Five Ways to Stay in Contact with Friends and Family while Travelling

Whether you're headed away for a semester abroad, a family cruise, or a long trek into the Himalayas, it's no longer necessary to cut off all contact with the outside world! There are multiple ways to stay in touch with your friends and family back home, while avoiding costly roaming charges and fees.

The following are five options to choose from, whether you want to send an instant text or a snail-mail postcard.

1. WhatsApp 

Do you want to send a quick message to your husband or parents to let them know you've arrived at your destination safely? Try downloading WhatsApp or similar services. WhatsApp allows you to send unlimited texts and photos from just about any type of device, and it allows your friends to get in contact with you for free. To use this service, you must register your phone number to give your contacts a point of contact, but you can then use it to send texts anywhere in the world. 

2. Calling Cards 

If you decide to leave your mobile phone at home, you can use a pay phone at your destination. Most hotels and hostels have phones available for public use, no matter how remote the location. However, the charges can be steep if you use the local rates. One way to lower your rates is by purchasing a calling card at your destination or in advance. These offer competitive per-minute rates and can be used from any pay phone at your destination. 

3. International SIM Cards 

Another option is to purchase a SIM card and use this in your mobile phone. You can take a look at lebara.co.uk to get an idea of the rates for different international destinations. To use a SIM card, you must have your phone unlocked first. You then have the option of purchasing an international SIM card that will work in several countries, or a local SIM card that will work at your destination. You can pay as you go with Lebara and other providers, allowing you to work the cost of both local and international calls into your budget. 

4. Skype 

If you have access to a computer on your travels, Skype is a popular option for travellers. You can set up a free account and log in to speak with friend and family. Provided that your contacts use Skype as well, video calls and chatting services are free, even overseas. You can also purchase credit to make regular phone calls as needed, for relatively low per-minute rates. This can be useful not only for dialling your personal contacts, but also for booking hotels or making plans abroad. 

5. Postcards 

Finally, don't forget the power of a good, old-fashioned postcard. Even if you don't have very much free time on your travels, it only takes a minute or two to dash off a message to someone letting them know you're thinking about them. If you preaddress and stamp the postcards during some downtime, this is even easier. 

Many travellers will elect to use some combination of these various options. The next time you plan a holiday or travel for business, stay connected without breaking the bank. 

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Our 5 days Honeymoon Escapade Part 7 - Honda Bay : Cowrie Island

Cowrie Island is the 3rd stop of our Honda Bay island  hopping tour. The island got its name from a sea snail. Cowrie is a common name applied to marine gastropods belonging to the family Cypraeidae, a well-developed family of marine snails found in the tropics.  

This island is larger than Lu-li which is the 2nd stop of our tour and it has more to offer. Check out their amenities:

• Free Use of Cabanas
• Free use of Pavilion
• Free Use of Volleyball Court
• Free Use of frisbee
• Swimming Area
• Snorkeling Area
• Lifeguard on duty
• Clean Restrooms
• Clean shower areas
• Restaurant
•  Bar

We are done swimming at Pambato Reef and Lu Li Island so for this last stop at Honda Bay we opt to just chill out, roam around the island and enjoy whatever it offers, from the beauty of nature to its food!

And of course what else, a special time for the honeymooners!!

 

There's a lot to explore here than the first island and we of course enjoyed their halo-halo!!

 And check out these photos taken by our tour guide kuya Bodjie!! Great shots right?

 

Thank you Cowrie for the memories!! Till next time! Ciao!!

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Exploring Seville

The city of Seville is located in the southern region of Andalucía en Spain. This city is known for its Moorish architecture, its many traditions and the Feria de Sevilla, one of the city's main events. The Feria is celebrated after Easter, filling the city with flamenco music and folkloric dance.

Tour the María Luisa Park.

The María Luisa Park is one of the city's most popular attractions. Inside the park visitors will find the Plaza de España, a large tiled square that was built for an Expo. The plaza is located on the banks of the Guadalquivir river. The area closest to the river has several tiled niches with benches, and each niche represents a Spanish province. The niches are decorated with murals of traditional products that can be found in each region.

Visit the city's Alcazar.

The Alcazar of Seville is an ancient Arab fortress that is one of the city's symbols. This fortress is located near the city center. Price for exploring the Alcazar and its gardens is around 7€ per visitors. The palace has been reconstructed keeping the traditional architectural style. Visitors will be able to walk around the palace gardens, decorated with fountains and statues.

Walk around the Cathedral.

Another famous landmark is the Giralda tower, which is part of the city's cathedral. The tower used to be part of a mosque. The tower is 90 meter high and there is a propeller crowning the tip of the tower. The area around the cathedral is filled with orange trees.

Enjoy a stroll around the city center.

The city is located on the Guadalquivir river, and there are several bridges crossing the river. Visitors will be able to walk around the historical city center and explore the churches, palaces and plazas. The Triana neighbourhood is one of the city's most traditional areas. This neighbourhood is known for its gypsy culture, and there are many flamenco bars.

Walking around the city visitors will be able to see many ancient churches, traditional shops and tapas bars. Tapas are appetizers served with every drink ordered, and there are many varieties of tapas.

In the central neighbourhood of Santa Cruz, which used to be the Jewish Querter, visitors will find many of the city's attractions, including the Archivo de Indias. This area has many historical buildings that were converted into hotels, and some of the city's most popular restaurants are located in the area. At the foot of the Giralda tower is the Archbishop's Palace. Another main palace is San Telmo. The Palacio de Lebrija is another popular attraction. The palace is located on the Calle Cuna, a large shopping street. This palace is known for its collection of Roman mosaics from the Italica ruins.

Spend an afternoon at the Maritime Museum.

The Gold Tower is located on the banks of the Guadalquivir river. This building, built during the Almohad dynasty, used to be part of the city's fortifications and has a floor that was partly made of gold. The tower is now used as the city's Maritime Museum.

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A Guide to Barcelona

Barcelona is located in the northeastern region of Catalonia in Spain. Visitors will be able to walk around the city, known for its architecture and its many cultural landmarks.

Walk around the Gothic Quarter.

The Gothic Quarter, located near the city center, is one of the city's most visited places. The city's ancient Gothic Seu cathedral is located in this area and visitors will be able to visit the cathedral and the cloister. This area is known for its narrow streets that are filled with bars, cafeterias and lounges.

Explore Gaudí's architecture.

Many of the city's landmarks were designed by Antonio Gaudí. The city's symbol, the unfinished cathedral of the Sagrada Familia, is known for its Nativity facade, decorated with carved statues. The cathedral's interior has thin bony columns. There are several towers and one of the towers is used as an observation deck.

In the centric Eixample district, where the chic shopping area of Passeig de Gràcia is located, visitors will find two other buildings designed by Gaudí. Casa Batlló used to be a private residence. The building has a sandstone facade covered in trencadis, a local type of colourful tiles. There are several iron wrought balconies in the shape of skulls. Nearby visitors will find the Casa Milá, a building that is known as the Quarry for its large, stone facade. There are no straight lines in the building, which has a wavy facade. Visitors will be able to explore the rooftop of this building, where the chimneys are warrior statues.

Taste the local food.

Spain is known for its food and those who want to travel there will be able to taste its cuisine. In this country visitors will be able to enjoy tapas and pintxos, a local variety of appetizers served in bars. The region of Catalonia is known for its food, and most traditional dishes are made using ingredients from the mountains and the sea. The crema catalana, a type of custard covered in sugar, is a typical dessert. Near the Las Ramblas main streets there are many tapas bars and restaurants.

The city has many markets filled with colourful stalls selling fresh and local products. The ancient Boquería Market is located off Las Ramblas. Visitors will be able to enjoy authentic tapas at El Quim bar. Another main market, located near the Ronda Sant Pau, is the Sant Antoni Market. This market is larger than the Boquería. There are many stalls and a tapas bar in the middle of the market. Near the market visitors will find a coin market and a market where comics, magazines and postcards are sold.

Enjoy a stroll in the city's parks.

After a long walk across Las Ramblas visitors will be able to enjoy a picnic in one of the city's parks. The Güell Park is one of the city's most visited parks, which was designed by Gaudí. The park has a tiled square decorated with sculptures covered in trencadis mosaics. Below the plaza there is a large porch area held by bony columns that is used for events. Gaudí's residence has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the architect. Near the city center is the large Ciutadella park, where visitors will be able to see another one of Gaudí's designs, the Cascada fountain. This fountain is an artificial waterfall flowing from an arch. The Martorell Museum is located on the park's territory. The Laboratory of Nature is another museums where visitors will be able to see many exhibits from the city's Natural History Museum.

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Our 5 days Honeymoon Escapade Part 6 - Honda Bay : Lu-Li Island

After a fruitful few hours snorkeling at Pambato Reef, Lu-li island is the second stop of our Honda Bay tour. Interesting name right? Actuall Lu-li literally is a shortcut of the tagalog term "lulubog-lilitaw", sounds funny but true.  "Lulubog" in English means to sink and "lilitaw" means  to float.

The island is only visible during low tide, when its high tide the whole island will be submerged in water.  Cool huh! When we arrived there it was low tide, later when we were about to leave we had the chance to see a portion of the island under water.

Lu-li island is the place where we had our buffet picnic lunch which is a part of our Honda Bay tour package. And boy we had a blast! My favorite is a plateful of arurusep dipped in vinegar, or what the Visayans call lato, we had  grilled fish too, salted eggs, liempo, fresh tomatoes, grilled shrimps, some veggies and local salad. Yum yum yummy!!! Even the foreigners who went with us enjoyed the lunch. 

After lunch is our free time, you can tour the island (which is not that big) so you are left with activities like picture taking, swimming, fish feeding, snorkeling and sun bathing!

We spent our time doing what we love... which is all of the above! Check some of our photos.

We are both not good swimmers but we enjoyed the water and fish feeding.  Fun!

And best of all is meeting new friends, they always make our travels more memorable.

I've been to so many beaches and Lu-li Island is definitely not among the best, but like what I mentioned about Pambato Reef, it's not the place, its the memory and the person I'm with. It's our honeymoon after all so we should enjoy right? This island may not be at par with my Coron experience  but I loved every second spent with my hubby! And I can't wait to experience El Nido soon as my next leg of Palawan tour.

Next stop is Cowrie Island!! Till next time!!

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Singapore's Wild Wild Wet

Wild Wild Wet is one of Singapore’s largest water park, it is located at  Downtown East, Pasir Ris which is just around 15 to 20 minutes from Changi  Airport while nearest MRT is Pasir Ris station.  So next time you have a delayed flight at Changi Airport, well, here's one of your best option!  

My husband and I are both thrill seekers (in our dreams!!  hehe). Actually when we were still dating we tried  the  Lego Kingdom's Roller Coaster ride at Legoland in Malaysia and we both dropped our pretensions after that, my husband almost had a heart attack! Wild Wild Wet offers so many extreme rides, but sorry we are there just to enjoy and relax! The park offers the following rides:

•  Ular-lah  -   its a raft slide, the closest thing you'll ever experience next to white water rafting designed for a maximum of six. 

•  The Water Works - a high speed flume ride that you have to do alone along that curvy twists and turn tube. 
• Slide-up - on board an inflatable raft you will be plunged down a four-storey ramp to soar on the opposite side!  Whew!
• Torpedo - ejects you from an 18-metre-high capsule right into a heart-stopping free fall, which propels you straight into a manic trajectory of hair raising twist and turns at mind-numbing speed of up to 70km/hr.
• Professor's Playground and Yippee!-  these two we enjoyed a lot.. why? Because they are safe! hehe.  Simply put, these two are for kids... it's a huge playground located in the swimming pool.  Professor's Playground was designed around the theme of an experimental laboratory,  packed with a myriad of novel fixtures such as slides, ladders, water cannons and fountains while Yippee! is a shallow sloshing area filled with soft play equipment designed to provide a safe and fun environment for toddlers. Fun for kids and kids at heart like us!

•  Shiok River - Spanning 335 meters in length, it skirts the perimeter of the park, meandering through a variety of lush landscape that will leave you soothed and invigorated. This is a stress free ride so of course we won't miss trying it:

•  Tsunami - combines the best of swimming pools and the sea where you will enjoy artificial waves. 

• Jacuzzi - well this one is what we enjoyed the most. First of all we had the chance to have the place for ourselves and there's a shade so you are not so exposed to the harmful rays of the sun. Time to have fun and relax!!

Inflatable floats , life jackets and baby water carriers are available  for free at the park. Lifeguards are also visible everywhere. So for me this is a safe place for everyone.

 

Once you are tired with all the park has to offer, well you can just sit down, relax and people watch!

 If hungry, they also have a food court inside, and prices are reasonable!

They have lockers where you can keep your valuables, toilets are huge and clean, they have shops also at the entrance / exit of the park. 

Ticket Rates: $19 for adults  (12 years and above) 

                      $14 for kids (3 to 11 years) and Senior Citizens

                      Toddlers ( below 3 yrs old) are FREE

                        

So next time someone ask you to check this place, don't think twice! 

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Our 5 days Honeymoon Escapade Part 5 - Honda Bay : Pambato Reef Snorkeling

After visiting Palawan's Underground River we are ready for a swim! Where else than in Honda Bay! Approaching the island when we are about to land the first day left us breathless, white sand, blue waters and so many islands to visit! This view is enough to convince you that yeah, you made the right decision of visiting Puerto Princesa.

We paid  P1,600 per pax for this tour, it includes pick-up from the hotel, boat ride to 3 islands , free picnic lunch and a ride back to the hotel. You will need to spare a day for this tour, the trip from the main city is around 2 hours.  We were able to do some snorkeling at Pambato Reef, bashing in the sun at white sand beaches of Lu-Li and Cowrie Island, feeding the fishes and stolen kisses here and there... hehe  

 Here's our boat ride for the day together with new found friends we met during the tour.

Then it's snorkeling time! My first time snorkeling experience was in Bali when I had my eardrum ruptured...again! (Check my Bali post here) I did enjoy myself a lot but I told myself back then for sure our country has so much better diving sites. When I had my chance to visit Coron my ear was still mending from my surgery and a doctor's order to stop swimming for good scared the hell out of me so I avoided going down the water but even without diving or snorkeling, from above the clear waters of Coron and underwater pictures from tour mates especially in Siete Pecados, it's difficult to appreciate what Pambato reef has left to offer.  There's just not much to see and appreciate, sorry.

Quite a disappointment but still hoping that our government can do something to preserve this place. But of course it won't stop us from looking at the brighter side... photo op!!

Yes sad to say, I'm so disappointed with Pambato Reef but I did enjoy my time there , what's not to enjoy when you're with someone you love right? The memory of doing something for the first time with my hubby, that one cannot be replaced by any frustration!

But hey I am not saying you should not visit this place, Honda Bay is still a must-see in Puerto Princesa, wait for my breathtaking shots of Cowrie and Lu-Li island!!

Till next post!! Ciao!!

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Our 5 days Honeymoon Escapade Part 4 - Puerto Princesa Underground River

Puerto Princesa Underground River which is officially known as St. Paul Subterranean River National Park   is definitely a wonder of nature. It is the longest navigable underground river in the world which runs for 8.2 kilometers, a World Heritage Site and  voted as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.  So of course it is the first thing in my list to see in Puerto Princesa.

You will need a special permit to visit this place so I booked this earlier with the hotel for a fee of P1,600 per pax,  what is visiting Puerto Princesa without seeing this place right? Some of the tourists are encountering problems in getting a special permit even wasting a day to apply for it in the main city so make sure to secure one before you go to avoid any hassle during your trip. And boy it is surely worth the effort, for me this is the highlight of our Puerto Princesa trip!

We woke up early for this tour, it will take you 2 to 2 and a half hours land travel from the main city to Sabang pier then a boat ride of about 20 minutes (add up the waiting time to ride the boat of 30 mins. to an hour!). Thanks to our tour guide the land travel was exciting,  we were able to stop here and there to enjoy some of the  beautiful scenery  along the way, and for a photo opp addict like me and my hubby, we will surely not complain, check some of our photos:

We had the chance to enjoy the view at Buenavista Viewing Deck and oh boy what a view indeed!

And another stop at Karst Mountain Elephant Cave which was featured in Amazing Race Asia.

Arriving at Sabang Pier, we found ourselves in a long queue of tourists and travelers on the wait for the boat ride to the underground river.  Since we joined a tour group, we just stayed at the waiting area and let our tour guide arrange a boat for us.They will need your personal identification here, so for foreigners, don't forget your passports!

Instead of getting bored while waiting, we had the chance to enjoy the scenery at Sabang beach and endless order of halo-halo from the nearby store.. hehe.

The local government used to allow the public to use the Sabang beach, unfortunately during the time we were there they already disallowed it so while waiting you are left with other activities, well you can try their famous Tamilok while waiting!!(check my separate Tamilok blog here)

And thank God, finally it's our turn to take the boat! Around 20 minutes boat ride and viola a paradise on its own! We were welcomed by a beautiful beach with a magnificent rock formations. The national park is located in the Saint Paul Mountain Range on the northern coast of the island.

From the main beach, you will walk a few minutes to the main entrance of the underground river which is enjoyable in itself, they created a wooden walkway for the convenience of the tourists. Wild animals are everywhere and check these huge lizards!

At the mouth of the river is another wait, yes, but don't worry it's not that long they just have to regulate the people going inside. So what does it mean for us? Another photo op!

 

And finally it's our turn! I don't know what to expect and we are scared of the dark (hehe) so we decided to seat at the back. Only these type of boats or bangka are allowed inside the cave , no motorized boats  since water depth in the cave is irregular , it will also avoid disturbing the bats and damaging the limestone formations. They are very strict with the  maximum number of people per bangka, they only allow 9 including the guide.

They allow taking pictures or videos inside the cave, the problem is, with the limited light you won't be able to take good shots. I tried my best but here's the only "good" photos I were able to snap:

 One of the  passenger in front will be assigned to hold the big flashlight for the group, which is a bit  hassle for me since you have to hold that heavy flashlight for the whole 45 minutes of the tour and you always have to listen real hard for what the guide is saying to know where to point it!

Inside the cave expect a magnificent limestone formations or stalactites and stalagmites, and of course  bats!  The 45 minutes tour though too dark and a bit scary is very enjoyable thanks to the expertise of the local guide. They are fond of making jokes, like resembling the rocks to animals, funny stories or situations that would make you laugh your heart out.

Tips:
1. If you don't want to be responsible holding the flashlight for the whole 45 minutes duration of the tour, don't sit in front of the boat.
2. If you don't want the hassle of getting the special permit to visit the Underground River, go through an agency and book it before your trip.
 

Back at Sabang beach, we had a free buffet lunch included in our tour,  yey! We had a chance to try their famous Tamilok delicacy here :

The last leg of our tour is Ugong Rock Adventures, unfortunately my hubby is scared of heights and he said he is too lazy to hike and zip line is not his thing (excuses excuses!) so we let the others enjoy the Ugong Rock while we both took a long nap below the trees at some wooden bench with singing birds as our background music..

P1,600 for the complete day tour per person: transpo arrangement, side trips to Buenavista Viewing Deck, Elephant Cave, Sabang beach, Underground River, free buffet lunch  and Ugong Rock, well for me it's worth the price! You can visit those also on your own if you don't want to join a tour group. You can hire a van, process special permit on your own, secure a boat ride at Sabang Pier going to the Underground River and prepare your own itinerary. I am sure you can have all those and more for  a lesser cost  but of course it all depends on you, your time availability, budget and convenience. What matters most is your enjoyment, so go go go and enjoy Puerto Princesa like we did!! 

Next in our itinerary is Honda Bay!! Till next blog post!


                 Intro                                                                                                     PPS City Tour

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