Private Hot Spring Resort in Laguna: Villa Valentino

There are many private resorts in Pansol, Laguna but I know it can be hard to pick the best ones. My family and I go to Laguna almost every year to ease the summer heat. This year, I personally find the private resort we rented better than the ones we used before. This is the Valentino Private Resort. 

Valentino Private Resort is located in the midst of hot spring resort hub of Laguna- Barangay Pansol. The resort's location is ideal compared to others. It's not in the forefront so there are no street noises but it is not also in the interior part making stores accessible from the resort. 

The pool and space are the best things about Valentino. The pool is creatively-shaped. It's not round, not rectangular or any other thing. I like it because it's not overwhelmingly large or deep. The deepest part is 6 feet while the most shallow 4. There's also a net to shield swimmers from sun's rays during day swimming. There's a jacuzzi cum kiddie pool beside it so kids can also enjoy. The water's temperature is just right- not scalding hot. Also, the water is not heavy with chlorine. The the tiles are clean which is an important thing to consider I think. Some resorts have pool tiles which are full of mildew and molds.

Adult pool at Villa Valentino
photo credit: calamba-city.saintclassifiedphilippines.com

Kiddie Pool at Villa Valentino
photo credit: www.sulit.com.ph

Some resorts in Laguna consists of rooms and pool with limited open space for parking.  At Valentino, there's open space. I think the place is ideal for small parties with 30 to 50 people without being cramped. It is that big. There's also a billiards table, karaoke and kubo. 

kubo house at Villa Valentino
photo credit: www.sulit.com.ph

There are four rooms. Two are air conditioned. All four, the rooms can accommodate 20-25 people. The only issue I have about the rooms is the worn-out furniture. I think the resort should invest on new furniture to eliminate the "old feel" of the rooms. Other than that, the rooms are okay. They are not exceptional but they are acceptable. 

airconditioned room
photo credit: www.sulit.com.ph

Lastly, for a good private resort, Valentino is quite affordable. We rented the place for 8,000 Pesos for 12 hours on a Holy Week (the peakest of the peak season) for 30 people. It's a good deal, I think. 

To reserve the resort, you can contact 0915-7467423. Enjoy the summer!

Note: I forgot to take my own pictures during my stay. I was busy having fun. I'll replace these pictures from the people who were with me. 

How to Get a Japanese Tourist Visa for Filipinos

I would love to go back to the Philippines to spend the holidays but the airfares are impossibly high. So my boyfriend decided to just come here in Japan instead. Surprisingly, it's a lot more cheaper. Our only fear was that his visa may not be granted because the Japan Embassy are very strict in issuing tourist visa for Filipinos. I can't blame then since it is also our doing. A lot of Filipinos try to obtain a tourist visa with malicious intentions. But this is not to say that obtaining a tourist visa is impossible. The key is strict compliance with the Japanese Embassy requirements. 

Basic Requirements: 

1. Passport- Make sure your passport won't expire within 6 months. I think the more stamps you have on your passport from other countries, the higher your chances. This would show that you are a regular tourist. I heard that it is also easier for those who were issued Japan visa before. 

2. Application Form- This can be downloaded from the Embassy's website or from accredited agencies. 

3. Income Tax Return- As much as possible, submit your ITR. I think this reflects that you have a job and you are paying your taxes. My boyfriend is a free lancer. In his case, he submitted a letter explaining why he won't be able to submit an ITR. 

4. Bank Certificate- This shows that you can support your trip or that you are in good financial standing. I don't think that the Embassy would be impressed if you have lots of money but you only opened your account a few days or weeks before your application. I think your bank account should be at least 6 months with reasonable amount of money on a regular basis. 

5. Photo- Just go to a studio and ask to have your picture taken for Japan Visa. They know what to do. 

6. Itinerary- The Embassy requires that you enumerate the things you will probably do in Japan. If you are in a package tour, just submit the tour's itinerary. If you're making it alone, make sure that your itinerary looks reasonable and within your budget. You can't go on touring from one place to another if you only got 50,000 Php. 

7. Birth Certificate- Most probably, if you have a passport you also have this. 

Other Requirements: 

1. Invitation Letter and Letter of Guarantee - These would be coming from your relative or friend in Japan if you have one. I think with these letters, you chances of getting a visa is higher since someone in Japan will be responsible for you. If you're joining a tour, they will act as your guarantor. If your going alone, you don't have to submit any of these. These can be downloaded from the embassy's website

2. Residence and Bank Certificates- If you are being invited, make sure that a residence and a bank certificate are also sent to you. The residence certificate is a testament that the person inviting you really lives in Japan legally. The bank certificate testifies that your guarantor tor inviting person can support your stay. The residence certificate can requested from the City Office. 

3. Income Tax Return- Your guarantor and invitee must also submit an income tax return from the city office. In my case, I wrote a letter explaining I don't have an ITR yet because I was just here for a few months. 

4. Photos- If you are visiting a friend or relative, show photos that would prove you are related. 

Also, take note that the Japanese Embassy does not accept direct applications. You have to go through accredited agencies to process your visa. My boyfriend had his at Reli Tours in SM Megamall. They are open from Mon to Sun so it's very convenient. He made sure that all documents are complete before he passed his requirements. After 5 working days, he got his Tourist Visa, thankfully. 

Affordable Hotel in Tokyo: Koraku Garden Hotel

Koraku Garden Hotel is an affordable business hotel. Located in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Koraku Garden Hotel is an ideal hotel for business people looking for a quiet yet an accessible hotel. It's in the center of important business districts and near JR Line Stations. 

For almost a month, I stayed in Koraku Garden Hotel in Tokyo while waiting for a permanent teaching position in Japan. For that entire time, the staff had been very accommodating even if they don't understand me sometimes. (Their understanding of English is quite limited.) They cater to my needs and were generous of their help. Rooms are cleaned thoroughly from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm. It usually takes 20 to 30 minutes for the cleaner to finish my room even if it's not really messy. 

A regular room is ideal for 2 medium-built people. The rooms sizes are mainly ideal for Asian people so Westerners may feel cramped. Even the bed size can be a problem for 2 people if you're largely built. On a personal note, however, I found the bed just tight with enough room for me toss and turn. The hotel only provides a single pillow if they know only one guest is occupying the room. You can request for one more should you want another pillow. The mattress is firm enough without being hard on the back. 

Koraku Garden Hotel Room

The toilet is average. Everything is made of stainless so when you use cold water, it tends to get really cold and the same for hot water. The hotel provides shampoo, body soap, toothbrush, toothpaste and towels. 

There's TV but it's not cabled. All programs are in Japanese and the remote doesn't have English subtitle button. There's also a water heater with daily supply of tea bags. Internet connection is available but you have to borrow an internet cable from the front desk. There's a mini fridge but there's no closet. There's just a small open space with three hangers for your clothes. There's a phone that you can use even for international calls. 

view from my room at Koraku Garden Hotel

Other notable areas are the laundry area on the 6th floor. You can borrow iron from the front desk without charge. Computer stations are also on the lobby but they're not free. Free buffet breakfast are served in the basement from 7:00 to 10:00 am. There's no swimming pool or gym but they have parking areas. 

laundry area at Koraku Garden Hotel

The best thing about this hotel for business people is its accessibility to nearby stations. For more info: http://bitsandpieces-fvitz.blogspot.jp/2012/08/tokyo-hotel-with-ideal-location-koraku.html.

So if you're planning a business trip, try staying at Koraku Garden Hotel. 

Tokyo Hotel with Ideal Location: Koraku Garden Hotel

Looking for an accessible business hotel in Tokyo? Try the Koraku Garden Hotel located in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo. It's around the Japanese-Chinese Friendship Center just beside the historical Koraku Garden (hence the hotel's name).

Koraku Garden's facade
photo credit:  http://www.travelpod.com/hotel/Hotel_Takebe_No_Mori-Okayama.html

With the price of commuting in Tokyo, it's important to choose a hotel that can be accessed by JR Trains. The JR Lines are the cheapest, next to biking, mode of transportation in Japan.

1. Nearest Train Stations

Iidabashi Station
photo credit:  http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%95%E3%82%A1%E3%82%A4%E3%83%AB:Iidabashi_Station-West_Exit.jpg

Koraku Garden Hotel is about 10 minutes away from JR Iidabashi Station if you walk to the right side. There's also another Iidabashi Station which is a stopping point of the TOEI Subway Line. Walking to the left leads to the Suidobashi Station just in front of Tokyo Dome. 

The good thing about Koraku Garden is that even if the stations are walking-distance, you wouldn't hear the passing trains. It's located behind another building and is not directly on the main street so guests can still quietly rest at night. 

2. Surrounding Areas by Walking

Ramla Pathwalk
http://www.panoramio.com/user/5114571

Iidabashi

photo credit:  http://tokyo.blog.lemonde.fr/2008/05/20/aiguiser-lacuite-du-present/iidabashi1211261632jpg/

a street in Iidabashi, across Ramla
photo credit:  http://www.tokyoluv.com/a-walk-in-iidabashi/

A 10-minute walk to the left from the hotel will lead you to Iidabashi Station. In front of this Station is the Ramla mall or plaza where you can find Daiso, some cafes, shops and restaurants. Across the street where Ramla is are more shops, cafes, convenience stores. You can buy almost anything you need at this area. The street is lovely decorated with hanging red lamps. There's also a Y100 shop up on the street. 

Tokyo Dome rollercoaster

On the other side, a 10-minute walk from the hotel will lead you to Tokyo Dome. It's hard to miss to miss this place since the dome can be seen from the hotel. You can watch baseball games here. There's also an amusement park in this place with a big-looped roller coaster. You can choose from a wide array of shops and restaurants that they have there. 

McDonalds, Starbucks and 7 Eleven can be found on both sides. 

3. Surrounding  Areas by Trains

JR Line Map
http://sleepswithstrangers.tumblr.com/post/29416623180/japan-jr-train-line-map-tokyo-looks 

Koraku Garden Hotel is also near important areas in Tokyo such as Shinjuku,  Tokyo, Shinagawa, Akihabara, Ueno and Ginza. 

Shinjuku is a yuppie-filled business district in Tokyo. It's about 10 minutes  and 2 stations away from Iidabashi Station. Ride the Chuo Line (the yellow one) going to Shinkjuku. 

Akihabara is the anime and electronics center of Tokyo. Hundreds of electronic shops can be found there. It's about 10 minutes from Iidabashi Station. Just get on the Chuo Line. 

Ueno, if I'm not mistaken, is the next stop after Akihabara. Cheap clothes, shoes, bags and accessories can be found here. There's also a park, a zoo and a museum just outside the station. Just ride the Chuo Line then Transfer to Yamanote Line at Akihabara Station. 

Shinagawa is the home of the Immigration Office so it's an important area for foreigners. It's about 30 minutes away from Iidabashi Station. Ride the Chuo Line going to Ueno. Transfer to Yamanote Line (the green one) at Akihabara Station. This will stop at Shinagawa. 

For accessibility coupled with a quiet location, book at Koraku Garden Hotel!

Affordable Resort at Nasugbu, Batangas: Maryland Beach Resort

Nasugbu, Batangas is a well-known weekend spot for families and friends. With its proximity to Manila, resorts along the beachline of Nasugbu are quite overpriced.

Maryland Beach Resort is one of the most affordable resorts along the Nasugbu shoreline.

The sand in Nasugbu is fine black. The water is actually clear although its not obvious due to the sands' color. Waves are soft and ideal for families with small children.

Nasugbu beach

Cheapest room is their economy room worth P1200. The room is meant for two but with the available space, even 6 to 8 people can accommodate the room. The resort management allows additional guests during peak season.

economy room (without TV and private toilet)

Downside of this room is the lack of private toilet and no TV. The common toilet is not very clean.

They have other rooms which, I think, are more comfortable and presentable. Tents can also be rented for about P 500.

beach tents

Maryland Beach Resort also has a medium-sized pool. The water is okay but the pool looks a bit old. The tiles are old-fashioned and there's some molds at the bottom of the pool.

swimming pools at Maryland Beach Resort

An area for beach volleyball is also available.

Sunset is a sight to look forward to.

sunset at Nasugbu

Horse back riding and island hopping are also available from other nearby resorts.

Maryland Beach Resort has a small variety store but they don't have a cafeteria. However, there are a lot of restaurants near the resort where you can order your food. Jolibee and Mang Inasal also deliver food.

I recommend this place if only for the affordability of the place and considering that you'll also swim on the same waters for a cheaper price!

By the way, make sure you place your reservations during weekends and peak seasons since the place is jampacked!

Photo Credits: All pictures were taken from Maryland Beach Resort's multiply website.

How to Get to Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales

Pundaquit, San Antonio is a fishing village that serves as a gateway to the famous Anawangin Cove. 

How to Get to Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales:

A. Via Public Transportation

1. Ride a Victory Liner Bus bound for Sta. Cruz or Iba.
Victory Liner has stations at Pasay, Cubao, Kamias and Caloocan. I suggest you go to the Caloocan Terminal since a bus leaves for Iba every 30 minutes. First trip is at 4:00 am and last trip is at 11:30 pm.
Fare is about P 270.

2. Go off the San Antonio Municipal Hall.
Ask the conductor to drop you off at San Antonio Municipal Hall. From Olongapo, you will pass by Castillejos  Town and San Marcelino.

3. Take a tricycle ride from the Municipal Hall to Pundaquit Beach.
In front of the Municipal Hall is the tricycle terminal. The terminal is open 24 hours so even if you travel in the wee hours, there are tricycles available to bring you to Pundaquit Beach. The drivers are familiar with the resorts in the area so you just tell them to what resort you're planning to stay or just tell them that you're heading to Pundaquit Beach. Fare is about P 30 per person. Also, the road from the Municipal Hall to Pundaquit Beach seem to be deserted but do not be scared. Just a few kilometers ahead is the beach!

B. Via Private Transportation




1. Drive through NLEX
Hitting the NLEX depends on where you will be coming from. You can take Balintawak Exit, Meycauyan, etc depending on your starting point. Point is, you have to drive along NLEX!

Travel Time:  About 40 minutes to 1 hour depending on what exit you take.

2. Exit at San Fernando
From NLEX, exit at San Fernando, Pampanga. You will see Robinsons Pampanga upon your exit. Drive opposite of Robinsons Pampanga. Follow the road signs to Olongapo. You will pass by Lubao and Guagua.

Travel Time: 40 - 60 minutes

3. Enter Bataan through Layak Junction then Drive through Olongapo
You will enter the area of Bataan when you pass by Layak Junction. The Layak Junction has a monument. From the Pampanga road, take the road on the right. There is a tricycle terminal on the corner of this road.

Then just drive straight and follow the signs leading to Olongapo. Once in Olongapo, you can still see signs going to Pundaquit or San Antonio. Just drive through the towns in Olongapo including Subic Town Proper.

Travel Time: 40-60 minutes.

4. Pass by the towns of Castillejos and San Marcelino

After Olongapo, you will pass by the towns of Castillejos and San Marcelino. Each town is about 7 kilometers and will take you about 30 minutes to drive along these towns. Be mindful of the signs especially when you reach San Marcelino. Upon seeing Dr. Yangco Educational Foundation at San Marcelino, turn left to head to San Antonio. There is also a road sign to signal you where to turn left. If you drive straight ahead, you will be heading to San Narciso.

Travel Time: 30 minutes

5. Turn left at the Cemetery then Head to Pundaquit Beach

Once you turn left, a public cemetery can be seen at the right side. Then there will views of fields and mountains until you reach the town proper. Drive straight until you reach the Municipal Hall on the right side of the street.

From the Municipal Hall, turn left on the road with signs pointing you to the resorts. The road seem to be deserted but its concrete. You will also pass by a one-way steel bridge. You can also ask a tricyle to lead you to Pundaquit Beach then pay him for about P60.

Travel Time: 30 minutes

Cost:

Fuel
Diesel:  P 1500- P 2000
Gas:     P 1000- P 1500

Toll
Meycauyan Exit: P 45
San Fernando Ext: P 112

Beach Resort in San Antonio, Zambales: Pundaquit Luxury Resort

Pundaquit Luxury Resort is a mid-range inn located at Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales. It is one of the resorts that serves as a gateway to the Zambales Coves - Capones, Anawangin and Nagsasa.It is beside the famous Nora's Beach Resort and Canoe Beach Resort. 

facade of Pundaquit Luxury Resory, beach view
photo credit: http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Asia/Philippines/Province_of_Zambales/Pundaquit-1385410/TravelGuide-Pundaquit.html

Originally, my cousins and I planned to camp at Anawangin Cove for the holy week holiday. However, with a baby and some adults in their 50's coming with us, our plans did not push through. Instead, we decided to check in a Pundaquit Luxury Resort. One of the advantages of this resort is that they have a pool- good for kids and adults unlike with other resorts in the area. (Yeah, I'm starting with the background story.)

feeling sexy and macho beside the pool

taking a pose at the garden area

We rented a mountain view room and 4 kubo huts since there were 17 of us. The mountain view room is actually good for 4 people but they only allow up to 3. This is worth P 2300. It has two single beds, cable TV airconditioner and toilet & bath. The beds, tv and aircon are about average. The toilet was a disappointment though. It was small and cramped. For adults who are quite large in body frame, I wouldn't be surprised if you'd be suffocated. Good thing was they have toiletries- soap, shampoo, toothcare kit and tissue. Towels are not free so bring a towel!

mountain view room at Pundaquit Luxury Resort
photo credit: http://www.subic.com/hotels-info/pundaquit_luxury_resort.php

The kubo huts have two types. The first one has two single double decks and the other one has double decks which are double beds. (Haha! I don't know how to describe it) Point is, the nipa huts can accommodate 4 people comfortably. All the nipa huts are fan rooms which really isn't a problem since the air is cool esp. at night. Downside would be we didn't have our own toilets and the location of the huts is about 30 steps from the actual resort compound. If you're a toilet-crazy person, get a room with a CR. Although the common toilets are clean, they are not tiled.

Pundaquit Luxury Resort also offer island hopping services with the same rates of local boatmen.

Boat Rates:

Small Boat (good for 4 people)
P 1500 - Camara, Capones, Anawangin
P 1800 - Camara, Capones, Anawangin and Nagsasa

Big Boat (good for 10 or more people)
P 350/ pax - Capones and Anawangin
P 450/ pax - Capones, Anawangin and Nagsasa

Service is also good. The staff are cordial and prompt. They also have cooking services for a fee.
They have a small garden for outdoor dining and a restaurant on the roof deck for viewing.

garden dining at Pundaquit Luxury Resort
photo credit: ://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1028037-d1644721-Reviews-Pundaquit_Luxury_Resort-Pundaquit_Central_Luzon_Region_Luzon.html l

Pundaquit Luxury Resort may not necessarily live up to its name of "luxury" but the place was clean and comfortable.

How to Get at Pundaquit Luxury Resort:

See my blog on How to Get To Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales

Vietnam Travel Guide and Information: My Tho-Ben Tre Upper Mekong River Cruise Tour Package

If you haven't been to any South East Asian countryside, then having this river cruise is worth the time. On a personal note, however, this tour was a disappointment to me. Maybe because I'm from the Philippines, an Asian country,  this tour did not offer any "new sights" for me.

Vietnam Tour Day 2: 

Just like on our first day, we were fetched by a van at around 8:15 in the morning. Another hour was spent in getting other people who will also join the tour.

The city of My Tho is about 3 hours from Ho Chi Minh. It was a long drive considering that the traffic was very light. It is in My Tho where the river boats are docked.

Along the way, we stopped in a handicraft store where people with disabilities make wood engravements just like where we've been to the day before.

sample artwork

We then proceeded to My Tho City. Personally, there's nothing unique about this place. The port is located on the edges of the city proper.

striking a pose near the dock

We rode a motor-powered boat to get to the four islands. From the dock, it would take about 20 minutes to get to the first island. Take note, the Mekong River looks very dirty- brownish and muddish. Good thing it's not stinky.

First stop, we were treated with fruits grown in Vietnam- papaya, watermelon, chico, pineapple and star apple, together with tea. We were also serenaded with Vietnamese folk songs and music.

fruits, fruits, fruits!

vietnamese folk singers

Next stop is a short boat ride in the midst of a narrow river. Two people were rowing for us.

boat rowing or rowing boat?

Then we proceeded to the Honey Bee farm where we were shown how the bees make honey. We were also given sample organic sweets- ginger candies, banana chips, etc.

sticking my finger on a bee colony to get honey

After the Honey Bee Farm, we went to see Coconut Place. This is where various coconut products were showcased- coconut candies, bags, figurines, etc.

covering coconut candies

figurines made from coconut

From the Coconut Place, we rode a horse-drawn carriage to usher us into the place where we'll have our lunch.

elephant fish (optional lunch)

There were three girls in our tour who thought that we'll get to swim during the trip which did not happen. Just an opinion, you can forego this trip and choose instead to have another tour package.

EXPENSES:

10 USD - Tour package fee (Tropic Tour) with lunch
3-5 USD - Tips

REMINDERS:

1. Wear something light.
2. Bring water and a hat or cap.
  

Vietnam Travel Guide and Information: The Cao Dai Temple and Cu Chi Tunnel Tour Package

Vietnam has a proud history of successfully resisting the US Forces. This was largely due to the genius creation of their tunnels. At the same time, Vietnam is also a melting pot of Asian religion such as Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism. Hence, its worth to visit the infamous Cao Dai Temple and the Cu Chi Tunnels for historical and religious appreciation of Vietnamese culture. 

Vietnam Tour Day 1: 

The tour to the Cao Dai Temple and Cu Chi Tunnel started at around 8:30 am when an airconditioned bus fetched us from our hotel. Another hour is spent from fetching other tourists in their respective hotels. So it was about 9:30 am when our bus was officially bound for Cao Dai Temple.

Along the way, we stopped at handicraft factory and store where people with disabilities create beautifully-crafted maches and engravements. For budget travellers, however, cheaper versions of these handicrafts can be bought in the city. 

making art pieces with egg shells

sample art pieces on lacquered wood

It was before lunch time when we reached Cao Dai Temple. Initially, I thought that Cao Dai Temple is just one big temple. I was surprised that Cao Dai Temple is actually a community of temples. There were even housings for volunteers and members of the community. The Cao Dai Temple is about 3 hours from Ho Chi Minh. 

the main temple of Cao Dai Temple

Footwear should be taken off before entering the main temple.  

leaving his footwear behind

We were just in time to witness their noon prayer. 

the devotees' at Cao Dai Temple

From Cao Dai Temple, it took us another hour and a half to reach Cu Chi Tunnels. (We also had our lunch first on a roadside cafeteria.)

There's an entrance fee of 2 USD in the vicinity of the Cu Chi Tunnels. Upon entering the area, we watched an old  20-minute video about the historical significance of the tunnels.

1

while watching a historical video 

 Then our tour guide showed us around the area including the various uses and sizes of tunnels, the traps and the shooting range. 

vietnamese trap made of sharpened bamboos

an entrance to a tunnel

a US tank captured by the Vietcongs

firing some shots

After an hour and a half, we were led into the tunnels to really experience going through them. It was the best part of the day!

inside the tunnel trail

It was almost 6:30 pm when we reached Ho Chi Minh after a day of peeking through the pages of Vietnamese history. 

Expenses:

10 USD -  Tour Package (Tropic Tours)

 2 USD  -  Entrance Fee to the Cu Chi Tunnels

 4 USD  -  Lunch

 1 USD  -  Share for the Tour Guide and Driver's Tip

17 USD  - Total Expenses

Reminders: 

1. Wear a light shirt. Sleeveless are not allowed in the temple. 

2. Wear a hat or bring an umbrella. 

3. Bring water!

Vietnam Travel Guide and Information: Going Around the City

A guide on maximizing your time when going around Vietnam 

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam is generally a walkable and safe city. Traffic is also light compared to other countries. There are a lot of trees and greenery everywhere.

Here are some tips to enjoy the sights of Ho Chi Minh: 

1. Take ONLY the Mai Linh and Vina Sun taxis.  As a lot of blogs and websites have mentioned, the taxis in Vietnam are the worst scams esp. if they sense that you’re a tourist.  They would take you around to see some tourist spot although you’re not interested to see them. So just make sure to take only the trusted names in Vietnam- MAI LINH and VINASUN. Make sure to check if the meter is working. Flag down rate is 10.000 VD. From the aiport to District 1, fare would be about 110.000 to 140.000 VD or about 7 USD.

Mai Linh Taxi in Vietnam

Photo Credit: http://www.vietnamtravel.org/taxis-saigon-avoid-being-taken-ride

 

2. Print out the address of your hotel.  It was a good thing that I took note of the exact address of the hotel where I stayed. Because of it, the taxi driver who picked me up from the airport was able to locate the hotel.  I just showed him the address and he drove me there since we cannot understand each other. (Haha!)

3. Wear light and airy clothes and always bring water. Just like the Philippines, Vietnam is a tropical country so the weather is either hot or humid.  So it makes sense to wear shorts and sleeveless or shirts during tours. Also, bring huge amounts of water although there are a lot of stores where you can buy bottled waters. The heat could be dehydrating. Wear a hat or bring an umbrella.

Boating on Vietnam's countryside

4. Ask for a city map. So you can have the freedom to move around the city, print out a city map or ask a map from the hotel where you're staying. If you're in District 1, you can actually visit the historical places on foot. 

5. Watch out for motorcycles! Ho Chi Minh is like a motorcycle city. The motorbike is their primary means of transportation- female or male, young or old. So be careful of whizzing motorbikes when walking along the streets. 

blurred motorcycle traffic in the background

And just like in any other place, always be mindful of your things especially in busy and crowded areas!

Vietnam Travel Guide and Information: Budget Travel in Vietnam

This article discusses relevant tips on handling money when visiting Vietnam. 

Here are some tips on handling your budget while visiting Vietnam:

the Vietnamese Dong

Photo Credit:  http://www.chinapost.com.tw/business/asia/vietnam/2008/06/24/162405/Vietnam-trade.htm

1. Exchange your dollar bills to Vietnamese Dong. The value of Vietnamese currency is about USD1 to VD 20.000. In effect, large dollar bills would not be helpful if you plan to shop and dine around the city. For less than a dollar you can already buy a meal. Some Vietnamese tend to withhold change if you pay them in dollars. Don’t fall into letting go of your few bills by changing your dollars to their currency. 

goods sold at Ben Than market

Photo Credit: http://blog.travelpod.com/travel-photo/ngrick/13/1282250917/3_inside-ben-thanh-market.jpg/tpod.html

 

2. Know the prices of goods. Admittedly, I am not a good in haggling so I was fooled a lot of times when I bought some items in Vietnam. For example, I bought 25 sachets of coffee for 80,000 VD when I could actually buy 50 sachets for 100,000 VD. Then I bought a small cake along the streets for 10,000 VD when the actual price is 5,000 VD. I really felt bad when I realized my foolishness that I stopped buying anything during my stay.


3. Forego shopping , if you can. Since I am from the Philippines, I am familiar with cheap goods which are also sold in Vietnam. The clothes,bags and other goods that they sell on the streets and the overrated Ben Than Market can be bought at a cheaper prices in Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. The values of shirts and bags that we saw are twice or even thrice as much as the price in other countries.


4. Look for cheaper tours. The tour packages advertised on the net are twice as much as those you can find along the streets of Ho Chi Minh. I highly recommend Tropic Tours with several offices scattered around District 1. They offer one of the cheapest tour packages in and around Ho Chi Minh. 

tips, tips, tips

Photo Credit: http://soshable.com/social-networking-for-business-8-tips-on-how-to-relate-and-communicate/

 5. Include tips in your budget. Just like in the Philippines, people expect tips after they have served you. Hotel porters tend to linger in the room after they brought your bags waiting for tips. Tour guides also tend to remind you to give him tips. Even waiters from roadside food stalls expect tips. To save yourself from embarrassment, include tips in your budget. I usually give them 30.000 VD or 1 USD.