14 April 2022

Baguio has always been one of the top destinations in the Philippines. because of its freezing temperature, pine-dominated landscapes, and overall romantic atmosphere, this mountain city has attracted tourists especially in summer and the holidays like Christmas and new Year.

Although a highly urbanized city, Baguio retains its rustic charm in spots. From natural sites to modern ones, Baguio has something for each type of traveler and each age group. Moreover, the food culture and shopping districts have become attractions themselves.

Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, here are some of the best things to do and places to check out in and near Baguio City. In this list, we are also including attractions in the neighboring municipalities like La Trinidad and Tuba.

Note: Baguio is geographically within Benguet but is not under the jurisdiction of the province. It has its own charter and administration.

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

TOP BAGUIO vacationer spots & ACTIVITIESMirador hill and Eco Park
Igorot stone Kingdom
Tam-awan Village
Baguio walking Tour
Diplomat Hotel
Bencab Museum, Tuba

CAMP JOHN HAY vacationer SpotsYellow Trail
Tree top Adventure
Bell House
Cemetery of Negativism
Picnic at Camp John Hay

LA TRINIDAD vacationer SpotsLa Trinidad Strawberry Farm
Colors of StoBoSa, La Trinidad
Bell Church, La Trinidad

DOWNTOWN BAGUIO vacationer SpotsBaguio night Market
Sky Ranch Baguio
Burnham Park
Baguio Museum
Baguio Cathedral
Ukay-Ukay Stores
Session road Nightlife
Baguio Public Market

LEONARD wood & MINES view vacationer SpotsBaguio Botanical Garden
Wright Park
The Mansion
Mines view Park
Good Shepherd Products

CULINARY ATTRACTIONSSample local Dishes
Oh My Gulay artist Cafe
Ili-Likha Artist’s Wateringhole
Baguio’s international Restaurants
Baguio Craft Brewery and Craft 1945
Benguet Coffee
Ube and Strawberry Taho
Strawberry Ice Cream

Top Baguio HotelsSearch for a lot more Baguio Hotels!

More ideas on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️Related Posts:

TOP BAGUIO vacationer spots & ACTIVITIES

Baguio is bursting with interesting places to check out and things to do. but here are some of our top recommendations!

Mirador hill and Eco Park

JAPAN IN BAGUIO! easily a highlight of our a lot of recent trip, the Mirador Heritage and Eco-Spirituality Park is a rising vacationer destination, boasting a combination of local and Japan-inspired attractions.

This 5-hectare home is scribbled with hiking trails leading to different sites including the rock Gardens, the Pandemic Healing Memorial, the La Storta Garden, Ifugao Houses, and the circular Seismic Chamber (closed when we visited). but maybe the most popular is the famous Mirador peace Memorial, a red-painted torii gate atop the hill, overlooking the city and the surrounding hills. It is a favorite photo spot for lots of visitors.

Another crowd-drawer is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, maybe named after the bamboo forest of Kyoto’s temple district. While the bamboo trunks are not as big or tall as those in the Japan site, it still makes for a refreshing resting and photo spot.

Aside from the park, Mirador hill also harbors the Grotto of Our lady of Lourdes, Kapilya ni Hesus at Maria, Café Iñigo, and the Mirador Jesuit rental property Retreat House.

Address: Mirador Hill, Barangay Dominican Hill-Mirador, Baguio City
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). The opening hours might change, so please check the official web site or Facebook page before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P100 (Regular); complimentary (Below 12 y/o)

Oh, by the way, if you’re interested in only the newest attractions, we have a video about that here:

Igorot stone Kingdom

Launched to the public in the second half of 2021, the Igorot stone Kingdom is Baguio’s newest attraction. So new that construction of some parts were still ongoing when we visited. The park showcases both modern and standard Igorot culture as well as the values of the Cordillera Region.

The whole area covers about 6,000 square meters and is dominated by two enormous structures facing each other — a modern-day castle and an old-school stone wall. made of hollow blocks and cement, the modern-day castle is etched with walkways, punctuated by statues, photo spots and checking out decks. It also crowned by a food court, serving mostly Pinoy snacks.

The stone wall, on the other hand, resembles the rice terraces that feature the rock-laying skills of the Igorot people. As you climb, you get to see the Fertility stone Tower, the temple of Kabunyan, Bangan’s Dome, the Tower of Gatan, the face in the Rock, and lots of more.

Other attractions are the Igorot Gold Mine, the wishing Well, and the Igorot golden Bridge. Soon, the park will also have life-size statues of famous Igorots.

Address: #86 Long-long Benguet Road, Pinsao Proper, Baguio City
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). The opening hours might change, so please check the official web site or Facebook page before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P100 (Regular); P80 (Senior & PWD with ID); P80 (Kids 4-12 y/o); complimentary (3 y/o and below)

Tam-awan Village

Just a stone’s throw from Igorot stone Kingdom lies Tam-Awan Village, nicknamed garden in the Sky. It was commissioned by the Chanum foundation in 1998 in buy to create a model village showcasing reconstructed standard Cordillera houses and make them easily accessible to a lot more people.

The village highlights the indigenous craftsmanship and aesthetics of the region and its local artists. From three huts transported from Ifugao, the village now has nine standard houses — seven Ifugao huts and two Kalinga houses. These structures were reconstructed using mostly the original materials.

If you want to immerse yourself more, you can also book your lodging here.

Address: 366-C Pinsao Proper, long Long Benguet Road, Baguio City
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). The opening hours might change, so please check the official web site or Facebook page before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P60 (Adults); P40 (Students & Seniors); P30 (4-10 y/o); complimentary (3 y/o and below)

Baguio walking Tour

Thanks to its freezing weather, Baguio is one of those destinations that are terrific for a stroll! and while you can easily stumble upon pretty and curious finds, you can also pick up historical lessons or discover picturesque spots as you walk around, especially if you’re led by a local guide.

If you want to know a lot more information about the places you want to visit, you can join one of the guided walking excursions used in Baguio. choose the one that suits your interest or if you want to try a lot more than one guided tour, choose it! here are your options:

✅ BAGUIO historical walking TOUR: check rates or Reserve Here!

✅ BAGUIO creative walking TOUR: check rates or Reserve Here!

✅ BAGUIO INSTAGRAM walking TOUR: check rates or Reserve Here!

Diplomat Hotel

Officially named the Dominican hill Retreat house but popularly referred to as the diplomat Hotel, the 17-hectare home is sprawled atop the Dominican Hill. It was originally built as a retreat house for the Dominican priests and nuns in the first half of the 20th century until world war II, when the Japanese took over and turned it into a military garrison and war prison.

After restorations and remodeling, the diplomat hotel was launched and operated between the 1970s and the 1980s. given its history, especially the atrocities of WWII, it gained notoriety for paranormal activities, consistently putting it on the list of a lot of haunted places in the Philippines.

Today, the whole hill area is declared a heritage and historical site by the local government of Baguio and was named Dominican Heritage hill and Nature Park. The home is undergoing rehabilitation and development for tourism and is open to photoshoots, filmmaking, wedding receptions, and other events and functions.

Address: Dominican Hill, diplomat Road, Baguio City. the best way to get there is to take a cab from the city center.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). The opening hours might change, so please check the official web site or Facebook page before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P10 (adult), P5 (kids)

Bencab Museum, Tuba

Just a short drive from Baguio is the BenCab museum in the town of Tuba. The private museum is founded and managed by the artist himself, Benedicto Reyes Cabrera (BenCab), a Philippine national artist for visual Arts.

The museum was launched to the public in February 2009 and showcases BenCab’s own masterpieces along with other works by other distinguished artists and emerging contemporary artists. aside from promoting the arts, it also aims to highlight environmental conservation and cultural preservation of the Cordilleras heritage. The museum has a café, an organic farm, and a tiny forest.

For a lot more info, here’s our BenCab museum Guide!

Address: Kilometer 91, #6 Asin Road, Tadiangan, Tuba, Benguet
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Tuesday – Sunday). note that last entry is at 5:30 PM. closed on Mondays, Christmas, and new Year’s Day.
Entrance Fee: P150 (General Admission); P120 (Students); P100 (Senior Citizens and PWDs); complimentary (Children below 42″ height)

CAMP JOHN HAY vacationer Spots

Yellow Trail

The Yellow Trail, also called forest Bathing Trail, meanders about 1.5 kilometers across the pine-covered Camp John Hay.

The walking path links Le Monet and Tree top adventure — the two jumping-off points. From the Tree top Adventure, the trail goes additionally to Scout Hill, the final stop.

If you want to challenge yourself, take the uphill route that starts at Le Monet hotel and ends at Scout Hill. If you just want to take pleasure in nature the easy way, take the reverse downhill route — starting at Scout hill and ending at Le Monet Hotel.

The team took the much easier path and thoroughly took pleasure in basking in nature.

Address: Camp John Hay (Scout hill or Le Monet Hotel), Baguio City
Opening Hours: The trail is open 24/7, but it is advisable to hike during the day.
Entrance Fee: FREE

Tree top Adventure

Are you an adrenaline junkie? then Tree top adventure inside Camp John Hay is your playground! This adventure park uses thrilling activities that will make your heart race.

The a lot of popular attractions are the Superman ride (zipline), Canopy Ride, and Tree drop (harnessed complimentary fall). If you have companions that are not really into extreme activities, they can still use the consumable entrance fee of P100 for trekking or ride the cord cars/seats to a viewpoint. Each ride/attraction will incur additional payment, but the 100-peso entrance fee will be deducted considering that it’s consumable.

Here are the rates:

Superman Ride: P300

Silver Surfer Ride: P200

Canopy Ride: P250

Skywalk + Trekking: P150

Tree Drop: P150

There are also combo packages offered. here are the rates:

Canopy ride + Silver Surfer: P400

Canopy ride + Superman Ride: P500

Canopy ride + Silver Surfer + Superman Ride: P700

All activities: P900

Note: You can customize the package to your liking; the rate will vary depending on your choices.

Address: Scout hill Dr, Camp John Hay, Baguio City
Opening Hours: The normal daily schedule is from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The schedule may change depending on the weather. When we last checked out (first week of March 2022), the home was CLOSED.
Dress Code: A pair of shorts are allowed but make sure that it will be no shorter than two inches above the knee.

Bell House

Bell house view from amphitheater
Also located within the perimeter of Camp John Hay and not far from Tree top adventure is the Bell House, named after general J Franklin Bell.

This former official holiday residence of the Commanding general of the Philippines has been converted into a museum. The well-preserved building reflects the American colonial architectural style. It features an amphitheater that also functions as a garden.

Address: historical Core, Camp John Hay, Baguio City
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). The opening hours might change, so please check the official web site or Facebook page before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P75 (Historical Core entrance Fee). This fee also allows entrance to the Cemetery of Negativism.

Cemetery of Negativism

Located on a hill’s slope between Bell house and Camp John Hay Picnic Area, the Cemetery of Negativism (also called the lost Cemetery) was commissioned in the early 1980s by the base’s commanding general John Hightower.

The Cemetery of Negativism at Camp John Hay, Baguio City
But this cemetery is not the normal site for burying human bodies but rather a symbolic place for burying negativities. The tombstones were inscribed with witty and punny “eulogies” which may often require a dash of sarcasm to understand.

One tombstone reads “Itz Not Possible”, conceived November 11, 1905 but “still not born”. another one has “Know Dam Way” engraved on it, then below it, “Conceived new Years Eve 1910. Didn’t work out.”

If you are trying to find something unique, funny, and inspiring at the same time, head over here and scare the bad vibes away.

Address: historical Core, Camp John Hay, Baguio City
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). The opening hours might change, so please check the official web site or Facebook page before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P75. This fee also allows entrance to the Bell House.

Picnic at Camp John Hay

The amazing temperature of Baguio makes outdoor activities like having a picnic with your pals or family attractive to visitors. Bring your own food and ready the things you will need for a fun bonding with your loved ones while admiring the natural scenery.

You can spread out a mat on a chosen spot or find a picnic table. Camp John Hay has a picnic spot dotted with picnic tables for rent. The rate is P200 for the first three hours and P300 if you go beyond that.

You can also do it at Burnham Park. wherever you choose to do it, please don’t forget to clean up your mess after.

LA TRINIDAD vacationer Spots

La Trinidad Strawberry Farm

Situa

Year 2020 will go down in history as one of the worst in recent memory. It has been pretty eventful, to put it lightly. With the pandemic being the dominant problem, punctuated by a lot of calamities, the year felt like it came by fast and slow at the same time. For many of us, it’s probably a relief that this awful year is about to end.

This year has been very different from the previous ones, especially for travelers. We were all cooped up in our houses for many of the year without being able to explore any new places due to the community quarantine.

Now, much more than ever, the new Year is something we look forward to. Usually, we welcome the new Year with fireworks displays, a feast with the family, making loud noises, and street parties. This year, the new Year celebrations will probably be different, but what it implies is certainly the same: new beginnings.

Although you can always make a fresh start any day of the year, there’s something encouraging about celebrating it with the whole world. The changing of calendars somehow offers inspiration to start anew.

Since we weren’t able to travel this 2020, the new year is a reset for us, travelers. we all had a lot of time to reevaluate our journeys, figure out our mistakes, and dream to explore much more places. It may still feel uncertain what the situation would be in 2021, but the new Year gives us hope and something to look forward to.

So to help you be hopeful and much more positive that we’ll be able to travel again next year, here’s a little something. We made some artworks to motivate you to look forward to the coming year with hopes that things will get better! pleased new Year!

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

2021 pleased new YEAR wishes & GREETINGS
TIMELESS pleased new YEAR wishes & GREETINGS
INSPIRATIONAL travel QUOTES
FUNNY TAGALOG new YEAR GREETINGS
More suggestions on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️Related Posts:

2021 pleased new YEAR wishes & GREETINGS

There’s a lot about the past year that I’d rather forget. but your friendship is always something to remember. pleased new Year!
In a year full of dark days, our friendship never lost the spark. thank you! pleased new Year!
We didn’t get to travel together, but thank you for always being with me on this journey. pleased new Year!

TIMELESS pleased new YEAR wishes & GREETINGS

Wishing you a new year filled with approved leaves, boarding passes, and brand new adventures!
May this new year take you to places you’ve never been before.
This year, let’s say yes to new adventures.Happy new Year!
Welcome change, embrace adventure, and make this new year one you’ll never forget. pleased new Year!
Cheers to another year of fantastic places, terrific friendships, and unforgettable travels!
The view is better outside of your comfort zone.

INSPIRATIONAL travel QUOTES

“The new year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written. We can help write that story by setting goals.” – Melody Beattie
“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” – Oprah
“The secret to living the life of your dreams is to start living the life of your dreams today, in every little way you possibly can.” – Mike Dooley
“Twenty years from now you will be much more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” – mark Twain
“Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anybody can start from now and make a brand new ending.” – Carol Bard
“Look at the stars lighting up the sky: no one of them stays in the same place.” – Seneca the Younger, ancient Roman philosopher

FUNNY TAGALOG new YEAR GREETINGS

2020 • 12 • 29

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right here are some sample diy Japan itineraries for Tokyo, Osaka, as well as Kyoto for 4 DAYS, 6 DAYS, 7 DAYS (1 WEEK), 8 DAYS, as well as 15 DAYS. Each diy travel plan has its own suggested minimum budget plan to assist you handle your finances well.

This publish covers only Tokyo, Osaka, as well as Kyoto. If you’re trying to find sample itineraries for Sapporo as well as Nagoya, we have separate samples in the articles below:

Nagoya sample Itinerary

Sapporo sample Itinerary

If you requirement assist on exactly how to begin planning a multi-city excursion across Japan, this publish may help: Japan travel Guide

Please take note of the following.

All the itineraries below presume that you are a celebration of two, that you will be staying at a double space of a budget plan hotel or hostel (less than $80 per night), as well as that you will be splitting costs. The only exception is Tokyo choice 3 as well as the 15-day backpacking itinerary.

If your hostel or hotel does not serve complimentary breakfast, go to the supermarket on your very first day to get food (biscuits, drinks, bread).

Set aside ¥1000 for each unspecified lunch or dinner.

Airfare is not included in the costing.

Estimated budget plan suggested is per person. However, note that this has a huge allowance. For example, the ¥1000 budget plan per meal is frequently as well much since you can really discover a great bowl of ramen, even in Tokyo, for only ¥500. however it’s much better to overestimate than under.

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

Tokyo budget plan Itinerary: 6 Days
Tokyo + Disneyland Itinerary: 6 Days
Tokyo + Disneyland + Kamakura as well as Yokohama Itinerary: 6 Days
Osaka as well as Kyoto Itinerary: 4 Days
Osaka – Nara – Kyoto Itinerary: 4 Days
Osaka – Kyoto – Tokyo Itinerary: 8 Days
Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka Itinerary: 7 Days
Tokyo – Nagoya – Kyoto – Osaka Itinerary: 15 Days
Do you truly requirement a JR Pass?
Top budget plan hotels in Tokyo
Top budget plan hotels as well as Hostels in Osaka (Under $70)
Top guest homes in Kyoto (Under $70)
More ideas on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️Related Posts:

Tokyo budget plan Itinerary: 6 Days

Duration: 6 Days, 5 Nights
Estimated Budget: ¥35,000 (USD315, PHP15,600)

The budget plan OPTION. This travel plan replaces the expensive Disneyland go to with a day trip in Odaiba as well as replaces double space with a bed at a capsule hotel.

Tokyo + Disneyland Itinerary: 6 Days

Duration: 6 Days, 5 Nights
Estimated Budget: ¥53,000 (USD475, PHP23,700)

This travel plan removes the go to to Kamakura as well as Yokohama as well as adds a go to to Sensoji Temple.

Tokyo + Disneyland + Kamakura as well as Yokohama Itinerary: 6 Days

Duration: 6 Days, 5 Nights
Estimated Budget: ¥56,000 (USD500, PHP25,000)

This is a quite jampacked itinerary.

If you requirement a lot more info about traveling on a budget plan in Tokyo, inspect this out: Tokyo travel Guide

Osaka as well as Kyoto Itinerary: 4 Days

Duration: 4 Days, 4 Nights
Estimated Budget: ¥38,000 (USD340, PHP17,000)

This travel plan assumes you will be landing at Kansai worldwide flight terminal at night as well as will be staying in a double space at a budget plan hotel or hostel for ¥6000/night (¥3000/head).

If you requirement a lot more assist planning your Osaka-Kyoto trip, this publish is for you: Osaka as well as Kyoto travel Guide

Osaka – Nara – Kyoto Itinerary: 4 Days

Duration: 4 Days, 4 Nights
Estimated Budget: ¥45,000 (USD400, PHP20,000)

This travel plan assumes you will be landing at Kansai worldwide flight terminal at night as well as will be staying in a double space at a budget plan hotel or hostel for ¥6000/night (¥3000/head). You will be checking out Nara however only on a day tour.

Osaka – Kyoto – Tokyo Itinerary: 8 Days

Duration: 8 Days, 8 nights
Estimated Budget: ¥85,000 (USD760, PHP38,000)

This travel plan assumes you will be entering Japan by means of Osaka as well as leaving by means of Tokyo. You will likewise be staying in a double space at a budget plan hotel or hostel for ¥6000/night (¥3000/head) in Osaka/Kyoto as well as ¥9400/night (¥4700/head) in Tokyo.

Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka Itinerary: 7 Days

Duration: 7 Days, 6 nights
Estimated Budget: ¥85,000 (USD760, PHP38,000)

This is the reverse of the Osaka-Tokyo travel plan above. this assumes you’re landing in Tokyo as well as leaving by means of Osaka. Your hotel budget plan right here is the same: ¥6000/night (¥3000/head) in Osaka/Kyoto as well as ¥9400/night (¥4700/head) in Tokyo.

Tokyo – Nagoya – Kyoto – Osaka Itinerary: 15 Days

15-Day budget plan Backpacking
Duration: 15 Days, 14 nights
Estimated Budget: ¥115,000 (USD1030, PHP51,200)

This one is for budget plan backpackers. This assumes you’ll be staying at hostel dorm (around ¥2000 per night). since you will be checking out several cities including day excursions in Ibaraki as well as Kawaguchiko, it would be fantastic if you have a JR Pass.You can inspect the updated rates or purchase one here: inspect JR PASS rates Here

Do you truly requirement a JR Pass?

It depends upon your selected itinerary. In this post, we weighed in on the JR Pass. You may want to checked out it very first before making a decision: For a lot more info, read: Is the JR Pass worth It?

Top budget plan hotels in Tokyo

According to TripAdvisor individuals as of Feb 2017.

Andon Ryokan
Address: 2-34-10 Nihonzutsumi, Taito 111-0021, Tokyo Prefecture
Double/twin space from USD63 (P3139)

Check Rates

Hotel Horidome Villa
Address: 1-10-10 Horidome-cho Nihonbashi, Chuo 103-0012, Tokyo Prefecture
Double/twin space from: USD49 (P2443)

Check Rates

Tokyo Kiba Hotel
Address: 1-4-3, Kiba, Koto 135-0042, Tokyo Prefecture
Sleeping pod (capsule-like) from USD36 (P1806)

Check Rates

Agora location Asakusa
Address: 2-2-9 Kotobuki, Taito 111-0042, Tokyo Prefecture
Double/twin space from: USD66 (PHP3278)

Check Rates

Search for more: Tokyo Hotels

Top budget plan hotels as well as Hostels in Osaka (Under $70)

Goen Lounge & Stay
T-SITE ANNEXⅡ 5F/6F 8-9, Okahigashi-cho, Hirakata, Osaka

Check Rates

ZenLabo Osaka
1-7-6, Sennichimae, Namba, Osaka

Check Rates

Hostel Jin
2-4-19, Nishikujo, Konohana-Ku, Osaka

Check Rates

Ark Hostel as well as cafe Dining
1-15-11 Edobori, NIshi-ku, Umeda, Osaka

Check rates

Search for more: Osaka Hotels

Top guest homes in Kyoto (Under $70)

Guest home Oumi
19-11 Nishinokyo-Nagamotocho, Nakagyo-ku, central Kyoto

Check Rates

Guest home Gajyun
165, Ebisucho, Higashiyama-ku, Higashiyama, Kyoto

Check Rates

Guesthouse Tu Casa
414-4, 8 Miyagawasuji, Higashiyama, Kyoto

Check Rates

MOSAIC HOSTEL KYOTO
4-1 Kasuga-cho, Nishikujo, Minami-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Station

Check Rates

Search for more: Kyoto Hotels

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 3️⃣ • 2️⃣4️⃣ (updated)
2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 5️⃣ • 2️⃣5️⃣ (first up)

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KOBE DAY excursion FROM OSAKA: A diy travel plan

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Posted: 5/16/16 | may 16th, 2016

Last year I announced a case study program in which I would work with a cross-section of readers and help them plan and organize their trips, walking them through all the stages of travel planning and creating a roadmap to getting them on the road.

And, I said in the beginning, I’d share their stories along the way to help inspire your own trip.

It’s been a few months considering that I last updated their progress, and, with the project winding down, I want to share one final update for each student and how they accomplished their goals:
 

Jianne

Jianne is a 27-year-old office worker from Manila striving to take a two-week holiday this year. Living in the Philippines, she has no access to travel hacking resources, a plethora of visa restrictions, and a weak currency.

When we started last year, Jianne was a spender. She liked to shop, eat out, and always had “something that just came up!” She was continuously spending a lot more than she earned, so we needed to get her to only spend on her needs and reinforce the idea that any extra spending delayed her trip.

I don’t believe in going into debt for travel so we needed a path toward getting her finances in order.

Since you can’t know what to cut if you don’t know where the money is going, I had Jianne track all her expenses so we could see where the low-hanging fruit was. Jianne had never tracked her expenses before and ideal away we saw there were a lot of little things she could trim back without changing her lifestyle too much.

We cut down her eating out, taxis, shopping, and drinking, and had her create a change jar where she would put all her coins and small notes.

Shifting spending routines is a hard process. Half-way through working together, Jianne stopped tracking her expenses, went out a bit more, and overall, fell off the wagon. She was still spending a lot more than her salary each month.

But perfection is not the goal, and she realized her mistakes.

While working together, Jianne never got to go on a trip. We were simply starting too far behind to get her on a trip during the program. However, by the end of our program, Jianne was no longer spending a lot more than she earned and she’s been able to pay off a lot of her debt and start to develop a savings account.

She is still far from taking that vacation, but the first step in taking your dream trip is starting down the monetary path toward financial freedom. I’m incredibly ecstatic and pleased that she did that. No matter what, less debt and a lot more careful spending is always something that improves your life.

Here’s what Jianne has to say, in her own words:

Matt and I started tracking expenses and identifying areas where I must cut down my expenses. It was very challenging at first, and there were times I felt disappointed at myself for not being consistent. I was a shopaholic a year ago — it’s not easy to switch it off.

After a while, Matt taught me another approach: to have a daily cap of expenses instead. This was a lot more effective for me. If there’s something I need to spend on, I would compensate by cutting the budget on other days. It was much easier if I had a separate budget for “my money“ for the day. I didn’t feel deprived or disappointed, but a lot more responsible and in control.

With the help of Matt, I learned that there are different ways that may work for each individual effectively. You just have to try as much as you can until you find what works for you. Now, I feel that I have achieved a huge thing and that I’m halfway done on my journey to that special trip.

 

Diane

Diane, a 59-year-old from Canada, has always dreamed about going to Australia and new Zealand.

She and her husband live in the countryside on their fixed income pension. There’s no way for her to increase her income or take lots of advantage of the sharing economy, like Airbnb.

Her income might have been fixed, but her expenses weren’t — and, as a Canadian, she has access to rewards cards that could help her get totally free flights.

Diane has dreamed of traveling for years but never really thought it was within her grasp. travel was for the rich, she thought! I set out to verify her wrong. like Jianne, Diane had to find a way to minimize expenses so she could save a lot of of her limited income. While she and her husband have a small retirement account, we want to avoid tapping into that as much as possible, considering that that has to last lots of years to come!

As with Jianne, we started tracking her expenses and we found lots of ways to cut her spending. She switched to a more affordable phone plan, stopped eating out, began planning her meals to avoid getting unneeded food, and stopped making unnecessary purchases from the dollar store (she was an addict).

Diane went from saving $20-50 CAD a month to saving over $500 CAD! She has learned to reframe her spending and think of objects as “things that take away from my trip.”

Additionally, she got her husband to cut back on smoking — which not only added years to his life but also money to her travel fund.

Since she is on a fixed income, she’s been able to save the same amount of money each month and now has over $6,500 CAD saved toward her trip!

The greatest thing we’ve done is to get her on the travel hacking train. She subscribed for the American express and TD bank Aeroplan credit report cards, met the low minimum spending requirements, and — combined with her old points balance — has a total of 90,000 Aeroplan points as well as 17,000 Air Miles (an account that she can use for flights, too).

This will cover her entire flight to Australia and give her some extra points for any regional flights she might take. With discipline, the support of her family, and travel hacking, she’s made this long-term dream a reality, all while on a fixed income. It took time but she did it.

Now, she is going to Australia, new Zealand, and the cook Islands with her sister in August for six weeks. She’s ecstatic to finally check out some pals she hasn’t seen in decades because she never could afford to do it before!

As Diane says:

I am so ecstatic to be so far along in my planning. I had been wanting to travel to Australia to check out pals for over ten years but never seemed able to get rid of lots of obstacles. some of them were that I couldn’t seem to save money for this trip, decide when to go, and I didn’t know how to utilize air miles.

Fortunately for me, Matt was able to take me step-by-step through the planning process so I was no longer overwhelmed. He showed me how to get and maximize Aeroplan miles to fully cover the price of airfare, he showed me where I could cut some costs to save up for spending money, and a lot of essential to me, he showed me how to feel good when I was no longer wasting money on mindless shopping considering that I now had goal I wanted to achieve. The money in my separate “travel account” brings a smile to my face at the rate it is increasing.

But one of the most essential things I learned from Matt was how to deal with anxiety. I suffer from claustrophobia and anxiety, so just getting on an airplane is stressful to me. but knowing that Matt also had issues but overcame them and keeps traveling makes me realize I too could travel and delight in it. I am so ready to go!

 

Sander and Jolien

This couple from the Netherlands has always been in great shape. They never really needed my help on the financial side, though I helped them get better at tracking their expenses (which they like doing), create a separate bank account for their savings, and work up an ideal budget for their trip.

Toward the end of the year, they stumbled a bit in their savings but have now canceled a few bills and really see that every euro spent now is one not spent on the road. They even recently moved back in with their parents to minimize their rent.

By the time the leave for Brazil next month, they will have saved close to 30,000 EUR between the two of them!

Since they were financially in the clear (and planned to work along the way anyway), we spent the last of our time together going over their packing list, helping them get the gear they need, and going through our pre-trip checklist to make sure they didn’t forget anything. The packing list they sent to me was over 3 pages long!

After slashing their packing list, I had them put everything in their backpack so they can see how much it weighs in buy to find a lot more gear to cut, as well as show them that what we think is needed is typically not. They also did a camping dry run to see what they’ve included but won’t actually use.

Most of my work with them was simply getting them used to monitoring their spending (so they keep it up on the road) and helping them with the logistics of getting ready to sell it all and travel the world!

Here’s what they say:

We are ideal on track moneywise. We will start our trip with €5K a lot more than first anticipated, so we are very pleased about how everything went. We really cut down our expenses now. We do not go out to dinner or we don’t see a motion picture in the theater anymore. We even stopped getting clothes.

In December, it was hard to keep a keen eye on our expenses. We kind of failed it due to all the festivities and parties. We spent too much but Matt’s help put us ideal back on track.

Our greatest challenge in the last two months before we finally start our journey is probably trying to bring along only the bare necessities. Our first packing list was way too long. together with Matt we discussed what is helpful along the way and what is just extra weight. In the next month, we will purchase our last goods and we are going to walk a two-day trail to get used to our backpack, shoes, and just the kilometers.

(Sander and Jolien have a blog and you can follow their adventures on the web site No Sprinkles, just check outgeenhagelslag.nl!)
 

The Brandon Family

The Brandons are a middle-American couple from Indiana with two young sons who are set to take off for a year-long round-the-world trip starting in June. husband Michael is retired and partner Jennifer is a teacher (as well as the one organizing the trip).

I started working with Jennifer in November and, like everyone else, our first task was to track her expenses. Her family was in good shape but it was surprising how much the family was spending on food — not only on groceries but on eating out when they had plenty of food at home!

Everyone seemed to be getting food here, there, and everywhere! We got the family on a better food budget, subscribed for more affordable phone plans, and cut out their expensive cable television package for streaming over the internet.

Over the last 6 months, they’ve been able to double their savings to close to $25,000 USD!

I had Jennifer and her husband open a second Chase Sapphire preferred card and a Barclays in addition to the ones they had. They now have over 60,000 points each for their trip.

While they didn’t get to completely cover their flights with points (Jennifer used a lot for a different trip), they’ll still have enough points when they travel to cover smaller costs, like accommodations and train tickets. (This is especially true considering that Jennifer also got a capital One venture Card.)

Though $25,000 USD is not enough for a family of four for one year, with a lot of of their flights and smaller expenses taken care of in the first few months, they plan to rent out their home, which will supply extra income each month while they step on to more affordable countries in Southeast Asia!

Here’s what Jennifer has to say:

We have been dreaming about and saving for this year-long sabbatical for nearly two years, so it is a bit surreal to actually be taking concrete steps toward making it happen. just recently I realized that our greatest challenge has been the emotional task involved in breaking away from our normal life and community of family and friends.

Practically speaking, our greatest challenge has been saving as much money as we would like. Matt has been great to hold us accountable and to guide us through his travel hacking tips. It is supremely helpful to be able to talk through logistics with someone who has so much experience. Happily, we are making progress on the things that will bring us to our goal, such as passport updates, global SIM cards for our phones, getting our house rented, and getting started on our packing lists.

***
Over a year in the making, our case study project is now over. everyone is on their way and packing for their trip. I’m really pleased with how this project turned out and hope you took pleasure in following along with these four stories as they progressed.

I hope seeing how four very different people could make their trip come true inspires you to realize you can make YOUR dream trip come true too!
 

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Book Your Trip: Logistical ideas and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches web sites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

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

Don’t forget travel Insurance
Travel insurance will secure you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s extensive 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:

SafetyWing (best for everyone)

In

Posted: 2/2/17 | February 2nd, 2017

In this guest post, Adam from Travels of Adam shares his favorite LGBT events from around the world!

It was raining when I walked up to the park entrance, decked out in a brightly colored banner and a row of security staff checking bags. in front of me, a guy was wearing a pink tutu under a blue poncho and two girls to my right had faces painted with more colors than I could count. I could hear the beats from a faraway stage.

A little while later, the rain clouds disappeared and a rainbow lit up the sky. No, this wasn’t your typical music festival, nor was it a Gay pride festival — it was Milkshake festival in Amsterdam.

Milkshake festival takes place the week before Amsterdam’s annual Gay pride and is labeled as a festival “for all who love” (raises hand). most major queer performers, from Peaches and Mykki Blanco to crossover indie acts like Hercules and the love Affair, have performed here.

There are bright colors, crazy costumes, incredible performances, half-naked dance parties, drugs, and people of all shapes and sizes. It’s wild and it’s wonderful! and it’s more than just a celebration of LGBT pride — it promotes and celebrates queer culture like only a multicultural, independent, and original festival can.

Gay pride festivals in the West were once opportunities to be visible and publicly demand equal rights; as more and more of those rights have materialized (especially in the past few years), the political aspect of many Gay Prides has diminished. That’s not to say it’s totally gone (read on), but these days, a lot of our Gay pride celebrations center around headline bands, parades, parties, and plenty of skin.

Gay pride is a lot of fun — but the fun doesn’t have to stop there. All year long, there are dozens of festivals and events celebrating LGBT culture, sports, and arts, some specialized for different segments of our community or particular fields of interest. It’s a great way to experience a new destination, surrounded by like-minded travelers and locals. These are some of my other favorite events and festivals worth traveling for:
 

LGBT film Festivals

Even if you’re not a film aficionado (spoiler alert: I am!), film festivals are a great way to experience LGBT or queer culture. There are literally hundreds of LGBT-specific film festivals taking place around the world. From small towns like Bloomington, Indiana (Bloomington pride film Festival) to less-than-expected cities like Fort Worth, Texas (Q Cinema), these are often fun events to meet other LGBT locals and see outstanding cinema. and the best part? They happen year-round!

At the Q Cinema film Festival, local and regional filmmakers from Ohio to Louisiana premiered their works. It was a small and casual affair at the Fort worth community Arts Center, catered by local businesses and an easy place to meet filmmakers, actors, and documentarians between screenings. “Professional lesbian” stand-up comic Vickie Shaw (who has performed on logo and Olivia Cruises and at HRC events) had the audience in tears from laughter. featuring the best empanadas I’ve had in Texas, it was a fun weekend.

Bigger LGBT film festivals like the legendary OutFest in Los Angeles or BFI Flare in London are as popular for industry insiders as they are for local film fans and visitors.

At these larger events, you generally need tickets in advance — especially for big-picture premieres.

In Berlin, the leading Berlinale international film festival presents the Teddy awards for excellence in LGBT cinema; past Teddy winners — about murder, mystery, sexual desire, and everyday themes — have often been attended by A-list celebrities (cue James Franco, who seems to show up to every gay event).

Why visit an LGBT film festival?

While more often than not big Hollywood productions don’t include LGBT characters (exception this Oscar season: Moonlight), at an LGBT film festival, you’ll find films touching on every aspect of queer identity and culture. (Check out my picks for independent gay cinema from 2016.)

Besides, everyone loves to see a bit of themselves portrayed in the movies. movies can also be the perfect kind of escapism, the chance to see different scenarios related to our own personal experiences or emotions.
 

Art, Music, and theater Festivals

Sure, it’s a stereotype that a lot of those in the art, music, and theater industries might identify as LGBT, but that’s what makes these institutions so colorful. around the world, there are many cultural festivals and events tailored specifically to LGBT artists and performers. Each May, the international Dublin Gay Theatre festival celebrates LGBT artists, writers, and performers in the hometown of celebrated gay writer Oscar Wilde. theater companies from around the world get the chance to show their work — including but not limited to musicals, dramas, comedies, and cabaret — over two weeks throughout Dublin. With both free and paid events, it’s a fun way to experience Ireland’s LGBT culture and history.

Afterward, a lot of artists bring their successful submissions to the Edinburgh festival Fringe. though not explicitly gay, it always includes plenty of LGBT artists. and naturally, because of the large number of international performers and creatives in Edinburgh during the month — whether as spectators or performers — there’s just a great big gay vibe in the city.
 

Gay sporting Events

While a lot of the biggest gay events occur in the summertime, there are plenty of gay festivals each winter, too. Gay ski weeks are a thing: imagine drag queens in hot tubs, daytime adventures from skiing to snowshoeing (or lounging by the fireplace with a hot cup of cocoa), and steamy, late-night parties. European Gay Ski Week takes place in Switzerland each winter, while North America’s largest ski area celebrates Whistler pride & Ski Week each January. There’s a definite party vibe to these ski events, but in such a relaxing and peaceful setting, it’s easy to enjoy as a couple or a single.

There are the lots of gay rodeos in the united states organized by the international Gay Rodeo Association.

Attending any gay sporting event as an athlete is always fun (plus there’s the prospect of trophies and prizes), but usually, these are big events that overtake towns and cities, turning them into temporary queer meccas and creating a way for anyone to enjoy somewhere new safely and comfortably out.
 

Lesbian & Transgender Festivals

Some segments of the LGBT community are regularly sidelined in many events and festivals. Lesbians have a handful of events around the world to look forward to each year, however — from the annual ELLA international Lesbian festival each summer in Spain to The Dinah in palm Springs.

Both are heavily attended by international visitors and include music acts, parties, and more — all with a very festive vibe and in summery locations, so expect bikinis, sunglasses, and lots of swimming (or poolside lounging).

Since 2006, the national Transgender Charity has hosted an annual transgender festival called sparkle in the Park in Manchester (arguably the UK’s gayest city), at the Sackville gardens (where a national Transgender Memorial stands) in the city’s gay village; last year there were over 12,000 attendees. There’s free music, entertainment, and educational workshops. alongside the festival, a “fringe” event features plenty of cabaret, music, theater, and comedy.
 

Political, Human Rights, and tech events & Conferences

In addition to the many fun festivals and events described, many LGBT events are also still entrenched in serious political activism. even the gay sporting events often run alongside LGBT conferences dealing with activism and politics. and many Gay pride festivals are attended by local political action groups, political parties, and activist organizations.

But there are also many conferences year-round by national and global organizations dealing exclusively with human rights. In Fort Lauderdale each autumn, the city hosts the southern comfort conference where transgender activists and educators gather for learning and networking.

Other activists and allies meet each year at conferences organized by outright International, the national LGBTQ task Force, and the ILGA — offering community leaders from around the world a chance to meet and plan LGBT equality initiatives around the world.
 

Gay Circuit Parties

There are mega-parties that take place annually around the world, catering to different segments. For example, Provincetown attracts bears and their admirers for the annual Provincetown Bear Week each July.

Then there are circuit parties, popular for a particular subset of gay men. While these mega dance-parties have been around for decades, it’s Barcelona’s annual Circuit festival which has made the mega electronic-music parties popular again.

Barcelona’s Circuit festival has become so big and so popular since starting up in 2007, the entire city seems to be overflowing with hunky gay men for weeks leading up to and following the festival. With beach and foam parties, all-day & night DJs, and (so it seems) a rule that requires men to go topless, similar gay circuit festivals are now popular around the world from Bangkok (GCircuit during Songkran) to Tel Aviv, Amsterdam and WE party in Madrid.

Similar parties to the circuit festivals include southern Decadence in new Orleans (friends swear by it being one of the best parties in Nola, the “gay Mardi Gras”) and White party in Miami.

And then there are the Gay Days Orlando — the first Saturday of June where tens of thousands of gays and lesbians descend upon the Magic Kingdom and at hotel pool parties throughout the city for sun and fun.
 

Other LGBT Events

Not all LGBT events are based around big parties, however. just as the full LGBTQ spectrum includes so many varied sexualities and gender identities, it makes sense there’d be an equally wide range of events for every type of individual.

In Sonoma each spring there’s the Gay wine weekend for three days of tastings, dancing and food in a picturesque setting.

In Slovenia, Pink Week is a week-long experience throughout the country including wine tastings, museum tours and culminating in a formal ball to benefit LGBT organizations in the country.

Vienna hosts the annual Life ball in the City Hall and is one of the world’s biggest aids charity events, while Black tie in Dallas, Texas similarly raises donations each year for both local and national LGBT organizations.

Events like the Lesbians who tech summit promote LGBT technology and science for general audiences. It’s an event where technology and queer culture intersect, giving LGBT start-up employees and entrepreneurs the chance to network, brainstorm, and discuss ideas and innovations in related industries. past presentation topics have included hackathons, feminism, and virtual reality — all from a queer perspective — and LGBTQ apps and queer history (or in some cases, both at once).

Family-friendly LGBT events are increasingly popular as well, including many zoos from Berlin to Washington, D.C. which open up for specific “gay days” to promote family equality. check local LGBT community centers for the most up-to-date listings of similar events.

Globally, Wikipedia has the most comprehensive list of LGBT events, while travel Gay Europe and travel Gay Asia both have up-to-date event, festival, and party listings for each respective continent.

***
To be LGBTQ is to be a part of a really diverse community. luckily for us, there are so many different LGBT events for so many different niches and interests, it’s easy to find a cool festival or event abroad or at home.

Traveling to an event like this is a great way to meet other like-minded travelers — those that share the same passions and interests — or to experience a new place through a comfortable or familiar lens.

Adam Groffman is a former graphic designer who left his publishing job to travel the world. He’s a gay travel expert, writer, and blogger and publishes a series of LGBTQ-friendly Hipster City Guides from around the world on his gay travel blog, Travels of Adam. When he’s not out exploring the coolest bars and clubs, he’s usually enjoying the local arts and culture scene. find more of his travel tips (and embarrassing stories) on Twitter.

Book Your Trip: Logistical tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

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

SafetyWing (best for everyone)

Insure My trip (for those over 70)

Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Ready to book Your Trip?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Morocco is one of those wonderful destinations that pulls you in with vivid pictures of vibrant souks, exotic culture as well as a diverse geography. the most prominent as well as talked about destination is the busy city of Marrakech, however if you are adventurous sufficient to stray off the beaten path you will discover the numerous other treasures that this country has to offer.

But, very first as well as foremost, as a female traveller to Morocco, it’s essential to respect the religious beliefs as well as culture as well as gown appropriately. However, that doesn’t imply you have to look frumpy! There are some beautiful, trendy attire you can wear. inspect out some good gowns as well as attire for Morocco here.

Here are 8 highlights of a trip to Morocco!

The amazing Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca

If your starting point is Morocco’s largest city of Casablanca you cannot leave without going to the outstanding Hassan II Mosque. This mosque was completed in 1993 as well as was estimated to have expense as much as $800 million to build!

There were over 6,000 Moroccan master craftsman as well as artisans who dealt with the job as well as almost all of the materials are from Morocco with the exception of the white granite columns as well as chandeliers from Venice.

The sheer size of this structure is so huge that it can actually in shape France’s Notre Dame inside. Its minaret is a whopping 60 stories high as well as what likewise makes this Mosque so fascinating is that it has a glass floor that is available to the ocean below.

It is available to all Muslims at everyday prayer times as well as can quickly hold 105,000 worshippers at once. Non-Muslim visitors may go into the mosque on guided tours throughout the day with some limitations of where they can go.

The spectacular Blue City of Chefchaouen

Located in the northwest part of Morocco as well as surrounded by the Riff Mountains is the fantastic blue city of Chefchaouen. This is one of those locations that tugs at your heartstrings. The picturesque blue medina does not enable motorized vehicles, so catching the ideal natural photo is fairly easy.

It is stated that the blue décor dates back to 1471 when the city was established as a little fortress to fight the Portuguese invaders.

It likewise ended up being a major settlement for the Jewish people who fled after the Spanish Reconquista. The Jewish teachings partner the colour blue with the sky as well as God’s power, which is why the locals began to embellish the medina a bright blue colour.

Despite the absence of the Jewish refugees, the blue colour stays as well as is what has turned this little town into a widely known traveler attraction.

The elaborate labyrinth of Fes’ Medina

If you are up for a navigational challenge, wandering Fes’ medina is just the location for you. The souks as well as markets are a melee of action where locals as well as tourists jostle for area within the narrow alleyways.

The medina is extremely much like a treasure search since at every twist as well as turn you can discover yourself stumbling upon fantastic sights. one of these sights is The university of al-Qarawiyyin. According to UNESCO as well as Guinness world Records, it’s the oldest existing, continually operating university in the world. The building itself is rather breathtaking with elaborate carvings as well as mosaics.

Visiting Fes’ leather Tanneries is one more stop that you won’t want to miss while in the medina. Skins are brought in, cleaned, treated as well as dyed all in one location. costs an afternoon buying as well as checking out this medina is like no other as well as possibly having a guide show you the ropes is the very best method to see everything without losing your mind.

A Camel trip with the Sahara Desert

A trip to Morocco is not total without a trip with the Sahara on camel. showing up in the desert town of Merzouga you will instantaneously feel like you are transported to one more period in history. The buildings look like clay figures, the roads are sand as well as the temperature is hot! This is certainly the desert.

Joining an overnight trip into the Sahara is a must. Camels may not be the most comfortable mode of transportation, however they certainly offer you with the full Moroccan experience. Trekking over huge dunes with the orange sand blowing truly transports you into a fairytale. The Berber people take you to a Bedouin camp as well as sleeping under the twinkling stars is a memory that will permanently stay with you.

The gigantic Todra Gorge

Located in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains is the Todra Gorge. To get there youwill drive with rich eco-friendly Berber villages up until you feel like the earth is slowly swallowing you.

A 300m deep fault splits the orange limestone into a ravine as well as at some points it’s just broad sufficient for a river as well as single data trekkers to capture through. guest homes are dwarfed in between the walls of the gorge. Looking as much as see a crack of light creep with the top really makes you recognize exactly how little you truly are in this huge world of ours.

Related Article: Photographing Morocco – Tips on rules for Travellers

A City made from Clay

Recognized as a UNESCO world Heritage Site, the city of Ait Benhaddou is one of the most fantastic Kasbahs in all of Morocco. It sits in a valley near the foothills of the Atlas Mountains just 50km from Ouarzazate. It is believed that this town was recognized in 757 as well as its founder, Ben Haddou still lies buried in a tomb behind this spectacular city.

This gigantic fortress is made up of six kasbahs as well as about fifty much more ksours (groups of homes) that are all fortified behind a wall. It’s so unique that Hollywood has taken to Ait Benhaddou as well as utilized this fantastic location as a film place for numerous of its blockbuster hits.

Recently, game of Thrones has been filming right here calling it Yunkai the Yellow City. other hits include The Gladiator, Black Hawke Down as well as of program Lawrence of Arabia – just to name a few.

The Seaside town of Essaouira

Situated on the Atlantic coast, Essaouira has been a trading publish because 5th century BC. The fortress walls, developed by Sultan Mohammed III in the 18th century are still lined with Dutch cannons as well as the medina is full of rich Berber character.

This is yet one more game of Thrones filming place since it has such an appealing look as well as yet it is not overrun by tourists.  buying in Essaouira is far much more enjoyable than its bigger neighbor, Marrakech. There is just as much range with much less pressure from the shop owners. The medina is full of adorable cafes, bakeries as well as even museums to pass your time.

Goats in Trees

Don’t fail to remember to keep your eyes on the trees as you leave Essaouira. This is where I was able to see goats perched high in the Argania tree. grown solely in Morocco, the Argania is a unusual types of tree that creates a fruit that attracts the goats to its branches.

Goats will climb precariously onto the thorny branches to eat the fruit as well as while this alone may draw in a photograph or two, the byproduct is what locals are truly after. when the goat digests the fruit as well as nut, locals will gather the feces to extract clumps of seeds; these are then pressed to produce the now prominent as well as sought-after Argan oil discovered in numerous charm products.

Don’t miss Morocco

As you can see, Morocco is incredibly diverse in topography as well as rich in culture. This short article only scratches the surface as to all the locations you can experience. The sights, smells as well as vivid colours are just intoxicating as well as the further you stray from the over-visited Marrakech, the much more you will appreciate all this country has to offer.

Author’s Bio:

My name is Heather Halpern as well as I am from Edmonton, Canada. I caught the ‘travel bug’ numerous years back when I was a competitive rhythmic gymnast as well as because then I haven’t been able to quench the thirst for seeing much more of the world. even though I online a quite routine life with a full time job, I try to go on at least one overseas experience a year. This means, I skimp, save as well as try to online the happiest life possible throughout the year to ensure that I can experience my one true love…travel! My hope is that with my blog I can assist bring a bit piece of the world to you with my art, my adventures as well as my blunders!

Follow my journey on my website, The metropolitan Gypsy as well as on my social network channels – Instagram, Twitter as well as Facebook.

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We know what you’re thinking; did we just put backpacking and Jamaica in the same sentence? yeah we did, because they can be put together, and they ought to be put together! as opposed to popular belief, backpacking Jamaica is not only possible, it’s a must.

Most people think of expensive and all-inclusive resorts when you mention Jamaica. but what if we told you that Jamaica is actually a backpacker’s paradise? The real Jamaica is not as expensive as you think and backpackers love it there…trust us, we’ve lived it.

Don’t believe me? here are 13 reasons why Jamaica is a backpacker’s paradise!

1. budget Accommodations Everywhere

Many people believe the only types of accommodations available in Jamaica are resorts, which is far from true. There are plenty of low-cost places to stay in Jamaica. You can find numerous hostels and local guesthouses that have beds for less than $20 USD all over Jamaica, including touristy spots like Negril and Montego Bay.

2. There’s a lot to discover Off the Touristy Trail

If you are the type of backpacker that enjoys traveling off the beaten path then you are in for a treat. many of Jamaica’s gems are off the worn-out traveler trail.

Backpackers can easily discover the real Jamaica in places like Kingston, Treasure Beach, Port Antonio, or Cockpit County. And, when you get offtrack, you’ll find some of the best beaches in Jamaica!

3. Food is Cheap

Okay, I am not going to say that food is as low-cost as it is in Mexico or Guatemala, but you can get a delicious and filling Jamaican meal at a local restaurant for $3-5 USD.

There is also a handful of low-cost and filling street foods. Make sure to leave time to stuff your face with patties and coco bread, soups, roasted yam, and jerk chicken.

Mmm, jerk chicken!
4. Rum is Everywhere

There is low-cost rum everywhere, need I say more? Didn’t think so!

Oh and beer is low-cost too. The popular local brands are Red stripe Beer and Appleton Estate Rum.

5. friendly locals

Jamaicans love their home and delight in showing it off to visitors. Not to mention they are very friendly, hospitable, generous and open-minded people.

They always have time for a talk and will help you find the best local spots, or point you in the best direction when you are lost! Jamaicans are the essential to an authentic and amazing backpacking experience in Jamaica.

☞ See Also: 7 Must-See places in Bermuda

Hanging out with Jamaicans is the best part about Backpacking Jamaica!
6. Jamaica has Something for Everybody

Jamaica is not only diverse in culture but also in attractions and activities. With a multitude of things to do in Jamaica, it’s no wonder it has something for every type of backpacker.

If you delight in nature and hiking, you ought to certainly head inland and hike a few trails in the blue Mountains, Cockpit county and Jim Crows Mountains. If you are a beach bum, you cannot leave the island without going to Winnifred beach or Treasure beach (these are still totally free to check out and gorgeous). regardless of the type of backpacker you are, Jamaica has you covered!

☞ See Also: St. Lucia beaches – The top 9 many Picturesque Stretches of Sand

7. The unwinding Vibes

I honestly believe that no other country or people know how to unwind quite like Jamaicans! “Take it easy”, “Go slow” and “No worries” are just a few of the laid-back mottos Jamaicans live by.

Backpackers will not only appreciate Jamaica’s intoxicating and infectious vibes, they will embrace them.

8. It’s Paradise on Earth

Jamaica is known to be paradise on earth, and it’s not just because of the white sand beaches that line its coast. The crystalline rivers, majestic mountains, exotic wildlife, lush tropical forests, and spectacular waterfalls will show to be sights and sounds you will never forget. Jamaica is really blessed with pure natural beauty!

There’s something for everyone in Jamaicaa

9. A major Nightlife

When the sun goes down, this laid-back island livens up and turns into a party machine. The partying starts earlier in the evenings, heats up later in the night and keeps going well into the next morning. Jamaica’s nightlife is seriously second to none.

10. transportation is Cheap

One of the things we love about Jamaica is their public transportation system (JUTC buses or route taxis). You can easily get anywhere on the island through route taxis for next to nothing. For example, a four-hour ride to the other side of the island will only set you back $5 USD.

Plus, taking a route taxi is an experience in itself!

If you don’t mind fast chauffeurs or squeezing in a wee bit with locals, (which you shouldn’t if you’re a backpacker) it’s the ideal and most affordable way to get around Jamaica.

11. There’s an Off-Season

Jamaica is pretty sexy all year around, so many people don’t believe there is an off-season! but there is. during April and November you can travel around Jamaica without the traveler crowds and for half the price than in high season.

12. because of All the people telling You how harmful Jamaica is

For the rebel backpackers, this is for you! especially because Jamaica is no much more harmful than the next country. sure there are some areas that ought to be avoided but isn’t that the same everywhere?

13. The Language

Traveling is always simpler when you speak the local language. The lack of language barrier for English natives makes it extremely easy to get around, interact with locals, and expand on experiences that would otherwise be missed due to the language barrier.

If you are searching for an remarkable backpacking experience, look no even more because Jamaica will not disappoint you! What are you waiting for? pack your backpack and explore a Caribbean island you never knew you could check off your backpacking list!

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precisely two years ago, I put out my last cigarette.

It was a habit I never pictured I would be able to kick, particularly as a traveler. For almost a decade, I lit at least 10 sticks a day. Some days, when things got so stressful, I might surface an entire pack. My cigarettes were my constant companion, a enthusiast I always wished to dump however I believed might never go without. Our connection was based on false satisfaction — unhealthy, obsessive, suffocating, however he made me feel so, so good.

Without him, things felt incomplete as well as unreal. From the balcony of my hotel room, the view of trees enveloped in mist as well as the foggy outlines of mountains was not quite sufficient up until I see it with my own sheet of smoke. The karst cliffs rising in the horizon as I laze on the beach were not as arresting up until there’s a stick in between my fingers. A meal wasn’t filling (or fulfilling) up until I add nicotine for dessert.

But it wasn’t just about pleasure. I felt more useful when smoking. My finest stories as well as advertising strategies were conceived as well as born in between sips of hot tea or ice chilly beer as well as puffs of cigarettes on rainy nights. as well as when I was backpacking alone, it assisted me make new buddies with other, uhm, smokers. many of the conversations with strangers began with “Do you have a light?” as well as when there was no one, at least I had something to do while standing outside. I had depended on it for a long time, enslaved by it.

In my sinful affair with smoking, it’s remove who was in control. as well as it was not me.

But two years ago, I lastly wept “Enough!” great old chilly turkey. funny since travel, which was part of the reason I kept smoking in the very first place, had a great deal to do with it.

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

All about the Money
No Ifs, No Butts
Counting locations as well as Years
More tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️Related Posts:

All about the Money

I’m the type of guy who measures the value of things by airfare. LOL. Whenever I want to buy something, I try to compute exactly how far it would take me if I book airplane tickets instead. exactly how much is that new gadget? As much as the cost of a trip to the Maldives. exactly how about that refrigerator? Bali. as well as that jacket? Tokyo on sale.

The road to my very first awakening began in 2013 when higher transgression taxes were implemented in the Philippines. The government just made cigarettes less cost effective as well as it started to hurt my pockets. When I went back to having a day task in 2014, I spent most of my time in the BGC area, where cigarettes expense P100 per pack.

And I would always spend P100 even when I couldn’t surface a pack since there was always somebody who would request a stick every time I would smoke. as well as being the generous guy that I am, I would provide away the cancer sticks.

The thing is, smoking is an costly vice. You just don’t recognize it since you spend a little amount per day. however they all add up. When I did the math, I found that if I stopped, I would be saving around P30,000 per year. That’s sufficient money for a roundtrip ticket to Europe! as well as true enough, after over a year of refusing cigarettes, assumption where I went…

Sure, P30,000 won’t be enough. Tickets ain’t everything. however my point us, it provided us extra funds.

No Ifs, No Butts

Ever smoked on the beach? When there’s no ash trays around, where do you put your cigarette butts?

My habit had been to put it out as well as keep it in my pocket. It’s an unhygienic, disgusting habit, however I didn’t want to throw it just anywhere or bury it in the sand. frequently I fail to remember that I had a filthy cigarette butt in my pockets, like a filthy bit trick I brought around anywhere I went.

I developed that habit after traveling to a great deal of beaches to join cleanups. I witnessed first-hand that cigarettes are likewise an environmental problem. together with plastic bags, straws, as well as sachets, cigarette butts are a few of the most typical trash we collected everywhere where went. as well as since these ugly fckers don’t decompose quickly, they sometimes end up in the bellies of marine animals.

Counting locations as well as Years

I was in Australia when I decided to lastly kick the habit.

Even before the trip, I understood we would be trekking a great deal so I decided to stop smoking temporarily to prepare for it. just temporarily, I thought. however on our very first day, I realized just exactly how much my body had changed. I’ve always liked treks. For most of my life, I was quick as well as nimble, as well as I didn’t tire easily. however that day, I wasn’t the same. My breathing wasn’t as deep as well as full as it utilized to. add the truth that I was likewise dehydrated, I almost passed out. I dropped to the ground, shaking.

I believed I was going to die. as well as it dawned on me that I didn’t want to kick the container just yet. funny since while I was on the ground, I was counting countries. I want to see more of this world. I want to travel more: experience new things, satisfy new friends, see new places. Heck, Australia was only the second country outside Asia that I visited. I am so not prepared to die. Pleeeease.

Was that since of smoking? Maybe, perhaps not. It might be a combination of many factors. For all we know, I was just getting old. I don’t know.

But there’s one thing that I understand for sure:
Smoking is poor for my health.

And if I wished to online longer, I had to get rid of it. Whether or not that incident was triggered by smoking, I had to quit.

That night, I downloaded a stop app — which is why my app is Australian, LOL — as well as and ended that awful decade-long affair. PERMANENTLY.

It wasn’t easy, particularly provided that most of my buddies are likewise smokers, however I made a pact with myself as well as guaranteed to honor that. Whenever my buddies would invite me for a smoke, I would get upset at them for trying to draw me back as well as disrespecting my decision. Eventually, they stopped. After every meal, I would crave it, however I would discover something else to do. Or to eat. Haha. To be honest, I gained a bit more weight since I stop since I never felt satisfied even after a full course. There was no nicotine to trigger the release of dopamine in my brain, so I would get it from more food. Sweets, usually. LOL. however I’m taking care of the weight problem, too. One at a time, my friend. Mahina ang kalaban.

According to my stop app, I have avoided almost 77,000 mg of tar as well as saved almost P55,000 in 730 days.

Yes, it feels good. I feel much better now. I no longer feel uneasy during long-haul flights since I couldn’t smoke. I no longer have to go out in the middle of winter since I stay in a no-smoking hotel room. I no longer have to bring cigarette butts in my pockets. I no longer requirement to sacrifice my physical health and wellness just for an ounce of innovative juice. as well as without smoke to cloud my view, I now see clearly just exactly how gorgeous this world is as well as exactly how lucky I am to be here. I won’t danger it anymore.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 6️⃣ • 1️⃣1️⃣

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hello from Austin! I’m taking a short break from my adventures to get some work done, eat all my preferred haunts, see friends, as well as lastly hit the fitness center (I requirement to work off the 10 lbs I gained in Europe).

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