The non-beach vacations you should try in Philippines

There is a huge world out there with lots of cultures to discover, cuisines to taste and people to meet. You have probably heard all about Thailand, Cambodia and Indonesia but how about the Philippines? Do you want to experience a vacation without beaches in Philippines? Here is the list of some destinations you should visit.

Baguio: The valley of colors, a haunted house and a sea of clouds

Baguio is the summer capital of the Philippines. It often sees a surge in visitors both at the hottest periods of the year, as well as at the coldest. It is a popular destination for Filipinos, especially during the Christmas season. You will never really run out of things to do in Baguio, but here are some honorable mentions for your next visit.

Drop by the municipality of Trinidad to catch Baguio’s latest attraction, the valley of colors. These beautifully painted houses are a feast for the eyes and are perfect to put up on your ‘Gram. After you have gotten the shot, head over to La Trinidad Strawberry Fields nearby. Kids will love this as visitors are welcome to pick as many strawberries as they wish.

If you are looking to experience the culture of Baguio, visit Tam-Awan Village where you can view Ifugao huts and Kalinga houses. These huts and houses mimic life in a traditional Cordillera village. Here, visitors can interact with local Ifugaos, and maybe even get a self-portrait sketched by them.
For those looking for a unique experience with the supernatural, visit the Laperal White House. The Laperal White House is said to be one of the most haunted destinations in Baguio. Today, it is a museum hosting beautiful artworks and spirits.

Banaue: rice terraces

There are a few rice terraces you can visit in Banaue such as Batad, Bangaan, Hapao Mayoyao or Nagacadan. The most iconic rice terrace to visit is Batad Rice Terraces, recognised by UNESCO.
The Awan-Igid-Pula-Cambulo Trek is perfect for the seasoned hiker looking for a challenge. This hike is a strenuous one, usually tackled over the duration of two days, with an overnight stay in either Pula or Cambulo.

The hike from Awan-Igid to Pula can be completed between four to six hours, cutting through jungles and passing by Ifugao residences. It takes another two to three hours to get to Cambulo from Pula. It is important to note that the intensity of this trail guides are mandatory.

Tagaytay: Taal Volcano, Sonya’s secret garden and an Amusement Park in the Sky

Tagaytay is a popular destination for visitors who are only beginning to discover the beauty of the Philippines. Just a two-hour drive from the airport, Tagaytay is the perfect getaway from the scorching heat in Manila.

Start off your trip with brunch at Sonya’s Secret Garden. Like its namesake, Sonya’s Secret Garden is hidden from the main road but is definitely worth the search. It boasts lush greenery, blooming florals and rich crops, crops of which usually end up on your plate. Sonya’s Garden serves organic dishes buffet style, comprising of both western and local delicacies.

If the thrill of climbing up an active volcano still does not quite satisfy the adrenaline junkie within, pay a visit to Sky Ranch where you can relive your childhood. Here, you can find classic amusement park rides like roller coasters, ferris wheels, bumper cars and even a zipline. For aerial views of the beautiful Taal Lake, hop onto the Sky Cruiser and pedal your way across an aerial track.

Source Tripzilla

What to do when you are in Dalat

This former French hill station is the capital of Lam Dong Province in southern Vietnam’s Central Highlands. The charming city is small and walkable and well-know for its wide variety of the many flowers, fruits and vegetables that are grown here in the surrounding farmlands. Whether you’re thinking about going, just curious, or you’ve already booked a trip, here are some of the best things to do in Dalat.

Take the Cable Car to Truc Lam Pagoda

If it’s panoramic views you’re looking for, make time for a ride on Dalat’s cable car. A relatively new attraction, this is the best way to get a sense of the beauty of the region’s patchwork of farmland, greenhouses, crystalline lakes and distant mountains. The cable car connects Robin Hill with Truc Lam Pagoda and Tuyen Lake. The 1.5-mile ride (one way) is a picturesque one, and you get a cable car to yourself. At the top you’ll find the grounds of Truc Lam Pagoda, which house an active monastery, so expect to see monks going about their daily business. Public areas include a ceremonial hall, bell tower and beautiful flower garden to walk through. Make your way to tranquil Tuyen Lam Lake for even more photo-worthy views before taking the cable car back down.

Explore Dalat Flower Gardens

Dalat is often referred to as the City of Flowers for a very good reason. The climate is such that various types of flowers can be grown year-round and Dalat Flower Garden is a great place to see the vibrant blooms, may of which can’t grow anywhere else in the country. Established in 1966, the gardens are located on the north side of Xuan Huong Lake in the heart of the city. Over 300 types of flowers are grown here, and it’s easy to lose track of time on a meandering stroll through the colorful displays.

Shop Dalat Market

Local markets offer a good chance to get a better sense of local life, and Dalat Market in the center of town is no exception, especially when you consider all of the abundant locally-grown produce offered. Head here to browse stalls of the aforementioned produce, consisting of everything from strawberries and artichokes, to cauliflower and spinach. There is also an array of flowers, as well as local teas, coffees, honey and more. If you’re hungry, make your way to the food court on the top floor for cheap local eats.

Eat Your Way Through the Night Market

Once the sun starts to go down, the area near Dalat Market starts to look a bit different. Numerous colorful stalls are set up to sell local snacks, second-hand clothing, and souvenirs, and the atmosphere is a lively one. If you didn’t pack for the cooler weather in Dalat, get yourself a cheap second-hand jacket of which there are plenty. Or simply browse the stalls, shop for souvenirs, and most importantly, fill up on street food—grilled meats, roasted chestnuts, grilled cobs of corn, noodle dishes, hot soy milk, baked sweet potatoes, crab soup and more are available. One of the most popular dishes is tráng nướng (known as Dalat pizza), which is basically large sheets of rice paper grilled over hot coals and topped with egg and scallions, dried baby prawns, and sweet and spicy sauce. The market is open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Stroll Around Xuan Huong Lake

Both locals and visitors alike seem to have an affinity for Xuan Huong Lake. The manmade, crescent-shaped lake is located in the center of Dalat and is a justifiably popular spot for picnicking, cycling, walking and jogging. There are benches here if you need a rest and there’s the option to rent a swan-shaped pedal boat if you want to be out on the water. You can usually find various street food stalls here, and the surrounding area offers a good choice when it comes to coffee shops (Dalat is know for its coffee) and restaurants.

Visit Dalat Railway Station

Built in 1943, Dalat Railway Station has been recognized as a national cultural site. Construction on the railway station began in 1932 and was completed in 1938. For the most part, this is just a place to come and snap a few pictures of the stationary steam train on the premises (always popular for selfies), but you can also take a short three-mile ride that follows the historic line to a tiny village named Trai Mat that offers scenic countryside views. 

See more: Food trip in Da Lat

Source: Internet

7 best spots in Tokyo to visit at night

Tokyo is one of the best cities in the world for nightlife. Not only for drinking and partying, but also the streetscape and photography are one of the best things to enjoy in Tokyo at night. Actually, many landmarks in Tokyo have even better views at night than day time.

Roppongi Hills Mori Tower

Roppongi Hills Mori Tower owns one of the city’s best observatories, which is supposedly the best place to observe Tokyo Tower.

Hours: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm (to 1 am on Friday and Saturday)
Access: Direct access is available from Tokyo Metro Roppongi station 1C Exit

Tokyo Sky Tree

The new symbol of the city, Tokyo Skytree is the highest building existing in Japan today. The 634 m tower was built in 2012 as a broadcasting tower and is located in Asakusa area, Tokyo.

Hours: 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Access: a short walk from Tokyo Skytree Station or Oshiage Station

Sensoji Temple

Tokyo’s oldest temple, Sensoji glows at night. It's one of the most popular tourist sites in Tokyo and extremely crowded during the day, however, you can also enjoy the silent temple after it gets dark.

Access: a short walk from Asakusa Station

Odaiba

The large artificial island on Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is connected with Rainbow Bridge to the center of Tokyo, and famous for its sophisticated night view.

Shibuya

The district of Tokyo that never sleeps, Shibuya is known as the center of the young culture of Japan. The district entertains and sometimes takes you by surprise even at deep night. The famous scramble crossing and Center Gai Street are the most vibrant area.

Tokyo Central Station

Located at the heart of Tokyo city, Tokyo Station is the city’s biggest transportation hub with numerous railway lines, and it’s actually an amazing object to photograph especially at night.

Shinjuku 

Another district of Tokyo which never sleeps. In fact, this one is even wide awake at night. Shinjuku is the biggest red-light district in Tokyo and famous for its glaring neon lights, especially around Kabukicho area.

Read more: Catch up with some Tokyo’s major districts

Source: jw-webmagazine