The Closing Note : Rickshaw Challenge 2014

I have heard cross country races sponsored by leading automobile companies,large tyre companies,Tobacco companies of the world.First time I came across a 1000 km race done on Auto Rikshaws or Tuk Tuks  only by Foreigners in Madras.As eight teams from U.K,Germany,Australia and Norway were taking part in the Rickshaw Challenge Classic 2014 on a multiy city tour to see the glimpses of Rural India.

Hongkong Entry-Paper Bit Visa in Passport

I have seen Visas being affixed by Embassies in Passport.I have come across E Visa issued by countries.I have experienced Visa being laminated in Passports at the port of entry by countries.Also Visa On Arrival being stamped by many countries.But when I entered Hongkong a rude surprise awaited me.The officer coolly took a paper bit printout like one gets in Super markets and stapled it in one of the pages in my Passport.I was astonished to see this.

VISA:No Visa Fees to Enter Philippines..!!

It is common to include visa fees when we plan our trips to South East Asia countries.The visa fees normally varies between 20  USD to 75USD .Many times we tend to keep the cash ready in hand at the airport immigration to have a smooth entry when we go for Visa on Arrival rout.,But the Philippines Government allows you a free entry without paying anything.But there is a catch.You must have valid US or Singapore visa with Multi entry status with it.

When you present your passport at the immigration they stamp you with a 14 days visa to see Philippines
which is more than what you ask for.But the immigration officer is more comfortable with your US Visa as they will be able to check on line,it appeared so,as officer showed a smile in his face after entering my passport number in the system.You can also extend the Visa by going to the nearest embassy by paying a fee.


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Saturday Shoot Bits # 7 :Each Day is a Day of Fascination

Win The little Big Battle - Climbing Mt.Bromo,Indonesia

After finishing the Sun rise tour which was covered with heavy fog which made me disappointed,we moved through the whispering Havannah to reach the base of Mt.Bromo.Fog had covered the hill tops but the ground level vicinity was excellent.Nearly 50 Four wheel drive Range rovers were parked near the barbed fencing and our jeep also joined.Immediately we got down and started walking towards the volcano base.But we could not walk fast as the ground was covered with dark black volcano ash which slowed us heavily.

Surprises in a Village-Sunset in Corong Corong,El Nido,Philippines

After having finished the Tour B in El Nido through Servant Tours ,I was excited to go and see the sunset in Corong Corong.Sunset will not be visible in Elnido as it is blocked by Limestone cliffs on all sides.I took a tricycle along with 2 people and reached the market place of Corong Corong.

11 Things You Must Plan When Doing a Trail

I am no exception when I plan a Walking or Hiking trail,I always feel that I am fit enough to do so any length at any point of age.But I have made mistakes in the past .I want you to prepare yourself well in advance usually 4 weeks before undertaking a trail.Well I give below some points in my Travel quip

Wow The Game of Sparrows-Famous Streets in Penang,Malaysia

Many World Traveller who land in Malaysia will visit the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site in George Town and start exploring the city by taking the famous walking trails to explore its street art and architectural buildings.They do not miss the surprises in store.The streets of George Town have many hidden histories behind.I give below a glimpse of the ancient streets and their participation in various historical events.

10 Things to Do Before Becoming a World Traveller

Every ones dream is to travel around the world and experience the culture and people.But to make this happen one has to have a good health ,neat habits and flare for Travel.The world is open to all who dare to travel and enjoy the un spoilt nature in its own surroundings.

Here are my favourite Travel Quips to prepare yourself the long journey of Travelling around the World.

Saturday Shoot Bits # 6 : Beyond The Boundary

Beyond Hongkong,View Deck in Wisdom Path,Lantau Island

Many travellers to Hongkong which is a city for Fortune 500 companies take the 5.7 km long Ngong Peng 360 gondola ride which throws out a spectacular amazing views on sea and hills to reach the Big Buddha statue weighing over 200 tons in Lantau Island which is largest of the 200 offshore Islands .But the stop with that and return by bus to reach back to Tung Chung bus station..Very few try to explore the places around it. After visiting the Lantau 36 meter high largest seated Big

HOSTEL : TAY MILOY INN in El Nido,Philippines

One thing which comes to my mind ,once I am in my destination is a magnificent comfortable accommodation.When I got down from the bus after 7 hours of journey from Puerto Princesa (I was told the night bus takes only 5 hours) soon the Tri rickshaws men surrounded me.When I told about Tay Milo the Philipino understood and took me to his place in the town.I was enjoying the magnificent scenery with coconut trees,plantain plants,with the hillock at the back drop.

Nest:Expensive Birds Nest Soup Improves MACHO !!

El Nido in Philippines is  a small town with narrow streets parallel to the beach gets its name because of its edible birds nests (Nido in spanish is for nests) in cliffs.around the 45 lands it has in its fold..This was told by our boatman when we were coming back from one of our day Tour to islands when I saw a bamboo platform jetting out in one of the cliffs as we were passing a island.on our return back and asked him about that facility.

A Magical Tale of Henderson Waves

Many people who travel never realises the importance of a Map as all the Logistics portion are taken care by the Tour operator.But for solo travellers like me ,the first thing we look as soon as we land in a country is the Maps.We just go straight to the Tourism office to collect the Maps.It is a common sight to see many travellers who travel on their own, group together and will be discussing the next plan of action in any Public transport place.

Spaced Out in Whispering Savannah,Probolinggo,Indonesia

I was ready for the early morning sunrise view of. Mt.Bromo.Our group all were huddled in sweaters,protective overalls,rain coats,muffler putting an extra weight of 10 kg to keep out from the pretty cold night.yes we were ready at 230 am and were waiting for the mini van to come up.Previous night I had made a very good deal with the van guide to take a trip to see Mt.Bromo.I was give a attractive 50 percent discount for the tour as he had two vacant places in the van.I was the one who was interested in the early morning trip from our Lava Lava Guest house in Probolinggo.

Saturday Shoot Bits # 5 :Set Your Appetite on Fire

Love Lock !! Hanging Bridge of Banaue,Philippines

It was my second day in Banaue.After a historic 48 hours journey from Manila by ohayami because of Typhoon Sati,I was sitting in Sanafe Lodge restaurant veranda and enjoying the scenery below.I could see fully grown rice terraces and a stream  and winding roads and a beautiful two storied brightly coloured homes at farthest.And I could see a Iron bridge connecting my place and the road below.

TRANSPORT:Holidaying On A Beca Or Trishaw in Penang

The first means of Transport for me to go around an UNESCO World Heritage Town is a Tri Rikshaw or Beca as called in Malay.The person who pedals this eco friendly Rickshaws are quite Knowledgeable about the historic past and can give very good information about the people,the society and how slowly the transformation took place and now how everyone is part of this Heritage Town.These guides are very honest,reliable understands a Tourist and also friendly.

Sad Notes Of Ijen Volcanic Mountain,Indonesia

Indonesia is located in what is called the pacific rim of fire,which is one of the most active volcanic areas of the world.Indonesian country alone has 150 volcanoes.They erupt at frequent intervals and the lives of the people are always in the verge of uncertainty in these volcanic regions.

How To Do AdventureTrails in Hongkong !!

When ever, any one tells about Hongkong what comes to every ones mind is the bustling Financial capital and its busy streets and skyscrapers lining across Victoria Harbour.But having visited Hongkong this winter I was stunned by the other face of Hongkong.Its Calm,quiet beaches,beautiful mountains,secluded Bays and spectacular skyline as seen from Happy valley Race course and the famous Adventure Trails.

CAVES : Mysterious Connecting Caves of Sagada,Philippines

Normally  caves remind us of our Neanderthal period of  living, away from civilisation..Yes it was true and were taken back to that era once we saw the entrance of Sagada caves.Uneven rocks protruding and a nascent crack in the hills and pitch dark.Once we enter,a oblivion surrounds us.I am going to explore the beauty inside.

Saturday Shoot Bits # 4 :Positive Notes

How I got Caught Into Chew Jetty in Georgetown

It was early evening and the sun was setting in Butterworth side and here I was walking on the Cornish of the Penang Ferry Landing side. There were lots of old wooden shandy type structures in front of me. I just peeped in through an opening between two shops and Wow! I got caught in the mesmerising view of old wooden structures and the welcome sign of Chew Jetty

TRAILS : 120 Million Year Old Magical Rainforests of Cameron Highlands,Malaysia

Located at about 4 hours drive from Kuala Lumpur, I am at Cameron Islands- hiking in one of the most beautiful natural reserves. To be honest, I was very much excited to do all the 14 jungle Trails. After being in a cosmopolitan city in the previous week, I was thinking of the hike which is going to be one of the rarest jungle adventures ever I have taken alone.

Eggs:Weird Balut The Filipino's Haute Cuisine

I was walking down the streets of Elnido in Palawan,Philippines..A man on motorbike was carrying a basket and was shouting Balot..Balot and people were eagerly waiting to buy .When I went near What I saw was eggs.Looked like Duck Eggs.I thought why people were buying eggs from street vendor.We do not see any where people selling eggs on road.

BANAUE :WOW, Mud walled Rice terraces of Philippines

If you see the Twenty peso bank note of Philippines the Banaue rice terraces are placed with its wonderful carved slopes.We reached Banaue in the wee hours after spending 2N1D in the bus battling Santi Typhoon Our Sanafe Lodge was closed with a no disturbance board and our ringing of bells did not help in anyway.

How to Bargain in Big Markets of KL,Malaysia

The Jalan Petaling market in Jalan street comes to full life in the afternoon when all the tour buses dropping the tourist in the china town area of Puduraya in KL.The tourists from different countries were all spellbound seeing so many shops which displays many useful day to day articles and the prices quoted by the vendors are very much attractive to them.

Do you Know Polish Bell of Happiness in Singapore

It was an early morning  with a cloudy sky and we were on our long walk in one of the appealing trails which takes us through covered forests in the centre of Singapore.Suddenly at the highest point on the trail in one of the restaurants facing the sea we came across a surprising Big Bell and a plaque installed near by and a magnificent Christmas tree.

Saturday Shoot Bits # 3: Mesmerising Rainbow Mountains,Banaue,Philippines

UNESCO :The Isle of Beetle Nuts, Penang

How to go around the UNESCO World Heritage site of Georgetown.Which one to see first.The Heritage buildings,Street Arts,The Penang Hill,The Temples,The Beaches,Old Clan Jetties,The Murals,Glass works ..the list is endless.Finally I decided to start with Heritage buildings sites walk.GT in Penang is Malaysia's most Tourists visited destination.

TRAILS : Wisdom Path in Lantau Island,Hongkong

The Lantau Island in Hongkong hides many mysteries inside her.The path is hidden from any ones view and in the mountain.It takes about 20 minutes to walk through the Tea Garden Plantation.One will get a feeling of walking through a forest but you have a a good cemented path.In fact the walk crosses many famous Trails of Hongkong.

THRILLER : In Woods - Hanging Coffins Of Sagada

I am taking back to you Michael Jacson times.I have listened to his Thriller songs.It keeps me nailed to my seat.Similar experience I felt as our minivan nudged the top spot in this tiny Sagada  village outskirts .I see Trekkers coming through narrow paths wading through bushes and having better close view of the coffins than me.

PARKS:Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) in Jakarta

The History of Jakarta refers back to the 14 th century during the development of a small Harbour called 'Sunda Kalapa' in Pajajaran and naturally Portuguese became the first European to arrive to trade.Prince Fatahillah seized this port in 1927 from Portuguese and changed the name to Jayakarta which means 'Victory'.That is how present day Jakarta came into existence.

CABLE CARS : Gondola Lifts,Picturesque View Below !!!

A surprise .I know what is in your mind.Stop imagining the grand canal of Venice and the aroma of boating with your partner in waters surrounded by colonial buildings which are slowly submerging in sea water.I am taking you to get an idea about Cable cars,Gondola Lifts as they were known long time back and help you to plan to go and see awesome views from them in the coming holidays.

1.    Country:Switzerland   Place:Maannlichen   Opened:1979    Length:6.240 KM   Capa :4

Saturday Shoot Bits # 2 : Wild Flowers for Company

TRANSPORT : BRTS, Pay Just & Travel in Jakarta, Indonesia

After landing in Jakarta on my flight from Surabaya by Airasia I started looking for two things after the Immigration was over.One was the Tourist map from the Tourist Information Center and the other a Bus & Train map displayed prominently to cater Backpackers like me.When I am alone on  Backpacking I live on Frugal budget and see many countries at short notices and these cheap and reliable modes of transport are very very important to me

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ART:Walking Tour On Streets of Georgetown,Penang

I always feel great to be in  a known environment when I am in overseas.I kept my Backpack in the cot at Love Lane Inn in Love Lane  in Georgetown ,a walking distance from the ferry pier.This is my second visit to Penang and still I know there are many places which has to be seen and enjoyed.As I started walking down the old street These artworks started popping up at the entrance of the street.

TOURS:Paradise Island Tours in El Nido,Philippines

I love beaches and El Nido in Palawan keeps to herself the beauty of clear Blue waters, surrounded by Mountains,Rocks lashed by gentle waves,Green forests and White sand .The paradise is unfolding before my eyes.I am waiting at the Servants Tour operator to get into El Nido Island Hopping  Tour B.Our group consisted of one couple from Russia,Mother and daughter from Israel and me.

MONKS:Historic Snake Temple Of Penang

The snake temple,officially known as Hock Kin Keng was built for the worship of deity 'Cheong Chooi Chor Soo'.Chor Soo Kong, Buddhist monk from China was held in high esteem by the locals because of his Greatar virtue,wisdom and invaluable services to the community during his life time.

RAFTING: Beyond Pekalen Atlas River Near Probolinggo,Indonesia

On our 3 day Indonesia Trip we were heading towards the Pekalen Atlas River,a nice rafting path for a 12 Km rafting experience which was conducted by Songa Adventure.This rafting base is located about 15 km from Probolinggo town.Once we reached the camp the instructor gave a briefing about the safety aspects of rafting and the safety gear..

Saturday Shoot Bits # 1:Honey Bees of Munnar

WATER FALLS:Awesome Tappiya water falls in Ifugao Country

All of us feel overjoyed when we see a waterfall in its nature midst of forest dropping from a good height and flowing throughout the region.Imagine the mystic mountains closing you,cool breeze flowing, thundering storm waiting to pour.You can picture the scene we were walking to Tappiya water falls on way back from Batad World Heritage Rice Terraces village.

BEACH:Children's Day Outing in Sands

I can see the glee in your eyes.Running to the water and splashing it on others.That is what I will do whenever I go to Beach and I do not miss the Morning stroll in Beach. In a place like El Nido no chance at all..As usual I was casually walking on the Beach,I could see at distance some women trying to make their babies walk.

TRAMS:Hongkong's cultural identity

We all know Hongkong is an expensive place to spend time, as it is being flooded by Mainlanders daily. In spite of the city's most highly regarded robust subway system M.T.R,Double-Decker buses,Taxis,Ferries... Trams find a place in the hearts of locals.

TYPHOON:Santi A great disaster in Philippines

We were going to Banaue to see the world famous UNESCO World heritage Rice Terraces.We were hurdled up in the super cold bus of  Ohayami  from Lacson avenue in Manila.Bus travels around Manila and enters the Districts.Good Nice sleep after a hard travel from El Nido. Suddenly I woke up after hearing noises from outside.I was expecting to be in Banaue. and it was 6 AM..

I had a rude shock.Vehicles lined up for Kilo meters.What was the matter I wondered .The Typhoon Santi has devastated the countryside in night before .Got down and found that a bridge was overflowing ahead.Coffee was selling like hot cake and sold out immediately . No more hot water as no electricity to boil .Trees have fallen blocking the road.May take hours to clear and I decided to walk down to see

UNESCO:World Heritage Rice Terraces of Batad

The Philippines is hit by an average of 15 typhoons every year. I can see vast rice fields submerged in flood waters after the typhoon has passed. Crops ready for harvesting are gone in one night but the country is blessed with mountains and the hardworking people plant rice crops in the mountain slopes.

We took a tricycle from Banaue to reach a place where a big landslide has occurred the previous day. Man and machines were working to clear the mud but will take more time. We climbed the mud holding our