Budget hotels to stay in Taipei

As one of the more expensive cities to visit in Asia, Taipei isn’t always at the top of the list for the budget traveler, but this lively city full of culture has a lot to offer the thrifty tourist. And far from being a city full of boutique hotels and five-star establishments, there are more than a few budget-friendly hotels right here in the city.

CityInn Plus Ximending

This new hotel is right in the heart of one of Taipei’s coolest neighborhoods, Ximending. The entire building is super modern and very well maintained. Some of the rooms feature murals and modern art touches that give CityInn Plus a very chic and stylish feel that often makes guests wonder if the rates they are paying are actually correct.

Meander Hostel Wanhua

Located in the lively district of Wanhua and just a short walk from Ximending, Meander Hostel offers a warm and friendly welcome, with the staff and owners taking pride in keeping the backpacker spirit alive and well in Taipei. The public areas and bathrooms are incredibly well maintained and everywhere is spotlessly clean. The added bonus of staying here is the likelihood of meeting and hanging out with other travelers.

Dandy Hotel Daan

Hotels near Daan Park are usually in a much higher price bracket than this unusually named Dandy Hotel. Here, the focus is on providing as clean and modern a living space as is possible without overcharging guests. The décor is incredible, and the fact that you are in Daan where there are great public transport connections and so many things to do just makes the place an ideal find.

Flip Flop Hostel Datong

This colorful hostel is an oasis of calm in the busy center of Taipei. Close to a variety of local sights and public transport links, Flip Flop Hostel is a favorite with backpackers or travelers who just want to save a few dollars and stay in a friendly and safe environment. The rooms are modern and serviced regularly, while the staff are happy to help with local tourist information.

Space Inn Hengyang

This futuristic hostel is like something from a sci-fi movie with space themed décor found throughout. Aptly named Space Inn, guests will find a huge kitchen with a variety of appliances as well as a gaming room. The beds are pretty cozy, too, but it’s the décor and location near Ximending that puts this hostel on our list.

See more: 7 amazing themed cafés and restaurants in Taipei

Source: Internet

Reasons why you should visit Hokkaido

Boasting unspoiled natural sights, festivals, coastline and the freshest seafood in the country, Hokkaido is sure to impress even the most seasoned traveler. There are many reasons to visit Hokkaido, but we have narrowed it down to these best reasons.

Hot Springs

Hokkaido is home to some of the most peaceful and luxurious onsen (hot spring) locations in Japan. Traditionally thought to be a cure for just about every type of injury or sickness, locals and visitors alike go to the onsen to rest, recharge, and relax.

Skiing

Home to the 1972 Winter Olympics, the mountains here boast some of the best ski conditions in the world. It comes as no surprise that skiers and boarders from all over flock to Niseko, Kiroro, and Rusutsu resorts to experience Hokkaido’s finest powder snow.

Hiking

Hokkaido’s mountainous terrain, green landscapes, and deep valleys have earned it the reputation of being the ultimate hiking destination. Guaranteed to satisfy thrill seekers and adventurers, several mountain trails will take hikers across still active volcanoes.

Street Markets

Known as the “Kingdom of Food” among the Japanese, Hokkaido offers the freshest seafood, produce and dairy products in the country. The curbside markets in Sapporo provide locals and tourists a chance to buy locally (and at wholesale prices). There are also several sushi and sashimi restaurants stationed throughout the markets for visitors just looking for a quick lunch.

Jingisukan (Ghengis Kahn)

Any dish named after a Mongolian warlord is bound to pack a punch; diners can enjoy a hefty portion of lamb/mutton and vegetables grilled over an iron dome skillet. Legend has it that the shape of the skillet represents the helmets of Mongolian soldiers. This may or may not be true, but that doesn’t make it any less delicious.

National Parks

With its rich biodiversity, pristine lakes and rivers, and active volcanoes, Hokkaido features some of the most impressive parks and world heritage sites in Japan. Daisetsuzan, the island’s largest park, covers over 2,300 square meters, while the other five national parks offer hiking, hot springs, animal sanctuaries, and the famous Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival.

Local Farms

The rolling hills, lush greenery, fresh produce and dairy farms of Hokkaido are a must for travelers in need of some fresh air. Cycling enthusiasts should pay a visit to the “Road of Patchwork” in the small town of Biei, a wide field where the flowers are grown in alternating colors.

Coastal Towns

The small fishing towns and port cities that run along the coast of Hokkaido make lovely places to visit for couples, families, or anyone looking for a bit of relaxation. The town of Otaru is a quaint and comfortable place known for its local charm and romantic atmosphere.

Sapporo Beer

The Sapporo Beer Factory and Beer Museum offers tourists a behind-the-scenes look into the history of brewing in Japan as well as how the beer is made. Of course, the tour ends with a 30 minute all you can drink session, so guests are advised to have lunch before taking the tour.

See more: The most breathtaking regions in Hokkaido, Japan

Source: Internet

Discover Hue: Bach Ma National Park

The Bach Ma National Park is located in the south of Hue city. This region is nature lover's paradise, when you come here, you will be surrounded with all sorts of plants, trees, and wild animals.

What to bring along?

It is a mountainous journey so make sure to keep your backpack light. You should not to carry all your luggage with you. Except for you are travelling from Hue to Da Nang, Hoi An and then your next trip is Bach Ma. So some necessary things for the trip are:

• Mineral water and much water for cooking if you have camping
• Rain coat
• Sun cream
• Swimming suit and towel
• Map
• Lighter
• Anti-bug spray
• Some snack

Best time to visit Bach Ma National Park

Photo Journey Vietnam

You can visit Bach Ma at any time of the year. However, early fall and summer is the best time to visit here. This is because the cool air in Bach Ma will make your journey of exploring become much more poetic during this time.

What to discover

• Five Lakes

Situated about 5 km from Sea Observation Post (Hai Vong Dai), Five Lakes (Ngu Ho) is a collection of five lakes in five different high points. It is a system of large lakes which has cool and clean water. This is a great place for bathing, outdoor activities, and camping. The third Lake is said to be the most charming and beautiful by the clarity and cool water.

• Ocean Viewpoint (Vong Hai viewpoint)

It is situated on majestic Bach Ma peak at an altitude of 1,430m. You need to conquer the Vong Hai trail to reach this top. You can adore four sides of Bach Ma, Lang Co bay, Cau Hai Lake, Canh Duong beach, Truoi lake, Hue city hidden in the cloud, and endless mountains, etc.

• Do Quyen Waterfall

Spring is the best time to visit Do Quyen waterfall. With a height of around 300m, the falls are beautiful all the year with white water foam. You will notice the endless mountain hills when looking from above. The fall is named Rhododendron (Do Quyen) because many rhododendron flowers are growing around and blooming in March.

• Truc Lam Monastery

Truc Lam Bach Ma monastery is situated in the Loc Hoa Commune, Phu Loc District, Thua Thien Hue Province, surrounded by Truoi Lake. You must take around fifteen minutes by ferry to go through Truoi Lake to reach the monastery. Truc Lam is a complex of the picturesque landscapes becoming an attractive destination for tourists all around the globe when visiting Hue ancient city. You can look at the panoramic view of Truc Lam Bach Ma and Truoi Lake from the top of Bach Ma National Park. Besides, the mountain is covered by clouds all year round so that the climate here is always fresh and cool. Many arrivals flock to Truc Lam monastery to offer incense and take sightseeing.

Where to eat in Bach Ma National Park?

There is a restaurant at the middle of the mountain nearby villas, so you can have lunch and dinner here. However, when you have full day trek, it is better you should bring picnic foods to have on the way.

See more: Visit Hue, an ancient city in Vietnam

Source Internet