Why Perhentians?!

When I was planning my Malaysia trip, I was always inquisitive about exploring interior island, and something worth giving my heart to, something chaotic yet very serene.

 These Islands located in the east coast of Malaysia, known for its beauty and exotic place for the vacationers. The clear blue water and the white sand of the island attractes the tourist visiting Malaysia.   There are couple of people who wish to dive inside the torquise blue water to explore the under water mystery.

The Perhentian Islands are two islands named Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian Island) and Pulau Perhentian Besar (Large Perhentian Island). 'Kecil' is majorly accomadated with young crowds, backpackers while Besar is all about family relaxation and chilled out couples.

This paradise is famous for scuba diving and snorkeling. Only beach lovers are welcome here, do not expect discos, bars or variety of liquours.

How to get there :- 

Option 1. Fly from KL to Kota bharu, take a cab till kuala besut (jetty station) you will find many boats leaving for the islands in every half an hour.

If you are flying would suggest fly with firefly or airasia. You will save up a lot.

Option 2. Take a train from KL (preferably overnight journey). If you take 9pm train you will reach Kuala Besut around 5am. The first boat is at 7.00 am

Option 3. If you are budgeted traveller and want to see good scenery, in lavish yet low price Bus is the best option for you. Take a bus till kuala besut from Putra Bus station (KL).

Note : If you want to explore more islands Redang and Tioman can also be considered.

One Week in Srilanka

Srilanka was always on my bucket list. Being my neighboring country & taking advantage of long weekend, I decided to visit this country for one week. My itinerary was very flexible, as I wanted to explore most of the places. Flying with Srilankan Airways, landed at the capital of the country by 5.00 am. Took a bus from airport to Colombo railways station (fairly took 1&hr) eagerly waiting for the train taking me to Kandy.

P.S. There are cabs too for Kandy but being a budgeted traveler I opted for train.

From Colombo to Kandy.

1. Kandy

I chose Down Town Backpackers Hostel, for my stay as they were quite economical.

Kandy is the tiny hill station of Srilanka, so the only sightseeing of this place are temples, Big Buddha & Kandy Lake. There is one breathtaking  tourist attraction (2hrs away from Kandy) called “Sigiriya Rock”. This destination is not to be missed. There are bus services taking you to Sigiriya Rock.

Big Buddha, Kandy

Kandy Lake

Sigiriya Rock

2. Ella

Spending two days in Kandy, I started my journey towards next destination – Ella (train journey is much recommended as the view is amazinggg). Ella is pretty pretty tiny, I visited four places in one day. Starting from Rawana Waterfall to Nine Arch Bridge to coffee plantation & last Adams Peaks. Each place has its own charm & worth visiting.

Also, there are awesome tiny cafes & massage centers which one cannot give it a pass.

From Kandy to Ella by train

Rawana Waterfalls

Nine Arch Bridge

Adam's Peak

3. Galle

Moving forward, changing two buses, finally got me to my favorite place in Srilanka. This place is a real beauty and will definitely give you the European Vibe. Lively lanes, small cafes surrounded by beach, cycling around, every place is so much accessible. I cycled till Unawatuna beach & back and the experience was Woooow. Galle, has my heart and certainly going to visit again soon.

Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna Beach

Galle Fort

4. Colombo

Taking a bus to the last destination & the capital of the country, Colombo seemed to be just like any another metropolitan. There are few shopping malls & shopping street. I had my last dinner in this country at Marine Drive. 

Srilanka's natural beauty is totally pristine. People here are very friendly and helpful. This country is getting acquainted with tourism. 

I hope this post was helpful.

Much Much Love :*

Go Travel, Go Explore <3

5 Things You Learn From Traveling

 The world is a book, and those who don’t travel read only a page.

We are so habituated to daily routine that we have forgotten about the charm that outside world Cliques and gives excitement to our faded senses. We should travel to learn about the world, wonders, anonymities and significantly for OURSELVES.

And when we travel, we comprehend:-

1. Free Bird

As a solo tripper, tiniest things, like searching place to sleep to getting to the airport can turns into a great stress. Numerous difficulties will rise, but then, you’ll learn very swiftly how to plan and execute chores by yourself. Of course, to ask for help is always an option, but learning you can work through problems on your own is priceless.

Source :- www.writeraccess.com

2. Social Butterfly

After a certain period of being alone & wandering by yourself, you learn hastily to let go off your shyness about interacting with fellow travelers, introducing yourself, and making friends.Remember, everyone shares a mutual interest, traveling, in a new country, and seeking for something more out of life.

Source :- wanderingtreeclimber.com

3. Love Your Home

Every corner of this world will stun you. The new journey will thrill you, extravagant hotels will enliven you, and different cuisines will placate the tongue. But to find the love, warmth, pampering one needs will always make them think of home. No matter how old or small your home is, there are zillions of reasons to love it boundlessness.

Source :- pixshark.com

4. Dreamlike Nature

Gaze around, and see the how the magical nature, enchants you. It cheers you and heals your soul. While surrounded by the greenery you realize that they are your true mate .It  tends to make you to forget the worry and grieves.  

Source :- www.nmeda.com

5. Managing Funds

Extended travel or Budgeted trip, it teaches you to keep a check on spend even for little cent. High school & colleges failed to teach this great skill, which is learned during 20’s while being a nomad.

Source :- www.hwalls.com

If you think something is missing, please write in the comment box.

Thank you for reading, if you like it … Don’t hesitate to share it. :P

XOXO <3

10 things you will undeniably love about Philippines

Philippines, the South East Asian country is atoll of over 7000 islands. Starting from immaculate beaches and awe-inspiring prodigy of nature toward stimulating remarkable sites, Philippines multitudes many thrilling stuff in your itinerary.  There are many low cost airlines flying from various countries to Manila (Air Asia, Cebu Pacific, and Jet Star) you can get fare & flight schedule on TripAdvisor. 

Here are 10 out of many reasons that’ll make you love Philippines:-

1. Chilling at Boracay

Boracay, quite famous as summer party capital of Philippines, is 7km tall. This tropical destination is famous for fanciful white beach, excellent night life, snorkeling, parasailing, windsurfing, and diving. Another option is do nothing & just relax :-). Kalibo & Caticlan are the two airports to reach this island. From Kalibo it takes approx. 2 hrs. & from Caticlan it takes approx. 30 mins.

2. Affordable Stay

Philippines, being rationally cheap country, accommodation is not a problem at all, it is easy to find. If you are staying for shorter period then hotel or guesthouse is comparatively economical (most of them are breakfast included). Travelers who wish to stay for longer period, it is easy to rent a room in neighbourhood, it can save a lot of money. It is advisable to have a contact in Manila who can introduce to the landlord.

P.S. There are beach huts available below 7 USD :P at some islands. How cool! :-) 

3. Pleasant People

One of the reason why Philippines is wonderful is because of the people. Filipinos are known to be very caring and kind. Philippines ethics places a weightage on hospitality and as such, tourists are embraced there. Their warmth is shown in many ways to people who are in need of care, shelter, love, and affection.

4.  Low-priced Liquor

Buying Liquor in Philippines is cheaper than fetching it from supermarket or duty free from airport. It is cheaper than most of the country. It is surely one of the world’s leading destinations for penny pitcher drinker for its mixture of good deals and authentic bars to enjoy the junk in. The country’s domestic drink is San Miguel Beer, and off times it will be the only beer choice, it’s moderately cheap as well. Cocktails tipped with local stuff are under 2USD each, at most of the bars.

Source : Justonewayticket.com

5.  No Language Barricade

Philippines have a westernized culture, the most westernized in the entire of Asia actually. Almost everybody speaks English. Tagalog is the countrywide language although there are many regional languages; however English is widely spoken.

6. Gleeful Jeepneys

When in Philippine, riding in Jeepneys, can’t be missed. Vehicles adapted from US Army jeeps called 'Jeepneys' are the most common form of transport. A Typical Jeepney can usually carry between 10-20 people. This vivid and individually customized, Jeepney have become traditional symbol of the country. The fare of the Jeepney ride is fairly realistic and is the crazy way to explore the country.

 7. Chocolate Hills

Located at Bohol’s, chocolate hills are renowned tourist charm. They look more like giant mole hills. They are roofed with grass, which, at the end of the dry season, turns chocolate brown. From this color, the hills originate their name. Amply of tourist guides shall be glad to bring you to the chocolate hills, either as a separate trip or as part of a day tour. But staying would be a disappointment as the choices are narrow.

8.  Shopping

Manila has gigantic shopping malls. Shopping in the Philippines can be somewhat meaningful experience as this country has many handicraft centers. There is lot of options but it depends on what you wish to buy & what is the budget.  'Mega Mall' and 'Mall of Asia' are massive with choice of features.

9. Climatic Condition

Philippines climate is definitely intense all year round. Weather is fairly moderate (neither extremely cold nor extremely hot); hence adjusting to a tropical weather won’t be a task. Summers are from March to July followed by Monsoon from August to October. The best time to visit Philippines is from November to May.

Source : Journeymart.com

10.  El Nido

Surrounded by Limestone Mountains and shore area El Nido is sprinkled with several populated tropical islands. It is a tiny town on the island of Palawan. Passing through untouched scenery, it takes 5 to 6 hours of bumpy ride from islands capital Puerto Princessa. Crystal-clear waters, primeval beaches, and a treasure of flora and fauna, this place can’t be skipped.

Have you ever been to this paradise, If yes do share your experience would love to know.

Thank you for reading! XOXO <3

4 most affordable countries for Backpackers

Imagine getting rid of 9-5 desk job, packing bags and becoming nomadic for certain period of time, wandering from one city to another exploring every single place that you fantasized about. The thought itself is Wooooow, isn't it ??

Here are 4 beautiful South East Asian countries that can be discovered economically.

1. Cambodia  

This country has variety of choices to bargain. There are tropical beaches, royal buildings, and exquisite sceneries.  And of course, ample of cheap beer!! :) It is one of the cheapest countries in Asia. A beer cost for approx. 50 dollar cent and you can accommodate yourself in a hostel for like 3 odd USD. This practically fits within anyone's budget. Angkor Wat is the leading tourist attraction in Cambodia & and it the largest of all Angkor temples. Apart from this, Bokor Hill Station, Silver Pagoda, Sihanoukville, Preah Vihear are major tourist attraction. 

Currency :- Cambodian riel

2. Vietnam 

The composition of Wild jungle, white sandy untouched beaches, amazing and cheap street food Vietnam is chosen by every traveler on their itinerary. The extended sight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City draws attention of most of the travelers. Transportation within the city is quite cheap. Street food is obviously cheap 1 USD for a bowl full of rice. Accommodation will cost around 6 USD approx. in decent hostel. The magnetic places in the country are Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, My Son.

Currency :- Vietnamese dong

3. Indonesia

Be it leisure, shopping, culture, history, diving, trekking or nature, Indonesia will not dishearten you. Indonesia is a fairly substantial pertaining 17000 islands. Stay in Indonesia costs around 5 USD approx. varying from one location to another.  Street foods cost around 1 USD - 2 USD and local beer can be as cheap as 1.72 USD. Bali is the favorite foreign paradise. Apart from that Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Lombok are also considered as tourist hub.

Currency :-  Indonesian rupiah

4. Thailand

When we say Thailand, all it flashes in our mind is fabulous diving, cheap yet amazing street food, 365 days party!! Transportation in this ragged destination is quite easy, it cost 1USD to 7 USD depending upon the means of transportation, accommodation will cost around USD - 7 USD in moderate guesthouse and food cost approx 1 USD per meal. Thailand attracts tourist by all means.

Currency :-  Thai Baht

    

Thank you for reading this post <3

Mesmerizing Munnar (Part II)...

Just as we said, here we are with the second part of the post on Munnar. You can view the first part here.

The reception desk at our hotel helped us in planning our travel in and around Munnar and even suggested the order in which we may visit the place so that we would get enough time at each of the touristy places :-) After all the much needed suggestions, we went ahead exploring Munnar and again enjoying the picturesque tea plantations and the clear sky all the way along...

  
We went to this one flower garden which had some of the most amazing flowers and plants. We were tempted to get one of these plants home but the poor thing could not survive here in Mumbai for more than three months...

 

On our way to Mattupetty Dam, guess where did we go??? 
 

Elephant Safari !!!!

It takes pretty long for you to reach your turn of safari. Our ticket no. was 62 or so and the on going no. was 51. Even though there were about 8 elephants, we waited for almost an hour for our turn of the 15 mins ride. The Mahouts take really good care of the elephants and they allowed the elephants to rest in shade after a few rounds :-) 

Soon we headed over to Mattupetty Dam. 

 
With such a beautiful background, it is difficult not to be tempted to pose around :-P

There is this tiny little place which served super fresh food. We asked them to put up a table outside so we could enjoy this beautiful view. 



We then went to a tea factory where the guide patiently explained the entire process of making tea. The ardent tea-lover in me, made me buy different types of tea. BTW it was here that we came to know about "White Tea" which are actually tea buds and apparently have superb health benefits (**Mind you it is very costly, about 20 gms was for Rs. 160/-**). We were not allowed to take any pictures inside the factory for obvious reason. 

Did I tell you, we went to Munnar in August and we were lucky it was clear most of the times we stepped out. However, we could not visit a few places as the roads were closed due to fog and mist in the rains. 


There shall be another post (**and hopefully the final one on Munnar**) on the remaining places we went to.

Mesmerizing Munnar (Part I)...

Have you ever been in a place which was not your first choice but you loved it so so much that you thank your stars that the first option did not work out??? Well that is what happened when we were planning a trip to Kerala. We did not want to have a routine travel package which clubbed 3-4 places in Kerala but wanted to just sit back and relax at one place. Our first option was Alleppey or Allapuzha but it just did not work out (**Thank God for this**) and we ended up going to Munnar. 

Trust me, you would not want to sleep during 4 hour drive from Cochin to Munnar and miss these...

You can actually notice a change in the surroundings after a few kms... Soon we were greeted with this view....

Isn't it just amazing... Feels like you are driving on the clouds (**The roads are superb too**)... Its hard to believe that you come across all these in a span of just a few hours. Let me leave the remaining things for you to experience first hand and not spoil the fun :-)

We stayed at Fort Munnar which was a bit out of Munnar city (almost 15 mins drive away from the main Munnar city) but the view was amazing.

 

 

I honestly cannot stop yapping on and on about this place. There shall be another post on the various places to visit in and around Munnar...