My filthy chucks looked awfully out of location on the carpeted floor of the suite. I removed them, threw my bag in a corner, as well as fell into the neatly fixed bed in the center of the room. I turned on the TV as well as tuned in to history channel for a few minutes of geeking out before I headed back to the celebration in one more suite.

In the next space were fellow travel bloggers, having a feast as well as sharing a night full of videoke (karaoke) as well as endless conversations. Linden Suites Ortigas graciously held one more pajama celebration for blog writers that night. I was one of them. It’s not frequently that I see people in the exact same line of work (if work is what you phone call what we do), so I took the chance to reconnect with them. While I walked in the hallway as well as basked in comfort as I sank in one of the couches, I might not believe of a much better location for such a fun event.

My tired chucks.
 

WHAT’S covered IN THIS GUIDE?

Suites
Amenities
Location

More tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️Related Posts:

Suites

The one-bedroom suite assigned to me was most likely one of their recently renovated units. It was soooo spacious, particularly that I did not share it with anyone. however even if I shared it with an entire barkada, it would still leave us with more than sufficient breathing room. right after the door were the dining area as well as the well-equipped kitchen. perfect for couples as well as little households who desire to not let go a piece of house during their stay.

At the end of the system was my bedroom. White curtains filtered the light that would have flooded the room. opposite the bed was a house entertainment system with a TV set, packed with a great deal of cable channels, as well as a desk for the workaholic business traveler. next to it was the closet, which bore a robe, a pair of slippers, as well as an ironing board. even the squeaky clean bathroom had almost whatever one might requirement for a comfortable stay.

One-bedroom suite
Cable TV!
The bathroom is rather spacious, too.
Kitchen as well as dining area.
Ironing board as well as slippers
One thing that I truly liked was that there were so many power outlets to fee my camera, phone, as well as the power bank all at the exact same time. After costs so many nights in many hostels as well as budget plan hostels, this was such a refreshing change!

Amenities

My system was just one of the 168 well-appointed as well as practical suites as well as spaces that Linden houses. guests might likewise enjoy an indoor swimming pool, an outside dipping pool,  a spa, as well as a gym. There’s likewise a restaurant, where we had free breakfast as well as sampled mainly Filipino as well as western dishes.

And oh, free wi-fi. Hurray!

Location

Located at the heart of Ortigas center, one of Manila’s industrial districts, Linden Suites is within proximity to a number of shopping centers (SM Megamall, Shangri-la Plaza, The Podium) for your buying needs. convenience stores as well as restaurants dot the street where it stands. EDSA, Metro Manila’s lifeline, is just a short walk away. It’s not as close to the flight terminal as Makati, however it promises smaller crowds as well as a more kicked back atmosphere.

I’m not one to go on a staycation or prefer hotels to cheaper accommodations for many reasons. I have resided in Manila for the past decade, as well as I most likely wouldn’t spend money on a hotel under typical scenarios since I have my own place. If I had been a visitor whether for business or pleasure, it would be a different story. provided exactly how stressful it can get to check out Manila, it most likely wouldn’t hurt to treat yourself (or your liked ones) to a bit more comfort as well as high-end every now as well as then.

The Linden Suites – Ortigas
Address: 37 San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center, Ortigas-Pasig, Manila, Philippines
Contact No.: +63 2 638 7878

More tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Related Posts:

MNL shop Hostel: Where to stay in Makati, Philippines

2022 listing of DOH-BOQ-Accredited QUARANTINE hotels in Metro Manila & Near NAIA (DOT-Approved)

MARABUT extreme EXPERIENCE: Marabut Marine Park beach Resort, Samar

The Circle Inn: Where to stay in Bacolod City, Philippines

CUBAO to NAIA / NAIA to CUBAO: P2P Bus routine (UBE Express)

7 methods to get a quick JAPAN repair in the Philippines

CAVITE TO MANILA (LAWTON & CCP): Ferry or Water Jeepney routine & Fares

2022 IKEA PHILIPPINES buying guide + What to Expect, exactly how to Reserve

We strongly believe that when plans aren’t working out, and life isn’t flowing smoothly, it’s time to take a step back and follow the path of least resistance. Our path this last year was a bit of a roller coaster, and although it was full of exciting and adventurous times, there were quite a few uncertainties and it just felt like something was missing.

Thankfully, we’ve found that something.

Where must We Go?!

While we were in Manzanillo, Mexico and not too pleased by the city, we were debating where to go next.

Not knowing which direction to take felt unsettling, and was a pattern throughout the past year. While checking out with family in Mexico, doubts about our next movements were regularly in the back of our minds. trying to decide where to travel is simple, but finding somewhere that checks all of the boxes when it pertains to living for longer periods of time, that’s much easier said than done.

Eating, drinking, checking out and beaching in Manzanillo – but, where must we go next?

We were back and forth in our minds between Asia and Europe and at one point, we even thought about staying in Mexico due to the fact that we couldn’t come up with anywhere else that felt right.

Why were we trying to force living in Europe when it wasn’t working out? (We nearly got scammed over $3,000 when trying to book a place in Lisbon!)

Why were we considering flying from Mexico all the way back to Southeast Asia?

Why stay in Mexico when we felt like it was time to step on?

Eventually, we made a decision it was best to return to Grenada, a destination that we know and love. We booked a flight from Manzanillo and after a couple of days, we touched down on the Isle of Spice! As soon as we landed and were greeted by our pals and dog, we knew we’d made the ideal decision. This little Caribbean country was the answer all along, and was the missing something.

Grenada…we reach!
Why Did We choose The Island of Grenada?

If you’ve been following our journey, you’ll know that we fell in love with this West Indies island back in 2014 when we came for our first pet sitting job. With its rocky coastline, hidden beaches, lush jungle and colourful towns, Grenada is a gem.

Since we’ve spent a lot more than 1.5 years in Grenada in total, we feel a lot more like residents than tourists, and always take pleasure in finding local things to do. A good pal of ours recently said “In Grenada, you need to make your own fun”. This is true in that there aren’t lots of “typical” things to see and do – historical sites, large shopping malls, squares, plazas, museums, cafes and pedestrian streets are lacking on the island (although, as of recently there’s a bowling alley and a microbrewery!).

This is fine with us though, as there are many adventures to be had if you’re ready to find them, which we are. We love liming with pals at a secluded beach, going for a picnic at one of our much-loved spots, or searching for new jungle hikes. To us, Grenada is all about the nature and this time around, we’re looking forward to revisiting our secret hangouts, and discovering new ones with our friends.

Not only are there a lot of outdoorsy things to do in Grenada, but the island is rustic and unpretentious, and has an authentic Caribbean vibe, which is what we love a lot of about it.

The huge majority of the population here are descendents from Africa, with a small amount of indigenous Arawak and Carib people. The rest of the population is mostly comprised of Indians, French and English. Unlike lots of islands in the region, Grenada still retains its Caribbean charm – complete with standard food, architecture, music, dance and festivals. We love the spicy meals, national dishes and fresh produce, and of course, the soca & steelpan tunes and the crazy carnival season!

While there is a terrific local and expat community, there’s also a really eclectic mix of people who temporarily live and check out this island. There are thousands of students (predominently American) who are attending the SGU medical University, “yachties” and sailors who dock here during hurricane season, all-inclusive tourists who check out the resorts, Grenadians from abroad who are checking out their native country, and finally, cruise ship travellers who call to port here for a day.

It’s absolutely an interesting mix!

Grenada will always feel like our second home and we thank the locals for accepting us and welcoming us as “Canadian Grenadians” whenever we return.

More Grenada Articles

The utmost guide to travelling in Grenada

A travel guide to the best beaches in Grenada

Travel to Grenada: The utmost budget Guide

Aboard The Savvy: A Sunset Sail in Grenada

61 amazing things To do in Grenada

House & Pet sitting in Grenada

Last year, we made a decision to take some time off from housesitting to appreciate spontaneous travel and to be available for tourism marketing campaigns (which we are hired for because of this travel blog) if they came up. While we did take pleasure in a commitment-free year, and were able to take part in some extraordinary press trips, we were longing for “our” pet dog and the island life.

Trekking through the mountains of Kyrgyzstan on a press trip was incredible, but we missed “our” dog

Unfortunately, we missed out on our two regular pet and house sitting assignments here in Grenada due to our inability to commit in time. and sadly, other pet sitters have been hired for the job. But, as things seem to opt for us, everything is falling into place.

Just the other day, we’ve been hired for a month-long house and pet sitting job, which is just down the road from where we currently are! It’s a stunning home with wonderful ocean views. We’ll be taking care of two rambunctious, charming 3 year old dogs, while receiving complimentary accommodation and a automobile for our use. We’re looking forward to a lot more downtime on our much-loved island…but it may be hard to leave the house with a view like this:

Views from the house we will be moving into in just a few days
Although our next home is luxurious, where we’re staying now is a dream and it’s exactly what we needed after overeating, overdrinking and overdoing it in Mexico.

The home is serene and idyllic. We’re literally surrounded by jungle on one side and the ocean on the other. We’ve been enjoying the silence and reconnecting with one another. Our bodies are rejuvenating and cleansing from the months of neglect, and we’ve been eating wholesome foods, drinking much less alcohol and taking care of ourselves. This place has been a little retreat, and is somewhere we’re going to miss when we step on to our next locale in Grenada.

Our front yard – not a bad view!

By the time we step on to our pet sitting job, we will have stayed at this “wellness spa” for a little over a month. It’ll be really sad to say goodbye to our pals who own this place (and our dog!) who have so graciously hosted us. We’ve been invited to stay here longer, but we don’t want to overstay our welcome and want to give them back their privacy. Although an exceptionally generous offer, it’s time for us to go.

The rocky coastline of Grenada

Our Remote work Lifestyle

As you can imagine, moving around the world and taking a 2 month hiatus from online work in Mexico indicated that our web site was somewhat set aside. rather than writing, marketing and optimizing our blog, we were busy eating tacos and drinking margaritas on the beach.

Thankfully, considering that we’ve created a passive income model for our business, we didn’t suffer too much financially, but we haven’t progressed as much as we would’ve liked. many projects were put on the backburner and emails weren’t replied to on a timely basis, often costing us thousands of dollars.

The work was “piling” up, which was a big aspect in us wanting to stay put for a while here in Grenada.

When we sat down and thought about where we actually lived this past year (as opposed to travelled), the list of destinations was pretty short, and the duration even shorter. In 2017 we spent 2 weeks in Valparaiso, Chile, 10 days in Brighton, England, 1.5 months in Koh Samui, Thailand, 2 months in Canggu Bali, Indonesia and 1.5 months in Manzanillo, Mexico. The remaining 6.5 months were spent travelling from place to place.

Working in Canggu – that was way back in September!

Our time in Bali was broken up by a 2 week scuba diving press trip, a week of visitors and my unexpected return to Canada for 2 weeks. In Manzanillo, we were there strictly to spend time with our 15 family members who pertained to check out us during our stay.

We are a lot more than ready for some laptop time!

We love our job and the fact that we can’t wait to get back to work is something we’re very grateful for. being able to live where we want, while setting our own work hours is an extraordinary feeling, but experiencing this journey together is the icing on the cake.

We’re a lot more than delighted to be back at workOur to-do list of things we want to achieve on the blog while we’re here in Grenada is fairly long, but we are looking forward to all of it. We have no plans to leave the island anytime soon. The only plan is to take pleasure in the company of our pals and each other, explore the island, write some killer articles about our recent travels and about the digital nomad lifestyle and let our minds and bodies invigorate for a while. We’re going to just “be” and see what happens. We’re feeling healthy, delighted and alive. We’re thrilled to be back “home” and know that it’s where we need to be ideal now.

Have you ever felt a little burned out from too much travel or from checking out pals and family for a long time? how did you get rid of it? comment below!

Become a Pet Sitter / house Sitter!

As with any new business, our funds were a bit low when we first started blogging. While we were sitting in a cafe in Uzbekistan in 2013, we made a decision to join trusted Housesitters – which is the largest online platform for house sitters and homeowners. considering that 2014 we’ve been enjoying the company of furry pals and the perk of complimentary accommodation.

Click here to join trusted Housesitters and receive complimentary accommodation around the world. We’ve house and pet sat in Grenada, Barbados and Costa Rica and get many uses each day for sits in Europe, Australia and beyond. enter GOAT10 to receive 10% off the yearly membership fee.

Like This Article? Pin it!

Disclaimer:Goats On The road is an Amazon associate and also an affiliate for some other retailers. This indicates we earn commissions if you click links on our blog and purchase from those retailers.

I had to make a choice. The man I liked resided in India, as well as I was a nurse in the U.S. I chose to stop my task as well as look for new opportunities. What I ended up doing has freed up my time as well as been able to keep me traveling! I ended up being a Thai yoga Masseuse in India.

What is a Thai yoga Masseuse?

They don’t phone call it the “lazy man’s yoga” for no reason. It truly is a great deal like physical therapy. My clients are available in completely dressed for a yoga class as well as lie on a yoga mat. I twist, crack, push, as well as pull up until they are limber as well as woozy. If you’ve had a Thai massage, it’s rather similar however with much more “yoga” moves as well as reflexology aka pressure points. There is likewise a bit Reiki involved.

Why Did I select Thai yoga Massage?

I kind of dislike touching people! everybody is shocked I chosen massage. I believe of it much more as a health-oriented massage. people are completely dressed as well as tell me what hurts. I likewise make sure hands as well as feet are washed before the massage starts. in some cases I instruct a few stretches they can do at house as well. many people are new to this type of massage in India, as Ayurveda is the huge contender. when they have a massage from me, they are hooked! It’s excellent to get return customers.

Benefits of Being a Masseuse

I really get a excellent work out during massage. If I’m putting the client’s knee to their chest, I’m doing a lunge in purchase to do so. When I’m pressing on their back, I’m doing a squat. By the end, I’m very sore however it feels great. I have hours of work that I select as well as people can either come to me, or I can go to them as well as get views like the photo below while I massage. I have fliers with my info as well as take clients as I see fit. many are on getaway as well as have quite open time tables so it works out nicely.

Not a poor office…
I can even more my profession by much more marketing when I’m prepared as well as have much more time, as well as I can likewise broaden by hiring much more people or opening an actual shop. The money I make is on par with what masseuses make in the U.S. although my accreditation won’t bring over. If I can do about 1 or 2 massages a week I am okay for living in India. I fee 2,000 rupees ($33.75) for a 60 minute massage as well as 3,000 ($55) for a 90 minute massage.

We can show you so numerous other travel tasks as well as on the internet jobs! Don’t miss the extensive guides below to assist you make money online, on the road or on the side to ensure that you can travel longer!

Get Paid To compose Online: 99 publications That Pay as much as $5,000 / Article

How To Make money From Home: 11 profitable Side-Hustles You Can begin Today

How To Take Paid on the internet Surveys as well as Make money Today

How To Make money Online: The conclusive Guide

How Can You ended up being a Thai yoga Masseuse?

There are choices for this around India as well as Thailand. Some are called only “Thai Masseuse” however will be similar. You can select any type of type of massage, however Ayurveda is much more popular. since I got licensed in the mountains of McLeod Ganj (near Dharamsala) during the off-season, it only took me a week. Although during top season it will take longer. I paid 5,000 rupees ($85) for my certification. I got an off-season special on the price.  When you select to travel to India, or if you want to get licensed in your own country, make sure the instructor who trains you has a genuine resume. You’ll want to discover accurately or you’ll never get return clients or pleased clients. You likewise won’t be comfortable providing a massage on your own. To work in a spa, you would requirement a few certifications for numerous kinds of massage, which is why I only work from home. If you understand anybody concerning North Goa, send them my way, wink wink.

My Gateway to Travel

I was anxious to provide up my task as a nurse however the advantages of working as a masseuse are amazing. I have been so hectic with my blog, I haven’t taken the massage as far as I want however plan on stepping up my game this monsoon, publishing much more fliers than just in 2 restaurants. If you want a new job, massage may be best for you!

Author’s Bio:

Hippie in Heels has rapidly ended up being the go-to site for all things India related because Rachel has been living there for almost two years. She left nursing to comply with her dreams of living abroad after falling in like in Goa, as well as has because ended up being a Thai masseuse. other than composing about India, Rachel shares packing suggestions as well as guidance on the other 24 countries she’s been to. Hippie in Heels is all about staying attractive without costs a ton of money to do so: where to get the very best massages, excellent beauty salons as well as spas, as well as of program the most popular clubs from Europe to Asia as well as Africa. comply with Rachel’s journey on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram & Google+

Have you ever heard of Thai yoga Massage?! believe it’s a excellent method to make money abroad? show us below.

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

Updated: 8/5/2019 (Originally published 02/21/12. updated for grammar and links)

I poke. I push. I prod. I try to get people out of their cubicles and traveling the world.

That’s what I do.

Literally — that’s my job!

I do my best to show people from all around the world that traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. That there is much more to life than grinding the hours away at a job you hate.

I do my best to make sure everyone can find a way to travel cheaper, better, and longer.

I strive to show that your fears are unfounded. I try to be a living example of that.

After numerous years of blogging, and judging by the emails I get from people, I think I’ve been relatively successful at getting people onto airplanes and into the world.

But last month, I faced a fork in the road about what to do when my current trip ends: do I relocation to new York City best away or do I relocation to Sweden for six months?

Once you go down a path, there’s no turning back, and I was very broken on what to direction choose.

But I chose to choose Sweden.

The guiding principle in my life is to have no regrets.

I don’t want to be on my deathbed saying, “I wish I did…” and I think that if I didn’t relocation to Sweden, I’d always regret it.

What would life have been like if just for a moment I finally got to live in Europe?

What possibilities and opportunities did I pass up?

Those are questions I wanted to make sure that I could answer.

To make sure I have those answers — and no regrets — I’ll be getting on a plane to Stockholm.

I’ll stay there until January when my book how to travel the world on $50 a Day is released. I’d leave sooner, but I have some conferences and plans in the united states that I need to attend in the meantime.

I’ve laid awake several nights thinking this over because I chose on my direction. in that time, I realized that if I didn’t relocation to Sweden, not only would I regret it, but I’d also be a hypocrite.

After all, instead of facing my fears and reservations, I’d be taking the easy road. too me, new York City is easy.

I’ve lived there.

I have friends there.

I don’t need to worry about visas, languages, or anything else.

New York is the comfortable choice.

Instead of breaking out of my comfort zone, I’d be staying firmly in it.

And if I did that, how could I ever again tell people to break out of their own comfort zones?

All you have to judge me by are the blogs I write and the information I share. based on what I present, you decide if I’m trustworthy enough to listen to.

I can’t tell people to conquer their fears, live their dreams, and travel the world if I won’t even do that for myself. With so numerous sketchy sites these days, count on is in short supply. All you have online is your credibility.

Late one night, I thought about all the emails I get from the people who have told me I’ve inspired them to take a trip. I thought about all the messages from the people whose fears I’ve helped vanquish. I thought of all the people who told me a blog post was exactly what they needed.

And then I thought about how deep down I knew I wanted to relocation to Sweden.

There was nothing I wanted more.

I want to learn the language, eat the food, meet the people, and explore the countryside.

New York can wait six months. I’ll miss it, but it will always be there.

Yet if there was no doubt in my mind, how come there was doubt in my mind?

Because I was too frightened to make the leap and commit. That’s why.

It was simpler to stay in my comfort zone. It always is.

But I realized that I’ve helped so numerous people take a deep breath, close their eyes, and just opt for it that not doing it when it came for my own turn would make me a hypocrite.

And that realization removed my doubt and made me commit.

And so in July, I’ll relocation to Sweden. It may be great. It may be awful. I may come home early or I may stay forever.

But at the very least I’ll have practiced what I preached. I can wake up every day knowing that I did what I tell others to do: I seized the day, conquered my fears, and leaped into the unknown.

Because if I didn’t do that, I’d be a hypocrite.

And I’d never be able to look at myself the same way again.

Book Your trip to Sweden: Logistical suggestions and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner or Momondo to find a cheap flight. They are my two favorite search engines because they search sites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned. start with Skyscanner first though because they have the most significant reach!

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most significant inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the most affordable rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

Archipeligo Hostel Old town (Stockholm)

Generator(Stockholm)

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

Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)

Insure My trip (for those over 70)

Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want much more information on Sweden?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Sweden for even much more planning tips!

Posted: 10/19/2020 | October 19th, 2020

When you look back at 2020, what do you think you’ll remember most about it?

For me, it will be the lost momentum.

When the year began, it looked like it would be the Year of Matt (take that, “Summer of George”!). TravelCon was gaining a reputation as a “must attend” event in the industry, this website was on track to have its best year yet, and I was finally going to build a life for myself in Austin: I joined social clubs, took cooking classes (and even one on gardening), and signed up for volunteering. I planned to date and was even thinking about buying a house later in the year.

Life was falling into place.

Then, COVID swept through the world and wrecked everything in its path.

Now, as 2020 takes its final lap, I’ve resigned myself to the fact that those plans from the start of the year won’t be realized. The pandemic still rages in America. many businesses remain shuttered. companies — especially in the travel space — are closing for good. There’s massive unemployment. most of the world’s borders are sealed (especially to Americans). Plus, you also have wildfires, racial inequality, a looming supreme Court battle, and an upcoming election. It’s a mess! This year’s been a shit show.

Unlike other countries that had full lockdowns and strong institutions to control their outbreaks, we had mixed messages from the start (we got 50 states and 50 diffierent policies.) and couldn’t even stay inside long enough to flatten the curve. Masks have become a political lightning rod that people are fighting and killing over (And example 3 and 4 of many).

And I heard “COVID is a hoax” enough on my road trip to make me realize too many this problem is here to stay. (And that was all before Trump got COVID!)

I don’t believe the united states is going to get COVID under control anytime soon. like a fever that has to burn itself out, there’s nothing that can stop it at this point. It will just be wave after wave until it’s over.

Last month on my drive back to Austin, I began to ponder the remaining months of the year. What would I do with them? could I salvage any of 2020?

Everything I want to do here in Austin is still closed (as it should be given the virus).

I fault no one for wanting to lock themselves inside until there is a vaccine.

And, when you have a family or are married or retired, it might be easier to stay home. You have others to lean on. Or maybe you have a house and space to spread out. You might even have a backyard!

But what if you live alone? Single? What if you were hoping this was the year you found love? What if you live in an apartment with no outdoor access? What happens when the loneliness becomes too much?

“COVID fatigue” is bound to set in.

And I am fatigued.

I know I have it much better than others. Millions are suffering much worse. I recognize how lucky I am to even have savings to draw upon to continue to support my business and keep my staff employed. I know I’m lucky to even have a job. I don’t have a brick-and-mortar business that requires rent. I was able to get a couple of loans to keep things going, I can still afford my apartment, and I don’t worry about my next meal.

But that doesn’t make my own struggles any less important to me. They don’t cause me less anxiety when I see my savings depleted, business not improving, and my social and dating life ground to a halt.

I mean what happens when the money is gone? What happens if TravelCon can’t take place in April?

The anxiety keeps me up at night.

When so many others refuse to do the right thing, it all seems so futile. society only works when we work together. and it just feels like this country is coming apart and that all the sacrifices we made were for naught.

Everything feels hopeless right now. I’m just so mentally exhausted.

So, I’ve decided to take action.

Next month, I’m moving to Mexico for the winter. A few of my friends have moved there and I’ve decided to join them after the election.

I know it’s weird to want to move during a pandemic – and Mexico has its own problems – but, in many ways, it’s better than Texas.1 According to my friends, people wear masks more and the virus is taken more seriously.

And, while I still don’t plan to frequent massive gatherings or anything, if I’m going to be confined somewhere, I’d rather be confined in a more tropical setting, closer to the beach and the water.

As I said, I know others have it much worse than me. I count my blessings, but as I watch so much of what I built — professionally and personally — crumble (and as someone already prone to anxiety that once caused panic attacks), I need a mental break.

I don’t know how long I’ll stay there. Heck, by the time I plan to go, the world may have changed again. If 2020 has reinforced anything, it’s that a lot can happen in a day.

But I have a chance to end the year on a high note.

And I’m going to take it.

1 –I’ll get a COVID test before I go and then another after I arrive. I will wear a mask, avoid crowds, wash my hands all the time, and social-distance while there. A number of travel insurance companies now offer medical coverage related to COVID so I’ll be getting a policy that covers that too.

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

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

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

SafetyWing (best for everyone)

Insure My trip (for those over 70)

Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

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

We travelled across South Africa for 5 weeks in our tiny Chevy spark car. The trip was a blast, but what really made it fantastic was the freedom we had to make numerous stops along the way. The garden Route, which extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River near the Eastern Cape, was one of our preferred stretches of road on this trip.

With so much to do along the way, we chose it would be a good idea to share our preferred stops on the famous N2 garden route highway.

The garden Route
When we travelled the garden route in South Africa, we were heading from the south (Cape Town) to the north (Pretoria), so our stops noted here will follow this same itinerary.

Note: If you’re searching for accommodation, check out accommodation direct for a broad variety of choices.

Mossel Bay: first stop on The garden Route

About 400 km east of Cape town we reach our first stop on the garden Route. Mossel Bay is a port town of about 60,000 people and this was the spot where the first Europeans stepped on South African soil, an event which is commemerated at Da Gama museum Complex.

If you’re searching for sandy shores and a laid back atmosphere, Mossel Bay is a great place to spend a few days. known to have the world’s second mildest climate (next to Hawaii), you’re sure to be comfortable no matter what you’re doing here. There is a great market at Hartenbos beach and you can also take a boat to seal Island and spot these goofy creatures bathing in the morning sun.

Where to stay in Mossel Bay

Le Port Guesthouse – with outdoor pool, views of the sea, shared kitchen & more! “Exceptional” rating, 9.8/10. Click here to see the most recent price on Booking.com.

75765664
74542591
79394554

Sundowner loft – loft house with private deck and sea views, 5 minute walk to the harbour, BBQ facilities & more! “Exceptional” rating, 9.5/10. Click here to see the most recent price on Booking.com.

75357531
75358093
75357362

Aqua Marina Guesthouse – 10 minute walk to the beach, hearty breakfast, ocean views & more! Click here to see the most recent price on Booking.com.

28646259
28649131
28647291

☞ Click here to see all available accommodations in Mossel Bay on Booking.com

Mossel Bay Beach
George: second stop on The garden Route

Exactly half-way between Cape town and Port Elizabeth, George is typically referred to as “The Gateway To The garden Route”. At 157,000 people, this is the largest city you’ll come across on the garden route and it’s a great place to stock up on food and gear for the rest of the trip.

George is much more than just a stock-up-stop and there is plenty to do in this city. Head to the Outeniqua railway museum and have a look if you’re into trains. If not, it’s worth hiking up 720 meters behind the museum into the Outeniqua mountains for amazing views of the city and beyond. There are other close-by hikes as well including George top or Cradock Peak. The 18 km trails start at the forestry station.

George carry museum (By: M.Uebel through WikiCommons)
Where to stay in George

Apple Cottages – self catering accommodation, patio, BBQ facilities, totally free parking & more! “Exceptional” rating, 9.6/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

30840174
35321835
30840107

Two Fat Owls Guesthouse – air conditioning, wi-fi, totally free parking, outdoor pool, shared kitchen & more! “Superb” rating, 9.4/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

70833049
70830605
70833056

Aziza Guesthouse – mountains as a backdrop, outdoor pool, peaceful area, terrace & more! “Superb” rating, 9.4/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

6326170
18952155
18967286

☞ Click here for all accommodations available in George on Booking.com

Wilderness: third stop on The garden Route

On your way to Wilderness, it’s worth a quick stop at Victoria Bay where, if you’re a surfer, you can catch a few waves before carrying on. even if you’re not a surfer, you may want to plan a stop here during one of the nation’s surf competitions that are often held on these shores.

In our opinion, Wilderness is one of the best stops to make and shouldn’t be missed. set between the Kaaimans River and the Goukama Nature Reserve, Wilderness is best in the heart of the garden route and it’s known for smooth seas, long beaches, natural lakes, beautiful lagoons and of course, fantastic wilderness!

There is fantastic variety of wildlife and it is the ideal location to delight in long treks, hang-gliding, paragliding, horse-riding, and some of the country’s most scenic drives. 

A cool morning In Wilderness

Where to stay in Wilderness

Sea La Vie beach house – just a 3 minute walk to the beach, BBQ facilities, onsite bar & more! “Superb” rating, 9.4/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

81044620
81044627
81044630

Inn2Wilderness Guesthouse – just 5 minutes from the beach, with outdoor pool, garden & more! “Superb” rating, 9.2/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

23225910
23225995
66815769

Wilderness Waters – 12 minute walk to the beach, lagoon and sea views and more! “Exceptional” rating 9.9/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

113785505
111561813
111563862

Knysna: fourth stop on The garden Route

This little town of 50,000 people is actually a great stop on the garden Route. Native land of the Khoikhoi people, Knysna made its way onto the world map around 1878 when a large gold nugget was found near Ruigtevlei. This attracted fortune seekers from all over the globe and aided in the economic growth of this tiny seaside town.

Here you can take a trip around the Knysna Lagoon, an 18 sq. km body of water which is home to at least 200 species of fish and various types of birds. connected to the Indian ocean through a turbulent channel, the lagoon is where you’ll find “The Heads” which are two massive sandstone cliffs which resemble… you guessed it, heads.

Try to time your visit to Knysna for the Oyster festival from late June to early July.

Knysna “The Heads”

Where to stay in Knysna

The Cape Days @40 On Trotter – self catering apartments, just minutes to the water, washing device and more! “Superb” rating, 9.3/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

70400575
70400572
70400571

34 On gray guest house – 700m from the water, courtyard, BBQ facilities and more! “Exceptional” rating 9.6/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

61070691
61070711
105367604

Bollard Bay house – alongside the Knysna River, outdoor pool, onsite bar, chic rooms & more! “Exceptional” rating 9.5/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

39636683
39636676
39636674

☞ Click here for all accommodation options in Knysna on Booking.com

Plettenberg Bay: fifth stop on The garden Route

Also known as “Plet”, this is our second last stop on South Africa’s garden Route. originally named Bahia Formosa (beautiful bay) by early Portuguese explorers, Plet is a great place for some wildlife safaris both on sea and on land!

The Plettenberg Bay game Reserve is an outstanding place to spot lions, rhinos, buffalo, hippos and much more. This is where having your own car will really make your trip memorable. consider a “self-drive safari” at any of the national parks and game reserves in the area and you’ll feel the hair on your neck rise when you spot a 260 kg male lion just meters from your car!

That’s Close!

For a sea safari around Plet, check out ocean Safaris and head out to sea on one of their numerous ocean friendly safaris. If you’re here for whale season (around June-July) don’t miss their Whale enjoying trip which has a whale sighting guarantee!

Although the area around Plettenberg Bay is great for animal spotting, the garden route isn’t the best place to spot wildlife. You may want to check out South Africa’s Safari Routes if you really want to spot “The big 5”. Again, we highly recommend having your own car for a safari, it’s the best way to experience the wildlife and national Parks in South Africa.

Where to stay in Plettenberg Bay

Lyell’s B&B – short walk to the beach, 5 minutes to lagoon, garden, BBQ facilities & more! “Superb” rating, 9.0/10. Click here for the most recent price on Booking.com.

55250835
55250817
55249765

Nature’s Valley: Sixth stop on The garden Route

Our final stop and possibly the most spectacular place on the garden Route, Nature’s Valley is a popular holiday retreat nestled between the Soutrivier and the foothills of the Tsitsikamma Mountains. Nature’s Valley hasn’t always been a popular garden route stop, in fact it was practically inaccessable until Thomas Bain completed the Grootrivier Pass in 1880.

One of the most popular activities around Nature’s Valley is the world’s highest commercial natural bungee jump. At 206 meters high, jumping off the Bloukrans Bridge is sure to get your heart pumping. If you choose to keep your feet planted, there are plenty of walks and hikes in the area as well. The final section of the Otter trail is here, as well as the Salt River Cove trail and the Kalanderkloof trail (known as the 5 hour mini-otter trails).

There is also a great opportunity to see the rainforest from the canopy… if you’re brave enough to go on a zip line tour! We did one here and would highly recommend it for anybody interested in the diverse ecosystems of the rainforest.

Dariece Zip lining In Nature’s Valley

Why stop Now?

The garden route is a beautiful stretch of coastal road that is well worth exploring, but South Africa is full of picturesque drives, national parks and gleaming coastlines. There’s no reason why your South African road trip has to stop at the garden Route.

If you’re heading north from Cape Town, continue on through the amazingly diverse Wild Coast, and in the other direction keep going until you hit the very southernmost suggestion of Africa at Cape Agulhas. No matter which route you take, there’s no better place to plan a road trip than in South Africa.

For much more information on travelling through South Africa, make sure to check out these articles:

Safety suggestions For a South African road Trip

Guide To Backpacking South Africa

South African Safari: national Parks You Can Afford

Have you ever driven the garden route in South Africa? Does it look like a place you’d like to travel to?! share with us below.

Like This Article? Pin it!

SaveSave

Disclaimer:Goats On The road is an Amazon associate and also an affiliate for some other retailers. This implies we earn commissions if you click links on our blog and purchase from those retailers.

Sugar Reef is a stunning eco-luxury hotel located on the island of Bequia in St.Vincent and The Grenadines. known as both the best restaurant, and one of the best hotels on the island, Sugar Reef has made a name for itself by having lovely staff, a stunning location and a professional chef (Chef John) who cooks up delicious meals every day. The natural feel of the hotel grabs visitors as soon as they enter, with stunning drift wood furniture and local art adorning the main lobby & dining area. This is definitely one of the most unique boutique hotels we’ve ever stayed at.

Checking In

We received a very warm welcome at Sugar Reef when we arrived. even though we checked in 4 hours early, the staff kept us company while we waited for our room to be prepared and they even offered us a free breakfast, something you don’t usually get on the day you check in! Each member of staff greeted us that day, and was exceptionally friendly throughout our stay.

The manager, Judit (pronounced Yudit) also sat and chatted with us for quite a while during check in. She was genuinely interested in meeting us and she told us about many of the things to do around the hotel.

Check-in was delightfully informal and we were offered a welcome rum punch and a delicious breakfast.

Our Room

We stayed in the beach front villa and it was absolutely stunning. fashionable stone walls complimented the driftwood furniture, art and decor that is found all over the hotel. Our enormous four-poster bed was extremely comfortable, and we had a perfect sleep every night…. who wouldn’t sleep with the sound of the ocean lapping up at the front door! There was a mosquito net, but because the room was completely screened and bug-free, we didn’t have to use it for the duration of the stay. We would have liked to see a 4-poster mosquito net but because we didn’t need to use it, we weren’t too concerned.

We had a nice little patio area that looked right out to the water. The beach front rooms were steps from the sand and there was a funky hammock hanging between two palms right in front of our patio.

There are 3 beach rooms in a single building facing the ocean. Each of these rooms are the same and their front patios are separated by a small brick barrier. A higher barrier would have been a welcomed improvement, so that each deck had complete privacy from it’s neighbours. but really, with the beach straight ahead, there’s no reason to look anywhere else!

Other Rooms

Sugar Reef Estate is split into two separate areas. There is the restaurant and dining area, along with the three beach rooms right on the water. Up the hill and through the lush coconut plantation, there is the enormous French House, which has another 5 rooms. Each room in the French house is completely different, but all come with the charming plantation home ambience and the tasteful local dark wood furniture and decor. The views from the French house are absolutely sublime, and if you decide to stay up here, we highly recommend the Master Suite which we think is the most stunning room in the hotel and possibly on the entire Island!

The French House
The Dining

Thanks to professionally trained chef John, the food at Sugar Reef is fantastic. meals are eaten in the dining room which looks out over the dazzling beach. In the morning, the amazing breeze blows in as guests enjoy a delicious complimentary breakfast. Lunch can be served at any time, and at dinner service the dining room truly lights up. Each table is set with a single glowing candle and light dinner music is played over the speakers. even though dinner service appears to be formal, there is still the same casual atmosphere that really makes Sugar Reef special.

We tried almost everything on the menu and not once were we disappointed with the food. My personal favourite was the tuna tartar appetizer (which I ate every day) and Dariece couldn’t get enough of chef John’s mahi mahi. many people say that Sugar Reef has the best restaurant on Bequia Island and after eating here 3 meals / day, three days in a row, we can honestly say that we agree.

The Staff

These days, hotels and luxury accommodation are becoming less and less personal. Huge, sprawling structures are cropping up on beaches all over the Caribbean, some with over 100 staff! Sugar Reef is refreshingly cozy and intimate with just 12 members of staff, each one genuinely interested in their guests. This hotel prides itself on having a family feel and it definitely succeeds at giving guests a warm welcome and a comfortable stay.

 

The Amenities

There is no pool, air conditioning or spa at Sugar Reef, but these types of amenities simply wouldn’t meld with the eco-friendly, natural vibe of the hotel. What you do get here are stunning rooms, set close to the sea on a stunning plantation estate. There are plenty of walks both through the hotel grounds and up into the surrounding hillsides. One particular walk will take you to Bequia Head at the very end of the island, where you have stunning views of the other islands in the Grenadines chain.

The rooms come with daily cleanings and turn-down service, as well as endless fresh water and a complimentary breakfast. The beach in front of the hotel is stunning, but when we were there some moss had moved in and darkened the water a bit. We were told that this happens periodically but never lasts more than a couple of weeks.

They even have board games and a real espresso machine! perfect for rainy days.

Kayaks, snorkel gear and bicycles are offered to guests free of charge.

The Grounds

You can explore for hours and never even leave the hotel grounds. The estate that Sugar Reef sits on is stunning and the walk between the beach rooms and restaurant, up to the French house is terrific exercise. There are hundreds of palm trees and blossoming flower bushes all around the home ,and the drive in looks like something from a springtime post card. Sugar Reef probably sits on the most gorgeous plot of land on Bequia island.

Room Rates

Click here to book your room now!

Click here For A full list Of room Rates

2014­/2015 rate Sheet (Prices in us Dollars)

WINTER (REGULAR/WEEK­OR­MORE)

From December 20 through April 10

Beachfront, 300/260

Master Suite, 275/240

Battowia, 220/190

Secret Guests’, 175/150

Baliceaux, 175/150

Mistress’s Cottage, 150/130

RELAXED (REGULAR/WEEK­OR­MORE)

From April 11 through December 19

Beachfront, 240/210

Master Suite, 220/190

Battowia, 175/150

Secret Guests’, 140/120

Baliceaux, 140/120

Mistress’s Cottage, 120/105

Room rates do not include 10% government tax (VAT) and 10% service Charge. Rates, in us dollars, include wifi, daily maid service and continental breakfast.

Overall Opinion

We chose to stay at Sugar Reef for Dariece’s 30th birthday and we’re very happy we did. We couldn’t have asked for a more relaxing, comfortable and enjoyable stay. The staff was very attentive and they planned a special birthday cocktail and desert for Dariece. Three of the wait staff even sung a Caribbean version of happy birthday for her. We looked at every room in the hotel and each has its own character and charm. The rooms in the French house vary greatly in size and appeal, but all are clean, comfortable and well furnished. The Master Suite is by far the most stunning room in the hotel.

What really made Sugar Reef stand out was the staff. rarely do you find such kind and committed staff in this part of the world and Sugar Reef has terrific service in spades.

Sugar Reef dining area at Night
-Pros

Adult-only hotel

Great food

Beautiful property

Right on a nice beach

Excellent views from every room (beach from beach rooms, sea and jungle from French House)

Friendly staff

Nearby walks / hikes

Turtle sanctuary nearby

Very fast wi-fi (especially important for us)

Location: quiet & secluded (also a con for some people)

Very amazing decor (especially the driftwood chandeliers and mirrors)

VERY Eco-friendly

Incredibly unique

-Cons

Mosquito net should be 4-poster (but you don’t really need one anyway)

Location: The hotel is about a 45 minute walk (10 minute taxi) from town (a pro for some people)

The beach has moss a couple of weeks / year (it’s still swimmable and stunning though)

It’s very hard to leave!

Check Out Our accommodation spotlight video For Sugar Reef!

Final Impression

From the moment we checked in, until the moment we left, we were treated like pals and family and it was that unique atmosphere that really made Sugar Reef stand out for us. We became terrific pals with the manager Judit and we hope to one day return for another glorious stay. We highly recommend Sugar Reef for anyone looking for a one of a kind eco-luxury hotel in the Caribbean.

Want to stay in this gorgeous place? You can book your room here!

A big thank you to Sugar Reef for hosting us during this portion of our stay on Bequia Island. As always, all reviews, thoughts and opinions remain our own. 

Disclaimer:Goats On The road is an Amazon associate and also an affiliate for some other retailers. This means we earn commissions if you click links on our blog and purchase from those retailers.

Posted: 08/02/12 | August 2nd, 2012

Before I went on my cruise, a lot of people said they wouldn’t cruise because of their poor labor practices. Cruises exploit workers, they said. I’ve heard about the long hours and low pay that most cruise workers endure, but rather than assume, I looked to my pal Wandering Earl, who for a number of years working on cruise ships as a tour director. Earl and I spoke about what it’s really like to be a member of the “crew” on a cruise ship.

Nomadic Matt: how did you end up working on a cruise ship?
Wandering Earl: Back in 2000, I met a fellow traveler who told me about his experiences working onboard cruise ships. I was intrigued by his stories of waking up one morning in Jamaica, the next morning in Barbados, and the next in Costa Rica. I also liked the idea of more travel and vacation time.

He spoke of working with hundreds of crew members from around the world, of crew parties, of free activities in every port, and of a working/living/social environment that seemed like something I wanted to experience.

After I finished teaching in Thailand, I contacted him and he put me directly in touch with a vice president he knew at carnival cruise Lines.

Tell us about your job(s) over the years. What do you do exactly?
I began as an assistant tour manager, but during my first contract, I was promoted to tour manager, a position I held for the remaining 4.5 years I worked on ships. As a tour manager, I was in charge of the tour office, which is the department that organizes land excursions for passengers in all the ports of call.

For me, my schedule involved being the first person off the ship in the morning, dispatching the tours for a few hours, enjoying some free time in port, then returning to the office in the evening, where I would continue organizing the excursions for the following ports and complete the necessary daily reports to be sent to the head office.

On days when the ship wasn’t in port, I would be in my office still communicating with the tour operators, organizing the tours for future voyages, and dealing with any number of unexpected situations that would arise.

During sea days, I would also give presentations in the main theater, where I would talk about the ports the ship was scheduled to check out and which excursions we offered. [Editor’s note: I don’t remember any of these on my cruise!]

A lot of people criticize cruise liners for their poor working conditions. have you ever felt mistreated?
Not at all. While crew members do work long hours, the staff are treated quite well. most ships these days offer very premium crew accommodation, along with several dining halls, crew bars, crew shops, Internet cafés, coffee bars, crew gyms, and party areas, all specifically for the crew.

There are language courses you can take, and even business courses and other certifications available to all crew members. There are frequent movie nights, theme parties (cruise lines organize parties for the major holidays of every nationality working onboard the ship), and plenty of other crew activities.

Out of the thousands of crew members I’ve interacted with, I’ve never heard of any major incident of a crew member being mistreated.

Have working conditions improved over the years?
Absolutely. There is simply no way in this day and age that cruise lines would be able to survive if the working conditions were poor. and with every new ship that is built, the crew areas are always improved in order to ensure that the quality of life is as high as possible, something that is important when you are working in such an enclosed environment.

There are always very specific rules in place as to how many hours every crew member can work, how much free time they must receive each week, and what their specific duties entail.

And the safety of every crew member really is a priority, at least with the three cruise lines I worked for. In my experience, the officers in command of every ship do whatever it takes to ensure that the crew members are as happy as possible.

Many people say most cruise liners hire people from developing nations because they are less likely to speak out, especially for lower-level positions. Thoughts?
In my opinion, the reason why many of the “lower” jobs are filled with people from developing nations is that the cruise lines can get away with paying them lower wages.

Most of the “lower” jobs receive very little money from the cruise lines (maybe $200–500 USD per month), with gratuities making up the rest of their salary. It would be a lot harder to convince people from the Western world to take a job for such a small base pay, but for those from developing countries, this amount is typically much more than they would earn back at home.

As for keeping crew members in control, every cruise ship I’ve worked on had a crew office that was serious about listening to crew member issues and complaints, regardless of the position they held. and crew members were encouraged to speak out about anything they felt needed to be changed, whether it pertained to work safety, improved crew facilities, salaries, or anything else.

As a result, changes were made on a regular basis, and crew members who suggested major changes that were indeed implemented were typically rewarded for voicing their concerns in the first place.

What are common misconceptions people have about life on a cruise ship?
Most of the people I meet either think that crew members work 24 hours per day for six months straight, without any time off, or they think that crew members just party all the time because such work is not really “work” at all.

But both of these are untrue.

Working on a cruise ship involves long hours for sure, but every crew member does have free time, and there are always crew activities organized to ensure that ship life involves much more than just work. Likewise, while there are crew parties organized every week or two, working on a cruise ship does involve real responsibilities, and anybody who doesn’t take their job seriously will find themselves out of a job before long.

Another misconception is that the pay onboard cruise ships is quite low. and while some positions earn a low base salary, when combined with tips, usually these crew members are earning much more than they would earn in their home countries.

Also, for other positions, such as those in the front office, tour office, or entertainment department, the salaries can be quite generous. and when you consider that crew members have very few expenses during their contracts (room and board, health insurance, flights to/from the ship, etc., are all taken care of), it is possible to save much more money during one contract than most people would save in a year or more working a job back on land.

Really? A guy in Haiti was telling me that after working eight months on a ship, his brother would bring home $5,000 USD. While that might be a lot for Haiti, it still seems like subhuman, sweatshop labor pay. how much did you make?
To bring home over $600 per month (which is more than the average salary in dozens upon dozens of countries) while having all of your expenses paid for is quite a good setup, and any crew member is always free to leave if they feel the pay isn’t worth it. That guy from Haiti can work for 5–10 years on a cruise ship, go home and live quite well, and in many cases, retire. I can’t tell you how many times fellow crew members from developing countries would show me photos of the brand new three-bedroom house, complete with a swimming pool and ocean views, that they just bought back home from their cruise ship salaries.

As for my salary, it varied depending on bonuses but was generally $3,000–4,500 per month.

What’s one of your “day from hell” stories?
This would be a tough call. maybe it was the day our ship arrived in Panama, and I found out that our tour operator had to cancel the “Panama Canal Tour” (which was the highlight of the cruise), a tour that 800 passengers had booked.

After explaining the situation to those 800 people from the stage of the ship’s theater, I then spent one hour being screamed at, being called nasty names, having fruit thrown at me, having one man spit on me, being threatened, and having one guy jump over some seats to try and attack me. and the abuse continued for the rest of the cruise.

The best day on the job was _____________.
The day I disembarked the ship in order to escort a multi-day overland tour to Jordan and Egypt.

During our 2.5-month world cruise on one particular ship, our department offered several of these extended excursions to our passengers, and each tour was to be escorted by a member of our team.

So, I enjoyed a five-star, eight-day trip through Egypt and Jordan, visiting Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Sharm el-Sheikh, the Sinai Desert, Cairo, and Luxor, all without having to spend a single dollar. It was definitely one of the best perks of my job.

For more about Earl, life on cruise ships, and how you can work on cruise ships, check out Earl’s phenomenal and detailed definitive book on getting a job on a cruise ship. It’s an excellent resource for anybody looking to get into the cruise industry, and it’s updated every year. Earl is the best expert I know on the subject!
 

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

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

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

SafetyWing (best for everyone)

Insure My trip (for those over 70)

Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

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

hello everyone,

I wanted to share another video from a recent Nomadic Network event. this one is all about “How to Volunteer on Farms around the World.”

Have you ever wanted to spend some quality time with a goat? 

Are you the traveler who seeks authentic experiences with locals? 

Have you ever been curious about farm life, but felt out of place as a city kid? 

If so, WWOOFing may be for you!  

WWOOF, or world broad opportunities on organic Farms, is a net…

Hey! Sorry to interrupt but….

You seem to have stumbled onto a subscriber-only article!

(Already a member? Log in here.)

This short article is exclusively for members of Nomadic Matt Plus! NM+ is our member’s only program that gives readers like yourself access to perk blog posts. members also get totally free books, guidebooks, blogging courses, access to our events, event replays, monthly giveaways, t-shirts, exclusive money-saving travel discounts, and more!

As a member of Nomadic Matt Plus, you not only get tons of perks to make your travels less expensive but you help us keep creating the extensive travel content you love!

Best of all, subscribing costs less than the cost of lunch!

If you want access to this short article (as well as 100+ other member-only articles) and all those other remarkable perks, join Nomadic Matt plus and start getting much more out of your travels today!

Learn More

Login

We stayed for over an hour at the chocolate Hills as well as drank as much buko juice as we could. At this point, the whole countryside trip had gotten tiring as much as it was exciting. sitting in the van for hours was much more exhausting than we expected.

Our next stop was the just Butterflies Conservation center which homes a butterfly garden, a restaurant as well as more. It is Bohol’s very first butterfly livelihood breeding program aiming to safeguard the butterfly population with breeding as well as releasing as well as plant research.

The center is found in the municipality of Bilar, around 40 kilometers from the city of Tagbilaran. It is only 5 minutes from the Bilar Man-Made Forest.

We paid the P50 entrance charge as well as a trip guide ushered us with the entire experience.

The Conservation center harbors a Butterfly Garden, a vibrant landscaped garden full of flowering plants as well as of course, butterflies. Our guide stated that much more than 60 types of butterflies come to the garden.

Butterfly resting in the shade in the Butterfly Enclosure
A spider at Butterfly Garden
More informative screens about Bohol wildlife

There was likewise a Butterfly Enclosure. It was a part of the garden covered with nets. inside were much more butterflies just flying around, playing, feeding as well as breeding. They stated that over 20 types of regional butterflies were inside.

After our tour, we had our obligatory picture-taking.

The bad Traveler’s bad buddies while pseudo-meditating
My buddy Ayn on the hammock
Truth be told, the location was quite however there was nothing that sets this butterfly garden aside from those discovered in other parts of the country. I assumption when you’ve been to one butterfly garden, it’s like you’ve been to all of them. however it was okay. We understand that our P50 entrance charge would be spent in the advancement of this location as well as security of the butterfly types in Bohol.

How to get to just Butterflies Park: From the Tagbilaran airport, take a tricycle to the Bus terminal as well as board a bus to Bilar or Carmen. Ask the chauffeur or conductor to decrease you off at just Butterflies Center. If you’re taking a travel package, you may ask the trip operator to include it in your itinerary.
Entrance Fee: P50 per person

More suggestions on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Related Posts:

Philippine Tarsier Conservation area in Loboc, Bohol

Man-made forest of Bilar as well as Loboc, Bohol

Palawan Butterfly Garden: charm as well as the Bugs in Puerto Princesa

CALAUIT SAFARI PARK: What to expect

Graciano Lopez Jaena Park: Jaro, Iloilo City, Philippines

The chocolate Hills: Tales of the Giants of Bohol, Philippines

Bohol before 2013 Earthquake: Baclayon, Dauis, as well as Loboc Churches

St. Monica Church in Alburquerque, Bohol