located on the Caribbean coastline of southern-central Cuba, Cienfuegos is a compelling place to visit. With its colourful facades, large streets as well as captivating French colonial architecture, it rightfully should have the Perla de la Sur (Pearl of the South) title.

Founded by the French in 1819, Cienfuegos is one of Cuba’s newest settlements as well as feels rather different to the rest of the country. So don’t leave this picturesque town off your need to see listing when planning to travel to Cuba.

Getting to Cienfuegos

The simplest choice is to jump on ViAzul bus which criss-cross Cuba to supply a decent, trustworthy deliver network. They are normally contemporary as well as clean however can have vicious AC so keep in mind to bring a sweatshirt or top.

From Havana 2 busses leave everyday for Trinidad as well as stop at Cienfuegos half way, the journey takes around 4.5 hours. They can get full up quite swiftly during the high season so get your tickets in advance. have your passport prepared to show at the ViAzul bus station in Havana (Nuevo Vedado area, Ave26, opposite the Zoo entrance) to get the tickets a day before travelling.

From Trinidad the trip takes around 1.5 hours. We ended up going by means of Santa Clara which took around 4 hours since it was Sunday apparently. A bit idea here, try avoiding travelling on Sundays in Cuba! The ViAzul Bus station in Trinidad is found on Gustavo Izquierdo, between Simon Bolivar as well as Piro Guinart, in the historic part of Trinidad.

You can try taking the train from Havana, however the trains in Cuba are painfully sluggish as well as prone to breakdowns or cancellations. From the info offered it seems to take 10.5 hours to travel from Havana to Cienfuegos by train. For as much as date info inspect the excellent seat61.com rail website.

If driving, be careful that some turns aren’t well signposted as well as the road can unexpectedly end, without any type of warning.

You can likewise fly to Jaime González flight terminal in Cienfuegos from Miami, USA however be conscious of strict visa restrictions.

You’ll requirement to have travel insurance coverage in buy to travel to Cuba. It’s really mandatory that all travellers have insurance, as well as you may or may not be asked to show proof of insurance coverage on arrival. To get a complimentary quote from world Nomads, just go into your details below:

 

What to see as well as perform in Cienfuegos as well as Punta Gorda

Explore the centre of Cienfuegos

The Cienfuegos metropolitan historic centre is framed with bountiful amounts of stunning French design as well as there’s nothing rather like it anywhere else in the country. We suggest costs a chilled afternoon at least to check out this exquisite UNESCO world Heritage site (since 2005).

Start with inspecting out the Cienfuegos Boulevard, the longest in Cuba as well as pay interest to the beautifully painted facades. spin around in the stunning Jose Marti Square as well as inhale the gracefulness of the historically considerable monuments.

Spot the one of a kind Arco de los Trabajadores (Arch of Triumph) devoted to Cuban independence. As you stroll the sunny streets of the city, don’t (not that you will be able to) miss the striking infant blue mansion on the western part of the Parque Marti. It’s the former Palacio Ferrer, created by the regional designer Donato Pablo Carbonell as well as completed in 1918.

To the south of the park, find the grandioso Palacio de Gobierno, the government Palace, for this reason no admission for the general public here.

Visit Teatro Tomas Terry

This captivating Italian style theatre on the northern side of Parque Jose Marti is one of three vernacular theatres in Cuba. It was made a national Monument in 1978 as well as won an award of Conservation in 2008.

The costs in Cuba are rather affordable as well as for just 2 CUC you can roam inside as well as check out the grandness of this monumental building as well as particularly the 950-seat auditorium.

Check out the atmospheric Teatro cafe Terry sitting between the Teatro Tomás Terry as well as the Colegio San Lorenzo.

Check out the splendid Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción Cathedral

Do roam into this marvellous Cienfuegos Cathedral opposite the Martí Park. The building dates back to 1869 as well as its French stained-glass windows are particularly stunning.

Discover Punta Gorda

You may question what Punta Gorda is. In a nutshell, it’s the upper-end neighbourhood of Cienfuegos. It’s around 3 km away, however simple to reach on footby complying with the Malecon sea wall. If you are not up for walking, just jump into a cab or hale the famous Bici taxi (a bike taxi).

Situated at the edge of the Bay of Cienfuegos, Punta Gorda is genuinely gorgeous. We stayed at the end of the peninsula, as well as absolutely liked it. The location is so relaxed as well as has an fascinating choice or architectural pieces in addition to a lovely marina.

Dance at Cienfuegos Club in Punta Gorda

For a full on Cuban disco with fancy neon lights, online music as well as extraordinary Salsa moves, pop into the stunning Cienfuegos Club. even if you can’t dance, take pleasure in the soulful sunset with a chilly brew in hand.

Cienfuegos Club may be a sports-bar-like place, however it has some amazing views across the marina. inspect out their lunch, dinner, snack or drink menu.

Enjoy the breeze at Marlin Marina

A lovely location to chill out for a cup of coffee or even lunch surrounded by crisp white linen, flowers as well as the sea breeze, if you are prepared to sprinkle out.

If you like sea, you can book a boat excursion around the bay or set up a deep-sea fishing trip. try booking with Cubatur/Cubanacán. You can likewise discover authorized excursion operators in the close-by Jaguar Hotel.

Read More: Cuba With a sprinkle of Spain – Experiencing The special Side of Cienfuegos

Where to Stay

There are lots of choices in Cienfuegos as well as Punta Gorda, from basic casas to visas as well as historic buildings. everything depends upon your taste as well as budget. If you want to experience a special stay with a regional household consider booking a casa specific in Cuba.

Hostal Palacio Azul

Painted in sensational blue, Palacio Azul was developed in 1921 to poise Punta Gorda. The eclectic palace is now renovated into a quaint hostel. It offers panoramic views across the marina as well as only has 7 spaces so make sure to book in advance. The building itself is worth investigating, even if you are not staying there.

Villa Lagarto

For a touch of Cuban luxury, stay at rental property Lagarto. located at the end of the peninsula, it supplies a relaxed stay with lovely view into Cienfuegos Bay.

The spaces right here are small, however clean as well as cosy. The upper floor has a lovely terrace with hammocks as well as rocking Cuban chairs. just envision a combination of a rocking chair, tasty Pina Colada as well as sensational views. The personnel right here are marvellous as well as make terrific cocktails.

The food right here is excellent too. The restaurant, as we discovered out during our stay, is one of the top restaurants in town. We took pleasure in charming breakfast, lunch as well as often dinners here.

For all lodging choices availble in Cienfuegos click right here to compare costs on Booking.com

Where to eat as well as drink in Cienfuegos

Villa Lagarto

As previously mentioned, head to rental property Lagarto for some food extravaganza. If you want to sprinkle out on lunch, they have a magnificent 7 program menu which includes some incredibly cooked as well as provided dishes, with a sinfully wonderful banana liquor in between courses.

Arabic Palacio de Valle

As you understand by now, Cienfuegos is anything however like the rest of Cuba as well as dining choices in in the traditional neighbourhood of Punta Gorda are not an exception. As you technique the end of Calle 37, you are in for one more architectural surprise.

This amazing ‘One thousand as well as one nights’ looking palace was developed by a Spaniard Acisclo del Valle Blanco in 1917 as well as now homes a high-end restaurant. Pop in for light lunch as well as see the terrace for charming views.

Street snacks along the Malecon

For more affordable eats, walk along the Malecon as well as you will discover bit random stalls grilling tiny burgers or the Cubans selling bags of popcorn in the evening. Both were extremely affordable as well as yummy.

Big Bang Cafeteria

A great little location on Calle 37, excellent for lunch or light dinner.

Benny a lot more bar

For a drink as well as perhaps some Salsa moves, pop into the widely known Benny a lot more nightclub.

You must likewise never neglect the regional bars as well as there are rather a few of themhiding upstairs in random buildings near Jose Marti square in Cienfuegos, just lift your eyes up as well as don’t be afraid to walk in. There are likewise a number of great rooftop bars in Punta gorda as well as a nightclub in the Jaguar Hotel.

Want a lot more Cuba? inspect out these posts:

The utmost guide to Independent travel in Cuba

The expense of travel in Cuba: A full budget plan Breakdown

Like This Article? Pin it!

 

Disclaimer:Goats On The road is an Amazon partner as well as likewise an affiliate for some other retailers. This indicates we make commissions if you click links on our blog as well as purchase from those retailers.

located east of Metro Manila, the province of Rizal is one of the most popular destinations among travelers from Manila and nearby areas — thanks to its close proximity and its broad buffet of attractions.

Summit-seekers will never leave wanting because Rizal nurtures mountains that flaunt thick forests and striking rock cliffs. Nature lovers are drawn to its cascading waterfalls and meandering rivers. and those searching for adventure can explore its numerous caves that will certainly rock their itineraries. Besides the natural attractions, Rizal also boasts cultural and historical sites, including churches, parks, and museums.

Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a holiday escape, Rizal has something for you. here are some of the best things to do and places to check out in the province.

Note: The opening hours and rates might change without prior notice, so please check the official sites or Facebook pages before visiting.

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

Rizal Day trip from Manila
1. Luljetta’s Hanging gardens Spa
2. ATV Adventure
3. Paintball Battleground
4. Pinto Art Museum
5. Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs
6. Masungi Georeserve
7. Hinulugang Taktak
8. Daranak Falls
9. Batlag Falls
10. Mt. Daraitan
11. Tinipak River
12. Pililla Wind Farm
13. Higantes Festival
14. Botong Francisco’s Ancestral House
15. Angono Mural Street
16. Bahay na Bato
17. Calinawan Cave
18. Balaw Balaw Restaurant’s Soup No. 5
19. Treasure Mountain
20. Antipolo Church
21. Phillip’s Sanctuary
22. mount Purro Nature Reserve
23. Palo Alto Falls
24. Blanco family Art Museum
25. Antipolo and Binangonan Cafes with a View
Other Attractions
Top Rizal Resorts & HotelsSearch for much more Rizal Hotels!

More suggestions on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️Related Posts:

Rizal Day trip from Manila

If you don’t have a automobile but want to travel conveniently, you can join a group trip package that provides transportation to and from Manila. Klook’s Rizal Day trip from Manila is inclusive of roundtrip transportation, toll fees, and vehicle parking fees. many of the attractions in the schedule are located in Tanay, Rizal. here are the typical stops:

Sierra Madre, Hanging Bridge

Daranak Falls

Calinawan Cave

Regina Rica Shrine

Windmill Farm

Celossian flower Farm

El Patio Razon (Hobbit house & Kawa hot Bath)

✅ check THE INCLUSIONS & RESERVE HERE!

1. Luljetta’s Hanging gardens Spa

Established in 2016, Luljetta’s Hanging gardens medspa is the cherry on top of the eight-hectare Loreland farm Resort.

Image offered by Klook
Located along Antipolo Ridges, the farm resort offers a beautiful and peaceful unwinding space for weary guests. delight in the view of Laguna de Bay, Metro Manila, and Antipolo while enjoying the amenities like the infinity pools. Pamper yourself in a heated jacuzzi, sauna, or hydro-massage pool. You can also avail of the massage and body scrub packages.

Address: Sitio Loreland, Barangay San Roque Antipolo, Rizal
Opening Hours: open daily from Monday to Sunday; 9:00AM–2:00PM (Morning Tour); 12:00PM–5:00PM (Afternoon Tour); 2:00PM–7:00PM (Evening Tour). The opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check the official site or Facebook page before visiting.
Package Rates: P850 – P4,000 (Solo); P5,000 (Couple medspa Package); P24,000 (Spa party Package, 10 pax minimum)

Klook is providing discounted rates for two of their day trip packages — Hanging gardens Retreat and Hanging gardens Getaway. Both are inclusive of slippers, access to the spa’s facilities (locker, sauna, heated jacuzzi, hydro-massage pool, infinity pools, Dr. Fish Spa, and meditation lounges), conventional bathrobe and towel, and Antipolo’s best suman.

The Hanging gardens trip package includes a set meal served in a bento box (soup, veggies, main meal, dessert). There are two options for the main course — smoked St. Louis pork ribs or smoked Norwegian salmon. get your discount voucher from Klook and reserve your slot by calling the office at least two days before your desired schedule.

✅ check rates & RESERVE HERE!

2. ATV Adventure

Need a dose of adrenaline? You can also go on a thrilling rough road adventure riding an ATV along muddy trails, across rivers, and through jungles.

ATV adventure Rizal organizes various ATV tours. There are five route options:

Image offered by Klook

Short Trail

Forest Trail

Marikina River Trail

Long Trail

Jungle Trail.

Each has its own set of itinerary, duration, and inclusions. There will be a safety briefing and demo with an ATV expert, so no need to worry if it’s your first time. just follow the instructions and you are good to go!

Address: ATV Adventures Rizal, Purok Uno, Sapinit Road, Antipolo, Rizal
Opening Hours: 6:00AM-5:00PM (Monday-Sunday). The opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check the official site or Facebook page before visiting.
Contact Details: 0908 894 0771 / atvadventuresrizal@gmail.com

Get your discount voucher from Klook!

✅ check trips & RESERVE HERE!

3. Paintball Battleground

Another attraction provided by ATV adventure Rizal is Paintball Battleground, which allows one hour of use of the battlefield with your pals or family for less than P500!

This also includes 50 bullets and complete paintball gear — a mask, vest, and a paintball gun.

Image through Klook
For safety, please follow all the guidelines and policies when inside the battleground. fire away!

Address: Sapinit road Barangay San Juan, Antipolo, Rizal
Opening Hours: 6:00AM-5:00PM (Monday-Sunday). The opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check the official site or Facebook page before visiting.
Contact Details: 0908 894 0771 / atvadventuresrizal@gmail.com

If your group wants to have a private paintball session, you can book Klook’s private Paintball Experience offer. Make sure that your group is composed of eight participants for you to reserve a time slot. No walk-ins as of now, so you really need to book in advancement and reserve two days before your optimal schedule.

✅ check rates & RESERVE HERE!

4. Pinto Art Museum

I may be biased but I think I am not alone when I say Pinto Art museum is one of the most picturesque contemporary museums in the country!

Established in 2010, Pinto Art museum was born from the art collection of its founder, neurologist Dr. Joven Cuanang. From the museum’s name pinto, which translates to ‘door’, the objective is to bridge diverse cultures and perspectives through arts.

The museum presents various types of arts — sculptures, paintings, installations, mixed media, and much more — which revolve around religion, historical events, and different modernist movements. It also showcases the works of Filipino contemporary artists. another popular feature that you ought to not miss when you check out is its in-house restaurant, the cafe Rizal.

Designed by artist Antonio Leaño, the whole museum complex is composed of white structures enclosed in a two-hectare botanical garden. It radiates a peaceful atmosphere. It’s not unexpected that this is one of the most Instagrammed museums in the Philippines. The place is also open to couples who want to do a prenuptial shoot. contact the management for the rates.

Address: 1 Sierra Madre Street, Grand Heights Subdivision, Antipolo, Rizal
Opening Hours: 10:00AM-6:00PM (Tuesday-Sunday); closed (Mondays). The opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check the official site or Facebook page before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P250 (Adult); P200 (PWD/Senior Citizen); P125 (Student w/ proof of Enrollment); totally free (3y/o and below)
Contact Details: +63 (2) 8697-1015 / pintoartmuseum@yahoo.com

5. Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs

Officially declared a national cultural Treasure in 1973 by the national museum of the Philippines, the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs site provides a peek into the prehistoric Philippines.

The ancient carvings are preserved on a rock wall along the boundary of Angono and Binangonan. A tunnel leading to the petroglyphs is located a few meters off the road (Col. Guido Road). The rock wall is protected by a fence but you can still marvel at the carvings from a wooden seeing deck. This was first discovered by national artist Carlos “Botong” Francisco in 1965.

Location: NM – Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs site Museum, Rizal
Opening Hours: 8:00AM-5:00PM (Monday-Sunday). The opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check again before visiting.
Entrance Fee: FREE

6. Masungi Georeserve

Opened to the public in 2015, the Masungi Georeserve is a conservation area managed and protected by concerned and passionate groups and individuals. It aims to promote a mutually healthy coexistence between nature and people and to educate visitors about the significance of conservation through sustainable geotourism.

Photo offered by Klook
Located on the southern part of the Sierra Madre mountain range, the georeserve has piqued the curiosity of weekend warriors, especially those who are passionate about the environment and those interested in geology.

The whole area cradles limestone caves, rock formations, karst cliffs, and rainforests. The park has eco-trails, rope courses, and hanging bridges that connect some of the essential points inside the conservation area. The Sapot (cobweb) and the Duyan (hammock) are two of the most popular features inside the park.

The park also has several viewpoints, from where you can admire spectacular views of the mountains, the park, and even Laguna de Bay in some spots. note that Masungi Georeserve provides different trails and experiences — discovery Trail, legacy Trail, and garden Picnic. check the inclusions, then choose the one that suits your preference

Please wear comfortable clothes and footwear with good grip, and respect and follow the policies when inside the park. Prior reservation is needed. No walk-ins.

Location: Kilometer 47,Marcos Highway, Baras, Rizal
Opening Hours: 8:00AM-5:00PM (Tuesday-Sunday), closed (Mondays). The opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check the official site or Facebook page before visiting.
Admission: need prior reservation. check out the official site www.masungigeoreserve.com/experience.
Contact Details: +63 908 888 70 02 / trail@masungigeoreserve.com

Klook provides a guided join-in trip of the Masungi Georeserve. The package covers roundtrip transportation, snacks, access to the facilities, and a guided trip within Masungi. The particular trail provided is the discovery Trail.

✅ RESERVE YOUR SLOT HERE!

7. Hinulugang Taktak

Designated as a national park in 1990, the Hinulugang Taktak protected Landscape covers three hectares of verdant forest. It was named after the Hinulugang Taktak waterfalls, which is certainly the highlight of the park.

Easily available from the town center, it is an renowned landmark in Antipolo and said to be one of the most went to national parks in the country. The trails leading to the falls have been developed to make it simpler for tourists, especially seniors and PWDs, to access.

The area surrounding the falls has become a picnic site, adorned with tables and gazebos. There is also a designated pool area for those who want to swim. If you want to trek or do some challenging activities, you can check out the new facilities like wall climbing, rappelling, and other rope courses.

Both the local government and DENR are continuously doing their job to safeguard and maintain the park. let us help by following the guidelines and regulations.

Most travelers check out this and the nearby Pinto Art museum in a day.

Location: Daang Bakal Road/Taktak Road, Antipolo, Rizal
Opening Hours: 8:00AM-5:00PM (Monday-Sunday). The opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check again before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P30 (Adult); P15 (Students); P100 (Foreigners); totally free (Children below 7 y/o, seniors, and PWDs)
Other Fees: P50 (Swimming Pool), P50/hour (Table), P500/day (Cottage)

8. Daranak Falls

The 14-meter high Daranak Falls is one of the popular natural attractions in Tanay and a favored summer destination for locals and tourists alike.

Photo offered by Klook
Located at the foot of densely forested Tanay mountains, the picturesque area — with Daranak falls as its centerpiece — features cascading waters, rivers, ponds, and a substantial natural pool. There are picnic sheds and tables for rent.

Note that plastic, styrofoam, alcoholic beverages, and animals are not allowed. Please do not litter and clean as you go.

Location: Daranak Falls, Tanay, Rizal
Opening Hours: 8:00AM-5:00PM (Monday-Sunday). The opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check again before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P50 per person. children below 3ft are totally free of charge.
Rental Rates: P200 (Picnic Table, good for 6 pax); P300 (Picnic Shed, good for 8 pax)

Daranak Falls is included in the schedule of Klook’s Rizal Day trip from Manila. This includes roundtrip transportation.

✅ check details & RESERVE HERE!

9. Batlag Falls

Not too far from Daranak Falls is another set of cascades with swimming holes — Batlag Falls.

You just need to trek uphill and deeper into the thick jungle to reach this beauty. The amazing water rushes down from a limestone cliff. The water basins (one shallow and one relatively deeper) serve as swimming areas. try to explore farther from the main pools and you might find a less crowded swimming spot.

The best time to go is morning when there are fewer people. Bring your own food and clean as you go.

Location: Batlag Falls, Tanay, Rizal
Opening Hours: 8:00AM-8:00PM (Monday-Sunday, Day Tour). The opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check again before visiting.
Entrance Fee: P150 (Adult); P50 (Child); P200 (Overnight/Camping)
Rental Rates: P200 (Picnic Table); P200 – P300 (Picnic Shed/Cottage)

10. Mt. Daraitan

Part of the Sierra Madre mountain range, mount Daraitan straddles the town of Tanay in Rizal an

There are plenty of awesome cities in the United States, each providing something distinct to visitors. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but if I have to then I’m choosing new Orleans.

While the Crescent City is many well-known for its massive Mardi Gras celebrations and other epic new Orleans festivals, this is also a foodie’s paradise. new Orleans food is extremely diverse and is some of the best in the country.

You could honestly plan your entire trip to new Orleans around where and what you’re eating.

There are so numerous mouth-watering dishes to try and an abundance of outstanding restaurants to visit. You can make several trips to the city and try something new every time, and you’ll still only barely scratch the surface.

I’ve traveled all over my home country and I can say without a shadow of a doubt that new Orleans is my favorite city for food.

I love a good slice of new York pizza and I’m always pleased to crush a Chicago hot dog, but you just can’t beat the variety in new Orleans. American food may be accused of being somewhat bland, but that’s certainly not the case here!

If you’re planning a trip to new Orleans and are wondering what to eat, this guide is for you.

Read on for a look at the best food in new Orleans, featuring recommendations for some of the top places to try each dish. 

Ready to get into the best new Orleans dishes? Click here to jump down the page. 

What is new Orleans Food?

So, what exactly is new Orleans food? The cuisine of the big easy is a real melting pot. It’s influenced by both Cajun and Creole cuisine as well as soul food. You may be wondering what the difference between Cajun and Creole is. Time for a little history lesson!

Creole Cuisine

Before Louisiana was part of the USA, it was a colony of France and then Spain. Creole refers to the American-born descendants of those European settlers.

French settlers used this word to distinguish between those who were born in Louisiana and those born back in France. This term was also used to describe the descendants of African slaves and native Americans that were born in the area.

Much like the people, Creole cuisine is a fusion of French, Spanish, African, and native American influences. Over the years, it was also influenced by German and Italian immigrants as well as the cuisine found in other parts of the southern US.

Cajun Cuisine

Now onto the Cajuns, who are also known as Acadians.

They are the descendants of French colonists who were expelled from the area in Canada known as Acadia when the British took over.

Many of them moved to Louisiana, as it was a French colony at the time. They intermarried with other groups, so numerous Cajuns today have ancestors from places like Ireland and Germany.

As you might guess, Cajun cuisine has a strong French influence. It’s considered a “rustic” cuisine, implying it relies heavily on local ingredients and is relatively easy to prepare.

It’s not necessarily spicy, but it does employ a broad variety of seasonings. We’ll take a look at some of the best Cajun food in new Orleans in just a minute.

Wondering where to stay in new Orleans during your trip? check out our extensive guide to the best hotels on Bourbon street, including loads of information about the French Quarter.

Soul Food and Seafood

Finally, soul food refers to the cuisine created by African-American descendants of slaves.

With limited rations and long, demanding workdays, they came up with hearty, filling dishes using what little they had. soul food staples like cornbread, fried catfish, and collard greens with pork came about as a result and are still very popular today.

Thanks to its location, seafood features very prominently in the big Easy.

It’s here that the Mississippi River flows into the Gulf of Mexico, so people have easy access to both fresh and saltwater fish and shellfish. Shrimp, crawfish, oysters, and crab are all common ingredients in new Orleans food.

Now that you know about the various styles of food, let’s take a look at some new Orleans well-known food and must-try dishes in the city.

Best new Orleans Food: 10 Must-Try Dishes

As a result of the mix of people and cultures in new Orleans, there are various tasty, must-try meals.

Some of the dishes are much more well-known than others, and while there are way much more than 10 foods you ought to try, here are some well-known new Orleans dishes you don’t want to miss. 

Jambalaya

When it concerns new Orleans food, one dish that always concerns mind is jambalaya. This is a spicy one-pot dish with rice and a mixture of andouille sausage, chicken, and shrimp.

As is typically the case with new Orleans food, there’s an interesting backstory behind this dish.

Back when the Spanish settled here, they had a hard time recreating their beloved paella due to high taxes on saffron. Instead, they turned to local ingredients such as juicy tomatoes.

There’s both a Cajun and a Creole-style of jambalaya, which is dependant on the use of tomatoes.

You’ll typically find Creole jambalaya in new Orleans, which uses tomatoes. but if you were to travel to other areas in Louisiana, you’ll find Cajun-style jambalaya — which doesn’t incorporate tomatoes in the recipe. 

Both styles use the “holy trinity” of onion, celery, and bell peppers (typically green). Garlic is also used in jambalaya, as are a broad range of seasonings such as cayenne pepper, oregano, paprika, and more.

The best thing about jambalaya is that there are so numerous different ways to cook it. You could try it every day of your trip and not have the same experience twice!

This just might be the quintessential new Orleans dish as it’s found all over the city. some of the best places to eat jambalaya in the city include Mother’s and the new Orleans Creole Cookery.

Po’ Boys

Po’ young boys are a new Orleans classic. If you’re wondering where the interesting name of these tasty sandwiches comes from, there’s another historical lesson behind it. 

Back in1929, the streetcar workers in new Orleans were on strike. A pair of restaurant owners, former streetcar conductors themselves, came up with a cheap sandwich to feed the hungry, unpaid workers.

They referred to the striking workers as “poor boys,” and the name stuck for the style of sandwich.

The French influence on new Orleans food is clear once again, as po’ young boys are served on a baguette-style loaf of bread. Roast beef has always been a popular filling, including a “sloppy” style that’s covered in gravy.

These days, fried seafood options like shrimp and oysters are also all the rage.

Whichever filling you choose, get ready for a delicious sandwich and a prime example of new Orleans well-known food. When ordering a po’ boy, ask for it “dressed” if want lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo.

Some of the best places for a po’ young boy include Domilise’s, Parkway Bakery & Tavern, and Liuzza’s by the Track.

Looking to wash your po’boy down with a drink?! Don’t miss our list of the top 10 best new Orleans Bars.

Crawfish

Crawfish – or “mud bugs” as they’re known in Louisiana – are freshwater crustaceans that kind of look like small lobsters. They’re kind of a big deal here, so much so that there’s even a whole festival dedicated to them! 

Spring is crawfish season in the big Easy. going to a crawfish boil is a must-do if you’re going to this time of year. The boiled crawfish are typically served alongside corn and potatoes, making for a very filling and satisfying meal.

There are numerous options for boiled crawfish in new Orleans. Some places cook it up every day, while others do boils just once a week.

A few places that come recommended include Bevi seafood Co., Cajun Seafood, and Frankie & Johnny’s.

One dish that always comes up on lists of the best food in new Orleans is crawfish étouffée, which comes from the French word implying “to smother.” The mudbugs are certainly smothered in a roux (a mix of butter and flour) along with spices.

As with numerous other popular NOLA dishes, crawfish étouffée comes in both Cajun and Creole styles. Bon ton cafe (Update 2021: this restaurant is temporarily closed, check back), Felix’s, and Chartres house (Update 2021: this restaurant is temporarily closed, check back), are all good spots to try this popular new Orleans food.

Don’t miss a trip out to the new Orleans swamp! check out this list of the top 7 swamp trips and head out on a trip after you’re done eating your way through the city.

Beignets

We’ve already covered some of the best food in new Orleans for a hearty, filling meal. Let’s take a quick break from all the seafood and spice to satisfy your sweet tooth with a classic NOLA treat — beignets.

These delectable pastries were introduced by the French hundreds of years ago, and they’re certainly high atop the list of new Orleans well-known food. Square-shaped pastries made of fried dough, beignets are known as a doughnut without the hole.

Once they’re hot and ready, beignets are dusted with powdered sugar. They’re best eaten hot and fresh, especially paired with a cup of cafe au lait. 

The many well-known place to get your beignet fix is certainly cafe du Monde (if you’ve seen the filmChef, this is where they sampled beignets!).

There’s always a line here, but it moves rapidly and it’s worth it to cross this NOLA staple off your list. another great choice is the 24-hour morning call located inside City Park.

Red Beans & Rice

No list of new Orleans food would be complete without red beans & rice.

Simple, filling, and delicious, this is a local favorite. It’s essentially the bacon & eggs of the big Easy. Legendary musician Louis Armstrong loved it so much that he would sign letters “Red Beans & Ricely Yours.”

Red beans & rice was typically made on Mondays using leftover pork bones from dinner the night before. This made for an easy dinner to prepare while tending to household responsibilities like cleaning and laundry.

These days, you can delight in red beans & rice any day of the week.

It’s cooked slowly in a pot along with the holy trinity and a mixture of spices, then served over rice. 

As with numerous classic new Orleans dishes, many locals will tell you that the best version comes from their mom’s kitchen. If you’re just traveling here, some popular places to munch on red beans & rice include Joey K’s, Mother’s, and Coop’s (which is 21 and over only).

Gumbo

One of the most classic Creole dishes being cooked up in NOLA is gumbo. It’s so popular down here that it’s actually the state dish of Louisiana! Of course, there’s also a Cajun spin on this new Orleans well-known food.

No two pots of gumbo are alike, as the options are unlimited when it concerns making this hearty stew. just about any type of meat or shellfish can be used in gumbo.

A thickener such as roux, okra or filé powder is also used along with the holy trinity of vegetables and a variety of seasonings. 

Once again, new Orleans food showcases a melting pot of influences with gumbo. You’ve got roux from France, okra from West Africa, sassafras from native Americans, and sausage from Germany.

Many outsiders confuse gumbo and jambalaya, as the dishes are a bit similar.

The main difference is that gumbo is served on rice, while the rice is actually cooked in with jambalaya. Both of them have so numerous different choices for ingredients that the options really are endless.

Gumbo is on the menu all over the big Easy, but some of the best places to try it are the Gumbo Shop, Mr. B’s Bistro, and Dooky Chase’s.

Bananas Foster

When you need to satisfy your sweet tooth in new Orleans, be sure to give Bananas Foster a try.

This classic dessert was created best here in NOLA in the 1950s at Brennan’s restaurant — which is also one of the most popular places to try well-known cocktails in new Orleans.

At that time, new Orleans was a major hub for bananas that entered the us from central and South America.

Chef Paul Blange created a dish consisting of bananas with a sauce made of butter, rum, and brown sugar. He named it after Richard Foster, a local company leader and friend of the owner. 

Once they’re soaked in the sauce, the bananas are set aflame in a technique known as flambé. The fire actually burns off the alcohol but leaves the smokey taste of the rum. It’s typically prepared at your table and served with vanilla ice cream.

Of course, Brennan’s remains the go-to place to try this well-known new Orleans food. Over at Hansen’s, you can try another classic new Orleans dessert called a sno-ball and get it with a Bananas Foster topping.

Muffuletta

There’s been a lot of French and Spanish influences so far in this post, but we have Italians to thank for thi

Our team had been to Thailand numerous times. Yet, it still has its distinct character that elicits excitement when I think about going to again. For one, I love Thai food — all the signature dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum, Khao Pad, Pad See Eiw, and Som Tam among others. and the street food scene and night or weekend markets? They sure know the name of the game. Secondly, I am always impressed at the beautiful and intricately developed structures, both modern and historic sites. It always feels good to be back. but this time, our team went to explore the northernmost province of Thailand — Chiang Rai.

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

Understanding Chiang Rai
How to get to Chiang RaiFrom Manila
From Bangkok
From Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai airport to City Center
Where to stay in Chiang RaiTop budget hotels in Chiang Rai
Top budget Hostels in Chiang Rai
Search for much more Chiang Rai Hotels!

Getting around Chiang Rai
Internet connection in Chiang Rai
Places to visit in Chiang RaiWat Rong Khun (White Temple)
Wat Rong Seur ten (Blue Temple)
Baan Dam (Black House)
Golden Triangle
Chiang Khong
Mae Salong
Chiang Rai Food Trip

Sample Chiang Rai Itinerary
More Chiang Rai suggestions for the poor Traveler
Frequently Asked questions about Chiang RaiWhen is the best time to visit Chiang Rai?
Is it safe in Chiang Rai?
How does Chiang Rai differ from Chiang Mai?

More suggestions on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️Related Posts:

Understanding Chiang Rai

Located on the northern suggestion of Thailand, Chiang Rai province is the area in Thailand which is part of the popularly known area where three countries converge — the golden Triangle. At the junction of the Ruak River and Mekong River, the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar (formerly Burma) meet. Particularly, Chiang Rai shares borders with Myanmar (Shan State) to the north, Laos (Bokeo Province) to the east, Chiang Mai province to the west, Phayao province to the south, and Lampang province to the southwest. The capital city/town shares the same name as the province, Chiang Rai.

Chiang Rai used to be a part of the Lanna Kingdom. In 1262, King Meng Rai made it the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom. “Chiang” implies city in Thai, so Chiang Rai literally implies City of (King) Rai. The capital was then changed to Chiang Mai (New City) and because then, it has become the economic and tourism hub of northern Thailand. Chiang Rai is much more laidback compared to the neighboring Chiang Mai, but it has it possesses a distinct character brought about by the presence of several ethnic groups, including the hill tribes. There are a lot of temples and museums, showcasing the customs and tradition.

Aside from the peculiar indigenous culture and antiquities, Chiang Rai boasts its countryside and mountainous region. A majority of the tourists concerning Chiang Rai head to the mountains for trekking, nature tripping, trail running, chasing waterfalls, dipping in hot springs, and finding good viewpoints among others.

Here are other facts you need to know:

Language: Thai and Kham Muang. aside from the Thai language, Kham Muang is also widely spoken, particularly by the majority of the ethnic population in Chiang Rai. It is closely related to Lao/Laotian, but much more on central Thai. compared to central Thai, the people of Chiang Rai (and northern Thailand in particular) speak relatively slower or unhurried.

Currency: Thai Baht (THB, ฿). THB100 is roughly USD 3, EUR 2.9, SGD 4.5, PHP 170 (as of August 2019).

Modes of payment: Cash. Some restaurants and hotels accept credit report card transactions, but smaller establishments choose cash.

ATMs: There are numerous ATMs in Chiang Rai, but many of them are concentrated in the capital — Chiang Rai City. ATMs are located in front of the banks, commercial complexes, and even inside 7/11 stores.

Electricity Info: 220V AC electricity. many of the sockets have two holes that can accommodate both flat and round pins. Compatible plugs are type A, C, and F.

How to get to Chiang Rai

From Manila

From Manila, there’s no direct flight to Chiang Rai. Bangkok will be your jump-off point. numerous airline companies are flying the Manila-Bangkok route. You will either arrive at Suvarnabhumi airport (BKK) or Don Mueang airport (DMK). The former (BKK) is the newer and bigger airport and serves many international flights, both long-haul and short-haul. It also handles domestic flights. buddy and Cebu Pac flights land here. The latter (DMK) also handles international flights but the majority is domestic. This is also the hub of inexpensive carriers. If you are flying through Air Asia, you will many likely land here.

If you want to spend a day or two in Bangkok before going to Chiang Rai, you should give an allowance of one to two hours travel time to the city center as rush hour traffic is notorious. If you are traveling between these two airports for a connecting or transfer flight, you should note thatthe two airports are very far from each other. allot 45 minutes to two hours (depending on the time and traffic condition) travel time.

From Bangkok

Bangkok Airways
Bangkok is one of the transportation and tourism hubs in Southeast Asia. many tourists, particularly backpackers choose the capital city as their set-off point to other parts of Thailand and even the neighboring countries. Chiang Rai is over 800km north of Bangkok. From the capital, you can reach Chiang Rai by plane, by bus, and by train. We have a comprehensive post about this here, how to get to Chiang Rai from Bangkok, but here’s a summary.

BY AIR

The fastest and many convenient option. You might even score cheap flights, which makes this even much more appealing to some. The primary gateway to Chiang Rai by air is Mae Fah Luang international airport (CEI), formerly named Chiang Rai international Airport. Although located in the capital, Chiang Rai City, it will take you 15-20 minutes to reach the city center as the airport is located about 8km from there.

Many airline companies offer the Bangkok-Chiang Rai route, connecting it to either Suvarnabhumi airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport. one of the recognized and reliable airlines is Bangkok Airways, a Skytrax awardee for 2019 best regional airline not only in Thailand but also in Asia. The reflected fare is inclusive of in-flight meal/snack and totally free 20kg baggage allowance. If you are flying Bangkok Airways, your point of departure is Suvarnabhumi airport (BKK). The flight duration is 1-1.5 hours.

BY BUS

The less expensive option but takes longer travel time. In Chiang Rai City, there are two bus terminal: the old one called Bus terminal 1 and the new one called Bus terminal 2. Bus terminal 1 is located in the city center, near the night Bazaar. Bus terminal 2 is located 7km from the city center. If you are coming from Bangkok, your bus will many likely terminate at terminal 2. Some buses make a stop here first, then terminate at Bus terminal 1.

From Bangkok, go to Mo Chit Bus terminal (Northern Bus Terminal), near Chatuchak Market. The nearest BTS station is the Mo Chit Station.

At the Mo Chit Bus Terminal’s departure section, purchase your ticket. The fare ranges from THB 400 to THB 900, depending on the type of bus and season. during high season (November-May), it is highly recommended to purchase in advance. For convenience, you may also book online through 12Go, where you can compare the fares of the different bus companies providing the route.

Board your bus and alight at either Chiang Rai Bus terminal 1 or 2. The travel time is 10-12 hours for the overnight bus and 12-14 hours for the day bus. many travelers choose the night bus to save money and time. If you want to see the beautiful drive, you may choose the day bus. It’s up to you.

BY TRAIN

There’s no railway directly linking Chiang Rai to Bangkok. The nearest station is located in Chiang Mai or Lampang. You may check state railway of Thailand for the fares and schedule.

From Bangkok to Chiang Mai, the train ride will take 11-13 hours, depending on the type of train. then from Chiang Mai, you need to board a bus to Chiang Rai. The bus ride takes 2-4 hours. Train fare: THB 120-600. Bus fare: THB 300.

From Bangkok to Lampang Station, the train ride will take 9-11 hours, depending on the train type. then from there, board a bus to Chiang Rai. The bus ride takes 3-5 hours. Train fare: THB 100-500. Bus fare: around THB 400.

From Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a neighboring province of Chiang Rai. It is the economic and cultural hub of northern Thailand. In terms of traveler volume, Chiang Mai by far busier as the economy is primarily driven by tourism. Although Chiang Rai is slowly acquiring the attention of tourists, it is still pretty much laidback compared to Chiang Mai. many of Chiang Rai’s visitors are coming from Chiang Mai, typically on a day tour. some of the ways you can reach Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai are by bus, private transfer or trip package. There’s no railway system connecting these two points. We also have a comprehensive post about this here, how to get to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai. Here’s a quick rundown.

BY BUS

Go to Arcade Bus station on the eastern end of Kaew Nawarat Road, 3km from Chiang Mai City center. note that there are three bus terminals in Chiang Mai City. You need to go to Bus terminal 2 and 3, collectively called Arcade Bus Station/Terminal. These two are located across each other.

Purchase your ticket. the most reliable and popular bus company among tourists is the Greenbus. It’s ticket counter/office is at Bus terminal 3.

Get your queue number and wait for your turn. When your number is called, go to the ticket counter and purchase your ticket. The fare ranges from THB 130 to THB 300, depending on the type of bus — express or VIP. rates may vary depending on the season. It’s best to book in advancement online during high season. 12Go is the most trusted booking site.

Get on your bus and alight at either Chiang Rai Bus terminal 1 or 2. The travel time is 2-4 hours, depending on the season and traffic condition.

BY private TRANSFER

Others choose to book a private transfer between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. This might be much more convenient for those traveling as a group. Klook is providing a private transfer package that includes door-to-door hotel transfer, and a professional English-speaking driver. You can choose between a car or a van.

Photo offered by Klook
✅ book private transfer between CHIANG RAI and CHIANG MAI HERE

BY trip PACKAGE

There are trip operators and travel agencies in Chiang Mai that offer a day trip to Chiang Rai. You may join a group or book a private tour. Klook also curates trips to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai. The itineraries typically include the golden Triangle, White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House. many of the packages are inclusive of lunch. Klook typically gives discounted rates.

Chiang Rai airport to City Center

Although located in the capital city, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai international airport is still 8km away from the city center. The good news is that airport Buses/Shuttles are now available. launched October 2018, this made Chiang Rai much more accessible. other modes of transportation are pre-paid taxi, meter taxi, and private car rental.

Airport Bus. This is the most affordable option. After Arrivals Exit, turn to the left. You will see directional signs pointing you to the boarding platform. The route runs between the airport and Chiang Rai Bus terminal 2. It covers these stops: King Meng Rai Monument, the night Bazaar, Chiang Rai Bus terminal 1, central Plaza, and finally, Chiang Rai Bus terminal 2. The fare is fixed at THB 20. It starts operation at 6:00 AM and ends at 11:30 PM.

Pre-paid Taxi. This is similar to fixed-rate taxis in the Philippines. The fare to the city center from the airport is THB 200.

Meter Taxi. The meter-taxi station is located just outside of the Arrivals exit. turn to the left as you exit. Sometimes, they will refuse to use the meter and just give you an amount. insist on using the meter. If they won’t budge, just find another taxi. The fare to the city center is THB 120-150.

Private car Transfer. The car rental counters are located on the first floor, just across the domestic and international Arrival Area. Klook also provides private airport transfer to your hotel. This is already inclusive of a professional driver. This is a possible option for those who have a lot of luggage or for those with seniors and kids.
✅ book private airport transfer HERE

Where to stay in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is often passed by tourists crossing borders to either Laos or Myanmar from Chiang Mai. but for those who made time to explore the province, they are rewarded with best-kept natural and cultural treasures that are similar to other neighboring provinces in northern Thailand but still distinct to Chiang Rai.

Aside from the capital Chiang Rai City, here are some of the towns/districts that tourists choose as their base, depending on their schedule and interests.

Chiang Rai City. The largest city in northern Thailand. As the capital, you will find numerous commercial establishments and shops here. There are temples aplenty too. This is the typical set-off point for day trips to other parts of the province as well as to neighboring countries Laos and Myanmar. The renowned White temple is located here.

Chiang Khong. Some tourists heading even more to Laos choose Chiang Khong as a base. It also has numerous accommodation options as tourists used to flock here as a stopover before boarding a ferry to Laos. The friendship Bridge built across the Mekong River, connecting Chiang Khong to Huay Xai town in the province of Bokeo in Laos, paved a new route between Thailand and Laos. At present, the ferry service to Laos is halted.

Mae Sai. This is the northernmost town/city of Thailand. other tourists do day trips and spend a night in Mae Sai before crossing the border to Myanmar.

Mae Salong. officially called Santikhiri, Mae Salong is known for its hills, valleys, and tea plantations. Trekking, cycling,

Updated: 11/24/20 | November 24th, 2020

I’ve added an LGBTQ column to the web site to make it a lot more inclusive and talk about issues that affect some members of our community. In this column, we hear from voices in the LGBTQ community about their experiences on the road, safety tips, events, and overall recommendations for other LGBTQ travelers. Returning this month is our column leader, Adam from travelsofadam.com. 

The terrific thing about travel today is that a lot more of the world is easily accessible and open — no matter your sexuality or gender identity. While there have been ups and downs in the political movement for lesbian, gay, bi, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) equality, major cities still supply the safest and friendliest spots for members of these communities.

I’ve been traveling around the world considering that 2009 and have checked out some of the world’s a lot of popular LGBTQ-friendly destinations along the way. I’ve marched and danced in Gay pride parades from Sydney to Stockholm and been to a lot more queer music festivals than I ever even thought of existed. and as the Orlando Pulse shooting reminded us, clubs are still crucial places to find culture and community.

Many cities really strut their LGBTQ history and queer identity. using some of my favorite LGBTQ travel resources, I’ve compiled this list of 12 terrific gay-friendly destinations. There are, of course, lots of a lot more such hot spots around the world, but these are my favorites because of their history of activism, the number of diverse LGBTQ events they host, and the fact that they’re just really amazing cities.

If you’re a gay, lesbian, bi, trans, or queer traveler trying to find a city that has it all, check out one of these:
 

1. new York City

New York City is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the world — and there’s no denying it’s a special place for queer people. It’s the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement, which began in 1969 when the Stonewall Inn was (again) raided by police, and the crowd inside and out rebelled and rioted. located in the West village (part of Greenwich Village), the Stonewall still operates as a bar and club today and was recognized as a national historic landmark, with a plaque and statue honoring its history.

Greenwich village is home to many other LGBTQ venues. While it’s easy and satisfying enough to wander the area on your own, there are several guided excursions that mingle the history and present, including the long-running and popular Oscar Wilde Tours.

Besides the Stonewall, other village gay clubs and hangouts are Julius’ Bar (serving low-cost but tasty bar food), the site of Mattachine society events in the past and present; and Pieces, known for its legendary drag performances.

There are also LGBTQ scenes scattered around the city, with lots of bars located in Hell’s kitchen (near Broadway), Chelsea, and the east Village, as well as other boroughs, including in Astoria (Queens) and Williamsburg (Brooklyn).

Organizations that frequently host LGBTQ special events include the gender-neutral clothing store and event space The Phluid Project, the Leslie Lohman museum of Art, and the city’s LGBTQ community Center. look for LGBTQ events, news, and special things to see and do in the city’s gay newspaper, Metrosource.

When to visit: June is national pride Month in the United States, and nyc hosts the nation’s largest pride event, always during the last weekend of June. Millions of visitors flock to the city for a parade that weaves through Manhattan (always passing by the famous Stonewall Inn) and ends with an outdoor music festival on one of the city piers. Halloween is also an equally queer-friendly time to check out new York City, because there’s a enormous Halloween parade that marches through Greenwich Village. For motion picture lovers, the NewFest queer film festival takes place in October.
 

2. Berlin

Germany’s capital has a special place in gay history. In the 1920s Weimar era, it was one of Europe’s a lot of liberal cities — home to gaudy cabaret and the site of one of the first gay villages. Today, Berlin’s free-spirited attitude has propelled it to the top of lots of “best of” lists thanks to 24-hour nightlife, a burgeoning art and food scene, and a diverse, international population.

Historically, the gay center of Berlin was around Nollendorfplatz in Schöneberg, an area still popular for its fetish clubs and leather bars, not to mention the legendary Folsom Europe street party each September and a gay history museum. but in today’s Berlin, the new hot spots are found throughout the Kreuzberg and Neukölln neighborhoods, in indie bars and clubs such as SchwuZ, SilverFuture, or Tristeza — all popular spots for drag shows.

Berlin’s legendary nightlife shines through queer parties that are increasingly not just for LGBTQ people — everything from the techno-fueled weekends at Berghain to KitKat Club’s open and accepting fetish atmosphere.

When to visit: check out Berlin during the summer, when the city comes alive with many festivals, open-air parties, and queer events. The annual Christopher street Day parade (Gay Pride) is celebrated by hundreds of thousands of locals and tourists each July.
 

3. Manchester

While London still holds an crucial place in the UK’s LGBTQ scene, Manchester plays host to a number of the greatest and best queer events in the country. once the home to famous gay hero Alan Turing, Manchester became internationally popular thanks to the 1990s TV series Queer as folk set in and around the city’s gay neighborhood, Canal Street.

Today, Canal street is still filled with bars, clubs, and other gay-owned services — from the pretty and glitzy Richmond Tea rooms to popular nightclubs like G-A-Y and by means of Manchester. The city’s northern Quarter, with its trendy bars, underground rock clubs, and small indie art galleries, has also become a queer-friendly hot spot a little additionally removed from the twinky, tank top–filled Canal Street.

When to visit: Manchester pride each September is the UK’s largest, but other queer events happen year-round, such as the trans-focused sparkle festival in July and the Queer contact arts and theater festival each February.
 

4. Dallas

Maybe it’s not the first LGBTQ-friendly place you think of in the United States, but Dallas, Texas, has become a hot spot in the past decade. The Oak lawn neighborhood is the epicenter of queer culture there, with lots of gay bars and LGBTQ-owned services on Cedar Springs Road, as well as in the nearby Bishop Arts District.

Legendary nightlife venues like station 4 and the Round-Up Saloon attract big crowds each weekend with their drag shows, square dancing, and other special events. and for those trying to find slightly a lot more offbeat travel adventures, the nearby Wildcatter Ranch is a gay-friendly cowboy resort.

The city of Fort worth (just a 35-minute drive from Dallas if you get really lucky with traffic) is also home to a handful of LGBTQ bars and venues, though without the distinct “gayborhood” you’ll find in Dallas.

When to visit: Dallas pride takes place each September, but the Oak lawn neighborhood also comes alive, full of color and costumes, each Halloween for the annual Oak lawn Halloween block Party.
 

5. Los Angeles

With its seemingly limitless warm weather, sunshine, and thoroughly manicured population, Los Angeles has been one of the United States’ a lot of gay-friendly cities for a long time. So much so that considering that 1969 there’s been an LGBT center in the city that now boasts it serves a lot more queer people than any other organization in the world. You’ll also find the ONE Archives foundation here, tasked with recording LGBTQ history by preserving historical artifacts, publications, and testimonies.

Then there’s the nightlife, including West Hollywood’s gay clubs and bars, such as crowd favorites The Abbey and Rocco’s. Besides the “gay ghetto” of “WeHo,” Silver Lake is also a popular hot spot. There you’ll find The Black Cat, site of the first documented LGBTQ civil rights demonstration in the us and now a popular brunch hangout. For nightlife in Silver Lake, AKBAR draws the bearded hipster crowd with its small dance parties.

When to visit: The LA pride music festival and Parade takes place each June in West Hollywood, with hundreds of thousands of spectators. but if summertime is too hot, the greatest gay party of the year is the complimentary Halloween Carnival, a street party on Santa Monica Boulevard.
 

6. Tel Aviv

One of the middle East’s a lot of lively and welcoming cities, Tel Aviv has fashioned itself into a popular LGBTQ travel destination, especially during the summertime. Tel Aviv pride is popular for Europeans and Americans, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each June with beach parties, street fairs, and an inclusive parade with celebrity attendees. The Tel Aviv Municipal LGBTQ Center, located in Meir Park, hosts small community events for locals (occasionally in international languages as well).

Hilton beach is the city’s primary gay beach, with men (and occasionally women) spending their days playing beach volleyball or the local favorite sport maktot (a beach version of tennis or ping pong). nearby Frishman beach and all the beachside restaurants, bars, and cafés are very welcoming.

Just down the street from Tel Aviv’s greatest vacationer attraction, the Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel), is the popular LGBTQ bar and café Shpagat. operating as a café and small restaurant by day, it turns into a lively bar terrific for dates or occasional dancing (often spilling out onto the sidewalk in front) at night. other bar and nightlife venues include Lima Lima Bar (with a great outdoor space), the hipster Kuli Alma art and club space, and Uganda Bar (which used to be located in Jerusalem).

When to visit: With its party beaches, excellent culinary scene, and rich history, Tel Aviv is one of the hottest cities in the middle East, and as a result it’s often a summer destination. Tel Aviv pride takes place in mid-June annually and is without question the gayest time of year to visit, but the city’s lots of other attractions, temperate climate, and occasional LGBTQ events make it worthwhile checking out in the spring and autumn as well. be mindful of the Jewish high holidays (in September) and spring holidays, which affect opening hours and access to transportation.
 

7. Buenos Aires

Argentina was the first South American country to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption rights, putting the country at the forefront of LGBTQ equality considering that 2010. The capital Buenos Aires has benefited, with a large and lively queer culture.

The areas of Recoleta, Palermo, and San Telmo are where you’ll find the largest concentration of gay bars and nightlife. Palermo, with trendy bars, cafés, shops, and restaurants in its Soho district, uses a lot of amazing things to see and do — from the Latin pop and drag at Jolie Club (Fiesta Jolie) every Wednesday to the video bar Peuteo Palermo in Soho.

The gay community in Buenos Aires is relatively out and open, but the culture is a lot more suppressed than other over-the-top gay destinations. but you’ll still find LGBTQ life fairly well integrated in society, with lots of tango bars and clubs even using queer tango lessons and dance nights.

When to visit: Buenos Aires pride takes place in November, at the beginning of the southern hemisphere’s summer season.
 

8. Bangkok

A longtime favorite for LGBTQ tourists, Bangkok has a lot to offer, making it one of Asia’s a lot of popular gay destinations. The fun and friendly gay scene is centered around the Silom neighborhood, specifically the streets known as Soi 2 and Soi 4.

Bangkok’s best gay nightlife is at DJ station every weekend, specifically the midnight drag shows each Friday. Telephone Pub on Soi 4 serves as an early evening hangout with drag shows and pub food, while G.O.D. (Guys on Display) draws the after-hour crowds when all the other gay bars close down for the night (so it’s best after 2 a.m.). Also, look out for gay events at Bangkok’s luxury hotels such as the Sofitel So, which runs regular gay parties on its rooftop bar and pool lounge.

While Thailand hasn’t recognized lots of LGBTQ rights, lots of tourists will find the city surprisingly open-minded. (In summer 2020, though, a bill was introduced to legalize same-sex marriage.) and while you’ll find some seedy sex clubs throughout the city, Bangkok’s legendary shopping and culinary scenes make it equally interesting for travelers with a lot more discerning tastes.

When to visit: one of the greatest and best events in Bangkok is the annual Songkran water festival in April, with the largest circuit party, called gCircuit, in Silom — with all the trappings of every other international circuit party (think: hunky shirtless people and lots of electronic music raging day and night).
 

9. Stockholm

Famous for cold winters, sunny summers, and trendsetting Swedes all year long, Stockholm has an eclectic mix of art, fashion, culture, and design — and one of Scandinavia’s best queer scenes. Sweden is also one of the most progressive countries in the world when it pertains to queer and women’s rights.

The gay scene is spread throughout the city. From the relaxing Chokladkoppen café (with rainbow flags out front) to the kitschy ABBA Museum, there’s something for everyone. open only during the summer months, the Mälarpaviljongen restaurant (located on a set of floating docks) hosts a number of LGBTQ events, fundraisers, and parties.

When to visit: Stockholm pride each August is the greatest gay event of the year, with big music acts, parties, and public seminars on everything from fetish training to human rights.
 

10. Madrid

Spain has a long history as an accepting country and is typically considered one of the most gay-friendly in the world. much of Spanish literature, film, and culture includes references to queer life d

For the latest version of this post, inspect out:
Korean Visa Requirements!

IMPORTANT! We will no longer be making updates to this article. Please refer to our more updated publish with the title KOREAN VISA demands & Application process for Filipinos instead.

We understand South Korea is one of the most prominent destinations among Filipinos since there’s not a day that goes by without us getting concerns about getting a Korea visa. Hence, we decided to put up this post.

Note that we’re NOT employed by or affiliated with the Korean embassy in Manila. We’re only composing based on our own experience applying for one. (We have used three times so far, as well as whatever went smoothly every time.) We’re publishing this just to have a page that we can redirect individuals to when they ask us concerns about the application process.

And since this publish is restricted to our personal experiences, we can only response concerns about applying for a tourist visa as an employed, self-employed, or freelancing Filipino. For anything outside of this scope, it would be finest to get in touch with the embassy directly to have a conclusive answer.

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

What are the demands for applying for a tourist visa?
How to apply? What are the steps?
Do I requirement a travel company to apply?
Do I requirement to book flights before applying?
How about hotel reservation? Do I requirement to book hotels before applying?
Should I stay in the hotel I composed on the application form?
How long does it take to process the application?
What are OECD visas?
I have OECD Visas. Does it mean my application will be approved?
How long can I stay in Korea if I am granted a visa?
Can I submit just the bank certificate?
How much money should my bank account have to get approved?
I’m a freelancer. I don’t have a Certificate of Employment. What can I submit?
I’m a trainee with a part-time job. should I apply as a trainee or an employee?
I don’t have an ITR. What should I do?
How early should I apply for a Korea visa? Can I apply months before my actual travel date?
Do I requirement to show as much as submit the documents?
I requirement to explain something. will they accept a cover letter?
How much is the visa fee?
What is the address of the Korean Embassy?
Is it possible to apply for a multiple-entry visa?
What are the typical reasons why Korean visa applications are denied?
If my application is denied, can I apply again?
What does a South Korea visa look like?
What is the Visa Issuance confirmation in section 2 of the Application Form?
I have more questions. exactly how do I get in touch with the Korean Embassy?
Related Posts:

What are the demands for applying for a tourist visa?

We have a devoted publish about that here: Korea Visa Requirements

How to apply? What are the steps?

We have a step-by-step guide here: exactly how to apply for a Korea Visa in Manila

Do I requirement a travel company to apply?

YES, unless you’re applying directly in Cebu. The Korean embassy in Manila needs tourist visa applications filed starting July 1, 2018, to be coursed with any type of of their designated travel agencies. However, the Korean Consulate in Cebu is not impacted by this as well as will continue to accept walk-in applicants as they did.

If you’re applying in Manila before July 1, 2018, you can still work on the application yourself. It’s quick as well as free. However, if for whatever reason this isn’t a practical choice — you online in the province, you just can’t spare a working day for this — by all means, discover a travel agency. just keep in mind that they will fee you a service fee.

Do I requirement to book flights before applying?

No. It’s not one of the requirements. I’ve tried submitting this before, they eliminated it from the pile.

How about hotel reservation? Do I requirement to book hotels before applying?

No. You don’t requirement it. However, make sure you have an concept which hotel you will be staying since it’s one of the needed fields in the application form. You don’t requirement to reserve, however you requirement to understand where you mean to stay.

Should I stay in the hotel I composed on the application form?

No. If your application is approved, you can quite much stay in any type of hotel or hostel you want.

How long does it take to process the application?

At least 25 working DAYS in Manila, according to the embassy.

But according to the travel companies we consulted, it’s safer to apply AT least 30 working DAYS before your trip.

That’s exactly how long the embassy takes to process. however you must likewise enable companies time to collect, document, kind out, provide to as well as pick up the passports from the embassy.

In Cebu, it’s 10 working days.

What are OECD visas?

These are visas granted by countries that are part of the OECD (Organization for economic Co-operation as well as Development).These are the member countries:

Australia
Austria
Belgium
Canada
Chile
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Israel
Italy

Japan
Korea
Latvia
Luxembourg
Mexico
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
United Kingdom
United States

Update (June 12, 2019): Although Japan is an OECD country, JAPAN VISA is no longer honored by the Korean embassy in reaction to a number of situations of applicants submitting fake Japan visa as well as stamps.

I have OECD Visas. Does it mean my application will be approved?

Not necessarily. however you have much better chances. as well as that the processing is a great deal faster.

How long can I stay in Korea if I am granted a visa?

Regular visas usually enable 59 days. You can apply for a longer stay.

Can I submit just the bank certificate?

No. starting October 2016, a bank statement showing transactions for the past 3 months is a needed document.

So you have to submit BOTH a bank certificate as well as a bank statement.

How much money should my bank account have to get approved?

I don’t understand the minimum amount. I don’t believe the embassy explicitly states it. however I have tried applying with P100,000 in the bank for a 4-day stay as well as got approved.

I assumption the key thing to keep in mind right here is that exactly how much you have should be proportional to exactly how long your stay is. For example, if you have only P100,000, don’t apply for a 59-day stay since that would obviously raise a great deal of concerns regarding whether or not you can pay for the trip.

To provide you a ballpark figure, the embassy of France needs EUR 120 each day from Schengen Visa applicants. That’s around P7600 per day. add the expense of airfare as well as hotel, as well as that should be the minimum amount in your bank. Again, this is not the official rule. We’re just utilizing the French Embassy’s policy as an example.

I’m a freelancer. I don’t have a Certificate of Employment. What can I submit?

I have tried applying for a visa when I was a freelancer. What I did was, I requested for a letter from my clients that might serve as a accreditation that I was working for them. The letter likewise included what I do for them, when I was hired, exactly how much I get as compensation, as well as other details.

Here’s the style I followed.

Setting up fake worker failed: “Cannot tons script at: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/wp-content/cache/min/1/b9b166415cb8234a882188e0024ca068.worker.js”.

The embassy accepted it, as well as my application was approved.

HOWEVER, the embassy seems to have been much stricter these days, so I’m not sure whether or not they still accept something like this.

I’m a trainee with a part-time job. should I apply as a trainee or an employee?

I consulted a designated travel company for the very best method to go about this, as well as they stated that it’s much better to apply as a trainee as well as submit parents’ docs.

They stated that applying as both employed as well as trainee can confuse the embassy. They likewise stated that part-time tasks are commonly viewed by the embassy negatively since it tells them 2 things: one, that you are not as rooted as well as as economically stable, as well as two, that there is a possibility that you will work there too.

I don’t have an ITR. What should I do?

I honestly don’t understand exactly how to response this since I’ve always had an ITR even as a freelancer.

But according to a few of our neighborhood members who have done this before, they included an explanation letter as well as other proof of sources of earnings in their application.

How early should I apply for a Korea visa? Can I apply months before my actual travel date?

If you have a target travel date, apply not earlier than 3 months before that.

When a routine visa is issued, it enables the holder to go into Korea at any type of time within the next 3 months (90 days) of the problem date. So if your visa is issued on July 1, you can go into anytime before October 1.

But if you’re applying in Manila, make sure you apply at least 30 working days before your meant travel date.

Do I requirement to show as much as submit the documents?

NO, usually. You can ask somebody else to do it for you IF THE demands ARE COMPLETE.

However, every company can implement their own rules. So it’s finest to phone call the travel company where you plan to lodge your application to be sure.

I requirement to explain something. will they accept a cover letter?

Yes. I did once. They accepted it.

How much is the visa fee?

FREE if your application is for 59 days or shorter.

P1800 for 60- to 90-day stay.

However, travel companies will be charging a service charge for processing your application. charge differs from company to agency, however it’s usually between P700 as well as P1000.

What is the address of the Korean Embassy?

KOREAN embassyIN MANILA
122 upper McKinley Road, McKinley town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig city 1634, Philippines
Email Address: ph04@mofa.go.kr
Contact No.: (63-2) 856-9210 visa regional no. 270, 500

KOREAN CONSULATE IN CEBU
12th floor Chinabank business Center, great deal 2, Samar loop Cor. road 5, Cebu business Park, Mabolo, Cebu City
Email Address: phi_cebu2015@mofa.go.kr
Contact No.: (63-32) 231-1516(-9)

Is it possible to apply for a multiple-entry visa?

YES, however only if you’re qualified. holders of any type of of the complying with credit history cards can apply for a multiple-entry visa as well as are EXEMPTED from providing bank certificates as well as ITR:

BDO Gold Cardholders: multiple-entry visa valid for 5 years
Gold Visa credit history Card
Gold MasterCard credit history Card
Gold UnionPay credit history Card
Gold JCB credit history Card
American Express​ Gold credit history Card

BDO Elite Cardholders: multiple-entry visa valid for 3-5years
Platinum Visa credit history Card
Titanium/Platinum as well as world Elite MasterCard credit history Card
JCB Platinum
Diamond UnionPay credit history Card
Diners Club Premiere
American Express​ Platinum credit history Card
American reveal worldwide dollar fee Cards
Cathay Pacific American reveal credit history Cards (Standard as well as Elite)

RCBC Bankard premium Card: multiple-entry visa valid for 5 years
World Mastercard (including co-brands Balesin as well as The City Club)
Black Platinum Mastercard
Diamond Platinum Mastercard
Visa Infinite
Visa Platinum
JCB Platinum
UnionPay diamond

For BDO, promo is valid up until December 31, 2022.
For RCBC, promo is valid up until December 31, 2020.

Update: efficient November 11, qualified cardholders must submit credit history card statements for the past 3 months + copy of the front side of the card (FRONT only).

Note that you are only exempted from providing monetary docs (bank certificate, bank statement, etc.). employment or business documents must still be submitted.

If not able to provide credit history card statements, you must submit personal bank certificate (original) as well as bank statements showing your history for the past 3 months (original or licensed true copy).

What are the typical reasons why Korean visa applications are denied?

I can only speculate, however based on the messages we get from our followers, the usual reasons are the following:

You can’t prove that you can economically support yourself on this trip. You most likely have insufficient funds or your sponsor is not in a great monetary standing.

You can’t prove that you mean to return (rootedness). You most likely don’t have a steady task at this point, recently employed, or recently resigned, as well as it’s providing the perception that you mean to work there.

Your intention/purpose in Korea is unclear. This is why it is finest to be specific when you’re outlining the reasons for your visit.

If my application is denied, can I apply again?

Yes, however only after 6 months.

What does a South Korea visa look like?

Like this:

What is the Visa Issuance confirmation in section 2 of the Application Form?

The section 2 of the application type requires details of Visa Issuance Confirmation. This section is only for those with a document called “Confirmation of Visa Issuance.” many people believe it refers to previous Korean visas; NO, IT DOESN’T. The “Visa Issuance Confirmation” is a totally different document, usually issued in Korea.

I have more questions. exactly how do I get in touch with the Korean Embassy?

Feel free to phone call the Korean embassy to confirm. right here are the numbers:

Manila: (63-2) 856-9210 visa regional no. 270, 500
Cebu: (63-32) 231-1516(-9)

2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣0️⃣ • 1️⃣ • 6️⃣ – last update
2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 3️⃣ • 1️⃣5️⃣ – very first up

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HOW TO apply for a SOUTH KOREA VISA in CEBU

SOUTH KOREA VISA APPLICATION type

KOREAN VISA demands & Application process for Filipinos

KOREAN VISA: listing OF travel companies accredited by the embassy

How to inspect condition of Your KOREAN VISA APPLICATION Online: authorized or Denied?

SOUTH KOREAN short-term VISAS Temporarily SUSPENDED!

NO more STICKER: exactly how to download & print KOREAN VISA grant NOTICE

My fingers flipped the pages straight to their list of house specialties. One look and I knew I would be having my many expensive lunch in years at this restaurant. The prices were intimidating, practically threatening, and I was just used to the economical meals of Baguio City’s many trusted dining establishments.

Still, after a long tug-o-war between the frugal and the piggish sides of myself, I allowed the latter to take over the decision-making. Pinikpikan, bagnet, and strawberry shortcake, please.

The long wait allowed me and my friend Mica to take a look at our surroundings. cafe by the Ruins is smack at the heart of the city but it still manages to create a forest-ish ambiance. The bamboo fences, wooden furniture, and unevenly paved floor work together to add a much more rustic charm to the al fresco arrangement of the place. The artful pieces that adorn the corners and walls are a good touch and, during our visit, was a good distraction from the otherwise unbearably long wait. thank heavens for attentive waiters who continued to fill and refill our glasses with water, even without us asking.

My friend Mica reading her time away while waiting for our meals
First to be served was Baguio Bagnet, a popular delicacy in Ilocos. cafe By the Ruins’ version is double fried, first in lard to soften and then fried again to a crisp. The pork tummy we got was cooked perfectly. It was crispy and hard in the best places and soft on the inside. The reddish meat sat on top of a cup of red rice, which also came with tomato relish and Padas bagoong (which tasted like Bagoong Balayan). I’m not a fan of the combination, a bit too salty for my taste. I would have loved it much more when dipped in vinegar instead, but that’s just me. The menu indicated that the dish ought to come with sinigang soup but we never had it. We didn’t complain anymore because the bowl of pinikpikan arrived immediately after.

Baguio Bagnet with Padas bagoong, tomato relish, and lime (P320)
Pinikpikan, a chicken soup used in rituals by natives (P320)

Pinikpikan is a chicken soup used in rituals in the Cordillera region. Cradled in a white bowl, the pinikpikan we had was good for two, although if you’re a bit intemperate, you could down it alone with little effort. The moment the bottom of the bowl touched the surface of our table, I was expecting for a soothing aroma smoking up into my nostrils but was let down. The menu said it had ginger (which has been criticized by numerous who claim it becomes unauthentic) but it was practically undetectable. The white broth with herbs was not tasty enough to make a good impression. The chicken and salted pork (etag) parts were small and so chewy that I had a really hard time grinding it in my braces-fenced teeth.

Thankfully, the strawberry shortcake saved the day. This is their signature piece and is not available year round. The presentation alone brought us back to life. Halved strawberries decorated the creamy outer layer that covers the two-tiered crispy cake inside. The creamy, sweet, and sour blended magnificently in that mound of goodness and inside my mouth. It was the most fulfilling dessert I had had in a long time.

The well-known strawberry shortcake (Forgot the exact price, but around P200)
Cafe by the Ruins is a garden restaurant. loved the setting.
Cafe by the Ruins is the most expensive restaurant I have tried in Baguio. The question is, is it worth it? The food was a hit-or-miss for me. I had pinikpikan far tastier than this but their bagnet and strawberry shortcake were easily the best that graced my palate. The service was slow but the staff’s attentiveness made up for it. A part of me felt it was overpriced because, well, it was a bit overpriced for my taste. I wouldn’t recommend it for solo travelers but it sure is an ideal romantic dining destination.

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MANILA TO BAGUIO P2P BUS schedule & Fare: JoyBus, victory Liner, solid North

JOY BUS MANILA TO BAGUIO & BACK: schedule & Fares (Cubao, Pasay, Avenida)

2022 Update! 35 BAGUIO traveler spots & things to Do

2022 victory liner Bus Schedules: Manila, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela Terminals

This post was last updated in 2019.
Please check out our a lot more recent post about this here: BAGUIO BUS SCHEDULE!

2019 Jan 28

Baguio City has gotten closer and closer to Manila. What used to be an eight-hour drive was shortened to six. and now, if conditions are right, you can reach the City of Pines in only four hours.

But it’s not just the travel time that underwent major changes. even when you’re taking public transportation, the quality of the journey has vastly improved too. Not only is the ride smoother — thanks to our expressways — the experience onboard the new buses are a lot a lot more pleasurable now. It’s no wonder why a lot more and a lot more people choose to check out Baguio these days.

Baguio is only 4-6 hours away from Manila, depending on which part of Manila you’re coming from, which route the bus takes, and whether or not it makes a stop along the way. regular buses normally take Dau exit (NLEX) or Concepcion exit (SCTEX) and make at least one stop. travel time is around 6 hours.

But the past few years have seen the rise of luxury buses that take passengers straight to Baguio! victory liner also introduced their first class buses, giving their devoted customers a a lot more comfortable option. JoyBus has a fleet that is made up entirely of deluxe and premier buses. and a lot of recently, Pangasinan solid North Transit has also launched their own P2P buses to Baguio. These buses take every expressway ahead and they don’t make any stop, cutting down the travel time to only 4-5 hours.

In this post, we’ll share with you the schedules and fares of these premium P2P buses!

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

JOYBUSCUBAO TO BAGUIO JoyBus Schedule
PASAY TO BAGUIO JoyBus Schedule
AVENIDA TO BAGUIO happiness Bus Schedule

VICTORY liner first ClassCUBAO TO BAGUIO victory liner Schedule
PASAY TO BAGUIO victory liner Schedule

SOLID NORTH P2P BusPITX TO BAGUIO solid North Schedule

Top Baguio HotelsSearch for a lot more Baguio Hotels!

Related Baguio Posts
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JOYBUS

JoyBus is the luxury arm of Genesis Transport. They only have two classes: Deluxe (aka Executive) and Premier. Both Premier and Deluxe classes are 28-seater executive coaches with 3 seats per row (2+1), ensuring a large leg room and plenty of moving space. Each booking comes with complimentary snacks, complimentary bottled water, and complimentary wi-fi. but here’s the difference:

Premier class is their top class with USB ports and a personal enjoyment device. In our experience, the motion picture selection is still pretty limited, but considering that you only have four hours to burn, it’s not that bad. All premier buses also have a restroom onboard and blankets.

Deluxe/Executive class has no USB ports or personal enjoyment device at all. There is a TV screen in front, like regular buses, but that’s about it as far as enjoyment is concerned. I’m not sure if all executive units have an in-bus comfort room but there was one in the bus we tried.

Below are the timetables per route. We also indicated the types of buses. items in bold are the Premier buses.

To book JoyBus online, check out pinoytravel.com.ph or iWantSeats.com.

CUBAO TO BAGUIO JoyBus Schedule

FARE
Deluxe: P720
Premier: P740

12:01 am – Deluxe

02:30 am – Premier

03:30 am – Deluxe

04:30 am – Premier

08:30 am – Deluxe

11:00 am – Deluxe

12:00 pm – Premier

02:00 pm – Deluxe

04:00 pm – Premier

06:00 pm – Deluxe

08:00 pm – Deluxe

10:00 pm – Deluxe

11:00 pm – Deluxe

PASAY TO BAGUIO JoyBus Schedule

FARE
Deluxe: P730
Premier: P760

12:01 am – Deluxe

01:30 am – Premier

02:30 am – Deluxe

03:30 am – Premier

08:30 am – Deluxe

10:00 am – Deluxe

11:00 am – Premier

01:00 pm – Deluxe

02:30 pm – Deluxe

04:00 pm – Premier

06:00 pm – Deluxe

09:30 pm – Deluxe

AVENIDA TO BAGUIO happiness Bus Schedule

Premier buses are not yet available for the Avenida-Baguio route, but you can take the deluxe and semi-deluxe buses.

FARE
Deluxe: P720
Semi-deluxe: P600

12:30 am – Deluxe

01:00 pm – Semi-Deluxe

03:00 pm – Deluxe

07:00 pm – Semi-Deluxe

VICTORY liner first Class

Just to clarify, victory liner is not entirely a luxury bus line. a lot of of their buses are your regular air-conditioned buses. but they now operate a few first-class journeys per day, taking TPLEX/Pozzorubio with no stops.

FIRST class buses have bigger legroom, complimentary snacks, complimentary water, complimentary wifi, and a restroom onboard. Note, however, that they don’t have personal enjoyment devices installed.

The timetable below shows only the first class buses.

CUBAO TO BAGUIO victory liner Schedule

FARE
First class: P800

12:15 am

10:15 am

12:20 pm

02:15 pm

08:15 pm

11:15 pm

PASAY TO BAGUIO victory liner Schedule

FARE
First class: P800

01:15 am

06:15 am

01:15 pm

09:15 pm

11:45 pm

To book online or check the current schedule, you can
visit this website!

Asian Public Transportation

here are 15 of the most prevalent scams in Europe and what you can do to avoid them. note that this article does not intend to paint Europe as an unsafe or dangerous place. We only aim to make our readers aware of these cons before their trip.

A trip to Europe is the trip of a lifetime, especially for budget travelers coming from Southeast Asia. We work hard for it. We save hard for it. and for Philippine passport holders like me, we go through the eye of the needle — a rigorous visa application process — for it. The last thing we want is for our dream Euro trip to be ruined by something we could have avoided.

Europe is a destination like no other. It’s culturally diverse, architecturally magnificent, and generally tourism-ready. but if there’s one thing a tourist needs to know before the trip, it’s that Europe is full of scams. Yes, these dishonest schemes can also be found in many other destinations around the world, but they surely exist in Europe, especially in big cities like Paris, Berlin, Barcelona, Madrid, Athens, Rome, Milan, Florence, Prague, London, Amsterdam, Vienna, and Istanbul.

We know this because we have visited 28 European countries over the past few years and we have witnessed and even fallen victim to many of them! We lost our phone in Athens, got taken for a costly cab ride in Istanbul, and lost a lot in bad exchange rates. It never feels good and puts a damper on the trip. We charge them to experience, but we’re writing this so you won’t have to go through them. here are 15 of the scams to watch out for in many touristy cities in Europe and how to avoid them!

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Pickpockets
2. Taxi Scams
3. Misleading money Changers
4. ATM with bad exchange Rates
5. Petition Scam
6. friendly tourist Scam
7. Bar or Club Scam
8. fake Police
9. The Table Trick
10. The shell Game
11. money Switching
12. Overcharging Restaurants
13. friendship bracelet Scam or flower Scam
14. photo Scam
15. The helpful local Scam
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1. Pickpockets

I have a lot of friends who have toured Europe and I can count in one hand those who didn’t lose something to a pickpocket! In fact, on one of our trips, a thieving gang stole Vins’s phone while on the metro!

Their goal: To fish your phone, wallet or cards from your pocket or bag with incredible speed and precision.

Their usual spots: Onboard the metro or bus, at metro stations, at key tourist spots.

Their MO: Pickpocketing is a common problem in most touristy destinations around the world. but pickpockets in Europe are remarkable for one thing — creativity. They usually operate in groups. One
is the actual pickpocket, another serves as a lookout or hides the item, while the rest block your view, rattle you, or keep your attention away from your valuables. The distractions can be any of the following:

Someone passes out in front of you and while your attention is on them or you get caught in the commotion, someone else is stealing your valuables.

Someone squirts ketchup, mustard or bird poop on your shirt or jacket, and while you’re cleaning it up, someone is busy cleaning out your purse or pocket.

Two people fight loudly and while you watch them bicker, someone else is trying to rob you.

Someone, usually pretending to be deaf-mute, asks you to sign a petition. While you’re busy writing your name, an accomplice gets your wallet/phone.

Someone pretends to be another tourist and asks for direction.

A sexy lady starts being cozy with you. While you’re busy getting too close, she and another person are busy emptying your wallet without you knowing it.

The door of the train malfunctions and the passenger closest to it helps you open the door so you could exit. What you don’t know is, while you’re trying to hold the door, an accomplice is fishing your phone/wallet from your bag or pocket.

For more information about the tricks that pickpockets commonly use to distract victims, READ: 7 PICKPOCKET tricks IN EUROPE!

How to avoid: Don’t let your belongings out of sight. Don’t put your wallet or phone in your pockets, especially the back pocket. always place your bag in front of you and put your hand on the opening. If something unusual happens, don’t remove your hand on your bag and keep your bag in front of you. If possible, purchase one of those hidden money bags/belts where you can keep some of your cash/cards under your shirt.

In many cities in Europe, the metro is a favorite place of operation for these thieves. They usually target tourists who have just arrived in the city because they have a lot to keep an eye on and they are unfamiliar with the city. They also get confused easily. If you have luggage in tow, you’re a moving target so be extra vigilant.

Vins and I realized that these thugs pick their victims on the platform, before you even board the train. once you hop into the train, they go to their respective positions — two will stand next to the doors, the others near you. So what we usually do now is, we don’t board or alight the train through the same door. When it’s time to alight, we will exit through another door.

Also, don’t put all your cash and cards in one place. keep them in multiple, separate spots so if one gets stolen, you don’t lose everything. We also now keep a decoy wallet, which is empty.

2. Taxi Scams

Sadly, we also fell victim to this. We seldom take a taxi, but in one of those rare moments, we got hit by a three-punch combo scam.

Their goal: get more money from you by taking advantage of you not being familiar with the city

Their usual spots: Airport, train stations, and touristy areas

Their MO: The scams can be any or a combination of the following:

Not using the meter. In cities where using the meter is mandatory, some would still insist on not using it. Don’t let them.

Using tampered meter. Some drivers use a meter that moves much more quickly that normal.

Taking unnecessary detours. because you’re not familiar with the roads, some drivers will take the long way just so their faulty meter would rack in more money.

Switching money. Some drivers would switch your bills when it’s time to pay. We’ll explain this further in the money switching section below.

HOW TO AVOID

Always insist on using the meter in cities where not using it is against the law. If they won’t budge, find another cab.

Seek assistance from hotel staff. If you stay at a hotel or hostel, ask the reception to call a cab for you.

Pretend you’ve been in the city for a long time. Although it doesn’t hold true all the time, one of a good sign that your driver is up to no good is asking you if it’s your first time in the city. It’s usually their signal if they would try to screw you or not. First-time visitors are the most gullible. If you’re asked, tell them you’ve been in town for quite a while now. Don’t tell them it’s your first time.

Insist on dropping you off right in front of the hotel. Some drivers who are planning to con you would find an excuse to not drop you off at the hotel. Don’t buy this. They know that a scammed tourist’s first defense is seek help from hotel staff.

Be familiar with the right taxi fare. research first especially if you’re coming from the airport. It’s always good practice to know what the usual fare is.

Use more reliable ride services. We’ve tried Uber multiple times in many cities in Europe and it never disappointed us. Some countries have their own ride-hailing apps like beat in Greece or Cabify in Spain.

3. Misleading money Changers

Money changers are everywhere in Europe. many of them do honest business, but some of them will try to screw you over.

Their goal: get you to exchange money at an awful rate.

Their usual spots: most of us already know that airport rates are terrible, but some thieving currency exchange establishments can be found around touristy sites in major cities.

Their MO: You know how money changers usually have the exchange rates displayed in front of their shops? Well, take a second, closer look at these displays because:

Some shops display your currency and the selling RATE, not the buying RATE. If you want to get local currency, you should be looking at the buying RATE. For example, if you’re in Poland but you’re carrying EURO and you want to exchange it to zloty, you’re probably gonna notice money changers with displays that read, “WE SELL: EURO = 4.50.”

These money changers at touristy places in Poland display selling rates instead of buying rates.
Looks like a great deal! The thing is, you’re looking at the wrong rate because what it says is that they will sell you their euro for 4.50 zloty. What you need is the buying rate because they will be buying your euro. I know it sounds confusing. Thankfully, I found this really informative video by honest guide that explains this better.

How to Avoid: If I haven’t said it enough, when you’re already in Europe, look at the buying rate instead of the selling rate. If you find that the exchange rate is bad, go look for another place. There usually are honest money changers around. They’re just not as prominent as the bad ones.

4. ATM with bad exchange Rates

If you think you’ll not gonna run into bad exchange rates because you’re using ATMs to get cash, think again. In Europe, you’ll find a lot of non-bank ATMs or bankomat. The problem is, while they allow you to withdraw money easily, the transaction fees and exchange rates are pretty bad. scratch that, insanely BAD. We’ve tried it a few times before just to compare and swore never to use them again.

Their goal: get you to withdraw money at a very bad rate.

Their usual spots: They’re everywhere — in almost every tourist spot in almost every touristy city in Europe.

Okay, fine, these cash machines operate within the confines of the law, but they’re such a ripoff, it surely feels scammy. but it’s not just these international non-bank ATMs. Some local bank-based ATMs also try to dupe you by offering you their so-called dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). What is it?

In a nutshell, when you’re using an international card to make a withdrawal, the machine will ask you whether or not you want to be billed in your card’s original currency (for example, PHP or USD) or in the destination’s local currency (say, Euro or kuna or zloty or crowns). sounds pretty harmless, right? NOT. If you agree to be billed in PHP or USD, you’re basically allowing them to set their own exchange rate and you bet they will be using a terrible rate to squeeze more money out of you.

The right thing to do is to choose the destination’s local currency. For example:

If you’re in Italy or France and the machine asks, “Would you like to be billed in EURO or in your card’s home currency?” choose EURO.

In Croatia, if the machine asks, “Would you like to be billed in KUNA (HRK) or in your card’s home currency?” choose KUNA.

In Poland, if the machine asks, “Would you like to be billed in ZLOTY (PLN) or in your card’s home currency?” choose ZLOTY.

Always decline the dynamic conversion.

In this example, if I chose to proceed with dynamic Conversion, I would have lost P1200 for withdrawing 2000 Croatian kuna. That’s a lot of money.
How to avoid: Don’t let them convert for you. always choose to be billed in the destination’s local currency.

Sometimes, it’s a YES/NO question: “Would you like to be billed in your card’s home/domestic currency?” choose NO or DECLINE.

Sometimes, the machine words it differently. Instead, it will show you the conversion rate and then ask you to choose between “Proceed with unknown Rate” and “Proceed with the Guaranteed Rate.” choose the unknown RATE. Don’t pick their “guaranteed” rate. It’s guaranteed to be a bad conversion!

Sometimes, they’re pretty insistent. After you decline, it will ask you one more time: “If you don’t use our conversion, we cannot guarantee the exchange rate that will be applied. Are you sure you want to proceed without conversion?” Yes, you’re sure. decline the conversion.

5. Petition Scam

I’ve seen this in action in many European cities especially in Paris, Krakow, and Rome.

Their goal: To force you into making a donation and/or steal your wallet or phone.

Their usual spots: Airports, train stations, and other touristy areas.

Their MO: Someone, often a woman, approaches you and asks you to sign a petition. She does sign language, so you would think she’s deaf-mute. After you grace their form with a signature, they will reveal that the petition is actually a donation pledge and insist that you give her money. The thing is, they’re not really deaf-mute! They’re just pretending to guilt you into making a big donation. You’d think it would be easy to shake them off, but no. They will annoy you, follow you or embarrass you to death until you give in.

In other cases, while you’re busy signing, someone else is busy stealing your wallet or phone. Sometimes, they don’t pick pockets but they force tourists into paying them money by

How to avoid: simply ignore them when they approach you and avoid eye contact. (But always make sure you keep an eye on your valuables whenever you go out.) If they insist, tell them you know what they’re trying to do.

6. friendly tourist Scam

We almost fell for this in Istanbul. I was walking around near the blue Mosque when a man asked if I could take a photo of him. Being the kind person that I am (haha, yes, I have to insert that), I obliged. I even took a considerable amount of time waiting for the crowd behind him to clear up and made sure the light hit him right. Hahaha. I returned his phone and was about to walk away but he started engaging me in a friendly small talk, asking me questions about where I was from and how I was liking Istanbul so far. then he brought up th

Last updated: 10 FEBRUARY 2022

A new entry process for international passengers reaching Manila’s Ninoy Aquino international airport (NAIA) has been implemented following the most recent resolution of the Inter-Agency task force for emerging and infectious diseases (IATF-EID). These steps are still a part of the reaction to manage the COVID-19 pandemic.

NAIA is the primary gateway to Metro Manila and surrounding provinces including Batangas, Cavite, and Laguna. In this article, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to the whole arrival process at NAIA — including the steps you need to take prior to your flight, as shared by the country’s most significant carriers, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific.

But before anything else, it is essential that you know the general testing and quarantine requirements and protocol for international passengers arriving in the Philippines. These vary according to your vaccination status.

The testing and quarantine protocols change frequently so we chose to create a separate post for it. read THIS FIRST: list OF PHILIPPINE QUARANTINE & testing requirements & PROTOCOL! ✅

Now that you have an overview, let’s talk about the airport arrival process specifically. In general, the flow is similar, but there are a few differences at certain points, depending on what type of passenger you belong to. Government, airport and airline authorities categorize international passengers into three main types:

OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers). In this guide, families traveling with at least one OFW will all be considered OFWs.

Non-OFWs. This is in some cases referred to in some communications as ROFs (Returning overseas Filipinos), but in this short article and in the interest of clarity, let’s simply call it non-OFWs.

Eligible Foreigners. This includes foreign spouse and children of Filipinos, diplomats, foreign officials certified by the Philippines, and other eligible non-Filipino nationals.

If you’re flying to NAIA, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do before your flight and the protocols upon arrival.

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

Arrival process for OFWs before Your Flight
During the Flight
Upon Arrival
At The Quarantine hotel (Only If You’re Required)
Going Home

Arrival process for Non-OFWs and Eligible ForeignersBefore Your Flight
During the Flight
Upon Arrival
At the Quarantine hotel (Only If You’re Required)
Going Home

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Arrival process for OFWs

Before Your Flight

Be familiar with the quarantine and testing requirements. note that these policies vary depending on your vaccination status. details here!

Sign up for a ONE health PASS account. You can register here. offer your personal details as well as information about your health and travel history. This will serve as your health declaration Card (called e-HDC) and is managed by the Bureau of Quarantine. once done, you will be given a distinct transaction number and QR code that you should keep. You will be returning to this site on the day of your travel.

Download the TRAZE App. This is the contact tracing app that you should have when using airports in the Philippines. download the app and sign up for an account. This will be checked by airline staff upon check in. For much more info on how to use this app, read: TRAZE app TUTORIAL!

Before your flight, return to the ONE health PASS website. Again, you’ll find it here. When asked “Are you currently at the airport of departure or are you Departing today for the Philippines?”, select YES. then follow the next steps.

Upon check-in, sign the declaration and Waiver form. This will be presented to you by the check-in agent. By signing this, you are declaring that that you are healthy and fit to travel. You will also need to present the QR code that was sent to you when you completed the eCIF.

During the Flight

On board, use your idle time to accomplish the following documents:

Arrival Card

Bureau of Customs Form

OWWA care Slip

Upon Arrival

Proceed to your assigned gate. This differs depending on your vaccination status and/or whether or not you have a connecting flight.

Temperature Check. Upon deplaning, undergo a temperature check.

Validation and Verification. For sea-based OFWs, head to the Validation and Verification desk where a personnel shall confirm your registration. Land-based OFWs may skip this step.

Immigration Check. Go through immigration inspection and submit your accomplished Arrival Card.

Hotel and transportation Desk. After clearing the Customs, proceed to these desks for your quarantine hotel project and organized transportation to your hotel:
– For land-based OFWs: OWWA desk and present your OHP QR code and hand over the OWWA project care slip.
– For sea-based OFWs- proceed to the MARINA desk.

Baggage Claim. pick up your bags at the designated carousel.

Customs. clear Customs inspection and submitthe Customs form.

At The Quarantine hotel (Only If You’re Required)

Note that hotel quarantine may not be mandatory for everyone. To check if you’re required to do so, read this first: PHILIPPINE QUARANTINE PROTOCOL!

Check in at your hotel. While staying at the hotel, wait for the schedule of your test. If you exhibit any symptoms anytime between the day of your arrival and the day of your test, inform your hotel best away. A medical or BOQ officer will evaluate you for medical management and testing, as necessary.

Undergo testing on scheduled date. note that Day 1 starts on the day of your arrival in the Philippines.

If you test positive, you will be evaluated by a health or BOQ officer to identify the suitable steps to be done. You will either be transferred to a designated medical facility for even more medical management.

If you test negative, you will receive your test result and a BOQ medical Quarantine Certificate. present these to your hotel for clearance.

Going Home

Ask for clearance from the hotel management. To get one, present the negative test result and a BOQ medical Quarantine Certificate.

Arrange your choice of transfer to your residence or final destination. You may contact your relatives to pick you up. You may also coordinate with the following:
– For land-based OFWs: contact OWWA or use the OWWA UWIAN NA portal.
– For sea-based OFWs: contact your local Manning Agency.

Complete your home quarantine / self isolation under the monitoring of your local government unit (LGU) or Barangay health emergency reaction team (BHERT).

Arrival process for Non-OFWs and Eligible Foreigners

Before Your Flight

Be familiar with and complete quarantine and testing requirements. note that these policies vary depending on your vaccination status. details here! For foreigners, there may also be additional entry requirements that need to be met. much more info here!

Sign up for a ONE health PASS account. You can register here. offer your personal details as well as information about your health and travel history. This will serve as your health declaration Card (called e-HDC) and is managed by the Bureau of Quarantine. once done, you will be given a distinct transaction number and QR code that you should keep. You will be returning to this site on the day of your travel.

Pre-book a hotel. only if you’re required to undergo hotel quarantine. depending on your vaccination status, a confirmed booking at a DOH-BOQ-approved hotel may be needed. If so, here are your options: list OF certified QUARANTINE HOTELS!

Sign up for a TRAZE account. TRAZE is an app that the government uses for contact tracing. having a TRAZE account is mandatory so download the app prior to your trip and register. You will be using this a lot at the airport.

Before your flight, return to the ONE health PASS website. Again, you’ll find it here. When asked “Are you currently at the airport of departure or are you Departing today for the Philippines?”, select YES. then follow the next steps.

Sign the declaration and Waiver Form. Upon check-in, this form will be presented by the staff. You also need to present your QR code and Traze App.

During the Flight

Fill out the following forms while inside the aircraft:

Customs Form

Immigration Arrival Card

Upon Arrival

Undergo a temperature check. You’ll need to present your OHP QR code at this point. Validate your Affidavit of Undertaking.

If you’re required to undergo hotel quarantine: verify your quarantine hotel booking with a hotel coordinator. organize your transfer to the hotel at these desks if you haven’t done so yet. There are shuttles and vans available. If you choose a discount coupon or meter taxi, there is a separate desk for that. You will be given a sticker to indicate your choice of transportation to your quarantine hotel.

Clear immigration inspection. submit your accomplished Arrival Card.

Pick up your bags at the assigned carousel at the Baggage claim area.

Submit your signed Affidavit of Undertaking and accomplished Customs form.

Proceed to your organized transportation and transfer to your hotel.

At the Quarantine hotel (Only If You’re Required)

Note that hotel quarantine may not be mandatory for everyone. To check if you’re required to do so, read this first: PHILIPPINE QUARANTINE PROTOCOL!

Check in at your hotel. This day is considered Day 1. follow all the government and hotel policies being implemented within the vicinity. If you exhibit symptoms anytime between Day 1 and the day of your test, inform your hotel immediately. A health or BOQ officer will evaluate you for medical management and testing, as necessary.

Undergo test on scheduled date. The date varies depending on your vaccination status and country of origin. You will have to present your passport, QR Code, and payment receipt to the personnel who will administer the test.

If you test positive, you will be evaluated by a DOH/BOQ Officer. based on their assessment, you will either betransferred to a designated hotel for even more medical management.

If you test negative, you may get your BOQ medical certificate.

Going Home

Get a clearance from the hotel staff. You will need to present your negative test result and BOQ medical certificate.

Arrange your preferred transportation. You may contact your relatives or your LGU to pick you up or organize another mode of transportation going home.

Complete your home quarantine / self-isolation under the monitoring of your LGU and Barangay health emergency reaction teams (BHERT).

UPDATES LOG:

2021-05-09 extended the hotel quarantine length to 10 days
2021-07-06 added additional info for fully-vaccinated travelers
2021-09-17 added One health Pass
2021-10-03 updated list of green countries
2021-11-06 updated length of quarantine and reqs for vaccinated travelers
2021-12-09 applied changes to the policies for vaxxed/unvaxxed, green/yellow/red list passengers
2021-12-16 reflected the changes to the policies moving the swab day to Day 3 for vaxxed passengers coming from green countries
2022-01-16 moved the quarantine requirements to another post and added the process for foreigners
2022-01-28 color coding has been removed; hotel quarantine requirement depends on vaccination status

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2022 PHILIPPINE entry & QUARANTINE requirements (Filipinos & Foreigners, Vaccinated & Unvaccinated)

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List of requirements for essential Travel: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia

PASSENGER profile & health declaration form (PPHD): how to Register before flight (Philippine Airlines)

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