5 popular beaches in Philippines:

Boracay, Aklan:

White, smooth sand surrounded by clear blue pristine water with lapping waves; Boracay beach is one of the infamous destination in Philippines for vacation-goers. Aside the soaking up the sun, diving in the sea or trying water sports; Boracay hosts a myriad of activities in the night to cater to the variety of night-life on the beach. The beach is also featured in CNN as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world in 2012. 

El Nido,Palawan:

Accessible by both air and sea, El Nido is another sunny paradise surrounded by a whole spread of wildlife and scenes of nature. Known in another name as “The city of Gods”, El Nido's boasts karst limestone formations, peaceful lagoons, caves and waterfalls that can take your breath away in complete awe of their beauty. Aside being a getaway location for travellers, El Nido is a utopia for marine life that has a vast and diverse ecosystem. 

Samal Island, Davao City:

Famous amongst fellow snorkelers and divers for it's crystal-clear waters, rock formations, mangrove areas and coconut palms dotting the sandy whites of the beach. The flow of tourists into the area is slowly gaining pace due the multiple numbers of resorts available. With a wide stretch of land , there is plenty to explore and discover while taking in fully the scenery and embracing the surrounding nature.

Panglao Island, Bohol:

A little ways away from Bohol, Panglao is a beach slightly similar to Boracay. With it's diving spots, fine sands, and blue ocean waters; it is known as the “little paradise of pure hearts”. Aside swimming alongside the aquatic marine life in the fine clear waters, another attraction is the Chocolate Hills. No, the hills aren't made out of chocolate but that is how the locals call the unique dome-shaped hills on the island that turn brown during the dry seasons. 

Pagudpud/Bangui, Ilocos Norte:

A quiet holiday destination that has travel constraints to control the influence of commercialism. This allows the sense of space for anyone seeking a less crowded location to soak up the sun rays and surf. Located on the northern tip of Luzon, there aren't much places for one to shop and the number of ATMs are limited. This might not appeal much to shopaholics though but the peace is a great change of pace for those searching for a break from the hustle and bustle.

Such gems of beaches are a rare find and are a real draw for those who just love to surround themselves in the cool embrace of the waves or feel the sun on their backs. Philippines is filled with such wonder of nature and for anyone heading there soon, don't forget your sunscreen!. Till next time, safe travels and have a fun trip everyone!!

Phuket: An over-commercialized “heaven” for tourists?

Like some other conservative travelers who enjoy a relaxing beach sunset while sipping a bottle of coke, some of us may enjoy the serenity or tranquility which we may find on islands and beaches. Upon Google search on where to go in Southeast Asia for these beaches, Phuket comes out in the list.

    

For first-time travelers in Phuket, most of them will either straight away head to the famous Patong beach or Kata beach once landed from the airport. Dreaming of a serene view overlooking the sea, you may find yourself in shock. Crowded beaches with Russians and Chinese will be the first thing you will see.

After strolling down the beach sometime, you may want to find a place to just sit down or hang out. Once you sit down, you will “bombarded” by mat sellers or just some random umbrella vendors. Some of them will be rather rough when you try to bargain. The dream of enjoying a serene sunset by the beach? Busted.!

Nightlife around the main beaches in Phuket may also be a mess. Loud booming EDM , drunkards, and hookers. The worst case scenario for travelers who enjoys calm, serene environment.

What we recommend is spend minimum time to explore these over-commercialized spots in Phuket such as Patong or Kata beach. Spend some time staying in condotels of Phuket town enjoying the real local livelihood of Phuket islanders or go to some underrated beaches such as Yan Nui beach which is situated not far from the Promethep Cape.

Some detailed planning will help you from dropping in just another tourist trap in Phuket.

Top 10 phrases to learn before a trip to Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful place to visit and like the adventurous people that we are, it is better to research on the language or destination before the trip. This will help us communicate better with locals and save us from a pinch. Here are 10 phrases which we think will be useful in learning before heading to Vietnam.



1. Hello! - Xin chao! (sin chow) Greetings are very important.

2. Thank you - Cam on (gahm uhn) Expressing thanks show gratitude.

3. Sorry/Excuse me - Xin loi (seen loy) Useful for apologizing or asking for directions.

4. Do you speak English? - Ban co noi duoc tieng Anh khong?

5. Can you help me? - Ban giup toi duoc khong? (ban zoop thoy duc khom?)

6. What is this? - Cai nay la gi (guy nai la zee)  Clarify what items or food are.

7. How much? - Bao nhieu (bow nyew) This phrase comes up often when eating or shopping.

8. Do you have a cheaper price? - Ban co gia nao re hon khong? (Used in bargaining)

9. Water - Nouc (Water is crucial to survival and being able to ask for some is useful)

10. Where's the toilet? - Nha ve sinh… o dau? (ngha ve sin o dau?) Useful in a toilet emergency.


We hope that this short compiled list will turn out to be of help to everyone. Till next time, safe travels everyone!