by admin | Mar 15, 2025 | asia, culture, Travel, travel destinations, travel recommendations
Japan and South Korea continue to be favored getaways particularly for Filipinos. Both of these East Asian nations are renowned for their deep-rooted cultural traditions, delectable cuisine, and picturesque landscapes.
Interestingly, online travel agency Agoda revealed in a recent survey that 84-percent of travelers are eager to discover new destinations this year.
This tendency enhances the attraction of discovering hidden gems in less-traveled areas across Japan and South Korea, providing new adventures in these popular spots, particularly for visitors who have been to these nations several occasions before.
For individuals looking for distinctive experiences far from typical tourist hubs, insurtech company Igloo recommends these off-the-beaten-path locations in Japan and South Korea. These destinations provide an excellent chance to discover something new and remarkable.
Each nation provides a mix of old-world charm and contemporary offerings that strongly appeal to Filipino tourists, who value ease of access, bustling urban centers, and activities suitable for families.
1. The Tottori Sand Dunes located in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, lie close to the Sea of Japan and just beyond downtown Tottori. These expansive dunes provide an oasis of desert scenery. Covering a distance of 16 kilometers, visitors can enjoy activities like sandboarding or riding camels here. Additionally, one can appreciate the remarkable natural formation which has taken millennia to develop through wind action carrying river sands from the Sendaigawa River onto the coastline. For more artistic displays, head nearby to the Sand Museum where you can see detailed sand art created by renowned global sculptors.
2. Shirakami Sanchi, located within Aomori and Akita Prefectures in Japan, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This untouched woodland features towering ancient beeches, cascading waterfalls like Anmon Falls, and tranquil hiking paths. Believed to have stood for approximately 8,000 years, this primeval forest reportedly served as an inspirational backdrop for Hayao Miyazaki’s animated film “Princess Mononoke” from 1997. To experience serenity, you can wander around these majestic falls or reach the summit of Mount Shirakami for panoramic vistas.
3. Hahoe Folk Village, Andong, South Korea: Travel back through history as you explore Hahoe Folk Village, recognized by UNESCO for maintaining ancient Korean traditions with its classic hanok dwellings. Situated in Andong, this vibrant open-air museum provides insight into the customs of the Joseon Dynasty era. Be sure not to overlook their captivating mask dances and relish genuine Andong jjimdak, an aromatic steamed chicken delicacy.
4. Oedo Botania, Geoje Island, South KoreaThis hidden paradise is a marine botanical garden on Geoje Island. Featuring European-style terraces, lush gardens, and panoramic sea views, Oedo Botania feels like a dream. Accessible by ferry, it’s a serene escape perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
5. Damyang Bamboo Forest, Damyang, South KoreaImmerse yourself in the verdant expanse of Damyang Bamboo Forest, famously called Juknokwon. Here you can meander along serene trails flanked by soaring stalks of bamboo, creating an idyllic setting for relaxed strolls. Known for its culinary delights inspired by bamboo, this location invites visitors to savor specialties like bamboo rice and bamboo-infused ice cream, perfect treats for enthusiasts of gourmet experiences.
How to journey safely and with flair
The charm of lesser-known spots stems from their capacity to provide an alternative experience—escaping typical touristic throngs and diving into pristine landscapes and authentic traditions. Discovering these locations can feel akin to revealing a clandestine treasure, rendering each instant uniquely special and unforgettable. Picture yourself perched at the peak of the Tottori Sand Dunes, basking in the vastness of this desert oasis, or meandering along the serene trails of Namiseom Island, enveloped by the vivid hues of fall foliage.
The timing is crucial when you visit these lesser-known treasures. Going during the low season lets travelers enjoy the locations at their calmest moments—be it strolling through Shirakami Sanchi’s untouched paths or wandering around Oedo Botania’s verdant grounds sans the usual throngs of tourists. This way, individuals can get plenty of opportunity to immerse themselves fully in the ambiance and genuinely bond with nature.
Getting to these locations frequently turns into quite an expedition, whether you’re enjoying picturesque ferry trips or navigating twisty bus routes; this makes your voyage an integral aspect of the outing. It’s wise to scout out transport alternatives beforehand for a more seamless excursion, plus utilizing local travel passes might cut down on expenses as well as reduce travel duration.
To fully enjoy these places, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Interact with residents, listen to their tales, and relish distinctive foods such as Andong jjimdak or specialities from Tottori Prefecture. A basic greeting in either Japanese or Korean could lead to heartfelt talks and cherished moments.
When you’re organizing your journey, keep in mind that lesser-known spots might present certain difficulties like being far-flung or having sparse amenities. That’s why all-encompassing travel insurance plays a crucial role. Created together with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master provides safeguards against personal injuries, delayed flights, missing baggage, health crises, and also includes protection from Covid-19 related issues.
Discovering secret spots isn’t merely about visiting different locations; it’s about crafting distinct recollections and encountering the globe with a sense of individuality and awe. Begin your preparations now and allow lesser-trodden paths to guide you towards indelible moments.
by admin | Mar 13, 2025 | Travel, travel destinations, travel planning and tips, travel recommendations, vacations
Timing is everything for
budget-conscious
visitors planning for their summer vacation.
Although June and July are prime traveling times, August frequently provides the most attractive deals. Marking the beginning of the late-summer shoulder period, August boasts pleasant temperatures accompanied by smaller crowds and reduced expenses.
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Find Out:
5 Actions to Take Once Your Savings Hit $50,000
Here’s why August stands out as the quintessential summer month.
most budget-friendly for travel
.
Generating extra income can be quite simple.
You may begin this week.
Shoulder Season Begins
According to travel professionals, the timeframe from late August to mid-September is referred to as the shoulder season since it marks the shift from high summer travel activity to the onset of fall tourism. During this interval, prices generally decrease.
“Typically, as summer progresses, travel becomes more affordable,” stated Steve Schwab, the CEO.
Casago
, a vacation rental and property management business. “Most people usually require or at least appreciate having some downtime before schools reopen to ensure things are organized, leading to a decrease in holidays towards the latter part of August. Additionally, August often turns out to be significantly hotter and drier than June in many locations.”
Explore More:
5 Budget-Friendly International Getaways You Can Explore in 2025
Demand Drops
Mercedes Zach, a travel specialist at
ASAP Tickets
, part of
Trevolution Group
As stated, the demand for flights and lodging usually drops, leading to lower prices.
Consequently, numerous hotels, airlines, and tour organizers provide reduced rates during August to draw additional tourists and maintain their competitiveness,” stated Zach. “Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that expenses related to travel may differ considerably based on your chosen location. As an illustration, coastal getaways in warm climates or regions hosting major events could still be quite pricey all through August.
Europe Is More Affordable
Late August is an ideal time for cost-effective travelers looking to enjoy Europe since prices drop once the local population returns from summer vacations. Furthermore, numerous sites stay operational yet offer shorter queues and reduced expenses during this period.
One of the top destinations for an inexpensive summer getaway this season is Southern Europe, particularly led by Spain and Greece,” Zach mentioned. “Places such as cities like Barcelona and Madrid, along with island getaways like Mallorca and Ibiza, typically provide better deals during August once the major tourist crowds have subsided.
June and July
.”
Travelers looking for budget-friendly options might want to explore coastal towns that remain pleasant but see smaller crowds as the month draws to a close.
“Some of the excessively crowded Greek islands such as Santorini and Mykonos might remain expensive, whereas destinations like Crete, Rhodes, and Thessaloniki tend to become more budget-friendly by late August,” according to Zach.
Cheaper Transportation
Following an analysis of 40,000 airline routes during the summer season, Jesse Neugarten, who serves as both the CEO and founder of the company, revealed the findings.
Dollar Flight Club
, indicated that the reduction in demand might lead to fare reductions of 10% to 15% when compared to June and July levels.
For instance, well-liked destinations in Europe like Rome or Barcelona frequently offer lower fares after the peak travel month of July,” explained Neugarten. “Within the United States, locations such as Orlando and Las Vegas tend to see reduced costs during August too. These cities boast numerous flight options with multiple carriers. Consequently, when demand decreases due to fewer bookings, ticket prices typically drop.
For vehicle rentals, Mark Mannell, who serves as CEO and co-founder,
Car Rental Savers
As stated, prices decrease after Aug. 15.
Mannell stated, “We examined the overall cost of car rentals reserved over the past three summers. According to our study, the most affordable month to book a car rental is undoubtedly August. Typically, August prices were approximately 10% lower compared to the others.”
June or July
.”
Mannell advised that those planning to capitalize on August offers ought to make their reservations early.
Mannell pointed out that some destinations become fully booked during the summer and prices skyrocket at short notice. For spots such as Alaska and Yellowstone, he suggested making reservations up to a year ahead of time.
Top Offers for Low-Cost Off-Peak Getaways
Travelers who aren’t concerned about destinations with the
August rainy seasons
Or scorching summer heat might earn you discounts for the August vacations.
Zach mentioned that for those planning an economical trip through Southeast Asia, August presents a wonderful opportunity since it falls outside the peak season. This means destinations such as Bali, Bangkok, Krabi, and Vietnam tend to be more affordable. However, visitors should be prepared for some rainy weather and higher humidity levels.
Due to the
late-summer rainy season
Additionally, all-inclusive resorts and flight packages to Mexico and the Caribbean might provide better deals in August.
“Frequently, it involves heat and hurricanes,” Zach stated. “Nevertheless, it’s an ideal period to steer clear of
massive tourist crowds
and high prices.”
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SANGGRALOKA
:
The Least Expensive Summer Month for Travels
by admin | Mar 13, 2025 | asia, islands, thailand, Travel, travel destinations
This year, Bali, Indonesia’s famous vacation spot, was named Asia’s most stunning island at the yearly Reader’s Choice Awards presented by travel magazine DestinAsian.
The Maldives took the second spot, with Boracay in the Philippines and Phuket in Thailand following closely behind.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s biggest island, secured the fifth spot. Completing the top ten list were Palawan from the Philippines at sixth place, followed by Thailand’s Koh Samui, Malaysia’s Langkawi and Penang, and Indonesia’s Lombok rounding off the rankings.
These accolades honor the best locations, accommodations, air carriers, and travel services throughout Asia, as determined by ballots cast by countless travelers globally. The list emphasizes superior service standards, exceptional travel encounters, and above all, customer contentment.
Bali has earned widespread acclaim for its deep-rooted cultural legacy, which combines elements of Hindu-Balinese customs. This includes elaborate dances, mesmerizing ceremonies, and historic temples.
In 2024, Bali saw an influx of 6.3 million international travelers, exceeding numbers from before the pandemic, with plans to welcome around 6.5 million visitors this year.
by admin | Mar 13, 2025 | ancient rome, croatia, culture, tourist attractions, Travel
Stunning amphitheaters, grand imperial palaces, and lost urban centers—Croatia boasts an extraordinary legacy from antiquity, reflecting a time when Rome held sway over the Adriatic coast. Across the nation, formidable ruins continue to endure, resisting the passage of years as they narrate tales spanning hundreds of generations. Spanning the opulence of rulers to remnants of daily existence, these six locations offer essential stops for anyone seeking insight into classical times.
Boasting a rugged coastline and ancient cities, Croatia conceals remnants of a splendid history under its cobblestone streets and rolling hills. From antiquity onwards,
The Romans have molded this region.
, constructing theaters, forums, villas, and fortresses that still stand as testaments to their legacy.
Today, these awe-inspiring remains still captivate tourists who wish to explore history and magnificence throughout their visit. Every location provides a compelling look into an age when Rome influenced legislation, customs, and design across the area.
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, these articles can assist you in selecting your itinerary:
-
This island off the coast of Dubrovnik is waiting to be explored immediately.
-
Croatia: 5 Culinary Specialties to Try During Your Stay in the Thousand-Island Country
—
Croatia offers a delightful culinary experience with these five must-try dishes when visiting this archipelago nation.
—
If you’re planning a visit to Croatia, make sure to sample these five traditional local specialties during your trip through the land of numerous islands.
-
In the Balkans, the landscapes and people come alive through the pen of Rebecca West.
6 historic locations you shouldn’t miss when visiting Croatia
The Pula amphitheater stands as a stony colossus suspended in history.
At the center of the Istrian Peninsula lies Pula, home to an astounding Roman amphitheater. Perched above the Adriatic Sea, this monumental structure was initially constructed during the reign of Augustus and subsequently enlarged by Emperor Vespasian in the 1st century.
st
a century, which could formerly accommodate as many as 23,000 spectators.
The majestic arches continue to stand tall, resisting decay and serving as a testament to the glory of past gladiator contests. Nowadays, the sounds of savage animals have been supplanted by music performances and cultural celebrations, infusing fresh vitality into this enduring landmark.
Diocletian’s Palace in Split, a testament to imperial extravagance
At the center of Split
, vibrant narrow streets hide one of the most impressive historical royal palaces constructed during the early 400s.
th
For Diocletian, this immense structure combines a luxurious palace with formidable military defenses.
The arched hallways, stone-paved courtyards, and meticulously maintained shrines transport guests into the grandeur of an emperor who selected Dalmatia for his refuge. Beyond being merely an artifact, this structure is deeply integrated within the urban tapestry; today, its pillars serve as supports for cafes and bazaars, whereas its subterranean areas continue to resonate with echoes from ancient times.
Salona, the long-lost city of Roman Dalmatia
A short distance away from Split lies Salona, where extensive remains sprawl across what was once a prosperous area. Serving as the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia, this thriving commercial center had a population exceeding 60,000 residents until it was laid waste by barbarian attacks.
In today’s scene, the breeze meanders among the ruins of an amphitheater partly crumbled into dust, with vestiges of ancient bathhouses and basilicas standing tall like memories from when traders, warriors, and politicians frequently intersected within this flourishing metropolis.
The Roman Forum of Zadar, the vibrant core of an ancient city spanning a millennium.
Located by the seaside, Zadar preserves a Roman forum at its core, featuring remnants that underscore the city’s significant position in ancient times. Established during the reign of Emperor Augustus, this extensive paved area served as both the administrative hub and economic center of the city.
Isolated pillars, remnants of ancient sanctuaries, along with pieces of colonnades, continue to rise, etching history onto the stones. Surrounding these testaments to the past, the city thrums with vitality, featuring bustling cafes and an archaeological museum that prolongs the exploration of times gone by.
Burnum, a military encampment established within stone
Away from the well-trodden route, Burnum watches over.
the dry terrain of the Dalmatian inland regions
Here, you won’t find opulent villas or intricately designed shrines; instead, you’ll see the remnants of a military encampment where Roman soldiers were stationed.
The starkly elegant amphitheater stands as testament to the amusement provided for the troops, whereas the remnants of the aqueduct highlight Roman innovation. This less-frequented location immerses tourists in the unforgiving and tactical environment of old military outposts.
The ruins of Nesactium, an obscure Illyrian settlement.
On the outskirts of Istria lies Nesactium, which showcases remnants of an early civilization active prior to Roman times. Situated atop a hill between the villages of Muntić and Valtura, this archaeological site uncovers the ruins of a fortified town featuring large stonewalls, shrines, and burial grounds that reflect age-old traditions.
Defeated by Rome in the 2nd century.
nd
In the 1st century BC, the area was redesigned following imperial city-planning principles, featuring bathhouses and sanctuaries devoted to deities of Roman mythology. These remnants can still be seen amidst the oak and olive groves today.
by admin | Mar 12, 2025 | adventure travel, Travel, travel advice, travel destinations, vacations
Solo travel has soared in popularity over the last decade, and it’s continuing to be a building trend in 2025 as holidaymakers seek trips that aid self-reflection and individual well-being.
The American Express 2024 Global Travel Trends Report found that 76 per cent of Millennials and Gen-Z planned on taking a solo trip in 2024.
66 percent of participants mentioned ‘self-love and indulging in self-care’ as motivations for taking solo trips.
Airbnb’s spring trends report for 2025 found a 90 per cent growth in
solo travel
Searches indicate this trend, with Riviera Travel noting at a recent conference that solo travelers constitute one of the quickest-expanding groups reserving river cruises.
But despite being an increasingly important group within the tourism industry, solo travellers still have to contend with challenges like package holiday supplements and safety concerns.
Here’s how you can avoid extra charges for travelling alone and the top destinations for 2025.
How solo travellers can avoid package holiday supplements
Although package holidays frequently appear with a ‘cost per person’ figure, such offers typically assume at least two individuals will be partaking together as one reservation.
Solo travellers
can end up paying over €2,000 extra for their holiday package — frequently referred to as the ‘single supplement’ charge.
Specialists from the travel booking organization
Travel Republic
suggest looking specifically for travel packages designed for solo travelers via their website.
Other travel agencies have likewise started promoting journeys to
single adventurers
including TUI, Intrepid, and Jet2holidays.
Riviera Travel provides exclusive journeys for individuals along the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, and Douro rivers without an additional charge.
What are the best European destinations for solo travel in 2025?
Travel Republic additionally suggests that vacationers peruse evaluations and investigate how welcoming a location is for solo travelers.
To help you select your ideal destination, the high-end personalized tour company Kensington published a report earlier this year highlighting the top choices.
solo travel spots
in 2025.
Among more common destinations for those travelling on their own like Thailand and Australia, four European countries made the top 10. Second place in the ranking went to Italy for its cultural riches and culinary prowess.
“Travelling solo here isn’t lonely – it’s liberating,” the company writes. “Every museum, piazza, and trattoria offers a reason to explore deeper.”
Spain came in seventh spot, described as “the solo traveller’s playground”.
“Travelling Spain means living like a local – late-night dinners, street festivals, and endless sangria,” Kensignton writes. “Tourism in Spain blends history with celebration, making it a top destination for solo explorers in 2025.”
Numbering eighth, Iceland “stands as an idyllic getaway for individuals traveling alone who cherish unspoiled natural beauty and enigmatic vistas,” and it’s also considered the top choice for solitary adventurers.
destination
For photographers and intrepid adventurers.”
In ninth position is France, where individual travelers can savor the vineyards of Bordeaux, embark on river tours in the Loire Valley, or hit the slopes in the Alps.
by admin | Mar 10, 2025 | expenses, tax policy and law, taxes, tourists, Travel
From Venice to Barcelona, popular tourist spots are overwhelming visitors. However, do these measures truly help in decreasing overtourism, and where exactly does this revenue end up?
Despite the high tourist taxes, 39-year-old Susanne Meier has visited the Himalayan nation of Bhutan twice. Bhutan actually imposes the globe’s highest tourist tax, referred to as the “Sustainable Development Fee,” which amounts to $100 (€95) per person per day. This substantial fee deters many potential visitors.
tourism tax
is added to the extra travel expenses, including a driver and guide, typically organized by tour operators for an additional fee.
“People there prefer sustainable tourism over inexpensive tourism,” explains Meier, who is employed by Bhutan Travel located in Moosburg, Bavaria. She mentions that her clients are content with paying the additional taxes once they realize the beneficial impact it has on the area.
Taxes contribute to enhancing Bhutan
The nation’s tourism board states that these funds are channeled directly into supporting Bhutan’s roughly 800,000 inhabitants. The government allocates visitors’ contributions toward enhancing healthcare services, educational facilities, and upgrading infrastructural developments. Additionally, this income bolsters programs aimed at environmental conservation and aids in fostering growth for small enterprises within the community.
The nation reported generating $26 million (€25 million) in income during 2023 from the charge.
Certainly with such high
tourism tax
serves as a deterrent as well: Officials stated that approximately 103,000 visitors traveled to the nation in 2023. Most of these visitors originated from India, which is the sole country where travelers incur a reduced daily fee for their trip.
With a population of 962,000 million inhabitants, Mallorca, the Spanish island, mirrors the size of Bhutan’s populace; nonetheless, residents have faced an overwhelming influx of tourists in recent times and have
staged numerous protests
.
In 2024, approximately 13 million tourists visited the island. Consequently, it comes as little surprise that numerous locals have been advocating for restrictions on mass tourism.
In 2016, the island introduced an accommodation tax. According to the hotel classification, visitors might have to pay as much as €4 ($4.16) daily.
As per the plan proposed by the Balearic Islands’ government, the levy might increase up to six euros.
The funds are utilized to support initiatives focused on rendering Majorca more environmentally friendly. Nonetheless, this levy has had minimal impact in discouraging visitors—the island continues to achieve new highs in tourism each year.
![]()
Tourism accommodation taxes have minimal impact as a deterrent for visitors.
“As stated by Jaume Rossello, an economics professor at the University of the Balearics in Palma de Mallorca, the impact of these taxes on tourism demand is minimal,” he notes.
In
Barcelona,
For instance, travelers presently incur costs as high as €7.50 each day, varying based on the hotel category. In Berlin, a levy of 7.5% on the cost of an overnight stay applies, whereas in Paris, guests could be faced with payments nearing €16 nightly for top-tier accommodations. Despite this, Rossello indicates that it remains uncertain when tourists would begin reconsidering their choices.
changing their destination
.
As stated by Professor Harald Zeiss from the Institute for Sustainable Tourism in Wernigerode, Germany, numerous locations utilize the income generated from tourist taxes to compensate
environmental impacts
“At the very least, this is how it’s portrayed when these taxes are being proposed and implemented,” he adds.
Nevertheless, the actual utilization of these funds differs significantly. They might be allocated towards fostering eco-friendly transportation options or merely bolstering municipal finances. “Therefore, it’s essential to clearly designate fund usage with transparency,” emphasizes Zeiss. “Yet, when resources are scarce, their intended application tends to be more vaguely outlined.”
Loathe to criticize tourism
Across numerous locations, the earnings generated from tourism taxes often constitute a substantial part of a city’s overall tax-based revenue. For instance, in Barcelona, these taxes bring in approximately €100 million ($104 million) annually, positioning them as the third-highest contributor to local government funds, based on official figures provided by the municipality. Nevertheless, this destination continues to experience intense anti-tourism demonstrations driven by rising rental costs attributed largely to short-term vacation accommodations managed by firms such as
Airbnb
As a consequence, officials in Barcelona have decided to concentrate their efforts on funding initiatives aimed at benefiting the local population rather than solely supporting the tourism industry. Approximately €100 million ($104 million) obtained through taxes levied on tourists’ overnight stays will be invested in the Barcelona School Climate Plan. This initiative involves installing air conditioning systems in the city’s educational institutions.
The income generated from the overnight accommodation tax in Berlin, referred to as the City Tax, has not been designated for specific purposes yet. This amount, totaling nearly €90 million in 2024, presently gets incorporated into the overall municipal budget.
In Amsterdam, a tourist tax has been implemented since 1973. This levy stands at 12.5% of the cost of an overnight stay and is projected to yield approximately €260 million in income for 2025, as stated by a representative from the municipal government. Local authorities assert that this tax serves not only as a significant financial resource but also as a means to regulate the influx of tourists. Nonetheless, the impact of this tax in deterring visitors may be minimal.
Venice makes changes
Following considerable discussion, Venice, Italy finally implemented its highly anticipated tourism levy in 2024. During the busy season, day visitors were required to pay an entry fee of €5 on 29 designated high-traffic days. Critics from opposing political parties argued that this charge was insufficient to discourage travelers from flocking to the overburdened city. Consequently, Venice increased the number of charging days to 54. Those failing to make the payment at least four days prior to their trip must now cough up €10 upon arrival.
It remains unclear whether the additional euros might discourage visitors from exploring the declining metropolis.
Jaume Rosselló, a researcher at the University of the Balearic Islands, expresses skepticism. According to him, for many individuals, taking a holiday is not an extravagance but rather a fundamental necessity. He cites the case of Mallorca, noting that most visitors willingly cover the lodging tax with little complaint. “These kinds of taxes tend to be quite popular,” states Rosselló, “especially when they help enhance the environmental sustainability of a location.”
Nevertheless, numerous visitors still face constraints, which can be illustrated by Bhutan’s case. After increasing the tourism levy from $65 to $200 following years of stability at the lower rate, the country observed a decline in visitor numbers. Susanne Meier noted a distinct change: “The booking figures reflected this shift clearly; people were unwilling to cover such costs.”
The article was originally in German.
Author: Jonas Martiny
