Siargao Three-Island Hopping Tour

/in , /by

Naked Island, Daku Island, Guyam Island

Click Here to learn how to book the three island tour.

Naked Island– The name sake describes itself. A bare island with fine white sand; nothing else besides sea shells, and crystal clear blue waters surrounding the island. You can walk across this island long ways in 5 minutes. Great place for photo ops and sea shell hunting. Pack the sunscreen for this place there is absolutely no cover!

Daku Island- This island is the biggest among the 3 islands on this tour. There are tables for rent here to allow you to have some lunch. The rental fee is 300 PHP. You can bring your own food, or there are vendors on the island who have food to purchase. The water here is also equally as clear with little corals off the coast, however, this area isn’t really known for snorkelling, but you might see a few fish under the surface. You’ll probably spend most of the tour here especially if you’re having lunch here.

Guyam Island- Also another small island of the three. There is an entrance fee to pay here, 30 PHP per person. First stop is posing with the colourful Guyam Sign, then explore the little palm tree oasis. There is a nice swimming area that’s shallow and warn with again the clearest blue water you’ll see while in Siargao. There’s a little snack shop here as well serving up smoothies, chips, and burgers. You’ll also come to notice that half of the island is scattered with sharp volcanic rock. Things can get pretty crowded here quick given the tiny size of this island. So take a dip, take some photos and head out!

  • Naked Island
  • Daku Island
  • Guyam Island

Subscribe to the newsletter for more From Jessie, or follow along with me @jessiekoehler for more travel + lifestyle inspo.

Booking A Siargao Island Hopping Tour

/in , /by

One of my favourite activities in the Philippines is taking a paraw or filipino boat out for the day to visit nearby islands, sandbars, coves, reefs, or shipwrecks. This is very popular to do in Coron, and El Nido. I knew there were a few islands we could do this in within Siargao, but there wasn’t a lot of information on how to go about getting a boat before arriving. But I wasn’t concerned, it wasn’t my first time doing this and I knew it would be easy to book once I arrived.

Private Tour Cost- 1500 PHP

Click Here for the Siargao three-island tour drone video, and more.

You ask how I managed to get this price? Well, I asked locals for one. Unlike other Philippine islands there aren’t a lot of dive shops set up, or tour agencies. I walked into one tour agency and their price was 2500 PHP per person. Inclusive of island fees and environmental fees as well as pick up, and food for the day. From one other place I read, I felt like that price was high, and from experience never take the first offer you find!! That’s a life lesson to use anyway.

We were passing a dry market and needed to pick up a few things, I saw a small printed sign for private car hires behind the cash register so I decided to ask the cashier (who spoke English) if she knew anyone who took people on the three island boat tour privately. She quickly picked up her phone and said yes! Rang someone, and within a few minutes she told me the price and that someone would be at our hotel in the morning at our desired time. However, this price did not include food (which we decided we didn’t want), one island fee (30 PHP per person), pick up/drop off fee (80 PHP total), and environmental charge (100PHP). All together, 210 PHP extra, excluding any snacks or drinks we wanted to bring or buy on the little islands.

Now, I don’t usually recommend just walking up to strangers and asking someone to take us out on a boat for the day. But seeing as she ran quite a large shop, was super friendly, and had a few small signs advertising car tours I figured why not! And again, I had other experiences booking tours like this, and it’s all basically the same on the other islands. Someone calls up some random person, and says be ready at your hotel at X time in the morning.

If you also want a private tour for an inexpensive price just try to show up early on the main boat docks before 8:30am and someone will be available for the day.

Traditional Filipino Boat

Alternatively, you can go with a group tour. This definitely is the more cost effective way. We were given the price of 300 PHP per person. Personally, I do not prefer this. Going privately allows you to take control of what you want to do, and how you want to do it. For example, if it starts pissing rain and you’re out with a tour… suck it up you’re in for a longgggg cold ride because someone on that boat will want to keep trucking along as long as its safe. Or, let’s say you got a mad case of sea sickness, or somehow food poisoning.. nope it’ll be a slow death until you safely birth back to the mainland. If you can swing it, taking a private tour is worth it!

Subscribe to more From Jessie or follow along with me @jessiekoehler for more travel + lifestyle inspo.

All About Siargao

/in , , /by

While living in Asia I constantly find myself in search of somewhere new to travel to. Living in the US I didn’t have the luxury of hopping on an airplane and within 2-7 hours I was surrounded by a completely different culture, people, food, and all sorts of unfamiliarities. Instead, I saved, and waited all year to travel for a period of 3-4 weeks to seek new and exciting places and it still took me around 24-30 hours to get to.

Now I feel sooo lucky to not only have the means to travel, and to visit places within such a short reach! Last week I had the great pleasure of finally visiting the island of Siargao (say it with me Shure-a-gao). Apparently, I had been pronouncing it wrong for years, and to be quite honest I still don’t know if I’m getting it right! Pronunciation police step aside! This tear drop shaped island is located on the most western side of the Philippines. The island is known for its wetlands, mangroves, surfing, and off shore coral reefs.

Siargao Island
Where is Siargao Island?

When To Go?

I had my doubts about visiting here in the month of July. SEA tends to be very wet in the months of July, August, and September. But as we to found out one of the directors at Nay Palad Hideaway said that April and August were their driest months, and that due to the location of the island it didn’t see the type of weather the rest of the Philippines does. But as with any island in SEA it’s best to keep in mind that you should experience some rain on your getaway. Don’t worry though, the rain usually passes, and it’s just as beautiful when it rains!!

On Siargao; January is their wettest month of the year. The low season is November- January and into February is considered low season because it experiences the most amount of rain fall.

How To Get There?

This is the toughest part. Since there are so few flights from destinations to get here finding flights to fit your needs may be tough. The main hubs that they receive flights from are Cebu (1 Hour flight away), and Manila (2 hour flight away). I was able to pull an arrival directory of flights that come to Siargao. I’m not sure how accurate this information is, but it gives you a good idea of the schedule that arrives here on most days.

Siargao Flight Arrivals
IAO Flight Arrivals August 2019

Two airlines fly to Siargao for now; Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific. If you’re coming from far away it’s probably best to fly into Manila, or Cebu first; then purchase a separate flight to the island via these two airlines. Prices can vary greatly doing this and can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars rather than buying your ticket directly there. Just give yourself at least 4 hours between flights.

Where To Stay?

Like I said I’ve been wanting to travel to Siargao for some time now. Years ago when I was first researching there weren’t many places to stay. The most desirable place to stay was Nay Palad Hideaway, however, aside from the ultra luxury resort, the rest of Siargao was greatly lacking. Fast forward, things have changed! There is more of a range of options, although you still won’t find your hiltons, Hyatts, shangri-las (thank god actually, because you know that the island is no longer a hidden gem), there are plenty of nicer boutique resorts and villas to choose from. It’s also growing. There were construction sites everywhere.

We had the pleasure of checking out two options; a small boutique resort called Bulan Villas Siargao, which had just opened 3 months prior to our arrival. The second place was the islands coveted, ultra luxury; Nay Palad Hideaway. Both were amazing in their own respect, and we got to see so much of Siargao this way.

Bulan Villas Siargao – is a newly opened eco friendly villa hotel located in the heart of General Luna almost across from the ever popular Mama’s Grill. It’s set right along the main road. The Property consists of 6 villas with a private bathroom, air con, and wrap around balcony. The property also has several more economic rooms private rooms, but these rooms share a main bathroom facility. (Rooms $40-120 USD)

Bulan Villas

Nay Palad Hideaway– is one of a kind in Siargao, boasting barefoot luxury and sans wallet kind of place. This all inclusive resort is really all inclusive! From food, to drinks, to snacks, spa treatments and activities; everything is tailored and curated to your specific needs. (Rates begin at $630 USD Per person/night)

Nay Palad Hideaway

What To Do?

Siargao has a lot to offer and so much to see on and off the island. Since I was only there for 5 days I barely scratched the surface. Here’s a list of the top highlights and things to do in Siargao:

  • Three Island Hopping Tour– (Click Here to learn how to book a tour!)
  • Surfing at Cloud 9 Beach
  • Have a smoothie Bowl at Shaka Cafe, breakfast of champions!
  • Surf Watching at Cloud 9 Peir– (Click Here my surfing video.)
  • Visit Magpungko Rock Pools
  • SUP at the mangroves labyrinth– (Visit the Instagram @sup_siargao for tours, the owner is super friendly!)
  • Watch the sunset at Isla Cabana Resort– (300PHP min. per table good towards food and drinks)
  • Sugba Lagoon
  • White Banana Beach Club– (Chill out to the music vibes here)
  • Sohoton Cove– (Visit Journey Era blog post about how to get here and many more awesome things to do in Siargao!)

Subscribe to my newsletter for more From Jessie, and follow me on instagram @jessiekoehler for all other travel + lifestyle photos.

My Korean Beauty Product Must Haves

/in , /by

Note: Some products that you click on I might get some compensation from Amazon. 

I finally got the opportunity to visit Seoul, South Korea! I honestly didn’t know what to expect from the city besides possibly seeing a cosmetic surgeon on every corner. Haha… okay so that wasn’t really the reality, BUT they have cosmetic stores everywhere! And Koreans take beauty seriously!! They are probably number one in the world on their beauty routines. They say an average Korean spends around 30-45 minutes a day just on skin care. Even men! Where I’m from most girls are lucky if they get all their make up off before going to bed. (Seriously girls.. we need to step our game up!)

The first day I was a bit overwhelmed by it all. Every second shop in some places was another beauty store, and I really didn’t know what to make of it. So the first night I went back to my hotel room, and did some serious recon so I would be better prepared in the following days. After some research I got a grip on what brands to look out for, and the product direction I wanted to go. After hours and multiple days.. yes days. I finally felt like I had seen and bought it all!

Below is a list of my favorites from the trip, and a few that are still on my wishlist for next time. I have a lot of these products linked to my amazon list where you can get them shipped right to your door step.

Dr. Jart+ Rubber Mask

I chose this product on my own. Basically because of the cute packaging. (But am I right?) So this is a fancier version of a sheet mask.. and comes in different variations. Needless to say, I bought them all! Find this product and more on my list here.

HOLIKA HOLIKA Pig-nose Clear

My boyfriend and I immediately used this product when I purchased it. This is a 3-step black head removal pack. Comes in small nose and large nose sizes. (Small for me, large for him) He constantly asks me to put these on him! This takes black head stripping to a whole new level!

Mizon All In One Snail Repair Cream

This cream is in my daily routine. After years of sun exposure, I feel the need to take extra care of my skin now. It feels so silky and smooth, probably due to the snail ingredients in it. This cream has been the rave all over beauty blogs, and I had to see for myself! There’s something about this cream that makes me feel good when I put it on. 🙂

too cool for school Egg Mellow Cream

This is a New York brand ‘too cool for school’, but the stores are all the rage in Seoul. This 5-1 cream claims itself as a firming moisturizer. Another all-in-one cream for you with brightening, anti-wrinkle, and collagen infused firming moisturizer is a definite go to! Click here to find this on my page.

Brown Lab Mild-S Daily Peeling Pads

There’s something special about these peeling pads for me. I love a good mild peel. Makes me feel like I just gave myself a mini facial. I have a few dark spots on my skin, some from the sun, some from acne. I feel like these daily pads are somewhat diminishing those spots for me.. and I haven’t even used the product that much. Also, I’ve NEVER actually had any peeling with these pads. Although, I think it takes a lot for my skin to peel so these might not be for everyone.

Nature Republic Aloe Vera 92%

After leaving the US I had to part with my aloe plant that I gave lots of love to. While in Seoul, I realized Koreans also share my same LOVE for aloe too! I saw lots of aloe products all ranging in different percentages. I liked the brand Nature Republic the best because it was straightforward, no frills shop, the only product they sold was aloe infused products. I also bought aloe hand cream that came in a aloe leaf shaped bottle. (I know, another packaging sucker story! Save me!!)

3CE White Milk Sleeping Mask

This beauty brand is super popular in Korea. Many of their K-Pop Superstars and beauty bloggers claim to use their products. I chose this product because it was a true sleeping mask. I also like whitening effects in products to give my skin a more even skin tone, and to help brigthen it up

HYGGEE One Step Facial Essence Fresh

Everyone loves a good facial! Why not bring that facial to your home? Is exactly my thoughts when I made this purchase. HYGGEE is the Korean minimalist product staple. This gives your skin an all over fresh feeling. Not a product I would use every day, because it’s too good to use all the time!

Mizon Sheet Mask

Village 11 factory, was one of the first beauty product stores I went into. I was overwhelmed, and confused. I went straight for the sheet masks, and bought some pimple patches and decided to go home and do some research. Low and behold, I ended right back at this store for the snail cream I listed above and more of these amazing sheet masks. Mizon is a staple in my book! You can buy many of these on my store here. 

KOCOSTAR Lip Mask

I’m a huge sufferer of chapped lips. I thought it was a living in the desert of Las Vegas thing. No, it’s an all the time thing… probably because I’m terrible at drinking water. But unfortunately theres, not sheet mask for rehydration hahaha… but instead I’ll settle for repairing my lips after the fact with these fun little lips masks.

too cool for school Egg Remedy Pack Shampoo

Another ‘too cool for school’ product here. I absolutely love this shampoo. I wish I would have bought the conditioner pack as well, but I didn’t. This shampoo makes my hair feel AMAZE after! Definitely, would buy this over and over.

Moonshot Jelly Pot

Koreans not only love beauty products, but they LOVE make up as well. When it comes to make up they aren’t shy about having a little fun with it. The moon shot jelly pots are a fan favorite! Gives the eyes a little shimmer, and goes on jelly like, but not sticky. Since I don’t go out on the town very often, I like to sometimes go all out, so these little jelly pots give a little extra UMP in my look. Plus their petit pots fit in just about any make up bag. 

CNP Laboratory Propolis Energy Ampule

I read to look out for this brand while in Korea. It’s considered a really underrated brand, and sort of Koreas “secret” brand as far as high end quality, but without the price tag. I love the texture of this serum. I typically put this on right after I get out of the shower, or before I put on make up if my face is feeling extra dry. I noticed within days of using this that the space between my eyebrows because not so dry and flakey which is always a problem for me. Two thumbs up on this one.

Huxley Oil Essence

Another oily like product I purchased was Huxley’s oil essence. Even in humidity my face tends to get dry just by being in the sun. I love putting on these serums right after at day at the beach or right in the morning when I wake up.

INK Peripera Lip Stains

I love me a good lip tint, and there sure isn’t a shortage in Korea. They know how to make sure lips last throughout the whole night, too! I bought a few of these tints by Peripera. They have an original, gelato, and a matte version. Personally I love their gelato line, it’s the moistest on the lips. MY lips are usually super dry as it is, so matte lipsticks and tints don’t usually work for me anyway. You can find these tints on my amazon list here.

Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator Facial Mist

Even though this is made in the USA, it was all over Korea. I was pretty much sold on this product while purchasing my ‘too cool for school’ products (also made in the USA). I didn’t know much about it, but I was given tons of samples at check out. Actually I was given lots of samples at every store. It’s like Christmas every day at a beauty store in Korea. I had to go back for more of this mist once I got back home!

Mizon Bye-Bye Pimple Patch

Pimple patches are becoming increasingly popular in the US. I decided to give the patches a try, and they seemed to do their job! I’m luck that I don’t get break outs often, so I’ve only tested it once. However, I liked the results the first time. Either way they are fun way to deal with those little red bumps.

HOLIKA HOLIKA Foot Mask Sheet

At one point during my shopping spree I went a little mad and started buying everything in sight. I was like a girl in target without a motive.. that kind of mad. I started buying things like foot masks, hand mask, vline masks. My motto at one point was can’t fix it, throw a mask on it! LOL! However, I did like these foot sheet masks. A few days after wearing them the bottoms of your feet start to peel and shed the calluses. A but odd, but a good scrub in the shower and your feet will feel like a nice mini pedicure.

 

Leegeehaam HYAL B5 Toner

Leegeehaam is backed by leading dermatologist in Korea. The sleek packaging sells itself. I love a good toner since my skin isn’t in the best shape right now, and I knew I had to give this one a try, as well as a few other products not listed a try!

Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Eye Cream

Of course, I have to save the best for last. The holy grail of beauty creams. Sadly, I did not leave with this. This product comes with a hefty price tag, but the cream boasts leaving the skin more radiant, and silky smooth. Plus ginseng is imbedded into Korean culture.. the ginseng in this product is suppose to activate the skin to give it a more plump look. I do have my eyes on this cream.. and someday I will get it. But for now, I’ll stick to my all-in-one creams listed above.

 

If missed the link… here it is again. You can find most of these on the list I’ve created within amazon. Also note, I am NOT a dermatologist, nor did I go to esthetician school. These are simply all the products I bought, and tried and loved while I was in Korea. Happy shopping!

5 Beaches In Italy You Can’t Miss

/in , , /by

 

When travelling to Italy, a smart way to go is to pick a theme and follow that path. Made you want to see the Roman cathedrals, walk the piazzas in Florence. Or maybe you just want to chill out with a cold drink in your hand, with some beautiful waters in your sights. Either way, Italy is simply magnificent.

A fun way to explore the country’s beauties is to stick to the neverending coasts and the gorgeous islands. Breathtaking sceneries, sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, crystal clear water. No need to travel to the tropics: Italy has just about it all!

In no particular order take a look at my very-own top 5 beaches in Italy.

 Positano, Amalfi Coast

Parasols at the beach in Positano

Stretching for about 50 kilometers on the southern coastline of Campania, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular seaside spots to enjoy your vacation in Italy.

Featuring rocky steep shores, golden to charcoal sandy beaches, and small fishermen villages, the Amalfi Coast is home to some of the top beaches in Italy.

Best time to visit is April to September, however the Mediterranean climate makes of the Amalfi Coast a perfect spot to escape the colder north side of the country even in winter.

Do not miss out on popular villages like Amalfi,Positano, Praiano, and Capri. Ranking amongst the best sights in Italy, Positano is also definitely worth a visit

Cala Porto, Polignano a Mare

Cala Porto beach set in a cove in Polignano a Mare.

This wonderful little town on the Adriatic coast of region Apulia is very much popular as the set of a big number of Italian movies. You’ll truly appreciate that movie-set vibe as you walk through the historical center of Polignano a Mare.

Join the locals and the many visitors in a superb vacation in one Italy’s most beautiful seaside spots.

Sitting on a rocky cliff, about 33 kilometers south of Bari, Polignano a Mare also features beautiful arts, extensive historical and cultural sites, breathtaking views over the Adriatic Sea.

Polignano a Mare carries tales from a Greek and Roman background. The best example? Pay a visit to the beautiful Roman Bridge on Via Traiana. A spectacular sight! Even the architecture in town resembles many Greek small towns. So beautiful

Rabbits Beach, Lampedusa

Clear blue waters here around this island. Many beautiful beaches here.

This tiny island on the Mediterranean Sea is in fact the biggest of the archipelago called Pelagie Islands. Being much closer to Tunisia in the north Africa than to Sicily, Lampedusa offers a semi-arid climates. Thus it is considered as the warmest site in the country throughout the year.

The biodiversity and the flourish wildlife make of Lampedusa one of the top beaches in Italy. Keep an eye out the sea for dolphins, sharks, whales and seals.

Spiaggia dei Conigli (literally Rabbits Beach), named Best Beach by TripAdvisor in 2013.

Cala Rossa, Favignana

Not much of a beach here, but good for swimming right off the boat.

Okay, so maybe it’s not so much about the beaches here, as it is about the water! The water here is like looking into the most beautiful deepest blues, and bright turquoise hues. Favignana has become a hot spot for tourist recently.. and you’ve probably seen these places pop up on your Instagram this summer.  (Maybe the Italians didn’t wanted us to not know about it!)

Favignana is a small island situated just off north-western tip of Sicily. There are many sandy beaches, accompanied by rocky shorelines. Cala Rossa, most popular beach here,  is a beach on the eastern portion of the island.  Not very much is around this beach, a few small eateries, and hardly any services. But this place is great for snorkeling, swimming, and amazing panoramas.

La Pelosa, Stintino

La Pelosa beach on the island of Sardinia.

The coastal village of Stintino in Sardinia offers the spot that ranks on number 1 of the best beaches in Italy. Most people forget about this island nestled in the middle Tyrrhenian Sea.

Sitting in the Gulf of Asinara, the stunning beach of La Pelosa features white sand and crystal clear water.Very much popular with tourists from all over Europe and the world, the area around Stintino offers luxurious resorts and a vibrant nightlife.

 

Sent me an email and let me know if I’ve missed a beach you love! jessie_koehler@yahoo.com

Bali, Indonesia – Why You Should Go Now

/in , , /by

Indonesia? Sounds like a crazy place for most people. Bali, one of Indonesia islands, probably seems like one of those exotic, unachievable or unimaginable destinations that you only see and read about in magazines, right? Orr, perhaps not. Far from reality actually. Bali actually receives nearly 3 million visitors per year!

But you shouldn’t go there if you like beautiful beaches, amazing hotels, culture, surfing, great nightlife or incredible restaurants. Because that wouldn’t be the place for you. Like, at all! Did I mention cheap? Right, who would like something that is cheap!

All jokes aside, visiting Bali between April- October is perfect, because it is considered dry season. Rainy season is November- March, though, this should not deter you from visiting during this time. Visitors can actually enjoy all activities during rainy season, and perhaps take part in seasonal low hotel rates. Also it’s worth mentioning that because Bali is so close to the equator temperatures are similar year round.

Getting To Bali

If you have a bit of time off, maybe one-two weeks. You could easily see a few areas of Bali within that time frame, along with getting there and back. The great thing about traveling west over so many time zones, is that when you come back you can sometimes come back on the “same day” within a few hours as you took off. Which is one of the weirder experiences I’ve had during my travels.

Bali has one major airport located just south of the popular beach destination in Bali called Kuta. There are many flights leaving for Bali on the west coast from all major airports (LAX, SFO, SEA, SAN, LAS) all under $900 year round. Even some flights out of LAX are in the low $600 range. Sometimes you can’t even fly from LA to Miami without paying that much!

Which Area To Stay

Bali is a very diverse little island, with many different areas to take up temporary residence. Because of the vast diversity, you should probably stay in the areas that most interest on what you want to get out of your vacation. Below is a detailed map showing major cities, and where most of the hotels are located. Hotels are not limited to the areas featured on the map, you can actually find hotels all over the island, as well as, vacation rentals.

 

Popular Areas:

  • Kuta Beach- Best known as the most famous tourist resort area. It was the first tourist spot on the island, mainly for the great Indian Ocean surfing. This once rustic beach location, has grown into a party-centric destination for visitors all over the world.
  • Seminyak Beach- Home to some of the most luxurious resorts on the island, and by far the most fashionable part of the island. Shopping stalls and boutquies line the streets, as well as cafes and high end restaurants.
  • Bukit Peninsula- This location houses the famous cliff-hanging Uluwatu temple, Balangan beach -considered some of the worlds best white sand beaches- and now some of top surfing spots on the island. This part of the island also has some very uber swanky spas, and hotels with views to kill.
  • Nusa Dua- Is on the eastern side of Bukit Peninsula, but is in a category all on its’ own. This a more laid back part of the island, away from the crazy roads of Jimbaran and party area of Kuta. There is a very well known golf course, convention center, as well as, a host of luxury resorts. One of the more unique aspects of the Nusa Dua enclave is that there are three manned gates that are subject to a visitor security search. (Probably why the president of the United States stays on this part of the island.
  • Ubud- This part of the island is very near and dear to my heart. It’s unlike anywhere I’ve been in the world. The topography will transcend you to a completely different world, and the culture is matched to beat the rest. Don’t let the jungle of be worrisome there are a good variety of budget to luxury hotels in this area, to accommodate anyones needs.
  • Pemuteran- This is an increasingly popular area to visit Bali in recent years. This small liad-back fishing village is a way to seem some of Bali’s more natural and uninhibited beaches. One of the more unique features of this area is that it is home to largest artificial Biorock reef project in the world. (You like scub? *insert french accent here)

 

Bali is a fascinating island that has a lot to offer to visitor young, and old. If you have any suggestions or areas to stay that I haven’t covered leave them in the comment below!

Tips On Feeling Fresh During and After Your Flight

/in , , , , , , /by

Flights booked and bags are packed. You’re about to embark on your next vacation, or work trip. This could be your first long flight, or your hundredth, either way it’s good to practice these methods of preparation.

 

Step One: Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate 

….and we aren’t talking about the alcoholic kind. Water! Literally the fountain of youth. Water will not only quench your thirst, but your skin will thank you. Doesn’t matter if you’re flying to a humid place, drink plenty of water otherwise your skin could have an adverse effect. Opt for an aisle seat in case of frequent trips to the bathroom. I’d certainly rather use an airplane toilet for long hauls than have a breakout, or dull/dry skin to deal with for the next week. They say to drink 8 oz. of water per hour.

Step Two: Invest in a pair or a couple pairs of compression socks. 

Compression socks are a life saver! Whenever I fly flights 5 hours or longer I break out my ever so fashionable compression socks. You will immediately tell the difference between wearing them for a long flight and not. Yes, you may still get some after swelling, but it won’t be as intense as without wearing them all together. TIP: Airport news stand typically sell these socks right next to the neck pillows! 😉

Step Three: Eating Meals

Which I’m still trying to prove this theory, don’t eat full meals while during flights. Try to light snack if possible. Some cheese, nuts, dried fruit, fruit they serve with meals. This will help with making a quicker adjustment to the new time zone.

Step Four: Snack choices 

Speaking of food, opt for less salty snacks to not further dehydrate yourself. This will help with fewer bathroom trips as well. Your skin will thank you too! Remember hydration is key!

Step Five: Travel pouch

If you’re a frequent traveler like me, I keep a very small pouch always stocked and ready for take off and I take it with me everywhere! This pouch can easily fit in the back of seat pockets and is not bulky! My pouch includes; Lip Balm, quality travel size non-fragrant hydrating hand lotion , ear plugs, Zquil, toothbrush, toothpaste, eye cream, hydrating tablets, pen, hand sanitizer, and an eye mask. I know this sounds like a lot of stuff, but it all fits nice and perfectly in a small little bag and I never unpack the bag. It’s my travel lifeline!!

Step Six: Sleeping

If you’re trying to get on the new time zone fast add the cities time zone to your phone. If you’re taking off in the morning, but your destination is about to go to sleep, try to get some sleep yourself or vice versa. I typically take an over the counter sleep aid such as Zquil to help me sleep better on flights. I’m no doctor, but this has helped me tremendously! Zquil also doesn’t leave you feeling like you’re hungover. Try out your over the counter sleep aid a few nights before you fly and see your reaction with it. Getting rest at appropriate times on your flight will help with getting adjusted better.

Step Seven: After Flight

Continue to hydrate yourself after your flight. If you want a good recovery fast try to avoid drinking heavily for the first two days after a really long flight. This will help your body adjust, and help rehydrate yourself. You can usually feel the affect of flight dehydration to continue 24 hours later. Invest in quality non-fragrant hydrating lotion to keep your skin feeling smooth!

 

Hope this helps anyone, and you can try some of these tips the next time you take your next adventure! xx

 

 

Japan To Debut A Hello Kitty Bullet Train

/in , , /by

Hello Kitty— either you love it, hate it. But you can’t deny that there is some nostalgia and cuteness to this much loved character. Japan totally embraces this character and is incorporated into many places around the country. Including, popular airline Eva Airways has some routes with Hello Kitty themed planes. Whoa! However, this summer, Japans transport industry will make history by debuting Hello Kitty Bullet trains, and we can hardly contain our excitement!!

Japan is widely known for super fast bullet trains and this month, Hello Kitty themed bullet trains will commence. Many people love this mouth-less character, so it is no wonder therefore that the Hello Kitty Bullet Trains are gathering so many expectations from the enthusiast of the character. And from what has been said about the Hello Kitty Trains, they have got everything to wow their passengers.

The Hello Kitty Trains as a Smart Move

The Hello Kitty Trains will be launched on June 30 as made known by West Japan Railway Co. Ltd. This train is in all colors and arts of the Hello Kitty character. The color around these trains will be all pinky and the bow design particular to the Hello Kitty loveable character. These trains are old trains which have went through a redesigning and restructuring process before the launch.  These trains will be taken from the fleet of Shinkansen’s 500 series fast trains. This is quite a smart move of restructuring the country’s train sector as it even seeks to connect travelers in an ambience that is adorable, pleasing and attractive. Another goal of these trains are to bring tourism attention to Japan’s west communities.

Destinations of the Trains

The destinations of the Hello Kitty Trains will be pretty much around the west communities of Japan. The Shinkansen, a 500 series, will run from the Shin-Osaka station to Hakata Station, which is the main station of Fukuoka City.

The Cafe, Hello! Plaza, and Kawaii! Room

An inside look to the Hello Kitty themed bullet trains that will debut in Japan. Meow!

The Hello Kitty trains’ café opened for advanced booking on June 1. This cafe is a very lovely twist and amenity to have aboard the Hello Kitty trains. A unique factor while inside the cafe on board when approaching a stop passengers will here a Hello Kitty theme song, instead of a normal train jingle. How freaking cool is that?!?!

Inside  Car 1 and 2 of the Hello Kitty trains are the most unique. The Car 1 is called Hello! Plaza. Inside this Car 1, there will be an exhibition showing an array of products of all the prefectures. The Car will be an exhibition center for both Hello Kitty trains. This is where you can get souvenirs of the Japan’s west communities, as well as, experience a photo booth session with the iconic Hello Kitty doll itself.

Car 2 on the other hand is called Kawaii! Room. The Kawaii! Room is really just a passenger car with Hello Kitty touches and pastel pink.

I’m not a Hello Kitty enthusiast per say. But! You better believe I will be wanting a ticket on one of these trains the next time I visit Japan! Meow! xx

 

Top Instagrammable Spots In Hong Kong

/in , /by

Hong Kong is a beautiful metropolitan city of the east. After arriving in Hong Kong you undoubtedly know that this city has some kind of whimsical charm to it.

For those of you who are Instagram or Trmblr fanatics you probably see photos of Hong Kong popping up on your feeds constantly. You may even wonder where exactly in Hong Kong are those photos taken?  Even after moving to this city I have a bit of a challenge seeking out some of these hot spots, but they’re worth a trek!

I’ve complied a “top instagram list” for your first, or next visit to Asia’s World City! You can click on the description of each photo and a google location will be brought up on a new page for you. Happy hunting! Don’t forget to keep those cameras charged!

1/10 Montane Mansion

Montane Mansions is composed of 5 buildings. Two of the court yards of these buildings are popular to take some snaps in!

2/10 Coffee Shops

Coffee Shops are very prevalent here in HK. It’s popular to curate a photo of your cup, or yourself within the coffee shop. Regardless, just don’t forget to try some coffee in Hong Kong. You may even be served a cup from a coffee barista champion! Photo taken at: Fara Xoxo

3/10 Nan Lian Garden

Zen Out! In one of HK’s zen gardens, it will teleport travelers to a completely new place and bring a little peace in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Can miss the center piece of this garden, the golden temple.

4/10 High Island East Dam

This area is perfect if you tote a drone. If you’ve seen these shots on Instagram they’re probably from the popular grams of @veeceecheng, @timothyma__ and others. It’s a far place, but great visuals once you arrive.

5/10 Victoria Peak

If there’s one place you can’t miss in Hong Kong it’s Victoria Peak, or dubbed ‘The Peak’. The most iconic view in the city! If you’re on a layover and you want to do one thing, THIS IS IT!

6/10 Graham Street

Street art is becoming a staple in this part of the city. Come to Soho, or Sheung Wan and you’ll see random art posted on the walls. Graham Street Art is probably the most recognizable and popular, but you’ll be fighting a crowd at this piece, beware.

8/10 Sai Wan Swimming Shed

Sai Wan Swimming Shed and pier is another place to come and check out. Don’t forget to wear bright colors coming here if you really want to make your photos POP!

9/10 Choi Hung Estate Courts

Probably one of my FAVORITE places to visit in Hong Kong. The colors are soo enticing, and beautiful. I’ll be here on repeat because it’s just too good not to!

10/10 Hiking in Hong Kong

Many people who come to Hong Kong and want some adventure they know they can find it in the hills (or mountains rather). Hong Kong city is surrounded by them. Each direction you look theres a peak, and once you reach this peak you’ll be sure to have amazing views! Like this view from Life Of An Early Riser. [Photo taken at Dragon’s Back Hike]

 

 

If you have another favorite spot to snap some pics comment below! Happy hunting!

 

Perfect Weekend Escape: Palm Springs

/in , , /by

Check out this trendy California spot for a quick weekend vacay. Where to stay and what to do!

Read more

How I Flew First Class From Asia to U.S. For $105!

/in , , , /by

Flying… we love and hate it. It gets us to our next destination fast, but surely not without its’ fair share of headaches! Lines everywhere, tacked on fees at check in, and don’t forget about those dreaded middle seats! Oh, the agony! What if least some of those annoyances could be alleviated? Would traveling be a bit more pleasurable? Would you consider traveling more often? I’d say yes!

I found the trick to skipping those long lines, never paying for my first checked bag again. I found this through signing up for Gold Delta Skymiles® Credit Card. This card has literally SAVED me, not just financially, but physically too. The benefits of this card are endless, and at a mere $95 annual fee (*first year waived), it’s worth the sign up.

I already knew I liked flying Delta Airlines. This airline is a bit more “business forward”, but business travelers know how to travel! Business travelers are efficient in traveling, they know what they’re doing and they do it quick. This makes it more comfortable for someone who’s a frequent traveller/flyer as well. Us frequent fliers also know the “ins and outs” of an airport, and we tend to roll our eyes are those who aren’t as savvy as we are! (Don’t deny that you haven’t had an eye roll or two at the person who has no idea how to get to their seat, put their bag in the overhead bin, or follow any sort of directions whatsoever!)

What’s the Deal?

After flying with Delta Airlines for some time I started to accumulate miles, but I wanted more. It dawned on me that I could achieve status with my favorite airline quicker by signing up with the Gold Delta Skymiles® Credit Card. Heres what you get:

  • Earn 30,000 Bonus Points*
  • Priority Boarding
  • Every dollar spent counts towards miles
  • $50 Statement Credit**
  • Earn 2 Miles per Delta Purchase
  • First Checked Bag Free *for companions too
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees
  • Travel Accident Insurance
  • Much more…

Annual Fee: $95; waived your first year

*Earn 30,000 bonus points after $1000 spend within the first 3 months. **Statement credit added after you make your first first on delta within the first 3 months.

UPDATE 11-28-16 To earn your 35,000 Bonus Miles and $50 statement credit, please email me! 🙂

american-express-delta

 

How I used my Delta Bonus Miles!

I won’t hold you in suspense any longer! At the time when I signed up Gold Delta Skymiles® Credit Card, they were offering 50,000 bonus miles. I booked a few delta flights on this card once I received it, and boom! Before I knew it I racked up that $1000 spend, and was able to get my 50K bonus miles. Not to mention DOUBLE points for booking delta flights. It was like I earned almost an extra 4,000 miles when it was all said and done after flying.

Also, at the time I was about to fly to Asia, though I hadn’t booked my return flight home. I knew my last destination before flying back to the U.S. was going to be in Hong Kong. After I received my bonus miles I began looking at flights from Hong Kong back home. I found a First Class – YES – Delta One First Class, from Hong Kong to Seattle for 75,000 points ++.

Taxes and fees had to be paid separately, which were only $105 USD!! How exciting right? First class, plus access to lounges at the airport, and private car transfers in-between the gates all for points 75K + $105. Definitely, a steal! Of course, I already had 25,000 points already in my account.

Had I not had those points I could a flown on an economy ticket for 30,000 points + taxes (roughly $50 USD).

A bit tired from a long night in Hong Kong, but I made the flight!

A bit tired from a long night in Hong Kong, but I made the flight to Shanghai.. home bound after my next connection!

 

 

My Delta Skymiles card is perfect for me. I’ve had the card just under a year and if I had the annual fee it would have already paid for itself because of the free checked baggage benefits. Plus, every dollar I spend gets matched for Skymiles and transferred directly into my account at the end of each billing statement.

 

If you have any other tips, or suggestions; please leave them in the comment section below! Happy Travels!