Category: Lifestyle

You can vacation like a tourist. Or, you can vacation like a traveler. What’s the difference between the two? The former sees a destination through the eyes of an outsider, while a traveler experiences the world like a local.

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines and want to be in the second category, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn five ways to soak in all the splendor of the Philippines while enjoying a truly authentic and immersive experience.

1. Feast on Filipino Foods

One of the best ways to get to know a country is to savor the local fare. And you’re in luck in the Philippines. Not only is the country’s cuisine delicious, it’s also affordable.

A few of our favorite Filipino dishes include tocino, AKA “Filipino bacon;” kinilaw, raw fish in a vinegar-marinade; sinigang, a sour stew and the ultimate Filipino “comfort food;” adobe, often cited as the national dish of the Philippines; and lechon, seasoned, slow-roasted suckling pig.

The perfect sweet treat to end any meal? The shaved ice and evaporated milk concoction, halo halo. 

2. Be flexible—but not punctual

There’s nothing wrong with having a plan, but tying yourself down to an unalterable itinerary can prevent you from the joy of unexpected and unanticipated discoveries that won’t be found in any guidebook.

On a related note, if you’re lucky enough to be invited to visit a local’s home in the Philippines, don’t ever be on time;. While showing up late for a social engagement may be polite in some countries, it’s considered rude to be punctual in the Philippines. To be greeted with enthusiasm as opposed to dismay, plan on arriving a respectable 15 minutes late.

3. Let it go—and karaoke

Karaoke is pretty much a way of life in the Philippines. Regardless of whether you think you’re the next American Idol or you’ve never sung a note outside the privacy of your car or shower, you must take the mic for a spin if you truly want to live like the locals.

And remember—no one will judge you if you sound like a yodeling cat. By the same token, however, you should be respectful of the talent (or lack thereof) of the other singers.

4.  Go island hopping

The Philippines is home to a breathtaking 7,000 islands—each with its own distinctive vibe and flavor. One way to experience a variety of what the Philippines has to offer? Go island hopping.

Here are a few ideas for where to go and what to see while you’re there. Exploring Cebu’s stunning Inambakan Falls and epic Sardine Run, swimming with the sharks on remote Malapascua, discovering Palawan’s hidden lagoons and breathtaking beaches, splashing with the giant sea turtles on Dumaguette, scootering around pristine Coron, and taking in the showstopping sunset on Cambari.

5. Go off-the-beaten-path

Attractions like Puka Beach (and the shops there), Metro Manila, and any establishments or tours billing themselves as “the largest” or “the best” are likely to be packed with tourists. The locals, however, avoid these places like the plague. Another red flag that an establishment caters to tourists? Signs and menus that are written in English and other foreign languages.

Instead of relying on the same guidebooks every other tourist is using to plan each element of your trip, ask a local—such as the hotel concierge, a taxi driver, or your Airbnb host.

On that note, one last way to live like the locals? Live with the locals. Staying in someone’s home through a vacation rental or other home sharing arrangement will give you a much more authentic perspective of life in the Philippines—as well as access to someone who may be able to offer insights on the best neighborhood places in the to eat, shop, and discover.

From the outside, China may seem homogenous and monocultural, but once you delve further, you’ll find out that assumption is wrong. With 56 official ethnic groups and 100s of other unique communities throughout the country, it is almost impossible to get to know it all. But you can get a deeper understanding of the country than most visitors if you are willing to make a little effort. Here are things you can do to know the real China better. 

Five Ways to Better Understand China

Number 5: Stay Away From Guided Tours

The draw to join a guided tour when visiting China is strong. After all, you can’t speak the language, and most tour groups seem like a good value. Although you will probably save money and see a lot more touristy stuff with a group, you definitely won’t see the real China, but only an approved and sanitized version of it. Independent travel may be more expensive and riskier, but it is worth it overall. A good travel guidebook and phone translator can help make traveling to China on your own very doable. 

Number 4: Understand the Political Landscape

Politics play a tremendous role in the lives of ordinary Chinese people from their school days onwards. The government delivers a codified political message through the country’s news and most aspect of public life. So, despite many Chinese people being sophisticated and modern thinkers, the majority still tow the party line in most situations. Understanding this aspect of the Chinese psyche sheds light on why Chinese people can hold certain beliefs that dumbfound Westerners. 

Number 3: Learn the History of China

China has a long and colorful history, and modern Chinese people appreciate and incorporate it into many aspects of their daily lives. Chinese TV shows and movies based on ancient history are popular and are the basis for countless historical comics and novels as well. And, of course, the ideas of ancient philosophers like Confucius, Sun Tzu, and Lao Tzu are still taught in school. This shared history seeps into the way Chinese people view the world, and by learning Chinese history, you will better understand how the Chinese people think and why they do what they do. 

Number 2: Take a Western-Bound Train

Many of the most popular cities with tourists are on the east coast of the country, but if you want to get to discover the heart of China, you need to head west, preferably by train. Traveling by train exposes you to the real China, both inside and outside the train compartment. You will have time to converse with locals and see the changing landscape while getting a chance to experience the landscape and sheer scope of the country. Some cities to consider traveling to include: Guiyang, Xi’an, and Chongqing. 

Number 1: Meet the People

There is no better way to get to know a country than to engage with the people there. Luckily, most of the young people in China can speak English decently and are more than happy to try it out by having a conversation with you. So, when you are in China, put yourself out there, and speak with locals. Whether with a patron at a local bar or a staff member at your hotel, you will come away with a new perspective on the country. 

Making an effort to learn more about China will make your trip more exciting and give you a better understanding of one of the most influential countries in the world. 

 

There is plenty to see in the fantastic city of Istanbul, Turkey. There are historical sites that every visitor needs to see at least once, like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Spice Market. What about those lesser known but just as majestic places in the City of the World’s Desire? Consider five unique attractions that you need to add to your itinerary. 

1. Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is an old underground chamber that served as an early water filtering system for Istanbul. This cistern, which can contain 80,000 cubic meters of water and is about the size of two football fields, is a one-of-a-kind historical place to see.

The cistern, which has survived centuries of battle and siege, was erected in 532 by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to retain fresh water for the palace and neighboring structures. Take a tour to discover more about the history, especially about the famed Medusa heads at the base of one of the 336 marble columns that support the structure.

2. Ottoman Bird Palaces

People had been making birdhouses in Istanbul even before the Ottoman Empire, but they were not as extravagant. The Ottomans created sophisticated multi-level buildings with numerous ornamentation and embellishments rather than simple constructions. They resembled the type of stately home you’d expect to see royalty living in, with elaborate windows, balconies, roofs, and towers.

Today, there are only a few of these ornate bird houses left. They’ve aged and faded with time, yet some still have the amazing features that make them so appealing. You’ll find the oldest one on the side of the Büyükçekmece Bridge.

3. Tombs of the Sultans

Speaking of palaces, few are as beautiful as the tombs of the sultans of yore and their families. The tombs of Mehmed III, Selim II, Murad III, Brahim I, and Mustafa I resemble majestic palaces in honor of the memories of sultans’ past rather than what most people imagine when they think of permanent resting places for old, departed royals. You’ll find the tombs along the periphery of the Hagia Sophia. 

4. Viking Runes

While at the Hagia Sophia, make sure to see the small etching written in a runic script by a Viking. They are the Viking version of Halfdan was here. Halfdan was most likely a soldier trying to pass some time back centuries before and one of many members of the Varangian Guard who came to Constantinople looking for fortune. 

5. Miniaturk

Get unique views of Istanbul from one of the world’s largest miniature parks. It offers 1/25 scale versions of some of the most popular sites in the city, including the Obelisk of Theodosius, The Mostar Bridge, and, of course, the Hagia Eirene Church. The park covers 15 acres and will likely be one of the most interesting things you see while visiting Istanbul. 

There is plenty to see in Istanbul and lots to miss. Make sure you see some of its more unique attractions while in Turkey.

 

Traveling can be a great adventure. It can also be stressful and frustrating. Which way it goes is out of your control to a certain extent, but there are some things you can do to make it easier.

Here are five of the biggest, most common mistakes people make when they travel, so you can avoid them.

1. Getting Too Ambitious About Seeing the Sights

Sure it’s great to visit that big city, when you’ve spent your whole life in the country. But you can’t see everything in a day or two. If you plan an itinerary that has you going from sunup to sundown and beyond, running from place to place, you aren’t really going to have time to stop and take things in.

Instead, stop and smell the metaphorical roses. You can always add additional things, and even make a backup list before you head out on your vacation, but don’t cram your days too full right from the start.

2. Assuming There Are Places to Stay

Be sure to book your hotel in advance. You don’t want to travel to a new location and assume that there will be a good places to stay at a reasonable price. It’s often less expensive to book days or weeks in advance of your travel date. You can also get more options for rooms that way, and may receive other perks, too. You don’t want to be stuck in an unfamiliar location with no hotel.

3. Not Researching Important Dates

If there’s a big concert, festival, or convention going on at your travel destination, you might want to move the dates of your vacation. Hotels and restaurants can fill up quickly, and the extra influx of people could make navigating around the area more complicated, too. By researching in advance, you’ll know you’re visiting the destination at a good time.

4. Not Leaving Your Valuables at Home

Leave those expensive rings and necklaces at home. Sure, you want to look great in all your Instagram photos, but you can get some cheap jewelry to give you the same look. You’ll be less likely to get robbed, and if you lose your jewelry or someone takes it, you’re not devastated and financially damaged, either.

While you’re at it, be sure to tell your bank that you’re going on an adventure. That will reduce the chances of your card being declined, so you can focus on the fun.

5. Taking More Than They Need

When you travel, it’s very important to be realistic about the amount of luggage you take. If you’re going to be gone for a week, you don’t need three weeks worth of clothing. Having a little extra can make sense in case of spills, stains, or other damage, but an extra shirt and some extra socks and underwear is probably enough.

Space is limited, and it’s no fun to carry around a bunch of heavy luggage, either. Pare down your essentials, and remember that most places aren’t so rural that you can’t buy something if you really need it. Have a great trip!

New Zealand is one of those countries that will take your breath away with beautiful scenery and clean, soft sandy beaches. Where ever you travel, though, it’s important to remember you are a guest and respect your host. There are some things you might think are no big deal, but that will be offensive to the kind people of New Zealand. So while you plan your trip to this amazing country, here are five things to avoid doing. 

1. Don’t Be Disrespectful to the Native Culture

Part of the charm of New Zealand is the chance to experience a unique culture there – the Maori. Do your homework before you leave and learn more about the Maori people. Certain parts of the country are sacred to them. That doesn’t mean you can’t see them, but you need to respect their culture and land while there. 

Avoid smoking, learn a few Maori words so you can understand some of their language, and don’t put your hands on tapu or sacred objects. If invited to a powhiri Maori welcoming ceremony, do as they ask. If they sing, you sing. When they eat, you eat, too. 

2. Don’t Compare New Zealand to Australia

It is a common error for newbie tourists to the country and one they don’t take kindly. Also, don’t assume New Zealand is part of Australia just because it is off the coast of its neighbor. They are very different countries and cultures. If you want to visit Australia, plan your trip there and don’t go to New Zealand. If you want to see both, know that they are different. 

3. Don’t Turn Your Nose Up at Their Traditional Food

If you are interested in enjoying New Zealand and everything beautiful there, then be open-minded about their food. The Maori have their own food culture, too, and it might surprise you how much you love it. If it doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of other types of cuisine in the country, so move on without comment. You might find you like it if you are willing to try it, though. 

4. Don’t Abuse the Tapu

In the Maori language, tapu means head. You should avoid touching someone’s head because in New Zealand culture, tapu is sacred. You should also be careful how you treat things that involve the head, such as hats. You wouldn’t put your hat on the table, for example. You shouldn’t throw pillows around, either.

5. Don’t Put Anything on the Table

Don’t sit at tables, especially if they have food on them. It is considered impolite to place your bottom or bag on the table. You should also avoid sitting on pillows or cushions, but you can use them to support your back.

New Zealand done right will definitely take your breath away. 

 

The most popular destinations in Portugal are Lisbon and Porto, but while these cities offer charm, history, and lots to do, they don’t represent the real Portugal. If you want to see how the locals live, you need to get off the beaten path and into the real Portugal. The options are endless, but we suggest exploring these five destinations. 

1. Alentejo
Alentejo is one of the least developed and least populated areas in not just Portugal but all of western Europe. This charming region features cork oak forests, wildflower meadows, quaint white-washed villages, and pristine beaches. The region attracts many Portuguese tourists from the cities during July and August, but during the rest of the year, this sleepy area is peaceful and lonely. If you like sweeping beaches and beautiful roads to yourself, this is a must-visit destination. The area is also famous for rich sausages, dark hams, and world-class wines. 

2. Obidos
Located in central Portugal, Obidos is a fairytale-esque village just an hour’s drive from Lisbon. Get away from the crowds and explore the shops and restaurants on the town’s winding cobblestone streets. Then, head to the Obidos Castle. One of the Seven Wonders of Portugal, the castle has been around since Moorish times. You can explore the grounds, walk on the brick walls, or even rent a room to stay in the castle. If you come to the town from mid-July to August, you can enjoy the medieval market and fair, which makes you feel like you’ve stepped back into the Middle Ages.  

3. Algarve

The southernmost region of Portugal, the Algarve features stunning beaches with dramatic rock formations and historical heritage sites. For a more traditional vacation, fly into Faro and then enjoy the villas, bars, and restaurants along the coast to Lagos which has many charming places to stay. If you prefer to be more off the beaten path, check out the region’s comparatively less developed western Atlantic coast. 

4. Trilha dos Pescadore

If you want to find yourself while exploring the real Portugal, you may want to consider hiking the Trilha dos Pescadore. Part of the Rota Vicentina, this is one of the most beautiful seaside hiking paths in the world, and you will be treated to great views of seaside cliffs, migratory birds, and marine animals. If you walk 5 miles a day for a week, you can get through the nearly 80-mile trail.  

5. Viana do Castelo
The most common castle for tourists to go and see is the Sintra. Unfortunately, while it is a breathtaking sight, it can also be crowded and overrun with tourists. Viana de Castelo, in contrast, offers architectural beauty without the crowds. This is the place where Portuguese families take their vacations. Check out the views from the Byzantine Santuario de Santa Luzia or explore the town’s many manor homes and monasteries. 

Use these five destinations as a jumping-off point. Then, talk with locals to get even more ideas about where to go. The most important thing — look for destinations where tourism is not the main industry. With that strategy, you will get to see and enjoy the real Portugal. 

Sao Paolo is not only Brazil’s largest city, but it’s the fourth most populous city on the globe, home to 30 million people in what is termed a megalopolis, or “super city.” There is plenty to see and do, and here are five of the most unique destinations in the area. 

Sao Paulo Zoo

The largest zoo in Brazil, this zoo is home to 3,200 animals, including more than 200 species of birds, all in enclosures that mimic the natural surroundings of the different mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. It includes a large farm that grows vegetables for animal feed and produces materials used for animal enclosures. Located south of the city in what was originally the Atlantic Forest, you can easily spend a day here, captivated as much by the habitat as by the animals.

Underground Crypt of the Sao Paulo Cathedral

The Cathedral itself is massive, but underground crypts that feature statuary of the biblical Job and Saint Jerone almost qualify as a separate cathedral. The final resting place of the city’s bishops, archbishops, and other prominent Brazilians, there is also a huge brass tomb that honors Chief Tibiriçá, a 16th-century native who is credited with helping Portuguese Jesuits colonize São Paulo after he converted to Catholicism. Guided tours of the underground space are offered every day during set hours.

Mercado Municipal de São Paulo 

Nicknamed the Mercadao, this incredible food market was established in 1933 and is housed in an eclectic industrial building that features distinctive stained glass and a towering dome. Open seven days a week, it offers visitors a true “taste” of everyday life in this city, with an ever-changing variety of fruits and vegetables, fresh and dry meats, poultry, cheese, spices, olive oil, and wine. On the second floor, you’ll find a variety of eateries, many of which offer the traditional Mortadella sandwich. It’s a great place to watch the locals and relax a bit! The vendors can be annoying, and you’ll want to be aware of pickpockets and hustlers, but it’s worth a visit.

Town of Embu Das Artes 

Escape the bustle of the city for an afternoon and visit a center of creative arts and galleries just 40 minutes away. It’s a unique adventure, allowing you a chance to shop for souvenirs, stroll picturesque streets, sample Brazilian dishes in small cafes that might also feature live music, visit local artists in their galleries, and enjoy unhurried rural life. It’s a charming detour from the primary tourist destinations.

Enjoy a Day at the Beach

Of course, Brazil’s largest city is inland and has no beaches, but it can be rewarding to take the 50-mile trip to the coast and dip your toes in the Atlantic. The closest beaches are situated at the mouth of the river that leads to Sao Paulo. Santos Beach offers a beautiful stretch of sand as well as impressive gardens. It’s located near Sao Vicente, the oldest town in Brazil and the hometown of soccer star Pele. Or continue to the Green Coast, between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, to find other secluded beach retreats.

Ranking and rating airports is a bit like ranking and rating trips to the DMV. Nobody really enjoys them, and everybody has a “worst ever” story. However, industry experts have complied hard performance statistics, traveler reviews, and other key criteria to separate true chaotic fiascos from relatively minor annoyances in order to definitively identify the worst of the worst when it comes to terrible airports.

 

 Here are the top five major US airports to avoid if you can!

 

1. LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

 

Located in the New York City borough of Queens, LaGuardia Airport has undergone some significant renovations in recent years, but its confusing, maze-like structure remains, and its older sections are still dilapidated and drab to say the least. And thanks to its slow TSA processing, you can expect to wait for hours in line while inching toward your gate. But thanks to its wonky flight schedule, you may still catch your flight. Nearly 2,600 flights out of LaGuardia were delayed in the first few months of 2022 alone.

 

2. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

 

A single aerial photograph of Los Angeles International Airport speaks volumes about the inefficiency of the Los Angeles International Airport. Positioned around a disorganized, U-shaped, double-decker roadway, this sprawling airport has nine different terminals that are extremely difficult to travel among. Connecting flight passengers must often take a long shuttle bus ride to reach a terminal that requires a second security screening upon entrance. Coupled with its legendarily poor customer service and inconvenient public transpiration options, its convoluted layout makes LAX an airport to miss.  

 

3. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

 

The Philadelphia International Airport landed dead last on a comprehensive 2021 passenger satisfaction survey by the respected consumer research authority J.D. Power. This rapidly aging airport has been described as dated, decrepit, and downright dirty. According to one review, even its newly installed fillable water bottle stations dispense water that “tastes like it was drained from a pool.” Other complains about PHL include its long security screening lines and its terrible restaurant offerings.

 

4. O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

 

The recipient of the lowest ranking on the 2021 J.D. Power air travel passenger satisfaction list in the “mega” airports category, Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport has long suffered from regular flight cancellations and delays. Considering the windy and snowy conditions that are all too common in the area, many of these cancellations and delays are beyond the airport’s control. However, O’Hare also suffers from overcrowding, parking issues, frequent baggage mix-ups, and unclear terminal signage among other problems.  

 

5. Denver International Airport (DIA)

 

Like O’Hare, the Denver International Airport is inhibited by its natural surroundings. Both incoming and outgoing DIA flights are commonly subjected to a phenomenon called “mountain wave” up and down drafts. Due to the presence of nearby mountain ridges, shaky approaches and departures are the norm whenever wind speeds exceed around 25 knots. Beyond the turbulence, DIA is despised for long TSA lines, frequent flight delays, terrible parking, limited shuttle service, poor public transit, and many issues that are common among the other airports on this list.

“If there is a final frontier of tourism left, it’s Saudi Arabia,” Lonely Planet recently hailed. If you’re going to be spending time in the country soon, you’ll want to make sure you know the best places to check out. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back!

1. Kingdom Center Tower

Perhaps the most iconic symbol of Saudi Arabia, the city’s signature skyscraper soars a staggering 992 feet over Riyadh.

Take the high-speed lift up 99 floors to Kingdom Center’s world-famous Sky Bridge observation deck. Here, you’ll gain an astonishing perspective of the glistening capital city below thanks to floor-to-ceiling glass panels and panoramic urban views.

One tip to avoid lines and crowds at the popular tourist attraction? Go on a weekday. While you’re there, leave time to enjoy Kingdom Center’s other offerings, including luxury shopping, dining, entertainment, a five-star hotel, and more.

2. King Abdulaziz Historical Center (National Museum)

Also known as the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, this grand complex in Riyadh was erected around the compound of the architecturally stunning Murabba Palace.

This educational landmark plays host to more than eight exhibition halls, a mosque, library, conference hall, park, green fields, and fountain.

3. Mecca and Medina

While two separate destinations, we’re combining these high holy places due to their shared significance to Islamic history as the birthplace and teaching place of the Prophet Muhammad.

These sacred cities also share something else in common—especially if you’re hoping to experience them up close and personal: they’re both open only to Muslims.

4. Elephant Rock

Located in Al-‘Ula area of Mada’in Salih, Jabal AlFil, AKA “the elephant rock,” is one of the world’s most spellbinding geological marvels.

Rising majestically over the golden sands surrounding it, this magnificent monolithic structure more than earns its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5. Fakieh Aquarium

Traveling with kids? Fakieh Aquarium, the country’s only public aquarium, offers fun for the whole family.

Featuring more than 200 aquatic species sourced from the Red Sea as well as the world’s oceans and seas, this Jeddah destination is a truly wondrous setting for exploring underwater wonders.

In addition to exhibits, Fakieh Aquarium also offers interactive fun in the form of daily dolphin and sea lion shows.

One last thing to keep in mind about this list? While we’ve narrowed it down to five, these attractions shared here are just an infinitesimal sampling of what Saudi Arabia has to offer.

Other spellbinding things to see and do on your visit to Saudi Arabia include Abraj Al-Bait Towers, Al Balad, Al Baqi, Al Rahma Mosque, Masmak Fortress, Jebel Fihrayn, Diriyah, World Sights Park, Rijal Almaa, Makkah Museum, King Fahd’s Fountain, the Riyadh Zoo,  Jeddah Lighthouse, Red Sea Mall, Tabuk Castle, Wahbah Crater, and many other amazing and unforgettable attractions.