Homestay Series: All the wonderful weird things happening in a Japanese Home

Although I am yet to experience a month-long homestay myself, I’ve interviewed several friends who had gotten the chance to do just that and “live to tell the tale. " Here is what I’ve got:

15 Tips for a Wonderful Homestay Experience in Japan

        The idea of spending a whole week (or even months!) with a complete stranger-family in a foreign land far far away from home might sound intimidating, but anyhow, do it in Japan!

        Homestay with a Japanese family is the most intriguing experience one can get in the land of rising sun. Not only that it is a much cheaper alternative to cramped-up hotel rooms, Homestay is simply the best way to gain an in-depth understanding of Japanese culture and their way of living. Here, you’ll be granted the front row seat to the daily life of a typical Japanese family, try delicious home cooked food, alcoholic beverages and more.

Ditch the Hotels, Try Homestay in Japan!

        I was traumatized by the expensive room rate and the lack of space in Tokyo hotel rooms during my last visit. Bearing in mind that I will be traveling with my family this time, I searched high and low on the internet for an alternative that I can deem the “Perfect Place to stay”...

Taiwan Cycling - Checklist, Budget and Recommended Tour for Beginners

  After we posted pictures and itinerary about the Taiwan Cycling Tour on our social media, we found out there are many people out there interested and keen to do cycling around Taiwan as well!

Taiwan Cycling Route 1 and the amazing 15 places along the ride

Many people are interested and tempted to do cycling trip in Taiwan, but they have no concrete idea about the trip. (台湾环岛骑行) So I am writing this article to introduce Taiwan cycling route no.1 - Formosa900 to everyone.
ALSO, reveal 15 best views and places that could heal you from the tiredness of the long ride!

2 Weeks in Northern Europe: Itinerary

      The Europe continent is a popular travel destination among Americans and Asians. Everyone loves the old town vibes, quaint villages, and the food… However, do you realize that most people drop Northen Europe, especially Scandinavia off their list? One reason is that those countries are a little out of the way geographically, and another reason… is the high expenses.

      But if you don't mind the extra miles and do plan a visit to the North, how should you plan your itinerary to make it budget-friendlier? While there is too much to see and too little time, I genuinely hope that this sample itinerary of Northern Europe in 2 weeks will help you make the most out of your trip.

2 Weeks In Italy: Itinerary

When people ask me to suggest a country in Europe for a 2 weeks vacation, which is full of highlights and easy to get a visa. I’ll say Italy. This country is truly a perfect destination for all interest, either you are into culture or art, wine or pizza, architecture or nature, Italy got you covered.

Krabi, Thailand: 5 Days 4 Nights Itinerary

Here is a sample itinerary to help make the most out of your 5 days 4 nights in Krabi. Preferably, get an Air Asia Flight that lands in Krabi Airport in the early morning, so you’ll have time to check in and prepare for the adventures coming right up!

A Complete Guide to Krabi Town Night Markets

Looking for a guide to Krabi Night Markets? Read on! 

Sunrise Hike in Krabi: Tiger Cave Temple

       On our last day in Krabi, before we catch our flight back to our own country, we joined a hiking tour in the morning, with Everyday Krabi. This is the one activity I got obsessed with and still reminiscing the hike even after a long time.

Krabi Experience: Sunset Long Tail Boat Ride on the Krabi River

All Aboard, sail into the sunset!

       The long tail boat is the signature of Krabi. We joined the tour organized by EverydayKrabi, hopped onto the long tail boat at around 4:30 pm and from there we began our journey chasing after the sunset!

Krabi Experience: Be a Local in Koh Klang

Another good day to explore local tourism in Krabi! 

       After I came back from the trip, there are people asking me questions like, 

"why aren't you doing island activities like tourists would normally do? Like island hopping, snorkeling and etc." 

       A few reasons out there, I will answer the question at the end of my article! Let’s read until the end ;)

Tired of Islands in Krabi? Visit this Viewpoint! Hiking Ngon Nak

      The word "Island" is unavoidably linked to island hopping trips, snorkeling, laying on the sandy beaches sipping margarita and etc... but after visiting so many islands and had done all sort of activities, guess you will want to do something else, like...

This.

A thrilling hike to Khao Ngon Nak.

Waking up in: POOLTARA Resort Krabi, Thailand

 How awesome could a resort with a crystal clear natural pool be? Hmm, Let me think… SUPER when it is Pooltara Krabi. Pooltara is a resort that had received the certificate of excellence from Tripadvisor. Undoubtedly, the service, environment, food, and the experiences are the reasons behind it.

CHECK OUT POOLTARA ON BOOKING.COM >>

8 Things You Need to Learn Before Visiting Japan.

       Cultural differences are a part of the experience. But sometimes, we need to do some research to avoid having too much of a shock (to one self and to others). Last year, we’d released an article stating 10 things you should avoid while traveling in Japan… this time, we are counting down the most important things you should absolutely learn prior to your trip to Japan.

Japan Autumn Forecast 2017 and How to Enjoy It?

       The leaves in Japan are starting to turn yellow… It’s officially Momijigari season! Read on to find out what to see, eat, where and how to enjoy the falls in Japan to the maximum!

Japan Budget Tips: Places to Stay Start from $12 USD in Osaka, Japan

       Yesterday I’ve released an article telling you where to stay in Tokyo on the cheap… However, some of these options are not for everyone and it's good just for a quick rest (for example catching the earliest train.) Here are some budget-friendly options without making you sacrifices comfort in Osaka.

Read more: 13 Budget tips to save money while traveling in Japan

How much will it cost? Cheap and Unique Accommodation in Tokyo (Japan Budget Tips)

        A major part of our spending in Japan is under accommodation. but what if I tell you that nice accommodation options in Tokyo aren’t necessarily expensive? To cut down the cost of the trip, you can:

13 Budget Tips to Save Money While Traveling in Japan

       Japan is indeed more expensive if compared to other Asian countries. When I first set foot in the country (2009), everything seemed to be made of gold (pricey) and I remembered counting every Yen I had every day before bed just to make sure that I have money to last the whole trip…. well you couldn’t blame me for not knowing any tips and tricks to save, travel blogs then wasn’t as many as now.

       Fast forward to today, in this E-era, you can get any information online. Traveling to Japan doesn't sound so intimidating to your wallet anymore. Here is how you can fully enjoy Japan on a Budget:

Hiking to the Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen Hike), Norway

       The Pulpit Rock was high on our must-do list and in my humble opinion, it should be on every hiker's list. Not only that it is Rogaland country's most visited attraction, it is a viewing point even CNN and Lonely Planet speak highly about. Apart from that, this 25m x 25m platform is a famed photo op among dare devils.  

Waking up in: OSAKA Groovy Music Bar - The Best Hostel Experience Ever

       I guess this is probably my dream. To travel whole day, come back and take a good shower, lay lazily in my bed, go downstairs to the BAR, listen to the music, meet nice, new, awesome friends while having a drink. 

 

Best of Kansai, Japan – Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe

       It has been 2 years since I last visited Kansai. Recently, by chance and impulse, I was able to travel to Kansai one more time, which makes me really feel like writing an article about this whole area, because Kansai is way too awesome and I need you guys to know it. 

7 Reasons You Should Rent A Car in Norway

       If you know me, this is not how I usually blog. Most of the time, I’ll go on with a statement that sounds like this: taking the public transport is the best way to experience a country…. I love bus rides and scenic train rides, and after my trips around America with Amtrak and Megabus, Italy with buses, all around Europe with Interrail, Russia with trains... Do you think this time I will recommend train or bus in Norway as well? Lo and behold, not his time, not in Norway.  

Car rental in Norway – 42 things to know before hitting the road

       Putting all excitement aside, driving in a foreign country can be a stressful experience… especially when you need to change sides when you drive. Other than that, language, road condition and weather play some really important roles. In Norway, all of the listed reasons should not stop you from getting behind the wheels, but before you hit the open road, take a quick look at these 42 important points to note about driving and renting a car in Norway.

How Much Does It Cost? Bergen, Norway (5 Days Itinerary + Budget)

       Norway is a beautiful country. Picturing the midnight sun shining on the fjord in Summer, and the Aurora dancing across the night sky in Winter, I didn’t think twice when it comes to booking my flight ticket. However, here is the real question: Norway is a huge country. How do I start planning???? 

19 Photos to Show You That Winter in Hokkaido is MAGICAL

Postponing your trip to Hokkaido just because it's "Lavender Season" no more? Hold it right there! 

Do you know that Winter in Hokkaido is even more beautiful?  

500px.com

Hiking to Kjeragbolten (Kjerag Hike), Norway.

       We’ve been warned that the hike to Kjeragbolten is not for the faint-hearted. But the thought of having this world wonder right in front of our eyes tops them all. Let it be difficult, fear won’t put us down this time…. fast forward to July 2017, we were driving back from Kjerag with 3 cameras fully loaded with photos and videos.

3 Days in Stockholm with a Stockholm Pass

      If you are a museum person, you are in luck, because the city offers a wide range of more than a hundred world class museums and attractions. So, as you can see, to cramp in all top attractions of Stockholm in 3 days is a mission impossible. The most budget-friendly way to do this, is to make a checklist of the places you are interested in, calculate the cost (if applicable, buy a Stockholm Pass) and time your visit.

WAKING UP IN: Scandic Parken Hotel, Alesund, Norway

      Scandic Hotel is the largest Nordic hotel operator. With such a high reputation in mind, I’ve set a high standard of my highly anticipated stay. From the moment I push the door of my superior room, the Scandic Parken hotel was destined to be one of my favorite properties in Norway.  

BOOK SCANDIC PARKEN HOTEL, ALESUND NOW!

Food Affair: HALAL Japanese Buffet Dinner @ G Hotel Kelawai

      I don’t mean to boast, but if you are interested in Japanese cuisine, you’ve come to the right person. Those who personally know me would know that I am a total sucker for Japanese food. Name me any main city and I can most probably name you a sushi restaurant or two. Now that I am back to my hometown, I’m overjoyed to know that my first trip across the Penang Bridge will be to try out a Japanese Buffet.

WAKING UP IN: Comfort Hotel Xpress Central Station, Oslo

      There are a lot of "Comfort Hotel"s in Oslo: Grand Central, Karl Johan, Børsparken, Xpress Youngstorget... it seems to be a very popular chain among visitors to the capital city of Norway. Browsing through the comments online, I've finally made up my mind.

      Modern, chic and with an advantage of express check in, Comfort Hotel Xpress Central Station is a place to stay where "Budget" and "Comfort" play hand in hand. Turn out, you don’t have to break your bank to have a cozy, private room with en-suite facilities in Central Oslo.

BOOK COMFORT HOTEL XPRESS CENTRAL STATION NOW! 

16 Reasons to Visit Vik i Sogn, Norway

       Situating in the heart of Sogn, Vik is usually a quick overnight stop for tourists visiting Flåm from Bergen (or the other way around). During our 3 nights stay in Blix hotel, we’ve seen buses after buses of tourists arriving at dinner time only to leave this charming district the next day right after breakfast. Such a waste, (shaking my head in disagreement) such a waste. Little did they know, if only they give this place a chance, Vik will charm them with its fantastic cultural heritage, landscapes and so much more!

3 Days In Saint Petersburg: Itinerary Sharing

       I had my Saint Petersburg CityPass in hand since I first day in Russia (collected it in GUM together with my Moscow CityPass), allowing me to pre-plan my journey with the help of the Saint Petersburg Guidebook.

2 Days in Moscow: Itinerary Share

      Technically we only had 36 hours in Moscow, which is far from sufficient. I used to think that one can cover Moscow in one day, but after several trips to the capital, I discovered how wrong I was. Now I encourage anyone interested to visit Moscow to stay at least a week! However, if you are running short on time, then this is the article for you… THE BEST of Moscow, in 36 hours.

Hokkaido 5 days Itinerary : Part 5 (Sapporo)

Continued from day 1: Hakodate

Continued from day 2: Otaru

Continued from day 3: Arashikawa

Continued from day 4: Biei Furano

Hokkaido 5 days Itinerary : Part 4 (Biei Furano)

Continued from day 1: Hakodate

Continued from day 2: Otaru

Continued from day 3: Arashikawa

Hokkaido 5 days Itinerary : Part 3 (Arashikawa)

Continued from day 1: Hakodate

Continued from day 2: Otaru

Hokkaido 5 days Itinerary: Part 2 (Otaru)

Continue from Day 1: Hakodate

Hokkaido 5 Days Itinerary (Budget Trip) : Part 1

I know a lot of people don’t dare to visit Hokkaido because it sounds Expensive. Here I want to provide a guideline to travel in Hokkaido, with a budget which makes it not so scary.

I rented a car (15,000 yen) with a friend, booked Airbnb and we were there for 5 days. 50,000 jpy including accommodation car rental (expenses = ~8000+ jpy/day).

Appx RM2400 in total.

Introducing "GypSEA Squad", powered by Miss Happy Feet

     First and foremost, thank you for being part of our big family! In GypSEA Squad- Traveling girls of South East Asia facebook group, there are some rules that every GypSEAs must abide by, in order to keep this group spam-free.

Boracay Island, the Philippines: 4 Days 3 Nights Itinerary Sharing

So dear readers, you've guessed it right! Last week I went on a sweet vacation to Boracay, the Philippines. Honestly speaking, it was truly an amazing experience. A lot of readers recommended me to check out Cebu and Palawan as well, but since I had limited time, I'll keep these awesome suggestions for next time! Keep your recommendations rolling in! <3 nbsp="" p="">

Top 20 Russian Souvenirs to Bring Back Home

       I bet you've heard of the Matryoshka dolls, but seeing everyone bringing back the dolls from Russia, it makes you wonder, what else can you buy as souvenirs? You want to be creative, but you also want something traditional... Here are 19 more ideas! Hopefully, this article would help you to find the perfect gift from Russia. 

Ribttes.com

Tatar Traditional Food: What To Eat in Kazan

Here to talk about my favorite topic: Food Hunting during trips! What to eat in Kazan and where to get them! 

Moscow At Night: Photos and Safety Tips

One thing that you really have to see during your visit to Moscow, is the city's awe-inspiring night view. If you think Moscow is pretty during the day, wait until night falls... when millions of lightbulbs illuminate the city to life.  

Moscow, Russia: 100 Travel Tips

      Russia is a beautiful country, don't be misled by misconceptions and stereotypes. Moscow is one of the most visited cities in Moscow and here are some travel tips I picked up along the way that hopefully will make your first trip to Moscow more enjoyable. 

Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia: 100 Travel Tips

Here I’ve listed down 100 tips to help you make your first trip to Kazan, Russia as enjoyable as possible! 

Kazan, Russia: a 2 days Itinerary

     If you haven't heard of Kazan, go retrieve your travel bucket list now and write it down on the very top. Why do I speak so highly about this city? You'll see. 

Kislovodsk, Russia: 2 Days Itinerary

Location: Kislovodsk, Stavropol Krai, Russia

Kislovodsk is a Spa-town located in North Caucasus region, between the Black and Caspian Seas. Continuing the journey from Pyatigorsk, Kislovodsk is just a 40-45 minutes taxi ride away. Taxi fare: 800 Rubles. 

Read more: 1 day in Pyatigorsk

Pyatigorsk, Russia: a 1 day Itinerary

Location:  Pyatigorsk, Stavropol Krai

The name of the city is derived from 2 Russian words "пять" and "гор" (five and mountains), symbolizing 5 peaks of the Caucasian mountain range. 

Dombay, Russia: a 3 days Itinerary

Location:  Dombay, Karachay-Cherkessia Republic. 

Dombay is one of the most popular ski-destination in Russia (although most foreign tourists are unaware of it). It is located near to Elbrus, so if time allows, I recommend combining both trips.

Read more: Elbrus, your solution to expensive ski-holidays