asia – Page 3 – Dan Travels

2-Day Beijing Itinerary: China’s Great Wall And Beijing’s Must-See Places

By Dan Forteza

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Beijing, China’s capital city, is brightened by its glorious past. Having served as the capital of the country for more than 800 years, it is home to some of the finest remnants of China’s imperial past. That’s why I didn’t skip this massive city even though I only have two days remaining in my China travel itinerary.

After visiting Shanghai and Zhangjiajie, I flew into Beijing to explore both the rich history and the ever-changing modernity of the city. And you probably guessed it right – the Great Wall of China is on the top of my Beijing itinerary must-see list!

The Great Wall of China at Jinshanling | My Beijing itinerary — The Great Wall of China at Jinshanling | Dantravels.org

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

WHERE IS BEIJING?

Beijing is located in northern China. Its name, which means “Northern Capital”, was applied to the city in 1403 during the Ming Dynasty to distinguish the city from Nanjing (the “Southern Capital”). It is roughly a 2½-hour flight away from Shanghai, almost a 4-hour flight away from Tokyo, or a little more than 4½ hours if coming from Manila.

Language: Chinese
Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB)
Airport: PEK
Preferred mode of transportation: Subways / Walking
Time Zone: GMT +8

HOW I GOT THERE:

Finding a cheap flight ticket to Beijing, China from Southeast and East Asia is relatively easy (and cheap, too!). Coming from Zhangjiajie airport, I flew into Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) via Air China. PEK airport is the main international airport serving Beijing. It is located 32 km northeast of Beijing’s city center.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

Metro / Subways are the best way to get around Beijing. The Beijing subway system is modern and easy to use (all signage is in Chinese and English), but often crowded, so don’t expect a seat. Fares range from 3 RMB to 8 RMB.
Buses are cheap and they go everywhere, but difficult for non-Chinese speakers to negotiate, and often overcrowded. Fare per trip is 2 RMB; with a travel card it becomes 0.8 RMB.
Bikes have taken over the sidewalks and streets in Beijing in recent years thanks to the bike-sharing craze. Mobike and Ofo make it easy to rent bikes around the city.
Walking is a great way to build up your travel experience since it can lead you to scenic places that you wouldn’t normally find on a map. I walked a LOT while in Beijing!
Other means of transportation are taxis and rickshaws, but I don’t recommend them for budget and short-term travelers.

TIP: Your navigation would be much easier if you are using Google Maps. If you don’t have mobile internet, you can use an offline map app called Maps.me.

WHERE DID I STAY?

I arrived at PEK airport at around 1:00 AM from a 2½-hour flight from Zhangjiajie. I took a taxi to get me to my hostel since the airport train service only runs until 11:00 PM. It took about 40 minutes to reach my hostel.

TIP: When using a taxi, make sure you have the hostel address in Chinese characters since most taxi drivers do not recognize English writings.

Taxi from PEK airport to my hostel – 110 RMB (~15 USD)
Beijing Alley International Youth Hostel: 2-night stay (book here)
- Hostel room type: 1 Bed in Dormitory-type room
- Hostel rate: 473 PHP (~9.3 USD) per night

Beijing Alley International Youth Hostel | Dantravels.org

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

MY 2-DAY BEIJING ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: Great Wall of China

The breathtaking view of the Great Wall of China | My Beijing Itinerary — The breathtaking view of the Great Wall of China | Dantravels.org

I was soaked into the scenery of the beautiful Great Wall at Jinshanling-Simatai during a full-day hiking tour! To get away from the crowds at Badaling or Mutianyu, I booked a group day-tour via Viator to take me to a less crowded section of the Great Wall in Jinshanling.

- Duration (getting there + visiting): Whole day! (Approximately 9 hours)
- Price: 31.99 USD per person
- Meet-up point: Beijing Downtown Travel Service Co., Ltd., No.85 Nanluogu Alley, Jiaodaokou, Dongcheng District, Beijing

Groupie with fellow travelers from the full-day hiking tour | Dantravels.org

Here are the itinerary details of the tour:

Full-day hiking tour to Great Wall of China at Jinshanling, from Beijing
Hike from Jinshanling to Simatai West with an experienced and English-speaking guide
Admire the mountain scenery while walking along a remote 3.7-mile (6-km) part of the Great Wall of China
Check out 15 guard towers along the route
Learn about the Ming Dynasty and why the Great Wall was built
Includes guide, entrance fees, and round-trip transport from Beijing

Whether you’re a solo backpacker or with friends, this full-day hiking tour is TOTALLY RECOMMENDED!

Great Wall of China view — One more look at this breathtaking view of the Great Wall of China | Dantravels.org

DAY 2:

2nd Stop: Tian’anmen Square

Tian’anmen Square is a city square in the heart of Beijing where Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. It is named after Tiananmen, which literally means “Gate of Heavenly Peace”. The area is heavily secured and often very crowded.

NOTE: Bring your passport or valid ID for security checks.

Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Subway: Tian’anmen East or West Station

3rd Stop: The Imperial Palace / Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is massive and historically significant. Expect large crowds but excellent preservation of ancient architecture. You’ll need at least 2–4 hours to explore properly.

Entrance fee: 40 RMB

TIP: A guide is highly recommended to understand the history deeply.

Duration: 2–4 hours
Nearest Subway: Tian’anmen East or West Station

4th Stop: Beihai Park

Beihai Park is a peaceful escape near the Forbidden City. It features a large lake, walking paths, and scenic views.

Entrance fee: 10 RMB

Duration: 2 hours
Nearest Subway: Tian’anmen West / Beihai North

5th Stop: Beijing Olympic Stadium

Bird's Nest Stadium — Bird’s Nest Stadium | Dantravels.org

The Olympic Park is home to the iconic Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. Great for an easy stroll and photos.

Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Subway: Olympic Sport Center Station

6th Stop: Lama Temple

Lama Temple is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist temples in Beijing.

Duration: 1–2 hours
Nearest Subway: Yonghegong Lama Temple Station

7th Stop: Nanluoguxiang Street

Nanluoguxiang is a famous hutong-style shopping street filled with traditional alleyways, cafes, and shops.

Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Subway: Nanluoguxiang Station

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this 2-day Beijing itinerary useful. It’s fast-paced but covers many of the city’s highlights.

1-Day Shanghai Itinerary: Best Places To See In Shanghai On A Budget

By Dan Forteza

Shanghai is a renowned international metropolis drawing more and more attention from all over the world. When I visited Shanghai last November 2017, I found the perfect blend of cultures — the modern and the traditional; and the western and the oriental. Western customs and Chinese traditions intertwined and formed the city’s culture making my 1-day Shanghai itinerary even more memorable.

So without further ado, whether you’re staying for a day or two, here is my do-it-yourself Shanghai itinerary which includes the city’s top attractions.

Some classical architecture near The Bund in Shanghai | Dantravels.org

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel — a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

WHERE IS SHANGHAI?

The city of Shanghai, whose name literally means “on the sea”, is situated on the east China coast just to the south of the mouth of the Yangtze River. From its great location, it serves as the most influential economic, financial, international trade, and cultural center in East China. It is about a 3½-hour flight away from Manila or about a 5½-hour flight away from Singapore.

Language: Mandarin Chinese
Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB)
Airport: PVG, SHA
Preferred mode of transportation: Metro / Walking / Bikes
Time Zone: GMT +8

HOW I GOT THERE:

Coming from Manila, I scored a really cheap (like really cheap!) flight ticket to Shanghai via Cebu Pacific Air.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

Metro / Subways are the best way to get around Shanghai. While the metro can get very crowded during rush hour traffic, you’ll avoid the inevitable street traffic this way. With base fare just 0.45 USD, all signs, maps, and station announcements in both Chinese and English, this is the preferred way to get around Shanghai for international travelers.
Walking is a great way to get around central neighborhoods in Puxi or in the old city area of Yuyuan. Despite the huge size of Shanghai, you’ll be amazed at how navigable the city really is! It’s worth taking a stroll along the Huangpu River, where on either side you have access to breathtaking views of the city skyline at the Oriental Pearl Radio & TV Tower, or at Shanghai World Financial Observatory. And as I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog — “walk as much as you can!“
Even though cars are found everywhere, bikes have seen a revival in recent years. There are dedicated cycle lanes on the roads and drivers are fairly cautious around cyclists. So if you’re up for an adventure, biking is a fun and memorable way to get around the city and experience Shanghai like a local. There are a few bike-sharing apps that you can download to your smartphone to reserve bicycles for as low as 1.00 USD per half hour, such as Mobike and Ofo. Bikes can be picked up wherever you find one available on the app and dropped off conveniently at your destination.

Bikes for rent parked in the streets of Shanghai | Dantravels.org

WHERE DID I STAY?

I actually did not stay in any hostel or hotel in Shanghai. Arriving from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) at midnight, I took some rest at the airport’s arrival area and stayed there for a few hours until dawn. Before hitting the metro train to take me to downtown Shanghai, I looked for the ATM to withdraw some Yuan cash and then bought myself a sim card with internet to help me navigate the city.

Sim Card with 10GB internet data – 200 RMB (~28.00 USD)

TIP: Unfortunately Google, Facebook, Instagram and other American-based social media are blocked in mainland China. If you’re like me who likes to access Instagram and Facebook on-the-go, you can use a VPN app. When I was in China, I used Betternet which has free trial for the first 7 days. I just canceled it before my 7-day trial ended haha! Go and check it out!

From PVG airport, taking a metro train is the most convenient way to get myself to downtown Shanghai.

Pudong PVG airport to Nanjing East station – 7 RMB (~1.00 USD)

Book AGODA here Book BOOKING.com here Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

After a day in Shanghai, I took an overnight train going to Zhangjiajie in Hunan province.

But if you’re looking for a good room accommodation in Shanghai, you can book a room at any hotel through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

If Shanghai hostel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

MY 1-DAY SHANGHAI ITINERARY

1st Stop: The Bund

The Bund is undoubtedly on the top of the list of things to see in Shanghai. Thus, I made it my first stop of the day. Although this place is typically crowded, it is perfect to unwind a little to its marvelous architecture and views of the futuristic Lujiazui skyline!

The Bund and the impressive skyline of Shanghai | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest metro station: Nanjing East station

2nd Stop: Nanjing Road

Without any specific shopping in mind, I went down to Nanjing road from “The Bund”. Along the Nanjing road has the most popular shopping area of Shanghai, but be warned it is packed with people. To me, experiencing and observing the energy of the people as well as the classical architecture of Shanghai are just priceless.

Somewhere in Nanjing road | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest metro station: Nanjing East station; People’s Square station

3rd Stop: Yuyuan Old Street

Yuyuan’s Old Street is a great place to see what old Shanghai looked like. The fact that you can walk this street and then look up and see the new Shanghai is an incredible juxtaposition.

Old Chinese houses in Yuyuan | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest metro station: Yuyuan station

4th Stop: Yuyuan Garden

In the middle of a bustling city of Shanghai, I was surprised at how serene this garden could be, even with many tourists sharing the space.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest metro station: Yuyuan station

5th Stop: Century Park

Century Park is in the middle of Shanghai Pudong area. Great space to stroll and relax. It’s nice to have such a large space in the city to chill.

Getting my bike ready near Century Park | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest metro station: Century Park station; Yingchun Road station; Shanghai Science station

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest metro station: Yuyuan station

5th Stop: Century Park

Century Park is in the middle of Shanghai Pudong area. Great space to stroll and relax. It’s nice to have such a large space in the city to chill but entrance fee costs 10 RMB. If you opt not to get in, you can instead just rent a bike and circle around the free area like I did haha! Thanks to my Chinese friend, Peng for helping me rent a bike!

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest metro station: Century Park station; Yingchun Road station; Shanghai Science station

6th Stop: Shanghai Tower

Located at financial district of Lujiazui, Shanghai Tower is the second tallest building in the world after Burj Khalifa in Dubai and one of Shanghai’s most iconic buildings. I personally went to Lujiazui to get a closer look at this tower.

There is an elevated ring road where you can admire the view of the tower and stroll in the shadow of some of the world’s tallest buildings.

If you want to get to the observation deck of the building, you have to buy tickets. You can buy them here .

Shanghai Tower behind me | Shanghai itinerary — Shanghai Tower behind me | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest metro station: Dongchang Road station; South Pudong Road station

7th Stop: Oriental Pearl Tower

This building may look like an alien base (haha!) but it is also one of the iconic buildings in Lujiazui district together with the Shanghai Tower.

It is exceptionally beautiful when lit in glowing colors at night. You can buy a ticket here in advance to get you to the observation deck and be amazed by the beauty of the city.

But I prefer to gaze and view the magnificent light show on the Oriental Pearl Tower from the ground.

Oriental Pearl Tower behind me | Shanghai itinerary — Oriental Pearl Tower behind me | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest metro station: Dongchang Road station; South Pudong Road station

What do you think of this 1-DAY Shanghai itinerary?

My good friend Peng from Shanghai | Dantravels.org

I probably could not have made my 1-day Shanghai tour more enjoyable and memorable without the help of my Chinese friend Peng. He was very kind and accommodating throughout the day.

By the way, he was the one who translated my “I Quit My Job to Travel” blog into Chinese haha!

All in all, I hope that you find this 1-DAY SHANGHAI ITINERARY useful!

If you have more days to spend in Shanghai, you can include these cool places in your Shanghai itinerary:

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotel / Hostel
- Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation through Booking.com. Room accommodations range from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Booking hostels through Booking.com also gives you options like free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel.
- Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms for your Shanghai itinerary! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it.

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 PHP) off your first stay. Click here to get that discount.

Flights
- KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE ) as they usually offer cheaper fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Shanghai Package Tours
- Viator. Viator is one of the world’s leading resources for researching, finding, and booking the best travel experiences worldwide.

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Shanghai!

2-Day Sapporo Itinerary: Best Places To See In Sapporo, Japan On A Budget

By Dan Forteza

While many travelers see the city of Sapporo as a transit hub to access Hokkaido’s mountains and hot springs, there are enough worthwhile attractions to keep you here for days. Summer is the season for beer and food festivals. In February, despite the harsh cold, Sapporo’s population literally doubles during the famous Festival of Snow and Ice.

But if you only have 2 days in Sapporo and surely don’t want to miss those must-see places in the city, this blog is for you. Here, I’ve put together my do-it-yourself Sapporo itinerary, specifically for budget travelers, which includes Sapporo’s top attractions.

Meet Pepper the humanoid robot. I met him at Tanukikuji Underground Mall | Sapporo itinerary — Meet Pepper the humanoid robot. I met him at Tanukikuji Underground Mall | Dantravels.org

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

WHERE IS SAPPORO?

Sapporo is the largest city on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido. It is also the fifth-largest city of Japan by population. It is about 1-½ hour flight away from Tokyo and could take up to 8 hours if you go by bullet train from Tokyo.

If you go in winter as I did, everything is so white and pristine…a beautiful winter wonderland for people like me who grew up in a tropical country!

Language: Japanese
Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
Airport: CTS
Preferred mode of transportation: Trams / Subway
Time Zone: GMT +9

HOW I GOT THERE:

Coming from Tokyo, I bought a cheap flight ticket to Sapporo via Jetstar Air. It was actually much cheaper (and of course way faster) than going by a bullet train. There are a lot of economy flights going to Sapporo so it’s better if you go by plane.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

Subways and Trams are the best way to get around Sapporo. But as I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog – “walk as much as you can!”
- Subway – Sapporo has three subway lines that can take you to many places throughout the city. Fares are generally anywhere from 200 yen to 360 yen per ride, depending on how far you’re going. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines outside the stations.
- Trams or Streetcars – Sapporo’s tram network is one of the city’ more unique transportation methods. With only about seven minutes between each streetcar, it is one of the fastest ways for you to get around some areas of town. The fare is only 200 yen, so it’s a reasonable alternative to subways or trains.

If you already have a prepaid Suica card, you can still use it in Sapporo to pay for transport. If you haven’t, you can buy a Suica card online at GoVoyagin.com for pickup at Narita or Haneda airport.

TIP: Your navigation would be much easier if you are using Google Maps. Google Maps was my savior in Sapporo! In Japan, it is very reliable and accurate. If you’re looking for travel directions, it will give you all different options and how much it will cost for each option. You can either buy a sim card here or rent a pocket wifi here for pick-up at various airports across Japan.

WHERE DID I STAY?

I arrived at New Chitose Airport (CTS) at around 8:00 AM from a 1-½-hour flight from Tokyo. Outside CTS airport, there are buses departing every 15-20 minutes from about 5:30 am to 10:30 pm. Taking a bus is the cheapest option (costing JPY 1,030) and take about an hour to downtown Sapporo with stopovers from various stations and hotels around the city.

So I then took the airport shuttle bus to go downtown Sapporo at Minami 3 Jo Susukino stop where my hostel is about 2-3 minute walk.
- Bus ticket from CTS airport to Minami 3 Jo Susukino – 1,030 JPY (9.7 USD)
Capsule Inn Sapporo: 2-night stay (click here to book)
- Hostel room type: Capsule Type Bed
- Hostel rate: 2,500 JPY (23 USD) per night
- Important: This hostel is for MEN only

NOTE: There were no private bathrooms in the hostel, only the so-called indoor ONSEN. As a foreigner, it was a bit strange for me to strip off naked and bathe side by side with other people. But at the end of the day, it was a unique yet memorable experience I would treasure! Don’t worry, cameras are not allowed inside the onsen bathroom. Keep in mind also the Onsen etiquette in the photo below.

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

You can book a room at any Sapporo hotel through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

If Sapporo hostel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

MY 2-DAY SAPPORO ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: SUSUKINO

Susukino is a vibrant and busy pocket of Sapporo. This is also called the downtown of Sapporo. Around Susukino, there are plenty of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and shopping centers. There is a subway stop here and an underground passageway connecting you to Odori Park and other parts of the city. I spent most of my time in this area since it is closed to my hostel, Odori park, and the TV tower.

At Susukino taken from McDonalds’ | Dantravels.org

- Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
- Nearest train / tram station: Susukino station

2nd Stop: Tanukikoji Shopping Street

Located between Odori Park and Susukino, this above-ground but covered shopping street is a number of blocks long. So if you’re going to Odori Park from Susukino by foot as I did, you’ll pass Tanukikoji Shopping Street. This place is full of bars, food shops, game arcades, souvenir shop, animal cafe, drugstores, and everything! Perfect to buy some cheap souvenirs haha!

Tanukikuji Shopping Centers | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest train / tram station: Tanukikoji station

3rd Stop: Odori Park

In summer, this park is beautifully decorated with flowers and fountains. In winter, it becomes spectacular because of the famous Yuki Matsuri, the Festival of Snow and Ice. However, when I visited in late February, the festival had just ended and the park was still covered in snow.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest train station: Odori Station

4th Stop: Sapporo TV Tower

You should definitely visit this TV tower as it is one of the main landmarks in Sapporo. The tower is located along Odori Park, and from its observatory deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sapporo City and the park below. You can buy tickets here in advance.

Overlooking Sapporo TV Tower at Odori Park | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest train / tram station: Odori station

DAY 2:

5th Stop: Sapporo Tram Ride

Riding the tram in Sapporo was an interesting experience since Tokyo does not have streetcars. Unlike the subway, the tram lets you enjoy the sights and sounds of the city while traveling. The fare was also very affordable at only 200 Yen. The tram’s circular loop brought me around Sapporo and eventually to my next destination — Fushimi Inari Shrine.

NOTE: On weekends and holidays, they offer the special Dosanko Pass, which gives unlimited rides for one day for only 360 Yen. Children can also ride free when accompanied by an adult carrying the pass.

An inside look of one of the trams in Sapporo | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour

6th Stop: Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visiting this shrine requires a short uphill hike from the nearby tram stop. The area is peaceful and scenic, especially during winter when the falling snow creates a beautiful atmosphere. The long row of torii gates at the entrance was especially memorable and provided plenty of great photo opportunities.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest train station: Nishisen Juroku Jo station

7th Stop: Sapporo Clock Tower

A Japanese friend once told me that the Sapporo Clock Tower is Hokkaido’s most famous landmark because it is one of the oldest structures in the region. Built in 1878 during the early development of Sapporo, the tower stands just about 200 meters from Odori Park.

There is an entrance fee to go inside, but I decided to admire it from outside. Honestly, taking a good photo with the clock tower was enough for me!

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest train station: Odori station

8th Stop: Mt. Moiwa

The viewpoint at Mt. Moiwa offers one of the best panoramic views of Sapporo City and Ishikari Bay. This is definitely something you should not miss while in Sapporo.

Using Google Maps directions, you can hike for a little over an hour from Ropeway Iriguchi station through a well-marked trail lined with Buddhist statues. However, be extra careful during winter because the trail can become heavily covered in snow.

If you prefer not to hike, you can take a shuttle bus instead. From Ropeway Iriguchi tram stop, walk about 3 minutes to the free shuttle bus going to the cable car station. From there, two cable cars will bring you to the summit: one to the halfway station with a gift shop, and another to the top where you’ll find an observatory deck and café.

You can also book a Sapporo Night Tour here.

The snowy city of Sapporo taken from Mt. Moiwa’s viewpoint | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 3–4 hours
Nearest tram station: Ropeway Iriguchi station

What do you think of this 2-day Sapporo itinerary?

I hope that you find this 2-DAY SAPPORO ITINERARY useful!

There are other awesome (and cheap!) Sapporo tours available at Viator Sapporo.

If you have more days to spend in Sapporo, you can also include these places in your itinerary:

Hokkaidō Shrine
Jozankei Onsen Hot Spring
Maruyama-koen Park
Shikotsu-Tōya National Park
Moerenuma Park
Sapporo Beer Museum

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotel / Hostel
- Booking.com — I usually book my hostel accommodations through Booking.com. Room accommodations range from budget hostels to luxury hotels, and many properties offer free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel options.
Airbnb — Try Airbnb for cozy and comfortable rooms during your Sapporo trip. I’ve used Airbnb on several of my travels and loved the experience!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up using my link and get up to 42 USD (2,200 PHP) off your first stay. Click this link to claim the discount.

Flights
- KAYAK — Most of my flight bookings are through KAYAK, one of the world’s leading travel search engines.

I suggest checking KAYAK (HERE) since they often offer cheaper fares compared to other booking websites.

Sapporo Package Tours
- Viator — One of the leading resources for finding and booking travel experiences around the world.

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Sapporo.

How To Apply For Sri Lanka e-Visa / ETA (2022’s Best Visa Guide Updated)

By Dan Forteza

If you’re planning to visit Sri Lanka and looking for a guide on how to apply for a Sri Lanka e-Visa or e-Tourist Visa, then you’re in the right place. With Sri Lanka’s tropical climate, sandy beaches and scenic train rides, I’m sure no one can say no in skipping this beautiful South Asian country on their travel bucket list!

WAYS IN OBTAINING SRI LANKA’S TOURIST VISA

Apply e-Visa / ETA online – This is the online visa application process that I’ll be discussing on this blog. Moreover, visitors are STRONGLY urged to use the online system to avoid lengthy delays at the port of entry. ~~e-Visa costs USD 35~~ (please see update below). An application can be done either as an individual or as a group.
Get Visa on Arrival/VOA – Visitors with tourism purposes may visit Sri Lanka with a Visa on Arrival for up to 30 days. There is a counter at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for people who arrive without a visa, although you’ll have to wait with the other visa-less masses which can take several hours ~~and then pay a higher fee: USD 40~~ (please see update below).
You can also obtain visas at Sri Lankan embassies abroad. This is not very convenient though.

NOTE: If you’re a citizen from these 21 countries*, unfortunately, you’re not eligible to get an e-VISA or VOA but instead are required visa in advance from one of Sri Lankan diplomatic missions.

*Afghanistan; Cameroon; Republic of the Congo; Democratic Republic of the Congo; Cote d’Ivoire; Gabon; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Kenya; Liberia; Mali; Myanmar; Nigeria; North Korea; Sierra Leone; Sudan; Syria; Uganda.

UPDATE as of July 31, 2019: Tourism Minister John Amaratunga says tourists or those visiting for business purposes could get their FREE visa on arrival or by applying online. The measure will be effective for six months, starting August 1, 2019.

WHAT IS SRI LANKAN EVISA?

e-Visa, also known as Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka and is issued electronically. The ETA is introduced with the intention of providing an efficient, reliable and simplified service to those who visit Sri Lanka. ETA holders will be issued a 30 day Short Visit visa at the port of entry in Sri Lanka. The ETA has taken effect since January 1, 2012.

NOTE: If you’re a citizen of Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore, you do NOT need a visa to enter Sri Lanka (per basis of reciprocity). How lucky!

But don’t you worry! Getting an e-Visa is not that complicated. I received my ETA document attached via email on the same day I applied! The process is fast, simple and straightforward.

But again, just like in other visa application blogs I’ve written, no one can give you the guarantee of your Sri Lankan e-Visa’s approval – not me, not even a lawyer or a travel agent. If anyone does, is most likely a scammer.

As a travel blogger, what I can offer you here is just a guide with helpful tips to increase your chances of getting that e-Visa. =)

GET YOUR SRI LANKA E-VISA IN 4 EASY STEPS

STEP 1: GET YOUR ROOM ACCOMMODATION READY

When filling up the application form online, you need to indicate your Address in Sri Lanka under the “Contact Details” section. if you’re not visiting a family or friend, fill it in with the address of your hostel/hotel.

Contact Details section from Sri Lanka e-visa website | Dantravels.org — Contact Details section from Sri Lanka’s e-visa website | Dantravels.org

You can book a room at any Sri Lanka hotel through Agoda or Booking.com.

I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

If hotel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town.

Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

STEP 2: APPLY AT SRI LANKA’S e-VISA WEBSITE

For you to be able to facilitate your application ONLINE, just follow the through the below steps:

Go to www.eta.gov.lk and select your preferred language (English for me!)
Click the “Apply” tab and under “Submission of ETA application by the applicant”, click the “Apply” link.
If you are applying as a group, there is an appropriate link for that in the next section below it.

From Sri Lanka e-visa website | Dantravels.org — From Sri Lanka’s e-visa website | Dantravels.org

Then it will lead you to the terms and conditions page, just choose “I Agree”.

Under Tourist ETA section, select the option that applies to you. Since I was applying as an individual, I clicked on “Apply for an Individual”.

Complete the requested information under sections:

Applicant Information;
Child information in parent’s passport (if applicable);
Travel Information;
Contact Details – Add here your hotel name and its address from Step 1.
Declaration

Then confirm that the information you provided are correct before click the “next” button.

4. On the next page – Review your information. Make sure your email is correct since your ETA will be sent to you via email. Then confirm to proceed with your payment.

From Sri Lanka’s e-visa website | Dantravels.org

REMEMBER: Once you proceed, you can NO longer change any of the information, so make sure you’ve got everything right.

STEP 3. PAY THE VISA FEE

You will then be directed to the next page to provide your payment.

Pay the relevant ETA processing fee using your electronic payment cards (credit card/e-commerce enabled debit cards) and submit the application. Only Visa, Master and American Express Cards are accepted.

HOW MUCH DOES THE VISA COST?

Countries from SAARC:
- Tourist visa with Double Entry for 30 days – USD 20.00
All Other Countries:
- Tourist visa with Double Entry for 30 days – USD 35.00

Check out the detailed visa fee here.

NOTE: Payment is non-refundable & non-transferable.

UPDATE as of July 31, 2019: Tourism Minister John Amaratunga says tourists or those visiting for business purposes could get their FREE visa on arrival or by applying online. The measure will be effective for six months, starting August 1, 2019. This is Sri Lanka’s latest effort to revive the island nation’s lucrative tourism industry, which was badly hit by the Easter bomb attacks.

Check out the related news here.

I submitted my e-visa application on Aug 1, 2019 and thus, I did not pay anything. It’s totally FREE!

The acknowledgment page prompts you with notification – “Your ETA application to visit Sri Lanka has been received. You will receive a response to your application within 24 hours.“

However, there was no confirmation email that your application has been received so just be patient for the next 24 hours.

STEP 4. WAIT FOR THE RESULTS OF YOUR APPLICATION

After you completed the whole online application process, you just have to wait for the result of your e-Visa application.

In my case, I submitted my application at around 8:30 AM (GMT+8) and then I received an email at around 2:40 PM (GMT+8), the same day, that my e-Visa application status is APPROVED!

Once approved, print out your e-visa approval confirmation. Upon arrival, it is advisable for you to bring a copy of the ETA approval notice along with you.

See how easy it is to apply for Sri Lanka e-Visa? I hope this blog helps you in any way. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a reply in the comment section below. I’ll reply as soon as I can.

With all that said, I wish you all the best on your Sri Lanka e-Visa application!

SUMMARY:

Visa Type: ETA / e-Visa

Visa Validity: 30 Days from your initial arrival

Entry type: Double Entry

Visa Fee: FREE

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotel / Hostel
- Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it as well. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

- Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

Flights
- KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Travel Insurance
- World Nomads. If you don’t have travel insurance when times get tough, basically you are screwed. Traveling always comes with inherent risks attached. Whether you are trekking in the Nepalese mountains or wandering the streets of Colombo, unforeseen events can suddenly upend your world.
- Generally speaking, travel insurance covers you for the following:
  - Medical Costs – hospital visits, emergencies, evacuations;
  - Property Loss – luggage and their contents;
  - Travel Issues – accommodation and transportation expenses.
- Thus, I highly recommend you guys getting a travel insurance. I bought one from the World Nomads (available in 130+ countries) where most travelers get their travel insurances.

Go to this link to get to your World Nomads travel insurance.

5-Day Tokyo Itinerary: Best Places To See In Tokyo, Japan On A Budget

By Dan Forteza

Deciding what to do and what to see in Tokyo depends on how much time you have (and your budget as well.) If you only have 5 days in Tokyo (like me…) but surely don’t want to miss those must-see places in the megacity, this is for you. In this blog, I’ve put together the perfect 5-day Tokyo itinerary, specifically for budget travelers, which includes Tokyo’s top attractions.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines .

WHERE IS TOKYO?

Tokyo is Japan’s capital and the world’s most populous metropolis. It is a 3-hour flight away from Shanghai, 4½ hours away from Manila, and 12 hours away from Los Angeles.

Language: Japanese
Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
Airport: NRT, HND
Preferred mode of transportation: Metro Train / Subway
Time Zone: GMT +9

HOW I GOT THERE:

Finding a cheap flight ticket to Tokyo, Japan from Southeast and East Asia is relatively easy (and cheap, too!) I booked mine coming from Manila, Philippines.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE ) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

Subways and trains are the best way to get around Tokyo.
As I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog — “walk as much as you can!“
A prepaid Suica card is the BEST way to pay for transport. You can buy a Suica card online at GoVoyagin.com for pickup at Narita or Haneda airport.
Buses aren’t recommended for short-term visitors.
Taxis are excellent but rather expensive.

TIP: Your navigation would be much easier if you are using Google Maps. In Japan, it is very reliable and accurate. If you’re looking for travel directions, it will give you all different options and how much it will cost for each option. You can either buy a sim card here or rent a pocket wifi here for pick-up at various airports across Japan.

WHERE DID I STAY?

I arrived at Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) at around 7:30 PM from a 4-hour flight from Manila. The first thing I looked for at the airport was the ATM to withdraw some Yen and then a sim card with internet to help me navigate the city.

Sim Card with internet – 3,300 JPY (30.22 USD)

Next, I bought a train ticket to Nippori station where my hostel is only a 5-minute walk.

Train ticket from Narita airport to Nippori – 1,030 JPY (9.43 USD)
Hotel Owl Tokyo Nippori: 4-night stay (click here to book)
- Hostel room type: Bunk Bed in Mixed Dormitory Room
- Hostel rate: 755 PHP (14.8 USD) per night
Hostel Waqwaq Tokyo Ueno Asakusa: 1-night stay (click here to book)
- Hostel room type: Bunk Bed in Mixed Dormitory Room
- Hostel rate: 652 PHP (12.8 USD) per night

Hotel Owl Tokyo Nippori | Dantravels.org

Hostel Waqwaq Tokyo Ueno Asakusa | Dantravels.org

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

You can book a room at any Tokyo hotel through Agoda or Booking.com . I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

If Tokyo hotel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link .

MY 5-DAY TOKYO ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: Tokyo Skytree

Starting off at Tokyo Skytree! It is a great place to see the view of Tokyo from its observation deck. You can even see Mt. Fuji from miles on a clear day. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Tokyo. You can buy your ticket here in advance.

Tokyo Skytree viewed from Sumida Park | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest train station: Tokyo Skytree station

2nd Stop: Sumida Park

I then walked towards Sumida Park and Kototoi bridge. Once you approach the bridge, you will find the park on both the left and right sides of the bridge and also both sides of the river. There is a good spot here to view the Tokyo Skytree across the river!

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest train station: Asakusa station

3rd Stop: Sensoji Temple

Beautiful temple with traditional small shops and long street towards it. It does get very crowded so be sure to visit early in the morning. Great shops nearby to buy some souvenirs. I bought some Japan-designed keychains here.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest train station: Asakusa station

4th Stop: Shibuya Crossing

The only place I’ve come across where 7 crossroads come together and the lights all turn red at the same time. Thousands of pedestrians then all cross at the same time. Just amazing! My Japanese friend took me to the nearby Starbucks, 2nd floor, where you can actually see those people crossing in action!

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest train station: Shibuya station

5th Stop: Tokyo Tower

It looks just like the Eiffel Tower, and is located near Shiba Park. I went here with my friend during night and though I didn’t go up to see the great view from the very top, it was definitely a fantastic evening with all such amazing sights. You can buy your ticket here in advance.

Tokyo Tower with Hayato-san | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Nearest train station: Onarimon station

DAY 3:

11th Stop: Odaiba Seaside Park

Actually, you can spend a day here as there are many great attractions. It was also fun watching some local entertainers and jugglers in the area. If you’ve never been to New York but desperately wanted to have a selfie with the Statue of Liberty — you are welcome here in Odaiba!

Odaiba Seaside Park with Tokyo's Statue of Liberty — Odaiba Seaside Park with Tokyo’s Statue of Liberty | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 3 hours
Nearest train station: Daiba Station

12th Stop: Gundam Statue

One of the reasons that made me want to go to Japan is because of this Gundam statue. This huge 60-ft Gundam statue was constructed in 2017, replacing an older previous statue. What is new about this one is that it can switch between two modes, Unicorn and Destroyer. This transformation happens four times a day at 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM, and 5 PM. This is located near the DiverCity Mall in Odaiba.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest train station: Daiba Station

13th Stop: Ueno Park & Gardens

Before going back to my hostel, I stopped by Ueno Station (one station away from Nippori where my hostel is located) to see Ueno Park. Though it was late February, I was fortunate to see cherry blossoms in this park!

Ueno Park with unexpected Cherry Blossoms | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1.5 hours
Nearest train station: Ueno Station

14th Stop: Torii Gates at Nezu Shrine

Adjacent to Ueno Park, this beautiful shrine is a hidden gem in Tokyo. You’ll find the tunnel of Torii gates which are picture-perfect — especially if you arrive early in the morning. Better if you come here early so you’ll get more picturesque photos!

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Nearest train station: Ueno Station

DAY 4:

I grabbed a strolling map pamphlet for the Nippori area at my hostel lounge. I really didn’t expect to see much in my hostel area at first, but by following the recommended places in the pamphlet — there was actually a lot to see!

Nippori-Yanaka strolling map — Nippori-Yanaka Strolling Map | Dantravels.org

DIY strolling map using Google Maps — My Do-It-Yourself Strolling Map on Google Maps | Dantravels.org

Duration (getting there + visiting): Whole day
Nearest train station: Nippori Station

15th Stop: Hongyogi Temple

16th Stop: Kyooji Temple

17th Stop: Fujimi-Zaka Slope

Here, people can often be seen stopping to gaze to the west — something not so surprising atop a street named Fujimizaka, which means “Mount Fuji Viewing Slope.”

18th Stop: Jokoji Temple

19th Stop: Suwa-Jinja Shrine

20th Stop: Nishi Nippori Park

21st Stop: Seinji Temple

22nd Stop: Shushoin Temple

DAY 5:

At around 6:00 in the morning, I took two train lines (Yamanote & Keihin-Tohoku) from Nippori to Yokohama City! The transit took me almost an hour to arrive in Yokohama.

23rd Stop: Minato Mirai 21 (YOKOHAMA)

Unlike Tokyo, Yokohama has a more centralized downtown district called Minato Mirai 21. “Minato Mirai” literally means “Harbor of the Future,” and honestly, the place truly feels futuristic. This waterfront urban area was redeveloped in the 1980s from a former shipyard into one of the most modern and beautiful districts in Japan.

The area is packed with magnificent hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, convention centers, and even an amusement park with a giant Ferris wheel. I definitely enjoyed spending a couple of hours simply strolling around the seaside and admiring the skyline.

- Duration (getting there + visiting): 4 hours
- Nearest train station: Yokohama Station / Minatomirai Station

24th Stop: Chinatown (YOKOHAMA)

Apparently, Yokohama Chinatown is one of the largest and cleanest Chinatowns in the world. The place is colorful, lively, and filled with amazing food stalls and restaurants serving delicious Chinese cuisine.

Even if you are not planning to eat much, the atmosphere alone makes this place worth visiting.

- Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
- Nearest train station: Motomachi-Chukagai Station

25th Stop: AKIHABARA DISTRICT

After returning to Tokyo, I headed to Akihabara — Japan’s famous electronic and anime district. This neon-lit neighborhood is packed with gadget stores, gaming arcades, anime shops, manga stores, and endless rows of electronics.

Whether you are a fan of anime culture or not, Akihabara is still one of the most unique places to experience in Japan. It truly feels like stepping into another world.

- Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
- Nearest train station: Akihabara Station

What do you think about this 5-day TOKYO itinerary?

I hope you found this 5-DAY TOKYO ITINERARY helpful for planning your own Japan adventure!

If you have more time in Tokyo, you can also add these amazing tours, travel experiences, and discounted activities to your itinerary:

Mt. Fuji & Hakone day tours
Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea
Kimono experiences in Shibuya or Asakusa
Tokyo subway unlimited passes
Food tours and sushi experiences
Robot Restaurant and themed cafés
Tokyo Skytree observation deck tickets
Overnight Mt. Fuji climbing tours

If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comment section below!

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotel / Hostel
- Booking.com is usually my go-to platform when booking hostels and hotels in Tokyo. They offer budget hostels, luxury hotels, free cancellation, and pay-at-the-property options.
- Agoda is also a great option for finding affordable accommodations across Japan.
- Airbnb is another excellent alternative if you want a more local and cozy experience during your stay in Tokyo.

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up using my referral link and get travel credit for your first stay.

Flights
- KAYAK is one of my favorite flight search engines because it compares prices across multiple airline and travel booking websites.

I highly recommend checking KAYAK for cheap flights to Japan and other destinations.

Tokyo Package Tours
- Viator is one of the best platforms for booking tours, attraction tickets, and unique travel experiences around Tokyo and Japan.

You can browse various Tokyo tours including Mt. Fuji trips, cultural experiences, and city tours through Viator.

2-Day Yangon Itinerary: Best Places To See In Yangon, Myanmar

By Dan Forteza

If you’re curious about which places are worth visiting when you only have two days in Yangon, then you’re in the right place. In this blog, I’ve put together the perfect 2-day Yangon itinerary featuring the top attractions in the city.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel — a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines .

I flew to Yangon, Myanmar on my 28th birthday, so this trip became extremely memorable for me. Unfortunately, I only had two days to explore the city!

WHERE IS YANGON?

Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city and formerly known as Rangoon, is about a 1½-hour flight from Bangkok, 3 hours from Singapore, and approximately 6½ hours from Dubai. The city is located in Lower Myanmar at the convergence of the Yangon and Bago Rivers.

Yangon is also conveniently close to three of Myanmar’s most popular destinations. It takes roughly 1½ hours by plane to reach Bagan (via Nyaung U Airport), Mandalay, and Inle Lake (via Heho Airport). This makes Yangon a perfect gateway for entering and leaving the country while still offering plenty of attractions and activities for travelers.

Language: Burmese
Currency: Burmese Kyat (MMK)
Airport: RGN
Preferred mode of transportation: GrabTaxi
Time Zone: GMT +6:30

Burmese men wearing traditional longyi — Burmese men wearing their traditional LONGYI | Dantravels.org

HOW I GOT THERE

Finding a cheap flight to Yangon from Southeast Asia is relatively easy and affordable. I booked mine from Manila, Philippines with a connecting flight in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

I suggest checking Kayak since they usually offer cheaper fares compared to other booking websites.

HOW TO GET AROUND

For travelers, the best way to get around Yangon is by taxi. These days, the easiest way to hail one is through the Grab app. There are local ride-hailing apps available, but Singapore-based Grab is much more reliable and works similarly to Uber.

Make sure to have the Grab app installed and purchase a local SIM card with mobile internet once you arrive in Yangon.

WHERE DID I STAY?

I arrived at Yangon International Airport (RGN) at around 8:00 AM after a 2½-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur. The first things I looked for were an ATM to withdraw Burmese Kyats and a SIM card with internet access to help me navigate the city.

After getting mobile data, I booked a Grab taxi going to my hostel in downtown Yangon.

SIM card with internet: 6,000 Kyats
Grab Taxi to hostel: 6,700 Kyats

Hostel name: Agga Youth Hotel
Room type: 1 Bed in 12-Bed Mixed Dormitory
Hostel rate: 272.17 PHP (5.4 USD) per night as of July 2019

Agga Youth Hostel in Yangon | Dantravels.org

Room at Agga Youth Hostel — My room at Agga Youth Hostel in Yangon | Dantravels.org

View from Agga Youth Hostel — View from my window at Agga Youth Hostel in Yangon | Dantravels.org

Agga Youth Hostel in Yangon | Dantravels.org

Bed at Agga Youth Hostel — My bed at Agga Youth Hostel in Yangon | Dantravels.org

Shared bathroom at Agga Youth Hostel — Shared Bathroom at Agga Youth Hostel in Yangon | Dantravels.org

Book via Agoda

Book via Booking.com

Get Airbnb $43 Free Credit

You can book hotels in Yangon through Agoda or Booking.com. I personally prefer Booking.com because many accommodations offer free cancellation and pay-at-the-property options. There are plenty of choices ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels.

If hotels are not your thing, try Airbnb. Staying in an Airbnb gives you a more local experience and often makes you feel more connected to the city or neighborhood you’re visiting. I’ve used Airbnb on several trips and really enjoyed the experience.

If you’re new to Airbnb, you can get up to 42 USD travel credit by signing up through this referral link .

2-DAY YANGON ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: Shwedagon Pagoda

Stunning Shwedagon Pagoda is well worth a trip to visit! If you are visiting Yangon, it’s a must-see. Shwedagon Pagoda is large and looms over the city. It is considered the landmark of Yangon and even Myanmar as a whole. You really can’t miss it!

All shoes must be taken off before entering and your feet will get very dirty so take some wipes for afterwards (I was given free wipes so I guess that was included in the entrance fee).

Duration (getting there + visiting): 3 hours
Shwedagon Pagoda entrance fee: 10,000 Kyats
Shwedagon Pagoda opening hours: 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon | Dantravels.org

2nd Stop: Sule Pagoda

The Sule Pagoda is right in the heart of Yangon. It’s at the intersection of two main thoroughfares, Maha Bandula and Sule Pagoda Road, specifically in the center of the traffic circle where these two major roads circle a roundabout. All shoes must be taken off before entering as well.

TIP: There will be a shoe-keeping price of 1,000 Kyats, so do yourself a favor and bring a plastic bag to put your shoes in. I paid an additional 1,000 Kyats for the shoe-keeping guy before entering haha. And if someone offers you a bouquet of flowers, just ignore them and head straight to the entrance. If you accept it, they’ll make you pay 1,000 Kyats like what happened to me.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Entrance fee: 4,000 Kyats
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM

3rd Stop: Yangon Circular Train

Hop aboard the circular train in Yangon for an authentic experience of the city and its suburbs. Traveling here gives you the chance to witness daily life in Yangon as it passes through suburban districts rarely visited by tourists. The nearest train station to my hostel is Lanmadaw station.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Train ticket price: 200 Kyats
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:10 PM

DAY 2:

4th Stop: Reclining Buddha

Also known as Chaukhtatgyi Buddha, the Buddha itself was quite mesmerizing to look at. The Reclining Buddha image is decorated with very expressive colors, white face, red lips, blue eye shadow, golden robe, and red fingernails. You can take photos from a high platform located at the feet of the Buddha as well.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
Opening hours: 6:00 AM until 8:00 PM
Entrance fee: I actually got here for FREE but some say the fee is 5 USD per person.

5th Stop: Kandawgyi Park & Lake

Kandawgyi Park in Yangon is a very nice place to have a quiet walk in the shaded tropical gardens around the lake or spend a relaxed couple of hours. It will be quite easy to forget that right outside it is a busy street.

Kandawgyi Lake, also known as Royal Lake, is an artificial lake built by the British as a water reservoir. It offers views of the Royal barge in the lake as well as views of the nearby Shwedagon Pagoda.

There are snacks sold inside the park and even a lakeside restaurant, but feel free to bring your own snacks and do a picnic.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Entrance Fee: FREE

6th Stop: Botahtaung Pagoda

The Botataung Pagoda is a famous pagoda located in downtown Yangon near the Yangon River. There are many souvenir shops and interesting places alongside the pagoda.

I really love this place especially the riverside view. There are also several street food stalls around.

But during the time I visited the pagoda, it was under renovation so I didn’t bother entering. To appreciate the pagoda more, it should look like this without those construction poles.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
Entrance fee: 2 USD per person

Botataung Pagoda under renovation | Dantravels.org

7th Stop: Yangon River

After Botataung Pagoda, I went for a walk along Strand Road to get a good view of the Yangon River near Nan Thida ferry terminal. There are some good restaurants here to fill your hunger after touring around.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour

8th Stop: Tooth Relic Pagoda

The Tooth Relic Pagoda, locally known as Swe Taw Myat Pagoda, was my last stop for this Yangon itinerary. The pagoda was constructed to enshrine a sacred Buddha tooth relic.

It was believed to be one of the teeth of Gautama Buddha who died some 2,500 years ago. Enshrined along with the original relic were two ivory copies, one of which is still enshrined in Swe Taw Myat today.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour

What do you think of this 2-day Yangon itinerary?

I hope that you find this 2-DAY YANGON ITINERARY useful! If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotel / Hostel
- Booking.com – I usually book my hostel accommodation through Booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through Booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel options.
- Airbnb – Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms for your Yangon itinerary! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it.

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 PHP) off your first stay.

Flights
- KAYAK – All of my flight bookings are from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check KAYAK as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Yangon and Bagan Package Tours
- Viator – Viator is one of the world’s leading resources for researching, finding, and booking travel experiences worldwide.

Check Viator to find the best tour deals in Yangon and Bagan.

1-Day Tour Chiang Rai Itinerary (Thailand) And Budget Travel Guide

By Dan Forteza

As someone who is so fond of geography, I have always been fascinated to visit the “tripoint” at the Golden Triangle where the borders of three countries — Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar — meet. I always wondered what it feels like being in three countries at once. That is why I decided to do this 1-Day Chiang Rai Itinerary tour.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel — a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

After celebrating my 28th birthday in Yangon, Myanmar, I flew to Chiang Rai, Thailand to finally see the Golden Triangle I had been dreaming of ticking off my bucket list! Sorry if I sound dramatic haha.

WHERE IS CHIANG RAI?

Chiang Rai is a city situated in northern Thailand, in the mountainous province of the same name. The city is near the borders of Laos and Myanmar (formerly Burma).

Language: Thai
Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
Airport: CEI
Time Zone: GMT +7

HOW I GOT THERE:

Finding a cheap flight ticket to Chiang Rai from Southeast Asia is relatively easy (and cheap too!). I booked mine from Yangon to Chiang Rai with a connecting flight in Bangkok.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheaper fare rates compared to other booking sites.

But the majority of tourists will probably travel by bus from Chiang Mai — the biggest city in Northern Thailand. It’s just three hours away so it’s even possible to do it on a day tour.

You can go via the Express or VIP bus. You can follow this link to purchase advance tickets.

WHERE DID I STAY?

I arrived at Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) at around 6:30 PM. I exited through the left side and looked for the metered taxi stand. I gave them my hostel’s name and I was assigned a taxi. It cost me 160 THB to get to my hostel in downtown Chiang Rai.

Hostel name: Mercy Hostel (click here to book)
Hostel room type: Bunk Bed in Mixed Dormitory Room

Mercy Hostel | Chiang Rai Itinerary — Mercy Hostel in Chiang Rai | Dantravels.org

Book AGODA here
Book BOOKING.com here
Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

You can book a room in Chiang Rai through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my accommodations through Booking.com because of their free cancellation and pay-at-the-hotel options.

If you’re new to Airbnb, you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up through this link.

CHIANG RAI ITINERARY – THE DAY TOUR

Since I was only staying for 2 nights in Chiang Rai, I made sure to maximize my time the next day. That’s why I booked a one-day tour to make the most of my visit around the city. The hostel staff arranged the tour for me.

Here are the tour details:

Tour cost: 1,000 THB
Tour itinerary: White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House, Long-Neck Village, Tea Plantation, Monkey Cave, Mae Sai, Golden Triangle, Opium Museum, and Chiang Saen
Tour inclusions: Lunch, English-speaking tour guide, transportation, and White Temple entrance ticket
Tour schedule: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Considering all these places included in the itinerary, 1,000 THB was definitely worth it! Most of these attractions are outside the city center, so getting around on your own can be difficult especially if you are unfamiliar with Chiang Rai’s transportation system. Traditional transport such as tuk-tuks and samlors are available, along with taxis, buses, and motorcycles. For me, this one-day tour was a perfect deal.

1st Stop: The White Temple

This epic White Temple, also known as Wat Rong Khun, was the first stop on our day tour. It’s definitely one of the most famous attractions in Chiang Rai. The White Temple is a sparkling white modern temple filled with quirky and surreal details. It was absolutely breathtaking, and I was surprised by how much I loved it.

White Temple entrance ticket was included in the tour.

White Temple - 1-day Chiang Rai itinerary — White Temple | Dantravels.org

2nd Stop: The Blue Temple

Also known as Wat Rong Seua Ten, the Blue Temple was only completed in 2016. I think that’s why it isn’t as famous yet compared to Chiang Rai’s other attractions, but I’m pretty sure that will change soon. Visiting the Blue Temple was actually one of my favorite moments in Chiang Rai.

Blue Temple - 1-day Chiang Rai itinerary — Blue Temple | Dantravels.org

3rd Stop: The Black House

The Black House is actually a collection of painted wooden houses featuring artworks by Thai contemporary artists, most notably its designer, Thawan Duchanee.

Entrance fee: 80 THB (not included in the tour)

Black House - 1-day Chiang Rai itinerary — Black House | Dantravels.org

4th Stop: The Long-Neck Village

The mountains around Chiang Rai are home to several hill tribe villages. Many of the people living here are nomadic tribes originally from Myanmar, including the famous Karen long-neck tribe. Some of the women wear brass rings around their necks.

When you visit this place, aside from taking photos, try buying some of the products they sell in order to support the local community.

Entrance fee: 300 THB (not included in the tour)

Long Neck Village - 1-day Chiang Rai itinerary — Long Neck Village | Dantravels.org

5th Stop: Tea Plantation

Our next stop was a large tea plantation located about 40 km from Chiang Rai city. It is the largest tea plantation in the province and offers beautiful panoramic views in every direction. There’s also a café serving tea and food, plus a gift shop selling tea products.

Tea Plantation - 1-day Chiang Rai itinerary — Tea Plantation | Dantravels.org

6th Stop: The Monkey Cave

Also known as Wat Tham Pla or the Fish Tail Cave, this temple is filled with monkeys everywhere! They can be quite aggressive and are known to grab belongings from tourists, so be careful while visiting.

Monkey Cave in Chiang Rai — Monkey Cave | Dantravels.org

7th Stop: Lunch

We had lunch at around 2:00 PM and I was already starving by then. It was a buffet lunch arranged by the tour operator. Seeing all the delicious food definitely satisfied my hunger!

Lunch was included in the tour.

Lunch during Chiang Rai tour — Our lunch at 2:00 PM — I was so hungry! | Dantravels.org

8th Stop: Mae Sai

In the photo below, I was standing right at the border between Thailand and Myanmar. According to our tour guide, a river underneath the area serves as the natural border between the two countries.

Mae Sai is a fascinating border town where tourists can shop for goods imported from nearby countries. Visitors can find cheap jewelry from Myanmar and antiques mainly from China.

Mae Sai border - 1-day Chiang Rai itinerary — Mae Sai Border | Dantravels.org

9th Stop: The Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is the meeting point of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar, where the Mekong and Ruak Rivers intersect. Visiting this place was the highlight of my trip.

There is also a giant golden Buddha statue overlooking the Mekong River, and above it sits an ancient ruined temple.

10th Stop: The Opium Museum

Located beside the Golden Triangle, the Hall of Opium is a museum that showcases the history of the opium trade in the region. It also explains the negative effects of opium trafficking in Southeast Asia.

Entrance fee: 50 THB (not included in the tour)

11th Stop: Chiang Saen

Just south of the Golden Triangle, Chiang Saen is one of the oldest cities in Thailand. Formerly known as Wiang Hiran Nakhon, it was once one of the major cities of the Lanna Kingdom before Chiang Rai was established by King Mengrai in 1262.

This was the final stop of our 1-Day Chiang Rai itinerary tour.

GROUPIE!

Before ending the tour, I took a group photo with my fellow travelers whom I spent the whole day with.

Group tour photo — Group photo with my tour mates! | Dantravels.org

What do you think about this 1-day Chiang Rai itinerary?

I hope you found this 1-Day Chiang Rai itinerary useful! If you have questions, feel free to leave them in the comment section below.

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotels / Hostels

I usually book my accommodations through Booking.com because they often offer free cancellation and pay-at-the-property options. From budget hostels to luxury hotels, there are plenty of choices available in Chiang Rai.

Airbnb is also a great option if you want a cozy place that feels more local and homey.

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up using my referral link and get up to 42 USD (around 2,200 PHP) off your first stay.

Flights

I usually book flights through Kayak since it compares fares from hundreds of travel websites.

Check Kayak here for cheap flight deals.

Chiang Rai Package Tours

Viator is one of the best websites for booking tours and travel experiences worldwide.

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Chiang Rai.

4-Day Russia Itinerary With Cost Breakdown | From My Turkey-Russia Solo Trip

By Dan Forteza

Russia, the largest country in the world, occupies one-tenth of all the land on earth. Thus for many travelers, it’s often difficult to decide where to start and where to go for such huge countries like Russia.

But no worries, to help you with your Russia itinerary, I’ll be sharing the list of places I’ve visited during my 4-day stay in Russia. I will also include the breakdown of cost during my trip for your reference.

Although I have only visited Moscow and St. Petersburg, starting off your journey in either of these two megacities will for sure bring the best of Russia in you!

NOTE: I stayed for 3 days in Turkey before flying to Russia. If you want to know the places I’ve visited in Turkey, here is my 3-day itinerary in Turkey with cost breakdown.

Skyscrapers at downtown Moscow | Dantravels.org

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article.

NOTE: For Philippine Passport holders, visiting Russia requires a visa. If you are just on your way to getting your Russian visa, read my blog on how to get your Russian Tourist Visa HERE.

Route Details with Costs

Manila (MNL) to Dubai (DXB) via Cebu Pacific – 6,499 PHP
Dubai (DXB) to Istanbul (SAW) via Pegasus – 8,904 PHP
Istanbul (SAW) to Moscow (DME) via Pegasus – 6,072 PHP
Moscow to St. Petersburg via Russian Rail – 3,530 PHP
St Petersburg (LED) to Moscow (SVO) via Aeroflot – 4,084 PHP
Moscow (SVO) to Dubai (DXB) via Aeroflot – 10,914 PHP
Dubai (DXB) to Manila (MNL) via Cebu Pacific – 2,160 PHP

Dubai Airport — Passengers waiting for their flights at Dubai International Airport | Dantravels.org

NOTE: Philippine Passport holders transferring at Dubai International Airport (DXB) do not need a UAE visa as long as they remain within the airside transit area.

RUSSIA 🇷🇺

Language: Russian
Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB)
Exchange Rate: 1 USD = 52 PHP = 62.8 RUB
Preferred Transportation: Subway / Trains
Time Zone: GMT +3

It was a 3-hour flight from Istanbul to Moscow. I arrived at Moscow Domodedovo Airport (DME) at around 3:30 PM. Russia was the 16th country I’ve visited.

TIP: Buying a local SIM card is highly recommended even for short stays. Google Maps and internet access are lifesavers while traveling.

Saint Basil Cathedral — Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Red Square | Dantravels.org

MY 4D/3N RUSSIA ITINERARY with COST BREAKDOWN

DAY 1 Photo Gallery

DAY 1 RUSSIA ITINERARY

Transport from Airport to Hostel using Aeroexpress Train and Metro.
Check in at Hostels Rus – Avtozavodskaya.
Tour around Red Square.
Visit Saint Basil Cathedral, Kremlin, Lenin Mausoleum, and GUM.
Walk around Bolshoy Moskvoretsky Bridge.

TIP: Buy a 3-day unlimited metro pass. It is worth it if you plan to move around Moscow often.

DAY 1 EXPENSES

SIM Card (MegaFon) – 1,000 RUB
Aeroexpress Train – 500 RUB
Metro Subway – 55 RUB
Food at Teremok – 220 RUB
3-day unlimited metro pass – 415 RUB
Pancake, soup, tea – 190 RUB

DAY 1 TOTAL: 2380 RUB = 38 USD = 1970 PHP

DAY 2 Photo Gallery

DAY 2 RUSSIA ITINERARY

Return to Red Square early morning.
Visit GUM shopping center.
Climb Sparrow Hills.
Explore VDNKh amusement park.
Visit Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve.
Explore Tsaritsyno Palace & Museum-Reserve.
See the Ruined Tower.

DAY 2 EXPENSES

Ice cream – 100 RUB
McDonald’s meal – 261 RUB
Chinese Restaurant food – 330 RUB

DAY 2 TOTAL: 691 RUB = 11 USD = 572 PHP

DAY 3 Photo Gallery

Inside the train bound to St. Petersburg

DAY 3 RUSSIA ITINERARY

Morning rest at the hostel.
Visit Moscow business district.
Take the night train to St. Petersburg.

NOTE: Night trains have bunk beds and are comfortable enough for sleeping.

DAY 3 EXPENSES

KFC Meal – 199 RUB
Bread – 50 RUB
Fanta – 50 RUB
Chicken with rice – 330 RUB
Toilet fee – 50 RUB
KFC burgers – 216 RUB

DAY 3 TOTAL: 895 RUB = 14.25 USD = 741 PHP

DAY 4 Photo Gallery

DAY 4 RUSSIA ITINERARY

Arrive in St. Petersburg.
Visit Admiralteyskaya Station.
Walk around downtown St. Petersburg.
Visit Hermitage Museum and Palace Square.
See Kazan Cathedral and St Isaac Cathedral.
Visit Peter and Paul Fortress.
See Cruiser Aurora.
Explore Peterhof Grand Palaces.

DAY 4 EXPENSES

Metro Subway – 45 RUB
KFC Meal – 283 RUB
Toilet Fee – 40 RUB
Bus Fare – 80 RUB
Airport Snacks – 158 RUB
Souvenirs – 70 RUB

DAY 4 TOTAL: 1,416 RUB = 62.6 USD = 3,265 PHP

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Booking.com – Great for hotels and hostels with free cancellation options.
Airbnb – Great for cozy rooms and apartments.
Trip.com – Useful for cheap flight bookings.
Russian Railway – Book train tickets in advance.
Viator – Find guided tours and travel experiences.

Book on Booking.com

Find Cheap Flights

Explore Tours

Final Thoughts

Russia is definitely an adventure of its own. The people I met were incredibly helpful and accommodating, making my Russia itinerary unforgettable.

I hope this guide helps you create your own Russia itinerary. Spasiba!

How To Get Australian Tourist Visa Easily via ImmiAccount (Updated)

By Dan Forteza

Visiting Australia is one of the most memorable trips of my life. The Bondi beach, the Opera House, the scenic Harbor bridge area, the 12 Apostles, etc. Without a doubt, Australia is definitely worth visiting! If you’re here looking for a guide on how to apply for your Australian Tourist Visa or what commonly known as the ‘Visitor Visa’ (subclass 600), then you’re in the right place.

Sydney Harbor Australian Tourist Visa — Sydney Harbor Bridge and I | Dantravels.org

But before I give you the details, I’d like to start off by saying that no one can give you the guarantee of your Australian visa’s approval – not me, not even a lawyer or a travel agent. If anyone does, is most likely a scammer.

As a travel blogger, what I can offer you here is just a guide with helpful tips to increase your chances of getting that Australian tourist visa. =)

WAYS TO GET YOUR AUSTRALIAN TOURIST VISA

Now, there are two ways to get your Australian tourist visa:

via VFS Global
via ImmiAccount (Australia’s Department of Home Affairs’s online services).

VFS Global is a third party agency that handles visa application for Australia and other countries. However, I do not find applying to VFS Global convenient as you will be paying their Service Fee on top of the actual visa fee. You also need to submit printed copies of your documents.

In this blog, I will only be particular on applying directly ONLINE via ImmiAccount. If your visa is approved, your visa will be sent to you via email as a letter-sized paper. It can either be 3-month or 1-year valid. I got mine with 1-year validity and with multiple entry as well.

Anyway, enough of that and let’s get started!

WHEN TO APPLY via IMMIACCOUNT

I suggest you apply at least 6 weeks before your intended flight. The processing time could be up to 4 weeks after submittal! Some have gotten their results as early as 2 days (wow!). I got mine 16 days after submitting my application.

GET YOUR AUSTRALIAN TOURIST VISA IN 5 EASY STEPS

STEP 1: CREATE AN IMMIACCOUNT

Go to this link . Click the ‘Create ImmiAccount’ button at the left bottom corner to start creating your account.

STEP 2: CREATE NEW APPLICATION

Once you have created your account and you’re logged in, simply click NEW APPLICATION, and then look for VISITOR VISA (600).

It will direct you to the online form application. You need answer it truthfully. Put N/A if the item is NOT applicable to you.

STEP 3: UPLOAD THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Next stage of the application is attaching and uploading the documents. There are two sections – REQUIRED and RECOMMENDED. Sometimes, the required and recommended documents can vary from one applicant to another. So you gotta really pay attention to what is required and recommended for you.

REQUIRED:

1. Photo – A passport size photo, save it as jpg format.

2. Travel Document – This is basically just a scanned page of your passport’s bio page. Save it as pdf format.

3. Evidence of applicant’s previous travels – scanned pages of your passport with stamps to show your travel history; include also your old passport if you have one. Save it as pdf format.

STEP 4: PAY THE VISA FEE

Review your application form and attached documents thoroughly. Then pay the visa fee of AUD 140 via Credit Card or Paypal.

STEP 5: WAIT AND PRAY!

Once you’re done with uploading and payment, it is time for the waiting game. Result of your visa application will be emailed to you.

MY EXPERIENCE:

Waiting for my visa got me so frustrated. Imagine I have to wait up to a month without certainty whether it is approved or not.

On the 16th day from the day I submitted my application online, I finally received an email visa notification.

My application status is GRANTED!

SUMMARY:

Visa Type: Visitor Visa (600)
Visa Validity: 1 Year
Entry Type: Multiple Entry
Visa Fee: 140 AUD

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

In case you’re also looking for package tours in Australia, I highly recommend booking tours through Viator .

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotel / Hostel
- Booking.com – cheap hostels to luxury hotels. booking.com

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% cashback after your stay. Click here .

Flights
- KAYAK – one of the world’s leading travel search engines.

I suggest you check KAYAK ( HERE ) for cheap fares.

Travel Insurance
- World Nomads – highly recommended for travelers.

Go to this link to get your World Nomads travel insurance.

How To Apply For Chinese Tourist Visa in the Philippines (Updated)

By Dan Forteza

It is a dream of mine to personally see of ALL of the New 7 Wonders of the World before I die. China’s Great Wall is one of them. If you have that kind of dream too, then let’s make that happen! I will guide you on how to get your Chinese Tourist Visa as well as share my experience during my tourist visa application.

The Great Wall of China | Dantravels.org

But first, let me start off by saying that no one can give you the guarantee of your Chinese visa’s approval – not me, not even a lawyer or a travel agent. If anyone does, is most likely a scammer.

As a travel blogger, what I can offer you here is just a guide with helpful tips to increase your chances of getting that Chinese Tourist Visa.

So let’s get started.

GET YOUR CHINESE TOURIST VISA IN 3 EASY STEPS!

STEP 1: PREPARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Duly Accomplished Visa Application Form – Please download the application form here . Fill it up completely. Put N/A if the question is not applicable to you. Handwritten is NO LONGER acceptable!
Passport – Original passport that is valid for at least another 6 months with at least one blank visa page, a photocopy of the passport’s information/photo page and emergency contact page. The previous old passport, if available, is required to be submitted; if the old passport is lost, or the applicant never holds a passport before, please make a clear statement in item 3.7 of the Visa Application Form
Photo – Please provide 2 colored photos and affix one of the photos on the Application Form. The photo should be recent (within 6 months), front view, white background, in 48mm x 33mm size without head covering. (For specific photo requirements, click here.) Stapled/taped/clipped/detached photos will not be accepted.
Plane ticket reservations – Yes, this is necessary! I usually booked my flight tickets at Skyscanner or Kayak.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Hotel reservations – Yes, you gotta need this. You can book your hostel or hotel reservations at booking.com.

Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

Or try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

Travel itinerary – Just list down the places you would want to visit in China on a day-to-day basis. Basically, the embassy just needs to see this to have an idea of your tourism activities while you’re in China.

I can share to you my itinerary template, just leave a reply in the comment section below.

You also need to provide financial documents such as:

Bank Certificate including 6-month bank statement
BIR Income Tax Return (ITR)
Certificate of Employment (CoE) – For employed applicants, your CoE should state your salary and length of employment. For Businessmen, you can provide your business papers instead.
Professional ID, student ID when applicable
All other relevant documents you can think of that could prove your financial capability to support your travel to China.

My printed application forms for Chinese Tourist Visa — My printed application forms | Dantravels.org

STEP 2: SUBMIT & FILE YOUR DOCUMENTS TO THE EMBASSY

Note: Applicant may submit his/her visa application in person or entrust someone (with authorization letter) or a travel agency to submit on his or her behalf.

When: You can obtain your Chinese Tourist Visa in 4 working days* after the day of your submission. So applying a week before your intended flight is possible, though I would not recommend it. You should apply at least 2-3 weeks before your flight.

Where: MANILA – Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, 2F, The World Center 330 Senator Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City.

No appointment is required!

Office hours: 09:00 am to 11:00 am Monday to Friday. However, the Embassy is closed during Chinese holidays so better you check their website directly for info.

Visa fee:

Single Entry 1400 pesos
Double Entry 2100
6mo Multiple Entry 2800
1yr Multiple Entry 4200

*Regular processing time is 4 working days. For expedited application, additional fee will be collected. Visa payment is made during passport collection. Only cash payment will be accepted.

STEP 3: GET YOUR PICK UP FORM. WAIT. RETURN & CLAIM YOUR PASSPORT WITH VISA (hopefully!)

MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE:

I followed most of the blogs with regards to the required documents to be submitted. However, at 9:00AM, the time I presented my documents to the security guard at the Embassy, I was told I need to redo my application form as handwritten is no longer accepted. This is a LESSON LEARNED for me and you, too, as future applicants.

At 9:15AM, I have to walk few blocks from the Embassy to get to the nearest computer shop to fix my application form. Thank God it’s just 5-10 minutes walk. I was also with other visa applicants who have the same problem as mine.

At 10:00AM, I was already coursing back to the Embassy to again file my application. It went smoothly. Then, I paid the visa fee. And was given a Pick up form for the visa release. I was done after an hour.

I was scheduled to pick up my passport/visa after 4 working days. It is the release date of the passport/visa for regular processing, but you can also choose for an expedited release to two days or three. You should bring with you the Pick up form!

On the scheduled day, I arrived at the Chinese Embassy in Buendia Avenue, Makati City at around 7:00AM. And oh boy! There’s a long queue already for the “releasing” and “filing” on the ground floor of the building.

For the releasing which I was there for, the guard at the entrance gave me a pink stub with number. And again, don’t you forget to bring your the pick up form.

Numbered stub and Pickup form for my Chinese Tourist Visa — Numbered stub and Pickup form | Dantravels.org

At around 9:30AM, I was already sitting at the claiming area… waiting and wishing for an approved tourist visa.

Waiting Area at the Chinese Embassy in Manila — Waiting Area | Dantravels.org

Finally! After waiting patiently for about 2 hours, I got my L-type (Tourist) Chinese Visa on that day.

SUMMARY:

Visa Type: Tourist (Category L)

Visa Validity: Valid within 3 months, but 14 days only after the entry date

Entry Type: Single Entry

Visa Fee: PhP1,400.00

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotel / Hostel
- Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com . Thus, I recommend you guys trying it as well. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

Airbnb
- Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

Flights
- KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Travel Insurance
- World Nomads. If you don’t have travel insurance when times get tough, basically you are screwed. Traveling always comes with inherent risks attached. Whether you are trekking in the Tibetan mountains or wandering the streets of Shanghai, unforeseen events can suddenly upend your world. Generally speaking, travel insurance covers you for the following: Medical Costs – hospital visits, emergencies, evacuations; Property Loss – luggage and their contents; Travel Issues – accommodation and transportation expenses. Thus, I highly recommend you guys getting a travel insurance. I bought one from the World Nomads (available in 130+ countries) where most travelers get their travel insurances.

Go to this link to get to your World Nomads travel insurance.