Christine Willams Author | Don't Forget To Move

Here Hostel: Best Hostel Near Khao San Road

With such a busy and crowded city like Bangkok, travelers will find no shortage of choice in accommodation. With hostels and hotels on almost every corner, businesses have to do something a little different to grab the attention of potential customers. And that’s exactly what Here Hostel has done. The best hostel near Khao San Road, they’ve created a unique setting with a flair for design and, wait for it… a slide!! Yes, there is a legitimate throw-your-hands-up-in-the-air, unleash your inner child, slide! How many hostels do you know that have a slide? Slide aside, the team at Here Hostel work hard to maintain facilities that are clean, quirky and fun. Here’s what else we loved about it:

Facilities

Here Hostel doesn’t have your standard cookie-cutter layout, which is one thing we love about boutique hostels. It was originally a residential home and much of the original Thai architecture remains. The common areas definitely have a “hipster” vibe with wood floors and eccentric knick-knacks placed around including an old typewriter and two glass jugs with fish in them (say hi to Ethan and Panda for us!).

The bathrooms have the same old school vibe with antique pipes and décor. The showers are awesome (although admittedly a bit confusing to operate), but have fantastic water pressure with complimentary shampoo and soap.

And did we mention the slide??

Rooms

The rooms are clean and simple. We stayed in a 12-bed dorm room, which sounds like it would be a room packed with beds and luggage everywhere, but it was surprisingly orderly. Beds have a thick curtain that provides privacy while you’re sleeping. Each bed also comes with large storage space to put your backpack. This keeps the room looking clean and uncluttered, no easy feat for a 12-bed dorm! Extra luxuries include a thick, soft comforter and some of the most comfortable pillows we’ve ever used. I seriously almost stuffed one into my backpack to keep.

Private rooms are super simple, with just a bed and bedside table. If you prefer privates, you’ll have more space to yourself in this room. However, we felt that the curtains in the dorm bed gave us enough privacy. Our only complaint was that the overhead lights are kept very dim, but each bed has a bright light so it’s not really a problem.

Location

The location, near Democracy Monument, is a little bit out of the way from certain areas, but it’s still in central Bangkok. We even had one tuk-tuk driver ask us why we wanted to go all the way out there. But in the end, we really enjoyed the location. The hostel is set on a quiet street. The party and craziness near Khao San Road is only a 10-minute walk, but it’s far enough way to be able to sleep peacefully. There’s actually a bit to do in this area including Golden Mount Wat Saket and Wat Pra Kaeo. Famous hole-in-the-wall restaurant, Krua Apsorn, is just around the corner. Apparently it’s a favorite of the royal family.

Value For Money

Prices at Here Hostel are standard for a boutique Thailand hostel. If you’re concerned about money, we recommend a dorm bed rather than a private as it’s still very nice.

The price of the stay includes a free breakfast (that’s actually going to fill you up). The breakfast includes eggs, toast, salad and fruit. Complimentary tea, coffee and water are available throughout the day for caffeine addicts like myself.

There are also appreciated little extras like a fridge to keep leftovers in and brochures in the lobby with information about local sites.

Traveler Vibes

The hostel has plenty of common space for socializing. Other travelers usually congregate late morning for a sleepy breakfast and it’s a good time to meet buddies for exploring the city. The “dining room” is big with plenty of chairs and benches to sit back with a beverage or write that belated email to your mom.

Here Hostel isn’t exactly a party hostel (at least not when we were there), but it definitely has a social vibe and it’s not uncommon to see travelers congregating around a table for pre-drinks before heading out. The staff are super friendly and will sometimes pull out a sneaky bottle from the back to keep the party going. Sometimes it can be difficult to meet locals when you travel, so we appreciate staff that go out of their way to befriend travelers.

Overall we really enjoyed the quirky vibe of Here Hostel. From the design to the thoughtful extras, we would recommend this hostel as a great place to stay in Bangkok.

Why Traveling To Iceland Is So Hot Right Now

Is it just us, or has Iceland suddenly become the world’s hottest travel destination? Iceland remained a fairly under-the-radar place to visit until recently. Now photos of friends’ recent trips to this chilly country seem to be blowing up our news feed and everyday more and more travelers are booking tickets. So what’s the deal? Why has Iceland become such a popular place to visit? From gorgeous landscapes to friendly people, this country has a lot to offer. Here’s why Iceland is so hot right now.

Mystical Landscapes

There’s a reason so many travelers are donning their ski jackets and bearing the cold. Tourists are drawn to Iceland because of its stunning natural beauty. The landscape is nothing short of mystical. The scenary promises an endless series of snow-covered volcanoes, mountains and ice fields. With a rugged, “other-worldly” terrain, the Nordic icy views are like nothing you’ll see in the rest of the world.

Eco-Destination

Don’t Forget To Move readers will know how important responsible and sustainable travel is to us (if you don’t, read about our passion for it here). We love tour operators and hotels that focus on eco-friendly initiatives. Lucky for us, it’s not just a couple hotels, but the whole darn country that is eco-friendly! In fact, Iceland has the cleanest energy consumption in the world! The tourism board of Iceland is committed to keeping the environmental impact of tourism low by supporting tours, hotels and activities that protect the environment. Seriously, does it get any better?

Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern Lights has always been a childhood dream of mine. There’s something special about seeing such a spectacular show that is 100% natural. What makes them even more special is their elusiveness. The conditions have to be just right to witness this beautiful phenomenon, so the more time you have in Iceland, the better chance you’ll have of seeing them. Which is fine by us, I’m sure we can find plenty of things to do in Iceland to entertain ourselves!

Blue Lagoon

One of Iceland’s biggest tourist attractions is the Blue Lagoon, and rightly so. This geothermal spa is filled with mineral enriched water that exfoliates the skin. There’s also a waterfall that spits heated water, and standing underneath it feels like a warm massage. To be fair, we’ve heard mixed reviews including complaints about long lines, crowded water and overpriced admission. But as Lonely Planet says, visiting Iceland and not seeing the Blue Lagoon is like going to Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower. You really can’t miss it.

Road Tripping

When you think of traveling around Iceland, you may not imagine doing it on a road trip. But Iceland self-drive tours are super popular. The 830-mile Ring Road circles the whole country and hits popular stops along the way. The best part of an Icelandic road trip is being able to stop whenever you find a landscape particularly breathtaking. In the summer the sun shines until midnight, leaving you will plenty of daylight to explore your surroundings. If you’re not sure about taking a road trip in Iceland, then you can still experience the country with the many amazing Iceland tours on offer!

Reykjavik

If you need a little action to break up those quiet, scenic drives, Reykjavik is the spot to be. It may be small, but this northernmost capital city is packed with restaurants, cafes, bars, museums and more. A super walkable city, Reykjavik has plenty to do for budget travelers including free activities like checking out the local street art or enjoying the parks. This hip little city seems like the perfect spot to kick back for a few days and experience life like a local.

15 Reasons To Stay At SPIN Hostel El Nido

Maybe we’re getting older or maybe the tide is changing in backpacker’s taste, but Jules and I have noticed that boutique, upscale hostels are all the rage. These hostels mix hotel comforts with hostel social life, and a perfect example of this is SPIN Designer Hostel El Nido, Palawan. From the moment we entered the hostel we were greeted by a cheerful front desk staff and really got the royal treatment. The design of the hotel is miles above the typical grungy hostel you’ll find on the road, and we kept discovering extra little luxuries included with the stay. Admittedly, SPIN’s rates are higher than neighboring hostels, but when you factor in extras like free breakfast, free drinking water and a million other little touches, you’ll get your money’s worth. Here’s 15 of those things that we absolutely love about SPIN hostel El Nido:

1. The Beds

Jules and I have had our fair share of cramped single dorm beds- his feet hanging over the edge and my restless sleeping banging me into the wall or side rail. Thankfully the team at SPIN has figured out just how important a comfortable bed is. The beds are HUGE! And I don’t mean slightly longer to accommodate tall people, I mean like spread out, sleep diagonally, roll around double beds! And that’s in the DORM, as well as the privates! Heck yes!

2. The Showers

After a big day island hopping around El Nido, all you’ll want is a nice relaxing shower and SPIN has you covered. No weak pressure here, these showerheads are massive, making you feel like you’re showering in a warm tropical downpour. And not that you need to ask at a boutique hostel like SPIN, but yes, there’s hot water. Whether you’re staying in a private room or using the common bathroom in the dorm, the showers are the same, so everyone can enjoy the luxury!

3. The Staff

No matter how nice a hostel is, rude staff can ruin your experience. Luckily SPIN has chosen absolute super stars to run their hostel. From the security guard out front who will protect you from the rain with an umbrella on the short walk from your tuk tuk to the front door, to the staff that carried our bags into our room when we arrived, to the never-ending smiles from Jinky and the gang at reception. Backpackers rarely receive the 5 star concierge treatment, so it’s a real treat!

4. The Breakfast

Forget your measly spread of white bread and Nescafe, SPIN actually serves a real breakfast! There’s a cook making fresh eggs and omelettes to order. A legit selection including wheat bread, pineapple marmalade, cheese, fresh fruits and, my personal favorite, REAL brewed coffee available all day! Caffeine addicts rejoice!

5. The Nightly Activities

The great thing about SPIN hostel El Nido is that they mix hotel luxury with the social atmosphere of a hostel. This means they’re actively finding ways to get the guests mingling. From jam sessions to game nights to arts and crafts, they have a different activity each night!

6. The Lockers

They are HUGE! Like you could have a dance party in there huge. Or stuff your entire backpack in there for safe keeping!

7. The Design

The hostel is designed with sleek modern concrete floors and elements of natural material like bamboo. A lot of thought has been put into the interior design and the gorgeous green landscaping that surrounds the building. It’s this added hotel-like luxury that makes SPIN worth the money.

8. The Common Spaces

The spaces! There are so many spaces! Seriously, there are decks, a patio, a music room with instruments, a game room and more. Plus a communal kitchen if you’d like to cook!

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9. The Guests

Given that it’s a bit more expensive than other hostels in the area, SPIN attracts a certain type of guest. These are people who could probably afford a cheap room at a hotel, but prefer the social life that comes with staying at a hostel. Everyone we met was super friendly and I sincerely think we met some life-long friends here!

10. The Saturday BBQ

On Saturday nights the hostel hosts a BBQ. Huge portions of fish, chicken or pork, plus rice, condiments and a tasty fresh coconut for 170PHP. And when I say huge, I mean HUGE! If you’re not super hungry you can easily split one dinner between two. We arrived on a Saturday and it was the perfect way to mingle and meet the other guests.

11. The Blankets

When you arrive you’ll receive a blanket and towel rolled up with a bamboo twine, a super cute finishing touch. You may be thinking, “I don’t need a blanket in the Philippines.” Trust me. With the AC on, snuggling up in this soft, fuzzy blanket is a dream.

12. It’s Clean

Should be a give-in, but cleanliness is not always a top priority for hostels. At SPIN the staff make sure all of the common areas and rooms stay spotless- a big job for such a spacious hostel!

13. The Extras

Backpackers can tell when a hostel was designed by a true traveler. All of those little extras that really make a difference shine through. At SPIN those extras include a shelf and personal power outlet next to every bed for charging all your electronics. They also provide each bed with a little set of pockets that can hold any personal items, like books or toiletries.

14. Don Don

I know we’ve already listed the staff, but the manager Don Don deserves a special shout-out. A savvy businessman with a constant smile, he is dishing up food on BBQ nights and is always around to hear about guest suggestions or needs. Definitely get in touch with Don Don if you have an idea!

15. Laundry Room

Last on the list, but certainly not least, is the holy grail of hostel amenities. As rare as sighting a wild tarsier, the washing machine is on top of every traveler’s wish list. And best of all, it’s free! Just grab some detergent from the nearest sari-sari, crank up that cycle and enjoy clean clothes! Ahhh, does it get any better?

A huge thank you to all the staff for making our stay at SPIN wonderful! Jules and I were guests at SPIN Hostel El Nido in the Philippines, but all opinions are our own. You can book your stay with SPIN Hostel El Nido here.

FloWer Beach Resort, Anda: Our Personal Paradise

The drive to Anda Beach is just like any unassuming Filipino small town road. Except for the regular signs directing you to beach-side resorts and the occasional glimpse of bright turquoise water between the trees, you wouldn’t know what a spectacular coast line awaits just a couple kilometers away. After a broken side mirror on our motorbike and a couple hour drive in the unrelenting midday sun, Jules and I were begging for some beach time, cue: FloWer Beach Resort, Anda.

FloWer Beach does an excellent job of preserving the authentic Filipino landscape and combining it with resort luxuries. Forget the cookie cutter resorts you might find in Boracay or Cancun, where you might as well be back in your home country. At FloWer Beach you’ll get a true taste of the Philippines. You won’t find perfectly manicured lawns, but this adds to the resort’s rustic charm. Instead you’ll find natural beauty at its best. As we entered through the stone path, our first view was of the huge infinity pool, with an adjoining smaller pool for kids. We’ve swam in our fair share of pools, but this one is a knock-out. The pool is even deep enough for beginning Scuba lessons. Lounge chairs surround the perimeter for lazy sun-baking afternoons and if you swim up to the pool’s infinity edge you can find an a view of the resort’s private beach, obstructed only by the swaying of palm trees.

At the feet of the resort lies one of the most beautiful beaches we’ve seen in the Philippines. As the Lonely Planet has described it, this “small but luxurious” strip of white sand is FloWer Beach’s highlight. So bright that I had to immediately put on my shades, the sand is incredibly soft, it felt like silk running through our fingers. That sounds like a travel blogger cliché. It isn’t. See for yourself and report back.

On a sunny day the water lapping up at the shore is a brilliant clear blue. Calm and perfect for swimming, snorkeling here provides glimpses of the Philippines famous blue starfish, although we were told the best snorkeling is a bit further from this area. Palapa umbrellas line the back of the beach and lounge chairs with swim towels are provided for guests. The beach bar sells drinks in the high season and the area has a Wi-Fi connection, although the only reason you should be using it is to post photos that make your friends back home jealous, then put away your devices and enjoy the spectacular view!

Just around the bend past the rooms closest to the beach is another route to the beach. Hanging over the water sits an idyllic hut that would make a Travel + Leisure magazine editor swoon. Rooms are simple, made out of indigenous materials, which make them look natural in the lush landscape. Deluxe rooms are located in the back and have electric hot water showers and air conditioning. We stayed in a standard room overlooking the beach, which we definitely recommend. I don’t think we’ve ever stayed this close to the ocean. There’s no air conditioning in the standards, but the cool breeze coming off the coast is enough to keep the room fresh. All rooms have a private bathroom and the resort provides nice touches like an electric kettle with complimentary instant coffee, creamer and sugar. Outside the room was a little patio with chairs, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee and digging into a good book, if you can keep your eyes off the view long enough to read anything.

The resort has a restaurant on-site that serves delicious big portions of Filipino food, with a few Western options on the menu as well. Other services include a dive shop, a private boat for island hopping and transportation available for tours to nearby sights like the Chocolate Hills.

One thing that kept popping up in reviews we read before coming to FloWer Beach was how absolutely lovely the staff is. The resort is owned by a very friendly German/ Filipino husband and wife team, Werner and Flo (hence the name FloWer Beach). Werner is known for meeting guests at the restaurant and exchanging stories over a few drinks. Unfortunately while we were there he had recently broken his foot, but he still made sure we were greeted with drinks of local spirits at our first dinner. He also chatted with us about his development of the resort and all of the incredible highlights Bohol has to offer.

Werner and Flo do amazing work at the local Florence Technical College, which they founded in 2013. This college provides technical education to local youth in areas like technology and tourism. The couple employs students studying tourism and hospitality as staff at the resort to give them real world experience. At Don’t Forget To Move, we love to see local business owners giving back to the community in a very tangible and sustainable way. It’s clear Flo and Werner care about the livelihoods of those in the area, and this is just one more reason to visit the lovely FloWer Beach Resort, Anda.

Thanks to Werner, Flo and the staff at FloWer Beach for hosting us during our lovely stay! As always, all thoughts and opinions are our own. If you’d like to visit FloWer Beach Resort, Anda you can check them out on their website!

Bohol Travel Guide

The island of Bohol in the Visayas region of the Philippines is known for diving, diverse wildlife and, of course, the Chocolate Hills. Jules and I chose to explore this area because we felt it had a lot to offer rather than just another island with beautiful beaches (I know, we’re spoiled). Little did we know, however, that Bohol would end up as one of our all-time favorite spots in the Philippines.

Besides its many attractions, Bohol is just a downright gorgeous province. Driving through the interior of the island on our motorcycle was absolute heaven. The curving roads ascending into the mountains cut through lush jungle so wherever you turn your head you’ll see a million different shades of green. The air is refreshingly cool, a welcome respite from the humid coastal towns. And the best part? The people. Apparently Boholians are known for their friendliness and they did not disappoint. As we cruised through tiny barangays (neighborhoods) on to each location, we were greeted by dozens of waving hands from tiny kids to the village grandparents. We couldn’t believe how hospital everyone was and it really made our time in Bohol just that much better.

For this reason, we really encourage travelers to rent a motorbike for a couple days or a week and explore the area on your own. The roads are mostly well maintained and driving was pretty easy. If you’re too nervous or unable to drive one, tour companies do van trips around the island and there is a bus that loops through the interior and along the coast. Here’s our Bohol travel guide to find out what you should definitely not miss on this beautiful island:

Chocolate Hills

This series of over 1,500 nearly symmetrical hills get its name from the chocolate brown color that the hills turn in the dry season. You may be thinking, seriously? What’s so great about a bunch of hills? But we can vouch for their beauty. In both the dry and wet seasons, looking out over the viewpoint is a truly breathtaking moment. You can read all about our tips for the best way to check them out on our Chocolate Hills Guide.

Tarsier Sanctuary

If you’re headed to Bohol, you gotta see the Tarsiers. These funny little primates are known for their huge eyes, which do not rotate. Instead they can turn their head a full 360 degrees! They are nocturnal and super sensitive animals. If agitated these little guys have been known to commit suicide by banging their head against a tree or wall. That’s why its super important to stay quiet when visiting the sanctuary. We had a clueless tourist bust through the door with a big “HELLO!” After we shushed him, he continued through the tour slurping his soda, texting and taking loud photos. Grrrr.

Responsible tourism tip: There’s a few different spots in Bohol where you can visit the Tarsiers, but we recommend going to the official Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella. This one felt the most respectful of the animal’s space and sensitivity. Remember to whisper while you’re in the sanctuary, no flash photography and no touching the animals!

Loboc River

Loboc is another area that travelers base themselves out of to visit Bohol’s many attractions. It’s close to the Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers and the coast. But Loboc is a destination in itself. The town is quite small, but it runs alongside a beautiful river. There are several activities you can do including stand-up paddle boarding and the Loboc River cruise. We stayed at Nipa Hut Village, which is right on the water. We borrowed the bamboo raft that was tied to a tree and took ourselves on a little cruise of our own using palm fronds as oars. You can also rent a boat to take yourself down the river. Whichever activity you choose, definitely block out some time for a lazy river day.

Man Made Forest

This attraction took us totally by surprise. We had heard of the Man Made Forest, but didn’t know exactly where or what it was. Turns out, if you’re driving through the interior, it will most likely find you! The towering trees line either side of the highway and bow overhead, enveloping you in a tunnel of green. It’s really spectacular. Just be careful while you’re driving, as some idiot tourists seem to think this is a stunt road and end up lying down in the middle for a photo!

Have anything else you’d add to our Bohol travel guide? Drop us a comment below or find us on Facebook and Twitter!

Swim With Turtles On Apo Island and Support Marine Conservation

As Jules and I planned our 3-week road trip itinerary around the Visayas, we compromised with each other to squeeze in everything we both wanted to see. My non-negotiable was Apo Island! As long as I got to swim with the sea turtles, I would be happy. For me, turtles are just about the coolest thing in the ocean. Super elusive in most other parts of the world, they are basically the celebrity of the sea. I have to admit though, I was a bit skeptical. We usually steer clear of tourist attractions involving animals, as they tend to be exploitative, overdone and just plain cruel. But everything we read online and heard from friends who had been confirmed that you really do get to swim with wild sea turtles.

And I can say now with full confidence, that if you go to Apo Island, you will indeed swim with just about as many turtles as you want.

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And when I say swim with turtles, I don’t mean oh hey look there’s a turtle over there in the distance. I mean they get right up in your grill. The government has created a marine sanctuary where you can only enter with a local guide. The turtles are highly protected, with a 5,000 peso fine for just touching one. Because of this protection the local turtle population, which was decimated about 10 years ago, has repopulated. Now it’s a fairly popular spot with tourists, so the turtles are comfortable being around humans. They come into the shallow water and feed on the algae, while us lucky humans get to gaze in awe. Win/win! Here’s how to make the most out of your time on Apo Island:

How Long To Stay

If you have a limited time in the area, Apo Island is totally doable as a day trip. There are a ton of companies that will take you out for a day of snorkeling or diving. If you have a couple days, however, we recommend staying over night. Most day trippers don’t even make it on shore, which is a shame because Apo Island is really lovely. Staying a couple of days gives you time to explore the rest of the island and gives you the opportunity to avoid crowded times to have the turtles all to yourself!

How To Get There

If you’re coming from Dumaguete, there are several boats that can take you down to Apo Island. We recommend coming over with the boat from Harold’s Mansion, a popular Dumaguete hostel. They do daily snorkel and dive trips, but you can also grab a one-way ride to the island for 250 pesos. Their boat is huge and makes for smooth sailing. Liberty Lodge, where we stayed on Apo, also has a boat, but they charge 300 pesos and the boat is tiny. Jules and I barely survived the rough trip back without losing our lunch. Go with Harold’s.

What To Bring

Apo is a small island, so there is limited selection of places to eat and buy things. In true budget style we brought over some food from the mainland to make simple breakfasts and lunches. The Robinson’s in Dumaguete is a great spot to stock up on food, as is the local market in town. Be sure to bring enough money for however long you’ll be staying, as there’s no ATM on the island. Heads up: there is a 100 peso charge to enter the island. We also recommend traveling with your own set of snorkeling gear to save money on rental costs, but a set can be rented from your hotel or on the beach for a couple hundred pesos.

Where To Stay

Apo Island is pretty damn small. Where your boat pulls up is the main area of town. There is no running water on the island and electricity only runs during certain hours of the day. Be prepared for bucket showers (exactly how it sounds) and don’t expect air conditioning. The first accommodation you’ll see is Liberty Lodge right on the shore. After you pay your island fee the ladies will direct you to this accommodation; we’re not sure if they make a commission or if they’re just friends. Liberty Lodge is one of the nicer spots to stay on the island. We rented a beautiful private room with a small balcony overlooking the ocean for only 500 pesos (low season price, without meals). They cater to most budgets, with nicer rooms and dorm beds available. More budget accommodation can be found just a short walk from shore including Mario’s Homestay (which we also heard good things about), Ronors Guesthouse and H – H rooms for rent. We saw private rooms advertised for 500 peso with breakfast, but you’re a short walk from the beach.

What To Do

If you’re going to Apo Island you better be there to snorkel or dive. If you’re there for a beautiful white sand beach, you’ll be disappointed. That being said, the snorkeling is AMAZING! Did I mention the turtles?! There are also gorgeous coral, a plethora of fish and some incredibly clear blue water. This marine sanctuary is a testament to what happens when local governments choose to protect and respect their resources rather than exploit them. As travelers it’s easy to fall into tourist traps like riding elephants or playing with tiger cubs, but it’s crucial that we do our homework and think critically about how these animals are actually treated. Swimming with turtles on Apo Island is one of the few ethically and environmentally sound opportunities we’ve found to interact with animals. Knowing that the turtles are protected and able to live in their natural habitat makes the experience just that much more special.

While Jules and I didn’t dive, we heard the scuba sites were some of the best in the country and very reasonably priced.

Besides the snorkeling and diving, Apo is a great spot to get a taste of local island life. We recommend walking over to Cogon on the other side of the island. This walk takes about half an hour and sees you walking over two mountains (there are concrete steps). On top of both peaks there are spectacular views of either side of the coast. To get to this side just follow the concrete path toward the interior of the island and ask locals along the way.

The people of Apo are super friendly and love to chat. Be on the look out for groups of kids engaging in paaway ug damang (spider fights). The first time we stumbled across this we could barely make sense of what we were looking at. Think real life Pokemon! These young kids collect non-venomous spiders from the forest and keep them in little matchboxes divided into cells by folded banana leaves. They bring them out and fight against other kid’s spiders by putting the two on a long stick and having them battle it out. The spider that falls 3 times from the stick loses, or the spider that can wrap the other in a web wins. It’s pretty crazy to see the finesse the kids have for directing their spiders. It’s something you really have to see to believe, so make sure to ask some local kids to take their spiders out, undoubtedly they’ll have them waiting in their pocket.

On a final note, this should go without being said, but don’t forget that these turtles are wild animals! They do not want to be touched, poked, harassed or held on for a wild ride through the sea (as awesome as that sounds). Treating them with respect means that future generations will be as lucky as we are to have a close up look at these gorgeous creatures!

What do you think? Is swimming with turtles on Apo Island on your bucket list? Drop us a comment below or find us on Facebook and Twitter!

Chocolate Hills Travel Guide

If you’re headed to the Visayas region of the Philippines, chances are you’re planning to make a stop at the Chocolate Hills. On paper this group of hills may not sound like much, but once you see them in person you quickly realize why they are one of the country’s top destinations. With over 1,500 almost symmetrical hills covering more than 50 square kilometers, they give the image of a seemingly endless valley of hilltops.

Adding to their mystique are the legends surrounding their formations (my favorite is the story of the giant who shed tears, for an unrequited love, which dried into the Chocolate Hills). They’ve earned their name from the chocolate brown color they turn during dry season, but if you happen to visit them during the wet season you’ll still marvel at the lush green that engulfs the landscape. To get the most out of your visit here’s our Chocolate Hills Travel Guide.

Where To Stay

The Chocolate Hills are accessible from almost anywhere in Bohol. Even if you’re staying on the coast at Anda Beach or in Panglao Island, there’s a plethora of tour agencies who will take you, commonly on a day tour including the Tarsier Sanctuary, Manmade Forest, Loboc River and more. If you’re in a hurry this trip could be a good option to hit up everything in a few hours.

As usual though, we recommend taking your time. Sure, you could hop in a tourist van, zip up to the viewing site, jump out, snap a selfie and be on your way. Believe us, we saw plenty of people doing this. But if the Chocolate Hills are one of your main reasons for coming to Bohol, then you may as well take your time.

If you’d like to spend the day around the Chocolate Hills area you can sleep in Loboc and grab a ride or rent a motorbike (350-450P per day) for the half hour drive. If you want to be really close to the action though, grab a room in Carmen. From town the closest viewing area is only a couple minute drive. Plus there are a couple of interesting spots to see around town including the church destroyed by the 2013 earthquake, which is now overgrown by vines and plants.

When To Go

Although the Chocolate Hills get their name from their color in the dry season, they were spectacular when we saw them in the rainy season. The lush green grass gave them more of a mint chocolate look.

The best time of day to visit the Chocolate Hills is debatable. If you’re staying in Carmen, it’s easier to visit for sunrise and/or sunset, both of which are supposed to be beautiful. We visited midmorning and again in the afternoon. The clearer the skies, the more even lighting you’ll get in the photo, so avoid clouds if you can. You’ll also avoid the crowds if you stay away from the midday hordes of tourist buses that shuttle in and out.

Where To See Them

Once you get into the interior of Bohol you’ll notice that the hills are really everywhere. Riding along the main road you can probably look to your left and right and spot some. To get a good view, however, head to one of the viewing platforms. The first is the official government “Chocolate Hills Complex” in Carmen. Entrance is 50 pesos and there’s a short set of stairs up to the viewpoint. Next to the parking lot is an area where a group of children perform songs on ukuleles and do dances. Keep an eye out for the young boy who does a great speech about the legend of the Chocolate Hills and the super cute little girl dancers in hula skirts.

The other viewing point, the Sagbayan Peak, is more like a Chocolate Hills amusement park. It’s located about 18 k from Carmen and also 50 pesos, but you could argue you get more bang for your buck. The view is a bit more spread out than the previous one, but also produces some nice shots. Jules preferred this view, while I preferred the previous one, so it’s just a personal preference. This complex also includes a Kid’s Zone with a self-monitored free “zip line,” statues of super heroes and animals and playhouses for children. There’s also a restaurant on site, although we were pretty disappointed by the food. I’m sure this place picks up a little more in the high-season. They also tell you that the ticket includes entrance to their Tarsier “Sanctuary.” This round enclosure was only a few meters wide and held two tarsiers. Although the sign out front said to remain silent, the hut is right by the ticket office and quite loud. The attendant woke the tarsiers up by feeding them, which made us uncomfortable because they are extremely sensitive nocturnal animals. They also ask for a donation inside the hut. I would highly recommend NOT entering the “sanctuary.” We regretted going in. This does not seem like proper care for the tarsiers. Instead check out the official Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella.

Whether you only have time for a quick trip or can leisurely enjoy the hills from different viewpoints at different times of day, the Chocolate Hills are one of the highlights from our Philippines trip. We hope you enjoy them as much as we did!

Anything else you’d add to our Chocolate Hills travel guide? Drop us a comment below or find us on Facebook and Twitter!

Nepal Earthquake Photo Series

We had just returned from hiking the Annapurna Circuit when the first earthquake hit.

Just over 4 months ago, the earthquake in Nepal shocked the world. An outpouring of humanitarian efforts and donations came worldwide, as images of destruction flooded our computer screens. But as empathetic and devastated as we felt for the people of Nepal, it is no match for actually experiencing the disaster on the ground.

Ben and Christina, our good friends and fellow volunteers during our time in Peru, were in Nepal at the time of the quake. I can’t even imagine how terrifying it must have been, but instead of leaving the country and never looking back, they decided to get to work by helping local villages. They went home to fundraise and are currently back in Nepal working tirelessly and witnessing first hand how their contributions are used. They have agreed to share their stunning photos for this Nepal Earthquake photo series to illustrate the harrowing destruction of the villages and the inspiring resilience of the Nepalese people. Ben and Christina’s full story is at the bottom.

The people of Nepal are still in dire need of donations, please consider helping out Ben and Christina’s effort here: Fund Nepal Villages

A woman walks through the rubble that used to be her home in a village outside Kathmandu

Earthquake survivor in Gorkha district who lost her home, she is awaiting chemotherapy for breast cancer

A woman walks through the rubble that used to be her home in a village outside Kathmandu

A women brings tin up to her village to be constructed into a TMS (temporary metal shelter)

Impoverished family in a remote village

Two homeless girls begging outside a Hindu temple in Kathmandu

A women living in a remote village in Gorkha stands next to her new temporary shelter

Students at Himalaya High School in Gorkha

Ben & Christina’s Story

My boyfriend Ben and I were traveling around Nepal this past April. We had just returned from hiking the Annapurna Circuit when the first earthquake hit on April 25. It happened sometime around noon as we were settling into our hotel. Once we felt the shaking and realized what was happening, we quickly made the decision to crouch between the two beds in our room and ride it out. We were lucky to have been in a well-built, modern building located in the city of Pokhara, which managed to come out of the 7.8 magnitude earthquake completely unscathed. It was a couple hours before we heard what had happened in Kathmandu Valley and to hundreds of villages throughout the country.

Over time, the numbers revealed how devastating the earthquake had been to the people of Nepal. In total, there were over 8,700 deaths and over 600,000 homes lost. Those worst affected by the earthquake reside in villages deep in the mountains. Nepal’s extreme, mountainous terrain combined with the remoteness of these villages created major challenges in reaching people in need.

The onset of monsoon season further complicated the situation as many roads started to become impassable due to earthquake damage, flooding or landslides. Some people are now faced with battling the monsoons in makeshift tents and tarps, which simply aren’t enough to protect them from the intense wind and rain.

The reaction of the Nepali people who were in a position to help was truly inspiring. Many trekking agencies and local non-profits immediately stopped their normal operations and shifted to emergency relief for earthquake victims.

After the earthquake Ben and I returned home to the US, but with a return ticket back to Kathmandu a couple weeks later. We had a lot of doubts about whether to return to Nepal. Neither of us possessed the specialized skills needed in an immediate disaster relief situation. We wondered what we had to offer that would genuinely help, not harm or get in the way of people getting the help they desperately needed. We decided to hold off for two additional weeks before returning to let the situation shift from immediate relief to a more semi, long term effort. In that time we decided we would fundraise.

After researching how the relief was going, we decided to raise funds for small, Nepali NGOs who seemed to be reaching villages faster than larger international ones. We also decided to focus our funds on remote villages in the most devastated districts. Since returning to Nepal, with the generosity of our friends and family, we have been able to fund some amazing projects, mainly in the Gorkha region, where the epicenter was located. These projects include medical supplies for a remote village called Fulpindanda in Sindapulchuck, bringing tin to construct 4 temporary classrooms along with one year of school supplies to over 300 students in Saurpani VDC, and funding the construction of 15 temporary shelters in Simjung VDC.

We’ve also spent time volunteering in the Kathmandu Valley with an incredible organization called All Hands. All Hands is an American NGO that currently has over 50 volunteers on the ground, working in various communities in and outside of Kathmandu. Their current projects include temporary classroom construction, transitional home building, IDP (Internally Displaced People) camp improvements, and rubble removal.

We work on one family’s home for about a week, slowly removing the mountain of rubble that was once their home. The families are so overwhelmed by the massive amount of rubble they have to deal with and it feels incredible to be able to help them. As gratifying as it is, it’s also sad, particularly when finding various household items, and things like clothing and children’s toys that was destroyed and buried in the rubble. Sometimes we uncover family photos that are still intact. Their faces always light up when given a photo they thought had been lost. After all the rubble is cleared, you can see the huge weight lifted from their shoulders. And despite having lost so much they are still smiling and laughing. It’s really stunning to see these families deal with their circumstances in such a gentle and dignified way.

Ben and several other volunteers have spent the last few days creating an irrigation system around an IDP camp to create drainage during the daily monsoonal rains. Before they began, the camps would flood and families were left in knee deep water. Improving the drainage and creating appropriate sanitation facilities will help to stop disease from spreading in the camps and improve the overall well-being of every family there. Most IDP families are eager to help out wherever they can.

Throughout our experience in Nepal, we’ve found most people are very empowered to help themselves. It’s very motivating as a volunteer to see such resilience. Even though they have lost so much, they are still driven to help themselves. But they cannot do it alone. With their homes and livelihoods destroyed, they need assistance to rebuild their lives.

Although the situation in Nepal is no longer making headlines, there is still an estimated 2.8 million in need of humanitarian assistance, and 1.1 million of those in need are children. If you are interested in learning more about our progress or in supporting remote villages in Nepal, please visit: www.gofundme.com/fundnepalvillages.

Thank you to Ben and Christina for their beautiful Nepal Earthquake photo series and for their contributions to the disaster relief efforts! Send your messages of encouragement below!

30 Trips To Do Before You Are 30

Yep. It’s one of those lists. But hear me out. This post has been written with some deep travel reflection, taking into consideration that Jules is now over the decorated 30 mark and we’ve been traveling consistently throughout our 20s and now into our 30s!

As we get older our approach to travel changes. Jules and I both did solo backpacking trips in our early twenties and we can attest that how we traveled then is vastly different than now. This article is partly tongue-in-cheek because, of course you can go to Carnival in Rio way past your thirties. In fact, I encourage you to. All of these trips can be done at any age and I highly recommend forgetting how old you are and just living it up.

“But, there is something to be said for traveling in your twenties!”

There’s a reckless abandon, an assumed invisibility that pushes you to go cliff-diving and party till dawn. In your twenties you’re much less likely to care that the hostel you’re staying at has a thick layer of dirt over everything, that your next meal is probably going to be beans and rice and your cheap beer has gone warm. Travel in your twenties isn’t just about sightseeing or checking things off your bucket list, it’s about experiences, connecting with people from all over the world and living in the moment. So if you’re under 30, go out and experience these to the fullest. And if you’re over 30, do them anyway, having more life experience under your belt brings another unique perspective to travel.

1. Carnival in Rio, Brazil

Arguably the biggest party in the world. Partying all day and night for a week calls for some young blood.

2. Full Moon & Half Moon Parties in Koh Phangan, Thailand

We just made this one before Jules hit 30. Both parties are epic and full of messy twenty-something backpackers ready for a 3 day binge.

3. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

When you’re in your twenties you have the stamina to get up at 4, walk around the temples all day and then party it up in Siem Reap that night.

4. Las Vegas

Vegas is great at any age, but there’s something about experiencing Sin City for the first time as a twenty-one year old with the lights of the strip and the cha-ching of the slot machines.

5. Carnival in Veracruz, Mexico

Unlike Rio, Veracruz’s parade is pretty much anything goes. That includes jumping in line and dancing with the performers.

6. Coachella in Indio, California

Coachella in your twenties isn’t just about the music (although it’s fantastic). It’s about the epic road trip down to Indio, piling your 15 closest friends into a Palm Desert rental home, the excitement of getting ready and scheduling your day around band times. And of course the music.

7. Vang Vieng, Laos

If you’ve been to Southeast Asia you’ve heard of the infamous tubing parties. These are supposed to get pretty messy with gap year kids and other youngin’s drinking for weeks on end. You gotta be in your twenties to enjoy that.

8. The Death Road in La Paz, Bolivia

This biking trip in Bolivia may not be quite as scary as the name implies, but it still takes guts to ride down the terrifying road.

9. Machu Pichu, Peru

Another wonderful spot that can be done at any age. But in your twenties you’re much more likely to opt for the adventurous route, walking for hours along the train tracks and hiking up to the entrance. Plus you’ll still have the stamina for partying the rest of the night in Cusco.

10. Amazon Jungle

Because you’ll be young enough not to worry about all those crazy jungle diseases.

11. Tomorrowland Music Festival, Belgium

One of the world’s biggest music festivals. Get down with over 180,000 of your new best friends.

12. New York City

Concrete jungle where dreams are made of. There’s nothing you can’t do!

13. Great Ocean Road, Australia

Cruise up this historic Australian highway and have a crack at surfing some of the country’s best breaks. Your twenty-something year old body can withstand all your wipeouts.

14. Madrid

You’d have to be in your twenties to keep up with the Spaniards who party well into the next morning. They start eating dinner at 10PM, hit up some bars by 12PM and really start partying when most people are getting up. It’s a young persons game, but plenty of Spaniards are keeping up.

15. Sacred Valley, Peru

This peaceful area not far from Machu Pichu is home to the famous Ayahausca retreats. Grab a spot between some old hippies and try the famous Amazonian hallucinogen.

16. Semuc Champey, Guatemala

These gorgeous Guatemalan pools are perfect to visit while you’re young and foolhardy enough to explore the underground cave system.

17. Venice, Italy

Not only is this romantic city perfect for young hearts, but better to go soon before it sinks!

18. Utila, Honduras

Join throngs of twenty-somethings getting their Scuba training by day and partying by night.

19. New Zealand

Explore this country with your feet kicked up on the dash of camper van, a Kiwi version of “On The Road.”

20. Ibiza, Spain

This Spanish island is all party, pretty much sums it up in a nutshell. If you’re looking for all night debauchery, then this is your place to go!

21. EDC in Las Vegas, California

Don you neon tutus and put on your beaded bracelets, you definitely can’t get away with coming to this electronic music festival past 30.

22. Bali, Indonesia

Whether you party it up in Kuta or surf at Bingin, Bali is truly young at heart.

23. New Orleans

Because no one wants to see you flash your chest for beads at 50. Well… most people!

24. Traveling to Cuba

Cuba is great at any age, but in your twenties you can join all the twenty-something locals drinking rum from the bottle at the Malecon in Havana.

25. Partying in Taganga, Colombia

This Caribbean town in Colombia may not have the nicest beaches, but there’s plenty of partying.

26. Trekking to the Lost City of Teyuan, Colombia

This three day trek requires you to cross a roaring river using a rope. We’ll leave that to the young and able-bodied.

27. San Francisco, California

The young rule this city, where you’re just as likely to meet a 21 year old college grad as a 21 year old CEO.

28. San Pedro, Guatemala

This beautiful town by Lake Atitlan is the perfect spot to post up for a few weeks and take advantage of the cheap Spanish classes and cheaper beer. There’s a young atmosphere of Spanish students and plenty of action and adventure if you’re looking for it.

29. Explore the Favelas in Rio, Brazil

Yes, Rio again, but for a completely different reason. Checking out the city’s slums, favelas, in your twenties will give you a good perspective on how the majority of the world live. Experiencing this level of poverty is humbling and will most likely give you a sense of empathy that stays with you throughout the rest of your life.

30. Iguazu Falls, Argentina

Nothing will make you realize what a tiny space you take up in this world better than these epic waterfalls.