Journeyetc

Journeyetc


Top 8 adventure-filled destinations for your Asian holiday

Posted: 04 Oct 2010 11:45 AM PDT

Known as the largest continent in the entire world, Asia has a land mass of 17,139,334 square miles and has almost every kind of terrain that you can think of. Starting from the people who braved and conquered the Himalayas, lots of travelers and also adventure seekers from different parts of the globe keep coming back to Asia in search of new places to discover. Today, we're sharing with you eight places in Asia where you are guaranteed to have a wild adventure. Turn on your answering machine and set your cell phone to voice mail because once you get to any of these destinations, you'll be too busy having fun.

WHERE: THE PHILIPPINES' BORACAY ISLAND

WHAT: KITE SURFING

ABOUT: There are a handful of white beaches to be found in the Philippines, but the most famous one would probably be in Boracay Island, where the fine, white sand complements the blue water of the Bulabog Lagoon. This particular lagoon actually stretches over an area occupying three bays. This spot features cross shore winds that are ideal for kite surfing; the extended shallow is a plus as well. If you're interested in trying out this sport, you can sign up for a course at the different schools located in the area.

WHERE: MUI NE, VIETNAM

WHAT: SANDBOARDING

ABOUT: The best time to check out Mui Ne's white sand dunes is early in the morning, just as the sun begins to rise. Sand boarding provides an excellent way of exploring the sand dunes and pretending to be a hip sheik out for a ride. For around 100,000 Dong, you can rent one board and be on your way. This is perfect for travelers who are bored with swimming and hiking, and are looking for something new to try. Not only is it tons of fun, it also gives you a good workout, so you're practically killing two birds with one stone while you're on holiday.


WHERE: OKINAWA, JAPAN

WHAT: SURFING

ABOUT: Surfer dudes can ride the waves to their heart's content at Okinawa, Japan almost all year round. This spot is so popular among surfers that it has even been dubbed "Hawaii of the East". The white beaches are perfect for sun bathing, but what's even better are the huge waves that a person with a surfboard simply cannot resist. Okinawa is a nice alternative to Japan's otherwise metropolitan vibe where everyone seems to be rushing about and has no time to waste on riding waves and crashing in the blue waters of the ocean. It is best to visit Nago's northern region, although caution is issued for the harbor's southern end where a hollow reef break poses a bit of danger to beginners.

WHERE: THAILAND'S PAI RIVER

WHAT: PADDLING or RAFTING

ABOUT: If you're the type who likes to have fun in the water, hop on a plane to Thailand and head straight for the Pai River. This body of water stretches over 62 miles, and flows through various gorges that can get your blood pumping. It also features long stretches of calm, smooth flat water that passes through remote sections of the area, giving you a taste of the wilderness that can only be found here in the province of Mae Hong Son. A good time to visit would be from the month of June all the way to January.

WHERE: BHUTAN

WHAT: TREKKING plus CLIMBING

ABOUT: Feeling blue and in need of some cheering up? If so, then we definitely recommend a visit to a place that measures its progress in Gross National Happiness, also known as GNH—Bhutan. This country often overlooked by travelers, offers incredible landscapes that make for some good hiking. Do remember that in order to visit Bhutan, you will have to seek the help of a trusted local travel agency because the local government does not allow independent traveling. Fortunately, it's not a tedious process, so you can still look forward to exploring their trekking routes if you're interested in going.

WHERE: NEPAL

WHAT: MOUNTAIN TREKKING

ABOUT: Nepal has lots of trekking routes that can cater to different travelers: from beginners to pros; those whose aim is to cover great distances, and those who simply want to appreciate the country's beautiful scenery. Probably the most famous or popular route in Nepal among travelers is the one called Annapurna Base Camp Trail. This teahouse trek that passes through Nepal's Annapurna Sanctuary is a kind of route that is common in this country. These trails take travelers to paths that cut through charming villages, where lodging is provided for those who will spend the night.

WHERE: BORNEO

WHAT: CAVING EXPEDITION plus WILDLIFE VIEWING

ABOUT: Hopeful travelers who plan on getting away from their office desks for a couple of days can explore the more than 300 kilometers of cave systems that can be found in the Gunung Mulu National Park in Borneo. Caving expeditions of international scale are regularly held here, so you can expect to find some pretty intriguing sights inside these dwellings (we're pretty sure they'll be a hundred times more interesting than the arrangement of office supplies on your desk). Here, you can also find the world's largest ever single cave chamber. Don't worry, it's quite safe inside; park authorities have established an infrastructure, plus you can also join in the tours held here daily.

WHERE: SORSOGON,  PHILIPPINES

WHAT: SWIMMING WITH WHALE SHARKS

ABOUT: We make a comeback to the Philippines because really, how cool is it that you get to swim in warm, crystal clear waters, and even come close to a real live whale shark? Efforts are being undertaken to help preserve these beautiful animals, and guides in the area always make it a point to remind swimmers not to touch the whale sharks. If you want a more hands on activity, you can opt to swim with the string rays instead.


Travel Guide: Going around Puerto Rico

Posted: 04 Oct 2010 11:08 AM PDT

Puerto Ricans do not have any noteworthy means of moving around the 5,320 square miles of their country. They do have passenger vans called publicos which transport them from one area to another. Unfortunately though, these vans do not use terminals in order load passengers and they do not have a fixed schedule for the times they are available. This can hassle any tourist who has enjoyed the organized systems in other countries.

In order to travel Puerto Rico conveniently, one should rent a vehicle. Because Puerto Rico is an archipelago, it’s relatively easy to get around and see all the sights in just a few days.

Puerto Rico indeed has a small landmass but it offers a lot of scenery. And how does one get to see all these places when you go for a cruise. Here are the best routes to take when traveling around Puerto Rico.

1st Day Drive: San Juan to Rio Grande via Loiza


Try walking around San Juan before riding out on your newly rented ride. The town itself is thick with history so you’ll definitely see some great spots. The city has several old forts like Fuerte San Cristobal, El Morro and Paseo de La Princesa. The Paseo de la Princessa offers a great walk at night. During Saturdays and Sundays, one can expect local art vendors and some artists in the area.

If you want to check out a sampling of Puerto Rican art, the Museo de las Americas can be found by going to the structured called Cuartel de Ballaja.

For some music, you can head out to the Nuyorican Cafe and get some drinks. This hole in the wall has drawn some star power with Benicio del Toro coming in for a visit.

Since Puerto Rico is an archipelago, there are a lot of beaches in the area. The nearest one is called Escambron which is situated between the old structures and new structures of San Juan. If you go to the airport, there is another beach near the airport called Ocean Park.

Visitors looking for some lodging in the city can stay at the Tres Palmas Inn which is close to Ocean Park.

Go and check out your ride from the garage and drive towards the direction of Rio Grande. Instead of going for the already developed roads, proceed to Road 187 and drive toward Pinones.

The town’s roadways are arrayed with kiosks and huts where people fry great eats on wood fire stoves. The locals would also be happy to give you juice from the coconut tree. The road is small but the air is pollution free – just perfect for driving with the windows down. Should you have enough time, pull over and check out the beach.

Head out of Pinones and cross the Rio Grande towards Loiza. Loiza is a town with a rich history due to its being isolated from the other towns for several centuries. The bridge to Loiza was created only during the 70s. People have to ride a boat to cross to the other side.

In Loiza you can scope out the church which is dedicated to St. Patrick and the home of one Samuel Lind, an artist who is quietly creating his own home into a work of art.

Once you’ve had your fill of the Afro-Puerto Rican town, you can then head towards the Rio Grande via 187. After going through a forlorn but beautiful road, you’ll find yourself on the highway. Pull over by the town called El Yunque near a rainforest.

Once in El Yunque try going around for a hike. Once you’re satisfied scope out a view of the Rio Grande and rest up at Villa Sevilla located in the hills. Villa Sevilla is filled with different fruits and vegetables. You can cool down at their pool while staying in the Chalet or in the Casita. The owners, Marina and Wally Lawson are kind and hospitable.

2nd Day Drive Rio Grande to Ponce


Exit out of Rio Grande and go towards Luquillo Beach which is considered to be the country’s prime beach. Luquillo is calm and there is enough space for everybody to place down a towel and lie in the sun.

Drive on over to Fajardo and hike inside Las Cabezas de San Juan, a natural reserve. Once the night hits, go to the Fajardo bay area for some kayaking through the mangroves which are filled with light even in the darkness.

Stay for the night after the kayak trip and leave first thing in the morning for Guavate. Guavate is the center for roasted pig. Ride westward via 30 and head on south using 52. There will be signs for Guavate.

If you’re really on the road towards Guavate one way to tell is if you see stalls selling roasted pork or any other pork products and tostones. There are no official parking spaces here so just place your car by the roadside and go out and eat some grub.

After getting your fill or possibly restocking, go on the route 52 and drive towards Ponce. Ponce is another important Puerto Rican city and the drive there is filled with interesting terrain. You will be moving through the mountains and into the dry country to Ponce.

Head out to the Plaza and enjoy the fire house and the cathedral. Have a bucketful of ice cream from King’s Cream. Once you’re beat head out to the Hotel Melia and sleep. Stay and have breakfast in your room.

Once you have energy, go towards the hill planted with a cross on it. The spot is called La Vigia and it is a great place to view the Caribbean.

3rd Day Drive: Ponce to Cabo Rojo


There is much to do in Ponce if you are inclined like visiting Hacienda Buena Vista. Once a coffee plantation, this property is nestled by a mountain near Road 501. Guides will tour you through the grounds. If you’re lucky you might get one of their chocolate samples.

Drive using Highway 2 and stop by Guanica which was the entry point for the US invasion force during 1898. It might not be a major destination but there are one or two things worth checking out here. Go check out their dry forest for example.

Even if you’re not one of the faithful, you can go and check out the Virgen del Pozo located in Sabana Grande at Highway 364. The site attracts Roman Catholic pilgrims who pray for the image to grant them miracles or their wishes. There are also memorabilia and proof of answered prayers.

Pick up speed and drive on to Highway 102 from Sabana Grande. Highway 102 will give you thrilling views of the ocean while skiring through sugarcane farms and pineapple plantations. The ocean is literally baying just a few meters from your wheels.

Cabo Rojo features kiosks which sell seafood eats. Try some before driving into the beautiful sunset.

4th Day Drive Cabo Rojo to Rincon


Going through Highway 102 will lead you to the Puerto Rican western coast. At the end of the highway there is another one in Highway 429 which goes all the way into Rincon, a surfing town. After a few days of driving it will be great to feel the sea at your toes. Check out the lighthouse at Punta Gorda and the monument at Aguado.

Fifth Day Drive: Ponce to San Juan


When you’ve got sunburnt enough, go towards Highway 10 and then leave Ponce for the inner roads of Puerto Rico. You can go to Jayuya where coffee is harvested. You will need to breeze through the Rio Abajo and stop at Arecibo where the observatory is. There are also other stops like the Cueva del Indio and the Playa Sardinera in San Juan. You can also head on to Highway 22 where there is a Bacardi factory. Get a few sips free from the tour.

After traveling through the expanse of the country, you will understand why the Spanish named it Rich Port. There is bounty enough everywhere if you have enough drive.


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