I didn’t know what to expect of Chiang Mai. I knew the major attractions-elephant sanctuaries, hill tribes, temples and shopping- but I didn’t anticipate it being such a large city. And coming from Singapore the last thing I wanted to see on my vacation was a city. Surprisingly, as soon as I stepped onto the Khum Phaya Resort and Spa grounds, the city faded into the background. The hotel itself was beyond tranquil. With the lush gardens, flowing fountains and calming music, the entire hotel seems like an extension of the spa. And coupled with superb hospitality I really didn’t even need or want to leave the resort. It made for the perfect girls trip. We were able to toast at the happy hour, sit around the pool and chat for hours, and of course eat well. It was great because my friends could try all of the local specialties without even leaving the hotel. In fact, I actually had much better food at the hotel than I did at some of the restaurants in town that we had researched and sought out.

I didn’t get to try the spa because I’m pregnant, but it was one of the most impressive spas I’ve seen. They even had a suite with its own sauna and massage beds, along with a private steam room outside (yes, so that’s one inside your room and one in the private courtyard attached to the room) and a gorgeous outdoor tub. Even my room, which was more modest, had a fantastic shower which I did not want to leave. The showerheads were strategically placed so you have complete body coverage and great pressure. So I didn’t necessarily miss the spa because the bathroom was so well equipped. I also loved that my friends and I could step into the pool right from our front porch. As a pisces who loves being in the water, this was definitely one of the highlights for me.

We did eventually leave to explore Chiang Mai, but even that was made easier by the location and services of the resort. We were able to take advantage of the free shuttle to visit the night market and that was a huge plus. We were also able to have the tour company we used for the elephant sanctuary pick us up directly from the hotel. Because of the hotel’s location there were no additional charges for transportation. And anyone who’s familiar with my love of travel knows that I’m always looking for ways to save money while traveling. Saving on transportation costs certainly helps.

I must say I had a great introduction to the Centara Resorts and this experience has made me curious about their other properties. If I received this level of customer service and was able to enjoy the property and relax even if it wasn’t in the most relaxing location, I can only imagine what their properties on the sandy beaches of Maldives, Sri Lanka or Thailand must be like.

I found tranquility at every turn.

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Without a doubt the highlight of the cruise was visiting the ports. They were all pretty spectacular but Bari, Italy, Mykonos, Greece and Dubrovnik, Croatia were our favorites. They were just so scenic and absolutely gorgeous (and easy) places to stop. We knew very little about most of the ports but were able to hop off the boat each day and book tours with the competing tour companies outside the terminal gates. We completely avoided the ridiculous prices that the cruise itself charges for excursions and effectively avoided most of the crowds. In Athens we actually had a guided tour with only 10 people and we beat the crowds everywhere we went. In Dubrovnik we had finished the old town before the mass of people from the cruise ship even arrived.

Beautiful Mykonos.

Hello Dubrovnik!

Equally impressive on this cruise was the staff. I honestly had no idea what to expect, but we were pleasantly surprised by how courteous, kind and thoughtful the staff were. I also enjoyed that there were staff members from all over the world. I used my Spanish more on the cruise than in most places we travel and had some great conversations with the staff about where they are from and what brought them to the ship.

For all of the relaxation and enjoyment we had there was one sore spot; the other guests. Don’t get me wrong; some of the people were lovely. But there were a number of people on this ship that acted like inconsiderate assholes. They cut the lines, couldn’t seem to say excuse me in any language and generally acted like rules didn’t apply to them. I think MSC could do a much better job of managing guests in general, starting with actually calling people out when they see them break the rules. For example we saw a family of five bypassing a line full of people, myself included, waiting to be seated for lunch. Apparently they were too good to stand in line and not one staff member said a thing to them. But I can understand how that can be hard to police. The trouble is that it negatively affects the guest experience for those of us actually waiting patiently in line. In another instance I saw a near fight break out over a lounge chair. Some people place towels over lounge chairs then walk off for hours at a time leaving a bunch of people without a place to sit. It seems some people would benefit by reading a few children’s books before they set sail so they can be reminded that sharing is caring and all that good stuff.

As a side note, my husband and I opted for the Aurea experience which we paid more for, but shot us to the front of the line in some cases (priority boarding and disembarking) and upgraded our dining options. I would say it was definitely worth it. It also came with a 50-minute welcome massage for each of us, a private sun deck for those with the Aurea experience, and was all-inclusive with meals and drinks (including alcohol). I probably would have tried to strangle someone if not for this package.

So what’s your favorite cruise liner? I’m ready to book my next cruise. Comment below.

The Athens stop of the MSC Poesia. We found our own tour at a much better price.

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Guest Post by Boom Rizal

Many western tourists can attest that (almost) everything is affordable in Southeast Asia. The primary reason is the exchange rate. As of press time, your US$ 1 can buy goods and services worth Php50 in the Philippines. That is enough to buy you a decent snack, a cup of brewed coffee in a bistro and two bottles of beer. You can get a room in a three-star hotel for US$ 50, a two-way plane ticket to the southern islands for US$ 100, and a dinner buffet for US $10. If it’s an off-peak season, you can get huge discounts from 20% to 50% on plane tickets, accommodation and even refreshments. Amazing, right?

If you want to maximize your travel budget, the Philippines is the place to be. The country is made up of 7,100+ islands. You can’t visit all of them because many are no bigger than your village, but you have more than enough destinations. Here’s a quick list of budget-friendly destinations for your Philippine vacation.

Luzon’s Beaches, Mountains and Homegrown Coffee

Photo courtesy of guilianabencovich via Pixabay

Luzon is the largest island in the Philippines. It is home to the capital region, Metro Manila. If you’re arriving from abroad, you’re likely to land on the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City. The poshest hotels, casinos and restaurants are in Metro Manila. This is also the main transport hub to reach the rest of the archipelago. You can take a bus going to the northern provinces where you can find surfing spots, trekking sites and gastronomic destinations. The white sand beaches of San Juan in La Union is a popular surfing haven. Travel farther up north and you’ll reach the majestic Cordilleras where the temperature is about 8 degrees lower than any part of the Philippines. Discover the rich indigenous cultures of the Cordillerans and their homegrown produce. A kilo of organic coffee beans is only US$ 5.

Surfing Spots in Baler

Photo courtesy of jon_lo1 via Pixabay

Your next stop from Baguio City, the capital of Benguet Province in the Cordillera, is Baler in Aurora Province. Baler is in Central Luzon, which is a 5-hour drive from Benguet. It is a coastal municipality with some of the top surf spots in the archipelago. Surf at Sabang Beach, swim at Ditumabo Falls and take as many selfies as you want at Dicasalarin Cove and Diguisit Rock Formations. You can camp out with your friends for a truly unforgettable adventure.

The Ccuba Diving Spots of Puerto Galera

Photo courtesy of arhnue via Pixabay

From Metro Manila, travel to Southern Luzon to reach the scuba diving spots of Puerto Galera. This coastal destination is at the tip of Isla Verde Passage in the province of Oriental Mindoro. Puerto Galera (Spanish for “Port of Galleons”) has an incredibly diverse coral reef that was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1970s. The shores may be a bit too rocky for beach volleyball, but its scuba diving spots are definitely topnotch. Coco Beach Island Resort offers affordable diving rates from US$ 29 to US$ 75.

Boracay, A World-Renowned Beach Destination

Photo courtesy of lapping via Pixabay

No travel guide to the Philippines is complete without tips for a Boracay vacation. Boracay in Aklan Province, in the Visayas group of islands, has been named one of the most beautiful islands in the world. If that isn’t enough to entice you, nothing probably can. Boracay is known for its white powdery sands, clear waters and vibrant night life. There’s a wide selection of accommodation in the island from transient home to five-star hotels. An overnight stay in a premier hotel with infinity pool and function rooms starts at US$ 70. A seafood dinner in a resto will cost you less than US$ 5.

The Secret Wonders of Siquijor

Photo courtesy of Broesis via Pixabay

Another Visayas destination for the frugal traveler is Siquijor. The island is a cheaper alternative to Boracay. A tricycle tour to major landmarks, including the 150-year-old Lazi Church and Salagdoong Beach, is US$ 20 for three persons. The multi-cab for a larger group can be rented for US$ 60 for a day tour. What can you do in Siquijor? You can visit the fish spa, the centuries-old churches of San Isidro and St. Francis of Assisi, and the Butterfly Garden. And of course, have a relaxing swim in Siquijor’s majestic beaches.

A Paradise Called Palawan

Photo courtesy of AvidExplorer via Pixabay

If you’ve been researching about island destinations in Asia, you must have chanced upon Palawan. This long narrow island has been named the best island in the world by Travel + Leisure for the third time in a row. It’s a paradise in every sense of the word: rich flora and fauna, the world’s longest navigable underground river, white sand beaches, hidden pockets of pristine waters, and breathtaking landscapes. For US$ 300, you can enjoy a three-day luxurious escape on this island.

A Coastal Escape in Dipolog City

Photo courtesy of photo-graphe via Pixabay

A plane ride will take you to Dipolog City from Palawan. Dipolog is in Zamboanga del Norte, in the Muslim region of Mindanao. It features eco-parks, cultural sites and sleepy coastal communities. Dipolog City is regarded as the Bottled Sardines Capital of the Philippines. You can expect the freshest and the widest array of seafood at very affordable rates. When night falls, this humble destination becomes a cozy tourist spot where you can listen to live bands and have Php5 (US$ 0.99) tequila shots. Yes, you read that right! Get the best view of the oriental sunset at Dipolog Sunset Boulevard where you can also take a gastronomic tour of favorite local street foods.

The Historic Intramuros

Photo courtesy of radiobj5 via Pixabay

Before you fly back home, have a historical tour in Intramuros, Manila. The Walled City was the seat of power during the 300-year Spanish regime. It was witness to foreign colonizations, wars and the fight for independence. What to see in Intramuros? Check out the old dungeons of Fort Santiago, Chinese artifacts at Bahay Tsinoy, and religious relics at San Agustin Museum. You may spend US$ 50 for a day tour, including transportation and snacks in this tourist destination.

You think you can’t travel without a fat wallet? Visit the Philippines and you’ll understand how far you can go with your budget.

About Boom Rizal

Who better to highlight the beauty of the Philippines as well as its budget friendly destinations than a Filipina investor and property consultant. Boom spent a number of years working overseas as a consultant to overseas Filipino workers, advising them on making smart investing decisions. She has since returned home and appreciates the beauty of the Philippines now more than ever. When not writing, Boom enjoys spending time with  family and  visiting her favorite Philippine destinations, which include Boracay and Palawan.

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Oftentimes when you are on the road you see something that moves you. On my recent trip to Bukit Lawang, Indonesia I visited a small, local school. The kids, ranging from pre-school to early teens, were all adorable. They attended a range of classes from general studies to after school English as a second language. But that’s not what caught my attention. What moved me was the emphasis of this school. In an area that is highly important in terms of protecting orangutan habitat and population, the students were actually learning how they could help and be stewards of the environment. In a huge juxtaposition, the area is also known for its palm oil plantations, a practice that is actually doing the orangutans the most harm through habitat loss and harmful crop burning.

I was amazed as I sat in on a lesson about sustainable fishing and again when I saw how they had actually made notebooks from scratch, recycling the paper for the notebooks themselves. The kids were also being taught about proper nutrition and were encouraged to eat healthier through small initiatives like Fruity Fridays where fresh fruit is served as opposed to the high fructose corn syrup drinks served in plastic bags that some of them have become accustomed to getting at local food stalls.

It was a real pleasure and quite refreshing to see this small team of local teachers and one volunteer leading the children. But I was also saddened to see the condition of the school. Some of the rooms had a pretty significant black mold issue. These children and staff members were breathing this in daily. I stayed only a short time but couldn’t stop thinking about what the mold could be doing to my body. What if I worked here and had to breath in this air everyday? What impact was this having on the kids, with their still developing lungs?

So rather than go back home and forget what I saw, I’m trying to solve the problem. I’ve created a Go Fund Me and am working with the school trust to eradicate the problem. If you are interested in donating please have a look at the fundraiser. Of course not everyone will be moved to donate or be able to, but I encourage you to check it out or share. The school also runs partially on volunteers so if you are interested in volunteering you can get in contact with them for more information. The town is so far removed from touristy areas that it seems to be a genuine experience where you can immerse yourself completely in the culture.

I look forward to going back once the funds have been raised and am almost half way towards the goal. Thank you to everyone who has donated already and to everyone who will!

Fresh Fruit Friday!

The school makes excellent use of space, utilizing the roof for learning and play as well. But even up there is pooling water and mold.

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A few weeks ago I headed to Bukit Lawang, Indonesia for a 4-day weekend. I heard great things about the area, particularly my chances of seeing an orangutan, so it seemed like the perfect way to escape Singapore for the Chinese New Year weekend. I was right! I couldn’t have asked for a better way to detox and unwind. If you’re interested in a similar trek, read on for details and suggestions.

Getting There

To get to Bukit Lawang you must fly to Medan, Indonesia, and then take a 3-4 hour drive. The drive is only so long because of the conditions of the road. Do yourself a favor and make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get to and from the airport. I also suggested not arriving too late. The drive is much safer when you can actually see everything around you, and after you leave the city you also leave behind most of the well-lit roads.

One of the many orangutan we saw on our hike.

Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking Company

The company itself was great to deal with. I e-mailed using the information provided on their website and Janine got right back to me. She arranged all details for me, from airport pick-up to the trek itself. After spending one night at their lodge, we left early the next morning to start the trek. We had two guides, Jim and Roni who were both fantastic. They were very knowledgeable about everything in the forest, but also great cooks and were kind and funny. When I took a tumble they rushed to make sure I was okay and then checked to make sure I could handle the pace of the trek with my bruises. They also gave us plenty of time to prepare when an orangutan was approaching and knew almost all of them, including their habits. At certain points we had to retreat when an aggressive orangutan approached, but at other times we had the opportunity to get closer or actually interact with them. I even lost count of how many orangutans I saw. Once we got to camp after a long day of hiking, I figured that was it for seeing orangutans; but I was wrong. There was a mom and baby that slept along the river with us. They were very laid back and chill so we could just enjoy watching their daily life while we bathed in the river or ate breakfast. It was fantastic! In addition to the stars of the show, the orangutans, the rain forest was unbelievable. There was green as far as the eye could see, but also snakes, birds, monkeys, streams, waterfalls and even a little river rafting.

Packing Suggestions

You will have to carry everything with you, so make sure to pack light. If you are going to be staying in the area after your trek you can leave behind another bag. Bukit Lawang Trekking was nice enough to store everything for us in a locker. I packed a sleeping bag and was glad I did. It gave a bit more cushion to the mat where we slept. I also used my extra clothes as a pillow, which was a lifesaver. As a vegetarian I often pack some extra snacks just to make sure I have enough to eat, but I can honestly say I wasn’t hungry at all. Bukit Lawang Trekking did an excellent job with the meals and even made sure to dispose of everything so as not to tempt the monkeys or orangutan.

Giving Back

There are a few organizations in the area that you can visit to learn more about the surrounding town and some of the problems they experience. Living in Singapore, I’ve always been curious about the palm plantations and associated burnings that happen every year. I was amazed to see the rainforest essentially side by side to the palm. We not only got to see the palm plantations, we also visited rubber plantations, where many make their living, a local school where kids are being taught how they can positively impact the environment, and we even did a tree planting. My boyfriend and I planted fruit trees to help feed the orangutan and prevent them from going into neighboring farmland where they may be killed. I absolutely recommend visiting both the school and planting a tree. While I loved hiking and seeing the orangutan, tree planting and getting to visit a local classroom were a close second. If you book with Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking, ask how you can get involved during your visit.

Happy camping!

I even got to pick the type of tree I wanted to plant. Mango!

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Full-Time Versus Part-Time

In Manila and in Singapore, I had a part-time helper. The person had a set of keys and came in a few hours per week to cook and clean. It was great. I looked forward to coming home and having an immaculate apartment with a fridge stocked full of food. I rarely saw my helper so I didn’t have to sacrifice my privacy and it was very inexpensive, so it didn’t put a dent in my wallet. But when my boyfriend and I decided to move into a ridiculously large house, we knew we were going to need help taking care of it. But there is a big difference between hiring part-time help and having someone full-time. In Singapore, only Singaporean citizens or permanent residents can work as part time maids, and the price is usually somewhere around $20 per hour. Not exactly cheap. To have a full time helper you must hire someone living in Singapore for that sole purpose, also known as a foreign domestic worker, or helper. That person must live in your home. You have to provide them with a room and pay for all meals, medical care and a return trip per contract to their home of record. You also have to pay a $265 monthly levy to the Singapore government and purchase a bond to cover the fees should your helper run away. Yes, you read that correctly. There is a $5,000 fee if your helper should skip the country. Sounds weird, right? Why would someone want to leave in such a hurry? Well it has to do with being treated poorly, which I’ll get to later. The bond also covers any catastrophic health care issues. For example, if your helper were to be diagnosed with cancer, it’s your responsibility to cover her health care costs. Even with all of these added responsibilities, it’s still quite a deal compared to some other countries.

The Hiring Process

Hiring a maid through an agency feels like what I would imagine going to a brothel might feel like. The women are lined up outside the agency and all happily greet you simultaneously as you walk in. You go in and tell the person in charge what you’re looking for and she brings you all candidates that fit those requirements for you to interview. When the interviews are done you hire someone, and have to walk back through the line of disappointed women on your way out. It’s really the worst part of the whole process, unless of course you have to fire someone. There’s also lots of paperwork you have to fill out, a course you have to take on how to actually be a good employer, and health screenings for your new helper that have to be done beforehand.

One of the many hiring agencies located in Singapore. You can find them in almost any mall.

You Become a Boss…Literally (The Firing Process)

Not all hiring decisions turn out to be good ones. If you decide that it’s not a good fit you have to fire that person, hire someone new, and help the person you just fired find a new job-all while having the person that you just fired living with you. Before your new helper can start your old helper has to secure a job and you must give them 30 days to do so. If they aren’t able to find a suitable job during that time frame, you have to pay to send them home to their country of record. I can tell you from experience that 30 days is an eternity when you are living with someone who you just fired. Not sure things get more awkward than that.

The other aspect to being someone’s boss, someone who lives with you at that, is that you have to outline their job responsibilities, manage a pay schedule, evaluate their work, set a curfew, and go over house rules. It seems ridiculous to discuss a curfew with a grown woman, but again, should your helper not come home, that’s your responsibility. Even if your helper were to become pregnant, it would be your responsibility to send her back to her home country. Some employers abuse the system and exploit the women. The previous family my helper worked for took her passport so that she couldn’t leave, forced her to work on her day off, refused to pay her in cash and instead sent her pay to her family for her. In doing so they were keeping her broke and totally dependent on them, and generally gave her zero freedom. I’ve also heard horror stories of helpers not being fed properly or overworked, as well as being asked to do something dangerous, like cleaning the outside of windows on higher floors. Some of the hiring agencies even engage in some pimp like behavior. My boyfriend and I had to step in once when we were walking by an agency where the manager was screaming at one of her girls and berating her for not accepting a job. It’s really disturbing to hear stories like these, but sadly it does happen.

These ladies were so excited when I asked them if I could take their picture. They were having an early Christmas celebration on their day off.

Another community of helpers gathering to enjoy their day off together in the Botanic Garden.

How Fortunate Are We?

More than anything, having a full-time helper makes you aware of how fortunate you are. Not only do you have someone to cook, clean, iron, grocery shop and even do the gardening for you, but you learn a lot about that person as they become a part of your family. And usually you also learn how good you’ve got it. For example, my helper is from the Philippines and has been working abroad for several years to provide for her family back home. While she’s been here caring for other people’s kids, her children are back in the Philippines with her mother. She has given up seeing them grow up and getting to be a larger part of their life so she can give them a better future. While many of us help out at home and continue to give financial support, it pales in comparison to the sacrifice these overseas domestic workers make. Most work 6 days a week, enjoy one day of freedom each week and send all of the money they make home each month. Some of them are highly educated, but the salary they make as a maid here in Singapore beats what they would make as a professional in their home country. When we sifted through applications it was heart breaking to see the skills and education some of the ladies had that they weren’t able to utilize.

Having live-in help definitely takes away some of your privacy, but for some helpers privacy is essentially non-existent. Our helper has a large room with en suite bathroom on a different floor from our bedroom, but most helpers are forced to stay in a tiny space or even what is technically a bomb shelter. What was designed to be our helper’s room is what we now use as our pantry. It would be cruel to put someone in a space like that. Even on their days off helpers have very few options. They can either stay in their rooms all day or they can venture out into the crowded city. Places like the Botanic Gardens or malls are packed on Sundays since the maids have nowhere else to go on their days off. If they are lucky, they have a community of other maids that they can hang out with. But while Sundays may be a bit crowded and not the best time to go out, I’m always pleasantly surprised at the spirit and sense of community amongst these women when I see them congregating at the Botanic Gardens or on Orchard Road. I think it’s a lesson to all of us to be more appreciative of what we have, including their help.

While I’ve learned lots about the process of hiring a helper in my time as an expat, I’ve more importantly learned empathy. Don’t get me wrong, I’m no saint and often cry a river over my first world problems, but it does make you thankful even for your problems. As the saying by Regina Brett goes, “If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back.”

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A friend of mine introduced me to Brad Travels, a company that offers canyoneering trips to Kawasan Falls. They picked us up from our hotel and we journeyed southwest to the city of Moalboal, home to the falls. One of the coolest things we did actually wasn’t even on the itinerary. Karsten, our guide, asked if we’d like to stop at Carcar Market to check out the lechon, or suckling pig. I’ve been to many markets in the Philippines and had seen a lot of lechon being cooked over the years, but this had to be the lechon capital of the Philippines. It was everywhere! Ladies chopped and bagged pieces of pork while customers walked leisurely from stall to stall with such a variety to choose from. This was not for the faint of heart. Clearly if you’re Muslim or an animal activist this is not the place for you, but if you’re even slightly curious about seeing the culture and preparation of the lechon, it’s definitely worth a visit.

We journeyed on to Moalboal, arriving just in time to gear up and hit the falls. Even from the sidewalk we could tell we were in for a breathtaking adventure. The falls ended in a river that ran through the town. It was shaded by tall palm trees and thick green foliage, making for a beautiful preview of what was to come. But to get there we had to take a 15-minute motorcycle ride up a mountain and through a couple of villages. The ride itself could have been a tour, with ocean and jungle views that went on for days. Once we arrived at the end of the road, we had to hike a bit to get down to the river.

The falls were one plunge into the frigid water after another, with each jump getting higher and higher. On the very first jump there were a couple of girls who couldn’t make the plunge. It must have been a long day for them. From the first baby fall we eventually graduated to a 30 then 40ft drop. It was fantastic. In between the jumps we had the most amazing views of the river and the cave-like structures. There were times when we just floated along, letting the current guide us and letting our heads fall back to enjoy the glimpse of blue sky peaking through the canopy. There were also some natural slides along the way and rope swings, making the maybe 4-hour trip adventure filled from start to finish.

At the very end was the actual namesake, Kawasan Falls. And while people are no longer allowed to jump from there, we had a thrilling stop directly underneath the falls, which had to be the strongest massage I’ve ever experienced. Once you arrive at Kawasan Falls the adventure is over, but the party has only just begun. The area is jam packed with picnic tables, food vendors, music and locals thoroughly enjoying themselves. This trip was quite different from anything I’ve experienced and I highly recommend it.

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Orchid Garden Hotel

When you have a late night flight and arrive in the wee hours of the morning, all you want to do is get to your hotel. I didn’t know what to anticipate upon landing in Brunei, but it was smooth sailing. I arrived and had a hotel representative waiting for me as soon as I cleared customs. The best part was that the hotel was literally five minutes away. Before I could get comfortable in the van, we had arrived. Check-in was a breeze and I was all showered and in bed before I knew it. I didn’t really check out the surroundings in my haze of sleepiness the night I arrived, but I was pleasantly surprised to open my window the next day and have a view of the stadium and the Ministry of Finance. The Orchid Garden was perfect for a transit stay but also had a pool, a couple of ballrooms for massive weddings, restaurants and a shuttle to pretty much anywhere you’d want to go in the capital. The hotel could use some remodling, but the convenience and friendliness of the staff definitely made it somewhere I would stay again and I really liked that it is locally owned.

As a lover of sport I totally appreciated the view of the sports facilities from my room.

A covered pool always comes in handy during the rainy season.

Ulu Ulu Resort

I mentioned it in a previous post, but it can be summed up in a few words-the only resort in Brunei’s rainforest. Waking up in environmental paradise and watching the sunrise over the primary rainforest was phenomenal. Enough said.

Radisson

After a couple of days in the rainforest, I was ready for some wifi and a little lounging by the pool. I arrived at the Radisson late afternoon and immediately threw my stuff down and used the complimentary shuttle to check out the mall and night market. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to major attractions such as the Regalia, but having the shuttle was also nice. I was able to explore at my own leisure and had the shuttle to pick me up and drop me off at the hotel when I was done. In addition to the attentive and welcoming staff, the facilities were beautiful. The breakfast spread what one of the bests I’ve ever tasted, especially for a vegetarian. I had a great stay and discovered that the Radisson was dangerously comfortable! Even though I was eager to tour the city the next day, I wasn’t all that sad when it began to rain and I had to stay in bed a little longer. The room was so comfortable and relaxing and I was able to enjoy some much needed down time in the comfort of my room and of course sunbathe by the pool as well. My only complaint is that the spa was all booked up, so a word to the wise, book your massage or facial in advance. The spa looked top notch with multiple private rooms for different treatments.

It was ridiculously hard to get out of bed. So comfortable!

I’m a sucker for a hotel with a decent gym.

Spa day anyone?

The Empire Hotel     

Though I didn’t stay there, I don’t think a post about places to stay in Brunei would be complete without at least mentioning the Empire Hotel. It has varying reviews from outdated to opulent and a range of stars from 4.5 to 7. It’s probably the most famous hotel in Brunei and probably the most expensive. I didn’t get a chance to stay there so I guess that just means I’ll have to go back.

How about you? Ever been to Brunei? Any recommendations?

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Religious Perks
So many people focus on the fact that there is sharia law in Brunei and don’t take a trip as a result. Even though there is technically sharia law there, famous for punishments such as stoning, I didn’t personally see anything demonstrating that this type of law was in effect. In fact, I found proof of religious freedom. For one, there were places of worship in Brunei other than mosques. Just driving through the main strip of town churches and buddhist temples could be found. And I spoke with some of the residents there who are proudly catholic or buddhist. With sharia law you are not allowed to drink. However foreigners are allowed to bring in alcohol with them. There is also a rumored hotel that sells liquor, though I didn’t find it. To be fair though, I didn’t look for it either.
So despite criticism, there did seem to be some religious freedom. For those marrying into a different religion the government pays citizens to convert to Islam. In fact, the person converting gets $200 per month for life to convert to Islam. Yes, that’s right! For life. I found that to be pretty interesting. Arguably the person would have done it anyway to be with their spouse, but I’m sure this added bonus doesn’t hurt.

Jame’asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque. If you’ve never visited a mosque before this is a great one to experience.

A Unique National Food
For many of the destinations I travel to in South East Asia, as a vegetarian I can’t try the national food or popular dishes even if I wanted to. Not in Brunei. Their national food, ambuyat is plant based. It comes from the sago palm and it is similar to tapioca. I’ve got to be honest and say that I didn’t find out about it until right before leaving so I didn’t get to try it. But I was definitely intrigued. Brunei is also a great place to try some of the more famous food of South East Asia such as durian, or the more obscure foods, for example, wild fern which was actually delicious.

Wild fern anyone?

Largest Water Village in the World
Brunei is home to the largest water village in the world. These Malay style homes called kampong houses, sit on stilts in the capital’s bay. Though the population has declined in recent years, 39,000 people still live there. The houses are passed down from generation to generation and can be quite spacious. I visited one for tea and it was indeed a full house with kitchen, living room, dining room, bedrooms and even a front porch to people watch from. They surprisingly had pets such as cats and ducks roaming around and cable dishes galore. If you’re looking for a unique Air BnB stay, try one of the kampong ayer houses located on the water. Be careful though. Not all of the houses are equipped with full plumbing.

One of the many houses in the water village. They were surprisingly spacious.

Good Luck Catching a Taxi
One thing I noticed right away when wandering around Brunei is that there were no buses or public transportation to be seen. In fact, I didn’t even really notice any taxis. So during my tour of the city I learned that there are actually only 19 taxis in the city with licenses. This number astounded me, but what I found more astonishing is that there are actually 1 million cars on the road, and that’s considering that the total population of Brunei is around 429,000 people. That’s more than two cars per person. My guide even told me that those living in the water villages actually have cars that they own, parked ashore.

Standard of Living
While there are many 3rd world countries in South East Asia, Brunei is not one of them. Its quality of life as a country in South East Asia is said to be second to only Singapore. Brunei is also one of the few countries with zero national debt. Perhaps the United States with its $19 trillion dollars in national debt should be taking notes from Brunei.

I’m very interested to see how Brunei changes in the upcoming years, both with its tourism and with its changes to the law. And I must say it was so unlike many of the other places I’ve been within Asia. If you are looking for a unique travel experience, I highly recommend it!

The post 5 things I Learned Traveling to Brunei appeared first on Maya the Explorer - Expat Blog | Travel & Lifestyle.

Brunei is located on the island of Borneo, long famous for its lush rainforest, and shares the island with Indonesia and Malaysia. But it’s the only country entirely on the island of Borneo and for a small country it has 500sq km of virgin rainforest. When researching I found a few companies that had tour packages, but then I stumbled on a game changer. Ulu Temburong, the rainforest of Brunei, only has one resort located within it’s borders; the Ulu Ulu Resort. So I contacted the tour company Sunshine Borneo and they put together a whole weekend jam-packed with adventure, nature and culture. They took care of everything, making this trip stress free and completely enjoyable. Here’s what I experienced and why it’s different, and definitely worth a trip.

My first experience tubing and the surroundings couldn’t have been better.

Flight
From Singapore, there are daily non-stop flights to Brunei, making travel easy. I was able to leave Friday evening well after work, which meant I had plenty of time to go home, pack and even have dinner beforehand. I flew Royal Brunei Airlines which was inexpensive but without having to compromise the basics like a meal or check-in baggage. I even had the option of a vegetarian meal without having to ask more than once to request it in advance. Singapore Airlines and Silk Air also fly there from Singapore with plenty of flights also being offered from Kuala Lumpur. Flying some of the budget airlines can often make the trip a burden just because of the crap you have to put up with, so I was happy to have a drama free flight, which might I add was only two hours.

The Rainforest
This was hands down the best part. Ulu Temburong Rainforest is simply pristine. The deep green of the forest and the calm flow of the river made for instant relaxation and fresh air. As soon as I stepped onto the boat that transported me to the resort, I was immediately more at ease. It’s not a secret that South East Asia is known for its beautiful surroundings, but often with the crowd of tourists also come trash, noise pollution, lines and congestion even on the beaches. But this was unspoiled in a way I’ve rarely seen. There was no plastic, no garbage, not even remnants of past visitors. It was truly untouched and the sounds of crickets, birds and the flowing river were pretty much the only noise I heard my entire trip. It was fantastsic to see the forest, but I didn’t just see it and leave. I had many opportunitites to bask in the environment. In addition to having delicious, fresh-cooked local style meals overlooking the river, I also got the opportunity to kayak, tube, hike, and swim. Over my two day stay I was able to hike until my heart was content, including at night to see some of the nocturnal species and at dawn to take in the beautiful sunrise over the rainforest canopy. I have never seen anything like the sun rising over the majestic tree covered hills, with the fog moving ever so gently through its path. I should also add that although I was traveling solo, there were plenty of opportunites to make friends and talk with others. It was a great mix of interacting with others and having time to relax on my own. By the end of the two days I was sad to leave, but also excited to see what else the country had to offer.

Can you spot the critter?

Zero Hustle and Bustle
Once back in the city the relaxation continued. While some may like being on the go all of the time, being in the smaller capital city was refreshing and devoid of some of the ususal sights of South East Asia. Again there was no traffic, no noise pollution, no crazy night life and no seedy area. I got to see daily life, for example the world’s largest water village or the night market, and I had the safety and freedom to walk alone – at night included. In the village I had the opportunity to roam the canals and even had tea and cakes in one of the homes. The night market was a treat as well. There were some of the usual suspects, durian and red hot dogs, but also lots of other fresh fruits and veggies as well as cooked meats, desserts, and local drinks. It was a great place to walk around for a while and interact with people or try new things.

Royal Family
Have a royal family obsession? Well then you will enjoy the Regalia Museum, the Sultan’s Mosque and the Royal Palace. I went during a Muslim holiday so I wasn’t able to access everything, but just standing in front of the palace and seeing the ceremony of a member of the royal family coming or going was facinating. And the gold encrusted mosque was a site to behold, even from afar.

I had a great time…to say the least…and would like to return, especially once some of new tourist attractions are rolled out, such as ATVing and other ecotourism activities. A big thanks to Sunshine Borneo for a fantastic fun filled weekend! If you are interested in going, you must check them out.

The post Why Brunei is the New Black appeared first on Maya the Explorer - Expat Blog | Travel & Lifestyle.