Category: Itinerary

Vietnam 16 Day Itinerary: Vietnam is a country full of fascinating history, stunning natural landscapes, delicious cuisine, and friendly people. With the Vietnam 16 day itinerary, you can explore some of the best destinations that this Southeast Asian gem has to offer. This itinerary will take you on a journey through Vietnam’s diverse regions and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, this itinerary has something for everyone. So pack your bags, put on your explorer’s hat, and get ready to discover the beauty of Vietnam.

Follow along on our 16-Day Vietnam travel Itinerary during May with listings of each place that we stayed at. If you have Galapagos Islands on your bucket list, you can also read our guide on Galapagos Islands Itinerary – 7 Days Travel Plan.

Day 1: San Francisco – Taiwan – Saigon

Lodging: Nhat Ha 1 (District 1)

TPE (Taiwan) has got to be one of our favorite layover spots. What’s not to love about Hello Kitty is everything everywhere, Taiwanese dumplings and enough shopping to launch you into Asian pop star status? We happened to arrive on the very last day of the Soul Saigon Pool Party and dove right in for 50,000 VND per ticket (the electronic music might set you into a catatonic state, but you can’t complain about being in a roof-top pool, having a drink in hand, and climbing the rock wall).

 

Day 2: Saigon

Lodging: Nhat Ha 1 (District 1)

Meander through the Ben Thanh marketplace and score a pair of knock-off Ray Bans to get your trip started on the right foot. Being friendly but firm will get you far here.

 

Day 3: Saigon to Vung Tau

Lodging: Lan Rung Resort and Spa

Take a 1.5-hour speedboat from Ho Chi Minh to Vung Tau for 200,000 VND. Purchase your ticket at the dock or try asking your hotel (some have courier services).

 

Day 4: Vung Tau

Lodging: Lan Rung Resort and Spa

Visit Lan Rung Resort and Spa mid-week to avoid the weekend guest crowd. Do take advantage of their professional spa and opt-in for that much-needed Swedish massage. Nothing says happiness like a fresh durian smoothie poolside. New to durian? Don’t smell it; just eat.

 

Day 5: Vung Tau

Lodging: Lan Rung Resort and Spa

Climb 811 steps to Tuong Dai Chua Kito Vua (Jesus Statue) to catch a great view of Vung Tau along one of his arms. Don’t be shy about slathering a healthy serving of sunblock and topping it off with a hat. The silver lining can be found in the abundance of stone benches donated by devout worshipers along the entire route.

Vung Tau is one of the best places to learn how to ride a motorbike. Rent a bike or two right outside of the resort, and take in views of the coast, smells of squid drying under the sun, and sounds of merchants calling to one another from their stalls. For the intermediate or advanced riders– head up to the Vung Tau Lighthouse.

 

Day 6: Vung Tau to Saigon

Lodging: Nhat Ha 1 (District 1)

Take a final motorbike ride and savor the last bite decadent breakfast buffet before departing Vung Tau.

Craving something a little different once you’re back in the big city? Several Japanese restaurants can be found at the intersection of Ly Tu Trong and Truong Dinh. We were delighted to find Murakame’s Udon and Tempura and were even more excited to try their clam broth.

 

Day 7: Saigon

Lodging: Nhat Ha 1 (District 1)

Take yourself on a walking tour to the Central Post Office, conveniently located in the city center, where you can tack on other famous sites such as the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Opera House. Venture to District 4 to grab dinner; they have a plethora of kick-back eateries at a fraction of the price.

 

Day 8: Saigon to Dong Hoi

Lodging: Muong Thanh Holiday Quang Binh Hotel

Take a VietJet flight from SGN to VDH (Dong Hoi) to get yourself situated close to Paradise Cave. Spend the evening relaxing at the hotel, and don’t forget to order a few Tiger beers at the pool.

 

Day 9: Dong Hoi to Hue

Lodging: Orchid Hotel

There’s something to be said about the allure of dark, bat-filled, mysterious caves. We organized a tour with 7km Paradise Adventure Tour for 2,400,000 VND per person, which included transportation to Hue afterward. They only allow one tour group per day, so this certainly makes for an exclusive experience.

Pro tip: These caves have no bathrooms, so do your business beforehand!

 

Day 10: Hue

Lodging: Orchid Hotel

Hue is jam-packed with historical sites and great food. With only a single day in the city, we opted to visit the Imperial City, paid homage to Thich Quang Duc’s (known for his honorable act of self-immolation to protest Buddhist persecution) at Thien Mu Pagoda, followed by lunch at Les Jardins de la Carambole. Make sure you try infamous Hue dishes such as Banh Khoai, Bun Bo Hue, Banh Loc Goi, and Com Hen. The word “banh” appears quite frequently in the Vietnamese language but manifests itself in so many different ways. But generally speaking, all “banh” dishes are delicious.

 

Day 11: Hue to Prao

Motorbike tour Hue Adventures in Prao

Try not to crash; within several minutes of departing for a 270km motorbike ride. Like a gang of comrades in Sons of Anarchy, we rode along the Ho Chi Minh road and took in the incredible scenery before stopping in for a night of rest in Prao Town.

 

Day 12: Prao to Da Nang

Lodging: Diamond Sea Hotel

Vietnam is composed of 54 ethnic groups, so it’s not uncommon to pass by small tribes throughout the country. We stopped for a visit with the Ta Oi (also known as Paco) tribe and continued on toward Da Nang. Our last stop took us up the Hai Van Pass to explore a crumbling bunker used by Americans during the war. Minutes after we set foot into the hotel, a steady rain poured from the sky for several hours. Use these moments as an opportunity for cooking classes, power naps, and slow contemplation.

 

Day 13: Da Nang

Lodging: Diamond Sea Hotel

Da Nang is home to several quarries, so it’s no surprise that their religious sites boast impressive quantities of stonework. Visit Lady Buddha and get lost in endless carvings and handiwork. Wrap up the evening with a visit to the preserved trading port, Hoi An. It is a beautiful place to visit during sunset but has become quite touristy. Prepare your pockets to pay inflated meal prices and try to get your hands on traditional regional dishes such as Mi Quang, Banh Beo, or Banh Xeo.

 

Day 14: Da Nang to Saigon

Lodging: Alagon Saigon Hotel and Spa (District 1)

Pay a visit to the Marble Mountains in the early morning before the heat reaches its peak. There are Buddhist grottos of all shapes and sizes, and you can even take a mini adventure detour by climbing the rocks within some of the caves. Vietnam Airlines has multiple, affordable flights flying every one or two hours from DAD (Da Nang) airport to SGN.

 

Day 15: Saigon

Lodging: Alagon Saigon Hotel and Spa (District 1)

Order up some 333 beers and pull up a chair curbside to people-watch on Bui Vien Street. It’s teeming with nightlife, bars, foreigners, and top-40’s music. Look around on the second-story balconies, and you’ll find the older folks are doing exactly the same thing from their flats.

 

Day 16: Saigon

Lodging: Alagon Saigon Hotel and Spa (District 1)

If you haven’t tried snails yet, the perfect place exists for you– The Gioi Oc, which literally translates to Snail World. Order up the Oc Len Xao Dua (sea snails in coconut milk) and watch the plate disappear before your very eyes.

 

Vietnam is fluid and ever-changing, just as the ocean tides do. We encourage you to explore outside of Saigon and sway your feet up in a hammock along a village road. Relish every moment of the breakfast buffet (we have yet to find any other place that offers such a spread), don’t be shy to ask for the price you want in the market, and finish everything that has been put into your bowl. Welcome the brash interactions in the big city– there is nothing quite as liberating as expressing yourself with energy too.

We hope this guide on Vietnam 16 Day Itinerary has helped you a lot. If you have anything to share, please let us know in the comment section.

Thailand Packing List: Sifting through endless vacation packing lists, looking for the right one for your upcoming trip to Thailand? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with a list and several unique suggestions to ensure you are prepared. After all, it would be no fun if you were irritable over leaving an important item behind (been there, done that). Leave it to us, and we’ll make sure you have a grin on your face while you are in “the land of smiles”! This gonna be the Thailand packing list has first appeared on your mind.

Before getting into this article, we advise you to check eight things to know before going to Thailand; it will be handy when you visit Thailand.

 

Protect from mosquitos

If you are someone who attracts mosquitos, it can be quite bothersome, especially when you’re traveling. Mosquitos seem to have a knack for finding people who are particularly allergic to their bites. To avoid developing large, irregular bumps on your skin, it’s a good idea to pack several methods to keep mosquitos at bay during your trip. Bug spray is a great option for low-medium mosquito areas, and you can find environmentally friendly sprays in the market.

 

Pick the best clothing

When it comes to clothing, lightweight and breathable fabrics are your best bet in Thailand’s tropical climate. Pack clothes that can easily mix and match, so you can create multiple outfits without bringing too many pieces. Cotton or linen tops and bottoms are great choices, and you’ll want to bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the cities, as well as flip-flops or sandals for the beach. Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit, a sunhat or cap, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, be sure to bring a rain jacket or poncho.

 

Capture your memories

Capture your memories of Thailand by bringing a camera or smartphone with a good camera. Don’t forget to pack the necessary chargers for all your electronics, as well as adapters for electrical outlets (if needed).

 

Vacation from your vacation

Not all vacations are created equal! Some of us may lounge poolside and at the beach, some may embark on arduous multi-day treks through the jungle, and some may spend their time sipping cold beers and sampling delicious street food. If you are the type of person that travels with a packed itinerary of excursions, foods to eat, and sights to see, you might just need to work in a bit of self-care too.

Dry shampoo will keep your hair oil-free and feeling fresh (which is especially helpful when out and about during a humid day.) Plan to do a face mask night (or two) to soothe your skin after a long day under the sun. Treat your hands and senses with a rich and calming hand cream right before a blissful nap. You might just need a vacation from your vacation…

 

Daily needs

Sun protection is essential in Thailand, where the sun can be intense and cause sunburns and skin damage. To protect your skin, it is important to pack good quality sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. You’ll also want to bring your personal hygiene items, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc. If you have any prescription medications, be sure to pack them in their original packaging, along with a copy of the prescription. Finally, bring a basic first aid kit with items such as band-aids and antiseptic cream.

 

Travel essentials

Carry a lightweight daypack or bag for carrying essentials while out and about. You’ll also want to bring cash and credit/debit cards, along with your passport and copies of important travel documents. Make sure you have travel insurance information and a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your trip.

 

Efficient and short Thailand packing list 

If you are in a hurry, Sure! Here’s an efficient and short Thailand packing list.

Clothing

• Lightweight, breathable tops and bottoms
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Flip-flops or sandals for the beach
• Swimsuit
• Sunhat or cap
• Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
• Rain jacket or poncho (depending on the season)

Toiletries

• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Insect repellent
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc.)
• Prescription medications (if applicable)
• Basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic cream, etc.)

Electronics

• Camera or smartphone with a good camera
• Chargers for all electronics
• Adapters for electrical outlets (if needed)

Miscellaneous

• Lightweight daypack or bag for carrying essentials while out and about
• Cash and credit/debit cards
• Passport (with copies)
• Travel insurance information
• Water bottle

One of the greatest parts about traveling to Thailand is getting the opportunity to explore its lush jungle. Did you know that over a hundred years ago, northern Thailand used to be covered in hardwood forests? Today, about one-fourth remains due to logging and development. If you plan on partaking in a trek or special adventure excursion, you may want to bring a few specialty items. Also, reading our 52 Creative Ways to Save Money for Travel will help you more.

Keep your valuables and electronics dry with a lightweight dry sack inside of your backpack. It’s so light that you will barely notice the weight at all! Bring a comfortable pack that will sufficiently carry items needed along your journey, and make sure that it’s durable. Extra points if it can double as your airplane carry-on bag. Do you have a GoPro? Take your photos to the next level with a waterproof telescopic hand pole to snap selfies while scuba diving or snorkeling.

You are all set for your upcoming trip to Thailand. Make sure you do these things in Thailand. Do you have any packing list must-haves for South East Asia? Do share!

Save Money for Travel: “How are you able to afford to travel to Japan so much? I hear it’s so expensive there!” These are questions we’ve been asked many times over. Cutting down travel expenses can be achieved easily by opting for hostels, casual restaurants, or cooking your own meals. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes in order to make our travel goals a reality.

Going on vacation doesn’t necessarily mean you have the green light to burn through your hard-earned cash. There’s no rule that says all travel needs to be in luxurious environments. In fact,  we’ve found that travel is more meaningful when we stumble across delicious street food or learn more about a place by reading up and becoming our own guide.

Budget traveling is a lot about learning how to stretch your dollar during and before a trip. Here we give you a few ways you can formulate a money-saving strategy that is so foolproof that even YOU can’t sneak out of it. Our 10 Golden Tips for Traveling Smarter will also help you more.

 

Start with the ground truth. What are you spending?

It’s hard to measure progress when you don’t know where the baseline is. That’s like a competitive racer saying they want to beat their score when they haven’t been tracking their time history. You won’t be able to uncover the best way to save money for travel unless you know what you are spending. For those of you that prefer to use your card, Mint is a powerful and free tool that aggregates your spending and even logs your assets and investments. Pick whatever method works for you. If you prefer logging your own expenses with a spreadsheet or keeping records on pen and paper– go for it!

Understanding your spending history will help you uncover certain “weaknesses” in your habits. Are you spending more than 20% of your income on dining out? Are your fixed costs (rent, mortgage, car payments, insurance, phone bills, etc.) eating up a majority of your paycheck? Are you spending more than you even have and going into debt every month? Once you are armed with your own ground truth, you’ll be able to create a specific strategy for yourself to save money fast.

 

Study yourself. What makes you tick?

Have you ever been around a group of kids and tried to convince them to clean up after themselves? You might have quickly realized that the “one size fits all” strategy doesn’t always work. Never assume people are motivated by the same things, which is why you should also take a custom approach to goal setting for yourself. Taking a look at your spending history might indicate you have a few vices, such as online shopping. Now, think about the root cause behind this behavior.

Are you shopping out of boredom? Are you an impulse buyer? Do you feel the need to buy the same things that your friends have? Or, take a hard look at your fixed costs. Why are you spending so much every month on your phone bill? Are you even utilizing your data plan to its full capability? Are you renting your apartment in the city because you’re afraid you’ll be bored in the suburbs? Reflect upon the things that make you tick because it will be a lot easier to curb certain spending habits when you understand the rationale behind them.

 

The classic horse and carrot on a stick. What’s going to make you gallop?

At this point, you may have a lot of ideas swirling around in your head. Perhaps you’ve realized you’ve been spending way too much on food and drinks because you keep getting roped into expensive social situations by your coworkers and friends. Maybe you’ve uncovered that you’ve been spending over $60 per month on subscriptions you don’t even use. You know what you need to change, but you aren’t sure what the best method for approaching it might be. Luckily, we’re about to discuss ways you can craft a game for saving money. So what kind of player are you?

• Competitive: If you aren’t first, you might as well be last

Example: Get a group of friends together to see who can spend the least amount of money on lunch for an entire month. Track on a leaderboard.

• Sprinter: Intense, short bursts of effort

Example: Challenge yourself to go 20 days, spending 50% less of what you normally do on discretionary expenses (non-essentials).

• Milestone Maker: Weekly or monthly

Example: Only allow yourself to go (insert your weakness here) once every 3 months (instead of once a month as you currently are).

• Habitual: Develop a daily routine or healthy practice

Example: Read a money-saving article every day, or when paying in cash, round up to the next whole dollar. Put the spare change in a jar for your travel funds.

• Visually Inclined: Seeing your goal front and center

Example: Post a picture of your dream destination on your front door and on your phone screen. Every time you leave the house or look at your phone, you’ll be reminded of what you are trying to achieve.

• Social Pleaser: If everyone knows you can’t possibly let them down

Example: Shout it from the rooftops. Let everyone know that you have vowed not to step foot in a mall for the next 6 months. If anyone catches you there, you’ll have to clean their bathroom (or another chore you despise).

• Scarcity Seeker: How long can you go without?

Example: Refrain from buying anything full-price for as long as you can. This includes groceries, household goods, clothing, and electronics.

If any of the above-mentioned games sound fun to you, try implementing one or two for yourself! The key is to keep this money-saving challenge engaging. Once you start losing interest, it is time to switch it up.

 

Quick and easy changes to Save Money for Travel

• Automation: Sometimes, it’s a lot easier to forget that you are saving money when it’s passive. Most employers have the option to split direct deposits by percentages. Have parts of your paycheck route directly to your savings and be pleasantly surprised in a few months. Some banks such as Bank of America, will even give you the ability to round up your spare change to the nearest dollar and deposit the extras into your savings account.
• Constant Reminders: Repetition will eventually sink in. Create phone notifications, calendar reminders, and even sticky notes of your goals so you don’t lose sight of your mission. Encourage friends and family to hold you accountable by checking in frequently on your progress.
• Old School: Make yourself a good old-fashioned piggy bank. Put your loose change and spare dollars inside. Or better yet; every time you save money by using a coupon, add the savings to your piggy bank.
• Travel Mind: Think about the value of your money and translate that into your travel goals. For example, if you decide to rent a movie instead of going out every month, you might be looking at $120 at the end of the year (assuming a movie rental is $2 and cinema tickets are $12). That money could easily float a portion of a domestic flight, an adventure excursion, or even pay for an entire week’s worth of lodging in Southeast Asia. How about cutting cable? You might be spending as low as $40 per month on cable with your internet bundle. That’s still $480 per year, which could be a ticket from San Francisco, USA, to Lyon, France. I’m serious! I just spent $403 on my flight with Air Canada.

Now that you have a solid baseline for saving money, there are endless ways you can stretch the value of your hard-earned dollar.

 

Consider Doing this yourself…

• Eyebrows, Facials, Waxing, Nails
• Cleaning, gardening
• Haircuts
• Learning new skills through online courses or books
• Repairing broken items instead of buying new

 

Decrease the frequency of…

• Dining out
• Ordering drinks and desserts at restaurants
• Haircuts (especially avoid hair color)
• Buying new electronics
• Buying new clothes unless you truly need it

 

Renegotiate your rates…

• Phone plan
• Internet plan
• Cable plan
• Auto insurance

 

Avoid large unexpected expenses by…

• Routine health and dental check-ups
• Regular oil changes and car maintenance
• Maintaining your home on a regular basis
• Shopping without a specific list
• Abiding by driving laws on the road and avoiding tickets

 

Reconsider whether you need it and eliminate it if not…

• Cable TV
• Gym memberships
• Merchandise subscriptions, magazines, etc.
• Email subscriptions to your favorite stores
• Auto-saved credit card information to make it slightly more annoying to make online purchases
• Late, banking, and interest fees
• Brand name items versus generic ones
• Apartment rental cost

 

Good savings practices…

• Did you get a rebate, bonus, or tax refund? Reward yourself with a small treat (or a simple pat on the back) and save the rest
• Audit your home energy and water usage
• Use your own refillable water bottle (especially at the airport)
• Make coffee at home instead of buying it
• Practice resourcefulness and the act of reusing when possible
• Never spend beyond your means
• Pick up a side hustle to fund your travels

 

Questions to ask yourself…

• Can I borrow versus buy?
• Can I buy used versus new?
• Could I find it on Craigslist?
• Can I wait until it’s on sale?
• Are there leftovers from this meal that I can eat later?
• Could this go under a tax shelter?
• Can I volunteer at this event to get free admission?
• Are there hobbies I’d like to pick up that are low-cost?
• Will I survive if I buy this item in two weeks or next month?
• Would I benefit more from a travel-incentivized credit card versus the one I have now?
• Do I really need to live in a place this big in this particular area?
• Am I being wasteful?
• Can I spend time with my friends and family without using money?
• Can I walk there, carpool, or use public transportation?

 

Now that you’re on the way to Save Money for Travel…

A word of caution– don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to tackle everything all in one day or even one week. Good money-saving practices take time, and there will also be an adjustment period, especially if you’ve been used to doing things a certain way for so long. Instead of going “cold turkey” on activities you enjoy, simply reduce their frequencies. You want to keep yourself excited and engaged about your money-saving goals instead of seeing them as your “ball and chain”.

 

Create positive associations with these tips on saving money, and don’t forget to celebrate little wins along the way. It is important to appreciate and value the possessions we currently own instead of always seeking more. Experiences can provide greater satisfaction and happiness compared to material possessions. Looking ahead, we will cherish the memories of exploring places like Chiang Mai in Thailand or Caving Along The Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland. But we will unlikely regret missing out on any TV shows due to canceling our cable subscription.

Wishing you good luck on your journey towards saving money, as exciting opportunities await!

If you don’t know where to start? Check out 17 Bucket List Ideas From World-Class Travelers. It will help you a lot.

Things to Do in Thailand: Thailand is one of the best places to visit for any traveler who may be exploring Southeast Asia for the first time. It is a country with very friendly people; it’s relatively easy to get around, has a mix of lush tropics and city areas, and has beautiful wats or temples everywhere. You’ll be able to stretch your dollar here with 60-minute Thai massages at 350 ฿, which is about $10 USD!

It’s hard not to like Thai food, as flavors are well-balanced with fresh greens, spices, savory sauces, and more. Domestic flights are also reasonable– from Bangkok to Chiang Mai for $57 (one way), Chiang Mai to Phuket for $75 (one way), and Phuket to Bangkok for $65 (one way). Read on for our guide on things to do in Thailand while you are in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. We also recommend you to check out these Thailand Packing List before aheading to Thailand.

A valuable resource for your back pocket: 8 Things to Know Before Going to Thailand

Things to Do in Thailand

• Feel the wind in your hair and the pulse of the city by riding in a tuk-tuk.
• Work out those knots you never knew you had by getting a foot, oil, or Thai massage.
• Awaken your inner chef by taking a Thai cooking class.
• Admire the remarkable handiwork and unique qualities of each wat (temple).
• Fall in love with mango sticky rice. Once that happens, learn to make room in your heart for durian sticky rice.
• Visit an elephant sanctuary
• Break a sweat and live out your Thai boxing fantasies through a class.

 

Things to Do in Bangkok

• Snap away with ample photo opportunities at one of the many floating markets in or around Bangkok.
• Get absorbed in the maze of chaos and noise on Yaowarat Road, also known as Bangkok’s Chinatown.
• Dance all of your cares away at Onyx or one of the many nightclubs in RCA (Royal City Avenue).
• Take a ride on the Chao Phraya Express boat and stop in the Thonburi district to explore temples, museums, and mini-floating markets. Hop back on the boat and northwards to the last stop at the Nonthaburi Market to wander in a local market free from tourists.
• Experience a real-life foodie wonderland by eating in one of the most magnificent food courts, Eathai, in the Sukhumvit area.
• Let the big city dissolve away by visiting the ko ratanakosin (the old quarters). You’ll also find the Grand Palace and Wat Pho here.
• Check out one of the world’s largest markets at the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Interestingly enough, this is also notorious for illegal animal trading.
• Find yourself with extra time for a day trip? Visit the floating markets of Amphawa just outside of Bangkok.
• A small emerald Buddha with a big story at Wat Phra Kaew.
• Let the cool night sky wash over you on one of the many rooftop bars in Bangkok.

 

Things to Do in Chiang Mai

• Inhale a bowl of Khao Soi (traditional cut noodles) as soon as you arrive. Why? You’re going to want more throughout your time in Chiang Mai, so it’s better to start early.
• Get the twinkle and charm of Chiang Mai by staying in the old city.
• Visit the food vendors at the North Gate and order a plate (or two) of stewed pork and egg from the cowboy hat lady (also visited by Anthony Bourdain).
• For a completely immersive experience, make some time to go on a one-night or multi-day trek.
• Witness standing history at Wat Chedi Luang, chat with a monk, or get a sacred white thread bracelet for protection during your travels.
• Gape in awe at the golden Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
• Contemplate the things that you need versus want at the Talat Warorot — the oldest public market in the city.
• Sway to the best live music venues at the North Gate Jazz Co-Op.

 

Things to do in Phuket

• Take a full-day excursion or even opt to stay overnight at one of the nearby islands: Phi Phi, Krabi, James Bond, and more.
• Get your tan on at one of the many beautiful beaches in Phuket! Karon Beach is a little quieter with more shade, and Kata is a lively place to be.
• Lay back in a hammock and devour baskets of mangosteens or longans on the beach.
• Rent a motorbike and cruise around town.
• For the climbers and daredevils, try deep water soloing at Tonsai beach in Krabi.
• Explore limestone formations at Phang Nga Bay.
• Canoe Cave Explorer Phang Nga Bay Tour from Phuket
• Go for a night out on Bangla Road in Patong.

 

Thailand is a country with an abundance of experiences and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From bustling cities to tranquil beaches, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient temples, indulge in delicious street food, or simply relax and soak up the sun, Thailand has it all. Some of the top activities include visiting stunning national parks, experiencing the vibrant nightlife, shopping at bustling markets, and trying out adventures.

And, of course, no visit to Thailand is complete without trying out the local transportation staple, the tuk-tuk. With its rich culture, beautiful scenery, and friendly locals, Thailand is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Thailand!

We hope you got the details about things to do in Thailand. So what do you say? Which kind of things do you think you’ll be doing in Thailand? Let us know in the comments.

Galapagos Islands Itinerary: It’s a common misconception that enjoying the Galapagos islands can only be done if you spend thousands of dollars. We are proud to report that we’ve personally debunked this myth without skimping on world-class snorkel tours and consuming as much seafood as possible

A 7 days trip to three islands in the Galapagos was accomplished for an incredible value of $1111, including the flight. For all tips, check out our full guide on how to travel the Galapagos on a budget. In this article, we are going to share a detailed Galapagos Islands Itinerary of where we stayed, what we ate, and the tour companies we used so you can do the same. However, rate and fair may vary with time and date.

Tip: Traveling with a friend can help immensely when it comes to sharing taxi and accommodation costs.

 

Day 1: Quito to San Cristobal

• Obtain the Galapagos transit control document at the airport before departure (it should cost around $20)
• Fly from UIO to SCY
• Pay a $100 Galapagos visitor fee upon arrival at the airport
• Short taxi ride to the hostel
• Book Kicker Rock snorkeling tour and arrange ferry tickets with Galapagos Fan Dive
• Taxi ride (or walk) to La Loberia (free) to view sea lions, birds, and marine iguanas
• Ask your taxi driver if they can wait for you or if they can return at a specific time since there are limited taxis in the area
• Grilled lobster skewer dinner at El Rincon De Sebas
• Buy pastries for breakfast the next day
• Stay overnight at Hostal Los Algarrobos

 

Day 2: Kicker Rock from San Cristobal

• Kicker Rock snorkeling tour from 7:15 am – 2:30 pm with Galapagos Fan Dive
• Walk to Centro de Interpretacion (Interpretation Center) to learn about the history of the Galapagos islands (free admission)
• Soup, juice, and hamburger daily dinner special at Restaurante Lucky
• Buy pastries for breakfast the next day
• Stay overnight at La Casa de Jeimy (I preferred this place over Los Algarrobos)

 

Day 3: San Cristobal to Santa Cruz

• 7:00 am departure for a 90-minute ferry ride from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz
• Taxi to El Chato Dos giant tortoise reserve ($5 entry fee) and free lava tunnels (ask the driver to wait for you for the entire duration of your visit because there are few taxis available in the area)
• Walk to the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn more about giant sea tortoises, visit Lonesome George, and learn more about animal conservation efforts
• Seafood pasta dinner on Santa Cruz’s restaurant street called Los Kioskos
• Stay overnight at Hostal Morning Glory

 

Day 4: Santa Cruz to Isabela

• Breakfast at Hostal Morning Glory
• 7:00 am departure for a 120-minute ferry ride from Santa Cruz to Isabela
• Book next day Los Tuneles snorkeling tour with Pahoehoe Galapagos Tours
• Rent a bike for half day from Galapagos Bike and Surf
• Bike to the Muro de las Lasgrimas or “Wall of Tears” with a short excursion off of the trail to walk up to the Cerro Orchilla vista point for a beautiful view of the island
• Stop by the Playa del Amor to enjoy the beach and see marine iguanas on the route back to Puerto Villamil
• Buy pastries for breakfast the next day
• BBQ seafood platter dinner at La casa del asado de Anibal Garcia
• Stay overnight at Hotel Sula Sula

 

Day 5: Isabela

• Los Tuneles snorkeling tour from 7:30 am – 1:30 pm with Pahoehoe Galapagos Tours
• Breaded shrimp lunch combo at El Velero
• Back for BBQ seafood platter dinner round 2 at La casa del asado de Anibal Garcia again because it was that good
• Drinks and music at Beto’s Beach Bar
• Stay overnight at Hotel Sula Sula

 

Day 6: Isabela to Santa Cruz

• Breakfast at an outdoor food vendor
• Rent a snorkel mask (no fins needed) at Galapagos Bike and Surf
• Self-guided snorkeling to see tortoises, marine iguanas, and sea lions at Concha de Perla (walking distance from Puerto Villamil; free attraction)
• 3:00 pm departure for a 120-minute ferry ride from Isabela to Santa Cruz
• Coconut lobster dinner on Santa Cruz’s restaurant street called Los Kioskos
• Souvenir shopping
• Stay overnight at Galapagos Dreams Hostal

 

Day 7: Santa Cruz to Quito

• Breakfast at Galapagos Dreams Hostal
• Taxi ride (30-minutes) from hotel to Baltra island ferry dock
• Ferry ride (less than 5 minutes) across the waterway
• Airport shuttle bus ride (5 minutes) to GPS
• Fly airline from GPS to UIO

 

Galapagos Islands Itinerary: Budget breakdown

There aren’t many ATMs located on the islands, so it’s best to come prepared with enough cash to cover your lodging, tours, and accommodations. There is an ATM in Santa Cruz, and you might be able to use your credit card in some places, but there may be an extra service fee to do so.

Ferries	$90.00
Flight	$293.43
Food	$133.35
Gear Rentals	$15.00
Taxis	$34.00
Tips	$25.00
Visitor Fees	$135.00
Tours	$230.00
Hotels	$155.67
Total:	$1,111.45

 

Visiting the Galapagos is truly a trip of a lifetime because of the unique animals that exist only in this one place. It is an opportunity to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species and repairing the damage caused over time. All creatures– from giant tortoises and blue-footed booby birds to finches need our help to protect the ecosystems they greatly depend on to survive.

Coming to the Galapagos is more than just diving or seeing rare animals. It is living proof that we must do everything we can to preserve the beauty of our planet. If you’re ready for the next step in planning your trip to this unforgettable place, check out our Galapagos packing list.

Do you have any other questions or want to know more specifics about Galapagos Islands Itinerary? Feel free to ask in the comments below.

Riding a bike after an extended hiatus can feel like reuniting with an old friend. You might start off unsure, teetering awkwardly and trying to recall where that damn center of balance might be inside of you. But once you begin finding your cadence, pumping your legs left and right, letting stray hairs tickle the side of your face, you’ll naturally begin to relax.

It feels like you are picking up right where you left off, closing the gap between your present moment and not-too-distant past, and there is no better place to do it than the Waterford Greenway. It is a horizontal portal to Ireland’s crayon green fields, weathered pubs that had served countless pints of beer long before you were born, the smell of fresh rain on ancient stone buildings, and a glimpse into daily life happening around you.

What is the Waterford Greenway?

The Waterford Greenway (also known as Déise Greenway) was formerly a railway line that has been repurposed into 46 kilometers or 28.6 miles of butter-smooth paved roads. It opened in early 2017 and has been steadily growing in popularity ever since. It’s practically impossible not to like; there’s something magical about letting brisk air glide across your face as you see idyllic landscapes and historical landmarks.

As Ireland’s longest greenway, it spans from the historic city of Waterford to Dungarvan and features 11 bridges, 3 viaducts, and a 400-meter tunnel. Despite its 46km length, the ride offers plenty of excitement and surprises. Visitors can discover charming details like handmade fairy doors in the Durrow Tunnel and the stunning scenery of Clonea Beach’s cobalt-blue waters.

 

What is the best Waterford Greenway starting point?

There are three main entry points for the Waterford Greenway; however, you can also begin in any of the cities that run between Waterford, Mount Congreve, Kilmeaden, Kilmacthomas, and Dungarvan. If you are looking to do the entire 46km, you can begin at either end in Waterford or Dungarvan. To save the tropical vibe of the Durrow/Ballyvoyle tunnel and the picturesque views of Clonea Beach as a grand finale to your ride, it’s recommended to start the journey in Waterford.

Kilmacthomas is located in the precise middle of the greenway with a distance of 23km to either end and another great starting jump-off if you want to trim your ride time in half. Keep in mind that all 3 of the viaducts are located between the Kilmacthomas to Dungarvan stretch, so if you are only going to ride half of the greenway, make sure it is this one.

Map of the Waterford Greenway. For additional information, the Waterford Greenway website is a solid resource [PDF Version of Waterford Greenway map]

 

How long will it take to cycle the Waterford Greenway?

It really depends on how often you plan to stop. The Waterford Greenway is best appreciated as a leisurely ride with an emphasis on the journey instead of the destination. Sure; if you blaze straight through the 46km, stopping only when necessary, you could bang out the ride in under 2 hours. However, I’d recommend making a full day (5-6 hours) with plenty of stops for coffee, snacks, photo opportunities, and soaking in the changing landscape around you.

 

Is this going to be strenuous? Will you get sweaty and regret doing this?

The Waterford Greenway is flat and silky, like Kyoto tofu. It’s great for all ages, from young to old, families, runners, dogs, skateboarders, scooters, walkers– you name it. Anyone in average health may work up a mild sweat, but that can easily be adjusted by changing gears or speeds. Let’s just say it’s one of those roads where you can try riding with “no hands, ma.”

 

What are some points of interest or good places to stop?

It’s recommended to travel from Waterford to Dungarvan to enjoy the finish of Clonea Beach, as mentioned previously. To help plan your journey, here is a list of photo opportunities and potential stopping points along the way from Waterford to Kilmacthomas and Kilmacthomas to Dungarvan.

Waterford to Kilmacthomas – 23km

• Thomas Frances Meagher Bridge
• Mount Congreve Gardens
• Kilmeaden Castle ruins
• Waterford & Suir Valley Railway

Kilmacthomas to Dungarvan – 23km

• Coach House Coffee – Kilmacthomas
• Kilmacthomas Viaduct
• Flahavan’s oats mill
• Durrow Viaduct
• O’Mahony’s Bar and Shop – Shanacool
• Durrow Tunnel (also known as Ballyvoyle tunnel)
• Ballyvoyle Viaduct
• Clonea Beach
• The Anchor Bar or The Moorings for a meal – Dungarvan

 

Waterford Greenway Bike Hire?

Renting a bicycle for the Waterford Greenway is easy and convenient thanks to Waterford Greenway Bike Hire, which has three depots located along the route in Waterford, Kilmacthomas, and Dungarvan. Each depot is fully equipped with helmets, bungee cords, and other necessary equipment to help you get started right away.

The part I appreciate most about their service is that they have a free shuttle bus that can take you from any of the three locations back to your car. This is a serious bonus if you aren’t keen on backtracking or need to get back in a timely manner. You can begin cycling in Kilmacthomas, end in Dungarvan, and then take the shuttle back to your car in Kilmacthomas.

 

What should I wear to cycle the Waterford Greenway?

Not the biggest surprise in the world– Ireland can be a rainy place. Avoid the annoying stripe of mud that may spray on your back from a wet wheel by wearing a rain jacket that can be easily cleaned. The weather can change in an instant, so it’s best to come prepared with a hooded rain jacket, gloves, beanie/hat, and athletic shoes/boots. If you plan on bringing a backpack or purse, you may want to bring a plastic bag, so it doesn’t get wet in the event of rain.

 

You are now armed with all of the information you’ll need to happily cruise along the Waterford Greenway. I hope you have a blissful time and enjoy the ride! This is a fantastic way to connect with Ireland’s lush landscape and enjoy the beautiful scenery.