remain tolerant and aware of what could be considered insulting to locals, while also discovering why Myanmar enchants so many.

Don’t wear a longyi without underwear underneath

Myanmar people enjoy seeing foreigners dress in local garb, particularly for special events such as weddings and temple outings. But, wearing traditional attire takes practice to ensure it’s worn just right – or you risk the potential to give everyone an eyefull as you walk down the street.

While going without undergarments might be a preferred way to cool off during Myanmar’s hot summer months, it’s not recommended for first-time longyi wearers, especially, in order to prevent public humiliation.

Don’t ride a motorbike in the city center of Yangon

This is actually a law. Motorbikes are supposedly banned in the main parts of Yangon for safety reasons. This may take some getting used to since most other major hubs in the region allow the use of motorized bikes. Motorbikes and electric scooters can be ridden in townships on the outskirts of Yangon as well as in other cities.

Don’t sleep without a mosquito net

Myanmar is tropical, and with tropical climates come monsoon rains, excessive heat and humidity, relentless mosquitos, and supersized pests. Sleeping within some sort of protective netting is advised whenever possible, and not only to keep out the mosquitos. Think spiders, cockroaches, and other creepy crawlies.

Dengue Fever is prevalent in several locations including the Yangon region, but Malaria tends to stay put in more rural areas. Nets can be found at most stores for a decent price. The majority of hotels or guesthouses don’t provide them.

Don’t pat someone on the head

The head is considered the highest, holiest part of the human body in Myanmar. This belief is deeply rooted within Buddhist spirituality, and has set the scene for a possible cross-cultural blunder to take place. It’s true that travelers are often granted much more grace should a head be accidentally or unknowingly touched, but it could be considered a sign of disrespect to older generations in particular.

Don’t let your feet do the pointing

Contrary to the head, feet are seen as the lowest, dirtiest part of the body. It’s very rude to point at religious objects, at people, or really at just about anything with your feet in Myanmar – whether that pointing is done unintentionally or not. It’s also thought of as quite rude to point a finger at an image of Buddha, or even in the general direction of a well-known religious site.

Don’t wear shoes or socks in sacred spaces

It’s of utmost importance to respectfully remove socks and shoes or sandals before entering sacred spaces in Myanmar. Many pagodas even have a place to store footwear for a minimal fee. Ancient, less traversed temples such as several found in Bagan don’t offer the most comfortable or safe terrain to go barefooted upon, so use caution when stepping.

Don’t improperly use the image of Buddha

Portraying the image of Buddha in ways deemed inappropriate in Myanmar may result in severe consequences. A good example of what not to do happened in 2015 when a man from New Zealand was jailed for approximately 10 months. His crime? Using a depiction of Buddha wearing headphones in an advertisement. News of this case made international headlines, and serves as a testament to how serious Myanmar takes religious mockery.

Images of Buddha in the form of tattoos should be covered (especially if on the lower extremities), prints resembling Buddha on clothing shouldn’t be worn, and posing inappropriately with a statue of Buddha should never, ever seem like a good idea at the time.

Don’t forget to bring toilet paper

Toilet paper isn’t always an option in public restrooms throughout Myanmar, so be sure to pack some tissues if this is a necessity. Sprayers or ‘bum guns’ are usually available to help rinse after going to the bathroom. In less populated parts of Burma, it’s more common to see an area near the toilet bowl or squat toilet filled with water, and a smaller dish to help with flushing and cleansing.

See more: 6 reasons why you should visit Myanmar

Source: Internet

6 reasons to visit Bagan, Myanmar

Is Bagan a new destination in your note’s travel guide? Why you should visit Bagan?  One of the world’s greatest religious sites, Bagan offers a vast number of historic temples, magnificent sunrises and sunsets, and a magnitude of scale unimaginable to everyone.

Marvel at the ancient temples and monasteries

Bagan is the perfect place to hop on a bike and explore, flying through the dusty dirt roads to view, climb and walk around endless temples. Now people can rent a horse-drawn carriage or e-bikes to zip along quicker.

Let your curiosity take over and witness most temples without a tourist in sight; gaze at the wild temple dogs that seem to have the wisdom of a thousand years as they guard the ancient edifices with little movement. Admire the crumbling dark stairwells, thousand-year-old peeling paintings, and grand Buddhas greeting you inside each marvelous architectural feat.

People are fantastic

Those temples may not be perfectly authentic, but the people, the people truly are authentic. This goes for all of Myanmar and Bagan is no exception: without fail, the people are polite, pleasant and as helpful as they can be. Unlike in many countries and regions with an established or growing reliance on tourist trade, you will never feel harassed or pressured. Even the hawkers and beggars are relatively polite and quick to leave you alone once you have made it clear you are not interested.

Learn about a preserved culture

After you watch the sunrise at a temple of your choice, bike over to Old Bagan near the Bu Paya where you can watch the hustle and bustle of the locals and monks. At this hour, watch as the procession of monks come to accept alms from the locals. Bike to one of the many villages like Min-nan Thu Village or Thuhtaykan Village to learn their special crafts and how the Burmese survive off the land.

Savor new foods

Unlike fragrant Thai food, Burmese food is Asian cuisine fused from Southeast Asian, Chinese and Indian influences. There are many delicious snacks of pickled tea leaves, sesame seeds, peanuts, and fried garlic chips. You can have tasty candy treats made from coconuts, palm and peanut oil, and sugarcane.

The sunrises are stunning

It is an absolute must, one morning, get up before dawn, climb onto your scooter, and head out for the best vantage point to catch the sunrise over the Bagan Archeological Zone. Your hotel can likely provide you with a map of the Zone and favored sunrise viewing points. Many of these will be atop an actual temple. The other option is to leave extra early and cruise around as aimlessly as possible.

See more: The best places to catch sunset in Bagan, Myanmar

Feel like an explorer

Although tourists are slowly coming to a land that was cut off for so long due to an oppressive military junta, there are still far less tourists than you would expect at other major world attractions like Angkor Wat and Machu Picchu. If you desire to travel to an untouched land with a fascinating culture still intact, you should go now, because this nation is on the cusp of great change.

Source Internet

Things to know before take a trip to Bhutan

Bhutan, a tiny country in Asia, only began allowing tourism in the 1960s, so it can be tough to find practical travel information about this mysterious country. Intrigued and planning a visit? Here are some things you should know.

Do not expect to travel freely

Bhutan is not a budget destination or a place for backpacker-style drifting. It only started opening up to outsiders in the 1970s, and it still closely guards its heritage and ecology by restricting tourism. Travel must be arranged through government-approved agencies and be paid in full before you score a visa.

Bring cash

Bring cash to be safe, you can easily exchange American dollars at the airport or your hotel. There was no currency exchange desk past security at Paro Airport, but you can exchange at souvenir shops. Most places in Bhutan will also accept whichever currency you have as payment as well, although you may receive change in the local currency. Credit cards are also accepted for larger purchases, but be warned that most places charge a high convenience fee for cards.

BYO smokes

Bhutan is the only country in the world that completely bans the sale and production of tobacco, and naturally, smoking is banned in public places. Tourists and the Bhutanese elite can bring in 200 cigarettes, but ask your guide to find a place to light up. Hotels will accommodate smokers, some local bars and restaurants have indoor smoking rooms, and many nightclubs informally allow it after dark. Importing cigarettes overland from India (for personal use) is allowed, but they are slapped with up to 200 percent duty.

If your shoes are off, do not take photos

If your shoes are off, it is not appropriate, so just capture the moment in your mind. If you have taken your shoes off to enter somewhere, it means that it is a sacred place (like the inside of a monastery), and so you will not be able to take photos.

Mountaineering is forbidden in the country

Hiking is possible up to 6,000m in elevation. Peaks under that altitude are considered trekking peaks. Anything above that is considered mountaineering, and it is forbidden as the mountains are sacred for the Bhutanese. Snow peaks are considered the domain of the gods and goddesses, and it is believed that if you go there, they’ll get disturbed – bringing hail storms, drought, floods, etc.

See more: Foods that you must try in Bhutan

Feel the burn

The Bhutanese believe a meal is unworthy without chili peppers. If you love spicy food, you will be in heaven. The country’s national dish, ema datse, is a simple, fiery curry of chillies and farmer’s cheese, always paired with a generous helping of nutty red rice.

Source Internet